Description
Leh–Ladakh Winter Tour – Snow, Silence & Starlit Skies (08N/09D)
Experience Ladakh in winter, when the mountains wear a blanket of snow, the air is crystal clear, and the landscapes feel otherworldly. This 8 Nights / 9 Days winter journey takes you through Leh, the serene Sham Valley, the snow-dusted dunes of Nubra Valley, and the frozen magic of Pangong Lake. Empty roads, crisp air, and star-filled skies turn this into a raw, immersive Himalayan experience.
Curated by AAIFLY, this itinerary is designed for travelers who want to see Ladakh beyond the usual summer crowd — with heated stays, carefully paced acclimatization, and safe winter routing. From monasteries draped in snow and prayer flags fluttering in icy winds to hot butter tea in warm Ladakhi homes, this is winter Ladakh at its purest.
Tour Overview
| Duration | 9 Days / 8 Nights |
|---|---|
| Countries Covered | India |
| Main Destinations | Leh, Sham Valley, Nubra Valley, Pangong Lake |
| Ideal For | Adventure Travelers, Nature Lovers, Photographers, Offbeat Explorers |
| Travel Type | Winter High-Altitude Road Trip – Group & Customizable |
| Best Time to Visit | December to February (Winter Season – subject to weather & road conditions) |
| Accommodation | Heated Hotels / Guesthouses in Leh & Nubra, Winterized Camps / Cottages near Pangong |
| Experiences Included |
Acclimatization & Leh City Views from Shanti Stupa & Leh Palace, Leh Market Walk & Café Hopping, Sham Valley Winter Circuit – Hall of Fame, Pathar Sahib, Magnetic Hill & Indus–Zanskar Sangam, Khardung La Crossing (weather-permitting) & Nubra Valley Snow Landscapes, Diskit Monastery & Maitreya Buddha, Hunder Sand Dunes in Winter, Pangong Lake Winter Visit – Frozen / Partially Frozen Views (as per conditions), Monastery Visits near Leh (Thiksey / Hemis / Shey – as per accessibility), Night Sky & Milky Way Viewing (on clear winter nights) |
| Internal Transfers | Private Winter-Ready Vehicle (with local driver) for all transfers & sightseeing |
| Support | Airport Assistance, Experienced Local Driver, Permit Arrangements, Basic First-Aid & 24x7 AAIFLY Helpdesk |
Day wise travel itinerary
Your Kerala journey begins in Cochin, the historic port city where cultures from across the globe have mingled for centuries. Upon arrival at Cochin Airport or Ernakulam Railway Station, you’ll be warmly greeted and escorted to your hotel.
In the afternoon, immerse yourself in Cochin’s timeless charm. Marvel at the exquisite murals and royal heirlooms in the Dutch Palace, wander the cobbled lanes of Jewish Street, and step into history at the centuries-old Jewish Synagogue. Pause at St. Francis Church, where colonial echoes linger in its weathered walls, before ending the day watching the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets sway gently in the evening breeze — a perfect coastal postcard moment.
In the afternoon, immerse yourself in Cochin’s timeless charm. Marvel at the exquisite murals and royal heirlooms in the Dutch Palace, wander the cobbled lanes of Jewish Street, and step into history at the centuries-old Jewish Synagogue. Pause at St. Francis Church, where colonial echoes linger in its weathered walls, before ending the day watching the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets sway gently in the evening breeze — a perfect coastal postcard moment.
After breakfast, leave behind the bustle of the harbor and begin your ascent into the cool embrace of the Western Ghats. The journey to Munnar is a moving tapestry of mist-veiled valleys, emerald tea plantations, and silver waterfalls.
Make memorable stops at Valara and Cheeyappara Waterfalls, where tumbling waters cascade into lush green surroundings. By afternoon, arrive in Munnar — a hill station perched 1,800 meters above sea level, crowned by the majestic Anamudi Peak. The rest of the day invites you to relax in this alpine paradise, perhaps with a gentle evening stroll through fragrant tea gardens.
Make memorable stops at Valara and Cheeyappara Waterfalls, where tumbling waters cascade into lush green surroundings. By afternoon, arrive in Munnar — a hill station perched 1,800 meters above sea level, crowned by the majestic Anamudi Peak. The rest of the day invites you to relax in this alpine paradise, perhaps with a gentle evening stroll through fragrant tea gardens.
