Family-Friendly 6-Day Itinerary in Leh for June 2023

1. Day 1: Shanti Stupa
   15 minutes (2.5 km) from Leh Main Bazaar

   Morning: Visit the magnificent Shanti Stupa, a white-domed Buddhist stupa that offers an amazing view of Leh and the surrounding Himalayan ranges. Afternoon: Indulge in a sumptuous lunch at the nearby Tibetan Kitchen, known for its authentic Tibetan cuisine. Evening: Explore the Leh Main Bazaar and shop for souvenirs, pashminas, and handicrafts.

2. Day 2: Hemis National Park
   1 hour 30 minutes (45 km) from Leh Main Bazaar

   Morning: Start early and take a scenic drive to Hemis National Park, home to snow leopards, Himalayan black bears, and numerous bird species. Afternoon: Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the beautiful landscapes of the park. Evening: Head back to Leh and treat yourself to some delicious momos at Gesmo Restaurant.

3. Day 3: Leh Palace and Namgyal Tsemo Gompa
   10 minutes (1.5 km) from Leh Main Bazaar

   Morning: Visit the historic Leh Palace, a nine-story royal palace built in the 17th century by King Sengge Namgyal. Afternoon: Explore the Namgyal Tsemo Gompa, a Buddhist monastery that houses a three-story-high statue of Maitreya Buddha. Evening: Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the banks of the Indus River and take in the scenic beauty of the region.

4. Day 4: Magnetic Hill and Gurudwara Pathar Sahib
   1 hour (27 km) from Leh Main Bazaar

   Morning: Experience the wonder of Magnetic Hill, an optical illusion where vehicles appear to move uphill on their own. Afternoon: Visit the nearby Gurudwara Pathar Sahib, a Sikh shrine built in honor of Guru Nanak Dev. Evening: Return to Leh and pamper yourself with a relaxing massage at The Ayurvedic Healing Centre.

5. Day 5: Thiksey Monastery and Shey Palace
   30 minutes (16 km) from Leh Main Bazaar

   Morning: Visit the iconic Thiksey Monastery, known for its stunning architecture and ceremonial mask dances. Afternoon: Explore the nearby Shey Palace, the former summer capital of Ladakh, and marvel at its beautiful murals and carvings. Evening: Enjoy a traditional Ladakhi dinner at the popular Lamayuru Restaurant.

6. Day 6: Pangong Tso Lake
   5 hours (160 km) from Leh Main Bazaar

   Morning: Embark on an early morning drive to the breathtaking Pangong Tso Lake, a high-altitude lake known for its striking blue-green hues. Afternoon: Enjoy a picnic by the lake and take in the stunning scenery. Evening: Return to Leh and celebrate the end of a wonderful trip with a dinner at Bon Appetit.

Recommendations

If you have more time, consider visiting the Nubra Valley to see the famous sand dunes and double-humped camels. You can also try river rafting in the Zanskar River or go on a trek to the Markha Valley. To make the most of your trip, be sure to acclimatize to the high altitude and stay hydrated throughout your stay.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Shanti Stupa (1-2 hours, free)
• Tibetan Kitchen (1-2 hours, INR 500 for two)
• Hemis National Park (6-7 hours, INR 400 per person)
• Gesmo Restaurant (1-2 hours, INR 500 for two)
• Leh Palace (1-2 hours, INR 250 per person)
• Namgyal Tsemo Gompa (1-2 hours, INR 100 per person)
• Magnetic Hill (1-2 hours, free)
• Gurudwara Pathar Sahib (1-2 hours, free)
• The Ayurvedic Healing Centre (1-2 hours, INR 1500 per person)
• Thiksey Monastery (1-2 hours, INR 30 per person)
• Shey Palace (1-2 hours, INR 30 per person)
• Lamayuru Restaurant (1-2 hours, INR 800 for two)
• Pangong Tso Lake (12-14 hours, INR 2000 per person for a shared taxi)
• Bon Appetit (1-2 hours, INR 1000 for two)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 6600 per person