Experience the best of Leh Ladakh in 8 days—from the dramatic landscapes of Nubra Valley and the crystal-clear waters of Pangong Lake to the spiritual serenity of Thiksey and Hemis monasteries. This well-paced itinerary blends natural wonders, cultural heritage, and high-altitude adventure for an unforgettable Himalayan journey.
Why Choose This Itinerary?
- Covers all major highlights: Nubra, Pangong, Thiksey, Hemis, Indus
- Balanced pace with altitude acclimatization
- Comfortable stays at quality hotels and camps
- Scenic drives via Khardung La and Chang La passes
- Optional camel safari in Hundar’s sand dunes
Day Wise Itinerary:
Day 1 Arrival at Leh
Arrival at Leh in the morning and then transfer to the hotel. Take complete rest for the remainder of the day to get acclimatized to the high altitude at Leh (11,500 ft/3500 m). Overnight stay at a hotel.
Day 2 Leh – City tour
Free day at Leh to rest. In the afternoon, visit the Shanti Stupa, Leh Palace and the markets. Overnight stay at a hotel.
Day 3 Leh – Nubra Valley
After breakfast, leave for the Nubra Valley, driving across the Khardung La pass (altitude: 18,380 ft.). After descending from the pass, drive on for sightseeing at Sumoor. Later, check into a fixed camp in the same area or drive across to Diskit for an overnight stay at a camp.
Day 4 Nubra Valley – Leh
In the morning, visit/explore Diskit, Hundar and the sand dunes where you can enjoy a short camel safari riding the double-humped Bactrian camel found here (this is an optional activity and payment is to be done directly at the site). Later, drive back to Leh, arriving in the late afternoon/evening. Overnight stay at a hotel.
Day 5 Lower Indus Valley Sightseeing
After a leisurely breakfast, visit the Hall of Fame, Kali Mata (Temple of Guardians in Spituk monastery), Pathar Sahib gurudwara, Magnetic Point and Sangam (the confluence of the Indus and the Zanskar rivers). Overnight stay at a hotel.
Day 6 Leh – Pangong Tso Lake (150 km)
Early departure to the Pangong Tso Lake (approximately 145 km away, located on the Indo-China Border), via the Chang La pass (altitude: 17370 ft.). After an entire day of sightseeing around the Lake, you can either check-in at the fixed tent camp near the lake at Spangmik or drive to Tangtse, which is 30 km away and check into a hotel/guest house for an overnight stay.
Day 7 Pangong-Hemis/Thiksey-Leh (165 km)
After breakfast, leave Pangong/Tangtse and get back on the Leh route across Chang La. Upon reaching Karu, drive across the Indus and visit the famous Hemis Monastery, the biggest monastery in Ladakh. Later, drive to Leh, enroute visiting the picturesque Hemis and Thiksey monasteries. Overnight stay at a hotel.
Day 8 Drop to Leh Airport
Early morning transfer to the airport for taking the flight back home. The tour ends here.
Inclusion
- Complete tour by private vehicle as per the itinerary.
- Hotel Accommodation.
- Daily morning tea, breakfast & dinner.
- Experienced English/Hindi speaking guide.
- All government taxes and office service charge.
Exclusion
- Camera Fees or monument fee.
- Inner Line Permit
- All activities are not included in this package.
- All personal expensive and optional tours which are not given in the itinerary.
- Tour will go accordingly given itinerary. Repeat destinations will be charged extra.
- Tips for guide and driver.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to undertake this 8-day Leh Ladakh trip is from May to September, when the roads are open, weather is pleasant, and landscapes are at their best.
Travel Tips
- Carry warm layers—even in summer, evenings are cold
- Stay hydrated and avoid strenuous activity on Day 1
- Always carry sunscreen, lip balm, and sunglasses
- Carry cash—ATMs are limited outside Leh town
- Mobile networks work best with BSNL or Jio
Map or Route Visualization
Include a simple map showing the route:
Leh → Nubra → Leh → Pangong → Leh → Departure
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. Is this 8-day Leh Ladakh itinerary suitable for first-time travelers?
A: Yes, this itinerary is designed with proper acclimatization in mind, making it ideal for first-time visitors. The first two days are lighter to help adjust to the high altitude.
Q2. Will I experience altitude sickness in Leh Ladakh?
A: Some travelers may feel mild symptoms like headache or dizziness during the first 1–2 days. Staying hydrated, avoiding physical exertion, and resting on arrival usually help. Always consult your doctor before high-altitude travel.
Q3. What type of accommodation is provided during the trip?
A: You’ll stay in a mix of standard or deluxe hotels in Leh and fixed tented camps or guesthouses in Nubra Valley and Pangong. Upgrades are available on request.
Q4. Is the camel ride in Nubra Valley included?
A: The double-humped camel ride in Hundar is optional and payable directly at the site.
Q5. Is it safe to travel to Pangong Lake and Nubra Valley by road?
A: Yes, the routes to both destinations are safe and popular with tourists. However, weather conditions can change, so our drivers are trained to ensure safety throughout the journey.
Q6. What should I pack for this Leh Ladakh trip?
A: Warm clothes (layers), sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm, sturdy shoes, water bottle, personal medication, power bank, and some cash. Nights are cold even in summer.
Q7. Do I need a permit for this trip?
A: Yes, Indian nationals need an Inner Line Permit (ILP) for visiting Nubra Valley and Pangong. This is typically arranged by the tour operator or can be applied for online in advance.
Q8. Will there be mobile network and internet access?
A: Mobile coverage is limited outside Leh. BSNL and Jio work best in the region. Expect minimal or no network at Pangong and parts of Nubra.
