Tour overview
Ladakh, often called "Little Tibet" or "Land of High Passes," offers a spectacular high-altitude desert landscape dotted with ancient Buddhist monasteries, dramatic mountain ranges, and remote villages. This adventurous destination provides a unique cultural experience with its Indo-Tibetan heritage, stunning vistas, and challenging terrain, making it perfect for travelers seeking both spiritual insight and outdoor adventures away from conventional tourist circuits.
Day 1: Arrival in Leh and Acclimatization
Fly into Leh (3,500m) and transfer to hotel. Full day rest for acclimatization to high altitude. Short evening walk to Leh Market and Leh Palace viewpoint.
Day 2: Leh Monastery Tour
Visit Thiksey Monastery with its resemblance to Potala Palace in Tibet, morning prayer ceremonies and panoramic views. Continue to Hemis Monastery, the largest and wealthiest monastery in Ladakh. Afternoon visit to Shey Palace and Druk White Lotus School (featured in "3 Idiots" movie).
Day 3: Pangong Lake Excursion
Full day excursion to Pangong Lake (4-5 hours drive). Cross Chang La Pass (17,688 ft) and enjoy the spectacular blue waters of this high-altitude lake featured in many Bollywood films. Return to Leh by evening.
Day 4: Nubra Valley via Khardung La
Drive to Nubra Valley crossing Khardung La Pass (18,380 ft), one of the world's highest motorable roads. Afternoon visit to Diskit Monastery with its giant Buddha statue. Evening camel safari on Bactrian (double-humped) camels across sand dunes at Hunder.
Day 5: Nubra Valley Exploration
Visit Sumur and Panamik hot springs. Experience local culture at Samstanling Monastery. Drive back to Leh by evening.
Day 6: Rafting and Local Culture
Morning white-water rafting experience on the Zanskar River (seasonal). Afternoon visit to Magnetic Hill, Gurudwara Pathar Sahib, and confluence of Indus and Zanskar rivers. Evening exploration of Leh Market for souvenirs like prayer wheels, thangkas, and Ladakhi handicrafts.
Day 7: Departure
Morning visit to Spituk Monastery overlooking the Indus Valley before departure.