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Nestled among towering snow-clad peaks and vast arid expanses, Ladakh is a land like no other. Perched at breathtaking altitudes ranging from 2,750 meters in Kargil to a staggering 7,672 meters at Saser Kangri in the Karakoram Range, it is one of the highest inhabited plateaus in the world.
Known as the “Moon Land,” “Magic Land,” and “Mysterious Land,” Ladakh captivates travelers with its surreal terrain, where jagged mountains stretch endlessly into the sky. Here, summers bring golden hues with temperatures soaring up to 35°C, while winters transform the region into a frozen wonderland, with temperatures plunging to -30°C in the higher altitudes.
Ladakh’s origins are steeped in mystery. Once part of Tibet, it gained independence in the 10th century under the rule of Tibetan kings who revered the Grand Lamas. The Namgyal dynasty held power until 1836, when Gulab Singh of Jammu & Kashmir annexed the region, shaping its modern history. For centuries, Ladakh thrived as a vital trade link between India and Central Asia, with its capital, Leh, serving as a bustling hub for caravans laden with silk, spices, and precious goods.
Every corner of Ladakh tells a story—ancient monasteries perched on rugged cliffs, vibrant prayer flags fluttering in the wind, charming villages nestled in valleys, and the warm smiles of the Ladakhi people. This journey is a visual feast, offering endless opportunities to capture mesmerizing landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and the essence of local life through your lens.
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Validity 01 June2025 to 30 September2025 Cost in USD (US Dollars) |
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| Number of Persons Travelling together | Per Person Package cost | Total cost as per Occupancy | Remarks |
| 02 pax travelling together in one Twin Share | USD 1740 per Person x 2 Persons (2 persons sharing One Twin Room) | USD 3480 for 02 Persons | Package is computed on current Exchange rate @ 1 USD = INR 86. Final payment will be accepted on the day of transaction as per exchange rate policy of Reserve bank of India, as per link https://www.rbi.org.in/scripts/referenceratearchive.aspx |
| 03 pax travelling together (1 Triple Share) | USD 1770 per Person x 3 Persons (3 persons sharing One Triple Room) | USD 5310 for 03 Persons | |
| 03 pax travelling together (One Twin + One Single) | USD 1495 per Person on Sharing basis + USD 2050 for staying in Single Room (3 persons sharing One Twin Room & One Single Room) | USD 5040 for 03 persons | |
| 04 pax travelling together (2 Twin Share Rooms) | USD 1495 per Person x 4 Persons (4 persons sharing Two Twin Rooms) | USD 5980 for 04 persons | |
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Validity 01 June2026 to 30 September2026 Cost in USD (US Dollars) |
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| Number of Persons Travelling together | Per Person Package cost | Total cost as per Occupancy | Remarks |
| 02 pax travelling together in one Twin Share | USD 2001 per Person x 2 Persons (2 persons sharing One Twin Room) | USD 4002 for 02 Persons | Package is computed on current Exchange rate @ 1 USD = INR 86. Final payment will be accepted on the day of transaction as per exchange rate policy of Reserve bank of India, as per link https://www.rbi.org.in/scripts/referenceratearchive.aspx |
| 03 pax travelling together (1 Triple Share) | USD 2036 per Person x 3 Persons (3 persons sharing One Triple Room) | USD 6108 for 03 Persons | |
| 03 pax travelling together (One Twin + One Single) | USD 1720 per Person on Sharing basis + USD 2358 for staying in Single Room (3 persons sharing One Twin Room & One Single Room) | USD 5798 for 03 persons | |
| 04 pax travelling together (2 Twin Share Rooms) | USD 1720 per Person x 4 Persons (4 persons sharing Two Twin Rooms) | USD 6880 for 04 persons | |
Arrival and departure transfer in Leh airport in Innova car. (Transportation and tariff is controlled by the Taxi Union of Leh and is an open document visible to all visitors. It is worth noting that taxi is charged from point to point basis and not per kilometer and is most expensive pan India).
