Srinagar Ladakh Road Trip for 13 Days

Today we explore the "Jewels of Kashmir." We drive 40 km to see the famous Mughal Gardens—Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh. They have beautiful flowers and old trees from the king's time. We also visit the Shankaracharya Temple on a hill for a full view of the city. The elevation is low, so you can walk easily. It is a day of colors and history before we move to the high mountains. Overnight stay at the hotel/houseboat in Srinagar.

We take a scenic drive to Gulmarg (2,650m), which is one of the most beautiful hill stations. The main highlight is the Gondola Cable Car, which takes you very high to Apharwat Peak (4,200m). You can see snow even in summer! We walk in the green meadows and see the world's highest golf course. After a full day of mountain views, we drive back 56 km to Srinagar. This day helps your lungs get ready for the Ladakh heights.

Today the real road adventure begins! we drive 204 km to Kargil. We cross the famous Zojila Pass (3,528m), which is a bit scary but very exciting. We stop at Sonamarg (Meadow of Gold) for tea. On the way, we visit Drass, which is the second coldest place in the world. You will see the Tiger Hill and Kargil War Memorial. We stay overnight in Kargil (2,676m). The landscape starts changing from green forest to rocky mountains.

We drive 210 km toward the heart of Ladakh. Today we cross two high passes: Namika La (3,700m) and Fotu La(4,108m). We stop at Lamayuru Monastery, also called "Moonland" because the soil looks like the surface of the moon! We see the Giant Buddha statue at Mulbekh on the way. By evening, we reach Leh city (3,500m). Your body will feel good because we came slowly from Srinagar. Overnight stay in a comfortable Leh hotel.

Today is a spiritual day. We visit the biggest monasteries near Leh. First is Hemis Monastery, hidden in a hidden valley, and then Thiksey Monastery, which looks like a giant palace on a hill. We also see the Shey Palace. The driving is easy (90 km total) and we stay at the same elevation (3,500m). It is a good day to learn about Buddhist culture and take many beautiful photos. Overnight stay in Leh.

YGet ready for the famous blue lake! We drive 225 km and cross Chang La Pass, the third highest road (5,360m). We reach Pangong Lake (4,225m) by afternoon. This lake is famous from movies and changes color from blue to green. You will stay in a deluxe camp near the water. It is very cold here, but the stars at night are amazing. This is the most famous part of any Srinagar to Ladakh road trip packages.

Wake up early for a beautiful sunrise at the lake—the colors are like magic! After breakfast, we drive back 225 km to Leh. We cross Chang La Pass again. We can stop at the Hemis National Park area to look for marmots (cute mountain animals). By evening, you reach Leh city. You can spend time in the market or rest at the hotel. Descending back to 3,500m makes you feel very energetic and relaxed for the night.

Today we touch the highest motorable road! We cross Khardung La Pass at 17,582 ft (5,359m). The views of the Karakoram mountains are huge. We reach Nubra Valley and visit Diskit Monastery with the giant gold Buddha. In the evening, we go to Hunder Sand Dunes for a ride on the Double-Humped Camels. Staying in a green village like Hunder (3,000m) is very peaceful. Total 125 km of world-class mountain driving.

In the morning, we visit the quiet Samstanling Monastery in Sumur village. Then we drive back over Khardung La Pass to Leh. You can take more photos at the top if you missed them yesterday. We reach Leh by afternoon. You have free time to explore the local cafes or do some shopping. It is a relaxing 125 km drive back to the city. Overnight stay in a Leh hotel for some well-deserved comfort.

We drive along the Indus River to see "magic" spots. First is Magnetic Hill, where your car rolls uphill by itself! Then we see Sangam, where the Zanskar and Indus rivers meet. We also visit the Hall of Fame museum to see the history of Ladakh. The road is very flat and smooth (140 km total). The elevation stays around 3,500m, so it is a very easy day for everyone. Overnight stay in Leh.

Today is your last day of sightseeing. We visit the white Shanti Stupa for a bird's eye view of the whole valley. Then we explore the 9-story Leh Palace, which was once the home of kings. You can walk through the old town and buy souvenirs like pashmina or apricots. The driving is very less (30 km), so you have plenty of time to enjoy the vibes of Leh. Farewell dinner at the hotel.