GHE
$2,500.00
Join a diverse team of 14 women leaders from around the world on a transformative journey focused on sustainability and meaningful impact in the Indian Himalayas.
Easy
9 days
13/09/2025
21/09/2025
Ladakh, India
14 / 14
The Women Leaders Expedition is a transformative journey where women from diverse backgrounds unite for a purpose-driven adventure. Set in the stunning, remote landscape of Ladakh, this women-only expedition will electrify the nunnery at Hanle Monastery, making a lasting impact on the community. Participants will work together to install solar power systems, providing clean energy for the nuns who live and serve there. This experience goes beyond installing solar panels—it's about fostering leadership, building solidarity, and driving sustainable development, all while creating meaningful change in the lives of those in one of the most isolated regions of the world.
You will fly into Leh from New Delhi. Bounded by two of the world’s mightiest mountain ranges, the Himalayas and the Karakoram, Leh lies at an altitude of 12000 ft. You will be received at the airport by the GHE team leaders and welcomed with the traditional Ladakhi silk scarf “Khatak”. You will then be transferred to your hotel where you will be stationed for the next two days. The remainder of the arrival day is for you to relax or explore the local market and the Leh city.
Today begins with a visit to the Leh City and a learning experience on the background of the ancient heritage. We will take a tour of the Leh Fort and the Old City, followed by a visit to the Monastery, where we shall get in touch with the ancient religion of Buddhism and its ideologies. Towards the evening, you will get a chance to visit the market to buy any essential items that you would like for the journey.
After 2 days of staying near Leh and its areas, the team will head across the world’s highest mountain pass (Khardung La) to reach into the majestic Nubra Valley, which is know for the Hunder Sand Dunes, the Diskit Monastery and a unique footprint in terms of the natural beauty. The drive will be slightly long, but we will have multiple stops across the way before finally resting for the day in a beautiful accommodation.
Today is going to be a unique day where the team will get a chance to interact with the villagers and the women of Self Help Group at Sumur village, that is working with GHE on sustainable tourism and homestays. Post the meeting, the team will do a small hike to visit the majestical and spiritual lake of Yarab Tso. Here the team can relax, meditate and spend some time for self reflection.
Today promises to be an extraordinary journey as the team travels from Nubra to the breathtaking Pangong Lake. Along the way, the group will have the opportunity to meet the local communities, learning about their unique ways of life and their connection to the high-altitude environment. The route will take the team along the majestic Shyok River, offering stunning views of the region’s natural beauty. Upon reaching the pristine shores of Pangong Lake, the team will have time to relax, reflect, and soak in the serenity of the crystal-clear waters and surrounding landscapes.
Begin your day with a peaceful yoga session by the tranquil waters of Pangong Lake, setting the tone for a day of discovery and reflection. After enjoying a wholesome breakfast, embark on your journey to Hanle, traveling through the scenic Tsaka La Pass. Along the way, take a moment to visit the historic border village of Chushul, a site marked by significant events from the Indo-Sino War. Here, you can pay your respects at the Rezang-La War Memorial, honoring the bravery and sacrifices of the soldiers. Following this poignant visit, continue onward to the remote and picturesque region of Hanle.
Today is going to be a very special day. Our team will bring light to this centuries old remote monastery, ending eons of darkness that it was immersed in for ages. After breakfast, the Team shall get started to set up the solar panels and do the final touches. The installed grid will then be inaugurated by the villagers in the evening which we shall have a celebratory dinner with the local community
As we embark on our journey back to Leh, we will traverse winding roads from the monastery to the city, surrounded by stunning landscapes. Along the way, we’ll pause at select spots to capture the scenic beauty of the route. We expect to arrive in Leh by early evening, where we will regain connectivity and enjoy some well-deserved rest. Later in the evening, we will gather for a brief reflection session, where team members will share their experiences and insights on the impactful work carried out in the remote community.
“The mighty mountains beckoned and we answered the call. “It’s time to say our farewell all around and make our way back to the airport with the GHE Team Leaders who will assure your safe departure!
The expedition to install five 170W solar microgrids in the village will offset approximately 45 tons of carbon emissions by reducing the community's reliance on traditional energy sources such as kerosene and firewood.
Our calculations indicate that the overall carbon footprint of the 9-day expedition, encompassing emissions from camping, accommodations, and participants' return flights, will be around 53 tons.
Thus, your expedition to the Himalayas promises not only to make a significant positive impact on the community but also to achieve carbon negativity!
Learn moreImpact expeditions that empower remote communities through clean energy and sustainable development, fostering collaboration, cultural exchange, and responsible tourism for all types of travellers.
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