Moonland Drive

8N/9D

Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Ladakh and Himachal Pradesh with this adventure-packed itinerary. Begin in the serene Sham Valley, then explore iconic sites like Alchi Monastery, Sangam, Gurudwara Pathar Sahib, Magnetic Hill, Hall of Fame, and the culturally rich Leh city with visits to Shanti Stupa, Leh Palace, and a traditional Ladakhi polo match.


Cross the world’s highest motorable road at Khardungla to reach Nubra Valley, home to the enchanting sand dunes of Hunder and the border village of Thang near Turtuk. Experience the thrill of Siachen Base Camp and discover the sacred beauty of Samstanling Monastery and Panamik hot springs.


The journey continues through the stunning Shyok Valley to the color-shifting Pangong Lake, followed by the tranquil Tsomoriri Lake via Chushul and Tsaga La.


Witness the raw beauty of Tsokar Lake, Puga hot springs, and high-altitude passes like Nakeela, Lachung La, and Baralacha La en route to Jispa. Finally, drive through the majestic Lahaul Valley and over Rohtang Pass to reach Manali, concluding a spectacular exploration of Ladakh’s top destinations and Himalayan marvels.

Itinerary

Upon arrival at Leh airport, transfer directly to Sham Valley, passing through scenic villages along the Indus River. Check into your reserved 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. Afternoon drive to Thiksey to enjoy traditional Ladakhi cuisine.


There after 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.

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, drive to Siachen Base Camp, visiting the hot spring at Panamik, Yarabtso, and Samstanling Monastery en route. Overnight stay in Sumur.

Leave for Pangong Lake (14,500 ft) after breakfast, 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.

In the morning, after breakfast, drive to Tsomoriri Lake via Chushul and Tsaga la. Arrive at Korzok village by evening. Overnight stay in Korzok.

Take an early morning walk around the lake to enjoy the scenic beauty. Later, leave for Jispa, crossing Puga (Sulphur Mine), Tsokar Lake, Skyangchu Thang, Pang, Nakeela, Lachung La, and Baralacha La. Arrive at Jispa by evening. Overnight stay in Jispa.

After breakfast, drive to Manali, enjoying a scenic drive through Lahaul Valley along the Bhaga and Chandra River. Cross Rohtang Pass and arrive in Manali by noon. The journey concludes.

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

#adventure

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