A photography workshop focused on landscapes, people, and real experiences of Ladakh.

Landscape Photography, Astro Photography, Travel Photography and People / Culture Photography / Festival Photography Tour to Ladakh, India

This Ladakh Photography Workshop is designed for photographers who want more than just sightseeing—it’s about learning, storytelling, and creating powerful images.


📅 Upcoming Dates & Pricing

📅 Dates:

  • May 14, 2026 to May 20, 2026 
  • A private tour can be arranged at your convenient dates.

💰 Price: ₹75,000 per person

👥 Group Size: Maximum 6 participants

📍 Start/End: Leh, Ladakh

👉 Limited seats available – Enquire Now!

 

🌍 Why This Ladakh Photography Workshop?

Unlike standard tours, this workshop is built around light, timing, and photographic opportunities.

✔ Saurabh Chatterjee (Mentor) as 15+ years of experience photographing Ladakh and 25+ years experience in Photography
✔ Carefully planned locations for best light conditions
✔ Focus on storytelling, not just locations
✔ Small group of 6 for personal attention

You won’t just visit places—you’ll understand how to photograph them meaningfully.


📸 What You Will Learn

This is not just a tour—it’s a hands-on photography workshop.

🌄 Landscape Photography

  • Composition in vast terrains
  • Using compositional elements like leading lines and scale
  • Working with mountain light - using lights and shadows to your advantage

🌌 Astrophotography (Milky Way)

  • Camera settings for night photography
  • Planning Milky Way shots
  • Long exposure techniques

🧭 Visual Storytelling

  • Capturing culture and human elements
  • Building a photo narrative
  • Shooting with intent

🎨 Editing & Review

  • Lightroom workflow
  • Daily feedback sessions
  • Improving your visual style

 

👤 Who This Workshop is For

✔ Beginners wanting structured guidance
✔ Intermediate photographers looking to improve
✔ International travelers exploring India through photography
✔ Anyone passionate about landscapes, astro, and culture


🏔️ Difficulty & Altitude

  • Moderate difficulty
  • High altitude (11,000–15,000 ft)
  • Proper acclimatization included

👉 No prior trekking experience required

My Ladakh Pictures

See my pictures of Ladakh in better resolution here .
(for computer users)

 

Overview of Ladakh Tour

 Journey Map


🏔️ Ladakh Photography Tour Itinerary

 


📍 Day 1 – Arrival in Leh (Acclimatization & Light Photography)

Arrival: Leh Airport (3,256 m / 10,682 ft)
Overnight: Leh

📸 Evening Locations

  • Tsemo Gompa (3,500 m)

  • Shanti Stupa (3,609 m)

  • Leh Market


🧭 Plan for the Day

We arrive early morning in Leh and check into the hotel. Most people are sleep-deprived, so rest is essential.

⚠️ Important:

  • Do NOT exert yourself in the first half of the day

  • Drink plenty of water

  • Proper acclimatization is critical

We arrange all necessary permits for restricted areas while you rest.


🌆 Evening Photography Session

  • Visit Tsemo Gompa & Shanti Stupa

  • Shoot long exposures of Leh town

  • Capture dramatic light and shadows

  • Walk through Leh market for street photography


📍 Day 2 – Leh → Khardung La → Nubra Valley (Hunder / Sumoor)

Distance: ~120 km / 5–6 hrs
Overnight: Sumoor


🗺️ Route & Highlights

  • Leh (3,256 m)

  • Khardung La (5,359 m)

  • Diskit & Nubra Valley

  • Hunder Sand Dunes

  • Sumoor


🧭 Plan for the Day

We start early (without breakfast) to cross Khardung La smoothly.
Short stop at the pass for photos—avoid exertion due to altitude.

Breakfast near Khardung village.


