On request of some avid readers of the blog and so many like-minded travelers seeking guidance for their tour to Leh – Ladakh, I would like to sketch below one of the most popular Ladakh itineraries. Many of Leh – Ladakh lovers follow it, including me, as it covers all three major tourist destinations of Ladakh, including Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso Lake, and Tso Moriri Lake.
The itinerary also covers the Srinagar Leh Highway as well as the Manali – Leh Highway, so it is apt for those looking forward to covering the entire Ladakh circuit. If you are making a trip to Ladakh in winter, then better refer most common itinerary for a winter trip to Ladakh
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Let's quickly dive into the details:
Why travel Ladakh from Srinagar side?
I have started from Srinagar side because it gives at least two benefits, if not more. First, the body gets better acclimatized due to gradual ascent by the time you reach Leh and when you return from Manali Leh Highway, hence fewer chances of getting stuck with Acute Mountain Sickness (more info on AMS) and more enjoyment of views on Manali – Leh Highway.
If you start via Manali – Leh Highway, then most of the terrain runs over 4000 Mtrs of altitude, and by the time you reach such altitude, your body is not properly acclimatized. Hence, many people fall sick on Manali – Leh Highway despite covering in a 25:75 ratio (Manali – Keylong, Keylong – Leh) in terms of distance.
Secondly, you save one day as Tso Moriri and Tso Kar Lakes can be adjusted once you start towards Manali from Leh. This way, you are not required to return to Leh from Tso Moriri to go toward Kargil or Srinagar.
Finally, you need to get inner line permits to travel to Tso Moriri which you will not get when traveling from Manali side. The permits need to be stamped in Leh Information Center or Leh DC office. Since 2022, permits are not required for domestic tourists to travel anywhere in Ladakh including the Umling La pass. You only need to pay the environment/green/ecology fee and carry a receipt of the payment
For now, these reasons are good enough to start your Ladakh journey from Srinagar side 🙂 …
12-14 Days Itinerary for Leh Ladakh by Road
When you plan for the Ladakh trip, it is better to plan the trip with a good number of days in hand. Cramming too many places in the Ladakh road trip does not make any sense because you will not enjoy the real beauty of the trip. Hence, I have kept about 12-14 days for this common itinerary of Ladakh trip.
Day 1 | Delhi – Jammu / Patnitop
- Overnight at Jammu or Patnitop
- About a 12-13 Hours drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between
Day 2 | Jammu / Patnitop – Srinagar
- Enjoy a walk around Dal Lake and maybe a Shikara ride as well
- Overnight at Srinagar
- About an 8-9 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between
Day 3 | Srinagar – Sonamarg – Zozi La – Drass – Kargil
- Enjoy the vistas en route near Sonamarg
- Have a meal at Drass during lunch
- Overnight at Kargil
- About an 8-hour drive, depending upon the traffic movement at Zozila and the breaks you take in between.
Day 4 | Kargil – Lamayuru – Leh
- Cover Mulbekh Maitreya, Lamayuru Monastery, Lunar Landscapes
- On the way, you can also see Gurudwara Pather Sahib, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Nimmu, and other parts of Sham Valley
- Overnight at Leh
- About a 9-10 Hours drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between
Day 5 | Leh Local Sightseeing
- To know about the places to visit in/around Leh, check my Travel Guide for Local Sightseeing of Leh Town in Ladakh
- Since 2022, permits are not required for domestic tourists to travel anywhere in Ladakh including the Umling La pass. You only need to pay the environment/green/ecology fee and carry a receipt of the payment.
- Check the Leh – Ladakh taxi union rate list for 2024 – 25 including the contacts of some reliable taxi drivers within Leh – Ladakh.
- You can call the local drivers directly to connect with them and check the more comprehensive List of Taxi Drivers for Ladakh – Srinagar – Leh – Manali with recommendations/reviews for DoW community members.
- Overnight at Leh
Day 6 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder
- Head for Nubra Valley and stay overnight at Hunder / Diskit
- On the way enjoy a cup of soup at Highest Motorable Pass (as claimed) Khardung La
- Diskit has monasteries with the tallest lord Buddha statue and Hunder has sand dunes and bacterian camel safari
- About a 5-6 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between and at Khardung La
Day 7 | Hunder / Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh
- Sumur has a famous monastery to check out and Panamik has hot water springs
- Overnight at Leh
- About a 7-9 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between
Day 8 | Leh – Hemis Monastery – Pangong Tso Lake
- Cover either of Hemis, Thiksey, and Shey on the go toward Pangong Tso
- Overnight at Pangong Tso (Spangmik or Lukung)
- About a 5-6 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between
Day 9 | Pangong Tso Lake – Thicksey Monastery – Shey Palace – Leh
- Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey, and Shey on return to Leh
- Overnight at Leh
- About a 5-6 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between
Day 10 | Rest day at Leh
- Enjoy local culture, shopping, or rest in Leh
- Sham Valley includes Alchi, Likir, Basgo Palace, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Nimmu, Gurudwara Pather Sahib
- Overnight at Leh
Day 11 | Leh – Tso Moriri via Chumathang
- Cover Karzok Monastery
- Overnight at Karzok or Tso Moriri
- About a 7-8 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between
Day 12 | Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Debring (Manali – Leh Highway starts) – Moore Plains – Sarchu
- Try to start early in the day so that you reach Sarchu where the accommodation options are better than in Pang
- Overnight at Sarchu
- About 8 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between
Day 13 | Sarchu – Baralacha La – Keylong – Atal Tunnel – Manali
- On the way cover Suraj Tal, and Deepak Tal which are on the roadsides only
- Overnight at Manali
- About 6 Hrs drive
Day 14 | Manali – Delhi
- Return Home
- About a 12-14 Hrs drive from Manali to Delhi, depending upon the breaks you take in between
Day 15 + 16
Buffer days are to be kept in case of road closure due to landslides or snowfall or perhaps you want to enjoy more.
Nubra Valley to Pangong Tso Direct Route Option
You can save a day by making a direct trip to Pangong Tso from Nubra Valley as suggested below.
Day 7 | Hunder / Diskit – Shyok village / Wari La route – Pangong Tso
- Take the direct route from Nubra Valley to Pangong Tso either via Shyok village or Wari La pass whichever is open.
- Since 2019, the direct route between Nubra Valley – Shyok Village – Pangong Tso has stabilized a lot. It is not at all desolate in the season anymore as it used to be a few years back.
- A lot of people do this route nowadays, so it should be fine for you to do that route as well. Just enquire at Agham village on the safer side or wait for a couple of cars to tag along on the route.
- Overnight at Pangong Tso.
- About a 6-10 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between and the route you take between Shyok and Wari La.
Day 8 | Pangong Tso Lake – Thicksey Monastery – Shey Palace – Leh
- Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey, and Shey on return to Leh
- Overnight at Leh
- About a 6-7 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between
Alternatively, you can also make a day trip to Pangong Tso (if Shyok village and Wari La pass routes are closed) as below but that makes it a bit in case.
Day 8 | Leh – Chang La – Pangong Tso – Chang La – Leh
- Make a Day trip to Pangong Tso via Chang La Pass.
- Overnight at Leh.
- About an 8-9 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between.
Additional Points for Ladakh trip from Srinagar
- You can also make a three-day trip to Nubra Valley so that you can spend one night in the beautiful village of Turtuk and remove the rest day at 9 or add one day to the above plan to visit Turtuk. I bet you will not regret it at all visiting Turtuk in Nubra Valley.
- In Srinagar, you can also visit the Floating Market> Shalimar Garden.
- For accommodation, check the nice, preferred list of accommodation options in the entire Leh – Ladakh (Leh, Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri) including moderate and cheap budget hotels.
- Any doubts related to the budget of your Ladakh trip?? Don’t worry, check this complete guide on How to calculate the cost or budget for Leh – Ladakh trip
Conclusion
I hope this plan or itinerary for Leh Ladakh from the Srinagar side will be useful for travelers planning their journey at least for the first time.
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I look forward to any questions or doubts or valuable suggestions and inputs you have and would love to discuss your custom plan as well in the comments section.
![What are tips for long-distance bike ride in Ladakh or Spiti? [10 Practical Tips]](https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/yt_vid_thumbs/ladakh/86.png)
You can share your valuable suggestions and inputs you have or you would love to discuss your custom plan as well in the comments section. If you want any customization or deviation from the above plan, feel free to ask any questions, and in case you know a friend who is interested in traveling Ladakh from Srinagar in such a plan, feel free to share the article with them.
2,495 Comments
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thank you dheeraj i was w8ing fr ur rply desprately bt my frndz want too see cold desert and and drass . so i cant change my plan towards spiti and lahaul . we ll try to skip khardungla pass by staying nxt day @ leh . thank you
Have a wonderful trip Sunny!! Enjoy…
Regards
Dheeraj
hii ,
i m planning to go to leh on 9th july and wants to come back to delhi on 15th night so i ll b leaving on 9th eve and my first stop will b sonamarg i might b reaching der on 10th eve , overnight at sonamarg nd 11 morng leaving fr leh nd ll reach der on 11 night , overnight at leh and 12 morng want to see khardulunga pass and cumin back to leh on 12. so my question is i have 3 days more should i go bck frm manali or sringar only as m having a new swift and we are 4 frnds.
Hi Sunny,
Not sure how you are going to do so much traveling in just 6 days unless you want to eat and sleep on the road only. Usually it takes 4 days to reach Leh from Delhi with night stops at Jammu, Srinagar, Kargil and then finally Leh. Even if you manage to reach Leh with continuous driving in two days (though looks barely tough), then you will be a day for rest in Leh and get the permits made for Khardung La. 4th day you wil be able to go to Khardung La and come back to Leh for overnight stay and then in next two days. Leh to Sarchu and Sarchu to Manali. Though this plan looks decent on paper but executing it and that too in hatchback with 4 people would be extremely extremely tough.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
thanx dheeraj for your rply ,
bt dheraj i would b leaving frm delhi @ around 4 in aftrnoon as we r too drivers my friend will b driving on plain roads as he is afraid of driving on hilly areas so from pathankot i would b driving to leh so i ll reach pathkot by 2 am on 10th july nd from 2 am i would b driving to sonamarg which ll b our first stop might reaching sonamarg @ 11 am 10th morning we have full day to rest over der we ll njoy whole day nd night @ sonamarg staying overnight at sonamarg 12th morning at 5 am from der leh is 342 km i ll cover that part in 14-15 hours including stopage while travelling , so 8 pm i ll b @ leh resting der so 13th will b our route towards khadunlanga pass can i have permit on d same time when i ll go to tke that ?, visiting khardulanga pass nd cuming bck to leh staying overnight @ leh and 14 morng leaving bck from leh how much time ll be taken to reach manali from leh without any stoppage, and finally from manali 15th morning i ll b reaching delhi @ around 7 pm eve .
Hello Sunny,
As I said, it is looking simple to plan but would be tiring and difficult to execute. However, I am not saying that is not doable but I mean definitely not enjoyable and you can yourself see how much %age of hours you are on road in these six days. Leh – Manali is easily a 15+ Hrs journey excluding the Ugly traffic jams of Rohtang Pass. If you get stuck in Jam, then no guarantee how much time will be taken. Yes, in the morning you can take the permits from DC office by reaching there at 10 AM and getting done by 11 AM. Start for Khardung La and you can come back the same evening. DO NOT spend too much time there as your body will not be acclimatized at all with no stoppages on the way and if you are not feeling well on that day or previous night when you sleep in Leh, please stay at Leh only and enjoy. Do not go to Khardung La with symptoms of AMS.
My personal advice would be do not do Ladakh in 6 days, go for some other place, like Kinnaur or Spiti or Lahaul (if you tend to drive so much) you will better enjoy it.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
Do you know of a reliable Taxi Driver for Srinagar – Kargil, Kargil – Rangdum and Kargil- Leh streches? I have seen some names for Ladakh region however if you have any recommendations for Srinagar – Leh track as well, it would be really helpful.
Hi Shalu,
I guess you can check with this taxi guy: Md. Kazim, +91-9419801538. One of my close friends used his taxi for Zanskar trip last year and had a great feedback of him.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
I am planning for a Leh-Ladakh trip in August Last Week. I have already booked the flight tickets from Delhi to Leh on 25th August. We are 2 couples both from Delhi.
We are planning for the following itinerary for our trip:
25-Aug Fly from Delhi to Leh and rest and get permits
26-Aug Leh Local Sight Seeing + Magnetic Hill
27-Aug Head for Nubra Valley and night stay there.
28-Aug Nubra Valley to Leh
29-Aug Leh – Pangong Lake Night Stay – Return
30-Aug Leh to Tso Moriri
31-Aug Tso Moriri To Sarchu
1-Sep Sarchu to Manali
2-Sep Manali to Delhi
Can you please have a look and see if it is good or we can make some alterations if required. Or if there are any other good places that can be added to this schedule.
Thanks a lot.
-Sandeep Mangal
Hi Sandeep,
Plan is nicely done. Just ensure you keep your bodies free from any exertion in the initial days as you fly in and most improtantly keep your bodies adequately hydrated. Guess, on 29th there is no night stay at Pangong Tso. Rest looks good, plan a buffer day for Manali Leh Highway.
For accommodation, check the nice, preferred list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh including moderate and cheap budget hotels as well in the series of articles starting on the link here
For the current leh – ladakh taxi union rate list 2012-13 including the contacts of some reliable taxi drivers within Leh – Ladakh, check the link here. You can get about 10-15% of discount by directly getting in touch with drivers and of course, talking in person rather on phone always help in bargaining more.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks a lot Dheeraj. I will take care of your suggestions and advises. Can you also let me know:
1. Will August end be a good season to visit Leh and the roads on Leh-Manali highway will be good at that time keeping in mind the rains during that time.
2. I am reaching there on Saturday so I will have to get the permits same day as I think on Sunday its closed. So can you let me know a bit about how easy/difficult is that and how can i go ahead about it.
3. Since we are 4 people in all, can you let me know which taxi/car should be good to hire.
4. Also should we hire the taxi for the entire trip or on a daily basis. From where can we hire taxis? Can you suggest any good taxi or tour operators there.
Thanks a lot again.
-Sandeep
Hello Sandeep,
1. Roads will not be in good shape being monsoons, especially lower leg of Manali – Leh highway before Sarchu. Moore plains might also be damped that also create slush at some parts, difficult to negotiate.
2. Yes, on Sunday the DC office will be closed. It is easy to get the permits and wold not take more than 40-50 minutes for the whole process.
3. Hire a Scorpio, I guess that will be the best option.
4. Yes, hire the taxi for the entire trip, it will help alot being with you all the time. For the current leh – ladakh taxi union rate list 2012-13 including the contacts of some reliable taxi drivers within Leh – Ladakh, check the link here. You can get about 10-15% of discount by directly getting in touch with drivers and of course, talking in person rather on phone always help in bargaining more.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks Dheeraj for your detailed replies. Can you also let me know following:
1. As you had mentioned in your reply that roads might not be good because of monsoons so i just wanted to know whether its advisable to travel by road during that season. Or should we return back by flight from Leh.
2. Is there a way we can modify our itinerary to have a night stay at Pangong Lake and then from there head directly towards Tso Moriri without coming back to Leh. This should save one day of time. Do you suggest this ?
Hello Sandeep,
1. At some parts of Manali – Leh Highway (like before Baralacha La) and Srinagar – Leh Highway (like before Kargil) you might need to face monsoon hassles but once you get closer to Ladakh, then Ladakh being rain shadow region is least affected by monsoon rains. So, if you like adventure then go via road else fly-out.
2. Direct route to Tso Moriri from Pangong Tso is present but DC office is not issuing the permits for this route. So, plan according to tradional routes only so as not to get into hassle of making last minute changes.
I hope this helps. Please let me know in case you need more info or have any doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
We are planning to rent a bike from manali and following is our itinerary.
24-Aug Pune to Delhi
25-Aug Bus from Delh to Manali
26-Aug Manali
27-Aug Bike ride from Manali to Dharamshala
28-Aug Bike ride from Dharamshala to Jammu
29-Aug Bike ride from Jammu to Srinagar
30-Aug Srinagar
31-Aug Bike ride from Srinagar to Kargil
01-Sep Bike ride from Kargil to Leh
02-Sep Leh Local Sighseeing + Inner Line Permits
03-Sep Leh – Hemis Monastery – Pangong Tso Lake
04-Sep Pangong Tso Lake – Thicksey Monastery – Shey Palace – Leh
05-Sep Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder
06-Sep Hunder / Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh
07-Sep Leh – Tso Moriri via Chumathang
08-Sep Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Debring – Moore Plains – Sarchu
09-Sep Sarchu – Baralacha La – Keylong – Rohtang Pass – Manali
10-Sep Bus from Manali to Delhi
11-Sep Delhi
12-Sep Spare
13-Sep Delhi to Pune.
What is your opinion on the above plan. And how are the roads from Manali -> Dharamshala -> Jammu -> Srinagar ?
Do you know good guy who rents enfiled in manali ?
Thank,
Vishal
Also, for renting bikes in Manali check the article: How to Hire or Rent a Bike or Motorcycle in Manali
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
Thanks for your reply. Also can you please tell me how is the route Manali -> Dharamshala -> Jammu -> Srinagar for biking ? As I haven't found any information on this route on internet.
Regards,
Vishal
Hello Vishal,
The route from Manali to Dharamshala is scenic and road conditions are pretty decent all the way upto Srinagar barring few bad patches in between.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hello Vishal,
Just a little correct in above such a good plan:
03-Sep Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder
04-Sep Hunder / Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh
05-Sep Leh – Hemis Monastery – Pangong Tso Lake
06-Sep Pangong Tso Lake – Thicksey Monastery – Shey Palace – Leh
Nubra Valley is at lower altitude than Pangong Tso and thus it always helps to sleep first at lower altitude and then sleep at higher altitude so as to get acclimatized.
Secondly, you need to carry fuel for about 550 KMs for doing Leh – Tso Moriri – Sarchu – Keylong – Manali stretch including the tankful of your bike. So, do not forget to carry spare fuel.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
I appreciate your time and patience. Me and my wife are planning Leh in August.
20Aug- Delhi to Leh (by flight) 10am – Rest and arranging permits
21Aug- Pangong Tso overnight stay
22Aug- Leh Local Monestaries
23Aug- Nubra Valley via Khardungla Pass
24Aug- Leave Leh by evening for Srinagar(Sonamarg) by road breakless journey
25Aug- Sonamarg sightseeing
26Aug- Sonamarg to Srinagar – Srinagar sightseeing
27Aug- Srinagar to Delhi by flight
My queries:
1) As we will be flying directly to Leh, how do we cope up with AMS.
2) We are planning to homestay in Spangmik near Pangong. Are the accomodations easily available without advance reservations.
3) How do we travel from Leh to Pangong and back next day. Do we need to find somebody who can accomodate us in the sixseater vehicle. How much will they charge for too and fro per person.
4) Same question for Nubra too for travel.
5) At what time will the transport be available from Leh to Srinagar and how much would they charge per person.
6) Are local buses available within Leh for sight seeings. Also are there any govt bus transport available for Pangong and Nubra.
7) Is it going to be too cold in August.
What could be the roughly expected budget for my above itinerary.
Thank you in advance 🙂
Hello Kiran,
The above plan is deadly, please do not attempt it by sleeping second night right on Pangong Tso. Do it like below:
Day 1 | Delhi – Leh (By Flight)
— Checkin at Hotel. Many hotels provide free pick and drop from Airport. Ask while you book them.
— Take ample of rest as well as water or anything that keep your body hydrated enough. DO NOT OVER HYDRATE. Take ORS Soluted water or ORS – L tetra packs from home.
— Do not over exert your body at any cost. Avoid too much up-down on stairs or avoid it in entirety, if possible.
— After 5-6 Hrs of rest you can visit Leh Palace, Local Leh market, Shankar Gompa .
— If you feel exerted go back to Hotel, have dinner at Hotel and take rest. Avoid any exertion. Else continue and,
— Follow the sunset by stroll at Changspa road and have a nice dinner on varied cuisines offered in-around Changspa road.
— Go back to hotel for overnight stay at Leh.
Day 2 | Leh Local Sighseeing + Inner Line Permits
— For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here:
— Hire a taxi from Leh taxi stand or Hotel whichever suits you.
— Bargain hard with taxi driver. Book that single taxi for entire trip after explaining the complete plan.
— Take his inputs if you feel reasonable and if required modify the plan accordingly but should suits you best.
— Ask him to be with you guys starting first day itself, if required and charged reasonable else do it at your own.
— Again DO NOT over exert and take little steps and slow walks only.
— If feeling OK then do Local sightseeing include Namgyal Gompa, Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, Shankar Gompa, Main Market, Hall of Fame, Spituk Gompa, Changspa Road Stroll in evening
— Do not use stairs at any of these places just to see them as it will exert your body much more.
— Overnight at Leh
Day 3 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder
— Head for Nubra Valley and stay overnight at Hunder / Diskit
— On the way enjoy a cup of soup at Highest Motorable Pass (as claimed) Khardung La
— Diskit has monasteries with tallest lord Buddha statue and Hunder has sand dunes and bacterian camel safari
Day 4 | Hunder / Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh
— Sumur has a famous monastery to check out and Panamik has hot water springs
— Overnight at Leh
Day 5 | Leh – Pangong Tso – Leh
— Do not plan to stay overnight at Pangong Tso as you will not be acclimatized and may fall sick. So, make a day trip only.
— Overnight at Leh
Day 6 | Leh – Lamayuru – Kargil
— Cover Mulbekh Maitrey, Lamayuru Moanstery, Lunar Landscapes
— On the way you can also see Gurudwara Pather Sahib, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Nimmu
— Overnight at Kargil
Day 7 | Kargil – Drass – Zozi La – Sonamarg – Srinagar
— Enjoy the vistas enroute
— Have late drunch meal at Sonamarg
— Overnight at Srinagar
Day 8 | Fly back
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj, Thanks for your inputs. Could you answer few of my queries listed below my itinerary. Thank you.
Hi Kiran,
For your queries:
1. I have suggested an itinerary to cope up with AMS at best after flying to Leh. Do keep your body hydrated and keep exertion to minimum for first 2 days.
2. Yes, homestays are most likely to be available.
3 + 4. Guess, in the updated plan you will not be able to stay overnight at Pangong Tso. But, you can always team up with other tourists in Leh as you will find lots of flyers, notices etc. on walls of travel agents/restaurants/cafes etc. where people are looking to share the taxi costs. Get in a seat there for yourself. Otherwise, travel agents in Leh would help you with it but they might charge Rs 200-300 more for it. Nubra OVernight should cost you about 1500-2000 types per seat and Pangong Tso should be about Rs 1500 per seat. (judging only approximately)
5. You need to check at Leh taxi/bust stand for this one. JKTDC buses will charge about Rs 500-700 for a drop to Srinagar from Leh.
6. Very few buses are available and service is not daily. Guess, Pangong Tso has twice in a week.
7. Not too cold but pleasant.
8. For queries related to budget for Leh – Ladakh trip, I am sure the link below will help you alot for getting an idea of overall budget:
How to calculate cost or budget for Leh – Ladakh trip
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Dheeraj, which markets in Leh are good for shopping? Is there any market where we can get THANKAS at reasonable price? What are other key specialities that most of the people buy from Ladakh?
Hello Shalu,
You will get them in main market of Leh. Most items are expensive in main market, try to other lanes near fort road and old road where the shops offer similar quality but being in interior at cheaper cost.
Regards
Dheeraj sharma
Hi Dheeraj
Which are the famous and must try Restaurants / Eating Joints in Leh and where are they located?
Where will we get best Tibetian food and Momos?
Hello Meavin,
Do not miss meals at Lamayuru Restaurant and Gesmo Restaurant at fort road, both have great options of food and tastes great. Jeevan Cafe at Changspa is another good eating joint along with Buksha restaurant near subzi mandi taxi stand.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
hi, dheeraj
what time it usually takes for ILP process and what is the best time to go to DC office to get the permit early? i m visiting leh in the 1st week of september.
Hello Pankaj,
Usually it is not more than a 20-30 minutes process. If the ADC would be in meeting then you might need to wait or go to main market to pass the time fruitfully otherwise, it is done within no time. Just download the form of permit for the permit link on my blog, fill it is as per instructions and keep your document set with you. Once you reach Leh, complete the hand over the document set, get it verified from Clerk, then signed from ADC, submit the fees to clerk and you are done!! 🙂
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi, We ae planning Leh trip in August this year and reaching there via Srinagar. We have kept 1 day exclusivly for Pangong lake, and want to experience staying overnight in Eco Huts closeby. now, while returning back, we wanted to explore the Rohtang Pass – Manali Route. Question is – Do we have taxis/ luxury buses available in or around Pangong Tso that can be hired for Manali? Or do we need to book a cab for Leh – Pangong – Manali?
Hi Shikha,
You need to hire a taxi that will do Leh – Pangong Tso – Manali. There is no direct path from Pangong Tso to Manali which is simple and easy and you guys would be coming back upto Karu and then will continue towards Manali. Karu is about 36 KMs from Leh, so it is almost like coming back to Leh and then going to Manali. But, in either case, taxi will be available for you from Leh only.
For the current leh – ladakh taxi union rate list 2012-13 including the contacts of some reliable taxi drivers within Leh – Ladakh, check the link here. You can get about 12-15% of discount by directly getting in touch with drivers and of course, talking in person rather on phone always help in bargaining more.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
Thanks a lot for your reply, I forgot to mention, we have a driver but it's a white number plate car, so officially not a taxi, so we can travel everywhere.
June 22 – Night 1 | Delhi – Amritsar
June 23 – Day 1 | Amritsar
June 24 – Day 2 | Amritsar – Srinagar
June 25 – Day 3 | Srinagar – Sonamarg – Zozi La – Drass – Kargil
June 26 – Day 4 | Kargil – Lamayuru – Leh
June 27 – Day 5 | Leh Local Sighseeing + Inner Line Permits
June 28 – Day 6 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder
June 29 – Day 7 | Hunder / Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Pangong Tso via Wari La Route
June 30 – Day 8 | Pangong Tso Lake – Thicksey Monastery – Shey Palace – Leh
July 1 – Day 9 | Leh – Sham Valley – Leh (on rented bikes)
July 2 – Day 10 | Leh – Tso Moriri via Chumathang
July 3 – Day 11 | Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Debring (Manali – Leh Highway starts) – Moore Plains – Pang / Sarchu
July 4 – Day 12 | Pang / Sarchu – Baralacha La – Keylong – Rohtang Pass – Manali
July 5 – Day 13 | Manali – Delhi
July 6 – Day 14 | Buffer Day
July 7- Day 15 – Fly out from Delhi Airport in the morning
Does the above perfect after few changes?
hi Alpesh,
Plan sounds perfect buddy!! 🙂 … Enjoy to the fullest.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
Finally I have my itenary ready, we are group of 5 friends (3M & 2F) , with a Xylo & a driver, wanting to add Amritsar in your common itenary, see if below works out:
June 22 – Night 1 | Delhi – Amritsar
• We arrive Delhi Airport by 11pm
• Overnight drive from Delhi to Amritsar (Our Driver suggested us this)
• About 10-12 Hrs drive
June 23 – Day 1 | Amritsar
• Visit Golden Temple & Wagah Border
• Overnight at Amritsar
June 24 – Day 2 | Amritsar – Srinagar
• Enjoy walk around Dal lake, Shikara ride, Floating market, Shalimar Garden
• Overnight at Srinagar
• About 10-12 Hrs drive
June 25 – Day 3 | Srinagar – Sonamarg – Zozi La – Drass – Kargil
• Enjoy the vistas enroute
• Overnight at Kargil
• About 8 Hrs drive
June 26 – Day 4 | Kargil – Lamayuru – Leh
• Cover Mulbekh Maitrey, Lamayuru Moanstery, Lunar Landscapes
• On the way you can also see Gurudwara Pather Sahib, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Nimmu
• Overnight at Leh
• About 9-10 Hrs drive
June 27 – Day 5 | Leh Local Sighseeing + Inner Line Permits
• Local sightseeing include Namgyal Gompa, Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, Shankar Gompa, Main Market, Hall of Fame, Spituk Gompa, Changspa Road Stroll in evening
• Overnight at Leh
June 28 – Day 6 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder
• Head for Nubra Valley and stay overnight at Hunder / Diskit
• On the way enjoy a cup of soup at Highest Motorable Pass (as claimed) Khardung La
• Diskit has monasteries with tallest lord Buddha statue and Hunder has sand dunes and bacterian camel safari
• About 5-6 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between and at Khardung La
June 29 – Day 7 | Hunder / Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh
• Sumur has a famous monastery to check out and Panamik has hot water springs
• Overnight at Leh
• About 7-9 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between
June 30 – Day 8 | Leh – Hemis Monastery – Pangong Tso Lake
• Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on the go towards Pangong Tso
• Overnight at Pangong Tso (Spangmik or Lukung)
• About 5-6 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between
July 1 – Day 9 | Pangong Tso Lake – Thicksey Monastery – Shey Palace – Leh
• Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on return to Leh
• Overnight at Leh
• About 5-6 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between
July 2 – Day 10 | Rest day at Leh to enjoy local culture and some shopping or you can do tour to Sham Valley
• Sham Valley include Alchi, Likir, Basgo Palace, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Nimmu, Gurudwara Pather Sahib
• Overnight at Leh
July 3 – Day 11 | Leh – Tso Moriri via Chumathang
• Cover Karzok Monastery
• Overnight at Karzok or Tso Moriri
• About 7-8 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between
July 4 – Day 12 | Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Debring (Manali – Leh Highway starts) – Moore Plains – Pang / Sarchu
• Try to start early in the day so that you reach Sarchu where the accommodation options are better than Pang
• Overnight at Sarchu or Pang
• About 11-12 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between
July 5 – Day 13 | Pang / Sarchu – Baralacha La – Keylong – Rohtang Pass – Manali
• On the way cover Suraj Tal, Deepak Tal which are on the road sides only
• Overnight at Manali
• About 11-12 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between and of course the mess at Rohtang Pass
July 6 – Day 14 | Manali – Delhi
• About 13-14 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between
• Overnight at Delhi
July 7 – Day 15 | Delhi
• Fly out from Delhi Airport in the Morning
Questions:
1. Does the above itenary fits well the Amritsar part?
2. We want to have 1 buffer day, so I want to do as u suggested below, how to incorporate this in the schedule:
“Instead of coming back to Leh from Nubra Valley, you can head towards Pangong Tso via Wari La route. This will give you an additional day which can be spent in Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso or Leh”
3. For a Xylo do we need to carry excess fuel for any part of the trip?
4. We want to rent bikes from Leh for just 1 day, which day & route is good & comparatively safer for amateurs like us
5. Any idea if Vodafone-Postpaid works in Leh capital
Thanks for all the guidance; I will surely return your favor with awesome pictures 😉
Hello Dheeraj,
Thanks for reply
In prevoius mail i say that, i came leh alone(my self), i want
to information what arrangement for sight seen for single person. it
is too costly to hire a car for single person, so that i know to can i
adjust in a group or a package tour, what will be possible,
what is the cost of single person for sight seen & what cost for 4-5
n/d package tour.which tour opretor will arrange that ?. i think many
tourist visit leh alone.
hotel- i want to land first & see the hotels & then i book. what is
your openion/sugg.
waiting for reply
M M ALAM
Hello MM,
I guess I replied you on email but I guess it might have gone to SPAM 🙂 … Anyways, You are alone and private taxis are very costly in Leh but you will be able to find the shared taxi without much fuss at all. There are lots of flyers which people put at cafes, dine-ins, restaurants, travel agent desks/shops/whiteboards wanting to share the taxis for different trips within Ladakh. Even travel agent organize such shared taxis trip as well but charge a little higher about Rs 200-300 more than it would ideally cost. So, in worst case you can always go back to them and book a seat for yourself. Gelling up with people in Ladakh is more or less easy because many people travel solo and look forward to meet new people and share cultural thoughts and values over the trip. No where else in the world you will find more smiling and helpful people as Ladakhis are 🙂
You can do hotel bookings once your Leh, no issues with that. Still keep the list handy with for most preferred list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh including moderate and cheap budget hotels as well in the series of articles starting on the link here
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hello Dheeraj,
I am planning to visit leh in mid of july. I have short of time,having only 4 days for stay and site seeing in leh from date 9,10,11,12 July. I am visiting this place first time with my 9 friends (all are males). As I don’t have so much idea about the good places of leh to visit, I request you kindly suggest me the places which I must visit. Your reply to this comment can save lots of my time.
