A 7-Day Leh Ladakh Trip Itinerary For First-Time Visitors

We sent Chandrika on a once-in-a-lifetime Ladakh trip. She came back to tell us how everyone can make it happen.

A land many have heard of, but only the ones with adventure in their hearts have dared to venture to. A land of rugged mountains that coexist alongside the mystical chants of Buddhist prayers – the recently declared Indian Union Territory of Ladakh is this and so much more! 

Located in the northern part of the Indian sub-continent bordering Tibet, Ladakh is shrouded in a certain mystery, despite having gained a lot of popularity in the past few years.

Filled with adrenaline-inducing twists and turns, high mountain passes, and some of the most beautiful mountain ranges in India, a trip through Ladakh is the perfect way to get an introduction to the Himalayan region. 

leh ladakh tour itinerary

Ladakh is a high-altitude region, meaning, no matter which part of Ladakh you are at, you’ll find yourself at a minimum altitude of 3000 meters (9800 feet) above sea level. This is important to mention here because this is considerably higher than most people are used to and the high altitude affects many aspects of travel in this region.

To help you execute that dream Ladakh trip, this 7-day itinerary designed by India Someday and Unplugged Life will take you through some of the biggest highlights of the region, while giving you a sense of what it means to be traveling in a destination as unique as this.

How to get to Ladakh

Before we dive deep into the specifics of the itinerary, it’s crucial to plan your arrival in Ladakh. The best way to reach Ladakh is to fly in. The biggest town in Ladakh is Leh, which is connected by air with India’s capital city, New Delhi.

Daily direct flights are running between Delhi ’s Indira Gandhi International Airport and Leh’s Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, run by 3 Indian airlines – Air India, SpiceJet, and GoAir. If you are traveling from another country or Indian city, you’ll first have to get to Delhi to catch the 1.5-hour flight to Leh.

Although there are multiple flights available daily, do keep in mind that the weather in Leh largely determines flight schedules. Turbulent weather is pretty common in this region so flights taking off an hour early or an hour late is not unheard of. Having said that, we have to admit that the destination is worth all that trouble!

Leh Ladakh 7-day itinerary

Day 1 – land in leh and rest.

leh ladakh tour itinerary

The erstwhile capital of the Himalayan kingdom of Ladakh, Leh is perched at an altitude of 3524 meters (11562 feet) and is home to some of the most popular attractions in the region.

The landscape in Leh is rugged, with a backdrop of barren mountains, while the weather is generally dry and very hot during the day and slightly chilly at night, depending on which month of the year you visit.

Most flights to Leh land sometime in the morning or early afternoon, so you can expect to have more than half a day to spare. But this is a day to take it easy. Remember you’ve just landed at a high altitude destination practically from the sea level (Delhi lies at an altitude of roughly 200m above sea level) and that means your body needs time to acclimatize to this drastic change.

The process of acclimatization can take a while, about 24-48 hours for most people. But no matter how you feel on day 1 (we know you’re excited!), you must take as much rest as you can and keep yourself hydrated. This is a day of barely any physical activity, so go ahead and enjoy the views from your hotel and indulge in the local Ladakhi food to gear up for the next day.

Where to stay in Leh : Gangba Homestay

leh ladakh tour itinerary

A picture-postcard-like setting with a traditional Ladakhi-style building, an apple orchard, and a view of snowy peaks in the distance – Gangba Homestay is truly a home away from home.

leh ladakh tour itinerary

Run by a local family, they are the warmest, most welcoming hosts you could ask for in Leh! To top that, the food served in the homestay is delicious and homely, while the rooms are very spacious, well-equipped, and comfortable. But what sets Gangba Homestay apart is their hospitality and the staff’s mindset to always go the extra mile to care for their guests.

Day 2 – Leh city tour

Your second day in Ladakh will also be spent in Leh to continue with the acclimatization process. However, on this day you’ll be taking a tour of the beautiful city and its surrounding areas. 

Confluence (Sangam) of the Indus and Zanskar Rivers

leh ladakh tour itinerary

Located around 35 Km away from Leh town, the point of confluence of the mighty Indus and Zanskar Rivers is your first stop for the day. The different shades of green of the two rivers’ water are distinctly visible with bare eyes, making it a place worth visiting during your stay in Leh.

You can either choose to drive down to the exact point of confluence, maybe enjoy the view with a cup of steaming hot tea, or you could also get a bird’s eye view of the confluence from a vantage point. Depending on which time of the year you visit, you’ll notice how different both rivers look individually, leading up to their meeting point.

Magnetic Hill

leh ladakh tour itinerary

A very popular tourist attraction in Leh, Magnetic Hill is technically a small stretch of road on the Leh-Kargil Highway. It is popularly known to be a spot where gravitational forces can be defied, due to a so-called magnetic pull from the surrounding mountains. Although this spot has maintained its popularity among tourists, there is not much truth to what happens here.

The landscape of the surrounding mountains and slopes is such that, to our eyes, it looks like the road is sloping uphill, but in reality the road slopes downhill making cars roll down even on neutral gear. But having said that, it’s a great spot to stop by for a while and get a good look at the stunning landscape.

Lunch at a local Tibetan restaurant

Ladakh is not only well known for its natural beauty, but for its delicious local cuisine too. With heavy influences from the neighboring Tibetan cuisine, you’d be missing out on an important cultural element if you don’t give Ladakhi food a try.

Head to Tenzin Dickey Tibetan Restaurant , located less than a kilometer from Leh’s main market, for a sumptuous lunch of local dumplings, noodles, soups, and an assortment of drinks. The restaurant is unassuming and cozy and the food makes you feel right at home.

leh ladakh tour itinerary

Belonging to the Namgyal dynasty of Ladakh, Leh Palace is the former residential palace of the royal family. Perched on top of a hill, the palace overlooks Leh and has now been converted into a museum for visitors to get a glimpse of Ladakhi royal heritage.

A tour of the 9-storeyed palace takes you through almost 450 years of artifacts belonging to the royal family. Although the palace is still under renovation, it is worth a visit for the incredible bird’s eye view of the city it offers.

Leh main market

leh ladakh tour itinerary

Leh’s main bazaar is a colorful, bustling market in the city center and the perfect place to spend a leisurely evening strolling through its narrow alleys. The market is home to shops selling all kinds of local products – from fresh produce to souvenirs and handicraft items.

Pick up Tibetan prayer flags and wheels or silver jewelry, taste local dry fruits like apricots, figs, and walnuts, and end the day with a meal at one of the many cafes lining the street.

Day 3 – Drive to Nubra Valley via Khardung La

leh ladakh tour itinerary

On your third day in Ladakh, it’s time to venture out of the city into the mountains!

The curvy roads of Ladakh can be unforgivable so it is important to be accompanied by an experienced local driver. Some stretches of road are steep and bumpy and you need a good car for better comfort. You can hire a private car but keep in mind that the cost of transport is quite high in Ladakh.

A good option for solo travelers and couples is to use shared taxis that are available for all kinds of tours in Ladakh , including the 3-day Nubra-Pangong tour. This helps saving money by sharing the cost of transport with other travelers. Sharing a car also helps to reduce the number of vehicles on the road, and therefore, the pollution.

The drive from Leh to Nubra Valley takes approximately 5-6 hours. But the biggest highlight of the drive is climbing up to the Khardung La (La is the Ladakhi word for a mountain pass) and crossing it to get to the other side of the Ladakh mountain range.

The pass is situated at an altitude of 17,582 feet (5359m) and is considered to be one of the highest motorable passes in the world.

leh ladakh tour itinerary

The winding mountain road leading up to Khardung La is spectacular and is a treat in itself. Once at the top of the pass, spend 15-20 minutes exploring the surroundings without exerting your body too much.

It is important to remember that there is very little oxygen available to breathe at such high altitude, so take it easy and enjoy the breathtaking views of the snow-covered mountains.

leh ladakh tour itinerary

Once you cross Khardung La and start driving towards Nubra Valley, the landscape changes dramatically. The drive past Shyok River towards the lush green valley of Nubra is worth keeping your eyes peeled for!

leh ladakh tour itinerary

By the time you get to your hotel in Nubra Valley after several pit stops on the way, it’ll probably be late afternoon.

Read more: 8 Snowy Destinations in Asia for Mountain and Winter Lovers

Complete your check-in formalities and head to the famous Hundar dunes to catch the sunset, with herds of Bactrian Camels for company. The Bactrian Camels are native to this region and are known for their ability to withstand high altitudes and extreme cold.

leh ladakh tour itinerary

To say the least, the landscape here is equally fascinating, with rolling sand dunes as far as the eyes can see, enclosed by towering rocky mountains on all sides.

Where to stay in Nubra Valley – Stone Hedge Ladakh

leh ladakh tour itinerary

A gorgeous property located just 10 minutes away from the Hundar sand dunes, Stone Hedge is one of the most luxurious hotels you will come across in Ladakh.

leh ladakh tour itinerary

Like a little oasis in the desert, with a natural spring flowing in the backyard, a lush garden whichever direction you look, and warm and cozy interiors, Stone Hedge sets the bar high.

Their rooms are exceptionally well-furnished with perfect mood lighting, elegant wood furniture, a room heater (rarely found elsewhere in Ladakh), and a lovely balcony that opens up to the backyard.

Day 4 – Drive to Pangong Lake

Check out from your hotel in Nubra Valley this morning and head back to the dunes once again if you want to see it in daylight. The difference is stark and worth another visit. Alternatively, you can directly head to Diskit Monastery in Nubra Valley before starting the drive towards Pangong Lake. 

leh ladakh tour itinerary

The Diskit Monastery is the oldest and largest monastery in Nubra Valley. The iconic statue of the Maitreya Buddha stands tall here at a height of 32 meters and overlooks the vast plains of the Shyok River flowing nearby. 

leh ladakh tour itinerary

After a tour of the monastery, it’s time to get on your way to Pangong Lake. The drive is roughly 6 hours long and takes you through picturesque mountain roads.

Flanked by the Shyok River on one side for most of the journey, this drive takes you from an altitude of about 10,000 feet (3048 meters) to 14,270 feet (4350 meters), where Pangong Lake is located.

leh ladakh tour itinerary

Pangong Tso (Tso is the Ladakhi word for lake) is a saline water lake that spreads across India and Tibet. In fact, 60% of the lake lies in Tibet. But given its massive length and width, it would take roughly 3 hours to drive along its coast only on the Indian side.

leh ladakh tour itinerary

Popular for its stunning turquoise blue water, Pangong Tso is one of the biggest attractions in all of Ladakh. However, do keep in mind that the appearance of the lake largely depends on which time of the year you visit.

The lake is completely frozen in the winter while the peak summer months from June to August are when it reveals all its colors.

leh ladakh tour itinerary

Once you reach Pangong Tso, check into your accommodation for the night. After that, you’ll have the evening free to either take a stroll near the lake or sit at one of the small restaurants, enjoy the view while sipping hot tea.

Do keep in mind that as the sun sets, it tends to get chilly in this part of Ladakh, the extent of which again depends on the season. So get ready to layer up some warm clothes and snuggle in for the night!

Where to stay in Pangong Tso – Native Huts

leh ladakh tour itinerary

There are no permanent hotels near Pangong Lake, so be prepared for a night of adventure staying in these wooden huts specially constructed for tourists while the travel season lasts. The huts come with an attached western toilet and have basic amenities like fresh towels, warm blankets, and charging points (operational from 6 pm to 11 pm).

The owners of these huts are very helpful and accommodating so if you want more blankets or hot water, just let them know. They also arrange fresh, hot meals for guests in a separate dining space inside another hut, and that food at the end of a long, cold day truly warms the heart.

Read more: 10 Awesome Treks And Hikes In India

Day 5 – Drive back to Leh via Chang La

This will be the last day of driving through Ladakh, but expect it to be no less exciting than the previous two days!

The journey from Pangong Lake back to Leh takes close to 6 hours and will take you via Chang La, a mountain pass situated at an altitude of 17,590 feet (5360 meters).

leh ladakh tour itinerary

The drive to Chang La is relatively bumpier than what you would have experienced while driving to Khardung La, but the experience of getting to the top of the pass is incredible. 

leh ladakh tour itinerary

On the way from Chang La to Leh, make another stop at the famous Hemis Monastery. With a long and rich history, the monastery also houses a museum that showcases artifacts from the museum’s heritage.

leh ladakh tour itinerary

Considered to be one of the largest monasteries in Ladakh, the highlight of visiting Hemis is the huge statue of Guru Rinpoche and the monastery’s unique architecture.

Day 6 – Explore Leh

Spend your final day in Ladakh seeing more of Leh and wrapping up your visit. This would be a good day to revisit the local market to pick up souvenirs to take home, in addition to visiting the following places.

Thiksey Monastery

leh ladakh tour itinerary

Start your day early with a visit to the Thiksey Monastery to witness the morning prayer chanting session. Get there by 7 am so you can get in the prayer hall in time without disturbing the monks. It may seem way too early, but the experience is magical!

leh ladakh tour itinerary

As the sun rises and illuminates the surrounding snow-capped peaks, the monks begin their day together by rhythmically chanting Buddhist prayers – an experience not to be missed in Leh.

Shanti Stupa

leh ladakh tour itinerary

Constructed as part of a Peace Pagoda Mission, the Shanti Stupa was built jointly by the Buddhist community of Japan and Ladakh. While the iconic white dome sits at the top, the Shanti Stupa houses the relics of the Buddha at its base.

Visited for its religious as well as architectural value, there’s a certain air of calm surrounding the Stupa, as it sits looking over the vast expanse of Leh.

Stok Palace

leh ladakh tour itinerary

Located on the western bank of River Indus, the Stok Palace was originally built as the summer home of Ladakh’s royal family. Currently, this is where the royal family resides all year long.

The palace also has several museum rooms that display lots of ancient artifacts belonging to the royal family- from precious jewelry and royal attires to weapons and items of daily use.

leh ladakh tour itinerary

A part of the Stok Palace has now been transformed into a heritage hotel and opened up to travelers who want to experience the royal way of living for a few days.

Lunch in the orchard at Chulli Bagh

leh ladakh tour itinerary

After a tour of the Stok Palace, head to the nearby Chulli Bagh, which is essentially the royal family’s orchard, with apricot and walnut trees dominating the scene.

leh ladakh tour itinerary

Settle down for a luxurious lunch amidst the lush greenery of the meticulously maintained orchard and enjoy a delicious meal accompanied by freshly plucked fruits from the garden.

Ladakhi cultural show

leh ladakh tour itinerary

Now that it’s almost time to wrap up your final day in Leh, head back to the hotel to watch a vibrant cultural show displaying the beautiful dance forms and music of Ladakh.

Ladakh has a rich culture comprising beautiful folk dances native to different parts of the region, performed by both men and women, depending on the dance form.

leh ladakh tour itinerary

Decked in traditional costumes and jewelry, it’s a real treat to watch the locals match steps while humming Ladakhi songs. 

Day 7 – Depart from Leh

This is a day of no activity since you have to catch a flight out of Leh back to Delhi. Depending on your flight time, you may be able to squeeze in a couple of hours in the morning to visit the local market or the village if you want, for a final glimpse of life in Ladakh!

leh ladakh tour itinerary

Ladakh is vast and a one-week trip may not entirely do justice to its beauty. But if this is all the time you have, this itinerary is a good place to start planning your trip.

In case you want a curated, personalized itinerary, connect with India Someday and Unplugged Life for an unparalleled experience of Leh and Ladakh after checking these tips to spice your travel itinerary up !

Read the author’s honest review of both companies .

Contributing members are responsible for the accuracy of content contributed to A World to Travel.

leh ladakh tour itinerary

Beyond Wild Places

Your guide to the wilder side of life

A Complete 10-Day Leh Ladakh Itinerary

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A trip to Ladakh is undoubtedly on many intrepid travellers bucket lists. The mystical Indian Himalayan region is still one of the most underrated places on earth. Despite it being a very remote corner of the Indian subcontinent, you’ll be surprised that you can see a lot in a short time with this Ladakh itinerary.

Over 10 days, you can visit the famous Pangong Lake, ancient monasteries of Hemis and Lamayuru, the former Silk Road trading route of Nubra Valley, and crumbling palaces with panoramic views over the arid, snow-capped landscape. This itinerary I’ve put together covers the best things to do in Ladakh over 10 days based on my multiple trips to the region.

Whether you fly into Leh for a short trip or incorporate this into a longer North India adventure travelling by road, your time in Ladakh will undoubtedly be something you’ll never forget. Buckle up for some long drives, and you’ll be blown away by the incredible land forms and ancient history awaiting in Ladakh.

Disclaimer:  This post contains affiliate links which means I get a commission if you buy a product through my link at no extra cost to you. By doing so, I can keep this blog going and continue to create helpful guides for you. Read more:  Privacy Policy

When to Visit Ladakh

The best time to visit Ladakh is from mid-May until end of September . This is when the region sees its best weather with warm days and relatively mild nights. The roads and trekking routes are also guaranteed to be clear of snow during these summer months, making places easier to access.

Ladakh itinerary pin

Where to Stay in Leh

Leh is the main town and base for exploring Ladakh. The town has hundreds of accommodation choices, from homestays and hostels to high end hotels. I’d recommend picking somewhere that is comfortable for you and your budget, as you’ll be spending most of the time in this Ladakh itinerary based in Leh. Here are my top picks:

Budget:   Raybo Hostel

Budget:   Peace Guest House

Midrange:   Chandan Guest House

Midrange:   Rock Castle Residency

High-end:  Grand Dragon

Read more:   Best Places to Stay in Leh, Ladakh For All Budgets

Basgo Monastery

How to Get Around Ladakh

Travelling by road is one of the best parts of any Ladakh trip. The scenery from the various road trips in the region offer jaw dropping views that you’ll want to savour every minute (even if some of the drives are long, bumpy and windy).

There are a few ways to get around Ladakh to the various sights and day trips in this itinerary. Which way you choose will depend on your budget and comfort level. However, for this 10 day itinerary, I would recommend a combination of taxis for day trips and a shared group tour for the trip to Pangong Lake and Nubra Valley (unless you want to arrange a private tour).

Here’s more specific information for each transport option:

Public bus: Public transport is a little limited in Ladakh. You’ll need a lot of time and patience if you plan on using local buses to get to all the best places. If you only have 10 days, this is not ideal. But if you have more than 10 days, check out my guide to Leh for more information on the public transport options in the region.

Driving to Lamayuru

Taxi: This is very ideal for day trips. You can easily organise taxis in Leh to take you to Thiksey, Lamayuru, Hemis, Alchi and more. A popular day trip combining Shey, Thiksey and Hemis costs around 3700 INR (AU$70) for the day as an example. You’ll have to budget more for the drive to Alchi and Lamayuru.

Group tours: Joining group tours to Pangong Lake and Nubra Valley is a popular option. In high season from June until August, you’ll find groups leaving every day in shared taxis for 3-4 days. You can easily organise this upon arrival in Leh.

Private tours: If you want to organise all your Ladakh trip in advance, then I suggest arranging a 10 day tour through a local company in Leh. They can help arrange taxis for day trips, and a private car for Pangong Lake and Nubra Valley. I highly recommend Gonbo of Lungta Travel . He’s also the owner of Rock Castle Residency Guesthouse in Leh and can help with arranging all of this for you.

For more detailed information on these options: Comprehensive Travel Guide to Ladakh

View of Stok Kangri

Overview of this 10-Day Ladakh Itinerary

Day 1: Fly from Delhi to Leh

Day 2: Acclimatise in Leh

Day 3: acclimatise and explore leh town.

Day 4: Day trip to Thiksey, Hemis and Shey

Day 5: Day trip to Lamayuru and Alchi

Day 6: road trip to nubra valley via khardung la, day 7: drive to pangong lake and stay the night, day 8: return to leh, day 9: relax in leh (optional visit to stok village), day 10: fly back to delhi.

View from Shanti Stupa

Detailed 10 Day Ladakh Itinerary

Here’s how I would spend 10 days in Ladakh, if you’re prepared to take some long driving days and want to see as much as you can in a short time.

Day 1: Delhi to Leh

If you’re opting for a quick 10-day trip to Ladakh, then it’s likely you’ll be flying into Leh from Delhi. There are frequent flights every day from Delhi to Leh, mostly in the morning hours. It’s widely considered one of the most beautiful flights in the world.

Flights are run by Air India, Vistara, SpiceJet, and IndiGo. The flight time is around 1.5 hours and can cost anywhere from 3000INR (AU$60) to 9000INR (AU$180) one way.

If you prefer to travel to Leh, Ladakh by public transport , then you can also come via Manali or Srinagar, depending on how much time you have and your trip plans. Read my guide on getting to Leh by public transport for more information.

Once you arrive in Leh, you’ll want to head straight to your accommodation and rest for the remainder of the day. The altitude will likely hit you after about 2-3 hours of being in Leh, so it’s best to relax and stay hydrated for the afternoon to adjust slowly.

Read more: 20 Best Things to Do in Delhi

Leh bazaar

Your first full day in Leh should also be considered an acclimatisation day. You may wake up on this day with a headache, shortness of breath, and fatigue, which are common symptoms when arriving in Ladakh from Delhi.

The best way to avoid getting sick and easing into the altitude is to rest as much as possible , stay hydrated, and eat regular, small meals to maintain energy.

Try not to do too much on this day, unless you’re coming from somewhere else that is around 2000m or higher. You could walk somewhere into town for dinner, if you’re feeling up to it.

View from Central Asian Museum

You’ll still be acclimatising for at least 48 hours after arriving, so on day three you shouldn’t try to overexert yourself too much. But, you’re probably keen to get out and start exploring this beautiful mountain town. Here’s how I recommend you spend your day:

Morning: Breakfast at your guesthouse or a cafe in the main market area (my top picks include Bodhi Terrace, Bon Appetit, or Asian Corner Restaurant)

Mid-morning: Explore the Central Asian Museum and then wander around the main market

Lunch: Taste the local Tibetan food at Tibetan Kitchen

Afternoon: Explore Leh Palace and Tsemo Maitreya Temple

Dinner: Chopsticks or Wanderers Terrace

Read more: 25 Best Things to Do in Ladakh

Thiksey Monastery

Day 4: Day trip to Thiksey and Hemis Monasteries (plus Shey Palace if you have time)

Get ready for a day trip out to the east of town to some of the most impressive monasteries and villages of the Ladakh area. If you have patience you could get to Thiksey Monastery and Shey Palace by bus, or take a taxi for the day and visit all three places including Shey Palace.

Hemis Monastery is one of the most important in the region. It was originally established in the 17th century and is tucked into a gorge in Hemis National Park. The most impressive part of the complex is the museum, holding the most important Buddhist relics and artefacts of India.

Thiksey Monastery is an imposing monastery built in a similar style to the Potala Palace in Lhasa. The temples at the top of the gompa hold some beautiful Buddhist statues and monuments, plus the view over the valley is incredible.

View from Shey Palace

Another day trip, this one longer than the day before, the drive to Lamayuru is one of the most beautiful in the region. You’ll wind through incredible moonscapes and small villages, with dramatic mountain peaks and raging rivers on either side. After about three hours, you’ll arrive in Lamayuru , the oldest monastery in Ladakh.

Built over several levels across the rocky landscape, it’s easily one of the most impressive sights. Plus, if you time your visit for the midday puja, you can sit with the monks and listen to their their chanting prayers.

On the way back to Leh, stop in at Alchi to visit the unique 1,000 year old Buddhist murals and shrines hidden off the main highway. There’s also some delicious local restaurants there, the standout being Alchi Kitchen, if you time it for a lunchtime meal.

Khardung La Road

Another few days of long drives ahead, but the scenery makes it all worthwhile. Either join a group tour or hire a private driver to take you to two of the most famous sights in Ladakh: Nubra Valley and Pangong Lake.

On this day, you’ll leave Leh and drive first up to Khardung La pass . Connecting Leh with Nubra Valley, Khardung La sits at 5,360m and was once the highest motorable road in the world (now overtaken by another road in India). It’s an essential photo op, before descending down towards Nubra Valley, the Shyok River and the Karakoram Mountains.

Double humped camels in Nubra Valley

Once part of the old Silk Road trading route across Asia and connecting Pakistan with Tibet, Nubra Valley is a stunning place. Visit Diskit Monastery and it’s Maitreya Buddha statue, sitting high above the valley floor, with panoramic views across the eastern Karakoram Mountains.

Then, head to the village of Hunder to take a look at the double humped camels or Bactrian camels roaming the mountain backed sand dunes.

Stay overnight in either Hunder or Diskit.

