Today, to begin yourRoad Trip to Zanskar and Ladakh Exploring Offbeat Ladakh, on your arrival at New Delhi International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by Summit Safari India's representative and driver, who will assist you with your transfer to your comfortable hotel in New Delhi for an overnight stay. The rest of the day is at your leisure to relax and recover from your international flight, preparing for the upcoming incredible Zanskar & Leh Ladakh adventure tour ahead.

Meals Plan: Dinner Only.

After breakfast, we will transfer you to New Delhi Airport for your flight to Leh, located at an altitude of 3,500 metres. The flight takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, offering spectacular views of the Himalayas. Upon arrival at Leh Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your local guide and driver, who will transfer you to your hotel in Leh – the capital of Ladakh valley.

Check in to your hotel and take the rest of the morning to rest and relax, as today is important for acclimatising to the high altitude of Leh Ladakh. Later in the afternoon around 3:00 PM, we will take you to visit the iconic Leh Fort, Shanti Stupa, which offers panoramic views of Leh town and the surrounding mountains. You will also enjoy an orientation walk through the local Leh market, getting your first glimpse of Ladakhi culture and lifestyle. Overnight stay at hotel in Leh

Meals Plan: Breakfast + Dinner Only.

Please Note: Most flights from New Delhi to Leh operate between 5:30 AM and 11:30 AM, arriving in Leh between 7:00 AM and 1:30 PM. Therefore, please be prepared for an early morning departure from New Delhi to ensure a smooth start to your Leh Ladakh tour.

Inner Line Permits: Today, our office team in Leh will prepare your Inner Line Permits, which are mandatory travel documents required for visiting certain restricted areas in Ladakh, including Nubra Valley, Pangong Lake, Tsomoriri, and other border regions. For this purpose, we will collect your original passports and valid Indian visa from you to process the permits with the local authorities. The process is well-organised, and our team will handle all formalities on your behalf to ensure a smooth travel experience.

This morning, after breakfast, we set out to explore some of the most important cultural and historical sites in Leh along the Indus River valley. We begin with a visit to Stok Palace Museum, the former residence of the royal family of Ladakh, showcasing royal artefacts, traditional clothing, and ancient weaponry, offering deep insights into Ladakh’s regal heritage.

Next, we visit Hemis Monastery, the largest and wealthiest monastery in Ladakh, belonging to the Drukpa lineage. Founded in 1672, it is famous for its annual Hemis Festival dedicated to Guru Padmasambhava.

We continue to Thiksey Monastery, a magnificent 12-storey complex resembling the Potala Palace in Lhasa. It houses numerous stupas, statues, and thangkas, including the impressive Maitreya Buddha Statue, which is 15 metres (49 feet) high, covering two floors of the monastery.

Later, we visit Shey Monastery and Shey Palace, once the summer capital of Ladakh. The monastery is known for its giant copper-gilded statue of Shakyamuni Buddha, which is 12 metres (39 feet) tall. Recently, a newly built grand statue of Guru Padmasambhava has also been installed near Shey, adding to the spiritual aura of the site.

In the evening, return to Leh and explore the vibrant local market of Leh. Second night stay in the same hotel in Leh.

Meals Plan: Breakfast + Dinner Only.

Today, after breakfast, we check out from the hotel and begin our scenic drive to Nubra Valley, travelling over Khardung La Pass, which stands at an impressive 5,359 metres (17,582 feet) and was once the highest motorable roads in the world. We will take comfort breaks and photo stops en route to enjoy the stunning Himalayan landscapes. There are chances to see yaks today.

By late afternoon, we arrive in Nubra Valley. Upon arrival, we visit the impressive Maitreya Buddha statue at Diskit, offering panoramic views of the valley. You can also walk to explore the Diskit Monastery, the oldest and largest monastery in Nubra, belonging to the Gelugpa sect of Tibetan Buddhism.

