HIGHLIGHTS

Explore and photograph the rich history, exotic cultures and timeless traditions of northern India.  Travel with us from Kashmir to Ladak during the Dak-Thok Tse-Chu Festival, an important Buddhist celebration that will offer incredible photo opportunities.  Lakeside views, magnificent sunsets, floating markets, verdant greens, authentic Kashmiri cuisine & hospitable locals are just some of the reasons why tourists from all over the globe flock to this "Paradise on Earth." 

Join Quest leader Mirjam Evers as she shares her knowledge and helps you to hone your photography skills. Our small group ensures that you will experience one-on-one feedback that will elevate your photography to the next level! 

DELHI

2 Nights

JW MARRIOT

SRINAGAR

4 Nights

TAJ DAL VIEW

MIRJAM EVERS

Mirjam is a New York City based travel photographer specializing in international environmental portraiture, landscape photography and adventure images. Born and raised in the Netherlands, she has photographed in more than 75 countries, including many of the most exotic places in the world. Mirjam's photographs are indicative of her unique capacity to personally connect with diverse cultures and communities. Her eye for location lighting is highly stylized and works to illustrate and heighten the unique characteristics of each international locale. She is able to transcend cultural and language barriers with an intangible spirit that is conveyed in every image. Her work has appeared in AFAR, The New York Times, AARP, Outdoor Photographer, PDN, American Photo, Popular Photography, Digital Photo, Departures, MSN Travel.

Mirjam's website

ABOUT

Northern  India is a land brimming with extremes and thriving with a kaleidoscope of colors, cultures, sights and sounds very different from our ordinary experiences. As a photographer, you will find that Kasmir and Ladakh offer nothing less than a plethora of visual feasts for your senses and your camera!

Srinagar, Kashmir

Srinagar is a city that embodies romance and beauty. It is the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir; perfectly placed in the center of the Kashmir Valley. Srinagar literally meaning 'the city of wealth & abundance' in Sanskrit, was founded around 150 AD by King Pravarasen II. Situated on the banks of the river Jhelum, Srinagar is surrounded by beautiful lakes like Dal, Nagin and Anchar, whose glittering waters reflecting the rays of the sun is a sight to behold. Vibrant and beautiful houseboats sail along the scenic Dal Lake against a backdrop of majestic Himalayan mountains.

Ladakh

Ladakh  is truly an amazing destination. The landscape resembles that of neighboring Tibet, inhabited by Buddhists. The land is scattered with traditional mountain villages, barley fields, monasteries and palaces.

Numerous, awe-inspiring monasteries dot the land, and the colorful prayer flags blow in the horizon. Most villages have monasteries, the centre of the region's socio-religious life.

Is this trip for you?

This tour is intended for amateur as well as serious photography enthusiasts with an interest in visiting and capturing the beauty of Ladakh and Kashmir. No prior expertise or experience in photography is necessary, as our leaders will be there to assist you. Travel enthusiasts who are not photographers will also benefit from the tour. 

IS THIS A DIFFICULT QUEST?

We will be traveling in Ladakh by jeeps, as all the places we are going to are connected by road. We may do some  easy walks in the mornings/evenings. The trip is meant to be easy on your legs. 

Ladakh’s high-altitude mountain air is thin and our bodies need to be acclimatized to the environment. We will spend the first day on arrival resting and getting used to it, to ensure that you will not have any difficulties during the tour.

People who are generally able to manage their day-to-day life independently will not have any problems attending this tour. Prior to departure, we suggest that you check with your doctor, especially if you are suffering any chronic illnesses like asthma, blood pressure or heart ailments.

Travel Matters

US visitors to India are required to possess a valid passport and a Visa. Visas can be obtained on arrival.

Clothing and Appropriate Dress

Light, wicking, high performance layers are always recommended. Also, bring very comfortable walking or hiking shoes.

India is a developing country with conservative dress standards. In smaller cities and villages, people still dress conservatively. The most important rule for both women and men is to keep the legs and shoulders covered. Wearing shorts and short skirts should be avoided.

Money Matters

Currency is the Indian Rupee
Code:  INR
Symbol:  Rs

Credit cards are widely accepted in major cities. ATM machines can also be found in most places, including small towns. 

HEALTH AND MEDICAL

Visitors need to take special precautions against illnesses not normally encountered at home. A trip to a doctor or travel clinic is recommended well in advance of your departure date to ensure that you receive all the necessary immunizations and medications.

ELECTRICITY

European plug with two circular metal pins South African/Indian-style plug with two circular metal pins above a large circular grounding pin 230-240V 50Hz

TIME ZONE

GMT/UTC +5.5

Languages

Hindi, English (both official), and other Indo-European languages, including Bengali, Kashmiri, Marathi, Kannada, Gujarati, Telugu, Punjabi, Urdu and Rajasthani in Rajasthan.

Religions

Hinduism; Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, Buddhism, Jainism.

Food and Eating Customs

Indian food is diverse and varies from one region to the next. It is often thought of as very spicy, but there are some simple breads, sweet deserts, and milder 'one-pot dishes' that defy the norm. Many Indians are vegetarian. There are regional specialties, different ways to serve the meal, and staple ingredients in each state.

Most Indian meals include a kind of flatbread that is traditionally used to scoop or roll vegetables or rice. A spoon is provided for soup, but the bread may even be used to eat soup! Meat, if served, may be eaten with a knife and fork, but it will more often be served pre-cut, so the fingers may easily manage it. Indian food is often eaten with the hands; however, this custom is guided by some basic rules. For instance, it is considered impolite to allow the food to pass the first joint of the fingers. The fingers should never touch the mouth directly. In addition, only the right hand may be used in eating.

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