Srinagar · Gulmarg · Kargil · Leh · Nubra · Pangong
Who this itinerary suits
First-time Himalayan travellers who want one Kashmir valley day plus Ladakh’s core circuit.
Day-by-day plan
Day 1: Arrive Srinagar
Dal Lake, gardens or old city.
Day 2: Gulmarg excursion
Mountain day with authorised gondola tickets if desired.
Day 3: Srinagar to Kargil
Sonamarg, Zoji La and Drass.
Day 4: Kargil to Leh
Lamayuru and the western Indus route.
Day 5: Leh acclimatisation
Gentle heritage and market.
Day 6: Leh to Nubra
Diskit and Hunder.
Day 7: Nubra day
Turtuk or quieter Sumur side.
Day 8: Nubra to Pangong
Shyok route when open.
Day 9: Pangong to Leh
Return via Chang La side.
Day 10: Departure
Leh airport transfer.
Accommodation approach
Use a reliable Leh hotel for acclimatisation and the final night. Outside Leh, choose operational properties for warmth, food and vehicle access rather than relying on luxury labels. Exact hotels and room categories should be written into the final quotation.
Transport and road planning
Private SUVs suit many couples and families; larger groups may require a Tempo Traveller. Confirm luggage capacity, driver costs, route permissions and whether any local vehicle is required. Start early and avoid night driving.
Altitude and health
No itinerary overrides symptoms. Stop ascending when unwell and seek qualified care for worsening symptoms. Read the complete AMS guide before booking high sleeping points.
Customising this route
Add nights for children, senior travellers, photographers or anyone preferring fewer hotel changes. Remote lakes and Zanskar should be added only when enough days remain for acclimatisation and buffers.
Passes, highways and remote roads can close. The safe alternative route takes priority over the printed plan.