Later, we check into our hotel and proceed to visit the famous Hunder Sand Dunes. Nubra Valley lies on the ancient Silk Route, and the unique double-humped Bactrian camels found here are remnants of that trade era, when caravans travelled between India and Central Asia. Camel rides are available after 3:00 PM, and you can choose to ride these rare double-humped camels or enjoy a peaceful walk through the sand dunes, capturing beautiful photographs against the dramatic desert landscape. Near the sand dunes, you can also enjoy a 30-minute Ladakhi traditional dance performance, offering you a wonderful glimpse into the rich culture, music, and heritage of Ladakh. This colourful dance show, accompanied by traditional Ladakhi songs, adds a memorable cultural experience to your visit to Hunder Sand Dunes.

Overnight stay in Nubra Valley for 2 nights.

Meals Plan: Breakfast + Dinner Only.

Today, your Best of Leh Ladakh Tour – Explore Hidden Valleys and The Last Nomads continues as we drive along the scenic Shyok River, crossing a few water streams on the way. Therefore, it is advisable to leave by 8:30 AM to ensure a smooth journey. We travel via Shyok village and Tangste, enjoying breathtaking views of rugged mountains, remote valleys, and pristine landscapes, with multiple stops for photographs and comfort breaks. There are chances to see the marmots today.

By late afternoon, we arrive at the stunning Pangong Lake, situated at an altitude of 4,350 metres (14,270 feet). We will get our first glimpse of Pangong Lake at Lukung, which is also the location of the first campsite along the lake. From here, we continue to the Spangmik viewpoint, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. We will also visit the famous shooting point of the Bollywood movie "3 Idiots," where the final scene was filmed, making it a popular spot for travellers to capture memorable photographs.

Pangong is one of the highest saltwater lakes in the world, stretching approximately 134 kilometres, with its crystal-clear blue waters extending from India to China. The lake’s ever-changing hues of blue set against the backdrop of barren mountains create a surreal and mesmerising landscape, making it one of the most beautiful and iconic dream destinations in Ladakh for every traveller.

On arrival, check into your huts or camps at Mann village, which operate only during the summer months, and later enjoy a walking tour along the banks of Pangong Lake, soaking in its tranquillity and capturing stunning photographs.

Evening is free to relax and witness the spectacular sunset over the lake. Overnight stay at Pangong Lake.

Meals Plan: Breakfast + Dinner Only.

Please Note: Electricity at Pangong Lake is available only through generators from 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM. Kindly carry a torch and ensure your electronic devices are fully charged during that time period.

This morning, enjoy a peaceful walking tour along Pangong Lake, soaking in its serene beauty and capturing the stunning reflections of the surrounding mountains in the crystal-clear waters. Lukung is the first camp sight at the lake

After breakfast, we begin our drive to Hanle, travelling via Merak, Chushul and Loma, covering a distance of approximately 220 kilometres in about 6 hours. Leaving Pangong Lake behind, we enter an entirely different world of dramatic landscapes, with vast open valleys, rolling mountains, and the feeling of travelling through a truly remote and untouched part of Ladakh.

En route, we will stop at scenic locations for photographs and comfort breaks, giving you ample opportunities to enjoy and capture the unique landscapes of this high-altitude desert.

By early evening, we arrive at Hanle village, one of the most remote settlements in Ladakh, located close to the India-China border. On arrival, check into your hotel, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Hanle is famous for its Indian Astronomical Observatory, which houses one of the world’s highest observatories at an altitude of 4,500 metres (14,764 feet). In December 2022, the region within a 22 km radius around Hanle, situated inside the Changthang Wildlife Reserve, was designated as the Hanle Dark Sky Reserve (HDSR), making it India’s first dark sky reserve for astronomy and stargazing. Due to its clear skies and minimal light pollution, Hanle is regarded as one of the best places in India for star gazing and astrophotography.

At night, step out to witness the magical sight of countless stars, the Milky Way galaxy stretching above you, and constellations shining bright in the pitch-black sky – an experience that makes you feel truly connected with the universe.

Meals Plan: Breakfast + Dinner Only.

