4-Day Nature Itinerary in Leh, July 2024

1. Day 1: Spituk Monastery
   20 minutes (7.5 miles) from Leh

   Start your day at Spituk Monastery, founded in the 11th century. Explore the beautiful architecture and take in the breathtaking views of the Indus Valley. In the afternoon, head to Magnetic Hill, a natural wonder where cars appear to roll uphill. End your day with a visit to the Hall of Fame, a museum dedicated to the Indian Army.

2. Day 2: Hemis National Park
   1 hour 10 minutes (29 miles) from Leh

   Get an early start as you head to Hemis National Park, home to the elusive snow leopard. Go on a guided trek through the park and spot other wildlife such as Himalayan blue sheep and Tibetan argali. After lunch, visit the nearby Thiksey Monastery, known for its stunning murals and architecture. End your day with a scenic drive to Pangong Tso, a serene lake that stretches from India to China.

3. Day 3: Nubra Valley
   4 hours 30 minutes (120 miles) from Leh

   Wake up early for a long but scenic drive to Nubra Valley, known for its sand dunes and double-humped camels. Enjoy a camel ride and visit the Diskit Monastery, the oldest and largest in the region. In the evening, relax at your campsite and stargaze under the clear night sky.

4. Day 4: Leh Palace and Shanti Stupa
   1 hour 20 minutes (5.5 miles) from Nubra Valley

   Head back to Leh and spend your morning at the Leh Palace, a nine-story palace that was once the home of the royal family. Take in the panoramic views of the city from the rooftop. In the afternoon, visit the Shanti Stupa, a white-domed Buddhist stupa that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Recommendations

Consider taking a day trip to the Alchi Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient murals and carvings. Don't miss out on trying the local cuisine, such as thukpa (noodle soup) and momos (dumplings). To maximize your fun, consider going on a river rafting or mountain biking adventure.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Spituk Monastery (2 hours, free)
• Magnetic Hill (1 hour, free)
• Hall of Fame (1 hour, free)
• Hemis National Park (6 hours, INR 400 per person)
• Thiksey Monastery (2 hours, INR 30 per person)
• Pangong Tso (8 hours, INR 400 per person)
• Nubra Valley (10 hours, INR 500 per person)
• Diskit Monastery (2 hours, INR 30 per person)
• Leh Palace (2 hours, INR 250 per person)
• Shanti Stupa (1 hour, free)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 1,640 per person

For hotel and flight prices, check out https://booking.tp.st/VhZsadPo.