India Tours: LADAKH WITH HEMIS FESTIVAL

The mountainous region of Ladakh is considered to be one of the last outposts of the religious and cultural empire of old Tibet. The earliest inhabitants were most likely nomads seeking summer pastures, but other groups such as Dards and the people of the Indus Valley soon moved into the lower valleys. The town of Leh was founded as a trans-Himalayan entry point for traders and is today the capital of Central Ladakh. Leh is also a significant Buddhist center filled with ancient Gompas, Monasteries, and the famous 'Oracle,' a soothsayer and teller of fortunes. It is one of the highest inhabited regions of the world and surrounded by the towering Himalayas, the source of the mighty Indus and Ganges rivers and numerous other tributaries. Although the region survives on subsistence economies, it is rich in culture and tradition.

Day 1: Thursday, June 21, 2012

Arrive Delhi

After clearing immigration and customs, step into the receiving area where you will be met by our representative and driven to the hotel.

Hotel: Svelte Suites or similar

Day 2: Friday, June 22, 2012
In Delhi

Delhi is a dynamic city where the past coexists with the present. Many dynasties ruled from here, and the city is rich in the diversity of its architecture. Seven times this city went through the pain of being built, destroyed and rebuilt. It has been witness to many important events in Indian history, and today, it is the capital of India.

After breakfast set off on a tour of Old and New Delhi.

Drive past the Red Fort built in 1648 during the reign of Shah Jahan. This was the seat of the Mughal Empire. It is a huge red sandstone fort, housing within its precincts impressive palaces and public buildings.

Jama Masjid is a magnificent architectural gift left by the Emperor Shah Jahan. It was built of red sandstone and white marble, and was completed in 1658. This is India's largest mosque; its courtyard can hold 25,000 people. One can also climb to the top of the minarets for a bird's eye view of Delhi.

Visitors are requested to remove their shoes before entering the mosque and must be properly dressed, no shorts or sleeveless shirts.

Next enjoy a rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk (Silver Street), once the imperial avenue down which Shah Jahan rode at the head of his lavish entourage. It is today bustling with shops, stalls and silversmiths.

Raj Ghat is the cremation site of Mahatma Gandhi, the 'Father of the Nation' located on the banks of the Jamuna River. He was cremated here in 1948. Mahatma Gandhi's last words, 'Hey Ram,' are inscribed on the simple, square, black marble plaque.

Humayun's Tomb was the first Mughal garden tomb. Visitors are immediately struck by the tomb's resemblance to its more famous cousin, the Taj Mahal, with its four grand gateways, octagonal base-plan, soaring niche-shaped arches, lofty double domes and the symmetrical garden with its central canal. This tomb, built in 1570, is of particular cultural significance as it was the first garden tomb on the Indian subcontinent. It inspired several major architectural innovations, culminating in the construction of the Taj Mahal. Humayun's widow had this sandstone mausoleum built to house the mortal remains of her husband.

Qutub Minar is one of Delhi's most visited and most striking monuments. It is 72 meters (230 feet) high. It is a victory tower built by the slave King Qutubuddin Aibak and later completed by his successor Iltutmish. The construction of the Qutub Minar began in the 12th century and it was completed in the 13th century. Beautiful calligraphy is seen on the magnificent tower, as it is covered with intricate carvings. The adjacent edifices are also deeply inscribed with verses from the Koran. The Minar can be ascended by a circular stairway for a breathtaking view. The first three stories are made of red sandstone, while the fourth and fifth of marble and sandstone. Qutbuddin commissioned the tower to mark the eastern extremity of the Islamic faith.

From here, drive past the government buildings including India Gate, Parliament House, and the President's Residence.

India Gate: This modern memorial arch was built in homage to the 90,000 Indian soldiers who died in World War I and whose names are inscribed on it. Also referred to in history as an All India War Memorial, an eternal flame, the Amar Jawan Jyoti, has been lit to honor the Unknown Soldier.

 

Parliament House is an impressive circular colonnaded building 171 meters/561 feet.

Rashtrapati Bhawan was formerly the Vice Regal Palace. Rashtrapati Bhawan is currently the residence of the President of India.

Hotel: Svelte Suites or similar (B)

 

Day 3: Saturday, June 23, 2012
Delhi – Leh (Fly)

Early morning transfer to the airport for your flight to Leh.

