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Panoramic views of the surrounding mountains

Dalai Lama Mountain Trek 10 days • India

Trek
Trek Camping
Camping Altitude
Altitude Terrain
Terrain ORANGE 1
Grading

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About the Challenge

This magnificent trek offers the ultimate combination of breath-taking scenery and fascinating culture, in the southernmost ridges of the Indian Himalayas. Starting and finishing at McLeod Ganj, residence of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama and a large community of Tibetan Buddhist exiles, this challenge promises an extra-special experience.

We trek through the friendly villages, high pastures and forests of the southern flanks of the Dhaula Dhar (White Mountains), gradually gaining height as we follow trails used for centuries by local shepherds. We’re constantly rewarded with far-reaching vistas of the beautiful Kangra valley and surrounding mountains, but with a high point of 3200m, remain at relatively low altitudes.

This trek is packed with diverse cultural discovery, exceptional trekking and magnificent landscapes – all the ingredients for an unforgettable trip!

 

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Dates & Prices

Viv - March 2024

The trek was amazing, with beautiful scenery, immersed in the local culture, and incredible food, and we were looked after so well the whole time. Every little detail considered and catered for. Highly recommend!

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Itinerary

Dalai Lama Mountain Trek


OPEN • 10 DAYS

  • On arrival, we transfer to a nearby hotel, where we can freshen up after our overnight flight and enjoy lunch before heading out to the bustling city for an afternoon sightseeing tour, including Old Delhi’s Jama Masjid, the impressive 17th-century red-sandstone mosque, and famous markets of Chandni Chowk. Later this evening, we head to New Delhi Railway Station to board our overnight train. A cultural experience in itself, the journey takes us from the crowds and chaos of Delhi through rustic scenes of life in the countryside in our comfortable air-conditioned sleeper carriages. Night train.

  • Arriving at the small city of Pathankot in the early morning, we meet the awaiting local crew and vehicles at the station and begin our journey deeper into the foothills of the Himalayas towards the former British hill station of Dharamsala and its hilltop neighbour, McLeod Ganj. Now home to the Dalai Lama and thousands of Tibetan Buddhists, this colourful settlement, known as ‘Little Lhasa’ has become a pilgrimage centre. After checking into our hotel, we set off on a walking tour. We visit the Dalai Lama’s complex, the Tibetan Library and St John’s Church. In the evening we have a briefing over dinner, and anyone who wishes can head out to explore the fun shopping experience of the local night bazaar. Night hotel.

    Drive approx. 3 hours

  • After an energising breakfast, we meet our local guides and head out on the first day of our trek challenge. Setting off from McLeod Ganj (1760m), we have a gentle ascent through pine forests, traditional Gaddi shepherd villages, and terraced fields of rice and barley towards Kareri village. We gain a wonderful insight to the local way of life here in these remote villages, as farmers work their land and livestock in ways that have changed little for centuries. Our camp for the night is set in a picturesque spot beside a river and watermill. Night camp (1985m)

    Trek approx. 6-8 hours

  • Continuing our gradual ascent, we leave Kareri behind us, trekking once again through remote villages, open meadows and rhododendron forests. These forests are home to a rich and diverse birdlife, including colourful pheasants, as well as larger animals including deer and even black bears and leopards – although it is extremely rare to see these! Upon reaching Barlai village, we stop for a relaxed lunch, before more uphill trekking brings us to our camp at Bahl village. Night camp (2100m)

    Trek approx. 5-7 hours

  • We have a challenging but spectacular day of trekking to look forward to, as we head through a woodland reserve with the promise of fantastic views of the surrounding mountain scenery. We pass through the small village of Galu, making our way through forests of cedar and rhododendron. Our destination today is our highest camp at Triund, where our reward is the particularly awe-inspiring views of the permanently snow-capped peaks and ridges of the Dhaula Dhar mountain range. The panorama extends out across the Kangra Valley and down to McLeod Ganj. The evening sky is a sight in itself! Night camp (2850m)

