ZANSKAR

BEYOND LADAKH

Duration: 10 N | 11 D
Best Time: Aug-Oct 2026
Highlights: Sham Valley, Hanu Valley, Kargil Valley, Zanskar Valley

Details

UNIQUE MEANINGFUL EXPERIENCES

WALKING

THE

HISTORY

Unique Heritage Walks

FEEL THE
MOUNTAINS

One Day Adventure Hikes

MINGLE WITH THE LOCALS

Incredible Cultural Tours

EXPLORE PLACES THE RESPONSIBLE AND MEANINGFUL WAY

Step into a World of Meaningful Travel

Your Tour, Your Way

We believe in a customer-centric model of tourism. Hence, our priority is to offer our clients a tour, their own way. We offer a fully customisable tours according to the need of our clients

TRAVEL WITH US

Live Among The Locals

Ladakh Backpackers aims to provide our guests an insight of the local life and culture. All our homestay and local guesthouses are well equipped to meet the needs of our clients, at the same time providing them a tradition feel of the region

Unique Curated Tours

Being a team of travel enthusiasts, all our tours are curated keeping in view the need of a traveller who seeks to have an experience of the unique identity of the region. Our tours offers a mixture of key tourist attraction, at the same time it also includes offbeat locations

FEATURED EXPERIENTIAL TOURS

5 Days to 2 Weeks

Leh Ladakh Tours, India

Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley, Monasteries

From:

$550

15 options

4 Days to 6 Days

Golden Triangle Tour, India

Delhi, Jaipur, Agra & Taj Mahal

From:

$399

4 options

7 Days to 2 Weeks

Himalayan Bike Tours

Ladakh, Kashmir, Manali

From:

$499

8 options

4 Days to 7 Days

Mesmerising Kashmir, India

Srinagar, Pahalgam, Gulmarg, Sonamarg

From:

$550

5 options

Screenshot_2022-01-15-12-52-55-834_com.instagram.android~2.jpg

1 Day Experience

Unique Experiences

Rafting, Trekking, Heritage Meals

From:

$20

6 options

5 Days to 2 Weeks

Trekking and Adventure Tours

Ladakh, Kashmir, Uttrakhand

From:

$499

4 options

MORE TOURS

Some of Ladakh’s most meaningful experiences begin before the day does.

Most travellers visit Thiksey Gompa for its remarkable architecture, hilltop setting and the famous Maitreya Buddha. But an early morning visit offers a very different way of experiencing the monastery.

The morning prayers give you a close glimpse into Tibetan Buddhism as it is practised in Ladakh. The chanting, bells, drums and recitation of Buddhist texts are not a performance for visitors. They are part of the monks’ everyday religious practice.

Sitting quietly in the prayer hall, observing the rituals and the small details of monastic life, you begin to see Thiksey as more than a beautiful heritage site. It is a living institution where centuries-old traditions continue to shape everyday life.

If you want to experience the monasteries of Ladakh beyond their architecture, make time for a morning prayer at Thiksey.

It is not just something to see.
It is something to experience.

Pashmina is not just a fabric. It is a story.

A story that begins high on the Tibetan Plateau, in the vast pastures of Changthang, where Changpa pastoralists have lived with their herds for generations. It begins with the Changthangi goat, whose fine winter undercoat allows it to survive temperatures far below freezing. When spring arrives, this precious fibre is carefully combed from the goat and collected by hand.

But the story does not end in Ladakh.

For centuries, pashmina travelled along the ancient trade routes through Ladakh and onward to Kashmir. There, generations of Kashmiri artisans transformed this raw fibre into extraordinarily fine shawls, eventually making them prized possessions of emperors, aristocrats and royalty across the world.

By the 17th century, pashmina had become far more than a pastoral product. It was a commodity powerful enough to shape trade, economies and political ambitions across Ladakh, Tibet and Kashmir.
Perhaps that is what makes pashmina so fascinating.

A fibre born in the coldest landscapes of Ladakh, transformed by human hands in Kashmir, and carried by trade routes to the wider world.

This is the story of Pashmina.

Sham Valley Trek: Is it the perfect beginner’s hike in Ladakh? 🥾🏔️

Hear us out.

