“Shall we proceed?” our trail guide suggested following a brief pause for water at an altitude of roughly 3,000 meters above sea level. We trailed behind him, anchoring our hiking poles into the earthy trail ahead while he picked up the pace. We were in the midst of a four-day trek organised by a Dharamsala-based outfitter, en route to a mountain pass within the Dhauladhar range of the Indian Himalayas. It had been quite some time since my last backpacking adventure. I felt uninspired, merely going through the motions, and often found myself short on patience with my husband and children. Maybe the Himalayas held the key to my healing.

Dharamsala

We had arrived in Dharamsala three days prior, arriving at dawn via an overnight bus from Chandigarh. Tucked away in the lush hills of the Kangra Valley, the city serves as the winter capital of Himachal Pradesh and hosts the Tibetan government-in-exile since 1960. Our accommodation was in McLeod Ganj, a hillside enclave with narrow streets, fondly dubbed Little Lhasa due to its large Tibetan community. Among its notable residents is the 14th Dalai Lama, residing in the humble Buddhist temple complex of Thekchen Choeling.

During our explorations, I discovered that the number of Tibetan refugees in Dharamsala has dwindled over the years, with many seeking opportunities abroad. While most Tibetans we encountered were reserved, a shopkeeper who fled to McLeod Ganj in the 1980s confided his concerns about the future, intending to relocate to the United States to be with his son once the Dalai Lama, now 88, passed away.

Tibet Museum emblem

Contrary to guidebook descriptions, I found McLeod Ganj to be less touristy than expected, despite shops selling BTS merchandise and Korean snacks alongside Tibetan souvenirs. The Tibet Museum proved a worthwhile visit. However, after two days, we were eager to venture into the mountains. By the time we reached camp on the second night, the impact of our unintentional digital detox was more pronounced than the absence of hot showers. Cellular service was scarce, and conserving mobile battery became imperative.

Bhagsu Nag Temple

The first day’s hike was manageable—a three-hour journey on a crisp June morning, passing by crowds at Bhagsu Nag Temple and its nearby waterfall. Traveling light, we left our backpacks at the hotel in McLeod Ganj, reaching the picturesque campsite at Lower Triund by midday. It was serene until groups of energetic young Indians arrived to pitch their tents.

On the second day, we left the camping crowds behind, encountering herds of sheep and goats instead. As we ascended past the scenic Triund summit towards the snow line, the climb seemed endless. Yet, it was too early to feel apprehensive; I focused on each step and breath, undeterred by my slower pace.

Triund

By the time we reached our campsite at 3,200 meters, the imposing snow-capped peaks of the Dhauladhar range loomed before us, occasionally veiled by mist. Apart from a few fellow foreigners, we had the mountain to ourselves. Over a simple dinner of dal chawal and achar pickles, our guide and our porter shared insights. The Gaddis, a semi-nomadic group, have herded livestock in the Himalayas for centuries. However, mountain tourism is reshaping their way of life, with many young men like him now working as trekking guides or running mountain cafes. Early on, he warned us that the third day would be the most challenging, with steep inclines nearing 80 degrees in the final stretch. Stripped of distractions, I battled a rising anxiety about the impending difficulties.

Laka Glacier

We set out at dawn the next morning, donning microspikes and fluorescent gaiters upon reaching the Laka Glacier. Linked together by a safety rope, we trudged through the snow, struggling for breath and pressured to maintain pace in the rope team. Progress slowed on the steep, icy slopes, with occasional slips despite our efforts.

By 10 a.m., after over five hours of climbing, we found ourselves just 300 meters from the Indrahar Pass when we reluctantly decided to abandon our summit attempt. Our guide cautioned that reaching the 4,342-meter pass after noon risked peril from melting alpine snow. Though disappointed, it was a prudent choice. The descent pushed us to our limits, navigating rappels, slides, and downhill runs while avoiding hidden crevasses. I had never been more grateful to stand on level ground.

A view of the Dhauladhar range

Despite the setback, there was satisfaction in surpassing our expectations as novice snow climbers, learning on the go—an accomplishment I hadn’t anticipated at the start of the year. It seemed that mountain climbing, despite my usual aversion to uphill treks, provided the meditative clarity I needed. By focusing on the present, I found solace in navigating challenges on my terms, one step at a time.

The post A Trek in Dharamsala appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

Are you ready to make your dream of going on an exciting road trip to Ladakh come true? From traveling through Leh-Ladakh and its snow-capped mountains to exploring the highest motorable passes, you will experience the perfect combination of thrill, serenity, and culture. Moreover, you will be amazed by the diverse geography of Ladakh – from mountains, forests, and deserts to lakes, rivers, and waterfalls, it has it all. Choosing Leh Ladakh tour packages for your trip can be a great option, so I suggest you check it out once.