Where to stay in Diskit?  Ama Guesthouse or  Himalayan Regal House Where to stay in Hunder?   Hunder Stay and Camp  or  Hunder Haven

Jeep tour to Pangong Tso

From Diskit or Hunder drive back through the valley, and towards Pangong Lake. While the drive is quite long and arduous in some parts, keep soaking up the incredible mountain views out the window.

Pangong Lake is one of the world’s highest saltwater lakes sitting at 4,250m. It’s a sacred site for Buddhists, with almost 2/3 of the lake actually lying across the border in Tibet. It’s bright blue colour shimmering against the arid, desert-like mountains makes it an otherworldy sight that draws many visitors each year.

Stay the night on the shores of the lake. The most popular place is  Spangmik , a cluster of glamping style tents and small hotels. However, the overcommercialisation of this village has led many people to continue further to  Man  or even further to  Merak . You’ll find more laidback tents and homestays in the latter villages.

Where to stay?   Nirvana Resort  in Spangmik or Pangong Travel Camp in Man

Pangong Lake

The final long day of driving, as you head back to Leh via Changla Pass at 5,360m. You’ll likely need to relax in the afternoon in Leh after all that driving or head to one of the cafes in Leh to eat good food.

On your final day in Leh, you may not feel like driving anywhere! You can hang around the town of Leh and do some shopping in the main market area instead.

If you want to do some extra sightseeing, head to Stok village , just a half an hour drive from Leh. At the base of Stok Kangri, Stok was home to the royal family of Ladakh, the Namgyals, after they fled during the invasion of the Dogras. Check out the 71-foot Gautama Buddha statue and monastery above the village, or arrange to have lunch at Gyab-thago Heritage Homestay, where you can try a traditional Ladakhi meal in a family home.

Shanti Stupa view of Leh

I highly recommend heading out to Shanti Stupa for sunset, as the perfect ending to this Ladakh itinerary. Shanti Stupa is the white peace pagoda you can see north-west of the Leh bazaar on a small hilltop. It was built in 1991 with funds from the Japanese, and it offers an impressive panoramic view of town.

Flights back to Delhi from Leh tend to leave early in the morning.

Hiking up to a pass on the Sham Valley trek

Want to Go Trekking in Ladakh?

You’ll need to allow a minimum of two weeks in Leh if you want to add a trek to this itinerary. Otherwise, you could skip the day trips to Lamayuru and Hemis if you were really short on time.

The Sham Valley Trek is a three day moderate trek that could be easily added onto this itinerary. The highest point of the trail is just under 4000m, so it’s doable for those with limited time.

If you preferred something longer and more challenging, the Markha Valley Trek is a five day trek that goes over 5000m. I’d recommend undertaking this trail after spending a week in Ladakh or longer, to ensure you’re properly acclimatised.

More Essential Reading for Ladakh

  • Comprehensive Travel Guide to Ladakh
  • Ultimate North India Itinerary: 1 Month in Kashmir, Ladakh and Himachal Pradesh
  • Best Places to Stay in Leh, Ladakh For All Budgets
  • 25 Best Things to Do in Ladakh
  • How to Get to Leh, Ladakh By Public Transport ‘

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[…] Read more: A Detailed 10 Day Leh Ladakh Itinerary […]

Thank you author for your blog. Keep it up.

how much would be approx budget for this, assuming we start from mumbai and not delhi, and stay in budget hotels + group trips instead of prrivate

I have a budget breakdown on my Ladakh Travel Guide, so you can find prices for everything there. Accommodation can be 800-1000inr per night, three day tour to pangong and nubra can be 4500inr per person. Also depends whether you’re flying into Leh or driving.

[…] Detailed 10 Day Leh Ladakh Itinerary […]

I absolutely loved reading “A Complete 10-Day Leh Ladakh Itinerary”! Your blog perfectly captures the adventure, culture, and breathtaking beauty of this incredible region. As a fellow blogger who has also visited Leh Ladakh, I could totally relate to your experiences—the stunning landscapes, the rich culture, and the unmatched peace of the mountains. Your detailed itinerary is super helpful, and the way you’ve described each place makes me want to revisit soon. Thanks for sharing such a well-crafted guide, and keep inspiring others with your amazing journeys!

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5 Days Leh Ladakh Itinerary

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Day 1: Arrival in Leh Day 2: Leh to Sham Valley Day 3: Leh to Nubra Valley via Khardung-La Pass Day 4: Nubra Valley to Leh Day 5: Leh to Pangong Lake Day 6: Departure  Ladakh has always been known as an “explorer’s hub” with a panoramic view and numerous picturesque places to visit. The views offered here are breathtaking and one of its kind in the entire nation. Leh Ladakh is visited by thousands of solo travelers, groups of friends and families every year making it a popular tourist attraction all across the globe. However, not many know that this bustling place can be easily explored with an itinerary of Leh Ladakh in 5 days. There are a plethora of unique destinations such as Leh , Nubra valley,  Kargil , Zanskar Valley and many more. Choose a Ladakh tour package by Thrillophilia and gear up for an amazing adventure through the scenic landscapes of Leh and Ladakh. On your 5 days trip to Ladakh, you will get a chance to learn about the rich culture and admire the beauty of this Himalayan paradise. You can visit some famous attractions like the beautiful Pangong Lake and the historic Leh Palace. Also, you can take part in thrilling activities like trekking amidst the mountains or exploring local villages to learn about their unique culture during your trip to Ladakh

You can also enjoy camel rides amidst the dunes while exploring Nubra Valley. If you are a trekking lover, you can trek on various famous routes like the Markha Valley Trek and the Stok Kangri Trek. So, book your Ladakh tour package by Thrillophilia and have a remarkably adventurous travel experience.

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5 Days Itinerary for Leh Ladakh Trip

Day 1: arrival in leh.

Day 1: Arrival in Leh

1. Upon your arrival in Leh, you will be welcomed by our representatives to help you get to the hotel. 2. Once you reach the hotel, you must complete the formalities and documentation while checking-in. 3. Post the check-in, we will provide you with a welcome breakfast and leave you to rest in your rooms. 4. Your Ladakh expedition will begin in the evening at Shanti Stupa , a white-domed Buddhist stupa located on a hilltop, which denotes 2500 years of Buddhism. 5. Then we will move on to the Leh Palace which was constructed in the 17th century. It will give you a great opportunity to learn more about their culture. 6. After visiting both the tourist attractions, you can visit Leh market  where you can shop for local handicrafts &  you will get a chance to enjoy delicious Ladakhi cuisine as well. 7. Once you are done with the shopping, mouth-watering dinner will be waiting for you. If you are Planning a Trip to Ladakh, must Checkout: Leh Ladakh Tour Packages Also Checkout:  Ladakh Family Tour Packages

Day 2: Leh to Sham Valley

Day 2: Leh to Sham Valley

1. Wake up to the beautiful views of mountains visible from your windows and a delicious breakfast in bed. 2. On your second day in the 5 days trip to Ladakh, get ready for an adventurous trip to “Sham Valley”. 3. You can pay your respect to the martyrs of the Indo-Pak war at the Hall of Fame. 4. You can enjoy a scrumptious langar at Gurudwara Pathar Sahib and understand more about the history of how it was constructed by the Indian army. 5. Another tourist attraction included in your 5 days Leh Ladakh itinerary is the Magnetic Hill , which is a small stretch of the road that defies the principle of gravity. 6. You can also visit SECMOL, the school where the movie 3 Idiots was shot. 7. After a day filled with thrilling adventure you can return back to the hotel for dinner and get some goodnight sleep. Distance between Leh and Sham Valley: 75 kms Know More:  Manali to Leh Ladakh Guide Click Here to Book:   Ladakh Tour Packages From Hyderabad

Day 3: Leh to Nubra Valley via Khardung-La Pass

Day 3: Leh to Nubra Valley via Khardung-La Pass

1. After getting a healthy breakfast in the morning, prepare yourself for the ultimate adventure planned for the day. 2. You will get an opportunity to experience some of the highest passes in the world starting with Khardung-La Pass, the world's highest motorable road. 3. Once you are done exploring the Khardung-La Pass you will be taken to Nubra Valley and its sand dunes for a change in landscape. 4. You can enjoy the exclusive double-humped camel ride, found in this region on the silk route. 5. Then you will be taken to camping sites in Nubra valley where you can enjoy a bonfire under the sky full of stars. Distance between Nubra Valley and Khardung-La Pass: 120 kms If You are Planning to rent a bike in Ladakh then Checkout:  Leh Ladakh Bike Rentals Also Book:  Ladakh Tour Packages From Surat

Lamayuru Monastery

Day 4: Nubra Valley to Leh

Day 4: Nubra Valley to Leh

1. Wake up to a gorgeous morning in the Nubra Valley where you will be served a wholesome breakfast. 2. Get ready for the main highlight of your 5 days trip to Ladakh, as we brace ourselves to visit the Pangong Lake. 3. Pangong Lake is one of the highest altitude lakes in the world where you can witness the water change its color from blue to red to green. 4. We include spending some leisure time in the beautiful surroundings of Pangong Lake with your loved ones in your 5 days Leh Ladakh itinerary. 5. Then we will camp overnight near the Pangong Lake where you will be provided with mouth-watering dinner. Distance between Nubra Valley and Leh: 160 kms Must Read:  Srinagar to Leh Road Trip Guide You can Also Checkout:  Leh Ladakh Group Tour Packages

Day 5: Leh to Pangong Lake

Day 5: Leh to Pangong Lake

1. Wake up to the mesmerising views of Pangong Lake and get a scrumptious breakfast. 2. As we head back to Leh, we will make a pitstop at the Chang-La Pass which is one of the highest passes in the world. 3. You can visit Changla Baba Temple on top of the pass. 4. Further we will move forward to the Druk Padma school where the last scene of the famous ‘3 Idiots’ movie was shot. 5. If time permits, you can also visit Shey Palace and Thiksey Monastery on your way back to Leh. 6. Upon reaching Leh we will head back to the hotel where you can relax, have dinner in peace and stay for the night. Distance between Pangong Lake and Leh: 223 kms Know More:  Road Trip to Leh Ladakh Guide Checkout & Book:  Leh Ladakh Tour Packages From Pune

Day 6: Departure

Day 6: Departure

1. You will be served breakfast in the dining area of the hotel. Post that you can complete the check-out formalities. 2. Once the documentation is completed you will be transferred to the airport in our car or shuttle. 3. Fly out of Leh with a bag full of memories from this magical land. You Can also book:  Manali to Leh Bike Trip Package from Delhi

Pangong Lake, Ladakh

Essential Information About 5 Days Leh Ladakh Itinerary

Ladakh weather & temperature.

Ladakh Weather & Temperature

Ladakh is known for its extreme cold weather and picturesque beauty. The altitude range of Ladakh varies from 9,000 feet at Kargil to 25,000 feet at Saser Kangri. Summers at Ladakh are quite comforting but winters are unbearable at times. The months between December to February witness minus temperatures and high atmospheric pressure which makes it more difficult to breathe. Also Checkout:  Ladakh Honeymoon Packages from Delhi Also Checkout and Book:  Ladakh Tour Packages From Ahmedabad

How to Reach Ladakh?

How to Reach Ladakh?

Know More: How to reach Ladakh Guide

1. By Air: The easiest and ideal way to reach Ladakh is by air. There are numerous flights that fly to Ladakh from all over the world. The nearest airport to Ladakh is Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport which is around 4 kilometers away from the main city. 2. By Road: There are two major routes to reach Leh Ladakh - one through Manali and other through Srinagar. Ladakh is around 450 kilometers away from both the cities. You can hire a cab or board a bus or drive your way to get there. 3. By Train: There is no train station in Ladakh but you can reach the nearest railway station in Jammu, Jammu Tawi at the distance of 700 kilometers from Ladakh.  Click here to Book:  Leh Ladakh Bike Trip from Delhi                                    6 Days Leh Ladakh Sightseeing Tour

Travel Tips for Ladakh

Travel Tips for Ladakh

1. A trip to Ladakh can put you in unexpected situations so you must always carry basic medicines for headache, fever and stomach ache. 2. The only network provider that works in Ladakh is a postpaid BSNL connection so you must buy one upon your arrival 3. ATMs are in scarce quantities so one must carry adequate supply of cash in hand Know More:  Delhi to Leh Ladakh Guide Also Checkout:  Manali to Leh Ladakh Bike Trip from Delhi

Sangam Point, Leh

What to Pack for Ladakh Trip

What to Pack for Ladakh Trip

1. Packing clothes for a 4 to 5 days trip to Ladakh depends upon the season in which you are planning to visit. 2. If you are planning to visit in the summer season then you can pack regular cotton clothes such as T-shirts and jeans. 3. You can also carry a couple of thermals and light woolens as well as a waterproof jacket as the weather is really unpredictable here. 4. You must carry a few warm socks and caps as well.  Recommended Read:  Mumbai to Ladakh - A Detailed Travel Guide Must Checkout:   Ladakh Tour Packages From Chennai

Leh

Best of Leh

Changthang Cold Desert Wildlife Sanctuary

Things to Carry for Ladakh Trip

Things to Carry for Ladakh Trip

1. Sunscreen lotion 2. Sunglasses 3. Gloves 4. Cap 5. Cold cream/Lip Balm/Moisturizer 6. Mustard Oil 7. Toiletries such as Comb, Towel, Face wash, toilet paper, deodorant, soap 8. Eatables such as dry fruits, chocolates, teabags, maggie packets, coffee pouches 9. Water bottles 10. Medicines 11. Electronic devices such as power bank, car charger, memory cards, spare battery 12. Documents such as Medical insurance, printout, passport size photographs, copies of flight tickets, etc. 13. Sundry cash Plannig a bike Trip to Ladakh, do Checkout:  Leh Ladakh Bike Trip Packeges Also Book:  Leh Ladakh Tour Packages From Nagpur

Where To Stay In Leh – Ladakh

Where To Stay In Leh – Ladakh

1. The Apricot Tree: Located on a magnificent cliff overlooking the Indus River, the Apricot Tree is one of the most luxurious hotels of Ladakh. It is a great getaway for families and huge groups of friends who wish to spend leisure time in a peaceful and serene environment. Each room is accompanied with private balconies and views of mountainous terrains. 2. The Nimmu House: If you are looking for opportunities to indulge yourself in Ladakhi culture then the Nimmu house is ideal for you. They offer beautifully constructed eco-resorts situated in the traditional village of Nimmoo. Apart from comfortable and luxe stays you can involve yourself in wellness activities such as meditation and yoga to rejuvenate yourself. 3. Stok Palace: Built by the king of the Namgyal Dynasty in 1820, Stok Palace is one of the most luxurious hotels in Leh. All the rooms come with vintage decor and premium amenities. They have a museum open to the public making it more attractive to the public. You can also get  delicious Ladakhi, Indian and Tibetan cuisines at your doorstep.  Click here to Book:  Leh Ladakh Package For Couple                                    Ladakh Packages from Chandigarh

Inner Line Permits

Inner Line Permits

All foreign tourists in a group of at least two or more individuals planning to visit Ladakh are required to apply for a Protected Area Permit (PAP). There are several travel agents in Leh that can assist you in providing the same. Both Indian and foreign tourists are required to submit an inner line permit for certain areas in Ladakh so it is advisable to apply for one just in case. In order to get the permit you are required to submit an application form available in the local cyber cafes and photo state shops at the DC’s office. The application submission is done between 3 PM to 5 PM at a nominal fee of INR 20. Also Check Out:  Ladakh Tour From Kolkata                              Leh Ladakh Tour Packages from Delhi

People Also Ask About Ladakh

Which are the best places to visit in ladakh.

Here are some best places to visit in Ladakh : 1. Pangong Lake: Pangong lake is one of the most popular tourist attractions of Leh. It is located around 160 kilometers away from Ladakh at an elevation of 14,270 feet and offers picturesque views of crystal clear blue water. The lake is 12 kilometers long between the boundaries of India and China. 2. Nubra Valley: Nubra Valley is a gateway to stunning parts of moonscapes that starts in China and ends at Ladakh. It is home to Hunder Sand Dunes, Diskit Monastery, Yarab Tso Lake, village of Turtuk and Samstanling Gompa. It also houses the oasis of the town which makes it a great place to stop and gaze at the magnificence of landscapes around. 3. Kargil: Kargil is the second largest city of Ladakh after Leh and is known for its rich culture, history and political importance. This city sits at a height of 2,676 meters above sea level along the bank of the Indus river where you can witness extreme cold conditions as the temperature drops to minus 45 degrees in winters. This city is famous as the battleground of the Kargil war fought in 1999 in which Pakistani soldiers disguised themselves as Kashmiri citizens and infiltrated the region. Also Book:  Leh Ladakh Tour Packages From Mumbai

Can I do a Leh Ladakh trip in 4-5 days?

When is the best time to plan a vacation to ladakh, how much does a ladakh trip cost, how far is ladakh from manali, how far is sham valley to leh, how far is pangong lake to leh.

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Ladakh Top Attractions

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Heaven, Peace, Silence, and Tranquility at one place? Come and spend a few hours at Pangong Lake in Ladakh! A pristine place in Ladakh marked by subtle to high peaks around, crystal blue waters and the vast expansion catches the eye so much, so long as if a magic is happening right in front of the eyes. Let our Ladakh holiday packages transport you to this mesmerizing destination, where nature's grandeur unfolds in every corner.Pangong Lake, also known as Pangong Tso, lies calmly at a breathtaking elevation of 14,270 feet. Interestingly, the lake is 12 km long and marks itself between the laps of India and China. Rather, 60% of the portion is stretching in the neighboring nation and this excites every traveler to be here.The surreal clean blue waters are actually brackish or salty in nature and this feature doesn’t let any aquatic life survive in the same. Moreover, the temperature range between -30 to -10 degrees make even this salty lake freeze with thick ice sheets, which is quite opposite in case of salt ridden water bodies.This picturesque landscape location enhances its beauty with the arrival of migrating birds every year and attracts many travelers in search of adventure, photographs, bird-watching and chilling experience. Pangong has another unique and catchy feature; when it acts like a chameleon and changes its color from blue to green to even grey at times. The brackish water of Pangong attracts the migratory birds every year during winters in Ladakh.

Nubra Valley

One of the most beautiful parts of the moonscapes of Ladakh, Nubra Valley is a deep-cut gorge created by the combined effects of Shyok and Nubra (Siachen) rivers. A high altitude cold desert, Nubra Valley is actually an extension of the Tibetan Plateau (Qing-Zang Plateau) that starts in China and extends up to Ladakh. This valley in the plateau separates the Ladakh Range from the Karakoram Range. But more than anything, Nubra Valley is the most beautiful region in all of Ladakh. Home to wonders like the Diskit Monastery,Hunder Sand Dunes, Samstanling Gompa, Yarab Tso Lake, and the villages of Turtuk and Panamik.Located about 160 km from Leh, the capital of Ladakh, Nubra Valley is a great attraction to all those who come here. The gateway to the upper reaches of the country, especially Siachen, Nubra Valley has an oasis of a town in the heart, Diskit, making a great place to stop you and reflect at the beauty around. And while you are at it, take a short detour to the famous white sand dunes of Hunder. The shapes and forms that these dunes take during different times of the year mesmerize every visitor who comes here. To make it further interesting, there are the double-humped Bactrian Camels, offering rides through the dunes.And when it turns dusky, head to the Diskit Monastery and visit the towering statue of Maitreya Buddha which looks over the entire valley and blesses it for another day to come.Planning a Trip to Ladakh, Experience of Chadar Trek - The Frozen River Trek

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The Best Leh-Ladakh Itinerary for 10 days

Featured , Ladakh

Last Updated on: May 18, 2016  

Ladakh is a fascinating place. Anyone who has once visited Ladakh can never forget its landscape, its people and the eternal beauty it hides between those colourful layers of mountains. Planning a trip to Leh has never been an easy task. With help from various sites, we were all set for the trip that we were waiting for so long! Here is a detailed report on our travel to Ladakh

Table of Contents

The Best Leh Ladakh Itinerary for 10 days

Day 1 (baltal – kargil).

We completed our Amarnath Yatra successfully before we ventured for the anticipated trip to Leh. From Baltal, we hired a car to Kargil. We left the greenery of Baltal and entered the barren dusty mountain roads. The Zozila Pass said to be one of the most treacherous passes of India was just a glimpse of how the trans-Himalayan passes would be.We reached Kargil at the evening and rested for the night.

Ladakh

Ride through the Zoji La

Day 2 (Kargil – Lamayuru – Leh)

The next morning we started for Leh. The journey to Leh was equally exciting. We got the first taste of the magnificent monasteries of Ladakh at Mulbek where the gigantic Maitreya Buddha stood towering over us.

Ladakh

The Maitreya Buddha at Mulbek monastery

We travelled and crossed the Fotu La and the Namik La passes. Just as we crossed the Namik La, we saw something that looked straight out of a Hollywood movie. The breathtaking Lamayuru Monastery stood there with all its glory. With meandering roads leading to the monastery, it was the ethereal beauty of the place that stood out. We were not able to stay the night at Lamayuru, but I can well imagine how enchanting the place would look at a full moon night!

Ladakh

The Lamayuru Monastery

After our visit to the Lamayuru, we headed towards Leh town. Leh in itself is a small and colourful town. The markets are bustling with activities during the day. There are numerous shops that sell Buddhist artifacts, statues of Buddha and other goodies. The Tibetan markets are also there selling garments, shoes, bags and any adventure gear you can think of. Well, many are branded, but I cannot assure you about the authenticity of the brands! And finally, there are shops selling junk dresses (Yes I call those funky, colourful dresses as them junk dresses) and pieces of jewellery as well as pashminas. Leh with all its colours and flavours is a town full of life. With people from various countries (Yes, we see more of foreign tourists and travellers here) the place is buzzing with activity.

Ladakh

Beautiful artefacts – care to buy some?

Day 3 (Leh – Chang La Pass – Pangong Lake)

After a well-deserved rest, the next day we started for Pangong Lake. We had planned to stay the night near the Lake so that we can experience a night beside the lake. The road to the Pangong goes through the Changla Pass, another high trans-Himalayan pass. I was really excited to see the cute marmots on the way. These animals seemed so friendly! As I was looking for more marmots, we saw a glimpse of blue. Yes, that was the Pangong Lake, the huge lake which has only 40% of it in India. The Pangong Lake played hide and seek with us for some time before it revealed us to us in full glory. I had never seen such a shade of clear blue before! The azure lake and the golden mountain ranges at its back looked like a perfect picture postcard. I think the whole of this region is like a postcard at which you can stare for hours and marvel. We camped near the lake, enjoyed the changing colours of the lake at different times of the day and also had a campfire near the lake.  My nomadic heart truly was for a treat that day.

Ladakh

Pangong Lake

Day 4 (Pangong Lake – Hemis Monastery – Thiksey Monastery – Shey Palace – Leh Palace – Leh)

We were back from Pangong and while returning we visited the Hemis Monastery, Thicksey Monastery, Shey Palace and the Leh Palace along with the Sindhu Ghat. There are no words to describe the grandeur of the monasteries of the Leh. But what surprised me was the serenity of the Sindhu Ghat. A peaceful place where you can just sit with your legs in the waters of Sindhu and contemplate on the journeys you have taken, the sights you have seen.

Ladakh

At Sindhu Ghat

Day 5 (Leh – Khardung La – Nubra Valley)

This day was reserved for Nubra Valley. To reach Nubra, we had to cross the world’s highest motorable pass the Khardung la. Not only the roads, but the weather also become treacherous at Khardung La. The sunny weather of Leh became gloomy once we were near the pass and suddenly snowflakes were all over me. It was snowing at Khardung La. Just imagine the feeling of standing at a height of about 18000 ft and experiencing snowfall! It is simply amazing.

Ladakh

Snowfall at Khardung La

We were in the midst of mountains and rugged terrains so long, but this day we saw stretches of sands and a black road among those sandy stretches. Nubra is one of the coldest deserts of the world and double-humped Bactrian camels are found only here apart from the Gobi desert. And then the colossal statue of Maitreya Buddha came to our sight. That was the Diskit Monastery- a place where the ancient and the modern stands to look at each other. At the mountain over the Shyok river stands the oldest monastery of Ladakh region, the Diskit Monastery and exactly in front of it, stands the 32 m Maitreya or the future Buddha, looking down at the Shyok river.

Ladakh

Gian 230 feet Maitrya Buddha statue at Nubra Valley

A ride on the camels simply completed our day. We stayed at Hunder for the night at a homestay. We were simply bowled over by the hospitality of the people there. The next morning we were all set to be back at Leh.

