The Ultimate 10-Days Ladakh Itinerary!

Julley! 🙂 (It means Hello in Ladakh)

Ladakh is a slice of heaven on earth and a dream destination for many travelers. If you have not visited Ladakh, you have not done justice to yourself as a traveler. Pack your bags, Ladakh is calling! This place is not to be missed in this lifetime!

If you are reading this, trust me either you have already been to this magical land or it’s on your wish list.

We traveled in September, it’s a great time to visit this amazing place to experience the beauty at its peak since the monsoons have ended and the skies are clear, the lakes are super blue and it is less crowded compared to earlier months. One can enjoy the incredible beauty of Ladakh peacefully as well as get good deals on the commute and stay.

Food items which are a must try in Ladakh are Butter Tea, Thukpa, Momos, Yak Cheese Pizza, Tibetan meals cooked by the hospitable hosts for their guests in the homestays. The homemade Ladakhi beer is worth a shot too.

Route followed: Leh, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri, Leh, Nubra Valley, Leh, Kargil, Sonamarg, Srinagar

Accommodations:

Leh:

We stayed at Seven Seas Guest House which has spacious neat rooms with attached bathroom and hot water facility, beautiful gardens with blooming flowers. The place is less than five minutes walk from the main market. We found very good reviews of this place online. Surprisingly, only a call was sufficient to reserve two rooms with no advance payment. The lady who owns this place is very sweet, soft-spoken, kind and had loads of stories to tell. 🙂

Pangong Tso:

We stayed at Spangmik Home Stay in Spangmik village. The village is located on the banks of Pangong Lake with few local families residing there. Our homestay was a small brick-walled home which kept us warm from the cold and windy night outside. The owners of the homestay served us hot home cooked Tibetan dinner which we had in their living room with the Buddhist chant ‘Om Mani Padme Hum’ playing in the background. It was a divine feeling amidst the chilling night.

Note: One can also stay at MarTseMik Camping Resort whose charges are more than Rs. 3,000 but during off season the camps are available at Rs. 1,000 per night.

Tso Moriri:

We stayed at Grand Dolphin Hotel which is a Buddhist homestay near the Tso Moriri Lake. They served us typical Tibetan dinner which we had in their lovely kitchen area. In my view, a Buddhist family’s kitchen area is a must visit place for every traveler.

Nubra Valley (Hunder):

We stayed at Happy Day Guest House which is at a walking distance from the Hunder sand dunes. It has nice, clean and spacious rooms with attached bathroom, cute little garden area and a big terrace from where stargazing can be done at night. They served us delicious vegetarian home cooked dinner which we had in their beautifully decorated kitchen area listening to their stories.

Kargil:

We stayed at the New International Guest House which has clean and spacious rooms, attached bathrooms, wifi facility and is very near to the main market.

Srinagar:

We stayed at the New Manhattan Houseboat at Ghat No. 3 in Dal Lake. The boathouse is luxurious with artistically designed interiors.

We had hired a Xylo for the entire trip which we shared with another couple. We had booked the Xylo before we started our trip. (Taxi rates are very high in Ladakh).

For Xylo – Contact – Mr. Lobsang Tsering. He is a very genuine, friendly and knowledgeable person who knows the roads of Ladakh in and out. Phone No. – 94192 69824, 97974 95764

We were lucky to get a good deal on flight tickets (Mumbai to Delhi, Delhi to Leh and return from Srinagar to Mumbai). It is advisable to set price alerts for cheap flight bookings.

