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Shikaras gathered on the water of Dal Lake

Himalaya · Adventure · Culture

Kashmir to Ladakh Grand Tour

Srinagar, Zanskar, Leh and a Himalayan adventure

See the day-by-day
Duration
20 days · 19 nights
Halts
12
Delhi to Delhi
Price
On request
quoted to your dates

The journey

Journey through Kashmir, Zanskar & Ladakh on a spectacular Himalayan adventure tour.

Experience Srinagar houseboats, Pahalgam valleys, Zanskar monasteries, and Leh landscapes. Explore Nubra Valley and Pangong Lake with stunning views. This Kashmir Ladakh tour package perfectly blends culture, nature, and high-altitude exploration for an unforgettable travel experience.

Highlights

What you will remember

  • Houseboat nights on Dal Lake, and a shikara at sunset

  • The Mughal gardens of Nishat and Shalimar

  • Pahalgam’s valleys, and the Gulmarg gondola

  • Zanskar: Karsha, Sani, Bardan, and the trek to Phuktal

  • Over Khardung La to Nubra, and out to Turtuk

  • Pangong Lake, and the monasteries of Leh

The route

13 halts, in order

  1. Delhi
  2. Srinagar2 nights
  3. Pahalgam2 nights
  4. Srinagar2 nights
  5. Sonmargpass through
  6. Kargil1 night
  7. Padum3 nights
  8. Lamayuru1 night
  9. Leh2 nights
  10. Nubra Valley2 nights
  11. Pangong Lake1 night
  12. Leh1 night
  13. Delhi

Experiences

The moments it is built around

Everything else on this page is logistics. These are the reasons to come.

  • Shikaras gathered on Dal Lake

    A houseboat on Dal Lake

    A shikara through the floating gardens, and the sunset from the deck.

  • A monastery village spread down a bare hillside

    Phuktal

    A drive to Purne, then a trek to the monastery built into a cliffside cave.

  • A group of travellers in down jackets at the sign on Khardung La

    The top of the road

    Khardung La, one of the highest motorable roads in the world, on the way to Nubra.

  • Pangong Lake reflecting the mountains at dusk

    Pangong

    The lake’s blues changing with the sky, and a night on its shore.

A Ladakhi woman in a turquoise perak and coral necklace

Himalaya · Adventure · Culture

Srinagar, Zanskar, Leh and a Himalayan adventure

20 days, 19 nights

The route, day by day

Every halt, every overnight and every drive, published in full.

  1. Delhi
  2. Srinagar
  3. Pahalgam
  4. Srinagar
  5. Sonmarg
  6. Kargil
  7. Padum
  8. Lamayuru
  9. Leh
  10. Nubra Valley
  11. Pangong Lake
  12. Leh
  13. Delhi
  1. The crowded market street of Chandni Chowk, Old Delhi

    01

    Overnight Delhi

    Arrival, and Old Delhi

    Arrive in Delhi, the heart of India, where a Rang Travels representative will welcome you at the airport with a personalised name placard. Enjoy a comfortable transfer to your hotel in this dynamic city.

    After check-in, begin your journey with an exploration of Old Delhi, including a rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk, famous for its bustling markets and aromatic lanes. Visit the iconic Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India, followed by a peaceful stop at Raj Ghat, the memorial of Mahatma Gandhi.

    Experience the rich culture, history, and vibrant local life before returning to your hotel.

  2. Boatmen trading vegetables from shikaras on Dal Lake

    02

    Overnight Srinagar

    Flight Delhi – Srinagar

    To Srinagar, and a houseboat on Dal Lake

    Begin your journey with a morning flight from Delhi to Srinagar, the heart of Kashmir. As you arrive, experience the refreshing change with cool weather, scenic landscapes, and peaceful surroundings. Located along the Jhelum River and surrounded by mountains, Srinagar is known for its natural beauty.

    You will be transferred to a traditional houseboat on Dal Lake, offering a unique and authentic Kashmiri stay experience. In the afternoon, enjoy a relaxing Shikara ride on Dal Lake, gliding through floating gardens, wooden houses, and calm waters.

    Witness the magical sunset over Dal Lake, creating unforgettable views.

    Enjoy dinner and overnight stay in a houseboat in Srinagar.

  3. The Jamia Masjid seen through a dark archway

    03

    Overnight Srinagar

    Old Srinagar and the Mughal gardens

    After breakfast, explore the cultural heritage of Srinagar, starting with the serene Hazratbal Shrine, located along the beautiful Dal Lake. Continue to the historic Jamia Masjid in the Old City, where you can walk through narrow lanes, local markets, and traditional Kashmiri neighbourhoods, experiencing authentic daily life and centuries-old traditions.

