5-Day Family Friendly Itinerary for Leh Ladakh in July 2023

1. Day 1: Visit Shanti Stupa
   4.5 km (15 mins) from Leh

   In the morning, start your trip with a visit to Shanti Stupa. This peaceful white-domed structure offers a panoramic view of Leh city. Afterward, stroll around the stupa and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. In the afternoon, head to Leh Palace, a nine-story royal palace that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. In the evening, take a walk through the bustling Main Bazaar and soak up the local culture.

2. Day 2: Explore Nubra Valley
   130 km (4 hours) from Leh

   Today, take a day trip to Nubra Valley and enjoy the scenic drive through the beautiful landscape. Visit the Diskit Monastery, which houses a 106-ft tall statue of Maitreya Buddha. In the afternoon, visit the Hunder Sand Dunes and enjoy a camel ride. Spend the evening relaxing at your hotel in Nubra Valley.

3. Day 3: Visit Pangong Tso
   160 km (5 hours) from Nubra Valley

   Today, drive to Pangong Tso, a stunning high-altitude lake that stretches for about 160 km. Marvel at the lake's beauty and take a walk along its shores. In the afternoon, explore the nearby villages and interact with the locals to learn about their culture and way of life. Spend the night at a campsite near the lake.

4. Day 4: Visit Hemis National Park
   40 km (1 hour) from Pangong Tso

   Today, visit Hemis National Park, one of the largest national parks in India. Go on a wildlife safari and spot rare animals such as the snow leopard, Tibetan wolf, and Eurasian brown bear. In the afternoon, visit Hemis Monastery, the largest and wealthiest monastery in Ladakh. Spend the night in a hotel in Leh.

5. Day 5: Visit Alchi Monastery and Likir Monastery
   70 km (2 hours) from Leh

   On your last day, visit Alchi Monastery, a UNESCO-listed monastery that features intricate wood carvings and ancient artwork. Afterwards, visit Likir Monastery, which is known for its 23-meter-tall statue of Maitreya Buddha. In the evening, return to Leh and do some last-minute shopping in the Main Bazaar.

Recommendations

You should also consider visiting the Magnetic Hill, a natural wonder where cars seem to defy gravity. Another good side trip is to the Tso Moriri Lake, a beautiful high-altitude lake that is home to many migratory birds. To maximize your fun, try some local cuisine such as momos, thukpa, and butter tea. Don't forget to acclimatize to the altitude before you start your trip, and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Shanti Stupa (1-2 hours, free)
• Leh Palace (1-2 hours, ₹ 30)
• Nubra Valley (full day trip, ₹ 8,000 for car rental)
• Camel ride at Hunder Sand Dunes (1 hour, ₹ 400)
• Pangong Tso (full day trip, ₹ 8,000 for car rental)
• Hemis National Park (full day trip, ₹ 3,000 for car rental and safari)
• Hemis Monastery (1-2 hours, ₹ 100)
• Alchi Monastery (2-3 hours, ₹ 50)
• Likir Monastery (1-2 hours, ₹ 30)
• Total Estimated Costs: ₹ 19,610

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