🏔️ Leh–Ladakh Adventure – 10 Days
“Where Heaven Touches the Earth and Adventure Finds Its Soul”
Ladakh — often called the “Land of High Passes” — is a world beyond imagination, perched over 10,000 feet above sea level, where the mighty Himalayas cradle hidden lakes, ancient monasteries, and moonlike landscapes. A 10 Days Leh–Ladakh Adventure Tour is not just a journey through mountains; it’s a soulful expedition across one of the most spectacular and peaceful corners of the planet.
This itinerary covers the enchanting valleys of Leh, Nubra, Pangong, and Tso Moriri, showcasing breathtaking vistas, colorful gompas, and the warm hospitality of the Ladakhi people. Every moment in this land feels like a painting brushed with silence, wind, and wonder.
🌄 Day-by-Day Leh–Ladakh Itinerary (10 Days / 9 Nights)
🛬 Day 1: Arrival at Leh – Acclimatization Day (Altitude 11,500 ft)
Upon arrival at Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (Leh), the cool mountain air welcomes you with views of snow peaks encircling the valley. Since Leh lies at a high altitude, this day is meant for rest and acclimatization. In the evening, take a gentle walk to Leh Market and Shanti Stupa, which glows beautifully under the evening sky.
🧭 Key Highlights:
- Shanti Stupa – A panoramic Buddhist monument built by Japanese monks.
- Leh Palace – A 17th-century royal residence overlooking the town.
- Local Market – Handicrafts, prayer flags, pashmina shawls, and turquoise jewelry.
🏯 Day 2: Leh Sightseeing – Monasteries and Cultural Trail
This day unfolds the spiritual essence of Ladakh as you explore the famous monasteries around Leh. The drive along the Indus Valley offers glimpses of colorful stupas and river confluences.
- Hemis Monastery – The largest and wealthiest monastery in Ladakh, known for its annual festival.
- Thiksey Monastery – A 12-storey architectural marvel resembling Potala Palace in Lhasa.
- Shey Palace – Once the summer residence of Ladakhi kings.
- Stok Palace – A blend of royal heritage and museum displays.
In the evening, return to your hotel in Leh for dinner and rest under a sky full of stars.
🚙 Day 3: Leh to Nubra Valley via Khardung La Pass (130 km / 5-6 hrs)
After breakfast, your expedition moves towards Nubra Valley through Khardung La Pass (18,380 ft) — one of the world’s highest motorable roads. The journey rewards you with spectacular views of the Zanskar and Karakoram ranges.
🧭 Must See:
- Khardung La – “The Pass of Lower Castle,” a photographer’s paradise.
- Diskit Monastery – Home to the majestic 106-ft Maitreya Buddha statue.
- Hunder Sand Dunes – Experience the thrill of a Bactrian camel ride on cold desert sands.
Overnight stay at a beautiful camp or boutique hotel in Hunder, under a canopy of countless stars.
🏜️ Day 4: Nubra Valley Exploration
Spend the day exploring the twin villages of Hunder and Turtuk. Turtuk, once part of Pakistan before 1971, offers a rare glimpse of Balti culture, apricot orchards, and a warm, smiling community.
- Turtuk Village – Known as the “Last Village of India” on the Indo-Pak border.
- Baltistani Museum – Showcasing heritage, traditional attire, and artifacts.
- Shyok River – Tranquil riverside ideal for photography and picnics.
Return to Hunder by evening for bonfire and traditional Ladakhi dinner.
🌊 Day 5: Nubra to Pangong Lake via Shyok Route (170 km / 6 hrs)
Today’s journey takes you through the adventurous Shyok River route to reach the world-famous Pangong Tso Lake (14,270 ft) — an alpine lake known for its changing shades of blue, turquoise, and emerald.
Highlights:
- Pangong Lake – Stretching 134 km across India and Tibet.
- 3 Idiots Point – Famous filming location of the Bollywood movie.
- Evening by the Lake – Watch the sun dip into the mountains, reflecting a golden glow on the water.
Stay overnight at Pangong in well-equipped camps with warm beds and breathtaking views.
