Kashmir To Ladakh Grand Explorer (10 Nights, 11 Days)

Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive Srinagar - Gardens, Temple & Shikara Serenity

Morning/Afternoon: Arrive at Srinagar, the serene summer capital of Jammu & Kashmir. Our representative will extend a warm welcome and assist with your seamless transfer to your hotel. Check-in and take a moment to absorb the tranquility.

Afternoon: Begin your Kashmiri immersion by exploring the city's celebrated Mughal Gardens, masterpieces of landscape architecture, offering stunning views of Dal Lake and the Zabarwan Mountains:

Nishat Bagh (Garden of Joy): Stroll through this beautiful terraced garden, known for its vibrant flowerbeds and exquisite layout.

Shalimar Bagh (Abode of Love): Discover the largest Mughal Garden in Srinagar, a poetic arrangement of cascading fountains and verdant lawns.

Late Afternoon: Ascend to the Shankaracharya Temple, an ancient Hindu shrine perched atop a hill, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Srinagar city and the sprawling Dal Lake.

Evening: Experience the quintessential Kashmiri charm with a tranquil Shikara Ride (optional, at extra cost, if time permits upon check-in to Srinagar) on the placid waters of Dal Lake. Glide past colorful floating gardens and traditional houseboats as the sun sets, casting a golden hue over the tranquil waters.

Night: Overnight stay in Srinagar.

Day 2: Srinagar - Gulmarg - Srinagar: Meadow of Flowers & Gondola Thrills

Morning: After breakfast, set out for a full-day excursion to Gulmarg, famously known as the "Meadow of Flowers" and a renowned skiing destination in winter.

Journey to Gulmarg: Enjoy the scenic drive through picturesque landscapes, dense pine forests, and past the charming town of Tangmarg, which serves as the gateway to Gulmarg.

Gulmarg Exploration: Upon arrival, the day is dedicated to enjoying Gulmarg's natural splendor and thrilling activities:

Gulmarg Gondola Ride: Take the famous Gulmarg Gondola (at your own expense, tickets can be purchased on spot or pre-booked online) – one of the highest cable cars in the world. The first phase takes you to Kongdori, and the second phase (weather permitting) ascends to Apharwat Peak, offering mesmerizing 360-degree views of snow-capped peaks and the vast meadows below.

You can also enjoy activities like pony rides, short walks through the golf course (seasonal), or simply soak in the breathtaking vistas.

Evening: Drive back to Srinagar. Overnight stay in Srinagar.

Day 3: Srinagar - Pahalgam - Srinagar: Valley of Shepherds & Bollywood Scenery

Morning: After breakfast, set out for a full-day excursion to Pahalgam, famously known as the "Valley of Shepherds" and a popular Bollywood filming location.

Journey to Pahalgam: Enjoy the incredibly scenic drive through lush saffron fields (seasonal), picturesque apple orchards, and charming villages, all along the gushing Lidder River.

Pahalgam Exploration: Upon arrival, discover the unparalleled beauty of Pahalgam and its stunning surroundings.

Betab Valley: Visit the iconic Betab Valley, named after the famous Bollywood movie 'Betaab' shot here. It's renowned for its lush greenery, the serene Lidder River, and a stunning mountain backdrop.

Aru Valley: Explore the charming village and vast meadows of Aru Valley, serving as a base camp for various treks and offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and forests.

Chandanwari: Visit Chandanwari, the starting point of the holy Amarnath Yatra. It's known for its pristine snow bridge (seasonal) and spectacular landscapes.

Note: For local sightseeing in Pahalgam (Betab Valley, Aru Valley, Chandanwari), local union taxis are mandatory from a designated stand, and their charges are directly payable by the guest on the spot.

Evening: Drive back to Srinagar for your final overnight stay in the Kashmir Valley.

Day 4: Srinagar - Sonmarg - Zojila Pass - Drass - Kargil: From Valleys to High Passes

Morning: After an early breakfast, check out from your Srinagar hotel and begin your exciting overland journey from Kashmir to Ladakh! This day promises dramatic landscape changes.

Sonmarg & Zojila Pass: Drive towards Sonmarg, and then ascend towards the formidable Zojila Pass, a high mountain pass that marks the gateway to Ladakh. The winding roads offer breathtaking views (subject to road conditions and military convoy timings).