Hotels selected in the package will be around 3 star touristic level /or similar, which will be comfortable and of reliable standard.
Same Innova Car & driver will travel with you throughout the trip. However driver will make his own arrangements for his stay.
Accommodation for 09 nights on Twin / Double Room sharing at above mentioned hotels, Guest houses or camps.
Your package starts on arrival at Leh airport with check-in at Hotel. Early check-in will be given. Your hotel package ends with breakfast and departure transfer to the airport.
All activities as mentioned in the itinerary.
Accommodation on Half Board Basis (daily Breakfast & Dinner at the hotels / Camp as mentioned).
Picnic lunches are included on day 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 & 9.
All lunches are not included. You will buy some of the lunches on own during sightseeing and explorations.
All drives, transfers and sightseeing by a private chauffer driven Innova Cars including the driver day and night allowance, toll tax, permit, taxes, parking etc.
04 Bottles of ½ liter Mineral water per person per day will be provided in the car during drives.
Environmental fee and permit fee.
Portable oxygen cylinder with regulator and 2 pcs of mask will be placed in the car.
Airfare to / fro Leh. (can be provided on request)
Any other meal unless specified in inclusions. Since you are out in the day, option to buy lunches on your own at local restaurants.
Entrance fee to the Monasteries, monuments, museums.
Camera / Video Camera fees at monuments.
Any expenses of personal nature such as telephone calls, tips, use of payable items in room mini bar, any kind of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages (unless specified), laundry, spa & in-room dining.
Tips to drivers/ guides, restaurant, waiters, hotels, camps etc.
Your adventure begins with a scenic morning flight from Delhi to Leh, offering breathtaking aerial views of the mighty Himalayan ranges of Zanskar and Karakoram—a mesmerizing preview of the landscapes that await.
Upon arrival at Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (Leh), our representative will greet you and accompany you on a short 13 km drive to the charming village of Stok, where your hotel is nestled amidst stunning mountain vistas.
Acclimatization: A Crucial First Step
Leh sits at an altitude of 3,400 meters, a dramatic rise from Delhi’s mere 200 meters in just one hour. While the excitement to explore may be high, your body needs time to adjust to the reduced oxygen levels and lower air pressure. Altitude sickness can affect travelers when ascending rapidly, so taking the first day to rest and acclimate is essential.
We recommend a relaxed afternoon, staying hydrated and avoiding physical exertion. Depending on how you feel, we may take a gentle stroll or short drive to the Golden Buddha statue and the historic Stok Palace, home to Ladakh’s royal family.
As the sun sets behind the majestic peaks, settle into the tranquility of Ladakh, preparing for the adventures that await in the days ahead. Tomorrow, the real exploration begins!
Lunch, Dinner and overnight stay at Chulli Bagh Stok.
Wake up to the crisp mountain air and enjoy a hearty breakfast before setting off on a 25 km drive to Hemis Monastery, one of the most revered and largest Tibetan monasteries in Ladakh.
Hemis Monastery – A Legacy of Buddhism at 12,000 Feet
Perched dramatically on a mountain west of the Indus River, Hemis Monastery is a spiritual and architectural marvel. Dating back to the 11th century and re-established in 1670 by King Sengge Namgyal, it belongs to the Drukpa lineage (Red Sect) of Buddhism. The monastery is steeped in history, housing intricate Thangka paintings, sacred stupas, and statues crafted from gold, silver, and other precious metals.
A highlight of your visit is the ornate copper-gilded statue of Lord Buddha and the monastery’s museum, which showcases ancient relics, Buddhist artifacts, weapons, and ceremonial objects. Hemis is also a vital center for monastic training, shaping the spiritual lineage of royal monasteries across Ladakh.
After soaking in the spiritual aura of Hemis, embark on a scenic drive along the Indus River to Thiksey Monastery. Nestled on a hilltop, this iconic 12-story monastery resembles Tibet’s Potala Palace and offers breathtaking panoramic views
Lunch with a View
You have the option to enjoy lunch at a local café near Chamba Camp or at the Thiksey Cafeteria, where you can relish fusion cuisine with stunning valley views.