If you’re looking to experience Ladakh on foot but aren’t quite ready for a demanding high altitude trek, the Sham Valley Trek is a wonderful place to begin.

The trail takes you through some of the most beautiful villages of Sham, from Likir to Yangthang and Hemis Shukpachan, with gradual climbs, manageable elevations and scenic mountain passes along the way.

But what makes this experience special is that the trail isn’t just about walking. You’ll pass through fields, apricot orchards and traditional villages, meet local families, and spend the night in local homestays, experiencing Ladakhi hospitality beyond the usual tourist route.

No technical climbs. No rushing to the summit. Just a beautiful, immersive way to discover Ladakh, one trail, village and cup of tea at a time.

Your first trek in Ladakh? Sham Valley might just be the one.

#ShamValley #ShamValleyTrek #LadakhTrekking #TrekLadakh #Ladakh LadakhTravel HikingLadakh OffbeatLadakh ExperienceLadakh LadakhBackpackers

Some of the most meaningful souvenirs are not bought. They are made by hand.

In the quiet village of Tar, our guests spent a day discovering the beautiful art of needle felting, where soft natural wool is slowly layered, sculpted, and shaped into life. Under the gentle guidance of a local craftswoman, every careful stitch became a lesson, and every conversation became part of the experience.

For generations, Ladakh’s villages have lived in harmony with the wildlife of these mountains. That deep connection is reflected in the tiny woolen figures they create: snow leopards, ibex, birds, and cattle, each one celebrating the fragile beauty of the high Himalaya and the spirit of conservation.

The rhythm of felting is slow, calming, and almost meditative. And by the end of the day, our guests carried home more than a handmade toy. They carried a piece of Tar, woven with laughter, learning, and the warmth of the people who shared their craft.

#LadakhBackpackers #TarVillage #NeedleFelting #SlowTravel #ResponsibleTourism Ladakh HandmadeInLadakh CommunityExperiences

Long before Changpa became the name of our lodge, it belonged to the people of this land.

For generations, the Changpa nomads have traversed the vast Changthang plateau with their herds of yaks and pashmina goats, moving with the seasons and living in harmony with one of the world's most extraordinary landscapes. Their lives speak of resilience, simplicity, and a profound connection to nature.

As we bring Changpa Nomadic Lodge to life, we do so with deep admiration for the people who continue to shape the spirit of Changthang.

Because Changpa is more than a name. It is a way of life.

#ChangpaNomadicLodge #Changthang #ThePeopleOfChangthang #NomadicLife #Ladakh StoriesOfTheLand

Midweek, reimagined.
A quiet Wednesday by the Leh stream, where time slowed, stories flowed, and brunch turned into an experience.
Date by the River — an intimate picnic, curated for moments that linger.
Follow along for more from our House of Experiences.

Khardungla Downhill
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An unforgettable ride on the newly explored offbeat trail of Khardungla Downhill, skipping the main road and tracing the ancient Silk Route itself. The rugged path is raw and thrilling, with narrow edges, icy water crossings, and stretches where you carry your bike on your back. Challenging, but every moment was absolutely worth it.

Our guests just completed their 5-day Markha Valley Trek via Zinchan!

While the classic 7-day route from Chilling to Chogdo over Kongmaru La Pass is stunning, it’s also one of the more demanding trails in Ladakh. For those looking for the beauty of Markha without the high-altitude strain, this curated route via Zinchan is the perfect alternative — shorter, easier, and equally breathtaking.

Swipe through to explore the trail that brings you face-to-face with dramatic canyons, remote villages, and surreal Himalayan landscapes — all without crossing the tough Kongmaru La!

🏆 We’ve done it again!
Ladakh Backpackers is proud to receive the Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Award 2025 and retain our spot as the #1 Tour Operator in Ladakh for the 5th year in a row!

Huge thanks to our amazing guests for your trust & reviews, and to our dedicated team for making every journey unforgettable.
This award puts us in the top 10% of travel companies worldwide — and it’s all because of you.

