Leh, Khardong-La Tour

Leave Srinagar early, reaching Sonamarg (Meadow of Gold) in time for some sightseeing and lunch. Post lunch drive to Kargil via Zoji-la (11,500-ft./3,505 mtrs), the Himalayan pass between Kashmir and Ladakh region. Drass, the first township over the pass, is famous as the second coldest inhabited place in the world (in winters). “Tiger Hill”, the peak which had become famous in 1999 during the Kargil war, can be here. Kargil, the 2nd largest town of Ladakh region is an hour’s drive away from here. Dinner & overnight at the hotel.

After early breakfast, leave Kargil for Leh. At Mulbekh (40 kms) stop to view and admire the 9 metre tall rock sculpture of Maitreya Buddha on the roadside, dating back to the 7th-8th century. Driving on across the Namika-la 12,200 ft) and Fotu-la (13,432 ft.) passes, descend to Lamayuru for lunch break and visiting the dramatically located Lamayuru Monastery in its ‘Moonscape’ setting. On the way to Leh visit the 11th century Alchi Choskor (oldest surviving monastic complex of the region and famous for its mural paintings and architecture), Magnetic and Gurudwara Pathar Sahib. Dinner & overnight at hotel

Full day s tour of monasteries and palaces (105kms.). After leisurely breakfast visit Shey Palace, Thiksey Monastery, Hemis Monastery and Stok Palace Museum. Dinner and overnight at the hotel.

Early departure (6 AM) for Pangong Lake (approx. 300 kms round trip) via Chang-la pass (alt: 17370 ft.). Pangong Lake (alt: 14,500 ft.) is 4-5 kms wide and over 135 kms long, about two-third of which lies on the other side of the Indo-China Border. After sightseeing and lunch at the lakeside, drive back to Leh, reaching in the late afternoon / evening. Dinner & overnight at hotel.

After early breakfast, drive to Khardong-la (18,380 ft.), highest motorable pass in the world, recorded in the Guinness Book of World Records. On the drive back from the pass, you will be rewarded with spectacular views of the Indus Valley and the endless peaks and ridges of the Zanskar range. Rest of the day free to explore the markets. Dinner & overnight at hotel.

Activities : Hill Stations & Valleys

Early morning transfer to the airport for taking the flight back home.

Activities : Hill Stations & Valleys