Silk Route

7N/8D

Overview

Embark on a culturally rich and visually stunning journey through Ladakh with this 8-day itinerary covering the top highlights of the region. Begin your adventure in the serene Sham Valley, followed by an immersive visit to the remote Dha-Hanu villages in Aryan Valley, home to the unique Drokpa tribe. Witness the lunar landscapes of Moonland, the ancient Lamayuru and Alchi Monasteries, and spiritual landmarks like Gurudwara Pathar Sahib, Magnetic Hill, and Shanti Stupa. Enjoy a taste of Ladakhi heritage with traditional cuisine and an exhilarating Ladakhi polo match in Chuchot.


The expedition continues through the spectacular Khardung La Pass into the mystical Nubra Valley, where camel rides in Hunder’s sand dunes await. Explore the culturally distinct village of Turtuk and the strategic border village Thang, before heading to the mesmerizing Pangong Lake, known for its ever-changing hues. Conclude your journey with visits to the iconic Thiksey and Shey Monasteries, a final cultural showcase, and a warm farewell from Leh, having covered the region’s most iconic and offbeat gems in a single trip.

Itinerary

Upon arrival at Leh airport, you will be transferred to Sham Valley, passing through the charming villages along the Indus River. Take the rest of the day to acclimatize to the altitude. Overnight stay in Sham.

After breakfast, embark on a journey to Padum via Sirsir La (15,700ft.) and Singey La (16,590ft.), with a visit to the Lingshed monastery en route. Reach Padum by evening. Overnight stay in Padum.

In the morning, explore the local attractions of Zangla Palace, Stongdey, Karsha, and Sani Gompa. Overnight stay in Padum.

After breakfast, drive back to Sham, passing through Lingshed and Shingo La Pass. Arrive in Sham by evening. Overnight stay in Sham.

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

After breakfast, explore Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, and Leh Market. After visiting, drive to Thiksey and 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. Overnight stay in Leh.

Early 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)

Accommodation options

Note: Stays are subject to availability upon booking. If listed options are unavailable, an alternative will be offered.

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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