Day Wise Itinerary:

Day 1:

Flight to Leh is a very unique and special experience because one can see the rows of majestic Himalayan ranges with snow-crowned peaks and valleys in between them. It is an amazing visual treat to see the whole canvas from the sky! We arrived at the Leh airport around 9:30 in the morning and were welcomed by the ever smiling Mr. Lobsang Tsering who was our driver and also the guide for the entire trip. 🙂

1. Shanti Stupa – A stunning white-domed Buddhist stupa offering panoramic views of Leh and the surrounding Himalayan ranges.
2. Leh Market – A vibrant market selling local handicrafts, souvenirs, and traditional Ladakhi attire.
3. Sankar Gompa – A peaceful monastery featuring an impressive statue of Avalokiteshvara, the Bodhisattva of compassion.
4. Spituk Monastery – A 15th-century monastery with stunning views of the Indus valley and home to ancient Buddhist artifacts.
5. Hall of Fame and Adventure Park near Hall of Fame – A museum showcasing the history of the Indian Army in Ladakh, and an adventure park offering activities such as zip-lining and rappelling.
6. Stok Monastery – A beautiful monastery known for its intricate architecture, ancient relics, and stunning murals.
7. Leh Palace – A historic palace built in the 17th century and once home to the royal family of Ladakh.
8. Namgyal Tsemo Castle – A 16th-century castle featuring ancient Buddhist scriptures, murals, and a towering statue of Maitreya Buddha.

Entire sightseeing was done in around 7 hours and we were free to do local city tour and shopping in the evening.

Night stay at Seven Seas Guest House at Leh.

Day 3:

The day began with an unexpected change in the initial plan! Change in plans is common here due to landslides, unseasonal rains etc. Our initial plan was to go to Nubra Valley, however, due to a Cycle Marathon, the road towards Nubra was closed so our driver suggested that we can go to Pangong Tso instead of Nubra from Leh.

On our way to Pangong Tso, we visited the following places:

1. Druk White Lotus School – It is also popularly known as Ranchos School. The place became popular due to its association with the Bollywood movie “3 Idiots”. It is to be noted that the school is closed for visitors on Sundays and remains open on weekdays till 6 pm. It is advisable to keep some time in hand while visiting it. One can also buy some memorabilia here, the proceeds of which go towards the education of poor children.
2. Thiksey Monastery – A magnificent 12-story complex featuring ancient Buddhist relics, murals, and a 49-foot-tall statue of Maitreya Buddha.
3. Stakna Monastery – A small yet charming monastery situated on a hilltop, featuring stunning views of the Indus valley and a unique architecture.
4. Chang La Top – A high-altitude pass in the Himalayas, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and the surrounding landscape, and a popular spot for photography (3rd highest motorable mountain pass in the world).

We had our lunch at a local Tibetan home in Tangste village. We were lucky to spot few Himalayan Marmots on the way to Pangong. Generally, they are considered to be very shy creatures and remain underground for half of the year.

We reached Pangong in the evening around 4 pm. It is the most beautiful lake I have seen in my life till now and is etched in our memories till now. We immersed ourselves in the beautiful sunset and evening photography. Pangong Lake too, just like Ranchos School, became very popular after the Bollywood movie “3 Idiots”. We were lucky to spot few Seagulls too.

Night stay at Tibetan Home Stay in Spangmik Village on the banks of Pangong Tso.

Day 4:

We watched the sunrise over the Pangong Lake next morning around 5-5.30 am and it was a marvelous sight! One has to experience it to believe it. The water at the shores of the lake had turned into ice in the morning. The sunrise at Pangong Lake is a photographers delight and is not to be missed at any cost!

Left for Tso Moriri after having breakfast at our homestay in Pangong Tso. Had our lunch at Upshi Restaurant on the way to Tso Moriri.

We visited many popular excursions on our way:

1. Chumathang Hot Springs – A natural hot spring located in Ladakh, India, known for its therapeutic benefits.
2. Tso Moriri Lake – A high-altitude lake located in the Ladakh region of India, known for its crystal clear water and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
3. Taglang La Pass – A high-altitude mountain pass in Ladakh, India, known for its challenging terrain and breathtaking views of the Himalayas.

We spotted nomadic herds of sheep, goats, yaks, wild asses, cows, migratory birds and beautiful flora-fauna on the way to Tso Moriri. Tso Moriri Lake is another gem in Ladakh picturesquely located in the secluded breathtakingly beautiful Rupsha Valley. During winters Tso Moriri Lake remains mostly frozen with no options to stay around the lake. September and early October is the best time to visit Tso Moriri to witness the full glory of beautiful shades of blue color. We loved gazing stars in the star-studded night sky. Tso Moriri was the coldest place in the entire trip.

