see north india’s ladakh region this may

February 13th, 2012

Ladakh, the Land of High Passes, is a high altitude desert spanning the Himalayan and Karakoram mountain ranges and the upper Indus River Valley. Known as ‘Little Tibet,’ the region is culturally and anthropologically tied to Tibet. Renowned for its remote mountain beauty and distinguishing culture, Ladakh is one of the most picturesque places on earth.

Shakti operates bespoke walking tours and homestays throughout the Himalayan region and offers customized, private itineraries for guests to experience the breathtaking beauty of this remote wilderness with a full range of activities including village-to-village walks, treks, visits to monasteries, camping, and rafting along the Shayok and Indus rivers. Shakti Ladakh is open from May 1 to September 30, when the region’s weather is gorgeous and humidity-free, making it the perfect alternative to the sticky heat that envelops the rest of India.

On daily walks, guests can pass by ancient villages, forgotten valleys, and high-altitude flora and fauna such as ibex, yaks, and marmots, with local porters and guides to assist along the way. Nights are spent in cozy, village houses built in the traditional Ladakhi fashion using sun baked mud bricks and wooden beams, which give an instant authenticity and charm. Last season, Shakti renovated three more village houses, adding six to the Ladakh experience. Accommodations, using only local craftsmen and materials, remain simple to optimize comfort.

River rafting along the Indus and Zanskar rivers is included in Shakti Ladakh’s itinerary and is a wonderful way to explore the region. Both rivers are fed by glaciers, and rafting is varied with rapids ranging from Class 1 to 4. During the rafting portion of the experience, guests sleep in fully-inclusive tents suited to maximize comfort.

Season: Shakti Ladakh’s season begins May 1 to September 30, 2012

Rates: A six-day, seven-night Shakti Ladakh experience is $3,898 per person, based on two adults sharing, and includes private accommodation in village houses on a fully inclusive basis: all meals and beverages, activities, an accompanying English-speaking guide, private chef, support guide and porters, car at disposal, and taxes and return transfers between Darjeeling, Gangtok, Kalimpong and Bagdogra and village houses. Flights are not included.

Stakmo to Eego Four-Day Trek: This three-night, four-day trek through the unexplored valleys and villages on the north side of the Indus Valley can be added on to any Shakti Ladakh itinerary.  On daily treks, five to six hours in length, guests will experience trekking along some of the highest ridgelines as they traverse from west to east across the northern side of the Indus Valley. Enjoy daily picnics in some of the most stunning valleys and picturesque river settings the Ladakh region has to offer, while evenings are left to explore villages and camp out under the stars in comfortable, domed canvas tents.

For onward travel to Bhutan or throughout India, Shakti’s sister company, Banyan Tours & Travels, offers customized itineraries and ground arrangements.

For additional information: Shakti, www.shaktihimalaya.com

Traveler Inquiries: 1-866-401-3705

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