Overview & Highlights
Overview
This scenic Srinagar to Leh journey is one of the most breathtaking routes in the Himalayas, blending the charm of Kashmir with the rugged beauty of Ladakh. In 8 days, you’ll cruise through lush valleys, cross high-altitude passes, witness ancient monasteries, and experience the contrasting cultures of two unique regions. From a houseboat stay in Srinagar to the blue waters of Pangong, this route captures the very soul of the Himalayas.
Highlights
- Stay in a traditional Srinagar houseboat on Dal Lake
- Cross the mighty Zoji La Pass & visit Drass – the 2nd coldest inhabited place
- Explore Kargil and visit Lamayuru’s famous “Moonland” landscapes
- Witness the Indus–Zanskar Confluence, Magnetic Hill & Pathar Sahib Gurudwara
- Drive through Khardung-La (5,359 m) – among the world’s highest motorable passes
- Discover the sand dunes of Nubra Valley with optional camel safari
- Visit Turtuk, the unique Balti cultural village near the LOC
- Stay at Pangong Lake with its ever-changing shades of blue
- Cross Chang-La Pass and return to Leh for markets & monasteries
Itinerary
• Upon arrival in Srinagar, meet our trip lead at the designated houseboats.
• Check-in and enjoy leisure time by Dal Lake.
• Evening briefing about the trip and upcoming adventures.
• Explore local markets or opt for a Shikara boat ride (optional).
• Overnight stay in a traditional Srinagar houseboat.
• Post breakfast, begin the scenic drive towards Kargil.
• Cross the mighty Zoji La Pass and reach Drass, the second-coldest inhabited place in the world, known as “The Gateway to Ladakh.”
• Stop for lunch en route and soak in breathtaking Himalayan views.
• Arrive in Kargil by evening, check-in, dinner, and overnight stay.
• Breakfast, then depart for Leh via Namika La and Fotu La passes.
• En route, visit Lamayuru Monastery and admire its unique “Moonland” terrain.
• Stop at Indus–Zanskar Confluence, Magnetic Hill, and Pathar Sahib Gurudwara.
• Arrive in Leh by evening, check-in, and relax.
• Dinner and overnight stay in Leh.
• Breakfast and check-out from Leh hotel.
• Drive to Nubra Valley via Khardung La (5,359 m), one of the highest motorable roads in the world.
• Surrounded by the Karakoram and Ladakh ranges, enjoy stunning views.
• Visit Shanti Stupa, Magnetic Hill, and Pathar Sahib Gurudwara before reaching Nubra.
• Explore the famous Sand Dunes (Cold Desert of India) and enjoy a Double-Humped Camel Safari (self-paid).
• Dinner and overnight stay in Nubra Valley.
• Wake up to a beautiful sunrise and enjoy breakfast.
• Depart for Turtuk, a remote village just a few kilometers from the Line of Control, inhabited by ethnic Balti Muslims.
• Turtuk is the penultimate village open to foreign tourists, offering pristine landscapes and cultural charm.
• Explore its narrow lanes, orchards, and riverside views before returning to Nubra.
• Dinner and overnight stay in Nubra Valley.
• Early breakfast, then head towards Pangong Tso via Agham and Shyok villages.
• En route, witness rugged mountains and remote Ladakhi hamlets.
• Arrive at Pangong Lake by evening — the mesmerizing lake famous for its ever-changing colors.
• Check into your lakeside campsite, dinner, and overnight stay.
• Early morning sunrise photography at Pangong Lake.
• Breakfast, then drive back to Leh via Chang La Pass (5,350 m), the third-highest motorable road in the world.
• Arrive in Leh by evening for your last night in the city.
• Explore local markets and cafés, shop for souvenirs.
• Dinner and overnight stay in Leh.
• Breakfast and check-out from hotel.
• Transfer to Leh Airport for your flight back home with unforgettable Ladakh memories
Inclusions
✔ Accommodation in hotels, camps & Srinagar houseboat on double/triple sharing basis
✔ Daily breakfast & dinner as per itinerary
✔ All transfers & sightseeing by private vehicle
✔ Experienced driver with Himalayan driving expertise
✔ Inner Line Permits & green/environment fees
✔ Professional Trip Captain / Local Guide assistance
✔ Basic first aid assistance during the trip
Exclusions
✘ 5% GST
✘ Flights to/from Srinagar & Leh
✘ Lunches and snacks not mentioned in inclusions
✘ Optional activities (camel ride, rafting, ATV, Shikara ride, etc.)
✘ Entry fees to monasteries, museums, or monuments
✘ Oxygen cylinder, travel insurance, or medical expenses
✘ Personal expenses (shopping, laundry, beverages, tips, etc.)
Other Info
- Best Season: May to September (open roads, pleasant weather)
- Altitude Advisory:
• Trip covers altitudes up to 5,359 m at Khardung-La
• First 1–2 days allow gradual acclimatization – avoid overexertion - What to Carry:
• Warm layers, thermals, gloves & sturdy shoes
• Sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm & moisturizer
• Personal medicines, power bank & reusable water bottle - Connectivity: Postpaid BSNL/Airtel work in Kargil & Leh. Limited/no network at Pangong & Nubra.
- Road Conditions: Roads are long, scenic but bumpy – travel light & expect delays.
- Fitness Advisory: Recommended for travelers with moderate fitness. Consult your doctor if you have heart, lung, or high blood pressure conditions.