Hello Sandip,
For just for days in hand, follow something like:
Day 1 | Delhi – Leh (By Flight)
— Checkin at Hotel. Many hotels provide free pick and drop from Airport. Ask while you book them.
— Take ample of rest as well as water or anything that keep your body hydrated enough. DO NOT OVER HYDRATE. Take ORS Soluted water or ORS – L tetra packs from home.
— Do not over exert your body at any cost. Avoid too much up-down on stairs or avoid it in entirety, if possible.
— After 5-6 Hrs of rest you can visit Leh Palace, Local Leh market, Shankar Gompa .
— If you feel exerted go back to Hotel, have dinner at Hotel and take rest. Avoid any exertion. Else continue and,
— Follow the sunset by stroll at Changspa road and have a nice dinner on varied cuisines offered in-around Changspa road.
— Go back to hotel for overnight stay at Leh.
Day 2 | Leh Local Sighseeing + Inner Line Permits
— For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here:
— Hire a taxi from Leh taxi stand or Hotel whichever suits you.
— Bargain hard with taxi driver. Book that single taxi for entire trip after explaining the complete plan.
— Take his inputs if you feel reasonable and if required modify the plan accordingly but should suits you best.
— Ask him to be with you guys starting first day itself, if required and charged reasonable else do it at your own.
— Again DO NOT over exert and take little steps and slow walks only.
— If feeling OK then do Local sightseeing include Namgyal Gompa, Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, Shankar Gompa, Main Market, Hall of Fame, Spituk Gompa, Changspa Road Stroll in evening
— Do not use stairs at any of these places just to see them as it will exert your body much more.
— Overnight at Leh
Day 3 | Leh – Khardung La – Leh
– Enjoy a cup of soup at Highest Motorable Pass (as claimed) Khardung La
– Overnite at Leh
Day 4 | Leh – Pangong Tso – Leh
— Do not plan to stay overnight at Pangong Tso as you will not be acclimatized and may fall sick. So, make a day trip only.
— Overnight at Leh
Day 5 | Fly back
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
Really great to see the kind of inputs you have given up there. Very good insights indeed. Thanks. 5 of us cousins, all men, have finalised a 6 days trip to Leh from 11th – 17th July. We also intend to cover Kargill sector. Not at all sure of that region thus would be real glad to get your directions on planning the itinerary while also covering atleast 1 festival. Also the best mode of travel and preferred places to stay at the stopovers.Will block the itinerary once I have your inputs as well…
Thanks so much
Mohit
Hello Mohit,
These 6 days are just for Ladakh? How are you planning to to reach Ladakh. If by road then it is not feasible to do it in 6 days. What is your starting point?
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
The 6 days exclusive of travel to and from Leh. 5 of us (all guys) will be flying into Leh on 11th morning and will be taking off on 17th morning. Have 6 full days in hand for the trip thus. How should I be planning my itinerary to cover as much as possible. Also, should I prebook hotels and commute or is it ok to reach and then arrange for the same. Similarly on permits. Can I request for permits beforehand. Any other point I need to keep in mind.
Thanks so much.
Hello Mohit,
For six days, directly flying to Leh you can follow the plan mentioned below. Yes, it is fine to book hotels once you reach Leh. But, still this list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh including moderate and cheap budget hotels as well in the series of articles starting on the link here would be good to keep it handy.
For the current leh – ladakh taxi union rate list 2012-13 including the contacts of some reliable taxi drivers within Leh – Ladakh, check the link here. You can get about 12-15% of discount by directly getting in touch with drivers and of course, talking in person rather on phone always help in bargaining more.
Plan is below:
Day 1 | Delhi – Leh (By Flight)
— Checkin at Hotel. Many hotels provide free pick and drop from Airport. Ask while you book them.
— Take ample of rest as well as water or anything that keep your body hydrated enough. DO NOT OVER HYDRATE. Take ORS Soluted water or ORS – L tetra packs from home.
— Do not over exert your body at any cost. Avoid too much up-down on stairs or avoid it in entirety, if possible.
— After 5-6 Hrs of rest you can visit Leh Palace, Local Leh market, Shankar Gompa .
— If you feel exerted go back to Hotel, have dinner at Hotel and take rest. Avoid any exertion. Else continue and,
— Follow the sunset by stroll at Changspa road and have a nice dinner on varied cuisines offered in-around Changspa road.
— Go back to hotel for overnight stay at Leh.
Day 2 | Leh Local Sighseeing + Inner Line Permits
— For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here:
— Hire a taxi from Leh taxi stand or Hotel whichever suits you.
— Bargain hard with taxi driver. Book that single taxi for entire trip after explaining the complete plan.
— Take his inputs if you feel reasonable and if required modify the plan accordingly but should suits you best.
— Ask him to be with you guys starting first day itself, if required and charged reasonable else do it at your own.
— Again DO NOT over exert and take little steps and slow walks only.
— If feeling OK then do Local sightseeing include Namgyal Gompa, Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, Shankar Gompa, Main Market, Hall of Fame, Spituk Gompa, Changspa Road Stroll in evening
— Do not use stairs at any of these places just to see them as it will exert your body much more.
— Overnight at Leh
Day 3 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder
— Head for Nubra Valley and stay overnight at Hunder / Diskit
— On the way enjoy a cup of soup at Highest Motorable Pass (as claimed) Khardung La
— Diskit has monasteries with tallest lord Buddha statue and Hunder has sand dunes and bacterian camel safari
Day 4 | Hunder / Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh
— Sumur has a famous monastery to check out and Panamik has hot water springs
— Overnight at Leh
Day 5 | Leh – Pangong Tso – Leh
— Do not plan to stay overnight at Pangong Tso as you will not be acclimatized and may fall sick. So, make a day trip only.
— Overnight at Leh
Day 6 | Rest day at Leh to enjoy local culture and some shopping OR Monastery tour OR Sham Valley tour OR Fly back home
— Overnight at Leh
— Monastery tour may include Hemis, Thicksey and Shey monasteries. They come on the route of Pangong Tso but as you will be doing day trip, it will be a bit hectic to include them on that day only.
— Sham Valley include Alchi, Likir, Basgo Palace, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Nimmu, Gurudwara Pather Sahib
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hello Dheeraj!!
What you are doing here is just terrific, kudos to your patience.
Saw you helping many, hence though of reaching out to you for some help.
I am travelling to Leh via Manali by bus on the 1st July and i have my return flight to delhi from Srinagar on 15th July 2012
I know you are not a fan of Manali route while going to Leh buy i had already made by bookings before i read your inputs 🙁
Need your help in planning my itinerary after i reach Leh. Below is what i thought
30th – Reaching Manali
1st July – 11AM HPTDC Bus from Manali to Leh
2nd July – Reach Leh ( Rest )
3rd July – Local sight seeing & Rest
4th & 5th July – Leh – Khardung La – Nubra Valley (Overnight Stay)
6th & 7th – Pangong Tso (Overnight Stay)
8th & 9th – Tso Moriri (Overnight Stay)
Now i have 10th, 11th, 12th, 13th (Excluding 14th because i need to leave for Srinagar & take my flight back to delhi from Srinagar on the 15th.. )
What else do you think i should cover in these 4 days, Can i do Zanskar? We are a couple, is it east to get seats for two people for a Zanskar trip..
Please help, do you think my itinerary is good? will be great if you can rework on it, if you think it can be made better
Warm Regards
Raheem
Hello Raheem,
I will suggest that you should drop Zanskar rather spend more time around Ladakh or may be reach a day before Srinagar and have a day trip to Gulmarg which will also act as buffer day if anything goes wrong in between at Srinagar – Leh route and you catch the flight on the planned day.
I will suggest following alterations in the plan:
4th, 5th and 6th – Nubra Valley + Turtuk (On 5th make a day trip to Turtuk or with overnight stay and go back to Leh on 6th)
7th and 8th – Pangong Tso with overnight stay on 7th
9th: Sham Valley Tour – Sham Valley include Alchi, Likir, Basgo Palace, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Nimmu, , Gurudwara Pather Sahib
10th & 11th: Tso Moriri with Overnight stay on 9th
12th: Leh – Lamayuru – Kargil
13th: Kargil – Srinagar
14th Buffer Day
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Sounds Perfect!! Thanks a TON Dheeraj..
Precisely two more questions
1. We are a couple & I would really like to have some travelers join is, may be 2 or 3 more people to share the taxi cost, how easy/hard is it to find travelers going to the same place? Is there anyone you know & can help us?
2. As i am going to Tso Moriri anyway, can i look at covering Hanle as well or would it require an extra day?
One again, thanks a TON for all your patience to reply to all the post on this page. I envy you and your knowledge
Hello Raheem,
1. Private taxis are very costly in Leh but you will be able to find the shared taxi without much fuss at all. There are lots of flyers which people put at cafes, dine-ins, restaurants, travel agent desks/shops/whiteboards wanting to share the taxis for different trips within Ladakh. Even travel agent organize such shared taxis trip as well but charge a little higher about Rs 200-300 more than it would ideally cost. So, in worst case you can always go back to them and book a seat for yourself. Gelling up with people in Ladakh is more or less easy because many people travel solo and look forward to meet new people and share cultural thoughts and values over the trip. No where else in the world you will find more smiling and helpful people as Ladakhis are 🙂
2. Yes, it will require extra day but you might not be able to find shared taxi for that route because first only the Indians can visit the place which cuts all the foreigners percentage looking for shared taxis. Since, it is off-beat for travel agents, so they also do not conduct shared taxi tours on such routes. So, for doing Hanle you will have to hire a private taxi.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks Dheeraj. That was a great help.
Over past 1 week my group has swelled to 8 people – all men. What do you suggest as the best mode of travel as a group of 8. Does Innova, Safari etc accomodate 8 person ? Having 2 cars will increase the cost I believe.
Thanks a ton again.
Best option Mohit, will be get a tempo traveler or hire two cars which might be costly than tempo traveler but of course a bit more comfortable.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
my boyfriend and i want to hire an enfield in Manali and do a circuit via Leh then Srinigar then back to Manali – we have 17 days at the end of august . beginning of september. has anybody got any good ideas of an itinerary for us – thanks+++
Hello Christina,
For information on hiring bikes in Manali, please check the article: How to Hire or Rent a Bike or Motorcycle in Manali
You might like to follow a plan similar to the one mentioned below:
Day 1 | Manali/Solang Valley – Keylong/Jispa
— It is always better to stay either at Keylong/Jispa so that you do not feel sick or hit by AMS.
— Avoid sleeping at Sarchu at any cost while going to Leh from Manali because your body will not be acclimatized by the time you reach there.
— I prefer staying at Jispa more because Keylong gives the feeling of a town while Jispa is more closer to nature having Bhaga river running just aside the Manali – Leh Highway at Jispa.
— Overnight at Keylong/Jispa
Day 2 | Keylong/Jispa – Leh
— Leave Keylong/Jispa early next morning, say by 4/5 AM types, so that you reach Leh in the evening.
— Overnight at Leh
Day 3 | Leh Local Sighseeing + Inner Line Permits
— Local sightseeing include Namgyal Gompa, Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, Shankar Gompa, Main Market, Hall of Fame, Spituk Gompa, Changspa Road Stroll in evening
— For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here
— Overnight at Leh
Day 4 | Rest day at Leh to enjoy local culture and some shopping OR Monastery tour OR Sham Valley tour OR Fly back home
— Overnight at Leh
— Monastery tour may include Hemis, Thicksey and Shey monasteries. They come on the route of Pangong Tso but as you will be doing day trip, it will be a bit hectic to include them on that day only.
— Sham Valley include Alchi, Likir, Basgo Palace, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Nimmu, Gurudwara Pather Sahib
Day 5 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder
— Head for Nubra Valley and stay overnight at Hunder / Diskit
— On the way enjoy a cup of soup at Highest Motorable Pass (as claimed) Khardung La
— Diskit has monasteries with tallest lord Buddha statue and Hunder has sand dunes and bacterian camel safari
Day 6 | Hunder / Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh
— Sumur has a famous monastery to check out and Panamik has hot water springs
— Overnight at Leh
Day 7 | Leh – Hemis Monastery – Pangong Tso Lake
— Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on the go towards Pangong Tso
— Overnight at Pangong Tso (Spangmik or Lukung)
Day 8 | Pangong Tso Lake – Thicksey Monastery – Shey Palace – Leh
— Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on return to Leh
— Overnight at Leh
Day 9 | Rest day at Leh to enjoy local culture and some shopping OR Monastery tour OR you can do tour to Sham Valley
— Monastery tour may include Hemis, Thicksey, Stakna and Shey monasteries. They come on the route of Pangong Tso but as you will be doing day trip, it will be a bit hectic to include them on that day only.
— Sham Valley include Alchi, Likir, Basgo Palace, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Nimmu, , Gurudwara Pather Sahib
— Overnight at Leh
Day 10 | Leh – Tso Moriri via Chumathang
— Cover Karzok Monastery
— Overnight at Karzok or Tso Moriri
Day 11 | Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Taglang La – Upshi – Leh
— Overnight at Leh
Day 12 | Leh – Lamayuru – Kargil
— Cover Mulbekh Maitrey, Lamayuru Moanstery, Lunar Landscapes
— On the way you can also see Gurudwara Pather Sahib, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Nimmu
— Overnight at Kargil
Day 13 | Kargil – Drass – Zozi La – Sonamarg – Srinagar
— Enjoy the vistas enroute
— Have late drunch meal at Sonamarg
— Overnight at Srinagar
Day 14 | Srinagar – Jammu / Pathankot
— Overnight at Jammu / Pathankot
Day 15 | Jammu / Pathankot – Dharamshala/McLeod Ganj
Day 16 | Dharamshala/McLeod Ganj – Manali
Day 17 | Buffer Day – Can be utilized anywhere in between
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
Me and my wife are planning to visit Leh in end of August. Our plan is Manali -> Srinagar -> Kargil -> Leh -> Manali. What is your opinion about above trip. Also I couldn't found in your website, the itinerary regarding Manali to Srinagar , so can you please throw some light on this route.
Thanks ,
Vishal
Hello Vishal,
Could not understand, what you mean by Manali to Srinagar. Do you mean Manali to Srinagar NOT via Leh. If yes, then you can do something like this:
— Manali – Dharamshala/Dalhousie
— Dharamshala/Dalhousie – Jammu
— Jammu – Srinagar
And, I guess it is not possible to rent bikes in Srinagar. So, better hire in Leh and drop at Manali if you want, instead of taking chance with AMS and going via Manali – Leh and then again coming back to Manali to drop the bike.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
Thanks for your response. I think this Manali -> Dharamshala-> Srinagar will consume at least 3 days , which will disturb out schedule.
We have one more plan to go from Srinagar -> Kargil -> Leh -> Jispa -> Manali , but only problem is bike renting as no bikes are available for hire from Srinagar. So do you have any solution for this ?
And also on the way is it safe to put up tents and sleep?
Hi Vishal,
In such a case, like I said that reach Leh via Srinagar by other means (shared taxis/buses) and then in Leh hire bikes for rent. There are options at certain vendors who allows you to drop the bike at Manali. So, apart from Srinagar – Leh, you can cover rest of the journey on bike.
You can pitch your own tents anywhere but I will suggest you pitch somewhere where there are some dhabha tents put up by locals or tents where other camping guy pitch their own. All you will need is to gently ask them for permissions. Most likely they will allow, other wise negotiate for small little tip or move on to other such place.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks once again Dheeraj 🙂
I have browsed through the Accommodation Link that you referred.
We are looking for spacious, neat and clean room for Family stay.
Out of the following options, which one would you recommend (your top two picks please) 🙂
Kidar Guest House
Oriental Guest House
TSO Kar Hotel
Padma Hotel & Guest House
Where is DC Permit Office located in Leh? Is it near to main market?
Hi Shalu,
I will go in the order, Sia La >= Shaynam > Oriental > Padma > Kidar (Kidar is very good but a bit away from market). Do not prefer Tso Kar, not so good reviews.
DC office is located near polo ground, yes near to market only. Once you reach Leh, almost any one can direct you there.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks Dheeraj. Have you stayed at Kidar in any of your trips? Is the distance from market the only negative factor in their case? Is there any local auto available to drop you back at Hotel from Market?
hello Shalu,
One of my dear friend stayed at Kidar twice and he has some good feedback but distance is a bit far as compared to other good options available near the market. It is best to rest once you reach Leh and there are no Auto-rickshaw or even rickshaws available in Leh. You need to do it on foot or keep the private taxi with you all the time.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Well Dheeraj. If that is the case, then please do recommend which guest house will be best suited for us. Our main requirements are as follows:
1) Cost should not be more than 2000/- per day
2) Should not be very far from Market as we intend to try differemt cuisines in local restaurants
3) Rooms should be neat & clean and spacious
4) Guest house Building and its approach road should be in decent condition
I know I have listed down so many requirements and pls don;t tell me that its difficult to find a match for so many requirements 🙂
Hello Shalu,
Then better go with either Shaynam Hotel or Sia La Hotel. Both are pretty decent options of stay for a family, near to main market, good clean rooms. Do not forget the meals at Lamayuru and Gesmo restaurants 🙂
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hiee Dheeraj,
I and my husband r planning to go to leh on 15th of july. Follwing is my iternary.. please do give ur inputs…
July 14- Departure from mumbai to delhi.
July 15-evening bus from delhi to manali.
July 16- Stay at manali,
JUly 17- departure from manali,stay at jispa.
July18- JISPA to Tso moriri
JUly 19-Tso moriri to leh.
July 20- Stay at leh
JUly 21 -stay at leh
July 22-Leh to pangong tso,
July 23-Drive back to leh-
July 24-across Khardung-la to nubra valley.
July 25- Back to leh-
JUly 26
JUly 27
JUly 28
July 29- Back to manali..
we got our flight on 31st of july from delhi.. so pls suggest what else can we explore…
Thank-you.
Hello Vinita,
Most probably, you will come back with extreme sickness within 5th day, if you follow plan like above and if not, consider yourself extremely lucky. You cannot do Tso Moriri while going from Manali to Leh because one need permits to visit Tso Moriri and these permits are issued at DC office in Leh. Even if you arrange these permits in advance somehow then taxi from Manali will not be allowed to visit Tso Moriri. Even if you manage Leh taxi or going on your own, then you will not be acclimatized to sleep at such high altitude so early in the trip and may cause some ugly AMS issues for you. Highly not recommended.
The plan does not follow the acclimatization schedule and I would better suggest you do something like this:
Day 1 | Delhi – Manali/Solang Valley
— Better stay at Solang Valley and avoid Manali as sleeping at Solang Valley does help in acclimatization
— If going by own car, get the permit made in advance to drive on Manali – Rohtang Pass road through hotel/travel agent in Manali
— Overnight at Manali/Solang Valley
Day 2 | Manali/Solang Valley – Keylong/Jispa
— It is always better to stay either at Keylong/Jispa so that you do not feel sick or hit by AMS.
— Avoid sleeping at Sarchu at any cost while going to Leh from Manali because your body will not be acclimatized by the time you reach there.
— I prefer staying at Jispa more because Keylong gives the feeling of a town while Jispa is more closer to nature having Bhaga river running just aside the Manali – Leh Highway at Jispa.
— Overnight at Keylong/Jispa
Day 3 | Keylong/Jispa – Leh
— Leave Keylong/Jispa early next morning, say by 4/5 AM types, so that you reach Leh in the evening.
— Overnight at Leh
Day 4 | Leh Local Sighseeing + Inner Line Permits
— Local sightseeing include Namgyal Gompa, Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, Shankar Gompa, Main Market, Hall of Fame, Spituk Gompa, Changspa Road Stroll in evening
— For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here
— Overnight at Leh
Day 5 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder
— Head for Nubra Valley and stay overnight at Hunder / Diskit
— On the way enjoy a cup of soup at Highest Motorable Pass (as claimed) Khardung La
— Diskit has monasteries with tallest lord Buddha statue and Hunder has sand dunes and bacterian camel safari
Day 6 | Hunder / Diskit – Turtuk – Hunder / Diskit
— Make a day trip to Turtuk, nice place with some very nice views on the way.
— Do not forget to write Turtuk on permits
— Overnight at Hunder / Diskit
Day 7 | Leh – Hemis Monastery – Pangong Tso Lake
— Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on the go towards Pangong Tso
— Overnight at Pangong Tso (Spangmik or Lukung)
Day 8 | Pangong Tso Lake – Thicksey Monastery – Shey Palace – Leh
— Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on return to Leh
— Overnight at Leh
Day 9 | Rest day at Leh to enjoy local culture and some shopping OR Monastery tour OR you can do tour to Sham Valley
— Monastery tour may include Hemis, Thicksey, Stakna and Shey monasteries. They come on the route of Pangong Tso but as you will be doing day trip, it will be a bit hectic to include them on that day only.
— Sham Valley include Alchi, Likir, Basgo Palace, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Nimmu, , Gurudwara Pather Sahib
— Overnight at Leh
Day 10 | Leh – Tso Moriri via Chumathang
— Cover Karzok Monastery
— Overnight at Karzok or Tso Moriri
Day 11 | Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Debring (Manali – Leh Highway starts) – Moore Plains – Pang / Sarchu
— Try to start early in the day so that you reach Sarchu where the accommodation options are better than Pang
— Overnight at Sarchu or Pang
Day 12 | Pang / Sarchu – Baralacha La – Keylong – Rohtang Pass – Manali
— On the way cover Suraj Tal, Deepak Tal which are on the road sides only
— Overnight at Manali
Day 13 | Manali – Delhi
— Return
Day 14 + 15 | Buffer days to be kept incase of road closure due to landslides or snowfall or perhaps you want to enjoy more. Do keep them since, you have a flight and especially Manali – Leh highway might require one of it.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
budget-Rs15000, where to rent bikes , and places where we can visit in 5 days?
Hello Abhishek,
Yes, you can rent bikes in Leh and Fort Road in Leh is full of such shops that rent bikes. Depending upon the condition, model, make and tourist rush you can get bikes starting from Rs 600 to Rs 1200. For 5 days plan in Ladakh:
Day 1 | Leh Local Sighseeing + Inner Line Permits
— Local sightseeing include Namgyal Gompa, Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, Shankar Gompa, Main Market, Hall of Fame, Spituk Gompa, Changspa Road Stroll in evening
— For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link : https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/inner-line-per…
— Overnight at Leh
Day 2 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder
— Head for Nubra Valley and stay overnight at Hunder / Diskit
— On the way enjoy a cup of soup at Highest Motorable Pass (as claimed) Khardung La
— Diskit has monasteries with tallest lord Buddha statue and Hunder has sand dunes and bacterian camel safari
Day 3 | Hunder / Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh
— Sumur has a famous monastery to check out and Panamik has hot water springs
— Overnight at Leh
Day 4 | Leh – Hemis Monastery – Pangong Tso Lake
— Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on the go towards Pangong Tso
— Overnight at Pangong Tso (Spangmik or Lukung)
Day 5 | Pangong Tso Lake – Thicksey Monastery – Shey Palace – Leh
— Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on return to Leh
— Overnight at Leh
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj ,
we have finally finalized our itinerary and for some reasons we want to do it from Manali side 🙂
Please see our itinerary and let me know what you think. We are a group of 7 going on 5 bikes plus a mechanic as a pillion on one of our bikes.
Day 1 – Delhi – Dolang
Day 2 – Solang – Sarchu
Day 3 – Sarchu – Korzok(Tso Moriri)
Day 4 – Korzok – Leh
Day 5 – Leh (passes and local sigh seeing)
Day 6 – Leh – Pangong Tso
Day 7 – Pangong Tso – Nubra via Wari La route
Day 8 – Nubra Leh
Day 9 – Leh – Lamayuru
Day 10 – Lamayuru – Kargil
Day 11 – Kargil – Srinagar
Day 12 – Srinagar
Day 13 – Srinagar – Jammu
Day 14 – Jammu – Delhi
Have i overlooked something here? And is Solang and Sarchu good enough for acclimatization ?
Typo in first line
its Delhi – Solang 🙂
Another mistake in the itinerary above ,
Day 2 – we'll be doing local sight seeing in Manali and go back to Solang for overnight stay
Hello Rakshith,
Buddy, most probably, you will come back with extreme sickness within 4th day, if you follow like above and if not consider yourself extremely lucky. First your are challenging the altitude of Sarchu by sleeping there and then your are making a deadly call to sleep sleep at Tso Moriri. If you love your family and yourself, then please do not do it like this. Though still not suggestible, but maximum is you can take chance with Sarchu (I strongly advice against it but still if you want). Do not go to Tso Moriri, go directly to Leh.
BTW, Tso Moriri needs permits as well, so you have to arrange it in advance if you still wanna take the chance above. Then, do Leh – Nubra – Pangong Tso – Leh not in other direction because Pangong Tso is at higher altitude than Nubra Valley and you should sleep first at lower and then move to higher altitude.
Rest looks fine!!
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
HI Dheeraj ,
As always your inputs are great! You have warned us enough to alter the above itinerary 🙂
Do you mean we should chuck Tso Moriri altogether or just chuck it if we are going by the above itinerary ? Because Tso Moriri looks beautiful in the pics.
Here is another itinerary, here i have chosen Tso Moriri over Lamayuru , what do you think ?
Day 1 – Delhi – Solang
Day 2 – Solang – Manali – Solang
Day 3 – Solang – Jispa
Day 4 – Jispa – Leh
Day 5 – Leh (passes and local sigh seeing)
Day 6 – Leh – Korzok
Day 7 – Korzok – Leh
Day 8 – Leh – Pangong Tso
Day 9 – Pangong Tso – Nubra
Day 10 – Nubra – Leh
Day 11 – Leh – Lamayuru – Kargil
Day 12 – Kargil – Srinagar
Day 13 – Srinagar
Day 14 – Srinagar – Jammu
Day 15 – Jammu – Delhi
Another comment, we'll be doing Leh – Nubra – Pangong like you said.
In one of your blogs you have said one can go to Tso Moriri directly from Pangong Tso , is it possible ?
Then we can do this
Leh – Nubra – Pangong – Tso Moriri – Leh
Hi Rakshith,
Yes, you can do the above route but only when you have limited time and you are too adventurous and do not mind driving down on bumpy almost no raods terrain for more than 12 Hrs at least 🙂 … Otherwise, keep it simple and leave this route for next time in Ladakh…
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Rakshith,
Don't chuck Tso Moriri off, for me it is more beautiful than Pangong Tso. You should follow the plan like:
Day 6 – Leh – Nubra Valley
Day 7 – Nubra Valley – Pangong Tso
Day 8 – Pangong Tso – Leh
Day 9 – Leh – Korzok
Day 10 – Korzok – Leh
This is the perfect and balanced order with best suited acclimatization schedule in the given time.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thank you so much Dheeraj!:) We will follow the route you suggested above.
I wanted to know about the passes for Tso Moriri ,
1.Can it be obtained from the DC office in Leh like other passes ?
2. I read your blog about obtaining passes in Leh for Pangong Tso and Nubra Valley , I understand i just have to mention Nubra Valley and Pangong Tso in the places I intend to visit.
3. Can I add Tso Moriri in the same form ? Or Should it be done separately ?
4. What other places should I mention in the form as per my itinerary ?
Thanks,
Rakshith
hello Rakshith,
Yes, it is the same process and you just need to mention the other places on it. Just mention Tso Moriri and Wari La as you will be doing Nubra Valley to Pangong Tso route via Wari La. And that is it. You do not need to mention any other place. Tso Moriri, Wari La, Pangong Tso, Nubra Valley.
For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks a ton Dheeraj our itinerary is finalized now!:) As mentioned by you fill up all the forms upfront for the permits! Looking forward to have an amazing experience!:)
Hi Rakshith,
Seems Great!! Have a wonderful journey to Ladakh… 🙂
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj
Can u tell me if cars can go from Hundar to Pangong tso (via Agham route)
Agham is a village from where one route goes via Wari La which is isolated but followed by few people generally as it is a bit easy in comparison to other route that goes via Shyok village from Agham village. Shyok village route is extremely isolated and a bit dangerous at some stretches. I will suggest you to read thi: Routes and Road Conditions In Leh – Ladakh | Ladakh Self Drive Tips
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
HI,
Its amazing to see your patience in answering all the queries you get.Ladakh is one of my dream destinations and I have been wanting to visit since quiet sometime. I would greatly appreciate it if you could please advise me on my itinerary.
I have been trying to look up all the info on the net but its overwhelming for someone who is not aware of the area.
I REACH ALONE LEH ON 19TH SEP BY FLIGHT AND I WILL BACK ON 24 TH SEP 12 TO DELHI FLIGHT, PLS ADVICE ME FOR BUDGET HOTEL, FOODING, SIGHT SEEN ETC
IN SIGHT SEEN WHICH POINTS WILL BE COVER IN 4-5 DAYS
WAITING FOR REPLY
Hello MM,
For 4-5 days,
Day 1 | Delhi – Leh (By Flight)
— Checkin at Hotel. Many hotels provide free pick and drop from Airport. Ask while you book them.
— Take ample of rest as well as water or anything that keep your body hydrated enough. DO NOT OVER HYDRATE. Take ORS Soluted water or ORS – L tetra packs from home.
— Do not over exert your body at any cost. Avoid too much up-down on stairs or avoid it in entirety, if possible.
— After 5-6 Hrs of rest you can visit Leh Palace, Local Leh market, Shankar Gompa .
— If you feel exerted go back to Hotel, have dinner at Hotel and take rest. Avoid any exertion. Else continue and,
— Follow the sunset by stroll at Changspa road and have a nice dinner on varied cuisines offered in-around Changspa road.
— Go back to hotel for overnight stay at Leh.
Day 2 | Leh Local Sighseeing + Inner Line Permits
— For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here:
— Hire a taxi from Leh taxi stand or Hotel whichever suits you.
— Bargain hard with taxi driver. Book that single taxi for entire trip after explaining the complete plan.
— Take his inputs if you feel reasonable and if required modify the plan accordingly but should suits you best.
— Ask him to be with you guys starting first day itself, if required and charged reasonable else do it at your own.
— Again DO NOT over exert and take little steps and slow walks only.
— If feeling OK then do Local sightseeing include Namgyal Gompa, Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, Shankar Gompa, Main Market, Hall of Fame, Spituk Gompa, Changspa Road Stroll in evening
— Do not use stairs at any of these places just to see them as it will exert your body much more.
— Overnight at Leh
Day 3 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Leh
— Head for Nubra Valley very early in the day and come back by late evening after visiting Deskit. If you have time go little further and see Hunder sand dunes too
— On the way enjoy a cup of soup at Highest Motorable Pass (as claimed) Khardung La
— Diskit has monasteries with tallest lord Buddha statue and Hunder has sand dunes and bacterian camel safari
Day 4 | Leh – Pangong Tso Lake – Leh
— Day trip to Pangong Tso
— Overnight at Leh
Day 5 | Rest day at Leh to enjoy local culture and some shopping OR Monastery tour OR or you can do tour to Sham Valley
— Sham Valley include Alchi, Likir, Basgo Palace, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Nimmu, , Gurudwara Pather Sahib
— Monastery tour may include Hemis, Thicksey and Shey monasteries. They come on the route of Pangong Tso but as you will be doing day trip, it will be a bit hectic to include them on that day only.