Night stay at Dolphin Homestay at Tso Moriri.

Day 5:

Post breakfast and morning photography at Tso Moriri lake, we left for Leh, and had our lunch at Skitchan Restaurant.

We visited the following places on our way:

1. Tso Kar Lake which is also known as the White Lake – The reason why it is called the ‘White Lake’ (‘Kar’ – White, ‘Tso’ – Lake) is obvious when one visits the lake and sees the white salt deposits all over the lake shores.
2. Hemis Monastery – One of the largest and most important Buddhist monasteries in the region, known for its stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage. (A song from the Bollywood movie “Jab We Met” was shot in parts here).

We had our dinner at Gesmo Bakery in Leh. It is highly recommended. The yak cheese pizza is a must try there.

Night stay at Seven Seas Guest House at Leh.

Day 6:

We left Leh around 6 am for the famous Nubra Valley.

We visited the following places on our way:

1. Khardungla Pass – It is claimed to be the highest motorable mountain pass in the world. It is advisable not to stay at the pass for more than 20-25 mins due to the high altitude. We had momos, maggie, and tea at the café near the Pass maintained by the Indian Army.
2. Diskit Monastery – Oldest and largest Buddhist monastery in the region, known for its impressive statue of Maitreya Buddha and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
3. South Pullu – A strategically important army check post located in the Ladakh region of India, situated on the way to the world-famous Pangong Lake.
4. Hunder Village – A charming oasis town nestled amidst the cold desert of the Nubra Valley in Ladakh, India, known for its beautiful sand dunes and unique Bactrian camel safaris.
5. Turtuk – A village located in the Nubra Valley of Ladakh, India. It holds great significance as it was once a part of Pakistan-controlled Baltistan until the 1971 war between India and Pakistan, after which it became a part of India. Due to its strategic location near the Line of Control (LoC) between India and Pakistan, it was off-limits to tourists until 2010. Turtuk is known for its unique culture and heritage, which is influenced by its history of being a part of Baltistan. It is also known for its scenic beauty, with lush green valleys, apple orchards, and the Shyok River that flows through the village. Turtuk is a popular destination for adventure enthusiasts, who come here to trek and explore the unspoiled natural surroundings.

In the evening, we reached Nubra and later attended a Cultural Program by the Ladakhi women at the Nubra Valley near our Happy Day Guest House. After having a delicious home cooked meal by our hosts in their cute little kitchen area, we enjoyed our favorite hobby of the trip which was star gazing at night. 🙂

Night stay at Happy Day Guest House at Nubra Valley.

Day 7:

We drove back to Leh on the same day. 

Activities done and places visited on our way:

1. Bacterian Camel Ride at Hunder Sand Dunes (Double Hump Camel found only in Hunder Sand Dunes in India, imported from Mongolia) – The rides start from 8 am and goes on till 6 pm. 
2. Samstemling Gompa in the Sumur village – We roamed around in the apples, apricots and red berries orchards inside the Gompa.
3. Panamik for hot water springs – We cooked cuppa Maggie from the fresh hot water spring water and took bath at the hot water spring pool which is known to have therapeutic benefits.

We reached Leh at night and had our dinner at the Himalayan Kitchen restaurant.

Night stay at Seven Seas Guest House at Leh.

Day 8:

It was time to visit the patriotic Kargil and we left from Leh in the morning.

