Iconic Ladakh
- Ladakh
Durations
13 Days
Difficulty
Moderate
Enjoy the Adventure
Embark on a spectacular journey from the lush valleys of Manali to the rugged highlands of Ladakh. This adventure takes you across iconic Himalayan routes like Rohtang, Baralacha La, and Khardung La, each revealing dramatic shifts in terrain — from pine forests to barren mountains and glittering rivers. With acclimatization halts at Manali and Jispa, the trip builds up to the grandeur of Leh, the heart of Ladakh.
Continue beyond Leh to experience Nubra Valley’s surreal sand dunes and the calm turquoise expanse of Pangong Tso. Visit remote monasteries, ancient trade villages like Turtuk, and witness a way of life preserved in time. Each day balances thrill with comfort, ensuring you capture the essence of the Himalayas — where every turn of the road tells a story of adventure, serenity, and timeless beauty.
Day-to-Day Itinerary
We have carefully planned out each day to give you the best possible experience. From exploring historic landmarks to tasting delicious local cuisine, each day is packed with adventure and excitement. Join us as we take you on a journey through some of the most fascinating destinations in the world.
Distance Covered: ~300 km
Time Taken: 7–9 hours
Route: NH205 & NH3
Terrain: Plains transitioning to winding mountain roads
Arrive at Chandigarh Airport (IXL) and commence the drive towards Manali. The journey gradually leaves the plains, following the Beas River into the Kullu Valley. This initial drive serves as a gentle introduction to the Himalayan environment.
Night Stay: Manali (Hotel/Guesthouse) – Altitude: ~2,050m / 6,726 ft.
Altitude: ~2,050m / 6,726 ft
Activity: Light, local exploration
Transport: Local cab, self-driven car, or motorcycle
A critical rest day for acclimatization before ascending to higher altitudes. Options include visiting the Hadimba Devi Temple, Vashisht hot springs, or exploring the cafes of Old Manali. Ideal for final vehicle checks and securing supplies.
Night Stay: Manali (Hotel/Guesthouse).
Distance Covered: ~140 km
Time Taken: 5–7 hours
High Point: Rohtang Pass (3,978m) or Atal Tunnel (3,000m)
Terrain: High-altitude mountain pass, steep ascents/descents
Begin the true high-altitude journey via Rohtang Pass (weather permitting) or Atal Tunnel into the starkly beautiful Lahaul Valley. Jispa, a quiet settlement on the Bhaga River, is key for further acclimatization.
Night Stay: Jispa (Hotel/Camp) – Altitude: ~3,200m / 10,500 ft.
Distance Covered: ~335 km
Time Taken: 10–12 hours
High Passes: Baralacha La (4,890m), Nakee La (4,739m), Lachulung La (5,059m), Tanglang La (5,328m)
Cross four major high passes with highlights like Suraj Tal, Gata Loops (21 bends), and the Morey Plains (40 km plateau). Descend from Tanglang La into the Indus Valley towards Leh.
Night Stay: Leh (Hotel/Guesthouse) – Altitude: ~3,500m / 11,500 ft.
Altitude: ~3,500m / 11,500 ft
Activity: Minimal; focus on hydration and rest
Full day of rest for altitude adaptation; strenuous activity is discouraged. A gentle walk through Leh market is advisable.
Night Stay: Leh (Hotel/Guesthouse).
Transport: Local cab or self-driven vehicle
Focus: Exploring key historical landmarks
Visit Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, and monasteries of Shey and Thiksey. Obtain Inner Line Permits for Nubra Valley and Pangong Tso.
Night Stay: Leh (Hotel/Guesthouse).
Distance Covered: ~205 km
Time Taken: 6–8 hours
High Pass: Khardung La (5,359m / 17,582 ft)
Terrain: High pass followed by steep descent into the Shyok Valley
Drive north via Khardung La into Nubra Valley, continuing to Turtuk, a unique Balti village. Offers a glimpse into local culture and a view of the Line of Control (LoC).
Night Stay: Turtuk (Homestay/Guesthouse) – Altitude: ~2,800m / 9,186 ft.
Distance Covered: ~85 km
Time Taken: 2–3 hours
Focus: Exploring Turtuk and the central Nubra Valley
Explore apricot orchards and traditional stone houses before driving to Hunder. Visit the high-altitude cold desert and see rare double-humped Bactrian camels.
Night Stay: Hunder/Diskit (Camp/Hotel) – Altitude: ~3,100m / 10,170 ft.
Activity: Local sightseeing
Focus: Relaxation and cultural immersion
Visit Diskit Monastery and the 32m-tall Maitreya Buddha statue with valley views. Leisure time for relaxation or exploration.
Night Stay: Hunder/Diskit (Camp/Hotel).
Distance Covered: ~165 km
Time Taken: 6–7 hours
Route: Agham–Shyok Road
Terrain: Adventurous route along riverbed, weather dependent
Take the scenic direct route to Pangong Tso via the Shyok River. Enjoy the surreal blue waters of the world-famous high-altitude lake.
Night Stay: Pangong Tso (Lakeside Camp/Homestay) – Altitude: ~4,250m / 13,943 ft.
Distance Covered: ~160 km
Time Taken: 5–7 hours
High Pass: Chang La (5,360m / 17,586 ft)
Terrain: High pass with steep ascent and descent
Witness sunrise over Pangong, then return to Leh via Chang La. Descend back into the Indus Valley by afternoon.
Night Stay: Leh (Hotel/Guesthouse).
Focus: Leisure, shopping, contingency planning
Buffer day for potential road delays or last-minute shopping. Relax and prepare for the journey home.
Night Stay: Leh (Hotel/Guesthouse).
Activity: Airport transfer
Transfer to Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (IXL). Enjoy a breathtaking aerial panorama of the Himalayas and Karakoram ranges.
Inclusions
We plan for all stays and meals. We arrange, if required, for accomodation on a twin-sharing or single basis, Inner Line Permits and associated fees, a basic First Aid Kit for fixed departures, certified guides and instructors including NOLS-certified guides, mechanic support throughout the trip.
Exclusions
5% GST, personal expenses, insurance, fines or servicing costs, activities additional to what has been planned for, extra costs arising from delays or breakdowns, and anything not specifically included as per customized final plan.
