7-Day Family Friendly Itinerary for Leh Ladakh in December 2023

1. Day 1: Shanti Stupa
   20 minutes (5.8 km) from Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport

   In the morning, visit the Shanti Stupa, a beautiful white-domed Buddhist stupa with stunning panoramic views of Leh and the surrounding mountains. In the afternoon, explore the Leh Palace, a former royal palace built in the 17th century. In the evening, stroll through Leh Bazaar for some souvenir shopping.

2. Day 2: Hemis Monastery
   49 minutes (40.1 km) from Leh Palace

   In the morning, visit the Hemis Monastery, the largest and wealthiest Buddhist monastery in Ladakh. In the afternoon, drive to the Thiksey Monastery, a beautiful complex of buildings perched on a hilltop. In the evening, relax in the natural hot springs of Chumathang.

3. Day 3: Nubra Valley
   4 hours (126 km) from Chumathang Hot Springs

   In the morning, drive to the stunning Nubra Valley, known for its rolling sand dunes and Bactrian camels. Visit the Diskit Monastery and its famous 32-meter statue of Maitreya Buddha. In the afternoon, enjoy a camel ride through the dunes. Spend the evening stargazing in the clear, high-altitude sky.

4. Day 4: Pangong Tso Lake
   6 hours (154 km) from Nubra Valley

   In the morning, drive to the breathtaking Pangong Tso Lake, located on the border between India and China. Enjoy the stunning views of the crystal-clear blue water and the surrounding mountains. In the afternoon, take a relaxing walk along the lake shore. Spend the evening stargazing by the lake.

5. Day 5: Tso Moriri Lake
   7 hours (220 km) from Pangong Tso Lake

   In the morning, drive to the stunning Tso Moriri Lake, another high-altitude lake known for its pristine waters. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings and the views of the snow-capped mountains. In the afternoon, take a walk around the lake. Spend the evening stargazing by the lake.

6. Day 6: Khardung La Pass
   5 hours (140 km) from Tso Moriri Lake

   In the morning, drive to the Khardung La Pass, one of the highest motorable roads in the world. Enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. In the afternoon, visit the Stakna Monastery, a beautiful complex of buildings perched on a hilltop. Spend the evening in the lively town of Leh.

7. Day 7: Alchi Monastery
   1 hour 30 minutes (68 km) from Leh

   In the morning, visit the Alchi Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its beautiful murals and sculptures. In the afternoon, explore the nearby Likir Monastery, another beautiful complex of buildings with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Ladakhi dinner.

Recommendations

Don't miss out on the opportunity to experience a homestay with a local Ladakhi family. Also, consider taking a day trip to the picturesque village of Lamayuru or the beautiful Zanskar Valley. To maximize your fun, make sure to pack warm clothes and comfortable shoes, and drink plenty of water to avoid altitude sickness.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Shanti Stupa (1-2 hours, free)
• Leh Palace (1-2 hours, INR 250)
• Hemis Monastery (2-3 hours, INR 100)
• Thiksey Monastery (1-2 hours, INR 30)
• Nubra Valley (1 day, INR 3000 for car rental)
• Pangong Tso Lake (1 day, INR 3000 for car rental)
• Tso Moriri Lake (1 day, INR 4000 for car rental)
• Khardung La Pass (2-3 hours, free)
• Stakna Monastery (1-2 hours, INR 30)
• Alchi Monastery (1-2 hours, INR 50)
• Likir Monastery (1-2 hours, INR 20)
• Traditional Ladakhi dinner (2-3 hours, INR 500)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 8,150 - INR 11,550 (depending on car rental costs)

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