Ladakh is a remote and beautiful desert region high in the western Himalayas of India.  Known as “Little Tibet,” Ladakh has an extreme climate and few resources but has been home to a thriving culture for more than a thousand years, including many ancient yet still active monasteries that evolved around isolated meditation caves used by Buddhist saints.  On this program you will trek through high alpine landscapes, visit remote monasteries and villages, and experience the beauty and resilience of Ladakhi Buddhism and culture.

The highlight of the program is our homestay in the village of  Lingshed, which we visit as guests of the charismatic Ladakhi monk Geshe Ngawang Jangchup.  Completely cut off from the outside world during the long winters, Lingshed is a four-day walk from the nearest road, and most basic necessities must be carried in on foot or by pack animal during the summer months.  This geographical isolation, together with the esoteric forms of Buddhism practiced here, has enabled its inhabitants to preserve and maintain their cultural identity.  Today the area around Lingshed is one of the last surviving cultural satellites of Tibet.  During our homestay we participate in the daily life of the village and attend Geshe-la’s annual summer seminar on Buddha’s teachings.  Other activities include Ladakhi language lessons and special cultural programs.  This is an incredible opportunity to witness a people who live simply, yet fully, and to understand how you might incorporate lessons from this journey into your own life.

Our stay in Ladakh begins in the capital city of Leh, where we spend three days acclimatizing and preparing for our trek to Lingshed.  During our stay in Leh we visit ancient monasteries, visit Tibetan markets, and learn about the environmental and social concerns of the Ladakh area.  Our journey to Lingshed involves four days of trekking through spectacular Himalayan scenery and remote villages.  The trek is challenging, with high altitudes and rough terrain, but we will have pack-mules to carry our gear and will enjoy a day of rest midway through the trek.  After our return trek we take time to explore the thriving metropolis of Delhi and marvel at the stunning beauty of the Taj Mahal in Agra.

Journey To Ladakh Program length: 24 days Dates: 28 June to 22 July, 2008 Grade: Strenuous Price: $2,890 plus airfare Sample Itinerary (PDF)   for India!

Highlights!

Homestay in a remote village

Ladakhi Buddhist seminar

Trek the western Himalayas

Ancient Buddhist monasteries

Bustling capital city of Delhi

Taj Mahal & Red Fort in Agra