Escorted Kashmir Ladakh Tour Package

This morning is yours to enjoy at your leisure in Leh. After a relaxing lunch, embark on an afternoon tour to explore the city's highlights.

Shanti Stupa (Japanese Peace Pagoda): Perched on a hilltop in Changspa village, the Shanti Stupa was built by a Japanese Buddhist organization led by Head Monk Nakamura. It offers stunning panoramic views of Leh and the surrounding peaks. The stupa reflects Japanese architectural style, featuring minimalist design with meditation rooms and a prominent shrine at the entrance.

Leh Palace: Built by King Tashi Namgyal in the early 17th century, the Leh Palace, also known as 'Lechen Palkhar,' was constructed to commemorate the reunification of Ladakh and victory over the Hor. This nine-storied palace, once a royal residence, is now a historic site under renovation by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). It provides a glimpse into the region's regal past and offers panoramic views of Leh.

Hall of Fame: A poignant museum established by the Indian Army, the Hall of Fame is dedicated to the heroes of the Kargil War. It features exhibits of war memorabilia, biographies of notable defense personalities, photographs, and artifacts, including weapons and belongings from the conflict.

Return to your hotel in Leh for overnight stay.

After breakfast, head to Diskit Monastery, the largest and oldest monastery in the Nubra Valley, renowned for its impressive architecture and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. After exploring the monastery, begin your journey back to Pangong Lake via Shayok, a route offering stunning views of rugged terrains and serene landscapes.

Pangong Lake - A major highlight of the Leh-Ladakh region, Pangong Lake is famed for its breathtaking beauty and unique geographical features. The lake, which has been featured in several Bollywood films, stretches across the mountains near the Chushul range. Its striking, mirror-like surface reflects the surrounding peaks, creating a stunning visual spectacle. The water of Pangong Lake is cold, clear, and highly saline. It also serves as a habitat for various bird species, adding to its natural allure. Upon arrival at Pangong Lake, check in to your camp, where you can relax and take in the serene environment. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at the camp.

After an early breakfast, check out from your camp or hotel and embark on a scenic drive to Hanle. Your journey takes you through Chushul Village and over the Tsaga La Pass, which stands at 15,200 feet. Enjoy the breathtaking drive through this remote and rugged terrain as you make your way to Hanle.

Hanle: Nestled in a high-altitude desert landscape, Hanle is renowned for its Indian Astronomical Observatory. This remote location is strategically important due to its proximity to the Tibetan/Chinese border. The observatory hosts the Himalayan Chandra Telescope, a 2-meter gamma-ray telescope designed for cutting-edge astronomical research. The Major Atmospheric Cerenkov Experiment Telescope, currently under construction, will become the world’s largest telescope at the highest altitude and the second largest gamma-ray telescope globally. Hanle also holds historical significance; it is believed that King Singge Namgyal died here after returning from an expedition against the Mongols. Upon arrival, check into your accommodation in Hanle for an overnight stay.

After breakfast, check out and set off on a drive to Tsomoriri Lake. Your route takes you over the Nurpa Pass, which stands at 16,100 feet, followed by crossing the Mahe Bridge. The journey brings you to Tsomoriri Lake, situated at 14,000 feet near the small village of Korzok.

Tsomoriri Lake: Recently opened to foreign visitors due to its proximity to the Chinese border, the Changthang region is known for its remote wilderness and stunning landscapes. Tsomoriri Lake, an expansive body of water measuring 8 kilometers in width and 28 kilometers in length, is a vital breeding ground for a variety of bird species. Spot birds such as the bar-headed goose, crested grebe, Brahmini duck (ruddy sheldrake), and the brown-headed gull as you explore the area. Upon arrival at Tsomoriri Lake, check in at your camp for the night. Spend your evening enjoying a leisurely walk along the lake’s banks, taking in the serene beauty and tranquility of this high-altitude setting. Overnight stay at your camp or hotel in Korzok.

After an early breakfast, check out from your camp and explore the village of Korzok, where the traditional houses and the local Gompa seem to shimmer like a mirage against the stark landscape. Korzok is notable for its barley fields, which are among the highest cultivation areas in the world. 

Next, embark on a drive to Tsokar Lake, passing through the lands of the Changpas, a nomadic community known for their unique way of life. The Changpas are renowned for their traditional lifestyle, moving between pastures with their herds of goats, sheep, and yaks. They rely on their animals for their livelihood, producing essential items like ropes, clothing, and shoes from the yaks’ hair and goats’ wool. Daily life for the Changpas involves tasks such as milking, churning milk into butter, weaving mats, and making ropes. Their lifestyle remains deeply rooted in ancient traditions, largely unaffected by modern influences. The drive to Tsokar Lake is visually spectacular, with the lake itself offering some of the most stunning views in the region. Spend some time enjoying the serene beauty of Tsokar before continuing your journey back to Leh. Arrive in Leh for dinner and an overnight stay at your hotel.

Today, embark on a sightseeing tour of some of Leh’s most iconic ancient monasteries and notable attractions.

Shey Gompa: Located about 15 kilometers from Leh, Shey Gompa was once the summer palace of Ladakh's kings. Built in the early 17th century by Deldan Namgyal, the palace complex includes several gompas and stupas. The highlight of Shey Gompa is the impressive 12-meter Shakyamuni Buddha statue housed in the Dresthang Gompa.

Thiksey Gompa: Approximately 17 kilometers from Leh and close to Shey, Thiksey Gompa is renowned for its architectural beauty and spiritual significance. This 600-year-old monastery, belonging to the Gelukpa order, features an array of temples, stunning murals, and an impressive Buddha statue at the entrance.

Hemis Monastery: Situated about 45 kilometers south of Leh, Hemis Monastery is one of the largest and most prominent monasteries in Ladakh. Founded in the early 17th century, this Drukpa order monastery is set in a picturesque valley, surrounded by streams and long Mani walls. The monastery’s intricate decorations and unique architecture set it apart from others in the region.

3 Idiots School/Rancho School: Druk Padma Karpo School, popularly known as Rancho School due to its appearance in the Bollywood film *3 Idiots*, is renowned for its eco-friendly and earthquake-resistant design. The school was recognized by BBC London in 2016 as one of the most beautiful schools in the world, reflecting a blend of sustainable architecture and educational excellence.

Sindhu Ghat: Located about 10 kilometers upstream from Shey Monastery, Sindhu Ghat is a scenic riverbank on the Indus River, which originates from Man Sarovar Lake and Mount Kailash in Tibet. The barren, rocky landscapes and the serene river create a surreal setting. If visiting in June, you can experience the Sindhu Darshan Festival, a cultural celebration featuring sightseeing trips, campfires, and various activities.

Return to your hotel or guest house in the evening for a restful overnight stay.