Drass: Descend into Drass, known as the "Gateway to Ladakh" and the second coldest inhabited place on Earth. Visit the poignant Kargil War Memorial at Drass, a solemn tribute to the Indian soldiers who sacrificed their lives in the 1999 Kargil War. Witness the Tiger Hill viewpoint (from a distance) and feel the immense pride and patriotism.

Afternoon/Evening: Continue your drive to Kargil, a historic town that served as a significant trading hub on the ancient Silk Route.

Night: Upon arrival in Kargil, check into your hotel. Overnight stay in Kargil.

Day 5: Kargil - Leh Via Likir, Alchi, Lamayuru: Monastic Jewels & Lunar Landscapes

Morning: After breakfast, check out from your Kargil hotel and continue your journey towards Leh, exploring significant monastic sites en route.

En Route Monasteries & Art:

Likir Monastery: Visit Likir Monastery, one of the oldest monasteries in Ladakh, known for its impressive 75-foot gold-plated Buddha statue.

Alchi Gompa & Alchi Chos-khor: Explore the unique Alchi Gompa (Monastery) and the Alchi Chos-khor complex, distinct for its Kashmiri-influenced architecture and remarkably preserved 11th-century frescoes and intricate wood carvings. Admire the beautiful light stupas within the complex.

Lamayuru Monastery: Witness the mystical Lamayuru Monastery, one of Ladakh's oldest and largest monasteries, famous for its surreal, lunar-like landscape surrounding the monastery, often referred to as "Moonland."

Late Afternoon/Evening: Arrive in Leh, the capital of Ladakh. Check into your hotel.

Night: Overnight stay in Leh. Note: Acclimatization is still important. Rest well upon arrival.

Day 6: Leh - Monasteries, Magnetic Wonders & Cultural Insights (Local)

Morning: After breakfast, embark on a captivating full-day sightseeing tour around Leh, exploring its unique blend of cultural heritage and natural wonders.

Shanti Stupa: Visit the magnificent Shanti Stupa, a white-domed Buddhist stupa offering unparalleled panoramic views of Leh town, the Indus Valley, and the surrounding snow-capped mountains.

Magnetic Hill: Experience the intriguing phenomenon of Magnetic Hill, where vehicles appear to defy gravity and roll uphill with their engines off.

Pathar Sahib Gurudwara: Pay respects at Pathar Sahib Gurudwara, a serene and revered Sikh shrine beautifully maintained by the Indian Army.

Indus Zanskar Sangam: Witness the breathtaking confluence of the mighty Indus River and the dramatic Zanskar River, where their distinct colors merge to create a stunning natural spectacle.

Afternoon: Continue your exploration of Leh's historical and cultural sites:

Leh Palace: Visit the historic Leh Palace, a former royal palace of the Leh Kingdom, offering stunning views of the town below and a glimpse into Ladakh's regal past.

Hall of Fame War Museum: Gain profound insights into the history, valor, and sacrifices of the Indian Army at the Hall of Fame War Museum, a tribute to the heroes of Ladakh.

Evening: If operational and time permits, enjoy mesmerizing folk dances showcasing Ladakh's vibrant cultural heritage. Overnight stay in Leh.

Day 7: Leh – Khardung La Pass – Diskit – Hunder Village Sand Dunes - Nubra Valley

Morning: After an early breakfast, embark on an exhilarating journey to the enchanting Nubra Valley, often called the "Valley of Flowers" (in season) or the "Cold Desert."

Khardung La Pass: Your drive takes you over the legendary Khardung La Pass, one of the highest motorable roads in the world. Stop for memorable photographs amidst prayer flags and breathtaking vistas of the Himalayas.

Nubra Valley Exploration: Descend into the picturesque Nubra Valley, characterized by its wide vistas and unique terrain.

Diskit Monastery: Visit Diskit Monastery, the oldest and largest monastery in Nubra Valley, perched majestically on a hilltop. It houses a towering, impressive statue of Maitreya Buddha (Future Buddha), offering spectacular views of the valley.

Hunder Sand Dunes: Experience the surreal beauty of the Hunder Sand Dunes, a high-altitude cold desert. Enjoy a memorable Double-Humped Bactrian Camel Ride (optional, at your own expense) amidst this stunning and unique landscape.

Night: Overnight stay in Nubra Valley, often in comfortable camps or guesthouses.

Day 8: Nubra Valley – Turtuk Village – Thang Village – Nubra Valley

Morning: After breakfast, embark on a fascinating excursion deeper into Nubra Valley towards the Balti region, a truly unique cultural experience.