Inclusions Of Leh Ladakh Tour Packages

• 

  Leh Ladak Road trip

  It will provide a comfortable vehicle (Innova/ Xylo/ Tavera/ Scorpio/ Similar) for sightseeing on all days according to the itinerary.

• Airport pick-up and drop-off will be provided according to your flight timings.
• Buffet breakfast and dinner will be provided starting with dinner on day one and ending with breakfast on the last day according to the itinerary. 
• Fuel for the entire trip will be provided according to the itinerary. Inner line permits and Ladakh Union fees will be provided. 
• An experienced driver will be provided for the entire journey along with an oxygen cylinder and basic first aid. 
• Driver expenses, toll tax, fuel, and parking charges will also be included.

5-Day Detailed Itinerary

Day 1- Arrival in Leh

Leh Palace

Upon arriving in Leh, a representative of Cliffhangers India will greet you and assist with transportation to your hotel. Once you have checked in, take time to rest and adjust to the climate. After a nourishing breakfast, attend a brief orientation and begin your sightseeing in the afternoon. Make sure to visit the Shanti Stupa, built to commemorate 2500 years of Buddhism, as well as the Leh Palace, constructed in the 17th century. Afterward, explore the Leh Market to pick up some Tibetan handicrafts or enjoy some Ladakhi cuisine at a café. Wrap up your day with a sumptuous dinner back at the hotel before settling in for the night.

Day 2- Leh to Sham Valley

Sham Valley

Rise and shine to a wonderful morning in the mountains and have a delicious breakfast. Get ready for an incredible excursion to Sham Valley, situated near the Srinagar – Leh highway. Begin the day of sightseeing by honoring the brave soldiers of the Indo-Pak War at the Hall of Fame. Stop by the Spituk Gompa and explore the museum inside, where you can find ancient masks, tools, and Thangka paintings. Have a tasty langar meal at the Gurudwara Pathar Sahib, and learn about its history. Later, explore the Magnetic Hill, which is a short stretch of road that appears to defy gravity. Visit the Indus Sangam Viewpoint to witness the confluence of the Zanskar and Indus Rivers. End the day by visiting the ‘3-idiots school’, i.e. SECMOL. After a day of exploration and fun, drive back to your hotel for dinner and a comfortable night’s stay in Leh.

Day 3- Leh to Khardung La

Khardung-La Pass

Start your morning off with a nutritious breakfast before embarking on the journey of a lifetime. You will traverse some of the world’s highest passes, and be treated to the ever-changing sights of the barren landscape. Make a pit stop at Khardung-La Pass, the highest all-season motorable road in the world, and take in the beautiful views that will make you feel like you are on top of the world. After the journey to Khardung La Pass, make your way back to Leh. Enjoy some free time there to wander around Mall Road and pick up souvenirs for your loved ones. Spend the night in a hotel in Leh.

Day 4- Visit the Pangong Lake

Pangong Lake

Start your day early by having a delicious breakfast, in preparation for your journey to the stunning Pangong Lake, located on the India–China border. On arrival, you will be treated to a magnificent view of the lake, which changes color from shades of blue, to green and red. Spend some time taking in the beauty of the lake, with the Shyok river on one side and the mountains on the other. You can even recreate scenes from your favorite Bollywood movies like 3 Idiots or Jab Tak Hai Jaan. After you see Pangong Lake, make a stop at the Chang-la Pass, one of the highest mountain passes in the world. Here you can check out the Chang-la Cafe, as well as visit the Changla Baba Temple, which got its name from the temple at the top. Also, make sure to visit the Druk Padma School, featured in the movie 3 Idiots.

Thiksey Monastery

If time allows, you can also make a quick stop at Thiksey Monastery and Shey Palace. Finally, return to Leh and head to your hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 5- Departure

After having your morning meal, make sure to finish the checkout process at the hotel. Then, you will be taken to the airport for your next journey. Board your flight and bid farewell to your companions and the extraordinary region of Leh.

The selection of these packages is tailored to the needs of those who love the mountains, allowing them to have the best experience during their trip. So don’t wait any longer and let yourself be taken away on this amazing journey!

The post 5 Days Detailed Itinerary For An Exciting Leh Ladakh Trip appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

Experience the local, authentic culture of Bhutan on this fascinating 9-day trip of hidden villages, festivals, temples and scenery. Jacada Travel create fully personalized trips from start to finish. From locations to accommodation and guides, everything is selected to suit you.