    In the afternoon, visit the famous Mughal Gardens, beginning with Nishat Bagh, known for its terraced gardens and panoramic views of Dal Lake. Then explore Shalimar Bagh, a royal Mughal garden designed for relaxation and beauty.

    This day offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and scenic landscapes.

    Return for dinner and overnight stay in Srinagar.

  4. A meadow of wildflowers below forested mountains

    04

    Overnight Pahalgam

    90 km · 2 hrs

    Srinagar to Pahalgam

    After breakfast, drive from Srinagar to Pahalgam, entering the lush Kashmir Valley. En route, pass scenic saffron fields and stop at the historic Avantipur Ruins, known for their ancient temple architecture and rich history.

    Arrive in Pahalgam, famously called the “Valley of Shepherds”, surrounded by green meadows, pine forests, and mountain views. After hotel check-in, the rest of the day is free to relax. Take a walk along the beautiful Lidder River, explore the peaceful village, or simply enjoy the serene natural surroundings.

    This day offers a perfect blend of nature, history, and relaxation.

    Enjoy a comfortable overnight stay in Pahalgam.

  5. A green meadow and pine forest under white clouds

    05

    Overnight Pahalgam

    about 31 km · 1 hr

    Chandanwari, Betaab and Aru

    Today is dedicated to exploring the natural beauty of Pahalgam, one of the highlights of a Kashmir tour. Begin with a visit to Chandanwari, known for its fresh mountain air and wide scenic views.

    Continue to Betaab Valley, famous for its lush green meadows, flowing river, and picturesque landscapes, making it a favourite for photography and nature lovers. Later, visit Aru Valley, a peaceful and less crowded destination, offering calm surroundings and stunning Himalayan views.

    Take your time to relax, enjoy the scenery, or sit by the river and soak in the tranquility.

    Return to your hotel for dinner and overnight stay in Pahalgam.

  6. Shikaras gathered on Dal Lake

    06

    Overnight Srinagar

    90 km · 2 hrs

    Back to a houseboat on Dal Lake

    After breakfast, drive from Pahalgam to Srinagar, enjoying once again the scenic beauty of the Kashmir Valley, with views of lush greenery, rivers, and mountains along the way.

    Upon arrival, check into your traditional houseboat on Dal Lake, offering a unique and peaceful stay experience. Spending your final nights on the lake brings a sense of calm, relaxation, and reflection.

    The afternoon is free to explore at your own pace—take a walk along Boulevard Road, visit local markets, or simply relax on the houseboat deck.

    In the evening, enjoy the magical sunset over Dal Lake, with beautiful reflections of the surrounding mountains.

    Dinner and overnight stay in Srinagar houseboat.

  7. The Gulmarg gondola rising over green slopes

    07

    Overnight Srinagar

    Gulmarg and the gondola

    After breakfast, enjoy a scenic drive from Srinagar to Gulmarg, one of the most beautiful hill destinations in Kashmir, known for its lush meadows and snow-covered peaks. The journey offers pleasant views of forests, valleys, and mountain landscapes.

    Upon arrival, explore the famous Gulmarg meadows, surrounded by panoramic Himalayan views. Experience the highlight of the day with a Gulmarg Gondola ride (Phase 1), one of the highest cable cars in the world, offering breathtaking scenery as you ascend.

    Spend time enjoying the natural beauty and fresh mountain air before returning to Srinagar by evening.

  8. Snow peaks above a river valley

    08

    Overnight Kargil

    about 200 km · 6–7 hrs

    Sonmarg and Zoji La, on to Kargil

    Begin a spectacular drive from Srinagar to Kargil, one of the most scenic routes of your Kashmir to Ladakh tour. Travel through Sonmarg (Meadow of Gold), known for its lush valleys, flowing rivers, and mountain views.

    Continue towards the dramatic Zoji La Pass, a high-altitude gateway to Ladakh, offering rugged landscapes and thrilling mountain roads. As you cross into Ladakh, the scenery becomes more raw and striking.

    En route, stop at Drass, one of the coldest inhabited places in the world, adding a unique highlight to your journey.

    Arrive in Kargil, a peaceful town along the Suru River, and check into your hotel.

    Enjoy overnight stay in Kargil.

  9. Clouds streaming over a wide mountain plain

    09

    Overnight Padum

    240 km · 9 hrs

    Suru Valley and Penzi La, to Padum

    After breakfast, begin your journey from Kargil to Padum, entering the remote region of Zanskar Valley. Drive along the scenic Suru River, passing traditional villages, wide valleys, and dramatic mountain landscapes.

    Enjoy breathtaking views of the majestic Nun and Kun Peaks, especially on clear days. As you continue, the route becomes more remote and untouched, offering a true offbeat Himalayan experience.