On arrival in Leh, meet our representative and transfer to the hotel for check in.

Rest of the day is free to acclimatize to the high altitude of Ladakh.

Hotel: Grand Dragon Hotel or similar (B, L, D)

Day 4: Sunday, June 24, 2012
In Leh

Leh, the capital city of Ladakh and a historical transit point for caravans of the bygone Silk Route, still looks and feels like a trading post of the ancient past. It is an imminently accessible and fascinating locale, featuring two notable monasteries, a palace, a mosque, and countless narrow, crooked alleyways beckoning the curious visitor. To stroll through Ladakh, taking in its sights, sounds, with a population of just 10,000, is to experience what writer Andrew Harvey called "the peaceful life."

After breakfast, visit the main attractions of Leh, Stok Palace and Stok.

A short distance across the Indus River, near Leh stands the Stok Palace, a major tourist attraction in Leh. Built in 1825 AD by King Tsespal Tondup Namgyal, it is a striking palace where the ancient and modern architectures meet together. Along with its architectural beauty, the palace is famous for beautiful gardens and the view of sunrise, as well as sunset is amazing. At present, the palace is open to visits and presents a collection of royal attires, crown and other royal materials.

Stok Gompa was founded by Lama Nawang Lotus during the reign of King Takpa Bumbde. The oldest parts of the Gompa are some 550 years old though the main Dukhang is only about fifty years old. A door on the left side of the courtyard opens onto the Gompa's library. This room has a complete set of the Kandshur, the 108 volumes of the Buddha's teachings. The central image in this library is of Sakyamuni (the Historical Buddha). To the left of the Dukhang is a new temple that has a new and large image of Avalokitesvara with his 1,000 arms & 11 heads. On either side of this image are numerous small stucco images of lamas and Buddhas.

After visiting Stok Palace and Stok Gompa, visit Leh Palace and then hike to Shanti Stupa and Sankar Gompa.

Leh Palace, an imposing and captivating marvelous structure, rises from the edge of a hill overlooking Leh town, the well-known capital of Ladakh, and stretches out towards the indigo sky. Built in 17th century, this nine-story monument was a residential palace for King Singge Namgyal. Although Leh Palace is no longer used as a residential home, it is a compelling and memorable relic of the local 16th century King Namgyal whose descendents still inhabit the nearby Stok Palace. Inside you will find a small museum featuring thangkas (painted or embroidered scrolls) and great views. This deserted edifice has a definite mystical quality to it that attracts tourist towards it.

Shanti Stupa literally means peace (Shanti) pillar (Stupa) established by a 'Peace Sect' of Japanese Buddhists, it is situated above Changspa in Leh district of Jammu and Kashmir. This Stupa opened in 1985 by the Dalai Lama with the intention of spreading Buddhist ideology and teachings throughout the world of peace and harmony.

Located just 3 km from Leh city is the eye-catching monastery Sankar Gompa. Known for its excellent architecture, the Gompa houses an impressive representation of Avalokitesvara complete with 1000 arms & 1000 heads. Managed by twenty monks, the monastery is the official residence of Kushok Bakul, the head of the Buddhists sect, Gelug-pa. This monastery is crowned with a spire made in gold and a dharma charka, symbolizing the first oration of Buddha.

Hotel: Grand Dragon or similar (B, L, D)

 

Day 5: Monday, June 25, 2012
Leh – Uletokpo / Alchi

After breakfast drive on the Leh - Srinagar highway to Phey from where you will raft in the Indus River.

Phey to Nimo: This route consist mostly of Grade II or III easy rapids and passes through stunning gorges, astoundingly beautiful mountains, many of them with tiny hamlets and imposing old monasteries nestled among the valleys. It starts from Phey Village, about 9 miles from Leh and ends at Nimo (23 miles from Leh) which is the confluence of the Indus and Zanskar Rivers. This is the meeting of the Indus and Zanskar River. The journey takes two and a half hours. Rafting can be undertaken by novices.

Afterwards, drive to Uletopko/Alchi (Sham valley) and enjoy a comfortable overnight stay at Alchi.

Hotel: Uley Ethnic Resort or similar (B, L, D)

 

Day 6: Tuesday, June 26, 2012
Uletopko – Lamayuru – Uletopko /Alchi

After breakfast proceed to Lamayuru Monastery.

