Ladakh Photo Tour
Ladakh Photo Tour
10th – 19th July 2026
View Dates & Prices
Group Size
10 Participants
Location
Ladakh, India.
TOUR OVERVIEW
The Ladakh Landscape & Astro-Landscape Photography Expedition is a thoughtfully designed journey into the high-altitude landscapes of the Indian Himalayas. Known for its dramatic terrain, pristine lakes, and exceptionally dark skies, Ladakh offers an ideal setting for both landscape and night sky photography.
This expedition balances travel, acclimatization, and dedicated shooting sessions, ensuring optimal conditions to capture locations like Pangong Lake, Hanle, Tso Moriri, and Tso Kar at their best—both in daylight and under the Milky Way. With a strong focus on practical fieldwork and creative development, participants will receive hands-on guidance in composition, planning, and astro-landscape techniques. The small group size allows for personalized attention, helping each photographer refine their vision and elevate their work.
More than just a tour, this is a focused photographic expedition designed to deliver a meaningful and immersive experience in one of the most unique environments on Earth.
TOUR OVERVIEW
The Ladakh Landscape & Astro-Landscape Photography Expedition is a thoughtfully designed journey into the high-altitude landscapes of the Indian Himalayas. Known for its dramatic terrain, pristine lakes, and exceptionally dark skies, Ladakh offers an ideal setting for both landscape and night sky photography.
This expedition balances travel, acclimatization, and dedicated shooting sessions, ensuring optimal conditions to capture locations like Pangong Lake, Hanle, Tso Moriri, and Tso Kar at their best—both in daylight and under the Milky Way. With a strong focus on practical fieldwork and creative development, participants will receive hands-on guidance in composition, planning, and astro-landscape techniques. The small group size allows for personalized attention, helping each photographer refine their vision and elevate their work.
More than just a tour, this is a focused photographic expedition designed to deliver a meaningful and immersive experience in one of the most unique environments on Earth.
TOUR LIMELIGHT
- 10-Day Ladakh Landscape Immersion
- Pre-tour briefing on locations, shooting conditions, gear, and safety
- In-depth theory sessions on nightscapes: planning, setup, and camera settings
- Capture stunning landscapes and astro-landscapes across iconic Ladakh spots
- Expert guidance on composition, camera settings, and advanced techniques
- Learn exposure blending, focus stacking, time blending, and blue hour blending
- On-field image review with detailed feedback to refine your work
- Live post-processing sessions for real-time learning and workflow clarity
- Lifetime post-processing support for ongoing improvement
- Complimentary study materials and post-processing guidebook
- Led by expert mentors for a seamless experience
ABOUT LADAKH
Ladakh, a union territory of India, lies in the eastern reaches of the Kashmir region, where vast landscapes, high altitude deserts, and rugged mountain ranges create a world that feels both raw and timeless. Stretching from the Karakoram to the Great Himalayas, it is India’s highest plateau, with most of its terrain rising above 3,000 meters.
Carved by the Indus, Nubra, and Shyok rivers, Ladakh’s terrain unfolds in dramatic contrasts, from the surreal blues of Pangong Lake to the stark beauty of its mountain valleys. Its culture, deeply influenced by Tibetan heritage, and the quiet presence of remote villages and nomadic life, add a unique depth to the region.
As night falls, Ladakh transforms into something truly extraordinary. It is home to India’s first Dark Sky Reserve, where the skies offer exceptional clarity, and the Milky Way stretches across the horizon in breathtaking detail, making it one of the finest destinations for astro landscape photography.
This journey is designed to immerse you in both landscape and night photography, guiding you through golden hour, blue hour, and the night sky, while helping you create images that go beyond documentation and become a true reflection of your vision.
ITINERARY
A journey through light, altitude, and the finest night skies of Ladakh
This carefully crafted route is designed not just for exploration, but for adaptation. The first two days in Leh are intentionally paced to allow proper acclimatization, while gradually introducing you to shooting in high-altitude conditions. From there, the journey moves deeper into remote Ladakh, where each location offers a unique blend of dramatic landscapes and pristine night skies, culminating in a complete immersive photography experience.
Pre-Tour
Before the photo tour, we’ll ensure participants are well-prepared through briefings on attractions, safety, and equipment. A virtual meeting will be held 20-25 days before the trip for introductions and Q&A.
Day 1 - ARRIVAL IN LEH
Altitude: ~3,500 meters (11,500 ft), Transfer: Airport to Hotel
Arrive at Leh Airport (IXL) and transfer to the hotel. The day is reserved for rest and acclimatization. In the evening, enjoy a relaxed sunset shoot at Shanti Stupa, capturing soft golden light over Leh town.