🏕️ Day 6: Pangong Lake to Leh via Chang La Pass (225 km / 6 hrs)
After breakfast beside the shimmering waters of Pangong, begin the drive back to Leh through the scenic Chang La Pass (17,688 ft), the third-highest motorable pass in the world.
- Chang La – Known as the “Pass of the South.”
- Druk White Lotus School (Rancho School) – Visit this famous educational institute featured in movies.
- Karu Market – Small shops selling hot Maggi noodles and momos for weary travelers.
Return to Leh by evening. Overnight stay at the hotel.
🏞️ Day 7: Leh to Tso Moriri Lake (220 km / 7 hrs)
Early morning drive to Tso Moriri Lake via Chumathang Valley, known for its hot springs and remote beauty. The lake, nestled at 15,075 ft, mirrors the azure sky and snow peaks, creating a mesmerizing visual harmony.
Highlights:
- Chumathang Hot Springs – Natural thermal baths amidst icy winds.
- Korzok Monastery – Over 300 years old, perched by the lake.
- Tso Moriri Lake – A pristine high-altitude wetland and birdwatcher’s paradise.
Stay overnight in eco-camps beside Tso Moriri, enjoying the tranquility of one of the remotest regions of Ladakh.
🚗 Day 8: Tso Moriri to Tsokar Lake and Return to Leh (240 km / 7 hrs)
After breakfast, drive towards Tsokar Lake (meaning “White Lake”), a smaller salt lake surrounded by nomadic settlements and wildlife. Spot wild kiangs (Tibetan wild asses), bar-headed geese, and black-necked cranes.
- Tsokar Lake – Known for its shimmering salt deposits.
- Puga Valley – Famous for geothermal activity and scenic meadows.
- Taglang La – The second-highest pass on the Leh-Manali Highway.
Return to Leh by evening for your final stay in the city.
🕌 Day 9: Leh Local Exploration & Shopping
Spend the day exploring Leh’s cultural corners, museums, and local markets for souvenirs. Visit Spituk Monastery, Hall of Fame Museum, and Magnetic Hill where vehicles appear to defy gravity.
- Hall of Fame – A museum maintained by the Indian Army.
- Magnetic Hill – A unique optical illusion phenomenon.
- Gurudwara Pathar Sahib – A sacred site built in honor of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
Evening free for shopping and café hopping in Leh.
✈️ Day 10: Departure from Leh
After breakfast, check out and proceed to Leh Airport for your onward flight with unforgettable memories of Ladakh’s rugged beauty and spiritual calm.
📍 Major Distances in Ladakh
- Leh to Nubra Valley via Khardung La – 130 km (5-6 hrs)
- Nubra Valley to Pangong Lake via Shyok – 170 km (6 hrs)
- Pangong Lake to Leh via Chang La – 225 km (6 hrs)
- Leh to Tso Moriri – 220 km (7 hrs)
- Tso Moriri to Tsokar – 100 km (3 hrs)
- Tsokar to Leh – 140 km (4 hrs)
🗺️ How to Reach Leh–Ladakh
By Air:
The Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (Leh) is well-connected to major Indian cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Srinagar, and Chandigarh. The aerial view while landing in Leh is one of the most scenic in the world, with peaks of the Himalayas rising above the clouds.
By Road:
- Manali to Leh: Around 474 km (takes 2 days with a night halt at Jispa or Sarchu). The route crosses famous passes like Rohtang La, Baralacha La, and Taglang La.
- Srinagar to Leh: Around 420 km (takes 2 days with an overnight stay at Kargil). This route passes through Drass – the second coldest inhabited place on Earth.
By Bike or Car:
Adventure enthusiasts often choose self-drive or motorcycle expeditions from Delhi, Manali, or Srinagar. The Manali–Leh Highway and Srinagar–Leh Highway offer breathtaking landscapes but require preparation due to altitude and terrain.
🏨 Best Stays & Accommodation Options
In Leh:
- The Grand Dragon Ladakh – A luxury property blending Ladakhi architecture with modern amenities.
- Hotel Ladakh Residency – 3-star comfort near Leh Market.
- Zostel Leh – A backpacker-friendly stay for solo travelers.
In Nubra Valley:
- Stone Hedge Nubra – Boutique stay surrounded by apricot orchards.
