7-Day Itinerary for Leh Ladakh and Around in September 2023

1. Day 1: Arrive in Leh
   Leh Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport
   10 minutes (2.3 km) from Leh city centre

   Take the day to acclimatize and explore Leh's vibrant bazaars and alleys, filled with Tibetan handicrafts, jewellery and local food. In the evening, visit the Shanti Stupa, a magnificent white-domed Buddhist stupa with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.

2. Day 2: Nubra Valley
   3 hours (128 km) from Leh

   Drive through the Khardung La Pass, one of the highest motorable roads in the world, and visit the Diskit Monastery, known for its 32-metre statue of Maitreya Buddha. Spend the night in a traditional Ladakhi homestay and enjoy a cultural show and local cuisine.

3. Day 3: Pangong Tso Lake
   4 hours (160 km) from Nubra Valley

   Drive through the Chang La Pass, the third-highest motorable road in the world, and spend the day by the crystal-clear waters of Pangong Tso, a breathtaking high-altitude lake that changes colour throughout the day. Stay in a lakeside campsite and enjoy a bonfire under the stars.

4. Day 4: Tso Moriri Lake
   7 hours (220 km) from Pangong Tso Lake

   Drive through the picturesque Chumathang hot springs and visit the Tso Moriri Lake, a serene and secluded high-altitude lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Stay in a lakeside tent and take a walk around the lake to spot rare Himalayan birds and wildlife.

5. Day 5: Leh Palace and Monasteries
   6 hours (220 km) from Tso Moriri Lake

   Visit the Leh Palace, a magnificent nine-storey palace built by the King Sengge Namgyal in the 17th century and the Shey Palace, the summer palace of the Ladakhi kings. Take a detour to visit the Hemis Monastery, the largest and wealthiest monastery in Ladakh. Finish the day with dinner at a local rooftop restaurant.

6. Day 6: Alchi Monastery and Zanskar River Rafting
   4 hours (70 km) from Leh

   Visit the Alchi Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient wall paintings and sculptures. In the afternoon, drive to the Zanskar river for a thrilling rafting adventure through the stunning canyons of the Indus and Zanskar rivers. Return to Leh for a farewell dinner.

7. Day 7: Depart from Leh
   Leh Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport
   10 minutes (2.3 km) from Leh city centre

   Depart from Leh with unforgettable memories of the stunning landscapes, warm hospitality and rich culture of Ladakh.

Recommendations

In addition to the above, consider visiting the Lamayuru Monastery, the Gurudwara Pathar Sahib, and the Magnetic Hill. A day trip to Kargil and the Drass War Memorial is also highly recommended. Don't forget to try local dishes such as momos, thukpa, and butter tea. To maximize your fun, plan to travel in a group and hire a local guide and driver for a hassle-free experience.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Shanti Stupa (1 hour, free)
• Nubra Valley Homestay (1 night, INR 3,000)
• Pangong Tso Lake Campsite (1 night, INR 4,000)
• Tso Moriri Lake Tent (1 night, INR 2,500)
• Leh Palace (1 hour, INR 250)
• Rafting Adventure (3 hours, INR 1,500)
• Farewell Dinner (1.5 hours, INR 1,000)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 11,250

For more information on hotel and flight prices, please visit https://booking.tp.st/VhZsadPo.