We visited the following places on our way:

1. Shey Monastery – A historic Buddhist monastery located in the Shey village of Ladakh, India, known for its stunning architecture and ancient murals.
2. Sangam at Nimu – The confluence of the Zanskar and Indus Rivers near Nimu in Ladakh, India, is a popular tourist destination known for its breathtaking views and the unique adventure of the Chadar Trek.
3. Patthar Sahib Gurudwara – A holy Sikh shrine located in Ladakh, India, constructed in memory of Guru Nanak Dev Ji and managed by the Indian Army.
4. Magnetic Hill – A fascinating natural wonder located near Leh in Ladakh, India, where the magnetic force is so strong that it appears to defy gravity.
5. Sham Valley – A picturesque valley in Ladakh, India, known for its historic monasteries including Basgo, Alchi, and Likir, and the location where some scenes from the Bollywood movie “Dil Se” were shot.
6. Moonland or the Moon on Earth – The soft craters and orangish yellow land simply add charm to the surreal astounding beauty of Lamayuru village.
7. Lamayuru Monastery – A Tibetan Buddhist monastery located in the Lamayuru village of Ladakh, India, known for its stunning murals and rich cultural heritage.
8. Fotu La Top – The highest point on the Srinagar-Leh road in Ladakh, India, known for its stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
9. Mulbekh Maitrey – A historic site located in Mulbekh, Ladakh, India, known for its ancient rock-carved Maitreya-Buddha statue that is over 1000 years old.
10. Kargil War Memorial at Dras – A memorial located in Dras, Ladakh, India, dedicated to the Indian soldiers who lost their lives during the Kargil War of 1999.
11. Saw Tiger Hill, Tololing, Batra Top/Point 4875 – Historic war points located in Kargil, Ladakh, India, known for their role in the Kargil War of 1999 and the bravery of the Indian soldiers who fought there.

The war stories of Kargil filled our hearts with pride and respect for the brave soldiers who laid their lives for us. It is an indescribable feeling! Experience it to feel it! We reached Kargil in the evening.

Night Stay at New International Guest House at Kargil.

Day 9:

Time to visit the Srinagar beauty, so we left from Kargil in the morning.

We visited the following places on our way:

1. Namika La Pass – Known for salt like white deposits, it is a high mountain pass located in the Zanskar Range in Ladakh, India, known for its scenic beauty and challenging terrain for adventure enthusiasts.
2. Zoji La Pass – A high mountain pass located on the National Highway 1D between Srinagar and Leh in Jammu and Kashmir, India, known for its treacherous terrain and strategic importance.
3. Sonamarg – A scenic hill station located in the Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir, India, known for its stunning natural beauty, including snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and alpine meadows.

We had a delicious lunch at Narrinder Punjabi Hotel in Sonamarg. Reached Srinagar in the early evening.

Had a Shikara ride (spotted beautiful ducks) in the Dal Lake and visited the following places:

1. Nehru Park – A popular park located on the banks of the Dal Lake in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India, known for its lush greenery and serene surroundings.
2. Meena Bazar – A bustling marketplace located in the heart of Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India, known for its traditional Kashmiri handicrafts, such as shawls, carpets, and wooden artifacts.
3. Floating Vegetable Market – A unique floating market located on the Dal Lake in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India, where vendors sell fresh vegetables and fruits from their boats.
4. Golden Lake – Also known as the Sonamarg Lake, it is a picturesque lake located in the Sonamarg hill station in Jammu and Kashmir, India, known for its stunning views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers.

We bought pashmina shawls and kesar from Meena Bazar.

Night stay at New Manhattan House Boat at Srinagar.

Day 10:

We visited the Moghul Gardens in Srinagar and did photography in the local Kashmiri attire. Finally headed for the Srinagar airport. Please note that guests are required to reach the Srinagar airport at least 2 hours prior to the flight departure time. Reached Mumbai.

A trip to Ladakh is an experience of a lifetime. From the breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and high-altitude deserts to the rich culture and traditions of the local people, Ladakh offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience. The region’s Buddhist monasteries, colorful festivals, and ancient palaces provide a glimpse into a bygone era, while its unspoiled natural beauty and adventurous outdoor activities offer a thrilling escape from the stresses of daily life. Whether you are seeking spiritual enlightenment or just want to unwind and rejuvenate amidst nature, a trip to Ladakh promises to be a memorable one. 🙂