Ladakh & Kashmir, India
Photo Tour
Sept 8-21, 2024
Ladakh, India
The Kashmir Vallery
Eight Participants Two Leaders
Sept 8-21, 2024
$6,250
Ladakh & Kashmir Valley
Photography Tour
2024
Embark on a truly unique journey that combines the beauty of Ladakh and the Kashmir Valley—a rare opportunity that arises only once in several years. This trip is designed for individuals seeking to explore exotic destinations and capture moments that few have the chance to witness. Don’t miss out on this extraordinary experience—it’s your time to seize the opportunity and join us for what promises to be a trip of a lifetime.
Ladakh
Ladakh, often hailed as more Tibetan than Tibet itself, promises a profound immersion into Tibetan Buddhist culture. With its jagged mountains, ancient monasteries, serene lakes, and golden sand dunes, Ladakh beckons adventurers and photographers alike. It’s an irrepressible destination, boasting noble culture, rich history, astounding architecture, and breathtaking landscapes. The opportunity to photograph and experience the culture of this place is truly a chance of a lifetime.
Join us for an unforgettable experience. Immerse yourself in a kaleidoscope of colors, music, and dance as cultural troupes. Witness captivating performances, traditional music, and locals adorned in colorful Ladakhi attire.
The Kashmir Valley
But our journey doesn’t end there. Welcome to the Kashmir Valley, often referred to as the playground of kings. Experience the timeless beauty of this isolated valley, where Mughal kings sought respite from the Indian plains. From the clear lakes to the mountains scraping the clouds, and the nomadic shepherds wandering the mountain passes, Kashmir captivates with its storybook romance and picturesque landscapes.
For photography enthusiasts, our 13-day Ladakh/Kashmir Valley photographic tour is meticulously planned to meet all your requirements and expectations. Limited to just eight participants, this tour offers unrivaled opportunities to capture ancient cultures and breathtaking landscapes. Join us on this unforgettable journey and create a photographic portfolio filled with faces and landscapes, all underscored by a lifetime of memories, in just two short weeks.
Ladakh Gallery
Ladakh & Kashmir Valley Facts
Ladakh, a region governed by India as a union territory, is nestled within the larger expanse of Kashmir. Its borders touch Tibet to the east, Himachal Pradesh to the south, Jammu and Kashmir and Baltistan to the west, and Xinjiang’s southwest corner across the Karakoram Pass in the far north.
The Kashmir Valley serves as the summer capital of Kashmir. During winter, government offices and staff migrate to the warmer plains of Jammu. Srinagar, the valley’s capital, is centered around the tranquil Dal Lake, adorned with charming houseboats. The tradition of houseboats is said to have originated during the British era when a law prohibited non-Kashmiris from owning real estate. Hence, houseboats became a creative solution. Dal Lake teems with aquatic plant life, tended to daily by strong men who use long sticks to harvest them. These plants are then sold to local farmers to feed their livestock. The picturesque neighborhood of Rainawari adorns the lake’s edges, where wooden boats known as shikaras navigate the Venice-like waterways, manned by men, women, and children alike.
Monasteries
Each year, tourists from every corner of the globe flock to Ladakh, drawn by the allure of its mountain monasteries. These sacred sites serve as custodians of Ladakh’s rich Buddhist Tibetan heritage, preserving traditions that have endured through the ages. Influenced by the Tibetan branch of Buddhism, the revered Dalai Lama remains a prominent figure, wielding significant influence among both the local community and the monks who dedicate their lives to spiritual pursuit in these serene mountain abodes.
Magnetic Hill
Ladakh boasts the awe-inspiring Magnetic Hill, a natural wonder that has captured the fascination of tourists worldwide. Visitors often report a mind-bending phenomenon: if you park your vehicle at the base of the hill with the brakes unlocked, it appears to defy gravity and slowly moves uphill without any external assistance! This intriguing illusion, seemingly defying the laws of physics, continues to captivate travelers and stands as a testament to the marvels of nature’s design.
