25th June – 2nd July 2025 | Ladakh, India
When was the last time you stood so close to the sky, it felt like you could touch the stars?
This June, leave behind the haze of the city and ascend to Ladakh — India’s rooftop — where thin air, barren moonscapes, and deep silence open the gateway to the universe. Across nine days, traverse through ancient valleys, high-altitude lakes, and hidden Himalayan hamlets as you chase some of the darkest skies on Earth.
From watching the Milky Way rise over Pangong to peering through powerful telescopes at Hanle Observatory, this expedition blends adventure, science, and stillness into a journey that’s as cosmic as it is personal.
What You’ll Do
Deep Sky Astrophotography
Learn to photograph star trails, nebulae, and the Milky Way from altitudes above 14,000 ft. Our expert-led sessions will guide you through camera settings, manual focus, stacking techniques, and how to handle gear in cold and low-oxygen environments.
Hanle Observatory Visit
A rare chance to visit one of the world’s highest astronomical observatories, managed by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics. With crystal-clear skies and minimal atmospheric disturbance, Hanle offers views of distant galaxies and deep sky objects few places on Earth can match.
Night Sky Navigation
Map the night sky with laser pointers, star charts, and mythologies that span generations. Our StarGuides will help you decode constellations and celestial rhythms, rooted in both scientific understanding and ancient storytelling.
Where You’ll Be
Your journey begins in Leh, the capital of Ladakh, where you’ll acclimatize to the altitude while wandering through ancient monasteries, bustling bazaars, and craggy ridge-top palaces.
From there, you’ll drive to Lamayuru, home to one of the oldest monasteries in Ladakh and a surreal landscape known as the “Moonland” for its otherworldly terrain.
The expedition continues to Sumur, nestled in the sand-dune-laced Nubra Valley, where rivers meet deserts, and stars hang low in the sky.
Then onto Merak, a remote village along the luminous Pangong Tso lake — here, the night sky reflects on still waters in a spectacle few places on Earth can offer.
Next stop: Hanle. High in the Changthang Plateau, this secluded village is a designated dark sky reserve and one of the best sites in Asia for astronomical observation.
You’ll conclude your adventure at Tso Moriri, a glacial lake surrounded by snowy peaks and grazing Changpa nomads — an untouched haven where the silence is only broken by the wind… and the stars.
Through all of this, Ladakh’s high-altitude desert scape and thin atmosphere will provide near-perfect astronomical conditions: no humidity, low light pollution, and deep dark skies rated Bortle 1–2.
Your Stay
7 Nights / 8 Days Comfortable, hygienic accommodation on a same-gender twin-sharing basis Single occupancy available at 30% additional charge
Shared occupancy in twin-bed rooms with attached bathrooms wherever available.
All meals included – warm, nutritious Ladakhi and Indian fare, both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.
₹60,000 per person
₹25,000 advance required to block your spot for all locations
How to Get There
- Reaching our base location in Leh is up to you, but our team will coordinate your internal transfers between each Ladakh location, ensuring safety and comfort throughout the journey.
By Air
- Take a direct flight to Leh (1.5 hrs). Multiple daily options.
By Road
- For those seeking an adventurous journey, driving from Delhi to Leh is a popular option. Two main routes are available:
- Via Manali: This route covers approximately 1,011 km and takes about 24 hours of driving time. The journey includes traversing high-altitude passes like Rohtang Pass and Tanglang La, offering breathtaking landscapes.
- Via Srinagar: This route spans around 1,035 km and also requires about 22 hours of driving. It passes through scenic locations like Sonmarg, Drass, and Kargil, providing a gradual ascent to help with acclimatization.
By Bus
- Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) operates bus services from Delhi to Leh via Manali. The journey covers around 1,203 km and takes approximately 36 hours, traversing some of the highest motorable roads in the world.
- Please note that road conditions can vary, and it’s advisable to check for any travel advisories or road closures before embarking on the journey.
From Other Metro Cities
Step 1:
- Fly to Delhi
Step 2:
- Take a connecting flight to Leh
- Our team will reach out to help you plan flights, transfers, and shared vehicle options with fellow participants.
What to Pack
Late June to early July in Ladakh is sunny but cold, especially at night. Expec
Day: 12–18°C | Night: -2 to 5°C
Bring
Thermals, windproof jackets, gloves, warm socks
Trekking shoes & sunglasses
DSLR camera & tripod (optional)
Flashlight with red filter (provided if needed)
Sunscreen, lip balm, moisturiser
Personal medication & reusable water bottle
Sustainable Travel Guidelines
- Carry your own water bottle and eco-bags
- Minimise plastic waste; avoid packaged snacks
- Respect wildlife, monasteries, and local customs
- Support local businesses and artisans
- Do not litter, especially near lakes or trails
- Avoid loud music or light pollution at night
- Do not disturb wildlife or enter restricted zones
- Refrain from using flashlights during stargazing
Limited slots available – this expedition is designed for an intimate group to ensure a
meaningful, well-supported experience.