Lamayuru Monastery: The oldest monastery in Ladakh is believed to have been a sacred site for the pre-Buddhist religion known as Bon. The main image is a large Vairocana (the Teaching Buddha) seated on a lion throne with a garuda (mythical bird) and sea monsters surrounding his head. Twice a year, all the lamas gather for prayers, accompanied by three days of masked dancing. These gatherings occur in the second and fifth months of the Tibetan calendar (corresponding usually to March and July). Lamayuru is 125 kms west of Leh at an altitude of 3510 m / 11600 feet.

In the afternoon return back to Alchi and hike to the Ridzong monastery and Chulichan nunnery.

Ridzong Monastery: Situated a few kilometers up a side-valley from Uley-Tokpo, Ridzong was founded only a century and a quarter ago by a devout layman-turned-lama, with the purpose of following the strict monastic rules of the Gelugs-pa sect.

Chulichan Nunnery: Around 1.5km below Rizong Monastery lies Chulichan Nunnery, one of the oldest nunneries in Ladakh. It is famous for it's orchards of sweet apricots. There are currently 15 nuns at the nunnery, aged 10-18. All can read and write English and some speak relatively good English. Accommodation will be within the nunnery itself and only females are permitted to live and teach at Chulichan.

Hotel: Uley Ethnic Resort or similar (B, L, D)

 

Day 7: Wednesday, June 27, 2012
Uletopko - Alchi - Leh

After breakfast, visit the Alchi Gompa.

Alchi Gompa is 70 kms from Leh on the banks of the Indus. Alchi Gompa dates a thousand years back. One of its walls features thousands of miniature sized pictures of the Buddha. Three large sized images made of clay and painted brightly are its focal attractions. No longer an active religious center, Alchi Gompa is looked after by monks from the Liker Monastery. This is the only monastery amongst 34 monasteries, which is not located on a hilltop.

Afternoon drive back to Leh and enroute visit Likir, Basgo and Spituk Monastery.

Likir Gompa, west of Leh between Basgo and Ridzong, was established in the 15th century and is set on an isolated ridge. The road approaching the Gompa makes a wide semi-circle around its base, affording beautiful views of the Gompa from different vantage points. In the main Dukhang or main assembly hall, at the front on the left are two large chortens. Inside the chorten on the left is a statue of Avalokitesvara, a Bodhisattva whose name means "Lord of All He Surveys" and who is believed to be incarnated in the Dalai Lama. Numerous thangkas hang from the columns and walls in the Dukhang.

Basgo is a Buddhist monastery located in Basgo. The monastery was built for the Namgyal rulers in 1680. Basgo itself was embedded in the early days of Ladakh and is frequently mentioned in the Ladakh Chronicles when it was a political and cultural center. The monastery is situated on top of the hill towering over the ruins of the ancient town and is noted for its Buddha statue and murals. In the 15th century, a palace was built in Basgo.

Spituk Gompa is some 5 kms south of Leh. Spituk Gompa was built about 550 years ago by Gyalpo Bumide, although one temple, dedicated to Mahakala was built about 900 years ago. The Spitok is probably derived from the Central Tibetan language and means "Effective as an Example" referring to the fact that this was the Tibetans' first monastery in Ladakh. Ancient thangkas are preserved here, some having been taken from the Potala Palace and Lhasa after the Chinese invaded. The head lama of Spituk is also the head lama for Ladakh.

Hotel: Grand Dragon Hotel or similar (B, L, D)

 

Day 8: Thursday, June 28, 2012
Leh – Thiksey – Shey Village – Leh

After breakfast, drive to Thiksey village, visit Thiksey Monastery and drive to Shey Village to visit Shey Palace and Gompa. Afterwards, return back to the hotel in Leh.

Thiksey Monastery is 17 kms south east of Leh. Built some 600 years ago it consists of 12 levels ascending a hillside and contains 10 temples. Below the monastery itself are chapels and "houses" stretching down the hillside. After entering the main courtyard to the immediate right and up several steps is a new temple containing a large Buddha statue. This Buddha figure is 15 meters tall and was constructed in 1970 to commemorate a visit to Thiksey by the Dalai Lama. The statue is the largest Buddha figure in Ladakh and took four years to construct. The statue is made of clay and covered with gold paint. Inside, the statue is filled with both the Kandshur and the Tandshur, volumes of Buddhist canonical texts.

