The Lost Kingdoms: Srinagar , Zanskar & Ladakh Expedition

Day 01:  Pick and drive to Hotel, Half-day local sightseeing

Route: Srinagar Airport to Srinagar Hotel & Half-Day Sightseeing
Places Covered: Srinagar Airport – Dal Lake (12 km) – Mughal Gardens (6 km) – Shankaracharya Temple (5 km) – Lal Chowk (3 km)
Night Stay: Srinagar, Hotel/Houseboat
Altitude: 1,585 m (Srinagar)
Distance/Time Taken: 25 km (4-5 hours including sightseeing)
Road Condition: Excellent

Arrive at Srinagar Airport, where you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel or houseboat. Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu & Kashmir, is renowned for its pristine lakes, lush gardens, and rich cultural heritage.

After check-in and some relaxation, begin your half-day sightseeing tour. Start with a serene Shikara ride on Dal Lake, one of the most iconic experiences in Srinagar. Marvel at the floating gardens and houseboats as you glide through the calm waters.

Continue to the Mughal Gardens, including Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, and Chashme Shahi, which were built by Mughal emperors and showcase stunning Persian-style landscaping, cascading fountains, and vibrant flower beds.

Next, visit the Shankaracharya Temple, perched atop a hill overlooking the city. This ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva offers panoramic views of Srinagar and Dal Lake. The short climb to the temple is well worth it for the breathtaking scenery.

Before returning to your hotel, take a stroll through Lal Chowk, the bustling market area of Srinagar. Here, you can explore local handicrafts, purchase authentic Kashmiri Pashmina shawls, and savor traditional Kashmiri delicacies like Rogan Josh and Kahwa.

Spend the evening unwinding at your hotel or houseboat, enjoying the tranquil ambiance of Srinagar. Overnight stay in Srinagar, preparing for the next leg of your journey.

 

Day 02: Route: Srinagar- Kargil via Zojila pass (5,200 i.e 1,585)

Route/ Place covered : Srinagar – 80Kms- Sonamarg –26Kms-  Zorji La Pass-38 Kms  – Drass – 60Kms - Kargil war memorial- Kargil

Night Stay: Kargil, Hotel

Distance/Time Taken:  250 km (6-7 hrs  Approx)

Road condition: Zojilla Pass can sometime time consuming due to traffic (Otherwise smooth roads all the way to Kargil

After breakfast at Hotel/Houseboat. Our driver will pick up from your hotel to take you to Kargil the journey pass through the magnificent village Sonamarg (known as meadow of gold), take a break for a sip of tea and photograph and further continue to Kargil by crossing Zojila pass which is at the altitude of 11,575 ft. the road from Sonamargh to Drass is wet and rough. Drass “the second coldest inhibited places in the world) where you can explore Kargil war Memorial and spot the famous Tiger hill. Take a break for another cup of tea or Maggi. further drive along the Drass river till reach Kargil. check -in and over night stay at Kargil

Day 03: Route: Kargil to Sankoo (40 km)  to Parkachik (40 km)  to Rangdum (60 km) to Pensi La Pass (40 km)  to Padum (50 km)

Total Distance /Time taken:  230 Km / 6-7 hours

Road condition: smooth

Restaurant/Dhabas: Sankoo, Parkachik  Rangdum

Start your journey early morning from Kargil (6:00 AM) towards Sankoo, located 40 km away. The road is scenic, with lush green valleys and streams. After a short break at Sankoo, continue 40 km to Parkachik, home to the stunning Parkachik Glacier and offering views of the majestic Nun-Kun peaks, perfect for a brief stop.

From Parkachik, drive 60 km to Rangdum, a small settlement surrounded by rugged mountains. This leg of the journey takes around 2.5 hours due to rougher roads. Visit the Rangdum Monastery, perched on a hill with panoramic views, and take a lunch break here.

Next, ascend 40 km to Pensi La Pass, the gateway to Zanskar, located at an altitude of 4,400 meters. The pass offers spectacular views of the Drang Drung Glacier. From here, descend 50 km toward Padum, passing villages like Zangla and Sani, which showcase the unique culture of Zanskar. Reach Padum by late afternoon or evening, where you can explore attractions like Sani Monastery or relax at your accommodation.

This journey combines stunning landscapes and cultural landmarks, making it a memorable experience.

