Day 1: Arrival at Leh Kushok Bakula Airport
Your journey begins with your arrival at Leh Kushok Bakula Airport, where you'll be greeted and transferred to your hotel. As Leh is located at an altitude of over 11,000 feet, it's essential to spend the day acclimatizing. After resting, explore Leh town at your leisure in the afternoon. A walk through the old town, beneath the Leh Palace, is an ideal way to get a feel for the place and the culture. The sights of the Zanskar range and the spiritual charm of the nearby monasteries will immediately captivate you.
Day 2: Indus Valley Monasteries Tour
After breakfast, embark on a full-day tour of the Indus Valley monasteries. The day's journey will take you through some of the region's most historical and culturally significant monasteries, offering you a glimpse of Ladakh's Buddhist heritage.
- Shey Palace: Once the summer palace of the Ladakh Kings, this palace is home to the largest Sakyamuni Buddha statue.
- Thiksey Monastery: Known for its grand architecture and the two-story statue of Maitreya Buddha, this is a must-see.
- Hemis Monastery: The largest and most famous monastery in Ladakh, Hemis is known for its rich cultural festivals and its extensive collection of thankas.
Return to your hotel in Leh for a restful evening.
Day 3: Leh – Chumathang – Tsomoriri
On Day 3, begin your drive towards Tsomoriri Lake, with a stop at Chumathang for its renowned hot springs. Many visitors take a dip in these springs for their supposed medicinal properties. Continue the drive to reach Tsomoriri, a serene high-altitude lake that stretches 28 km in length.
Upon arrival, you will be mesmerized by the blue waters of Tsomoriri Lake, surrounded by snow-capped mountains. This lake is also a breeding ground for several species of migratory birds, such as the bar-headed goose and brown-headed gulls.
Spend the night in a deluxe camp by the lake, enjoying the calm and peace of this stunning natural wonder.
Day 4: Explore Tsomoriri and Korzok Village
Wake up to the sound of birds and the stillness of Tsomoriri Lake. After breakfast, take time to explore the nearby Korzok Village, one of the highest settlements in the world. The village is home to an ancient gompa and barley fields cultivated at this extreme altitude.
In the afternoon, enjoy a walk along the shores of Tsomoriri Lake, taking in the magnificent views and rich wildlife. Dinner and an overnight stay will be in your lakeside camp.
Day 5: Tsomoriri – Puga – Tsokar – Leh
Start early for a long drive back to Leh, making stops at Puga Valley, known for its natural geothermal springs, and Tsokar Lake, also known as the White Lake due to its salt deposits. Tsokar Lake is a favorite spot for birdwatchers, and you may spot some wild asses (kiangs) grazing nearby.
Afterward, continue your drive over the Tanglangla Pass, one of the highest motorable roads in the world. Arrive in Leh by evening, where you’ll check into your hotel for a relaxing night.
Day 6: Leh Local Monasteries
Today’s itinerary focuses on the local monasteries around Leh. Visit Spituk Gompa, one of the oldest monasteries in the region, and Phyang Monastery, known for its striking wall paintings and peaceful atmosphere.
In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk around Leh Bazaar, Leh Palace, and the nearby Leh Mosque.
Day 7: Leh – Pangong Lake – Leh
A 6-hour drive will take you to Pangong Lake, the largest brackish water lake in Asia. Its vibrant blue waters are a stunning sight, and visitors often spend hours gazing at the changing colors of the lake. You’ll drive past Changla Pass, offering incredible views of the Himalayas.
After spending the day at Pangong Lake, head back to Leh in the evening.
Day 8: Monasteries Around Leh
On your second-last day, explore more of Leh’s Buddhist monasteries. Start with a visit to Stok Monastery, followed by Matho Monastery, which is famous for its Matho Nagrang Festival. Both monasteries offer a deep dive into Ladakh’s Buddhist culture.
Return to your hotel for a peaceful evening in Leh.
Day 9: Departure from Leh
On the final day, enjoy a relaxed breakfast before being transferred to Kushok Bakula Airport for your departure flight. As you fly over the Himalayas, the unforgettable memories of this magical tour will stay with you forever.
