Best of Leh-Ladakh (7N/8D)
Journey to the world’s highest Motorable Pass
Welcome to Leh, the heart of Ladakh. Upon arrival at Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (IXL), our representative will warmly welcome you and transfer you to the hotel. Enjoy a welcome drink on arrival.
As Leh is situated at a high altitude, the rest of the day is reserved for acclimatization. We strongly recommend complete rest to allow your body to adjust to the thin air of the Himalayas.
By evening, visit Shanti Stupa, built by the Japanese Buddhist community to promote world peace and commemorate 2,500 years of Buddhism. Later, explore the historic Leh Palace, a 17th-century royal residence built by King Sengge Namgyal, which offers panoramic views of Leh town.
• Travel: Airport to Hotel Transfer
• Overnight Stay: Hotel in Leh
• Meals: Dinner
Today, explore the beautiful Sham Valley region. Visit the Hall of Fame, a museum maintained by the Indian Army in memory of soldiers who sacrificed their lives in Indo-Pak wars.
Proceed to Gurudwara Pathar Sahib, a revered Sikh shrine, followed by a stop at Magnetic Hill, known for its unique optical illusion. Witness the spectacular confluence at Indus–Zanskar Sangam, where two distinct rivers merge.
Later, visit the ancient Alchi Monastery, renowned for its 11th-century murals and Kashmiri-influenced Buddhist artwork.
• Travel: ≈140 km, 6-7 hrs.
• Overnight Stay: Hotel in Leh
• Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Begin early for the scenic drive to Nubra Valley via the legendary Khardung La, one of the highest motorable passes in the world. Enjoy breathtaking mountain views and short photo stops at South Pullu.
Descend into Nubra Valley and continue to Sumur village. Visit Samstanling Monastery, known for its serene setting and spiritual ambiance.
• Travel: ≈120 km, 5-6 hrs.
• Overnight Stay: Resort/Camp in Nubra
• Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
After breakfast, visit Diskit Monastery, home to the giant Maitreya Buddha statue overlooking the valley. Enjoy a Bactrian Camel Ride at Hunder Sand Dunes. Proceed to Pangong via the adventurous Agham–Shyok route. Though certain stretches may be rough, the journey is incredibly scenic.
Arrive at Pangong Lake (14,270 ft.), a stunning high-altitude saltwater lake stretching across India and China. Spend the evening admiring the magical sunset as the lake changes shades of blue.
• Travel: ≈150 km, 6-7 hrs.
• Overnight Stay: Camp at Pangong
• Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
After sunrise at Pangong, begin your journey towards Hanle via the remote and scenic Changthang plateau. Pass through Merak, Chushul (permit check), Rezang La region, and Tsaga.
Arrive in Hanle (14,760 ft), a peaceful Himalayan village known for clear night skies. Visit Hanle Monastery and see the famous Indian Astronomical Observatory (outer view), one of the highest astronomical observatories in the world.
• Travel: ≈170 km, 6-7 hrs.
• Overnight Stay: Guesthouse in Hanle
• Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Start early from Hanle for an adventurous ride to Umling La, the world’s highest motorable pass.
Ride through one of the most remote and high-altitude regions of Ladakh, with vast barren landscapes, endless roads, and almost no human presence. As you gain altitude, experience the thrill and challenge of riding at extreme heights.
Reach Umling La (19,024 ft.), capture the iconic summit moments, and celebrate this once-in-a-lifetime achievement. Spend limited time at the top due to low oxygen levels.
Later, ride back to Hanle by afternoon. Relax and recover after an intense high-altitude day. Enjoy a peaceful evening, and if the weather permits, witness a stunning stargazing experience.
• Travel: ≈150 km, 6-7 hrs.
• Altitude: 19,024 ft. (Highest Motorable Pass)
• Overnight Stay: Guesthouse in Hanle
• Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Start early for the scenic drive back to Leh via Mahe Bridge and Chumathang, famous for natural hot sulphur springs along the Indus River.
The route offers mesmerizing river valleys, dramatic mountains, and peaceful landscapes. Reach Leh by evening and enjoy leisure time for café hopping or shopping.
• Travel: ≈260 km, 7-8 hrs.
• Overnight Stay: Hotel in Leh
• Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
After breakfast, transfer to Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport for your onward journey.
The tour concludes with unforgettable memories of Ladakh’s high mountain passes, serene monasteries, pristine lakes, and remote Himalayan landscapes.
• Travel: Hotel to Airport Transfer
• Meals: Breakfast
