Highland Ladakh

8N/9D

Overview

Explore the enchanting landscapes of Ladakh with this immersive 9-day itinerary covering the region’s top destinations. Begin your journey from Leh to the serene Sham Valley, followed by visits to spiritual landmarks like Alchi Monastery, Gurudwara Pathar Sahib, and Shanti Stupa. Witness Ladakhi culture through a thrilling traditional polo match and cultural show. Discover the charm of Leh’s local market, the historical Leh Palace, and indulge in authentic local cuisine.


Continue the adventure through the breathtaking Nubra Valley, riding camels on Hunder’s sand dunes and visiting the border village of Thang via Turtuk and Tyakshi. Marvel at the ever-changing hues of Pangong Lake before heading to the remote Hanle region, home to the Indian Astronomical Observatory. Conclude your journey with a visit to Umling La, the world’s highest motorable pass, and a scenic return via Chumathang’s hot springs. This Ladakh expedition is a perfect blend of nature, culture, and adventure.

Itinerary

Upon your arrival at Leh airport, you will be directly transferred to Sham Valley, passing through charming villages along the Indus River. After reaching, check into your pre-arranged accommodation for a day of complete rest. Overnight stay in Sham.

After breakfast, drive to Leh, making stops at Alchi Monastery, Sangam, Gurudwara Pathar Sahib, Magnetic Hill, and the Hall of Fame en route. In the afternoon, drive to Thiksey to enjoy traditional Ladakhi cuisine.


Continue the journey to Chuchot to witness an exhilarating traditional Ladakhi polo match and Cultural Show, showcasing the region's unique sporting heritage. On the return Journey to the Hotel, visit Shanti Stupa, Leh Palace and Leh Market. Overnight stay in Leh.

After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Nubra Valley, also known as the Valley of Flowers, via Khardungla, the highest motorable road in the world (18,380 ft).


Upon arrival, check into the hotel/camp. After a delicious lunch, take a leisurely walk along the Shayok River or opt for a camel ride on the Sand Dunes between Deskit and Hundur Village. Overnight stay in Nubra Valley.

After breakfast, drive to Thang (the last village of India on the India-Pakistan border), captured by the Indian Army in the 1971 war.


En route, explore Turtuk and Tyakshi. Overnight stay in Nubra Valley.

After breakfast, depart for Pangong Lake at 14,500 ft, with a drive of 6 – 7 Hrs. Arrive at the camp and enjoy free time at leisure, witnessing the mesmerizing color changes of the lake and the sunset on its banks. Overnight stay at Pangong Lake.

In the morning, after breakfast, drive to Hanle, passing through Chushul Village and Tsaga La (15,200 Ft). Hanle is home to the Indian Astronomical Observatory. Enjoy a unique stay with locals at a guesthouse or homestay. Overnight stay in Hanle.

After breakfast, drive to visit Umling La top, located at an altitude of 19,024 ft. Enjoy the panoramic views and then return to Hanle to stay with locals at a guesthouse or homestay. Overnight stay in Hanle.

In the morning, after breakfast, drive to Leh via Loma Bend and Mahay, making a stop at Chumathang hot springs en route. Reach Leh by late evening. Overnight stay in Leh.

Early in the morning, transfer to Leh airport for your flight back to your destination. The journey comes to an end.

What's included

  • Airport pickup and drop-off
  • Accommodation
  • Breakfast and dinner
  • All transfer/sightseeing as per the itinerary (point to point)
  • 01 Oxygen cylinder in each vehicle
  • Daily hot/boiled/filtered water bottle
  • Inner line permit/environmental permit, Ladakh entry fees, wildlife fees and Red Cross Society fee

What's excluded

  • Airfare
  • Any kind of personal expenses or optional tours/extra meals ordered
  • Monument/Museum Entrances, rafting, and camel ride
  • Services of a local tour guide
  • Tips, insurance, laundry, phone Calls
  • Any kind of drinks (Alcoholic, Mineral, Aerated)

Good to know

Dos:

  • Rest for at least 24 hours upon arrival to acclimatize to the high altitude.
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water or fluids (avoid alcohol).
  • Cooperate with locals, porters, guides, and drivers.
  • Respect the local culture and environment.
  • Avoid using polythene; Ladakh is a polythene-free zone.
  • Dispose of all waste properly.
  • Carry an identification card (passport, voter ID, driving license, etc.) along with a photocopy.

Don’ts:

  • Do not wear denim; it is not suitable for trekking.
  • Do not overpack with snacks, colas, alcohol, or personal food.
  • Do not bring any trekking equipment such as tents; it will be provided.
  • Do not expect guaranteed smooth transit as weather and road conditions may affect travel.

Clothing:

  • Heavy warm feather jacket
  • Warm fleece jacket
  • Woolen and windproof gloves
  • Warm hat
  • Woolen socks
  • Warm windproof trousers
  • Sweaters

Gear and Accessories:

  • Waterproof trekking shoes
  • UV-protected sunglasses
  • Torch with extra batteries
  • Sunscreen lotion and cold cream
  • Sleeping bag suitable for -25°C
  • Light, quick-drying towel
  • Lip balm or chapstick
  • Water bottles (insulated or regular)
  • Camera, memory cards, and spare batteries
  • Personal toiletries, tissue rolls, windcheater
  • Walking sticks (if available)

Documents:

  • Identification card (passport, voter ID, driving license, etc.)
  • Photocopy of the identification card

Medicines

  • Avomine for vomiting
  • D Cold or Combiflam for cold or body aches
  • Vicks balm
  • Diamox (250mg) for high altitude issues (consult your doctor)
  • Saridon for headaches
  • Glucon D or Electral powder
  • Camphor
  • Any personal prescribed medicines
  • Consult your doctor for additional recommendations

Preventing Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)

  • AMS can affect anyone at altitudes above 10,000 feet
  • Leh is situated at 11,500 feet above sea level
  • Common symptoms include headache, disturbed sleep, nausea, breathlessness, fatigue, and lack of appetite
  • Rest for the first 24 hours after arrival
  • Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol or smoking
  • Keep warm and avoid physical exertion on the first day
  • Take Diamox if recommended by a medical professional

#mountains

#adventure

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