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Upon your arrival at Leh Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, prepare for an unparalleled experience even before you land. The flight into Leh is renowned for its breathtaking panoramic views of the majestic Himalayas, offering a spectacular introduction to the rugged beauty of Ladakh. After clearing immigration and baggage collection, meet your representative who will facilitate your transfer to your pre-booked hotel in Leh.

Once you've checked into your hotel, the most crucial activity for your first day in Leh is acclimatization. Leh is situated at a high altitude (around 11,500 feet or 3,500 meters), and it is vital to rest and allow your body to adjust to the reduced oxygen levels. We highly recommend spending the majority of your day relaxing at the hotel, avoiding strenuous activities, and staying well-hydrated.

Afternoon & Evening Leisure in Leh:

In the late afternoon or early evening, once you feel adequately rested, you may opt for a very gentle stroll to explore the immediate surroundings of your hotel.

• Leh Market Exploration - Walk Only No Vehicle provided
• Shanti Stupa Viewpoint - Walk Only No Vehicle provided
• Local Cafe Experience - Walk Only No Vehicle provided

Enjoy a relaxed dinner at your hotel or a nearby restaurant and prepare for a restful night's sleep, ensuring you are refreshed for the adventures ahead in Ladakh.

Note:

• Vehicle is provided strictly based on the itinerary, and charges has been calculated accordingly. In case of detour or additional pickup/drop due to known and unknown reasons, additional cost must be incurred by the traveller.
• In the peak time, pickup/drops can be provided different vehicles (Including Ecco Vans) than mentioned in the package.

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 unforgettable day trip to Turtuk, a hidden gem nestled in the remote corners of the Ladakh region, bordering Pakistan. This journey promises not only breathtaking landscapes but also a deep dive into the unique Balti culture.

From Nubra Valley (e.g., Hunder/Diskit), set out on a picturesque drive to Turtuk. The journey covers approximately 80-90 km and typically takes around 3 to 4 hours, navigating through winding mountain roads and spectacular vistas.

Upon arrival in Turtuk, you'll be captivated by its unique charm. This village, opened to tourists only in 2010, is known for its apricot orchards and distinctive Balti culture.

Once in Turtuk, explore the following fascinating sights:

• Balti Heritage Home & Museum: Discover traditional Balti artifacts, clothing, and household items, offering insight into the local history and culture.
• Old Monastery & Mosque: Visit the village's ancient religious sites, showcasing a blend of Buddhist and Islamic architectural styles, reflecting the village's diverse heritage.
• Turtuk Water Mill: Observe the traditional method of grinding grains using ancient water-powered mills, a testament to the village's self-sufficient lifestyle.
• Apricot Orchards: Stroll through lush apricot orchards, especially beautiful during harvest season, and taste fresh, locally grown produce.
• Walking Through the Village: Wander through the narrow lanes, admire the traditional stone and wooden houses, and interact with the friendly local villagers.

After a delicious local lunch (perhaps featuring Balti cuisine) and immersing yourself in Turtuk's serene ambiance, begin your return journey to Nubra Valley. The drive back will again cover approximately 80-90 km and take around 3 to 4 hours, allowing you to reflect on the day's incredible experiences and enjoy the sunset hues painting the mountains. By evening, you will arrive back in Nubra Valley, concluding your enriching day trip to the remote beauty and rich history of Turtuk.

Embark on an unforgettable single-day journey from the captivating Nubra Valley to the iconic Pangong Tso (Lake), traversing unique landscapes via Panamik and the scenic Shyok River road. This route promises an adventure through high-altitude deserts, rugged mountains, and the serene Shyok River valley, culminating at the breathtaking turquoise waters of Pangong Lake.

Your day begins in Nubra Valley, departing from your accommodation to head towards Panamik. The drive from Nubra Valley (e.g., Hunder/Diskit area) to Panamik is approximately 50-60 km and takes about 1.5-2 hours, offering glimpses of the region's stark beauty.

En route to Panamik, you can visit:

• Panamik Hot Springs – A natural sulfur hot spring believed to have medicinal properties, providing a unique experience in the cold desert.

