Leh Ladakh, India: A Heavenly Paradise

"Land of High Passes," a captivating journey awaits in Leh Ladakh.

This 7-day itinerary, spanning 5 nights and 6 days in Leh Ladakh and 1 night and 2 days in New Delhi, aims to immerse you in the essence of this breathtaking region.

The goal of this trip is to experience the unique charm of Leh Ladakh, a land of towering mountains, pristine lakes, and ancient monasteries.

Every journey is an opportunity to open up new experiences in life.

Travel Plans and Destinations

October 13th: Bangkok to New Delhi
October 14th: New Delhi to Leh >> Stay at Padma Hotel (Leh) | Leh Palace | Shanti Stupa & Main Bazaar | Namgyal Tsemo Gompa | Leh City Tour
October 15th: Hemis Monastery | Thiksey Monastery | Shey Palace
October 16th: Rivers Indus and Zanskar | Lamayuru Monastery Moonland | Alchi Monastery | Likir Monastery
October 17th: Nubra Valley >> Stay at Siachen Hotel (Nubra Valley) | Khardong La Pass | Diskit Monastery | Hunder Sand Dunes
October 18th: Pangong Lake | Chang La Pass | Return to Padma Hotel (Leh)
October 19th: Leh to New Delhi >> New Delhi City Tour | India Gate | Rashtrapati Bhavan | Sarojini Nagar Market
October 20th: Taj Mahal – New Delhi – Bangkok

Leh: Accommodation and Tour Options

Leh offers a variety of accommodation options, including hotels and guesthouses.

Organized Tours:

  • Pros: Convenient and comprehensive, with all arrangements handled by the tour operator.
  • Cons: Can be expensive and limit flexibility.

Independent Travel:

  • Pros: More affordable and allows for greater customization.
  • Cons: Requires arranging local guides, accommodation, and transportation.

Planning Your Trip:

  • Research local guides: Find a reputable guide who can help plan your itinerary, arrange accommodation, and provide transportation.
  • Book flights in advance: Secure your flights to Leh well ahead of your trip.

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Leh: A Little Tibet in the Himalayas

Leh, the capital of Ladakh, is nestled in the Kashmir region of northern India. Often referred to as "Little Tibet," this high-altitude city (12,000 ft) boasts stunning mountain scenery and a rich cultural tapestry.

Influenced heavily by Tibetan culture, Leh's population comprises Tibetans, Indian and Pakistani visitors, and a diverse mix of ethnicities. Unlike the bustling city life of New Delhi, Leh's inhabitants exude warmth, kindness, and a laid-back charm.

Life in Leh revolves around the breathtaking natural surroundings, with valleys, lakes, and deserts offering endless exploration opportunities. The city serves as a gateway to hidden Himalayan trails, traversing the majestic Himalayas and the Karakoram range.

For those seeking an escape into the extraordinary, Leh offers a unique blend of breathtaking landscapes, diverse cultures, and a peaceful way of life.

Note:

Upon arrival in Leh Ladakh on the morning of October 14th, the guide will advise you to rest at the hotel for the first half of the day to acclimatize to the high altitude, air pressure, and terrain. It is crucial to take things slowly to avoid altitude sickness. After lunch, you can begin exploring the area.

Vehicles used throughout the trip

October 14th

Leh Palace: A Majestic View of Leh City

Leh Palace, perched atop a hill, offers breathtaking panoramic views of Leh city. (Show your Thai passport for entry; the entrance fee is 25 rupees per person.)

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Namgyal Tsemo Gompa

Located on a high ridge behind Leh Palace, Namgyal Tsemo Gompa was built in 1430 by King Tashi Namgyal. This small monastery features a 13.7-meter-tall Maitreya Buddha statue and intricate wall paintings.



Shanti Stupa & Main Bazaar: A White Pagoda Atop a Mountain in the Heart of Leh

The Shanti Stupa, also known as the Peace Pagoda, is a whitewashed monument perched atop a hill in the heart of Leh, Ladakh.



Leh City: A Safe Haven with Vibrant Markets

Leh City, the capital of Ladakh, is renowned for its tranquility and safety, making it one of the most secure destinations in India. Beyond its scenic beauty, Leh offers a vibrant market scene that attracts tourists and locals alike. This bustling marketplace, reminiscent of a pedestrianized street, serves as a popular evening haunt for visitors seeking souvenirs and local goods. The market boasts a diverse array of shops, primarily specializing in紀念品.

October 15


Shey Palace, also known as "Shey Phodrang," is an ancient palace in Leh, situated on a hilltop in Shey, 15 kilometers south of Leh in Ladakh.