Thiksey Monastery – A Majestic Jewel of Ladakh
The glorious Thiksey Monastery, one of Ladakh’s largest and most iconic monasteries. Dramatically cascading down a rocky ridge at an altitude of 3,600 meters (11,800 feet), this 12-story monastery is a visual masterpiece, often compared to Tibet’s Potala Palace in Lhasa.
Thiksey Gompa is home to an extraordinary collection of stupas, statues, Thangka paintings, intricate wall murals, and ancient swords. A major highlight is the Maitreya Temple, which houses a magnificent 15-meter (49-foot) statue of the Future Buddha, one of the largest in Ladakh.
Another unique feature of Thiksey is its exclusive complex dedicated to female renunciates, playing a vital role in the monastery’s ongoing expansion and reorganization.
Take in the breathtaking panoramic views of the Indus Valley as you explore this sacred site. Whether you’re capturing its grandeur through your lens, interacting with monks, or simply soaking in the peaceful ambiance, Thiksey Monastery is an unforgettable stop on your Ladakh journey.
At the core of this magnificent monastery lies the main Dukhang (prayer hall), a space that exudes an air of deep spirituality and tradition. Here, the gentle flicker of butter lamps illuminates intricate murals, while the rhythmic chants of monks create a mesmerizing atmosphere.
One of the most revered highlights within Thiksey is the Maitreya Temple, home to an awe-inspiring 15-meter (49-foot) statue of Maitreya, the Future Buddha. Towering over two stories of the monastery, this colossal figure was installed in 1970 to commemorate the visit of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama. The statue’s exquisite crown and serene expression symbolize compassion, wisdom, and the promise of enlightenment, making it one of Ladakh’s most significant Buddhist landmarks.
This sacred space offers not just a spiritual retreat, but also a glimpse into Ladakh’s deep-rooted Buddhist heritage. Whether you’re marveling at the grand architecture, absorbing the peaceful ambiance, or reflecting in quiet meditation, Thiksey Monastery is an experience that lingers long after your visit.
Exploring Leh Town & Local Bazaar Stroll
After immersing yourself in the spiritual aura of Thiksey Monastery, continue your drive back to Leh town, where the vibrant main bazaar awaits. This bustling marketplace is the heart of local life, offering a lively blend of culture, commerce, and tradition.
Take a leisurely stroll through the narrow lanes lined with colorful stalls, where local vendors proudly display fresh organic produce, including homegrown apricots and apples—a true taste of Ladakh’s natural bounty.
This is also the perfect opportunity for souvenir shopping, where you can find an array of locally handcrafted treasures such as:
As you soak in the sights and sounds of this charming market, enjoy a cup of traditional butter tea or a hot Ladakhi Kahwa at a local café, making for the perfect end to your day of exploration.
With your soul enriched and your camera filled with incredible captures, return to your hotel for a relaxing evening, reflecting on Ladakh’s spiritual and cultural grandeur.
Discovering Ladakh’s Rich Trade Heritage – Central Asian Museum
After exploring Leh’s vibrant bazaar, take a step back in time with a visit to the Central Asian Museum, located in the Tsa Soma Park in the historic Chutayrangtak neighborhood of Leh. This unique museum, the first of its kind in Leh, offers a fascinating insight into Ladakh’s role as a major trade hub along the ancient Silk Route.
A Glimpse into Ladakh’s Cross-Cultural Legacy
Housed within a beautifully restored four-story stone tower, the museum showcases Ladakh’s deep historical connections with Tibet, Kashmir, Yarkand, Samarkand, and other Central Asian regions. Its exhibits include:
Enhance Your Experience – Guided Tour & Local Storytelling
To truly immerse yourself in Ladakh’s fascinating past, opt for a guided tour of the Central Asian Museum led by a local historian. Their deep knowledge will bring the exhibits to life, narrating stories of the Silk Route traders, Buddhist monks, and merchants who once traveled through these rugged landscapes.