From Panamik, continue your journey towards Pangong Lake. This leg of the journey, often referred to as the Agham-Shyok road, is a more rugged and adventurous route. The distance from Panamik to Pangong Lake (reaching settlements like Lukung/Spangmik) is approximately 150-180 km, and due to varying road conditions, this stretch can take around 5-6 hours to cover.

En route from Panamik to Pangong Lake via the Shyok River road, enjoy the following sights:

• Shyok River Valley – Witness the dramatic landscapes as the road follows the course of the Shyok River, offering spectacular views of towering mountains and the winding river below.
• Agham Bridge – A significant point along the Shyok route, providing a good photo opportunity with the river and mountains.
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Upon your arrival at Pangong Lake, prepare to be mesmerized by its unparalleled beauty. The famous high-altitude lake stretches across the Indo-China border, known for its stunning shades of blue that change with the sun's position. Once at Pangong Lake, explore and enjoy Pangong Tso Viewpoint, Photography, Scenic Strolls and Bird Watching.

• 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.

Embark on an unforgettable journey from the mystical shores of Pangong Lake to the tranquil, starlit village of Hanle.

After checking out from your accommodation near Pangong Lake, prepare for a day of exploration. The drive to Hanle is approximately 160 km and will take around 7 hours, navigating challenging yet rewarding terrains through high mountain passes and vast plains.

En Route Sightseeing:

• Chushul Village: A historically significant village situated close to the Line of Actual Control (LAC), offering a glimpse into border life.
• Rezang La War Memorial: A poignant and powerful memorial commemorating the brave Indian soldiers of the 1962 Sino-Indian War, a site of immense national pride and reflection.
• Loma Checkpoint: An important military checkpoint marking your entry into the Changthang region, surrounded by stunning barren landscapes.

Upon arrival in Hanle, settle into your guesthouse. Hanle is renowned for its clear skies and contributions to astronomical research, making it a truly unique destination.

Sightseeing in Hanle:

• Indian Astronomical Observatory (Hanle Observatory): Perched at an altitude of over 4,500 meters, it's one of the world's highest observatories, offering unparalleled views of the cosmos (external viewing due to permit requirements).
• Hanle Monastery (Hanle Gompa): A 17th-century monastery belonging to the Drukpa Kagyu branch of Tibetan Buddhism, offering panoramic views of the Hanle valley and a deep sense of peace.

The rest of the evening is free to explore the quiet village, interact with locals, or simply gaze at the incredible star-filled sky, a highlight of any visit to Hanle.

Embark on an exhilarating day trip from Hanle to Umling La, the highest motorable road in the world, renowned for its breathtaking views and rugged landscapes. Prepare for an adventure that will showcase the stunning natural beauty of the Ladakh region.

Distance: The journey to Umling La from Hanle is approximately 45 km, taking around 1.5 hours to reach the breathtaking summit.

En route, enjoy the following highlights:

• Hanle Monastery – a serene Buddhist monastery offering stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere.
• Ancient Hanle Observatory – one of the highest astronomical observatories in India, providing insights into the night sky.

After a scenic drive, you will arrive at Umling La, where the views are nothing short of spectacular. Take time to enjoy the surroundings, snap photos, and revel in the achievement of reaching one of the highest points accessible by vehicle.

Begin your day early in Hanle, a serene village known for its astronomical observatory and ancient monastery. We recommend completing any final exploration of Hanle's unique sights, such as the Indian Astronomical Observatory and the Hanle Monastery, before commencing your onward journey.

Your scenic drive from Hanle to Tso Moriri promises breathtaking landscapes across the Changthang plateau. The journey covers approximately 150-160 kilometers and is expected to take around 5-6 hours, depending on road conditions and stops for photography.

Upon arrival at Tso Moriri, check into your chosen accommodation and take some time to acclimatize to the high altitude. The afternoon is dedicated to exploring the magnificent lake and its surroundings.

Sightseeing spots in Tso Moriri:

• Tso Moriri Lake: Immerse yourself in the pristine beauty of this sacred high-altitude lake. Its mesmerizing turquoise waters, surrounded by towering mountains, offer unparalleled tranquility and excellent opportunities for birdwatching (migratory birds like bar-headed geese and Brahmini ducks are often spotted).
• Korzok Monastery: Perched on the western bank of Tso Moriri, this ancient Buddhist monastery offers stunning panoramic views of the lake and the vast plains. It provides a fascinating insight into the rich cultural and spiritual life of the Changpa nomadic community.