Here’s to more authentic adventures in Ladakh!
#TravelersChoice2025 #LadakhBackpackers #NumberOneInLadakh #TopRatedTourOperator #ThankYouTravelers #ExploreLadakh #AuthenticJourneys

Speed, thrill, and surreal landscapes!

The Warila MTB Downhill Experience was an unforgettable ride through Ladakh’s raw beauty.

Want to make your Ladakh tour truly special? Explore our Unique Experiences and add a touch of awe to your journey. Because Ladakh deserves more than just a visit, it deserves a story!

The ancient courtyard of Hemis Monastery comes alive once a year with vibrant colors, sacred chants, and the thunder of masked dances.

Join us in celebrating the birth of Guru Padmasambhava, the lotus-born saint who brought Buddhism to the Himalayas. Witness monks in elaborate brocade robes and awe-inspiring masks perform the Cham Dance, a powerful ritual to dispel negativity and invoke divine blessings.

This isn't just a festival—it's a spiritual experience that transcends time.

📍Hemis Monastery, Ladakh
🗓️ 5th Jul-6th Jul, 2025
🎭 #SacredDance #HemisFestival #Ladakh #BuddhismInTheHimalayas #AuthenticLadakh #LadakhBackpackers #ChamDance #SpiritualJourney #FestivalofLadakh

Ride For Peace!

In this moment of uncertainty, @ladakhbackpackers , in association with @letsmagucho , offered a complimentary electric cycle ride experience to our guests stranded in Ladakh. This small gesture from the borderlands was a reminder to stay calm, stay connected, pedal forward with peace, and to say no war✌️

From sunshine to snowfall, and everything in between, our trek from Gyamtsa to Phyang was a wild spring adventure in Ladakh. The weather danced between moods, but every step through shifting skies was a reminder of nature’s raw, untamed beauty. Worth every chill, gust, and golden ray.

A glimpse of the first day of Dastaan-E-Karwaan at Munawwar House Saboo organised by @naqsh_ladakh

Today, we came together to honor the memory of Ladakh’s beloved historian, Late Abdul Ghani Sheikh, while celebrating the cultures that have shaped this beautiful land. Through centuries of exchange along the Silk Route, Ladakh has become a unique blend of traditions, flavors, and stories.

Our ancestors welcomed visitors with open arms, embracing new ideas while preserving Ladakh’s essence. This event is a heartfelt exploration of those deep connections to our past, reminding us of the shared journey that continues to guide us toward a more harmonious future.

#DastaanEKarwaan #LadakhStories #SilkRouteHeritage #AbdulGhaniSheikh #CulturalJourney #naqsh #ladakhbackpackers

It’s with utmost pride we announce that Ladakh Backpackers has bagged the prestigious Tripadvisor’s “Travellers Choice Award” for the 4th consecutive time! Moreover, we are pleased to retain our position as the number 1 rated tour company in Ladakh.

Huge thanks to our incredible team, travel partners, and our wonderful guests for making this possible.#LadakhBackpackers #TravellersChoice #tripasvisor

Experience the thrill of tradition at the Polo Festival in Ladakh! Join us from 1st July to 5th July 2024 at the Shagaran Polo Ground in Chuchot for an authentic celebration of Ladakhi culture and heritage.

#CuratedExperiences #OffbeatAdventures #LadakhUnfiltered #ladakhbackpackers #trendingreels

“Nyarma Gompa: The lesser known historical Gem of Ladakh”
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Located in the south of Thiksey Monastery, Nyarma Monastery is a historically rich yet often overlooked site in Ladakh. Founded around 1000 AD by the esteemed “Great Translator” Rinchen-zangpo, Nyarma became a vital center for Buddhism in Upper-Ladakh (Margyul), thriving under the influence of the kings of Guge and Purang. Today, it lies in ruins, with remnants of five temples and numerous stupas hinting at its former splendor. Originally enclosed by a nearly rectangular wall, the compound’s decline accelerated around 150 years ago when locals removed the temple roofs, repurposing the wood after significant damage from Dogra invasions. This left the site vulnerable to the elements, eroding its art and architecture. Despite this, surviving murals and votive stupas, especially within a western stupa, provide invaluable insights into early Tantric Buddhist architecture. Recent construction efforts, including a nun temple (Jomo Lakhang) and educational facilities, juxtapose modern interventions with ancient ruins, preserving Nyarma’s historical significance while adapting to contemporary needs.