Shrines and Mosques
The historic city of Srinagar holds within its ancient walls a treasure trove of vibrant and picturesque Sufi shrines and mosques. While Islam reigns as the predominant faith in Kashmir, it is not confined to orthodox practices. Instead, Islam in Kashmir bears the profound influence of Sufism, characterized by its emphasis on spirituality and mysticism. Sufism infuses the local Muslim community with a sense of emotional depth and charisma, enriching the cultural and religious landscape of this enchanting region.
Shikaras and Dal Lake
The iconic shikara, a traditional wooden boat, gracefully glides along the tranquil waters of Dal Lake and other scenic water bodies nestled within the picturesque valleys of Kashmir. Available in various sizes, these elegant vessels serve multiple purposes, primarily transportation across the serene waters. The shikara features a seating arrangement where passengers recline comfortably while a skilled driver navigates the boat from the rear, guiding it through the peaceful waters with expert precision.
During this immersive journey, you will acquire invaluable skills and insights to elevate your photography to new heights.
Here’s what you can expect to learn:
- Master the art of storytelling through your images, conveying powerful narratives that resonate with viewers.
- Hone your exposure techniques, enabling you to capture striking photos in diverse light and weather conditions.
- Explore composition techniques that transform ordinary scenes into breathtaking masterpieces, enhancing the visual impact of your photographs.
- Unlock the potential of off-camera lighting to add depth and dimension to your images, creating captivating visuals that command attention.
- Dive into post-processing techniques to refine and enhance your photos, taking them to the next level of professionalism and visual appeal.
- And much more awaits you on this unforgettable journey—a wealth of knowledge and practical skills that will empower you to unleash your creativity and capture the beauty of Ladakh and the Kashmir Valley like never before.
A Detailed TimeLine
Day 1:
Sun, Sept 8th
Upon your arrival in Leh, prepare to be greeted by the pristine air of this Himalayan haven as you step off the airplane. Our team will be there to extend a warm welcome and assist you to your hotel. This initial day is crucial for acclimatization, as you’ll be adjusting to the altitude of 3,524 meters (11,562 feet).
Later in the day, before the sun sets, we embark on a drive to the Shanti Stupa. Perched high above Leh city, this tranquil sanctuary offers panoramic vistas of the snow-capped peaks enveloping the region. It’s a serene vantage point to behold the majestic beauty of your surroundings and immerse yourself in the peaceful ambiance that permeates this sacred site.
Day 2:
Mon, Sept 8th
Leh – Thikey – Hemis – Shey Palace – Leh
Before breakfast, we head to Thiksey Monastery to witness the monks’ morning prayers, immersing ourselves in the serene atmosphere. After breakfast at the monastery restaurant, we drive to Hemis Monastery, capturing the grandeur of one of Ladakh’s largest and wealthiest gompas.
In the late afternoon, we photograph Shey Palace and Monastery, former royal residence now in majestic ruins. Inside the monastery, a magnificent 39-foot gilded copper statue of Sakyamuni Buddha awaits. We return to Leh for the night, filled with memories of the day’s rich cultural experiences.
Day 3:
Tue, Sept 10th
Leh – Stok Palace – Spituk – Leh
After breakfast, we drive to photograph Stok Palace and the Heritage House in the picturesque village of Stok, home to Ladakh’s Royal family. We’ll explore the village’s traditional architecture, apricot orchards, and barley fields against the backdrop of Stok Kangri mountain.
Later, we visit Spituk Monastery, established in the 11th century and renowned for its ancient artifacts and Thangka paintings. In the evening, we take a leisurely stroll around Leh’s old market, soaking in the local ambiance.
Day 4:
Wed, Sept 11th
Ulleytokpo-Rizong Monastery-Lamayuru (11,516 feet) (160 Kms/05-06 Hrs)
After breakfast, we depart Leh and drive to the Rizong Gompa. It was founded in the year 1831. The monastery serves as the residence of approximately 40 monks. These monks are not permitted to have anything on their person except for religious robes and books. Ridzong Monastery of Leh Ladakh consists of a number of shrines inside its complex. Afterward, we continue our drive to Lamayuru. On arrival, check-in at the hotel.