— Overnight at Leh
For accommodation, check the nice, preferred list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh including moderate and cheap budget hotels as well in the series of articles starting on the link here
For the current leh – ladakh taxi union rate list 2012-13 including the contacts of some reliable taxi drivers within Leh – Ladakh, check the link here. You can get about 12-15% of discount by directly getting in touch with drivers and of course, talking in person rather on phone always help in bargaining more.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Amazing blog and i am view this site as many times as i can, four of us are planning to travel from manali to keylong first day, next day keylong to sarchu and stay at sarchu and then sarchu to leh in three days, is it good idea? once at leh we are planning to use ur most common itinerary
Hi Siddalingesh,
Better avoid sleeping at Sarchu while going towards Leh because your bodies will not be acclimatized by then. So, travel Kylong/Jispa – Leh in one day starting at 4 AM in the morning. While coming back you can stay at Sarchu of course to even out the distance.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Dear Mr. Dheeraj,
Firstly, I must compliment you on your understanding of the region and more for your willingness to share it with others.Its really not an easy task to put so much efforts.
Now, I wish to get your opinion on following plan, I have made for myself and wife. Though its largely as per commom itineray put up on your webiste, Pl. point out if I am missing out something good or if the plan is not feasible anywhere.
We Will start from Ahmedabad on morning of 17/6 – train to Udhampur (18/6 – eve.). –
1. Udhampur station to Srinagar – 18/6
2. Srinagar – local on 19/6
3. Srinagar – Gulmarg (and Tangmarg ?) – Srinagar – on 20/6
4. Srinagar – Sonmarg – Kargil – 21/6
Overnight at Kargil
5. Kargil – Lamayuru – Alchi – Likir – Leh – 22/6
6. Leh – rest, permit work and local places – 23/6
7. Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder (Nubra Valley) – 24/6
Overnight at Hunder / Diskit
8. Hunder / Diskit – Pangong Tso Lake – via Wari La route – 25/6
Overnigt at Pangong
9. Pangong Tso Lake – Tso Moriri – Sarchu (is this possible?) – 26/6
if not, then stay overnight at Tso Moriri and then proceed to Sarchu (on 27/6)
10. Sarchu – Manali – 27/6
Overnight at Manali
11. Manali – Delhi – 28/6
Return from Delhi on 29/6.
I am looking forward for a relaxed trip as we both are not that adventures.
Hi Vikas,
Thanks a lot. If you are looking for a relaxed trip then please stay away from Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri direct route at least. Secondly, it is better to come back to Leh from Nubra Valley again if you are not too much into adventure and prefer relaxed trip. I will suggest –
Nubra Valley – Leh
Leh – Pangong Tso – Leh
Leh – Tso Moriri
Tso Moriri – Sarchu
Sarchu – Manali
OR
Nubra Valley – Leh
Leh – Pangong Tso – Leh
Leh – Sarchu
Sarchu – Manali
Do it like above and if possible with rest days in between and you will have a relaxing trip with those rest days. Better drop Kashmir out of the plan to enjoy more in Ladakh.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks Dheeraj for reply. Seems I may have to postpone my plan due to some reasons. Pl. suggest whether Sept. 1 -20 would be a right choice to visit these places? Do we find snow these days or is it too cold then?
Vikas, you will not find snow but it is the best time when monsoon resides the region and the colors you are able to see are just fantastic!!!
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
hi dheeraj
m planning to visit leh since last two years n reading many blogs sites and just yesterday i came across ur blog. i shud say that at no other place i found such vast information in such a concise manner. and all seems useful. i think it will help me a lot. hopefully this year i will make my dream trip a reality. btw can u suggest me a route as i will start from kanpur and have approx 15 days on my hand. i can manage 2-3 days extra as i dont want to miss any important place as i dont know when i will be able to go thr again. i am planning to go by safari 2×2. my wife and a 5 yr kid will go along with me. waiting for ur early reply as iam planning to leave kanpur on 20 or 21st. i havent made any booking for hotels as i want my all options open. waiting for ur reply..
i forgot to mention the month of my travel. m planning to start my journey on 20th/21st of june as i want to see the snow too.. as much as i can
Hello Deepak,
Thanks alot. Well, if you can extend the days then it will be great and you can use them for your journeys to and from Delhi – Kanpur and Kanpur – Delhi. Rest, the itinerary above in article is really nice + balanced one with details on stop over places in much balanced and covers almost all tourist places in Ladakh. Feel free to let me know incase you need any amendment in above plan
For accommodation, check the nice, preferred list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh including moderate and cheap budget hotels as well in the series of articles starting on the link here
Since you are on self drive, I will strongly suggest that you go through and read my series on Ladakh Self Drive tips at the links below:
7 Useful Tips for a Self Drive to Leh – Ladakh, Routes and Road Conditions In Leh – Ladakh | Ladakh Self Drive Tips, Fuel Availability In Leh – Ladakh | Ladakh Self Drive Tips
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards,
Dheeraj Sharma
PS- sorry for the delay.
thx dheeraj
iam going thru all of ur blog n tips. ur information is quite useful.
my itinerary is as under
Day 1
Kanpur – agra – Ghaziabad (Yamuna expressway)- Ambala – Hoshiarpur/ Dasuya city
Day 2
Hoshiyarpur/Dasuya city – srinagar
Day 3
Srinagar – gulmarg – srinagar
Day 4
Srinagar – Sonamarg – Zozi La – Drass – Kargil
Day 5
Kargil – Lamayuru – Leh
Day 6
Leh Local Sighseeing + Inner Line Permits
Day 7
Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder
Day 8
Hunder / Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh
Day 9
Leh – Hemis Monastery – Pangong Tso Lake
Day 10
Pangong Tso Lake – Thicksey Monastery – Shey Palace – Leh
Day 11
Rest day at Leh
Day 12
Leh – Tso Moriri via Chumathang
Day 13
Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Debring (Manali – Leh Highway starts) – Moore Plains – Pang / Sarchu
Day 14
Pang / Sarchu – Baralacha La – Keylong – Rohtang Pass – Manali
Day 15
Manali – Delhi
Day 16
Delhi – Kanpur
Kindly give ur opinion abt the above
one thing more can v insert pehalgam n Dalhousie n dharmshala in between. will it b advisable.. plus do u hv n idea abt d hotels in srinagar
waiting for ur rpl..
Hi Deepak,
Overall plan is good apart from the first two days. They are way too, too long I guess and consecutive too. It is upto you if you can manage such long drives. Rest seems OK. I would say keep it limited to this only unless you have more days with you. You will need 2 days for Pahalgam, 1 day for Dharamshala and 1 day for Dalhousie at least just to see these places not explore. So, better cover them any other time.
Sorry, I have never stayed at Srinagar so cannot comment on hotels.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks dheeraj. i hope i can make thru first two days though they r tiring. thanks for ur suggestions 🙂 ur blog was very very useful…
Have a wonderful trip ahead Deepak.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj
I have few questions:
Can I do the Jaipur-Jammu-Srinagar-Leh-Manali tour with Nissan Sunny? Or I should use Toyota Innova? One can't go with Sedan cars?
What you think abput this itinerary?
Day 1 – Jaipur-Amritsar
Day 2 – Amritsar – Katra
Day 3 – Katra
Day 4 – Srinagar
Day 5 – Srianagar
Day 6 – Kargil
Day 7 – Leh
Day 8 – Leh
Dey 9 – Leh/Ladakh
Day 10 – Manali
Day 11 – Manali
Day 12 – Departure.
I am leaving any worth place in between? Is it cold right now? Whats the temprature right now?
Regards.
Hi
we plan to go to Ladakh via Srinagar. And from Ladakh we plan to hire a bike for the entire week we plan to spend there. Since we are just 2 of us, is there any possiblity of joining in with some other bikers and how? Considering that I plan to hire the bike can u please suggest an itinery which will cover all the must see places in Ladakh, also please mention approx how many hours it would take to reach of these locations. And Is it possible to stay at Leh city and visit all of these locations n reach back at night or wud we have to take our bags along on certain trips to stay at that location? Thanks!
Hi Ann,
Before I answer, how many days you have in hand and do you plan to exit via Manali?
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Ann,
Yes, there is all possibility to join other biker groups/individuals once you reach Leh. You will find plenty of people out there with whom you guys can tag along. So, don't worry on that front, just have a stroll in the main market and changspa road and I am sure you will get in touch with such riders. I am not sure how many days you have in hand, so you can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Leh – Ladakh followed by many travelers including me ain the article above along with time taken to reach them.
Almost all of them requires you to stay overnight at those places otherwise it becomes a bit hectic.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards,
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks for your advice. We plan to be in Leh for atleast a week. Is it possible for you to advice which are the places we can visit while staying at Leh city. ANd which are the places we will have to take our bags along too (Stay overnight). Also On the way I plan to halt at Sringar for a day or two…so in that case can u suggest which are the places I can quickly see around Kashmir? are they on the way towards leh?
Hi Ann,
So, you mean 7 days are for Leh – Ladakh sightseeing and getting to Leh from Srinagar by road. In that case, you can do something like below:
Day 1 | Srinagar
— Fly to Srinagar if you are not self driving because it will almost cost the same and help you save one day plus fatigue of traveling unnecessary in plains or boring hills for 2 days
— Enjoy walk around Dal lake and may be Shikara ride as well
— If you have time then check out, floating market, Shalimar Garden.
— Overnight at Srinagar
Day 2 | Srinagar – Sonamarg – Zozi La – Drass – Kargil
— Enjoy the vistas enroute
— Have late drunch meal at Drass is you are a vegetarian as sometimes it gets difficult to find veg. food at Kargil
— Overnight at Kargil
Day 3 | Kargil – Lamayuru – Leh
— Cover Mulbekh Maitrey, Lamayuru Moanstery, Lunar Landscapes
— On the way you can also see Gurudwara Pather Sahib, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Nimmu
— Overnight at Leh
Day 4 | Leh Local Sighseeing + Inner Line Permits
— Local sightseeing include Namgyal Gompa, Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, Shankar Gompa, Main Market, Hall of Fame, Spituk Gompa, Changspa Road Stroll in evening
— For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here
— Overnight at Leh
Day 5 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder
— Head for Nubra Valley and stay overnight at Hunder / Diskit
— On the way enjoy a cup of soup at Highest Motorable Pass (as claimed) Khardung La
— Diskit has monasteries with tallest lord Buddha statue and Hunder has sand dunes and bacterian camel safari
Day 6 | Hunder / Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh
— Sumur has a famous monastery to check out and Panamik has hot water springs
— Overnight at Leh
Day 7 | Leh – Pangong Tso Lake – Leh
— Day trip to Pangong Tso
— Overnight at Leh
Day 8 | Fly back from Leh
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards,
Dheeraj Sharma
Srry for the trouble Dheeraj but what I meant to say is that I have 7-8 days in Ladakh and 2 seperate days in Srinagar. We plan to reach Srinagar by 22nd JUne evening.. ie if we take a train from Mumbai.
SO this is the rough plan
20th JUNE night Mumbai to Delhi .
21st June we reach Delhi by evening and take an evening bus to Jammu, its a one night journey
So on third day we reach Jammu
22nd June morning Jammu to Srinagar . reach Srinagar by evening-
Go to dal lake in evening, house boat if possible
23 rd June Tour Srinagar for one day
Go to pahalgam, gulmarg or other nearby places if possible, shopping in kashmir etc.. Can u suggest must see places for this day?
24th: Leave Srinagar for Kargil, reach Kargil by evening
25th Look around places …sightseeing of Sham Valley including Alchi, Likir, Basgo, Phyang, Manetic Hills, Confluence, Pathersahib while you move towards Leh
26th Leave for Leh and reach Leh (by what time?)
get permits, get bike,
27th June to 3rd July in Leh (7 days for touring Leh) WE plan to hire a bike for most of the tours in Ladakh… would it be tough.
4th June Leave for Manali (Should we leave in the morning or night? If night then wat are the activities we can do for that day?)
SInce we plan to take a bike at Leh and plan to go to manali after the trip, would be too far away on the last day of the trip coz we will hav to give the bike back before we leave for manali.
How long does it take to reach Manali by bus?
Hello Ann,
Seems quite confusion in my understanding 🙂 … But anyways, now I can suggest better.
1. Go for Gulmarg sightseeing from Srinagar because Pahalgam will be far for a day trip.
2. 25th – You will be sleeping at Alchi or better Likir? In that case, they are about 70/60 KMs from Leh so you can leave from Alchi at about 7-8 AM and do all the sighseeing and after lunch reach Leh and get the permits done for yourself.
3. For 7 days in Ladakh:
Day 1 | Leh Local Sighseeing + Inner Line Permits
— Local sightseeing include Namgyal Gompa, Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, Shankar Gompa, Main Market, Hall of Fame, Spituk Gompa, Changspa Road Stroll in evening
— For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link : https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/inner-line-per…
— Overnight at Leh
Day 2 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder
— Head for Nubra Valley and stay overnight at Hunder / Diskit
— On the way enjoy a cup of soup at Highest Motorable Pass (as claimed) Khardung La
— Diskit has monasteries with tallest lord Buddha statue and Hunder has sand dunes and bacterian camel safari
Day 3 | Hunder / Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh
— Sumur has a famous monastery to check out and Panamik has hot water springs
— Overnight at Leh
Day 4 | Leh – Hemis Monastery – Pangong Tso Lake
— Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on the go towards Pangong Tso
— Overnight at Pangong Tso (Spangmik or Lukung)
Day 5 | Pangong Tso Lake – Thicksey Monastery – Shey Palace – Leh
— Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on return to Leh
— Overnight at Leh
Day 6 | Leh – Tso Moriri via Chumathang
— Cover Karzok Monastery
— Overnight at Karzok or Tso Moriri
Day 7 | Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Debring (Manali – Leh Highway starts) – Moore Plains – Taglang La – Leh
— Overnight at Leh
4. Give bikes back on Day 7 in the evening or night. Leave for Manali next day by bus. If you have only one day for Manali – Leh then I will say use the Day 25th June where you can reach Leh directly from Kargil or mae day trip to Pangong Tso or skip local Leh sighseeing.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Also would it be better for us to take a train from Mumbai- Jammu-bus Srinagar- bus/jeep- Leh. Or would it be better to fly to Srinagar?
Flying directly to Srinagar would save a day or two for you for sure which you badly need for Manali – Leh Highway 🙂
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Rahul,
Firstly, you should go in Innnova if you can. Always better option hearing the pathetic conditions of roads at some places. Secondly, are you planning to see Ladakh or Srinagar? There are lots of lovely places to see in Ladakh. Also, it will take two days to reach Manali from Leh.
Do you need a plan for it and yes, you are visiting Vaishno Devi also I guess and I will suggest that you increase number of days you have in hand. 12 will be short for seeing basic tourist places in Ladakh at ease.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi everyone,
We are planning a road trip to Leh, 5 of us starting from Anand, Gujarat on 1st August-2012 with 4 bikes. I had gone through a lot of threads on leh and must say its a treasure chest of information, great contribution, thanks to all. I want some advice and comments on the trip, we're doing. Please find our itinerary as below.
Day 1 : 1st Aug: Train to Jammu
Day 2 : 2nd Aug: Reach Jammu and night stay over there. Will get the bikes which we do courier
Day 3: 3rd Aug : Jammu to Srinagar – Night stay
Day 4: 4th Aug: Srinagar to Kargil – Night stay
Day 5: 5th Aug: Kargil to Leh – Night stay
Day 6: 6th Aug : Leh local site seen and get the permits for next day
Day 7: 7th Aug: Leh to Kharbungla – Nubra valley – Night stay
Day 8: 8th Aug: Diskit to Pangonge Tso – Night Stay
Day 9: 9th Aug: Pangonge Tso to Tso Moriri – Night stay
Day 10: 10th Aug: Tso moriri to Pang – Night stay
Day 11 : 11th Aug: Pang to Kaylong – Night stay
Day 12: 12th Aug : Kaylong to Kullu – Night stay
Day 13: 13th Aug: Kullu to Chandigadh – Night stay
Day 14: 14th Aug : Buffer day
Day 15: 15th Aug: Train to Anand
Note:
1. We do stock enough petrol when we start our trip from diskit to Upashi.
Could you please help me to give some comments on our route?
Regards,
Suresh
hi Suresh,
The plan is absolutely fine and yes the drive/ride from Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri would take some doing on rough, bumpy roads. So, be ready for it. Apart from that all looks neatly done. Fuel, you are carrying so that is also covered.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj
This website is really amazing with loads of information in particular about Ladakh.
We are also planning for a trip to Kashmir & Ladakh and would need your advice. Our Plan is somewhere around mid August (3rd week of August) for around 17-18 days.. Do you think this is a good time to visit Kashmir and Ladakh?
Hi Shalu,
There might be rains at that time and at some parts of Manali – Leh Highway (like before Baralacha La) and Srinagar – Leh Highway (like before Kargil) you might need to face monsoon hassles but once you get closer to Ladakh, then Ladakh being rain shadow region is least affected by monsoon rains.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards,
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks Dheeraj.
Please suggest few decent options for Accommodation at Sonamarg, Kargil and Drass in addition to JKTDC.
Have you stayed in Sonamarg and Kargil earlier? How has been your experience?
hi Shalu,
Never stayed on that route, so sorry about the hotels there. If you wan I can ask few friends of mine who have stayed at Kargil other than JKTDC, may be that might help.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Sure Dheeraj. Any pointers would be really helpful. Whenever you get time 🙂
Dheeraj, what would be your top recommendations (1st and 2nd) for Family Accommodation at the following places:
Leh
Diskit
Pangong TSO
TSO Moriri
Hi Shalu,
Leh – Shaynam Hotel, Sia La and Oriental are my best picks
Diskit – Hotel Sten Del, Hunder – Snow Leopard Guest House
Pangong Tso – Camp Watermark or Martsemik or Pangong Camping Resort (only building there)
Tso Moriri – Nomadic Life Camp or Tso Moriri Camp Resorts.
I hope this helps. For contacts, check the nice, preferred list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh including moderate and cheap budget hotels as well in the series of articles starting on the link here
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks Dheeraj.
Which of these Guest Houses is near to Market?
Which are the must visit Restaurants / eateries in Leh? Are these located in Main Leh Market or somewhere else?
Hi Shalu,
For accommodation, check the nice, preferred list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh including moderate and cheap budget hotels as well in the series of articles starting on the link here
Most of the hotels mentioned in the article are near to Market with 10-15 minutes of walking distance overall.
For restaurants, do not miss Lamayuru and Gesmo near Fort road. There is one Buksha restaurant near taxi stand, Jeevan Cafe at Changspa I guess. These are some really nice options to have food in Leh.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Man your are doing an awesome job.. I really have read a lot for Leh-Ladakh tours, but what you have provided is the best. One of my friend is getting married in August, so we all friends have decided to gift him honeymoon tour. Can you provide me an perfect itinerary for about 11-12 days. Please make sure that travelling a lot should not make them tired, in case if want to increase the days please do that. From delhi will fly to the first location which will be mentioned by you. Thanks a TON buddy.
Hi Kunal,
Well, Ladakh is not an ideal place for Honeymoon 🙂 but still…
Day 1 | Delhi – Leh (By Flight)
— Checkin at Hotel. Many hotels provide free pick and drop from Airport. Ask while you book them.
— Take ample of rest as well as water or anything that keep your body hydrated enough. DO NOT OVER HYDRATE. Take ORS Soluted water or ORS – L tetra packs from home.
— Do not over exert your body at any cost. Avoid too much up-down on stairs or avoid it in entirety, if possible.
— After 5-6 Hrs of rest you can visit Leh Palace, Local Leh market, Shankar Gompa .
— If you feel exerted go back to Hotel, have dinner at Hotel and take rest. Avoid any exertion. Else continue and,
— Follow the sunset by stroll at Changspa road and have a nice dinner on varied cuisines offered in-around Changspa road.
— Go back to hotel for overnight stay at Leh.
Day 2 | Leh Local Sighseeing + Inner Line Permits
— For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here:
— Hire a taxi from Leh taxi stand or Hotel whichever suits you.
— Bargain hard with taxi driver. Book that single taxi for entire trip after explaining the complete plan.
— Take his inputs if you feel reasonable and if required modify the plan accordingly but should suits you best.
— Ask him to be with you guys starting first day itself, if required and charged reasonable else do it at your own.
— Again DO NOT over exert and take little steps and slow walks only.
— If feeling OK then do Local sightseeing include Namgyal Gompa, Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, Shankar Gompa, Main Market, Hall of Fame, Spituk Gompa, Changspa Road Stroll in evening
— Do not use stairs at any of these places just to see them as it will exert your body much more.
— Overnight at Leh
Day 3 | Leh – Sham Valley Tour – Uley Topko
— Sham Valley include Alchi, Likir, Basgo Palace, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Nimmu, Gurudwara Pather Sahib
— Overnight stay in tented camps at Uley Topko
Day 4 | Uley Topko – Lamayaru – Ridzong Gompa – Uley Topko or Rest at Uley Topko
— Leave for Lamayaru from Uley Topko in the morning after your breakfast at the camps.
— Visit Ridzong Gompa as well if you like on the return and reach back in the evening.
— Overnight stay in tented camps at Uley Topko
Day 5 | Uley Topko – Leh
— Rest day at Leh to enjoy local culture and some shopping OR Monastery tour
— Overnight at Leh
— Monastery tour may include Hemis, Thicksey and Shey monasteries.
Day 6 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder
— Head for Nubra Valley and stay overnight at Hunder / Diskit
— On the way enjoy a cup of soup at Highest Motorable Pass (as claimed) Khardung La
— Diskit has monasteries with tallest lord Buddha statue and Hunder has sand dunes and bacterian camel safari
— Overnight at Deskit or Hunder
Day 7 | In Nubra Valley only
— Enjoy the walks in local villages and cover sightseeing of Panamik and Sumur.
— Sumur has a famous monastery to check out and Panamik has hot water springs
— Overnight at Deskit or Hunder
Day 8 | Hunder / Diskit – Khardung La – Leh
— Visit Shanti Stupa in the evening
— Overnight at Leh
Day 9 | Leh – Hemis Monastery – Pangong Tso Lake
— Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on the go towards Pangong Tso
— Overnight at Pangong Tso (Spangmik or Lukung)
Day 10 | Pangong Tso Lake – Thicksey Monastery – Shey Palace – Leh
— Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on return to Leh
— Overnight at Leh
Day 11 | Rest day at Leh to enjoy local culture and some shopping or you can do tour to Sham Valley
— Sham Valley include Alchi, Likir, Basgo Palace, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Nimmu, Gurudwara Pather Sahib
— Overnight at Leh
Day 12 | Fly back
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks for a quick & valuable suggestion. That is a great plan, but sirji the best place to visit in india in August is Leh-Ladakh so that's why selecting the location (for weather & the scenic beauty). I forgot to add i was thinking not to fly back from Leh to delhi rather would come by road from leh to manali (if possible can add day or two for manali also or can re-arrange & can reduce the no. of days at LEH as activities on DAY 3 & DAY 11 are same) so that the journey that you have mentioned in your article (Manali – Leh Highway)could also be experienced (but it will be done while coming down). Can you modify the end part & include manali, will fly from manali to our destination.
Hi Kunal,
You can fit Manali – Leh Highway, the way you like among below three options (may be merge all if number of day permit)
Day 1 | Leh – Tso Moriri via Chumathang
— Cover Karzok Monastery
— Overnight at Karzok or Tso Moriri
Day 2 | Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Debring (Manali – Leh Highway starts) – Moore Plains – Sarchu
— Try to start early in the day so that you reach Sarchu where the accommodation options are better than Pang
— Overnight at Sarchu or Pang
Day 3 | Sarchu – Baralacha La – Keylong – Rohtang Pass – Manali
— On the way cover Suraj Tal, Deepak Tal which are on the road sides only
— Overnight at Manali
Day 4 | Manali – Delhi
— Return by overnight Volvo
OR
Day 1 | Leh – Taglang La – Pang – Sarchu
— Try to start early in the day so that you reach Sarchu where the accommodation options are better than Pang
— Overnight at Sarchu or Pang
Day 2 | Sarchu – Baralacha La – Keylong – Rohtang Pass – Manali
— On the way cover Suraj Tal, Deepak Tal which are on the road sides only
— Overnight at Manali
Day 3 | Manali – Delhi
— Return by overnight Volvo
OR
Day 1 | Leh – Taglang La – Pang – Sarchu
— Try to start early in the day so that you reach Sarchu where the accommodation options are better than Pang
— Overnight at Sarchu or Pang
Day 2 | Sarchu – Baralacha La – Jispa
— On the way cover Suraj Tal, Deepak Tal which are on the road sides only
— Overnight at Manali
Day 3 | Jispa – Keylong – Rohtang Pass – Manali
— Much more relaxing
Day 4 | Manali – Delhi
— Return by overnight Volvo
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Do we get bike on hire in Leh for travelling places in and around ladak because we cannot make our complete journey on bike hiring it from manali or delhi.
Hi Rakesh,
Yes, you can rent bikes in Leh and Fort Road in Leh is full of such shops that rent bikes. Depending upon the condition, model, make and tourist rush you can get bikes starting from Rs 600 to Rs 1200.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
We are 6 of us planning a trip to Leh Ladakh in the third week of June.
Kindly let me know if we can take our own cars till Leh Ladakh or we will have to hire taxis as i have been told that taxi union does not allow any car from outside to travel there.
Hi Vishal,
You can take your own car and you will be allowed to do sightseeing within Ladakh. The taxis outside Leh- Ladakh are not allowed but private numbers are always allowed. Also, I will strongly suggest that you go through and read my series on Ladakh Self Drive tips at the links below:
7 Useful Tips for a Self Drive to Leh – Ladakh, Routes and Road Conditions In Leh – Ladakh | Ladakh Self Drive Tips, Fuel Availability In Leh – Ladakh | Ladakh Self Drive Tips
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hello Deeraj!
First of all thanks for your kindness in answering everyone, your notes are really amazing!
We are two guys, we'll arrive to Delhi on the last week of July and we'll stay in India 25 days.
We thought to stay approximately 19/20 days in Ladakh and to spend the other last days visiting some interesting indian cities.
Here is our temporary route, which concerns the visit of monasteries, trekking, villages, tent camps, home stays…….
1day: delhi
2day: delhi-srinagar (by plane)
3day: srinagar
4day: srinagar – sonamarg – kargil
5day: kargil – lamayuru – alchi
6day: alchi – likir – leh
7day: leh – shey – thiksey – hemis-leh
8day: leh – stakna – matho – leh
9day: leh – zingchen by bus, then start two days of trekking: zingchen – rumbak – yurutse -stok
10day: trekking / come back to leh
11day: leh – nubra valley (diskit – hunder – turtuk – diskit)
12day: nubra valley (diskit – tirit – panamik – tirit)
13day: nubra – leh
14day: leh – pangong tso (leh – chemrey – takthog – merak)
15 day: merak – spangmik – leh
16 day: leh – tso moriri lake
17 day: tso moriri – sarchu
18day: sarchu – manali
19day: manali
20day: manali – dharamsala
21day: dharamsala – amritsar
22day: amritsar
23day: amritsar – chandigarh – delhi
24day: delhi
25: delhi – home
1. What do you think about the 4th and 5th day ? (resting in Kargil and Alchi before reaching Leh)
2. What about the 6th,7th and 8th ? First morning in Leh we get the permits , then we'd like to visit the neighboring monasteries around the city: Shey, Hemis, Matho, etc.. Maybe would it be better to spend the first entire day in Leh and then go to see the monasteries on the following days ?
3. And what about the trekking we planned on the 9th and 10th ? D'you think it's better to do it around Nubra and Pangong Tso? (we'll just have sleeping bags, not even the tents so we'll find tent camps and homestays)
4. When we are in Nubra or even in Pangong Tso, do we use the same taxi we got from Leh for the whole 2/3 days trip? Can we find any taxi there?
5. Do you think the movement's length are well balanced? Do we have time to visit also Uley Topko or other nice places?
We saw Leh – Tso Moriri – Tso Moriri – Sarchu, it is maybe a long and stressfull trip before going to the southern cities we planned. Does it worth it?
6. Concerning the accommodations, I often read about single/double rooms. If we are three guys leaving, do we have any problems in finding three beds?
Thanks a lot for your patience in reading all these questions!
Regards,
Carlo Alberto
Sorry, I made a mistake. When we arrive in Delhi on the 1st we just take a plane to Srinagar the same day:
1day: delhi-srinagar
2day: srinagar
3day: srinagar-sonamarg-kargil
and so on…
Last question, I promise.
We must book the plane from Delhi to Srinagar and considering we'll land in Delhi at 10am, which could be a good departure time for Srinagar in the same day? 12pm? 1pm? 2pm? I mean, taking into account the indian flight's punctuality, bagage's delivery and above all the fact that when we arrive in Srinagar we need some time to find an accommodation before the sunset…
Hi Carlo,
Try to book the 1 PM flight as you will surely need some time to get fresh and then check-in and all for Srinagar flight. You can throw as many questions as you like 🙂
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hello Carlo,
Thanks alot, I am just trying to live my passion, love Ladakh and provide all I know about Traveling to fellow travelers 🙂 … Firstly, I see one of the fantastic first drafted plan for such long trip…hats off to your RnD skills :)… Coming back to queries,
1. It is infact a good decision as it will help you get acclimatized in best way before reach Leh. But, this can only be done with Ladakh number taxi or public transport like buses. Srinagar number taxi will not be allowed to go to Likir or Alchi.
2. Day 6 – Visit Basgo Plains on the way back to Leh from Likir. Day – 7 Yes, do only permits and rest in Leh for the entire day. Check local Tsemo/Namgyal gompa if you like. Day 8, you can do Shey – Thicksey – Stakna – Matho. You can cover Hemis on the way to Pangong Tso or Tso Moriri. So leave that to keep it adjacent monasteries only.
3. Hmmm, the trek is awesome but you might need an extra day here. Zinchen to Yuruste is about 5-6 Hrs and Yuruste to Stok about 7-8 Hrs I believe. All depends upon the stamina levels and pace you take. But, keep a day spare in case required. I will suggest you do this to feel more close to nature rather attempting something in touristy place like Nubra or Pangong Tso. Also, you will find homestays on this route being a regular trekking route I guess.
4. Try to use the same taxi for the whole trip in Ladakh. For the current leh – ladakh taxi union rate list 2012-13 including the contacts of some reliable taxi drivers within Leh – Ladakh, check the link here
5. Yes, I see the itinerary very well balanced apart from other points mentioned below. Drop Uley out of plan. Tso Moriri is a nice nice place to be and then you are resting in Manali. If you like to make it at ease then better do Pangong Tso as day trip and do Leh – Tso Moriri, Tso Moriri – Sarchu/Pang, Sarchu/Pang – Jispa, Jispa – Manali. This will make much more sense rather wasting a day at crowded Pangong Tso lake.
6. You will get the spare bed for sure in almost all the hotels/homestays/guesthouses in Leh – Ladakh. No issues, with that. For accommodation, check the nice, preferred list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh including moderate and cheap budget hotels as well in the series of articles starting on the link here
Other:
I see you doing diskit – hunder – turtuk – diskit. Either add one day here or leave out Turtuk to make it easy. Otherwise, it will be difficult in one day. Best you can do is reach Turtuk and next day comeback to Deskit. But, Turtuk is nice place to be with different culture that you will find mostly in Ladakh.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Dheeraj, I could not expect a better answer than this!!
Just one thing I didn't understand: we will hire a taxi from Srinagar to Kargil.
But then we can't reach Alchi and Likir with any taxi from Kargil nor Lamayuru, right?
So the only possibility to reach Leh with a taxi from Kargil is to go directly to Leh without breaks in between ( Alchi nor Likir), is that right? And the only possibility to divide the Kargil-Leh trip in two days visiting the monasteries and villages on the road would be that of getting a bus from Kargil-Lamayuru-Alchi Alchi-Likir-Leh?
Because if it's so, I think we'll directly go to Leh from Kargil with the taxi and we could visit Alchi and Likir on another day you could suggest us 😛
Hope I didn't make too much confusion! 🙂
Hello Carlo,
You are almost right but there is tweak here. At Srinagar you will not be able to find Ladakh number taxi easily which can make you halt at Alchi and Likir on the way. However, if you first reach Kargil by taking only Srinagar – Kargil taxi from Srinagar then the chances of getting a Ladakh number taxi becomes higher because Ladakh taxis are allowed to pick up tourists/passengers from Kargil but not from Srinagar. Hence, you will find more Ladakh number taxis in Kargil which increase the chance of getting them and traveling the way you wanted to travel with halts and sightseeing on the way to Leh. Secondly, if you are able to get in touch with Ladakhi driver then they will be more willing to come to Kargil and pick you up for the rest of the tour as well. But, most of the Ladakhi driver do not go to Srinagar to pick tourists.
