SILENT STARS TO SACRED FIRES

Silent Stars To Sacred

OVERVIEW

SILENT STARS TO SACRED FIRES

A high-altitude desert in the Indian Himalayas, Ladakh is known for its dramatic landscapes, Buddhist monasteries, and pristine lakes like Pangong and Tso Moriri. It offers spiritual serenity alongside rugged adventure, with passes like Khardung La and cultural gems like Thiksey Monastery. The region’s Tibetan-influenced culture, starry skies, and stark beauty make it a magnet for soul seekers and explorers alike.
India’s capital, Delhi is a vibrant mix of ancient history and modern chaos. From the Mughal-era Red Fort and Humayun’s Tomb to British-era boulevards, bustling markets, and fine dining, Delhi is a cultural mosaic. It serves as both a gateway to the Himalayas and a living museum of India’s diverse past and dynamic present.
One of the oldest living cities in the world, Varanasi is the spiritual heartbeat of India. Situated on the banks of the Ganges River, it’s a place where life and death meet in sacred rituals, cremations, and sunrise boat rides. With ancient temples, narrow alleys, and deep-rooted traditions, Varanasi offers a profound glimpse into India’s spiritual soul.

Day 1: Arrival in Delhi

Arrive at IGI Airport, transfer to hotel.
Light sightseeing if time allows: India Gate, Connaught Place, or Lodhi Garden.
Rest early to prepare for next day’s flight.
Overnight: Delhi

Day 2: Delhi to Leh (3,500m)

Morning flight to Leh (1.5 hours).
Transfer to hotel; rest and acclimatize (very important).
Evening: Gentle walk around Leh Market or visit Shanti Stupa for sunset.
Overnight: Leh

Day 3: Leh Sightseeing

Visit:
- Shey Palace
- Thiksey Monastery
- Hemis Monastery
- Sangam Viewpoint (Zanskar-Indus confluence)
- Gurudwara Pathar Sahib & Magnetic Hill
Return to Leh for evening leisure.
Overnight: Leh

Day 4: Day Trip to Turtuk (3,100m)

Early departure for Turtuk, a beautiful Balti village near the Pakistan border.
Enjoy its unique culture, apricot orchards, and warm hospitality.
Return to Leh by evening.
Distance: ~220 km round trip
Overnight: Leh

Day 5: Leh to Nubra Valley (via Khardung La)

Cross Khardung La (5,359m) – one of the highest motorable roads.
Explore Diskit Monastery & Hunder Sand Dunes (option for camel safari).
Evening bonfire (if allowed), and relax.
Overnight: Nubra (Hunder or Diskit)

Day 6: Nubra to Pangong Lake (4,225m)

Scenic drive to Pangong Tso via Shyok route.
Visit lakeside viewpoints, walk along the shores.
Optional stargazing at night.
Overnight: Pangong (camp or cottage)

Day 7: Pangong to Karzok (Tso Moriri Lake)

A long but picturesque journey to Tso Moriri via Chushul, Nyoma, Mahe.
Visit Karzok Monastery and walk around the high-altitude lake.
Overnight: Karzok

Day 8: Karzok to Jispa

Drive through Sumdo, Sarchu, Baralacha La, descend into lush Lahaul.
Reach Jispa, a quiet Himalayan village on the banks of Bhaga river.
Overnight: Jispa

Day 9: Jispa to Tirthan Valley

Scenic drive crossing Rohtang Pass (if open) or via Atal Tunnel, enter the serene Tirthan Valley.
Settle into a riverside homestay or eco-lodge.
Overnight: Tirthan

Day 10: Rest Day in Tirthan

Enjoy peaceful walks, riverside meditation, or local village visits.
Optional: Trout fishing or local cooking session.
Overnight: Tirthan

Day 11: Day Trip to Jalori Pass & Serolsar Lake

Short drive to Jalori Pass.
Trek (5km one way) to Serolsar Lake.
Return to Tirthan by evening.
Overnight: Tirthan

Day 12: Free Day in Tirthan

Optional activities:
- Hike to Great Himalayan National Park entry
- Visit Chehni Kothi
- Photography, nature trails, café hopping
Overnight: Tirthan

Day 13: Tirthan Valley to Delhi

Long but scenic road journey to Delhi (~12 hrs).
Arrive late evening and check into hotel.
Overnight: Delhi

Day 14: Rest Day in Delhi

Optional light sightseeing: Humayun's Tomb, Lotus Temple, or shopping in Hauz Khas or Khan Market.
Prepare for cultural shift to Varanasi.
Overnight: Delhi

Day 15: Delhi to Varanasi by Vande Bharat Express

Morning train (6 hrs).
Transfer to hotel, rest or attend Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat.
Overnight: Varanasi

Day 16: Explore Varanasi

Sunrise boat ride on Ganges
Visit:
- Kashi Vishwanath Temple
- Sarnath (Buddha’s first sermon)
- Banaras Hindu University
Evening cultural walk in Old City.
Overnight: Varanasi

Day 17: Varanasi Spiritual Experience

Optional spiritual immersion:
- Participate in yoga or meditation class
- Visit local ashrams or do a guided spiritual walk
- Witness traditional rituals and explore hidden alleys
Optional boat tour to Manikarnika Ghat
Overnight: Varanasi