Wild Fibers Tours 2024
Camels and Cashmere
Itinerary
Septemer 4-16, 2024
Day 1: Arrive in Delhi*
Spend the night at the luxurious Imperial Hotel
Welcome dinner
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*If you would like to arrive a day in advance, additional nights at The Imperial can be arranged.
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Day 2: Jodphur
A quick (1.5 hour flight) to Jodphur and we are soon ensconced in our royal heritage haveli in the heart of the city, We will have a walkabout the market before enjoying dinner at the rooftop restaurant overlooking Mehrangarh Fort, beautifully lit under the evening sky.
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Day 3: Jodphur
After a leisurely breakfast we will set out for our tour of the fort before the heat of the day sets in. Amidst a series of camels, musicians, and ancient ramparts you will discover why Mehrangarth Fort holds such in important place in Rajasthan's history.
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Day 4: Jaisalmer
We will get an early start on our drive to Jaisalmer, stopping at Ramdevra Temple, an unusual place of worship welcoming both Muslims and Hindus. We will tour Jaisalmer fort in the afternoon, with its history reaching back nearly 900 years; it is one of the oldest occupied forts in the world.
Day 5: Jaislamer
We spend the day touring several villages in the desert, learning how women spin camel hair along with a specially arranged meeting with a family of camel herders including a cup of fresh camel milk tea!
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Day 6: Jaisalmer
Prepare for a heart-filled day as we travel among several homes in the city, visiting with silversmiths, embroiderers, and a local school. In the evening, a relaxing dinner by Gadisar Lake.
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Day 7: Delhi
Drive back to Jodphur for our return flight to the Taj Palace Hotel in Delhi arriving mid-afternoon. The rest of the day is free to explore the city on your own (a guide can also be arranged), get a massage, or grab dinner in Connaught Place.
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Day 8: Leh/Ladakh
The flight to Leh is less than 2 hours. However, because of its altitude (12,000 feet), all flights leave early in the day. After checking-in to your hotel, you will have a tour of the only cashmere mill owned and operated by nomads.
Day 9: Leh
Awake early for morning worship at Thiksey Monastery, as monks young and old chant their daily prayers. In the afternoon, visit Shanti Stupa, a spectacular Buddhist monument donated by the Japanese, and visit Nomadic Woolen Mills, operated by our dear friend (and nomad) Nawang Phuntsog.
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Day 10: Pangong Lake
During the 5-hour drive to Pangong Lake, you will cross over Khardung La, India's third highest pass at just under 18,000 feet. There will be yaks, sheep. goats, donkeys, and spectacular vistas along the way. Pangong Lake doesn't just abut the Chinese border, more than half of the lake runs through China.
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Day 11: Pangong Lake
Morning coffee overlooking Pangong Lake is not to be missed. (It will be chilly!) Soon, you will head to our Cashmere Center spending the day with our nomadic ladies as they spin and weave the cashmere that has been lovingly raised by their families for centuries.
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Day 12: Ladakh
We will take our time returning to Leh, stopping at a yak cheesemaker before before reaching our eco-resort along the Shyok River. A quiet evening is planned following the long day's journey.
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Day 13: Ladakh
Our last full day to explore the Himalayas, meeting with local farmers and a special temple visit. Our farewell dinner will include a spectacular cultural music and dance show. The ultimate send-off to an exceptional stay.
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Day 14: Delhi
Return to Delhi by midday, Additional arrangements can be made if you have a long layover before your flight back home.
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