After lunch, we photograph Lamayuru (Oldest Monastery in Central Ladakh Region). The focal point of this monastery is a cave where the great Indian Saint Marpa is said to have meditated. We will also walk around Lamayuru village and photograph the barley harvest. At sunset, drive to the other side of the Lamyuru village to photograph the setting Sun over the Lamaury village and monastery. The stay the night in a town at a local hotel.
Day 5:
Thu, Sept 12th
Lamayuru- Skurbuchan village-Dah (9300 feet) (By surface approx. 80 Kms/2.5 Hrs)
After breakfast, drive to Dah Hanu, and along the way, we visit Skurbuchan village. We will wander around this village for photography. Continue driving to Dah. Once we arrive, we check in to the camp.
Dah & Hanu are known as ‘the Land of Aryans’, Dah and Hanu villages are settlements of the Brokpa community in Ladakh. According to popular belief, the Brokpas were part of the army of Alexander the Great and came to the region over two thousand years ago. The Brokpas reside in five villages, four of which are in India and one in Pakistan. Drokpa or Brokpa community is racially and culturally distinct from the common Ladakhis. The community has unique features and a distinct dress. Many in. the community, especially women, wear flowers on their hats. The community also practices polyandry, in which a woman has more than one husband.
Day 6:
Fri, Sep 13th
Dah – Batalik – Kargil (8900 feet) (By surface approx. 165 Kms/05-06 Hrs)
After breakfast, we will drive a fascinating lesser-known road to Kargil (8900 feet) via Batalik On arrival, check in at the hotel.
Late afternoon, walk in the bazaars of this town. we will stay the night at The Kargil Hotel.
Day 7:
Sat, Sept 14th
Kargil – Sonamarg – Srinagar, Kashmir.
After breakfast, we leave for Srinagar driving through Drass (famous as the second coldest inhabited place in the world), after passing the Drass Valley, you come across – The Kargil War Memorial. Then we cross the spectacular Zoji-la Pass (11,500 feet)and enter the Kashmir valley!
This drive is one of the most interesting transformations, as suddenly, you will enter a valley of green trees and meadows after a week of wandering around in the arid areas of Ladakh. We will stop and explore Sonamarg, which is located beside the river Sindh and surrounded by forests of pine, fir, beech & Chinar trees with towering peaks all around. It’s a scenic welcome to the Kashmir Valley. after this break, we continue our drive to Srinagar. On arrival, we check in at our houseboats.
Ladakh Gallery
Day 8:
Sun, Sept 15th
As we transition from the Buddhist culture of Ladakh to the Sufi Muslim culture of the Kashmir Valley, a new chapter of our journey unfolds. Srinagar, the winter capital of Kashmir, welcomes us with its captivating blend of Sufi shrines and mosques, offering a glimpse into the spiritual heart of the region. After enjoying a delightful homecooked breakfast aboard our houseboat on the serene Dal Lake, we set out on a memorable adventure aboard a Shikara, a traditional water taxi. Our exploration takes us through the enchanting Venice-like cityscape of Ranawari, nestled amidst the shimmering waters of Dal Lake. This scenic journey promises to be a highlight of our Kashmir experience, immersing us in the timeless beauty and tranquility of this iconic destination.
Day 9:
Mon, Sep 16th
Today, our journey takes us to the revered shrine of Makhdoom Sahib, also known as Sultan-ul-Arifeen, a prominent Sufi saint whose teachings have left an indelible mark on Kashmir’s spiritual landscape. This sacred site holds profound significance for devotees and seekers of spiritual guidance, drawing pilgrims from far and wide who come to pay their respects and seek blessings. As we ascend Hari Parbat, the panoramic view of Old Srinagar unfolds before us. Throughout our exploration of the old city, we encounter numerous Sufi shrines and mosques, tangible evidance of Sufism’s enduring influence on Kashmiri culture. The unique architecture of these sacred sites, adorned with intricate designs and symbolic motifs, reflects the spiritual depth and reverence embedded in every stone. Our journey to Hari Parbat not only provides ample opportunities for capturing captivating images but also fosters a deeper understanding of the spiritual heritage that continues to shape the essence of Kashmir.