This morning, after breakfast, we drive towards the iconic Umling La Pass(5,793 metres / 19,024 feet), the world's highest motorable road, travelling via Nurbu La Pass, which stands at an altitude of 4,900 metres (16,076 feet). Today, there are chances to see the Tibetan wild ass, also known as the Kiang (Equus kiang),, which is the largest species of wild ass in the world. Kiangs are native to the high-altitude Tibetan Plateau and Himalayan regions.

Our journey takes us through Chismule village, where the landscapes become increasingly dramatic, with vast open plains, grazing herds, and snow-capped peaks on the horizon.

Along the way, we will meet the Changpa nomads, the last remaining nomadic community of the Changthang Plateau. These hardy people live at extreme altitudes, herding their yaks, sheep, and Pashmina goats, and maintaining traditions unchanged for centuries.

The excitement of reaching Umling La Pass (5,793 metres / 19,024 feet), the highest motorable road in the world, is an indescribable feeling. After spending time at the pass and capturing photographs against the prayer flags fluttering in the cold wind, we begin our return journey to Hanle via a different scenic route.

Today we do interact with more Changpa nomad families, gaining a true insight into their nomadic lifestyle. Sharing a cup of traditional salted butter tea or fresh yoghurt with them (depending on availability) will be one of the most authentic and humbling experiences of your Ladakh journey. We drive through Loma, Nyoma – which has the world’s highest altitude Indian Oil fuel station, Mahe Bridge, and Sumdo and arrive Korzok known as the heartland of the Changthang Plateau’s. Enroute after Sumdo we do stop by Kyagar Tso Lake to have a photo break.

Korzok village, beautifully located on the shores of Tsomoriri Lake, one of the highest and most stunning freshwater lakes in Ladakh. The evening is free for you to relax and soak in the peaceful atmosphere of this remote Himalayan village. Overnight stay at Korzok Village for 2 nights.

Meals Plan: Breakfast + Dinner Only.

Today after breakfast, we will drive to the Korzok viewpoint, from where we can enjoy the extraordinary and magnificent views of Tsomoriri Lake, famous for its ever-changing shades of blue. Later, we will leave for a walking tour to explore Phu, a grazing area near Korzok village, where the Changpa nomads graze their livestock, including yaks, sheep, and goats. This area is known for its traditional nomadic lifestyle and is a popular stop for trekkers exploring the Changthang region. Along the way, we will stop at the nomad camps, where you will have the chance to meet and interact with the Changpa nomads. Depending on the season, you might witness them shearing sheep or Pashmina goats to collect the fine Pashmina wool, which is used to create some of the world's finest shawls, carpets etc.

We will return to the hotel for lunch, followed by some time to relax. In the evening, we will visit Korzok village and take a walk along the lake, where you might be lucky to spot some of the local birdlife. Overnight stay at Korzok for second night.

Meals Plan: Breakfast + Dinner Only.

After breakfast at 8:00 AM, we begin our journey towards Jispa in Himachal Pradesh, driving through the vast More Plains, the dramatic landscapes of Pang, and the famous Gata Loops. En route, we cross Sarchu, which marks the border between Ladakh and Himachal Pradesh, known for its rugged beauty and high-altitude campsites.

Today, we drive over some of the highest mountain passes of the region, including the Baralacha La Pass, located at an altitude of 4,890 metres (16,040 feet), offering spectacular panoramic views of snow-covered peaks. On the way, we also pass by the pristine Suraj Tal, regarded as the source of the Bhaga River, and Deepak Tal, a beautiful small lake reflecting the surrounding peaks.

Enjoy the breathtaking views as the landscape transforms from barren mountains to lush valleys. We arrive at Jispa in Lahaul province by evening, where you will check in to your hotel or camp for a comfortable overnight stay.

Meals Plan: Breakfast + Dinner Only.