Day 6 (Nubra Valley – Leh)

The return from Nubra to Leh was equally long and arduous. After returning from Nubra Valley , it ews only roaming aroundthe streets of Leh for us.

Ladakh

Riding camels at Nubra Valley

Day 7 (Leh – Magnetic Hill – Alchi – Likir – Spituk – Leh)

A day of relatively lesser travel when we visited the monasteries near Leh – the Alchi, Likir, Spituk monastery. Each monastery had their own distinct charm and visiting them increased our thirst for knowing about them more. We travelled past the Magnetic Hill this day. and all that we heard about the Magnetic Hill was true! The car really moves ahead even though it is not being driven. The evening was spent viewing the sunset from Shanti Stupa and roaming around Leh markets.

Ladakh

Shanti Stupa, Leh

Ladakh

Likir Monastery

Day 8 & 9 (Leh – Sarchu – Keylong – Manali)

The day to leave Leh had come. But we decided not to let the spirit of adventure die. We were all ready to set on the journey through the Leh- Manali Highway – the route which is there in every wayfarers’ bucket list. And truly so, the Leh- Manali route is simply grand and a saga. The scenery, mountains, terrains everything about this road is epic. We had a stopover at Keylong and reached Manali the next day.

Ladakh

The Leh – Manali Highway – the grand ending to an epic adventure

The remarkable tour has a perfect ending, it was no less than a blockbuster. Due to time restraint, we did not visit the Tso Moriri and HanuDha. We plan to do that soon. It is so very true that Leh is like a mecca to all Indian travellers. The place has all the thrills and excitement. Once you visit Ladakh, you simply cannot stop raving about it.  The same is with us.

Day 10 (Manali)

Some facts:.

Altitude: Leh is at a height of 11480 ft

Best Time to visit: June to September

The best way to visit Leh by road is to enter by the Srinagar-Leh highway and return by the Leh – Manali highway. This also helps in proper acclimatization.

ATMs: ATMs are found in Leh city. But carry cash when you are travelling to Pangong, Nubra or Tso Moriri.

Ladakh

At the Sindhu Ghat

The Best Leh Ladakh Itinerary for 10 days

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Agni Amrita Travel Blogger

Hey! we’re Agni & Amrita.

We have been travelling together since the last 15 years and writing independent and personal travel content since 2014. Travel is one of the best teachers and through this blog, we aim to share our experiences and travel tips. We encourage you to travel more and see the world through your eyes and not through filtered templates.

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Esha sawant

Really amazing blog. I learn new information from your article , you are doing a great job . Keep it up

Agni Amrita

IN the 10 days trip, how many hours will one have to travel in vehicle. I m asking this question as there is issue of travel sichness and hence a littl concerned,

Regards bharat

Yes, there can be problems of travel sickness and AMS while travelling in Ladakh. Please know more about AMS and then make an informed decision.

Mira Patil

Nice blog post with wonderful pictures.I really like to this article it’s very interesting.

Prasad Rane

Found your post interesting to read. Good Luck for the upcoming update.This article is really very interesting

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Leh Ladakh Itinerary 5 Days

Leh Ladakh Itinerary 5 Days: Ultimate Itinerary (+ Guide)

Discover the stunning beauty of Ladakh in this short Leh Ladakh Itinerary 5 Days.

Undoubtedly, Ladakh is one of the most beautiful places in the world. Located in the northern-most portion of India, Leh Ladakh is a place ripe with unique experiences, must-do activities, incredible sights & astonishing scenery.

Ladakh is a hot summer destination in India . The place gets maximum attention during April and June, with families, teenagers, and road-trippers all making their way to experience one of the best trips in India. Its dramatic landscape is its single biggest draw, with snow-clad mountains and glistening lakes boasting their charm. Likewise, Ladakh’s diverse topography makes your entire trip worthwhile. No matter where you go or which place you visit, you ought to come across valleys, rustic villages, and peaceful Gompas.

Along with Leh Ladakh’s landscape, its tourist destinations such as Tso Moriri , Nubra Valley , Leh City , Siachen Glacier , and Pangong Lake cultivate a lively sense of tourism. The culture, the traditions, and the local customs create a beautiful blend of harmony to enrich your overall Ladakh tour experience .

With so much to see and do around, we thought of creating the best itinerary for Leh Ladakh that can help you nail your first-ever trip. In this guide, we created a schedule that includes terrific places, top experiences, and must-do tours/activities .

So, without further ado, let’s get started with our Leh Ladakh tour itinerary.

Overview of Leh Ladakh Itinerary 5 Days

The itinerary designed for this Ladakh trip is curated for 5 days. The tour will start and end in Leh .

While not many people visit Leh Ladakh on such a short break, there’s a significant portion of travellers who prefer 5-6 days duration. To cater to these tourists, we created a perfect Ladakh itinerary consisting of all the niche experiences & activities .

Although a 5 Day Leh Ladakh itinerary sounds short, it is still packed with good sightseeing spots , road trip journeys, and must-do activities. Even if you’re a first-time traveller, this 5 day itinerary for Ladakh will come in handy to plan your first ever trip!

The trip can be customized entirely according to your style and preference. Thus, you can include or exclude any destination from the journey as you’d like.

Schedule of Leh Ladakh Trip Itinerary

Day 1 : Arrive in Leh – Sightseeing Tours Day 2 : Leh – Nubra Valley (Khardung La Pass – Diskit – Hunder) Day 3 : Nubra Valley – Pangong Lake (Sumur – Shayok – Tangtse) Day 4 : Pangong Lake – Leh (Chang La – Chemrey – Hemis) Day 3 : Depart from Leh

Essential Planning Tips for 5 Days in Ladakh

These are some vital planning tips one should consider before planning their 5 days trip to Ladakh.

Take a Flight

Since our Leh Ladakh trip is only for 5 days, it makes sense to travel via flight. We won’t recommend a road trip journey to & fro Ladakh , as this is not a feasible option for a shorter travel plan. A minimum of 7-9 days is required to plan a full-fledged road journey to Leh Ladakh. Also, ensure that you arrive in Leh a day before your actual trip. This way, you can also take care of getting acclimated to the altitude of Ladakh.

Pre-Plan your Ladakh Tour

We recommend planning your Leh Ladakh trip at least six months before your actual departure . Considering the summer season in India (April to June), most travellers often book their Ladakh tour to avoid hiked hotel prices & airfare tickets.

Secondly, you’ll need to get your Inner Line Permit arranged. This is only applicable to foreigners (non-Indian residents). An Inner Line Permit is basically a ticket that grants you access to enter the protected areas of Ladakh. These places include visiting Nubra Valley , Pangong Lake , Turtuk , Khardung La , and Tso Moriri . One can get their permits sorted by directly  visiting this website .

The charges for these permits are as follows  –

Environmental Fee : INR 300 Inner Line Permit : INR 20 per day per person Red Cross Fund : INR 100

Note : The above prices can change. Please  visit the website  to stay updated on the latest pricing.

Travel Q – Do you need an Inner Line Permit in Ladakh? No. Inner Line Permit is no longer required for Indian citizens. Earlier, you had to compulsory book the pass to visit the protected zones of Ladakh. However, now the government has scrapped the idea of improving logistical tourist routes.

Book Your Transport

The second most important thing for your Leh Ladakh itinerary is to book internal transpor t . For this 5 day tour, we recommend booking a private vehicle for your entire Ladakh trip. Riding a motorcycle can be difficult, especially when you’re just getting acclimatized.

You can directly book a taxi from the airport to the hotel journey from the airport itself. To explore Leh Ladakh’s sightseeing, you’ll need to arrange transport in advance. We recommend Expedia for the rental car service, as they tend to provide affordable rates for their private vehicles.

Altitude Sickness  in Ladakh

Many people ignore the altitude sickness problem in Ladakh and then often waste their sightseeing schedule. The best precaution against AMS (acute mountain sickness) is ample rest. At the same time, it may sound like a ridiculous thing to do, especially when you’re travelling to a beautiful region – getting rest is crucial before you start your sightseeing in Leh Ladakh.

Not doing so will only cause you more problems throughout the trip. If you have any medical conditions, please consult a doctor before this trip. It’s best to clarify your fitness levels before you travel to Leh Ladakh.

Moreover, to help you avoid AMS in Ladakh,  read this guide  as an additional resource. It details some steps to handle altitude sickness in Ladakh.

Cost of Leh Ladakh Tour Itinerary

Ladakh is an expensive region to travel to. Significantly, after COVID-19, many hotels and tour operators have hiked their rates to match their daily expenses. On average, a 5-day trip to Ladakh can cost anywhere between INR 12000 – INR 15000 , which excludes to & fro flights and sightseeing entrance fees. Considering flights, expect the price to increase to INR 28000 – INR 32000.

Note – The above prices are an indicative number based on the history of previous tours/packages. You can explore the below packages to find your perfect Leh Ladakh tour –

5D/4N Leh Ladakh – Explore this tour to book a similar version of this itinerary. 7D/6N Ladakh Sightseeing – Book an all inclusive tour for Ladakh via Delhi.

Detailed Leh Ladakh Itinerary 5 Days

Day 1: arrive in leh.

Leh, the city of adventures, is a bustling cold desert town filled with glorious tourist attractions. It isn’t a developed city boasting great amenities and accessibility; it still marks a vital destination to promote adventure tourism.

The rugged roads, dramatic landscapes, snowcapped peaks, bells of the monasteries, and the deserted cold wind makes you feel alive when you’re in the city of Leh. It isn’t only the attractions that drive most tourism, but its unique blend of Indian and Tibetian culture tends to bring out energetic vibes.

Leh City | Leh Ladakh Itinerary 5 Days

Once you reach Leh, the first thing you need to do – is get acclimatized.

Due to Leh Ladakh’s altitude, oxygen levels are minimum – causing you breathing and exertion problems. To avoid any health-related issues, it’s best to recommend giving yourself the time to get acclimatized to Leh’s atmosphere.

Note : You can spend more than a day in Leh to cover most of the city’s major sightseeing. If you take a day off to get acclimatized to the surroundings, it’s recommended to add an extra day to your Leh Ladakh itinerary to visit its important landmarks.

On this day, you can opt to visit Leh Ladakh’s top most attractions including – Shanti Stupa, Leh Palace, Magnetic Hill, and Hall of Fame. To add more sightseeing excursions to your Ladakh trip, you can book a full-day guided tour of the Leh City. This way you can maximize your travel for inner region travel.

Apart from the attractions listed above, there’s plenty to see and do in Leh Ladakh. You can add these places to your Leh Ladakh itinerary – Shey Palace ,  Shey Monastery ,  Gurudwara Patthar Sahib ,  Stok Palace ,  Likir Monastery , and  Thikse Monastery .

Day 2: Leh to Nubra Valley (Drive)

Approx Distance from Leh to Nubra Valley  – 4hr 40mins (160km)

If there’s anything that a traveller might dream of on their Leh Ladakh road trip, it is this journey –  Leh to Nubra Valley . It’s one of the bucket-list activities many adventurers plan for a good reason!

The scenic drive from Leh to Nubra is packed with astonishing scenery, barren landscapes, mighty Himalayas, and the beautiful Zanskar and Karakoram range . These natural settings make the road trip quite memorable!

Nubra Valley | Leh Ladakh Itinerary 5 Days

Visiting Nubra Valley is a must on a Leh Ladakh tour . Every biker dreams of seeing the place and traversing the region to explore its stunning beauty. The valley houses many attractions such as Diskit , Turtuk , Panamik , and many other unspoiled areas. The locals who live here showcase their lively traditions to fascinate tourists from all over the world.

To reach Nubra Valley, you’ll need to start early in the morning. You’ll travel via the Khardung La, which is approximately 38kms from Leh and will take you around an hour to reach. There’s a canteen around the place to stop by and get some refreshments.

Road Tripping across the Nubra Valley

Continue your journey from Khardung La to reach Diskit for some sightseeing tours. The town is famous for its landmark – the  Diskit monastery , which is considered the largest gompa ( Tibetian temple) in  Nubra Valley. Nearby the hill lies another milestone of Diskit –  the statue of Maitreya Buddha . Bactrian camel rides and Hunder dunes also remain popular sightseeing tours of Nubra Valley.

You can spend the night at Hunder Village, located 10kms from Diskit. For more hotel recommendations around Nubra Valley, explore this page .

Day 3: Nubra Valley to Pangong Lake (Drive)

Approx Distance from Nubra Valley   to   Pangong Lake  – 6hr 20mins (140km)

Like the other road trips in Leh, the journey from Nubra Valley to Pangong is one of the scenic drives in the country. Every year, many tourists flock to the region of Ladakh to experience the road trip vibes of the Nubra and Pangong. Especially if this is your first-time exploring Leh Ladakh, you shouldn’t miss out on a trip to these places.

Pangong Lake is one of the gorgeous, most beautiful lakes in India. The expansive views of the contrasting blue lake make the waters look adorning to the backdrop of the rugged mountains. During the winters, the temperatures in the area fall below -20°C causing the lake to get frozen completely. Moreover, the lake’s elevation makes the surrounding scenes truly captivating, making you fall in love with Pangong Lake’s beauty.

Pangong Lake in Ladakh

Travel Q :  Is camping at Pangong Lake allowed? Considering the imbalance in the ecological fragility of the lake, the Government of India has decided to stop overnight camping around Pangong Lake. The sustainability issues made the authorities declare a ban, thus preserving the beauty of the lake. For alternatives around Pangong, check this page.

There are multiple ways to reach Pangong Lake from Nubra Valley. One is via Shyok , where the roads are comprehensive and extensive, and the other via Wari La , which is more of an off-beat experience. Nowadays, most travellers opt to take the Wari La route to explore the mountainous region, and it isn’t the easiest path to drive on and will require profound driving experience to complete the stretch.

Distance from Nubra Valley to Pangong Lake via Shyok route : 140kms (6hr 20mins) Distance from Nubra Valley to Pangong Lake via Wari La route : 375kms (9hrs)

Looking for accommodation near Pangong Lake? Find out the resources below –

Hotels near Pangong Lake : Explore this page to find best hotel stays & deals near Pangong Lake. Campsites near Pangong Lake : The Nature’s Nest Camp near Pangong is the closest you can get to Pangong Lake.

Day 4: Pangong Lake to Leh (Drive)

Approx Distance from Pangong Lake to Leh  – 5hr 30mins (222.9km)

Before returning to Leh, stroll around Pangong Lake to admire the scenic sunrise. You’ll even spot many bird species around the lake, as Pangong is a popular breeding site for migratory birds.

On your way back, you’ll be taking the  Chang La pass . You can visit several attractions here, such as  Chemrey monastery  and  Hemis monastery . The Hemis Gompa is Leh Ladakh’s largest monastery, boasting beautiful shrines and an 8-meter Padmasambhava statue. Before reaching Leh, you’ll also find the famous monastery of  Thiksey . It’s known for its impressive architecture and decorated interior work.

Famous Gompas in Leh

The rest of the day is free for you to explore Leh’s surroundings. Furthermore, if you had spent day one getting acclimatized to Leh’s climate – this is the perfect day to enjoy the serene beauty of Ladakh’s amazing sightseeing spots.

Day 5: Departure

This marks the end of your Leh Ladakh Itinerary for 5 days. You can extend this itinerary to 7 or 9 days, depending on your schedule, and visit places like  Zanskar Valley ,  Kargil ,  Hemis National Park ,  Moonland , and  Tso Moriri Lake .

Accommodation for Leh Ladakh Itinerary 5 Days

When planning your Leh Ladakh tour, accommodation becomes a crucial factor. Firstly, it’s essential to understand that Leh Ladakh isn’t a developed region compared to other metropolitan cities. It boasts many luxury hotel stays, guesthouses, and hostels – but you shouldn’t expect great amenities in places like Nubra Valley and Pangong Lake.

Most of the inner sub-regions feature rustic accommodation with basic amenities & facilities – which is still considered a favorable option amongst travellers who enjoy rustic stays.

For our Leh Ladakh itinerary trip itinerary, we categorized hotels into several price ranges. This will help you select the right hotel for the right price during your stay in Ladakh.

Please find the below resources for the hotel stays in Leh Ladakh  –

Budget Hotels in Ladakh  – Explore this page to find budgeted stays & rental apartments in Leh Ladakh. Mid-range Hotels in Ladakh  – Looking for good amenities? Check this page to find mid-range hotels across Leh. Luxury Hotels in Ladakh  – Fancy a luxurious stay in Ladakh? Check this page to find more.

Recommended : Read this guide to find out the top 5 luxury stays in Ladakh .

FAQs for Leh Ladakh Itinerary 5 Days

How many days are enough for Leh Ladakh? You’ll at least need 10-12 days to cover major sightseeing spots of Leh Ladakh. Considering the distance between Nubra Valley, Pangong Lake, and Leh, you should give yourself the time to soak in Ladakh’s serene beauty.

Are 5 Days enough for the Leh Ladakh tour? Factually, a 5 day trip to Ladakh isn’t a sufficient period to admire Leh Ladakh’s scenery. With so many attractions & experiences, a tour of a minimum of 7-9 days is required. However, if you’re short on time and need a quick breakthrough to fizz past Ladakh’s sightseeing, a 5-day tour is worthwhile.

How much does a Leh Ladakh trip cost? Many tour operators across India will charge different prices for their services & sightseeing add-ons. It ultimately comes to the duration you choose, places you visit, and some off-beat experiences. However, an average 5D/4N Leh Ladakh package costs INR 13,000 (excluding flights). You can check these tours here.

What is the best time to visit Leh Ladakh? Indian summers are the best period to enjoy Leh Ladakh’s mild temperatures. The region   attracts most of the crowd between April and July and is the busiest period to travel within Leh. You can expect temperatures ranging between 15°C – 30°C during this season.

Are Ladakh roads safe? The roads in Leh Ladakh are pretty rugged, featuring  steep cliffs , unpaved lanes, traffic jams, and rocky terrains. The highways in Ladakh aren’t the most drivable paths but certainly, boast incredible scenery and amazing landscape.

Further Readings & Resources

Coorg, India – 15 Absolutely Best Things to Do in Coorg, India Ooty, India – 15 Stunning Places to Visit in Ooty in 2 Days Iceland – 12 Stunning Things to Do in Iceland in October

You may also like our International Itineraries:

Experiential Europe  –  10 Day Europe Trip: Germany, Belgium & France to Ireland Magical Europe  –  London Paris Amsterdam Itinerary: Epic 10 Days in Europe Discovery Europe  –  London Paris Barcelona Itinerary: Ultimate 10 Days in Europe

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Best / Most Common Itinerary for Leh Ladakh Road Trip in 2024

Dheeraj Sharma

On request of some avid readers of the blog and so many like-minded travelers seeking guidance for their tour to Leh – Ladakh, I would like to sketch below one of the most popular Ladakh itineraries. Many of Leh – Ladakh lovers follow it, including me, as it covers all three major tourist destinations of Ladakh, including Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso Lake, and Tso Moriri Lake.

The itinerary also covers the Srinagar Leh Highway as well as the Manali – Leh Highway, so it is apt for those looking forward to covering the entire Ladakh circuit. If you are making a trip to Ladakh in winter, then better refer most common itinerary for a winter trip to Ladakh

Most Common Itinerary for Leh Ladakh

Download your FREE high-resolution version pdf copy of this Leh Ladakh day by day plan infographic guide. If, you liked it and found it helpful, please feel free to share it with your family and friends to help them too.

Let's quickly dive into the details:

Why travel Ladakh from Srinagar side?

I have started from Srinagar side because it gives at least two benefits, if not more. First, the body gets better acclimatized due to gradual ascent by the time you reach Leh and when you return from Manali Leh Highway , hence fewer chances of getting stuck with Acute Mountain Sickness ( more info on AMS ) and more enjoyment of views on Manali – Leh Highway.

If you start via Manali – Leh Highway, then most of the terrain runs over 4000 Mtrs of altitude, and by the time you reach such altitude, your body is not properly acclimatized. Hence, many people fall sick on Manali – Leh Highway despite covering in a 25:75 ratio (Manali – Keylong, Keylong – Leh) in terms of distance.

Dheeraj Sharma

Dheeraj Sharma

Secondly, you save one day as Tso Moriri and Tso Kar Lakes can be adjusted once you start towards Manali from Leh. This way, you are not required to return to Leh from Tso Moriri to go toward Kargil or Srinagar.

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Finally, you need to get inner line permits to travel to Tso Moriri which you will not get when traveling from Manali side. The permits need to be stamped in Leh Information Center or Leh DC office . Since 2022, permits are not required for domestic tourists to travel anywhere in Ladakh including the  Umling La pass . You only need to pay the environment/green/ecology fee and carry a receipt of the payment

For now, these reasons are good enough to start your Ladakh journey from Srinagar side 🙂 …

Nubra Valley to Pangong Tso Direct Route via Shyok Village

12-14 Days Itinerary for Leh Ladakh by Road

When you plan for the Ladakh trip, it is better to plan the trip with a good number of days in hand. Cramming too many places in the Ladakh road trip does not make any sense because you will not enjoy the real beauty of the trip. Hence, I have kept about 12-14 days for this common itinerary of Ladakh trip.

Day 1 | Delhi – Jammu / Patnitop

  • Overnight at Jammu or Patnitop
  • About a 12-13 Hours drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between

Day 2 | Jammu / Patnitop – Srinagar

  • Enjoy a walk around Dal Lake and maybe a Shikara ride as well
  • Overnight at Srinagar
  • About an 8-9 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between

Day 3 | Srinagar – Sonamarg – Zozi La – Drass – Kargil

  • Enjoy the vistas en route near Sonamarg
  • Have a meal at Drass during lunch
  • Overnight at Kargil
  • About an 8-hour drive, depending upon the traffic movement at Zozila and the breaks you take in between.

Day 4 | Kargil – Lamayuru – Leh

  • Cover Mulbekh Maitreya, Lamayuru Monastery, Lunar Landscapes
  • On the way, you can also see Gurudwara Pather Sahib, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Nimmu, and other parts of Sham Valley
  • Overnight at Leh
  • About a 9-10 Hours drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between

Day 5 | Leh Local Sightseeing

  • To know about the places to visit in/around Leh, check my Travel Guide for Local Sightseeing of Leh Town in Ladakh
  • Since 2022, permits are not required for domestic tourists to travel anywhere in Ladakh including the  Umling La pass . You only need to pay the environment/green/ecology fee and carry a receipt of the payment.
  • Check the Leh – Ladakh taxi union rate list for 2024 – 25 including the contacts of some reliable taxi drivers within Leh – Ladakh.
  • You can call the local drivers directly to connect with them and check the more comprehensive List of Taxi Drivers for Ladakh – Srinagar – Leh – Manali with recommendations/reviews for DoW community members.

Chusul Village - Leh to Pangong Tso Bus Service ends here

Day 6 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder

  • Head for Nubra Valley and stay overnight at Hunder / Diskit
  • On the way enjoy a cup of soup at Highest Motorable Pass (as claimed) Khardung La
  • Diskit has monasteries with the tallest lord Buddha statue and Hunder has sand dunes and bacterian camel safari
  • About a 5-6 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between and at Khardung La

Day 7 | Hunder / Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh

  • Sumur has a famous monastery to check out and Panamik has hot water springs
  • About a 7-9 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between

Day 8 | Leh – Hemis Monastery – Pangong Tso Lake

  • Cover either of Hemis, Thiksey, and Shey on the go toward Pangong Tso
  • Overnight at Pangong Tso (Spangmik or Lukung)
  • About a 5-6 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between

Day 9 | Pangong Tso Lake – Thicksey Monastery – Shey Palace – Leh

  • Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey, and Shey on return to Leh

Day 10 | Rest day at Leh

  • Enjoy local culture, shopping, or rest in Leh
  • Sham Valley includes Alchi, Likir , Basgo Palace, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Nimmu, Gurudwara Pather Sahib

Day 11 | Leh – Tso Moriri via Chumathang

  • Cover Karzok Monastery
  • Overnight at Karzok or Tso Moriri
  • About a 7-8 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between

Day 12 | Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Debring (Manali – Leh Highway starts) – Moore Plains – Sarchu

  • Try to start early in the day so that you reach Sarchu where the accommodation options are better than in Pang
  • Overnight at Sarchu
  • About 8 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between

Day 13 | Sarchu – Baralacha La – Keylong – Atal Tunnel – Manali

  • On the way cover Suraj Tal, and Deepak Tal which are on the roadsides only
  • Overnight at Manali
  • About 6 Hrs drive

Day 14 | Manali – Delhi

  • Return Home
  • About a 12-14 Hrs drive from Manali to Delhi, depending upon the breaks you take in between

Day 15 + 16

Buffer days are to be kept in case of road closure due to landslides or snowfall or perhaps you want to enjoy more.