 

Day 04: Route: Padum to Bardan Monastery ( 12 Km) – Pune village ( 08 Km) – Ichar( 12 Km) -cha village ( 10 km)- Purne ( 8 km) trek to Phuktal  (9 Km)

Road condition: rough patches ( from Purne to Phuktal there is no jeep road , can be reach by foot only

Distance/Time Taken: 60 km one way (7-8 hrs including Sightseeing))

Restaurnat/Dhabas: Purne

The journey from Padum to Purne, covering approximately 55 kilometers, passes through a series of charming villages and notable monasteries, offering an immersive experience of Zanskar's beauty and culture.

Starting from Padum, the first significant stop is Bardan Monastery, located about 12 kilometers away. Perched on a hilltop, Bardan is a 17th-century Drukpa Kagyu monastery known for its massive prayer wheels and stunning views of the valley. The monastery makes for a peaceful stop, surrounded by the tranquility of the Zanskar landscape.

Continuing onward, the route leads to Mune Village, approximately 08 kilometers from Bardan. The serene Mune Monastery, belonging to the Gelugpa sect, is the main attraction here. Its quiet, traditional architecture and the surrounding rugged terrain make it an ideal place to pause and explore.

From Mune, the road proceeds for about 15 kilometers to Ichar Village. This small and scenic settlement sits along the Tsarap River, offering beautiful vistas and a glimpse into the traditional Zanskari lifestyle. The route becomes more adventurous here, with narrow paths and wooden bridges that add to the excitement of the drive.

Further ahead lies Cha Village, about 10 kilometers from Ichar. Cha is the last major settlement before reaching Purne, marking the transition into even more remote terrain. The village provides an excellent view of the surrounding mountains and river.

The final stretch from Cha to Purne covers approximately 8 kilometers. Purne, located at the confluence of two rivers, serves as the gateway to Phuktal Monastery. From here, travelers can begin a short trek to the iconic Phuktal Monastery, which is nestled dramatically in a cliffside cave, making it one of Zanskar's most breathtaking sights. Purne itself offers basic accommodations and a resting point for those heading further into the valley. Visit monastery and  back to padum

 

Day 05: Sighseeing to Stongde , Zongkhul Monastery

Route: Padum → Karsha Monastery: (10 km ) → Stongdey Monastery (18 Km) Stongdey → Sani Monastery: 20 km – Padum – 8 km

Total dikstance /Time taken: 55km/ 4-5 hours

Start your morning with a drive from Padum to Karsha Monastery, a distance of 10 kilometers that takes approximately 20-25 minutes. Karsha, the largest monastery in Zanskar, sits majestically on a hill overlooking the valley. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and houses centuries-old murals, statues, and a serene prayer hall, making it a must-visit.

After exploring Karsha, continue toward Stongdey Monastery, located 18 kilometers away, taking about 40-45 minutes by car. The road winds through scenic terrain, and Stongdey’s hilltop location provides spectacular views of the Zanskar Range. The monastery is known for its vibrant murals, peaceful courtyards, and its tranquil atmosphere, ideal for soaking in the spiritual essence of the region.

From Stongdey, head back toward Sani Village, about 20 kilometers away, which will take around 45 minutes. Sani is home to Sani Monastery, one of the oldest monasteries in Zanskar, and is believed to date back to the 1st century. The site is surrounded by ancient chortens and features beautifully carved stone idols, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich history and Buddhist culture. Spend some time exploring the village and admiring the peaceful countryside.

By late afternoon, return to Padum, covering the final stretch of 9 kilometers in about 20 minutes. Spend the evening exploring Padum Market, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk and browse through local shops. The market is a great place to pick up Zanskari handicrafts, woolen goods, and souvenirs while observing daily life in this quaint town.

The day combines cultural exploration, spiritual landmarks, and stunning natural beauty while keeping travel distances manageable for a relaxed experience.

