Itineraries

 

DAY 1 - ARRIVE LEH

Arrival Leh Kushok Bakula Airport (This must be one of the Most Sensational Flights in the World. On a clear day from one side of the aircraft can be seen in the distance the peaks of K2, Nanga Parbat, Gasherbrum and on the other side of the aircraft, so close that you feel you could reach out and touch it, is the Nun Kun massif.) Upon arrival you will met by representative and transfer to Hotel for Check in. Complete day for rest and leisure to acclimatize followed by Welcome tea or Coffee at the Hotel. Evening visit to Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa & Leh Market. Overnight at Hotel.

 

DAY 2 - LEH (EXCURSION TO MONASTERIES)

Post breakfast we visit Spituk Monastery, Built in 15th century during the reign of Grags ‘bum-lde, these new Gelug-pa monastery was built like fortress on the summit of crags and also visit Hall Of Fame near Leh is worth a visit for every citizen. It is a glorious museum constructed by Indian army. Post lunch we take a sightseeing tour visiting Sankar Gompa, located at a distance of approximately 3 km from the town of Leh, Leh Palace is one of the most captivating architectural ruins that attract the attention of the tourists almost immediately with its majestic setting at the edge of the Namgyal hill and overlooking the town and at once looks like a reminiscent of Lhasa's Potala Palace.

 

DAY 3 - LEH TO NUBRA VALLEY VIA KHARDUNG LA 18,390 FT. (120 KMS / 4 – 5 HRS)

Post breakfast we drive to Nubra Valley. The road journey from Leh to Nubra Valley passes over Khardung La (The Highest Motorable Road In The World) at 5,602 Mtrs / 18,390 Ft, around 39 km from Leh. From the pass, one can see all the way south over the Indus valley to seemingly endless peaks and ridges of the Zanskar range, and north to the giants of the Saser massif. Nubra Valley is popularly known as Ldumra or the valley of flowers. It is situated in the north of Ladakh between the Karakoram and Ladakh ranges of the Himalayas. The average altitude of the valley is 10,000 Ft. above sea level.

Upon arrival in Nubra we check in at our Camp / Hotel in Hunder for Overnight stay. In the evening you can walk around the tiny villages to see how the locals live in this part of the world. A visit to a Ladakhi home can be arranged. Overnight Stay at the Camp or Hotel.

 

DAY 4 - NUBRA VALLEY TO LEH (120 KMS / 4 – 5 HRS)

After an early breakfast we check out from the Camp and drive to Hunder where you have opportunity to ride on a bacterian camel (double humped) amidst the sand dunes of this high altitude desert with snowcapped mountains on the horizon. Between Hunder and Diskit you come across sand dunes besides the road. Seen in isolation you could well be amongst the sand dunes of the Thar Desert in Rajasthan.

It is indeed a strange sight since immediately on the left of the road is Rocky Mountains that characterize the Ladakhi landscape and in the distance can be seen snow-capped mountains. On the return stop at Diskit which is the headquarter town of Nubra Valley. Stroll around the bazaar observing the shops and local people going about their daily chores. Diskit is famous for 515 years old Buddhist Monastery, lying magnificently situated on a hilltop, facing the entire Valley. Later we drive back to Leh in the late afternoon via Khardungla Top. On arrival at Leh you will check in to your Hotel. In the afternoon you can rest and relax.

 

DAY 5 - LEH TO PANGONG LAKE (140 KMS / 4 - 5 HRS – ONE WAY)

After an early breakfast we leave for Pangong Lake enroute visiting Shey Palace, The ancient capital of Ladakh & 3 Idiots Rancho School & further 5 Kms Driving through a picturesque landscape we reach Thiksey an impressive complex rising tier upon tier on a hill above the village. After visiting above two monasteries we drive further towards Changla Pass 5486 Mtrs. The long easy ascent takes you to Changla pass through its winding roads passing through Sakti Village. Stop at the Changla Pass for a quick photograph session and drive down to the village of Tangtse, where you can relax for a cup of tea. Leaving Tangtse for Pangong you pass through few small villages of Changthang and finally you can have a sudden view of the Pangonglake situated at 14,000 feet (4,267 m). This famous blue brackish Lake of Pangong is 5/6 Kms wide and over 133 Kms long with half of its running the other side of the "Indo China Border". One rarely feels so close to nature and environment and the scenery is unforgettable. After the success of 3 Idiots, this beautiful natural location has attracted more tourists from all over the world. Upon arrival we check in at our Camp near Pangong lake. Dinner & Overnight at the Camp.

