7-Day Ladakh Itinerary for Nature Lovers in December 2023

1. Day 1: Leh Palace
   10 minutes (2.5 km) from Leh

   Explore the former royal palace of the Ladakh king in the morning, followed by a visit to the nearby Namgyal Tsemo Gompa. Afternoon can be spent sightseeing at Shanti Stupa, which offers stunning panoramic views of the city. In the evening, indulge in local delicacies at a nearby restaurant.

2. Day 2: Hemis National Park
   2 hours (40 km) from Leh

   Embark on a full-day excursion to Hemis National Park, known for its snow leopards and other rare wildlife. Take a guided nature walk, watch birds, and enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the serene surroundings. Return to Leh in the evening.

3. Day 3: Nubra Valley
   4 hours (120 km) from Leh

   Head out early for a scenic drive to Nubra Valley, where you can enjoy camel rides on the sand dunes of Hunder and visit the famous Diskit Monastery. Spend the night at a local campsite and enjoy stargazing in the clear winter sky.

4. Day 4: Pangong Tso Lake
   5 hours (160 km) from Nubra Valley

   Travel to Pangong Tso Lake, famous for its crystal-clear blue waters and stunning mountain views. Spend the day taking in the beauty of the lake and its surroundings, and enjoy a lakeside lunch. Return to Nubra Valley in the evening.

5. Day 5: Alchi Monastery
   3 hours (70 km) from Leh

   Visit one of the oldest monasteries in Ladakh, the Alchi Monastery, known for its unique artwork and architecture. Spend the afternoon exploring the nearby villages and interacting with the locals. Return to Leh in the evening.

6. Day 6: Magnetic Hill and Gurudwara Pathar Sahib
   1 hour (25 km) from Leh

   Drive to Magnetic Hill, a natural wonder where you can witness a car seemingly defying gravity. Continue on to Gurudwara Pathar Sahib, a revered Sikh shrine built in the memory of Guru Nanak Dev. Spend the evening shopping for souvenirs in the Leh market.

7. Day 7: Tso Moriri Lake
   6 hours (220 km) from Leh

   End your trip with a visit to the breathtaking Tso Moriri Lake, located at an altitude of 4,595 metres. Take a stroll along the lake, enjoy a picnic lunch, and marvel at the stunning vistas. Return to Leh in the evening.

Recommendations

Don't miss out on the Ladakh Winter Carnival, if it's happening in December 2023. You can also consider taking a day trip to the nearby Zanskar Valley to experience the frozen Zanskar River trek. To make the most of your trip, make sure to carry warm clothes, comfortable shoes, and stay hydrated.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Leh Palace (2 hours, free)
• Namgyal Tsemo Gompa (1 hour, free)
• Shanti Stupa (2 hours, free)
• Hemis National Park (7 hours, INR 1000 per person)
• Nubra Valley (2 days, INR 15000 per person)
• Pangong Tso Lake (10 hours, INR 5000 per vehicle)
• Alchi Monastery (4 hours, free)
• Magnetic Hill (1 hour, free)
• Gurudwara Pathar Sahib (1 hour, free)
• Tso Moriri Lake (12 hours, INR 6000 per vehicle)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 27000 per person

Check out the latest hotel and flight prices here.