Day 01: ARRIVAL IN LEH & ACCLIMATIZATION

• Morning: Arrive at Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (IXL). A tour representative will be there to greet you and transfer you to your hotel.
  
  
• Instruction: The most critical instruction for this day is to rest completely. Do not plan any sightseeing or strenuous activity. This is non-negotiable for proper acclimatization. Stay in your room, have light meals, and drink plenty of water. Your body needs to adjust to the 11,500-foot altitude.
• Evening (Optional): If you feel well and have no symptoms of altitude sickness (headache, nausea), you may take a very short, slow walk around the immediate vicinity of your hotel.

Day 02: LEH LOCAL SIGHTSEEING

• Instruction: Today is for gentle sightseeing around Leh to further aid in your acclimatization. The travel distances are short, and the altitude gain is minimal.
  
  
• Sightseeing: Your driver will take you on a half-day tour of Leh's iconic attractions.
  
  
• Hall of Fame: A museum dedicated to the Indian Army, showcasing their history and bravery in the region.
• Magnetic Hill: A unique "gravity hill" where optical illusions make it appear as though vehicles are moving uphill on their own.
• Gurudwara Pathar Sahib: A beautiful Gurudwara managed by the Indian Army, revered by both Sikhs and Buddhists.
• Confluence of the Indus & Zanskar Rivers: Witness the spectacular meeting point of the two rivers at Nimmu, where their distinct colors merge.
• Shanti Stupa: Drive up to this peaceful white-domed stupa for a breathtaking panoramic view of Leh city and the surrounding Stok mountain range, especially beautiful during sunset.

Day 03: LEH – NUBRA VALLEY

• Travel Details: This is a long but rewarding drive of approximately 120 km, taking about 4-5 hours. You will cross Khardung La Pass, one of the highest motorable passes in the world.
  
  
• Instruction: Start early to avoid traffic at the pass. At the top of Khardung La, do not spend more than 15-20 minutes as the oxygen level is very low.
• Sightseeing:
  
  
• Khardung La Pass: Stop briefly to take photos and soak in the achievement of crossing this high-altitude pass.
  
  
• Diskit Monastery: The oldest and largest monastery in Nubra Valley, perched on a hilltop with a stunning 106-foot Maitreya Buddha statue.
  
  
• Hunder Sand Dunes: Witness the surreal sight of cold desert sand dunes. Here you can also opt for a ride on the unique double-humped Bactrian camels (at your own cost).
  
  
• Dinner & Stay: Overnight stay at a camp or hotel in Nubra Valley.

Day 04: NUBRA VALLEY – PANGONG LAKE

• Travel Details: Instead of returning to Leh, you will take the direct route from Nubra Valley to Pangong Lake via the Shyok River route. This drive is approximately 140 km and takes about 5-6 hours. This route saves an entire day of travel.
  
  
• Instruction: Be prepared for a mix of smooth and rough roads. The scenery is spectacular, but this is a very remote journey with limited facilities.
  
  
• Sightseeing:
  
  
• Shyok Valley: The drive along the Shyok River offers stunning, rugged landscapes.
• Pangong Tso: Arrive at the iconic high-altitude lake. The changing hues of its crystal-clear water against the backdrop of barren mountains are a sight to behold.
  
  
• Dinner & Stay: Overnight stay at a camp near Pangong Lake. The night will be very cold, so be sure to dress warmly.

Day 05: PANGONG LAKE – LEH & DEPARTURE

• Morning: Wake up early to witness the sunrise over Pangong Lake, a truly magical experience.
  
  
• Travel Details: Begin your drive back to Leh via Chang La Pass (17,688 ft). The distance is approximately 160 km and takes about 5-6 hours.
  
  
• Sightseeing:
  
  
• Chang La Pass: Stop briefly for photos.
• Thiksey Monastery: If time permits, you can stop at this magnificent monastery, which resembles the Potala Palace of Lhasa.
  
  
• Afternoon: You will be transferred directly to Leh Airport for your departure, concluding your unforgettable trip to Ladakh.

Important Information & Travel Instructions

• Acclimatization is Paramount: Your top priority on Day 1 is to acclimatize. Do not rush, do not exert yourself, and avoid alcohol and smoking. Altitude sickness can affect anyone, regardless of fitness level.
  
  
• Inner Line Permit (ILP): You will need an Inner Line Permit to visit Nubra Valley and Pangong Lake. It's best to arrange this in advance with your tour operator or apply online. It will be checked at checkpoints.
  
  
• Packing Smart: Dress in layers. Pack warm clothing, including a fleece jacket, a down jacket, and thermals, as temperatures drop significantly, especially at night and on high-altitude passes. Sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and high-SPF sunscreen are essential due to the harsh sun.
  
  
• Health: Carry a basic first-aid kit with pain relievers, antiseptic wipes, motion sickness tablets, and any personal medication. Keep yourself hydrated by drinking plenty of water, but avoid over-hydrating.
  
  
• Connectivity: Mobile network connectivity is unreliable in remote areas like Nubra Valley and Pangong Lake. BSNL and Jio are the most reliable networks, but expect limited service.