Today, we will make a relaxed start at 09:00 AM, beginning our journey to explore one of the most remote and untouched regions of Ladakh – the Zanskar Valley. We drive through beautiful landscapes, stopping at the last village of Lahaul to interact with local families, enjoy a short walk, and share a cup of tea, experiencing their warm hospitality and traditional lifestyle.

We then continue our ascent to Shingo La Pass, located at an altitude of 5,091 metres (16,703 feet). This high mountain pass marks the border between the Lahaul-Spiti province of Himachal Pradesh and the Zanskar region of Ladakh. We stop at the pass to soak in the panoramic views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks and pristine valleys.

As we descend into Zanskar, we are greeted by magnificent views of Gumburanjan Peak, a striking dome-shaped mountain rising to an elevation of 5,900 metres (19,357 feet), revered by locals and admired for its sheer rock face and grandeur.

The landscape transforms dramatically, changing from lush green valleys to barren brown mountains as we reach Purne Village, a small settlement with only 2-3 houses, seasonal camps, and a few simple cottages for travellers. We will stay here for 2 nights in camps or cottages, depending on availability at the time of booking.

The evening is free to walk around Purne Village, explore its serene surroundings, and relax amidst the peaceful beauty of Zanskar.

Meals Plan: Breakfast + Dinner Only.

Today, after breakfast, we set out on a memorable moderate trek to Phugtal Monastery, one of the most stunning and remote monasteries in the Zanskar region. Phugtal Monastery (also spelled Phuktal or Phugtal Gompa) is unique for its dramatic location, built into the mouth of a natural cave on a vertical cliff face, overlooking the Tsarap River. The monastery looks as if it is hanging from the cliff, blending perfectly with its surroundings, and is home to a small community of monks following centuries-old traditions.

The trek follows a beautiful trail that goes up and down along the Tsarap River, offering breathtaking views of the deep gorge, rocky formations, and beautiful mountain views. The total distance of the trek is approximately 6–7 kilometres each way, taking around 2 hours each way at a comfortable pace. The trail is moderate, with some narrow sections, but is manageable for anyone with basic fitness and an adventurous spirit.

Upon arrival, we spend time exploring Phugtal Monastery, experiencing its peaceful prayer halls, ancient frescoes, and the serene cave shrine where it is believed great scholars meditated centuries ago. The monastery offers stunning views over the valley below, making it a truly spiritual and awe-inspiring visit.Later, we trek back to Purne village, reaching by late afternoon.

The evening is free for you to relax, unwind at the campsite or cottages, and reflect on the remarkable experiences of the day amidst the peaceful surroundings of Purne.

Meals Plan: Breakfast + Dinner Only.

Today, after breakfast, we leave Purne village and drive towards Padum, the administrative centre and largest settlement in the Zanskar Valley. The drive offers stunning views of rugged mountains, pristine rivers, and traditional Zanskari villages, giving you a glimpse into the untouched beauty of this remote region.

En route, we visit the Bardan Monastery, located about 12 kilometres south of Padum. Perched dramatically on a rocky cliff overlooking the Lungnak River, Bardan Gompa belongs to the Drukpa Kagyu sect of Tibetan Buddhism and dates back to the 17^th century. The monastery houses a large prayer hall adorned with beautiful statues, ancient murals, and intricate thangka paintings. The massive prayer wheel and the peaceful ambiance here make it a perfect stop to learn about Zanskar’s spiritual heritage. Bardan Monastery is also known for its unique architectural style, as the entire structure seems to merge seamlessly with the cliff.

Continuing our drive, we pass through scenic villages such as Raru, Mune, and Ichar, where you can observe traditional mud-brick houses, barley fields, and locals going about their daily life in this harsh yet beautiful terrain. The road winds along the river, revealing views of snow-capped peaks and deep gorges as we approach Padum.

Upon arrival at Padum by afternoon, check in to your guest house or hotel. Padum, situated at an altitude of around 3,675 metres (12,057 feet), offers basic amenities and serves as the admirative hub of Zanskar valley. Evening is free to relax or to walk around the local market and enjoy some tea/ coffe in the local caffe in Padum. Overnight stay in Padum for 1 night.

