Manali Leh Road Trip for 12 Days
Overview
Our journey kicks off in Manali, a charming town nestled amidst the majestic mountains. From here, we embark on a scenic drive towards Leh, soaking in the breathtaking views of valleys and mountains as we ascend in altitude. Upon reaching Leh, we take it easy on the first day, allowing ourselves to acclimatize to the high altitude.
The following days are filled with exploration as we delve into the rich Buddhist culture of Ladakh. We visit monasteries that stand as serene symbols of faith and tradition, immersing ourselves in their tranquil ambiance.
Venturing beyond Leh, we discover the wonders of the region, from the enchanting Nubra Valley with its rolling sand dunes to the captivating Pangong Lake, where crystal-clear waters mirror the surrounding peaks. The journey to Khardungla Pass, one of the world’s highest motorable roads, offers exhilarating vistas and a sense of achievement.
However, it’s not just the landscapes that leave a lasting impression. Interacting with the locals allows us to glimpse into their simple yet profound way of life. From sharing stories over cups of butter tea to learning about traditional customs, these encounters enrich our journey in unexpected ways.
As we bid farewell to Ladakh, we carry with us memories of its natural splendor and the warmth of its people, reminding us of the beauty of simplicity in a world often overshadowed by complexity.
Region | Himachal Pradesh and Ladakh, India |
Duration | 11 Nights/ 12 Days |
Max Altitude | 5607m/ 18390ft |
Best Season | Mid May – Oct |
Trip Itinerary
After breakfast, we go for a half day sightseeing tour of Manali, visiting Hadimba Devi and the Manu temple. In the afternoon, you may visit the Vaishisht hot sulphur spring. O/n in the hotel.
Post breakfast, we drive towards Leh, halting at Sarchu for the night. We shall cross Atal Tunnel, Keylong (3350m/ 10988ft) and Baralacha Pass (4890m/ 16039ft) before reaching Sarchu (4253m/ 13950ft), which is also the border area of the states of Himachal Pradesh (Lahaul) and Jammu & Kashmir (Ladakh). O/n in the tents.
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Leave early morning for Leh (255 Kms), through Nakeela and Lachangla Pass (5066m/ 16617ft). Halt for lunch at Pang. Post lunch, drive through Skyangchu Thang (One of the highest plateau on Earth, stretching 42 Kms), Tanglang La Pass (5361m/ 17585ft) and Indus Valley to reach Leh. O/n in the hotel.
Post breakfast, we move out for some monastery sightseeing, starting with Hemis, Thiksay and finally to Stok Palace and then back to Leh. O/n in the hotel.
After an early breakfast, we leave for Pangong Lake through Chang-La pass (5360m/ 17590ft). It is a beautiful experience to stay near the lake and watch the stars. O/n in the guest house.
Explore the beautiful lake in the morning and then drive back to Leh. Visit Leh market. O/n in the hotel.
After an early breakfast we depart for Nubra valley crossing the Khardung-La pass, the highest motorable road in the world at 5359m/ 17582ft, around 39kms from Leh. Reach Hundar village in Nubra valley and check in the guest house. After lunch and relaxing for some time, we move out to take a tour of Nubra valley visiting Diskit gompa, double humped camel ride and Hundar village. O/n in the guest house.
After your breakfast at the camp, visit the Samstanling monastery. Later we drive back to Leh crossing over Khardung La. Evening is free to visit the market. O/n in the hotel.
- Today’s Drive will be around 90kms.
- Terrain type (basic)
- After a relaxing breakfast, we will visit Phyang Monastery, Magnetic Hill, Pathar Sahib Gurudwara, Hall of fame (A museum in memory of the brave Indian soldiers), Likir Monastery.
- Sangam Point which is the confluence of Indus and Zanskar river.
- Overnight stay at Saspol Village
After an early breakfast, we drive to visit Lamayuru Gompa. After visiting Lamayuru, we drive back to Leh visiting Alchi and Rizong Gompa, known as the paradise for Meditation. O/n in the hotel.
Visit Shanti Stupa, Leh Palace, Spituk Gompa, Hall of Fame and around market. This is preferred to be a contingency day for unseen events or delays due to bad weather, flight cancellations etc. This can be used for resting or local sightseeing etc. O/n in the hotel.
Trip Include
- Food: Bed & Breakfast in Hotel/ Guest House/ Tents
- Accommodation: Hotel in Manali & Leh. Tents/ Guest House in Sarchu, Pangong, Uleytokpo & Nubra Valley on twin sharing basis
- Travel: Airport transfers & local sightseeing in the vehicle, as per itinerary
- Sightseeing, Guide Charges, Monastery & other Monument entry fees
- Local sim card for mobile phone in Leh
- Permit Charges
Trip Exclude
- Travel Fare from Delhi to Manali and Leh to Delhi
- Any kind of Extra Meals/ Drinks ordered
- Tips, Phone Calls & Laundry
- Any kind of Personal Expenses
- Cost incidental to any change in the itinerary/ stay due flight cancellation, bad weather, ill health, road block or any other factors beyond our control
- Government & Service Tax
- Insurance for accident, theft, medical, evacuation etc
- Any expenses not included above