6-Day Adventure-packed Ladakh Itinerary: Exploring the Best of Nubra Valley and Pangong Lake

  • Day 1: Arrival in Leh
    -

    Upon your arrival at Leh, take your time to acclimatize to the high altitude. Spend your day exploring the local market and taste the local delicacies. Try out some momos and thukpa, and explore the local handicrafts.

  • Day 2: Drive from Leh to Nubra Valley
    4 hours (125 km)

    Wake up early and start your journey to Nubra Valley via Khardung La, the world's highest motorable road. Once you reach, visit the Deskit Monastery and Camel Safari to experience the unique Bactrian camel ride on the sand dunes. Overnight stay at Nubra.

  • Day 3: Nubra Valley to Leh
    4 hours (125 km)

    Start your day early and visit the famous Pangong Tso lake, known for its mesmerizing beauty and the famous Bollywood movie '3 Idiots' shot here. You can also indulge in some adventure activities like rafting, trekking, and camping. After exploring, head back to Leh and visit the Thiksey Monastery en-route.

  • Day 4: Leh - Zanskar River Rafting
    3 hours (111 km)

    Head towards the Zanskar River, your adventure-packed day. Get ready for a thrilling rafting experience and navigate some of the most challenging rapids in India. You can also opt for trekking, hiking, or mountain biking in the area. Return to Leh in the evening.

  • Day 5: Leh - Hemis National Park - Leh
    3 hours (110 km)

    Explore the Hemis National Park and engage in some exciting activities like wildlife safaris, camping or trekking. Hemis national park is recognized as the largest national park in India, and you can spot animals like snow leopard, marmot, and ibex (depending on the season).

  • Day 6: Departure
    -

    End your trip with a morning flight back home or to your next destination.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Deskit Monastery and Camel Safari (2 hours, INR 1000-1500)
  • Pangong Tso Lake: (4 hours, Free entry)
  • Zanskar River Rafting (7 hours, INR 2500-4000)
  • Hemis National Park (4 hours, INR 100-200 for entry)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 3600-5700

Transportation

Most of the tourist destinations are accessible by road from Leh. The best way to explore the region is by hiring a taxi or renting a bike. Keep in mind that fuel stations may not be easily accessible, so plan accordingly. The cost of hiring a taxi can vary depending on the season, starting from INR 2000 per day. Bike rentals start at INR 1000 per day.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, you can explore more of the local attractions such as the Magnetic Hill or the Shanti Stupa in Leh. If you want to extend your trip, you can explore the Tso Moriri Lake or visit the Kargil region. If you have limited time, you can do a 3-day trip to Nubra Valley and Pangong Lake.

Airports

Leh Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (IXL) is the primary airport in Ladakh. It is situated in Leh and is well-connected to major cities in India such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore. The distance between the airport and the city center is around 5 km.

0