Take a break from the complexities of life and spend some days full of tranquillity in the land of high passes, Ladakh. Bestowed with diverse gifts from nature, the region is one of a kind. A quiet district in the northernmost state of India, Jammu and Kashmir, it is one of those destinations that a globetrotter cannot afford to miss. Seemingly infinite expanse of sparse and barren mountains, brackish lakes that look surreal and verdant valleys comprise the unique topography of Ladakh. When here, do not miss out on visiting Leh Palace, the former residence of royals of the region.

The splendid Shanti Stupa is also a must-see tourist attraction in the region. Promoting world peace, the secluded structure teaches about the Buddhist ideas of love and compassion. While ambling around in the local markets, you might stumble upon an interesting item to buy. Go on a sightseeing expedition to visit Shey Palace, Thiksey gompa and Hemis Monastery. Experience profound serenity at Sindhu Ghat, which is essentially the bank of the Indus River. A visit to one of the highest motorable roads in world, Khardung La, is also on the list of things to do.

Itinerary:

Day 01: Arrival in Leh | Local Sightseeing
Arrive at Leh Kushok Bakula Rinpoche Airport, and transfer to the hotel. Spend the rest of the day getting accustomed to high altitude and change in weather.

In the evening, head out to explore the city. Climb up Namgyal Hill to reach the ruins of Leh Palace. Built in the 17th century to serve as the royal residence of King Sengge Namgyal, this grand structure exudes a quaint charm. Breathtaking views of the Ladakh and Zanskar Mountain Ranges can be enjoyed from the terrace of the site.

Sitting at the summit of a hill, Shanti Stupa was constructed by Japanese and Ladakhi monks between 1983 and 1991. It was built to propagate the idea of world peace. A panorama of the surrounding natural features can be viewed from here. You can purchase souvenirs or gifts for friends and family at the local market. Later, enjoy an overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 02: Sightseeing Around Leh
Following a hearty breakfast, set out to explore the tourist attractions of the region. Start with the 17th century Shey Palace, built by King Deldan Namgyal as his summer residence. The palace now houses a monastery where skilfully painted murals can be seen. A statue of Lord Buddha whose height reaches up to three floors of the building is its highlight.

Next, visit Thiksey gompa, a 12-storey complex that bears a resemblance to the Potala Palace of Tibet. Located at an altitude of more than 11480 metres, the monastery houses a number of items of the Buddhist belief system, including thangkas, stupas and statues. The large Maitreya (future Buddha) statue established here reaches up to two storeys in height. Located on the western bank of the Indus River, Hemis Monastery is nearly 50 kilometres from Leh. Visit the establishment to admire the mesmerising environs and get an insight into the lives of Buddhist monks.

Stok Palace, once the residence of the Ladakh royals, was built in the 19th century by the last ruler of the region. Out of its 80 rooms, merely five are open to public. Copper coins, royal seals, precious crowns and jewellery are on display here. Visit this insightful museum before proceeding to Sindhu Ghat.

Around 10 kilometres upstream the Indus River, also known as Sindhu, you come across the immensely peaceful Sindhu Ghat. The bank is one of the major tourist attractions of Ladakh. Sindhu is among the seven sacred Indian rivers as per Hindu beliefs. The unique landscape created by the river, flowing against a backdrop of magnificent mountains and vivid greenery, is truly an enchanting vista. After the excursion, drive back to the hotel in Leh for an overnight stay.

Day 03: Leh – Khardung La – Leh
Following a hearty breakfast, drive to one of the highest motorable roads in the world, Khardung La. Located at an altitude of about 18000 feet, the road is a must-see attraction when visiting Ladakh.
As you are free for the rest of the day, spend it as per your preference. Indulge in shopping at the local markets or get some rest. Later, enjoy an overnight stay at the hotel in Leh.

Day 04: Departure from Leh
Early in the morning, check-out from the hotel and transfer to the airport to board the flight to your next destination.