Nomadic Tour (Kharnak and Leh)

10 - day tour

The Changthang plateau is home to nomadic people who travel around in search of pastures to feed their animals, mainly yaks, sheep, and goats. The nomad’s life and movements on the plateau is following the rhythm of the seasons. Their movements depend on the availability of grass. Every year, nomads are traveling hundreds and hundreds of kilometers, stopping  along the way to extract pashmina or gather together for major religious festivals. In their journey they will pass by many places, including a mountain pass, the pastureland of Spangthang, the settlement of Yagang, the pastureland of Zara Chu, and the village of Dat, where they gather for one month for the New Year celebration (Losar). The nomadic lifestyle is not easy and today, many people from the Changthang plateau have permanently resettled on the outskirt of Leh in a place named Kharnakling. This tour will bring you to the Changthang plateau, where you can meet some of the few remaining nomads, and to Kharnakling, where they continue to maintain the link with their community by weaving carpets and telling stories about their native home. As the permanent resettlement of nomads to Kharnakling is always increasing, this tour provides a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the lifestyle of the few remaining nomads of Ladakh.

Day 1

Airport pick-up, smooth transfer to the hotel, followed by a full day dedicated to acclimatization at high altitude for a comfortable and enjoyable stay in the breathtaking surroundings

Day 2

Begin your day with the enchanting sights of Thiksey and Hemis in southeast Leh. Afternoon serenity unfolds at Shanti Stupa, providing a breathtaking city panorama—a perfect blend of cultural exploration and panoramic beauty.

Day 3

In the morning, drive towards Rumbak for a delightful picnic. Afternoon unfolds with a scenic walk from Rumbak to Yurutse and back, offering a taste of Hemis National Park, a village homestay, and life at 4,000 meters. Learn about homestay concepts and organization, preparing for the Changthang high plateau adventure.

Day 4

After breakfast, morning drive back to Leh. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the historical charm of Leh's old town, tracing the rich heritage of ancient Ladakh. Wander through the labyrinthine streets, uncovering the cultural tapestry that once made Leh a pivotal center on trade routes connecting regions as far as Kashgar and Kyrgyzstan through the Karakoram Pass.

Day 5

Embark on a mesmerizing journey to Kharnak, where the landscape unfolds with unique rock formations shaped by the collision of Eurasian and Indian plates. Traverse the picturesque Gya-Meru gorge, conquer the lofty Tanglang La pass at 5,300 meters, and set up camp at Spangchen—a tranquil grazing spot at 4,300 meters, cherished by the nomads of Kharnak.

Day 6

We will explore the area, follow the nomads in their activities, which includes milking animals, taking them for grazing, following shepherds, observe weaving and the transformation of milk products. There will be plenty of opportunities to take pictures during the day and at dusk when the nomads are bringing their animals to the camp.

*Note: Depending on the time of the season, you may have the chance to see the migration of nomads.

Day 7

On our 7th day, seize the same opportunities for exploration and discovery as the previous one. Embrace the richness of experiences and continue to immerse yourself in the wonders of Ladakh's landscapes and culture.

Day 8

Return to Leh via Tso Khar Lake, a protected area under the Ramsar Convention. Established by UNESCO in 1971, the convention safeguards wetlands. Tso Khar is home to the rare black-necked crane, Ladakh's state bird, offering a glimpse of the region's rich biodiversity

Day 9

Explore Kharnakling settlement to compare and understand the lifestyle of nomads who have resettled near Leh. Conclude our journey with a final dinner, savoring the shared experiences and camaraderie in the vibrant surroundings of Leh.

Day 10

Morning marks the departure. Safe travels, and may the memories of your Ladakh journey accompany you on your onward adventures.