📸 Photography Highlights

  • Diskit Monastery (external shoot only)

  • Maitreya Buddha statue viewpoint

  • Camel caravans in Hunder dunes (3 PM safari)


🌌 Evening

  • Drive to Sumoor

  • Astrophotography session in sand dunes

  • Milky Way shoot from homestay


📍 Day 3 – Sumoor → Pangong Lake

Distance: ~200 km / 7–8 hrs
Overnight: Pangong


🗺️ Route & Highlights

  • Diskit → Agham → Shyok

  • Pangong Lake (4,350 m)


🧭 Plan for the Day

We drive along the Shyok river via a scenic but tricky route. Early start is crucial due to water crossings and melting glaciers.


📸 Photography Highlights

  • Himalayan marmots (close-up opportunities)

  • First dramatic view of Pangong Lake

  • Ever-changing natural colors of the lake


🌇 Evening Shoot

  • Sunset photography (critical timing)

  • Cold and windy—carry full warm gear


🌌 Night Session

  • Astrophotography & star trails

  • Extremely dark skies


📍 Day 4 – Pangong → Hanle

Distance: ~180 km / 6–7 hrs
Overnight: Hanle


🗺️ Route & Highlights

  • Pangong → Chushul → Tsaga La

  • Hanle (4,500 m)


🧭 Plan for the Day

Early morning walk to observe sunrise lighting up the landscape.

Drive to Hanle, a remote village near the Indo-China border.


📸 Photography Highlights

  • Kiang (wild ass)

  • Black-necked cranes (if lucky)

  • Vast high-altitude landscapes


🌌 Night Session

Hanle offers one of the darkest skies in India—perfect for Milky Way photography.
The Indian Astronomical Observatory is located here.


📍 Day 5 – Hanle → Tso Moriri (Korzok Village)

Distance: ~150 km / 6 hrs
Overnight: Korzok


🗺️ Route & Highlights

  • Nyoma & Mahe villages

  • Tso Moriri Lake (4,522 m)


🧭 Plan for the Day

We drive through remote landscapes toward Tso Moriri.


📸 Photography Highlights

  • Kiang sightings

  • Migratory birds:

    • Bar-headed geese

    • Red-crested pochards

👉 Chance to photograph chicks in breeding season


🌌 Evening

  • Milky Way shoot near lake viewpoint


📍 Day 6 – Tso Moriri → Leh

Distance: ~220 km / 8–9 hrs
Overnight: Leh


🗺️ Route & Highlights

  • Tso Moriri → Mahe → Chumathang → Upshi

  • Thiksey Monastery

  • Shey Palace


🧭 Plan for the Day

Return journey to Leh with scenic stops.


📸 Photography Highlights

  • Tso Kar lake (unique landscape)

  • Black-necked cranes (if lucky)

  • Monasteries (external shoots)


📍 Day 7 – Departure from Leh

Departure: Leh Airport (3,256 m / 10,682 ft)

Fly back with a portfolio full of powerful images and experiences.

Ladakh Photography Tips

 

⭐ Ladakh Photography Tour Feedback

 


🌟 H Satish

President, Youth Photographic Society (YPS), Bengaluru

I recently, in the month of June, had an opportunity of taking 5 of my friends with me to Ladakh, group led by Mr. Saurab Chatterjee.

From the day we landed till we boarded the plane back to Bangalore, everything went perfectly like clockwork. The painstakingly programmed trip was ideal, giving us excellent opportunities to photograph landscapes, the Milky Way, portraits, abstracts, and more.

The hotel and transport arrangements were perfect. Saurab’s company was wonderful—he shared valuable insights on photography as well as about Ladakh, the “Dream Land.”

All my friends share the same opinion—we are extremely happy and now have many memorable images.

Thanks to Mr. Saurab—I look forward to joining his next trip.


🌟 Achutha Herur

Bangalore

The route and itinerary were very well planned. The selection of places to stay was excellent—we couldn’t ask for more in such remote locations. Food was good, clean, and sufficient.

Saurab has excellent knowledge of the places we visited—it was truly an educative trip. His instructions about do’s and don’ts were crystal clear, and I believe following them ensured everything went smoothly.

