Rise-and-shine reminder: 5 AM
Drive time: 8 – 12 hours
Accommodation: Hotel stay in Kaza
EXCELLENTBased on 17 reviews
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Jay B6 April 2024As I reflect on my journey, memories flood back of the breathtaking displays of the northern lights, the pristine glacier water, the magical allure of the ice caves, and the exhilarating gusts of wind that threatened to whisk me away. And let's not forget the incredible culinary delights that Iceland had to offer. Arun's expertise in selecting our accommodations and destinations ensured that we experienced the full spectrum of Iceland's wonders. Arun is also incredibly patient with any photography-related questions. Over the course of our 10-day journey, I learned a plethora of skills, particularly in night photography and framing, which was incredibly rewarding as a beginner. There was a sense of family with the entire group and am fortunate to have met such lovely people!!Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Madhura Mallya2 April 2024After returning from the Iceland trip, it feels as though I've returned from another world. Traveling with Arun was an incredible experience. He ensured we spent quality time at each destination during our 10-day journey, which seemed to pass in the blink of an eye. We encountered everything from extreme weather conditions like wind, sand, cold, and snow to delightful sunny days. Arun also introduced us to delicious Icelandic seafood at the best local restaurants. Alongside other photographers on the trip, Arun taught me valuable mobile photography techniques. Overall, my Iceland trip was immensely satisfying, made even better by Arun's guidance. I highly recommend!Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Anindya Das2 April 2024A group trip ends succesfully when there are right kind of people and appropriate planning for the trip. Arun has been able to pull both in our Iceland March 2024 trip. He has used his experience in planning the trip as perfectly as it can be possible. We had an amazing time of 5 days of aurora, crazy sunsets, road trips, extra ordinary waterfalls, glaciers and what not. The stays were chosen very wisely and we had very comfortable stays in the trip. Overall we have enjoyed to the fullest, created lifelong memories and saw the extra ordinary beauty of Iceland.Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Vasanth Ramesh Nayak2 April 2024I learnt about this trip via word of mouth and then going through the list of places being covered. The list gave me a sense of feeling that we are covering most of the places and at the same time not hurrying through the places just to cover them! Once we started the trip, we came to know each other and it felt like a closely knit group and we enjoyed the same. Learnt a bit about photography being a part of this . The places which were chosen to stay were also nice which were carefully chosen with major locations in vicinity as well as had all the amenities needed. It was a very enjoyable trip which was curated with love and care and will stay in my memory for a long time to come.Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
pallavi kotha24 January 2024Highly recommend! Perfectly planned. Handpicked home-stays. Warm fun people. 10/10 Experience.Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
VIVEK PONNAPPA21 January 2024Post pandemic I was unable to make time for travel due to my shift in priorities, but Tales and Trails ensured that I did not have to plan a lot to have a break. The experience was quite what i needed and Arun ensured that the group was engaged creating lasting memories and friendships. Looking forward to my next time with this firm for my next expedition.Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Kalyan Sabareeshan19 January 2024Did my first trip with Takes & Trails in Dec 2023 to Spiti. It was an epic experience - met some amazing people who became like family and had some authentic local experiences along the way. If you're someone with the spirit of a wanderer who likes to embrace all kinds of experiences, then do sign up for a trip with T&T. You'll definitely have a memorable one! Here are some pictures from my trip...Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Suraj Krishnan19 January 2024Have been part of Spiti Winter and Summer expeditions. Had been a life changing experience to see the same terrain in different seasons
June 15 - 23 - 2025
Manali
Boutique Hotels/ Homestays
8 nights, 9 days
Breakfast, Dinner
Not exceeding 15
After checking into your hotel in the morning, kick back, rest up and acclimatize. In the afternoon, we’ll dive into exploring Manali’s highlights—starting with the legendary Hadimba Temple, built in the 16th century and home to some fascinating folklore about demons and deities. Next, if time permits, we’ll visit the Manu Temple, dedicated to the sage who, according to legend, is said to have created the world after the great flood! To top it off, we’ll explore old Manali and the lovely cafes and enjoy a riverside dinner, with the calming flow of the Beas River as our soundtrack.
Just a heads-up—if the road from Manali to Spiti is playing hard to get, no worries! We’ll switch gears and take the scenic Shimla to Tabo route to get to Spiti. If that happens, we’ll arrange to pick you up from Chandigarh instead. Don’t worry, the detour would be just as thrilling!
Accommodation: Hotel in Manali
Time to hit the road bright and early! We’ll depart early in the morning, heading through the iconic Atal Tunnel—the world’s longest highway tunnel above 10,000 feet.
As we journey toward Kaza, we’ll pass through the picturesque Sissu village, famous for its stunning waterfall, and cross the rugged terrain of Batal. The breathtaking Kunzum Pass, sitting at over 15,000 feet, will offer jaw-dropping views of snow-capped peaks—don’t forget to take a deep breath, both for the view and for some acclimatization at this high altitude!
Once we arrive in Kaza, the rest of the day will be all about settling in and giving your body time to adjust to the thin mountain air.
Rise-and-shine reminder: 5 AM
Drive time: 8 – 12 hours
Accommodation: Hotel stay in Kaza
Drive time: 2 – 3 hours
Accommodation: Hotel/ Homestay in Kaza
Start the day early by 6 AM with a sunrise shoot of the stunning Key Monastery from Rangrik. With your 70-200mm or 100-400mm lens, you’ll capture breathtaking views of the monastery as it glows in the morning light. Drone enthusiasts—this is your moment!
