jammu-Srinagar-kargil-leh-local-Nubra-Pangong-Leh-Jispa-Chandigarh-fly back

Jammu to Srinagar: A Scenic Journey and Lakeside Evening

Begin your day with an early start from Jammu, checking out from your accommodation. 

Set out on a picturesque drive to Srinagar, Kashmir's summer capital. The journey from Jammu to Srinagar spans approximately 260-300 kilometers and typically takes around 7-9 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic, traversing through varying terrains and offering stunning views.

En route, you will pass by several notable attractions:

• Patnitop: A popular hill resort offering panoramic views of the Shivalik range. A short refreshment break here is highly recommended.
• Syama Prasad Mookerjee Tunnel (Chenani-Nashri Tunnel): India's longest highway tunnel, significantly reducing travel time and bypassing a challenging stretch of the highway.
•  

Later in the afternoon and evening, explore some of Srinagar's iconic sights If Time allows:

• Shikara Ride on Dal Lake: Embark on a traditional wooden boat ride across the serene waters of Dal Lake, marveling at floating gardens, houseboats, and the vibrant local life.
• Mughal Gardens (Nishat Bagh or Shalimar Bagh): Depending on available time and light, visit one of these exquisitely terraced gardens, famous for their Persian architecture, flowing fountains, and vibrant flowerbeds.

Conclude your day with a delightful dinner, savoring local Kashmiri cuisine, before retiring for the night amidst the tranquility of Srinagar.

Embark on an unforgettable single-day journey from the beautiful valleys of Srinagar to the historic town of Kargil, passing through the rugged, high-altitude landscapes and the solemn memorial at Drass.

Your day begins in Srinagar, as you set out on an early morning drive towards Kargil. This scenic route will take you through dramatic mountain passes and some of the most breathtaking vistas in the Himalayas.

The first leg of your journey is from Srinagar to Drass, covering approximately 145 km and taking around 4-5 hours, depending on road conditions and stops. This segment involves ascending the formidable Zoji La Pass, a high mountain pass that connects the Kashmir Valley to the Ladakh region.

En route from Srinagar to Drass, you will encounter:

• Sonamarg: While not a direct stop for an extended visit on this transit day, you'll pass by the stunning meadows of Sonamarg (Meadow of Gold), offering glimpses of glaciers and pristine valleys. It's a perfect spot for a quick photo stop to admire the majestic scenery.
• Zoji La Pass: Conquer the challenging Zoji La Pass (approximately 11,575 ft or 3,528 m), an experience in itself with its winding roads and panoramic views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks.
• Drass War Memorial (Kargil War Memorial): Pay homage to the brave soldiers who laid down their lives during the Kargil War. This poignant memorial offers an insightful look into the conflict and provides stunning views of Tiger Hill and Tololing, key battlegrounds during the war. It's a deeply moving experience.

After your visit to Drass, continue your drive towards Kargil. The distance from Drass to Kargil is approximately 60 km, and this segment typically takes around 1.5-2 hours.

Upon your arrival in Kargil, check into your accommodation. The rest of the day can be spent exploring this historic town, which serves as a crucial transit point and has a rich cultural heritage.

Embark on an exhilarating single-day journey from Kargil to Leh, tracing a scenic route through the stunning landscapes of Ladakh, including the iconic Lamayuru Monastery and the captivating Sham Valley.

Prepare for an early departure from Kargil.

Kargil to Lamayuru

Your adventure begins with a drive from Kargil towards Lamayuru. This segment covers approximately 105 km and will take around 2.5 to 3 hours of driving time, offering glimpses of the stark, beautiful Himalayan terrain.

En route, visit the following attractions:

• Mulbekh Monastery (Chamba Statue) – Witness the impressive 9-meter-tall rock-cut statue of Maitreya Buddha (Chamba) dating back to the 7th-8th century, a significant cultural and religious site.

Lamayuru and Sham Valley to Leh

Upon reaching Lamayuru, immerse yourself in the mystical "Moonland" landscape before continuing your journey through the famous Sham Valley towards Leh. This segment from Lamayuru to Leh spans approximately 115 km and will involve around 2.5 to 3 hours of driving, excluding time spent on sightseeing.

