LEH TO AMRITSAR

Nestled between the great mountain ranges of the Himalaya and Karakorum lies the high-altitude desert of Ladakh. This 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. Leaving Ladakh we drive across the mighty Himalaya on one of the most spectacular road journeys on earth. The scenery is truly awe-inspiring with snow capped peaks towering over arid valleys. We visit Dharamsala, home to the exiled Dalai Lama, and the magnificent Golden Temple at Amritsar.