Hence, you are on right track of just taking the taxi from Srinagar to Kargil and then changing it again for further journey at Kargil. For the current leh – ladakh taxi union rate list 2012-13 including the contacts of some reliable taxi drivers within Leh – Ladakh, check the link here
I hope I have cleared the doubt for you 🙂
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thank you so much Dheeraj.
I really would like you get the email I gave to the web master and if you'll come to rome (or italy ) write me so I can provide you a good trip program 😉
I will write you before our departure if we'll need some last details. Ciao!
Hey Carlo,
I hope that comes true, would love to visit Rome one day for sure… Let us see and if that happens, I will surely send you an email 🙂
Have a great journey ahead… Bon Voyage!! 🙂
Regards,
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
We are planning a family trip in 2nd week of July.
Please suggest the weather conditions their.Will it be raining in that week?
Awaiting for your response asap.
Thanks
Hi Shanoli,
In July, if monsoon do not hit the region then everything should be fine otherwise the inroads to Ladakh (Srinagar – Leh Highway and Manali – Leh Highway) may have trouble of rains but once you reach Ladakh, then Ladakh being rain shadow region is not much affected by rains.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Dear Dheeraj
I know you have shared the revised Taxi Fares by Leh Taxi Union for 2012-13.. It does not have any rates for Leh-Srinagar and Leh-Kargil routes.. We plan to visit Zanskar while coming from Srinagar side before reaching Leg so require a break at Kargil.
Could you please let me know approx Taxi Fare for the following routes:
1) Srinagar – Kargil
2) Kargil – Leh
3) Leh – Manali
4) Tso Moriri – Manali
Also Dheeraj, it would be great if you can provide some insight into Kargil Taxi Union Rates. Have they been also revised this year after recent hike by both Leh and Manali taxi unions?
Sorry Meavin, I do not have Kargil and Padum Taxi Union Rates but most likely they would have increased the rates as well.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Meavin,
These rates are mentioned on Page 4 for Srinagar – Kargil route and Page 6 for Leh – Manali – Tso Moriri route at the link here
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks Dheeraj. It seems that I missed the rates for Leh – Srinagar and Leh Manali routes earlier.
I have few more queries though 🙂
1) There are so many Monastries in entire Ladakh region. Which ones are the must visit Monastries that you would recommend we should visit for sure?
2) We would be taking Srinagar – Leh route and will stay overnight at Kargil on Day 1. We would reach Leh late evening on Day 2 and stay there overnight. On Day 3 we are planning to obtain necessary permits and do some local sightseeing (may be Monastries tour). Does this sound feasible or do you think we should not do anything on Day 3 to avoid AMS issues?
Hi Meavin,
1. Alchi, Likir, Thicksey, Hemis, Stakna (awesome views) are my favorite ones. You can visit any of these and if you are not inclined towards art and religion or Buddhism then visiting too many may make you feel bore.
2. Plan looks good. Since, you are traveling from Srinagar – Leh, it will help tremendously. You can go over and visit few moansteries, take permits. But, do remember to take it easy and light plus keep body hydrated throughout the trip. Do not run over the stairs and have only slow walks. You shall be good to enjoy the whole trip then 🙂
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks Dheeraj.
1) I believe Alchi and Likir are on Leh – Kargil Highway. Right? Can we cover them while coming from Kargil to Leh?
2) Thicksey, Hemis are on which route from Leh? Are they enroute Pangong TSO / TSO Moriri?
3) How much time it saves if we go to Pangong directly from Diskit? And How much time it actually takes to reach Pangong from Diskit in case we have to come back to Leh and then again go to Pangong on the same day?
Hi Dheeraj ,
We are starting our trip from Delhi on 23rd June, we have 15 days in hand total.
Your itinerary looks perfect for us but initially i had planned to start via Manali side and end on Srinagar side then return to Delhi and fly back to Bangalore.
What do you suggest ? doing the trip from Manali side or Srinagar side ? also Srinagar – Leh road should be open around this time right ?
Hello Rakshith,
I will suggest you that please plan it via Srinagar – Leh Highway as it will be much much easier on your body and help you acclimatize to the high altitude of Manali – Leh Highway. Also, it allows you to enjoy the beauty of Manali – Leh by splitting the journey almost evenly in two days which is very difficult in the other direction. Thirdly, it will allow you to fit Tso Moriri lake into the itinerary in better way. You can read more reasons on the link here
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj ,
Thanks for the quick response, we have decided to take the Srinagar route.
i have 2 questions for you
1. is the wari la / shyok route open from Nubra Valley to Pangong ? if both are open which one do you suggest. we are a group of 7 and going on bikes.
2. For bike rental at Delhi , do you know of a reliable source ? it will be a huge advantage if they can deliver the bikes to the airport.
Hi Rakshith,
1. Yes, both Wari La and Shyok Routes are open as of now as per last reports of my friend who was there last week. In fact last month I did the Shyok route as well. I would suggest go with Wari La because at Shyok route if you find any water crossing or get pucnture or get stuck then help would be much more hard to find than on Wari La route in comparison. Keep in mind both of them are desolate routes but since Shyok one is more difficult, it is not preferred over Wari La even when it is shorter.
2. Sorry buddy, no reliable source in Delhi for renting bikes.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Ok so we will take Wari La route. And about bikes I have contacted one guy in Delhi who had rented earlier to my friends and they have given a good feedback. Lets hope we get lucky with the bikes:)
Thanks a lot Dheeraj!
Hey Dheeraj,
I am planning a trip for my dad and mom (Age 53 and 50 respectively) from 14th June to 21st June. So can you please suggest me a suitable hotel between the budget of Rs.1500-4000. And also, if possible, a suitable itinerary for the same.
They will be reaching Leh on 14th morning by flight, and will be leaving on 21st morning once again by flight. Also they have already visited Srinagar and other parts of J&K, so they're just interested in exploring Leh, Ladakh and the nearby areas.
Also if I am not mistaken, there's also going to be Ladakh International Film Festival (LIFF) around that time, so do you recommend that as well?
Eagerly waiting for your reply. Thanks a ton in advance. 🙂
Regards,
Harsh.
Hi Harsh,
Not sure about the Film Festival contents and quality. But, for accommodation, check the nice, preferred list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh including moderate and cheap budget hotels as well in the series of articles starting on the link here
Prefer Hotel Shaynam or Hotel Sia La or Hotel Asia or Oriental in Leh. Hotel Sten Del, Deskit and Snow Leopard in Hunder are good choices for Nubra Valley.
For about 8 days, you can follow something like:
Day 1 | Delhi – Leh (By Flight)
— Checkin at Hotel. Many hotels provide free pick and drop from Airport. Ask while you book them.
— Take ample of rest as well as water or anything that keep your body hydrated enough. DO NOT OVER HYDRATE. Take ORS Soluted water or ORS – L tetra packs from home.
— Do not over exert your body at any cost. Avoid too much up-down on stairs or avoid it in entirety, if possible.
— After 5-6 Hrs of rest you can visit Leh Palace, Local Leh market, Shankar Gompa .
— If you feel exerted go back to Hotel, have dinner at Hotel and take rest. Avoid any exertion. Else continue and,
— Follow the sunset by stroll at Changspa road and have a nice dinner on varied cuisines offered in-around Changspa road.
— Go back to hotel for overnight stay at Leh.
Day 2 | Leh Local Sighseeing + Inner Line Permits
— For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here: https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/inner-line-per…
— Hire a taxi from Leh taxi stand or Hotel whichever suits you.
— Bargain hard with taxi driver. Book that single taxi for entire trip after explaining the complete plan.
— Take his inputs if you feel reasonable and if required modify the plan accordingly but should suits you best.
— Ask him to be with you guys starting first day itself, if required and charged reasonable else do it at your own.
— Again DO NOT over exert and take little steps and slow walks only.
— If feeling OK then do Local sightseeing include Namgyal Gompa, Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, Shankar Gompa, Main Market, Hall of Fame, Spituk Gompa, Changspa Road Stroll in evening
— Do not use stairs at any of these places just to see them as it will exert your body much more.
— Overnight at Leh
Day 3 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder
— Head for Nubra Valley and stay overnight at Hunder / Diskit
— On the way enjoy a cup of soup at Highest Motorable Pass (as claimed) Khardung La
— Diskit has monasteries with tallest lord Buddha statue and Hunder has sand dunes and bacterian camel safari
Day 4 | Hunder / Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh
— Sumur has a famous monastery to check out and Panamik has hot water springs
— Overnight at Leh
Day 5 | Leh – Hemis Monastery – Pangong Tso Lake
— Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on the go towards Pangong Tso
— Overnight at Pangong Tso (Spangmik or Lukung)
Day 6 | Pangong Tso Lake – Thicksey Monastery – Shey Palace – Leh
— Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on return to Leh
— Overnight at Leh
Day 7 | Rest day at Leh to enjoy local culture and some shopping or you can do tour to Sham Valley
— Sham Valley include Alchi, Likir, Basgo Palace, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Nimmu, , Gurudwara Pather Sahib
— Overnight at Leh
Day 8 | Fly back home
They can also opt for one day visit to Pangong Tso and keep the spare day for rest in/around Leh. But, in that case they will be traveling about 350 KMs in a day only
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
hey..we will be reaching jammu by train and then from there we need to take a cab or bus (10 people). What do u suggest we should take? Also will it cost us double if we hire a cab from jammu and return via manali leh highway, because the cab/bus takes round trip fare i suppose. how can we bring down our budget and cover both the highways, i.e, srinagar to leh to manali?
Hi Nidhi,
Best you can do is hire a taxi for Leh from Jammu make sure the amount for Srinagar to Leh are about 12-13K and not exceeding that after subtracting what they are charging for Jammu – Srinagar. Then you should hire a taxi within Ladakh because Jammu taxi will not be allowed to roam inside ladakh and you will end up paying more. The Ladakh taxi will drop you at Manali. Best I will say, still would be to take one taxi for Jammu – Srinagar and then other one for Srinagar – Leh and finally one for Ladakh + drop to Manali. This should be most economical among all other forms of hiring a taxi.
If somehow you manage to take a private number taxi from Jammu or Delhi then that shall be the cheapest option to travel because it will be allowed to roam inside Ladakh.
For the current leh – ladakh taxi union rate list 2012-13 including the contacts of some reliable taxi drivers within Leh – Ladakh, check the link here
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
Do you have idea about the Hunder – Diskit – Agam – Wari La – Shakti – Chang La – Pangong Lake route? Whether it will be open around 22nd or 23rd June? How much time does it take to cover this? How bad the roads are? Any help would be much useful…
Hi Lakshmi,
As of now both routes to Pangong Tso fromNubra Valley are open. Wari La route as well as Shyok route. Shyok route though not sure if any taxi driver would be able to take up due to the toughness and dangers it pose. I guess by 22nd/23rd Shyok route might remain open because I was there at that route last month and assume that once the water streams become active, it may become almost impossible to traverse on it. Roads will be bad on Wari La too but not as dangerous and threatening as Shyok route at some places.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks Dheeraj!! This Shyok route is the one which usually everybody takes from Leh ? I will be in Hunder after visiting Turtuk. So instead of going back to Leh, I thought I can take the Wari-La route to Pangong. If it is very dangerous, I might have to drop it. Please let me know since we are only 3 people travelling (me and my parents, both over 60+ yrs)
lakshmi, Shyok route is not the normal route. It was bound to open for touist this season only but seeing the conditions I could not imagine it to be open in July – August when water crossings become active. hyok route is a bit dangerous as of now I will say and only people wit h hunger for adventure should only go for it as of now. But, the beauty is unmatched.
Uptill not the route that most people used to take is via Wari La which takes more time than Shyok's route. That is why if Shyok route is open and taxis are ready to take that then go ahead with that route otherwise go with Wari La route.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks Dheeraj! I guess I will take the Wari-La route this time. How about Pangong – Tso Moriri direct route? I called up a driver in Leh and he says Wari La route is not open. And he says there is no direct route from Pangong to Tso Moriri. Since I dont speak much Hindi, communication becomes very difficult with the drivers… Any suggestion would be helpful. Is there a route (Man – Merak – Chusul – Tsaga – Loma – Nyoma) ?
Hi Lakshmi,
😀 … Almost more than 70% of the taxi guys do not know what is Changthang and what lies ahead of Pangong Tso. We ourselves met few who aksed us where is Hanle when we told them we are coming from Hanle!!! Point is, many of the travel agents/taxi drivers do not know anything about Changthang and they spread false statements that such place is not allowed for tourists, they do not exist blah blah blah… Check my pictures over in FB album from last month trip of Ladakh, it has pictures of all the routes we are talking here.
My friend was there last week and he confirmed from BRO that Wari La is open but since he was in a 4×4 vehicle, so he took Shyok Village route.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Yes Dheeraj. I have been following your posts in FB and twitter as well 🙂 I plan to take the Wari la route to Pangong from Nubra. And to Tso Moriri via Chusul route from Pangong. Is this doable in a innova? Or Xylo ? And I was wondering about electricity in these areas? I have my nikon dslr and I need to charge.. I am getting more worried about my battery running out.. Please help me out with some suggestion. (I have one extra battery)
Hi Lakshmi,
I will suggest that you go with Xylo because it gets through more easily than Innova at some water crossings and bad sections. You will not have much electricity at these places and dinner by tents at Pangong Tso are served with their own generator powered light source for a limited time. So, the window that you will get electricity, utilize that. At Tso Moriri you will find electricity for limited time in Korozk Village. Nubra Valley is much better as compared to the lakes in terms of electricity. One extra battery would be more than sufficient to let you charge in between. Just don;t forget to charge whenever you get a chance after Leh.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
One more query Dheeraj..
A taxi driver in Leh has given me a quote of 53290 INR for the following itinerary. He says he can give me a discount of 10%. So the rate comes to around 48000 INR. Do you think this is economical?
Day 1 – Leh local sightseeing
Day 2 – Leh – Nubra – Hunder. Overnight at hunder
Day 3 – Hunder – Turtuk – Hunder
Day 4 – Hunder – Agham – Wari La – Pangong Tso. Overnight at Pangong
Day 5 – Pangong – Man – Merek – Chusul – Tso Moriri. Overnight at Tsomoriri (Do you think I can take a break overnight in between pangong and Tso moriri? I feel this to be bit on a tight schedule)
Day 6 – Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Debring – Pang / Sarchu
Day 7 – Pang / Sarchu – Keylong – Rohtang – Manali
Hi Lakshmi,
Well, I guess the prices are reasonable as we also paid a similar amount if I exclude the travel on Manali – Leh Highway. May be to make it sure you can talk to 2-3 other drivers (I have mentioned in the 2012 ladakh taxi rate list link) and confirm on the amount. If you have a day, then I will strongly advice you to halt the Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri journey at Hanle. The drive from Loma to Hanle is one of the amazing things of that entire route.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks a lot Dheeraj!! For your quick response. I cannot express how much it helps me.. I definitely have one day and I can stay in Hanle.. But I have read in threads we need to get prior permission to stay there… That is why I was not very sure about that… Any contacts for stay at hanle ?
Hi Lakshmi,
No you do not need prior permission to stay at Hanle as a place but yes, the only decent accommodation options other than two homestays is Observatory Guest House which require permission to stay in their room, more like booking not permission.
Other options of stay at Hanle are homestays:
The homestay is at village Khaldo very very close to observatory. One is near the start of the village and has a landline phone. Ask people about homestay which has phone. The rooms are decent but the prices are hay-way as the owner is greedy types. There is one more homestay at the end of this village just before pasture land starts which is run by a lady named Padmadeskit (ask for this name). We stayed at this only and found it OK to stay. Do not expect too much out of a homestay. This one is more loyal to tourists as other one charge too much if he sees more tourists.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks a lot Dheeraj! My taxi driver has quoted 47000 INR including Hanle overnight stay (after some bargaining)… Your blog is very helpful. I will let you know if I have any queries.. If not, I have decided to write a detailed travelogue… :))
Hi Lakshmi,
That is great to know that you finally have settled for the deal!! Wishing you all the luck for this dream trip… Bon Voyage!!!
If you like to write it on DOW blog, then as well you are most welcome as Guest Writer 🙂 …
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks Dheeraj ! Though I have not written any blog so far, I would like to write in yours. Just let me know how to do it … Will do it once I am back from my trip .. 🙂
Hi Lakshmi,
No problems even I wrote my first one just couple of years back only 🙂 … Let me know whenever you come back, I will create a user in your name and you can submit the Travelogue as Guest Post on my blog :)…
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
I am doing some final preparations for my trip. And I got accomodation in Hanle observatory !! For my return trip from Manali to Delhi, I have booked HPTDC ac bus. How bad is the road from Manali to Delhi? Will the buses make it on time? (around 14 hrs? ) .. And are shoes necessary in Leh? Since it is summer, I thought we can use our sandals/slippers…
hi Lakshmi,
That is great, seems already a great start to the trip 😉 … Well, you should carry shoes and wear them always since, it protects feet from twisting a bit as well. Also, at times there could be pretty cold conditions, especially at the passes. So, you will not like to have sandals in such cold conditions. Also, since you are coming from South (guess), I am not sure how much low temperature you would be comfortable with.
Delhi – Manali is among th best roads you will get on entire trip 🙂 and yes the buses generally make in time except if there is some major snarl of landslide or mechanical failure.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Ha ha.. Thanks Dheeraj.. Hope everything turns out well. Yes, we are from south (Chennai). Since we have been to North sikkim (till Gurudonmor lake), we are comfortable till 20 -22 degree celsius.. without any jackets or something. I was just thinking these shoes would take up space in my luggage. Maybe i can wear a pair of socks with my sandals :)) Ha ha..
And getting a ladakh taxi in Srinagar. Is there any specific place where I can find them? I have heard taxis with nameboard JK-10 belong to Ladakh.. I am trying to cut down some cost this way.
Hello Lakshmi,
That seems nice then. I guess in Leh temperature would be lower than 20 deg C at least on high altitude passes and lakes and even at nights. So, do carry the shoes and atleast a pair of woolens/jackets. You can head to Srinagar Taxi stand to get the taxi to Leh. Yes, J-10 belong to Ladakh, so if you get one then it could be a good deal 🙂
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks Dheeraj ! Everything set I guess. I am leaving tonight. Will update in IndiaMike if I am able to access internet…
Have a great and a memorable journey to Ladah, Laskshmi!! All the best of wishes 🙂 …
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
I am back from my Ladakh trip. You had mentioned in FB that they dont provide permits for Chusual. That is true. But while going from Hanle to Pangong, we were not stopped at Loma checkpost nor there was any police man near the Pangong checkpost while going from Chusul. And pls let me know how to post my travelogue in your blog. Thanks a lot for your help . The trip was awesome except for a few glitches.
Hello Lakshmi,
That seems great!! But, it is shocking to hear that such posts were un-manned. Consider yourself hell lot of lucky to get through otherwise it could have been an ugly experience for you guys, if someone had caught you there without permits and that too at such a time when permits were not been issued 😀 …
I will create the User login for you and then you can write the post as guest post on my blog 🙂 … Thanks for considering it!!
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Yes Dheeraj.. We told our driver many times that we donot have permission for Chusul. It was striked out in our ILP too. But he was very cool and police guards at Loma didnot stop us. We were expecting someone to stop at Chusul or near Pangong. We were very lucky indeed 🙂 Regarding the blog, I will do it once I consolidate all my photos and stuff. Thanks for the login.
Sure, Lakshmi. Please take your own time and whenever you feel like, you can post the article. Just let me know whenever you want and I will go through it once, to ensure everything is in place 🙂 …
Regards
Dheeraj
Thank u so much 🙂 also i herad..that there are a lot of accidents on this road and all the places of accomodation in leh are full..if u have any idea..is it d case this time?
Hi Nidhi,
Very hard to believe… There are so many accommodation in Leh, not sure how all can be full. For accommodation, check the nice, preferred list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh including moderate and cheap budget hotels as well in the series of articles starting on the link here
Call few of these hotels and check the same.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hai, Dheeraj,
I make a plan to travel j&k next year, i want to travel from jammu with vaishnodevi, then pahalgaon, gulmarg, srinagar, dras, kargil, padum {zanskar}, lamayuru, leh, khardungla, diskit, hunder,sumur, panamik, pangong, tso moriri.
I want to land in jammu & fly out from leh.
please make a plan of toure with specific minimum days and comfortable journey and accomodation, please suggest the best time to travel & approxmate minimum cost of budget.
Kinjal Bhattacharyya
Hi Kinjal,
How many days do you have in hand for so many places?? 🙂
Regards
Dheeraj
19-20 days
we are 4-6 persons
one more question please..can our 60years old grandmom go with us? will there be a problem for her health?
sorry..the date is 5th june
hey
We are a group of 3-5 people. We will be starting our journey on %th june. can u please help us with the itinerary. we will be traveling by road from Jammu. We want the trip to be done in 10-12 days max. Please suggest. Thanx 🙂
Hi Nidhi,
I can suggest following for 12 days. If you are starting from Delhi then use Day 1 else if from Jammu then use the spare Day as rest Day in between anywhere you like.
Day 1 | Delhi – Jammu / Patnitop
— Overnight at Jammu or Patnitop
Day 2 | Jammu / Patnitop – Srinagar
— Enjoy walk around Dal lake and may be Shikara ride as well
— If you have time then check out, floating market, Shalimar Garden.
— Overnight at Srinagar
Day 3 | Srinagar – Sonamarg – Zozi La – Drass – Kargil
— Enjoy the vistas enroute
— Have late drunch meal at Drass is you are a vegetarian as sometimes it gets difficult to find veg. food at Kargil
— Overnight at Kargil
Day 4 | Kargil – Lamayuru – Leh
— Cover Mulbekh Maitrey, Lamayuru Moanstery, Lunar Landscapes
— On the way you can also see Gurudwara Pather Sahib, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Nimmu
— Overnight at Leh
Day 5 | Leh Local Sighseeing + Inner Line Permits
— Local sightseeing include Namgyal Gompa, Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, Shankar Gompa, Main Market, Hall of Fame, Spituk Gompa, Changspa Road Stroll in evening
— For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link : https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/inner-line-per…
— Overnight at Leh
Day 6 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder
— Head for Nubra Valley and stay overnight at Hunder / Diskit
— On the way enjoy a cup of soup at Highest Motorable Pass (as claimed) Khardung La
— Diskit has monasteries with tallest lord Buddha statue and Hunder has sand dunes and bacterian camel safari
Day 7 | Hunder / Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh
— Sumur has a famous monastery to check out and Panamik has hot water springs
— Overnight at Leh
Day 8 | Leh – Pangong Tso Lake – Leh
— Day trip to Pangong Tso
— Overnight at Leh
Day 9 | Leh – Tso Moriri via Chumathang
— Cover Karzok Monastery
— DO NOT FORGET to Carry spare fuel for about 550 KMs including your tankful
— Overnight at Karzok or Tso Moriri
Day 10 | Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Debring (Manali – Leh Highway starts) – Moore Plains – Sarchu
— Try to start early in the day so that you reach Sarchu where the accommodation options are better than Pang
— Overnight at Sarchu or Pang
Day 11 | Sarchu – Baralacha La – Keylong – Rohtang Pass – Manali
— On the way cover Suraj Tal, Deepak Tal which are on the road sides only
— Overnight at Manali
Day 12 | Manali – Delhi
— Return home
Day 13 + 14 | Buffer days to be kept incase of road closure due to landslides or snowfall or perhaps you want to enjoy more.
Regarding taking grandmom with you, I will not say no because I have seen lots of old age people doing it. But, it might get difficult to travel on bumpy and rough roads and for long hours sometimes, especially Manali – Leh Highway. If they are full of spirit and enthusiasm then take your grandparents with you but do let them know that it will not be that easy.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi,
Amazing work Dheeraj.
We(6 people) are planning for Ladakh trip. Infact, it's the first time in 2 years that the plan might come through.
So we need your guidance.
Tentative Plan (11th Aug to 20th Aug)
Day1 Delhi to Srinagar
Day2 Srinagar to Kargil
Day3 Kargil to Leh
Day4 Leh local, permit
Day5 Leh to Nubra, stay
Day6 Nubra to Pangong, stay (reach via wari route/ Shyok village)
Day7 Pangong to Hanle, stay
Day8 Hanle to Sarchu, stay
Day9 Sarchu to Manali, stay
Day10 Manali to Delhi, eve bus
1. Is this doable, keeping in mind we get time to relax and don't rush things. What abt the order in which places are
covered?
2. Move from Nubra Valley to Pangong OR come back to Leh from Nubra, and next day do a day trip to Pangong.
Distance travelled will be less for which option?
3. Can Tso moriri be covered while moving from Hanle to Sarchu without breaking for the night? Asking in terms of distance covered and time taken. Dont want to just travel the whole day.
4. Staying at Sarchu will be tricky or manageable?
5. What can you say about Rohtang Pass – manali stretch in late August?
Please advise
Thanks in advance.
Ankur
Hi Ankur,
1. There is no thing called relax in the itinerary After Day 4. It is all rushing through the places and being on tough roads not only roads 🙂 …
2. You can do it for Pangong Tso is route via Shyok is open but doing via Wari la will be tiring but it helps you witness sunset and sunrise at Pangong Tso.
3. I will suggest you drop Hanle and Tso Moriri to make it relaxed and convenient. BTW, Hanle to Sarchu is something very big ask and I do not think will be doable. Even Tso Moriri to Sarchu is hard to achieve but it is mangeable.
4. It will be manageable after all these days in Ladakh. But, no gurantee.
5. It would be more than pathetic and horrible generally, when monsoons are active.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks for your advice, much appreciated.
I'll take your word for it and leave Hanle and Tso moriri for the
next trip, god knows when that will be.
We will see if Shyok is possible, otherwise will do a day trip to Pangong next day
and be back in Leh on Day 7.
I got stuck in Rohtang once and want to avoid that situation again.
Am willing to skip Leh – Manali and go back to Srinagar, take a flight back to Delhi.
My query is, do I have to take the same route i.e. Leh – Kargil – Srinagar ?
I think there is another more scenic route via Batalik to reach Kargil.
What do you suggest we do?
Day1 Delhi to Srinagar
Day2 Srinagar to Kargil
Day3 Kargil to Leh
Day4 Leh local, permit
Day5 Leh to Nubra, stay
Day6 Nubra to Pangong, stay (reach via wari route/ Shyok village)
Day7 Pangong to Leh, stay
OPTION 1:-
Day8 Leh to Sarchu, stay
Day9 Sarchu to Manali, stay
Day10 Manali to Delhi, eve bus
OPTION 2:-
Day8 Leh to Kargil via Batalik, stay
Day9 Kargil to Srinagar, stay
Day10 Srinagar to Delhi, flight
should we still prefer option1 over option2 keeping in mind it will be rains all around?
Hi Ankur,
Good decision. It will be applicable to Srinagar side as well but I will surely take a chance and go with Manali – Leh highway (the beautiful way)… Unless you have something extremely important next day, go with Manali – Leh Highway, it is an experience to remember 😀
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
Thanks a lot for your inputs very helpful. Can you please advice if there is way to get the inner line permits to leh in Delhi? I donot plan to go through an travel agent. Is there any other alternative?
hi Chandu,
No other alternative. You either have to go with Travel Agent on any other Hotel based in Leh.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj
I am planning to visit Jammu and Kashmir in June with my family. We are 4 persons ( adult). I would like to do Katra( VaishnoDev)-Srinagar-Leh and Laddakh- Manali.
But I dont want to leave any important place in between. We would be hiring our own car ( may Innova or Ascent) We would start and end from Jaipur. We have arounf 10-11 days in total. Please suggest a best itinerary, and best route to cover all these places.
Waiting!
Hi Rahul,
It is very difficult to cover these places within 10-11 days and that too including Mata Darshan. Can you extend your journey by 2-3 days? To get an idea why, you can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Leh – Ladakh followed by many travelers including me at the link here: Most Common Itinerary for Leh – Ladakh.
In between you need to do Maa Darshan as well which will fairly take about 2 days at least.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
Superb website man. Anyone can travel to ladakh easily by following your inputs here. Such in depth knowledge given. Thanks a bunch for that.
Could not find answer to one query though. I will be travelling on Srinagar Leh Highway by bus…will these buss fellows be stopping at some key tourist destinations? Else I would miss out spending some time on places like Sonmarg and ZoZila pass on the way and could not capture anything in my Cam.
Let me know your inputs.
Thanks,
Sameer
Hi Sameer,
In bus, they will not be stopping. You can explore a bit at taxi stand and check if tourist shared taxis are available or not, which stops at key places enroute.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks Dheeraj for your inputs. I will contact you for any queries for sure.
Sure Sameer, most welcome 🙂 … Have a great trip ahead.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj ,
Thanks a ton for giving valuable info abt Ladakh-Leh. Your travel tips are awesome..I was clueless abt planning my trip. After going through a lot of travel blogs i found this blog…This is awesome… Really appreciate your effort..Now i hav some idea abt Leh 🙂 Need your help in planning my trip..
A brief idea abt my Plan as of now.
1. Am traveling alone.
2. A native of Kerala Am clubbing this journey with my Sikkhim – Bhutan trip.So will start the journey from Delhi.
3. Earlier i was planning Delhi-Leh by air . But after reading your blog I would like to take Delhi-Kargil- Leh – Manali -Delhi route by road.
4.Must visit Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso Lake and Tso Moriri Lake.
Request your valuable inputs on the following points
1. 7-10 days trip .Will start by June 18 -19th. Is it enough to c around Leh ? I am an avid photographer Also am not looking for any trekking or adventure as I have just recovered from a back pain.
2.Ok with the budget hotels you have mentioned .But should I book the rooms in advance ?
3. As travelling alone will I able to find sharing cabs to travel around ?
4.Should I take the help of any local travel agents out there ?
5.Is it easy to book buses once you reach Delhi to Leh through Srinagar and return via Manali ?
Will you please help in charting out my itinerary ?
Thanks in advance
Prasanth
Hi Prasanth,
Thanks alot. With just 7-10 days in hand, you will not be able to cover all these places. I will suggest you fly to Srinagar and then take on the journey from there. You can follow a plan like below in such a case:
Day 1 | Delhi – Srinagar
— Enjoy walk around Dal lake and may be Shikara ride as well
— If you have time then check out, floating market, Shalimar Garden.
— Overnight at Srinagar
Day 2 | Srinagar – Sonamarg – Zozi La – Drass – Kargil
— Enjoy the vistas enroute
— Have late drunch meal at Drass is you are a vegetarian as sometimes it gets difficult to find veg. food at Kargil
— Overnight at Kargil
Day 3 | Kargil – Lamayuru – Leh
— Cover Mulbekh Maitrey, Lamayuru Moanstery, Lunar Landscapes
— On the way you can also see Gurudwara Pather Sahib, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Nimmu
— Overnight at Leh
Day 4 | Leh Local Sighseeing + Inner Line Permits
— Local sightseeing include Namgyal Gompa, Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, Shankar Gompa, Main Market, Hall of Fame, Spituk Gompa, Changspa Road Stroll in evening
— For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here
— Overnight at Leh
Day 5 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder
— Head for Nubra Valley and stay overnight at Hunder / Diskit
— On the way enjoy a cup of soup at Highest Motorable Pass (as claimed) Khardung La
— Diskit has monasteries with tallest lord Buddha statue and Hunder has sand dunes and bacterian camel safari
Day 6 | Hunder / Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh
— Sumur has a famous monastery to check out and Panamik has hot water springs
— Overnight at Leh
Day 7 | Leh – Pangong Tso Lake – Leh
— Day trip to Pangong Tso
— Overnight at Leh
Day 8 | Leh – Tso Moriri via Chumathang
— Cover Karzok Monastery
— Overnight at Karzok or Tso Moriri
Day 9 | Tso Moriri – Leh
— Since, you will be in shared taxi, you might not get one that takes you directly towards Manali from Tso Moriri.
