Overview
Famed as ‘Land of High Passes’, Ladakh is one of the most popular destinations of India that still has an air of mystery around it. Famed for its captivating landscapes and wonderful monasteries, Ladakh is a must-visit destination for all-nature lovers or adventure enthusiasts. Discover Best of Ladakh by Tourism of India, a well-planned tour of 7 nights and 8 days offers you a chance to visit the most sought-after attractions of the region.
Highlights
- Sightseeing at Indus Valley including Nimu.
- Camel Safari ride in the white sand dunes at Nubra.
- Shopping for souvenirs in popular Leh markets
- Camping and Bird watching at Pangong Lake
Itinerary
Go on-board a flight to Leh from Delhi airport. As you arrive at the airport of Leh, our tour representative meets you and offers an assisted transfer to the hotel. After reaching, complete the check-in formalities at the hotel. Now the day is at leisure but schedule the day to get acclimatized to the high altitudes of Leh, around 3542 m. The enchanting Leh town, one of the prime tourist attractions of India, boasts of a vivid landscape and engrossing culture. In the evening, visit to the local markets of Leh. Overnight stay.
On day 2, get all set to visit Indus Valley and explore its prime attractions. While driving from Leh to Indus Valley, drive past Magnetic Hill- one of the wonders of the Himalayas. Just before the Indus valley, visit the Nimu valley-famed for its barren yet enchanting landscape. If the weather permits, try your hand at rafting in River Indus. The next visit is to Pathar Sahib Gurudwara, lying on Leh-Nimu road. This Gurudwara has been built to commemorate the visit of Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikh religion to this region. Indus valley is not only known for its scenic beauty but also for offering excellent adventure opportunities. Back to Leh for overnight stay.
Today visit the tri-armed Nubra Valley, tucked away on the north-eastern side of Ladakh. One of the most popular tourist destinations of Ladakh, Nubra Valley is dotted with a number of attractions. On arrival, check-in at a guest house/hotel. Later leave for sightseeing. Do not miss taking a camel safari on the Hunder sand dunes. Hop-on to the backs of double-humped camels to explore the surrounding scenery. The next visit is to Panamik village that has hot water sulphur springs. You can also visit the Diskit Monastery/Diskit Gompa- the oldest and the largest monastery of Nubra. Overnight stay.
On the 4th day of the tour, in the morning Samstanling Monastery-this 19th century monastery is placed in an extremely serene ambiance. Later, begin your drive back to Leh. Drive past Khardung La, touted as the highest motorable road in the world. As you reach Leh, complete the check-in formalities at the hotel. The day is at leisure. Indulge in the activities of your interest. Explore the nearby surroundings on your own. Relish sumptuous delicacies of the local cuisines. Interact with the locals to know more about their culture. Overnight in Leh.
Day 5 is for visiting the serene environs of Pangong Lake, also known as Pangong Tso. You drive past the high mountain pass of Chang La, placed at an altitude of 5360 m above the sea level. While driving towards the lake, drive through Durnuk and Tangtse villages and witness the daily activities of the locals of Changthang region. Afternoon arrival at the Pangong Lake. Set your camps here. The views around the lake are extremely enchanting and soothing. Spot colorful birds on the banks of Pangong. Do visit the local village in the vicinity to known about the local culture of Leh region. Stay overnight in tents.
It is advisable that you get out of bed early for clicking some memorable pictures. Early mornings near the lake offer some lifetime views that must be captured in the camera. Later, begin your drive back to Leh. Upon arrival in Leh, check-into the hotel, followed by sightseeing. The list of tourist attractions of Leh includes Shanti Stupa- a white-domed Buddhist stupa on a hilltop offering panoramic views, Leh Palace- the former royal palace built during the 17th century; Hall of Fame Museum- founded and managed by the Army in the memory of war heroes. Stay overnight
The 7th day of the tour is for visiting the popular monasteries of Leh including Thiksey, Hemis, Spituk, Shey and Stakna. Each of them is not only a spiritual centre but also an architectural marvel. While Thiksey boasts of being the largest monastery in the central Ladakh region, Hemis is believed to be the largest and wealthiest monastery in Leh. The next one is Spituk monastery. Founded during the 11 century, this Gompa is placed in a hilltop, offering nice views of the Indus. Shey is another popular monastery with huge copper and gilded gold statue of seated Shakyamuni Buddha being its most striking feature. Lastly visit Stakna monastery that belongs to Drugpa Buddhist sect and is home to around 30 monks. Overnight in Leh.
On the last day of your Discover Best of Ladakh tour, get an assisted transfer to the Leh Airport to board flight for Delhi