The logistics—vehicle, group size, driver, water, medicines—were spot on.

The driver was one of the best I’ve seen: knowledgeable, humble, and lively. A real gem!

The journey itself was the highlight—the 360-degree views were unforgettable. Pangong scored 100/100, while Khardung La, Nubra, Turtuk, Hanle, and Tso Moriri were all 98/100 😊

A memorable trip that I will cherish for a long time.

🙏🙏🙏


🌟 Anitha Mysore

Youth Photographic Society (YPS), Bangalore
ARPS | MPSA | EFIAP/s | c***MoL | EIUP | GPU CR-4 | EFIP/g | FAPS | EFIP/g (Nature) | GPA.PESGSPC | A.CPE | ES. CPE | Hon. PESGSPC | G.APS

The anticipation began two months before the trip—and we were not disappointed.

This was a very well-organized and managed photo tour that left us asking for more. Saurab paid attention to every detail, and his instructions were extremely helpful.

The choice of hotels and locations was excellent, with good food and caring staff.

The highlight was the journey itself. The vehicle was comfortable despite rough roads, and the driver was excellent. Our fellow travelers made it even more enjoyable.

The ever-changing landscapes were breathtaking—every turn revealed something new.

This tour allowed us to explore all genres of photography—landscape, nature, travel, portrait, and astro.

I would sign up for such tours any day. Thank you, Saurab.


🌟 Santanu Majumdar

Ex-Indian Air Force

The SIA photo tour to Ladakh was a highly productive experience.

Saurabh is a passionate teacher and a highly competent organiser. His knowledge of the region is unmatched, and he knows exactly where to go for the best photographic opportunities.

His teaching style is subtle yet extremely effective. His planning, execution, and personal touch are outstanding.

A trip with Saurabh is truly memorable—I would love to travel with him again.


🌟 Vinaya Mathews

FFIP, EFIAP, PPSA, GAPU, BEAPF, Hon APF

Dream Came True

Visiting Leh-Ladakh had been my dream for 35–40 years—and Saurabh made it happen.

With over 12 years of experience leading tours, he feels almost Ladakhi himself. We explored interior villages like Turtuk, Hunder, Hanle, and Tso Moriri, beyond the usual tourist spots.

We spent nights doing astrophotography and days capturing village life. The journey included frequent stops to photograph stunning landscapes.

Highlights included:

  • Wild ass (Kiang)

  • Marmots

  • Ladakhi culture

  • Milky Way at Pangong

  • Monasteries and valleys

Saurabh’s observation skills and willingness to teach are exceptional—it felt like an advanced photography course.

Highly recommended for all photographers.


🌟 Digant Surti

Film and Television Institute of India, Pune

Beyond the Viewfinder

I joined without researching much—and it turned out to be an excellent decision.

The itinerary included rare locations like Hanle and Turtuk, and Saurabh’s guidance was invaluable.

I learned:

  • Landscape photography

  • Milky Way

  • Star trails

This was a true photography tour—you always had your camera ready for unforgettable moments.

Highly recommended—travel teaches far more than books.


🌟 Kishore Parhi

IT Consultant, Bangalore

Ladakh is truly heaven on Earth—stunning landscapes, culture, and people.

With Saurabh’s guidance, capturing these moments becomes much easier. He ensures you get the best shots and shares his expertise generously.

From vibrant lake colors to star-filled skies, every moment was magical.

I would love to visit again—thanks to SIA Photography for making it happen.


🌟 Ranjit Adkar

IT Consultant, Mumbai

This was my first Ladakh trip and an incredible experience.

We photographed across Leh, Turtuk, Hunder, Pangong, Hanle, and Tso Moriri. The journey was scenic, and destinations were breathtaking.

Astrophotography sessions were conducted almost every night with hands-on guidance.

Saurabh’s strength lies in teaching and ensuring everyone gets great shots.