— Overnight at Leh
Day 10 | Leh – Taglang La – Moore Plains – Pang – Sarchu
— Stay overnight at Sarchu
Day 11 | Sarchu – Baralacha La – Keylong – Rohtang Pass – Manali
— On the way cover Suraj Tal, Deepak Tal which are on the road sides only
— Overnight at Manali
Day 12 | Manali – Delhi
— Back to Delhi using HPTDC Overnight Volvo
Answers to you queries:
2. Unless you want to stay at some specific property and OK with searching a bit after reaching the place then there is no need to prebook.
3. You will find lots of flyers at the cafes/dine-ins/travel agents etc. where you can club for these tours.
4. You can take if you are not getting any shared tourist taxis for these places else avoid.
5. Fly to Srinagar and then take overnight Volvo to Delhi from Manali (pre-book it online when in Leh else June is peak season and you may not find any seat on the spot)
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks Dheeraj 🙂
It really feels great to get your valuable inputs ..
As per your suggestion I may add another two days to the trip..!
This is my first trip all alone..So feeling a bit of uneasiness 🙂
Am not worried abt finding hotels .
But is it easy to find shared taxis all around these locations ?
Say if i am taking taxis alone to c places around Leh how much will it add up ?
Thanks and regards ,
Prasanth
Hi Prasanth,
No need to feel uneasy and I am sure it will be a life time experience for you. Yes, you will be able to find the shared taxi without much fuss at all. There are lots of flyers which people put at cafes, dine-ins, restaurants, travel agent desks/shops/whiteboards wanting to share the taxis for different trips within Ladakh. Even travel agent organize such shared taxis trip as well but charge a little higher about Rs 200-300 more than it would ideally cost. So, in worst case you can always go back to them and book a seat for yourself. Gelling up with people in Ladakh is more or less easy because many people travel solo and look forward to meet new people and share cultural thoughts and values over the trip. No where else in the world you will find more smiling and helpful people as Ladakhis are 🙂
Avoid any individual taxi because the costs are pretty much high. Check my recent rate list article in Ladakh section of the blog.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hello Dheeraj,
I must compliment you on your knowledge about the Ladakh region and the enthusiasm to share this. We are planning an unusual cycling trip and need your advice.
Background: Four of will initially drive to Ladakh starting 14th June with bikes on top of a jeep Delhi-Patnitop-Kargil-Leh over 4 days (thanks to your convincing presentation 🙂 ).
The original conservative plan was to:
– stay headquartered in Leh
– each day drive out of town, park the vehicle about 20-60Km from Leh
– cycle 20-50Km, return to the vehicle and drive back to spend all nights in Leh
However, we are now considering travelling further out and staying overnight outside Leh and here is one option toward Pangong Tso:
– Day 1: Ride Leh to Karu/Sakti (place for night halt?)
– Day 2: Ride up to Changla. Night halt at Tangtse (Dothguling / Yakmik Changla guest houses)
– Day 3: Ride Tangtse to Pangong Tso (night at: Pangong Camp Resort / Camp Watermarks)
Question:
– Are there hotels/guest houses in Karu/Sakti where we can spend the night? If not, should we look at homestay options?
– Who could help us make bookings for this 'homestay'?
– What is the distance and driving time between:
– Leh-Karu
– Karu-Sakti
– Sakti-Chang La
– Chang La-Tangtse
– Tangtse-Pangong Lake (lakeside resort)
– Who can assist us with bookings at Dothguling / Yakmik Changla guest houses (Pangong Tso)?
– Where can we hire oxygen cylinders for emergencies?
Thanks in advance for your time and advice.
Cheers
Ashok
Hi Ashok,
I will suggest rather riding to Karu/Sakti, take your bikes on top of a jeep as it is hardly 90 minutes drive from Leh and then start riding from Karu/Sakti because AFAIK, you will not find accommodation at these places. Even if you will get one, it will be extremely basic.
– Leh – Karu (36 KMs)
– Karu – Sakti (10 KMs)
– Sakti – Chang La (34 KMs)
– Chang La – Tangtse (40 KMs)
– Tangtse – Pangong Lake (34 KMs – Lukung, 50 KMs – Spangmik)
I have the contact of Yakmik Changla, I will search my archives and will share it with you.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Dheeraj – thanks for your advice and the information… much appreciated!
Look forward to the contact number for "Yakmik Changla" at Pangong Tso.
Best
Ashok
Hi Ashok,
You can contact +91-9469567990 or +91-9469726902 (Tsering Mutup Yakmik) at Tangste for Changla Guest House bookings.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Dear Dheeraj
We would like to stay overnight at Pangong TSO and TSO Moriri..
1) How can we make sure that we don't face any AMS Issues? What is the best procedure so that we are well acclimatized before staying there overnight?
2) You have mentioned in one of your comments that don't overhydrate. Any specifc reasons for that? Any type of food that is recommended as well as anything that should be avoided?
3) How much time it will take to reach Pangong TSO from Diskit?
4) Whether it is advisable to stay at Tangste overnight before heading to Higher Altitudes of Pangong TSO and TSO Moriri?
Hello Meavin,
1. Well, best thing to do is you go via Srinagar – Leh highway, spend couple of nights at Leh. Then go to Nubra Valley and stay there for a night. Then probably you can go and stay over at Tangste. Finally one night at Spangmik and then at Tso Moriri. This will decrease the chances of hitting AMS by greater means.
2. I will suggest you read the link here: Acute Mountain Sickness and Importance of Acclimatization . Vistet has explained the reason for over hydration.
3. It will take about 7-7.5 hrs to reach Pangong Tso from Deskit via Shyok Village in case of no obstructions and 9-10 Hrs to reach Pangong Tso via Wari La route.
4. If you have time, then better do that 🙂 … Explore around Tangste if you have time like go towards Earth rooute to explore Harong Wetlands or there is a monastery starting with "S", forgot the name.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks Dheeraj.
We are planning to stay for 1 night at Kargil, 2 nights at Leh and 1 night at Diskit before heading to Pangong.. So we stay overnight at Pangong on the 5th night after spending 4 nights at lesser altitudes, do you think we should be fine from AMS perspective.. Please note that all of us are adults and no Kids..
Do you suggest consuming Chocolates and Garlic will further help us?
Also we are planning to visit Kashmir in August last week for few days before heading towards Leh vis Kargil.. Do you think it would be raining during Late August in Kashmir? If we have to pick either Pahalgam or Gulmarg due to time constraint, which one would you recommend?
Hi Meavin,
I will say go with Pahalgam and yes, rains would highly likely be active at that time of the year. Regards AMS, yes it seems fine with night stays I will say and just follow the tips in the article plus yes, Garlic does help with it, try garlic tea in Leh.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
Thanks for the info you are giving to travelers and I really appreciate all your help for the tourists.
Pls help us if it needs any change.our plan is mentioned below.
We r 6 frnds and planning to travel with own bike ( apache & pulsar 150 cc)from 10 th sep 2012 to 21 th sep 2012 .
Day 1 st?(10 sep)
– wiil reach at 10:30 am in jammu from pune with bike carrying as a luggage in jhelum express .plan to reach in Srinagar on evening .Is it possible ?
Day 2 –srinagar local sight seeing (11 sep)
Day 3 – Srinagar to kargil (12 sep)
Day 4 –kargil to leh (13 sep)
Day 5- leh local sight seeing and ILP(14sep)
Day 6-leh to diskit (15 sep)
Day 7 –diskit –shyok village-spanmik(16 sep)
Day 8 –spangmik to leh(17 sep)
Day 9-leh to sarchu (18 sep)
Day 10-sarchu to manali(19 sep)
Day 11 – manali to kalka to catch the train paschim express.for bandra.( 20 sep)
Can you please tell me
1- Any need to take permission for bike to cross khardungla pass.
2- Can bike ride safe for leh –diskit-pangong tso-leh route.
3- Pls give us time schedule so that we match the above schedule on time ( wht time to start journey etc….)
4- If plan to hire bike in leh then how much it cost per day.
5- Wht precautions we have to take in the journey ?
Hi Vinay,
Jammu – Sirnagar is about 9 Hrs drive, not sure if you would be in position to undertake it after traveling for so much time in train. Even if yes, then you would be reaching Srinagar late at night only. Plan looks fine to me, but keep the Wari La route to Spangmik as an option because Shyok might be closed or migh be open. Confirm before heading to that route. Coming to the queries:
1. Yes, you need to mention Khardung La on your Permit. BTW, you are going to Nubra Valley so mentioning Nubra Valley will do fine.
2. Well, not sure what you mean by safety. Whole Ladakh ride is full of adventure and surprises 🙂 ..
3. Most of the days are manageable within day light buddy. Leave by 7 AM types everyday to enjoy at easy pace.
4. It depends upon the condition of the bike. Check at Fort road where you get reasonable rates. normally, the bullets are rented for about Rs 1000-1400 per day based on conditions, model and make. Other bikes like Apache are available for about Rs 700 – 900 per day.
5. Drive slow and beware of mud/gravel on road, do not use front breaks as bike skid very quickly. In water crossing, try to ensure your group members are there to help each other and cross one by one. Also, Check the list of things to carry for Leh – Ladakh or other trip at the link here.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hello !
Mr. Dheeraj Sharma,
first of all HATS OFF to you for your continous support to all the travellers. My name is Karan. I am coming by Road from Srinagar To Leh starting from Chandigarh. We have gas stove, tent, fishing rods & almost everything which is required for a once in a lifetime experience of visiting Leh with two SUV's & dozen young chaps.
I almost got got all the answers by reading your blogs. But still there are some queries, so kindly help me.
They are:
(1) Is driving in Leh-Ladakh region at night is allowed or possible or the driving will be torturous as if I'm planning to go Leh in One go from Srinagar ?
(2) Are we allowed to travel in our personal-private vehicles in Leh-Ladakh where we require ILP's Or only to In-Out of Leh ?
(3) For which places do Kargil DC gives ILP's for & do they contists any of the places which comes towards Leh ?
(4) Are we allowed to stay in our own tents any where we like to in Ladakh except Pangong Tso Lake where camping isn't allowed I think so ?
(5) Is there any site towards Leh from Srinagar where we can camp, fish & stay overnight ?
(6) Anywhere we can find snow mobile in Ladakh ?
(7) Booking of hotels is must or we can still find some good & reasonable rate(Rs. 1500/-) hotels in Leh around June 20th ?
(8) There are around 50 hotels in Leh town ?
Basically, the thing is we want to explore Ladakh on our own without any boundations, without any watch on time. But as we all know J&K is a sensitive area, we don't want to put ourselves in any unnecessary situation or problem(s). So any of your suggestions will help us immensely.
I"ll be waiting for your reply eagerly. Thank You…
Hi Karan,
My 2 cents below;
1. It is allowed to drive at night but I do not see the use because you will be loosing on natural beauty for which you are planning the trip. If you really wanna do it, then better tag along with taxi from Srinagar who leave around 2 AM I guess (check at Srinagar taxi stand), so that atleast you guys feel some company. Once daylight breaks, it is all good for you but yes, the journey will take about 15-16 Hrs so be ready for the game 😉 …
2. Yes, you can travel in your private vehicles. It is only the taxi numbers out side Leh which are not allowed.
3. If you are going via Kargil – Lamayuru (standard highway) then you do not need any permits on Srinagar – Leh Highway.
4. Camping is not allowed at Tso Moriri. You can pitch tents at Pangong Tso and any other place you like. But, before pitching the tents kindly take permissions for the lovely local villagers. Most likely, they will not interrupt and in case they say the land belongs to someone then pay them the required charges.
5. Not sure about fishing buddy but yes, Uleytopoko is a nice place to pitch your tents buut it is close to Leh.
6. I guess not.
7. If you do not have any specific hotel in mind and are OK with searching a bit here and there once you reach the place, then you do not need to pre-book anything. Not prebooking will give some really good deals and liberty to modify the plan at any moment. For accommodation, check the nice, preferred list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh including moderate and cheap budget hotels as well in the series of articles starting on the link here
8. Very likely more than that 😀
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Nopp… Sir that will do all.
Thanks Again !!!
Hey Dheeraj,
I am planning to visit Manali-Leh and Ladakh with my husband for 7 days … Which is the best time to visit? Could you send me a sample itinerary for the trip…
Hi Vrinda,
Are you planning to fly in and out of Leh? If yes, then only it is possible in 7 days and in such a case check the itinerary below:
Day 1 | Delhi – Leh (By Flight)
— Checkin at Hotel. Many hotels provide free pick and drop from Airport. Ask while you book them.
— Take ample of rest as well as water or anything that keep your body hydrated enough. DO NOT OVER HYDRATE. Take ORS Soluted water or ORS – L tetra packs from home.
— Do not over exert your body at any cost. Avoid too much up-down on stairs or avoid it in entirety, if possible.
— After 5-6 Hrs of rest you can visit Leh Palace, Local Leh market, Shankar Gompa .
— If you feel exerted go back to Hotel, have dinner at Hotel and take rest. Avoid any exertion. Else continue and,
— Follow the sunset by stroll at Changspa road and have a nice dinner on varied cuisines offered in-around Changspa road.
— Go back to hotel for overnight stay at Leh.
Day 2 | Leh Local Sighseeing + Inner Line Permits
— For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here:
— Hire a taxi from Leh taxi stand or Hotel whichever suits you.
— Bargain hard with taxi driver. Book that single taxi for entire trip after explaining the complete plan.
— Take his inputs if you feel reasonable and if required modify the plan accordingly but should suits you best.
— Ask him to be with you guys starting first day itself, if required and charged reasonable else do it at your own.
— Again DO NOT over exert and take little steps and slow walks only.
— If feeling OK then do Local sightseeing include Namgyal Gompa, Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, Shankar Gompa, Main Market, Hall of Fame, Spituk Gompa, Changspa Road Stroll in evening
— Do not use stairs at any of these places just to see them as it will exert your body much more.
— Overnight at Leh
Day 3 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder
— Head for Nubra Valley and stay overnight at Hunder / Diskit
— On the way enjoy a cup of soup at Highest Motorable Pass (as claimed) Khardung La
— Diskit has monasteries with tallest lord Buddha statue and Hunder has sand dunes and bacterian camel safari
Day 4 | Hunder / Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh
— Sumur has a famous monastery to check out and Panamik has hot water springs
— Overnight at Leh
Day 5 | Leh – Pangong Tso – Leh
— Do not plan to stay overnight at Pangong Tso as you will not be acclimatized and may fall sick. So, make a day trip only.
— Overnight at Leh
Day 6 | Rest day at Leh to enjoy local culture and some shopping OR Monastery tour OR Sham Valley tour OR Fly back home
— Overnight at Leh
— Monastery tour may include Hemis, Thicksey and Shey monasteries. They come on the route of Pangong Tso but as you will be doing day trip, it will be a bit hectic to include them on that day only.
— Sham Valley include Alchi, Likir, Basgo Palace, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Zanskar, Gurudwara Pather Sahib
Day 7 | Fly back
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Dear Dheeraj,
Thank you for the prompt reply.
Can you also tell me how to include Manali in the itinerary.
Which is the best time to visit these places?
Thanks
Can you extend the number of days in hand?
Regards
Dheeraj
Hi Dheeraj,
Can you please let me know the costs (considering new rates)involved hiring a private taxi from Manali to Leh and alternatively Leh local back to manali. (Leh local, Nubra one night stay, Pangong Tso one night and Tso moriri to Manali) This information will be very helpful for me in planning the costs from Manali to Manali. I plan to start on June 18th from Manali and back by June 27/28
Hi Chandu,
For the current leh – ladakh taxi union rate list 2012-13 including the contacts of some reliable taxi drivers within Leh – Ladakh, check the link here
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hello,
Thank you very much for all information on Ladakh trip. You site and articles really give confidance of planning the tour by oneself.
I and my husband are planning to travel to Mumbai-Srinagar-Leh-Mumbai for about 12 days from Aug. 2012. Mostly I would like to adapt your itenerary. Can you please give us some tips on the following?
1. Considering that both of us are around 60 and my husband has had a bypass surgery done 4 year ago, is it allright to travel just the two of us? As such we travel a lot and walk a lot. The AMS is something that worries me (Have read your article). We have been to Himaylays (Manali and Rohtang), Sikkim, Switzerland etc in past 2 years without any problems. Ofcourse, we will talk to our physician and take medicines with us. Any help on this is appreciated
2. Could you recommend hotels? I’m planning to do the bookings this week. I am tending towards homestay as that will be a different experience.
3. Also, could you please recommend Cabs/Drivers? From Srinagar-Leh and at Leh?
4. Could you please advise us on customizing your itenerary? Earliest we can start from Mumbai is 13’th Aug. We are planning one night stay at Srinagar. Latest we can comeback to Mumbai by 27’th. We are planning air journey from Leh for returning.
I know I’m asking for quite a few things, but really any help that you can give is most appreciated.
Vaijayantee
Hi Mrs. Vaijayantee,
Thanks and Salute to your passion for traveling 🙂 …
1. Going via Srinagar to Leh will help you get acclimatize properly. Just take it easy and may be take a night break at Alchi before reach Leh after night stop at Kargil. It will help much more. It is always good to talk to your physician. At any time, you feel discomfort and see the symptoms are increasing with time, descend toward Alchi/Sham Valley or Kargil
2. For accommodation, check the nice, preferred list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh including moderate and cheap budget options as well in the series of articles starting on the link here.
3. For the current leh – ladakh taxi union rate list 2012-13 including the contacts of some reliable taxi drivers within Leh – Ladakh, check the link here
4. Considering 13 days ex Delhi, please find your itinerary below:
Day 1 | Delhi – Srinagar by flight
— Enjoy walk around Dal lake and may be Shikara ride as well
— If you have time then check out, floating market, Shalimar Garden.
— Overnight at Srinagar
Day 2 | Srinagar – Sonamarg – Zozi La – Drass – Kargil
— Enjoy the vistas enroute
— Have late drunch meal at Drass is you are a vegetarian as sometimes it gets difficult to find veg. food at Kargil
— Overnight at Kargil
Day 3 | Kargil – Lamayuru – Alchi
— Cover Mulbekh Maitrey, Lamayuru Moanstery, Lunar Landscapes
— Overnight at Alchi, it will help you guys acclimatize more.
Day 4 | Alchi – Leh
— On the way you can also see Gurudwara Pather Sahib, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Zanskar
— Overnight at Leh
Day 5 | Leh Local Sighseeing + Inner Line Permits
— Local sightseeing include Namgyal Gompa, Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, Shankar Gompa, Main Market, Hall of Fame, Spituk Gompa, Changspa Road Stroll in evening
— For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link : https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/inner-line-per…
— Overnight at Leh
Day 6 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder
— Head for Nubra Valley and stay overnight at Hunder / Diskit
— On the way enjoy a cup of soup at Highest Motorable Pass (as claimed) Khardung La
— Diskit has monasteries with tallest lord Buddha statue and Hunder has sand dunes and bacterian camel safari
Day 7 | Hunder / Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh
— Sumur has a famous monastery to check out and Panamik has hot water springs
— Overnight at Leh
Day 8 | Leh – Hemis Monastery – Pangong Tso Lake
— Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on the go towards Pangong Tso
— Overnight at Pangong Tso (Spangmik or Lukung)
Day 9 | Pangong Tso Lake – Thicksey Monastery – Shey Palace – Leh
— Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on return to Leh
— Overnight at Leh
Day 10 | Rest day at Leh to enjoy local culture and some shopping or you can do tour to Sham Valley
— Sham Valley include Alchi, Likir, Basgo Palace, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Zanskar, , Gurudwara Pather Sahib
— Overnight at Leh
Day 11 | Leh – Tso Moriri via Chumathang
— Cover Karzok Monastery
— Overnight at Karzok or Tso Moriri
Day 12 | Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Debring (Manali – Leh Highway starts) – Taglang La – Leh
— Try to start early in the day so that you reach Sarchu where the accommodation options are better than Pang
— Overnight at Sarchu or Pang
Day 13 | Leh – Delhi – Mumbai
— Return home by flight
Day 14 + 15 | Buffer days to be kept incase of road closure due to landslides or snowfall or perhaps you want to enjoy more.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hello,
Thank you very much for a quick and helpful reply.
I'll try and do the bookings coming week.
Should I call the drivers to try and fix? Will they commit and respect the commitment three months in advance? Also, should I book a separate taxi for Srinagar-Kargil? Please suggest
Thanks in advacne
Regards,
Vaijayantee
Hello Mrs. Vaijayantee,
I guess you can call them but you need to remind them every fortnight or so, so that they are sure that you guys are coming. They will surely respect the commitment. Yes, book the separate taxi for Srinagar – Kargil once you reach Srinagar. There are plenty of them available there at taxi stand.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hello Dheeraj,
Really wonderful to see your reponse. Used to working on stringent SLAs? Just kidding… 🙂
Yes, I'll remember your tips and keep in touc with them. Also, I'll get in touch with you in case I have query.
I'm sure your commitment and dedication will take you a long way in whatever you take up.
Regards,
Vaijayantee
Bothering you again!
Can you plz suggest hotels/homestay/camp for alchi? I tried to google, but am not getting any contact details of any hotel there.
Please help!
Regards,
Vaijayantee
Sorry Mrs. Vaijayantee. I also do not have any contact in Alchi. I will try to find somewhere in any rough notes and if I get one, I will share with you.
Regards,
Dheeraj Sharma
hi dheeraj…
hope u r doing great and making some new plans for new destinations to enlighten people with new info.
since we thought hard on an option of going to jammu by train and taking a taxi from there for further journey…we wish to know if you know some good travel agent or tour companies who can book taxi hotel and permits to save us the hassle….i went through the blogs of taxi and bargaining ideas however if we can get a fair deal before leaving from delhi then i think we will be better off….so lemme know if u know any1 there who can work out a good deal for the whole way with sightseeing of nubra pangong n tsomoriri..
Hi Ujjwal,
Did you check the link here. I does have contacts of few drivers whom you can directly talk to. Involving travel agents might cost you much more and you need to abide their sick rules and so. Better plan it yourself with contacts to direct guys rather involving mediators.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj
Would we be comfortable doing the trip Delhi-Srinagar-Leh-Sarchu-Manali-Delhi in a Volkswagen Vento?
In fact we are planning to begin from Mumbai back to Mumbai sometime next week. Any suggestions from your side?
Hi Zazen,
For Vento taking on Manali – Leh Highway, I will suggest you read about section "Private Vehicles i.e. Cars and Bikes | Self Drive or Ride to Ladakh" in the article linked here: How to plan a journey on Manali – Leh Highway to give you an idea what to expect in self drive in hatch back. For a quick read:
The roads may be stabilized by that time but you will need to face few tough challenges on the route. The hatchback/sedan will increase the level of every challenge even further. My suggestion will be to go via Srinagar route which is opened for light vehicles earlier (most likely) and will be stabilized by then. It will help you feel comfortable with the driving, provide more acclimatization and then once you have done the local Leh Ladakh come back via Manali side. Secondly, since you are in hatch/sedan back then you need to drive with extra care as well. There will be some sections on the Manali – Leh highway in which yo might need to sacrifice some scratches on the underbelly. Just make sure you do not bump the engine sump (know it before where it is placed in your car). You need to protect it all around the trip. Thirdly, whenever in doubt do not rush into the section rather park aside and feel the section with your foot, see how other vehicles are crossing it and make a planned route in your mind to cross that section. At the very least do carry Mseal, quick fix, funnely, jerry cans and towing rope with you all the time.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thank you Dheeraj. You must be a really kind soul, patiently replying to all our varied queries :)The reason for taking the Vento is our long drive from Mumbai to Srinagar, the power steering helps. However, we have an option to take the Scorpio, so maybe we should reconsider. Could you also advise how cold it would be in Pangong Tso and Nubra Valley during the day and during evening/night? Would we need lots of inner/thermal wear? Thanks a ton!
Hi Zazen,
Better take Scorpio and avoid any hassles that might arise. You will definitely see the advantage of High GC in this Himalayan range 🙂 … Well, in nights at Pangong tso, it could be somewhere around 4-5 deg C and day time could be around 12-15 deg C. However, Nubra Valley is much warmer than Pangong Tso. I guess you should take Inner/Thermal wear with you and since you will should prefer dressing in layers, so you can judge on wearing part. But, take it definitely.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thank you for your guidance, you have been a great help.
My pleasure, have a great trip ahead 🙂
Regards
Dheeraj
Hey dheeraj
I Require your inputs in making a choice. Finally we have found taxi service who are willing to offer private number taxis for Leh and doing the whole circuit.
First option is hiring an innova at Rs 12 per km for the del – Srinagar- Leh-manali – del…. 250 rs driver allowance and toll n state tax and parking paid by us.
Second option is they are asking for 5000 rs per day all inclusive toll taxes parking and allowances.
So which one is the better option ??
Plus with a private number taxi , we can do sightseeing in Leh after obtaining permits and we just have to be clear about stating that car belongs to us or a family relative.
Regards
Ujjwal jain
Hi Ujjwal,
Great!! You are correct in all your understanding. Now, regarding the option, you will be doing about 3000-3200 KMs for the whole circuit including sightseeing within Ladakh for Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri. So, that means by Rs 12 it should not be more than 42K-45K what I feel. If you are covering all this in 12 days then it will be like 60K for the second option. I will always go with first option because I don't see it corssing 60K at any day.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards,
Dheeraj Sharma
Hey dheeraj …
Thanks for the input … I guess we were also thinking on same lines .. We will take the per km taxi … In case the service is good I will surely pass u the contact details of this person as there might be a lot of queries from ppl who might be interested in hiring a private number from Delhi.
Any idea about the army regiment controlling the area … Since I hav got a friend whose father is a retired army men so we might be able to string up contacts with the concerned army department and get some army guest houses to live in and save few bucks there….
Manali Leh highway is really talked about … Since the terrain and beauty of snow and plains is just out of this world …. How about the Srinagar Leh highway .. Do we encounter some great views on route and will there be any snow or snowy passes tht we might cross on our way to Leh. Although starting from srinagar helps with keeping away ams however don't we push the best part of our tour to the last few days of our travel. If we don't have time to do tsomoriri does it make sense to start from manali and taking a chance with an AMs
Regards
Ujjwal jain
Hi Ujjwal,
That will be a great help to many if you can provide that number if he proves to be good source. There are lots of army settlements all around Ladakh, any place you say. Once you stay in Leh with them, they will be able to surely guide you according to the plans. Srinagar – Leh offer beauty of its own. You will surely love every bit of it. It is the isolation on Manali – Leh Highway that makes it more out of the world but on Srinagar – Leh Highway though the vistas are good but traffic runs it mostly and every 80-90 KMs you have some or other settlement that you don’t find on Manali – Leh Highway. You will find snow only at Zozi La pass. Taking chance with AMS is not a good option.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hey dheeraj
What kind of weather is expected in mid to end of June.. How many layers of woollen would we need for in and around Leh. Plus any special tips if u have for few of us who hav little asthma , precaution we need to tale care of there.
Plus we are planning the trip from 18th or 19th June from delhi … Anyone starting the trip on same dates can get in touch …. More the cars more the fun
Our tentative itienary is as follows
1 del – patnitop
2 patnitop – sonmarg via sight seeing srinagar
3 sonmarg- kargil
4 kargil- Leh
5 Leh sight seeing n ilp
6 Leh – nubra via khurdungla
7 nubra to pangong via shyok or warila
8 pangong- Leh
9 Leh – sarchu
10 sarchu – manali
11 manali – Delhi
So if anyone doing a similar itinerary … Would like to move along should get in touch
Ujjwal
8860060028
Hi Ujjwal,
Weather will be fine in June about 15 deg C types. You should carry at least thermal wear so that upper layers can be aided as and when required. One heavy jacket/sweat shirt and one light jacket shall do fine. Regarding breathing, I will suggest that you definitely do not exert to much there and try to use minimum amount of stairs. If stairs are unavoidable then at least in the initial days take one step at a time.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hey dheeraj
Since u have self driven to Leh a few times, do you have any idea about the toll taxes, state taxes and parking for a private number vehicle.
Since we are trying to identify the costs for our private number taxi. We are trying to find charges for the whole circuit Del- Srinagar- Leh-manali- del
Cheers ujjwal
Hi Ujjwal,
I do not remember the exact figure but upto Chandigarh, you will be paying about Rs 200-250 for the toll tax and then Rs 300 as green tax to enter Manali which includes parking as well. On the way back from Jammu to Chandigarh, I do not remember exactly, how much we had to pay but seems like it should not be more than Rs 300 types. So, over all keep about Rs 1000 for the toll tax.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hey dheeraj ..
Any new news from your contacts in Leh about the status of khurdungla nubra route. It was a tragic accident leaving stranded a lot of people …. I knw weather there is pretty uncertain and unpredictable … We are set to leave on 23rd June ..quite a few days still but do we need to make any changes due to te accident ….
Plus one thing more can we take out lappy and hard drives there .. Coz I read it somewhere that laptop and hard drives are prone to crash at such altitudes …
Regards
Ujjwal
Hi Ujjwal,
The road would have been opened by now. Khardung La is extremely important pass strategically for Indian army and that is the reason why it do not get closed more than a day or two even in extremely winter conditions or abundant snowfall. So, it would have been open the very next only or a day later. So, no worries on that front.
And, yes about carrying laptops to Ladakh, read here: Carrying Laptop to Ladakh or High Altitudes … It is all here in Ladakh section of my blog 😆 …
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
hello dhiraj,
we are couple want to visit J& K ,srinagar -leh -manali so can u advice abt this trip .we vl be reach srinagar on 11th aug and and return 21st from delhi to hyd plz inform with itinerary and hw to plan means we have to go by any car or bus or travels etc from srinagar and whr we can get car or buses in srinagar…
Hi Madhu,
Considering you have about 11 days:
Day 1 | Delhi – Srinagar
— Enjoy walk around Dal lake and may be Shikara ride as well
— If you have time then check out, floating market, Shalimar Garden.
— Overnight at Srinagar
Day 2 | Srinagar – Sonamarg – Zozi La – Drass – Kargil
— Enjoy the vistas enroute
— Have late drunch meal at Drass is you are a vegetarian as sometimes it gets difficult to find veg. food at Kargil
— Overnight at Kargil
Day 3 | Kargil – Lamayuru – Leh
— Cover Mulbekh Maitrey, Lamayuru Moanstery, Lunar Landscapes
— On the way you can also see Gurudwara Pather Sahib, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Zanskar
— Overnight at Leh
Day 4 | Leh Local Sighseeing + Inner Line Permits
— Local sightseeing include Namgyal Gompa, Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, Shankar Gompa, Main Market, Hall of Fame, Spituk Gompa, Changspa Road Stroll in evening
— For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here
— Overnight at Leh
Day 5 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder
— Head for Nubra Valley and stay overnight at Hunder / Diskit
— On the way enjoy a cup of soup at Highest Motorable Pass (as claimed) Khardung La
— Diskit has monasteries with tallest lord Buddha statue and Hunder has sand dunes and bacterian camel safari
Day 6 | Hunder / Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh
— Sumur has a famous monastery to check out and Panamik has hot water springs
— Overnight at Leh
Day 7 | Leh – Pangong Tso Lake – Leh
— Day trip to Pangong Tso
— Overnight at Leh
Day 8 | Leh – Taglang La – Moore Plains – Pang – Sarchu
— Stay overnight at Sarchu
Day 9 | Sarchu – Baralacha La – Keylong – Rohtang Pass – Manali
— On the way cover Suraj Tal, Deepak Tal which are on the road sides only
— Overnight at Manali
Day 10 | Manali – Delhi
— Return home
Day 11 | Buffer day to be kept incase of road closure due to landslides or snowfall or perhaps you want to enjoy more.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
if we can hire taxi whts the fares to reach leh-manali,shall we can share taxi with others?
thanks in advance….
Hi Madhu,
For the current leh – ladakh taxi union rate list 2012-13 including the contacts of some reliable taxi drivers within Leh – Ladakh, check the link here
For accommodation, check the nice, preferred list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh including moderate and cheap budget hotels as well in the series of articles starting on the link here
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
Firstly would like to thank you for this wonderful site, its easily the best knowdgebase of any1 planning a Ladakh trip by road. Excellent work!!
