Head in the Clouds Journeys Launch at Shakti Ladakh

Shakti Himalaya will launch the new ‘Head in the Clouds’ Tibetan Inner Journeys in Ladakh, helping guests to reconnect the mind, body and spirit through Tibetan traditions and the spectacular landscape of Ladakh. Shakti’s new journey will see guests embark on an ‘inner discovery’, visiting local medicine men – Amchis – and ancient monasteries. A personal yoga and meditation teacher will conduct daily sessions amidst the beautiful surroundings.

What better way to disconnect, and simply ‘be’... During the eight-day experience, guests will meet with two renowned local amchis, both of whom are said to have healing powers and will help to realign energies and diagnose ailments. One resides at Thiksey Monastery, the largest monastery in Central Ladakh, and the other owns The Indus Farmhouse, one of Shakti’s beautiful village houses available for guests, and is a celebrated elder in the community. Guests will also experience early morning Buddhist prayers and meditations sessions with monks, as well as a sustained programme of meditation lessons from instructors trained at the Mahabodhi centre of meditation in Leh. A private yoga guru will also be arranged to travel with guests, building in silent walks and daily hatha yoga practice in nature. A trip to the 11th Century Hemis Monastery is a must on this journey of discovery, where guests can explore monastic life, and take a 3km walk to caves where some of the older monks and revered elders – rimpoche – live and meditate. These unique experiences bring Shakti guests closer to Ladakh’s people and their living cultures, whilst also allowing them time and space to recalibrate under spectacular mountain views and clear skies.

Accompanied by local porters and guides, guests stay in traditional houses – complete with private chef – that Shakti has spruced up to provide serious comfort without compromising on authenticity - pashmina blankets, fluffy duvets and cosy fireplaces are complemented by traditional artefacts and Indian artwork. For the more active guests, Shakti offers rafting, trekking and camping in remote but beautiful locations with the chance to spend the night in a tented camp set up exclusively to enjoy outstanding mountain views and some of the clearest night skies to be found in the world at altitudes of up to 6,000 – 14,000 ft.

Situated in the far north of the sub-continent, over 3,500m up on the high plateau, Ladakh is often referred to as 'little Tibet'. With a high altitude desert dominated by rugged snow capped mountains and deep turquoise lakes it is one of the most picturesque places on earth. Throughout the journey, guests will dine on healthy meals from a menu of family recipes ranging from Parsi Apricot chicken and the delicious Burmese dish; Khowsuey, to Samosas made with the the finest local produce and the freshest ingredients picked directly from the Houses’ own herb and vegetable gardens.

Shakti Himalaya offers an eight-day ‘Head in the Cloud’ journey from £5,892 per person, including the Shakti Ladakh Village Walk on a fully inclusive basis, all activities including two rafting trips, accompanying English speaking guide, private chef, support guide and porters, car at disposal and taxes, with transfers between Leh Airport and the village experience. The cost of the private mediation and yoga teacher starts from £260/$325 per night. International flights not included and subject to availability of a guru. Available from: May 2017 – 30th September 2017.

For booking and information contact: info@shaktihimalaya.com / www.shaktihimalaya.com.