Get acclimated to the high altitude by taking it easy on the first day. Stroll through the bustling Leh bazaar where you can find an array of traditional Pashmina shawls, beads, pearls, and beautiful handicrafts. Indulge in authentic Ladakhi cuisine at any restaurant around the Leh main market.
Magnetic Hill is a “Gravity Hill," where the landscape creates an optical illusion of a downhill slope. This spot has become a popular tourist attraction. The Gurudwara Pathar Sahib is a peaceful and serene Buddhist temple constructed by the Indian Army.
Experience the mesmerizing views of Pangong Tso Lake and Tso Moriri Lake, two of the most stunning high-altitude lakes known for their crystal-clear blue waters. Spend the night camping at Pangong and Tso Moriri and star-gaze in the clear night skies. These picturesque lakes are a popular draw for photographers and camouflaged Changthangi nomads offering an authentic cultural experience.
Drive to Khardung-La Pass, which is the highest motorable road in the world at 18,380ft. Enjoy the stunning views of the snow-clad peaks of the Karakoram Range in Pakistan. The highlight of this drive is seeing the road snaking up to the pass from the valley below.
Visit the lesser-known and offbeat village of Turtuk, perched on the last border of India, and unique for its starkly different culture and traditions. Turtuk was part of Pakistan until the 1971 Indo-Pak war. Turtuk is known for its apricots and the magnificent views of the valley framed by snow-capped mountains in the backdrop. Spend the night at Nubra Valley, which is covered with orchards of apples, apricots, and wheat. Enjoy the view of double-humped Bactrian camels at the Hunder dunes.
Visit one of the oldest and most significant monasteries in Ladakh, Alchi Monastery. Known for its cultural and religious importance, the Alchi Monastery dates back to the 10th century and houses a vast collection of paintings and sculptures executed in an Indo-Himalayan art style.
Embark on the exhilarating Chadar Trek that meanders over the frozen Zanskar River (depends on the feasibility of trek in your travel dates, so check against the opening and closing times of this trek). Walk on the frozen river beds while enjoying the stunning views of the valley. The frozen waterfalls along the trek are also a sight to behold. Camping in igloos is one of the unique experiences of the Chadar Trek.
Spend your day exploring the snow-laden Hemis National Park, which is the only national park in the world that is home to the endangered snow leopard. Keep an eye out for other rare animals such as the yak, Tibetan snowcock, and Eurasian brown bear. This park is also an adventure paradise for trekking and skiing.
Explore the quiet and peaceful monasteries, including Hemis Monastery, Thiksey Monastery, and Shey Palace Complex, which reflect Ladakh's rich Buddhist culture and architecture. Spend the night at Lake Tsomoriri, a high-altitude lake that is a photographer's paradise. The placid waters of this lake reflect the surrounding rugged mountains make for a surreal backdrop.
Depart from Leh, absorbing the memories of the serene and mesmerizing Ladakh. Don’t forget to shop for souvenirs at Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport.
Total Estimated Costs: INR 30,000-40,000
Although Ladakh has no railway stations or airports, the quickest and easiest way to get here is by air. Leh's Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport is the nearest airport connected to most major Indian cities. Buses, private taxis, and rental cars are easy to find and less expensive modes of transportation. With the exception of Turtuk and Chadar Trek, all places in Ladakh are accessible by road. Prepare for a bumpy ride and possible altitude sickness as most roads in Ladakh lie above 4,000 meters.
Travel Costs: INR 10,000-15,000 (Return Flights)
Travel Time: 2-3 Days (To and Fro)
If you have 10 days or less, drop Turtuk village and Chadar Trek as they are more time-consuming. Spend an extra day each in the Nubra Valley and Pangong Tso Lake. Ladakh is your destination if you're looking for adventure activities such as rafting, trekking, mountain climbing, and spiritual enlightenment through yoga and meditation.
Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (IXL) is the only airport in Ladakh, located in Leh. The airport is 3 miles from the city center and is connected to major Indian cities. Private taxis and buses are available from the airport to the city center.