I and 3 of my friends, from Pune are planning for destination Ladakh.(19June – 15July). Below is you itinerary, Would like to know your take, weather its over-ambitious/doable, considering the rains.
We would be shipping our bikes from Pune to Jammu by train.
Day 1(29 June)- Departure from Mumbai by Golden Temple Ex(Train)
Day 2- Travel
Day 3- Reach Amritsar @5.40am , Visit Golden temple, Wagh border etc..
Day 4- Board overnight train to Jammu. Collect bikes, leave for Srinagar (300Km)
Day 5- Srinagar-Kargil (200Km)
Day 6- Kargil-Leh (220Km)
Day 7- Rest/Permits/Local sightseeing
Day 8- White River Rafting, Chilling to Nimo (Grade 3 plus)
Day 9- Leh – Deskit, Nubra Valley (120Km)
Day 10- Nubra – Spangmik(Pangong Tso), via Wari La route (175 Km)
Day 11- Pangong Tso – Tso Moriri (240 Km)
Day 12- Buffer
Day 13- Tso Moriri – Sarchu (220km)
Day 14- Sarchu- Manali (225km)
Day 15- Manali- Delhi (550km)
Day 16- Buffer
Day 17(15 July)- Flight back home, Delhi-Pune
Day 18- Back to aam zindagi
I'm skeptical about 2 things:
Day9 to Day10 where we plan to cover Nubra,Pangong Tso,Tso Moriri each in one day, assuming we manage the petrol and the Roads are open.(Worsecase scenario welling to skip Pangong Tso)
Day 15. Manali- Delhi(550Km in a day) possible? Considering the rains.
Though we have kept 2 buffer days,I'm hoping we can avoid them, would like to see couple of places around Delhi.
Please let me know you thoughts, your inputs are highly appreciated.
Hi Saurabh,
Check the article on Fuel Availability here if you missed it and find your attempt for long route on the list and plan for it taking lots of fuel with you. I am not sure how you will manage over bikes to carry so much fuel. I guess, you have to come back to Leh even after carrying some spare fuel even if you somehow manage Leh – Nubra – Pangong Tso – Tso Moriri. Now, going again further towards Manali – Leh Highway, will be like doing more than 900 KMs without any fuel pump.
The itinerary is fine except the back breaking ride Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri which will easily be 10+ Hrs and that too mostly on no roads at all. Forget not, it is followed by a tiring day on both sides Tso Moriri – Sarchu and Nubra – Pangong Tso via Wari La 🙁
Manali – Delhi is easily doable.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
Wat work u doing is juz awesome, u've created a LLP Ladakh-Lonely planet version.. Kuddos bro..
We are 5 of us flying from chennai to Delhi & we want to do Ladakh via Delhi by road, 15days in total from 16-30June, So the above itenary seems perfect I think.
We need ur help here, we want an SUV with a driver who guides us from Delhi & drops us back in Delhi.
Do u know any genuine travel agent who'll guide us in making our trip legendary.
Thanks a lot in advance.
Hi Alpesh,
Thanks buddy, yes kinda that 😉 …
Well there is a trick here, because you cannot run a taxi outside Ladakh within Ladakh for sightseeing purposes. They can only drop you to Ladakh and then take you back to Delhi and you will have to pay for two taxis when you will use only one 🙁 … So, it is better to split it.
Take a train to Jammu, take taxi from Jammu to Srinagar, then take taxi from Srinagar to Leh and then finally book one in Leh which will make you do whole Ladakh sighseeing and drop you to Manali. From Manali you can take the overnight comfortable Manali – Delhi Volvo to reach back Delhi 🙂 … For the current leh – ladakh taxi union rate list 2012-13 including the contacts of some reliable taxi drivers within Leh – Ladakh, check the link here
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
Finally I have my itenary ready, we are group of 5 friends (3M & 2F) , with a Xylo & a driver, wanting to add Amritsar in your common itenary, see if below works out:
June 22 – Night 1 | Delhi – Amritsar
• We arrive Delhi Airport by 11pm
• Overnight drive from Delhi to Amritsar (Our Driver suggested us this)
• About 10-12 Hrs drive
June 23 – Day 1 | Amritsar
• Visit Golden Temple & Wagah Border
• Overnight at Amritsar
June 24 – Day 2 | Amritsar – Srinagar
• Enjoy walk around Dal lake, Shikara ride, Floating market, Shalimar Garden
• Overnight at Srinagar
• About 10-12 Hrs drive
June 25 – Day 3 | Srinagar – Sonamarg – Zozi La – Drass – Kargil
• Enjoy the vistas enroute
• Overnight at Kargil
• About 8 Hrs drive
June 26 – Day 4 | Kargil – Lamayuru – Leh
• Cover Mulbekh Maitrey, Lamayuru Moanstery, Lunar Landscapes
• On the way you can also see Gurudwara Pather Sahib, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Nimmu
• Overnight at Leh
• About 9-10 Hrs drive
June 27 – Day 5 | Leh Local Sighseeing + Inner Line Permits
• Local sightseeing include Namgyal Gompa, Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, Shankar Gompa, Main Market, Hall of Fame, Spituk Gompa, Changspa Road Stroll in evening
• Overnight at Leh
June 28 – Day 6 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder
• Head for Nubra Valley and stay overnight at Hunder / Diskit
• On the way enjoy a cup of soup at Highest Motorable Pass (as claimed) Khardung La
• Diskit has monasteries with tallest lord Buddha statue and Hunder has sand dunes and bacterian camel safari
• About 5-6 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between and at Khardung La
June 29 – Day 7 | Hunder / Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh
• Sumur has a famous monastery to check out and Panamik has hot water springs
• Overnight at Leh
• About 7-9 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between
June 30 – Day 8 | Leh – Hemis Monastery – Pangong Tso Lake
• Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on the go towards Pangong Tso
• Overnight at Pangong Tso (Spangmik or Lukung)
• About 5-6 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between
July 1 – Day 9 | Pangong Tso Lake – Thicksey Monastery – Shey Palace – Leh
• Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on return to Leh
• Overnight at Leh
• About 5-6 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between
July 2 – Day 10 | Rest day at Leh to enjoy local culture and some shopping or you can do tour to Sham Valley
• Sham Valley include Alchi, Likir, Basgo Palace, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Nimmu, Gurudwara Pather Sahib
• Overnight at Leh
July 3 – Day 11 | Leh – Tso Moriri via Chumathang
• Cover Karzok Monastery
• Overnight at Karzok or Tso Moriri
• About 7-8 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between
July 4 – Day 12 | Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Debring (Manali – Leh Highway starts) – Moore Plains – Pang / Sarchu
• Try to start early in the day so that you reach Sarchu where the accommodation options are better than Pang
• Overnight at Sarchu or Pang
• About 11-12 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between
July 5 – Day 13 | Pang / Sarchu – Baralacha La – Keylong – Rohtang Pass – Manali
• On the way cover Suraj Tal, Deepak Tal which are on the road sides only
• Overnight at Manali
• About 11-12 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between and of course the mess at Rohtang Pass
July 6 – Day 14 | Manali – Delhi
• About 13-14 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between
• Overnight at Delhi
July 7 – Day 15 | Delhi
• Fly out from Delhi Airport in the Morning
Questions:
1. Does the above itenary fits well the Amritsar part?
2. We want to have 1 buffer day, so I want to do as u suggested below, how to incorporate this in the schedule:
“Instead of coming back to Leh from Nubra Valley, you can head towards Pangong Tso via Wari La route. This will give you an additional day which can be spent in Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso or Leh”
3. For a Xylo do we need to carry excess fuel for any part of the trip?
4. We want to rent bikes from Leh for just 1 day, which day & route is good & comparatively safer for amateurs like us
Thanks for all the guidance; I will surely return your favor with awesome pictures 😉
Also any idea if Vodafone-Postpaid works in Leh capital
Yes Alpesh, Vodafone post-paid does work in Leh only via Aircel network. But, again the coverage is not at par. Best is BSNL and then Airtel.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hello Alpesh,
1. Apart from being little bit hectic for the first two days, it seems the itinerary is fine enough. Hectic, because at night you will be starting for Amritsar and after overnight drive you will be exploring Amritsar the next day. Then, next day you move to Srinagar which I feel would definitely take more than 12 Hrs, might be 14 Hrs. But, I also do feel it is completely manageable if you are ready to take it as or if yu prefer going relaxing way then better add a day in between but no harm going the way you have planned.
2. Of course, this can be done which will surly help you have the required buffer day.
3. I do not think so that you will need it. Also, since it is taxi outside Ladakh you will not be allowed to roam inside Ladakh on it. So, from Tso Moriri you will have to come back to Leh to get going in your own taxi or will have to ask you driver to meet at Manali – Leh highway while you get down from Ladakh taxi on the way towards Manali – Leh. Best place would be Pang or Sarchu for the same. So, you can aks your Delhi driver to start for Sarchu as you guys start for Sarchu from Tso Moriri and get yourself dropped there if you do not want to go back to Leh. Otherwise, use the rest day to go back to Leh from Tso Moriri. If you are doing Leh – Tso Moriri – Manali then you might need fuel for 550 KMs approx., so make sure it is manageable else carry spare fuel.
4. Best is Day 10 – Sham Valley tour.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
Excellent information that you have given here.
I intend to ride to Leh-Ladakh this year on my motorcycle.
A few questions:
1. Is Aug end – Sept a good time to do this trip?
2. Is there a route to include Lahaul-Spiti as well? If yes, how much more time will I need?
3. I intend to transport the bike to Srinagar or Manali to start the ride, is this advisable?
4. Any other suggestions/tips that you may have.
Hi Smokebarrel,
Thanks alot. My answers below to your queries:
1. Make it by second week of September and you are good to go. Great burning colors of Ladakh all around, a little cold, roads are much better in shape and condition by that time as monsoon resides.
2. Yes, there is a route, from Gramphu about 15-20 odd KMs before Rohtang Pass there goes a diversion towards Spiti Valley via Kunzum Pass which exits to Shimla partially over Hindustan – Tibet road. Awesome, drive!! But, takes about three days from Keylong to reach Shimla and that too with no sightseeing in Spiti and rushing everyday in the morning to reach the night destination. Ideal would be at least 5 days ex. Keylong to enjoy Spiti a bit.
3. No sure about Srinagar but yes you can do upto Jammu and then go with Jammu to Srinagar on your own bike. Better is Srinagar to start the ride.
4. I can write so many as mentioned in the whole Ladakh section of the blog ;). Let me know in case you have any specific one 🙂
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
waiting…
Hi Dheeraj,
Where is your Ladakh trip photographs?
Waiting for that…
With regards
Debanjan
Hi debanjan,
Album kick-starts today on FB page 🙂 … Please stay tuned as I will post some pics everyday starting tonite 🙂
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj
We are planning for Ladakh trip and need your guidance 🙂
How much time it takes for the following routes assuming decent breaks for Photography and Lunch:
1) Diskit – Spangmik
2) Spangmik – Hanle
3) Hanle – TSO Moriri
4) TSO Moriri – Sarchu
5) Sarchu – Keylong
6) Keylong – Manali
If we have to catch Manali – Delhi Volvo in the evening then which place would you recommend to stay overnight on the previous night? Can Sarchu – Manali be done by early evening? If we want to start from TSO Moriri at 7 AM and reach Manali by 3 PM the next day, what should be our plan?
Hi Meavin,
Please find the approximate timings below:
1) Diskit – Spangmik – (9-10 Hrs via Wari La and 6-8 Hrs via Shyok Village if it is open)
2) Spangmik – Hanle – (about 6-8 Hrs depending upon how many times you stop for pictures, every other part is beautiful :D)
3) Hanle – TSO Moriri – (about 5-6 Hrs depending upon how many times you stop for pictures, every other part is beautiful :D)
4) TSO Moriri – Sarchu – (about 10-11 Hrs)
5) Sarchu – Keylong – (about 4-5 Hrs)
6) Keylong – Manali – (about 4-10 Hrs depending upon how you get stuck in Jam at Rohtang Pass)
If you have to catch Manali volvo in the evening then try to make upto Keylong/Jispa by leaving Tso Moriri 6 AM types and taking least breaks in between and taking them only when you can't really stop yourself from clicking the beauty… better extend by one day I will say 😉
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks Dheeraj 🙂
Leh-Manali route is considered to be scenic..Which are the places enroute which are really good and deserve some breaks for photography?
Have you been to Zanskar? In terms of scenic beauty what would be your order for the following places:
Nubra
Zanskar
Hanle
Hi Meavin,
One of the most scenic (Leh – Manali) one can ever see in life 🙂 … Check the summary table at the link here and you will get most of the answers related to Manali – Leh Highway.
I have never been to Zanskar, but will be there in September 🙂 … I will rate them as Zanskar >= Hanle >>> Nubra Valley 🙂
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks Dheeraj.. How about TSO Moriri? I read somewhere in your comments that you infact like TSO Moriri more than Pangong TSO.. Could you please provide more details as to why you prefer TSO Moriri? I guess both these lakes would score more than Nubra?
Hi Meavin,
Nubra Valley has its own beauty, cannot be compared with lakes because of different category of nature 🙂 Skipping Nubra for the sake of lakes will not make sense I will say, at least if you have never been to Nubra Valley… I love Tso Moriri more because it is my own perception whereas many people like Pangong Tso much more than Tso Moriri may be due to its vastness. May be I also love it because it is still not that much touched upon as Pangong Tso
Regards
Dheeraj
Hi dheeraj … Thanks for the reply … Seems like the best combination possible …. Our problem is that few friends don't want to fly down to srinagar or take a manali Volvo …. So I think we might waste few days driving from plains to both sides…
I wanted to know about the shyok village route from nubra to pangong … Will that be open this year and is it safe to drive through that route and what kind of places will we mention on our inner line permit application form for traveling through this route.
I am writing down the itinerary we planned to take your advice so that we know if it is doable or not …
Day1: Delhi to manali … Overnight at manali
Day2: manali to keylong
Day3: keylong to sarchu
Day4: sarchu to Leh
Day 5: local sight seeing
Day 6 : nubra valley
Day7: nubra to pangong via shyok
Day8 : pangong to Leh
Day 9: leave for kargil .. Visiting alchi on the way … Overnight at kargil
Day10 : kargil to Srinagar …. Overnight I'm Srinagar
Day 11: srinagar to Delhi …. (This seems to be the most diff) …
So lemme know what you think about it and what variations should be made here.
Cheers ujjwal
Hi Ujjwal,
Shyok Village route is open as I did it last week when I was there in Ladakh. However, it is quite dangerous and most of the taxi drivers will not go there unless they have some confidence for it. It was complete isolation, the landslide prone areas were highly vulnerable for landslides at any time and mind you that help will be very hard to find on entire route as rarely people takes it. So, it all depends on the driver if he is game for it. In order to do shyok route, you do not need to write anything on permit form but just to be on safer side mention Shyok Village along with Nubra Valley. GOVT. has plan to use this route this year for tourists but I see it unlikely because of highly vulnerable road sections. In July – august when water level in rivers increases then I do not see any possibility after running over the route that any taxi driver will prefer taking it in that time.
As I might have said, DO NOT sleep at Sarchu else you might suffer from AMS for next few days or might not be able to sleep at Sarchu or might vomits every now and then overnight etc. Do it Keylong/Jispa – Leh as lots of taxis/hptdc buses etc. do it. Better take Wari La route as drivers might be accustomed to it to Pangong Tso from Nubra Valley and do Shyok only after 100% confirmation about the condition of the road. You can leave very early from Leh for Kargil so that you might reach Drass even after covering Sham Valley. Then, from Drass again leave early morning to reach near about Jammu next day. Srinagar – Delhi will be good 16~ Hrs drive, if you are OK with it then that can be done as well.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hey dheeraj
I am trying to avoid sarchu however my friends who have less knowledge of AMs and areas are keen on spending a night at sarchu tents. They say they have read at places that it's a high altitude place where cold winds blow and it will be fun…. I am trying to make them diverge from their plan… Being a lil prone to asthma I dint want to stop at sarchu …
Shyok village as u said is risky so will confirm about the road conditions on that route before taking that one ….
One thing that we are finding difficult is to find a good taxi and driver from del for this 11 day trip. Spoke to quite a few ppl but either they don't send cars for Leh trip or they hav drivers for plains only. So we are finding it a lil diff to find a taxi with driver at a fair price. I guess u have took drivers along u during some of your trips so if you have contact details of drivers or any taxi company that will provide the cab for the trip then do lemme know.
Regards
Ujjwal
Hi Ujjwal,
Don't know what fun they would like to experience at Sarchu, I hope and wish it stays to fun only 😉 … Do check before going via Shyok, we had crossed river almost twice and that too in April this year and landslides section were quite dangerous. I hope GREF lays them better by them. As I said, you are not allowed to roam in a taxi outside Leh – Ladakh within Leh – Ladakh. You will have to hire it again in Ladakh and pay for your taxi which you have taken along with you. So, not a wise choice to make. Go to Manali via Volvo and then take Manali taxi to Leh and then finally hire taxi in Leh for rest of the tour and drop to Manali. Leh taxis are not allowed to pick passengers from Manali and same is true for Manali taxis reaching Leh. I generally do self drive, but yes for the current trip since I flew into Leh I hired taxi in Leh. But, I know this guy Rigzin who is more of a friend to me but may not be available being over busy 🙂 …
Good Drivers in Leh – Ladakh:
1. Rigzin – 09622954779
2. Naseer – 09906229203 and 09469293183
3. Dorjey – 09419372742
4. Tashi – 09906994647, 09419342238
5. Tsewang – 09622993372
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi dheeraj ..
Thanks for the numbers…. As u said that we hav to hire different taxis for different places due to restrictions and union in Ladakh …
However we plan to take a taxi with a private number from Delhi. I have read through few blogs that one should be ready for a lil scrutiny with taxis of private number….
So I was wondering if u knw anybody in Delhi or gurgaon who provide good taxis and an experienced driver for this terrain at a fair price
Regards
Ujjwal
Sorry Ujjwal, since I mostly self drive so never got an opportunity to hire a taxi from home (Delhi/NCR) and yes, private taxi is allowed in Ladakh because officially it is not a taxi 🙂 …
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
First of all thanks for your valuable itinerary and also how was your trip ?
Does your itinerary cover all places of leh and around to be visited ? I have around 10 days (Delhi-Delhi). Below is my vague itinerary. Please guide me as time constraint exist but we(6 guys) don't mind reducing the acclimatizing time and less sleep and more traveling.
Aug 11 : Train arriving in Delhi at 9am.Leave manali at 11am.
Aug 12 : Manali – Sarchu (~250km) (Mention if any places are worth seeing) – Do suggest something different if you think its better .
Aug 13 : Sarchu – Leh (~226km) (Mention if any places are worth seeing) – Do suggest something different if you think its better .
Aug 14: Not sure what is to be done here 🙂
Aug 15: Not sure what is to be done here 🙂
Aug 16: Not sure what is to be done here 🙂
Aug 17: Not sure what is to be done here 🙂
Aug 18 : Not sure what is to be done here 🙂
Aug 19: Not sure what is to be done here 🙂
Aug 20 : Train from Delhi at 1 pm.
Here i am taking route of Delhi-Manali-Leh-Srinagar-Delhi but i dont mind the other way around if its better.
Morever, i have heard about this places likir , alchi, numbra valley, magnetic pull place, moon land , Khardung la , Lumayuru , Pangong Tso ,Tso-Moriri,Drass,Zanskar and also Leh local .Do suggest some itinerary according to number of days and also can you mention all the places to be seen as it would be helpful if we can extend our trip to 18 days.
Thanks in advance 🙂
Hi Chaitanya
The trip was JUST AWESOME …. had some most amazing fun of my life. The trip had everything I could imagine even after traveling so much … The snow run to Khardung La and getting stuck every odd few KMs at 18K was some serious fun…. Tangste to Nubra via Shyok isolated route was major highlight…. At couple of places we had almost cross a part of river, crossing landslides on that route was super adventure, even army men were shocked to see us on the other side. The route was really beautiful. Photography wise it was disappointing due to overcast days and dark clouds. also, ride a Bullet Classic for the first time upto Chilling and Basgo, it was fun in itself too.
Overall, fantastic trip with not so good pics… I will try to post them asap but after spending so many days alone, my family would kill me if I go anywhere near the camera.
Yes, doing the trip other way round is extremely helpful and better way to go about Ladakh journey. So go via Srinagar and come back via Manali. For 10 days I will advice you that try to get permits in advance through a travel agent or hotel staff. Also, I assume that you will be taking a taxi for the whole trip?? If yes, best thing to do is book the flights to Srinagar and fly to Srinagar because considering the prices of the tickets you will more or like pay similar amount even if you take the journey by road to Srinagar with night halt at Jammu. The journey is not that pretty and tiring BUT flying will save you a much needed day.
Day 1 | Fly to Srinagar – Around Srinagar, Dal Lake Shikara ride
Day 2 | Srinagar – Sonamarg – Zozi La – Drass – Kargil (Do it in Srinagar taxi, so that you can change the taxi from Kargil for Leh taxi. Taking Leh taxi from Kargil will help you do sightseeing on the route i.e. alchi – likir etc. which is not possible in Srinagar taxi, if required)
Day 3 | Kargil – Lamayuru – Alchi – Likir – Basgo – Confluence at Nimmu – Magnetic Hills – Pather Sahib – Leh (Leave early in the day to cover all or reach Leh directly and cover these places the next day)
Day 4 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder
Head for Nubra Valley and stay overnight at Hunder / Diskit
On the way enjoy a cup of soup at Highest Motorable Pass (as claimed) Khardung La
Diskit has monasteries with tallest lord Buddha statue and Hunder has sand dunes and bacterian camel safari
About 5-6 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between and at Khardung La
Day 5 | Hunder / Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh
Sumur has a famous monastery to check out and Panamik has hot water springs
Overnight at Leh
About 7-9 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between
Day 6 | Leh – Pangong Tso Lake – Leh
Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey or Shey on the go towards Pangong Tso
Day 7 | Leh – Tso Moriri via Chumathang
Cover Karzok Monastery
Overnight at Karzok or Tso Moriri
About 7-8 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between
Day 8 | Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Debring (Manali – Leh Highway starts) – Moore Plains – Pang / Sarchu
Try to start early in the day so that you reach Sarchu where the accommodation options are better than Pang
Overnight at Sarchu or Pang
About 11-12 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between
Day 9 | Pang / Sarchu – Baralacha La – Keylong – Rohtang Pass – Manali
On the way cover Suraj Tal, Deepak Tal which are on the road sides only
Overnight at Manali
About 11-12 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between and of course the mess at Rohtang Pass
Day 10 | Manali – Delhi
Return Home
About 13-14 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between
You can skip Tso Moriri and keep that day for rest in Leh or as buffer days. It is always recommended that that you keep buffer days with you when you plan Ladakh journey.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Wow , u really enjoyed man. Looking forward to pics 🙂 . I wish my plan just gets successful too 🙂
My itienery : 🙂
People keep me suggesting to skip Tso-moriri as its same like Pangong -Tso as i have limited days in hand .Does it mean Pangong-Tso is better than Tso-moriri ? Also skipping this would help me to see Leh local (Is this worth than Tso-Moriri or there any other beautiful place which i can visit skipping this)
Also my friends are travelling from trivandrum,chennai,hyderabad,bangalore and am from mumbai.Flight rates from Srinagar to these places are bit cheaper than vice versa so we are thinking to take our trip route from Delhi to Srinagar via Manali – Leh road .
Also through this route, i would like to edit the traditional route i.e :
My Idea : Delhi – manali- sarchu- Tso moriri- Pangong Tso- Leh (5 days approx). Then Leh-nubra-khardungla (2 days)as u suggested.And later route to kargil and srinagar.(2days) .Do suggest me if this route is possible and by taking this route am i missing some beautiful places on way from Leh -Tso moriri ? Also can you suggest me place where night halt should be taken on this route . Also correct me if days required mentioned by me are not correct.
I would be travelling from Aug 11 – Aug 20 so i think climate should be good enough and it does not spoil our itienery.Though am not sure what would be status on independence day. Do you have any idea about it ?
Also Instead of taking different taxis from different locations like you mentioned,is it possible to hire a car from Delhi itself to Srinagar for all 9-10 days ?
Looking forward to make this memorable and beautiful trip of mine and my friends 🙂
Hi Chaitanya,
It depends upon the preference people make, I like Tso Moriri more than Pangong Tso. So, it depends. In or around Leh, you can get feel of local culture by visiting monasteries and all but if interested in natural beauty then Tso Moriri should be the choice.
You should not halt overnight at sarchu due to AMS concerns but if you are OK with risk of jeopardizing the whole trip, may be yes. Then, staying at Tso Moriri and then Pangong Tso again first you have to get permits in adavnce of the trip and even if you get it HUMBLE request will be not to do it because your bodies cannot acclimatize so quickly to sleep at these high altitude lakes so early. AMS shall not be taken lightly as it has fatal effects and in the region where help is hard to find, one must take extra care.
In august, nothing is guaranteed on Manali – Leh Highway and Srinagar – Leh Highway due to fury of monsoons but within Ladakh it will be fine because it is a rain shadow region. You will be hitting Srinagar Leh highway after 15August, so that is not much of an issue. You cannot take taxi from Delhi because it is not first allowed on Manali – rohtang Pass road without permit from SDM office and then it is not allowed to roam in Ladakh for sightseeing purposes. You have to hire first taxi in Manali that will drop you to Leh and then hire another taxi for rest of the route which can drop you upto Jammu/Srinagar. Then, Jammu/Srinagar and Manali you will need other means/taxis to commute.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Again. 🙂
Have still more queries that i would like to clear.
Those tourist taxis(Yellow plate) are not allowed in Leh and also on Manali-Leh highway right ? But if i have a white plate taxi than i wont have a problem in entire trip from delhi – leh – srinagar in that same car?
Also going to and from from Leh-Tso Moriri is possible in a day ?
I have few more questions which keeps on popping now and then so can i get your mail id. That would help me to clear things quickly.
Also your Budget article was very useful and taxi fares.
Thanks for all this 🙂
Hi Chaitanya,
Yes, that white number plate taxi will be allowed but be ready as a groupd to answer some questions if caught by policemen or local taxi union and convince them as group that you have not hired the taxi and make sure all of you are on same page to whom it belongs and for other queries.
Tso Moriri will be difficult in a day, Pangong Tso can be done in a day. You should be getting emails from my id as and when I am replying to you. If not, check your spam and you will surely find them 🙂
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
hi dheeraj
its been almost three years since me and my 4 other friends have been trying to make a trip to ladakh but somehow it has not worked out. We could have made it by air but i guess it wont be justice to such a place where road trips are positioned next to heaven.
so finally i would come to the point and seek your help in making an itinerary for our 10 day trip. I know we are short on time but with only 10 day job leaves, its really difficult. So we wish to start from delhi and do the whole circuit by a road trip.
del-srinagar-leh-manali-del or the other way round.
We wish to see nubra valley, pangong tso and alchi. We dont mind leaving tso moriri for next time around. I know its difficult to fit in all the places coz I have tried most combinations and have come to a conclusion that only you can help me manage that with your knowledge and experience.
plus what i also wanted to know was if we can travel to pangong straight from nubra valley via shomuk instead of wari laa since this is a pretty long journey.
Look forward to hearing from you.
ujjwal
Hi Ujjwal,
Yes, road trip to Leh is experience of its own. For 10 days I will advice you that try to get permits in advance through a travel agent or hotel staff. Also, I assume that you will be taking a taxi for the whole trip?? If yes, best thing to do is book the flights to Srinagar and fly to Srinagar because considering the prices of the tickets you will more or like pay similar amount even if you take the journey by road to Srinagar with night halt at Jammu. The journey is not that pretty and tiring BUT flying will save you a much needed day.
Day 1 | Fly to Srinagar – Around Srinagar, Dal Lake Shikara ride
Day 2 | Srinagar – Sonamarg – Zozi La – Drass – Kargil (Do it in Srinagar taxi, so that you can change the taxi from Kargil for Leh taxi. Taking Leh taxi from Kargil will help you do sightseeing on the route i.e. alchi – likir etc. which is not possible in Srinagar taxi, if required)
Day 3 | Kargil – Lamayuru – Alchi – Likir – Basgo – Confluence at Nimmu – Magnetic Hills – Pather Sahib – Leh (Leave early in the day to cover all or reach Leh directly and cover these places the next day)
Day 4 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder
Head for Nubra Valley and stay overnight at Hunder / Diskit
On the way enjoy a cup of soup at Highest Motorable Pass (as claimed) Khardung La
Diskit has monasteries with tallest lord Buddha statue and Hunder has sand dunes and bacterian camel safari
About 5-6 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between and at Khardung La
Day 5 | Hunder / Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh
Sumur has a famous monastery to check out and Panamik has hot water springs
Overnight at Leh
About 7-9 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between
Day 6 | Leh – Pangong Tso Lake – Leh
Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey or Shey on the go towards Pangong Tso
Day 7 | Leh – Tso Moriri via Chumathang
Cover Karzok Monastery
Overnight at Karzok or Tso Moriri
About 7-8 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between
Day 8 | Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Debring (Manali – Leh Highway starts) – Moore Plains – Pang / Sarchu
Try to start early in the day so that you reach Sarchu where the accommodation options are better than Pang
Overnight at Sarchu or Pang
About 11-12 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between
Day 9 | Pang / Sarchu – Baralacha La – Keylong – Rohtang Pass – Manali
On the way cover Suraj Tal, Deepak Tal which are on the road sides only
Overnight at Manali
About 11-12 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between and of course the mess at Rohtang Pass
Day 10 | Manali – Delhi
Return Home
About 13-14 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between
You can skip Tso Moriri and keep that day for rest in Leh or as buffer days. It is always recommended that that you keep buffer days with you when you plan Ladakh journey.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
We are a group of 8 which includes 2 children 4 and 8 yrs. Part of this group is driving from Srinagar and another half along with children are flying into Leh early morning.
We have 4 exactly 4 days and 4 nights for Leh. After spending 1 complete day for acclimatization, do you think in remaining 3 days we will be able to do Nubra Valley and Pangong Tso Lake.
Flying in on Saturday early morning and flying out on Wednesday early morning.
Regards
Atul
Hi Atul,
Well, it is hard to say because I do not suggest that you go to Nubra Valley just after a day/night you spend in Leh. If the car gets stuck around Khardung La then it will be very hard on body and may have some dangerous outcomes. So, if possible add one day and then go to Nubra Valley on the third day.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
Thank you so much for your prompt reply. The planned schedule is between 8th June to 13th of June 2012. Just hoping that the weather and the road conditions get better till that time. 4day-4 nights is the only slot that we have with family, so just wondering what are the must see places around Leh within that time.
1. Do you think we will be able to do Pangong-Nubra-Local sight seeing in anyways within those 4 days.
2. Can we parj our car at Hotel and use bikes for Nubra,Pangong Lake ?
Regards
Atul P
Hi Atul,
It is tough but you can do it. Try to take taxi because being with family and that too with short on time, taxi will be more convenient option.
Day 1 | Local Leh + Inner Line Permits
Day 2 | Leh – Nubra Valley
Day 3 | Nubra Valley – Leh
Day 4 | Leh – Pangong Tso – Leh
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
Your blog is really awesome. It is a helping hand to all those who want to explore Leh-Ladakh.
I'm planning a bike ride to Leh-Ladakh region starting 7th july for 15 days. We are planning to go via Manali – Leh route, explore leh region and head back home via same Leh-Manali route.
I love Leh – Manali highway because of challenges it offers hence not opted for Srinagar – Leh route. In 2008 i have done Ambala to Leh bike ride but couldn't visit Pangong-Tso and Diskit due to snow. This time I really want to visit and experience these places.
Provided that i have only 15 days, is it possible to cover Diskit as well as Pangong-Tso, Tsomoriri, Spangmik, hanle, chumur.. etc?
