The Ladakh Excursion 2024
ABOUT THE EXPEDITION
DATE: 1st to 11th September | BOOKING CONTACT
“Leh-Ladakh, the land of soaring peaks and deep valleys, whispers tales of adventure to those who dare to listen. Blessed with a vast canvas of breathtaking vistas, it is a mystical domain that beckons intrepid travellers from around the globe. From the awe-inspiring beauty of its high-altitude lakes to the serenity of its centuries-old monasteries, every corner of this fascinating region is a story waiting to be discovered.
The silent cold deserts, crowned by the highest passes on Earth, make this place a fascinating paradox. Picture this: tranquil blue waters set amidst the harshest yet stunning landscapes, offering panoramic views that steal your breath away! As a kaleidoscope of colours paints the skies, the network of beautiful stupas and monasteries adds to the profound sense of peace, offering tranquil retreats for contemplation.
The majestic Pangong Tso, a high-altitude marvel nestled at an astounding height of 14,000 feet, mirrors the sky in its azure waters. This lake, formed from melted glaciers, is the region’s crown jewel and a sight to behold.
At Adventour, we make the seemingly impossible, possible. We believe in turning journeys into experiences, and experiences into cherished memories. We’ve meticulously curated our itinerary, ensuring a fine balance of adventure and comfort. Your stay will be marked by the best accommodations, offering a warm, cozy retreat after a day of explorations.
So, prepare for the ride of a lifetime, on a stylish journey across the ‘roof of the world.’ Traverse the rugged terrains, witness the fusion of mighty Himalayan rivers, and drive over passes that will make your heart skip a beat. This journey is an unforgettable testament to your endurance and passion for the mountains. With Adventour, every journey is an adventure. Ready for yours?”
Key Information
Join us on this ‘journey-in-style’ to the magnificent land known as ‘roof of the world’ and explore the unknown terrains, witness the confluence of various Himalayan rivers and drive over some of the world’s formidable passes.
Avail Early Bird Discount Till August 15
Day 1 - Welcome to Manali : Embark on a magical expedition
Welcome to Manali, the precious gem of the Himalayas! This picturesque town, nestled in the Beas River valley, enchants visitors with its cooler climes and snow-capped mountains. As our starting point for an unforgettable journey through Northern India’s awe-inspiring destinations,
we gather in Manali to unite with fellow adventurers and fuel our excitement for the road ahead.
Manali’s charm is accentuated by its lush green landscapes, gushing rivers, and vibrant local culture. As you settle into the comfortable Johnson’s Lodge, you’ll be greeted with warm hospitality and a scrumptious dinner, setting the stage for the exhilarating adventure that awaits. Embrace the serenity and beauty of this idyllic mountain town before we embark on the road trip of a lifetime.
Day 2 - From Manali to Jispa: Conquer Rohtang La
Awaken to a glorious Manali morning and fuel up with a delectable breakfast before setting off on our adventure at 10 a.m. sharp. Today, we conquer the first and most gentle pass of our journey, Rohtang La. As we leave civilization behind,
we’ll be enveloped by the stunning pines of Palchan and start our ascent to Rohtang, which stands proudly at 13,000 feet.
Crossing Rohtang La feels like entering a whole new world, surrounded by towering peaks, and glaciers. Our descent brings us to the charming Koksar, home to a small dhaba serving hot chai. From Koksar, we continue towards sissu, which will be our lunch stop for the day at the famous PLM Dhara hotel.
Post lunch we continue our journey to Jispa, traversing the immaculate tarmac maintained by the BRO, and passing through the splendor of yellow rosewood trees with the Chenab River gushing alongside.
Day 3 - The Road to Padum: Venturing into the Mystical Zanskar Valley
As the sun’s first rays kiss the mountain peaks, we embark on an early morning journey toward Padum. Brace yourself for the most challenging part of our adventure as we traverse the newly constructed Darcha-Zanskar road.
Today, we ascend to the awe-inspiring Shingo La at 16,500 feet. Approaching Shingo La, roads give way to rugged paths carved by adventurers before us. The pass offers a breathtaking 360-degree view of snow-capped peaks cradling a turquoise lake at its base.
Descending from the pass and crossing dry riverbeds, we reach the base of of the holy Gumbok-Ronjan peak where we’ll stop for a quick tea break. Then we continue on one of the most scenic roads that you will ever see towards Purney where we will be served hot lunch with lively conversation about our incredible journey thus far. We then leave the turquoise Zanskar River behind, climbing the enigmatic sandy terrains of Zanskar towards our destination: Padum, a serene haven nestled within Ladakh.
Day 4 - Padum to Kargil: Traversing the Enigmatic Suru Valley
At 90km from Padum, Penzi La offers stunning views of Ta Tso Lake and the majestic Drang Drung glacier. Just 20km from Penzi La lies Rangdum, a remote village where we stop for lunch.
Continuing along the smooth dirt road for another 50 km, we meet the tarmac that leads us to our splendid Kargil hotel, The Kargil. Today’s journey offers an unforgettable blend of pristine landscapes and a glimpse into the lives of locals living in remote villages.