En route, explore the wonders of Lamayuru and Sham Valley:

• Lamayuru Monastery (Moonland) – Explore one of the oldest and largest monasteries in Ladakh, renowned for its lunar-like landscape and ancient gompa.
• Magnetic Hill – Experience the optical illusion where vehicles appear to defy gravity and roll uphill.
• Gurudwara Pathar Sahib – Pay respects at this sacred Sikh shrine, believed to be visited by Guru Nanak Dev.
• Confluence of Indus & Zanskar Rivers – Witness the spectacular meeting point of the turquoise Indus River and the murky Zanskar River.

After a day of breathtaking drives and cultural discoveries, you will arrive in Leh in the late afternoon or early evening. Check into your hotel and take some time to relax and acclimatize to the high altitude.

Wake up to the crisp mountain air of Leh, the perfect start to your half-day local exploration.

Since your journey begins and ends in Leh, there will be no inter-city travel or en-route sightseeing between different cities. All exploration will be focused within the beautiful landscape of Leh itself.

Begin your local exploration by visiting the following attractions:

• Shanti Stupa: Perched on a hilltop, this magnificent white-domed stupa offers panoramic views of Leh town, the Indus Valley, and the surrounding mountains. It's a perfect spot for photography and quiet contemplation, especially during the morning light.
• Leh Palace: An imposing nine-story royal palace overlooking Leh town, this historic structure was once the residence of the Namgyal royal family. Explore its ancient halls, temples, and relics, and imagine life in the Leh Kingdom centuries ago.
• Shankar Monastery: A serene Buddhist monastery known for its impressive statue of Avalokiteshvara with 1000 arms and heads. It houses several captivating murals and ancient scriptures, offering a glimpse into the rich Buddhist heritage of Ladakh.

After a day filled with cultural insights, historical wonders, and breathtaking views, you will return to your accommodation in Leh, concluding your local exploration.

Your scenic adventure from Leh to Nubra Valley begins today. After checking out from your accommodation in Leh, ensure any remaining sights you wished to explore in Leh are completed before embarking on this journey.

Set out on a thrilling drive to Nubra Valley, often referred to as the 'Valley of Flowers' and known for its high-altitude desert landscapes. The route will take you through the iconic Khardung La Pass.

The first leg of your journey from Leh to Khardung La Pass is approximately 39 km and typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic, as you ascend winding mountain roads.

En route, you will experience:

• Khardung La Pass – Standing at an altitude of 17,582 feet (5,359 meters), it is one of the highest motorable passes in the world.

After a memorable stop at Khardung La, you will continue your descent towards Nubra Valley. The drive from Khardung La Pass to Diskit, the main village in Nubra Valley, is approximately 90 km and usually takes around 2.5 to 3 hours, offering a dramatic change in scenery as you enter the wide valley.

Upon your arrival in Nubra Valley, prepare to explore its unique culture and stunning landscapes.

Attractions in Nubra Valley:

• Diskit Monastery – The oldest and largest monastery in Nubra Valley, perched on a hilltop with a commanding view. It is famous for its majestic 106-foot tall Maitreya Buddha statue that overlooks the Shyok River and offers breathtaking vistas of the entire valley.
• Hunder Village & Sand Dunes – Experience the surreal cold desert landscape where the Shyok River flows. Here, you can enjoy a unique double-humped Bactrian camel ride amidst the rolling sand dunes (optional and at own expense), a truly unforgettable experience unique to this region.

Later in the day, check into your chosen accommodation in Nubra Valley. The evening is free for you to relax and enjoy the serene environment of the valley, perhaps stargazing under the clear Himalayan sky.

Embark on an exhilarating single-day journey from the captivating Nubra Valley to the mesmerizing Pangong Lake, traversing the dramatic landscapes of the Shyok Valley.

After checking out from your accommodation in Nubra Valley, set out on this scenic drive. The distance between Nubra Valley (e.g., Diskit/Hunder) and Pangong Lake via the Shyok route is approximately 160 km, and the journey typically takes around 6 to 7 hours, depending on road conditions and photo stops.

