The morning is at leisure. Today there are no fixed plans. After an early morning breakfast, either avail the optional Excursion to Wari – La or séance with the Oracle.
The Wari La, the world's fourth-highest motorable road is one of the most scenic roads of Ladakh. This pass connects the two most exotic and most toured valleys in this Trans-Himalayan region. You get a breathtaking view of the Nubra valley, which lies beyond the pass, as well as the many villages dotting the Indus valley. After a short safety briefing at the top you will cycle down the best track the Ladakh Himalayas have to offer. The road criss-crosses its way on the mountain side into the green oasis of Shakti village, where we will end our trip and then drive back to camp for a late lunch.
Alternatively, you may choose to visit the local oracle. Buddhists are firm believers in the influence of the spirits on the material world. This is taken into consideration when any new venture or major activity is to be initiated. The lamas associated with the monasteries play the key role of a mediator between the world of the humans and the spirits. Not only do they perform the rites necessary to appease the gods, but they also take on the role of astrologers and oracles who can predict an auspicious time for starting any work, whether ploughing the fields, or taking in the harvest, arranging a marriage or going on a journey. Today you have the opportunity to drive to the village of the Oracle for a séance session in Ladakh.
Later, this afternoon, you will drive 20 kilometres (1hr) to visit the Stok Palace, across the River Indus. Take a walk through the Palace, a beautiful medieval fortress, serving as the residence of the Queen Mother and Prince of Ladakh. A section of this Palace has been converted into a museum which houses some of the most interesting and priceless collections of the Royal family. Admire some of the exquisite royal perak (headgear) embedded with priceless coral and turquoise. The museum also exhibits Royal costumes, coins, photographs and paintings. Continue onwards to the Stok village. Explore the rustic beauty of the village as you walk down the narrow lanes, catching a glimpse of local village life, culminating at a quaint Ladakhi house, where you can enjoy a nice cup of tea.
Return to your camp for a restful overnight stay.