Day 5 - Kargil to Leh: A Scenic Drive Through History and Rugged Beauty
Today’s route from Kargil to Leh takes us through breathtaking landscapes, showcasing the rugged beauty of the Himalayas and the region’s historical significance. As we travel close to the Line of Control, expect to encounter large
army units and marvel at the strategic importance of this road for India.
The journey reveals untouched landscapes, historical landmarks, and the magnificent Indus River. As we traverse this enchanting route, we immerse ourselves in the captivating atmosphere and marvel at the sheer scale of the mountains and valleys that unfold before us.
Day 6 - Leh: A Monastic Pilgrimage - The Monastery Necklace
Today, we delve into the spiritual heart of Leh as we explore its most renowned monasteries. Our journey begins at the majestic Thiksey Monastery, a 15th-century architectural marvel steeped in history and tradition.After our visit to the Thiksey Monastery,
we head to the Ladakh Sarai Resort for a delicious lunch. Post lunch we arrive at the legendary Hemis Monastery, the largest and wealthiest of all Ladakhi monasteries. The monastery’s architecture is a marvel in itself, a perfect blend of Tibetan tradition and spiritual solemnity.This immersive experience offers a unique glimpse into the region’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage, leaving us with memories to last a lifetime.
After returning from Hemis Monastery you are free to explore Leh’s local market and drive around the town. You can find some beautiful traditional clothing and jewellery that you can take home with you.
Day 7 - Leh to Nubra Valley: Journey to the Confluence of Beauty
We leave Leh early after breakfast for Nubra Valley, a mesmerizing destination where the Shyok and Siachen rivers converge. To reach Nubra, we traverse the world’s highest motorable road, passing through Khardung La at a soaring 18,000 feet.
Upon arrival, we have the rest of the day to embrace the valley, which separates Ladakh from the Karakoram Ranges and the mighty Siachen Glacier.
The Sasser Pass and renowned Karakoram Pass, connecting Nubra with Xinjiang, China, lie nearby. With its striking landscapes, jagged mountains, and distinctive double-humped camels, Nubra Valley promises an unforgettable adventure for travelers worldwide.
Day 8 - Nubra to Pangong Tso: A Mesmerizing Mosaic of Blue
Departing from Nubra Valley very early with a packed breakfast, we set our sights on the awe-inspiring Pangong Tso. This journey unveils a stunning landscape of unparalleled beauty, leading us to the crystal-clear lake situated at an altitude of 14,270 feet.
Spanning over 604 sq km, Pangong Tso’s mesmerizing blue waters mirror the sky and mountains, creating an ethereal, picture-perfect scene. The serenity of the lake and its surroundings offers a profound sense of tranquillity and wonder. This unforgettable day brings us closer to nature’s masterpieces and leaves an indelible mark on our hearts.
Day 9 - Pangong to Hanle: A Starlit Odyssey
Embark on a mystical journey from the azure tranquility of Pangong Tso to the secluded haven of Hanle. Traverse through landscapes where each turn reveals a canvas of vibrant hues and untold stories. An evening drive to the Hanle observatory is a must,
located at an altitude of staggering 14,764 feet,it is a high altitude observatory operated remotely by Indian Institute of Astrophysics. As night falls, Hanle transforms into a celestial theatre, with stars narrating tales of the cosmos. Embrace the silence that whispers the ancient secrets of the universe.
Day 10 - Hanle - Demchok - Hanle: Through the Roof of the World
Day 11 - Hanle to Manali: The Homeward Trail
magnitude of what you’ve experienced. Arrive in Manali, where the end of this journey marks the beginning of countless tales to tell.
Essential Tips for Traveling to Leh-Ladakh
Weather and Clothing: September in Leh-Ladakh can be quite unpredictable, with both warm and cold temperatures. Pack a mix of light and warm clothing, including layers, thermals, and a good quality jacket to prepare for varying weather conditions.
Altitude Sickness: Leh and Pangong Lake are situated at high altitudes, so it’s crucial to acclimatize properly. Take it easy for the first couple of days, stay hydrated, avoid excessive physical exertion, and consider carrying altitude sickness medication after consulting with a doctor.
Road Conditions: The roads in Ladakh can be challenging, with rough terrains and high mountain passes. Be prepared for long journeys, carry spare tires, basic repair tools, and know-how to change a tire in case of emergencies.
Fuel Availability: Fuel stations are limited in Ladakh, so it’s advisable to carry extra fuel in jerry cans to ensure you don’t run out of fuel during long stretches between stations.
Water and Hydration: Carry a sufficient amount of water with you, as dehydration is common at high altitudes. It’s advisable to drink bottled or purified water to avoid any health issues.
Mobile Network and Connectivity: The mobile network coverage in Ladakh can be sporadic, with limited connectivity in remote areas. Inform your loved ones about the potential lack of communication during your trip.
Photography and Respect for Local Culture: Ladakh offers stunning landscapes, monasteries, and cultural experiences. Respect the local culture and customs, seek permission before taking photographs, and be mindful of preserving the environment.
Travel Insurance: It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, and unexpected incidents during your journey. Ensure your insurance policy includes coverage for high altitude destinations.
