Best of Ladakh

After breakfast, the day is scheduled for a full-day exploration to the Indus Valley. First, you will go to Shey Palace, on top of a hill. Inside, there is a magnificent copper statue of Lord Buddha. The monastery here has a tall victory tower, the top of which is made of gold. Next, interact with the monks and discuss life with them. Then, visit Thiksey Monastery, the biggest in central Ladakh. Afterwards, visit Hemis Monastery, located next to the Indus River. In the evening, stroll through Leh’s local market and shop for souvenirs for your loved ones. Later, have dinner at the hotel and spend the night there.

Today, after an early breakfast, head to Nubra Valley. On the way, you will cross Khardung La Pass, one of the world’s highest motorable roads. Take a moment to stop here for some photos, as reaching this place is a significant milestone. Then, drive to Nubra Valley and visit Diskit Monastery, the biggest and oldest in Nubra. Here, you can see ancient murals and interact with monks to gain insight into their way of life. Next, go to the Hunder Sand Dunes and enjoy a ride on the double-humped Bactrian camel. After this, head to your camp, check in, and get some rest. In the evening, admire the sunset, have dinner, and settle in for the night.

This morning, the day is reserved to visit Turtuk village, situated near the Shyok River and close to the K2 mountain, the world’s second-highest mountain. Here, you can interact with the villagers and hear their stories from the past. Also, you can buy fresh fruits and dry fruits directly from the farms here. Next, sit near the river and take in the peaceful natural surroundings. Afterwards, return to Hunder and take a walk through the adjacent area of the hotel. Furthermore, have dinner and then stay overnight at the hotel.

Kickstart your day early and depart from Nubra Valley for Leh to catch the sunrise view. On the way, stop at Yarab Tso Lake, also called the Hidden Lake. Take a moment to spend some time here before continuing your drive to Leh via Khardung La Pass. Upon arrival in Leh, you will check in at one of the listed hotels. In the evening, take a stroll through the market and purchase gifts or try the local cuisine. Further, return to the hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.

Arise early and depart for Pangong Lake, situated at a high altitude in the mountains. On the way, pass through Chang La Pass, one of the highest passes in the world. Then, continue through the small villages of Durbuk and Tangtse in the Changthang region. On reaching Pangong Lake, go to your camp, check in, and rest for a while. In the evening, you can visit the lake between India and China. The water is saline and changes color with the movement of the sun. Take a walk near the lake and enjoy the sunset. After that, return to the camp for dinner and an overnight stay.

Wake up early and enjoy the beautiful morning at the lake. Take photos and observe colorful birds in their natural habitat. After that, return to the camp and have breakfast. Then, check out and drive to Tso Moriri Lake, the biggest lake in Ladakh. On the way, stop at Chumathang Hot Springs. You can soak your feet in the warm water for relaxation here. After that, drive to Mahe Bridge and then towards Tso Moriri Lake. You may see Himalayan marmots on the way. When you reach the lake, proceed to your camp and check in. In the evening, stroll near the lake to enjoy birdwatching and spot wildlife such as the Tibetan Wild Ass, Tibetan Gazelle, and Tibetan Wolf. Later, return to your camp for dinner and an overnight stay.

Today, after breakfast, begin your journey back to Leh. On the way, you stop at Puga Hot Springs and observe the tents of nomadic people at Polo Kongka La Pass. Next, visit Tso Kar Lake, a saline lake located in the Rupshu Plateau, renowned for its unique flora and fauna. Additionally, you can also stop at Thukje Monastery, situated in a small village, and take in the serene atmosphere. Afterwards, continue to Leh. Upon arrival, check into your hotel, have dinner, and enjoy a restful sleep.

Post breakfast, complete the checkout and drive toward Uleytokpo or Alchi. On the way, visit Likir Monastery, where you will see a big statue of Maitreya Buddha. The view from here is breathtaking. Then, visit the Alchi Monastery, which features wall paintings that are approximately a thousand years old. After the visit, continue your drive and reach Uleytokpo or Alchi. Check in to your hotel or resort. You can relax for the rest of the day. In the evening, you can walk around or enjoy the peaceful town. Further, have dinner and stay overnight.

Begin your day with breakfast, and then complete the check-out formalities, followed by the sightseeing tour. First, you will visit Lamayuru, which resembles the lunar landscape. You will also visit Lamayuru Monastery, home to a collection of paintings, statues, and sacred texts. Then, drive back to Leh. On the way, stop at Spituk Monastery, also known as Pethup Gompa. Next, stop at Magnetic Hill, where the terrain creates an optical illusion that makes cars appear to move uphill without power. After that, visit the Military Hall of Fame, a museum made by the Indian Army. Here, you will see weapons and photos from the Kargil War. After reaching Leh, explore the local markets and shop for apricots or other regional specialities. Later, return to your staycation for dinner and an overnight stay.

Your 11-day Best of Ladakh tour culminates here. After breakfast, pack your bags and check out. Then, you’ll get an assisted transfer to the Leh Airport to board your flight back to Delhi.