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Srinagar to Manali via Ladakh

9 days | Srinagar

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map


Route distance :

1781 km

Route distance :

1781 km

An unforgettable journey through the Himalayas

Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure? Set off on a mesmerising journey from Jammu to the enchanting Srinagar, where tranquil houseboats await your arrival. Travel through the legendary routes from Srinagar to Kargil, passing the breathtaking 'Meadow of Gold,' Sonamarg, and conquering the formidable Zojila Pass to embrace the true essence of Ladakh. Get ready to explore Leh, the vibrant heart of the region, along with the captivating Nubra Valley, the stunning Pangong Lake, and other iconic Himalayan landmarks. Prepare to be captivated by the rich culture, awe-inspiring views, and unforgettable experiences that await you at every turn.

An overnight stay at Srinagar

Day 1
A beautiful view landscape of Pari Mahal in winter season, srinagar, kashmir, india; Shutterstock ID 2029990361; purchase_order: -; job: -; client: -; other: -
  • Embark on an exciting journey to Srinagar

  • Highlights

    Travelling

Upon arrival at Jammu Airport or Railway Station, proceed to Srinagar, a journey spanning approximately 294 kilometres and taking around 7 hours. Once we reach Srinagar, check in at your pre-arranged Houseboat or hotel for an overnight stay.

Through the ‘Meadow of Gold’

Day 2
Sunny day at sonamarg kashmir with snow covered meadow and mountain
  • Behold the beauty of Ladakh

  • Highlights

    Sonamarg, Zojila Pass, Gateway of Ladakh, Kargil

After enjoying breakfast at your hotel in Srinagar, set out on the road to Kargil, following the road timings for departure. The journey will take you through the picturesque village of Sonamarg (2740 meters), known as the 'Meadow of Gold', nestled in the Sindh Valley, the largest tributary of the Kashmir Valley.

During the drive, you'll traverse the rugged terrain, crossing the formidable Zojila Pass (3527 meters), often referred to as the Gateway of Ladakh. The road ahead may be rough, but the stunning landscapes will keep you enthralled on the way towards Drass, famously known as the second coldest inhabited place in the world.

After a journey of approximately two and a half hours from Drass, you’ll arrive in Kargil (2710 meters), a town that has been open to tourists in Ladakh since 1974.

A serene journey filled with breathtaking vistas

Day 3
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  • Witness the scenic view of Leh

  • Highlights

    Mulbekh and Lamayuru, Namkila Pass and Fatula Pass, Alchi monastery, Likir Monastery, Indus and Zanskar Rivers, Gurudwara Pathar Sahib, Hall of Fame

After an early breakfast, embark on a journey towards Leh, the heart of Ladakh. Along the way, make several fascinating stops to explore the rich cultural and natural heritage of the region.

Your first stop will be at the monasteries of Mulbekh and Lamayuru. Mulbekh Monastery is known for its ancient rock carvings and stunning architecture, while Lamayuru Monastery offers mesmerising moon-like landscapes and panoramic views. Continue your journey and traverse through the Namkila Pass and Fatula Pass, the highest mountain passes on the Srinagar-Leh Road, offering breathtaking vistas of the surrounding Himalayan peaks.

Next, visit the 1000-year-old Alchi Monastery, situated on flat ground and renowned for its unique architecture and ancient murals. We'll then proceed to Likir Monastery, founded in the 15th century, overlooking the picturesque Alchi Village. The monastery houses impressive Buddha statues and hand-painted mandalas, making it a must-visit attraction in the region.

Drive along the scenic Indus River and witness the confluence of the Indus and Zanskar Rivers, known as Sangam, offering stunning views of nature's beauty. You can also visit the famous Gurudwara Pathar Sahib and experience the mysterious phenomenon of Magnetic Hill. Your final stop before reaching Leh will be at the Hall of Fame, a museum dedicated to the heroes of the Kargil War, showcasing memorabilia and artefacts.

Through lush valleys and high passes

Day 4
Kadungla Pass
  • Marvel at the beauty of mesmerising landscapes

  • Highlights

    Nubra Valley, Khardung La Pass, Saser, Khardung, Hunder

After enjoying breakfast at your hotel in Leh, embark on an exciting journey to the enchanting Nubra Valley, often referred to as the 'valley of flowers.' This scenic drive covers a distance of approximately 120 kilometres and takes around 4 to 5 hours to reach our destination.

The route to Nubra Valley will take you over the legendary Khardung La Pass, which stands at an elevation of 5602 meters (18,390 feet) and is renowned as the highest motorable road in the world. As you ascend to the pass, be prepared to be mesmerised by the breathtaking vistas of the Indus Valley, the majestic Zanskar Range, and the towering peaks of the Saser massif to the north. Descending from Khardung La, make your way towards Nubra Valley, nestled amidst the Karakoram and Ladakh ranges of the Himalayas. Upon your arrival in Nubra, we'll check in to our hotel or camp in Hunder, where you can relax and unwind amidst the serene surroundings.