As you explore the museum, listen to captivating tales of adventure and survival—how caravans carried silk, spices, and precious stones across the treacherous mountain passes, and how Ladakh became a melting pot of diverse cultures and traditions.
This enriching session, paired with a cup of steaming Ladakhi butter tea or kahwa, is the perfect way to connect with Ladakh’s living history.
Masjid Sharif – The Oldest Mosque in Leh
Adjacent to the museum stands the Masjid Sharif, the oldest mosque in Leh, restored in 2007 with the efforts of the Anjuman Moin ul-Islam Society. This historic site is a testament to Ladakh’s diverse cultural and religious heritage, shaped by centuries of interaction between traders, travelers, and settlers from various backgrounds.
A visit to the Central Asian Museum and Masjid Sharif provides a deeper appreciation of Leh’s unique history, blending Buddhist, Islamic, and Central Asian influences into its rich cultural tapestry.
Shanti Stupa – A Symbol of Peace with Breathtaking Views
Perched atop a hill in Chanspa, the magnificent Shanti Stupa stands as a beacon of peace, harmony, and spirituality. Built in 1991 by Japanese Buddhists as part of the Peace Pagoda Mission, this dome-shaped white stupa is not only a religious site but also a place of immense serenity and panoramic beauty.
At its base, sacred relics of Buddha are enshrined, and the 14th Dalai Lama himself consecrated the stupa, making it a revered pilgrimage site. Visitors are drawn here not just for its spiritual significance but also for the spectacular 360-degree views of Leh, the Indus Valley, and the surrounding snow-capped peaks—especially mesmerizing during sunrise and sunset.
Victory Tower – A Monument of Ladakhi Valor
Admire the view of Victory Tower, perched above Leh Palace. This historical monument was built to commemorate the Ladakhi troops’ victory over the Balti Kashmiris, symbolizing the bravery and resilience of Ladakh’s warriors. The tower offers a unique vantage point to appreciate Leh’s historic skyline, with the ancient palace and rugged mountains forming a stunning backdrop.
Witness the Enchanting Morning Prayers (optional)
For an immersive spiritual experience, wake up early to attend the monastery’s morning prayers. As dawn breaks over the Indus Valley, the air fills with the deep, rhythmic chanting of monks, accompanied by the sounds of ceremonial horns, drums, and cymbals. This serene and meditative ritual offers a rare glimpse into Tibetan Buddhist traditions and is a moment of pure tranquility amidst the towering Himalayas.
Today after breakfast and check-out, embark on an unforgettable journey downstream along the Indus Valley, descending to a lower altitude while exploring some of Ladakh’s most revered and picturesque sites.
Pathar Sahib Gurudwara – A Sacred Sikh Shrine
Your first stop is the Gurudwara Pathar Sahib, a significant Sikh place of worship, built in 1517 AD to commemorate the visit of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism, to Ladakh.
Fascinating Legend
During road construction in the late 1960s, engineers encountered a massive boulder covered in Buddhist prayer flags. Despite numerous attempts, their bulldozers could not move it, and when force was applied, the blade of the machine snapped. That night, the driver had a vision in which a voice instructed him not to move the stone. It was later discovered that Guru Nanak had rested at this very spot during his travels between 1515-1518, and the boulder is now enshrined within the Gurudwara, revered by Sikhs, Buddhists, Hindus, and even the Indian Army, which maintains the site.
Take a moment here to soak in the tranquil ambiance, listen to the Sikh hymns (Kirtan), and partake in the community meal (Langar) before continuing your journey.
Sangam – The Majestic Confluence of Zanskar & Indus Rivers
Drive further to witness one of Ladakh’s most breathtaking natural wonders—the Sangam, where the mighty Zanskar River merges with the Indus River. The striking contrast between the muddy Indus and the emerald-green Zanskar is mesmerizing, and this very river valley once nurtured the ancient Indus Valley Civilization, one of the world’s oldest.