Meals Plan: Breakfast + Dinner Only.

Today, after an early breakfast, we begin an adventurous and scenic drive from Padum to Lingshed ( 74 kms/ 4 hrs), continuing on the route towards Lamayuru and Leh. This drive takes you through some of the most remote and untouched parts of the Zanskar Valley, offering dramatic landscapes, ancient villages, and high mountain passes.

Our first stop will be at Zangla, located about 35 kilometres from Padum. Zangla is a small village famous for its Zangla Palace, a simple yet historically significant fortress perched atop a hill. The old Zangla fort and Monastery offer panoramic views of the surrounding valley and mountains. This region was once ruled by the Zangla royal family, and visiting the palace gives you an insight into the region’s cultural and historical heritage.

After exploring Zangla, we continue driving on a rough and narrow mountain road that winds its way through dramatic gorges, rocky outcrops, and high barren mountains. This route is part of the newly opened road connecting Padum to Leh via Lingshed and Lamayuru, reducing the isolation of Zanskar and offering travellers an adventurous alternative to the traditional Kargil route, and we drive on a rough road following the river.

As we drive towards Lingshed, we cross high-altitude passes including Hanuma La Pass (approx. 4,800 metres / 15,748 feet), which offers breathtaking views of the Zanskar and Greater Himalayan ranges. The drive today is challenging but extremely rewarding, with jaw-dropping views at every turn. You will witness remote villages perched on mountain slopes, colourful prayer flags fluttering in the cold breeze, and traditional life continuing undisturbed for centuries.

By late afternoon, we arrive at Lingshed village, famous for its ancient monastery – Lingshed Gompa. Here we will stay in a home stay with a local family. Evening is free to relax and admire the views of the stunning barren landscape under the changing colours of dusk, immersing yourself in the remoteness and spiritual serenity of Lingshed village. Overnight stay in Lingshed for 1 night.

Meals Plan: Breakfast + Dinner Only.

Accommodation: Lingshed Village Mud Houses - 1 Night, is provided in traditional mud and stone houses with flat roofs and communal living spaces, reflecting the local architectural style and way of life. Guests are allocated simple private rooms.

Toilet facilities: are shared and usually consist of dry-pit Indian-style toilets.

Showers are not available, but a bucket of hot water will be provided daily for washing and freshening up.

Today, after an early breakfast, we begin our adventurous drive from Lingshed to Lamayuru (132 kms / 5.30 hrs), crossing some of the most remote and stunning parts of Ladakh. Our journey starts with the ascent to Singe La Pass (approx. 5,030 metres / 16,503 feet). This high mountain pass offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan ranges, with prayer flags fluttering against the vast blue sky. Singe La, meaning ‘Lion Pass’, is named for its grandeur and is one of the highest passes on this route.

After crossing Singe La, we descend towards Photoksar village, a picturesque settlement nestled amidst barren brown mountains with patches of green fields. We stop here to stretch our legs, take photos, and soak in the peaceful rural ambiance.

Continuing our drive, we climb up to Sirsir La Pass (approx. 4,820 metres / 15,813 feet), another high mountain pass known for its dramatic views and colourful prayer flags lining the trail. The pass offers stunning vistas of surrounding peaks and valleys, making it a perfect photography stop.

Descending from Sirsir La, the road winds along deep gorges and barren rocky landscapes as we approach Wanla Village, a small settlement known for its historic Wanla Monastery, dating back to the 14th century. The monastery has beautiful murals and statues and is an important site for locals in the region.

Finally, we continue our drive to Lamayuru, arriving by late afternoon. Lamayuru is famous for its ancient monastery and unique ‘Moonland’ landscape, resembling lunar craters due to centuries of erosion.

Upon arrival, check in to your hotel. The evening is free to relax,and enjoy the serene views and spiritual ambiance of this historic Buddhist settlement.