Shey Palace is situated on a hillock 15 kms south of Leh. The palace was built in 1645 by Deldon Namgyal as a summer residence for the kings of Ladakh. It is the oldest palace in Ladakh and above the palace is an even older ruined fortress. From the palace, one has a great view of the ranges in the south to the Thiksey Gompa and in the west to the Zanskar mountain ranges. Hundreds of chortens of all shapes and sizes stand below the palace and Gompa.

Shey Gompa: In 1655, in memory of his father, this same king built the two-story Shey Gompa adjacent to the palace. In this Gompa, he installed a two-story high image of the seated Buddha, 12 meters high and worked of copper sheets gilded with gold.

In the evening, you will visit a local family where you will experience a cooking demonstration of a few local recipes followed by dinner along with the family.

Hotel: Grand Dragon Hotel or similar (B, L, D)

 

Day 9: Friday, June 29, 2012
Leh - Hemis - Leh

After breakfast, drive to Hemis to visit the Hemis Gompa and to spend the day leisurely partaking in the Hemis tshechu or religious festival.

Hemis Gompa is 40 Kms from Leh. It is the wealthiest, best well known and biggest Gompa of Ladakh. Its popularity stems from the major annual festival held here in the summer. The festival is in honor of Guru Padma Sambhava's birth anniversary. It also has the largest thangka in Ladakh that is unfurled once in 12 years. Hemis was built in 1630 during the reign of Singge Namgyal, an illustrious ruler of Ladakh. It flourished under the Namgyal Dynasty. It is divided into two areas, the assembly hall on the right and the main temple on the left. The hall (Dukhang) is also used as "green room" by the dancers during the festival. The temple is known as Tshogkhang. The verandahs have a surfeit of frescoes, among them the Buddhist "Wheel Of Life" (Kalachakra) and the lords of the four quarters, besides the prayer wheel.

You have a full day to enjoy the Hemis annual tshechu. In the monastery's inner courtyard, monks adorned with richly colored silk brocaded robes and incredible masks representing various deities in the Vajrayana, or Tibetan Buddhist pantheon, perform ritual dances. These are story-telling dances, recounting the coming of Buddhism to Hemis and Ladakh, the life and times of important monks, and the struggle of good triumphing over evil. One of the most important dances is the Black Hat Dance that tells how Padmasambhava (lovingly remembered as the Guru Rimpoche, or Precious Teacher) relieved Buddhism from royal persecution in the 8th century. Booths, stalls, and a temporary bazaar are set up outside the courtyard, selling food, religious, and secular items. Hundreds of well-dressed Ladakhis happily throng this celebration of living culture.

Hotel: Grand Dragon or similar (B, L, D)

 

Day 10: Saturday, June 30, 2012
Leh - Hemis - Leh

After breakfast, you will be driven to Hemis to enjoy the last day of the tshechu. Afterwards, drive back to Leh.

Hotel: Grand Dragon or similar (B, L, D)

 

Day 11: Sunday, July 1, 2012
Leh – Nubra

After breakfast, depart to Nubra Valley.

Nubra Valley lies north of Leh and is accessible over the Khardung la pass (18,380 feet/5,600 m), one of the highest motorable roads in the world. The Nubra Valley was on the caravan route from Leh to Kashgar via the Sasir and Karakoram passes. Apart from unparalleled trekking opportunities, the valley houses several Buddhist monasteries such as Sumur and the 350 year-old Diskit Gompa, famous for its murals.

Arrive Nubra and proceed for a visit to the white sand dunes at Hunder and experience a camel ride (On direct payment basis.) Nubra is also known for its two-humped Bactrian camel that is found in these parts. The camels are left to graze in the jungle during the summer months and are brought back only during the winter months when they are used as beasts of burden and for their wool.

Hotel: Desert Himalaya Camp 0r Similar (B, L, D)

 

Day 12: Monday, July 2, 2012
Nubra – Leh

Early in the morning walk up to Diskit Monastery to witness the Morning Prayer ceremony. It takes about 45 minutes through a long row of scattered chortens to reach the Gompa that is set on the highest point near the village. Belonging to the Gelugpa (yellow hat) sect, parts of the Gompa, which houses 120 resident monks, is about 760 years old.