In the afternoon, we’ll explore Key Monastery itself, visiting the peaceful meditation room and watching the young monks at play. A short trek behind the monastery will give us prime spots for sunset, timelapse, and blue hour shots. If the sky is clear, we’ll try for Milky Way photos later!
Rise-and-Shine call: 5 AM
Drive time: 4 – 5 hours
Accommodation: Hotel in Kaza
Trek level: Easy to moderate
Today is a flexible day to catch our breath and soak in more of Spiti’s charm. We’ll head to Pin Valley to witness some breathtaking landscapes.
As the day winds down, we’ll be perfectly positioned for a serene sunset shoot at Dhankar Monastery—perched high above the confluence of the Spiti and Pin rivers–prepare for some truly epic golden hour shots!
Drive time: 6 – 7 hours
Accommodation: Hotel in Kaza
After a hearty breakfast, we’ll head to Hikkim to send postcards from the world’s highest post office—a truly unique experience! Next, we’ll make our way to Komik village to visit its serene monastery.
Post-lunch (~3:30 pm), we’ll continue to Langza, where we’ll capture a breathtaking sunset and enjoy a cozy dinner at home. As night falls, we’ll head to the iconic Langza Buddha for an unforgettable night shoot. Don’t miss the chance to savor the delicious sea buckthorn tea at the charming Shanti Cafe located right behind the Buddha!
Drive time: 6 – 7 hours
Accommodation: Homestay in Langza
We’ll leave early in the morning, aiming to reach the stunning Chandratal camps by late afternoon. After settling in, we’ll head to the lake for a magical sunset shoot, ensuring we return to the camps before it gets dark.
At night, prepare for a dazzling display as we shoot the Milky Way around the camps and experiment with some creative light-painting shots. Do note, this place can get quite windy and cold, so bundle up for an unforgettable stargazing experience!
Drive time: 7 – 8 hours
Accommodation: Sharing tents at Chandratal
We’ll start our journey back to Manali bright and early. Once we arrive and check into our hotel, the rest of the day is yours to unwind and explore.
In the evening, we’ll head to Old Manali for a stroll through its bohemian atmosphere, and enjoy a cozy dinner. This is the perfect way to wrap up our high-altitude adventure and soak in the local vibe one last time!
Drive time: 7 – 8 hours
Accommodation: Hotel in Manali
We will bid adieu in the morning. You can depart from Manali via an evening bus to Delhi.
Ps.: We may adjust the itinerary as needed for weather, road, or other surprises, which is likely to be expected during the season. If we do encounter such situations, we’ll find an alternate route and stay. Any extra costs in this regard will be your responsibility. Flexibility is key!
Arun will be your adventure leader in the Land of Lamas! A native of God’s own Country, Arun transitioned from an aerospace engineer to a full-time traveler and photographer, passionately showcasing his unique frames through elements of visual harmony. After refusing to settle for the mundane and quitting his corporate career, he biked through some of the most breathtaking trails in India and abroad, made innumerable friends along the way and captured well over 500,000 photographs. He has led more than 25 trips.
Arun adores it when people completely indulge in what they genuinely love. Tales and Trails was born from Arun’s profound love for photography and his desire to share the magic of his experiences with others.
Expedition Cost (Regular) | Details |
---|---|
Cost (Regular) | ₹42,000/- per person (inclusive of 5% GST) |
Advance Payment | ₹21,000/- per person required to secure your booking. |
Balance Payment | ₹21,000/- per person due on or before 60 days on or before the Trip. |
Request an invite to join this expedition. Once you receive an invite from us confirming your request, the advance and balance payments in respect of your expedition must be made in the account (or by way of UPI transfer) as specified by us in our email.
For your Spiti adventure, make sure you pack the following essential documents:
Need to Change Plans? You can transfer your spot to a friend if they’re excited to join the trip. Alternatively, you can keep your funds on hold with us for a future adventure.
Trip Cancellation or Postponement: If the trip is canceled or postponed at our end, you’ll receive a full refund. If the trip is cut short, you’ll receive a partial refund based on the days missed.
Ps. Refunds will be minus any cancellation charges for cars or accommodation or other such services and applicable taxes. Refunds will reach you within 7-10 business days.
You can read our Terms and Conditions for more details on cancellations, transfers and refunds.
We aim to make your adventure as smooth as possible, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or need assistance!
Request an invite to join this expedition. Once you receive an invite from us confirming your request, the advance and balance payments in respect of your expedition must be made in the account (or by way of UPI transfer) as specified by us in our email.
Travel Documents for Iceland: As an Indian citizen, you will need:
Note: Always verify current requirements, as policies may change.
Packing List: Once your spot in our adventure is confirmed, we will share a packing list with you.
Health and Safety: During our Iceland adventure we will explore some of the breathtaking landscapes on foot and a good level of fitness will go a long way! You’ll also need to carry your own luggage. Just keep in mind that offloading isn’t an option in Iceland. Pack wisely!
Need to Change Plans? You can transfer your spot to a friend if they’re excited to join the trip. Alternatively, you can keep your funds on hold with us for a future adventure.
Trip Cancellation or Postponement: If the trip is canceled or postponed at our end, you’ll receive a full refund. If the trip is cut short, you’ll receive a partial refund based on the days missed.
Ps. Refunds will be minus any cancellation charges for cars or accommodation or other such services and applicable taxes. Refunds will reach you within 7-10 business days.
You can read our Terms and Conditions for more details on cancellations, transfers and refunds.
We aim to make your adventure as smooth as possible, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or need assistance!
WhatsApp us