Zanskar Valley, situated in Ladakh, is truly a gem of nature's beauty. The valley is renowned for its breathtaking vistas, featuring towering snow-capped peaks juxtaposed against lush meadows nestled amidst rugged mountains. The landscape is further adorned by high-altitude lakes and rivers, adding a sense of tranquility and serenity to the surroundings. This picturesque setting makes Zanskar Valley a haven for landscape photographers seeking to capture its mesmerizing charm. Recognizing the allure of Zanskar Valley, thEscape has embarked on a mission to showcase the essence of this region, particularly during the winter season and is releasing the third year in a row Winter Zanskar Landscape and Astro Landscape Photography tour. Through meticulous planning and research, thEscape has curated an exclusive itinerary tailored to meet the needs of photographers. This well-structured itinerary not only ensures a seamless photography experience but also provides all the essential facilities and comforts required for a successful photography expedition. Exploring Zanskar Valley in winter unveils a whole new dimension of its beauty, with snow-covered landscapes offering a pristine backdrop for photography enthusiasts. The play of light and shadow, the contrast of white snow against azure skies, and the stillness of the winter landscape create a captivating canvas for photographers to capture. Whether you are a seasoned photographer or an amateur enthusiast, Zanskar Valley promises to inspire and captivate with its unparalleled beauty. With thEscape's expertise and dedication to providing a memorable photography experience, capturing the enchanting allure of Zanskar Valley becomes not just a task, but a truly enriching and fulfilling journey.
Photography Partner for the Tour Specializing in Landscape Photography
NILAKKHYA DUTTA
Nilakkhya, an Official Nikon Creator is a published Landscape Photographer of India from Delhi and has been in the photography arena for the last 11 years. To talk of some of his accomplishments, he has been published on all major platforms of photography including some of the top photography magazines of India. Above all he has been leading Landscape and Astro Photography Workshops for 3 years now and holds a rich experience in teaching the concepts to the participants. For his complete set of works, do visit
Key Features of our Trip
The group size will range from a minimum of 7 participants to a maximum of 9 participants, all mentored by a single landscape photographer, based on a first-come, first-served basis.
Embark on a meticulously planned 8-night/9 -day journey to explore every corner of Winter Zanskar thoroughly, ensuring that every opportunity to capture its beauty is seized without rushing through.
Participants will have the chance to use the latest high-end Nikon cameras and lenses, as Nikon is our equipment partner.
Engage in the concept of Travel, Share, and Learn about Landscape Photography with Nilakkhya Dutta, an experienced landscape photographer known for showcasing the purest form of a place's beauty. Nilakkhya, a published photographer in various platforms and magazines worldwide, will guide the group.
Post-processing sessions will be conducted on-field every evening after photography sessions, with additional online sessions if required. Participants will be encouraged to develop their own style and vision, rather than imitating others, fostering individual artistic growth.
The trip departs from Leh, with participants transferred in a comfortable Tempo Traveler or two SUV's throughout the tour. Leh is well-connected by flights and roads, and airport pick-up and drop-off services are provided.
Accommodation in Leh will be provided in a cozy hotel with heating facility on a twin sharing basis.
Accommodation in different parts of Zanskar will be provided in Home Stays on a Twin or Triple sharing basis, depending on the location, with heating available in the common area. Home stays are typically very inviting and comfortable indoors.
All meals, including breakfast, lunch, tea, and dinner, will be provided from lunch on Day 1 in Leh to breakfast on Day 9 in Leh.
We will have a makeshift kitchen to cook some meals during the tour.
An experienced professional tour leader will accompany the group throughout the journey.
All necessary permits for travel on the route will be arranged.
First aid kits will be available for any emergencies.
Strict adherence to COVID protocols will be ensured, following the guidelines of the Ladakh UT at the time of the tour.
Detailed Itinerary Day Wise
26th April - Day -1 (Saturday)Â - Upon arrival in Leh, participants will be transferred to our hotel in Leh via cabs or Tempo Traveler. We recommend participants to book flights arriving no later than 11 AM in Leh to allow for sufficient rest before commencing the journey the following day. Overnight stay in Leh.
