9D / 8N

Pickup Jammu Pahalgam - Srinagar - Kargil - Leh Via Lamayuru Sham Valley - Nubra Via Khardung La Diskit Monastery(E) - Pangong Via Shyok River - Tso Moriri Via Chanthang Plateau - Jispa - Flyback frm Manali

Ladakh
Curated Itinerary
1
Jammu → Pahalgam

Jammu, & Travel to Pahalgam

Our representative shall meet you and we will Proceed to Pahalgam. Patnitop is a hill top tourist location in Udhampur district on the National Highway 1A. After spending some time at the peak, depart for Pahalgam. Drive through the green pine forest and along the Lidder River. On arrival at Pahalgam, check into your Hotel. On the way to Pahalgam, take a break at Anantnag to visit ancient Vishnu temple. Overnight stay at Pahalgam.

Recommended Activities & Sights

Jammu - Pahalgam
Vehicle • Jammu • Starts at 9:00 AM • 10.0 hours
2
Pahalgam → Srinagar

Pahalgam Sightseeing and Return to Srinagar

After breakfast at your hotel in Pahalgam, complete any remaining local sightseeing before heading back to Srinagar. The distance between Pahalgam and Srinagar is approximately 90 km, taking around 3 hours by road through scenic valleys, saffron fields, and lush pine forests.

Recommended Activities & Sights

Srinagar to Pahalgam
Vehicle • Srinagar • Starts at 9:00 AM • 12.0 hours
3
Srinagar → Kargil

Srinagar to Kargil Via Drass 6-8 hrs

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.

4
Kargil → Leh

Kargil to Leh - Scenic Route via Lamayuru and Sham Valley

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.

5
Leh → Nubra Valley

Journey from Leh to Nubra Valley - Scenic Drive via Khardung La with Diskit Monastery Visit

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.

6
Nubra Valley → Pangong

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.
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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.
7
Pangong → Tso Moriri

Pangong to Tso Moriri - Breathtaking Journey through the Chanthang Plateau

Embark on an unforgettable single-day journey from the captivating shores of Pangong Lake to the serene expanse of Tso Moriri. This scenic drive through the high-altitude Chanthang Plateau promises stunning landscapes and unique cultural insights.

 

The journey from Pangong Lake to Tso Moriri, typically via the Chushul - Tsaga La - Mahe route, spans approximately 170-180 kilometers. Due to the challenging high-altitude terrain and road conditions, the drive is expected to take around 6 to 8 hours, including stops for sightseeing and permit checks.

 

En route, you will encounter the following significant sights and experiences:

  • Chushul Village: A historically significant village close to the Indo-China border, known for its strategic importance during past conflicts. It offers a glimpse into the local way of life in this remote region.
  • Rezang La War Memorial: A poignant memorial dedicated to the brave Indian soldiers who fought in the 1962 Sino-Indian War.
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Upon arrival at Tso Moriri, you'll be greeted by the mesmerizing turquoise waters of this high-altitude Ramsar site. The remainder of your day will be spent exploring the lake and its surroundings, immersing yourself in the tranquility of this pristine location.

Once you reach Tso Moriri, explore these key attractions:

  • Tso Moriri Lake Exploration: Spend time by the lakeside, marveling at the vibrant blue hues of the water. 
  • Korzok Village: The only permanent settlement on the banks of Tso Moriri, inhabited by nomadic Changpas. Explore the village to understand their unique lifestyle and rich culture.
  • Korzok Monastery: Visit this ancient Buddhist monastery perched on a hill overlooking the lake. It's a spiritual hub for the Changpa community and houses significant statues and thangkas, offering insights into Tibetan Buddhism.

 

After a day of scenic driving and exploration, check into your chosen accommodation in Korzok to relax and enjoy the serene environment of Tso Moriri under the starry Ladakhi sky.

8
Tso Moriri → Jispa

Head to Jispa From Tso Moriri

Prepare for an exhilarating journey as you depart from the serene shores of Tso Moriri, a jewel of the Changthang plateau, and head towards the verdant valleys of Jispa. This breathtaking route, often considered one of the most scenic and challenging in the Indian Himalayas, covers an approximate distance of 220-250 kilometers and will take around 8-10 hours, depending on road conditions and stops for photography. Ensure you have completed any final explorations around Tso Moriri before beginning this long travel day.

 

En route, immerse yourself in the majestic landscapes and visit the following attractions:

  • Kiagar Tso: Shortly after leaving Tso Moriri, you'll pass by this smaller, yet equally captivating lake, often frequented by migratory birds.
  • Tso Kar Lake: A truly unique high-altitude salt lake, also known as the "White Lake" due to the salt deposits on its shores. It's a vital habitat for various bird species, including the endangered Black-necked Crane.
  • Pang: A customary stop for tea and snacks, offering a brief respite amidst the rugged terrain.
  • Sarchu: Mark your entry into Himachal Pradesh at Sarchu, a significant stopover point on the Manali-Leh highway, known for its vast camping grounds.
  • Baralacha La (16,040 ft / 4,890 m): Conquer one of the highest motorable passes, meaning "Pass where roads meet," offering spectacular views of three mountain ranges – Pir Panjal, Zanskar, and the Great Himalayas. The pass is often covered in snow even in summer.
  • Deepak Tal & Suraj Tal: Witness these two pristine high-altitude lakes on either side of Baralacha La, often reflecting the towering peaks around them.
  • Darcha: A small village nestled by the Bhaga River, serving as a checkpoint and often marking the transition to greener landscapes.

 

Upon arrival in Jispa, you'll be greeted by a stark contrast to the barren landscapes you've traversed. Jispa, nestled by the Bhaga River, is a tranquil village offering respite and stunning views of the surrounding green mountains and glacial meltwaters.

 

The rest of the evening is free for relaxation, enjoying a warm meal, and preparing for the next leg of your Himalayan adventure.

9
Jispa → Manali

Journey from Jispa to Manali - Explore Atal Tunnel, Sissu & Solang Valley

Embark on a breathtaking single-day journey from Jispa to Manali, traversing some of the most spectacular landscapes of Himachal Pradesh. This scenic drive covers approximately 85-95 kilometers and typically takes around 3.5 to 4.5 hours of pure driving time, not including the delightful stops along the way.

 

Begin your day early in Jispa. If you've been staying in Jispa, ensure you complete your hotel checkout before commencing this adventure, leaving ample time to explore the captivating sights en route to Manali.

En route, you will visit the following spectacular attractions:

  • Sissu: After an approximate 1-hour drive from Jispa, you'll reach the charming village of Sissu in the Lahaul Valley. Located on the banks of the Chandra River,
  • Atal Tunnel: Proceed from Sissu towards the North Portal of the Atal Tunnel. Experience traversing this engineering marvel, the world's longest highway single-tube tunnel above 10,000 feet.
  • Solang Valley: Upon exiting the South Portal of the Atal Tunnel, a short drive of about 15 kilometers (30-40 minutes) will bring you to Solang Valley. Known as the ‘Adventure Valley,’

 

After an exhilarating visit to Solang Valley, continue your short drive of approximately 13-15 kilometers (30 minutes) to reach your final destination, Manali. Upon arrival, check into your accommodation and enjoy the rest of your evening exploring the charming town, reflecting on the day's incredible journey through the Himalayas.

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