Join Us for an Unforgettable Ladakh Bike Tour!

📅 **Dates:** 24th June - 29th June
⏳ **Duration:** 5 Nights / 6 Days
🏷️** Price: ** Starting INR 14,499

Embark on a journey through the stunning terrains of Ladakh with the #1 Tripadvisor-rated company in the region. This fully supported tour, organized by Umlingla Adventure, supported by Ladakh Backpackers & Yato Tours, promises memories you’ll cherish forever.

✨ **What’s Included:**
- RE Himalayan 411 CC Bikes with accessories & riding gears
- Bike Fuel for the entire tour
- Expert guidance and support
- Comfortable accommodations
- Delicious meals
- Unparalleled scenic routes
- Permits

Don’t miss out on this extraordinary adventure! Limited spots available—reserve yours now and be part of an epic experience!

🌐 **Book Now:** [+91 80823 29535]
📩 **Inquiries:** [umlinglaadventure@gmail.com]

#LadakhBikeTour #AdventureAwaits #UmlinglaAdventure #LadakhBackpackers #YatoTours #BikeTour2024 #TravelWithUs #trending #lehladakh #bikeride #bike

What better way to start your journey in Ladakh than with a private traditional cultural performance by local artists on your first day in Leh?

Our guests from the US, Singapore, and Mumbai are enjoying an exclusive cultural program at hotel @gyalporesidency , setting the perfect tone for their adventure.

Embark on a journey beyond the ordinary with Ladakhi Backpackers. From a day trek through the stunning Stok George to savoring Ladakhi heritage at Gyapthago Heritage House, our hand-curated tours redefine adventure. Join us in unlocking the essence of Ladakh, one experience at a time. #CuratedExperiences #OffbeatAdventures #LadakhUnfiltered #ladakhbackpackers #trendingreels

The enduring story of the Gujjar nomadic tribe.
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For generations, the Gujjars of Naranag in Kashmir have harmonized their way of life with nature, creating a unique socio-cultural tapestry. As the tribe's summer settlement, Naranag showcases their seasonal migrations and traditional practices.
With ancient temples and ruins, Naranag reflects the region's historical interplay of cultures. This destination offers more than stunning views; it's a dive into Kashmir's rich heritage. Amidst breathtaking beauty, the Gujjar community's warmth welcomes visitors to explore a world where history, culture, and nature intertwine seamlessly.
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#ladakhbackpackers #mesmerisingkashmir #naranag #outlooktraveller #tripadvisor #travelholic #backpacking #trendingreels #lehladakh #backpackers #trending ##wanderlust #spiritualawakening #instagram #nikonindiaphotography #ladakh #likeforlikes #backpackertrails #ladakhdiaries #followforfollow #adventurelover #himalyandiaries #himalayas #ladakh2023 #incredibleindia #travelstories #travelphotography #incredibleindia

🥇 Thrilled and honored to announce Ladakh Backpackers as the winner of the prestigious Traveler's Choice Award 2023!

Thank you for securing our ranking as the Number-1 travel company in Ladakh, and making us the number one choice for unforgettable adventures in Ladakh. This remarkable achievement is a testament to our team's dedication and the trust of our incredible travelers.

#TravelersChoiceAward #NumberOneInLadakh #AdventureAwaits #UnforgettableExperiences #ladakhbackpackers #travelholic #shamvalley #backpacking #reels #trendingreels #lehladakh #backpackers #trending ##wanderlust #spiritualawakening #instagram #ladakh #likeforlikes #backpackertrails #ladakhdiaries #followforfollow #adventurelover #himalyandiaries #himalayas #ladakh2023 #incredibleindia #travelstories #incredibleindia #follow4followback #instalike