Hemis Monastery, also known as "Hemis Gompa," is a renowned ancient monastery in Ladakh, India. This Himalayan monastery, belonging to the Drukpa lineage, is situated in Hemis, Ladakh, 45 kilometers from Leh. The present monastery was constructed in 1630 by King Sengge Namgyal of Ladakh.




Thiksey Monastery, also known as "Tikse Monastery," is a gompa belonging to the Gelugpa sect of Tibetan Buddhism. It is situated on a hill in the town of Thiksey, approximately 19 kilometers from Leh in Ladakh.

October 16th

The Confluence of the Indus and Zanskar Rivers

The Indus and Zanskar Rivers converge at a picturesque location, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. The Sangam Viewpoint offers a breathtaking view of the confluence, where the two rivers, each with its distinct color, merge into one.

During specific seasons, the confluence presents a remarkable sight. In the spring, when the snow melts, the Zanskar River carries a milky turquoise hue, contrasting vividly with the Indus River's jade green. In the winter, the rivers may even freeze, transforming the confluence into a frozen wonderland.



Moonland: A Must-See Scenic Wonder in Lamayuru

Moonland, also known as "Moon Land," is a breathtaking scenic viewpoint in Lamayuru, serving as a prominent landmark for the region. Before reaching Lamayuru, visitors are compelled to stop and capture the mesmerizing landscape, as missing this opportunity would be akin to not visiting Lamayuru at all.



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Lamayuru Monastery: A Moonland Jewel

Nestled amidst the crimson hues of Moonland, Lamayuru Monastery, also known as "Yuru Monastery," stands as a testament to traditional Tibetan artistry. Situated near the village of Lamayuru, along the Srinagar-Leh Highway, this architectural marvel offers breathtaking views, albeit at a considerable distance from Leh. Approximately 100 kilometers from the city, Lamayuru Monastery beckons travelers with its serene beauty and rich cultural heritage.



Alchi Monastery, also known as "Alchi Gompa," is located in the village of Alchi, 70 kilometers from Leh. The monastery is renowned for its intricate wood carvings, both inside and outside the building (an entrance fee is required for interior access). The rear of the monastery offers stunning views of the flowing river, making it a picturesque and worthwhile destination. If you visit Alchi Monastery, consider exploring nearby attractions such as Likir Monastery.


Villagers are harvesting sweet potatoes.


Rear view of the temple

Note:



Likir Monastery, also known as "Likir Gompa," is a Buddhist monastery located in northern Ladakh, India. Situated approximately 52 kilometers west of Leh, it rests on a small hill in the valley of Likir village, near the Indus River. The monastery is about 9.5 kilometers north of Srinigar on the Leh Highway. Its prominent feature is a large statue of Buddha located behind the monastery.


Side view of the temple

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October 17th

Nubra Valley: A Journey Requiring Preparation

Nubra Valley, also known as "Nubra Valley," is a destination that necessitates packing warm clothing for an overnight stay. Situated at an altitude of 3,048 meters above sea level, this peaceful valley nestled within the mountains rests along the banks of the Shyok River. The Shyok River flows through the northern region of Ladakh in India, intersecting with numerous streams. As autumn transitions into winter, many hotels and shops begin to close due to the plummeting temperatures, which can reach below freezing. This period also sees a decline in tourist activity. Therefore, travelers visiting during this time should ensure they have sufficient food and warm clothing.

Accommodation at Siachen Hotel (Nubra Valley) in Diskit, Ladakh J&K (M) 9419372016. The originally booked hotel was closed, necessitating a new accommodation (arranged by the guide).

**Travel:** Leh is approximately 117.6 kilometers from Diskit.


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Khardong La Pass, also known as "Khardung La Pass", is the highest motorable road in the world, with an elevation of 5,359 meters (18,380 feet) above sea level. It is located in the Ladakh region of the Jammu and Kashmir state, India. Situated north of Leh, it serves as a gateway to the Shyok and Nubra valleys. The pass is approximately 39.7 kilometers from Leh.

We encountered snow at the highest point of the trail.



Diskit Monastery: A Majestic Tibetan Buddhist Temple

Diskit Monastery, the largest in the region, is a magnificent Tibetan Buddhist temple of the Gelugpa (Yellow Hat) sect. Dedicated to the Maitreya Buddha, the temple offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and is a must-visit for anyone interested in Buddhist culture.

Key Features:

  • Largest Monastery: Diskit Monastery holds the distinction of being the largest monastery in the Nubra Valley.
  • Maitreya Buddha: The temple houses a magnificent statue of the Maitreya Buddha, a future Buddha prophesied to appear on Earth.
  • Gelugpa Sect: Diskit Monastery belongs to the Gelugpa sect, also known as the Yellow Hat sect, one of the four major schools of Tibetan Buddhism.
  • Entrance Fee: A nominal entrance fee of 30 rupees is charged for visiting the monastery.
  • Scenic Views: The monastery boasts breathtaking views of the majestic Himalayan mountains, offering a serene and picturesque setting.