Spend your evening enjoying the serene environment of Tso Moriri, perhaps watching a spectacular sunset over the lake, before concluding your day.

Embark on a captivating journey from the serene high-altitude lake of Tso Moriri to the vibrant capital of Ladakh, Leh, with a fascinating stop at the geothermal wonders of Puga Valley. This single day promises a diverse landscape of wetlands, hot springs, and ancient monasteries.

After enjoying your final views of the mesmerizing Tso Moriri Lake and perhaps the quaint Korzok village, prepare for your departure. Any remaining exploration of the Tso Moriri area should be completed before setting off on your journey.

Your first leg of the journey takes you from Tso Moriri to the unique Puga Valley. This stretch covers approximately 55 km and will take around 1.5 to 2 hours to drive.

En route to Puga Valley, consider a stop at:

• Korzok Monastery: If not visited previously, take a moment to explore this historic monastery, home to a community of Rinchen-Zangpo lineage monks, offering stunning views of Tso Moriri.

Upon reaching Puga Valley, delve into its distinctive geological features:

• Puga Hot Springs: Witness the natural steam vents and bubbling hot springs, a testament to the region's active geothermal energy. It's a surreal landscape, often dotted with nomadic settlements.
• Puga Salt Lake: Depending on the season, you might observe the crystallized salt deposits around a small lake in the valley, a vital resource for local communities.

After experiencing the unique sights of Puga Valley, continue your drive towards Leh. This longer stretch from Puga Valley to Leh is approximately 190 km and typically takes around 4.5 to 5 hours, depending on road conditions and stops, passing through the scenic Indus River valley.

En route from Puga Valley to Leh, you will encounter several significant sights:

• Chumathang Hot Springs: Pause at this village known for its therapeutic hot springs, where you can often see locals enjoying a dip or simply witnessing the steam rising from the Indus River banks.
• Mahe Bridge: A strategically important bridge over the Indus, offering panoramic views of the river and surrounding mountains. It's often a checkpoint on this route.
• Thiksey Monastery: Just before reaching Leh, you'll pass this magnificent monastery, often called 'Mini Potala' for its resemblance to the Potala Palace in Lhasa. Its impressive architecture and murals are a sight to behold from the road.
• Shey Palace: The former summer palace of the Ladakh Kings, perched on a hill, offers historical insights and great photo opportunities as you approach Leh.

Upon your arrival in Leh in the late afternoon, check into your accommodation. After a day of travel and sightseeing, you may wish to unwind.

This concludes your single-day journey, filled with high-altitude wonders, geothermal marvels, and cultural insights, bringing you to the heart of Ladakh.

Embark on an unforgettable single-day journey from the captivating landscapes of Leh to the historic town of Kargil, traversing some of the most dramatic and culturally rich terrains of Ladakh.

Your scenic drive commences from Leh towards Lamayuru. The distance from Leh to Lamayuru is approximately 125 kilometers, and it will take around 3 hours to reach, navigating through winding roads and breathtaking vistas.

En route, you will encounter several fascinating sights:

• Magnetic Hill: Experience the optical illusion where vehicles appear to defy gravity and move uphill on their own.
• Gurudwara Pathar Sahib: A serene Sikh shrine believed to be visited by Guru Nanak Dev.
• Indus-Zanskar Confluence (Sangam): Witness the spectacular meeting point of the turquoise Indus River and the muddy Zanskar River, a stunning natural phenomenon.

Upon arrival in Lamayuru, immerse yourself in its unique charm. Lamayuru is famous for its lunar-like landscape, often referred to as "Moonland," due to its distinctive geological formations. Here, you will visit:

• Lamayuru Monastery: One of the oldest and largest monasteries in Ladakh, known for its ancient architecture, murals, and the annual Yuru Kabgyat festival. Spend some time exploring its sacred halls and enjoying the panoramic views of the surrounding "Moonland."

After your visit to Lamayuru, continue your journey towards Kargil. The stretch from Lamayuru to Kargil is approximately 110 kilometers and will take around 2.5 to 3 hours, offering more spectacular mountain scenery.

