5-Day Itinerary for Best Places to Visit in India in July 2023

1. Day 1: Leh, Ladakh
   15 minutes (5.2 miles) from Leh Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport

   Begin your trip with a visit to Leh, Ladakh, also known as "Little Tibet." In the morning, explore the ancient Leh Palace and Shanti Stupa. In the afternoon, visit the bustling markets of Leh and shop for unique handicrafts. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Ladakhi dinner and cultural dance performance.

2. Day 2: Pangong Lake
   4 hours (135 miles) from Leh

   Take a day trip to the stunning Pangong Lake, known for its crystal-clear blue waters and scenic views of the Himalayas. In the morning, drive to the lake and spend the day exploring the area, hiking, and taking in the breathtaking scenery. In the evening, head back to Leh and enjoy a dinner at a local restaurant.

3. Day 3: Srinagar, Kashmir
   1 hour 10 minutes (215 miles) from Leh

   Travel to Srinagar, known for its beautiful gardens, houseboats, and scenic views of the Dal Lake. In the morning, take a shikara ride on the lake and visit the famous Mughal Gardens. In the afternoon, explore the old city of Srinagar and shop for traditional Kashmiri handicrafts. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kashmiri dinner and stay overnight on a houseboat.

4. Day 4: Gulmarg, Kashmir
   1 hour 40 minutes (34 miles) from Srinagar

   Visit Gulmarg, known for its stunning mountain views and ski resorts. In the morning, take a gondola ride to the top of the mountain and enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayas. In the afternoon, go on a nature walk and explore the alpine meadows. In the evening, enjoy a dinner at a local restaurant and stay overnight in Gulmarg.

5. Day 5: Agra, Uttar Pradesh
   6 hours 45 minutes (405 miles) from Gulmarg

   End your trip with a visit to the iconic Taj Mahal in Agra, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. In the morning, visit the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. In the afternoon, shop for traditional Indian handicrafts in the local markets. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Indian dinner and stay overnight in Agra.

Recommendations

Consider attending the Hemis Festival in Leh, a two-day cultural festival celebrating the birth of Guru Padmasambhava, the founder of Tibetan Buddhism. Other side trips to consider are visiting the Nubra Valley in Ladakh or the hill station of Pahalgam in Kashmir. To maximize your fun, try local Ladakhi and Kashmiri cuisine, and take plenty of scenic drives through the Himalayan mountains.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Leh Palace and Shanti Stupa (2 hours, free)
• Shopping in Leh Market (2 hours, varies)
• Pangong Lake Day Trip (8 hours, 5000 INR)
• Shikara Ride and Mughal Gardens in Srinagar (4 hours, 1000 INR)
• Houseboat Stay in Srinagar (1 night, 3000 INR)
• Gondola Ride and Nature Walk in Gulmarg (6 hours, 2000 INR)
• Taj Mahal and Agra Fort in Agra (4 hours, 1300 INR)
• Shopping in Agra Markets (2 hours, varies)
• Dining (varies)
• Total Estimated Costs: 11300 INR

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