Highlights of Ladakh

8N/9D

Overview

Embark on a breathtaking journey through Ladakh with this 9-day itinerary that covers some of the most iconic destinations in the region. Begin in the serene Sham Valley, before heading to the historically rich town of Kargil via Batalik and Dha-Hanu.


Discover Drass, the world’s second coldest inhabited place, and explore the remote village of Hundarman. The journey continues through the mesmerizing landscapes of Lamayuru, Alchi, and the confluence at Sangam, along with visits to the Gurudwara Pathar Sahib and the Hall of Fame museum on the way back to Leh.


Experience the thrill of traversing Khardungla Pass to reach the stunning Nubra Valley, where sand dunes and camel safaris await. Explore the culturally vibrant border villages of Turtuk and Thang, followed by a scenic drive to the ever-changing hues of Pangong Lake.


Conclude your adventure with visits to the spiritual Thiksey and Shey Monasteries, a taste of traditional Ladakhi cuisine, and a cultural showcase featuring a traditional polo match. This itinerary offers an unforgettable exploration of Ladakh’s top destinations, combining natural beauty, cultural richness, and historical depth.

Itinerary

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

After breakfast, embark on a drive to Kargil, with a visit to Dha-Hanu en route. Dha-Hanu is inhabited by the last of the Indo Aryan race, known for their distinctive attire and features.


Explore Batalik, a significant warfront zone where Indian soldiers fought in 1999. Arrive in Kargil by evening, and enjoy the evening at leisure. Overnight stay in Kargil.

Begin your day with a drive to Drass, the coldest inhabited place in India and the second coldest in the world after Siberia. Visit the village and nearby places, including the Drass War Memorial Hall.


Return to Kargil for lunch, and post-lunch, drive to Hundarman, a village located in a rugged valley between mountains over the Line of Control (LoC). Explore the village and other tourist destinations. Overnight stay in Kargil.

After breakfast, drive to Leh, making stops at Mulbek Chamba, Lamayuru Monastery, Alchi Monastery, Sangam, Gurudwara, and the Hall of Fame museum en route. Enjoy a hot lunch at Lamayuru. Arrive in Leh by late evening. Overnight stay in Leh.

After breakfast, embark on a drive to Nubra Valley via Khardungla, the highest motorable road in the world at 18,380 ft. Take short breaks at roadside cafes and scenic points for photography.


Check into the hotel/camp/guest house upon arrival. In the afternoon, enjoy a camel safari on double-humped camels at 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, visit Turtuk and Tyakshi. Overnight stay in Nubra Valley.

After breakfast, leave 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.

Early morning, enjoy the picturesque sunrise over the lake. After breakfast, drive back to Leh, with stops at Thiksey for a traditional Ladakhi cuisine Lunch.


After Lunch, visit Thiksey Monastery and Shey Monastery and continue the journey to Chuchot to witness an exhilarating traditional Ladakhi polo match and Cultural show, showcasing the region's unique sporting heritage. 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
  • Ladakhi Polo Match and Cultural Show with traditional Ladakhi Cuisine

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

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