En route to Kargil, you will pass through and can stop at:

• Fotu La Pass: The highest point on the Leh-Srinagar highway, offering expansive views of the Himalayan range.
• Mulbekh Monastery & Chamba Statue: A significant site featuring a colossal 9-meter tall rock-cut statue of Maitreya Buddha (Chamba), dating back to the 7th or 8th century, carved into a huge rock face.
• Namika La Pass: Another high-altitude pass offering picturesque views.
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Finally, arrive in Kargil, a town of historical significance nestled on the banks of the Suru River. After checking into your hotel, The rest of the evening is free for leisure, allowing you to relax after a long day of scenic driving and cultural exploration.

Embark on an epic single-day journey from Kargil to Padum, traversing the breathtaking landscapes of the Suru Valley and the majestic Zanskar region. This route is approximately 240 km and due to challenging mountain roads, high altitude passes, and numerous stops for photography and sightseeing, the drive typically takes around 10 to 12 hours.

Begin your day with an early departure from Kargil, heading south into the heart of the Himalayas.

En route, you will encounter the following spectacular sights:

• Suru Valley: Drive through this verdant valley, famous for its lush green meadows, panoramic views of snow-capped peaks (including Nun Kun), and charming villages like Panikhar and Sankoo.
• Rangdum Monastery: Perched atop a hill in the middle of a vast, barren plain, this ancient Buddhist monastery offers a captivating spiritual experience and stunning photographic opportunities. It serves as a vital cultural landmark before ascending higher into Zanskar.
• Pensi La Pass: Cross this high mountain pass (around 4,400 meters or 14,436 feet), which acts as the gateway to Zanskar Valley. The pass offers mesmerizing views of the surrounding glaciers and the twin lakes – Sta Tso and Lang Tso.
• Drang-Drung Glacier: Witness the awe-inspiring Drang-Drung Glacier, a massive ice sheet visible from near Pensi La, one of the largest glaciers in the Himalayas accessible by road.

After a long but incredibly scenic drive, you will arrive in Padum, the administrative center of Zanskar, in the late afternoon or early evening. Check into your guesthouse or hotel in Padum. The rest of the evening is at leisure to relax and acclimatize to the high altitude of Padum, reflecting on the day's incredible journey through the remote and magnificent landscapes of Ladakh and Zanskar.

Embark on a captivating cultural journey through the heart of Zanskar, starting and ending your day in the serene town of Padum. Today is dedicated to exploring the ancient monasteries and historical sites that dot the landscape surrounding Padum, offering a profound glimpse into the region's rich heritage and spiritual traditions.

• Sani Monastery: One of the oldest monasteries in the Zanskar region, reportedly dating back to the 8th century. It stands out with its unique arrangement, housing a revered Kanika Stupa said to have been built by the famous Kushan emperor Kanishka. The monastery is known for its annual Naro-Nasjal festival.
• Karsha Monastery: The largest and most significant monastery in Zanskar, situated majestically on a hillside overlooking the Lungnak River. Belonging to the Gelugpa order, it houses a large community of monks and boasts impressive murals and statues, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the valley.
• Stongdey Monastery: Perched atop a hill about 18 km north of Padum, this monastery provides spectacular views of the Zanskar valley. It is the second largest monastery in the region, known for its vibrant murals and the annual Gustor festival.
• Zangla Palace: Explore the ruins of the historic Zangla Palace, once the royal residence of the Zanskar kings. Although largely in ruins, its strategic location on a hilltop offers fascinating insights into the region's past and commanding views of the surrounding landscape.

After a day filled with historical discoveries and spiritual encounters, you will return to Padum in the evening, reflecting on the timeless beauty and profound culture of Zanskar.

Embark on a breathtaking journey from Padum, the heart of Zanskar, to Kargil, a historic town nestled in the Suru Valley. This route takes you through some of the most remote and stunning landscapes of the Indian Himalayas, offering unparalleled views of rugged mountains, ancient monasteries, and glacial formations. The journey from Padum to Kargil is approximately 240-250 km and typically takes around 10 to 12 hours, depending on road conditions and the number of stops you make along the way.

