Destination: Leh Ladakh
Reach Leh, the capital and biggest city of the Kingdom of Ladakh. Known as "paradise on Earth," this area is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, high passes, and towering mountains. Free time to acclimate to this high-altitude location, also referred to as India''s chilly desert, upon arrival.
Enjoy some exploring in Leh. See the Dalai Lama''s inauguration of the peace seat of Japanese Buddhism, Shanti Stupa; Magnetic Hill; Pathar Sahib Gurudwara; Indus Zanskar sangam; Leh Palace; and the Hall of Fame War Museum (subject to the operation). Allow time for shopping, if you have it. Enjoy an evening folk dance.
In the morning, we travel north of Leh to the Nubra Valley, also known as Dumra. It is reachable by the 5359-meter-high Khardung La Pass, one of the world''s highest motorable roads. We travel from Khardung-la to Diskit Monastery, the biggest and oldest gompa in the Nubra Valley, which is renowned for its exquisite wall murals and frescoes as well as its exquisite architecture. See Future Buddha, a 108-foot statue of Lord Buddha, as well. Later, we travel to Hunder Sand Dunes, a well-liked tourist site known for its exceptional beauty. Reach Nubra Valley, which is renowned for its pristine natural beauty, breathtaking lakes, apricot orchards, and charming surroundings, after crossing the Shyok River.
We are going on a trip to Turtuk Village today. As one crosses into Turtuk, officially entering the Baltistan region, the scenery, culture, language, attire, and even the physical characteristics of the inhabitants change fairly significantly. It is the area of Baltistan that is administered by India. This settlement, the last in Ladakh close to the Line of Control, was taken by the Indian army in the 1971 conflict.
Visit Pangong Tso, the most well-known lake in the Ladakh region. It is located at a high elevation and is constantly changing from blue to green. There is no aquatic life and very little micro-vegetation in this lake''s brackish water. For many birds, including some migratory species, the lake serves as a crucial breeding place. The lake water extends over 100 kilometers from Tibet, China, and India. Spend the night in Pangong.
We travel to Leh in the morning. Visit Shey Palace upon arrival; the Ladakh rulers used it as a summer retreat. View the Rancho School (Subject to Operation), Hemis Gompa, and the Indus River as well.
Board the flight for your hometown.