27th April - Day -2 (Sunday)Â - Journey to Suru Valley at 3000 meters (275 kms) passing through Sangam, Lamayuru, Kargil, and reaching Suru Valley. Overnight stay in a Home Stay.
28th April - Day -3 (Monday)Â - Travel from Suru Village to Rangdum at 3660 meters (75 kms). Overnight stay in a Home Stay in Rangdum.
29th April - Day -4 (Tuesday)Â - Drive to Pensila (25 kms) at 4400 meters for Photography activities for sunset, returning to Rangdum for the night. Overnight stay in Pensila for Astro sessions, then drive to Zangla after sunrise.
30th April - Day -5 (Wednesday)Â - Morning drive to Zangla at 4000 meters (100 kms). Overnight stay and Astro Sessions in Zangla.
1st May - Day -6 (Thursday)Â - Drive to Gumbo Rangjon (4300 meters) around 90 kms. Overnight stay in Kurgiakh Village.
2nd May - Day -7 (Friday)Â - Return drive to Padum (3600 meters) covering 90 kms. Overnight stay in Padum.
3rd May - Day -8 (Saturday)Â - Begin the return journey to Leh. Overnight stay in a Leh hotel.
4th May - Day -9 (Sunday)Â - Participants will be bid farewell and transferred back to Leh Airport by cabs after breakfast.
Note: April is a winter month in Zanskar, and the itinerary is designed to capture the essence of winter. However, there may be road closures, cloudy weather, and snowfall. In such cases, we will adjust the plan by changing routes or adding new locations. Participants should be aware of these possibilities before signing up and approach the trip with flexibility. Refunds and negative comments will not be accepted during or after the tour. The goal is to tackle challenges to capture unique images of the area within safe and favourable conditions provided by nature.
Package Cost
Rs. 70,000 per person
(Ex-Leh Twin sharing in Hotels)
Prices quoted above are exclusive of GST of 5%.
Single Supplement - 30% Extra
(If booked before 30th November, 2024)
Package Cost - Rs. 66,500
What is included
All accommodations at Leh on twin sharing basis in a deluxe property.
All accommodations in Zanskar in Home Stays in Twin/Triple Sharing Basis
All transfers will be in one Tempo Traveler or SUV's
Airport transfers to and from Leh Airport are included.
All meals from Leh to Leh will be provided, including breakfast, lunch, evening tea, and dinner from lunch on Day 1 to breakfast on Day 9.
Cook and Make Shift Kitchen Facility during the tour where ever required.
An experienced tour leader will accompany the group for the entire tour.
A first aid kit will be available.
Supplement oxygen.
Permits for the entire tour are included.
Participants will have the opportunity to use Nikon high-end camera gears for taking pictures.
Photography assistance will be provided for day time landscapes and night astroscapes on all days, including image critique.
Participants will be guided on camera settings for capturing the sceneries.
A post-processing session will be conducted for participants during the tour.
Exclusions
Travel to Leh and return journey from Leh to your destination.
Accommodation and meals during transit from your destination to Leh and back.
Breakfast on Day 1, and Lunch and Dinner on Day 9.
Any additional meal expenses incurred during the tour, such as delayed meals due to photography or travel requirements, where participants opt to purchase food from an external source.
Personal expenses like tips, laundry, or similar.
Costs of any food or beverages purchased by participants during travel between locations.
Mineral water bottles. (We recommend participants to avoid plastic bottles and carry their own refillable insulated bottles).
Additional expenses for extra food or beverages, excluding hard drinks at high altitudes, which are not encouraged for participants.
Any medical emergency costs for participants.
Any additional costs incurred due to unforeseen circumstances like civil unrest, weather disruptions, or other events beyond our control that result in an increased duration of the tour.
FAQ's
1. What are the terms of Payment and Booking Procedure?
(If booked after 30th November, 2024)
Booking Amount - Rs. 15,000 +5% GST(Rs. 750) = Rs. 15,750 at the Time of Confirmation.
Final Payment - Rs. 55,000 +5% GST(Rs. 2750) = Rs. 57,750 45 days before the Departure Day, i.e. by 11th March, 2025.