I highly recommend this tour to anyone interested in photography.


🌟 Dr. Sheetal & Dr. Pramod Tike

Latur

We joined this photography tour to try something new—and it turned out to be the best decision.

Saurabh is talented, passionate, and extremely patient, especially with beginners.

The tour was well-organized yet flexible, allowing us to stop frequently for photography. He reviewed our images and guided us continuously.

A memorable experience—highly recommended.


🌟 Abhy Nadar

New Delhi

I discovered SIA Photography while searching for Ladakh photo tours and decided to join—and I have no regrets.

Saurabh was responsive, supportive, and reassuring from the beginning.

He shared practical photography knowledge that made a huge difference. His deep knowledge of Ladakh and hidden locations made the trip special.

Seeing and photographing the Milky Way for the first time was unforgettable.

An insightful and enriching experience.


🌟 Amrita Patole

I attended the Ladakh 2018 tour with SIA, and it was worth every penny.

Saurabh supports you at every step—his knowledge of locations and patience are exceptional.

Highly recommended for beginners and solo photographers looking for a professional tour.


 

Ladakh Photography Tips

Must Read these links if you need Information on Travelling to Ladakh / Spiti

 

Travelling to Ladakh Tips

Astrophotography Guide

Milky Way Photography Ladakh

Milky Way Photography Spiti Valley

Best Places for Landscape Photography in India

Join My Ladakh Photography Tour

If you want a customized tour anywhere in India focused on Photography, I will be happy to organise it for you. 

Itinerary -

Day 1
Thursday, May 14, 2026
Arrive in Leh, Leh Fort, Market, Shanti Stupa o/n Leh
Day 2
Friday, May 15, 2026
Leh to Sumoor
Day 3
Saturday, May 16, 2026
Sumoor to Pangong (Merak)
Day 4
Sunday, May 17, 2026
Pangong to Hanle
Day 5
Monday, May 18, 2026
Hanle to Tso Morriri
Day 6
Tuesday, May 19, 2026
Tso Morriri to Leh via Thiksey, Shey
Day 7
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
Fly off

Cost: Rs.INR 75,000/-
Only 6 participants on first come first serve basis.

Cost includes

  • Accommodation on twin sharing basis
    (Single accommodation available on request)
  • All meals from Day 1 (afternoon) to Day 7 (morning)
  • Surface transfers as per itinerary
  • Inner Line Permits, entry fees, taxes, parking & toll
  • Expert photography guidance by Saurabh Chatterjee (including image review sessions whenever possible)


Cost does not include

1) Travel to Leh and return travel from Leh to your location.
2) Bottled Water, additional food or beverages ordered; tips, etc.
3) Anything that is not mentioned in inclusions.

💳 Payment Policy

  • ₹20,000 – Booking amount
  • Balance payment – 45 days before tour start date

⚠️ Cancellation Policy

Cancellations affect planning and logistics, as bookings are made well in advance and last-minute replacements are difficult.

👉 Please confirm your participation only if you are sure.


Cancellation Charges:

  • 60 to 45 days prior: 20% of total tour cost non-refundable
  • 40 to 15 days prior: 50% of total tour cost non-refundable
  • 14 to 0 days: 100% non-refundable

No refund for NO SHOWS

📅 Upcoming Dates

  • May 14, 2026 to May 20, 2026
  • 5 – 14 July 2026

💰 Pricing

  • ₹75,000 per person
  • Twin sharing basis
  • Small group experience

👥 Limited Seats

⚠️ Only 6 participants per batch

👉 This ensures:

  • Personal attention
  • Better photography guidance
  • Flexibility during shoots

🔥 Why You Should Book Now

  • Peak season dates get fully booked early
  • Limited accommodations in remote locations
  • Small group = very limited availability

👉 Most participants book 2–4 months in advance


📸 What You’ll Gain

  • Milky Way & astrophotography experience
  • Landscape + culture photography
  • Hands-on guidance throughout the tour
  • A strong portfolio from Ladakh

💳 Easy Booking

  • ₹20,000 to reserve your seat
  • Balance payment 45 days before tour

👉 Ready to Join?

