14 DAYS ~ FROM £2,382
Dramatic snow capped mountain peaks, their splendour dominating the lush green pastures of the valley, embrace the beautiful vale of Kashmir. Spend time relaxing on a traditional Houseboat, wander the Alpine pastures of Gulmarg and explore the beautiful gardens created by the Mughul Emperors. Then, climbing to high altitudes, visit the enigmatic state of Ladakh, the seat of ancient Buddhist culture. It’s wild and barren, yet, a gentle charismatic land. See magnificent Monasteries and spiralling mountain passes.
Delhi • Srinagar • Gulmarg • Kargil • Leh • Delhi
 Day 1. To Delhi
Depart Heathrow on direct Jet Airways flight to Delhi.
Day 2. To Srinagar
Arrive Delhi in the morning. Connecting flight to Srinagar. Afternoon relaxing Shikara ride. Four nights aboard Deluxe Houseboat on Dal or Nagin Lake.
Day 3. Srinagar
Delightful morning sightseeing aboard a ‘Shikara’ – the traditional Lake boat to visit Shalimar Bagh built for Nur Jehan by her husband Jehangir in 1616. Afternoon at leisure or take a walk on the Boulevard Road towards Royal Springs Golf course.
Day 4. Srinagar
Morning visit the Shankaracharya Temple, standing upon a hill with magnificent views over Srinagar and the Dal Lake. The site dates back to 2500 BC. Drive down to the city of Sriangar visiting the famous Mosque of Shah Hamadan, the fascinating local bazaar at Jamma Masjid and Roza Bal Shrine (Jesus is said to be buried here). Afternoon at leisure at the Houseboat.
Day 5. Day excursion to Gulmarg
Morning drive to Gulmarg – “The Meadow of Flowers”. Travel through charming villages, ablaze wirh seasonal shades of green, vivid copper and russet. Lunch at Highlands Park. Later ride on the highest cable car in the world to view the stunning scenery.
Day 6. To Kargil
After an early breakfast drive to Kargil. Stop at Sonamarg, to soak up the spectacular scenery of the Sonamarg valley, before the road starts its tortuous ascent to the Zojila Pass at 11000 feet. The land slowly gives up outward signs of life as trees and vegetation disappear: it’s a barren but starkly beautiful land. Overnight stay at the D'Zojila Hotel.
Day 7. To Leh
After breakfast drive to Leh en route stop at Mulbekh to see the stunning statue of Buddha. Carry on over the Namikala Pass and then the high pass at Fatula (14000 feet) and visit the ancient Lamayuru Monastery. Five nights stay at the Hotel Dragon.
Day 8. Leh
Morning at leisure. Afternoon walk to the Leh bazaar followed by a visit to the Shankar Gompa which housing countless statues of pure gold and a number of interesting paintings.
Day 9. Leh
Morning excursion to the 12 storeys high commanding Thiksey Monastery. A 15 m high seated Maitreya Buddha dominates the main prayer hall. Continue the journey to see the most famous Monastery of Ladakh – the Hemis Gompa. Return to the hotel for an afternoon at leisure.
Day 10. Excursion to Khardung La
Morning excursion to the Khardung La – the highest motorable road in the world. The views are unparalleled – the Nubra valley itself is cradled between two soaring mountain ranges, with peaks in excess of 6000 metres.
Day 11. Leh
Morning visit the Stok Royal Palace, once the official residence of the Royal family of Ladakh. The museum has an intriguing collection of Buddhist art, weapons, jewellery and artefacts. On the way back to Leh stop at the Tibetan refugee centre. In the afternoon visit a local Ladakhi family to see their life style, have tea with them or even dress up in local costume.
Day 12. To Delhi
Fly to Delhi in the morning. Rest of the day at leisure. Two nights stay at the Maidens.
Day 13. Delhi
Morning sightseeing of Delhi includes Jama Masjid, India Gate, Humayun’s Tomb and Qutab Minar. Rest of the day at leisure.
Day 14. To Heathrow
Transfer to International airport for direct flight to Heathrow on Jet Airways.
With love from India...Leh
Hand woven rugs, carpets and shawls are woven from the wool of Ladakhi goats, and dyed with natural dyes. Gorgeous chunky shell bangles favoured by Ladakhi women are delightful - as is the fine turquoise and silver jewellery. Look out for Tibetan handicrafts including prayer wheels and Thangka paintings.
Suggested extensions: Agra & Jaipur
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