Thimphu city

From expert private tours to restaurant reservations, we take care of every detail so you can make the most of your time off. We give back to two regional charities in Indian subcontinent from the profits of each one of our trips. Use our trip ideas to inspire your bespoke experience

Discover authentic Bhutan with our expert guides on this exclusive eight night trip. Enjoy colourful festivals, meet locals and visit hushed-up villages far removed from western life.

Beginning in the capital, Thimphu, you’ll have plenty of cultural encounters on our privately guided tours. Visit ancient dzongs, temples and museums and take part in a local village festival to experience the alluring way of Bhutanese life.

Then, venture further into the country with a stay in Punakha and stunning hikes to find hidden villages, farmhouses and monasteries set in pastoral scenes. The idyllic walks continue into Paro Valley where you’ll spend your last three days. Meet a Bhutanese author and marvel at striking temples, before ending on a high with a hike up to the spectacular Tiger’s Nest.

TRIP ITINERARY

DAYS 1-4: THIMPHU – Three days enjoying Thimphu

Spend your time in Bhutan‘s capital exploring the market, Taschichho Dzong and small, chock-a-block shops. A wander around this relaxed and friendly city gives a look at a more urban side of Bhutan which accompanies a wide display of traditional art, architecture and Buddhist sights steeped in ritual. A visit to the Arts and Crafts School, the Textile Museum and the Traditional Medicine Hospital are recommended. Your Travel Designer can help you to plan your stay here according to your interests.

Half Day Tour of National Museum and Rinpung Dzong

On your way to Thimphu from Paro, you’ll visit the National Museum. The museum houses over 3000 pieces of Bhutanese art, covering more than 1,500 years of Bhutan’s cultural heritage. It has a formidable collection of antiques from Buddhist temples, and artefacts once used by both the nobility and common folk. Highlights include masks, armour, paintings, prehistoric items and natural history exhibits. A short drive from the museum takes you to the Rinpung Dzong, a large Buddhist monastery and fortress that’s regarded as one of Bhutan‘s most impressive and well-known dzongs – and perhaps the finest example of Bhutanese architecture. From the 17th to the late 19th century, dzongs served as defending fortresses and were built with strong walls, false doors, reservoirs for water and food and hidden armouries. Dzongs were also headquarters for the religious and the political administrations. Once you’ve seen inside the Rinpung Dzong, enjoy the short walk across a wooden cantilever bridge on the dzong grounds.

Full Day Tour of Buddha Hill, Textile and Folk Heritage Museum and Cheri Temple

Buddha Hill

You’ll begin the day with a sightseeing tour of Buddha Hill. Your driver will collect you from your hotel and drive you to the Kuenselphodrang Nature Park where you’ll be greeted by the massive statue of the Buddha Dordenma – one of the largest statues of Buddha in the world – sitting atop a hill overlooking the southern entrance to Thimphu Valley. Measuring 51.5 meters, the statue takes the form of Shakyamuni and is said to emanate an aura of peace and happiness to the entire world. The statue is made of bronze and is gilded in gold with 125,000 smaller Buddha statues placed inside it. The statue is a recent construction that was built to commemorate the centennial of the Bhutanese monarchy and to fulfil two Buddhist prophecies, one ancient and one modern.

Next, you’ll be brought to the Textile and Folk Heritage Museum for a glimpse into traditional Bhutanese life. This restored three-storey building has been constructed using rammed-earth and timber to replicate a traditional farmhouse and inside it’s furnished as it would have been 100 years ago. Both the house design and its furnishings reflect many aspects of both past and present rural Bhutanese life today. After a guided museum tour you’ll stop for a refreshing lunch.

After lunch, you’ll be brought on a guided hike to the Chagri Dorjeden Monastery, also known as the Cheri Temple. The temple is found at the northern end of the Thimphu Valley, roughly an hour’s walk up a steep hill. This Buddhist monastery was established in 1620 A.D. by the founder of the Butanese state Ngawang Namgyal and is now a major teaching and retreat center.

Festival at Shelmaka Village

Festival at Shelmaka Village

Today you will enjoy the merriment of the festival at Shelmaka Village. As we reach Shelmakha, the village headman will welcome you as one of the village’s chief guests. You’ll be entertained with a series of masked dances and folk performances enacted by the village youth. The festival of Shelmakha is an important event for the local people where they can meet one another and introduce newer members of the family. For younger people, it’s an opportunity for romance and to plan marriages. After a picnic lunch, we will visit some farm houses to discover the local life of the hamlet. We then drive back to Thimphu where the rest of the evening will be spent exploring the Capital City.