Day 2 - LEH LOCAL EXPLORATION
Altitude: ~3,500 meters (11,500 ft) | Travel: Short local drives
A relaxed day for acclimatization with local exploration around Leh and a sunset shoot at Stakna Monastery. Evening theory session on nightscape photography, planning, and camera setup.
Day 3 – LEH TO PANGONG LAKE
Distance: ~180 km | Time: ~5 hours | Altitude: ~4,350 meters (14,270 ft)
Drive through dramatic mountain landscapes to Pangong Lake, with multiple photo stops en route. Evening shoot by the lake followed by your first night sky session under pristine conditions.
Day 4 – PANGONG LAKE
Altitude: ~4,350 meters (14,270 ft)
Sunrise shoot at Pangong Lake, followed by a post-processing session during the day. End with sunset and Milky Way photography at this stunning high-altitude location.
Day 5 - PANGONG TO HANLE
Distance: ~150 km | Time: ~4 hours | Altitude: ~4,500 meters (14,764 ft)
Drive into remote Ladakh towards Hanle, known for its untouched landscapes and India’s first Dark Sky Reserve. An evening dedicated to an exceptional nightscape session under some of the clearest skies.
Day 6 – HANLE & TWIN LAKES NIGHT EXPEDITION
Distance: ~100 km (round trip) | Time: ~2.5 hours | Altitude: ~5,000 meters (16,400 ft)
Relaxed morning with a post-processing session, followed by a night expedition to Twin Lakes (if accessible) for a high-altitude astro shoot. If not, continue night photography in the Hanle region under pristine skies.
Day 7 – HANLE TO TSO MORIRI
Distance: ~150 km | Time: ~5 hours | Altitude: ~4,600 meters (14,800 ft)
Drive through vast landscapes to Tso Moriri, a quieter high-altitude lake. Enjoy sunset and nightscape photography in this peaceful and scenic setting.
Day 8 – TSO MORIRI TO LEH (June Batch) / TSO MORIRI TO TSO KAR (July Batch)
* June Batch: Distance: ~231 km | Time: ~6.5 hrs | Altitude: ~3,500 m (11,500 ft)
Return to Leh with scenic photo stops along the way. Evening at leisure for rest and reflection, concluding the journey on a relaxed note.
* July Batch: Distance: ~90 km | Time: ~4 hours | Altitude: ~4,530 meters (14,860 ft)
Drive via Puga Valley’s geothermal landscapes to Tso Kar, the “White Lake,” known for its salt flats and unique textures—perfect for creative photography.
Day 9 – DEPARTURE (June Batch) / TSO KAR TO LEH (July Batch)
* June Batch: Departure from Leh after breakfast marked the end of the expedition with lasting memories and images.
* July Batch: Distance: ~150 km | Time: ~5 hours | Altitude: ~3,500 meters (11,500 ft)
Return to Leh with scenic photo stops along the way. Evening at leisure for rest and reflection, concluding the journey on a relaxed note.
Day 10 – DEPARTURE (July Batch)
Departure from Leh after breakfast marked the end of the expedition with lasting memories and images.
Note: Locations may change due to unforeseen circumstances, but alternative locations will be provided at no additional cost.
Disclaimer: Altitude & Fitness
This expedition takes place at high altitudes (3,500m–5,000m+), where oxygen levels are low. Participants may experience symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) such as headache, fatigue, or breathlessness. While proper acclimatization is planned, a good level of fitness is recommended. Please consult a doctor before the trip and carry necessary personal medications.
DATE
June Batch – 13th June 2026 to 21st June 2026
July Batch – 10th July 2026 to 19th July 2026
PRICE
| Date | Price (For Indian Participants) |
|---|---|
| 13th - 21st June 2026 10th - 19th July 2026 | Rs 55000 [Double Occupancy Only]. Extra Charges for Single Occupancy. |
*Limited seats on a first come first serve basis.
**Please note that Astro Landscape Photography totally depends on local weather conditions, and the weather is unpredictable, though we hope at the end of May we’ll get a clear sky.
***Please read all details on this page including the Terms and Conditions on the website.
Gallery
MEET YOUR MENTOR
MRINMAY NAYEK
Mrinmay Nayek is a landscape and astro-landscape photographer, educator, and visual storyteller from India. Holding an MSc in Geography and an MA in Education, along with a background in Remote Sensing & GIS, he spent over a decade in academics before following his passion for photography. A student of the inaugural batch at EXPOSURE – The School of Photography, he specializes in astro-landscape and street photography, known for his technical precision, emotional depth, and poetic visual style. His photographic journeys have taken him across India and abroad, capturing diverse landscapes and celestial events. As a mentor, he has led multiple photo tours and workshops, appreciated for his practical and approachable teaching style, with a strong focus on planning, ethical post-processing, and helping participants develop their own unique photographic vision.