Spiti Valley Trip in August or Monsoon

Nubra Valley to Pangong Tso Direct Route Option

You can save a day by making a direct trip to Pangong Tso from Nubra Valley as suggested below.

Day 7 | Hunder / Diskit – Shyok village / Wari La route – Pangong Tso

  • Take the direct route from Nubra Valley to Pangong Tso either via Shyok village or Wari La pass whichever is open.
  • Since 2019, the direct route between Nubra Valley – Shyok Village – Pangong Tso has stabilized a lot. It is not at all desolate in the season anymore as it used to be a few years back.
  • A lot of people do this route nowadays, so it should be fine for you to do that route as well. Just enquire at Agham village on the safer side or wait for a couple of cars to tag along on the route.
  • Overnight at Pangong Tso.
  • About a 6-10 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between and the route you take between Shyok and Wari La.

Day 8 | Pangong Tso Lake – Thicksey Monastery – Shey Palace – Leh

  • About a 6-7 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between

Alternatively, you can also make a day trip to Pangong Tso (if Shyok village and Wari La pass routes are closed) as below but that makes it a bit in case.

Day 8 | Leh – Chang La – Pangong Tso – Chang La – Leh

  • Make a Day trip to Pangong Tso via Chang La Pass.
  • Overnight at Leh.
  • About an 8-9 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between.

Additional Points for Ladakh trip from Srinagar

  • You can also make a three-day trip to Nubra Valley so that you can spend one night in the beautiful village of Turtuk and remove the rest day at 9 or add one day to the above plan to visit Turtuk . I bet you will not regret it at all visiting Turtuk in Nubra Valley.
  • In Srinagar, you can also visit the Floating Market> Shalimar Garden.
  • For accommodation, check the nice, preferred list of accommodation options in the entire Leh – Ladakh (Leh, Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri) including moderate and cheap budget hotels.
  • Any doubts related to the budget of your Ladakh trip?? Don’t worry, check this complete guide on How to calculate the cost or budget for Leh – Ladakh trip

Taxi for your Most Common Itinerary for Leh Ladakh

I hope this plan or itinerary for Leh Ladakh from the Srinagar side will be useful for travelers planning their journey at least for the first time.

Have a travel question?? You can subscribe to my YouTube channel and leave a comment to ask your travel questions about traveling to the Himalayas.

I look forward to any questions or doubts or valuable suggestions and inputs you have and would love to discuss your custom plan as well in the comments section.

Is there any bus service from Leh to Nubra Valley?

You can share your valuable suggestions and inputs you have or you would love to discuss your custom plan as well in the comments section. If you want any customization or deviation from the above plan, feel free to ask any questions, and in case you know a friend who is interested in traveling Ladakh from Srinagar in such a plan, feel free to share the article with them.

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I am Dheeraj Sharma - a traveler, techie, and Himalayan lover. Since 2009, I have been helping thousands of travelers every year plan memorable & budget-friendly trips to the Himalayas - Smartly, Safely, and responsibly.

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Very comprehensive. This excludes the Zanskar valley. What would be the suggested itinerary change if that also needs to be included. Would it be a good idea to reach Srinagar by flight and then travel by road ?

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Hey Vimal, you can refer: Ladakh and Zanskar Itinerary

Hi Dheeraj,

Thanks for the prompt reply. On the taxi related rules – i hope there would be no problem if i have a car rented from Delhi or elsewhere for the complete trip, or if I am having a zoomcar or my own car.

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Hi Dheeraj, Your information is very useful for me, a 1stimer to Leh !!! Thanks ! I will fly to Leh and here is my plan: Day1: Leh (guesthouse) Day 2: Leh – Turtuk (guesthouse ?) Day 3: Turtuk – Pangong (camping or guesthouse ?) Day 4: Pangong – Tso Morri (camping or guesthouse ?) Day 5: Tso Morri – Tso Kar – Hemis – Leh (guesthouse) Pls advise if it”s ok ! Thanks ! Hung

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Day 2 is required at Leh for acclimatisation. One day is not enough. This plan looks too hectic. Hall of Fame at Leh is must visit, without which your trip is incomplete. Turtuk to PangongTso in one day is feasible only through Shyok/ WariLa route, but you will have to check if this route is open. You are stretching yourself a too much with the trip.

Thanks a lot for your advise I will replan my trip cheers ! Hung

Great, have a wonderful trip

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I along with my parents are planning a road trip to srinagar from delhi. we will start from delhi on 15th early morning. We wish to be back to delhi by 24th sep.

In this time frame is it possible for us to cover drass/kargil? If yes can you suggest an itinerary? What kind of weather can we expect there?

Hoping to hear from you..

Rene, are you just visiting Srinagar or visit Ladakh as well? If you want to just visit Srinagar and other parts of Kashmir, then yes it is possible.

Day 1 | Delhi – Jammu Day 2 | Jammu – Srinagar Day 3 | Srinagar Day 4 | Srinagar – Zoji La – Drass – Kargil Day 5 | Kargil – Drass – Sonamarg Day 6 | Sonamarg – Gulmarg Day 7 | Gulmarg – Patnitop Day 8 | Patnitop – Delhi Day 9 | Buffer day

Thank for prompt reply. I really appreciate that. Initially we planned for Leh Ladakh but had to drop it because of time constraint.

So now we have limited days i.e. 15-25 sep. and we are mainly visiting srinagar. But I want to take my parents to Drass and Kargil.

The plan you suggested seems good. I will reach to you for any further help and request you to help me as I am chalking out the plan all alone with no travel exposure.

Cheers Rene

No problems Rene, feel free to post as many questions as you would like 🙂

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First of all many thanks for such a wonderful and informative blog.

We are planning for Delhi – Srinagar – Leh – Manali – Delhi road trip (by own diesel car) in September mid this year. It will be a 12 – 13 days trip. My question is:

– Is it wise to book all hotels for all (12 days) in advance or is it fine if we directly reach to the destinations and search for hotels?

Thanks Sehaj

September is not a peak season and you can travel to Ladakh without much issues without any bookings. You will be able to find them on the spot.

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we too are planning leh ladakh trip in mid september from Delhi. Have you finalized your trip?

Thanks Saurabh

Seems, wonderful, let me know incase you guys have questions on planning the trip to Ladakh or your itineraries.

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HI Sir This is Ahmed we are travelling in Aug last week. we will start from Delhi and our tour is for 10 to 12 days. 1) From Delhi its good to start from Srinagar then Leh manali and all or we should start from Manali. 2) We are 6 frnds and we want to hire taxi from Delhi to cover all the places how much will be total cost if we hire from Delhi to Srinagar Leh Manali and all and coming back to Delhi? 3) Kindly suggest few places where we should go by bike coz we want to explore the places by bikes? 4) What will be the approx. cost including Rental car, Bikes in few places, Budget hotels and meals for 12 days? places will Start from Delhi and cover Manali leh Ladakh Srinagar kargil and all places which we should go? 5) Kindly suggest the best route map to cover max places which are worth and duration we should stay there?

Replied https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/how-to-calculate-cost-or-budget-for-leh-ladakh-trip/comment-page-13/#comment-466981

can we plan in December or January for Leh ladhak bike ride along with Manali, Jammu and All…. plz suggest

No, the roads from Manali to Leh gets closed by mid to late October nowadays.

Dear Dheeraj We are planning to travel in Aug last week and we are planning for 8 to 10 days . kindly suggest the plan from Delhi and end Delhi and Second plan if we go by flight to Leh and start our tour. so how we proceed and best places to go by Bike in this tour. What are things we should carry

You can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Leh – Ladakh by Air followed by many travelers including me at the link here for 9 days: Leh – Ladakh | Most Common Itinerary by Air .

It will take 4 days to reach Leh from Srinagar side starting from Delhi with stop overs at Jammu, Srinagar, Kargil and 3 days to come back from Leh from Manali side to Delhi with stopovers at Sarchu, Manali. This makes it 7 days. 1 Day is required in Leh for acclimatization. You have about 10 days. 1 Day can be used as Day trip to Pangong Tso and other day can be used as day trip to Nubra Valley or just Khardung La pass.

Opt to go via Manali – Leh Highway and I will suggest that you refer the thread for more details on the route and night halts though it is of 9 days: Manali – Leh – Ladakh – Manali | Itinerary for 9 Days . You can fit in plan I suggested in above para in this plan

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Hi Dheeraj….This is our plan….. Aug 1st – Srinagar to Leh Aug 2nd – Kargil to leh Au 3rd – Leh Aug 4th – Leh to Turtuk Aug 5th – Turtuk,takshi village Aug 6th – Hunder,diskit, leh Aug 7th – Pangong Lake Aug 8th – Psomoriri,tsokar lake Aug 9th – Tsokar to Jispa Aug 10th – Jispa to Kaza(Chandratal) Aug 11th – Kaza(Hikkim,komic etc) Aug 12th – Dhankar, Tabo, Nako Aug 13th – Nako to Shimla Aug 14th – Shimla to Delhi

Is this fine???

My inputs below: 1. I believe you meant Srinagar to Kargil 2. Aug8: Are you doing PAngong Tso to Tso Moriri to Tso Kar? It will be too much, better add a day or stay at Tso Moriri only 3. Then do Tso Moriri to Jispa 4. Jispa to Chandratal, Chandratal to Kaza covering Lagnza, Hikkim, Komic

Rest you are just being on road mostly not soaking in except Turtuk.

Yes almost full on roads..It is possible knw?or any change needed apart from tsokar one..yes its srinagar to kargil only

Well, I will recommend add some rest days in Kaza and Kinnaur to ease out the trip in that leg

Hi Dheeraj…One more clarification pls…We got a rate of 65k for innova to cover our entire trip(srinagar-leh-turtuk-tsomoriri-jispa-kaza-nako-tabo-shimla)..is this rate fine…some says its high..

It seems to be a fine rate to covering the entire stretch including Spiti Valley

This plan is not doable. I recommend that you study the geography and topography od Ladakh and Spiti Valley. Also, only JK10 registered vehicles are permitted in Ladakh, so be sure that the innova you are hiring is JK10 registered. Innova for 65k for the entire trip. There is something amiss. Please check again.

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I am Deepak,

The information and tour plan you have shared is awesome. Even I am planning for the similar type of tour.

Please let me know how viable is the below mentioned plan. I am planning to transport my 2010 model CBZ Xtreme (90000KM Driven, which is well serviced) to Delhi and start the journey from there.

Even let me what need to be checked with the bike as this my first bike trip.Please let me know at what places fuel is available and what kind of possible vehicle break down might happen.

Actually I am planning to reach Delhi from hyderabad on 16th June by train and on the same day start for Jammu.

Day2: Jammu to Srinagar

Day 3 : Srinagar to Kargil

Day 4: Kargil to Leh

Day 5: Leh sightseeing, inner line permit and acclimitization.

Day 6: Leh to Nubra Valley

Day 7: Nubra to Pangong

Day 8: Pangong to Tsomoriri ( Avoid returning to Leh)

Day 9: Tso moriri to Sarchu

(From leh to Sarchu it is almost 1050 Km, milege of my bike in city is 40KM/L. If I take 30Km/L for this terrain, I will be needing 35 to 40 Litres of fuel. Even if i start with full tank of 12 Litres and 2 jerry cans of 20 litre capacity, I will be having shortage of 10 litres. Is there any fuel station available in this route or is it is better to return to Leh after pangong and then leave to Sarchu via Tso Moriri)

Day 10: Sarchu to Manali

Day 11: Manali to New Delhi.

If possible please share me information about place must to see in the whole trip or else please share me any web links.

With Best Regards

For fuel, please check: Fuel Availability In Leh – Ladakh | Ladakh Self Drive Tips

You will have to carry the fuel with you if you plan to do above circuit. There are places where you get black fuel too. Please refer article above.

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Its my pleasure to thank you for giving amazing tips to make our trip easy.

On 26th June morning at 9:55 I will be reaching Delhi and start my journey to manali on a public transport and will be reaching Manali in early morning on 27th June. From there only I am going to start my bike ride following the same itinerary suggested by you in this top of the page. And I have to end my bike tour in manali 0n 8th June evening and need to travel to delhi by public transport and next day evening (9th evening 3:00) I have to get my flight back in Delhi to Srilanka.

So, according to given period, kindly adjust your itinerary according to my period and suggest me a good plan.

Appreciate your valuable reply.

Thanks. Mubarak Srilanka

You can follow the below plan:

27th – Manali rest day 28th – Manali – Jispa/Keylong 29th – Jispa/Keylong – Leh 30th – Leh rest day and find shared taxis or bikes and apply for Protected Area Permits 1st – Leh – Nubra Valley 2nd – Nubra Valley – Leh 3rd – Leh – Pangong Tso 4th – Pangong Tso – Leh 5th – Leh – Tso Moriri 6th – Tso Moriri – Leh 7th – Leh – Jispa/Keylong (start back for Manali) 8th – Reach Manali and take the evening Volvo back to Delhi from Manali.

Dear Dheeraj,

Problem is, i am going to Srinagar via Pathankot from Manali in the bike. from srinagar to Leh and Leh to Manali on the same dates above mentioned.

Please revise your suggested itinerary plan according to this and send it to me for my convenience. Your help much appreciated.

Although I will suggest to drop Srinagar – Leh Highway in that case because else you will have to drop Tso Moriri lake. Still, if you want to do it, you can follow below

27th – Manali rest day 28th – Manali – Pathankot 29th – Pathankot – Srinagar 30th – Srinagar – Kargil 1st – Kargil – Leh 2nd – Leh rest day and find shared taxis or bikes and apply for Protected Area Permits 3rd – Leh – Nubra Valley 4th – Nubra Valley – Leh 5th – Leh – Pangong Tso 6th – Pangong Tso – Leh 7th – Leh – Jispa/Keylong (start back for Manali) 8th – Reach Manali and take the evening Volvo back to Delhi from Manali.

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Hello Dheeraj, Thanks for starting this blog. It has been very useful for planning our trip. We are 2 couples travelling from srinagar and reach leh on 25th June. In leh we will be covering nubra, turtuk, pangong, tso moriri, the leh itenary is as follows:

Our driver-thanks again as we got his contact from your suggested list- said travelling direct pangong to tso moriri won’t be possible as the road has been closed. And he suggested this plan. 1 day: Leh local (26th june) 2 day: Leh to nubra, hunder stay. 3 day: hunder to Turtuk and back hunder 4 day: Nubra to pangong via shayok and pangong stay. 5 day: pangong to chumathang stay. 6 day: chumathang to Tsomoriri and back Leh.

1. So is it possible to travel direct from pangong tso to tso moriri instead of long chumathang route? 2.On day 6, other couple is planning to head leh along with the cab and fly back while two of us wana go ahead via manali route. So would we able to get public transport or tag along with other grp till manali. I read there is HPTDC bus operating from leh to manali, but for that do l have to come back to leh from tso moriri or can join keylong/jispa/sarchu? Please suggest.

Thanks and regards, Ankit

Considering driver is suggesting it, better take his words and yes Chusul road is on and off this season. It depends on the permit if you get from DC office in Leh. If you get it, then go with it else take Chumathang route

It is better for other couple to return to Leh on Day 5 because it does not make sense to travel to Chumathang and return.

Hello Dheeraj, Thanks for your reply.

2.I m confused, do u suggest to skip travel to tso moriri. And leave for manali from Leh by HPTDC bus after coming from Pangong ? Or Is there any other way. Can we find info about HPTDC buses anywhere. Like do they operate everyday now and do the bookings. Because I read couple of years back it used to operate alternate days.

No, I am saying that the other person who will come back to Leh, should not go to Chumathang. I believe you are going to cover Tso Moriri, come back to Leh and then from Leh will take bus to Manali? HPTDC will publish the details as soon as the road gets open.

Hello Dheeraj,

Ok, actually we are starting from chumathang in morning and head to tso moriri and then reach leh by night by car..car rental ends there.. And take bus to manali next day morning.

So rather is there any way to reach manali from tso moriri if you don’t have a cab.

No Ankit, from Tso Moriri in case you have personal vehicle or hire the taxi, you cannot reach Manali by public transport.

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I am from Singapore and have 13 days to travel around Leh on a motorbike trip this September, would the following itinerary be comfortable?

Day 1: fly into Leh Day 2: Leh (Rest Day) Day 3: Nubra Valley via Khardung La Day 4: Leh Day 5: Tso Moriri via Chumathang Day 6:Sarchu Day 7: Manali Day 8: Dharamshala Day 9: Jammu Day 10: Srinagar Day 11: Kargil Day 12: Leh Day 13: Buffer Day

Franz, I will recommend that you focus on Ladakh only ad skip other places for some other time. Also, it is better to fly to Srinagar and then go to Ladakh and after covering Ladakh go over to Manali – Dharamshala. This way it helps in acclimatization and better planning of the trip. Let me know if are unable to work out the itinerary from the plan mentioned in the article above.

Hey Dheeraj,

Based on what you said, is it safe to assume the pace I am going at would not be safe or comfortable? In that case, would it be better to just focus on leh and Manali by doing a round trip from Leh to Manali and back to leh again? Thank you so much for your help

This is what I will recommend you

Day 1 | Delhi – Srinagar — Enjoy walk around Dal lake and may be Shikara ride as well — If you have time then check out, floating market, Shalimar Garden. — Overnight at Srinagar

Day 2 | Srinagar – Sonamarg – Zozi La – Drass – Kargil — Enjoy the vistas enroute — Have late drunch meal at Drass is you are a vegetarian as sometimes it gets difficult to find veg. food at Kargil — Overnight at Kargil

Day 3 | Kargil – Lamayuru – Leh — Cover Mulbekh Maitrey, Lamayuru Moanstery, Lunar Landscapes — On the way you can also see Gurudwara Pather Sahib, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Nimmu — Overnight at Leh

Day 4 | Leh Local Sightseeing + Acclimatization — To know the about the places to visit check the link: Travel Guide for Local Sightseeing of Leh Town in Ladakh — Overnight at Leh

Day 5 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder — Head for Nubra Valley and stay overnight at Hunder / Diskit — On the way enjoy a cup of soup at Highest Motorable Pass (as claimed) Khardung La — Diskit has monasteries with tallest lord Buddha statue and Hunder has sand dunes and bacterian camel safari

Day 6 | Hunder / Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh — Sumur has a famous monastery to check out and Panamik has hot water springs — Overnight at Leh

Day 7 | Leh – Hemis Monastery – Pangong Tso Lake — Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on the go towards Pangong Tso — Overnight at Pangong Tso (Spangmik or Lukung)

Day 8 | Pangong Tso Lake – Thicksey Monastery – Shey Palace – Leh — Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on return to Leh — Overnight at Leh

Day 9 | Rest day at Leh to enjoy local culture and some shopping OR Monastery tour OR you can do tour to Sham Valley — Monastery tour may include Hemis, Thicksey, Stakna and Shey monasteries. They come on the route of Pangong Tso but as you will be doing day trip, it will be a bit hectic to include them on that day only. — Sham Valley include Alchi, Likir, Basgo Palace, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Nimmu, Gurudwara Pather Sahib — Overnight at Leh

Day 10 | Leh – Taglang La – Moore Plains – Pang – Sarchu — Stay overnight at Sarchu

Day 11 | Sarchu – Baralacha La – Keylong – Rohtang Pass – Manali — On the way cover Suraj Tal, Deepak Tal which are on the road sides only — Overnight at Manali

Day 12 | Manali – Delhi Day 13 + 14 | Buffer days to be kept incase of road closure due to landslides or snowfall or perhaps you want to enjoy more.

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what would be the itenerary from chd to leh via manali… would be highly appreciate if u could share it. thanks.

You can refer: Ladakh from Manali – Most Common Itinerary

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Hello Discover With Dheeraj Team we have planned to Start On 18th of May 2018, From Chandigarh-Srinagar-Jammu-Kargil Leh. Will the Route Open Thank You Waiting For Reply

Most likely this year the road should be open. Srinagar – Leh is already open.

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Hey, we are also planning for a similar itinerary. May be we can catch up / plan together?

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How can i break down this itinerary into 9-10days following the same route as Delhi-Srinagar-Manali-Delhi

I am very extremely excited after going through your website and way you are updating every information for travelers so well. However, i am very much satisfied and agreed on advantages you have mentioned to take Delhi-Srinagar-Manali-Delhi route. considering the same, i have listed down below itinerary covering 10days, could you please review and help me out. I am planning to drive my I20:

Day 1 — 25-May-18 — Delhi to Patnitop Day 2 — 26-May-18 — Patnitop to Srinagar Day 3 — 27-May-18 — Srinagar – Sonamarg – Zozi La – Drass – Kargil Day 4 — 28-May-18 — Kargil to Lamayuru – Leh Day 5 — 29-May-18 — Leh to Leh Local Sighseeing Day 6 — 30-May-18 — Leh to Nubra Valley Day 7 — 31-May-18 — Leh to Pangong Tso Lake Day 8 — 1-Jun-18 — Leh to Taglang La – Pang – Sarchu Day 9 — 2-Jun-18 — Sarchu Baralacha La – Keylong – Rohtang Pass – Manali Day 10 — 3-Jun-18 — Manali to Delhi

Thank you Arun. I will highly recommend that you add one more day in the plan and also consider the option below if that is not possible

Day 6 — 30-May-18 — Leh to Nubra Valley Day 7 — 31-May-18 — Nubra Valley to Pangong Tso Lake Day 8 — 1-Jun-18 — Pangong Tso Lake – Taglang La – Pang/Sarchu

Thank You Dheeraj,

Highly appreciated with your promptness. If i add one more day, where do i fit that day with what all other options i have to explore?

Also, reason i have opted Srinagar route with 10-11days plans is what i am really convinced with acclimatized, no road pass (rohtang pass), by this i covered both the highways. I hope i am going in a right way. Hope with I20 drive is manageable as i have read lot of people recommend SUV

Wonderful, yes Srinagar – Leh is better option always for acclimatization. For hatchback/sedan taking on Manali – Leh Highway and Ladakh, I will say Possible = Yes, Difficult = Yes, at quite a few place:

You will indeed face few tough challenges on the route. The hatchback/sedan will increase the level of every challenge even further, sedan is the worst candidate. My suggestion will be to go via Srinagar route as it will help you feel comfortable with the driving, provide more acclimatization and then once you have done the local Leh-Ladakh, then come back via Manali side. Secondly, since you are in hatch/sedan, then you need to drive with extra care as well. There will be some sections on the Manali – Leh highway in which you might need to sacrifice some scratches on the underbelly. Just make sure you do not bump the engine sump (know it before where it is placed in your car). You need to protect it all around the trip. Thirdly, whenever in doubt do not rush into the section rather park aside and feel the section with your foot, see how other vehicles are crossing it and make a planned route in your mind to cross that section. At the very least do carry Mseal, quick fix, funnel, jerry cans and towing rope with you all the time.

Also, I will strongly suggest that you go through and read my series on Ladakh Self Drive tips at the links below:

7 Useful Tips for a Self Drive to Leh – Ladakh , Routes and Road Conditions In Leh – Ladakh | Ladakh Self Drive Tips , Fuel Availability In Leh – Ladakh | Ladakh Self Drive Tips

I have started my preparation and following your great guidance and reading your website all day long. now i will be starting my journey from June 8th instead of May. now i am little scared on following option after going through the route details on : https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/tips-for-nubra-valley-to-pangong-tso-direct-route/ . Me and wife will be the only one and we will be going via a hatchback. Is it really advice able to do this route. Is there any other route which i should take to avoid any difficulties for us. Is there any better road which is available now in year 2018? or i should go back to Leh from Nubra Valley??

Day 7 Nubra Valley to Pangong Tso Lake

In a hatchback, this kind of route I will say not to take unless you are prepared to turn back because of some section that you could not cross. In last couple of years the road condition has been much better but I am not sure if you are ready to take up the chance. You should also wait for other vehicles to arrive and join them in a convoy so as to get some help. Else avoid the route and take conventional route to Pangong tso from Leh.

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Dear Is it possible to do a day trip to Pangong from Leh as I want to avoid staying at Pangong due to high altitude area. Pls suggest as I will be travelling alone on my suv.