Hi Nikhil,
Thanks buddy, just trying best to help any travel mate 🙂 … Since, you have 15 days I guess you can cover all of above provided you are OK with some good back breaking rides and carrying spare fuel with you. Since, you have done it before I guess it shall not be much of an issue. I will suggest you do somethin like below:
Day 1 | Ambala – Manali/solang Valley(try stay at solang as it helps acclimatize body)
Day 2 | Solang Valley – Keylong/Jispa
Day 3 | Keylong/Jispa – Leh (leave early in the day to reach Leh by evening)
Day 4 | Leh Local Sightseeing + Inner Line Permits
Day 5 | Leh – Khardung La – Nubra Valley (Deskit – hunder)
Day 6 | Nubra Valley – Leh (if you like, you can do Sumur and Panamik as well on this day, but nothing great about them and almost similar views)
Day 7 | Leh – Karu – chang La – Tangste – Pangong Tso (Lukung/Spangmik) (fill and carry spare petrol for about 600-700 KMs)
Day 8 | Pangong Tso – Man – Merak – Chusul – Tsaga – Loma – Hanle (write all places on permit form else you will be sent back also Nyoma in case route is closed via Chumur)
Day 9 | Hanle – Chumur – Tso Moriri (write Chumur as well on permit form) OR Hanle – Loma – Nyoma – Mahe – Sumdo – Tso Moriri
Day 10 | Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Sarchu
Day 11 | Sarchu – Manali
Day 12 | Manali – Ambala
Rest 3 days can act as buffer days and you can use them based on the fatigue level at any of the above places 🙂
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks a lot Dheeraj for the help.
I'll work with above information and also work on permits, accommodation details … etc. Before finalizing I'll run it through you just to make sure I'm not missing something. 🙂
Question: Can I post my plan directly to your mail id? As it'll be hard to paste in here. May be if required you can add here later.
Hi Nikhil,
You can directly email me your plan, no problems with that. Check the links for Inner Line Permits and Accommodation series in the Ladakh section of the blog and I am sure you will be able to find much more information around same.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi 🙂
I need help in planing my itinerary for my trip in August 2012.
We are 4 friends wanting to ride on our BIKES across Leh-Ladhak.
This would be the first time any of us is getting to this region, we are in no hurry and want to cruise. We have around 20 days to make a round trip from Delhi 🙂
I have referred this website and tried putting up my itinerary, but am too amateur at it. Your suggestions will be greatly helpful to us 🙂
The following is the vague plan I set up, with a 100 flaws may be 😛
Day 1 7:45 PM Leave from Belgaum to Delhi
Day 3 6:50 AM Reach Delhi [ Nizamuddin ]
10:00 AM Leave Delhi to Amritsar
10:00 PM Reach Amritsar
Stay over night at Amritsar
Day 4 Visit Golden Temple and Wagah Border
Stay over night at Amritsar
Day 5 6:00 AM Leave Amritsar to Jammu
3:00 PM Reach Jammu
Local Sight seeing [ No idea what's around the town, any suggestions please 🙂 ? ]
Stay over night at Jammu
Day 6 7:00 AM Leave Jammu to Patnitop
12:00 PM Reach Patnitop
Paragliding at Patnitop
Overnight stay at Patnitop
Day 7 7:00 AM Leave Patnitop to Srinagar
3:00 PM Reach Srinagar
Visit Dal Lake
Over night stay at Srinagar
Day 8 7:00 AM Leave Srinagar to Kargil
10:00 AM Reach Sonmarg
Spend some time at Sonmarg
5:00 PM Reach Kargil
Over night stay at Kargil
Day 9 7:00 AM Leave Kargil to Lamayuru
1:00 PM Reach Lamayuru
Over night stay at Lamayuru
Day 10 7:00 AM Leave Lamayuru to Leh
12:00 PM Reach Leh
Get Permits and Rest the entire day
Over night stay at Leh
Day 11 7:00 AM Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hundar
Over night stay at Hundar
Day 12 7:00 AM Hundar / Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh
Over night stay at Leh
Day 13 7:00 AM Leh – Hemis Monastery – Pangong Tso Lake
Over night stay at Pangong Tso
Day 14 7:00 AM Pangong Tso Lake – Thicksey Monastery – Shey Palace – Leh
Over night Stay at Leh
Day 15 I need suggestions for this part of the trip
Day 16 I need suggestions for this part of the trip
Day 17 I need suggestions for this part of the trip
Day 18 I need suggestions for this part of the trip
Day 19 I need suggestions for this part of the trip
Day 20 I need suggestions for this part of the trip
Day 21 I need suggestions for this part of the trip
Day 22 I need suggestions for this part of the trip
Day 23 Reach Delhi
Day 24
Day 25 Reach back to Belgaum
I have no clue whether the above timings ( considering we are riding on bikes and first time at such altitudes ) makes sense or not. And may be since we have ample amount of time left around, may be there would be more places of interest 🙂
Please suggest me on the above plan.
Thanks a ton in advance 🙂
Hi,
Its amazing to see your patience in answering all the queries you get.Ladakh is one of my dream destinations and I have been wanting to visit since quiet sometime. I would greatly appreciate it if you could please advise me on my itinerary.
I have been trying to look up all the info on the net but its overwhelming for someone who is not aware of the area.
1.planning to go this month i.e May 2012
2.Going with my husband and 13 yr old son.
3.My husband was very keen on driving up all the way from Delhi but it does not look like the road via Manali are opening up anytime soon before the schools reopen.So we would have to fly in.
4.I would like to see that maximum that i can in and around Leh.
5.My husband and I both love mountains and are adventurous but, would not be very interested in seeing too many monasteries.
Please suggest us the best itinerary that would include all the possible and worthwhile places. And if you could suggest neat and economical places to stay for the duration of our stay.We have a limited budget. Since you are so well traveled in that area a good taxi contact would be great.
Eagerly awaiting your response..
regards
Fatima
many thanks sir for your wonderful inputs. We are a group of 4 friends planning a trip in 1st week of june..1 June to be precise. Day 1 start from Del and nite halt at Jalandhar…day 2 – nite halt at Srinagar…Day 3…nite halt at Gulmarg…Day 4 nite halt at Kargil..Day 5 – nite halt at Leh…day 6 and day 7 at Leh…day 8 nite halt at sarchu….day 9 – nite halt at Manali/keylong…..day 10 – back to del…pls let me know if it is workable and also we have cars like Honda city, i 20, Ritz and Accent with us. Pls let us know which car would be best suited. if none, we r planning to buy a second hand Corolla..in next week…..request your advise
Hi Dheeraj,
Thanks alot for your extra ordinary info & Support.
Actually i m planning a road trip from delhi to leh-ladakh via sri nagar on 13th may 2012.
1. Is that a good time to travel this place
2. I wanted to know that do we need any permit on the srinagar-ladakh route as we need on manali-ladakh route.
3. We are 6 people and we are planning to go in car(santro) and 2 bikes. Actually we are travelling for the first time to leh-ladakh that's why we are little nervous.
So, we need your suggestions and support that will help us on this trip.
Hi Ravi,
I guess by that time toads will be open via Srinagar as BRO has announced to open the Srinagar – Leh Highway by 25th of April, 2012. For yor queries,
1. Yes, it is a good time.
2. No, you do not need any permit for traveling Srinagar – Leh Highway via Kargil and Lamayuru.
3. You have chosen right direction of going via Srinagar to go but you need to be a bit careful at Zozi la Pass. Low ground clearance of Santro will cause you some issues at least, so whenever in doubt let other vehicle pass and watch it carefully to make a path to follow in your mind. Do a recce on foot so that you know what lies ahead.
I hope this helps. Please let me know if you have any doubts or inputs.
Regards,
Dheeraj Sharma
Between Nubra valley and Pangong Pso,if you can only do one excursion due to time constraints, which one would be better to enjoy the scenery & photography?
Hello Rajesh,
Well, this is personal choice but for me Nubra Valley any day and I must tell you that it is very hard question to answer and many might not agree with me 😉 … If you are less on time then I am guessing you might not have acclimatize well as per your plan. If that is the case, do avoid sleeping at Pangong Tso and if you are OK to travel a bit long then for one day visit Diskit Nubra Valley in day and then next day visit PAngong Tso for a day trip. This way in two days you can cover both of them 🙂
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
hello Dheeraj Sharma,
First of all, thanks for the wealth of information you've shared.
My friends and I are planning a trip to leh in late may would most likely follow the itinerary as suggested by you(group of 6).
According to the common itinerary
What would be the approx cost for hiring a taxi from delhi itself for 14 days and drop us off back at delhi ?
Any help would be appreciated.
Thanks,
Sahil.
Hello Sahil,
The taxis hired outside Ladakh will not be allowed to do any sightseeing within Ladakh plus since the roads might have just opened especially the Manali – Leh Highway, it is always better to be in safe hands of drivers who are accustomed to the terrain rather taking one from locally. It is different driving experience altogether, especially the Manali – Leh Highway.
I will suggest you guys fly to Srinagar, it will prove almost similar or cheaper than reaching the place in two days with overnight stay food etc. but will save a day for you guys plus the fatigue of two days journey in plains which ain't that beautiful as well 😉 … From Srinagar you can get the taxi to Leh easily, bargain at Srinagar taxi and you will get some good deal. Once you reach Leh you can book it at Leh taxi stand for rest of the sightseeing in Leh – Ladakh and tehn drop to Manali by talking to the drivers directly. If you want I have few taxi guys numbers for Ladakh whom I generally avail and you can talk to them before you reach there. Once you reach Manali, take the overnight Volvo to Delhi
For above itinerary from Srinagar to Manali, the cost of taxi would com around Rs 54000 – 55000 approximately as per my knowledge of last year's taxi union rates.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi,
I am planning a trip to Leh starting on the 27th of May until around 6/7th of june, depending on how long I need for everything. i live in mumbai, but i am flying to delhi. I was thinking of the following intinerary:
27- Arrive in Delhi early morning, travel to amritsar, stay the night in amritsar
28 – Spend the day in amritsar, travel to srinagar at night
29 – stay in srinagar for the night
30 – Srinagar – kargil, stay the night in kargil
31 – kargil – leh, overnight in leh
1 – day trip to pangtso lake
2 – nubra valley (is there a way to stay here and then leave to manali, or do i need to go back to leh??)
3 – leave leh, go to manali , sleep in sarchu
4- arrive to manali, overnight manali
5 – manali- delhi
6- leave delhi at night (leaving a buffer day or so)
do you think this is a good itinerary, what do you suggest i change?
also, do i need to book ways to get to different places ahead of time, i know there are buses/shared jeeps, are there places i can book ahead of time?
also, would it be cheaper to just hire a taxi, do you know about how much it would be to do that?
thanks so much!
Hi Maricela,
The first leg of the itinerary for reaching Ladakh is fine but then you need to do something like:
1 – Leh Local Sighseeing + Inner Line Permits– Local sightseeing include Namgyal Gompa, Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, Shankar Gompa, Main Market, Hall of Fame, Spituk Gompa, Changspa Road Stroll in evening
— For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link : https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/inner-line-per…
— Overnight at Leh
2 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder
— Head for Nubra Valley and stay overnight at Hunder / Diskit
— On the way enjoy a cup of soup at Highest Motorable Pass (as claimed) Khardung La
— Diskit has monasteries with tallest lord Buddha statue and Hunder has sand dunes and bacterian camel safari
3 | Hunder / Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh
— Sumur has a famous monastery to check out and Panamik has hot water springs
— Overnight at Leh
4 | Leh – Hemis Monastery – Pangong Tso Lake
— Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on the go towards Pangong Tso
— Overnight at Pangong Tso (Spangmik or Lukung)
5 | Pangong Tso Lake – Thicksey Monastery – Shey Palace – Leh
— Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on return to Leh
— Overnight at Leh
6 – leave for Leh by flight and reach Delhi and then leave Delhi at night (leaving a buffer day or so)
If you do not plan to fly back, I guess in such a case you are not doing justice to the trip and just running over of the road with most of the time spent in the taxi itself. So, fly back to buy more time or get 2-3 days into your trip to plan with Manali – Leh Highway.
You can book taxis/shared taxis once you reach the place, there are plenty of them available.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Only one question….is April 12 to April 25 is right time to visit..?
cheers
Rajg
Hi RajG,
🙂 … Well it will be cold especially at nights but yes a good time to go. In fact I am also traveling from 21st April to 29th April 🙂 …Would love to meet you over a coffee or tea. Let me know if there are any questions you have.
Regards
Dheeraj
not sure if my comment is displayed
Yes, it displayed. Takes sometime to approve me as all comments of subject to moderation 🙂 … I have replied to your comment.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
A big thanks for your efforts in guiding folks like us who are visiting Leh perhaps for the first time.
We are a family of 4 adults who want to take a 2 week trip and dont want to make it a very hectic but would certainly like to visit the imp monastries, Khardung La, Pangong Lake, Tsomorari,Magnetic hills, confluence at Zanskar Nubra valley and some rafting at Temisgam. we would like to keep the liberty of staying an additional day at any place we like.
1.Can u advise an itenary that will cover the min above.
2. In all how many kms of travel it involves
3. we want to start our trip from 6th may to 19th may
4. advise if i can take all permits in single attempt
5. can we book a vehicle for the entire 2 weeks and how much it will cost with a driver? We will fill the fuel as we keep travelling.
Thanks again Dheeraj!
Hello Sangeeta,
Thanks for appreciating the efforts.I will try to answer the queries in the respective order –
1. For two weeks, I guess you can follow the above itinerary mentioned in the article.
2. About 3500-3800 KMs are expected for the above trip
3. Well, here is the catch in May you cannot go by roads, most likely. You have to fly-in and out of Leh. If you can fly-in I will suggest the itinerary accordingly. Let me know otherwise, if you want to cover it by road then you can follow as above.
4. You can take all the permits at once only and guess you should always do it like that because writing few more places hardly matter and it is upto you if you wanna travel there or not once you have the permits.
5. Rates are fixed by taxi union in Leh for all sightseeing places. Getting hold of driver directly makes it cheaper by 10-15% and fuel is included in that cost. You can hire the vehicle for two weeks and at your will because once you come back to Leh from Nubra, Pangong Tso or Tso Moriri etc. you may not need taxi within Leh if wanna rest.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
hey there, would like to know why not many ppl r opting for tso-moriri. i m planning to g in mid july and i dont wanna miss out tso-moriri
Not sure Chintan, but I am going to Tso Moriri too 🙂
HI
I and some of my friends are planning a trip in 1st week of June . The places we want to cover are Delhi, Manali and Leh . Please anyone , can you help me out ?
Hi Ashwin,
Above is the itinerary for the same. Does it help? What other queries you have? What is your starting point and how do you plan to commute? How many days you have in hand for this trip?
Regards
Dheeraj sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
Thanks for your concern. We are going to start off on 30th may from indore to delhi 1 day stay there and then move to manali and then to Leh . so please tell me what all to places to visit and how .so we can return back on 9th or 10th of june ??
Hi Ashwin,
You have very limited time on hand and it will be better to have few more days added to it. Still, if you cant then may be you can follow something like below:
Day-1: Delhi – Manali/Solang Valley
Day-2: Manali/Solang Valley – Jispa/Keylong
Day-3: Jispa/Keylong – Leh
Day-4: Leh Local Sightseeing and Permits
Day-5: Leh – Khardung La – Nubra Valley (Deskit/Hunder)
Day-6: Deskit/Hunder – Sumur – Panamik – Khardung La – Leh
Day-7: Leh – Pangong Tso – Leh
Day-8: Leh – Sarchu
Day-9: Sarchu – Manali
Day-10: Manali – Delhi
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
We have time from 07th to the 22nd of July, so even below we have 3 days of buffer time.
07th | Fly Mumbai-Srinagar
Enjoy walk around Dal lake and may be Shikara ride as well
Overnight at Srinagar
08th | Srinagar – Sonamarg – Zozi La – Drass – Kargil
Enjoy the vistas enroute
Have late drunch meal at Drass is you are a vegetarian as sometimes it gets difficult to find veg. food at Kargil
Overnight at Kargil
About 8 Hrs drive, depend upon the traffic movement at Zozila and breaks you take in between
09th | Kargil – Lamayuru – Leh
Cover Mulbekh Maitrey, Lamayuru Moanstery, Lunar Landscapes
On the way you can also see Gurudwara Pather Sahib, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Zanskar
Overnight at Leh
About 9-10 Hrs drive, , depending upon the breaks you take in between
10th | Leh Local Sighseeing + Inner Line Permits
Local sightseeing include Namgyal Gompa, Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, Shankar Gompa, Main Market, Hall of Fame, Spituk Gompa, Changspa Road Stroll in evening
For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here
Overnight at Leh
11th | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder
Head for Nubra Valley and stay overnight at Hunder / Diskit
On the way enjoy a cup of soup at Highest Motorable Pass (as claimed) Khardung La
Diskit has monasteries with tallest lord Buddha statue and Hunder has sand dunes and bacterian camel safari
About 5-6 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between and at Khardung La
12th | Hunder / Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh
Sumur has a famous monastery to check out and Panamik has hot water springs
Overnight at Leh
About 7-9 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between
13th | Leh – Hemis Monastery – Pangong Tso Lake
Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on the go towards Pangong Tso
Overnight at Pangong Tso (Spangmik or Lukung)
About 5-6 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between
14th | Pangong Tso Lake – Thicksey Monastery – Shey Palace – Leh
Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on return to Leh
Overnight at Leh
About 5-6 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between
15th | Rest day at Leh to enjoy local culture and some shopping or you can do tour to Sham Valley
Sham Valley include Alchi, Likir, Basgo Palace, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Zanskar, , Gurudwara Pather Sahib
Overnight at Leh
16th | Leh – Tso Moriri via Chumathang
Cover Karzok Monastery
Overnight at Karzok or Tso Moriri
About 7-8 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between
17th | Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Debring (Manali – Leh Highway starts) – Moore Plains – Pang / Sarchu
Try to start early in the day so that you reach Sarchu where the accommodation options are better than Pang
Overnight at Sarchu or Pang
About 11-12 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between
18th | Pang / Sarchu – Baralacha La – Keylong – Rohtang Pass – Manali
On the way cover Suraj Tal, Deepak Tal which are on the road sides only
Overnight at Manali
About 11-12 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between and of course the mess at Rohtang Pass
19th | Manali – Chandigarh
Return Home
About 8-10 hrs by bus
Fly Chandigarh – Mumbai
Here in lies the twist, the group I am travelling with would like to add a few more rest days to the above & I am not sure which corner to cut here. We are going to hire a car for the trip.
As mentioned in the blog ,you can do Nubra Valley – Pangong Tso via Wari La route. Does this route suit a car as well or is purely suited for a bike. Can some one pass me the duration for this please?
The options to cut it down are :
1) It looks like we either need to drop Pangong Tso or Tso Moriri. Either that
2) Move Pangong Tso or Tso Moriri out of the equation so I can go solo on it while the rest turn back (I can add another 2-3 days to the trip if the need be i.e for my solo travel)
3) Open to take any other alterations to the route as well.
A few more questions :
– I might have a British citizen with me on the trip (I am Indian) , will they need to do any other visa for the above route ? I am guessing not but still would love to get this out of the way. Also Is there something they need to be on top of for this trip?
– I have been told zozi la can be blocked by the army at any point in time , so is it advisable to start the trip from J&K towards leh?
– In the above route , are there any legs where there is a higher chance of risk in terms of roads being disrupted? Or is this valid for the entire region per say.
Cheers!
Hi Ricko,
I will suggest that you take a day more rest at Nubra Valley or Pangong Tso and instead of returning back to Leh from Nubra Valley, carry on towards Pangong Tso via Wari la pass or if the route via Shyok Village is opened then take that route. Cars can do these routes and if you are hiring the taxi from Leh, then you will have Scorpio most probably which can do it. Or drop either of Pangong Tso or Tso Moriri Or make a day trip to Pangong Tso and back to Leh same day. Wari La route will take about 12-13 Hrs, Shyok Village one is much shorther and you may be able to do it in about 7-8 Hrs.
For British citizen, I guess they will need to apply for different permit known as PAP. May be the process is same but the form may differ, I am not sure though. Also, you may need to take help of some travel agent or hotel staff to get them the permit because as per my understanding any foreign national applying for permit in Leh – Ladakh must be in group and shall accompany an approved travel agent letter/text. Since, you are not visiting Changthang so no problem, I see in your plan. Ask, him to carry all valid identity proof documents with him.
At Zozila, traffic is regulated by the army and as per my knowledge the pass is given to vehicles going towards Kargil only after 11 AM from Sonamarg. Specially, the Rohtang Pass on Manali Leh Highway will be troublesome, otherwise anything can be disrupted in Himalayas anytime of the year 🙂 …
I hope this helps.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi, we are travelling from Pune in June & have 6-7nights. Its costing a bomb thru travel agents like 40 k. Will it be cheaper to do evrything ourselves but then hotels could be booked since June is peak tourist period? Also what dates in June will be the best to visit based on your experience? Thanks GG
Hi GG,
Yes, of course it will be cheaper if you do it on your own and since you have sufficient time in hand you can definitely plan properly. The major cost will be taxi, so if you less in number than you need to get shared taxis to sightseeing places available with local tour operators or there are many flyers around the main market shops, changspa road which are put by people looking forward to share the taxi cost. You can co-ordinate with them to share the taxi cost in such a case.
You will be able to get the hotels in Leh – Ladakh at most time of the year. The only thing is that most preferred ones are not available at places like Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri. But, other are not that behind and those high cost preferred always have a little over rating attached. So, do not worry about the hotels or stay options unless you have something specific in mind.
In June, there will be a film festival this year and I am not sure about its dates but definitely there will be much more crowd in such a case. Are you flying or planning to go by road? If you are planning to go by road then 6-7 nights are not sufficient for the entire trip. If you are flying in then probably you can plan anytime of June, if going by road then after first week of June would be good time but do increase the number of days in such a case.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you need any help or have any queries/doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
GG Said via Email
Hello GG,
Well, for CAB related cost you can check the attached zip file for the taxi union rates. Talking to driver directly once you land there will save you about 10-15% on these prices. Also, keep in mind these are for last year and do expect rise in prices for this year for sure. I am heading there in April, so might be able to share the latest prices once back. Keep in touch for that.
Now, it seems you have read quite few posts and reasons of mine for June and September. Apart from Colors and Snow, the good part about Sepetmber is you get good roads if the monsoon have resided in comparison to June. June is when roads are much unstable being opened recently and can be blocked anytime of the year (of course these are valid for only Manali – Leh and Srinagar – Leh). Once in Leh or flying to Leh, it hardly matters.
The factor that matter in June is of course colors (September) and snow (June) and the tourist rush. In June, you will get mad tourist rush which generally lowers by the time September hits plus you have some cold nights starting from September. I always prefer September, as again this year but I will be doing only Zanskar Valley since April is kept for Ladakh
Did I confuse you more :p …
Regards,
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi,
First of all, thanks for the brilliant write-up. I plan to do the trip just as you mentioned. It is my first trip and will be travelling with 3-4 friends. Will it be possible for you to suggest roughly the hours of travel required for each of the destinations ? Obviously I understand a number of factors can delay it.
My trip is planned from the 7th to 22nd. Do you think it is a good time to do it? Anything i need to be weary of?
Cheers!
Hi Ricko,
Well, not sure which month are you planning for 7th to 22nd. If in April then both roads will be closed. For timings for these places, I have updated the article and mentioned the approximate times required to cover these days. Yes, you are right there could be many factors which can cause delay but these are most general timings as per my experience 🙂 …
I hope this helps. Please let me know for any queries or doubts.
Regards,
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
Much appreciated. I am planning this in the month of July.
Cheers!
Sir,
I am planning to visit (by air) Leh/Ladakh with my wife from 14 to 21st may 2012. can you help me with suggested itinerary for this trip. Also guide me how can cover itinerary with minimum cost on taxi. what will be approx expenses on taxi and food ?
Waman
Hi Waman,
Day 1 | Delhi – Leh (By Flight)
— Checkin at Hotel. Many hotels provide free pick and drop from Airport. Ask while you book them.
— Take ample of rest as well as water or anything that keep your body hydrated enough. DO NOT OVER HYDRATE. Take ORS Soluted water or ORS – L tetra packs from home.
— Do not over exert your body at any cost. Avoid too much up-down on stairs or avoid it in entirety, if possible.
— After 5-6 Hrs of rest you can visit Leh Palace, Local Leh market, Shankar Gompa .
— If you feel exerted go back to Hotel, have dinner at Hotel and take rest. Avoid any exertion. Else continue and,
— Follow the sunset by stroll at Changspa road and have a nice dinner on varied cuisines offered in-around Changspa road.
— Go back to hotel for overnight stay at Leh.
Day 2 | Leh Local Sighseeing + Inner Line Permits
— For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here:
— Hire a taxi from Leh taxi stand or Hotel whichever suits you.
— Bargain hard with taxi driver. Book that single taxi for entire trip after explaining the complete plan.
— Take his inputs if you feel reasonable and if required modify the plan accordingly but should suits you best.
— Ask him to be with you guys starting first day itself, if required and charged reasonable else do it at your own.
— Again DO NOT over exert and take little steps and slow walks only.
— If feeling OK then do Local sightseeing include Namgyal Gompa, Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, Shankar Gompa, Main Market, Hall of Fame, Spituk Gompa, Changspa Road Stroll in evening
— Do not use stairs at any of these places just to see them as it will exert your body much more.
— Overnight at Leh
Day 3 | Rest day at Leh to enjoy local culture and some shopping or you can do tour to Sham Valley
— Sham Valley include Alchi, Likir, Basgo Palace, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Zanskar, , Gurudwara Pather Sahib
— Overnight at Leh
Day 4 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder
— Head for Nubra Valley and stay overnight at Hunder / Diskit
— On the way enjoy a cup of soup at Highest Motorable Pass (as claimed) Khardung La
— Diskit has monasteries with tallest lord Buddha statue and Hunder has sand dunes and bacterian camel safari
Day 5 | Hunder / Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh
— Sumur has a famous monastery to check out and Panamik has hot water springs
— Overnight at Leh
Day 6 | Leh – Hemis Monastery – Pangong Tso Lake
— Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on the go towards Pangong Tso
— Overnight at Pangong Tso (Spangmik or Lukung)
Day 7 | Pangong Tso Lake – Thicksey Monastery – Shey Palace – Leh
— Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on return to Leh
— Overnight at Leh
Day 8 | Fly out.
Just to make sure, you have buffer day after Day 7 so that there is no last minute hassle due to weather in catching the flight, you can move the Day 3 to Day 7 and move to Nubra Valley on Day 3. But, do it only if you are feeling alright and do not have any symptoms of AMS on Day 3. Otherwise, check weather conditions for next two days in Leh on Day 5 before heading to Pangong Tso and if it shows clear sky for next two days then spend overnight at Pangong Tso otherwise return on Day 6 and enjoy Day 7 in Leh and around.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you need any help or have some doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
HI Neeraj,
I was planning to visit leh either via srinagar or manali in the last week of April or first week of May, but after reading your blog i understand that the roads may not be open by that time. My problem is that after May 10 th we will not be able to make it, because of other engagements. Any suggestions for alternate routes?
Regards
Sindu
Hi Sindu,
There are only two route that goes to Leh – Ladakh, one via Srinagar and other via Manali. IMHO, both have chances of opening only as early as mid-May. Before that I feel it is too much optimistic. You only have the option to fly-in that time of the year.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
sir, me and my husband want to go to leh laddakh by air in end of march. is it a ok time. we have only 4 nt and 5d.we are from panipat near delhi. Can we plan the trip,and what shd be the itenirary
Hi Anjali,
March will be cold in Leh and 4 nights are not that ideal for Leh – Ladakh. Since, roads are closed so you have to fly-in and then you need to take about 3 days of rest days just to ensure you do not develop acute mountain sickness and then with just two days in hand you might not be able to see the real beauty of Ladakh.I will suggest if you prefer good views and OK with cold conditions then 4 nights, 5 days will be ideal for Kinnaur Valley in Himachal Pradesh, since you live at Panipat. Please let me know incase you need details around that.
I hope this helps.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
Thanks in advance for your extra ordinary info & Support.
We are planning to visit Vaishodevi, Srinagar, Gulmarg & leh our Itinerary is as follows,
Day 1 Mumbai to delhi
Day 2 Delhi to Jammu
Day 3 reach katra in the early morning then leave to darshan in the afternoon
Day 4 leave for Srinagar by 2 PM will reach Srinagar by 10 pm halt at srinagar
Day 5 Srinagar to Gulmarg & return
Day 6 Srinagar to leh , plan to visit sonmarg, halt at Kargil
Day 7 Kargil to Leh
Day 8,9,10 & 11 sight seen at leh pls suggest places to visit in four days
Day 12 Leh to Delhi by flight then Delhi to mumbai by Rajdhani
we have plan to visit leh in Aug , also suggest nearest railway station to leh other than Jammu, we are planning to come Mumbai by train if we are not travel leh to delhi by flight then suggest return way from leh to mumbai by road & train also let me know there is possibility to view snow in Gulmarg, sonmarg & leh?
Hi Unmesh,
Thanks alot for liking the info. present on the blog. Please find my suggestions below –
1. Day 4 will be too tiring for you after the Yatra. do not think you should leave for Srinagar on that day. but, if you are short on time and do not mind tired bodies traveling for about 10-11 Hrs then may be go ahead.
2. Better that you take flight back to Delhi from Leh because you are too short on time.
3. For four days in Leh, you can do like:
Day 1 | Leh Local Sighseeing + Inner Line Permits
— Local sightseeing include Namgyal Gompa, Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, Shankar Gompa, Main Market, Hall of Fame, Spituk Gompa, Changspa Road Stroll in evening
— For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here
— Overnight at Leh
Day 2 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder
— Head for Nubra Valley and stay overnight at Hunder / Diskit
— On the way enjoy a cup of soup at Highest Motorable Pass (as claimed) Khardung La
— Diskit has monasteries with tallest lord Buddha statue and Hunder has sand dunes and bacterian camel safari
Day 3 | Hunder / Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh
— Sumur has a famous monastery to check out and Panamik has hot water springs
— Overnight at Leh
Day 4 | Leh – Pangong Tso Lake – Leh
— Day trip to Pangong Tso Lake
I hope this helps. Please let me know in case you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
hi dheeraj, thanks for your reply.i am giving below the itenery decided with your help.now pl. suggest me after taking into consideration where can i save some days to return to delhi by 14 th june.
31.05.2012 start from mumbai by swaraj express 7.55 a.m to jammu
1.06.2012 reach jammu at 2.45 p.m and leave from srinagar and reach by 12.00 in night
stay at:
2.06.2012 leave for kargil – srinagar – sonamarg – zozi la – drass – kargil
enjoy the vistas enroute
have late drunch meal at drass is you are a vegetarian as sometimes it gets difficult
to find veg. food at kargil. overnight at kargil
3.06.2012 kargil – mulbech – lamayauru – leh. enroute visit maitrey at mulbech,
lamayuru monastery, lunar landscape.
on the way you can also see gurudwara pather sahib, magnetic hills, confluence at zanskar
overnight at leh.
4.06.2012 arrange permit in the morning. then do some local sighstseeing depending on the time on hand –
leh palace, leh main market, shanti stupa, hall of fame, sankar gompa,
namgyla tsemo gompa. overnight at leh
5.06.2012 leh – spituk – nimmu – alchi- likir – leh. visit alchi monastery,
likir monastery, bagso palace,
confluence at nimmu, magnetic hills, pathar sahib gurudwara, spituk gompa.
overnight at leh
6.06.2012 leh – khardung la – deskit – hunder.
have a cup of soup at khardung la (world’s highest motorable road),
enjoy hunder sand dunes and take double humped camel rides. overnight at hunder.
7.06.2012 hunder – turtuk – deskit. visit turtuk village,
deskit monastery, world’s tallest buddha status. overnight at deskit
diskit has monasteries with tallest lord buddha statue
8.06.2012 deskit – sumur – panamik – sumur – khardung la – leh.
visit sumur monastery and panamik hot water springs. overnight at leh.
instead of coming back to leh from nubra valley,
you can head towards pangong tso via wari la route.
this will give you an additional day which can be spent in nubra valley, pangong tso or leh.
there are two routes which goes to pangong from nubra –
deskit – agham – warila – shakti – changla – durbuk – tangtse
deskit – agham – shyok village – durbuk – tangtse
(shorter route though not fully operational till last year. there are high chances that this will made
operational this year but you can check once you land in leh)
9.06.2012 leh – karu – tangtse – spangmik (pangong tso).
enroute quickly visit hemis monastery, thicksey monastery and shey palace.
overnight at pangong tso.
