Altitude: 3,505 meters / 11,567 feet. On arrival at Kushok Bakula Airport Leh (3,500m above sea level), transfer to hotel and check-in. Half day rest for acclimatization - VERY IMPORTANT for high altitude. Evening drive to visit Shanti Stupa - a Buddhist white-domed stupa on a hilltop in Changspa, built in 1991 by Japanese Buddhist Bhikshu Gyomyo Nakamura as part of the Peace Pagoda mission. Later visit Leh Palace - the former royal palace offering panoramic views of Leh city and the surrounding mountains. In the evening walk around the local market. Dinner and overnight stay at Hotel in Leh.
Full day excursion to Sham Valley. Day starts with visit to Hall of Fame - a museum constructed by the Indian Army to commemorate the sacrifice of soldiers during Indo-Pak wars. Visit Kali Mata Temple, followed by Spituk Gompa - an 11th century monastery structure with beautiful ancient murals and statues. Next on the list is the majestic Gurudwara Patthar Sahib, nestled deep in the Himalayas. It was constructed by the Lamas of Leh in 1517 to honour the visit of Guru Nanak Dev - the founder of the Sikh faith. Drive another few kilometers to witness the magic of Magnetic Hill that defies the law of gravity. It has been noticed that when a vehicle is parked on neutral gear on this metallic road, it seems to slide uphill! Driving through a picturesque landscape, reach the confluence of the Indus and Zanskar Rivers. Proceed back to Hotel via same route. Dinner and overnight stay at Hotel in Leh.
Distance: 125 Kms | Drive: 5-6 hours | Khardung La: 18,380 ft / 5,550 meters. Morning drive to Nubra Valley, driving over the highest motorable pass in the world. The exciting journey through serpentine roads leads to Khardung La Pass at an awesome height of 5,550 meters - also known as K TOP. Stop at the pass to admire and click photographs of the fantastic view. The valley is situated on an old caravan route at the confluence of the Shayok and Nubra rivers. On the way visit the charming valley of Deskit - the tiny capital of Nubra. Visit Deskit Gompa, perched on a rocky spur above the village, with a commanding view of the entire valley. At Deskit Monastery you will visit the impressive 106-feet high statue of Maitreya Buddha atop the hill. The monastery has intriguing images of many deities. From Deskit drive to Hunder past an area of sand dunes and get acquainted with the famous Bactrian camels - small population of shaggy double-humped animals. In the old days, these were used as pack animals on the Central Asian Trade routes and are now used as riding animals in the high deserts (camel ride optional, on direct payment). Dinner and overnight in camp/hotel at Nubra.
Distance: 165 Kms | Drive: 5-6 hours | Pangong Lake: 14,500 ft. After breakfast at camp/hotel drive to next destination Pangong Lake (situated at 14,500 ft above sea level) via Shayok route, continuing to Tang Tse and Spangmik (Pangong). This is a shortcut and it is a beautiful route. The road follows the Shayok River, climbs up a mountain before finally descending into Shayok village. Takes less than an hour to reach Shayok, and you will be delighted at the sight of the rather big village surrounded by barren mountains, the entire setting being very picturesque. Afternoon reach Pangong Lake - the famous high-altitude lake spanning India and China. The lake is 134 km long with crystal clear brackish water that changes colors throughout the day. Enjoy the stunning beauty of this spectacular lake. Dinner and overnight stay in camp at Pangong.
Distance: 160 Kms | Drive: 5-6 hours | Changla Pass: 5,486 meters. Get up early morning to witness the breathtaking sunrise view at the lake. The play of light and colors on the water is mesmerizing. Enjoy breakfast and drive back to Leh via Changla Pass at 5,486 meters - one of the highest motorable passes in the world. The journey offers spectacular views of the Himalayas and the Changthang plateau. Arrive Leh and check-in at hotel. Evening free for shopping at the local market or leisure. You can explore the bustling Leh market for souvenirs, local handicrafts, pashmina shawls, and Tibetan artifacts. Dinner and overnight stay at Hotel in Leh.
After breakfast, checkout from hotel. Transfer to Kushok Bakula Airport to board the flight towards your onward journey. Take home wonderful memories of Ladakh's magnificent monasteries, high mountain passes, pristine lakes, and the unique culture of this Himalayan wonderland.