Day 10:
Tue, Sept 17th
Today, our journey takes us to Yusmarg, a place whose name translates to “The Meadow of Jesus” in Kashmiri lore. While lacking historical or archaeological evidence, local legends suggest that even Jesus himself may have once visited this serene locale. Nestled within an alpine valley, Yusmarg enchants visitors with its snow-capped peaks and lush meadows dotted with majestic pine and fir trees. During our time here, we’ll have the opportunity to photograph the Bakarwal Gujjar community, who migrate to lower elevations as winter approaches. Through our lenses, we’ll seek to preserve the essence of this timeless tradition against the backdrop of Yusmarg’s breathtaking natural beauty.
Day 11:
Wed, Sept 18th
Today, our journey takes us to the charming Himalayan village of Aru, nestled amidst breathtaking mountain vistas. En route, we make a stop to photograph the majestic Martand Sun Temple in Anantnag, renowned as the oldest temple in the country. This architectural marvel is distinguished by its unique feature of being home to thousands of “holy fish,” adding to its mystical allure.
Upon reaching the quaint village of Aru, we immerse ourselves in the warm hospitality of a Gujjar family, experiencing firsthand the rich traditions and customs of the local nomads. As we share a meal in their home, we cherish the opportunity to connect with the family on a personal level, fostering a deeper appreciation for their way of life. This authentic cultural encounter is made even more meaningful by Matt & Alou’s 30-year relationship with this family, allowing us to delve deeper into this amazing culture.
Day 12:
Thu, Sept 19th
On this day, we embark on a journey through the old city once more, this time with the aim of capturing the intangible heritage of Kashmir through our lenses. Renowned for its rich history of crafts, Kashmir offers a treasure trove of photo-worthy subjects, including intricate paper-mâché boxes, exquisitely hand-carved walnut furniture, and the skilled artisans weaving silk carpets. Additionally, the artistry of Pashmina scarf makers adds to the allure of this vibrant cultural tapestry. Each of these crafts presents incredible opportunities for photography, allowing us to capture the essence of Kashmir’s artistic legacy and craftsmanship.
Day 13:
Fri, Sept 20th
We start the day with an early morning visit to the enchanting floating vegetable market, a vibrant spectacle of local life set against the serene backdrop of Dal Lake. After breakfast, we embark on a scenic journey by Shikara, Kashmir’s iconic water taxi, to the revered Hazratbal shrine. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to photograph the solemn Friday prayers and immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of the Friday market, which comes alive on the tranquil waters of the lake. This immersive experience offers a unique glimpse into the heart of Kashmiri culture and tradition, promising unforgettable moments and captivating photo opportunities.
Day 14:
Sat, Sept 21th
Today you pack up and fly back to Delhi and then catch your flight home!
Kashmir Valley Gallery
The Accommodations
In Leh we will be staying at a deluxe hotel in the center of Leh. In Hanu, we will stay in semi-permanent tents called “Cottage Tents.” While in Ladkah you will have a single occupancy room. Once in Srinagar, we will stay on Dal lake, in classic Kashmiri house boats. Here you will be in a shared room. This is due to limited rooms on each houseboats.
Deluxe Hotel
Cottage Tents
House Boats
YOUR LEADERS
Matt & Alou Brandon have been running tours in India since 1993, bringing their wealth of cultural knowledge to hundreds of tourists and photographers alike. Having resided in Kashmir, India, for nearly 13 years, the Brandons have cultivated deep personal connections with the people and culture of both Kashmir and Ladakh. Their intimate understanding and passion for these regions make them the ideal choice to lead your adventure, ensuring an enriching and unforgettable experience for all participants.