MEET YOUR MENTOR
MRINMAY NAYEK
Mrinmay Nayek is a landscape and astro-landscape photographer, educator, and visual storyteller from India. Holding an MSc in Geography and an MA in Education, along with a background in Remote Sensing & GIS, he spent over a decade in academics before following his passion for photography. A student of the inaugural batch at EXPOSURE – The School of Photography, he specializes in astro-landscape and street photography, known for his technical precision, emotional depth, and poetic visual style. His photographic journeys have taken him across India and abroad, capturing diverse landscapes and celestial events. As a mentor, he has led multiple photo tours and workshops, appreciated for his practical and approachable teaching style, with a strong focus on planning, ethical post-processing, and helping participants develop their own unique photographic vision.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
- Transportation from Leh IXL to Leh IXL and Shooting points from Hotel/Homestay/Tent.
- First-day Lunch to last-day breakfast. (June Batch – 8 Breakfast, 8 Dinner, and 8 Lunch, July Batch – 9 Breakfast, 9 Dinner, and 9 Lunch)
- Accommodations in a Double Occupancy /Single Occupancy
- Permits and all entry fees. (Foreign national extra permit cost required)
- Emergency oxygen cylinder.
- Drinking water as per need.
What is not included in the Tour Fees?
- Anything else other than mentioned includes.
- All expenses of personal nature.
- Any other actual expenses would be shared by all participants on an actual basis.
- Pick up & drop off from Railway station/Bus Stand/Airport are not included but we can arrange the same for you and the cost has to be paid by you.
- Occupancy is chosen on a first come first serve basis.
- Additional food or beverages ordered.
- National and international airfare.
Important points to be noted
- The photo tour starts and ends in Leh (IXL). Participants must arrange their own travel and arrive on time. Airport transfers are provided only on designated dates; any additional transfers will be at the participant’s expense.
- The group size is limited to a maximum of 08 participants to ensure personalized attention, better learning, and smooth logistics. EXPOSURE reserves the right to add a limited number of participants if required, without compromising the experience.
- A minimum of 04 participants is required for the tour to proceed. If this requirement is not met, the tour may be postponed or cancelled, and any booking amount will be refunded.
- This is a dedicated photography expedition, not a leisure or sightseeing holiday. Non-photographer companions may join at full cost but must strictly follow the itinerary and schedule.
- The itinerary is subject to change based on weather conditions, road accessibility, administrative restrictions, and safety considerations. All efforts will be made to maintain the planned experience and maximize shooting opportunities.
- Landscape and astro-landscape photography are highly dependent on weather and atmospheric conditions. Clear skies, Milky Way visibility, and shooting conditions cannot be guaranteed.
- Ladakh is a high-altitude region with limited infrastructure in remote areas such as Pangong, Hanle, and Tso Moriri. Mobile connectivity, internet access, and ATM availability may be restricted. Participants are advised to carry sufficient cash and essential items.
- A basic to moderate level of physical fitness is required. Participants should be comfortable with short walks on uneven terrain, long travel hours, and working in cold, high-altitude conditions. Those with medical concerns must consult a doctor before joining.
- Participants must carry their own photography equipment, including camera bodies, lenses, tripods, batteries, memory cards, and necessary accessories. No equipment will be provided by the organizers.
- It is strongly recommended that participants have valid travel and medical insurance covering emergencies, evacuation, and unforeseen situations. EXPOSURE will not be liable for any injury, illness, loss, or damage during the tour.
- In case a suitable sharing partner is not available for double occupancy, participants may be upgraded to single occupancy with applicable additional charges.
- EXPOSURE reserves the right to make necessary changes to the itinerary, pricing, accommodations, or logistics due to unforeseen circumstances, safety concerns, or force majeure conditions.
- All participants are required to sign an informed consent and liability waiver before the start of the tour, acknowledging the risks associated with high-altitude travel and photography expeditions.
- By registering for this tour, participants confirm that they have read, understood, and agreed to all terms and conditions, and will comply with the guidelines set by the organizers throughout the expedition.
Deadlines
Registration is open till the seat reservations end.
Booking
To confirm your participation, a non-refundable deposit of INR 28,000 is required. This can be paid in two installments of INR 14,000 each, with the full deposit to be completed at least 60 days before the tour start date.
Your seat will be confirmed only after the full deposit amount is received in EXPOSURE’s LADAKH PHOTO TOUR, JULY 2026 account.