DAYS 4-6: PUNAKHA – Two days exploring Punakha

Punakha

Capital of Bhutan and seat of the government until 1955, the little town of Punakha still enjoys a serene and regal ambience left over from its stately days. Found in a fertile valley at a relatively low 12,000 metres above sea level, visitors come here for warm, sultry days filled with plenty of activities such as mountain biking, trekking and river rafting. Then step into the area’s history with a visit to the town’s show-stopping Punakha Dzong. Hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten and Talo village and Nalanda Monastery.

Hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten and Talo village and Nalanda Monastery visit

Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten

Today, you will begin with a hike up through fields along the banks of the Mo Chhu River to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, a stunning monument recently built by the one of the Fourth King’s Queens with spectacular views down the valley. Following the hike you will drive back up the valley towards Khuruthang passing Punthsho Pelri Palace and several other winter homes of the Royal family. After lunch, continue towards Talo village to experience the beautiful hamlet there. Finally, visit Nalanda Temple for a chat with the monks there.

DAYS 6-9: PARO – Three days exploring Paro

Tigers Nest at Paro

The pretty valley of Paro is one of the kingdom’s widest and is covered in fertile rice fields crisscrossed by a beautiful meandering river. While Bhutan is famous for its splendid monuments and monasteries, perhaps the most impressive can be found here. You’ll encounter the “Tiger’s Nest” Monastery, medieval style-bridges, imposing dzongs and a town filled with traditional architecture.

The main street of the town was only built in 1985 but it’s lined with cheerfully painted wooden shop fronts and restaurants in a classic Bhutanese style. Facing up the mountain, you’ll be awed by the 8th-century Taktsang or “Tiger’s Nest” Monastery, perched high on the sheer cliff face. Just outside of the town, lie both the dominating Paro Dzong – a prime example of Bhutanese architecture, and the 7th-century Kyichu Lhakhang which was one of the first Buddhist temples built in the country.

Upper Tsento Hike with Kyichu Temples Visit

Drukgyel Dzong fortress

Today, you’ll be brought on a lively hike to the Upper Tsento region, lasting for approximately 2 to 3 hours before being driven back to your hotel in a private vehicle via the ruins of the Drugyal Dzong fortress and monastery.

After lunch, you’ll be brought to visit the Kyichu Temples. This two-temple complex consists of the Jowo Temple and the Guru Temple. The Jowo Temple is one of the oldest temples in Bhutan, originally built in the 7th century by the Tibetan Emperor Songtsan Gampo. The Guru Temple was built in 1971 by Kesang Choden Wangchuck, the queen of Jigme Dorji Wangchuck.

After your visit to the Kyichu temples, you’ll have the opportunity to meet a Bhutanese author before returning to your hotel for dinner.

Full day tour with hike to Tiger’s Nest and a hot stone bath

Flags at Tigers Nest

Today you’ll experience Bhutan’s most valued attractions and one of the main reasons people come to Bhutan, the famous Taktshang monastery or “Tiger’s Nest”. This spectacular temple clings to a 1,000 foot high cliff and was built in 1692 by a prominent historical figure named Gyaltse Tenzin Rabgye. We hike for about three hours to reach the Tiger’s Nest, climbing steeply uphill from the valley floor with a break at a tea house along the way. The Tiger’s Nest is one of the most sacred sites for the Buddhists. It’s said that in the 8th century, Guru Padma meditated here for three months. Guru Padma, also known as the 2nd Buddha, first initiated Buddhism to Bhutan in the 8th century. Legend has it that Guru Rinpoche flew to this location from Tibet on the back of a tigress from Khenpajong and built this temple as a result. For Buddhists, the story of the temple is an important lesson about taming the inherent forces of Anger, Ignorance and Greed.

We then hike for approximately two hours back downhill. On your return, treat your weary limbs to an indulgent soak in a hot stone bath.

Traditional Hot Stone Bath

Paro Main Street

In the evening, explore Paro town on foot. Visit a farmhouse to soak in a herbal hot-stone bath which is known to be therapeutic and helps ailments related to joints and muscle aches, besides simply soothing your mind and body and going perfectly with the locally brewed Red Panda Beer.

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This trip is just an example of the amazing vacations our experts could plan for you. Speak to one of the team today to start creating your private, bespoke trip. Start planning your tailored trip today by checking www.jacadatravel.com and enquiring online at enquiries@jacadatravel.com

Remember, this trip is just an example of what we can organize for you. Call our experts to start planning your fully-tailored trip.