En route, immerse yourself in the natural beauty and rugged charm of the region, with opportunities to visit the following:

• Shyok River Valley: Follow the majestic Shyok River as it carves its way through the mountains, offering breathtaking panoramic views and a unique geological spectacle.
• Agham Village: A small, picturesque village that provides a glimpse into local life and offers serene photo opportunities amidst the mountains.
• Shyok Village: Another quaint settlement along the route, known for its strategic location and rustic charm.
• Durbuk and Tangtse Villages: These villages serve as important stops along the route, often providing opportunities for a quick break and to observe local Ladakhi culture.
•  

Upon arrival at the iconic Pangong Tso (Lake), prepare to be awestruck by its ever-changing hues of blue. You will have ample time to soak in the beauty of this high-altitude saline lake. Later, check into your pre-booked camp or guesthouse near Pangong Lake, typically in areas like Spangmik or Lukung.

Once at Pangong Lake, Indulge in Pangong Tso Lakeside Exploration, Even Photography, and Enjoy Relaxation and Views.

Note:

• If Normal route/Shyok Route is closed due to Snow Melting or Rain or Administrative reasons, in such a case INR 4000/- for SUV & 7000/- for Traveler would be Extra for Warila Route.
• In case of any cost arises due to Any Detour or additional sight, the same must be borne by the traveler.

After enjoying a beautiful sunrise and breakfast by Pangong Lake, complete any final moments at the lake before commencing your scenic return journey to Leh. Your drive begins from Pangong Tso, heading towards the majestic Changla Pass.

The journey from Pangong Lake to Changla Pass is approximately 90-100 km and will take around 3-4 hours, traversing through winding mountain roads and quaint Ladakhi villages.

Upon reaching Changla Pass, one of the highest motorable passes in the world at an elevation of 17,586 ft (5,360 m), take a short break. Here, you can enjoy a cup of tea at the army cafeteria and soak in the panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan ranges.

From Changla Pass, the descent to Leh is approximately 55-65 km, taking around 2-2.5 hours. This segment of the drive is particularly rich in cultural and historical sites.

En route from Changla Pass to Leh, explore these iconic monasteries and palaces:

• Chemrey Monastery: A 17th-century monastery belonging to the Drukpa order, known for its high statue of Padmasambhava and rare ancient scriptures.
• Thiksey Monastery: An impressive monastery perched on a hill, resembling the Potala Palace of Lhasa. It houses a magnificent 15-meter high statue of Maitreya Buddha.
• Shey Palace: The former summer capital of Ladakh, now housing a large copper-gilt statue of Shakyamuni Buddha and offering historical insights into the region's royal past.

After a day filled with breathtaking landscapes and profound cultural experiences, arrive in Leh. Check into your hotel and take some time to relax and acclimate to the altitude. In the late afternoon or evening, you can explore the charming town of Leh.

Upon arrival in Leh, you may visit:

• Leh Market: Stroll through the bustling local market, browse for handicrafts, souvenirs, and interact with the friendly locals. (No Vehicle for Market Pickup/Drop)

Embark on an unforgettable single-day adventure from the high-altitude desert of Leh to the serene valley of Jispa. This scenic journey traverses some of the world's most dramatic landscapes and high mountain passes, promising a day filled with awe-inspiring views.

After checking out from your hotel in Leh, Meet and greet your representative or driver to commence the drive towards Jispa. Jispa is approximately 330-350 km away from Leh, and the drive typically takes around 10-12 hours, making it a long but incredibly rewarding day of travel.

En route, you will encounter the following breathtaking attractions:

• Tanglang La Pass: One of the highest motorable passes in the world (5,328 meters / 17,480 ft), offering incredible views of the Rupshu Valley.
• More Plains: A vast, desolate plateau stretching for about 40 km, flanked by stunning mountains.
• Pang: A significant military transit camp and a popular stop for tea and refreshments.
• Sarchu: A major stopover point between Leh and Manali, often marked by vast campsites and dramatic landscapes.
• Baralacha La Pass: Another high mountain pass (4,890 meters / 16,040 ft) where multiple rivers originate, providing spectacular views of snow-capped peaks.
• Deepak Tal: A small, picturesque lake with crystal-clear waters, often reflecting the surrounding mountains.
• Suraj Tal: The "Lake of the Sun God," the source of the Bhaga River and a stunning high-altitude lake.

After navigating the challenging yet mesmerizing Leh-Manali Highway, you will arrive in Jispa. Nestled in the Lahaul Valley by the Bhaga River, Jispa is a tranquil village renowned for its serene natural beauty and as a perfect stopover point.

Check into your accommodation in Jispa for an overnight stay, reflecting on the incredible journey through the heart of the Himalayas.