    Cross the high-altitude Penzi La Pass, where you will witness the stunning Drang Drung Glacier, one of the highlights of the journey.

    Arrive in Padum, the heart of Zanskar, far from the usual tourist routes.

    Enjoy a peaceful overnight stay in Padum.

  10. A monastery front with yellow-framed windows and prayer flags

    10

    Overnight Padum

    Sani, Karsha and Bardan

    Spend the day exploring the cultural heart of Zanskar Valley around Padum. Begin with a visit to Sani Monastery, unique for its flat-land setting, unlike most hilltop monasteries in Ladakh.

    Continue to Karsha Gompa, the largest monastery in Zanskar, known for its whitewashed buildings spread across the hillside. Later, visit Bardan Monastery, dramatically located above the river valley, offering stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere.

    En route, stop at Sheela Waterfall, a simple yet spiritually significant place for locals.

    This day focuses on culture, local life, and authentic experiences, rather than just sightseeing.

    Return to your hotel for a comfortable overnight stay in Padum.

  11. A monastery village spread down a bare hillside

    11

    Overnight Padum

    The trek to Phuktal

    Start early for an adventurous excursion from Padum to Phuktal Monastery, one of the most unique and remote monasteries in Zanskar Valley. Drive to Purne Village, followed by a short and scenic trek through the mountains.

    Arriving at Phuktal Monastery, built dramatically into a cliffside cave, is a truly unforgettable experience. Surrounded by silence and natural beauty, the monastery offers a deep sense of peace, spirituality, and isolation. Spend time exploring and soaking in the atmosphere.

    Later, trek back to Purne and drive to Padum. Though it’s a long day, it remains a highlight of the Zanskar journey.

    Return for overnight stay in Padum.

  12. A green valley village between bare mountains

    12

    Overnight Lamayuru

    200 km · 8–9 hrs

    Over Sirsir La to Lamayuru

    Embark on an adventurous drive from Padum to Lamayuru, crossing the remote Sirsir La Pass, one of the least-travelled routes in Ladakh. This journey offers a true offbeat experience through raw, untouched Himalayan landscapes, far from the usual tourist paths.

    The terrain can be rugged and challenging, but it rewards you with stunning views of vast valleys, high-altitude deserts, and dramatic mountain scenery.

    As you approach Lamayuru, the landscape transforms into its famous “Moonland terrain”, known for its unique, lunar-like formations.

    Upon arrival, check in and relax in this peaceful setting, perfect after a long drive. Enjoy a quiet overnight stay in Lamayuru.

  13. Leh’s main road below a white stupa and snow peaks

    13

    Overnight Leh

    115 km · 3 hrs

    Alchi, Likir and the Sangam, to Leh

    Begin your day with a visit to Lamayuru Monastery, one of the oldest monasteries in Ladakh, set amidst the unique moon-like landscape. Afterward, drive towards Leh, enjoying scenic views along the way.

    En route, explore Alchi Monastery, famous for its ancient murals and Indo-Tibetan art, and Likir Monastery, known for its giant Buddha statue and peaceful surroundings.

    Stop at the beautiful Sangam (Indus–Zanskar Confluence), where the two rivers meet with distinct colours, creating a striking natural view. Visit Magnetic Hill, known for its optical illusion effect.

    Arrive in Leh, check in to your hotel, and relax. Enjoy a comfortable overnight stay in Leh.

  14. Thiksey Monastery on its hill behind bare poplars

    14

    Overnight Leh

    Thiksey, Hemis, Shey and Stok

    Discover the cultural and spiritual essence of Leh Ladakh with visits to some of its most important Buddhist monasteries. Start with Thiksey Monastery, known for its impressive hilltop structure and panoramic views. Continue to Hemis Monastery, one of the largest and most peaceful monasteries in Ladakh, rich in history and tradition.

    Visit Shey Monastery, once the royal residence of Ladakh, showcasing its historical importance, followed by Stok Palace, offering insight into the royal heritage and lifestyle.

    Beyond architecture, experience the spiritual atmosphere, prayer wheels, and serene surroundings.

    Return to Leh by evening for a comfortable overnight stay.

  15. A group of travellers in down jackets at the sign on Khardung La

    15

    Overnight Nubra Valley

    125 km · 4 hrs

    Over Khardung La to Nubra

    Embark on one of the most thrilling journeys of your Leh Ladakh tour as you drive from Leh to Nubra Valley via Khardung La Pass, one of the highest motorable roads in the world. Enjoy breathtaking views of snow-covered peaks and dramatic Himalayan landscapes from the top.

