5-Day Nature Itinerary for Leh Ladakh in July 2023

1. Day 1: Hemis National Park
   40 minutes (25.7 km) from Leh

   In the morning, explore one of the largest national parks in India, Hemis National Park. Witness the beauty of the snow-capped mountains and the rare species of animals like snow leopards, Tibetan wolves, and Eurasian brown bears. In the afternoon, visit the Hemis Monastery, the largest and wealthiest Buddhist monastery in Ladakh. In the evening, relax and enjoy the stunning views of the park.

2. Day 2: Pangong Tso Lake
   5 hours 20 minutes (224 km) from Hemis National Park

   Wake up early and drive to one of the most beautiful high-altitude lakes in India, Pangong Tso Lake. The journey to the lake is as beautiful as the destination, with breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys. Spend the afternoon near the lake, enjoy a picnic, and take a stroll around the beautiful surroundings. In the evening, enjoy the starry sky.

3. Day 3: Tso Moriri
   6 hours 30 minutes (195 km) from Pangong Tso Lake

   Start the day early and head towards the Tso Moriri lake. The lake is situated in the Rupshu valley, surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Spend the day exploring the high-altitude lake and the Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary. You may spot several species of animals like kiang, Tibetan gazelle and marmots. In the evening, relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

4. Day 4: Nubra Valley
   6 hours 50 minutes (192 km) from Tso Moriri

   In the morning, head towards the Nubra Valley, located at an altitude of 3048 meters above sea level. The valley is famous for its sand dunes and double-humped camels. Visit the Diskit Monastery, the oldest and largest Buddhist monastery in the Nubra Valley. Spend the evening exploring the Hunder Sand Dunes and taking a camel safari.

5. Day 5: Shanti Stupa
   4 hours 50 minutes (127 km) from Nubra Valley

   On the final day, head to the Shanti Stupa in Leh. The Buddhist stupa is perched on a hilltop and offers panoramic views of the Leh valley and the surrounding mountains. Spend the afternoon exploring the Leh Palace, a historic palace built by the Namgyal dynasty. In the evening, stroll through the Leh Market and pick up some souvenirs to take back home.

Recommendations

Consider visiting the Zanskar Valley, which is known for its trekking and adventure activities. You can also take a day trip to the Khardungla Pass, the highest motorable road in the world. If you have more time, consider visiting the Turtuk village, which is the last village on the Indian side of the border with Pakistan.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Hemis National Park (4 hours, INR 600)
• Pangong Tso Lake (10 hours, INR 3000)
• Tso Moriri (11 hours, INR 4000)
• Nubra Valley (12 hours, INR 4500)
• Shanti Stupa (3 hours, INR 200)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 12,300