Lamayuru – The Enigmatic “Moonland” of Ladakh
Continuing on the Leh-Kargil highway, you’ll leave the Indus River to your right and enter a dramatic rocky gorge leading to the enchanting village of Lamayuru. Here, nature unveils one of its most surreal landscapes—the “Moonland.“
Why is it called Moonland?
Take your time to explore the monastery, capture incredible photographs, and perhaps enjoy lunch in a local café overlooking the dramatic moonscape.
As you drive back towards Leh, stop at the quaint village of Uletokpo, where your overnight stay awaits at Ule Ethnic Resort, a hidden gem nestled right on the banks of the Indus River.
Here, spend your evening:
Alchi Monastery – A Hidden Gem of Ancient Indo-Tibetan Art
After breakfast, embark on a short but scenic drive to Alchi Village, home to one of Ladakh’s oldest and most artistically significant monasteries. Unlike most Ladakhi monasteries, which are perched on rugged hillsides, Alchi Monastery stands uniquely on flat terrain, offering a serene riverside setting.
Dating back to the 10th and 11th centuries, the Alchi Monastery complex is believed to have been founded by the great Tibetan translator, Guru Rinchen Zangpo, though historical inscriptions attribute its construction to a Tibetan noble, Kal-dan Shes-rab, in the late 11th century.
This sacred complex is a masterpiece of Indo-Tibetan artistry, with influences from Kashmiri craftsmanship, making it a unique cultural treasure of Ladakh.
Architectural Highlights of Alchi Monastery
🕌 Dukhang (Assembly Hall) – The main prayer hall, adorned with intricate wall paintings that narrate Buddhist tales.
🏛 Sumtseg Temple – A stunning three-storied structure, showcasing some of Ladakh’s finest wooden carvings and Kashmiri-style murals depicting celestial beings.
🙏 Manjushri Temple – Dedicated to Manjushri, the Bodhisattva of Wisdom, featuring remarkable statues and frescoes.
🛕 Ancient Chortens (Stupas) – Scattered around the complex, these structures hold sacred relics and symbolize enlightenment.
Unlike other monasteries, Alchi is famous not for its towering stupas or golden statues, but for its extraordinary wall paintings, which have been preserved in remarkable condition for over 1,000 years. These frescoes depict:
Hindu & Buddhist deities in vibrant colors. Scenes from Buddhist scriptures narrated through elaborate murals.
A fusion of Indian & Tibetan artistic traditions, making Alchi a UNESCO-recognized cultural site.
Alchi’s murals are often considered the most magnificent in all of Ladakh, transporting visitors back to an era when the region was a thriving center of Buddhist learning and artistic exchange.
Alchi Monastery – A Window to Ladakh’s Ancient Buddhist Heritage
Predating most of Ladakh’s monasteries, Alchi Monastery offers a rare glimpse into the early days of Tibetan Buddhism, when the faith was still deeply rooted in Indian traditions. At a time when Buddhism in Tibet was evolving, Alchi remained a bridge between India and the Himalayan world, preserving an artistic style that would soon disappear from the Indian subcontinent.
A Lost Legacy of Buddhist Northern India
Unlike other Ladakhi gompas that showcase Tibetan and Chinese influences, Alchi’s murals and sculptures are distinctly Indian in style, particularly reflecting the Kashmiri artistic traditions of the 11th century.
This makes Alchi one of the last surviving examples of Buddhist art from northern India—an art form that was nearly erased following the Muslim conquests of the 12th century. Today, Alchi remains a living museum, preserving the intricate craftsmanship and cultural fusion that once flourished along the Silk Route.
A Taste of Ladakh at Alchi Kitchen (seasonal operation)
After exploring the ancient murals and sacred halls of Alchi Monastery, indulge in a truly authentic Ladakhi experience at Alchi Kitchen, a renowned restaurant run by National Award-winning chefs.