Awake to the crisp mountain air and a horizon painted in rolling shades of green. Today, Munnar reveals her best-kept secrets — the still, mirror-like waters of Mattupetty Dam, the playful echoes at Echo Point, and the serene beauty of Kundala Dam. From Pothamedu View Point, drink in sweeping vistas of the valley and tea-clad slopes.
As the day winds down, wander through local markets, where baskets overflow with fresh spices, hand-picked tea leaves, and artisan chocolates — aromatic mementos of your time in the hills.
As the day winds down, wander through local markets, where baskets overflow with fresh spices, hand-picked tea leaves, and artisan chocolates — aromatic mementos of your time in the hills.
This morning, bid farewell to Munnar’s highlands and descend into Thekkady’s lush wilderness. After checking in, prepare for an afternoon that awakens the senses.
At Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, spot herds of elephants grazing by the water, colorful kingfishers darting through the air, and the occasional wild boar rustling in the undergrowth. Walk through spice plantations where cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon release their intoxicating aromas, telling tales of Kerala’s centuries-old spice trade. For a serene finale, opt for a boat ride across Periyar Lake, watching the sanctuary’s wildlife from the water’s edge.
At Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, spot herds of elephants grazing by the water, colorful kingfishers darting through the air, and the occasional wild boar rustling in the undergrowth. Walk through spice plantations where cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon release their intoxicating aromas, telling tales of Kerala’s centuries-old spice trade. For a serene finale, opt for a boat ride across Periyar Lake, watching the sanctuary’s wildlife from the water’s edge.
For early risers, a morning boat ride on Periyar Lake offers magical stillness. After breakfast, your journey continues to Kumarakom — a serene village cradled by the vast Vembanad Lake.
In the afternoon, explore the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, where migratory flocks of Siberian storks and wild ducks gather among the mangroves. Later, unwind on the lakefront, watching the sky turn gold and crimson. Optional indulgences include a private houseboat cruise or a visit to the untouched Pathiramanal Island.
In the afternoon, explore the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, where migratory flocks of Siberian storks and wild ducks gather among the mangroves. Later, unwind on the lakefront, watching the sky turn gold and crimson. Optional indulgences include a private houseboat cruise or a visit to the untouched Pathiramanal Island.
From the tranquil backwaters, travel south to the golden beaches of Kovalam. Your resort, set against the backdrop of swaying palms and the Arabian Sea, offers the perfect retreat. Spend your afternoon strolling along crescent-shaped shores, watching fishing boats return with the day’s catch, or simply soaking up the laid-back coastal vibe.
After breakfast, set out for Trivandrum, Kerala’s vibrant capital. Step into the grandeur of the Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple, renowned for its spiritual significance and hidden treasures. Explore the Napier Museum, a colonial-era masterpiece, and the Sri Chitra Art Gallery, which houses exquisite works from traditional Tanjore paintings to Raja Ravi Varma’s masterpieces.
Return to Kovalam in time to watch the sun melt into the Arabian Sea — a sight you’ll carry in memory long after your journey ends.
Return to Kovalam in time to watch the sun melt into the Arabian Sea — a sight you’ll carry in memory long after your journey ends.
Enjoy a final leisurely breakfast, letting the sound of the waves linger in your mind. After check-out, you’ll be transferred to Trivandrum Airport or Railway Station for your onward journey, carrying home the scents, colors, and serene spirit of God’s Own Country.
Inclusions
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Hotel/Resort accommodations with breakfast
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Driver Guide – Experienced driver cum local guide
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Entry fees to monuments and palaces
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Accommodation on a twin -sharing basis
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Entry fees to monuments ,monasteries and attraction
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All sightseeing and transfers by private vechile
Exclusions
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Airfare – Flight or train tickets
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Meals – Lunch, dinner, and personal snacks
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Medical & travel insurance
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GST (5%)
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Adventure activities not mentioned in the itineraray
Important Notes
Payment Policy
- 50% advance payment required at the time of booking.
- Remaining balance must be paid 15 days prior to departure.
Cancellation Policy
- 30+ days before departure: 25% of the package cost.
- 15–29 days before departure: 50% of the package cost.
- Less than 15 days: 100% of the package cost.
- No refund for unused services or last-minute cancellations.