A land of fascination & wonder
Set against a backdrop of striking mountains and dotted with Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, Ladakh is a magical land steeped in traditional culture and customs. In this harsh environment, road passings are closed from October to May, yet the local communities have found a way to thrive thanks to self-sufficient practices that work in tune with the environment, long held beliefs and a balanced society.
With its extraordinary landscapes, emphasis on nature, picturesque monasteries and stupas, and abundant prayer flags and wheels, Ladakh in the Himalayan foothills of Northern India still remains a world unknown to most travellers.
Exhilarating exploration
With the new Secret Journeys Ladakh: A Land of Fascination & Wonder experience, intrepid explorers can discover the region’s natural and cultural attractions travelling from Leh through the Sham and Indus Valleys – famous for the richness and diversity of its wildlife, both flora and fauna – to the villages of Nimmu, Sumur and Stok, thanks to local hosts who not only live in the region but are experts in the surrounding landscapes, history and culture, including Alex Le Beuan, host at Nimmu House, who has explored every valley of Ladakh and now shares his expertise with guests.
Throughout the experience, guests visit some of the most celebrated and beautiful monasteries of Ladakh, cross the famous Khardung La Pass, which at 5,600 metres above sea level is the highest drivable road in the world, stroll across white sand dunes below snowy peaks, hike through stunning mountain scenery and gorges to Bagso fort or raft down the Zanskar River, meet a young French art restorer devoted to conserving the art and heritage of ancient monasteries, and visit the Royal Palace and monasteries in Leh.
Heritage accommodation
Throughout the journey, guests stay in some of the region’s most unique and authentic accommodation including Nimmu House, a Heritage Boutique Hotel, an jewel of Ladakhi architecture located at the confluence of the Indus and the Zankar Rivers. Built by Rinchen Namgyal Zildar, one of the Ladakh King’s cousins in the early 20th century, Nimmu House is one of the few remaining noble houses of Ladakh with a main 3-storey building of 1,200 square metres and expansive gardens and orchards extending over 4,500 square metres. Surrounded by apricot, apple and walnut trees as well as stables with yaks, cows and goats, the Nimmu House conveys a family like stay to its guests.
Another one of the journey’s impressive accommodations is the remarkable 200-year-old Stok Palace offering highly exclusive rooms amidst luscious décor.
These are the places that dreams are made of. With Secret Journeys, however, these dreams can turn into your reality. Learn more about the new Secret Journey to Ladakh, priced at US$2,000 per person, here.