TRAVEL STORIES FROM LADAKH
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Belated Mother’s Day Post: An Unbreakable Connection
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“In the heartfelt memoirs of my childhood, I revisit the enchanting moments spent with my extraordinary mother. Meet the woman who carried the wisdom of 70 nomadic years upon her shoulders. A portrait of strength, resilience, and love. Transporting myself back to the vast landscapes of Chushul, I recall the humble abode that was our sanctuary. The simplicity of our nomadic life fostered a deep connection with nature, and I was blessed to witness the magic unfold. One of my dearest memories involves helping my mother with the daily nomadic tasks. As the sun gently rose, me and my sisters would gather around the herds of cattles, patiently watching our mother milking the precious liquid of sustenance. Our shared laughter and synchronized movements created a bond that words cannot express. Reflecting on those cherished days, I am in awe of the strength and resilience my mother exhibited. Her tireless dedication to our nomadic way of life, her unwavering spirit, and her unconditional love shaped me into the person I am today. Forever grateful for the lessons she taught me. As I embark on my own journey, I carry the essence of my nomadic upbringing within my heart. It is a part of me, a compass that guides me through life's challenges. To my remarkable mother, thank you for instilling in me a love for nature, a thirst for adventure, and the courage to embrace the unknown”
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Courtesy @amo_sonam_07

#ladakhbackpackers #outlooktraveller #tripadvisor #travelholic #backpacking #trendingreels #lehladakh #backpackers #trending ##wanderlust #spiritualawakening #instagram #nikonindiaphotography #ladakh #likeforlikes #backpackertrails #ladakhdiaries #followforfollow #adventurelover #himalyandiaries #himalayas #ladakh2023 #incredibleindia #travelstories #travelphotography #incredibleindia

TRAVEL STORIES FROM LADAKH
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"This photograph captures an elder from Skyurbuchan village, Ladakh, using traditional methods to extract apricot oil. Despite the rise of modern technology, some villages in Ladakh still preserve these age-old practices. However, this expertise is slowly fading away as more convenient and efficient machinery takes over. The quality of the oil extracted manually is unparalleled, and the skill and knowledge of the locals is invaluable. As we look towards the future, let's not forget to honor and preserve the wisdom of our ancestors, and the beauty of traditional craftsmanship. Let us cherish and protect these age-old practices, so that they may be passed on to future generations and continue to inspire awe and wonder”
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Courtesy @folks_of_ladakh

#ladakhbackpackers #travelholic #shamvalley #backpacking #reels #trendingreels #lehladakh #backpackers #trending ##wanderlust #spiritualawakening #instagram #nikonindiaphotography #ladakh #likeforlikes #backpackertrails #ladakhdiaries #followforfollow #adventurelover #himalyandiaries #himalayas #ladakh2023 #incredibleindia #travelstories #travelphotography#incredibleindia #follow4followback #instalike #instagood #instamood

Attention all documentary film enthusiasts! Are you looking for an unforgettable and immersive experience that will take your filmmaking skills to the next level? Join us for the 2023 edition of our "Hands on Documentary Film Workshop in Ladakh"!

Over the course of 40 days, you'll have the unique opportunity to explore the breathtaking wilderness of Ladakh and its surrounding areas.

Based out of old town of Leh, with sites of exploration extending to Skurbuchan, Photoksar in western Ladakh, Ensa and Turtuk in Nubra Valley, and Puga in Changthang, participants will have the chance to capture stunning footage and tell compelling stories in some of the most stunning locations on earth.
Led by experienced documentary filmmakers, this workshop will provide you with hands-on training in all aspects of the filmmaking process, from pre-production to post-production. You'll learn how to develop and refine your vision, how to work with a team, and how to tell compelling stories that resonate with audiences.
Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to expand your skills and explore one of the most beautiful regions in the world.

Participants having diverse professional backgrounds and interests including: anthropology and other social sciences, film, art, architecture and design are welcome!!

Apply now for the 2023 edition of our "Hands on Documentary Film Workshop in Ladakh"!