Join the Local Kitchen Ladies – Step into the open kitchen and watch traditional Ladakhi dishes come to life. If you’re feeling adventurous, roll up your sleeves and try your hand at making skyu (Ladakhi pasta) or mok mok (steamed dumplings).
Savor a Cup of Butter Tea – Warm up with a traditional serving of Gur Gur Chai (butter tea), a soul-soothing Himalayan beverage made from yak butter, salt, and tea leaves.
Pre-Order & Explore – Since cooking in the high-altitude kitchen takes time, it’s best to place your order before visiting the monastery—so your freshly prepared Ladakhi meal is ready upon your return!
Ascend to Khardung-La – The Gateway to High-Altitude Adventure
After a memorable meal, continue your journey towards one of the world’s highest motorable roads—Khardung-La Pass (5,359 m / 17,582 ft). This legendary pass, once part of the ancient Silk Route, offers breathtaking views of the snow-capped Karakoram and Zanskar ranges.
Scenic Drive to the Summit – Winding through rugged terrain, the journey itself is an adventure, with every turn unveiling dramatic landscapes. Upon reaching Khardung-La Top, capture spectacular panoramic views and celebrate your high-altitude achievement with a cup of piping hot Maggie noodles and chai at the famous army-run café.
It’s not every day that you get to drive on one of the world’s highest motorable roads! At a staggering 17,980 feet, Khardung-La Pass—meaning Pass of the Lower Castle—is a bucket-list destination for adventurers and thrill-seekers alike.
Touch the Sky – As you reach the summit, take a quick photo stop beside the iconic Khardung-La sign, proudly placed by the Border Roads Organization. Since the air is thin at this altitude, we’ll descend swiftly to Nubra Valley, where the oxygen levels are more comfortable, and the landscape unfolds into a mesmerizing blend of sand dunes, rivers, and snow-capped peaks.
Journey into the Enchanting Nubra Valley
A Shifting Landscape – As we descend, the terrain dramatically changes from harsh mountain passes to a surreal high-altitude desert, where the Shyok and Nubra rivers merge, creating an oasis-like paradise. On the way, enjoy a scenic picnic lunch, surrounded by breathtaking Himalayan vistas.
Overnight at Osay Khar Resort, Tirith Village – Nestled in the heart of Nubra Valley, the resort offers serene views, organic gardens, and a cozy Ladakhi ambiance, making it the perfect retreat after an exhilarating day of travel.
Diskit Gompa & Maitreya Buddha
Perched on a rocky hill, Diskit Monastery is the oldest and largest monastery in Nubra Valley, offering breathtaking views of the valley below. The highlight here is the towering 32-meter (106 ft) Maitreya Buddha statue, a symbol of peace and protection, which gazes serenely over Nubra.
Next Stop: Hundar Sand Dunes – A Desert Amidst the Himalayas
The barren beauty of Ladakh takes a surprising turn as you arrive at the Hundar Sand Dunes, a striking landscape of rolling white dunes set against the dramatic backdrop of snow-capped mountains.
Meet the Bactrian Camels – Once vital to the Silk Road trade, these rare double-humped camels were used to carry silk, spices, and salt across the rugged terrains of Central Asia. After the closure of trade routes in the 1950s, they were left stranded in Nubra Valley, nearly facing extinction.
Thankfully, local conservation efforts have revived their population, and today, they offer visitors an unforgettable camel safari experience, allowing you to relive the historic journeys of Silk Road traders.
Breakfast, picnic lunch. Return to your hotel for dinner & overnight.
The Nubra Valley – Agham – Shyok – Durbuk – Tangste – Pangong Tso route has quickly become a favorite among travelers since its opening in 2018. Known for its stunning landscapes and remote villages, this route offers a thrilling drive through some of Ladakh’s most untouched terrains.
Unlike the longer, traditional routes, this path cuts travel time while offering a truly adventurous experience. The road conditions have significantly improved, making it a great option for those eager to explore the raw beauty of Ladakh.