Matt Brandon
With a diverse portfolio spanning assignments, editorials, and nonprofit initiatives, Matt brings a wealth of experience to his photography endeavors. His captivating images have graced the pages of esteemed publications such as National Geographic Traveler and Condé Nast, while also being utilized by renowned brands including KLM Airlines, Honda Motor Corporation, and Bombardier Transport Corporation, among others. Having traversed regions like Egypt, Tibet, India, Indonesia, and beyond, Matt’s extensive travel experiences have honed his keen eye for capturing the essence of diverse cultures and landscapes. With a career spanning over a 30 years, Matt has been sharing his expertise through leading photo tours, workshops, and masterclasses since 2007, ensuring participants gain invaluable insights into the art of travel photography from a seasoned professional.
Matt is also proud to be a Fujifilm X-Photographer for Malaysia.
Alou Brandon
With her deep-rooted love for travel and exploration, Alou’s journey from tour operator to culinary guide has been a natural evolution. Her keen eye for uncovering hidden gems in local markets and her knack for introducing travelers to the diverse flavors of Asia have made her a sought-after companion for culinary adventures.
Drawing from her rich experiences as an expat in Malaysia and India, Alou’s “Cooking with Alou” classes have become renowned for their hands-on approach and the authentic taste of each dish. Fluent in Hindi and Urdu, Alou effortlessly navigates the cultural nuances of the regions she explores, enhancing the authenticity of her culinary experiences.
Now, co-leading the Ladakh tour, Alou finds herself reconnecting with her true passion for travel and guiding, eager to share the wonders of Ladakh with fellow adventurers. Her expertise, multilingual skills, and enthusiasm promise to make this journey an unforgettable experience for all.
For $6,250
What’s covered and what’s not.
Inclusions:
- Photographic guidance
- Local guide
- Private Rooms
- Entrance fees at the monasteries, gardens etc.
- Sightseeing as per the Itinerary
- Environmental fees and interline permits
- All meals
- All Water
- All Tips!
- Transfers in Leh
- Transfers in Sringagar
Exclusions:
- ..*All international or domestic airfare & airport departure tax.
- Any other services not mentioned in the included section.
- Any entry visa in India.
- Any medical evacuation.
- Any expenses caused by factors beyond our control like flight cancellation, roadblocks, vehicle malfunction, etc…
- Any personal expenses like laundry, alcohol, telephone bills, SIM chips, medical/travel insurance, still/video camera fee, costs, or any other cost not included above.
* Though you are responsible for your international and domestic fares. We have an Indian travel agent that we work with. that can get you great fares on your domestic flight from Delhi to Leh and from Leh to Delhi. Please let us know if you want our agent to arrange these flights so you can be on time for the start of the trip and for your departing international flight.
Note: Although we do our best to maintain the itinerary as published, it is often necessary to be flexible and to change the workshop itinerary when circumstances are beyond our control. The actual tour may vary slightly due to weather, road conditions, or other things beyond our control or if new opportunities present themselves.
Reviews
What our past participants have to say about us.
Andrée Lawrey
LADAKH & RAJASTHAN WORKSHOPS PARTICIPANT
“Two weeks of fun, photography, laughter, discovery, and pure enjoyment, along with excellent company and delicious food — Best of all, the photographic learning experience was priceless: Matt is an inspiring teacher and mentor who really cares about helping his students push their boundaries and learn how to create better images, while Piet’s expert assistance with workflow and post-processing issues was a real bonus—highly recommended!”
Ladakh Workshop Participant
“I look back on the Ladakh-Photo-Trek as one of the most important experiences for my development as a photographer. On the whole tour, there was a constant and very personal mentoring, frequent critiques in the evening and everyday novel encounters with the Ladakhi scenery, people and their culture. Sometimes we were pushed to our boundaries. The tour was exceptionally well organized and carried out. … and it was FUN!”
Ladakh, Rajasthan, & Varanasi Workshops Participant
“I am coming back with a bunch of images that I do not believe I would have been capable to take had I not been on the workshop. I genuinely appreciated Matt’s hands-on approach, the tips and tricks that he provided spontaneously and his availability at all times. In fact that Matt almost did not shoot himself, he preferred to focus on the efforts and improvement of the skills of his students. This proved invaluable.”
Join us for a Himalayan Adventure
Don’t wait!
There are only eight spots available. Now is the time to book while there is still space available on this amazing photographic tour!