Return to the camp for breakfast and after drive 5 miles to visit Hundar Gompa. This is a small Gompa belonging to the Gelug-pa sect, set amidst innumerable chortens and has a huge impressive statue of Chamba in the main prayer hall. The Gompa was built at the time King Jamgyal Namgyal came here with his wife, Gyal Khatun. Explore the village, which has some beautiful old houses. You will have time to visit one of the local village schools.

In the afternoon proceed back to Leh, once again driving via Khardungla pass on the world's highest motorable road. In the evening explore Leh bazaar for last minute souvenirs.

Hotel: Grand Dragon or similar (B, L, D)

 

Day 13: Tuesday, July 3, 2012
Leh to Delhi (Fly) to Agra (127 miles/ 4 hours by road)

Early morning transfer to the airport for your flight to Delhi. On arrival at Delhi airport, you will be directly transferred to Agra. First check into the hotel and afterwards, visit Agra Fort.

Agra Fort: Within a radius of 3 kilometers, on the banks of the river Yamuna, rises the crescent like Agra Fort. Designed and built by Akbar in 1565 A.D., the fort is surrounded by a 70 foot high wall. It houses the beautiful Pearl Mosque and numerous palaces including the Jahangir Mahal, Diwan-i-Khas, Diwan-i-Am and Moti Masjid. The Agra fort happens to be on the same bank of the river Yamuna as the Taj Mahal that is visible in all its beauty from the fort. The fort has four gates and is enclosed by a double barricaded wall of red sand stone. Many buildings were constructed within the fort. However, very few remain to date. One of the most significant ones is the multi storied Jahangir Mahal built by Akbar for his wife, Jodha Bai. The Mahal is reached through an impressive gateway and its inner courtyard consists of beautiful halls, profuse carvings on stone, exquisitely carved heavy brackets, piers and cross beams.

Hotel: Trident or similar (B)

Day 14: Wednesday, July 4, 2012
Agra – Fatehpur Sikri - Delhi (127 miles/ 4 hrs by road)

Before breakfast, visit the Taj Mahal at sunrise. Return to the hotel for breakfast before departing to visit the imperial ghost city of Fatehpur Sikri.

The Taj Mahal: Agra is the city of the Taj Mahal. It is a sublime experience of the greatest love story ever told. Today India's most fascinating and beautiful masterpiece is this perfectly symmetrical edifice set amidst landscaped gardens on the banks of the Yamuna River. The Taj Mahal was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as a memorial to his wife, Mumtaz. After her untimely death, Shah Jahan had her mortal remains buried in this mausoleum. After his own demise, he was placed to rest next to his beloved queen in the same mausoleum. Under the dome below the ground level in a dimly lit chamber, lie the mortal remains of Shah Jahan and his beloved queen, Mumtaz, reminding the world of their undying love.

Fatehpur Sikri: The imperial 'ghost city' of Fatehpur Sikri was built of sandstone by Emperor Akbar who ruled India. Akbar ascended the throne in 1556 at the tender age of 14 years. The apparent reason for ascending the throne was the sudden demise of his father, Humayun. Akbar turned his attention towards building a magnificent Imperial capital at Agra as soon as he consolidated his power. Instant results were seen with the building of Agra Fort, which served a dual purpose as both the royal residence and a military base.

After visiting Fatehpur Sikri, you will be driven to Delhi airport to catch your flight home. If there is time before your flight, the driver will be available for last minute shopping or sightseeing.

Quote: For two people, the quote is $2760/person if paying by check and $2855/person if paying by credit card. This quote includes an airfare that can increase until booked.

Inclusions:
1. Accommodation on twin sharing basis.
2. Daily Breakfast and all meals in Leh sector.
3. Transportation by a driver with an air-conditioned vehicle as per activities (Non AC vehicle in Leh sector).
4. English speaking guide for sightseeing.

5. Rafting on the Indus River.
6. One Family hosted dinner in Leh.
7. Entrances to all monuments as mentioned in the itinerary.
8. All current applicable taxes.

Exclusions:
1. Any personal expenses
2. Tips & gratuities
3. Cancellation insurance is HIGHLY recommended.

Important Notes:
1. Check in & Check out time at hotels is 1400/1200 hrs
2. Reporting time at Domestic airports is 1.5 hrs prior to the departure time for domestic flights
3. Reporting time at International airports is 3 hrs prior to the departure time for international flights
4. Baggage allowance for domestic flights is 44 pounds