Please Note: Be aware that during mid-summer, due to increased glacier melt, rivers may flood and water can flow over the roads, making this route impassable at times. We will check the latest road and river conditions at Padum before departure. In case the roads are closed due to flooding, we will work out alternativeplan, which may involve changing the route and itinerary to ensure your safety and a smooth continuation of the journey.In such a situation, on Day 13, instead of driving from Padum to Lingshed, we will drive you from Padum to Kargil, and the following day make an easy start, driving you from Kargil to Lamayuru.

Meals Plan: Breakfast + Dinner Only.

After breakfast, we start our day with a visit to the Lamayuru Monastery, one of the oldest and most significant monasteries in Ladakh, founded in the 11th century by Mahasiddha Naropa. Also known as the "Moonland Monastery", it is dramatically perched on a hill overlooking a landscape that resembles the surface of the moon, with unique rock formations and eroded cliffs. Lamayuru Monastery belongs to the Drikung Kagyu sect of Tibetan Buddhism and is renowned for its ancient murals, thangkas, large prayer halls, and annual masked dance festival.

After exploring Lamayuru, we drive towards Alchi Monastery, located on the banks of the Indus River. Built in the 11^th century by the great translator Rinchen Zangpo, Alchi Monastery is the oldest monastery in Ladakh and is unique as it is built on flat ground rather than a hilltop. The monastery is famous for its magnificent Kashmiri-influenced wood carvings, intricate murals, and statues, reflecting a fusion of Indian and Tibetan artistic styles, making it an architectural gem and a UNESCO heritage candidate.

We then continue our drive to Likir Monastery, founded in the 11^th century and later re-established in the 15^th century. This beautiful monastery belongs to the Gelugpa (Yellow Hat) sect of Tibetan Buddhism and is known for its impressive 23-metre-high golden statue of Maitreya Buddha (Future Buddha), which sits majestically against the backdrop of barren mountains and blue skies. The monastery houses ancient manuscripts, thangkas, and beautiful statues of deities, offering insights into Ladakh's deep-rooted Buddhist traditions.

On our way back to Leh, we stop at the Sangam Viewpoint, where the emerald-green Zanskar River merges with the jade-coloured Indus River, creating a striking confluence that is a must-see natural wonder of Ladakh.

By lateafternoon, we arrive at our hotel in Leh. The rest of the day is free for you to relax, explore Leh’s bustling market, or do your final shopping for souvenirs, Pashmina shawls, prayer flags, and handicrafts, reflecting on the incredible journey through Ladakh and Zanskar.

Meals Plan: Breakfast + Dinner Only.

This morning after breakfast, you will be transferred to Leh Airport as per your flight schedule. Board your flight from Leh to New Delhi. Upon arrival at Delhi airport, you will be met by your driver, and we will proceed for a half-day sightseeing tour of New Delhi, including some of its iconic sights and the bustling local bazaars of Old Delhi. Later, check in to your hotel. Overnight stay in Delhi for 1 night.

Meals Plan: Breakfast + Dinner Only.

Today, as per your flight schedule, we will transfer you to New Delhi International Airport to board your flight back home or to your onward destination. This marks the end of your Road Trip to Zanskar and Ladakh Exploring Offbeat Ladakh .We hope you leave with wonderful memories and experiences to cherish for a lifetime.

Meals Plan: Breakfast Only.

End Of The tour and the services....!

This is the tour itinerary for the Road Trip to Zanskar and Ladakh Exploring Offbeat Ladakh which we run regularly. It can be altered & customised as we like to discuss plans with clients and can make suggestions about special places to visit depending on our clients' interests, and available time. You can get an idea of your holidays from the mentioned tour. The itinerary is planned in such a way that while travelling you get a good time to experience India and see the real life of Indian people from much closer.

Whether you choose to be on a privately guided tour to India or set off on a more independent trip, with local guides available wherever required, you can travel reassured, knowing our vast experience and provide you with around-the-clock support to smooth out anything unexpected. The safety and well-being of our guests is paramount.