Ladakh
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3 Days in Alchi for a Himalayan Adventure
Alchi is a hidden gem in Ladakh, where ancient monasteries meet rugged landscapes. I fell in love with its peaceful vibe and the way time seems to slow down here. This itinerary packs in the best of Alchi's culture, nature, and a bit of adrenaline, all while keeping things relaxed and real.
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Day 1
Day 1 in Alchi
Start your Alchi adventure with its most iconic sights, from ancient monasteries to charming village walks, soaking in the spiritual and cultural essence of this Himalayan gem.
Activities
Alchi Monastery Exploration
Begin your day at the 11th-century Alchi Monastery, a UNESCO-listed treasure known for its stunning murals and wood carvings. The main temple, Sumtsek, houses a three-story Buddha statue and intricate artwork that feels frozen in time. The peaceful atmosphere here is perfect for quiet reflection.
- Remove shoes before entering temple areas
- Photography may be restricted in some sections - ask before clicking
Alchi Village Walk & Local Lunch
Stroll through Alchi's quaint village lanes lined with traditional Ladakhi houses and poplar trees. Stop by local homes to see barley fields and apricot orchards. End at a family-run eatery for an authentic Ladakhi meal - try the thukpa (noodle soup) or skyu (hand-rolled pasta dish) made with local ingredients.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes
- Ask permission before photographing locals
Indus River Viewpoint & Sunset
As evening approaches, head to the riverside near Alchi for breathtaking views of the Indus cutting through the mountains. The golden light on the water makes for magical photos. Local shepherds often pass by with their flocks during this time, adding to the pastoral charm.
- Bring a light jacket - it gets breezy by the river
- Look for the small chortens (stupas) along the banks
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Day 2
Day 2 in Alchi
Dive deeper into Alchi's cultural and natural beauty with visits to lesser-known monasteries, a scenic hike, and a taste of Ladakhi hospitality.
Activities
Visit Likir Monastery
A short drive from Alchi, Likir Monastery sits atop a hill with stunning views of the valley. Known for its giant golden Buddha statue and ancient murals, this peaceful spot offers a quieter alternative to the more famous monasteries. The walk up is gentle, and the vibe is serene.
- Wear comfortable shoes for the short climb
- Ask the monks about the monastery's history—they’re often happy to share stories
Hike to Rizong Monastery
A hidden gem, Rizong Monastery is nestled in a secluded valley and requires a short but rewarding hike. The trail winds through apricot orchards and offers glimpses of rural Ladakhi life. The monastery itself is small but deeply spiritual, with a strict no-photo policy inside.
- Carry water and snacks—there are no shops nearby
- Respect the monastery's silence—it's a meditation retreat
Evening at Alchi’s Riverside Cafes
Wind down by the Indus River at one of Alchi’s charming riverside cafes. Sip on butter tea or seabuckthorn juice while watching the light fade over the water. Some spots even offer live folk music if you’re lucky.
- Try the apricot jam with local bread—it’s a specialty
- Ask for a seat by the water for the best views
Must Try Foods
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Day 3
Alchi’s Hidden Gems
Spend your final day uncovering lesser-known treasures around Alchi, from ancient rock carvings to a quiet village walk and a hands-on cooking experience.
Activities
Morning at Sumda Chun Monastery
Head to this secluded 12th-century monastery, often overlooked by tourists. The hike up is gentle but rewarding, with stunning valley views. Inside, you’ll find rare Kashmiri-style murals and a peaceful atmosphere—perfect for quiet reflection. The caretaker monks sometimes share stories if you catch them during tea time.
- Wear sturdy shoes—the last stretch is rocky
- Bring a scarf to cover your head as a sign of respect
Alchi’s Ancient Rock Carvings
Few visitors know about the 1,000-year-old petroglyphs hidden near the village. Local shepherds will point you to boulders carved with Buddhist motifs, animals, and even a few pre-Buddhist symbols. It’s an open-air museum with no barriers—just you and history under the Ladakhi sun.
- Morning light makes shadows obscure details—go around noon
- Carry water—there’s no shade
Ladakhi Cooking Class with a Local Family
End your trip by learning to make momos and thukpa in a village home. The host, Dolma, teaches using her grandmother’s recipes while sharing stories about Alchi’s food traditions. You’ll grind spices by hand and steam momos over a traditional stove—then feast on your creations in her apricot orchard.
- Ask to try butter tea with roasted barley flour (tsampa)
- Wear clothes you don’t mind getting flour on