Overview
“If there is heaven on earth, it is here, it is here, it is here.” These famous words by Emperor Jehangir remain true today. Ladakh, surrounded by snow-covered mountains, is a place of incredible beauty. Often called “Little Tibet,” it is known for its deep connection to Tibetan Buddhist culture and its stunning landscapes shaped over thousands of years by wind and water.
Picture yourself standing in this magical land—its moon-like valleys scattered with green fields, tall poplar trees, and ancient monasteries. Imagine capturing these scenes through your camera while meeting new friends and learning together.
On this photography trip, we will explore Ladakh’s rich culture and natural beauty. The highlight will be the Youru Kyabgyad Festival at the famous Lamayuru Monastery, often called the “Moonland of Ladakh.” Over two days, monks perform intricate Cham dances, wearing sacred masks that represent spirits and deities. This festival is a celebration of art, storytelling, and tradition, bringing people together from all over Ladakh.
We’ve carefully planned this journey to best avoid busy tourist spots, focusing on peaceful monasteries, quiet villages, and hidden treasures where you can experience the real Ladakh and better connect with people. This trip isn’t just about taking pictures—it’s about connecting with local people, sharing stories, and building friendships with fellow travelers.
This trip is for photographers of all levels with a good fitness level (as we’ll be at high altitude). Whether you love landscapes, portraits, or street photography, you’ll have plenty of chances to practice, learn, and create amazing photos. Along the way, we’ll also focus on storytelling through images, working with light and backgrounds, and approaching people respectfully to bring out their character and your creativity.
Join us on this special journey to one of the most beautiful places on earth. Together, we’ll capture unforgettable moments and make memories—and friends—that will last a lifetime. We can’t wait to share this adventure with you!
Itinerary
*subject to change*
Day 1: (June 23) Leh – Gateway to Ladakh
Arrival at Leh Airport, where you will be welcomed and transferred to your hotel (approximately 15 minutes). Enjoy a welcome tea followed by a brief orientation on acclimatization, including important do’s and don’ts. Check in and spend the rest of the day resting to adjust to the altitude. In the afternoon there will be an optional relaxed outing to either Namgyal Tsemo or Shanti Stupa. Dinner will be at a local restaurant in Leh Market. Overnight in Leh.
Day 2: (June 24) Local Monasteries and Old Town
Begin the day with an early morning visit to Leh’s traditional bread and tea markets, including the historic Old Town area. Return to the hotel for breakfast, then depart for a full-day monastery tour. Visit Shey Palace, the Dalai Lama’s residence, and the Tibetan colony. Return to Leh in the afternoon and rest for an hour. In the evening, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant before returning to the hotel. Overnight in Leh.
Day 3: (June 25) Leh / Thiksey / Stakna
Early morning departure (5:00 AM) to Thiksey Monastery to witness the monks’ morning prayers. Tea will be served at the monastery. Return to the hotel for breakfast. After breakfast, rest for an hour before visiting Stakna Monastery. Enjoy an indoor portrait session in a heritage home. At sunset, photograph from a ridge with Stakna Monastery and the Indus River as a backdrop. Return to Leh and prepare for the next day’s departure to Nubra Valley. Overnight in Leh.
Day 4: (June 26) Leh to Nubra Valley
After breakfast, depart at 9:00 AM for Nubra Valley. The drive takes approximately 4–5 hours, with scenic stops for photography and tea along the way. A packed lunch will be enjoyed in nature. Check in at the resort. In the evening, take a peaceful walk along the river before dinner. Overnight in Nubra Valley.
Day 5: (June 27) Nubra Valley / Hunder Sand Dunes
Visit Diskit Monastery and the large outdoor Buddha statue. Lunch will be served at the resort. In the evening, head to the Hunder sand dunes. Enjoy a Bactrian camel ride and a portrait session with the camels at sunset. Tea and coffee will be served at the dunes. Return to the resort for dinner. Overnight in Nubra Valley.
Day 6: (June 28) Nubra Valley to Pangong Lake
Depart at 8:00 AM for Pangong Lake (5–6 hour drive). Lunch will be served at a local restaurant en route. Along the way, keep an eye out for wildlife such as yaks and cashmere goats. Arrive at Pangong Lake and enjoy a relaxed evening by the water. Check in to cottages. Tea and coffee will be served upon arrival, followed by a bonfire and dinner. Overnight at Pangong.
Day 7: (June 29) Pangong Lake to Tsokar
Morning photography session at the lake, including arranged portraits with locals in traditional dress. Return for breakfast. Depart for Tsokar (approx. 7-hour drive), traveling along Pangong Lake for the first 30 km. Stop for tea and a break before continuing via Midpal Lake and Yaya Lake—both stunning high-altitude lakes ideal for photography. Lunch will be served en route. Upon arrival in Tsokar, rest and enjoy dinner at the resort. Overnight in Tsokar.
Day 8: (June 30) Tsokar to Leh
Drive back to Leh (approx. 5 hours). In the morning, visit Pangchen Valley to observe the daily life of nomadic communities—see yak-hair tents and share tea with the nomads. Continue via Taglang La Pass. The landscape along the way showcases dramatic Himalayan formations created by the collision of the Eurasian and Indian tectonic plates. Arrive in Leh, check in to the hotel, and enjoy dinner. Overnight in Leh.
Day 9: (July 1) Leh to Ule (Sham Valley)
After breakfast, drive to Sham Valley, visiting Alchi Monastery and its famous murals en route. Arrive at Ule Resort and rest until late afternoon. Enjoy tea at a scenic viewpoint, then head to Rizong Monastery for sunset photography. On the return, take a short walk through Sgyera village and enjoy a portrait session with a local family. Return to the resort for relaxation (optional massage). Dinner and overnight in Ule.
Day 10: (July 2) Ule / Lamayuru / Garkhon (Aryan Valley)
Drive to Lamayuru Monastery, known for its dramatic “Moonland” landscape. Spend the day attending the monastery festival. Lunch will be served at a nearby restaurant. ontinue to Garkhon in Aryan Valley for an evening portrait session. Overnight in Aryan Valley.
Day 11: (July 3) Garkhon to Leh
Early morning portrait session with local models. Return for breakfast before departing Aryan Valley. En route, visit the petroglyph rock sanctuary. Arrive in Leh for lunch. The afternoon is free for shopping, packing, and preparing shipments if needed. Overnight in Leh.
Day 13: (July 4) Leh to Delhi – Homeward Bound
After breakfast, bid farewell as you transfer to the airport for your journey to Delhi and beyond. (GUESTS TO MAKE OWN ARRANGEMENTS FOR FLIGHT TO DELHI.)