Pick Srinagar Sonamarg - Kargil - Leh - Nubra - Turtuk (E) - Leh - Fly

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.

Your scenic adventure begins with an early morning checkout from your hotel in Leh. Please ensure all your belongings are packed. Set out on a picturesque drive from Leh to Nubra Valley, a remarkable landscape nestled between the Himalayas. This journey, approximately 120-130 km, will take around 4-5 hours, offering breathtaking vistas as you ascend towards the famed Khardung La.

The drive to Nubra Valley is a spectacle in itself, divided into two distinct parts by the iconic Khardung La pass:

• Leh to Khardung La: Approximately 39 km, an ascent of about 1.5 - 2 hours. This part of the journey takes you through winding mountain roads with stunning views of the Indus Valley.
• Khardung La to Nubra Valley: Approximately 80-90 km, a descent of about 2.5 - 3 hours. After crossing the pass, the landscape transforms into dramatic valleys and eventually, the fertile plains of Nubra.

After a thrilling drive, you will reach the verdant Nubra Valley. Here, immerse yourself in the unique culture and natural beauty of the region.

• Diskit Monastery: Explore the largest and oldest Buddhist monastery in Nubra Valley, dating back to the 14th century. Perched atop a hill, it offers magnificent views of the valley and houses a 32-meter-tall statue of Maitreya Buddha.
• Hunder Sand Dunes: Experience the unique cold desert landscape of Hunder, where you can witness the majestic sand dunes set against the backdrop of rugged mountains.
• Double-Humped Bactrian Camel Ride: Enjoy an unforgettable ride on the rare double-humped Bactrian camels, unique to this region, through the Hunder sand dunes (optional and at own expense).

Later in the day, check into your hotel or guesthouse in Nubra Valley, settling in for a peaceful evening amidst the tranquil surroundings.

One of the most fascinating journeys in Ladakh this is a less popular destination which opened recently for tourists. If you have a thirst for a strikingly beautiful journey, this is the destination to cover. "The next morning, they woke up in India." We are in Turtuk, listening to a villager recount the history of this remote northwest corner of Ladakh, which until that night was part of Baltistan in POK. A full day excursion and later evening return to Nubra Valley.

Embark on your return journey from the enchanting Nubra Valley back to the vibrant city of Leh. Begin your day with a final exploration of Nubra's unique landscapes before heading towards the majestic mountains.

Morning in Nubra Valley (Only if it was not covered previously):

• Diskit Monastery: Visit the largest and oldest monastery in Nubra Valley, offering panoramic views of the valley and the Shyok River. Marvel at the 32-meter-tall statue of Maitreya Buddha.
• Hunder Sand Dunes: Experience the unique cold desert landscape. Depending on time, you may opt for a double-humped camel ride (Bactrian camel) amidst the dunes, a signature experience of Nubra Valley.

After soaking in the final sights of Nubra Valley, begin your scenic drive towards Leh. Nubra Valley is approximately 120-130 km away from Leh, and the journey would take around 5-6 hours, factoring in high-altitude terrain, numerous stops for photos, and road conditions through Khardung La Pass.

En route, visit the following attractions:

• North Pullu: A small checkpost where Inner Line Permits are verified. Enjoy a short tea break amidst the rugged landscape.
• Khardung La Pass: Ascend to one of the world's highest motorable passes, standing at an elevation of 17,582 feet (5,359 meters). Take a moment to capture the breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas and the Karakoram Range.
• South Pullu: Another checkpost located on the Leh side of Khardung La, offering stunning views as you descend.

Upon arrival in Leh, settle in and then prepare for an enriching afternoon exploring the city's prominent landmarks. The rest of the evening is free to relax and acclimatize further 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.