Ladakh Zanskar

9N/10D

Overview

Embark on an unforgettable 10-day journey through the enchanting landscapes of Ladakh and Himachal Pradesh, starting from Leh and ending in Manali. This adventure begins with local sightseeing in Leh, including visits to Shanti Stupa, Leh Palace, and the bustling Leh Market.


Explore the iconic Nubra Valley via the world-famous Khardung La Pass, and enjoy a camel safari across the sand dunes of Hunder. Discover the remote border village of Thang near Turtuk and continue your expedition to the pristine Pangong Lake, known for its surreal, color-changing waters.


En route back to Leh, experience a cultural showcase with a traditional Ladakhi polo match and visit historic monasteries like Thiksey and Shey. The itinerary also covers the spiritual and scenic wonders of Sham Valley, including Gurudwara Pathar Sahib, Magnetic Hill, Sangam, and Lamayuru Monastery.


Journey further into the isolated Zanskar region, visiting Padum, the Lingshed Monastery, and the ancient monasteries of Karsha, Stongdey, and Sani Gompa. Travel through the breathtaking Shinku La and Sirsir La passes, with a stop at the remote Phuktal Monastery before heading to Jispa. Conclude your adventure with a scenic drive to Manali via the majestic Atal Tunnel, soaking in the beauty of the Bhaga and Chandra rivers and the serene landscapes of Lahaul Valley.

Itinerary

Upon arrival at Leh airport, our representative will greet you and transfer you to your reserved accommodation. Check into the hotel and take some time to rest and acclimatize. In the evening, visit the Leh Market, Leh Palace, and Shanti Stupa. Overnight stay in Leh.ham.

After breakfast, 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. Post lunch, enjoy a camel safari 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), visiting Turtuk and Tyakshi en route. Thang was captured by the Indian Army in the 1971 war. Overnight stay in Nubra Valley.

After breakfast, leave for Pangong Lake at 14,500 ft, with a drive of 6 – 7 hours. Arrive at the camp, enjoy leisure time, and witness the color-changing 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.

After breakfast, drive to Sham. On the way, visit Gurudwara Pathar Sahib, Magnetic Hill, Sangam (confluence of Zanskar and Indus rivers), and Likir Monastery. Have lunch en route and, after lunch, drive to visit the mesmerizing moon-like landscapes and the Lamayuru monastery. Overnight stay in Sham.

After breakfast, leave for Padum via Sirsir La (15,700 ft.) and Singey La (16,590 ft.), en route visit the Lingshed monastery. Arrive in Padum by evening. Overnight stay in Padum.

In the morning, after breakfast, explore local sightseeing spots such as Zangla palace, Stongdey, Karsha, and Sani Gompa. Overnight stay in Padum.

After breakfast, drive to Jispa via Shinku La (16,580 ft.), en route visit Bardan and Phuktal Monasteries. Arrive in Jispa by evening. Overnight stay in Jispa.

After breakfast, drive to Manali via Atal Tunnel, enjoying the scenic drive through Lahaul Valley along with Bhaga and Chandra River. Arrive in Manali by noon, concluding your journey.

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

#mountains

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