#summerschool #filmmaking #workshop #ladakh #instadaily

TRAVEL STORIES FROM LADAKH
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"The FIFA World Cup fever. A young boy emulates his soccer heros as he weaves a line through his neighbourhood in the shadow of Leh Gompa, Ladakh.”
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Courtesy @paulharrisphotography

#ladakhbackpackers #travelholic #nubravalley #backpacking #reels #trendingreels #lehladakh #backpackers #trending ##wanderlust #spiritualawakening #instagram #nikonindiaphotography #ladakh #likeforlikes #ladakhdiaries #followforfollow #adventurelover #himalyandiaries #himalayas #ladakh2022 #incredibleindia #shotoniphone #travelphotography#incredibleindia #follow4followback #instalike #instagood #instamood #fifaworldcup2022

TRAVEL STORIES FROM LADAKH
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"Will you be my friend? While rubbing
soap on her face, she asked me...
.. Ufff the innocence Ambi asked me I just kept smiling and watching her sprinkling cold water. It does not happen often, we ask people their names, here it was the opposite.... Ambi not only asked my name but also proposed to be friends with me, .
... Will you come to meet me at ten o'clock, I will meet you with my friends, his face was no less than a magic show. This is what innocence is... No worries, no other mention, just innocent.”
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Courtesy @indiakalakaar

#ladakhbackpackers #travelholic #nubravalley #backpacking #reels #trendingreels #lehladakh #backpackers #trending ##wanderlust #spiritualawakening #instagram #nikonindiaphotography #ladakh #likeforlikes #backpackertrails #ladakhdiaries #followforfollow #adventurelover #himalyandiaries #himalayas #ladakh2022 #incredibleindia #shotoniphone #travelphotography#incredibleindia #follow4followback #instalike #instagood #instamood

TRAVEL STORIES FROM LADAKH
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"The sound of threshing machine got me hike up to the topmost village of Suru Valley where I met Haji Ali and his family. That whole afternoon was spent documenting the process of harvest and listening to their stories. Next year when I visited the family to give this photo, Haji Ali was no more.
Sometimes we end up capturing moments which
can be so precious to others and lets them keep the
memories alive..”
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Courtesy @_ayan.biswas

#ladakhbackpackers #travelholic #nubravalley #backpacking #reels #trendingreels #lehladakh #backpackers #trending ##wanderlust #spiritualawakening #instagram #nikonindiaphotography #ladakh #likeforlikes #backpackertrails #ladakhdiaries #followforfollow #adventurelover #himalyandiaries #himalayas #ladakh2022 #incredibleindia #shotoniphone #travelphotography#incredibleindia #follow4followback #instalike #instagood #instamood

TRAVEL STORIES FROM LADAKH
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"Before we started off with our Day 1 itinerary, a sumptuous breakfast platter with Khambir (Ladakhi bread), omelette, tea and dollops of butter savoured our tastebuds.”
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Courtesy @twoirregular

#ladakhbackpackers #travelholic #nubravalley #backpacking #reels #trendingreels #lehladakh #backpackers #trending ##wanderlust #spiritualawakening #instagram #nikonindiaphotography #ladakh #likeforlikes #backpackertrails #ladakhdiaries #followforfollow #adventurelover #himalyandiaries #himalayas #ladakh2022 #incredibleindia #shotoniphone #travelphotography#incredibleindia #follow4followback #instalike #instagood #instamood

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@ladakhbackpackers

Duration: 10 N | 11 D Best Time: Aug-Oct 2026 Highlights: Sham Valley, Hanu Valley, Kargil Valley, Zanskar Valley

UNIQUE MEANINGFUL EXPERIENCES

WALKING

THE

HISTORY

Unique Heritage Walks

FEEL THE MOUNTAINS

One Day Adventure Hikes

MINGLE WITH THE LOCALS

Incredible Cultural Tours

EXPLORE PLACES THE RESPONSIBLE AND MEANINGFUL WAY

TRAVEL WITH US

FEATURED EXPERIENTIAL TOURS

Leh Ladakh Tours, India

Golden Triangle Tour, India

Himalayan Bike Tours

Mesmerising Kashmir, India

Unique Experiences

Trekking and Adventure Tours

​

Follow us on Instagram

Duration: 10 N | 11 D
Best Time: Aug-Oct 2026
Highlights: Sham Valley, Hanu Valley, Kargil Valley, Zanskar Valley

FEEL THE
MOUNTAINS