Apricot Blossoms Charm!
Apricot Blossoms Charm!
Ladakh in Bloom: Witness the magic of apricot blossoms and embrace the spirit of spring in the Land of High Passes!
Why this experience is unique?
The apricot blossom season in Ladakh is a truly magical experience, where the landscape comes alive with delicate pink and white flowers that seem to paint the entire valley. The vibrant blossoms transform the surroundings into a breathtaking sight, almost like a fairy tale come to life. The air is filled with a sweet fragrance and the peaceful atmosphere has a calming effect on the soul. As you take in the beauty, it’s hard to believe that such a perfect scene exists, leaving you in awe of nature’s ability to create something so serene and spectacular.
The Sham region, including Aryan Valley, is famous for its apricots, apples, walnuts and berries. Almost 80% of the fresh and dried fruits sold in Leh come from this area, offering a variety of flavors that are not only delicious but also full of health benefits. However, it’s the apricot blossom in spring that truly captures the soul. In addition to the blossoms, visitors can immerse themselves in local culture, experiencing the art of Thangka painting at Domkhar Homestay and learning traditional pottery at Likir Homestay, where they can connect with local families and their timeless craft.
Upon arrival in Leh, rest for 24 hours to acclimatize to the high altitude. Stay hydrated, eat light and acclimatize gradually. Sip warm water or herbal tea to maintain hydration. Staying at Thiksey Homestay offers a peaceful setting to relax and adjust, with the warmth of local hospitality and a stunning views of Thiksey Monastery.
Start the day with the host and experience the captivating morning prayer at the main hall of Thiksey Monastery. The chanting and morning rituals are sure to leave you spellbound. Afterward, return to the homestay to enjoy freshly made breakfast especially Khambir (traditional fermented bread). Post breakfast, visit the Hemis Monastery and its museum, a true gem of Ladakh. On your way back, enjoy stops along the Indus River and pass through Chuchot, the longest village in Asia. Have lunch in Leh’s main market and explore its lively streets. In the evening, visit Leh Palace before ending the day and driving back to Thiksey Homestay and if you’re not too tired, feel free to join in preparing traditional dinner.
Post breakfast, begin your journey to the Sham region, the western part of Ladakh. En route, visit the historic Gurudwara Pather Sahib and the confluence of the Indus and Zanskar rivers, where their distinct colors meet. Continue to Nimu village, where the first apricot trees appear and as you travel further, the landscape is filled with blooming apricot orchards. Stop for lunch in Khaltse village, then take a scenic route, passing the stunning view of Takmachik village across the Indus River. Finally, reach Domkhar Village and relax at the homestay with tea. Explore the orchards, learn about the varieties of apricots, apples, walnuts and enjoy a warm homemade dinner with the family.
On the second day in Domkhar Village, wake up to the gentle chirping of birds perched on the branches outside your window. Sit by the window with a warm cup of tea, taking in the beautiful view. After freshening up, join your hosts for a delicious breakfast. Then, head to the family orchard, where you can relax with a book, camera or sketchbook, surrounded by nature.
After lunch, spend time with your hosts learning about traditional Thangka painting. Enjoy a cozy evening with tea and snacks. Later, take a peaceful village walk, where the only sounds you’ll hear are the splashing of the nearby stream and birds chirping.
After breakfast, bid farewell to your hosts and begin your journey to Aryan Valley, home to the Brokpa community, known for its distinct culture and traditions. The Brokpa people stand out not only in their customs but also in their appearance, with both men and women wearing traditional headdresses decorated with flowers, silver coins and intricate designs.
In Aryan Valley, you will visit Garkone Village and stay at Garkone Homestay, hosted by the warm-hearted host, who welcomes guests with a smile and shares stories of her community. Host also runs a museum in her ancestral home, showcasing family heirlooms and artifacts.
The next day, after breakfast, join your host for a hike through the village, where you’ll discover a variety of fruits, including grapes and berries and experience the village’s farming lifestyle. Hike to several waterfalls and reach the Vajrapani Statue at the top of the hill, where the view is nothing short of spectacular. The thundering sound of the Indus River below adds to the beauty of the landscape. From here, take in the breathtaking views of the village and surrounding scenery.
Afterward, enjoy lunch at the homestay, bid farewell to your host, and begin your drive to Likir Village. Along the way, stop at your favorite spots for some final photographs before reaching Likir Homestay for an overnight stay.
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast, then join a pottery session where you’ll learn about the traditional art of pottery in Ladakh and hear fascinating stories of its introduction to the region. Afterward, bid farewell to the family and drive back to Leh. Enjoy lunch at Leh Market and spend the afternoon exploring its vibrant streets.
In the evening, drive to Spituk Homestay, located right next to the Indus River. The presence of the river will feel especially close, as you’ve been traveling alongside it throughout your journey in Ladakh, making this stay even more meaningful.
Your Ladakh adventure concludes as you transfer to the airport for your flight back to Delhi, accompanied by a GHE team member to assist you with your departure.
Guests like to eat our Ladakhi food. They say it is delicious, even when it is prepared by an elderly ama (mother) like me. I always make sure I serve them the cleanest and healthiest food. My husband is a copper artist. When guests leave us, they say ‘Julley’, and hug us. It makes us feel happy.
I became a Mountain Homestay Host in 2018, and I have hosted many travellers since then. Running a homestay has helped me and my family a lot. Not only is the solar set up in our house useful for us, but even travellers prefer to stay in our homestay because of it.
The training we got in astronomy turned out to be a life-changing experience for our village. I felt happy and proud while mapping the position of the planets and sharing the secrets of the universe with the tourists. Tourists told me that even they didn’t know so much about the dark skies!
