Pickup Srinagar Kargil Via Drass - Leh Via Lamayuru Sham Valley - Nubra Via Khardung La Diskit(E) - Pangong Via Shyok Valley - Leh Via Changla Pass - Tso Moriri Via Rupshu Valley Mahe Bridge - Leh Via Mahe - Flyback frm Leh

Upon arrival at Srinagar Airport, meet our driver-cum-representative and begin your scenic journey towards Kargil via Drass, one of the coldest inhabited places in the world. The distance between Srinagar and Kargil is approximately 200 km, and it would take around 7 to 8 hours to reach by road, depending on traffic, road, and weather conditions.

 

Enroute Sightseeing:

• Sonmarg – Meadow of gold, surrounded by glaciers and alpine scenery.
• Zoji La Pass – High-altitude mountain pass offering dramatic Himalayan views.
• Drass War Memorial (Vijaypath) – Memorial dedicated to soldiers of the Kargil War, located at the foothills of Tololing Peak.
• Drass Village – One of the coldest inhabited villages, offering views of rugged landscapes and local life.

 

After completing enroute sightseeing, continue your drive to Kargil. On arrival, check in to your hotel and relax for the night.

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.

After an early breakfast we check out from the Camp or Hotel, and drive towards Pangong Tso via Agham and Shyok Valley. Some of the road patches are extremely tough (towards Nubra) but no doubt the landscapes are extremely scenic! After crossing this adventurous part we drive further towards Durbuk & Tangtse for Pangong. We pass through few small villages and finally we will have a sudden view of the Pangong Lake situated at 14,000 feet. This famous blue brackish Lake is 5-6 Kms wide and over 133 Kms long with half of it’s running the other side of the "Indo China Border". One rarely feels so close to nature and environment and the scenery is unforgettable. In June/July/Aug due to Snow Melting, Shyok Route is closed so in such a case INR 4000/- for SUV & 7000/- for Traveler would be Extra for Warila Route.

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 epic single-day road trip from Leh to the breathtaking Tso Moriri Lake and back, traversing the magnificent Rupshu Valley. This journey promises stunning landscapes, glimpses of nomadic life, and serene high-altitude beauty, making for an unforgettable experience in the heart of Ladakh.

 

Your scenic drive from Leh to Tso Moriri is approximately 220-240 km and will take around 6-7 hours one way, depending on road conditions and stops. The entire round trip will be a full-day excursion, lasting approximately 12-14 hours including sightseeing at Tso Moriri. An early start is crucial to complete this journey comfortably within the day.

 

Outbound Journey: Leh to Tso Moriri (Via Upshi & Chumathang)

Depart from Leh early in the morning, heading south along the Indus River. The road is scenic, offering panoramic views of the Ladakhi landscape as you ascend towards higher altitudes.

• Upshi: A picturesque village situated at the confluence of the Indus and Gya rivers.
• Chumathang Hot Springs: Discover natural sulfur hot springs, believed to possess medicinal properties.
• Mahe Bridge: An important checkpoint and the gateway to the Changthang region, leading specifically towards Tso Moriri.
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Arrival and Sightseeing at Tso Moriri Lake

Upon reaching Tso Moriri, you will be greeted by the mesmerizing sight of the deep blue lake, nestled amidst barren mountains and high-altitude plains. Spend ample time soaking in the tranquil beauty and exploring its surroundings.

• Tso Moriri Lake: Marvel at the stunning turquoise waters of this high-altitude wetland, a Ramsar site
• Korzok Village & Monastery: Explore Korzok, one of the highest permanent settlements in the world, located on the western bank of Tso Moriri. Visit the ancient Korzok Monastery.

 

Return Journey: Tso Moriri to Leh

After a memorable and enriching experience at Tso Moriri, begin your return journey to Leh, retracing your path through the captivating Rupshu Valley. Enjoy the changing light and perspectives of the landscape as you drive back, reflecting on the day's incredible sights. You will arrive back in Leh by late evening, concluding your full-day scenic adventure.

Begin your exciting return journey from the serene high-altitude lake, Tso Moriri, towards the vibrant capital of Ladakh, Leh. Today's scenic drive will take you through diverse landscapes, offering glimpses into the unique culture and geography of the region.

The first leg of your journey covers the distance from Tso Moriri to Mahe, approximately 55 km, which typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. From Mahe, you will continue your drive towards Leh, covering an additional distance of about 165 km, which takes approximately 4 to 5 hours, depending on road conditions and stops.

 

En route, visit the following attractions:

• Chumathang Hot Springs: A popular spot where you can observe hot springs bubbling out of the ground, offering a unique geological spectacle and a chance to relax by the warm waters.
• Indus River Confluence Points: Enjoy breathtaking views as the majestic Indus River carves its way through the mountains.
• Shey Monastery: A short drive before reaching Leh, visit the historic Shey Monastery, once the summer capital of Ladakh, housing a magnificent copper-gold statue of Buddha.
• Thiksey Monastery: Explore the impressive Thiksey Monastery, often referred to as 'Mini Potala' due to its resemblance to Lhasa's Potala Palace, offering panoramic views of the Indus Valley.
• Druk White Lotus School (Rancho's School): Famously known as "Rancho's School" from the Bollywood movie "3 Idiots," this award-winning eco-friendly school showcases innovative architecture designed to withstand the harsh Himalayan climate while providing quality education. It's a wonderful stop to appreciate its unique design and serene surroundings.

 

Upon arrival in Leh, check into your hotel and take some time to relax and acclimatize to the altitude. In the late afternoon, you may choose to explore the local Leh Market (No Vehicle provided) for souvenirs or enjoy a leisurely walk. As evening approaches, consider a visit to the iconic Shanti Stupa (At an additional cost) for a mesmerizing sunset view over Leh city and the surrounding mountains, a perfect way to conclude your adventurous day.

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.