The remaining balance of INR 27,000 must be paid either online at least 30 days before the tour start date or in cash on Day 1 during the initial briefing in Leh.
Payment Methods: PayPal, UPI, QR Code, or bank transfer (details will be shared on request). Kindly share the payment proof after the transaction for verification.
Important Notes:
• All transaction, conversion, and gateway charges must be borne by the participant
• Confirmation will be shared only after receipt of the deposit along with official tour details
• The deposit is strictly non-refundable under any circumstances
For any assistance, feel free to contact us directly at +91 9432824306.
Cancellation and Refunds
By registering for the Ladakh Photo Tour with EXPOSURE, you agree to the following terms and conditions regarding cancellations, payments, and refunds. These terms are binding for all participants without exception.
- PARTICIPANT-INITIATED CANCELLATION
All cancellation requests must be submitted in writing via email or registered post. The effective date of cancellation is the date your request is received by EXPOSURE. Cancellation charges are calculated on the total tour fee (not just the deposit), regardless of the reason for cancellation:
- 91 days or more before the tour start date: Full refund, minus any banking or transaction charges.
• Between 90 and 61 days before the tour start date: 80% of the total tour fee will be charged.
• 60 days or less before the tour start date: No refund; 100% of the total tour fee will be charged.
Once the tour has started, no refunds will be provided for unused services, including accommodations, meals, transport, guiding, or missed segments of the tour.
Refunds (if applicable) will be processed within 14 working days of written confirmation of cancellation and will be made using the original payment method, minus any bank or payment gateway charges.
- NON-PAYMENT OR LATE PAYMENT
A non-refundable deposit of 28,000 INR is required to secure your booking. The remaining balance must be paid in full at least 30 days before the tour start date. Failure to complete payment may result in cancellation of your booking without any refund. - TRIP CANCELLATION BY EXPOSURE
In the unlikely event that EXPOSURE must cancel the Ladakh Photo Tour due to insufficient participants or unforeseen circumstances:
- A full refund of all payments, including the deposit, will be issued.
• Participants will be informed well in advance if a cancellation is being considered.
• EXPOSURE is not responsible for any other expenses incurred, including airfare, visa fees, extra hotel bookings, or equipment rental/purchases.
For this reason, participants are strongly advised to purchase travel insurance that includes trip cancellation coverage.
- GENERAL TERMS & CONDITIONS
• All transactions, currency conversion, and bank charges for payments and refunds are to be borne by the participant.
• Participants must purchase travel insurance covering medical emergencies, cancellations, and trip interruptions.
• Participation becomes official only after confirmation is issued by EXPOSURE upon receipt of your deposit and acceptance of these terms.
• By submitting your payment, you agree to all terms outlined in this Cancellation & Refund Policy, which are final and non-negotiable.
* PLEASE READ ALL DETAILS AND TERMS AND CONDITIONS,DISCLAIMER/UNDERTAKING BEFORE BOOKING.
The Weather in Ladakh
Ladakh experiences an extreme high-altitude desert climate, characterized by low humidity, intense sunlight, and significant temperature variations between day and night.
During July, which is one of the best months to explore the region, daytime temperatures generally range between 15°C to 25°C in lower regions like Leh, making it relatively comfortable for travel and shooting. However, as we move to higher altitudes such as Pangong, Hanle, and Tso Moriri, temperatures drop noticeably, especially after sunset.
Nights can be cold, often ranging between 0°C to 8°C, and may feel even colder due to wind chill. In locations above 4,500 meters, conditions can be harsher, with strong winds and rapidly changing weather.
The air in Ladakh is dry and thin, with significantly lower oxygen levels, and the sunlight is intense due to the altitude. Clear skies are common, which makes it an exceptional destination for both landscape and astro-landscape photography.
Participants should be prepared for:
• Strong sunlight during the day
• Cold conditions during early mornings and night shoots
• Sudden weather changes, especially in high-altitude regions
• Windy and dusty conditions in exposed landscapes
Proper layering, sun protection, and adequate hydration are essential to stay comfortable throughout the journey.
Travel Information
Leh, the capital of Ladakh, is well connected by air and can also be reached by road during the summer months. For this expedition, arriving by flight is the most recommended and efficient option.
By Air (Recommended):
The easiest way to reach Leh is by flying to Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (IXL). Regular flights operate from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Chandigarh. Due to the high altitude, it is advisable to arrive at least a day before any physical activity and allow your body to acclimatize.
By Road (Optional):
Leh can also be accessed by road via two scenic highways:
• Manali to Leh Highway
• Srinagar to Leh Highway
Both routes are typically open from June to September, depending on weather conditions. Traveling by road offers gradual acclimatization but involves long travel hours and challenging terrain.
Testimonials