    Trek approx. 5-6 hours

  • This morning we enjoy breakfast with a marvellous view, before heading out on a round trip to Laka Got, where open meadow meets the end of a glacier. Our trail traverses along the glacial moraine to reach Laka Got (3200m), a temporary shepherd encampment and the highest point of our challenge. Here we can revel in the views over Laka Glacier, which until early summer remains full of snow, before it is melted with the monsoon. We can also see across to Lahesh Cave, a shelter used by shepherds when travelling over the mountains with their flock. We should have plenty of time to enjoy the views and a picnic lunch, before returning to our camp at Triund for our last night under canvas. Night camp (2850m)

    Trek approx. 5 – 7 hours

  • This morning we turn our backs on the mountains and enjoy the last section of our trek, which is mostly downhill and fairly relaxing after all our uphill trekking over the previous days! Back in McLeod Ganj, we have time to explore more of this unique town, including the monastery. If time allows we may also be able to visit Norbulingka Institute, near Dharamshala, which is dedicated to the preservation of the Tibetan culture. Back at our hotel we enjoy a well-deserved meal to celebrate our many achievements this week! Night hotel.

    Trek approx. 3-4 hours

  • We can enjoy a more leisurely start to the day than we’ve been used to, and enjoy some free time for last-minute shopping in McLeod Ganj. Late morning we regroup for lunch and then take our transfer back to Pathankot ready for our overnight train to Delhi. Night train.

    Drive approx. 3 hours

    (Dinner not included)

  • Arrive Delhi early morning and transfer to international airport our flight to London.

    (Lunch not included if not in-flight)

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Dates & Prices

Prices may vary depending on date.

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WHAT'S INCLUDED

  • Return flights from London to Delhi
  • All known airline taxes
  • Transport and transfers as part of itinerary
  • Overnight train from Delhi to Pathankot return
  • All accommodation - hotels and camping twinshare; one night on train
  • Group camping equipment (including sleeping mat)
  • All meals except where specified
  • Discover Adventure crew (number dependant on group size)
  • English speaking local guides and support team
  • Vehicle support and back-up equipment
  • Entry to any sites visited as part of the itinerary

 

WHAT'S EXCLUDED

  • India entry visa 
  • Travel insurance
  • Any meals specified 'not included' in the itinerary
  • Sleeping bag
  • Personal spending money, souvenirs, drinks and tips for the local guides/support crew
  • Fees for any optional sites, attractions or activities
  • Any applicable charges as per Terms and Conditions

On the Trip

  • Your trip will be led by experienced Discover Adventure leaders. Our leaders are selected for their experience in harsh wilderness environments, knowledge of travel in remote areas, friendliness and approachability, sense of humour and ability to safely and effectively deal with any situation that arises. They are also trained in expedition first aid. You are in very safe hands with a Discover Adventure leader. Usually leaders are based in the UK or other English-speaking countries and lead for us regularly throughout the year in many different countries. In some instances, trips are led by in-country guides with a wealth of knowledge about the region; they have been trained by us to provide the level of support expected on a Discover Adventure trip.

  • An expedition doctor or medic accompanies the group (dependent on group size.) Their role is to look after the well-being of the whole group and deal with any medical incidents. They help the crew to ensure the trip runs smoothly, and encourage you when things get tough. The total number of crew looking after you will depend on the final size of your group.

  • Our local support crew is made up of local guides, assisted by drivers, porters, cooks and other support staff, depending on the type of trip. Local guides know the area well, and are a great source of knowledge about local customs and lifestyles. Not all support crew will speak English well, but are very friendly and approachable. The Discover Adventure crew work closely with the local crew to ensure your trip runs smoothly and safely. 

    Your leader will arrange a collection of tips for the local support crew at the end of your trek, and you will be provided with a guideline amount in advance. Tipping is not obligatory, but once you see how hard they work on your behalf you will be happy to donate something! All our local crew are paid wages, but bear in mind that the average wage in many countries may be less than you would spend on an average night out.