    As you descend into Nubra Valley, the scenery transforms into wide valleys, green patches, and desert-like terrain, creating a unique contrast. Visit Diskit Monastery, famous for its giant Buddha statue overlooking the valley, and explore the Hunder Sand Dunes, known for the rare double-humped Bactrian camels.

    Arrive in Nubra by evening for a relaxing overnight stay, experiencing a completely different side of Ladakh.

  16. A camel train crossing the Nubra dunes at sunset

    16

    Overnight Nubra Valley

    80 km · 2 hrs each way

    Turtuk

    Take a unique excursion from Nubra Valley to Turtuk Village, one of the northernmost villages in India, known for its distinct Balti culture and heritage. Located close to the Indo-Pak border, Turtuk offers a completely different experience compared to the rest of Ladakh.

    Explore the village on foot and discover traditional wooden houses, apricot orchards, and authentic local lifestyle, reflecting an untouched Himalayan culture. Learn about the recent history and cultural significance of this region, adding depth to your visit.

    This scenic journey offers changing landscapes and rare cultural insights. Return to Nubra Valley by evening for a comfortable overnight stay.

  17. Pangong Lake reflecting the mountains at dusk

    17

    Overnight Pangong Lake

    240 km · 6 hrs

    Nubra to Pangong

    Embark on a breathtaking journey from Nubra Valley to Pangong Lake, one of the most iconic highlights of a Leh Ladakh tour package. Though the route includes rugged mountain roads, the drive offers spectacular views of high-altitude passes, remote valleys, and dramatic Himalayan landscapes.

    As you approach Pangong Lake, its beauty unfolds suddenly—famous for its ever-changing shades of blue, reflecting the sky and mountains. The lake’s colours shift throughout the day, creating a truly magical experience.

    Spend a peaceful evening by the lake as the surroundings become quieter, enjoying the serene atmosphere and clear starlit sky.

    Experience a memorable overnight stay near Pangong Lake.

  18. A Ladakhi woman in a tall embroidered hat

    18

    Overnight Leh

    155 km · 4 hrs

    Pangong back to Leh

    After breakfast, begin your return journey from Pangong Lake to Leh, enjoying scenic views of the Himalayan mountains, high-altitude passes, and changing landscapes along the way. This drive offers one last opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Ladakh.

    Upon arrival, in Leh, check into your hotel and take time to rest and relax after the journey. The rest of the day is free for last-minute shopping in local markets, exploring Leh town, or visiting nearby cafés and cultural spots.

    This is a perfect time to revisit your favourite places and soak in the atmosphere one last time.

    Enjoy a comfortable overnight stay in Leh.

  19. A lane of shuttered shops and a food stall at dusk

    19

    Overnight Delhi

    Flight Leh – Delhi

    Leh to Delhi

    In the morning, take a scenic flight from Leh to Delhi, leaving behind the breathtaking Himalayas and entering the vibrant capital city. The aerial views of mountains slowly transition into the vast Indian plains, offering a memorable farewell to Ladakh. On arrival, in Delhi, the rest of the day is free for leisure and exploration.

    You can enjoy shopping at Connaught Place and Janpath Market, known for handicrafts, souvenirs, and street shopping. Alternatively, relax at a stylish local café in Delhi and unwind after your mountain adventure. This day perfectly balances travel comfort and urban experience. Overnight stay in Delhi marks the end of your Himalayan journey, perfect for relaxation and shopping experience.

  20. A Ladakhi woman in a turquoise perak and coral necklace

    20

    Departure

    Departure

    After breakfast, enjoy a smooth transfer to the airport for your onward journey. Our representative will assist you with all departure formalities, ensuring a hassle-free experience. As you leave, you carry unforgettable memories of Ladakh, from its dramatic landscapes to peaceful monasteries and warm local culture. By now, Ladakh feels less like a destination and more like a lifelong experience that stays with you.

    The silence of the mountains, clear skies, and simple mountain life leave a deep impression on every traveller. This marks the end of your journey, but the beginning of lasting memories. We wish you a safe and comfortable onward flight and hope to welcome you again in India soon. Namaste and thank you.

Like the route? We will write it for your dates.

The price

Quoted to your dates

Hotels, transport, guides and entrance fees change with the season and with how you like to travel, so this journey is priced for you. Every quotation itemises what it covers.

Reviews

In their own words

Word for word, several in Italian, because Italy found us early. 5.0 from 146 reviews on Google, and 5.0 from 200 on TripAdvisor.

I had an incredible adventure with Rang Travels in Northern India earlier this year! The tour was jam packed. I loved the beautiful forts and buildings we visited, the markets, as well as the stunning World Heritage hotels. This tour gave me a real taste for India, and I felt very comfortable for my first time visiting!

Read the whole review on Google

Jess Foster

Northern India · May 2025

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