(If booked before 30th November, 2024)
Booking Amount - Rs. 15,000 +5% GST(Rs. 750) = Rs. 15,750 at the Time of Confirmation.
Final Payment - Rs. 51,500 +5% GST(Rs. 2575) = Rs. 54,075 45 days before the Departure Day, i.e. by 11th March, 2025.
The prices mentioned above include a 5% GST and may be adjusted in case of any change in the GST rate due to a government directive. An invoice will be issued for every payment made by the participants.
If you wish to make a booking using the Razorpay Payment Gateway, kindly contact us to receive a payment link. Please note that gateway charges of 2% of the transaction fee plus 18% GST on that 2% amount will apply.
2. What is the Cancellation and Refund Policy?
If a cancellation is made 60 days before the Departure date, specifically on or before February 26th, 2025, a 50% refund of the Advance Amount will be provided.
Cancellations made between 60 days before the departure date and 45 days before the Departure date, meaning between February 26th, 2025 and March 11th, 2025, will result in No Refund of the Advance Amount.
If a cancellation is made between 45 days before the departure date and the Departure Date, i.e., between March 11th, 2025 and April 26th, 2025, there will be No Refund of the Full Amount of the Trip (assuming the final payment was made by March 11th, 2025).
Participants who do not make the final payment by March 11th, 2025, and cancel their participation between March 11th, 2025, and April 26th, 2025, will receive No Refund of the Advance Amount.
In the event of a trip cancellation by the organizer due to a surge in Covid cases, a lockdown, or a participant testing positive in RTPCR, a Full Refund of the Advance Amount or Full Payment will be issued. The organizer will not withhold any amount, although participants may choose to keep the amount as a deposit for a future trip with thEscape.
If there are less than 7 participants enrolled, there will be an Increased cost per participant or a Full Refund of the tour amount if the cancellation is due to insufficient enrollments by the organizers.
In the case of a cancellation by the organizer for ANY reason (including insufficient participants, reasons beyond control, or others), there will be No Refund of the flight charges booked by the participants. Participants are advised to book flights with zero cancellation policies. Those uncertain about the tour status can contact thEscape up to 30 days before the tour starts.
If a participant fails to deposit the full tour amount by the specified date, their seat will be opened for others to enroll. The deposited advance will be forfeited and not refunded. However, if the participant finds a replacement, the amount will be adjusted accordingly.
The GST component of any payments made will not be refunded in any scenario mentioned above.
Any potential refunds from the organiser will be processed one month after the tour ends, by June 4th, 2025.
3. What precautions should be taken into account during the challenging winters of Zanskar, where temperatures can drop below -20 degrees or even lower?
First and foremost, participation in Zanskar's winter landscape photography requires individuals who possess both mental and physical resilience. The extreme temperatures, which can drop to as low as -20 degrees Celsius or even lower, demand a strong determination to engage in photography activities. To combat the cold and maintain warmth, accommodations will offer a communal area, while participants are advised to utilize hot water bags, hand and feet gels during sleep. Additionally, it is crucial to dress appropriately with layered woolens, thermals, down jackets, gloves, and woolen socks to prevent any unforeseen incidents. Staying hydrated is essential at all times. Although oxygen supplements and first aid will be available, participants must ensure their fitness and warmth to effectively pursue photography. Zanskar's winter conditions are unpredictable due to weather and other factors, potentially leading to itinerary changes or location skips prioritising participants' well-being. Closure of tour locations due to snowfall is a possibility during the winter season. The tour leader's decisions are final, and participants are expected to comply without the option for refunds. Despite these challenges, approaching the tour with a resolute mindset and a passionate spirit will likely result in successful landscape photography endeavors in Winter Zanskar.
4. What can be anticipated regarding Logistic Support? How challenging will it be and are there any specific details in the itinerary?
Considering this as a Landscape and Astro Landscape Photography Tour, we classify it as a Photography Workshop for participants rather than a leisure trip or vacation. Below are some key points to help you comprehend what to expect and the level of difficulty of the tour-
Since the emphasis will be on locations, there will be day-long travels. Nights will be dedicated to Astro Photography whenever feasible, so sleep may become secondary at times. Therefore, participants are expected to rest when designated as a group.