  • Your safety, and that of the rest of the group, is our highest priority. Our trips are designed and planned with safety in mind. Your crew will be equipped with communication devices (eg phones, radios and/or emergency satellite phones), medical kit and other safety apparatus appropriate to the destination. Our leaders always have access to our 24-hour emergency UK back-up. They are responsible for safety on the trip, and will make any changes to the itinerary they deem necessary, should local conditions dictate. Pre-trip administration - such as medical questionnaires and travel insurance as appropriate - is all done with your safety in mind.

  • Altitude adds to the challenge, and affects people differently. Most travellers experience no more than headaches and shortness of breath (typical symptoms of being at altitude, and not usually a concern.)

    Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) or 'altitude sickness' occurs when you ascend to high altitude quickly. The best way to avoid it is to allow time for the body to adjust - our itineraries are designed with this in mind - and to walk at a slow pace (which our leaders will set). We also recommend avoiding alcohol and smoking. Problems usually begin at heights of around 3500m - 4500m.  More severe symptoms are usually quickly remedied by descending to a lower altitude and taking more time to acclimatise.

  • Group flights usually leave from London Heathrow or Gatwick on scheduled airlines and are booked through Discover Adventure Ltd under ATOL licence 5636. By travelling with Discover Adventure you are protected by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). 

    Your journey may involve a transit en route; details of route and flight times will be confirmed several months before departure.  We do not always use the same airline for each destination; if you wish to know the probable carrier and flight times, please call for details. You will usually receive confirmed flight details several months before departure. Our itineraries are always based on current flight schedules and are therefore subject to change by the airline. If you prefer to book your own flights please ask us for a land-only cost.

  • We camp in two-man tents; these are usually expedition-style (ie sleeping room only). Camps are usually simple, in remote locations with great views! We have communal dining areas (usually with tables and chairs/stools) and toilet tents, and the local crew look after us very well. We stay in hotels (of a 2-3* standard or equivalent) at the start and end of the trip; standards may vary between different hotels, but they are generally clean and comfortable with good facilities.

  • Our trips are sold on a shared accommodation basis, usually twin-share. Occasionally we may use hostel-style accommodation.
    You can tell us if you are travelling with someone else on the trip when you book or within your passenger portal, and we will do all we can to accommodate this request. It is important that both people complete the room share request on their bookings. For customers booking and travelling together, including same-sex couples, a double bed can be requested if available.
    If you're not familiar with anyone in the group, rest assured, we always pair you with someone of the same gender (as per the information you provided when booking, or passport markers), and a similar age where possible. We're actively working to improve our system's gender restrictions to be more inclusive, and we've recently made significant strides in this area. If you identify differently from the gender marker on your passport and would like to discuss this before booking, please feel free to reach out to us.

  • In most standard hotels, we can usually offer a limited number of single rooms. This is upon request, on a first-come, first-served basis, and additional charges apply. In more communal accommodation, single rooms are rarely an option.

    When it comes to tent sharing, we do not offer a single option unless there are exceptional circumstances, for logistical and safety reasons.

    We do not charge a single supplement if you are a solo traveller in a shared room.

  • The food provided is plentiful, often local in style and freshly-cooked, and will give you plenty of energy. Sometimes we enjoy a buffet-style lunch-stop, other times we might have packed lunches. On some trips we stop at small local restaurants. Dinners are generally eaten at our accommodation each evening. In some regions there may be less variety than you are used to, and in others fresh meat or produce can be harder to come by. Any meals not included are listed in the itinerary and are generally on travel / free days, giving you the opportunity to explore and try other culinary experiences! There is always something to suit different budgets.

    Being vegetarian or having other dietary requirements is not usually a problem provided you let us know well in advance. Please do not expect as much variety as you would have access to at home – we may be in very rural or remote areas, or among people of a different culture who may not understand your requirements, however willing they are to help. If you know there are plenty of foods you cannot eat we strongly recommend you bring extra snacks from home so you can top up your energy supply. Please feel free to ask us for advice.