 

DAY 6 - PANGONG LAKE TO LEH (140 KMS / 6 HRS)

Morning at leisure to explore the beauty of lake and later we drive back to leh and check in at our hotel for Overnight. In the evening you can stroll around the market place for some last minute souvenir shopping.

 

DAY 7 - LEH TO KARGIL (220 KMS / 6-8 HRS)

After breakfast you drive downstream along the River Indus on Leh – Kargil Highway. Enroute visiting Gurudwara Patthar Sahib Nestled deep in the Himalayas, A drive of another 4 km took us to Magnetic Hill which defies the law of gravity & further Driving through a picturesque landscape we reached the Confluence Of The Indus And Zanskar River, Just before Saspul a road to the right takes you for your visit to the Likir Monastery, Likir is one of the most active monasteries in the region. As you drive up to the monastery a recently installed colossal gilded image of the Maitreya out in the open is one of the most impressive sights in Ladakh.

After visiting the Monastery you continue your drive towards Kargil enroute visiting the 11th century Lamayuru Monastery enroute visiting the mesmerizing Moon Landscapes (you will believe why the name of this area is Moonland. Exactly the same formations of Land are visible as on the moon), Later Drive to KARGIL over Fatu-la (13,489 ft) which is the highest pass on Srinagar – Leh road. Upon arrival in Kargil we check in at our Hotel for an overnight stay.

 

DAY 8 - KARGIL TO SRINAGAR

After early Breakfast by 6.00 am drive to Srinagar passing through Drass, the second coldest inhabited Place on earth and you can have spectacular view of Kargil War famous Peaks Tiger Hill and Tololing Peak. Pay a tribute to Vijay Smarak, dedicated to Indian Soldiers who laid their lives for us during Kargil War in 1999. Arrive Srinagar by Afternoon. Rest of the time for own activities.Overnight at Houseboat.

 

DAY 9 - SRINAGAR TO PAHALGAM ( 96 Kms – 2 to 3 Hrs One Way )

After a leisurely breakfast, we check out from Houseboat & leave for overnight stay at “Pahalgam” called as “Valley of Shepherds”. Pahalgam is situated at the confluence of the streams flowing from Sheshnag Lake and the Lidder River, Pahalgam (2,130 m) was once a humble shepherd's village with breathtaking views. Enroute visit saffron Fields & 19th Century Awantipura Ruins. Upon arrival, check in to the pre-arranged Hotel. Rest of the is day free to enjoy and explore the Beauty of “Pahalgam” ( ON OWN ). One can go to Aru (10 kms from Pahalgam) which is a fine meadow of picturesque scenery and starting point of trekking of (Liddarwat, Kolahoi Glacier & Trsar Lake) & Betaab Valley.

ARU VALLEYIt is located around 12 km from Pahalgam, 11 km upstream from the Lidder River. Noted for its scenic meadows, lakes and mountains, it is a base camp for trekking to the Kolhoi Glacier and Tarsar Lake. The village lies of the left bank of the Aru river, which is a tributary of the Lidder river The Aru valley is noted for its scenic meadows. It is popular among the tourists for its peaceful environment and scenic beauty. Other popular tourist activities include fishing of trout in the Lidder river, trekking, hiking, horse riding, sightseeing and photography. BETAAB VALLEY Situated at a distance of 15 kilometers from Pahalgam. The valley got its name from the Sunny Deol– Amrita Singh hit debut film Betaab. The valley surrounded by lush green meadows, snow clad mountains and covered with dense vegetation. Betaab Valley is a very popular touristic destination. Betaab Valley is also a favorite campsite of travellers as it also serves as a base camp for trekking and further exploration of the mountains. The valley is a walk-able distance from Pahalgam. The crystal clear & chilly water of the stream bubbling down from the snowy hills is a delight; locals here drink this water too. Baisaran and Tulian Lake are few nearby attractions that can be visited. CHANDANWARI Situated 16 km from Pahalgam, is the starting point of the Amarnath Yatra, which takes place every year in the month of Sawan (Rain). It is famous for snow sledging on a snow bridge. Taxi cabs can be hired from Pahalgam for a roundtrip. Snow fights" is what people generally indulge in here before they sledge back down. Many prefer to sip a cup of tea of snack at the nearby dhabas. Hajan, on the way to Chandanwari is an idyllic spot for a picnic. Filmgoers will recognize it instantly as it has been the location of several movie scenes Return by the evening for Dinner & Overnight stay at Hotel.

