Classic Leh–Ladakh Circuit (10D/9N)

Overview

The essential Ladakh circuit for first-timers and explorers alike—high-altitude passes, historic monasteries, remote valleys, cultural stops, and iconic lakes. Balanced pace for families or friends who want to experience Ladakh’s best highlights.

Highlights

• Khardung La & Chang La high passes
• Hunder sand dunes camel ride
• Alchi & Likir ancient monasteries
• Magnetic Hill & Sangam Point
• Offbeat excursion to Turtuk
• Pangong Lake (3 Idiots fame)
• Hall of Fame, Leh Palace, and Thiksey Monastery
• Scenic Sham Valley & Lamayuru Moonland

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Leh (Acclimatization)

Arrive at Leh Airport (3,500m), transfer to hotel and rest. Evening: Shanti Stupa for sunset, Leh Market & Leh Palace (optional).

Day 2: Local Leh Exploration (Cultural Day)

Hall of Fame Army Museum, Magnetic Hill, Gurudwara Pathar Sahib, Sangam Point (Zanskar-Indus confluence), Spituk Monastery.

Day 3: Leh → Sham Valley Tour

Alchi Monastery, Likir Monastery, Basgo Palace ruins, Lamayuru Moonland (optional). Stay: Leh or homestay in Sham Valley.

Day 4: Leh → Nubra Valley via Khardung La

Drive over Khardung La, Diskit Monastery (Buddha statue), camel ride at Hunder sand dunes. Stay: Nubra (Hunder/Diskit).

Day 5: Nubra → Turtuk (Border Village Excursion)

Visit Turtuk (Baltistani village near LOC), cultural walk, local food. Stay: Nubra or Turtuk.

Day 6: Nubra → Pangong Lake (via Shyok Route)

Scenic drive along Shyok River, reach Pangong Lake (14,270 ft). Sunset and stargazing. Stay: Camps on Pangong shore.

Day 7: Pangong → Hanle (Optional) OR Return to Leh

Option A: Pangong → Hanle (observatory, remote). Option B: Return to Leh via Chang La & Hemis Monastery.

Day 8: Hanle → Leh (if Hanle was covered)

Drive back via Chumathang hot springs, beautiful remote landscapes. Stay: Leh.

Day 9: Leh (Free Day / Shopping / Monastery Hopping)

Thiksey Monastery, Stok Palace & Museum, Rancho School (Druk Padma Karpo), Leh market.

Day 10: Departure from Leh

Transfer to airport with memories of Ladakh adventure.