10-Day Leh Adventure via Chandigarh

Begin your Ladakh adventure with a scenic drive from Chandigarh to Manali. Enjoy lush green hills, winding roads, and stunning views as you pass through Bilaspur, Sundernagar, and Mandi. Reach Manali by evening and check into your hotel. Take some time to explore Mall Road or relax by the Beas River.

Start early to cross the Atal Tunnel and enter Lahaul Valley. As you ascend, the landscape shifts dramatically from pine forests to barren, rocky terrain. Drive along the Chandra River through Sissu and Keylong before reaching the quiet village of Jispa. Spend the night here to acclimatize to higher altitudes.

After breakfast, head to Sarchu, located on the border of Himachal Pradesh and Ladakh. This high-altitude plateau is surrounded by stark mountain ranges and offers a surreal camping experience. Take it slow today to help your body adjust to the altitude. Enjoy the silence of the mountains and starry skies.

Today is one of the most exciting days of the journey as you cross three high mountain passes — Nakee La (15,547 ft), Lachung La (16,616 ft), and Tanglang La (17,480 ft). The ever-changing terrain, from wide plains to narrow gorges and river crossings, makes it an unforgettable drive. Arrive in Leh by evening and rest.

After breakfast, explore Leh's cultural highlights. Visit the iconic Shanti Stupa, Leh Palace, and the vibrant local market. You can also tour monasteries like Spituk or Thiksey, known for their architecture and spiritual ambiance. This is a relaxed day meant for acclimatization and cultural immersion.

Drive to Nubra Valley through Khardung La, one of the world’s highest motorable roads (18,380 ft). Descend into the lush Nubra Valley, known for its desert-like landscapes, sand dunes, and double-humped Bactrian camels. Visit Diskit Monastery and enjoy an optional camel safari in Hunder before overnight stay in a camp or guesthouse.

Take a day trip to Turtuk, one of India’s northernmost villages located near the Pakistan border. Once part of Baltistan, this charming village offers unique culture, warm hospitality, and untouched beauty. Explore apricot orchards, stone houses, and mountain trails before returning to Nubra.

Today, take the scenic Shyok route to reach Pangong Tso, the stunning high-altitude lake famous for its shifting blue hues. En route, enjoy remote mountain views and wild terrain. Reach Pangong by afternoon and witness the magical sunset. Overnight stay in lakeside camps for a dreamlike night.

After enjoying the sunrise by the lake, drive back to Leh via the majestic Chang La Pass (17,586 ft). Stop at the peaceful Hemis Monastery or visit Rancho’s School (from the movie 3 Idiots) en route. Arrive in Leh by evening and enjoy your last night in the heart of Ladakh.

Today marks the end of your unforgettable Leh Ladakh journey. You can either board a flight from Leh to Chandigarh (if booked in advance) or choose to drive back with a night halt in Manali. Depart with incredible memories of the Himalayan frontier, enriched with experiences of nature, culture, and adventure.