9-Days Himalayan Drive: Chandigarh to Leh Ladakh
Day 1: Chandigarh to Manali (Approx. 8–9 hours drive)
Begin your Ladakh journey from Chandigarh with a scenic drive to Manali. Travel through Bilaspur, Sundernagar, and Mandi alongside the Beas River. Arrive in Manali by evening and check into your hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax or explore Mall Road for shopping and local eateries. Overnight stay in Manali.
Day 2: Manali – Local Sightseeing & Acclimatization
To help you adjust to the altitude, today is reserved for local sightseeing and rest. Visit iconic attractions such as Hadimba Temple, Old Manali, Vashisht Hot Springs, and Solang Valley (optional activities like ziplining or ATV rides). Use the day to rest well in preparation for the high-altitude drive tomorrow. Overnight stay in Manali.
Day 3: Manali to Jispa via Atal Tunnel & Sissu (Approx. 6–7 hours)
Post breakfast, begin your climb into the Himalayas. Drive through the Atal Tunnel, visit Sissu Waterfall, and pass through Keylong and Tandi (confluence of Bhaga and Chandra Rivers). Reach Jispa, a calm riverside village ideal for a night halt before heading into Ladakh. Overnight stay in a hotel or camp in Jispa.
Day 4: Jispa to Leh via Baralacha La & More Plains (Approx. 9–10 hours)
An adventurous day awaits. Drive through Zingzing Bar, Baralacha La Pass (4,890 m), Sarchu, and the remarkable Gata Loops and More Plains. Continue over Nakee La, Lachung La, and Tanglang La (5,328 m), the world’s second highest motorable pass. Arrive in Leh by evening. Overnight stay in Leh.
Day 5: Leh Local Sightseeing – Culture & History
Today, explore Leh and its rich cultural heritage. Visit Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, and Hall of Fame Museum. In the afternoon, head to Shey Palace, Thiksey Monastery, and the iconic Hemis Monastery. Return to Leh by evening and enjoy the local market or cafés. Overnight stay in Leh.
Day 6: Leh to Nubra Valley via Khardung La (Approx. 5–6 hours)
After breakfast, drive to Nubra Valley via the thrilling Khardung La Pass (5,359 m), one of the world’s highest motorable roads. On arrival, visit Diskit Monastery and enjoy a camel ride in the sand dunes of Hunder, where double-humped Bactrian camels roam. Overnight stay in Nubra Valley (camp or hotel).
Day 7: Nubra Valley to Pangong Lake via Shyok Route (Approx. 6–7 hours)
Today’s journey is scenic and adventurous as you head to Pangong Lake via Shyok village. Drive along riverbeds and high mountain trails to reach the breathtaking Pangong Tso, a high-altitude saltwater lake known for its ever-changing shades of blue. Spend the evening by the lake and sleep under the stars. Overnight stay in lakeside camps.
Day 8: Pangong Lake to Leh via Chang La Pass (Approx. 6 hours)
Wake up early to catch a surreal sunrise over Pangong Lake. Post breakfast, return to Leh via Chang La Pass (5,360 m). En route, stop at Druk White Lotus School (3 Idiots fame) and Sindhu Ghat. Arrive in Leh by afternoon and spend your final evening at leisure. Overnight stay in Leh.
Day 9: Leh to Chandigarh (via flight or drive starts)
Depending on your package choice:
Your 9-day Ladakh adventure concludes here, filled with thrilling landscapes, cultural marvels, and unforgettable Himalayan memories.
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