Highlights Along the Way
🌄 Agham & Shyok Village – Tiny hamlets tucked away in the mountains, offering breathtaking views of rugged terrain.
🌊 Shyok River – A glacial river that meanders through Ladakh’s dramatic landscapes, creating stunning scenery along the drive.
🏔 Durbuk & Tangste – Small but significant villages where you can take a break and enjoy local hospitality before continuing to Pangong.
💙 Pangong Tso (Lukung to Merek) – The final stretch leads you to the breathtaking blue waters of Pangong Lake, one of Ladakh’s most famous and surreal destinations.
This journey is perfect for those seeking offbeat adventure, remote landscapes, and an unforgettable road trip experience.
Nestled at a staggering altitude of 4,350 meters, Pangong Tso is an otherworldly lake that stretches 134 km from India into Tibet. With 60% of its waters lying in the Tibetan Autonomous Region, this surreal lake is famous for its ever-changing shades of blue, turquoise, and green that shift as the sun moves across the sky.
Arriving around noon, you’ll witness the lake at its most vibrant, with the sunlight illuminating its crystal-clear waters against the backdrop of dramatic mountains. The sheer serenity and mesmerizing beauty of Pangong Tso make it one of Ladakh’s most iconic destinations.
Capture the breathtaking hues of the lake as they shift throughout the day. Take a leisurely walk along the shoreline, soaking in the tranquility and silence of the high-altitude desert. Visit the nearby nomadic settlements and experience the unique lifestyle of the Changpa herders. Stay overnight and witness one of the clearest night skies, with stars stretching across the Milky Way.
After witnessing the breathtaking sunset, prepare for one of the most mesmerizing experiences in Ladakh—star-gazing at Pangong Tso. At an altitude of 4,350 meters, with minimal light pollution, the sky comes alive with millions of twinkling stars, the Milky Way, and even shooting stars if you’re lucky!
Your Overnight Stay at a comfortable hotel or camp with attached private bathrooms, Warm dinner under the starry sky Peaceful night surrounded by the mountains and lake.
Rise early to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the tranquil lake before beginning your journey toward Rezang La. Also known as Rechin La, this mountain pass lies along the Line of Actual Control between Indian-administered Ladakh and the Chinese-administered Spanggur Lake basin, a territory also claimed by India. Perched on the eastern watershed ridge of the Chushul Valley, which China asserts as its boundary, Rezang La offers a commanding view of the picturesque Rezang Lungpa valley. A winding stream meanders through this valley, eventually merging with the serene waters of Spanggur Lake, enhancing the natural beauty of the region.
Approximately three kilometers northwest of Rezang La is another pass that witnessed a significant battle during the 1962 Sino-Indian War. A company of India’s 13 Kumaon battalion, led by Major Shaitan Singh, fought to the last man in a valiant attempt to prevent Chinese PLA troops from crossing into the Chushul Valley. Decades later, during the 2020–2021 China–India skirmishes, these passes once again became the site of a major standoff between the two armies.
Continuing the drive, you will pass through Loma before reaching Hanle, an extraordinary destination for stargazing. Nestled within the Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary, Hanle is a cluster of six hamlets—Bhok, Shado, Punguk, Khuldo, Naga, and Tibetan refugee settlements. Recently designated as the Hanle Dark Sky Reserve, this 1,073-square-kilometer expanse surrounding the Indian Astronomical Observatory has been safeguarded against artificial light pollution, allowing scientists and astronomy enthusiasts to observe the night sky in its purest form.
Enjoy breakfast before setting off, with a picnic lunch en route and dinner upon arrival. Overnight accommodation will be arranged in a clean guesthouse, with an effort to secure a stay at either Hanle House or Royal Rebo.
On this day, embark on an unforgettable high-altitude journey to Umling-La Pass, the highest motorable road in the world. This route offers breathtaking views of Ladakh’s remote landscapes, snow-capped peaks, and vast high-altitude plains.