📩 Enquire Now

Get full details, availability, and quick response

📱 WhatsApp

Directly connect for faster communication


⚡ Final Reminder

Seats fill quickly every season
👥 Small group = high demand

👉 If you’re serious about photographing Ladakh, this is the time to secure your spot.


Any Questions - Contact us on Whatsapp

Note:  If you want a customized tour anywhere in India focused on Photography, I will be happy to organise it for you. 



PICTURES FROM Leh Ladakh Photo Tour / Workshop 2026


Video


FAQ


1. Do I need to be physically fit to join this trip?

We will be traveling by SUVs / Tempo Traveller. However, we will be traveling at high altitudes. We will walk occasionally. Even small walks at high altitudes can be tiring. Climbing stairs of the monasteries are also strenuous.  Please consult your doctor first.

2. Is this trip only for Photographers?

No, anyone can join. We will spend a lot of time taking some great pictures though. I'm sure everyone loves doing that. We have had non-photographers on our previous trips and they enjoy it as much.

3. I have no knowledge of Photography. Will I get some help?

Yes, absolutely.

Even before the tour, we do an orientation session where Saurabh shows his pictures, talk about the camera and the lenses. You can ask your questions too. He will help you with the best settings in the situations that you are going to face.

Saurabh will be assisting you whenever you need help. Please feel free to ask him your question on the field. 

So, you will learn while having fun on the go.

If you have got a new camera recently or struggling with the settings or still taking mediocre pictures, I will highly recommend my online course Zero to Hero. It will help you familiarize with your camera and help you take great pictures. It covers editing too.

Go for it! You will never regret it.



4. I don't have a camera. Can I get a camera or lenses for rent?

Yes, Cameras / Lenses can be arranged based on availability.

5. How do I reach Leh?

Leh is well connected to New Delhi by air.

Pictures and Blog from Ladakh

More FAQ:

1. What is the best time to visit Ladakh for photography?
Ladakh experiences extreme weather conditions, so understanding the best seasons for photography is crucial. Summer (May to September) is a popular time due to milder temperatures and accessibility to most areas. Winter offers unique opportunities for snow and frozen landscapes, but many areas might be inaccessible.

2. What photography equipment should I bring?
Please read this article.

3. What fitness level is required for the tour?
You just need to be on good health. We are not going to do any trekking in this tour. The only strenous activity you are going to do is to climb the stairs of the monasteries.

4. Do I need prior photography experience?
All are welcome. I will assist you to take pictures on location. However, I would advise to have a basic understanding of the camera and exposure. If you are not very sure, you can go through my course Zero to Hero.

5. What kind of transportation be provided during the tour?
Tempo traveller is the best vehicle for these terrains, we use that. For smaller groups, we use Toyota Innova.

6. What is the accommodation like?
Clean hotels or homestays. No fancy hotels.

7. Is Ladakh safe for tourists and photographers?
Absolutely safe in terms of political unrest. Please read this article for health related issues.

8. Do I need any permits for in Ladakh?
Yes. Being close to the China and Pakistan border, permits are required. I will take care of that. Adhaar card is required for the permits. For foreigners, online permits are not issued. The passport is required for physical verification.

9. What are the main photography attractions in Ladakh?
Ladakh has something for everyone. From iconic photography spots, including monasteries, landscapes, lakes, and cultural events. We also do a lot of landscape and astrophotography. Wildlife enthusiasts will also not be disappointed.

10. Will there be opportunities to interact with local people and their culture?
There will be plenty of opportunities to interact and photograph the locals. Generally, we include one festival in our tours. They are great opportunites to shoot the local people in their traditional costumes.

11. What's the group size for the tour?
6

Any Questions - Contact us on Whatsapp


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