The post Jacada – Trip to cultural Bhutan appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

One of the homestays

Have you ever been to a longhouse? Would you like to stay in a longhouse? Are you curious about how the people in a longhouse go by their daily life?Here in Sarawak, Malaysian Borneo, the land of the hornbills, there are lots of longhouses that offer that chance. The one I went to and I suggest is called Annah Rais Longhouse.

Annah Rais Longhouse

I got curious straight away when I first met 44 years old Jenny Dudu, the woman who was responsible to make me feel at home during this trip, and enquired about the name of the village. Apparently, the original name was Annah Raih, which means a ‘village in a valley’. Villagers later proposed to call the village Kampung Senah Negeri, which practically means the same thing. However, the Government refused to approve it as Negeri can also means ‘state’. The misspelled name of Annah Rais was finally granted. Would you believe me if I told you that this village history goes back 280 years?

Located 63 kilometer from Kuching City, a 1 hour and 45 minutes drive away, Annah Rais is a village surrounded by beautiful mountains, rivers and trees. It has more than 600 residents within 137 households. When you take the trouble to come here, you will be rewarded not only by feeling the nature under your feet and around you, but also by meeting the warm people from the village. Try to say “Ani agah nga” or how are you? For sure they will reply back!

Playing a bamboo instrument

Thomas and I arrived at this unique and fabulous place on a late afternoon last June, and we were immediately welcomed by Jenny, who brought us to Karum Bidayuh Homestay, a homestay situated at the far side of the village. I can honestly tell you that my first impression of the village upon arrival was just normal. However, I discovered how amazing it is from the moment I started walking. I noticed that the roofed longhouse had a small garden at the corner with different types of vegetable: pumpkin, tapioca, corn and more. Besides that, a long platform covered entirely by suspended bamboo, and in the houses, friendly villagers. Even though they were busy doing their craft work, they still turned to say hi, and smiled. I found this to be good and unique, don’t you agree?

Karum with the tree she uses to make tea

After a few more meters of walking, we met the homestay owner, Miss Karum.  Her homestay is so beautiful, made of wood and with a tin roof.  The wall was painted green and I could not believe my eyes that her homestay was so clean. There is a sofa set along with a television and some traditional local art hanging on the wall. Karum is a nice woman who welcomed us with all of her heart. She showed us around the house, took us to the small and tidy kitchen, to the toilet, and lastly to our rooms on the upper floor. The rooms are simple but really comfortable and from my window, I could see the beautiful longhouse area. Since that night it was raining, I can’t really tell you about the sky, but the air was really fresh. Take advantage if you go there: breathe easy and a lot, expelling all the toxins you store in your body.

My cozy room

That evening, Karum cooked for us a very delicious traditional food. We can assure you she is really good at cooking, I am sure you would enjoy her food too. The dinner consisted of a chicken soup with pumpkin, some local vegetable called ‘tepuk’, tapioca leaves and white plant. Once we finished with dinner, Karum shared her local rice wine with us, made by herself! I can tell you it is the nicest rice wine I have ever had, really smooth and a bit sweet.

Bakah Baras!

If you give it a go, I advise you not to over drink it as rice wine can make you drunk without you realizing it. Karum told me she sells the rice wine at an affordable 10 RM per bottle, so don’t hesitate to buy a bottle or two for back home.

Apart from rice wine, Karum also makes a traditional tea known as ‘Bakah Baras’ in Bidayuh Biatah language. She told me that this tea was originally made from a special tree that can only be found in the forest. To make that into a tea, first the trunk needs to be dried in the hot sun, and later cut and split into small bits. After that, she cooks one or two pieces of it together with pandan leaves to make it into a tea. Bakah Baras is good for health, especially for diabetes, cholesterol and blood flow. Since it can only be found in Annah Rais, people in the city call it the ‘Annah Rais Tea’, a drink inherited from generation to generation. If you interested about this tea, I suggest you contact Karum, and no worries, its cheap at only 5 RM per plastic bag.

Full with energy from the dinner and excited about our trip to the waterfall the next day, Thomas and I slept really well with our windows opened: no need for air-con there!

Karum contact details

For information and bookings, contact Miss Karum or Jenny at Karum Bidayuh Homestay – tel. (+60) 0168981675 – emailyeominghua@yahoo.com or t_weiyu86@hotmail.com or check their website at www.longhouseinborneo.com

Furthermore, to know about what happened the day after, read Thomas account on the jungle trekking to the waterfall at http://asianitinerary.com/annah-rais-trek-to-the-waterfall/

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