Ladakh explored: Leh, Alchi & Nubra Valley

Your driver will collect you from the hotel and drive you to the airport for your flight from Delhi to Leh. On arrival, you will be met and driven to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure for you to acclimatise, although we'd recommend visiting Shanti Stupa at sunset. This white Buddhist monument sits at 4,267 m (13,999 ft) and commands excellent views over the city.

The day is at leisure to assist with acclimatisation. If you feel active, there are plenty of things to explore within easy walking distance of your hotel. A walking tour can be arranged on the day if you want to get out and about.

Today you'll explore the area to the southeast of Leh thoroughly, including the major monasteries. Visits to Thikse, Shey and Hemis are included and there is also some stunning scenery to view. Should you be interested, the monks pray every day in Thikse at 6am — despite the early start, this is a worthwhile experience.

You are driven westward along the Indus Valley to Alchi where Rizong Monastery can easily be seen en route. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, this area is incredibly isolated and it is fascinating to see how the lifestyle of the monks is adapted to the remoteness. On arrival in Alchi, the rest of the day is at leisure.

Today is spent exploring Alchi and the ancient Buddhist history of the area. The rest of the day is at leisure.

Drive back to Leh and view the sights that may have been missed en route to Alchi, such as Basgo and Magnetic Hill — a geological feature that creates an optical illusion.

Today is spent exploring the surroundings of Leh, including visits to Stakna, Matho and Stok. These monasteries enjoy end-of-the-world locations, surrounded by towering peaks — ideal for some meditation.

A long drive over the locally claimed 'world's highest pass' takes you to the Nubra Valley. The drive takes several hours but includes a stop at a picturesque restaurant and several long stops for photos. The signs at the top proclaim it to be 5,602 m, but not only is this probably an exaggeration, but several other roads vie for the title. Whatever the truth, this is one of the highest roads you'll find and a breathtaking experience in every way.

Today is spent exploring the Nubra Valley, including an excursion to Diskit and a camel ride in the sand dunes of Hundar. At 3,000 m, it will feel positively tropical, a complete contrast to yesterday's glaciers.

You are driven back to Leh, again over the high pass. The journey should take less time as there will be fewer stops, but will still take five to six hours, and there will be plenty of time to admire the views.

Your driver will collect you from the hotel and drive you to the airport for your flight from Leh to Delhi. You will then continue to the international terminal in time for your international flight. Your return flight will arrive the same day.