Leh - Sham Valley(E) - Nubra Valley - Turtuk(E) - Leh - Pangong Lake(E) - Tso Kar(E) - Local - Flyback frm Leh

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.

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.

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 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.

Embark on an unforgettable single-day adventure from Leh to the mesmerizing Pangong Lake, known for its captivating blue waters and stunning Himalayan backdrop.

Start your day with an early morning departure from Leh. The drive to Pangong Lake is approximately 160-220 km, and it will take around 5 to 6 hours to reach, navigating through challenging yet scenic mountain roads.

As you make your way towards Pangong Lake, you'll encounter several fascinating stops:

• Shey Monastery: Located about 15 km from Leh, this historic monastery was once the summer palace of the Ladakhi kings and houses a giant copper-gold gilded statue of Shakyamuni Buddha.
• Thiksey Monastery: A magnificent 12-story complex resembling the Potala Palace in Lhasa, Thiksey Monastery offers panoramic views of the Indus Valley and is home to numerous stupas, statues, and thangkas.
• Chang La Pass: Ascend to the formidable Chang La Pass, one of the highest motorable roads in the world at an altitude of 17,586 ft (5,360 meters). Take a brief stop to soak in the views and enjoy a cup of tea at the army canteen.

Upon arrival at Pangong Lake, you will be captivated by its sheer beauty. The lake, which is approximately 134 km long and extends from India to China, is famous for its ever-changing hues of blue, green, and red, reflecting the surrounding mountains and sky. Spend a good few hours at this stunning natural wonder.

In the late afternoon, begin your scenic drive back to Leh. You will arrive back in Leh by evening, concluding an exhilarating day trip filled with natural wonders and cultural insights.

Embark on an exhilarating single-day journey from Leh, venturing into the remote and breathtaking landscapes of Changthang, culminating at the stunning Tso Kar Lake, with a rejuvenating stop at Chumathang Hot Springs. This expedition promises a day filled with natural wonders, unique wildlife, and spectacular high-altitude vistas.

Your day begins with an early morning departure from Leh, heading towards the scenic Tso Kar basin. The drive from Leh to Chumathang covers approximately 140-150 km and takes about 4 to 5 hours, traversing through vast open landscapes and alongside the Indus River.

En route, visit the following attraction:

• Chumathang Hot Springs: A natural wonder where boiling hot water gushes out from the earth, believed to possess medicinal properties. It's a surreal experience to witness steam rising from the ground in the cold desert environment.

After a refreshing stop at Chumathang, continue your journey towards Tso Kar. The drive from Chumathang to Tso Kar is roughly 50-60 km and takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, offering increasingly panoramic views of the Rupshu Valley.

Upon arrival at Tso Kar, immerse yourself in the serene beauty of this high-altitude saltwater lake. You will have ample time to explore and soak in the tranquil atmosphere. Tso Kar Lake is Known as the "White Lake" due to the white salt deposits on its shores, Tso Kar is a fluctuating saltwater lake that serves as a crucial breeding ground for various migratory birds, including the endangered Black-necked Crane. Enjoy bird-watching, photography, and the stunning views of surrounding peaks like Thugje.

After exploring Tso Kar, begin your return journey to Leh in the late afternoon. The drive back will be approximately 190-210 km, taking around 5.5 to 7 hours, offering a different perspective of the landscape as the day progresses.

You will arrive back in Leh by evening, concluding an adventurous and memorable single-day excursion to the majestic Tso Kar Lake and the unique Chumathang Hot Springs.

Embark on an enriching single-day journey through the cultural heart of Leh and its breathtaking surroundings. This curated tour allows you to delve into the serene spirituality of Buddhist monasteries, witness iconic landmarks, and soak in the majestic Himalayan landscapes.

Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Shanti Stupa, a magnificent white-domed Buddhist stupa located on a hilltop in Changspa, Leh. Built to promote world peace and prosperity, the stupa offers breathtaking panoramic views of Leh town, the Indus Valley, and the surrounding mountains. It’s an ideal spot for morning meditation or photography, especially as the sunlight bathes the valley.

After soaking in the tranquil ambiance of Shanti Stupa, set out on a fascinating drive from Leh to explore the region's prominent monasteries and a renowned educational institution. Your journey will take you approximately 15-20 km southeast of Leh, which typically takes around 30-45 minutes to reach the first major stop.

Sightseeing in and around Leh:

• Shey Palace and Monastery: Your first stop will be the historic Shey Palace, once the summer capital of the Ladakh kings. Perched atop a hill, the complex houses a beautiful monastery with a magnificent 12-meter-high gilded copper statue of the Sakyamuni Buddha, making it a significant spiritual site.
• Thiksey Monastery: A short drive of about 5-7 km (approx. 10-15 minutes) from Shey will bring you to the impressive Thiksey Monastery. Often called ‘Mini Potala’ due to its resemblance to Lhasa’s Potala Palace, this large gompa belongs to the Gelug (Yellow Hat) sect of Tibetan Buddhism. It is famous for its assembly hall and the Maitreya Temple, which houses a colossal 15-meter-high statue of Maitreya Buddha.
• Druk White Lotus School (3 Idiot School): Continue your journey to the globally recognized Druk White Lotus School, located approximately 3-5 km (approx. 10 minutes) from Thiksey Monastery. This innovative school gained fame after being featured in the Bollywood blockbuster "3 Idiots." Beyond its cinematic appeal, the school is renowned for its eco-friendly architecture and holistic educational approach, which blends traditional Ladakhi values with modern learning.

As the afternoon draws to a close, embark on your return journey to Leh. The drive back offers more opportunities to admire the stark beauty of the Ladakhi landscape. Upon arrival in Leh, the rest of your evening is free for leisure. You might choose to explore the bustling Leh market for souvenirs, enjoy a traditional Ladakhi meal, or simply relax at your accommodation, reflecting on a day filled with cultural immersion and scenic wonders.

Begin your day in Leh at your own comfortable pace, allowing for a leisurely morning before your journey home. With flexible plans, you have the freedom to revisit a favorite spot or explore something new within the charming Leh valley. The focus of today is on soaking in the final moments of Ladakhi culture and scenery.

Explore the captivating sights within Leh:

• Shanti Stupa
• Leh Palace
• Leh Market
•  

Enjoy a traditional Ladakhi lunch at one of the local eateries in the market, savoring momos, Thukpa, or a local butter tea. The afternoon can be spent revisiting a favorite spot, doing some last-minute souvenir shopping, or simply relaxing at a cafe, reflecting on your memorable journey through Ladakh. Later, proceed to the airport for your departure, carrying with you the serene memories of Leh.