The drive takes you through Photi-La Pass at an altitude of 18,124 feet, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Continuing further, you will reach Umling-La Pass, which, at 19,024 feet, is officially recognized as the highest motorable road in the world. This remarkable achievement was acknowledged by Guinness World Records in 2021. The pass surpasses other high-altitude routes and was constructed by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) to connect some of the most remote villages in Ladakh. Due to the extreme altitude and thin air, the stop here will be brief to prevent altitude sickness.
From Umling-La, the journey proceeds toward Nurbu-La Pass, standing at 17,328 feet, and takes you through the strikingly beautiful Changthang region. The return drive to Hanle follows a picturesque route through Norbu-La Pass, a highland area characterized by vast rolling pastures where Changspa nomads graze their herds of Pashmina goats. The pristine landscape, with its open grasslands, fluttering prayer flags, and scattered herds of yaks, creates an unforgettable scene of Ladakh’s remote beauty.
Meals for the day include breakfast at Guest House, a picnic lunch en route, and dinner upon returning to Hanle.
On this day, begin your journey with a visit to the Hanle Observatory (open in daytime only), India’s first dark-sky preserve and home to the country’s highest astronomical observatory. Situated in a remote and pristine environment, the observatory offers astronomers exceptional views of the cosmos, making it a center for scientific research and discovery. Hanle itself is a historic village, known for the 17th-century Hanle Monastery, which belongs to the Drukpa Kagyu sect of Tibetan Buddhism. Nestled in the Hanle River valley along an ancient trade route between Ladakh and Tibet, the village carries a rich cultural and historical legacy.
After exploring Hanle, set out on a scenic drive to Tso Moriri Lake via Mahe Bridge. Located at an altitude of 4,530 meters on the Changthang plateau, Tso Moriri is the largest high-altitude lake entirely within India’s borders. Also known as Lake Moriri or Mountain Lake, it stretches 26 kilometers in length and 5 kilometers at its widest point. The lake is fed by mountain springs and snowmelt and is recognized as a Ramsar Wetland Conservation Reserve, highlighting its ecological significance.
The journey to Tso Moriri takes you through the breathtaking landscapes of Puga Valley, known for its geothermal activity and colorful mineral deposits. Along the way, you may encounter the Changpa nomads, who have inhabited this region for centuries, herding their Pashmina goats across the vast high-altitude plains.
Upon arrival at Tso Moriri, enjoy the serene beauty of the lake, surrounded by towering mountains that reflect in its deep blue waters. The remote and untouched landscape makes this an ideal destination for those seeking tranquility and an authentic experience of Ladakh’s natural beauty.
Meals for the day include breakfast at Hanle, a picnic lunch en route, and dinner at a guesthouse in Karzok village, located on the shores of Tso Moriri.
After breakfast, begin the journey back by retracing the route down to Puga Sumdo. From there, take the road across the Polokongka Pass, which stands at an altitude of 4,920 meters, to visit Tsokar Lake. This high-altitude saltwater lake, located on the Rupsho plateau, is a vital ecosystem supporting diverse wildlife and is home to the Changpa nomads, who have lived in the region for centuries. The lake’s serene yet rugged landscape offers stunning views and opportunities to spot rare bird species and other wildlife.
After exploring Tsokar Lake and its surroundings, continue the drive along the Manali-Leh highway, crossing the Taglang-La pass at an altitude of 17,585 feet. As one of the highest motorable passes in the world, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayan range and the vast, windswept landscapes of Ladakh.
Arrive in Leh by evening and check into the hotel, where you can unwind after the long journey. Enjoy a relaxing dinner and spend the night at Hotel. Meals for the day include a picnic lunch en-route and a delightful dinner at the hotel.
After an early breakfast, you will be transferred to Leh Airport, ensuring you arrive at least two hours before your departure. As the airport is owned by the military, security is exceptionally tight due to the presence of the army and air force. It is advisable to have your documents readily available and follow all security protocols for a smooth check-in process. Safe travels as you depart from the breathtaking landscapes of Ladakh.
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