5-Day Leh Ladakh Itinerary in July 2023

1. Day 1: Leh
   15 minutes (3.2 km) from Leh Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport

   Start your day with a visit to the Shanti Stupa that offers a picturesque view of Leh. Then, head to Leh Palace, a nine-story palace built in the 17th century, which offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Ladakh. In the afternoon, visit the vibrant Leh market, where you can pick up souvenirs and trinkets. Finally, end your day with a visit to the Hall of Fame, a museum dedicated to the Indian Army.

2. Day 2: Khardungla Pass and Nubra Valley
   2.5 hours (39.8 km) from Leh

   Start your day early and drive to Khardungla Pass, the highest motorable road in the world, and enjoy the scenic views. Then, head to Nubra Valley and visit the Diskit Monastery and the sand dunes at Hunder. Take a camel ride on the double-humped Bactrian camels and enjoy the serene beauty of the valley.

3. Day 3: Pangong Tso Lake
   4 hours (160 km) from Leh

   Drive to Pangong Tso Lake, a tranquil lake located at an altitude of 14,270 feet. Marvel at the crystal-clear blue waters surrounded by the majestic Himalayas. Spend the day exploring the lake and its surroundings, and don’t forget to take your camera to capture the stunning views.

4. Day 4: Hemis National Park
   1 hour 30 minutes (40 km) from Leh

   Visit Hemis National Park, the largest national park in South Asia, and home to snow leopards, Tibetan wolves, and Eurasian brown bears. Take a guided tour of the park and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Himalayan flora and fauna. End your day with a visit to the Thiksey Monastery, a 12-story monastery built in the 15th century, and witness the evening prayer ceremony.

5. Day 5: Alchi and Lamayuru Monastery
   2 hours 30 minutes (68 km) from Leh

   Drive to Alchi and visit the Alchi Monastery, a 10th-century Buddhist masterpiece famous for its wall paintings. Then, head to the Lamayuru Monastery, one of the oldest and largest monasteries in Ladakh. Enjoy the scenic drive back to Leh and end your trip with a cultural show at the Ladakh Arts and Media Organisation.

Recommendations

Consider taking a trip to the Zanskar Valley for a thrilling river rafting experience. You can also explore the Tso Moriri Lake and Tso Kar Lake for their serene beauty. Don't forget to try the local Ladakhi cuisine, including momos and thukpa, and shop for Pashmina shawls and Tibetan handicrafts in Leh.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Shanti Stupa (1 hour, free)
• Leh Palace (1 hour, ₹100)
• Hall of Fame (1 hour, ₹50)
• Khardungla Pass (2 hours, free)
• Diskit Monastery (1 hour, ₹30)
• Camel ride at Hunder (1 hour, ₹400)
• Pangong Tso Lake (5-6 hours, free)
• Hemis National Park (2-3 hours, ₹100)
• Thiksey Monastery (1 hour, ₹30)
• Alchi Monastery (1 hour, ₹25)
• Lamayuru Monastery (1 hour, ₹30)
• Cultural Show at Ladakh Arts and Media Organisation (2 hours, ₹200)
• Total Estimated Costs: ₹965

Check hotel and flight prices on https://booking.tp.st/VhZsadPo.