Yes Firaz, many people do a day trip to Pangong Tso. It takes about 12 hrs

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I have planned a trip as per your recommended itinerary and made few tweaks, please advise if I am missing out anything and also please suggest a tentative budget for the trip on own Enfield 350\’s. Thanks

Haldwani-Delhi-Shrinagar-Leh-Manali-Delhi-Haldwani (May/June 2018)

Day 1 | Haldwani – Delhi

Day 2 | Delhi – Jammu / Patnitop – Overnight at Jammu or Patnitop. About 12-13 Hrs drive

Day 3 | Jammu / Patnitop – Srinagar – Overnight at Srinagar. About 8-9 Hrs drive

Day 4 | Srinagar – Sonamarg – Zozi La – Drass – Kargil – Overnight at Kargil. About 8 Hrs drive

Day 5 | Kargil – Lamayuru – Leh – Overnight at Leh. About 9-10 Hrs drive

Day 6 | Leh Local Sighseeing + Inner Line Permits – Overnight at Leh

Day 7 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder – Overnight at Hunder / Diskit . On the way Khardung La. About 5-6 Hrs drive

Day 8 | Hunder / Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh – Overnight at Leh. About 7-9 Hrs drive

Day 9 | Leh – Hemis Monastery – Pangong Tso Lake – Overnight at Pangong Tso. About 5-6 Hrs drive

Day 10 | Pangong Tso Lake – Thicksey Monastery – Shey Palace – Leh – Overnight at Leh. About 5-6 Hrs drive

Day 11 | Rest day at Leh – Overnight at Leh

Day 12 | Leh – Tso Moriri via Chumathang – Cover Karzok Monastery. Overnight at Karzok. About 7-8 Hrs drive

Day 13 | Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Debring– Moore Plains – Pang / Sarchu – Overnight at Sarchu About 11-12 Hrs drive

Day 14 | Pang / Sarchu – Baralacha La – Keylong – Rohtang Pass – Manali – About 11-12 Hrs drive

Day 15 | Manali – Delhi – About 13-14 Hrs drive

Day 16 | Delhi – Haldwani

Personal requirements

Rucksack, Helmets, Bike Carrier for fuel and luggage Riding gear or Jacket, gloves, knee guards, helmet and balaclava. Rain Covers Jackets and 2-3 pullovers A pair of hand gloves preferably woolen, and warm clothes/caps to cover your ears and neck Soaps, towels, general medicines, bandages etc. 2 pairs of thermal inner, 4-5 pairs of socks Waterproof shoes, Sleeping bag Medicines for Acute Mountain Sickness such as Avomine, Dexamethasone, Diamox and Acetazolamide Chocolates, biscuits, and dry fruits Camera, chargers for cell phone and other basic things Torch, Mobile chargers, Camera kit etc.

Essential tools:

Tool kit, Ring spanners size 8 to 17 Screw Driver set, Steel wire Electrical & Scotch tape Foot or Electric air pump Puncture repair kit  

Essential Spares

Engine oil 90w Gear oil Headlight and brake light bulb Chain links Clutch and front brake lever, Clutch and accelerator wires Spare tube for front and rear tyre Spark plug Spare key Spare Fuse Nylon Rope & Bungee cords, Electrical wire Few nuts and bolts of various sizes Petrol pipe

Your plan looks similar to our most common itinerary and is good enough for enjoyable trip to Ladakh. The essential kit also is good.

Thank you very much for prompt response Dheeraj, much appreciated. Could you please also help me with a tentative budget that we can keep in mind while planning for the trip including fuel, stay, food etc. It would be of great help.

For doubts related to budget for Leh – Ladakh trip, I am sure the link below will help you alot for getting an idea of overall budget: How to calculate cost or budget for Leh – Ladakh trip

Also, check the article: 5 Tips for a Budget Trip to Ladakh

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Hello, I am also interested in the trip but don’t have a group as of now. Please let me know if I can join you guys.

It will be much better that you check the DoW Travel Calendar from the link in the Main Menu of website. There had been about 600+ entries of the people planning their trips in last couple of seasons which helped them have better visibility for finding out travel partners. You can filter entries based on the preferences you have and increase chances of visibility. Hence, kindly explore DoW Travel Calendar and also post your entry too. This will help you find other fellow travellers looking for company and increase probability of finding your post by others too.

You can also post a DoW Travel Calendar entry by using the Main Menu and clicking on Submit New Event option in it. Here is the link: https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/dow-travel-partners-calendar/

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thank you for your feed backs and forums regarding Ladakh tours.

i am from kerala and am planning to visit leh-ladakh on the month of may 2018 (9 /5/218 to 25/5/2018) . we are confused about rotang pass and srinagar -leh high way opening time.please find our detailed the itinerary and comment! 1)9 may 2018 Delhi to Amritsar 2)10 may 2018 Amritsar sight seeing 3) 11 may 2018 Amritsar -Srinagar 4) 12 may 2018 Srinagar sight seeing 5) 13 may 2018 Srinagar to Kargil 6)14 may 2018 Kargil to leh 7) 15 may 2018 Rest at leh 8) 16 may 2018 leh to Nubra valley (via thunder ) 9) 17 may 2018 nubra to Pan gong 10) 18 may 2018 Pan gong to leh 11) 19may 2018 leh to tso moriri 12) 20 may 2018 tso moriri to sarchu /jispa or keylong 13) 21 may 2018 sarchu to manali /kasol 14) 22 may 2018 kasol to delhi 15) 23 may 2018 buffer day and flight back to home

waiting for your valuable feed back.

Well, your plan looks OK to me. I will recommend that you make a delay of one week for Manali – Leh Highway to open.

thank you dheeraj.

could you please tell Approximate time srinagar-leh & leh- manali high ways open? And we are planning to travel in car.is it ok in this period of time ?

You can track them under: Manali Leh Highway Status 2018 and Srinagar Leh Highway Status 2018

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Hi Dheeraj, Please check my Itinerary below and let me know if any changes is required. We are travelling in a bike. Give me some inputs if there is any hectic schedule involved and suggest me what to modify.

Day 1: Chandighar – Patnitop Day 2: Patnitop – Sonmarg Day 3: Sonmarg – Kargil Day 4: Kargil – Leh Day 5: Rest day in Leh Day 6: Leh – Khardungla – Nubra Day 7: Nubra – Pangang Tso via Wali la Day 8: Pangang tso to Leh day 9: Leh to Tso moriri Day 10: Tso moriri – Sarchu Day 11: Sarchu to Manali Day 12: Manali to Chandighar

Prem, the plan looks good to me.

How is Nubra to pangong route now? Will you advise to that this route or come back to Leh?

Now a days many people do direct route from Pangong tso to Nubra Valley, so it shall be fine. Unless people at agham village says otherwise, you can very much take this direct route.

Dheeraj, I’m more worried about rain during July first week. Im not planning in June cos roads will not be good(as i read from your blogs). So Please let me know if July first week doable and how usually the weather in July first week (esp zozila)?

July first week is still good time to travel Suhas, rains mostly start from middle – late July

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hey prem when are you plan this trip? in May or June?

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Dear We planned to travel along Leh by June last week. Will be following exactly as per your itinerary. Got a small quiry that Is it possible to cover Nubra Valley to Leh via Pangong in one day?? Will it be hectic as we will be heading to Nubra Valley and stay over der, very next day will be headed towards Pangong and den to Leh from there on the same day. Is it possible?? Or worth enough to save one day???

Furu, Nubra to Pangong tso to Leh will surely be hectic and you will not enjoy much. It is same as doing day trip to Pangong Tso from Leh especially from Shyok route.

So it’s better to get back to Leh from Nubra. And den do a day trip to Pangong Tso. Will it be fine and easy to do a day trip to do a Pangong???

Furu, I will say add one more day to make it comfortable or stay at Pangong Tso. Then come back to Leh next day.

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we are group of 6 (3 couples) visiting the region by an SUV (Innova/Scorpio) from July 6 this year 

Please review below itinerary and advise if the same is possible: Srinagar – Leh – Manali – Delhi Day 1 (July 6) Hometown to Srinagar (Flight) Day 2 srinagar – kargil Day 3 kargil – Leh Day 4 Acclimatization + local sightseeing Day 5 Leh – Nubra valley Day 6 Nubra valley – Pangong lake – Leh Day 7 Leh – Tsomoriri Day 8 Tsomoriri – Manali Day 9 Manali – Delhi Day 10 Delhi – hometown Also advise if is it possible to reach Manali directly from Tsomoriri lake within a day.

Which option is better for day 6 night stay per above itinerary? Leh (going back from pangong) or pangong itself considering next day is for tsomoriri?

Just replied to your comment here: https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/question/srinagar-leh-manali-itinerary/

Hello Dheeraj, Thank you for the reply. We are planning through a tour operator so inner permits will be taken care of by them. Also, Which option is better for day 6 night stay per above itinerary? Leh (going back from pangong) or pangong itself considering next day is for tsomoriri? How are the accommodations at Pangong?m

Well, if you go back to Leh, it makes it less tiring. Otherwise, if you stay at Pangong tso, you will need to make a 12 Hr journey on bumpy roads to reach Tso Moriri next day. Please note that Nubra to Pangong tso to Leh will be like 12 hrs journey and I see that it is already hectic.

I will recommend that you drop to Tso Moriri lake visit. Rest at Pangong tso.

Dropping Tsomoriri is not option ! Already dropped once during my first visit because of last minute hotel cancellation 🙁

Google maps show Pangong to Tsomoriri 208 kn (5.5 hours journey). Are roads that bad that it will take 12 hours?

Yeah brother, do not follow Google maps for a trip to Ladakh, you may end up in a bad situation. Do not expect driving more than 20 KMs per hr on an average with breaks and all. So, 10-12 hrs it will surely take.

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Hi Dheeraj, We are planning Delhi-Srinagar-Leh-Manali-Delhi circuit. Will the itinerary be suitable?

Day 1: Leave Delhi for Patnitop. Overnight at Patnitop Day 2: Patnitop to Kargil Day 3: Kargil to Leh (Overnight at Leh) Day 4: Leh to Nubra Valley (Overnight at Nubra Valley) Day 5: Nubra Valley to Pangong Tso (Overnight at Pangong Tso) Day 6: Pangong Tso to Hanle (Overnight at Hanle) Day 7: Hanle to Sarchu (Overnight at Sarchu) Day 8: Sarchu to Manali (Overnight at Manali) Day 9: Manali to Delhi

Some more details We will be a group of 8-10 people and will be taking own cars. (However experienced drivers will be driving) All of us are aged 27. We would not like to spend heavily on accommodation. approx 500-700 per night will be great and no problem in twin-triple or even 4 sharing rooms if there are any.

As per my estimates

Daily Food will be around 1000 max. 9k Accommodation (at 750 per night) 6k Tolls and Fees 1k max per head Fuel and Driver Cost as incurred.

So Delhi to Delhi should be 16k per head + car expenses

Is there anything I am missing out like 1) Are permits needed at any of thee places? 2) Are private cars not allowed at any of these places? 3) Any reason to not do a road or any alternate route you would suggest.

We have 9 days in hand. So please do help us in getting this sorted out.

Hi Sayanta,

The above plan is too rushed, does not take care of acclimatization. With that large group, someone may fall ill as the probability is high in large group. Permits are required, there is no rest in between and I am not sure if you have ever taken such hectic trip.

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Thanks a lot for your very informative website for ladakh first timers like me.

Please find below our itinerary and let me know your suggestions. We have booked zoomcar for the entire trip and plan to hire bike at leh. Also considering no peak season we are not planning to book any stay now. We’ll explore once we reach there. Is it risky not to plan stay in advance?

Date Start End Distance Approx travel time in hour [w/o break]/per google map Stay Places to see Remarks DAY 1 14th sept Chandigad Pathankot 235 4.5 Stay at Pathankot Need to check for stay DAY 2 15th sept Pathankot Srinagar 331 7.5 Stay at Srinagar Gardens & Shikara ride Need to check for stay DAY 3 16th sept Srinagar Kargil 202 4 Stay at Kargil War Memorial at Drass Need to check for stay DAY 4 17th sept Kargil Leh 217 4 Stay at Leh Gurudwara Pather Sahib, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Nimmu Need to check for stay DAY 5 18th sept Leh Leh 0 Stay at Leh Local sight seeing if possible “DAY FOR ACCLIMATIZATION. Collect bikes, fill petrol in bike and jerry cans. IMP: Get all required permissions” DAY 6 19th sept Leh Hunder 127 3.5 Hunder/ diskit “Khardung La tallest lord Buddha statue sand dunes and bacterian camel safari” Need to check for stay DAY 7 20th sept Hunder Leh 127 3.5 Stay at leh “monastery hot water springs” Need to check for stay DAY 8 21st sept Leh Pangong 225 5 Stay at Pangong Tso (Spangmik or Lukung) On the way Hemis/Thicksey/ and Shey Need to check for stay DAY 9 22nd sept Pangong Leh 225 5 Stay at Leh On the way Hemis/Thicksey/ and Shey Need to check for stay DAY 10 23rd sept Leh Tso moriri 220 5 Stay at Tso moriri Need to check for stay DAY 11 24th sept Tso moriri Sarchu 228 7 Stay at Sarchu Need to check for stay DAY 12 25th sept Sarchu Manali 223 7 Stay at Manali Need to check for stay DAY 13 26th sept Manali Chandigarh 309 8 Need to check for stay Total [approx] 2669 64

Thanks again.

Regards, Santosh

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Hi Santosh,

I thought I would share my thoughts. Hope you don’t mind as I know you have asked for Dheeraj Ji’s inputs here! I am taking the liberty to express my opinions here!

1. I am also traveling during this time to Ladakh (look at the below post for my plans, I am starting on 16th from Noida) and I have booked the stay for the entire trip as I did not want to shell out extra money + search for stay there (although that might turn out to be cheaper as you can bargain). The main reasons for my decision are as follows:

a. Looking at various hotel booking website like MMT and booking.com, it seems that there would be people traveling on that month too and rooms/stay options are flying off the shelf and getting expensive by the day!

On the flip side, if you go for a home stay kind of arrangement, then you can definitely check them out when you reach there but I am more comfortable knowing that I have stay booked.

b. When I look at your plan, everything seems to be in perfect order apart from your planned stay @ Sarchu which might not be advisable as most of the camps/cottages would close down by that time and then there would be very limited number of options available. The reason for this as per the camp owners is that it starts getting very cold out there around last week of September and sometimes the weather also gets very bad! I personally talked to 2-3 camp/cottage owners and all of them said that they would wind up the camping latest by 15/16th of September.

Hence, I had to change the stay from Sarchu to Jispa which is further down and stay options there are easily available.

You can reach out to me @ [email protected] for any comments that I have put above!

In general, if you are OK with basic guest houses and home stays, there will not be any issue at all for booking on the spots. Your plan is well laid and comfortable. As Abhishek pointed in September, Sarchu camps starts to pack up and few properties remains. Nowadays road conditions are much better and Leh – Jispa can easily be done in a day. Since you are not booking in advance, take the decision to stay at Sarchu and Jispa on the day or a day before.

Thank you so much for your valuable suggestions.

Dheeraj ji,

I have following questions… 1. After after Pangong & Nubra is done with local bikes we plan to take our selfdrive/zoomcar to Tso moriri… then Jispa and back to Chandigarh via Manali. Will there be any problem if we take zoomcar to Tso moriri? 2. Can we take Zoomcar to Hanle? 3. Can we take Zoomcar to Turtuk?

Thanks a lot.

You can only take outside rented car to Leh and for all above places you need local Leh taxi.

So here is what my Ladakh trip looks like… starting on 16th September and ending on 30th September.

Day 1: Noida – Patnitop (Overnight stay at Patnitop) Day 2: Patnitop – Sonmarg (Overnight stay at Sonmarg) Day 3: +++ Rest Day at Sonmarg + Sight Seeing in Sonmarg & Gulmarg +++ (Overnight stay at Sonmarg) Day 4: Sonmarg – Kargil (Overnight stay at Kargil) Day 5: Kargil – Leh (Overnight stay at Leh) Day 6: +++ Rest Day at Leh + Sight Seeing in & around Leh +++ (Overnight stay at Leh) Day 7: Leh – Nubra Valley (Overnight stay at Diskit) Day 8: Nubra Valley – Pangong Tso Lake (Overnight at Pangong Tso Lake) Day 9: Pangong Tso – Leh (Overnight stay at Leh) Day 10: Leh – Tso Moriri Lake (Overnight stay at Korzok) Day 11: Tso Moriri – Jispa (Overnight stay at Jispa) Day 12: Jispa – Manali (Overnight stay at Manali) Day 13: +++ Rest Day at Manali + Sight Seeing in & around Manali +++ (Overnight stay at Manali) Day 14: Manali – Noida Day 15: Buffer Days Day 16: Buffer Days

Do you think that this plan looks good? I am assuming that I have taken enough breaks in between for the body to acclimatize to the conditions up there! Let me know if there are any changes that you want to suggest!

I would also welcome any feedback from fellow members here!

Thanks and Regards, Abhishek

You should use your buffer days and plan for Leh – Nubra – Leh in two days and then Leh – Pangong Tso – Hanle – Tso Moriri – Jispa direct trip. Rest your plan is very nicely laid out.

Hi Dheeraj Ji,

Any specific reason why you would recommend doing Leh – Nubra – Leh? I was thinking that I could do Nubra and Pangong Tso Lake in one go and then come back to Leh before exiting out from there and covering Tso Moriri….

Please let me know!

It will ease out the trip and you will enjoy more with Leh – Nubra – Leh in two days. You will fuel up and then best will be to do Leh to Pangong Tso, Pangong Tso to Hanle and Hanle to Tso Moriri, finally exit to Jispa from Tso Moriri

So I took your advice and have added a day in between to return to Let from Nubra Valley and then proceed towards Pangong Tso Lake next day. I guess that would be the best approach for me considering that this is my first trip to Ladakh.

Thank you very much for your advice!

Yes Abhishek, you will have wonderful and memorable trip, I am sure. We will look for your updates.

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Thanks a lot for your wonderful work.really your suggestion and planning are fantastic. We are 3 above 45 reach Leh by flight on 27th september and back from srinagar on 5th October. Pls suggest itinerary. wants to visit best of ladakh and kargil.it will be our 1st and last visit of ladakh. We want to see the villages of ladakh closely.how is TSOGSTY.can I get home stay there??we want budget trip.Pls reply.Thanks in advance

I see you have 9 days at hand, you can follow something like below:

Day 1 | Delhi – Leh (By Flight) — Checkin at Hotel. Many hotels provide free pick and drop from Airport. Ask while you book them. — Take ample of rest as well as water or anything that keep your body hydrated enough. DO NOT OVER HYDRATE. Take ORS Soluted water or ORS – L tetra packs from home. — Do not over exert your body at any cost. Avoid too much up-down on stairs or avoid it in entirety, if possible. — After 5-6 Hrs of rest you can visit Leh Palace, Local Leh market, Shankar Gompa . — If you feel exerted go back to Hotel, have dinner at Hotel and take rest. Avoid any exertion. Else continue and, — Follow the sunset by stroll at Changspa road and have a nice dinner on varied cuisines offered in-around Changspa road. — Go back to hotel for overnight stay at Leh.   Day 2 | Leh Local Sighseeing + Acclimatization — Hire a taxi from Leh taxi stand or Hotel whichever suits you. — Bargain hard with taxi driver. Book that single taxi for entire trip after explaining the complete plan. — Take his inputs if you feel reasonable and if required modify the plan accordingly but should suits you best. — Ask him to be with you guys starting first day itself, if required and charged reasonable else do it at your own. — Again DO NOT over exert and take little steps and slow walks only. — If feeling OK then do Local sightseeing. To know the about the places to visit check the link: Travel Guide for Local Sightseeing of Leh Town in Ladakh — Do not use stairs at any of these places just to see them as it will exert your body much more. — Overnight at Leh   Day 3 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder — Head for Nubra Valley and stay overnight at Hunder / Diskit — On the way enjoy a cup of soup at Highest Motorable Pass (as claimed) Khardung La — Diskit has monasteries with tallest lord Buddha statue and Hunder has sand dunes and bacterian camel safari   Day 4 | Hunder / Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh — Sumur has a famous monastery to check out and Panamik has hot water springs — Overnight at Leh   Day 5 | Leh – Hemis Monastery – Pangong Tso Lake — Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on the go towards Pangong Tso — Overnight at Pangong Tso (Spangmik or Lukung)   Day 6 | Pangong Tso Lake – Thicksey Monastery – Shey Palace – Leh — Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on return to Leh — Overnight at Leh

Day 7 | Leh – Lamayuru – Kargil — Cover Mulbekh Maitrey, Lamayuru Moanstery, Lunar Landscapes — On the way you can also see Gurudwara Pather Sahib, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Nimmu — Overnight at Kargil

Day 8 | Kargil – Drass – Zozi La – Sonamarg – Srinagar — Enjoy the vistas enroute — Have late drunch meal at Sonamarg — Overnight at Srinagar

Day 9 | Fly back

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Just replied to the other comment.

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Hi, I am planning to go to Leh-Ladakh on Aug 14th- Aug 25. I have prepared 2 sample itinerary . Would you please go through them and suggest if any changes need to be done

—— Itinerary 1———–

Aug 14 : evening flight to Delhi, stay at Delhi Aug 15 : renting bikes from Delhi, move to Chandigarh Aug 16 : Chandigarh to Solang Aug 17 : sightseeing in Solang Valley, Solang – Jispa Aug 18 : Jispa -Leh Aug 19 : leh sightseeing, permit, stay @ Leh Aug 20 : Leh-Khardung La- Diskit-Hunder-Leh Aug 21 : Leh-Pangng-Leh Aug 22 : Leh-Sonamarg Aug 23 : sightseeing in Srinagar Aug 24 : Srinagr – Jalandhar Aug 25 : Jalandhar- Delhi

———– Itinerary 2 ———- Aug 14 : evening flight to Delhi, stay at Delhi Aug 15 : renting bikes from Delhi, move to Chandigarh Aug 16 : Chandigarh to Solang Aug 17 : sightseeing in Solang Valley, Solang – Jispa Aug 18 : Jispa -Leh Aug 19 : leh sightseeing, permit, stay @ Leh Aug 20 : Leh-Khardung La- Diskit-Hunder-Leh Aug 21 : Leh-Pangng-Leh Aug 22 : Leh-Taglang La-Sarchu Aug 23 : Sarchu-Manali Aug 24 : Manali-Chandigarh Aug 25 : Chandigarh-Delhi Aug 26 : evening flight

Is it ok to go with this plan ?? We wish to return via Srinagar but if any issues there at that time we will return via Manali

Given the number of days at hand, the plans looks fine to me.

Thank you so much for replying. N this DoW is loaded with information for Ldakh trip. We will go ahead with this plan and let you know once done

Great, thanks a lot. Feel free to post any further questions.

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We are planning for a similar trip starting from Chandigarh from sept 29-oct8. Is it a good time to visit? Will the roads(kargil-leh) be open during this period?

Thanks, Amit

Amit, the roads are open during that time but it starts to get cold especially in morning and night and plus the stay options are mostly winded up especially on Manali = Leh Highway. People do make the journey during this time but it has its own perils along with occassional snowfall.

Hi Dheeraj Would like to know your expertise view as planning for my maiden drive to Leh. Is it worth enough to have a journey from Manali – Leh -Manali Aug 1st to Aug 10th. Is it safe as I will be having solo drive in my car??? Is it worth enough to plan a journey at this time of year ( Aug 1st to Aug 10). Or should I wait till next year and leave as soon as the road opens next year. Pls help me out

It is monsoon time in general up there in North and at some parts of Manali – Leh Highway (like before Baralacha La) and Srinagar – Leh Highway (like before Kargil) you might need to face monsoon hassles but once you get closer to Ladakh, then Ladakh being rain shadow region is least affected by monsoon rains. Landslides or slush or road blocks are pretty common in the month of monsoons but these landslides are cleared in a day or two unless there is a very major one. Having said that, rains does reach Ladakh nowadays but in general, it is overcast days or in form of light drizzles. I will suggest you also read my article on 10 Tips for a Trip to Ladakh in Monsoons .

You can also refer to the link in our community: FAQ | Is Monsoon season good time to travel to Ladakh? for more details.

Dear I can even fit 12 – 13 days doesn’t matter but am bit confused about going in the month of august 1st. Is it worth enough to take this journey at this time or should I wait till next June. Because these trips won’t happen oftenly in life as am from Kerala. Requires lot of effort and plan that’s why I asked. Should I carry on with August 1st to 15th or Should I wait enough for June 2018??? Pls give your experienced feedback. Thank you

Sijas, you will sure be going through monsoon hassles. It is monsoon time in general up there in North and at some parts of Manali – Leh Highway (like before Baralacha La) and Srinagar – Leh Highway (like before Kargil) you might need to face monsoon hassles but once you get closer to Ladakh, then Ladakh being rain shadow region is least affected by monsoon rains. Landslides or slush or road blocks are pretty common in the month of monsoons but these landslides are cleared in a day or two unless there is a very major one. Having said that, rains does reach Ladakh nowadays but in general, it is overcast days or in form of light drizzles. I will suggest you also read my article on 10 Tips for a Trip to Ladakh in Monsoons .