Hunder Sand Dunes, also known as "Hunder Desert," is a popular tourist destination for camel rides, with an entrance fee of 60 rupees and a riding fee of 200 rupees per person (15 minutes riding time). It is located in the Nubra Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, approximately 7 kilometers from Diskit Monastery and 2-3 kilometers from the village.

October 18


We packed our belongings and set off early in the morning, around 7 am, heading towards Pangong Lake. The scenery along the way was breathtaking, offering numerous opportunities for photo stops.


The Shyok River, a glacial stream that flows towards Pangong Lake, is a scenic route often frequented by herds of yaks, horses, and sheep. While marmots, rodent-like creatures, are known to inhabit the area, they were not spotted during the October visit.



Pangong Lake: A High-Altitude Himalayan Gem

Pangong Lake, also known as "Pangong Tso" or "Pangong Lake", is a high-altitude saltwater lake nestled at an impressive 4,350 meters above sea level. This stunning body of water, often referred to as the "Tears of the Himalayas", offers a breathtaking spectacle for visitors.

The ideal time to visit Pangong Lake is during the summer months, from June to September. During this period, the weather is pleasant, making it perfect for exploring the lake's beauty. However, October marks the onset of winter, bringing colder temperatures and the closure of many accommodations and restaurants. This period, known as the "low season", sees a significant decrease in tourist activity, making it a less crowded and potentially more challenging time to find lodging and food options. Nonetheless, Pangong Lake remains a popular destination throughout the year, attracting visitors eager to witness its unique charm.

Journey:

Traveling from Nubra Valley to Pangong Lake takes approximately 5-6 hours, covering a distance of 130 kilometers. The route is unconventional, winding through mountainous terrain for most of the journey.

We arrived at Pangong Lake around 11:00 am and spent about an hour and a half admiring its beauty before heading back to Leh. On our return journey, we took a different route, which had a separate intersection from the one we took on the way there. (Therefore, if you see any beautiful spots on the way there, be sure to stop and take pictures.)

**Travel:** A 154-kilometer journey from Pangong Lake back to Leh, arriving at the hotel just as darkness fell. Most of the day was spent on the road, immersed in the experience of travel.


Chang La Pass: A High-Altitude Route in India

Chang La Pass, also known as "Changla Pass," is a high-altitude mountain pass located in the Ladakh region of India. It serves as a crucial route for travelers returning from Pangong Lake to Leh. Maintained by the Indian Army due to its proximity to the Chinese border, Chang La Pass is considered one of the highest motorable roads in India.

Note: Some individuals utilize this route for round trips to Pangong Lake.

We encountered snow at the highest point of the trail.


Indian food will not be reviewed or discussed. We were unable to eat their local cuisine and prepared our own meals.

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This concludes our journey to Leh Ladakh and New Delhi (to be continued in Part 2).

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Precautions for High Altitude in Ladakh

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Caution:

At an altitude of 5,359 meters above sea level (Ladakh's highest point), the atmospheric oxygen level is significantly low. This can lead to altitude sickness, causing symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, muscle weakness, shortness of breath, nausea, loss of appetite, and insomnia. The severity of these symptoms varies and is not dependent on age, gender, or physical fitness.

To prevent altitude sickness, it is recommended to take Diamox medication at least 24 hours before arrival and to stay well-hydrated. Diamox helps shorten the acclimatization period at high altitudes. However, individuals with allergies or certain pre-existing medical conditions should consult a doctor before taking Diamox, as it may have side effects such as numbness or tingling in the extremities, altered taste perception, and skin rashes.


When is the best time to visit Leh Ladakh?
**Winter in Leh: November to March**
**Summer in Leh: June to August**
**October is the low season in Leh, as it is the autumn season leading into winter. The trees start to turn golden yellow, but the temperature is already below zero. (This is a popular time for Thai tourists to visit, as it coincides with their holidays.)

Vocabulary (used in some parts of India):

  • Chapati (pronounced "cha-pa-ti"): A thin flatbread cooked on a griddle (arguably the most delicious Indian food).
  • Jullay (pronounced "ju-lay"): A greeting or farewell used at any time of day.
  • Namaste (pronounced "na-mas-te"): A greeting or expression of respect used by Nepalese and Indian people on all occasions. It can also be used as a greeting and farewell, and is commonly used in northern India.

Travel: Jet Airways (4 flights)

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Written by: Namee Be Bear

#leh ladakh#nubra valley#taj mahal#lay#leh#india#mountain#india#photography tour
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