Upon arrival in Leh, check into your hotel and acclimatize to the high altitude. Spend the day relaxing and enjoying stunning views of the Himalayas. Take an evening walk around Leh market to experience the local culture and try some Ladakhi food.
Visit the Leh Palace, a former royal palace that dates back to the 17th century, and marvel at the stunning Himalayan views from the top. Later, head to the Shanti Stupa, a Buddhist white-domed stupa that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Take a scenic drive to Nubra Valley, a high altitude cold desert with sand dunes, double hump camels, ancient monasteries, and lush green villages. Visit the Diskit Monastery, enjoy the sunset at Hunder sand dunes, and indulge in a traditional Ladakhi meal.
Drive to the Pangong Lake, a serene blue lake that extends from India to China. Enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding Himalayan mountains and the clear blue sky. Overnight stay in a cozy camp near the lake.
Drive to Tso Moriri Lake, a high altitude lake at 4,522 m known for its crystal-clear blue water surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Enjoy the picturesque drive while passing through nomadic settlements and spot some wildlife. Stay overnight in a camp near the lake.
Visit the Magnetic Hill, a unique place where your car defies the gravitational pull and moves uphill on its own. Later, visit the Alchi Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to the 11th century and known for its exceptional wall paintings and intricate wood carvings.
Departfrom Ladakh with your unforgettable memories of the Himalayan mountains and the unique Ladakhi culture.
During the trip, private car hire with a driver is recommended to travel comfortably and conveniently around the rugged terrains and narrow roads of Ladakh. The average cost is ₹5000 per day, excluding fuel charges. Domestic flights are available from major Indian cities to Leh Airport with fares ranging from ₹6000 to ₹20000, depending on the season.
If you have more time, extend your visit to the Zanskar Valley, visit the Hemis National Park, and explore the ancient monasteries of Likir and Lamayuru. For a shorter visit, skip the visit to Tso Moriri Lake and Alchi Monastery.
The main airport in Ladakh is Leh Airport (IXL), located just 4 km from the city center. It has direct daily flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Srinagar, and Jammu. The airport is at high altitude, so it's better to take rest for a day before starting the sightseeing.