Classic Ladakh
The itinerary most of our groups take: two full days to acclimatise in and around Leh, two days across Khardung La into Nubra, one night at Pangong, then back to Leh with a buffer day before the flight home.
Day by day
Arrive and do nothing
Fly Ahmedabad–Delhi–Leh, landing by late morning. This is the single most important day of the trip for altitude: go straight to the hotel, rest, drink plenty of water, and avoid any exertion or alcohol. A short walk to a nearby market in the evening is fine if you feel well; anything more can wait.
Sham Valley and monasteries
A low-altitude day to keep acclimatising while still sightseeing. Visit Magnetic Hill, the Sangam of the Indus and Zanskar rivers, Gurudwara Pathar Sahib, and the monasteries at Likir and Alchi. Back in Leh by evening for a visit to Leh Palace and Shanti Stupa at sunset.
Over Khardung La
Drive to Nubra via Khardung La (5,359 m, about 40 km/2 hours from Leh), stopping briefly at the pass for photos and tea. Descend into the valley to Hunder or Diskit (total drive about 120 km, 5 hours). Afternoon at the sand dunes with a double-humped camel ride, and a visit to Diskit Monastery's giant Maitreya Buddha statue.
To the lake via Shyok
Take the Shyok river road from Nubra to Pangong Tso (about 150 km, 5–6 hours) — a longer but lower and generally smoother route than crossing back over Khardung La and Chang La. Arrive by late afternoon to watch the lake change colour at sunset. Nights here are cold (near freezing even in summer) and camp facilities are basic.
Back over Chang La
Sunrise at the lake before the tour buses arrive, then return to Leh via Chang La (5,360 m, the third-highest motorable pass), about 160 km and 5–6 hours with stops. Rest on arrival; a free evening in Leh market for shawls, apricots and souvenirs.
Hemis and Thiksey, buffer day
A relaxed day serving as a weather buffer for the road trip just completed. Visit Thiksey Monastery for the morning prayer session and Hemis Monastery in the afternoon. Those who prefer to rest can simply stay in Leh — this day is deliberately unhurried before the flight out.
Fly home
Morning flight from Leh (flights depart early due to wind patterns, often before 9 am) connecting through Delhi to Ahmedabad. Leh airport security is slow for a domestic airport; report at least 2.5 hours before departure.
What's included
- Return Ahmedabad–Delhi–Leh flights
- 6 nights: hotels in Leh, guesthouse/camp in Nubra, Swiss tent camp at Pangong Tso
- Private SUV (Innova/Xylo/Scorpio) with driver for the full circuit
- Inner Line Permit arrangement for Nubra and Pangong
- Daily breakfast and dinner throughout
- Airport pickup and drop, oxygen cylinder kept in the vehicle
Not included
- Lunches (paid at dhabas/camps en route, ₹250–400 per person)
- Camel ride at Hunder and any optional activities
- Travel and medical evacuation insurance (strongly recommended)
- GST 5%
Indicative cost
Per person, twin sharing
Per person, twin sharing
Per person on twin sharing, indicative for 2026, including flights at normal fares booked 6–8 weeks ahead. Peak season (June–August) and any last-minute booking run 15–25% higher; road closures due to weather can add unplanned hotel nights.