 

Day 06: Route / Place covered: Padum to Zangla (35 kms) to Lingshed (39 kms) to Singe La( 38 kms) - to Photoksar – (26 kms) to Sirsir La ( 12 kms) to Wanla (39 kms)to Lamayuru  (17 kms) to Khaltsi (24 Kms)  – Sangam( 40 Kms)-  - Magnetic hill ( 5 km)  Gurduwara (3 kms)– Leh(30 Kms)

Night Stay:  Leh, Hotel

Distance/Time Taken: 308 km (10-12 hrs one-way Approx)

Road Condition: Mix of well-maintained and rough stretches:

Restaurent/ Dhabas: available at Lamayuru – Khalsi – Nimmu

The day begins early with a drive from Padum to Zangla, a scenic village 35 kilometers away, offering stunning views of the Zanskar Valley. A brief visit to Zangla Fort provides panoramic vistas before continuing toward Lingshed, 39 kilometers ahead. Known for its remote beauty, Lingshed is home to the serene Lingshed Monastery, an ideal stop amidst the rugged landscapes.

The road ascends to Singe La Pass at 16,590 feet, offering dramatic views of the Zanskar Range, followed by a descent to the picturesque village of Photoksar, 26 kilometers away. After crossing Sirsir La Pass, located 12 kilometers further, the route winds down to Wanla, a charming village known for its historic monastery.

From Wanla, the drive continues to Lamayuru, 17 kilometers away, famous for its ancient Lamayuru Monastery and the surreal “Moonland” terrain. This is a perfect spot for lunch at a local restaurant while exploring the monastery and enjoying the unique landscapes.

The journey then heads to Khaltsi, 24 kilometers ahead, for a short stop before proceeding to Sangam Point, where the Indus and Zanskar Rivers meet in a stunning visual display. Further along is Magnetic Hill, an optical illusion that makes vehicles appear to move uphill, and Gurudwara Pathar Sahib, a peaceful Sikh pilgrimage site.

The final stretch brings you to Leh, 30 kilometers from the Gurudwara. Arrive in the evening, check into your hotel, and relax after a long but rewarding journey through Ladakh’s breathtaking landscapes.

 

Day 07:  Route/ place covered: Shey –1 Km- 3 Idiot School – 5Km - Thiksey – 25 Km- Hemis (11562 i.e.3524mts)

Late afternoon visit :  visit Shanti Stupap and Leh palave

Night stay: Leh,Hotel

Distance/Time Taken: 45 km one way(6 to 7 hrs including Sightseeing)

After a leisurely  breakfast start your day to make the most of your time. Head to Sindhu Ghat, located around 10 km from Leh, to witness the confluence of the Indus and Zanskar rivers. You can also take a dip in the river if you like. Next, head to Shey Palace, which is about 15 km from Sindhu Ghat. This former summer palace of the Ladakh kings is known for its beautiful architecture and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. From Shey Palace, drive to the famous "3 Idiots" school, which is located in the village of Phunsukh Wangdu, also known as Rancho's School. This school was featured in the Bollywood movie "3 Idiots," which was filmed in Ladakh. After visiting the school, take a break for lunch at a local restaurant in the nearby area. Next, drive to Hemis Monastery, which is around 45 km from Rancho's School. This is one of the most famous and largest monasteries in Ladakh and is home to many ancient Buddhist artifacts and relics. After exploring the monastery, drive back to Leh and spend some time at hotel late afternoon visit

Shanti Stupa: Japanese Buddhist Organisation built the Stupa to promote world peace and commemorate the 2500 years of Buddhism on the hilltop of Leh

Leh Palace: Leh Palace, also known as Lachen Palkar Palace, is a former royal palace overlooking the town of Leh. King Singgee Namgyal built the castle during the 17th Century. The nine storeys building is now in ruins. The caste was the royal family's home before being exiled to Stok palace in the 1830s. Overnight stay in Leh

 

Day : 08: Route: Leh to Nubra via Khardong la top

Place covered : Leh – Khardung La Pass (40 KMs) – Khardung Village (34 KMs) – Khalsar (23 KMs) – Diskit (19 KMs)- Hunder ( 7 KMs) = 123 KMs

Night Stay: Nubra, Hotel/Camp (10,000 i.e. 3250mts)

Distance/Time Taken: 125Km.(4-5hrs one way Approx)

Road Condition:  Bad Around Khardung La for 15-20 Kms stretch  ( Rest smooth 2 lane, road  widening is under process  ) 

Food Recommendation : Dhabas available at North Pullu /Khardung Village /Khalsar / Diskit 

 

 