10.06.2012 watch sunrise at pangong tso. spangmik – chusul – loma – hanle .
visit hanle iia observatory. overnight at hanle.
11.06.2012 hanle – loma – noyoma – chumathang – korzok (tso moriri).
visit korzok monastery. overnight at korzok.
12.06.2012 watch sunrise at tso moriri.
korzok (tso moriri) – tso kar – debring (manali – leh highway starts) – moore plains – sarchu.
overnight at sarchu.
13.06.2012 sarchu – baralacha la – keylong – rohtang pass – manali.
visit suraj taal and deepak taal on the way. overnight at manali
14.06.2012 manali to delhi
15.06.2012 buffer day
16.06.2012 buffer day
17.06.2012 return to mumbai from delhi
Ketan, you can exclude day of 05.06.2012 as you will cover most things if you leave early from Kargil on the way to Leh. Just make sure, you leave Kargil as early as possible It will make your day a bit long but will save one day for you. Other than that, apart from taking direct route to Pangong Tso via Wari La or Shyok Village, whichever is open to save a day.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Dear Dheeraj
Really a lot of useful info on road trip to leh.
Although i've read ur article completely but still have few queries as under.
I was planning for a road trip driving on my own from Delhi to Leh for 10 days in 1st week of April but if m not wrong after going through ur article i got roads won't be open either Manali-Leh or Srinagar- Leh. I don want to go in June as then a lot of tourist rush is there, so when is 1st chance of roads getting open.
Do we need any permit for driving through Srinagar-Kargil- Drass -Leh sector.
I don wanna pre book for any place so what are the chances of not finding a place for night halt as i'll b with family.
Thanks & Regards
Aamish
Hi Aamish,
First chances of opening of Srinagar – Leh Highway is around May end or mid May types and for Manali – Leh Highway, most likely first week of June again this year. Road clearance operations had started with optimistic aim of opening them by mid-April, but like last year again weather played a spoil sport and there has been snowing for last couple of days in the whole region. So, again this means it will delay the plans. Hence, safest bet for road trip is June and if you want less crowd then go after mid September when roads are in best shape, comparatively.
Nopes, if you follow Srinagar-Kargil- Drass -Leh route, you will not need any permits. But, do not deviate from the highway and whenever you hear a sound of whistle always stop, look around to see if any military person is whistling to stop you or not. You will find the place even if you do not pre-book. The only thing is that you need to search around for a while. You can check the series of hotels I have have prepared based on the review of many travelers over the internet and I am sure it will be useful for you. The series starts from the link here
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any doubts or queries.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
HAPPY HOLI to start with… tried to get your contact info from your site but i guess i'm not that good with computers… so i'll be posting my queries right here… i'm likely to travel with my wife, my sister and brother in law for 10 to 14 days from june 5th. my sister is travel sick and so i wouldn't prefer more than 3.5 to 4 hrs of travel a day. i know the demands are a bit ridiculous to say the least but could you suggest a feasible itinerary to leh and back in this time?
Hi Vishal,
Travel sickness is not a major issue because with proper consultation of a doctor, you can get the required medication. My wife does have the same but with here medicine she can enjoy all day travel with me 🙂 … So, for travel sickness I will suggest go and see a doc and get the medicines.
For Leh – Ladakh trip the biggest problem is Acute Mountain Sickness which happens due to sudden rise in altitude and improper acclimatization.
In order to minimize the chances of AMS, the above itinerary suits you as from Srinagar side the ascent will be gradual. Now, to reduce long days of travel preferably you can fly into Srinagar and then fly out of Leh once you are done with Ladakh sightseeing. But, of course, this will not let you travel over Manali – Leh Highway. So, let me know what preference do you have and I will suggest the plan accordingly.
Above itinerary is pretty much balanced in terms of travel time and gradual ascent. So, once you have the medication for travel sickness, you should not concern much because with limitation of just 4 Hrs of travel a day, it may not be possible to execute Ladakh trip majorly because there are no places or no good places to halt in between at most of the days.
Finally, wishing you and your family a very very happy and colorful Holi…
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
would you advice prior hotel booking if I am going as per the itinery on 19th August? should I book directly with hotels or a hotel booking site? When you are travelling to Nubra valley to and from Leh or to Panong lake, what do you suggest about Lunch? can u get food on the route or we should get packed lunch? I am going to take a taxi to Kargil from srinagar and leave it at Kargil. Will I be able to get a Leh registered taxi at Kargil?
Thanks
hi Rajesh,
I guess there is no requirement of prior bookings in Leh, if you are OK with the fact of searching a place a bit before finalizing on the deal. I generally prefer not to pre-book at any of my trips. In Leh – Ladakh, there are ample of options and you will be able to find decent accommodation at any of the good stay options mentioned in the whole series starting from the article linked here. You can be in touch over phone with any of these hotels and they shall keep the rooms booked for you if you want. Most of them do not need any advance booking amount and just a phone call from you will be sufficient. In case of mad tourist rush, there might be a case you need to look for another option.
Both are about 6 Hrs drive from Leh but still while going to Nubra you can halt at Khalsar/Khardung Village and while going to Pangong Tso, you can try some food at Tangste if you plan to stay at Spangmik.
In many cases, you will be able to get Leh – Ladakh registered taxi even at Srinagar as well. If you need I have few contacts of good drivers whom you can contact and tie up so that they can pick you from Srinagar only.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
i want to start 1 st of june from srinagar and return to manaliaround 14th june from leh.can i make it in these dates.I dont have any other option of dates.
Hi Ketan,
I guess you can make it around these dates and most likely the Srinagar – Leh will be open by that time and so will Manali Leh by the time you return. Just keep a back up plan in case Manali – Leh is closed so that you can return via Srinagar side. For an itinerary you can refer the thread linked here
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
hi dheeraj,
i am interested in getting good drivers nos. for srinagar-leh and leh -manali routes.also i want your suggestions for good accomodation with contact nos. at leh,henley,sarchu,tangste etc covering the whole trip.i have sent you my complete itenery previously
Hi Ketan,
You can get in touch with any of the drivers I emailed you and tie up. For accommodation all around Leh -ladakh, you can check the series of articles at the link here with all the contacts and brief reviews.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any doubts or queries.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hey Dheeraj,
extremely useful insight for a new traveller to these places. really appreciate your time and effort.
was trying to plan a trip to leh-ladakh with my wife in june this year for about 14 days. Needed to get in touch with you if you have the spare time. please respond to me with your email address or where to post a few specific queries… thanks a ton for for that i've already got…
ciao…
Hello Vishal,
Thanks a lot, I am glad that you liked the information present on the blog. I am sure you will get the email from my account. You can contact me any time you like. You can anyways post the queries here as well if you like.
Regards,
Dheeraj Sharma
Excellent and extremely useful. Just wanted to appreciate your patience and effort. Awesome !
Thanks alot Anshul. Such words of appreciation really makes one feel good and adds all that importance to the valuable article. Thanks again for sharing the feedback and I am glad that the article was helpful for you.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi DS
Thanks for the info.
I have 7-8 days in mid August to visit Leh. I would like to drive from Srinagar to Leh. Was planning to drive from Leh to Manali but I suppose it may not be possible due to time restriction. Will I miss any significant scenery which may not be covered in excursions from Leh? Will it be possible to suggest an itinery for 8 days starting from Srinagar and fly back from Leh on 9th day? What will the weather be like? I will also need details of taxi drivers who can pick me up from Srinagar and drop me off at Leh airport on 9th day.
Hi Rajesh,
Well, if you can extend the schedule by 2-3 days then it would be worth. Manali – Leh Highway is too scenic to be missed and has beauty as well as adventure of its own but since you do not have time then perhaps next year 🙂 … You can follow something like:
Day 1 | Srinagar – Sonamarg – Zozi La – Drass – Kargil
— Enjoy the vistas enroute
— Have late drunch meal at Drass is you are a vegetarian as sometimes it gets difficult to find veg. food at Kargil
— Overnight at Kargil
Day 2 | Kargil – Lamayuru – Leh
— Cover Mulbekh Maitrey, Lamayuru Moanstery, Lunar Landscapes
— On the way you can also see Gurudwara Pather Sahib, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Zanskar
— Overnight at Leh
Day 3 | Leh Local Sighseeing + Inner Line Permits
— Local sightseeing include Namgyal Gompa, Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, Shankar Gompa, Main Market, Hall of Fame, Spituk Gompa, Changspa Road Stroll in evening
— For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here
— Overnight at Leh
Day 4 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder
— Head for Nubra Valley and stay overnight at Hunder / Diskit
— On the way enjoy a cup of soup at Highest Motorable Pass (as claimed) Khardung La
— Diskit has monasteries with tallest lord Buddha statue and Hunder has sand dunes and bacterian camel safari
Day 5 | Hunder / Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh
— Sumur has a famous monastery to check out and Panamik has hot water springs
— Overnight at Leh
Day 6 | Leh – Hemis Monastery – Pangong Tso Lake
— Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on the go towards Pangong Tso
— Overnight at Pangong Tso (Spangmik or Lukung)
Day 7 | Pangong Tso Lake – Thicksey Monastery – Shey Palace – Leh
— Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on return to Leh
— Overnight at Leh
Day 8 | Rest day at Leh to enjoy local culture and some shopping or you can do tour to Sham Valley
— Sham Valley include Alchi, Likir, Basgo Palace, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Zanskar, , Gurudwara Pather Sahib
— Overnight at Leh
OR
Day 6 | Leh – Pangong Tso Lake – Leh
— Day trip to Pangong Tso
— Overnight at Leh
Day 7 | Leh – Tso Moriri via Chumathang
— Cover Karzok Monastery
— Overnight at Karzok
Day 8 | Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Debring (Manali – Leh Highway) – Taglang La – Leh
— Come back to Lehvia Manali – Leh Highway (some part will be covered only)
— Overnight at Leh
You can contact these drivers, who may be helpful for driving you through this terrain. All of them are equally good –
— Ringzin – 09622954779
— Naseer – 09906229203 and 09469293183
— Dorjey – 09419372742
— Tashi – 09906994647, 09419342238
I hope this helps Please let me know incase you have further queries.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks. That's excellent!
Hi Dheeraj,
This is certainly the come to place before actually going to the go to place :), Thanks for sharing this info. I am from Bangalore and have around 2 weeks in mid May. As per your info the roads may be closed at this time. What places in this region do you suggest to spend the 2 weeks or the best suggestion is to wait till one has time in June/July to explore this region?. Thanks a lot for your time.
Hello Kishan
I will suggest that you make your trip in June late types. Though roads will be challenging but very adventurous at that time. Also, on the roads in Ladakh remains open so if you are flying in then no problem with mid-May too. The only issue is with the roads Manali – leh Highway and Srinagar – Leh Highway, that connects Leh – Ladakh might not be open by mid may. So, wait untill late June if you wanna do the road trip to Leh – Ladakh.
For 14 days, it will be better to follow a plan similar to mentioned above in this article.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
I was exploring internet for Delhi to Leh Trip and I got to know about your website. I found many information that I
couldn’t even think about.
First of all, Thanks for all that extremely important info.
Now I come to the point, I’m planning a trip to Leh from Delhi on my RE Thunderbird. I’m planning it after 15June so
that I can get a glimpse of Snow as well and I know that the weather would be preferable at the time.
Through your website, I came to know about the Srinagar-Leh route and you suggested it more than the Manali-Leh.
Now, I’m confused which route to choose because I think Srinagar-Leh would take more time than Manali-Leh.
I got 15 days for the entire trip so that I can enjoy the trip along with the sightseeing.I don’t wanna hurry.
I also want to cover Pangong TSo, TSo Moriri and TSo Kar in these 15 days.
Now, please suggest me the route according to my plan.
Hi Ravi,
Thanks alot buddy and I am happy that information present on my blog for Leh – Ladakh was useful in your planning. Yes, 15th June would be ideal time to see snow all around. If you have 15 days then you can follow the entire plan as defined above without second thought I will say. The above plan is very balanced and not mush rushing as well and covers all places you want to cover. You will start from Srinagar side, end up coming from Manali side and by the time the roads (Manali – Leh Highway) will be more stabilized as well. Secondly, your body will be more acclimatized to enjoy the beauty of this highway. Let me know incase you need another plan for it.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks Dheeraj!!
Don't you think that more than 150kms run in a day would be in a hurry during the trip?
Moreover, I would like to know the road condition for this(Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Debring (Manali – Leh Highway starts) – Moore Plains – Pang / Sarchu ).
Hello Ravi,
In 15 days if you want to see all then perhaps you need to travel this bit for sure :). do you like to travel less than 150 KMs a day? If yes, I will suggests it accordingly but the above itinerary is balanced very much. At many of the places, you cannot control it like Tso Moriri – Sarch/Pang (there is no option to stay in between). Major part of the itinerary is balanced and comfortable for day's drive.
Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Debring (Manali – Leh Highway starts) – Moore Plains – Pang / Sarchu
These places are very remote and you will get mixture of good and bad road conditions, mostly kuccha/bad roads 🙂 …
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more relaxing itinerary and choice of places you can opt out in 15 days. In above itinerary, once you reach Leh – Ladakh (Day 5 to Day 11) then you will be traveling more or less close to 150 KMs or 6-7 Hrs a day only as per above itinerary.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
I can travel more than 150Km/day, however, I was thinking if I travel about 150 Km/day, I would be able to visit the place where I stay.
Can you provide an itinerary that includes the ride less than 150km/day and I don't wanna drive in dark.
Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Debring (Manali – Leh Highway starts) – Moore Plains – Pang / Sarchu
I'm concerned about the petrol availability for the TSO MORIRI to pang route.
Hi Ravi,
Don't be afraid of the fuel, your taxi driver will be carrying it with him. Frankly, in above itinerary of this post there will be only few days in which you might be traveling in dark hours (Day 1 and Day 14) and rest if you start early on each and every day you will be able to make it before sun set to the place you want to stay. Any how, I will suggest an itinerary below if you really do not want to exert over 150 or around mark.
Day 1 | Delhi – Jammu / Patnitop
Day 2 | Jammu / Patnitop – Srinagar
— I guess won't be feasible for these two days as it will increase the time by good 5-6 days. Delhi to Srinagr is close to 900 KMs I guess, so if I divide it with 150 you need 6 days for this only 😀 … Hence, will keep this as is.
Day 3 | Srinagar – Sonamarg – Zozi La – Drass (145 KMs)
Day 4 | Drass – Kargil – Lamayuru (165 KMs)
Day 5 | Lamayuru – Leh (125 KMs)
Day 6 | Leh Local Sighseeing + Inner Line Permits
Day 7 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder (135 KMs)
Day 8 | Hunder / Diskit – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh (165 KMs)
— Panamik is 22kms from Sumur, so if you want to visit it then add 44 KM
Day 9 | Leh – Hemis Monastery – Pangong Tso Lake (160 odd KMs)
Day 10 | Pangong Tso Lake – Thicksey Monastery – Shey Palace – Leh (160 odd KMs)
Day 11 | Leh – Tso Moriri via Chumathang (240 odd KMs but will take 6-7 Hrs), otherwise add another day and stay at Chumathang which is 155 KMs from Leh. No other place I know to stay in between.
Day 12 | Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Debring (Manali – Leh Highway starts) – Moore Plains – Pang (153 KMs)
— Pang has very basic dorm dhabha tents to stay. Sarchu is another 75 odd KMs if you like to reach there.
Day 13 | Pang – Sarchu – Baralacha La – Jispa (161 KMs)
Day 14 | Jispa – Keylong – Manali (135 odd KMs)
Day 15 | Manali – Delhi (570 KMs)
— Overnight by volvo. But, again if you want to split it then do it as per the days you have in hand. No issue with accommodation on whole Delhi – Manali Highway.
I hope this helps, feel free to have ore queries if you have any.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks Dheeraj..
I can definitely travel more than 700Kms in a day but in planes..
I'm concerned about the hill roads and condition..
Moreover, you missed one thing which is my bullet. I'll not go by a taxi. I'll go on my bullet which is why I was asking about the petrol for TSO Moriri route.
Hi Ravi,
I understand Ravi and that terrain is not the one to be riden/driven at night 🙂 … I guess now your plan looks more balanced as you required it but again for first few days and last day you need to stretch a bit. Of course, for half the ride on first and last day you will be riding in plains only. So, guess it will be manageable for you.
OMG, sorry (guess Ravi and Rajesh mixed up) if you are riding on a bullet then of course yes, you will need to carry enough fuel to do 550+ Kms (Leh – Tso Moriri – Keylong – Tandi – Manali) because before Tandi you will not find any pump to get fuel. Otherwise, you can head back towards Leh from Tso Moriri instead going from Tso Kar route. Then, you wil have the option to tank-up at Karu or Upshi petrol pump. Those roads are great in condition so even if you are riding more, you will not loose on time or perhaps save some time due to good roads. Then, from Upshi/Karu to Tandi it will be like 380 KMs and guess will be manageable on your bike in terms of fuel. Still, carry spare fuel about 5-10 Ltrs as I am not sure about the mileage your bike gives.
Sorry for the confusion buddy!!
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Sounds perfect..!!
Will bother you if I would need more info . 😉
Thanks so much for all the help .
You are most welcome anytime Ravi. Let me know for any further queries you have.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
Thanks for your inputs. I have a couple of questions on the itineary.
1. Srinagar to Sonmarg is 2.5 hrs drive I have read. So can we move to Sonmarg on Day 1 and then start from Sonmarg towards Kargil on Day 2?
2. I think I have to give Hanle a miss since the accommodation there is very scarce and I am not able to find any (only some home-stays and a PWD bungalow as you mentioned on IndiaMike). In that case I will come back to Leh on Day 10 and I will go to Tso Moriri from Leh in Day 11.
Will these 2 be a good idea?
Hello Saugata,
1. Yes, very much possible as it is about 2.5-3.5 Hrs from Srinagar. You can relax at Sonamarg and enjoy the views in that case. But, of course this will mean skipping some leisurely time at Srinagar or Dal Lake and spendin evening there. So, kinda of trade-off on what you prefer more. If you are OK with the idea of stretching a bit then moving to Sonamarg on Day 1 will help you move to Lamayuru on Day 2 itself. Then, next day you can explore Lamayuru, Redzong monasteries and whole of Sham Valley at ease and reach Leh by nightfall. This will save you a day, if you are short on time.
2. Please do not miss on Hanle when you can do it easily. It is too scenic I will say to drop just for the accommodation front. I will email you tomorrow some contacts for Hanle that I have and may be it may help you in getting the accommodation there. But, I am sure it will be the most beautiful drive Spangmik – Hanle and then Hanle – Tso Moriri and will be something to cheer for a long long time 🙂 …
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hello Dheeraj,
Fantastic website this is, one can get all the necessary information. I have a query though on the itinerary. On Day 4 you mentioned that one can cover Gurudwara Pather Sahib, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Zanskar on the way. Also on Day 10 you mentioned these places can be covered – Sham Valley include Alchi, Likir, Basgo Palace, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Zanskar, , Gurudwara Pather Sahib. Can all of these places not be covered on Day 4 itself while coming from Kargil to Leh?
Hi Saugata,
Thanks a lot, glad that you found the blog useful for your Ladakh trip. Yes, covering Alchi, Likir, Basgo would be tough on Day 4 with Mulbekh Maitrey, Lamayuru Moanstery, Lunar Landscapes already in plan. It would be tough. Best bet will be to stay at Alchi on Day 4 and then next morning after covering Alchi, Likir, Basgo, Spituk, Phyang etc reach Leh. But, I will say to avoid and make it more balanced if you have such number of days. Also, Gurudwara Pather Sahib, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Zanskar will hardly take an hour or 45min together while other monasteries require sometime to explore.
I hope that helps. Please let me know incase you need more details or have some queries or doubts.
Regards,
Dheeraj Sharma
Hello Dheeraj,
Many thank for the response. I have come up with a plan for my visit in August 2012, but I may need to cut down a day or two while visiting all the places. Please can you help me out here? My itinerary is as below –
Day 1 | Pune to Srinagar by flight. Overnight at Srinagar.
Day 2 | Srinagar – Sonmarg – Dras – Kargil. Overnight at Kargil.
Day 3 | Kargil – Mulbech – Lamayauru – Leh. Enroute visit Maitrey at Mulbech, Lamayuru Monastery, Lunar Landscape. Overnight at Leh.
Day 4 | Arrange permit in the morning. Then do some local sighstseeing depending on the time on hand – Leh Palace, Leh Main Market, Shanti Stupa, Hall of Fame, Sankar Gompa, Namgyla Tsemo Gompa. Overnight at Leh
Day 5 | Leh – Spituk – Nimmu – Alchi- Likir – Leh. Visit Alchi Monastery, Likir Monastery, Bagso Palace, Confluence at Nimmu, Magnetic Hills, Pathar Sahib Gurudwara, Spituk Gompa. Overnight at Leh
Day 6 | Leh – Khardung La – Deskit – Hunder. Have a cup of soup at Khardung La (World’s highest motorable road), enjoy Hunder Sand Dunes and Take double humped camel rides. Overnight at Hunder.
Day 7 I Hunder – Turtuk – Deskit. Visit Turtuk Village, Deskit Monastery, World's tallest Buddha Status. Overnight at deskit
Day 8 | Deskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh. Visit Sumur monastery and Panamik Hot water springs. Overnight at Leh.
Day 9 | Leh – Karu – Tangtse – Spangmik (Pangong Tso). Enroute quickly visit Hemis Monastery, Thicksey Monastery and Shey Palace. Overnight at Pangong Tso.
Day 10 | Watch sunrise at Pangong Tso. Spangmik – Chusul – Loma – Hanle . Visit Hanle IIA Observatory. Overnight at Hanle.
Day 11 | Hanle – Loma – Noyoma – Chumathang – Korzok (Tso Moriri). Visit Korzok Monastery. Overnight at Korzok.
Day 12 | Watch Sunrise at Tso Moriri. Korzok (Tso Moriri) – Tso Kar – Debring (Manali – Leh Highway starts) – Moore Plains – Sarchu. Overnight at Sarchu.
Day 13 | Sarchu – Baralacha La – Keylong – Rohtang Pass – Manali. Visit Suraj Taal and Deepak Taal on the way. Overnight at Manali
Day 14 | Buffer Day
Day 15 | Buffer Day
Day 16 | Manali – Delhi – Pune by flight, journey ends.
It would be great if you can share your email id with me if possible so that we can have a detailed discussion regarding the costs, accommodations, distances etc.
Hi Saugata,
Itinerary looks fine to me, nicely balanced. I am sure you will be getting email from my ID as I reply your comments and you can definitely discuss things either here as comments or over email. Discussing here will help other as well who are seeking similar help 🙂 …
You can go through the article here to know more about How to calculate cost or budget for Leh – Ladakh trip. For accommodation, you can check the series starting with article here.
Feel free to get in for any query regarding your Leh – Ladakh trip.
Regards,
Dheeraj Sharma
Dear Team ,
I would like to do a Motor bike trip to Leh , i have 14-16 day to explore the place would like to prefer including Sang la in my itinerary . Could you please suggest the best possibly itinerary .
Hi Luv,
I do not think there is any place named Sang La in Leh – Ladakh??? Can you please provide a little more information for the same. AFAIK, there is no Pass in Ladakh by that name. We can surely discuss your itinerary once we correctly know what place are you referring to?
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Dheeraj , I think it lay in Kinnaur region of Himachal Pradesh . We have to cross Kunjum La in this route
Yes, you do have Sangla Valley in Kinnaur region of Himachal Pradesh. It is not a pass but a very beautiful place for sure. So, you need to travel via Spiti Valley and then to Ladakh from there on via Kunzam Pass. Well, it will take about 3 days extra for you to reach Leh but will be helpful in terms of acclimatization. Personally, the whole Kinnaur and Spiti deserve 9-10 days for exploration but if you just want to include it as a route to Leh – Ladakh without much explorations around then I guess you shall be fine with 15-16 days.
You can do some thing like below:
Day 1 | Delhi – Narkanda
Day 2 | Narkanda – Sangla
Day 3 | Sangla – Chitkul – Sangla – Kalpa
Day 4 | Kalpa – Kaza
Day 5 | Kaza – Keylong
Day 6 | Keylong – Leh
Day 7 | Leh Local Sight seeing + Inner Line Permits
Day 8 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder/Diskit
Day 9 | Hunder/Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Leh
Day 10 | Leh – Hemis – Pangong Tso
Day 11 | Pangong Tso – Shey – Thicksey – Leh
Day 12 | Rest day at Leh or Sham Valley tour
Day 13 | Leh – Tso Moriri
Day 14 | Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Moore Plains – Sarchu
Day 15 | Sarchu – Manali
Day 16 | Manali – Delhi
Day 17 + Day 18 – Buffer Days
The only issue is that you do not have much buffer days which is a big risk and I feel you should have one or two days for buffer for sure.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Can you suggest an itinerary if we just want to be in leh/laddakh for 5/6 days.travel period around may 25th 2012.
Hi Sapna,
Firstly, Ladakh is the district and Leh is the capital city of Ladakh. You need 5-6 days tour around Leh only I guess?? If yes, then you may like to go with following plan –
Day 1 | Delhi – Leh (By Flight)
— Checkin at Hotel. Many hotels provide free pick and drop from Airport. Ask while you book them.
— Take ample of rest as well as water or anything that keep your body hydrated enough. DO NOT OVER HYDRATE. Take ORS Soluted water or ORS – L tetra packs from home.
— Do not over exert your body at any cost. Avoid too much up-down on stairs or avoid it in entirety, if possible.
— After 5-6 Hrs of rest you can visit Leh Palace, Local Leh market, Shankar Gompa .
— If you feel exerted go back to Hotel, have dinner at Hotel and take rest. Avoid any exertion. Else continue and,
— Follow the sunset by stroll at Changspa road and have a nice dinner on varied cuisines offered in-around Changspa road.
— Go back to hotel for overnight stay at Leh.
Day 2 | Leh Local Sighseeing + Inner Line Permits
— For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here:
— Hire a taxi from Leh taxi stand or Hotel whichever suits you.
— Bargain hard with taxi driver. Book that single taxi for entire trip after explaining the complete plan.
— Take his inputs if you feel reasonable and if required modify the plan accordingly but should suits you best.
— Ask him to be with you guys starting first day itself, if required and charged reasonable else do it at your own.
— Again DO NOT over exert and take little steps and slow walks only.
— If feeling OK then do Local sightseeing include Namgyal Gompa, Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, Shankar Gompa, Main Market, Hall of Fame, Spituk Gompa, Changspa Road Stroll in evening
— Do not use stairs at any of these places just to see them as it will exert your body much more.
— Overnight at Leh
Day 3 | Leh – Sham Valley Tour – Uley Topko
— Sham Valley include Alchi, Likir, Basgo Palace, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Zanskar, Gurudwara Pather Sahib
— Overnight stay in tented camps at Uley Topko
Day 4 | Uley Topko – Lamayaru – Ridzong Gompa – Leh
— Leave for Lamayaru from Uley Topko in the morning after your breakfast at the camps.
— Visit Ridzong Gompa as well if you like on the return and reach back Leh in the evening.
— Check-in at hotel and stay overnight at Leh.
Day 5 | Leh – Pangong Tso – Leh
— Do not plan to stay overnight at Pangong Tso as you will not be acclimatized and may fall sick. So, make a day trip only.
— Overnight at Leh
Day 6 | Rest day at Leh to enjoy local culture and some shopping OR Monastery tour OR fly back home
— Overnight at Leh
— Monastery tour may include Hemis, Thicksey and Shey monasteries. They come on the route of Pangong Tso but as you will be doing day trip, it will be a bit hectic to include them on that day only.
Any specific places do you like to visit? I guess you must be flying in?
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
A quick query here – I suppose you are referring to Karzok stay only – since there is no other stay option for Tso Moriri?
Yes, HVK sir, you correctly pointed it. It is just Karzok stay only as no options to stay at Tso Moriri or even no options to pitch own tents there because of wetland restrictions.
I referred it just to ensure readers know that it is just near Tso Moriri … I will make it explicit to avoid confusion to anyone 🙂 … thanks again for giving your valuable thoughts.
Excellent guide note!
One more point – by coming via Srinagar, you save the bother of having to obtain a permit to cross Rohtang Pass at Manali. Not needed if you are coming from Leh to Manali.
Some may not want to do Nubra Valley, in which case they can go to Khardung la & return to Leh.
Another thought is that it may be a better idea to return the same day from Pangong Lake since accommodation there is limited and sleeping at such high altitude can be sometimes a AMS-miserable experience.
AS you have pointed out, if you go from Manali to Leh, you will be unable to go to Tso Moriri because you need a permit that is issued at Leh only.
If you go to Tso Moriri (Leh-Upshi-Mahe-Tso M-Debring), you will skip Tanglang la Pass which is on the Leh-Upshi-Tanglang la-Debring route
thanks alot HVK sir for your excellent inputs. I agree with you for Pangong Tso but many of the tourist always want to spend a night there, so after doing Nubra Valley then perhaps by 8th day they will be acclimatized to the high altitude of Pangong Tso or they can stay night even at Tangste after spending whole day at the lake, which better options of stay than Lukung or Spangmik. Accommodation is also improving in last couple years though costly 🙁 …
Apart from the permits thing while coming to Tso Moriri from Manali side, the body is not acclimatized to sleep at such high altitude as well. The place is also no man's land and any reason you fall sick there is no other option than to descend towards Leh or further to Alchi at night itself.
I hope your elaborations will prove useful for other travelers to make their decision much easier 🙂
Hi Dheeraj,
Imtiyaz here.
I am planning for a 4 day trip to Leh from Dec6 2012 to Dec9 2012.
Please let me know if 4 days are enough to enjoy the trip.
I have plans to visit Pangong Lake, Khardungla Pass and Nubra Valley.
Im more of a nature love not much interested in monuments and stuff.
Request you to please give me a proper itinerary.
Thanks in advance.
Hi Imtiyaz,
4 days in that cold conditions are not at al enough for all these places. It requires 2 days of acclimatization in Leh itself taking ample of rest only. Then you have 2 days left in which one day you can do local sightseeing, may be try an attempt to visit Khardung La and be back same day, on fourth day you can attempt a day trip to Pangong Tso. All depends how your body acclimatize in first two days.
I hope that helps. Please let me know incase you need more details or have some queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
Thanks a lot for your early reply.
I can increase 2 days more for my Leh travel as per your suggestion.
I am lil confused about my itinerary. Following is the plan. Please advise on it so that I can make the necessary chnages as per your suggestion.
Nov28: Reach Jammu via flight. Go to Srinar via taxi. Overnight stay at Srinagar
Nov29: Local sight seeing in Srinagar
Nov30: Srinagar – Gulmarg – Srinagar.
Dec1: Srinagar – Sonamarg – Srinagar
Dec2: Srinagar – Pahalgam – Srinagar
Dec3: Back to Jammu from Srinagar via taxi. Overnight stay at Jammu
Dec4: Fly from Jammu to Leh. Rest at Leh for the remaining day.
Dec5:
Dec6:
Dec7:
Dec8:
Dec9:
Dec10: Take the morning flight from Leh to New Delhi
Please let me know which all places can I visit in these 6 days in Leh.
I have spoken to many local tours and travels in Jammu and Kashmir.
They are all charging 25000 for jammu – srinagar package and another 25000 for Leh package.
I feel this is very costly.
Please let me know are these rates ok.
Can you please provide me any travels number which is reliable and can offer reasonable rates.
I am travelling with my wife, so I’m looking for a decent and comfortable stay.
Waiting for an early reply.
Thanks a ton.
We are planning a 8 day trip to leh in mid may.please help us out with the itinerary as we are taking our 9 year old daughter as well and also on the weather conditions!
Bhavani, can you please let me know if you are flying directly to Leh and out of it?