Despite factors beyond our control, we strive to maintain consistent sleep and wake times to capture the optimal light for Photography. Participants are required to adhere to these timings.
This is a group tour where sharing rooms with strangers, often meeting them for the first time, is common. Participants should approach this situation with a sporting attitude.
Since this tour includes visits to unconventional destinations during challenging seasons, there could be instances where accommodation is arranged on a twin/triple or quad sharing basis either due to limited availability or to maintain warmth in the rooms (as more occupants generate heat). Participants are kindly requested to understand this arrangement and cooperate by sharing rooms accordingly.
Most stays in unique locations will be in Home Stays with basic facilities, such as beds or mattresses on the floor and village-style linen. Some places may have a livestock shed nearby, resulting in a certain smell. It is important for participants to value the location for photography rather than focus on the accommodation. Keep in mind that the accommodations provided are the best available for that specific location during that season. Participants are expected to appreciate and respect this. However, participants have the option to bring their own linen or sleeping bags.
In hotels/home stays situated in remote areas, heating may not be provided. Although the rooms are warm, guests are advised to dress in layers or use warmers to stay warm, as heaters might not be accessible.
Food served in remote offbeat locations or based on seasonal availability will be basic. Mainly comprising simple vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes as per what's locally available. The menu decision lies with the travel partners who understand the terrain and can quickly serve suitable meals.
Due to extremely low temperatures in the region during winter, toilets, mainly dry pits on the ground, will be prevalent. While home stays may offer accessible toilets, their availability will be contingent on the outside temperature. Both dry and wet toilets, if available, will be shared by all participants and home stay hosts.
When venturing out for Astro Photography at night, temperatures could drop to -20 degrees or even lower, especially around 3AM. Participants should be mentally prepared and equipped with clothing suitable for such extreme cold.
While traveling in the Himalayas during the winter season, which is the most unpredictable time of the year, the itinerary may be altered due to circumstances such as road closures, snowfall, landslides, etc. It is important for participants to be aware of this possibility, as a place or two may be omitted or added beyond our control.
Participants are advised to set realistic expectations and comprehend the tour's level of difficulty. This tour is exclusively focused on Landscape and Astro Landscape Photography. Failure to adhere to the guidelines and rules of the tour, creating a negative atmosphere for others, the group leader, or the local support system, will result in a warning and expulsion from the tour without a refund. Approach this tour with a positive and open mindset, and excel in the realm of Landscape Photography.
5. What are the rules and protocols to be followed during the tour?
During the tour, the group leaders traveling in the Tempo Traveler/SUV's will determine the stops for photography. While participants can take photos from their windows, the decision to stop and disembark for capturing specific scenes will be made by the group leaders.
The group leaders will inform everyone of the time allocated for capturing images after leaving the vehicle, based on the scene being photographed. It is essential for all participants to adhere to the given time frame. If it's 10 minutes, everyone must return to the vehicle within 10 minutes, and if more time is needed, it will be granted. Sufficient time will be provided to capture each scene effectively.
All participants must follow the waking and sleeping times communicated by the group leaders. Individuals are responsible for waking up on time, as missing the specified time will result in missing out on photography opportunities. Ensuring the right lighting conditions for images, especially during sunrise and sunset, is crucial on a photography tour.
While photographing at a location, it's important not to obstruct each other's shots. If someone wishes to capture the same scene as another participant, it is recommended to allow the first person to complete their shot before taking a turn.
Participants must avoid conflicts during the tour. Any issues with other participants, whether related to photography or otherwise, should be addressed to the tour organizers for resolution.
For logistical concerns, participants are advised to follow the standard procedure of contacting the hotel helpdesk or the Travel Partner during the tour. If issues persist, participants can seek assistance from the organizers for resolution.
Littering, such as leaving plastic bottles or wrappers, is strictly prohibited during the tour. Participants are expected to dispose of waste appropriately at designated locations.
Participants are responsible for handling their camera equipment, including cameras, lenses, tripods, and memory cards. Any damage to equipment provided by Nikon India will be the participant's responsibility to cover the costs.
Every evening, there will be a review session where participants can receive feedback on their images. It is encouraged to accept feedback positively and use it to enhance photography skills.