I will suggest based on above articles and suggestions in them, you can easily make up your mind.

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Hi Dheeraj Thanks a ton for all the blogs.. Me along with 2 friends planning to go to Manali-Leh-Ladakh-Sringar-Punjab strating this July 8th. I have worked out a rough itinery. Please suggest me any changes in this as we 3 are first timers and confused with the ride time and all. july 8 th-TVM -Delhi by flight-Manali by Bus july 9th- Manali local- Night stay at Solang 10th- Solang- Jispa-Night at Jispa/Pang 11th-Jispa- Leh- Night at Leh( reach by evening,obtain permit, bike for ladakh) 12th- Leh-Nubra-Leh (visit hunder,sumur, panamik and back to leh) night @Leh 13th- Leh- Pangong Lake(return and visit Hemis,Shey,Thicksey,Tsemo)-night @Leh 14th-Leh to Srinagar ( Visit pather sahib, hall of fame, Lamayaru, pass Dras,Kargil and reach Srinagar-night @srinagar)(Confused whether we could ride this at a stretch or to take night halt at Kargil) pls advice. 15th- Srinagar Local + Gulmarg- night @ srinagar 16th- Srinagar-Pahalgam-Jammu (night @jammu) 17th-Jammu-Pathankot-Punjab-night 18th-punjab-amritsar-wagah-night @punjab 19th-Chandigarh-Kerala reach kerala by 21st

please help me if any corrections needed.

I will suggest that you rest in Leh after reaching to Leh for at least one day. Then make two day trip to Nubra Valley and then one day trip to Pangong Tso. Then go over to Srinagar. this should be minimum plan even if it means dropping Kashmir places and others. Else it does not make sense for the trip.

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Hi Dheeraj, I am confused whether to prebook hotels or book hotels going there especially because we are 7 of us and will be staying at Hunder, Pangong tso, tso moriri, Hanle. We will be visiting in aug end. I have similar doubt on pre renting cab and bike or renting over there. Could you please advice me. Thanks!

Kruthi, if you are not too much fussy about places to stay and do not mind staying at small family run guest houses or home stays, there will not be any issue searching stays on the spot all over in Ladakh

Hi Dheeraj, I am confused whether to prebook hotels or book hotels going there especially because we are 7 of us and will be staying at Hunder, Pangong tso, tso moriri, Hanle. Online rates seems very high as of now. We will be visiting in aug end. I have similar doubt on pre renting cab and bike or renting over there. Could you please advice me on this. Thanks!

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I am planning to go with my family ( 2 adults and 2 child 7 year and 12 years ) in a self drive SUV for the 14 days iterinary mentioned above from Delhi on July or August 1st week. How is the current security situation throughout this journey. Is it safe to go with family now? Please advice

In general as per reports by other members of the community, it looks fine. No major issues reported.

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Hi Dheeraj, thanks for all the good work you do for all of our benefit. Is there also an itinerary on the portal for Delhi-Manali-Ladakh-Delhi, where Manali to Ladakh is by road, and Ladakh to Delhi is by flight

Please find the itinerary below:

Day 1 | Delhi – Manali/Solang Valley — Better stay at Solang Valley and avoid Manali as sleeping at Solang Valley does help in acclimatization — If going by own car, get the permit made in advance to drive on Manali – Rohtang Pass road through hotel/travel agent in Manali — Overnight at Manali/Solang Valley

Day 2 | Manali/Solang Valley – Keylong/Jispa — It is always better to stay either at Keylong/Jispa so that you do not feel sick or hit by AMS. — Avoid sleeping at Sarchu at any cost while going to Leh from Manali because your body will not be acclimatized by the time you reach there. — I prefer staying at Jispa more because Keylong gives the feeling of a town while Jispa is more closer to nature having Bhaga river running just aside the Manali – Leh Highway at Jispa. — Overnight at Keylong/Jispa

Day 3 | Keylong/Jispa – Leh — Leave Keylong/Jispa early next morning, say by 4/5 AM types, so that you reach Leh in the evening. — Overnight at Leh

Day 7 | Leh – Pangong Tso Lake – Leh – Day trip to Pangong Tso – Overnight at Leh

Day 8 | Leh – Tso Moriri via Chumathang — Cover Karzok Monastery — Overnight at Karzok or Tso Moriri   Day 9 | Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Debring (Manali – Leh Highway starts) – Taglang La – Upshi – Leh — Come back via Tso Kar and Manali – Leh Highway to Leh — Overnight at Leh

Day 10 | Rest day at Leh to enjoy local culture and some shopping OR Monastery tour OR You can do tour to Sham Valley — Monastery tour may include Hemis, Thicksey, Stakna and Shey monasteries. They come on the route of Pangong Tso but as you will be doing day trip, it will be a bit hectic to include them on that day only. — Sham Valley include Alchi, Likir, Basgo Palace, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Nimmu, , Gurudwara Pather Sahib — Overnight at Leh

Day 11 | Fly back

Thanks Dheeraj. We will hire a taxi from Manali and spend the night at Solang Valley. We plan to reach Manali around 1 PM on Saturday 23rd Sep and plan to start driving early on Sunday morning from Solang. We plan to not pre-book and go to the taxi stand on Saturday and negotiate and finalize. 1. Will we have enough time to book a cab that day? 2. Are there any permits we will need to take? Will the offices for that be open on Saturday afternoon? 3. Are the drivers generally OK picking up from Solang valley?

Also, if we reach Manali early, say 7 AM, will it be possible to go to the taxi stand and book a taxi then? If not, it may make sense to come into Manali only around noon, because we want to book a taxi and then go and stay at Solang Valley

It might be difficult at 7 AM as most drivers come by around 8-10 AM types. But, any early starters you may be able to find.

Replies below:

1. Yes, you will have enough time to book the taxi 2. No, in case of taxi the taxi guys has to arrange the permit for his taxi 3. Yes, they will pick up guests from Solang Valley.

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My hotel owner is telling that inner line permit is still required even for Indians for nubra and pangong. Is it true? All my colleagues had to take this permit during their visit in 2017.

Yes, this is very much true. Starting 2017, the inner line permit are again required in Ladakh

Thanks a lot for your excellent support with this DOW page, got to know a lot about leh trip. Thanks again.

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Really exciting itinerary. Shall be working on finalizing my itinerary soon!

Sure, feel free to post any further questions you have for your trip.

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Your posts are extremely informative for first-timers. So first of all, I owe you a big thank you!

I will be going to Leh-Ladakh late September and my itinerary goes as follows:

Day 1: Morning flight to Srinagar. Srinagar to Kargil. Night stay there. Day 2: Kargil-Drokhpa region-Kargil Day 3: Kargil-Padum Day 4: Sight-seeing around Padum. Night stay there Day 5: Padum-Kargil Day 6: Kargil-Leh Day 7: Sight-seeing around Leh Day 8: Leh-Nubra Valley Day 9: Nubra Valley-Pangong Tso Day 10: Pangong Tso-Tso Moriri Day 11: Tso Moriri-Tso Kar-Leh Day 12: Buffer Day 13: Fly out of Leh

1. I wanted to know if Day 9 and Day 10 back-to-back will be too hectic, and if we should return to Leh from Pangong. Also, how long is the journey from Nubra to Pangong, because I really want to spend some time in Pangong.

Some of us will be flying out on Day 13 itself, so if it’s not a big deal, we want to complete the trip within Day 12.

2. Can I include Hanle in the buffer day (in case you advice me to not travel directly to Tso Moriri) as : Pangong Tso-Hanle, and then Hanle-Tso Moriri on the following day? Also, what are the procedures for getting the permit at Hanle?

3. What are the places I can cover around Leh and Padum in the limited time that I have? (I prefer to travel on the roads less traveled, so feel free to suggest non-touristy places)

Thank you in advance!

There is no point going for the Padum in just two days at hand, it will put you through treacherous journey just to sleep one night and come back again. Rather best you can do is Kargil – Rangdum (cover Penzi la), Rangdum – Lamayuru, Lamayuru – Drokpa region – Leh. The extra day now you have got is to be used to visit Hanle like Leh – Nubra Valley, Nubra Valley to Pangong tso, Pangong tso to Hanle, Hanle to Tso Moriri.

Thank you so much for the feedback.

In one of your blogs, I read that the conditions are more harsh at Rangdum and hence I opted to stay at Padum.

If it’s not too inconvenient for you, can you share the places I can visit if I choose to stay at Rangdum and follow the route you suggested?

Also, is it feasible to go from Pangong to Hanle to Tso Moriri in a day?

We will be booking a cab for ourselves, so you can advice accordingly.

Yes, that is true but it does make sense if you have days in hand but for just 2 days going another 5 Hrs of a bumpy ride in a day is not advisable. LA Himalaya home stay has attached toilets too now at Rangdum, so facilities have improved there. When you stay at Rangdum, you can visit Penzi La Pass and the two lakes that comes on the way to it. Plus it is the nature and the journey which is enjoyable to Rangdum. Of course, Rangdum monastery too offers very nice views.

Pangong tso to Hanle = Day 1 and Hanle to Tso Moriri – Day 2.

I am thinking of extending the stay at Padum to 2 days. Then what are the possible places I can explore?

Also, if I have to choose between going to Tso Moriri or Hanle, which one will you advise?

Again, thank you and my apologies for bothering you so much!

That sounds good then, you can refer: Local Sightseeing in Padum – Zanskar Valley

I will choose Hanle because it has a different beauty than the lake which you anyways will visit Pangong Tso.

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I’ve gone through the recent notification given by the bikers union. We are hiring delhi registered bikes for our ladakh trip. Will this be a problem?

Jitesh, it depends on the mood to be very frank now a days !! Best is to do Leh rented bike journey only within Ladakh

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Leh Ladakh Itinerary for 8 Days

Introduction to leh ladakh.

Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days opens the many hidden doors in Ladakh region. Join this intricately crafted tour to explore a world that makes time to stand still!

Ladakh – a dream come true destination in the topmost part of India, seats at a height of 8,370ft to 25,400ft above the sea level. Guarded by the mighty Himalayas, Zanskar, Karakoram, and other exhilarating mountain ranges, this region entices visitors from all across the world. Be it the summer, winter, or monsoon, Leh Ladakh showcases a unique charm to behold and enjoy throughout the year. Whether you are searching for mental peace, leisure moments, exciting days, fun-filled memories, or adrenaline pumping activities, Ladakh has them all!

The snow-clad mountain peaks reaching sky height, the pristine greeneries around, the rugged terrains, the wonderful meadows, and the heart-warming locals make Leh Ladakh a must visit place on earth. Come summer, the entire regions regain life and blooms with all its beauty and charm. During the winter, it goes into a deep slumber while putting on an enchanting blanket of snow. And the slow drizzles during the monsoon adds a new aroma to the entire region.

This Leh Ladakh itinerary has been crafted in a way, it will introduce with the many different shades of Ladakh. While the tour will take you to some of the most pictorial destinations, it will also mender around some exhilarating landscapes. From the bottom of the valleys, this Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days will also take you across mighty passes through whirling terrains and routes. You will also get to spend time with the locals, mingle with them, explore the traditional lifestyle and many different cultures.

From palaces to monasteries, lakes to high motorable passes, remote villages to bustling marketplaces, you will just get to have a glimpse of everything. The tour can also be tailored to fit your time and budget. You can include additional places to visit or things to do while booking these Leh Ladakh packages for 8 days. Also, you can add more days or cut it short according to your time and convenience. On a whole, this Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days is highly customizable and also extremely fin-packed!

Overview of Leh Ladakh Itinerary for 8 Days

Do you think 8 days would be enough to enjoy or admire the beauty of Leh Ladakh? Well, the answer would be a straight ‘no’! In fact, an entire lifetime might fall short to explore the magical beauty and charm of this region! This Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days has been designed keeping in mind about bringing you a livelier glimpse of some of the wonders that makes Ladakh truly heavenly.

Within the 8 beautiful days of this trip, you will be taken to remote villages, scenic valleys, fascinating lakesides, and a lot more. While booking these Leh Ladakh packages for 8 days, you will also get to indulge yourself in a range of exciting tourist activities and expeditions. There are day excursions included in the tour that would hold you captive with the untouched beauty of Ladakh. There are monastery visits within this Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days that would offer mental solace and peace. Again there are some of the most adventurous experiences included in this tour that will keep you soaked with fun and frolic during all the 8 days.

To make the tour even more interesting and exciting, we will appoint our best Leh Ladakh guides with you. Most of our tour experts are extremely well-trained to facilitate Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days with an ease. They are the ones who has probably spent most of their life in the higher altitudes of Ladakh. As they keep introducing you with the different regions in Leh Ladakh circuit, you can expect additional amount of the fun and excitement to your tour.

Moreover, in case if you want to customize this Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days, our tour coordinators would love to help you with the customization. You could add additional time or days, or even take out some destinations according to your choice and convenience. From your pick-up to final drop, our expert guides and other team members would take care of all your needs, safety, coziness, and comfort.

Leh Ladakh Itinerary for 8 Days in a Glance:

Day 01: arrival in leh, day 02: day excursion to sham valley.

  • Day 03: Drive from Leh to Nubra Valley (via Khardung La) (161 km / 5 hours)

Day 04: Drive from Nubra Valley to Pangong Lake (140 km / 6 hours)

  • Day 05: Drive from Pangong Lake to Leh (223 km / 6 hours)

Day 06: Drive from Leh to Tso Moriri (221 km / 5 hours)

Day 07: drive from tso moriri to leh, day 08: departure from leh, essential tips for leh ladakh itinerary for 8 days:.

Given Ladakh’s location amidst the towering peaks of the Himalayas, it is of utmost importance to be mindful of certain tips and instructions when planning Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days. These valuable suggestions aim to guarantee a rewarding and delightful trip while prioritizing your safety and well-being. Before booking any Leh Ladakh packages for 8 days, it is strongly advised to acquaint yourself with these essential tips. They will assist you in maximizing your experience and ensuring an unforgettable journey.

How to Reach Leh Ladakh by Flight:

If you prefer to skip road travel and reach Ladakh directly, flying is the most convenient option. This is especially suitable for your Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days. Choosing air travel will save you precious time, enabling you to immerse yourself fully in the mesmerizing beauty of Ladakh. When booking your flight tickets, it is recommended to make reservations at least one day in advance. This allows for an additional buffer period to settle down in Leh Ladakh and adjust to the local climate. Arriving a day earlier will also help you avoid any last-minute rush or unexpected situations that may arise.

Nestled in the heart of Leh, the capital city of Ladakh, you will find the captivating Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, the region’s sole airport. It is a truly remarkable aviation hub, surrounded by awe-inspiring snow-capped mountain peaks that create a breathtaking backdrop. This airport enjoys commendable air connectivity, with several major cities in India offering flights to Leh.

You can find flights to Leh from cities like Srinagar, Jammu, Chandigarh, Delhi, and Mumbai. Among these, Delhi provides the highest number of flights to this extraordinary airport. You will find that most of India’s major air carriers, including Air India, IndiGo, GoFirst, SpiceJet, and Vistara, offer daily flights to Leh. The journey itself is nothing short of a dream come true experience, as you fly over the mighty Himalayan Range. If possible, try to secure a window seat to fully enjoy the breathtaking views along the way.

How to Reach Leh Ladakh by Road:

When considering our popular Leh Ladakh packages for 8 days and opting for a road journey to reach Leh, you have two options. You can either start from Manali or from Srinagar. The distance between Manali and Leh is approximately 473 km, while Srinagar to Leh spans around 422 km. Renting a private or shared jeep is a convenient choice from both locations to embark on your Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days.

Alternatively, you can also avail yourself of local buses operated by HRTC (Himachal Road Transport Corporation) and SRTC (Jammu and Kashmir State Road Transport Corporation). These buses run at regular intervals from Manali and Srinagar. However, it’s important to note that bus journeys generally take longer compared to traveling by jeep.

How to Plan a Road Trip to Leh Ladakh:

For motorcycle enthusiasts planning for a Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days, a motorbike ride to Leh is an absolute must! While the Manali-Leh and Srinagar-Leh routes are the most popular choices for reaching Leh, some bikers also consider starting their journey from Delhi or Chandigarh when searching for Leh Ladakh packages for 8 days.

Each of these routes offers its own unique sense of fun, thrill, and excitement. However, we highly recommend the Manali and Srinagar routes, as they are truly captivating and awe-inspiring. Riding through challenging terrains while admiring the breathtaking beauty of the surroundings has another level of excitement. All through the ride, the riders would surely feel a sudden surge of adrenaline through their veins. Adding more, the joy of riding across the Himalayan Range will make definitely make these rides even more memorable and fascinating!

Best Time to Visit Leh Ladakh:

1. summer in leh ladakh (march to june): best time.

The ideal time to consider a Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days is during the summer months. If you are considering any of the Leh Ladakh packages for 8 days, we highly recommend scheduling your trip in this season. Ladakh typically experiences summer weather from March to June, offering pleasant temperatures and the region blooming into its captivating beauty.

From March to June, you can explore almost every corner of Ladakh. The moderate temperatures during this time allow for a wide range of tourist activities. Summer in Ladakh is known for being the most pleasant period for visitors. The improved visibility during these months makes it an ideal time for sightseeing tours, village visits, monastery explorations, and other popular tourist activities. Don’t delay any longer and plan your Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days during these months to make the most of your trip.

2. Monsoon in Leh Ladakh (July to September): Ideal Time

The lofty Himalayan Range acts as a shield to Ladakh and safeguards the region from heavy monsoon showers. If you are looking for a Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days, you can without any doubt go for the monsoon season. During the monsoon months, you may experience a few rain showers, but that would be very occasional. This usually begins in the month of July and ends by the end of September. If you book any of the Leh Ladakh packages for 8 days during these months, you can feel the temperature very pleasant. The temperature could reach a minimum of 5 degrees with a maximum rise of 20 degrees during the daytime.

With the advent of monsoon season, the entire Ladakh valley turns dense and greener. You can see the greeneries blooming with all their glories and casting a magical spell on the spectators. Wherever your Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days takes you, there would a refreshing feel and soul-satisfying essence of the soil accompanying you all throughout the tour.

3. Winter in Leh Ladakh (October to February): Good Time

If you have a fondness for winter and are considering a Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days, the winter season can provide a unique and adventurous experience. While it may not be the conventional choice, planning Leh Ladakh packages for 8 days during winter can be truly rewarding. In Ladakh, winter typically begins in October and extends until the end of February. During this period, temperatures drop significantly, presenting challenges for visitors to fully appreciate the region’s beauty and charm.

If you are someone who embraces winter and seeks adventure, you can still plan a trip to Ladakh during the winter months. For thrill-seekers, a Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days in winter offers the opportunity to embark on the exhilarating Chadar Trek, where you trek on the frozen Zanskar River. Snow leopard spotting is another popular winter activity that has gained popularity in recent times. However, before considering any Leh Ladakh packages for 8 days during winter, it is essential to assess your physical endurance and, if needed, enhance your overall fitness and immunity levels to cope with the demanding conditions.

Inner Line Permit for Leh Ladakh Itinerary for 8 Days:

Some or most of the countries in the world has some special regions or areas that cannot be accessed or partially accessed by the common citizens. These regions are directly governed by the government and requires special passes or permits to be accessed by common public. In some cases, they might be kept entirely classified and may not allow trespassers of any types. The government usually does that to preserve or endure geopolitical or ecological importance of those areas. In other cases, the government may preserve these areas for some strict use by the nation’s defence or security services.

India as a country also has some of these areas across its length and breadth. Be it in the north or south, east or west, there are several places that are not open to common public. Even if they can be accessed by common citizens, they require special permits to visit these areas. Visitors need to apply for the permits through standard procedures by submitting the nationality proof and other documents to establish their identity. However, the government also holds the power to either grant or withdraw these permits whenever they sense some disturbances or irregularities.

The ‘Inner Line Permit (ILP)’ is such permit that allows a visitor to visit these restricted or strictly administered places within a country.

To obtain an Inner Line Permit (ILP) for your Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days, you have the option to apply either online or offline. The ILP is typically issued for a specific duration, but there are no restrictions on the number of visits you can make to the restricted areas within that period. Once you have the ILP, you are allowed to visit the restricted places as many times as you like, but only within the permitted timeframe.

For Indian nationals residing within the country, the duration of the ILP is usually three weeks. This allows them to explore the restricted areas and enjoy their

Leh Ladakh itinerary for an extended period.

NOTE: Non-Indian citizens may have to undergo different processes to apply for an ILP. Also, they might get the permit on different backgrounds. It is advisable to check the ILP guidelines beforehand to enjoy the Leh Ladakh packages for 8 days without any hassles.

Official site to apply for Ladakh Inner Line Permit for domestic citizens:

https://www.lahdclehpermit.in/register-as-domestic

Official site to apply for Ladakh Inner Line Permit for foreign citizens:

https://www.lahdclehpermit.in/register-as-overseas

Follow the above two links as per your nationality and fill up the given form by producing required documents to get ILP for Ladakh.

The DC Office in Leh City is the place where you can apply for the ILP for your Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days. There are forms available in the office to request for an Inner Line Permit. You have to fill the form with the required details and attach your valid ID proofs issued by the Government with the form. Without proper or valid documents, you may get disqualified for the ILP.

NOTE: Do not forget to get the documents properly stamped before submitting them.

Health & Safety Tips for Leh Ladakh Itinerary for 8 Days:

Acclimatization in leh ladakh:.

The human body is susceptible to various health challenges due to changes in atmospheric conditions, specifically air pressure, and density. When individuals move to higher altitude areas like Ladakh, these health risks become more noticeable because of the reduced air pressure found at higher altitudes, generally above 10,000 feet.

Due to its varying elevation, Ladakh poses climatic challenges that can be particularly risky for individuals who are accustomed to lower regions or places at lower altitudes. As people from lower regions ascend to higher altitudes in Ladakh, ranging from 8,370 ft to 25,400 ft, they may experience symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, breathing difficulties, fatigue, and other health discomforts. These symptoms are commonly associated with the body’s adaptation to reduced oxygen levels and atmospheric conditions at higher altitudes.

It is crucial to understand that the challenges faced at high altitudes can vary from person to person. The effects of reduced air pressure highly depend on factors such as physical and mental health. Even those who consider themselves physically fit might experience breathing difficulties or other health issues while in Ladakh. Hence, it is essential for anyone planning a Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days to remain cautious throughout their trip.

To minimize the risks of altitude sickness during your Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days, it is strongly advised to ensure proper acclimatization before considering any Leh Ladakh packages for 8 days. The most effective method to get acclimatized is to ascend gradually to higher altitudes instead of rapid altitude gain. This gradual approach allows your body to adapt to the changing altitude levels over time, reducing the chances of experiencing the adverse effects of sudden altitude changes.

Hence, you should always try your best to spend the first day of your Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days in Leh City. This would allow you enough time to get acclimatized to the climate there and help you in boosting your immunity. Also, on the first day, you must try and avoid any strenuous activities with the city as your body must get enough rest on the first day.

Altitude Sickness in Leh Ladakh:

It is crucial to have an understanding of the potential risks associated with altitude sickness when planning a 7-day Leh Ladakh itinerary. The decrease in oxygen levels at higher altitudes can lead to breathing difficulties and other health implications. Altitude sickness can be categorized into three types:

1. Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS):

The most common type of altitude sickness is Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), which can occur at moderately higher altitudes. It is characterized by symptoms such as mild to severe headaches, dizziness that can worsen over time, muscle pain, and nausea. These symptoms can significantly impact the well-being of individuals at higher altitudes

2. High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE):

While undertaking a Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days, it is important to be aware of a more severe form of altitude sickness known as High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE). HAPE involves the accumulation of fluids in the lungs, leading to breathing difficulties. However, it is unlikely to encounter HAPE during any of our Leh Ladakh packages for 8 days, as they do not typically involve reaching extremely high altitudes. Rest assured that the itineraries are designed to prioritize your safety and well-being.

3. High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE):

HACE (High Altitude Cerebral Edema) is a more advanced stage of altitude sickness that surpasses HAPE in severity. It occurs when fluid accumulates directly in the brain. Individuals affected by HACE may experience a variety of neurological and mental symptoms as the normal functioning of nerves is significantly disrupted. In the unfortunate event of developing HACE, prompt access to advanced medical care and treatments is crucial to ensure proper management and recovery.

