7-Day Relaxation Shoestring Budget Itinerary in Leh, India

Day 1: Exploring Leh

Leh, India

8:00AM

Visit Leh Palace

Start your day by exploring the historic Leh Palace, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains.
Leh Palace is located in the heart of Leh town, easily accessible by walking or a short taxi ride from most accommodations.
INR 250, 2 hours

11:00AM

Stroll around Main Bazaar

Immerse yourself in the local culture by wandering through the bustling Main Bazaar, shopping for souvenirs and interacting with friendly locals.
The Main Bazaar is a central hub in Leh, just a few minutes walk from Leh Palace.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Tibetan Kitchen

Enjoy a delicious and affordable Tibetan meal at Tibetan Kitchen, known for its momos and thukpa.
Tibetan Kitchen is located near the Main Bazaar, offering a cozy atmosphere.
INR 400, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Shanti Stupa

Head to Shanti Stupa, a peaceful Buddhist white-domed stupa offering breathtaking views of Leh and the surrounding mountains.
Shanti Stupa is a short drive or hike from the city center.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Gesmo Restaurant

End your day with a hearty meal at Gesmo Restaurant, known for its diverse menu and cozy ambiance.
Gesmo Restaurant is centrally located in Leh town.
INR 600, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Monasteries and Lakes

Leh, India

8:00AM

Visit Thiksey Monastery

Explore the stunning Thiksey Monastery, known for its resemblance to the Potala Palace in Lhasa, Tibet, and its impressive Maitreya Buddha statue.
Thiksey Monastery is located about 20 km from Leh and can be reached by taxi or organized tour.
INR 30, 2 hours

11:00AM

Drive to Pangong Tso

Embark on a scenic drive to the mesmerizing Pangong Tso Lake, famous for its ever-changing shades of blue and appearance in Bollywood movies.
The journey to Pangong Tso takes approximately 6 hours by road, passing through picturesque landscapes.
INR 3000 (shared taxi), 6 hours

5:00PM

Enjoy Sunset at Pangong Tso

Relax by the lakeshore and witness the magical sunset over Pangong Tso, a truly unforgettable experience.
Find a comfortable spot along the lake's edge to enjoy the sunset.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Campsite

Savor a simple yet satisfying dinner at your campsite near Pangong Tso, under the starlit sky.
Most campgrounds offer dinner as part of the stay package.
INR 500, 1 hour
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Day 3: Tranquil Hanle

Hanle, India

8:00AM

Drive to Hanle

Embark on a scenic drive to the remote village of Hanle, known for its tranquil atmosphere and clear night skies, perfect for stargazing.
The journey from Pangong Tso to Hanle takes around 6-7 hours by road, passing through picturesque valleys.
INR 2500 (shared taxi), 7 hours

3:00PM

Explore Hanle Monastery

Visit Hanle Monastery, a hidden gem offering insight into the local Buddhist culture and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Hanle Monastery is a short walk from the village center.
INR 50, 1 hour

6:00PM

Stargazing at Night

Experience the breathtaking night sky of Hanle, one of the best places for stargazing in India due to its high altitude and minimal light pollution.
Simply step outside your accommodation or join a stargazing tour for an enhanced experience.
Free, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Guesthouse

Enjoy a homely dinner at your guesthouse in Hanle, savoring local Ladakhi dishes.
Most guesthouses provide dinner as part of the stay package.
INR 400, 1 hour
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Day 4: Scenic Panogong Tso

Panogong Tso, India

8:00AM

Drive to Panogong Tso

Embark on a picturesque drive to Panogong Tso, a serene lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains, offering a perfect setting for relaxation.
The journey from Hanle to Panogong Tso takes around 4-5 hours by road, passing through scenic landscapes.
INR 2000 (shared taxi), 5 hours

1:00PM

Lakeside Picnic

Enjoy a peaceful lakeside picnic at Panogong Tso, soaking in the tranquility and beauty of the pristine surroundings.
Find a cozy spot along the lakeshore to unwind and enjoy your meal.
INR 300, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Leisure Time

