A Himalayan Journey - Amritsar To Leh, Discovery Holiday to India

A fascinating overland journey across the Indian Himalaya

This journey takes us from the plains of India on one of the most spectacular road journeys in the world across the Indian Himalaya to Ladakh. Scenically, religiously and culturally this is a spectacular and diverse trip. From Amritsar, famous for the Sikh Golden Temple, we leave the hot dusty plains of India behind as we drive up into the foothills of the Himalaya to Dharamsala, home to the exiled Dalai Lama, and McLeod Ganj.

Heading further into the hills we follow the Beas River to Manali, a popular Indian hill station bustling with colourful hill people, before travelling north across the Indian Himalaya, onto the Tibetan Plateau, and into Ladakh. Ladakh is a Buddhist land more akin to Tibet than the lowlands to the south. Ladakh's centuries-old culture finds expression in the monasteries, monuments, fairs and festivals, and most departures coincide with monastic festivals. These are often the highlight of the year, involving hundreds of people as the local communities celebrate with a feast of colour and entertainment.

The trip finishes on a high with a spectacular flight back across the Himalaya to Delhi.

What makes this trip responsible?

We provide refresher training with a focus on Responsible Tourism, so our local leaders can educate our clients locally on helping to preserve the way of life in their area. Many local restaurants and shops are also used to purchase items throughout this trip which benefits the local community. We ask you use environmentally sound practices whilst in India - such as bringing purification tablets to treat any non-bottled water and to take plastic and batteries back to Delhi or the UK for recycling. Please dress conservatively out of respect for the country (no sleeveless tops) and be respectful when visiting monasteries and whilst taking photographs.

Itinerary

[detailed itinerary...]

Countries visited: India

Day 1

Depart London.

Day 2

Arrive Amritsar; afternoon sightseeing including the Golden Temple.

Day
3 - 4

Drive to Dharamsala and McLeod Ganj; full day to explore the area including the Dalai Lama's temple and Tibet Museum.

Day 5

Drive to Mandi and Rewalsar, visit the Monastery, the Sikh Gurdwara and the Hindu temple.

Day 6

Drive to Manali, set amongst forests and orchards; afternoon free.

Day 7

Full day's sightseeing in Manali.

Day 8

Drive to Jispa via the Rohtang Pass (3980m) and Keylong.

Day 9

Drive to Tsokar Lake and camp for the night.

Day 10

Drive to Leh.

Day 11

Sightseeing around Leh including Shey and Tikse monasteries (or monastery festival).

Day 12

Drive to Likir Monastery; optional walk to Rizdong; to Alchi.

Day 13

See ancient gompa at Alchi; visit spectacular village and monastery of Lamayuru.

Day 14

Drive to Leh visiting Basgo Fort en route.

Day 15

Free day in Leh (or monastery festival); optional trip to Khardung La can be arranged locally.

Day 16

Fly over the Himalaya to Delhi; afternoon free.

Day 17

Fly to London.

Want to see more?

Trip Notes contain all the detailed information you need. A full day by day itinerary, accommodation details, guides and other practical information. Download Now

Then Check Availability and Book Online

Exodus images from A HIMALAYAN JOURNEY - AMRITSAR TO LEH

Note: Click on a thumbnail to enlarge.

Young monk blowing conch; Hemis monastery roof, Ladakh

Buddhist chortens in the Markha Valley, Ladakh

Young monk blowing conch; Hemis monastery roof, Ladakh