  • Your luggage, food, water and equipment is transported for you from one night-stop to the next. If there is easy road access this is done by vehicle; if not porters, mules or even camels might carry your bags, depending on the terrain.

    Space is limited and hard-sided luggage is not suitable, so it is essential that your kit is packed in a soft bag, rucksack or expedition kitbag. Ask us about our specially-designed low-cost kitbags if you don’t have one already. You should also bring a small daypack to carry for items needed during the day as you will not have access to your main luggage until the evening.

Preparing for the Challenge

  • This is designed to be a challenge, and it is vital that you train sufficiently for it. We will supply you with a thorough training guide once you have registered. We expect all participants to train hard in advance, but we respect everyone’s limits and do not expect everyone to maintain the same pace. Inadequate training is likely to have an impact not just on your chances of completing the challenge, but enjoying it too - and we want you to have the time of your life!

    Our challenges attract people of all levels of experience, fitness and ability as well as all ages and backgrounds. We design our challenges so that everyone can go at their own pace: this is not a race. If you have concerns about your fitness or if you have reduced mobility please do contact us for a confidential chat about whether this challenge is appropriate for you.

    For logistical and safety reasons we sometimes need to re-group, so the front-runners may find themselves waiting for the slower ones. Please relax, and remember that this is a team effort that enables people to achieve their personal goals and earn sponsorship.

  • We plan our trips around the optimal weather conditions, but could still be exposed to bad weather at any time. It is vital you are prepared for all conditions. We provide you with a detailed packing kit-list on registration, with plenty of information, and we are always available if you need advice.

  • Entry requirements vary depending on your destination and nationality. It is your responsibility to ensure your passport is valid, and any visas are obtained in good time. Check the FCO’s advice on entry requirements for your destination to be sure. Please ensure you allow plenty of time to apply for your visa; we will provide you will all necessary information 6 weeks prior to depature to assist with your application.

    Your routine UK schedule of vaccinations should be up-to-date (especially tetanus). We recommend you check Fit For Travel for further details. You should always check with a GP or travel clinic for up-to-date travel health advice as it does change.

  • For the latest travel advice from the Foreign & Commonwealth Office including security and local laws, plus passport and visa information, check www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice.

  • Travel Insurance is compulsory on all of our challenges outside of the UK; we strongly suggest that you arrange insurance cover as soon as your booking with us is confirmed, or as soon as you're able to purchase some, and at least 8 months prior to travel. Should you need to cancel prior to departure, you will need insurance to cover the costs involved (registration fee and any trip costs depending on cancellation date). 

    We all hope never to need it, and thankfully most of the time we don't, but on those rare occasions when you do, you want it to cover you as best it can. Whilst it's a fairly boring admin task relating to your trip of a lifetime, it is really important you ensure that you have adequate cover for the type of challenge you are taking part in as well as medical emergencies, evacuation and repatriation, so make sure you're happy with the level of cover. There are lots of suppliers out there, with a wide range in levels of cover; generally speaking, you get what you pay for! Get and pay for the right level of cover and then you can go on your adventure not having to worry about the what-if's. For more details click here.

    Once your travel insurance is arranged, just remember to let us know the policy number and 24-hr medical emergency phone number provided by your insurers.

     

  • In the unfortunate circumstance that you need to cancel your booking, we would ask that you notify us in writing either by email or post.  Your cancellation will be considered effective from the date the notice is received. Registration, administration and amendment fees are non refundable and, depending on your payment option and how close it is to your challenge departure date, you may be liable for a cancellation charge.

    Full details of all cancellation charges may be found in the Terms and Conditions of booking.

  • Your booking is part of a group challenge, and the tour costs and fundraising targets listed on our website are based on a minimum number of participants which is shown on the challenge  Our typical groups run with approximately 15-25 participants; however you may find your group is smaller or larger than this.

    We will confirm at least 12 weeks prior to departure that your challenge is guaranteed to run. Occasionally it may be possible to still run the challenge with less than the minimum numbers, subject to a small group supplement.  If we think a small group supplement may be necessary, we will discuss this with you as soon as possible, usually 5 months before your departure date. 

