Witness nature at its finest and purest form in Ladakh; truly a gem in the crown of India. Also called the land of high passes, it is a dream come true for anyone who is taken over by wanderlust. With high mountains standing guard, the region has been blessed with an abundance of natural vistas. From rugged terrain and barren mountains to pristine lakes and snow-capped peaks, every element will take you by awe. Breathe in the unpolluted mountain air, and feel your body and soul being rejuvenated. With its beauty, Ladakh will make you never want to leave its borders.

On this incredible tour, visit the famous Leh Palace, which used to be the residence of the monarchs of the region till the 19th century. Enjoy unobstructed views of snow-bound peaks and the Indus Valley from Shanti Stupa. Explore the local market looking for handcrafted souvenirs to buy and take along. Also, visit Shey Palace, Thiksey gompa and Hemis Monastery to learn about the history and culture of the followers of Buddhism. Learn interesting facts about the royalties of Ladakh at the Stok Palace museum, and discover calm at Sindhu Ghat.

A trip to Pangong Tso, the lake featured in the popular movie, 3 Idiots, is also included for visiting in this itinerary. Enjoy a picturesque drive to Khardung La, named among the highest motorable roads in the world.

Itinerary:

Day 01: Arrival in Leh | Local Sightseeing
Post arrival at Leh Kushok Bakula Rinpoche Airport, transfer to the hotel. Spend the rest of the day at leisure, and get used to the cold weather and high altitude of the region. In the evening, visit some of the major tourist attractions near the city. Built in the 17th century as the royal residence of King Sengge Namgyal, Leh Palace sits atop Namgyal Hill. Enjoy panoramic views of the picturesque surroundings from here.

With a mission to promote world peace, Shanti Stupa was built by Japanese and Ladakhi monks from 1985 to 1991. The white-domed structure is famous for the religious significance it holds. However, tourists also flock this destination because of the scenic views commanded from up here. Post this incredible sightseeing venture, explore the local markets for memorabilia and gifts to take back home. Later, enjoy an overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 2: Sightseeing in and around Leh
Have a hearty breakfast embark on a journey to explore the local attractions near the city. The list includes Shey Palace, Thiksey gompa, Hemis Monastery, the Stok Palace museum and Sindhu Ghat. Situated about 15 kilometers from Leh, the magnificent Shey Palace was built by King Deldan Namgyal in mid 17th century. The site currently runs as a religious centre of Buddhism, where nearly a hundred monks reside. The huge statue of Lord Buddha established here is the centre of attraction.

Resembling the Potala Palace in Tibet, Thiksey gompa is located at an altitude of more than 3500 metres. The monastery is one of the largest in Ladakh, and it exhibits various items belonging to the Tibetan Buddhist belief system. With majestic mountains framing this 15th century structure, it is nestled amidst one of most captivating surroundings in the world.

Furthermore, explore the widely known Hemis Monastery, and see the towering sculpture of Padmasambhava inside its main hall. This vibrantly colourful Tibetan-style complex is one of the largest and richest monasteries in the region. Admire the royal antiquities, such as ancient copper coins, family heirlooms and royal crowns, exhibited in the insightful Stok Palace museum. Also, get to know about the life and teachings of Lord Buddha from the 16th century thangkas showcased here.

Following a visit to the museum, proceed towards your next destination, which is Sindhu Ghat. Around 10 kilometres upstream, the Indus or Sindhu River is the tranquil setting of this scenic beach. After a long day of sightseeing, enjoy an overnight stay at the hotel back in the city.

Day 03: Leh – Pangong Tso – Leh
Have an early breakfast, and thereafter set out for a journey towards Pangong Tso via Chang La; notable as it is among the highest motorable roads in the world.

With a length of over 100 kilometres, the azure waters of Pangong Tso span across India and Tibet. The sunrays falling upon the surface of the lake create a visual effect of various beautiful colours. Aside from being an epitome of natural wonder in terms of beauty, the area around the lake is also home to a number of bird species. Spend a few serene hours here, and later head back to Leh. On reaching here, enjoy an overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 04: Leh – Khardung La – Leh
Following breakfast, embark on a drive to Khardung La, one of the highest drivable roads on earth. The 40-kilometre journey is truly scenic, with awe-inspiring views of the valley and winding paths running past you. Later, drive back to Leh and spend the rest of the day exploring the local markets. Thereafter, enjoy an overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 05: Departure from Leh
In the morning, transfer to the airport to board the flight to your next destination.