Tibet by any other name

If you’ve been inspired by BBC4’s excellently received Year in Tibet series but realise, in current conditions, a visit is out of the question why not check out Imaginative Traveller’s Ladakh – The Hidden Kingdom.

The fully escorted tour takes in this snow-capped peak region of India that is populated by Tibetans – making it one of the world’s most remote Buddhist outposts – as well as Dharamasala, the Dalai Lama’s headquarters.

Just like Tibet, the region is dotted with monasteries and ancient palaces in spectacular lofty locations some of which can be visited on a four-day trek that also visits isolated villages to meet the locals in their fields or homes and a glimpse of a totally different lifestyle.

There’s also an optional white-water rafting trip on the scenic River Indus and other highlights include a stay in a monastery guesthouse and a trip along the second highest highway in the world – from Leh to Manili – with spectacular views on route.

But for many it will be a stay in Dharamasala – home of the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan government in exile – that will be the most treasured part of the trip.

The hill-station is perched on the slopes of the Kangra Valley and is as colourful an example of Tibetan culture – with prayer flags and temples – as any to be seen in the country itself.

Next departure is 26 June which costs £1369 plus US$265 (around £133) local payment, including return flights from Heathrow, jeep, train and bus transport, plus one internal flight, and 17 nights’ accommodation with some meals (hotels, a guesthouse and camping on trek – with all meals).

Other departures are available from July to September for a land-only cost of £825, plus local payment as above. For all departures, flights can be booked independently or arranged by the operator.

Reservations: Imaginative-traveller.com