Private taxi or prebooked car from Kalyan to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport; leave early to allow traffic and airport check-in. Factor 2–2.5 hours for road + security.
Short mountain flight that lands at Leh Kushok Bakula Rinpoche Airport (LEH). Expect spectacular views; carry warm clothing and a printed ID for checkposts.
Collect luggage, complete any permit checks at airport (Inner Line Permit for Indians or PAP for foreigners) and transfer to your Leh hotel. Rest to begin acclimatisation; avoid exertion the first day.
Shanti Stupa (open 06:00–20:00) offers panoramic sunset views; Leh Palace exterior and local walk give a gentle introduction to Leh's layout without heavy exertion.
Friendly bakery-cafe in Leh serving western and Indian breakfasts (open ~07:30–11:00). Good to pick up light fuel for the day and avoid heavy exertion early.
Museum and memorial maintained by the Indian Army on Leh–Kargil road; informative for contemporary history and mountain warfare, open ~10:00–17:00. A short, low-effort visit helps acclimatise.
Short drives from Leh: Thiksey Monastery (open 09:00–16:30) is a beautiful hill monastery with a large Maitreya statue; Shey Palace (open 09:00–17:00) has historical ruins and a scenic view. Both are excellent acclimatisation-friendly visits.
Scenic drive over Khardung La (one of the highest motorable passes). Road time ~4–6 hours depending on stops; Khardung La is open normally but can close due to weather—confirm locally before departure.
Simple Ladakhi meals or dal, rice and noodle soups served at Diskit; good for replenishing energy after the pass drive. Many cafes open from late morning to evening.
Diskit Monastery (open ~08:00–17:00) and the giant Maitreya statue overlook the valley; the vista and prayer flags create iconic photo stops and are gentle walks.
Hunder's cold desert sand dunes are unique in Nubra; take a short camel (Bactrian) ride (30–60 minutes) and watch the sunset—rides available through camps and local operators.
Overnight in a comfortable camp or guesthouse in Hunder; meals are generally served by the camp (open year-round in summer). Rest early for comfort at altitude.
Short drive to Panamik (open daytime) to try natural hot springs—relaxing and historically sought-after for relief; note facilities are basic, and timings depend on local conditions.
Rest at the hotel; if feeling OK, take a gentle walk through Leh Bazaar for souvenirs (pashmina shops, local crafts). Markets typically open until early evening.
Leave early (06:00) for the 5–6 hour drive via Chang La (3300+ m) to Pangong; road conditions vary so allow flexibility. Carry permit copies (ILP/PAP) and warm layers.
Check in to a recommended camp on the Pangong shore (camps typically operate through summer); camps provide packed or cooked lunches and are the best base for sunset/sunrise views.