After breakfast, start driving towards Nubra Valley situated in the north of Leh, at about 10,000 feet above sea level. The road, which climbs up and over the Khardung La, at approximately 18,380 feet, is believed to be the highest motorable road in the world. From the pass, one can see all the way south over the Indus valley to seemingly endless peaks and ridges of the Zanskar range, and north to the giants of the Saser massif.  After crossing the Pass, you will see Khardung village, stop for lunch at Khardong or  Khalser and cross Deskit (the main villages of Nubra valley). Get engrossed in this colourful valley of flowers. Spend the night in hotel Eveing , you may see a Double Humped, Hairy and Bactrian Camels. Overnight stay  Nubra Valley( Hunder)

 

 

Day: 08: Route / Place Covered : Hunder – Diskit Village  ( 7KMs) – Khalsar Village(26 Kms)  – Agham (31 KMs)  – Shyok Village (48KMs)  – Durbuk(18 KMs) – Tangtse (9KMs) – Pangong Tso(34KMs)

Night Stay: Pangong, camp /Hotel (14270 i.e 4350 mts)

Distance/Time Taken: 150 km (5-6 hrs one way Approx)

Road Condition : Bad after Agyam ( Lot of slides , dry river bed , etc

 Dhabas: Khaltsar,  Tangtse, Pangong

After having scrumptious breakfast, we check-out from Camp or hotel and drive towards Diskit along the sand dune where you can ride on a bactrian camel (double humped) amidst the sand dunes of this high altitude desert with snowcapped mountains on the horizon. On the return stop at Diskit which is the headquarter town of Nubra Valley. Stroll around the bazaar observing the shops and local people going about their daily chores. Diskit is famous for old Buddhist Monastery, situated magnificently on a hilltop, facing the entire Valley. Later we drive towards Pangong Tso via Agham & Shyok Valley. Some of the road patches in areas are extremely tough (towards nubra side) in terms of road conditions but no doubt the journey is very scenic! Later we drive further towards Durbuk & Tangtse for Pangong you pass through few small villages of Changthang and finally you can enjoy this amazing view of the Pangong Lake situated at 14,000 feet (4,267 m). This famous blue brackish Lake of Pangong is 5/6 Kms wide and over 133 Kms long with half of it’s running the other side of the "Indo China Border". Upon arrival we check-in at Camp near Pangong Lake. Its magical to see the changing hues of Pangong Lake with the variation in the Sun intensity … Listen to the waves lapping the shores, watch the migratory birds and see the sun fade away at the horizon .. Whether it is a moon lit night or star studded night … The night sky is brilliant in Pangong .. One can spend hours looking at the sky …  ( Loose Fuel Available in the market ) .  Pangong Lake, a highest salt water lake in the world, shared by two countries India (25%) and China (75%), enjoy the beauty of Lake on banks of the Lake while appreciating the changing colours of fascinating high altitude Lake.    Over Night stay in Pangong

Day: 09: Pangong to Leh

Route: Pangong – Tangtse ( 35 KMs) –Changle ( 45 KMs) – Karu ( 45 KMs) – Thiksey(17KMs)- 3 Idiot school ( 4 KMs) –  Shey Palace ( 2 KMs) Leh ( 12 KMs)

Night Stay: Leh, Hotel (11562 i.e. 3524 mts

Distance/Time Taken: 150 km (5- 6hrs Approx)

Road Condition: Bad around Chang La

Dhabas available at Kharu , Food Recommendation: Have your meal at Cloud 9 or in Leh

Morning at leisure to explore the beauty of lake and later we drive back to Leh via Changla Pass 5486 Mtrs enroute visiting  Thiksey an impressive complex rising tier upon tier on a hill above the village and another 5 Kms driving through a picturesque landscape we reach to Shey Palace, The ancient capital of Ladakh & 3 Idiots Rancho School. Drive further to Leh and check-in at the Hotel for Overnight Stay.

Day: 10

Route: Leh to Airport (Departure)

After breakfast, get transferred to Leh Airport for boarding the flight to your destination. Tour Concludes with some wonderful long-lasting memories.

———————-Tour concludes—————————

Time to say good bye to fellow friend who going to be your friend for life..

Today you conquered mountains and yourself.

Himalayan Shepherd travels & Group of Hotel Thank you for having trust on us and choosing us for your tour arrangement company in Leh Ladakh