Pickup Leh Local - Sham Valley(E) - Nubra Via Khardungla Turtuk - Pangong Via Shyok River - Leh Via 3 Idiot's School - Flyback frm Leh
Pick up Leh Airport - Hotel Check-in & Evening Visit to Local Attractions
Upon your arrival at Leh Airport (Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport), you will be greeted by our representative. From the airport, you'll be transferred to your pre-booked hotel in Leh. Given Leh's high altitude, it is essential to prioritize rest and allow your body to acclimatize to the environment. We recommend spending the initial hours relaxing at your hotel to prevent any altitude sickness.
After a period of rest and refreshment, in the late afternoon and evening, you will embark on a local exploration of Leh's prominent attractions, offering a glimpse into the rich history and vibrant culture of the region.
After arrival, explore the following attractions in Leh:
- Leh Palace: Perched majestically on a hilltop overlooking the town, this former royal palace provides panoramic views of Leh and the surrounding Stok Kangri mountains. Though partially in ruins, its architecture reflects the grand style of Tibetan palaces.
- Shanti Stupa: A magnificent white-domed stupa built by a Japanese Buddhist sect, offering breathtaking sunset views over Leh town, the Indus valley, and the surrounding mountain ranges. It's a perfect spot for photography and peaceful reflection.
- Leh Market: Immerse yourself in the local life by strolling through the bustling Leh Market. Here, you can find traditional Ladakhi handicrafts, woolens, prayer flags, and sample local street food, experiencing the vibrant local culture.
After a delightful evening exploring Leh, you will return to your hotel for dinner and an overnight stay, preparing for further adventures.
Excursion to Sham Valley from Leh - Explore Hall of Fame, Spituk Monastery, and Scenic Highlights
Embark on an enriching full-day excursion to Sham Valley, renowned for its captivating landscapes and significant cultural sites. Your journey begins from Leh, heading westward along the scenic Srinagar-Leh Highway. Sham Valley is approximately 35 km away from Leh, and the entire round trip covering all major attractions will take around 4-5 hours, including travel and sightseeing time.
En route to the heart of Sham Valley, you will visit the following attractions:
- Hall of Fame: A museum commemorating the brave soldiers of the Indian Army, showcasing their history, achievements, and the rich culture of Ladakh.
- Spituk Monastery: Perched majestically on a hilltop overlooking the Indus River, this ancient monastery houses a colossal statue of Kali (Vajrabhairava) and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.
Continuing your drive further into the valley, prepare to be amazed by more of Ladakh's unique natural phenomena and spiritual sites.
Once deeper into the Sham Valley area, explore these fascinating sights:
- Magnetic Hill: Experience the intriguing optical illusion where vehicles appear to defy gravity and move uphill on their own, even with the engine off.
- Gurudwara Pathar Sahib: A revered Sikh pilgrimage site, believed to be visited by Guru Nanak Dev Ji. It is a peaceful place of worship, maintained by the Indian Army.
- Sangam (Confluence of Indus & Zanskar Rivers): Witness the spectacular meeting point of the turquoise waters of the Indus River and the muddy currents of the Zanskar River.
After soaking in the beauty and wonder of Sham Valley, begin your return journey to Leh in the late afternoon, concluding a memorable day of exploration.
Note: Visit for Light and Sound Show @ Hall of Fame is not included. If you are interested, please consult with the driver for the additional charges.
Journey from Leh to Nubra Valley via Khardung La - Scenic Drive and Turtuk Exploration
Begin your exciting single-day journey from Leh to Nubra Valley, with an adventurous detour to Turtuk, a village close to the Line of Control.
Set out on a scenic drive towards Nubra Valley. The first leg of your journey takes you from Leh to Khardung La, which is approximately 39 km and typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic.
En route, visit the following attraction:
- Khardung La Pass – One of the world's highest motorable passes, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas. Take a short stop here for photos and to experience the high-altitude environment, but keep the stop brief due to thin air.
From Khardung La, continue your descent into Nubra Valley. The distance from Khardung La to Diskit (the main town in Nubra Valley) is approximately 88 km, and this stretch usually takes around 3 to 3.5 hours, navigating winding mountain roads.
Upon arrival in Nubra Valley, proceed directly towards Turtuk. The drive from Diskit/Hunder to Turtuk is roughly 80 km and can take about 2.5 to 3 hours, leading you through stunning landscapes and alongside the Shyok River.
Upon arrival in Turtuk, explore the following:
- Turtuk Village – Discover this charming village, one of the northernmost villages in India, known for its unique culture, language (Balti), and lush apricot orchards.
- Turtuk Monastery – Visit the small monastery offering insights into the local Buddhist traditions.
- Local Houses and Fields – Stroll through the village to observe the traditional wooden houses and the villagers' way of life.
After exploring Turtuk, begin your drive back towards Diskit/Hunder for your overnight stay. This return journey from Turtuk to Diskit/Hunder will again take approximately 2.5 to 3 hours.
Later in the evening, after reaching Diskit/Hunder, explore the following (time permitting):
- Diskit Monastery – Visit the largest and oldest Buddhist monastery in Nubra Valley, perched atop a hill, offering magnificent views of the valley and a 106-foot tall Buddha statue.
- Hunder Sand Dunes – Experience the "Desert in the Sky" with its unique white sand dunes. If time allows before sunset, you might opt for a memorable double-humped camel ride (Bactrian camel).
Finally, check into your chosen accommodation in Diskit or Hunder for the night, concluding a long but incredibly rewarding day of exploration.
Scenic Drive from Nubra Valley to Pangong Lake - Adventure through Shyok Valley
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.
Return from Pangong to Leh - Scenic Drive via Changla Pass with Monument Visits
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)
Departure from Leh - Conclude Your Himalayan Journey with Lasting Memories
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.
Recommended Activities & Sights
Ready to Experience This Itinerary?
Let us customize this itinerary for your perfect trip
Browse Tour Packages