14-Day Adventure Itinerary in India: Exploring the Wilds of Kaza

  • Day 1: Delhi
    Arrive at Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in the morning

    Welcome to Delhi! Start your adventure with visiting the Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Later, experience the thrill of rickshaw ride at Chandni Chowk, one of the oldest and busiest marketplaces in Old Delhi, before heading to India Gate, a war memorial with an impressive architecture.

  • Day 2-4: Manali
    12-hour drive (539 km) from Delhi

    Next up, jump in for more adventure at Manali, known for skiing, paragliding, and trekking through the mountain ranges. Spend a couple of days taking in the stunning scenery or simply relaxing at the hot springs. Get your adrenaline pumping with white water rafting, rock climbing, and more.

  • Day 5-6: Leh
    11-hour drive (485 km) from Manali

    Explore the rugged terrains of Leh, surrounded by the Himalayas. Visit Shanti Stupa, a Buddhist white domed temple with a mesmerizing view of the city. Also visit the Leh Palace, a 17th-century palace built in Tibetan architectural style along with the Namgyal Tsemo Gompa, a picturesque monastery with amazing sunrise and sunset views.

  • Day 7-9: Kaza
    11-hour drive (211 km) from Leh

    Discover the serene and stark beauty of Kaza, nestled in the Spiti Valley. The Tabo Monastery, with its ancient murals and scriptures, is a must-visit. Trek through the high-altitude mountain ranges, get face to face with blue sheep, climb the rugged hills and spot snow leopards or other endangered species. Don't forget to try the local delicacies at a local eatery.

  • Day 10-12: Pushkar
    16-hour drive (875 km) from Kaza

    Pilgrimage of adventure continues with a visit to Pushkar, a quiet desert town surrounding a beautiful lake. Take a camel safari through the sands, attend Camel Fair (if the dates match), ride a hot-air balloon, and explore the impressive Brahma Temple. You’ll never run out of things to do here.

  • Day 13-14: Jaipur
    3-hour drive (130 km) from Pushkar

    End your journey visiting the ‘Pink City' of Jaipur. Visit the Amber Fort, featuring impressive architecture and an elephant safari. Next, head to the City Palace, a 16th-century palace with beautiful grounds and museum. The Hawa Mahal, or Palace of the Winds, is a five-storey palace with stunning façade. Finally, take in the beauty of Jantar Mantar, an observatory and UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Red Fort (2 hours, INR 550)
  • Chandni Chowk Rickshaw Ride (1 hour, INR 300)
  • India Gate (1 hour, free)
  • Manali Adventure Sports (varies by activity)
  • Leh Palace (1 hour, INR 250)
  • Tabo Monastery (2 hours, INR 50)
  • Pushkar Camel Safari (2 hours, INR 1500)
  • Amber Fort & Elephant Safari (3 hours, INR 450)
  • City Palace (2 hours, INR 700)
  • Hawa Mahal (1 hour, INR 50)
  • Jantar Mantar (1 hour, INR 200)

  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 3600

Transportation

Travel between different cities via buses, taxis, and shared cars. Consider using private car rental services for places like Manali, Leh, or Kaza for effortless exploration. The cost varies depending on the mode of transport and distance traveled. Estimated travel time varies from 3 to 16 hours.

Useful tips

For those with more time, consider visiting the Rishikesh, Agra (Taj Mahal), and Varanasi. And for those with less time, prioritize the destinations according to the adventure sport/ activity of your choice. Pack appropriate clothing, luggage, hiking shoes, and sunscreens essential for the entire trip.

Airports

Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL), located 23 km (14 miles) from New Delhi city center, is the main airport in India. Jaipur International Airport (JAI), located approximately 13 km (8 miles) from Jaipur city center, is the nearest airport to Jaipur. The other airports in close proximity to Kaza are Manali Bhuntar Airport (KUU), located 275 km (171 miles) from Kaza, and Leh Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (IXL), located 430 km (267 miles) from Kaza.

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