En route, you will encounter the following significant attractions:

• Penzila Pass (Penzi La): This high-altitude pass (approximately 14,436 ft / 4,400 m) marks the gateway to Zanskar. It offers spectacular panoramic views of the Zanskar range and serves as an excellent photo opportunity.
• Drang-Drung Glacier: One of the largest glaciers in the Ladakh region, it is visible from the Penzila Pass. Its vast expanse of ice and snow makes for a majestic sight.
• Rangdum Monastery: Perched atop a small hill in the midst of a vast, barren plain, this 18th-century Buddhist monastery offers a dramatic and serene setting. It's a perfect spot to pause, soak in the spiritual ambiance, and enjoy a cup of tea.
• Suru Valley: As you descend from Rangdum, you enter the lush Suru Valley, characterized by its green fields, scattered villages, and the meandering Suru River. The scenery becomes softer and greener compared to the ruggedness of Zanskar.
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Upon your arrival in Kargil, you will check into your pre-booked accommodation. Given the long and adventurous day of travel, the evening is best spent relaxing and soaking in the atmosphere of this historical town.

Embark on a breathtaking single-day journey from Kargil to Leh, exploring ancient monasteries and dramatic landscapes along the legendary Srinagar-Leh Highway.

Start your day with an early departure from Kargil. Your first leg of the journey takes you towards the ancient monastery of Lamayuru, passing through some of Ladakh's most stunning vistas.

The drive from Kargil to Lamayuru is approximately 100-110 km and takes around 2.5 to 3 hours.

En route, you will pass by:

• Fotu La Pass – The highest point on the Srinagar-Leh highway (4,108 meters), offering panoramic views.
• Namika La Pass – Another high mountain pass (3,700 meters) providing spectacular scenery.
• Moonland Landscape – Unique geological formations near Lamayuru resembling the surface of the moon.

Upon arrival, explore the ancient Lamayuru Monastery (Yungdrung Gompa), one of the oldest and largest monasteries in Ladakh, known for its surreal landscape and rich history.

Continue your drive from Lamayuru to Alchi, taking a slight detour from the main highway. This segment covers approximately 60-70 km and will take about 1.5 to 2 hours, including the detour.

En route, discover:

• Confluence of Indus and Zanskar Rivers (Sangam) – Witness the mesmerizing meeting point of two mighty rivers, a spectacular natural phenomenon.

Arrive at Alchi Choskor Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Unlike other monasteries perched on hilltops, Alchi is built on flat ground and is famous for its well-preserved 11th-century Indo-Tibetan murals and woodwork.

From Alchi, make your way to Likir. This short drive is about 20 km and takes roughly 30-45 minutes.

Visit Likir Monastery (Klu-kkhyil Gompa), known for its massive golden statue of Maitreya Buddha (Future Buddha) and its historical significance as one of the oldest monasteries in Ladakh, founded in the 11th century.

The final stretch of your journey takes you from Likir to Leh. This segment is approximately 50-60 km and will take around 1 to 1.5 hours.

As you approach Leh, you may encounter:

• Magnetic Hill – An optical illusion where vehicles appear to defy gravity and move uphill on their own.
• Gurudwara Pathar Sahib – A revered Sikh pilgrimage site nestled in the mountains.
• Indus View Point – Offering expansive views of the Indus River winding through the valley.

Upon your arrival in Leh, check into your accommodation. The rest of the evening is free for leisure, allowing you to relax and acclimatize to the high altitude of Leh.

As your memorable Himalayan journey draws to a close, spend your last morning in Leh soaking in its unique atmosphere and collecting final memories before your departure.

After a leisurely breakfast, you might opt for a final exploration of Leh's iconic landmarks (At an additional cost if vehicle required.) if time permits.

Depending on your flight schedule, you will then be transferred to Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (IXL) for your onward journey, carrying with you cherished memories of Ladakh's pristine beauty and unique culture.

Note:

• In the peak time, pickup/drops can be provided different vehicles (Including Ecco Vans) than mentioned in the package.
• Vehicle shall stick to the itinerary strictly. If there is additional cost arises due to additional sights or detour due to natural, administrative and human reasons, it must be strictly borne by the client.
• If sights are repeated in the itinerary, those will be covered only once during the trip. In addition, No alternative sightseeing would be provided on behalf of such sights.