The Hidden Monasteries Tour is a 7-day journey filled with unique experiences, exploring the rich heritage and spiritual sites of Leh Ladakh. This region is home to an array of Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, the foundations of which were laid by the Ladakhi kings and Buddhist saints. The Leh Ladakh itinerary of this 7-day tour includes visits to several monasteries such as Saboo Gompa, Takthok, Chemrey, Hemis, Phyang, Basgo, Alchi, Rizong, and Lamayuru. The itinerary features cultural insights into Tibetan Buddhism, stunning landscapes, and the chance to experience local traditions and architecture. The key aspect of the tour is the Hemis Tsechu Festival, a unique opportunity to explore ancient temples and witness breathtaking views from hilltop monasteries.
With our Ladakh tour package, you can transfer the hassles and stress of booking from your shoulders to ours. Our experienced travel experts at Leh Ladakh India will ensure you have the best possible itinerary and options, so you can focus on enjoying your Ladakh trip.
Trip Highlights
Visit the Saboo Gompa monastery
Drive to Hemis monastery
Sacred monastery of Ridzong Gompa
Trip to Lamayaru monastery
Itinerary Detail
Day 01 Leh (Arrival)
Upon arrival at Leh Airport, our tour representative will meet you and assist you in a smooth transfer to the hotel. Once you reach the hotel, complete the check-in formalities and unwind. The remaining part of the day is kept free for acclimatization. Stay overnight in the hotel.
Day 02 In Leh - visit Saboo Gompa and SOS Village (Choglamsar)
The morning is free to relax. In the afternoon, hit the road to Saboo, which is around 8 kilometers from Leh and nestled atop a hillock facing the Indus Valley. It is the most visited monastery in Leh.
On your way back to Leh, visit the SOS village (Choglamsar). It is an essential destination for those interested in studying Tibetan culture. The Central Institute of Buddhist Studies, located here, features a Tibetan library, handicraft shop, restaurants, and medical center. There is also a golf course and a polo ground.
Day 03 In Leh - Visit Takthok - Chemrey - Hemis Monasteries
Day 3 of the Ladakh Monastery Tour starts with an early morning visit to Takthok Gompa. Built in the 8th century by Guru Padmasambhava, Takthok Gompa is situated around the cave where he meditated.
After your return from Takthok Gompa, visit the Chemrey Gompa. Built under the patronage of Sengge Namgyal, it was started in March 1644 A.D. and completed in 1646 A.D. This monastery is nestled atop a small hill, with a monks' dwelling on one side.
Later, you’ll hit the roads to Hemis Gompa, which crosses the Indus River at the Karu Village. Built in the 17th century, between 1602 A.D. and 1642 A.D., Hemis is one of the most famous monasteries in Ladakh. It is also known for the annual festival called Hemis Tsechu. In the evening, return to the hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.
This morning, after breakfast, drive to Alchi. On the way, halt at Phyang Gompa on the main highway to Alchi. It is one of the most beautiful monasteries in Ladakh.
After sightseeing in Phyang monastery, visit Basgo, which is along the road to Alchi. When the kingdom of Ladakh was divided in the 15th and 16th centuries, the Basgo village was an important tourist center in medieval times.
In the afternoon, visit the Alchi Gompa. This temple complex, dating back to the 11th century, is located within the Alchi village and exhibits a seamless blend of Indian and Kashmiri architecture. It is the seat of the Ngri Rimpoche, whose incarnation is embodied in the younger brother of the Dalai Lama. Stay overnight in the hotel.
Day 05 Alchi - Ridzong - Lamayuru (57 km/2 hrs)
While returning from Alchi to Lamayuru, visit Ridzong Gompa, one of the less visited monasteries in Ladakh. Built around 1840, this Gompa is beautifully set in a valley and gorge and was founded by Lama Tsultim Nima.
After exploring Ridzong Gompa, proceed to the 11th-century Lamayuru Monastery. There is a popular legend that the Arhat Madhyantika, a disciple of Buddha, offered holy food and water to satisfy the spirits inhabiting the Gompa. Stay overnight in the hotel.
Day 06 Lamayuru - Leh (126 km/4 hrs)
Today, after breakfast, pack your belongings and complete the check-out formalities. Then, you will get an assisted transfer to Leh. Once reaching Leh, complete the check-in formalities at the hotel and have lunch. The remaining day is at ease to spend at your discretion. An overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 07 Leh (Departure)
Your Leh Ladakh Monastery tour concludes today. Wake up, have breakfast, pack your belongings, and complete the check-out formalities. Then, you’ll get a transfer to the airport to board your flight for your onward journey.
Start: Manali / End: Manali