Symptoms of AMS:

  • The initial appearance of a headache, starting off mild and progressively worsening with increased altitude.
  • Sensations of dizziness, accompanied by a spinning feeling and a tendency to lose balance.
  • Nausea, which can induce a desire to vomit.
  • Mental and physical fatigue, impacting your ability to engage in regular activities.
  • Rapid breathing, leading to a sense of breathlessness or heavy breathing.
  • Disturbed sleep patterns, such as difficulty falling asleep or racing thoughts that keep your mind active.
  • Altered appetite, with a feeling of fullness despite wanting to eat or an increased desire to eat despite experiencing butterflies in your stomach.

Slight carelessness can lead to HAPE or HACE which can cause severe and life-threatening issues like:

  • You may experience a loss of coordination in your movements while walking or engaging in physical activities.
  • Headaches can intensify, even with the use of medications that typically alleviate them.
  • You may feel a sensation of chest congestion, which can worsen over time if not properly cared for and treated.
  • Cognitive abilities may decline, leading to confusion and difficulties in decision-making as time goes on.

You must always make acclimatization the top priority while planning for a Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days. Study a lot about the climatic conditions at higher altitudes, and start training your body to endure your metabolism and immunity even at higher altitudes. You can also take advantage of various exercises or yoga to maintain the optimal fitness level of your body.

By booking our Leh Ladakh packages for 8 days, you will be assured of all the precautions to get acclimatized to Ladakh’s climate. Our packages are planned and designed keeping in mind that most of the visitors usually come from the plains or low-altitude areas. Thus, we offer an ample amount of time to get acclimatized to the local climate in our Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days.

Essential Medication:

While on your Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days, you may not always have access to medical or chemist shops. It is highly advisable that while packing for such trips, you must also pack all the basic medicines that you may require in your daily life. Carrying medications for fever, pain, headache, vomiting tendency, cold, cough, and other common problems could prove to be your life saviour while booking any of the Leh Ladakh packages for 8 days.

Basic medicines to carry (you can add more if you find other better options):

  • Pain balms and ointments like Moov, Iodex, Amrutanjan, etc., which can provide relief for muscle aches and pains.
  • Antiseptic liquids like Dettol, Savlon, etc., and hand sanitizers to maintain hygiene and prevent infections.
  • Basic headache pills such as Disprin, Saridon, etc., to alleviate headaches.
  • Paracetamol or ibuprofen tablets to manage feverish symptoms.
  • Tablets for stomach aches, antacids, diarrhoea, and other common health issues, which can be crucial in case of emergencies.

NOTE: Please do not forget to double check the manufacturing as well as the expiry dates of the medicines you carry with you on your Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days.

Packing for Leh Ladakh Itinerary for 8 Days:

Any Leh Ladakh packages for 8 days require special attention when it comes to clothing. The region could extremely cold and freezing during the winter months. Even during the summer or monsoon months, you may find the temperature crispy enough. Thus, packing nicely could rescue you from all types of situations while you are enjoying your Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days.

Top essential wearable items:

  • Durable and sturdy bags, suitcases, or backpacks that can withstand the rigors of travel.
  • Sufficient heavy jackets and warm woollen clothing to protect against the cold temperatures in Leh Ladakh.
  • Insulated and waterproof gloves to keep your hands warm and dry in cold and wet conditions.
  • Sturdy and warm footwear with good traction for trekking or walking on uneven terrain.
  • High-quality woollen or thermal socks to provide insulation and keep your feet warm.
  • Warm hats or woollen caps and scarves to cover your head, ears, and neck and protect them from the cold.
  • Long and warm trousers or pants for nighttime wear to shield against the chilly temperatures.
  • An additional pair of flip-flops or slippers for comfort indoors or in bathroom areas.
  • A raincoat or poncho to protect against rain showers and keep you dry.
  • Windproof jackets or windbreakers to shield you from strong winds that are common in the region.
  • A portable flashlight with spare batteries for better visibility during nighttime or in areas with limited lighting.
  • A compact multi-purpose tool or Swiss army knife, along with sturdy ropes, for emergency situations or outdoor activities.
  • Extra carry bags for waste disposal or to carry any leftover items while maintaining cleanliness and promoting environmental responsibility.

Quick food items:

  • Ready-to-eat meals or instant noodles for a quick and convenient meal option.
  • Energy drinks, glucose powder, ORS drinks (oral rehydration solution), energy bars, and snacks to replenish energy and stay hydrated.
  • A thermos flask or insulated bottle to keep your beverages hot or cold.
  • Pickles or condiments to add flavour to your meals and enhance your taste sensitivity at high altitudes.
  • Dry fruits, such as nuts and raisins, granola bars, chocolate bars, coffee or tea sachets, and instant soups for quick snacks or comforting meals.
  • These food items are lightweight, easy to pack, and provide sustenance during your Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days. However, it is also recommended to explore and enjoy the local cuisine of Ladakh to experience the authentic flavours of the region.

Items for personal hygiene:

These personal hygiene essentials are essential for maintaining cleanliness and freshness during your Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days.

  • Travel-sized soap sheets and travel tissue packs
  • Travel-sized facial cleanser, toothpaste, and a toothbrush
  • Travel-sized packs of both dry and wet wipes
  • Nail clippers, a comb, and a compact mirror
  • Travel-sized skin moisturizers and lotions to prevent dryness and keep your skin hydrated
  • Lip balm and insect repellent creams or sprays
  • Disposable shaving kits for convenience

Other essential items:

  • Valid photo identification (e.g., driver’s license, passport)
  • Passport, Voter Card, or any other government-approved identification documents
  • Phone chargers and data cables for your electronic devices
  • Extra batteries or a spare charger for your camera
  • A printed list of emergency contact numbers
  • Spike board and insulating tapes (if required for your specific activities)
  • A detailed map of Ladakh to navigate the region effectively
  • Details of your medical insurance coverage

Detailed Leh Ladakh Itinerary for 8 Days:

Buckle up your seat belts and start the countdown as you will be landing the magical land of Ladakh today and mark the beginning of your Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days. As you have booked your air tickets to Ladakh, our team will meet you at the Leh Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh City. Following your arrival at the airport, they will first guide you to the pre-booked hotel, and get you checked-in there.

Once you are in the hotel, you must spend some time at total leisure and get freshened up. This will not only help you to unwind or get over with the jetlag, but will also allow you time to get acclimatized with the local climate. Getting acclimatized is very crucial as right now you would be at much higher altitude. Even if you find the temperature comfortable enough, you must not rush in stepping outside to stroll around or embark on any kind of sightseeing tour immediately after checking-in into the hotel.

By evening; as you had enough leisure time at the hotel room, you can step out and take a quick around the hotel premises. You can even visit the local market areas if you wish to, and have your first glance of the local life and ambience. However, please ensure that you don’t go for a tough ascend or descend while talking a walk around the local areas. You must not get indulged into any tough experience on the first day, and try to return to the hotel room before dinner time.

NOTE: You must keep the first day of any of the Leh Ladakh packages for 8 days light enough to get properly acclimatized with Ladakh’s climate.

The beautiful Sham Valley is one such place that you may not visited till now, but you have probably seen this scenic valley in movies or while searching for Leh Ladakh’s images online. In fact, Sham Valley is among the highest searched regions in the entire Ladakh region! A visit this gorgeous valley is a must in your Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days.

Revered as one of the most scenic places to visit in Leh-Ladakh, Sham Valley is located along the Srinagar-Leh Highway. This valley is an amalgamation of different tiny little villages that truly deserves a visit while on any of the Leh Ladakh packages for 8 days. Bazgoo, Hemis Shukpachan, Suspol, and Uley are some of the most wonderful hamlets located in this valley. The other popular tourist attractions in this valley comprises of the Gurudwara Pather Sahib and Magnetic Hills along with the confluence of the Zanskar and Indus rivers.

To begin your Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days, you should first visit the sacred shrine of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. Referred to as Gurudwara Pather Sahib, this location holds great historical and tourist significance and is situated approximately 22km from Leh City. Whether it’s the remarkable architectural design, the profound devotion experienced there, or the awe-inspiring altitude this holy site reaches, every aspect of Gurudwara Pather Sahib is captivating. After immersing yourself in a spiritually enriching experience here, you will be guided towards the enchanting Magnetic Hill.

The remarkable Magnetic Hill is located only 8km from the Gurudwara Pather Sahib. An attraction that is bound to astonish you, this site defies the laws of gravity and gravitational pull, leaving you in awe. Here, if you place a vehicle in neutral condition, the magnetic properties of the area cause a pulling effect on the vehicle and it will start moving in an upward direction. It’s truly remarkable and equally unbelievable, isn’t it? Whether this phenomenon is a result of natural forces or an optical illusion, the sheer joy and excitement of witnessing vehicles moving upwards is an incredible experience in itself!

Continuing your Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days, the next breathtaking destination would be the confluence point of two majestic rivers – the Zanskar River and the Indus River. Once you reach the site, the first look at the confluence point will hold you captive for sure. From the site, you can clearly witness both the water sources merging with each other while creating a distinct line of separation. As the deep turquoise water of the Zanskar River merges with the azure blue water of the Indus River, they create a visible separation line between them. This truly creates a remarkable visual spectacle that is easily discernible.

Exploring monasteries is a significant part of any Leh Ladakh packages for 8 days. This tour also comprises of several sacred monasteries scattered throughout the Shyam Valley. One of the most remarkable monasteries you will visit today is the Alchi Monastery, which traces its origins back to the 10th century. Situated at an impressive elevation of 3,100m above sea level, this monastery houses an extensive collection of sacred scriptures and Buddhist relics. Constructed in ancient Buddhist architectural style, the Alchi Monastery also features quaint camps known as Sumsteg Camps that visitors can explore. Within the monastery grounds, you can purchase aromatic oil lamps and light them to seek blessings from Lord Buddha, experiencing a sense of tranquillity and mental solace during your Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days.

The famed Hall of Fame in Ladakh would be the last attraction to visit today. Established and maintained by the great Indian Army, this museum is a unique attraction in your Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days. Built as a tribute to the valorous Indian soldiers who laid down their lives while safeguarding Mother India, the museum has a vast collection of items, uniforms, arms and weapons, and other belongings of the martyred soldiers. Hall of Fame also showcases some of the hand-written letters by the Bravehearts who never got an opportunity to post their letter. A visit to this museum will surely invoke a true sense of patriotism in you and everyone! Alongside, a visit to the Hall of Fame will make you feel proud of all the brave soldiers and the supreme sacrifices they made while they were posted there!

With the visit to the Hall of Fame, our team will drive you back to your hotel in Leh. With this, you will be completing a lovely day from your Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days.

Day 03: Drive from Leh City to Nubra Valley (via Khardung La (161 km / 5 hours))

Embarking on a journey, particularly a drive, from Leh City to the enchanting Nubra Valley is undeniably a thrilling experience. It’s an adventure that may not come your way frequently, but it’s one you must partake in at least once in your lifetime. Furthermore, as the drive takes you across the breathtaking

Khardung La pass, situated at dizzying heights, you will find yourself pinching to confirm that you are actually living this incredible moment. Today is destined to be one of the most awe-inspiring days on your Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days, without a doubt.

The third day of your Leh Ladakh trip will take you through some of the most stunning landscapes, captivating snow-capped mountains, deceiving terrains, and pictorial meadows. If you plan to book the Leh Ladakh packages for 8 days during winter, you will be driving across snow-covered routes. As you will be driving towards the mighty Khardung La pass or the ‘Gateway to Nubra Valley’, you will get to spot the miraculous Siachen Glacier from the pass.

Located at an elevation of 5,359m, Khardung La is also the highest motorable pass in the world. As you approach closer to the pass, you would feel a crispiness in the atmosphere. The cool breeze along with the breathtaking views around will spice up your drive and will eventually take you to the Khardung La pass. Get off your vehicle, and get ready with your lenses as the pass offers some of the most mesmerising views of the Siachen Glacier and some of the snow-clad peaks of the Himalayan Range. Though located at such great height, the Khardung La pass will usher a sense of spirituality in you. The colourful prayer flags all around the pass creates a heartwarming ambience that is extremely tough to resist. You will surely have no option, but to spend some quiet moments admiring the miraculous beauty and the sanctity that exists there!

After enjoying the breathtaking views at Khardung La, your Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days will take you to the fascinating Nubra Valley. Along the way, you will witness a remarkable change in the environment. The once rugged terrain gives way to lush greenery and vibrant colours. The drive down from Khardung La Pass reveals a picturesque landscape adorned with wild rhododendrons that add new splashes of colour to your expedition. The pristine meadows provide a sense of tranquillity and dispel any mental or physical fatigue you may have had. At this point you will realize that you have arrived in the quiet village of Diskit, a picturesque and peaceful hamlet that seems untouched by time.

Diskit is undoubtedly one of the most scenic villages in Nubra Valley. Seating along the banks of the gurgling Shyok River, this village stands far away from the modern world and showcases a sleepy outlook that can infect anyone within its first look! Its old-world charm and unaltered beauty make it a wonderful place to spend some time and breathe out all our stresses. In short, Diskit is a treasure trove to destress your body, mind and soul.

As you reach the Diskit Village, your Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days will offer you a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to visit the holy Diskit Monastery. A hub to learn and practice Buddhism, this is one of the ancient monasteries in the entire of Ladakh. Diskit Monastery is built in typical Buddhism architecture, and it boasts its statue of the Maitreya Buddha. You must spend a good amount of time here to adore its beauty and grandeur. This is also one place where you would suddenly feel a sense if sigh and relief running through your veins; the peace and tranquillity that exists here is truly divine!

Moving on by another 7-8km, your Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days will take you to Hundar Village. A picturesque village dotted with some of the spectacular sand dunes called ‘Hundar Dunes’. An oasis of surprises, this village is itself no less than a wonder! It is in fact one of the highest deserts in the world that is also the indigenous home of the rare Bactrian Camels or the double-humped camels. Take some time to explore this snowy white desert, get clicked with the miraculous sand dunes, and visit the Bactrian Camels before our tour members guide you to the pious Hundar Monastery.

The Hundar Monastery is among the holy sites that you would never wish to miss! Along with the many Buddhist relics and ancient belongings, you would also find many tiny little temples within the monastery premises. Visit these temples while making a wish spinning the prayer wheels and getting soaked amidst the lively colours of the prayer flags! With this visit, this day of your Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days will come to an end, and you will be guided to your hotel room in Hundar.

In your Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days, a destination awaits that could give you goosebumps, even when you are fully aware of your surroundings. On this day, our dedicated tour coordinators will pick you up from your hotel and commence an exhilarating journey towards the captivating Pangong Tso, also known as Pangong Lake (Tso meaning ‘lake’ in the local language). This enchanting lake promises a truly magical experience that will leave you in awe.

Flaunting its magical beauty across three different nations – India, China, and Tibet, this pictorial lake is located 4,350m above the sea level. While its location makes it a true natural wonder, its mystical property of changing its water content throughout the daytime makes it a must-visit-attraction point in any of the Leh Ladakh packages for 8 days. Yes, as the position of the sun keeps on changing, the sun’s reflection on Pangong Tso creates the illusion of the water changing its colours throughout the day! Truly captivating, isn’t it?

Every wonderful thing in this world possesses a divine force that can attract everyone with their positive vibes. While on the journey from Nubra Valley to the mystical Pangong Lake along the Shyok Rive, you would definitely feel this force largely! The exhilarating feel while driving past the whirling terrains, the celestial pull of the mighty Himalayas, and the essence of the open meadows; everything will hold you captive while you make your way toward the Pangong Lake.

Once you arrive at the lakeside, you would find yourself entirely soaked with the spirituality that exists around the Pangong Lake. Don’t be surprised if you feel like you belong here, and today, you just found a part of your soul that has been long lost amidst all the chaos of city life and digitization!

Upon arriving at the lakeside, do take out some time from your Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days to unravel the magical beauty of the surroundings. If time and your patience permits, you must get yourself clicked with the Pangong Lake to fill your travelogue with exquisite memories that would last no less than a lifetime.

Towards evening, our tour guides will help you in settling down in one of the campsites beside the Pangong Lake. Here, you can finally unwind and retire for the day while another remarkable day of the Leh Ladakh packages for 8 days awaits you!

Day 05: Transfer from Pangong Lake to Leh (223 km / 6 hours)

The fifth day of your Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days would get you closer to the immaculate beauty of the Pangong Lake! As you start your day in the morning, you will be greeted with the sweetest note of the many different migratory birds that flock this lake to breed or to spend the season. On the other hand, as the morning sunrays makes their way to the turquoise water of Pangong Lake, it would create a magical spell all around you. The ambience would soon become tempting enough to pull you out of your camp and get blended with the beauty of Mother Nature!

The Pangong Tso also serves as a paradise for birdwatching. As mentioned earlier, this lake attracts thousands of migratory birds from all over the world. Also, as most of the Leh Ladakh packages for 8 days offer considerable amount of time around Pangong Lake, you must take out some time to enjoy birdwatching here. The birds assemble here to breed, hunt for food, or to spend the season comfortably. Make sure you carry your camera while stepping out for birdwatching around the magical Pangong Lake and click some of the rare and exotic birds here!

After your birdwatching activity, get back to your campsite and relish your morning meal. Post this, our team will make all the arrangement to help you drive back to Leh City. This part of the drive will take you through another high motorable pass known as the Chang La pass. Passing through the Chang La pass would be another memorable experience of your Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days for sure. Astounding height, stunning and panoramic views of the Himalayas and other mountain ranges truly makes this part of your tour extremely exciting and exhilarating!

Following the pass, you will be guided towards the Chemrey Monastery. Established in 1664, this is probably one of the oldest monasteries that is included in almost all the Leh Ladakh packages for 8 days. In addition to the stunning architecture and sacredness of Chemrey Monastery, its ancient belongings also make it a must visit place in your Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days. Over here, you can still find some of the ancient Buddhist scriptures that are written in pure gold and silver. The monastery also has a wonderful statue of the Lord Padmasambhava that serves as a prime attraction point of the Chemrey Monastery.

After your visit to the holy Chemrey Monastery, an exciting opportunity awaits to explore the renowned Hemis Monastery. A true reminiscent of timeless beauty, this monastery holds the distinction of being the largest and one of the oldest monasteries on your Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days. As you step inside its sacred walls, you will be greeted by a treasure trove of paintings dating back to the 17th century, depicting the esteemed Mahasiddhas. If you happen to book your Leh Ladakh package for 8 days during the month of June, you might have the fortunate chance to participate in the sacred Hemis Festival, celebrated at this very monastery. This festival immerses you in vibrant traditions and joyful celebrations, providing an unforgettable experience where you can witness the rich cultural heritage of the region and be a part of the exuberant festivities.

As you make your way back to Leh City, the next stop in your Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days would be the Thikse Monastery. This sacred gompa holds not only impressive architectural marvels but also significant cultural and religious importance. The highlight of Thikse Monastery is undoubtedly the magnificent 49-foot-tall statue of the Maitreya Buddha. Alongside this captivating centrepiece, the monastery houses a remarkable collection of ancient Buddhist relics, scriptures, and other artifacts, making it a must-visit destination in most of the Leh Ladakh packages for 8 days. You will also find a vast assortment of meticulously handwritten religious books and an impressive collection of 225 volumes of Tengyur, showcasing the monastery’s dedication to preserving Buddhist knowledge.

As the day draws to a close, you will be transferred back to Leh City and checked into your hotel. Tomorrow, a new chapter of your Leh Ladakh itinerary will unfold, offering a further exploration of the captivating locales within Leh City.

On the sixth day of your Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days, you will be embarking on another memorable trip to one of the most beautiful high-altitude lakes in the world. Known as the Tso Moriri (or the Moriri Lake), this lake is located around 4,522m above the sea level in the Changthan Plateau of Ladakh. Famed as the largest high-altitude lake in India, the lake appears brackish in colour due to its water content that has no outlet.

While on this journey from Leh to Tso Moriri, you will notice how the rugged terrains suddenly changes their courses. From city-roads, the drive will take you through courses of loosely bound rocks. Driving through such terrains is quite an exhilarating experience. For the off-roading fans booking Leh Ladakh packages for 8 days, this could be a drive of their lifetime for sure! In some parts of the drive, you may also notice the vistas changing their outlook from barren landscapes to scenic and colourful vistas. You will also be traversing through small and remote villages offering you a livelier glimpse of the how local lives thrive at such great height.

Driving further, you would reach the much-awaited Tso Moriri seating graciously in the lap of the mighty Himalayas. While its brackish water is all set to amaze you with its irresistible charm, the pristine outlook of the lake would start fondling all your senses. The scenic backdrop embraced by the charm of the snow-capped mountains would add more fun and excitement to your Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days.

On this journey from Leh City to the profound Tso Moriri, you could build a divine connection with Mother Nature! The untouched beauty, the peace, the serenity, and the mental peace that dwells here could easily make you feel free from all your worries and usher more life into your soul! Adding more, the undisturbed views of the nearby ranges, the variety of migratory birds around the Tso Moriri, and the crispy wind overtaking the ambience would pamper all your senses throughout the time you wish to spend here.

Since the lake comes under Tso Moriri Wetland Conservation Reserve, we would request you not to disturb the local life here. You can spend some quality time here enjoying the peace and tranquillity, clicking pictures of the lake or the astounding mountain ranges around, or even the migratory birds that call Tso Moriri their natural abode! Also, since the lake falls under conservation area, camping is not allowed beside the lake. Hence, our tour members will now drive you to a nearby hotel where you can relax and retire for the day.

On your way to the hotel, this Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days would also offer you an opportunity to catch some glimpses of the local Korzok villages. Over here, you can witness and experience how the locals of Ladakh carry out their daily life amidst the pristine beauty of Mother Nature. Meet and greet the locals with a smile, and they will put their heart out to extend a welcoming hand to get you blended as one among them.

Come evening, you can witness the setting sun painting the lakeside with the most colourful shades. Enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime experience before our tour coordinators guide you to a nearby hotel for your overnight stay. Your arrival at the hotel premises will bring an end to the sixth day of your Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days.

Wake up early in the morning to see how the morning sunrays paints the ambience with its magical colours. Experiencing sunrise around the Tso Moriri is an experience of its own kind that most of the Leh Ladakh packages for 8 days offer to the visitors. As the sun starts getting brighter, you will be checked-out from the hotel and driven back towards Leh City. Continuing with your drive through the bewitching terrains and rugged landscapes, you will make your way to the capital city of Ladakh. The drive should take around 5-6 hours.

Arriving in Leh, you would be checked-in into a hotel; unload yourself off all your luggage and get ready for another fun-filled day of your Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days with a local sightseeing tour around the city. Today, you will get to revisit history by making your way to the Leh Palace that seats on atop a hill.

Overlooking the city, this glorious palace resembles much to the Patola Palace in Lhasa. A reminiscent of the Ladakh’s past, the Leh Palace also offers some of the most breathtaking panoramic views of Leh City. Enjoy these awe-inspiring views from the palace building and head towards the Shanti Stupa.

Standing tall as a universal symbol of peace and harmony, the Shanti Stupa is in fact one of the most iconic structures in the entire world. Located on a hilltop and painted all in white colour, the site of this dome-shaped stupa makes it for a wonderful meditation ground. Spending some amount of time could easily help you detox your mind and soul!

The Spituk Monastery would be another important highlight of your Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days. Perched on a hilltop, this sacred monastery overlooks the alluring Indus River and is known for its religious and spiritual significance. While a visit to this monastery is included in almost all the Leh Ladakh packages for 8 days, you can take a stroll around it to understand Buddhism and how it promises to enlighten human soul with its simplicity and beliefs.

Towards the end of the day, as our tour experts drive you back towards Leh, you can visit the Leh Market to explore the brighter and colourful side of Leh. While in the market, do not forget to hop in into the Tibetan or the local shops. Buy yourself some souvenirs from these local shops or try hands on local handicraft items. You can also get some cozy woollen clothing for your loved ones back in home or savour on some local delicacies before you wrap up the seventh day of your Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days!

After seven amazing days with our team, today will bring an end to your Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days. Our tour coordinators will assist you in checking-out from the hotel, and will take a leave with the hope of meeting you soon for another unforgettable trip around Leh-Ladakh!

Where to Stay in Leh Ladakh?

The Leh Ladakh circuit offers quite a decent range of stay options to visitors. While you start planning your Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days, you need not worry much about where to stay or how much to spend on your accommodation. You can easily find stay options that can fit into all budgets along with suitable amenities and facilities. From 5-star rated hotels to local homestays, and tourist bungalows to local lodges, you could easily avail comforting stay options in any of the Leh Ladakh packages for 8 days.

While booking the Leh Ladakh packages for 8 days, you would find an ample of stay options. Starting from budget options to luxury stays, you would find hotels, lodges, bungalows, and campsites that would fit all budget and needs. While most of the hotels in Leh-Ladakh regions offers all the basic amenities and facilities, the local stay options would offer you a window to experience the local life at their best.

