Take an early flight from Mumbai to Leh (usually via Delhi). In winter most connections have 1 stop; flights are weather‑dependent — allow a full morning for travel and possible delays.
Short drive/steep walk up to the Shanti Stupa for panoramic views and sunset; open typically 6:00am–8:00pm. Great first easy outing to gauge altitude tolerance.
Warm Tibetan and Ladakhi fare near the bazaar; comforting momos, thukpa and milk tea. Many restaurants open ~8:00am–10:00pm but check local hours in winter.
Explore Leh Palace (generally open 9:00am–5:00pm) and stroll the main market for prayer flags, pashmina and local crafts; palace offers panoramic town views.
BR0-run museum on the outskirts of Leh showcasing mountain warfare history and local culture; usually open 9:00am–5:00pm and excellent if you like military and local history.
Very early departure for Pangong Tso (approx 5–7 hrs one-way depending on road/conditions). In winter the road can be snowy — confirm with operator the night before and carry warm layers.
Pangong is often partially or wholly frozen late February; take photos, walk safely on shore (only walk on ice if local guides confirm it's safe). Offers surreal winter landscapes.
Drive ~40–45 km to Hemis, one of Ladakh’s largest and historically important gompas (typically open 8:00am–5:00pm). Quiet winter visit with fewer crowds.
Visit Thiksey gompa (9:00am–5:00pm typical) with its impressive Maitreya statue and the nearby Shey Palace; both are accessible and photogenic in winter light.
Book a 1–2 hour snowmobile session or guided snow walk near Leh (operators vary). Good way to enjoy winter landscapes without long drives; confirm availability in advance.
Confirm with hotel/operator whether Khardung La (the pass to Nubra) is open; if open, depart very early for Diskit/Hunder (approx 4–5 hrs). If closed, switch to a relaxed Leh day with markets/museums.
Drive over Khardung La to Diskit (visit Diskit Monastery) and Hunder sand dunes; in winter expect extreme cold — many operators avoid overnight stays if temps extremely low. Inner Line Permits required for Nubra; confirm permit and vehicle before departure.
If you stayed overnight in Nubra, visit Hunder sand dunes (cold desert feel) in the morning and start the drive back to Leh; expect delays due to mountain weather.
If Khardung was closed and you stayed in Leh, use this buffer day for any missed sights, shopping for pashminas and packing; keep schedule flexible for flight changes.
Use this spare day to revisit favorite spots, buy souvenirs, or rest. Weather and flights in winter are unpredictable; having a buffer day reduces stress.
Return flight from Leh to Mumbai (usually via Delhi). Expect total travel time including layover of ~6–10 hours; keep plans loose in case of weather delays.