- Desert Himalaya Camp – Glamping with views of sand dunes and snow peaks.
At Pangong Lake:
- The Regal Camp – Premium lakeside tents with attached bathrooms.
- Pangong Heritage Camp – Mid-range option offering sunrise views across the lake.
At Tso Moriri:
- Nomadic Life Camp – Eco-friendly accommodation with cozy tents.
- Lake View Camp – Best for stargazing and night photography.
🌤️ Best Time to Visit Leh–Ladakh
- May to September: The most suitable months with pleasant temperatures (10°C–25°C). Roads from Manali and Srinagar remain open, and lakes like Pangong and Tso Moriri are fully accessible.
- October to April: For winter lovers, this period transforms Ladakh into a frozen wonderland. The Chadar Trek on the frozen Zanskar River takes place during January and February.
🏍️ Adventure Activities in Ladakh
- Motorbiking: Ride through Khardung La and Chang La, crossing streams and rugged terrains.
- Trekking: Famous routes include Markha Valley Trek, Stok Kangri, and Sham Valley Trek.
- River Rafting: Zanskar and Indus rivers offer Grade II to IV rapids for thrill seekers.
- Camping: Stargazing beside Pangong and Tso Moriri is an experience of a lifetime.
- Photography: Capture monasteries, wildlife, and surreal landscapes under crystal-clear skies.
🍲 Local Cuisine & Cultural Experiences
Ladakhi food reflects Tibetan and Central Asian influences, perfect for the cold climate. Try:
- Thukpa – Hot noodle soup with vegetables or meat.
- Momos – Steamed dumplings stuffed with vegetables or yak meat.
- Butter Tea (Gur Gur Chai) – A salty traditional drink made with yak butter.
- Skyu – A local pasta stew, ideal for high-altitude nourishment.
Cultural events like the Hemis Festival in June and Ladakh Festival in September showcase masked dances, folk music, and vibrant costumes.
📸 Important Travel Tips
- Spend the first 24 hours in Leh acclimatizing to avoid altitude sickness.
- Carry woolen clothes, sunscreen, sunglasses, and lip balm even in summer.
- ATMs are available only in Leh, so carry enough cash for remote areas.
- Postpaid SIM cards from BSNL, Airtel, or Jio work best in Ladakh.
- Inner Line Permit (ILP) is required for Nubra, Pangong, and Tso Moriri, easily arranged online or through tour operators.
✨ Why Choose Nature Craft Tours for Leh–Ladakh Adventure
At Nature Craft Tours, we design Leh–Ladakh journeys that go beyond sightseeing — they become spiritual awakenings. Our curated itineraries ensure:
- Comfortable stays in handpicked eco-resorts and camps.
- Experienced drivers and local guides for safe, authentic experiences.
- Customizable options for families, bikers, or solo travelers.
- Responsible tourism practices with respect to local culture and nature.
Whether you’re gazing at the mirrored lakes of Pangong or meditating in a silent monastery above Leh, Ladakh will forever remain etched in your memory.
🌏 Embark on Your Himalayan Dream
Let your heart echo with the chant of the mountains — “Om Mani Padme Hum.” Join the 10 Days Leh–Ladakh Adventure Tour with Nature Craft Tours and rediscover the art of slow travel, serenity, and soul-stirring adventure.
“Not all who wander are lost, some just find themselves in the mountains.”
📅 Quick Facts at a Glance
| Destination | Altitude (ft) | Distance from Leh | Famous For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Leh | 11,500 | – | Monasteries, Culture, Shopping |
| Nubra Valley | 10,000 | 130 km | Sand Dunes, Double-Humped Camels |
| Pangong Lake | 14,270 | 225 km | Blue Lake, Scenic Photography |
| Tso Moriri | 15,075 | 220 km | Wildlife, Bird Watching |
| Tsokar | 14,800 | 240 km | Salt Lake, Nomadic Life |
📞 Contact Us – Nature Craft Tours
Begin your Ladakh story today with Nature Craft Tours — your trusted travel companion from the plains of Kolkata to the peaks of the Himalayas.
Explore. Experience. Evolve.