About Us – Alevsham Collection

About aleVSham Travel Collection

Journeys Across Sacred Lands

aleVSham Travel Collection is a boutique travel project founded by two lovers of the Himalayas — united by a deep respect for sacred landscapes, living traditions, and timeless architecture.

We design meaningful journeys across the Himalayan world and South Asia — where geography, history, and spirituality meet.

The Meaning of Our Name

AleV — from Alevtina, co-founder and ideologist of the collection.
Her vision shapes the philosophy, aesthetics, and cultural depth of every route.

Sham — inspired by the sacred valley of Ladakh — a land of monasteries, high mountain passes, and ancient Silk Route echoes.

Together, aleVSham represents personal vision connected to sacred geography.

Our Mission

To transform travel into a conscious experience — where landscapes are understood, not just seen.

Founders

Driven by passion, guided by experience

Ramesh Tickoo

I am Ramesh Tickoo. I was born and raised in Kashmir, at the foothills of the Himalayas.
The mountains have been my school, my home, and my lifelong path.
I have worked in tourism for over forty years, and during this time I have, quite literally, traversed the whole of India—from the high valleys of Ladakh to the ocean shores of South Asia. I was fortunate to be born in a place where travel is not merely a journey from one point to another, but a way of understanding oneself.

I know the mountain passes, monasteries, and ancient trails once walked by pilgrims and travelers. Hundreds of routes, dozens of expeditions, and thousands of encounters with people have revealed to me the true India—not the tourist version, but a living, wise, and deeply inspiring land.
My partner and close companion, Alevtina Iurkovskaia, shares this passion for travel and the discovery of sacred places. Together, we created aleVSham Travel Collection—an author-driven project that brings together our experience, knowledge, and love for South Asia.
For us, travel is not simply about routes or logistics. It is about stories in which the soul of the land comes alive.
I do not drink or smoke. I respect nature, traditions, and the people I meet along the way. I believe that every journey has the power to transform a person—if one walks the road with an open heart.

Alevtina IurkovskaIa

My name is Alevtina. I am a specialist in India, Sri Lanka, and South Asia, with deep, first-hand knowledge of the cultures, traditions, landscapes, and people of this extraordinary region. Over the past 20 years of travel, expeditions, and professional work with travelers, I have walked, driven, sailed, and truly lived through these lands. And what has not yet been explored is simply waiting ahead.

Why we will connect easily Because I do not just show countries — I reveal their souls. I have seen South Asia from within: stood on the world’s highest motorable road, crossed the Rajasthan desert by motorcycle, traveled the Silk Road by camel, welcomed Himalayan sunrises and prayed alongside Tibetan monks, participated in Bollywood film productions, walked through Mumbai’s slums and watched pelicans on their winter migration, know where to meet a blue whale and where to track the elusive snow leopard, know which temples people visit for health, fortune, and the birth of a long-awaited child, and even where it is possible to walk from India to Sri Lanka. I understand the logic and philosophy of these countries — from southern beaches to northern mountain passes, from the temples of Parvati to the vibrant chaos of Delhi’s markets. I know how twelve people can fit into a car with four seats — and why that feels like happiness rather than inconvenience.

What We Create

We curate:

Every itinerary is designed with historical context, cultural sensitivity, and operational precision.

Himalayan expeditions through Ladakh, Kashmir, Sikkim, and Himachal Pradesh — across high-altitude valleys and remote mountain landscapes. Designed for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and dedicated photography journeys.
Cultural journeys across India — from Mughal gardens and sacred river cities to desert forts, temple architecture, and historic trade routes.
The most luxurious and historic palace stays across India — royal residences and restored heritage estates combining architectural grandeur with refined hospitality.

Sacred routes through Sri Lanka’s ancient capitals and temple cities — immersive explorations of Buddhist heritage, archaeological landscapes, and living spiritual traditions.
Small group departures with fixed dates — thoughtfully structured programs for culturally curious travelers.
Fully bespoke private journeys — individually designed itineraries crafted with precision, discretion, and deep regional knowledge.

Our Approach

Sacred Geography Concept

We interpret destinations through mythology, architecture, dynasties, trade routes, and living traditions.

Small & Refined

We focus on quality over quantity — private clients and carefully designed small groups.

On-Ground Expertise

Decades of experience and trusted local partnerships across India and Sri Lanka.

Authentic & Thoughtful

No superficial tourism. Only immersive, carefully structured journeys.