Most of the luxury hotels and other stay options are spread out mostly around Leh City. This is one of the reasons, we plan our Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days in a way that it would keep you in and around Leh. While moving away from Leh, we will ensure that we book the best of campsites or tourist lodges offering you with all the basic amenities and facilities.

In case, you want to book hotels or other stay options on your own, we would suggest you to make all the bookings well in advance. Booking stays even before embarking on your Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days would give you great offers and discounts for sure.

Why Plan Your Leh Ladakh Itinerary for 8 Days with Us?

As highly regarded travel planners with expertise in designing Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days, we take immense pride in our stellar reputation. Our team comprises knowledgeable tour guides and experienced travel planners who are deeply connected to the stunning mountainous landscapes of Ladakh. This local advantage enables us to offer exclusive access to hidden gems that often go unnoticed by others. We are dedicated to creating Leh Ladakh packages for 8 days that go above and beyond your expectations. You can trust us to meticulously craft and flawlessly execute a one-of-a-kind Leh Ladakh itinerary, setting us apart from other providers in the valley.

Moreover, drawing on our invaluable decade-long experience in the Leh Ladakh region, we are well-equipped to assist you in selecting the most exceptional destinations and engaging in thrilling activities. Whether it’s exploring local attractions or participating in popular tourist activities, we have meticulously organized and compiled everything to ensure your convenience. Furthermore, we place great importance on developing environmentally sustainable and budget-friendly Leh Ladakh packages for 8 days, catering to various types of travel such as family vacations, honeymoon tours, leisure travel, nature trips, and more.

Check out our best-selling Leh Ladakh tour packages: https://www.ekashmirtourism.com/leh-ladakh-packages/

Important Points to Note:

1. petrol pumps in ladakh:.

Over the past few years, there has been a notable increase in the availability of both petrol and diesel fuel in the picturesque Ladakh valley. Unlike in the past, there are now two conveniently situated petrol pumps within the town of Leh itself. Furthermore, another petrol pump can be found in Karu, a town located approximately 34km away from the Manali-Leh Highway. This improved accessibility of fuel stations ensures that travellers have ample options to refuel their vehicles and continue their journey without any inconvenience.

Furthermore, it is worth noting that there is an additional petrol station that remains operational even during the winter in Diskit. This provides a reliable refuelling option for travellers exploring the Nubra Valley region. Additionally, a newly opened fuel station can be found in the Tangtse village of Durbuk tehsil, which proves particularly convenient for those heading towards the Pangong Lake. Situated just 34km away from the lakeside, this petrol pump ensures a convenient refuelling option for visitors, even during the winter season.

2. ATMs in Ladakh:

During your Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days, you will find ATMs conveniently located in and around Leh City. It is noteworthy that the State Bank of India (SBI) has the highest number of ATMs in the region. In addition to SBI, other prominent banks such as HDFC Bank, Punjab National Bank, Axis Bank, ICICI Bank, J&K Bank, and Canara Bank also have ATM booths available.

Additionally, you would also find an ATM in Keylong on the Manali-Leh Highway. However, we suggest not to rely too much on this ATM as its functioning is very much unpredictable.

Ladakh is one region that is subjected to extreme weather conditions. Thus, relying on only ATM booths might create unnecessary dearth of cash. Please ensure to carry enough cash with you while planning for any of the Leh Ladakh packages for 8 days. NOTE: Owing to the irregular internet connectivity, we would also suggest you not to depend too much on any form of online payment options.

3. Mobile Connectivity in Ladakh:

Prepaid SIM cards don’t work in Ladakh. Even if it is an Indian SIM card, it would stop working the moment you land on Leh Airport. Only postpaid SIM cards work here, and you can easily get one such SIM during while on your Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days by providing required and valid documents.

4. Network Connectivity & Internet:

  • BSNL Connection: BSNL is said to offer to the most reliable services in Ladakh. Be it the calling or internet connectivity, you would enjoy a consistent network within Leh City. However, network might start to fluctuate as you step out of the city limits.
  • AirTel: You can also rely much on AirTel connection as it also offers good service. Within the city limits, you would get to enjoy 4G services, but as you move out of the city limits, the connectivity could come down to 2G or 3G.
  • Jio: This provider is said to offer the best internet connectivity all across. Be it within the city limits of off limit, Jio offers a consistent 4G connectivity while on a Leh Ladakh itinerary for 8 days.

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The 7 day Leh – Ladakh Itinerary

The 7 day Leh – Ladakh Itinerary

The Best of Leh – Ladakh in 7 Days

Leh, the main town in the district of Ladakh, in Jammu and Kashmir, India is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places in India . Being at a high altitude, the access remains restricted throughout the year, with roads blocked for as long as 6 months. The roads usually open up in the month of May till Sept / October , and June – August have become the peak season specially after the popularisation of the region in the movie 3 idiots, Jab Tak Hai Jaan . The best time for the 7 day Trip to Leh – Ladakh is June – July . However, visiting Leh Ladakh in Winters is a different charm all together, if you are that adventurous and can withstand the cold .

With the Leh – Ladakh tourist season round the corner, I have made a sample 7 – day Leh – Ladakh Itinerary which covers almost all the major tourism attractions and can be used as a reference for anyone planning a Trip to Leh – Ladakh. 

This 7 Day Trip To Leh Ladakh, also makes for an excellent addition to your One Month India Itinerary !

Day 1 – Arrival in Leh and rest for the day.

Day 2 – leh local sightseeing, day 3 – khardung la pass | nubra valley | hunder sand dunes, day 4 – nubra valley – leh ladakh , day 5 – magnetic hill | indus – zanskar confluence, day 6 – chang la pass | pangong tso, day 7 – back to leh via hemis monastery, recommendations to make the most out of your trip to leh – ladakh, where to stay in  ladakh, pin this 7 day ladakh travel itinerary, share this:.

Start your trip to Leh – Ladakh by landing at Leh Airport during the morning hours. Without wasting too much time, head out to your hotel, make yourself comfortable and stayput for the day in your room. This acclimatization is really important for your body and for you to enjoy the rest of your trip. You may be tempted to step out and explore the city but all you have to do is rope in your excitement for the day and relax in the room and have lots of liquids, to avoid mountain sickness due to less oxygen in the air.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Arnav Mathur (@theetlrblog)

After a light breakfast head out to Shanti Stupa to enjoy a panoramic view of Leh. Your next destination should be Tsemo Fort, which is practically visible from all over Leh.

Situated at a height of 4,267 metres (13,999 ft), the stupa is located 5 kilometres (3.1 mi) from Leh – the former capital of Ladakh – on a steep hill facing the Leh Palace. The stupa can be reached by a drivable road or on foot using a series of 500 steep steps to the hilltop

The stupa is open for tourists between 5:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. Sunrise and sunset are considered to provide the best views from Shanti Stupa.

leh ladakh tour itinerary

Built in the 16 th  century is  Tsemo (Victory) Fort, is just 15-minute climb-up opposite Chenrezi Lakhang with its ruins. This structure is actually visible from everywhere in Leh. This fort seems like a crown on the head of the Palace ridge.  This small but ruined palace contains of a number of worship flags. Directly underneath it is Tsemo gompa that is Tsemo monastery that consists of two temple buildings built in the 15 th  century, an eight meter tall gold-faced statue of Maitreya Buddha.

Tsemo Fort Trip to Leh - Ladakh

Enjoy a good serving of typical Ladakhi food at one of the popular restaurants in the market, before heading out to Leh Palace , which is a replica of Lhasa’s Potala Palace . A nine storey structure in dun colour, the Leh Palace rises up against the backdrop of the lofty Himalayas, looking more like a painter’s muse. Built mostly of mud, rocks and wood, it is grand in its simplicity. The palace also houses a rich collection of traditional dresses and crowns, thangka paintings and some impressive traditional ornaments. The best part about Leh Palace is its terrace for you can pore over Leh, Stok Kangri and the Zanskar range from it.

leh ladakh tour itinerary

Spend the later part of the day at the Hall of Fame , located near the Leh Airfield. Hall of Fame is a museum constructed and maintained by the Indian Army in the memories of the soldiers who lost their lives during the Indo – Pak wars. One of the most interesting sections is the one dedicated to a soldier’s life in Siachen Glacier.

Hall of Fame 2

Hall of Fame – Leh City

Do some city shopping if time permits and your body doesn’t give in to the tiredness/fatigue.

One of the major highlights of any  Trip to Leh – Ladakh is crossing the Khardung La Pass, the highest motorable pass built by the brave men of 201 Engineer Regiment, Indian Army. The road was opened to vehicular traffic on 27 August 1973. At an altitude of 18,380 feet, Khardung La Pass is the gateway to Shyok and Nubra Valleys .

Khardung La is 39 km by road from Leh. The first 24 km, as far as the South Pullu check point, are paved. From there to the North Pullu checkpoint about 15 km beyond the pass the roadway is primarily loose rock, dirt, and occasional rivulets of snow melt. From North Pullu into the Nubra Valley, the road is very well maintained (except in a few places where washouts or falling rock occur).

leh ladakh tour itinerary

While at Khardung La, don’t forget to have a cup of hot tea and a plate of hot Maggi at the Highest Cafeteria in the World. It is recommended that the maximum stopping time at the top should not be more than 30 minutes, so once you are done with clicking pictures and having some food, head out to the souvenir shop. The shop also maintained by the Indian Army sells all kinds of souvenirs like, coffee mugs, beer mugs, decorative plates, tee shirts, and caps etc. I personally have all of them with me.

Cross Khardung La Pass and make your way towards Nubra Valley, Diskit Monastery and Panamik . The road from Khardung La pass crosses Nubra Valley goes all the way up to Siachen Base Camp. But  Panamik is the last place up to which civilians are allowed on this road towards Siachen. Panamik is also famous for its hot water sulphur springs. Everyone has seen a camel at some point of time, but you should be privileged if you get to see a double humped camel. Head out to the sand dunes in Hunder and catch a sight of the Double Humped Camels , which are an endangered species and the only place in India to see them is here at Hunder . This will remain a highlight of your trip to Leh – Ladakh.

leh ladakh tour itinerary

Stay for the night at Hunder/Nubra valley.

Start your return Trip to Leh – Ladakh  , cross Khardung La top, enter Leh and head out to Thiksey Monastery, after having a good Tibetan lunch. The USP of this monastery is the 15 m high statue of Maitreya or Tara Devi . Covering almost 2 storeys, this is the largest such statue in Ladakh.

leh ladakh tour itinerary

Just a couple minutes away from Thiksey Monastery is a quaint little spot named as Indus View point or Sindhu Darshan . Go there to enjoy the cool atmosphere and feel the fresh breeze caress your face. A quaint place like that demands some time where you only feel the breeze and only hear the sound of water gushing through.

Sindhu Darshan trip to Leh

Get some rest after the tiring yet fruitful day, only to wake up to a fresh new adventure the next day.

Head out to Pathar Sahib Gurudwara which falls in the east of Ladakh on the Kargil Road and attend the langar prepared by the Sikh soldiers of the Indian Army. Do try to help them in whatever way you can and then head to the point where you can witness the confluence of Indus and Zanskar . One can easily identify the flow the two rivers, as one is muddy and the other one is a bit on the bluish green tinge. While you are in the area, don’t forget to get amused by the weird happenings at Magnetic Hill where, your car goes uphill on its own, when put into neutral gear.

magnetic hill 7 day trip to leh ladakh itinerary

After having an early breakfast, head out of Leh – Ladakh, towards Chang La Pass. When you are at the top of the world’s third highest pass, make sure to click some pictures and have a hot cup of tea and some Maggi. Trust me, the tea and maggi might not have tasted that heavenly ever before !

leh ladakh tour itinerary

Cross Chang La Pass and head out towards Pangong Tso Lake which is 140 Km from Leh. Situated at a height of 4350 m and almost 130 Km long, Pangong Tso is one third in India and the remaining in Tibet. The first glimpse of the tranquil, azure blue waters and shaky lake shore remains etched in the memory of tourists.  On a bright sunny day, one can see as many as 5 different shades of blue along the length of the lake as you drive at the side of it.

Pangong Tso 04

The beauty of Pangong Tso

start trail pangong tso trip to leh

Stay for the night either at one of the camps or at one of the homestay options in the nearby villages of Spangmik and TangTse.

Start early and take your return trip to Leh – Ladakh , and on your way back, stop by at the Hemis Monastery, which is roughly 7 Km from Karu. Hemis Monastry or Hemis Gonpa is one of the richest monasteries in Ladakh,  as it was protected by foreign invasions because of its remote location . It is one of the 9 Buddhist Monasteries in Ladakh , that should be there on your Ladakh Bucket List.

On your way back from Hemis, get your adrenaline rush at an all-time high by trying out White Water Rafting on the mighty Indus or Zanskar.

With loads of memories amidst mesmerising landscapes, it’s time to say good bye to Leh and fly back to your respective places, bringing your trip to Leh – Ladakh , to a memorable end.

  • Leh is full of tourists from all over the globe, so make sure to try out different cuisines like Ladakhi, Israeli, Tibetan, and Russian etc.
  • Tibetan Inspired Crockery
  • Souvenirs from Khardung La and Pangong Tso Lake.
  • Chinese herbs .
  • Home Decorative items ( Tankha, paintings, giant fans)
  • Miniature prayer wheel
  • Tibetan prayer flags.
  • Leh – Ladakh souvenir T Shirts.
  • Sea Buckthorn Juice ( A kind of berry grown in Leh – Ladakh )

For those of you who want to extend their Trip to Leh – Ladakh ,  to enjoy the beauty of Leh – Ladakh for a few more days can try out various trekking options in the Zanskar Valley. There are plenty of tour operators offering competitive prices for these short and long treks.One of the popular treks to do is the Markha Valley trek.

For the biking enthusiasts, the option of renting a bike and riding all the way to Khardung La and beyond is always open. Due to the huge demand, you will be able to find a lot of garages offering Royal Enfield’s on a rental basis.

On your way back, you can drive to Srinagar, via Drass, Kargil and the mighty Zoji La Pass stopping at the Drass War Memorial on your way. And further fly out of Srinagar instead of Leh.

If you like this, you might also like checking out the 7 Day Road Trip Itinerary to Bhutan from India

We recommend staying in home-stays to fully experience the local life of Ladakh and to support the local economy. Apart from that, here are our recommendations :

Guest Houses – Gonbo Guest House | Youthok Guest House  

Hostel – HITCHHIKERS HOSTEL LADAKH | goSTOPS Leh

Mid Range Hotels – Shaolin Ladakh | Tushita Ladakh | Beyond Stay – The Leh Berry Boutique – Leh

Luxury – The Grand Dragon Ladakh | Ladakh Eco Resort | The Indus Valley | Gomang Boutique Hotel | TIH The Zen Ladakh

Day 1 – Arrive in Leh and rest for the day.

Day 2 – In and around Leh city, cover Shanti Stupa, Tsemo Fort, Leh Palace and Hall of Fame.

Day 3 – Cross Khardung La Pass and head out to Nubra Valley, visit Diskit Monastery and witness Double Humped Camels at Hunder. Hot springs at Panamik .

Day 4 – Return to Leh, and head out to Thicksey Monastery and Sindhu Darshan.

Day 5 – Cover Magnetic Hill , Pathar Sahib Gurudwara and Indus – Zanskar Confluence .

Day 6 – Cross Chang La Pass and be spellbound when you get a glance of Pangong Tso Lake .

Day 7 – Return to Leh via Hemis Monastery . Optional River Rafting near Karu

Day 8 – With loads of happy memories, bid adieu to Leh and board your flight back.

Trip to  Ladakh Ends.

I hope you found this 7 Day Ladakh  Travel Itinerary , to be of help to you, as a reliable Travel Resource for planning your Trip to Leh – ladakh.

Don’t forget to Pin these images , and save this Epic One Week Leh Ladakh Travel Itinerary, for future travel planning.

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If you enjoyed reading this 7 Day Leh – Ladakh Itinerary and Travel Guide , you might want to check out some other  7 Day Travel Guides and Itineraries .

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5 Day Trip to Leh Ladakh

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Leh - Stok - Magnetic Hills - Pangong Lake - Delhi

Explore the mesmerizing beauty of the Ladakh region with our Leh Ladakh itinerary for 5 days.  Bound by mountains and sharing a border with Tibet, the religion, culture, and lifestyle of Leh Ladakh are profoundly influenced by Tibetan Buddhism. Our 5-day trip to Ladakh offers an exciting itinerary focusing on Leh, Stok, Magnetic Hills, and Pangong Lake. The journey includes acclimatization in Leh, visits to Alchi and Likir monasteries, and the stunning Magnetic Hill.

The key aspects of the Ladakh in 5 days are the Khardung La Pass, Stok village experience, and Thiksey Monastery. Besides this, a day trip to the picturesque Pangong Lake caps off the adventure. The package includes comfortable accommodations, delicious meals, and reliable transportation, ensuring a hassle-free experience of Ladakh’s unique landscapes and culture.

Trip Highlights

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Itinerary Detail

Upon arrival in Leh, our representative will meet you and provide an assisted transfer to your hotel. Once you reach the hotel, complete the check-in formalities. The remaining part of the day is for rest to get acclimatized to the high altitude (3500 meters/11800 ft) and low air pressure in Leh. Strolling around the local markets during the evening may be a good idea. Overnight stay is arranged at the Hotel.

After breakfast, you will proceed to a 68 km ride to the 1000-year-old paintings of Alchi Monastery. Here, delve into the region’s rich history and interact with the monks. Then, continue your ride to visit the famous Maitreya Buddha statue at Likir Monastery. The monastery offers panoramic views of the surreal landscape and the snowcapped Himalayan mountains. Further, drive past the confluence of the Indus & Zanskar rivers at Nimoo, Magnetic Hill, and the military Hall of Fame. After an eventful day, retreat to the hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 3 morning of a 5-day trip to Ladakh starts with a visit to Khardung La Pass, which is snuggled at an elevation of 18360 ft. It is the world’s highest motorable pass. During the afternoon, you will have the unique opportunity to meet a local family in Stok village, where you can savor delicious homemade butter tea and barley drinks, a traditional Ladakhi treat.

Later, visit the Thiksey Monastery, which houses the most photographed statue of Maitreya Buddha in India. Hemis Monastery will be the last stopover of the day. It is also one of the most famous monasteries in the region. Enjoy the scenic views of the valley from here and spend some time in tranquillity and peace. Return to the hotel by evening and enjoy the delicious dinner there.

Overnight stay at the hotel in Leh.

In the early morning of the penultimate day, an excursion is scheduled to Pangong Lake, a 135 km drive from Leh. The Pangong Lake, a natural wonder, is 140km long and 3-5 km wide – more than half of which lies in Tibetan territory. The lake’s crystal-clear blue waters, set against the backdrop of majestic mountains, will leave you in awe. It is famous as it is the same where the climax scene of the superhit Bollywood movie 3 Idiots featuring Kareena Kapoor and Aamir Khan was shot.

After spending some time at the lake, return to Leh by evening. You can use the remaining time to explore local markets and look for a decent bargain. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Your Leh Ladakh 4-night, 5-day itinerary concludes today. Begin your day early, then pack your belongings and complete the check-out formalities. Further, you’ll get an assisted transfer to the Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport to board your flight for your onward destination.

leh ladakh tour itinerary

8 Days - Leh Ladakh Tour

Explore some major attractions of Ladakh throuth silk route with the itinerary of 7 Nights 8 Days Ladakh Tour which cover Leh, Lamayuru, Magnetic Hill and Gurudwara Pathar Sahib, Alchi, Nubra Valley, Pangong lake. Travelogy India has customized this tour package in a way which will make it memorable Ladakh for you.

  • Visit Leh Palace and Leh Market
  • Sightseeing at Likir Monastery, Magnetic Hill
  • Mesmerising moon landscapes and Lamayuru Monastery
  • Enjoy Camel Safari in Sand Dunes
  • Magnificient view of Nubra Valley
  • Enjoy the colour changing lake
  • Visit Hemis, Thiksey Monastery and Shey Palace

leh ladakh tour itinerary

a road rip along Badrinath Kedarnath mediterranean

Divine Do Dham Yatra (Kedarnath and Badrinath) offers a wonderful chance to visit the two most important Hindu pilgrimage sites - Kedarnath and Badrinath. Also, blessed with mesmerizing beauty in abundance, Kedarnath is one among the twelve jyotirlingas of Shiva and Badrinath shrine is one of the 108 Divya Desams of Lord Vishnu.

the history of Badrinath Kedarnath great civilisations

With the Badrinath Kedarnath tour package, get a chance to visit the two most spiritual destinations of Char Dhams. You can also visit Guptkashi, Rudraprayag, Haridwar, and Rishikesh during the Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand. With our 5 Nights 6 Days Badrinath Kedarnath tour package, which starts from Haridwar, get a chance to attend the Ganga Aarti in Haridwar and experience the bliss of the divinity. Take a look at the complete details of Badrinath Kedarnath yatra 2021.

Day 1 : Arrival at Delhi - Leh

On arrival at Leh airport, you will be received by our representative and transferred to your hotel. Check in to the hotel for a complete day of rest wherein welcome tea and coffee will be served by the hotel. Post lunch visit Leh Market, Leh Palace and Shanti Stupa . Overnight in Leh.

Day 2 : Leh - Lamayuru - Ule

After breakfast, drive to Lamayuru. Enroute visit to Likir Monastery, Magnetic Hill and Gurudwara Pathar Sahib . Check in Resort / Camp at Alchi or Ule and enjoy your hot lunch. After lunch, visit the mesmerising moon landscapes and Lamayuru Monastery (one of the oldest Monasteries in central Ladakh). Overnight in Ule.

Day 3 : Ule - Leh

After the breakfast, drive to Leh. Enroute visit to Alchi Monastery and Hall of Fame . Arrive at Leh by afternoon for lunch at hotel. Evening free time to spend at your leisure. Overnight in Leh.

Day 4 : Leh - Nubra Valley

After breakfast, drive to Nubra Valley via Khardungla (highest motorable road in the world, 18,380 ft). Arrive at Hunder by afternoon. Lunch at Camp and the rest of the day is free to explore Diskit, Hunder Villages or a camel safari in the sand dunes between Diskit and Hunder Village. Overnight in Nubra.

Day 5 : Nubra Valley - Leh

After breakfast, visit Diskit Monastery , where you have a magnificent view of Nubra Valley and drive back to Leh by the same route, crossing Khardungla Pass. Overnight in Leh.

Day 6 : Leh - Pangong Lake

After breakfast, leave for Pangong Lake , at 14,500 ft, through Changla Pass at 17,350 ft. (third highest motorable road in the world. On arrival at Camp, a hot lunch will be served. Later, free time at leisure to enjoy the colour changing lake and the sun set on the banks of the Pangong lake . Overnight on the banks of Pangong Lake.

Day 7 : Pangong Lake - Leh

Early morning enjoy the picturesque view of the sunrise on the lake . After breakfast, drive back to Leh. Enroute, visit Hemis , Thiksey Monastery and Shey Palace . Overnight in Leh.

Day 8 : Leh - Delhi (Departure)

Early morning transfer to Leh airport to board flight back to destination. Journey ends with Sweet Memories of Ladakh.

  • Airport transfers in Leh.
  • Accommodation at all places in Hotels / Camps as applicable to the itinerary.
  • Breakfast & Dinner.
  • Welcome drink on arrival with cookies and biscuits.
  • Exclusive sightseeing & excursions by one non ac Innova/Xylo the same car shall do the complete itinerary.
  • 02 bottle mineral water per person/per day while on tour
  • Wildlife fee for Lake, Pangong Lake and areas which are protected wildlife sanctuaries in Ladakh.
  • Inner line permit for restricted areas of Pangong areas (Guest are required to bring one a photocopy of their photo identity proof along with them)
  • Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC) Leh Environment fee (Students should bring their school ID)
  • Govt. tax as per current schedule.
  • Medical & Travel insurance
  • Domestic airfare
  • Monastery entrances fee
  • Personal items like mineral water, phone calls, laundry etc.
  • Extra meals / room services / bottled beverages consumed at the hotel.
  • Additional costs for Hotel accommodation, transport services due to flight cancellation, road blocks etc.
  • Porter age & tips at the airport, Hotel/Camp staff & drivers.

Ladakh Shanti Stupa

accommodations

leh ladakh tour itinerary

Hotel Rajhans / Paradise / Subham / Kanha / Anoop

Guptkashi, 2km from center

relax and unwind with a special stay offer at -->