Visit Leh Palace for a view of the city and learn about Leh's history in the morning. Afternoon, trek to Shanti Stupa, a Buddhist white-domed stupa. Finish the day with a visit to the bustling Leh Market.
Drive to Nubra Valley, a high altitude desert with sand dunes and double-humped camels. Visit the Diskit Monastery with a 106-foot Maitreya Buddha statue in the morning. In the afternoon, visit the white-domed Hunder Monastery and enjoy a camel safari in the dunes. Overnight in Nubra Valley.
Depart early for Pangong Lake, a high-altitude lake known for its ever-changing colors. En route, visit the Thiksey Monastery with a 40-foot Maitreya Buddha statue. In the evening, enjoy camping near the lake and stargazing.
Drive to Hemis National Park, one of the largest national parks in India and home to the elusive snow leopard. Take a morning trek to Rumbak Valley, where you can spot blue sheep and Himalayan griffon vultures. In the afternoon, visit the Hemis Monastery, the largest Buddhist monastery in Ladakh. Overnight in Hemis.
Drive to Kargil with a stop in Lamayuru, known for its moon-like landscape and the Lamayuru Monastery. Visit the Kargil War Memorial in the afternoon, a tribute to the soldiers who fought in the Kargil War. Overnight in Kargil.
Drive to Zanskar Valley, a remote and isolated valley in Ladakh. Take a morning trek to Phuktal Monastery, a cliffside monastery with a stunning location. In the afternoon, explore the Padum, the main town of Zanskar Valley. Overnight in Padum.
Drive back to Leh with stops in Sankoo and Drass. In Drass, visit the Drass War Memorial, dedicated to the soldiers who lost their lives in the Kargil War. End the day with a leisurely stroll in Leh and shop for souvenirs.
Consider taking a hot air balloon ride in Nubra Valley or try river rafting in Zanskar River. You can also visit the Tso Moriri Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world, or go on a yak safari in the Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary. To maximize your fun, pack warm clothes and comfortable hiking shoes. Altitude sickness can be a concern, so stay hydrated and take your time to acclimatize. Lastly, don't forget to try the local momos and thukpa!
Find hotels and flights for your adventure in Leh and Ladakh at this link.