Participants may consume alcohol during the evening sessions in moderation. Alcohol should be brought from the participants' respective airports, as it may not be readily available in Ladakh though we don't encourage it's consumption in high altitude.
Participants should be prepared for unconventional and challenging travel and accommodation arrangements, with a focus on photography. Any delays in meals or facilities should be understood, and any negativity or complaints that disrupt the photography spirit will not be tolerated.
Individuals choosing to venture away from the group for photographs do so at their own risk, and the tour organizers will not be liable for any mishaps.
Personal visits during the tour, typically undertaken by tourists, are discouraged as this is a Landscape Photography tour.
In the event of skipping any destinations due to factors beyond control, such as roadblocks or weather conditions, alternative arrangements will be provided. Any additional costs incurred will be the responsibility of the participants.
6. What are the minimum and maximum participant requirements, and what is the consequence if the minimum number of participants is not met for the tour?
We require a minimum of 7 participants for the tour. If the minimum number is not met, we will proceed with the tour but there will be an additional cost per participant.
7. What happens if a participant needs to leave the trip due to an emergency? Will the fee be refunded, and arrangements be made for their return to Leh and their destination?
If a participant needs to leave the trip unexpectedly, there will be no refund provided. Additionally, the participant will be responsible for covering the cost of arranging transportation back to Leh and their original destination.
8. What Photography Equipment are participants expected to bring?
The trip is primarily a Landscape Photography tour, but it also welcomes individuals interested in creating art in the mountains through painting or creative writing for potential publication in an anthology. Camera equipment expected from all participants:
One DSLR/Mirrorless camera with wide and telephoto lenses
Tripod
Filters for those interested in Long Exposures: ND10 and Polarizer
Memory Cards
Shutter Release remote, particularly for Long Exposures
L-bracket for those wanting to capture vertical long exposures and panoramas
While this is a comprehensive list, it is not mandatory for everyone to carry all items. Participants interested in simple landscape photography during golden and blue hours, as well as learning Astro photography, can bring a DSLR, lenses, and a tripod. For long exposures, filters and a shutter release remote are essential.
Given the remote nature of the trip with uncertain electricity supply, participants are advised to bring extra battery sets in case of depletion. An extension board for additional chargers could be useful if participants choose to bring it. To prevent batteries from losing charge in cold weather, participants can keep them close to their bodies inside their clothing. Painters and writers are expected to bring their creative kits, including notebooks, pens, painting materials, canvas, and colors.
9. Can a participant bring a Non-Photographer Friend or Companion or a Non-Photographer or a Non-Artist Join?
We welcome two types of individuals: those who have a passion for Landscape Photography and those who appreciate art. Additionally, if someone wishes to join the tour for sightseeing purposes, they are also welcome, provided they adhere to the following conditions:
There will be no reduction in the fee cost.
Photography and art tours proceed at a leisurely pace, with frequent stops for artistic endeavors. Non-art participants are expected to be respectful of the artists' time and adjust to their pace.
10. What level of fitness is necessary for this trip? Does it involve Trekking or Long Walks?
Any individual planning to visit mountainous regions, particularly for photography, should possess a basic level of fitness to engage in daily activities during the tour. While our trip primarily consists of driving tours and does not entail full-day hikes or treks, there may be instances where participants have to walk to reach specific vantage points for photography. Therefore, participants should be physically fit for such occasions. In addition to maintaining a minimum level of fitness, participants are advised to bring along any necessary medications and an ample supply to prevent any unforeseen circumstances. If experiencing any difficulties, individuals should take a break and proceed at a pace that suits their physical condition best. Participants are also required to carry their own medical and first aid kits. It is the participant's responsibility to inform the staff of any pre-existing medical conditions or disabilities that could impact their ability to participate in the trip.
11. What Age Group is Suitable for the Trip and Can Participants Bring Children?
Given that this is an Art trip focused on Photography, it is recommended to bring children only if they can keep up with the pace of the trip and appreciate the artists' attention to detail. Children under 15 years old will not be permitted on the tour due to its high altitude and artistic focus.