Spend the afternoon relaxing by the lake, taking in the serene atmosphere and capturing breathtaking photos of the landscape.
Explore the area around the lake, capturing the beauty of nature through your lens.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Lakeside Camp

Indulge in a cozy dinner at your lakeside camp, enjoying the peaceful ambiance and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Most lakeside camps offer dinner as part of the stay package.
INR 500, 1 hour
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Day 5: Nubra Valley Exploration

Nubra, India

8:00AM

Drive to Nubra Valley

Embark on a scenic drive to Nubra Valley, a mesmerizing high-altitude desert with sand dunes, monasteries, and stunning landscapes.
The journey from Panogong Tso to Nubra Valley takes around 5-6 hours by road, crossing over the famous Khardung La Pass.
INR 2500 (shared taxi), 6 hours

2:00PM

Visit Diskit Monastery

Explore the ancient Diskit Monastery, offering panoramic views of the valley and home to a giant statue of Maitreya Buddha.
Diskit Monastery is a short drive from the main town of Diskit.
INR 30, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Camel Ride at Hunder Sand Dunes

Experience a unique camel ride amidst the sand dunes of Hunder, a surreal experience in the midst of the Himalayas.
Hunder Sand Dunes are located near Diskit town, offering camel ride experiences.
INR 500, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Local Guesthouse

Enjoy a traditional Ladakhi dinner at a local guesthouse in Nubra Valley, savoring the flavors of the region.
Many guesthouses in Nubra offer authentic Ladakhi cuisine for dinner.
INR 400, 1 hour
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Day 6: Turtuk Village Experience

Turtuk, India

8:00AM

Drive to Turtuk

Embark on a scenic drive to the remote village of Turtuk, known for its apricot orchards, Balti culture, and welcoming locals.
The journey from Nubra Valley to Turtuk takes around 2-3 hours by road, passing through picturesque landscapes.
INR 1000 (shared taxi), 3 hours

11:00AM

Explore Turtuk Village

Discover the charm of Turtuk Village by walking through its narrow lanes, interacting with locals, and admiring the stunning mountain views.
Turtuk Village is best explored on foot, allowing you to soak in the local culture and hospitality.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Local Home

Enjoy a traditional Balti lunch at a local home in Turtuk, savoring authentic flavors and hospitality.
Experience a homely meal with a local family, immersing yourself in the Balti culture.
INR 300, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Turtuk Waterfall

Hike to the picturesque Turtuk Waterfall, surrounded by lush greenery and offering a refreshing escape in nature.
The waterfall is a short hike from Turtuk Village, providing a serene setting for relaxation.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Guesthouse

Enjoy a cozy dinner at your guesthouse in Turtuk, sharing stories with fellow travelers and enjoying the peaceful ambiance.
Most guesthouses in Turtuk offer dinner as part of the stay package.
INR 400, 1 hour
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Day 7: Khardung La and Kargil

Khardung La, Lamayuru, Kargil, Suru

8:00AM

Drive to Khardung La

Embark on a thrilling drive to Khardung La, one of the highest motorable passes in the world, offering panoramic views of the Himalayas.
The journey from Turtuk to Khardung La takes around 6-7 hours by road, with steep ascents and breathtaking vistas.
INR 1500 (shared taxi), 7 hours

3:00PM

Visit Lamayuru Monastery

Explore the ancient Lamayuru Monastery, perched on a hilltop and known for its stunning architecture and spiritual ambiance.
Lamayuru Monastery is located near the village of Lamayuru, a short drive from the highway.
INR 50, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Drive to Kargil

Proceed to the town of Kargil, known for its strategic location and historical significance, with a mix of Tibetan and Muslim cultures.
The drive from Lamayuru to Kargil takes around 2-3 hours, passing through rugged terrain and small villages.
INR 1000 (shared taxi), 3 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Local Restaurant

Enjoy a hearty dinner at a local restaurant in Kargil, tasting the flavors of Ladakhi cuisine and mingling with travelers and locals.
Explore the culinary scene in Kargil, trying local delicacies and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.
INR 500, 1 hour
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