    Minimum numbers and groups sizes may vary on Bespoke Charity challenges.  If you are booked onto a bespoke challenge please contact your charity for full details.

  • We have a Passenger Portal which will give you more details of the challenge itself. It also enables you to see any outstanding information we need, the countdown to your challenge departure, see your outstanding balance, make payments and update your contact details. You can access this via the following link - Passenger Portal Log in.

The DA Ethos

  • We believe that travel is a force for good, and it should be safe and accessible for everyone to take on any of our adventures, regardless of sexuality, gender, race or religion. We are committed to ensuring our travellers face no discrimination on any part of the trip we control. However, we operate in some parts of the world that are less accepting. We encourage customers to be aware of local laws and customs in their destinations for their safety and comfort.
    We don’t tolerate any form of discrimination, violence or harassment, either between travellers or involving our leaders, partners or local people. Any behaviour that disrespects our customers, leaders or local communities, makes others feel unsafe or breaks local laws may result in removal from a trip or denying their booking.

  • For most people, the main attraction of travelling to a different country is to see new sights and enjoy new experiences. Sometimes those new experiences can make life harder or more inconvenient than you may like, such as toilet hygiene or different food, or simply a different attitude to solving problems. This is all part of the challenge you are signing up for! We are very privileged to live in a country with a high standard of living, and travelling exposes us to different challenges – all of which help broaden our horizons. We can guarantee that coming face-to-face with experiences outside your normal ‘comfort zone’ will help you bond with your fellow participants and provide you with plenty of things to laugh about! A sense of humour and sense of adventure are two of the most important things to bring with you!

  • We are committed to an ethos of responsible travel here at Discover Adventure; this means sustainable tourism, ethical travel, community engagement, cultural respect, wildlife protection, fair trade practices, carbon footprint reduction and more. We have been on a 30-year journey with this as one of our core principles, and it continues to evolve; you can keep up to date with what we are up to and what all of this translates into on a DA trip here.
    From 2024, we will offset our entire carbon footprint, including the flights, via a carbon credit scheme (see more here). We must do all we can to be on the right side of history. Our offsetting brings peace of mind to many of our customers, but we think it is essential that our customers are aware of their impact; with this in mind, we encourage our participants to donate to World Land Trust’s Buy an Acre project when they book an adventure.

  • Our brilliant group dynamic is fundamental to us. We have become synonymous with it over our 30 years of adventure: the supportive nature and group camaraderie are always listed as one of the trip highlights in our feedback. You’ll meet people of widely varying backgrounds, motivations and experiences. Under these unique circumstances, you are more likely to open up about your story and form lifelong friendships. You’ll likely find something that resonates with everyone in the group. This is a unique way of travelling, after all, and that’s what brings you all together.
    We have travellers from 18 – 80 across all of our challenges, with the average age of our participants being in the mid-40s.
  • Many people opt to take on our adventures on their own – maybe they are keen to do something for themselves, love to travel this way or feel that this is an important part of the challenge. The great news is, you’re never really a ‘solo traveller’ when you travel with us as you’re travelling with a group of like-minded people, all ready to take on the adventure of a lifetime by your side.
    Unlike many travel companies, we do not apply a single supplement to your booking unless you request a single room. You will be placed into a room-share arrangement with someone of the same gender (as per the information you provided when booking, or passport markers), and a similar age where possible.

  • Over the years, people with wide-ranging abilities have achieved personal goals on our adventures that they may have previously assumed were out of their reach.
    We must be aware of any circumstances that may affect your ability to take on the trip, whether you have concerns about fitness, health conditions or disability. This way, we can ensure we are providing the best advice and support. You will be asked to sign a medical declaration upon booking.

    Whilst we will always try our best for you, by the nature of adventure, not all of our challenges are accessible, and we are not an operator specifically offering adapted adventures. If you would like to have a confidential chat with the team about anything before booking, please give us a call or an email; we will be more than happy to help.

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