Amritsar to Leh – A Rugged Himalayan Expedition
Day 1: Amritsar to Jammu – Journey Begins
Start your adventurous journey with a scenic drive from Amritsar to Jammu. As you leave the vibrant city behind, enjoy the changing landscapes as the flat plains slowly give way to the rolling hills of Jammu. On arrival, check into your hotel and relax. If time permits, visit Raghunath Temple or enjoy a peaceful evening along the Tawi River. Overnight stay in Jammu.
Day 2: Jammu to Srinagar – The Road to Paradise
Post breakfast, depart for Srinagar via the Chenani-Nashri Tunnel and enjoy a smooth drive through the lower Himalayas. Arrive in Srinagar by late afternoon and check into your houseboat or hotel. In the evening, take a Shikara ride on the Dal Lake surrounded by snow-covered peaks and floating gardens. The calming waters and traditional Kashmiri ambiance will charm your senses. Overnight stay in Srinagar.
Day 3: Srinagar to Kargil – Across Zojila Pass
After an early breakfast, begin your thrilling journey to Kargil via the Zojila Pass, one of the most adventurous routes in the Himalayas. En route, visit Sonamarg – the ‘Meadow of Gold’ – and Drass, the second coldest inhabited place on Earth. Stop at the Kargil War Memorial to honor the heroes of the 1999 war. Reach Kargil by evening and rest. Overnight stay in Kargil.
Day 4: Kargil to Leh – Monasteries and Moonland
Today, drive to Leh through some of the most spectacular high-altitude terrain. On the way, explore Lamayuru Monastery, often called the “Moonland” due to its unique landscape. Visit Magnetic Hill and witness the Indus and Zanskar River confluence at Nimmu. Arrive in Leh by evening, check in, and take it easy to acclimatize to the altitude. Overnight stay in Leh.
Day 5: Leh Local Sightseeing – Culture & Spirituality
Acclimatization is key today, so enjoy a relaxed exploration of Leh. Visit Shanti Stupa for panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. Explore Leh Palace and then head to Shey Palace, Thiksey Monastery, and the Hall of Fame Museum. Wander through the colorful markets of Leh to shop for souvenirs and traditional handicrafts. Overnight stay in Leh.
Day 6: Leh to Nubra Valley – Over Khardung La
Gear up for one of the most exciting parts of the trip: a drive over Khardung La, one of the world’s highest motorable passes. Arrive in Nubra Valley, famous for its cold desert, double-humped camels, and the sand dunes of Hunder. Explore Diskit Monastery for stunning views of the valley. Enjoy a camel ride in Hunder and a quiet evening by the mountains. Overnight stay in Nubra.
Day 7: Nubra to Pangong Lake – The Shimmering Jewel
Drive to the iconic Pangong Lake, nestled at 14,000 ft and known for its changing colors. The route from Nubra to Pangong (via Shyok or Wari La) is scenic and filled with dramatic landscapes. On reaching, soak in the stunning beauty of this high-altitude lake surrounded by barren mountains. Overnight stay in camps near Pangong Lake under a starlit sky.
Day 8: Pangong to Leh – Scenic Return
Wake up to the beauty of Pangong Lake and then begin your return journey to Leh via Chang La Pass – another high-altitude marvel. On the way, visit Hemis Monastery, one of the richest and most famous monasteries in Ladakh. Reach Leh by evening and relax after an exhilarating road trip. Overnight stay in Leh.
Day 9: Leh to Sarchu/Jispa – Descending the Highlands
Today, begin your return journey via the Leh–Manali Highway. Cross Tanglang La and Lachung La passes and marvel at surreal landscapes like Moore Plains. Reach Sarchu or Jispa, depending on your pace, and enjoy the crisp mountain air at this remote, beautiful stopover. Overnight in camps or guesthouse.
Day 10: Sarchu/Jispa to Manali – Lahaul Awaits
Continue your drive through Baralacha La and the stunning Lahaul Valley. Reach Manali by afternoon, where pine forests, rivers, and apple orchards welcome you. Take time to relax, stroll in the Mall Road, or simply soak in the lower Himalayas’ vibe. Overnight stay in Manali.
Day 11: Manali to Amritsar – Homebound with Memories
Begin your final leg of the journey as you drive from Manali back to Amritsar. Reflect on the incredible journey through snow-capped peaks, ancient monasteries, pristine lakes, and unforgettable roads. Reach Amritsar by evening, completing your once-in-a-lifetime Leh–Ladakh adventure.