12. Will the organizers use the photos taken by the participants or of the participants for Promotional Purposes?
Yes, by signing up for the trip, participants also agree to allow thEscape to use certain images captured of or by them, as well as any artwork, with proper credit given to the artists, on their website and social media platforms.
13. Under what circumstances does the organizer have the right to cancel a member's participation during the trip?
If any participant engages in misbehavior or misconduct during the trip, such as causing distress to fellow travelers, damaging property, sexual harassment, or any form of misconduct, they will be removed from the trip without a refund and will be responsible for their own return costs. The Group Leader's decision is final in these cases to maintain the group's reputation. Participants are expected to be respectful to hotel staff, drivers, and support personnel. Disrespectful behavior towards them will result in a warning from the group leader, with repeated offenses leading to expulsion from the tour. We have a strict policy against misbehavior under the influence of alcohol. Participants should maintain discipline and avoid spreading negativity among fellow travelers. Violations will result in warnings and potential expulsion from the tour without a refund, with the participant covering their return expenses.
14. In the event that odd numbers result from the Male Female Ratio when assigning twin sharing to participants, what should be done?
If this situation arises, the organizer will provide the most suitable solution, ensuring that twin sharing is never allocated to individuals of the opposite sex.
15. Is there any Mobile connectivity in Zanskar?
Mobile connectivity in Zanskar is limited to postpaid connections only. Airtel and Jio postpaid services are available Jio being the best among both.
16. What is the total number of individuals accompanying the tour participants?
Nilakkhya will be the photography partner, in addition to the tour leader and support staff.
17. Policy on the Use of Psychotropic Substances, Alcohol, and Smoking During the Tour
The use of psychotropic substances (drugs) is strictly prohibited during the tour. Anyone found in possession of or consuming these substances will be immediately dismissed from the tour. Smoking is permitted, but participants are asked to ensure that it does not disturb others. For those who have not opted for a Single Supplement, it is recommended that all participants discuss smoking with their roommates. Alcohol consumption is allowed, and it is advised to drink in moderation that suits one's tolerance levels without causing any issues.
18. Are there any other Terms and Conditions that need to be considered?
It is essential for participants to understand that this is a photography tour, requiring a degree of flexibility. The daily itinerary serves as a general guide only, and we cannot be held liable for delays due to factors such as international or domestic flight issues, strikes, government regulations, weather conditions, or natural disasters. In such instances, we will offer suitable alternatives through mutual agreement, with any additional costs to be covered by the participants.
If a participant fails to arrive in Leh by 1 PM on April 26th, 2025, it will be assumed that they have canceled the tour, resulting in a "No Show" status with no refund provided.
We reserve the right to adjust pricing on our website due to external factors beyond our control. However, we strive to maintain the current rates. Minor increases in hotel prices or related expenses will not affect confirmed bookings made with a deposit.
We strongly advise participants to obtain medical and unforeseen event insurance before embarking on this or any trip.
The tour dates and itinerary are fixed, tailored for Winter Landscape Photography needs, with no alterations possible to accommodate individual preferences.
Participants must adhere to photography restrictions in certain areas and present government-issued IDs at checkpoints. It is essential to keep documents readily available for inspection by authorities throughout the trip.
Participants are required to comply with document checks by authorities and deposit a signed indemnity bond along with their Aadhar Cards before the trip commences.
Participants acknowledge the potential risks of the journey, including accidents, illnesses in remote areas, political instability, and natural disasters, and agree to assume all associated risks to the fullest extent allowed by Indian law.
If you have any booking inquiries, please email us at thescapebiz@gmail.com or call +91 9717960028 to speak with Nilakkhya.
For transferring the advance booking amount and final payments, we will provide you with the necessary bank account details, contract, and trip acknowledgment. Alternatively, you can opt for Razorpay Payment Gateway for payment through Debit Cards, Credit Cards, UPI, Wallets, or EMI.
Let's make this trip unforgettable with plenty of memories and artwork. We look forward to hearing from you soon.
Disclaimer:Â The photographs featured here are from Nilakkhya Dutta's winter tours in Zanskar.
By making a booking payment, you agree to the cancellation policy and the Terms and Conditions stated above.
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