Ladakh Extravaganza with Kashmir

After breakfast, embark on a full-day adventure to Gulmarg, renowned as Kashmir's most picturesque hill station. In the summer, it's famed for its stunning golf course, the highest in the world, and during winter, it transforms into a playground for adventure skiing enthusiasts. Experience the breathtaking scenery and exhilarating activities that make Gulmarg a must-visit destination. Take a thrilling Gondola ride (cable car) from Gulmarg to Khalinmarg, offering panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks and verdant landscapes. Return to Srinagar in the evening and spend the night aboard your houseboat.

Set out for Sonamarg—the "Meadow of Gold"—with a departure from Srinagar timed according to road conditions. This journey will take you through the breathtaking Sindh Valley, a gem in Kashmir’s countryside. The Sindhu Valley, the largest tributary of the Kashmir Valley, unveils its stunning landscapes as you drive through, showcasing another remarkable facet of the region’s natural beauty.

Drive to Kargil the road passes through the panoramic village reach Sonamarg (2740 Mtrs). The gateway to Ladakh. As you drive, the landscape transforms, offering a glimpse into the harsh beauty of this high-altitude region. Arrive in Drass, known as the second coldest inhabited place in the world, and continue your journey for another two and a half hours to reach Kargil (2,710 meters). Kargil gained prominence after Ladakh opened to tourists in 1974 and is now a key stop on the route. Enjoy a hearty dinner and unwind with an overnight stay at your hotel in Kargil.

After an early breakfast in Kargil, set off towards Leh, with an exciting day of exploration ahead. On your route, visit the serene monasteries of Mulbekh and Lamayuru, known for their stunning landscapes and ancient heritage. Experience the dramatic Moon Landscape, a unique terrain shaped by natural forces. Pass through the majestic Namkila and Fotu La Passes, with Fotu La being the highest pass on the Srinagar-Leh road. Continue your journey and stop at the 1000-year-old Alchi Monastery, the only gompa situated on flat ground in Ladakh. Next, visit the spectacular confluence of the Indus and Zanskar rivers at Sangam. As you drive along the Indus River, you'll have the chance to see the intriguing Pathar Sahib Gurdwara and the Magnetic Hill, where vehicles appear to defy gravity. Finally, arrive in Leh and explore the Hall of Fame, which houses a museum dedicated to the Kargil War. Enjoy a delicious dinner and settle in for an overnight stay at your hotel in Leh.

After a leisurely breakfast, embark on a visit to the stunning Thiksey Monastery, perched on a hill with breathtaking views of the Indus Valley. Thiksey is renowned for its imposing seated statue of the Maitreya Buddha and its Dukhang (assembly hall), which houses hundreds of intricately bound prayer books. Return to Leh, passing a series of chortens, to explore the Shey Palace, the former summer residence of the Ladakhi king. Next, head to the Shanti Stupa, a serene Buddhist white-domed stupa on a hilltop in Changspa, built in 1991 by Japanese Buddhist Bhikshu Gyomyo Nakamura as part of the Peace Pagoda mission. Wrap up your sightseeing with a visit to Leh Palace, a historic royal residence overlooking Leh, constructed around 1600 by Sengge Namgyal. Return to your hotel in Leh for a restful overnight stay.

Begin your day with a drive to the stunning Nubra Valley, traversing the world’s highest motorable pass, Khardungla Pass, standing at a breathtaking 5,550 meters. Pause at the pass to marvel at the panoramic views and snap some memorable photographs. Descend into the Nubra Valley, nestled at the confluence of the Shayok and Nubra rivers and once an important caravan route. Visit the charming town of Diskit, the heart of Nubra, and explore the Diskit Gompa, dramatically situated on a rocky outcrop. From here, admire the 106-foot-high statue of Maitreya Buddha, which overlooks the valley and discover the monastery’s intriguing deity images. Continue to Hunder, where you’ll encounter the famous sand dunes of Nubra. Meet the unique Bactrian camels—shaggy, double-humped creatures once used as pack animals on ancient trade routes and now offering rides in this high-desert landscape. Enjoy a camel ride at Hunder (available on a direct payment basis). Return to your camp or hotel in Nubra Valley for dinner and an overnight stay.

Embark on one of Ladakh's most intriguing journeys to Turtuk, a recently opened and less-traveled destination that promises stunning scenery and rich cultural experiences. As you travel through this less-frequented area, you'll be greeted by awe-inspiring mountain ranges and quaint villages. Turtuk is a unique border village that was recaptured by the Indian Army in 1971 and is now under the protection of the Ladakh Scouts, a special unit of the Indian Army. This village is not only a strategic location but also a community with strong connections across the Line of Control, where locals engage in farming, growing vegetables and apricots, and providing mules and porters. Discover the captivating history of Turtuk—a place that, on the night of December 13, 1971, was part of Pakistan and the next morning found itself in India. Listen to local villagers share their stories about this remote northwest corner of Ladakh, which was once part of Baltistan in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. After a full day of exploration, return to the Nubra Valley for the evening. Enjoy dinner and relax with an overnight stay at your camp or hotel in Nubra.

After breakfast at your camp or hotel, set off towards the stunning Pangong Lake, situated at an altitude of 14,500 feet. You'll take a scenic route through Shayok, Tang Tse, and Spangmik, which offers a breathtaking shortcut to your destination. The drive follows the Shayok River, winding through rugged terrain and climbing up a mountain before descending into the picturesque Shayok village. The journey takes less than an hour, leading you to this charming village nestled among barren mountains, providing a visually captivating experience. Arrive at Pangong Lake in the afternoon and spend your day soaking in the lake's mesmerizing beauty. The expansive blue waters against the backdrop of the stark, towering mountains make for an unforgettable sight. Return to your camp by the lake for dinner and a relaxing overnight stay.

Rise early to catch the breathtaking sunrise over Pangong Lake, as the first light paints the sky and the tranquil waters shimmer with hues of gold and pink. After savoring a hearty breakfast, embark on your return journey to Leh. Travel back via the impressive Chang La Pass at 5,486 meters, one of the highest motorable passes in the world. Upon arrival in Leh, check in at your hotel and unwind after the drive. Enjoy your evening at leisure, exploring local shops or simply relaxing. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel will cap off your day.