Turtuk Village: Journey to Turtuk Village, one of India's northernmost villages, opened to tourists only recently. Explore this charming village, known for its distinct Balti culture, lush apricot orchards, and stunning views of the Karakoram Range.

Siachen Glacier Viewpoint: From specific vantage points in the area, you can get a distant view of the Siachen Glacier area, a stark reminder of the challenging terrain and a point of strategic importance.

Thang Village: Visit Thang Village, which is the last Indian village before the Line of Control (LOC), offering a unique perspective on the region's geopolitics and local life.

Evening: Return to your accommodation in Nubra Valley for your second night.

Day 9: Nubra Valley – Pangong Lake: High-Altitude Beauty & Azure Waters

Morning: After breakfast, embark on a breathtaking journey to the iconic Pangong Lake via the scenic Shyok River route.

Pangong Tso: Arrive at the mesmerizing Pangong Tso (Lake), a high-altitude saline lake, globally famous for its ever-changing, vibrant shades of blue, green, and turquoise. Spend the afternoon marveling at its unparalleled beauty, enjoying the serene surroundings, and capturing unforgettable photographs. The lake extends for over 130 km across India and China.

Night: Overnight stay in Pangong Lake. (Accommodation here is typically in basic camps or guesthouses due to the remote location, offering a unique and rustic experience under the starry sky).

Day 10: Pangong Lake – Leh: Return & Monastic Discoveries

Morning: Witness a spectacular sunrise over Pangong Lake, if weather permits. After breakfast, begin your journey back to Leh.

En Route Sightseeing: Your return journey will include visits to more of Ladakh's rich monastic heritage:

Shey Palace: Visit Shey Palace, the former summer retreat of the Ladakhi kings, housing a giant copper-gilt Buddha statue and offering historical insights.

Indus River: Enjoy views of the mighty Indus River as you drive along its banks, a lifeline of Ladakh.

Hemis Gompa: Explore Hemis Gompa, one of Ladakh's largest, wealthiest, and most famous monasteries, known for its annual Hemis Festival.

Druk White Lotus School (Rancho School): Visit the famous Druk White Lotus School, which gained popularity after being featured in the Bollywood movie '3 Idiots'.

Night: Overnight stay in Leh.

Day 11: Departure from Leh

Morning: After a final breakfast at your hotel, check out.

Day: Our representative will assist you with your timely transfer to Leh Airport for your onward journey, filled with extraordinary memories of your grand Kashmir to Ladakh adventure.

Important Notes for This Extensive Tour:

Acclimatization: Please note that Day 1 and Day 5 in Leh are important for acclimatization. While sightseeing is included on Day 6, it is at a slower pace. It is crucial to rest, hydrate, and avoid strenuous activity during your initial days at high altitude. Consult your doctor before travel.

Permits: Inner Line Permits are required for some areas in Ladakh (Nubra Valley, Pangong, Turtuk). These are typically arranged by the tour operator.

Weather: Weather in both Kashmir and Ladakh can be unpredictable. Pack layers and be prepared for varying temperatures, especially at high passes and Pangong.

Accommodation: Accommodation at Pangong Lake is usually in basic guesthouses or camps with limited amenities. Kargil also offers more modest accommodation compared to Srinagar or Leh.

Road Conditions: The Srinagar-Kargil-Leh highway (Zojila Pass) is generally open from late May/early June to late October/early November, depending on snow conditions. Travel during other times may require flying into Leh and completing the Ladakh circuit from there.

Inclusions:

10 Nights Accommodation (3 Nights Srinagar, 3 Nights Leh, 2 Nights Nubra Valley, 1 Night Kargil, 1 Night Pangong) on Twin Sharing Basis

Daily Breakfast at hotels/camps

Comfortable Private Vehicle for all transfers and sightseeing as per itinerary (Srinagar to Leh route)

Inner Line Permits for Ladakh (if applicable)

All applicable taxes

Exclusions:

Airfare to Srinagar and from Leh

Lunch & Dinner (unless specified)

Entry fees to monuments, museums, and attractions (e.g., Mughal Gardens, Shankaracharya Temple, Gondola ride, etc.)

Charges for Double-Humped Camel Ride in Hunder

Local union taxi charges for sightseeing in Pahalgam (Betab Valley, Aru Valley, Chandanwari)

Pony/Dolly charges, snow activities (skiing, sledging, etc.), or any other optional activities

Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, tips, medical emergencies, etc.

Any additional sightseeing or activities not mentioned in the itinerary

Travel insurance