Start the day by visiting the Leh Palace, the former royal palace of the Namgyal dynasty, which dates back to the 17th century. After taking in the impressive architecture, head to the Shanti Stupa to admire the panoramic views of Leh. The white-domed Buddhist monument is situated on a hilltop, and you'll need to climb a few flights of stairs to reach it. The climb is worth it once you're rewarded with breathtaking views of the valleys and snow-clad mountains.
Get your adrenaline pumping as you drive up to Khardung La, one of the world's highest motorable passes. The journey is scenic, and you'll pass through several hairpin bends on your way. Once you reach the top, take a moment to appreciate the feat of engineering that has allowed vehicles to climb to such an altitude. After descending from the pass, spend the rest of the day exploring the picturesque Nubra Valley, which lies at an altitude of 10,000 feet above sea level. Visit the white sand dunes of Hunder and go on a camel safari to explore the nearby villages.
Experience the Magnetic Hill, where a car left in neutral gear will start moving uphill on its own. The phenomenon is an optical illusion caused by the surrounding terrain. Next, head to the Pangong Tso Lake, which stretches across the border between India and Tibet. The lake boasts an azure blue color that changes with the sunlight and is surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Spend the day exploring the lake and its nearby village, as well as indulging in some yak cheese and butter tea.
Spend the final day of your adventure trip by trekking to the Stok Kangri, which is one of the highest mountain peaks in the Stok range. The trek starts from Stok village and takes about 2-3 days to complete. As you climb higher, you'll be rewarded with stunning views of the valleys and glaciers. The trek is best suited for experienced trekkers who are physically fit, and you'll need to obtain the required permits before embarking on the journey.
If you have more time, you can explore more of the Ladakh region, such as the monasteries of Hemis and Thiksey or the Zanskar valley. For those with less time, you can skip the Stok Kangri trek and go for shorter hikes in the nearby hills. Remember to carry plenty of warm clothes, sunscreen, and medication for altitude sickness, as the region is at high altitude. Finally, respect the local culture and traditions and avoid littering.