 

DAY 10 - PAHALGAM TO GULMARG (148 Kms – 4 to 5 Hrs One Way )

After an early breakfast, we check out from Hotel & drive to Gulmarg via Bye-Pass. Gulmarg, called as “Meadow of Flowers”. Gulmarg is at an altitude of 8700 – ft. Gulmarg also referred as Meadow of Flowers is a famous Ski Resort & the world’s highest 18 hole Golf Course. The place was prominent during the British time. Gulmarg's legendary beauty, prime location and proximity to Srinagar naturally make it one of the premier hill resorts in the country. Originally called ‘Gaurimarg’ by shepherds, its present name was given in the 16th century by Sultan Yusuf Shah, who was inspired by the sight of its grassy slopes emblazoned with wild flowers. Gulmarg was a favorite haunt of Emperor Jehangir who once collected 21 different varieties of flowers from here. Today Gulmarg is not merely a mountain resort of exceptional beauty- it also has the highest green golf course in the world, at an altitude of 2,650 m, and is the country's premier ski resort in the winter. On Arrival in Gulmarg, check in to the pre-arranged Hotel. One Can go for the Gondola Ride up to 1st or 2nd Phase. The Gulmarg Gondola is a tourist attraction in itself. It is one of the highest cable cars in the world, reaching 3,979 metres. The two-stage ropeway ferries about 600 people per hour to and from the gondola main station in Gulmarg to a shoulder of nearby Mt. Affarwat Summit (4,200 m (13,780 ft)). There are also countless off-piste possibilities through the beautiful Khilanmarg meadows on the foot of Mount Affarwat, which offer a scenic view of Nanga Parbat. The Affarwat ridge at 3850+ metres offers an avalanche controlled ski area that offers a wide field of snow to descend 800 m in approximately 3 km of skiing, and is for advanced skiers only. Due to Gulmarg's steep terrain, the region is popular amongst advanced and extreme skiers from around the world and has been visited by a number of ski professionals and featured in a number of ski films also.Return by the evening for Dinner & Overnight stay at Hotel.

 

DAY 11 - GULMARG TO SRINAGAR (96 Kms – 2 to 3 Hrs One Way )

After a leisurely breakfast, we check out from Hotel & transfer to Srinagar. On arrival at Srinagar we check in to the pre-arranged Hotel. Later we start our Sightseeing tour by visit of Shankaracharya Temple, It is believed that it was the place where the great philosopher and saint Shankaracharya stayed when he visited Kashmir ten centuries ago to revive Sanathan Dharma. The original ceiling was dome- shaped and the brick roof is not more than a century old. And later proceed further to Hazratbal Mosque; Situated in a village on the western shores of the Dal Lake opposite Nishat Bagh, it is a pristine white marble edifice casting its reflection in the waters of the lake. Unlike the other mosques in Srinagar, which have a pagoda like roof, Hazratbal is the only mosque to have a domed roof mosque in Srinagar; the others having distinct pagoda like roofs Gardens &Jamia Masjid, Situated in the heart of the old city of Srinagar, this huge mosque is visited by thousands of people who congregate here for the Friday prayers.

In the afternoon, we take a visit to Mughal Gardens, Nishat Garden known as ‘Garden of pleasure’ built in 16th century (1633) by Mughal King Asif Khan. Then visit to Shalimar Garden known as ‘Garden of love’ built in 16th century (1619) by Mughal King Jahangir for his beloved wife Noor Jahan or (Mehr-un-Nissa & Chashmashahi (The Royal Spring). TheChashmashahi Mughal garden in Srinagar had been loved by emperors and picnickers alike.Dinner & overnight stay at the Hotel.

 

DAY 12 - DEPART SRINAGAR (FLY OUT)

Tour concludes. Thanks you for your patronage and ensures a punctual transfer to Domestic Airport to catch the flight for your onward Destination.