In the evening, take a leisurely stroll around the quaint villages of Nubra Valley to immerse yourself in the local way of life. You may also have the opportunity to visit a Ladakhi home and interact with the friendly locals, gaining insights into their culture and traditions.

Ride across snowy deserts

Day 5
Stream in Nubra valley. Hunber, Nubra valley, Ladakh, India
  • Unwind and relax at Leh

  • Highlights

    Bactrian camels, Diskit, Khardung La Pass

After enjoying an early breakfast, embark on a journey to Hunder. Here, you'll have the unique opportunity to experience a camel ride on the famous Bactrian camels, known for their distinctive double humps. As you traverse the sand dunes of this high-altitude desert, with snow-capped mountains adorning the horizon, you'll feel transported to another world. The juxtaposition of the desert landscape with the rugged mountains of Ladakh creates a surreal and unforgettable experience. En route from Hunder to Diskit, you'll encounter sand dunes lining the roadside, reminiscent of the deserts of Rajasthan. This striking sight, set against the backdrop of Ladakh's rocky mountains and distant snow-capped peaks, adds to the allure of the journey.

Upon reaching Diskit, the headquarters town of Nubra Valley, take some time to explore the bustling bazaar, where you can observe local life and witness daily activities. Diskit is renowned for its 515-year-old Diskit Monastery, perched majestically on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the entire valley. Don't miss the opportunity to visit this historic monastery and soak in its serene ambience.

Later in the afternoon, commence your return journey to Leh via the iconic Khardung La Pass. As you ascend the pass, don't forget to capture the stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Explore the captivating Pangong Lake

Day 6
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  • Soak in the mesmerizing views from Pangong Lake

  • Highlights

    Pangong Lake, Shey Palace, Rancho School, Thiksey Monastery

After an early breakfast, embark on a scenic journey to Pangong Lake, with captivating stops along the way. Your first visit will be to Shey Palace, the ancient capital of Ladakh, followed by a visit to the Rancho School from the movie "3 Idiots". Continue your drive through picturesque landscapes to reach Thiksey Monastery, an impressive complex perched on a hill above the village. As you ascend towards Changla Pass at 5486 meters, the winding roads take us through Sakti Village, offering breathtaking views.

At Changla Pass, pause for a quick photo session before descending to Tangtse village, where you can unwind with a cup of tea. Continue to Pangong and pass through quaint Changthang villages; here, you will be greeted by the majestic Pangong Lake, situated at an altitude of 14,000 feet (4,267 m). This iconic blue brackish lake stretches over 133 kilometres, with half of its expanse extending into Chinese territory. The serene beauty of Pangong Lake, made famous by the movie "3 Idiots", will bring you closer to nature.

Indulge in souvenir shopping

Day 7
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  • A day of exploring Tibetan culture

  • Highlights

    Pangong Tso, Hemis Gompa, Drukpa Kagyu Order

After a leisurely morning of exploration, begin your journey back to Leh. As you bid farewell to the azure waters and shaky lakeshore of Pangong Lake, make a stop at Hemis Gompa, the largest monastic foundation of the Drukpa Kagyu Order of Tibetan Buddhism. Drive onwards to Leh. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and unwind. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll around the marketplace, indulging in some last-minute souvenir shopping if desired.

An overnight stay amidst the serenity of rugged mountains

Day 8
Natural Scene  High Roadway with white Snow on the  himalaya snow mountain at tanglang la pass in winter season at Leh Ladakh , India
  • A scenic drive to Sarchu

  • Highlights

    Sarchu, Tanglang La Pass, Lachungla Pass

After an invigorating breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Sarchu, passing through the majestic Tanglang La Pass at an altitude of 17,585 feet, renowned as the world's second-highest motorable road. Along the way, pause at Pang for a delightful lunch before continuing the journey towards Lachungla Pass, standing tall at an elevation of 5065 meters.

Upon reaching Sarchu, we check in at our camp for an overnight stay. Be prepared for the coldest night of the tour as you immerse in the tranquillity of this rugged terrain, surrounded by towering mountains and crisp, refreshing air.

Visit the charming Manali

Day 9
Beautiful landscape of the mountain valley in Sarchu camp stay in Ladakh, Northern India
  • Enjoy the serenity of the mountains

  • Highlights

    Sarchu, Kullu and Manali, Pir Panjal

Set forth on a journey to the charming hill station of Manali. En route, prepare to be mesmerised by the breathtaking landscapes as you traverse through the renowned Baralacha Pass (4890 m), Keylong (3350 m), and Rohtang Pass (3978 m). Nestled on the banks of the Beas River, the Kullu Valley is adorned with picturesque towns like Kullu and Manali, often considered as a unified destination due to their close proximity.

Surrounded by lush deodar and pine forests, the valley is nestled between the lower and greater Himalayan ranges, as well as the inner Himalayan ranges of the Pir Panjal. Upon arriving in Manali, check into your hotel and settle in comfortably. The evening is yours to leisurely explore the area at your own pace.