Leh · Sham Valley · Nubra · Pangong · Leh
Who this itinerary suits
Couples, families and first-time visitors who want the classic route without sacrificing the first two days.
Day-by-day plan
Day 1: Arrive Leh and rest
Protect the full arrival day.
Day 2: Leh local
Old town, Shanti Stupa and selected easy sights.
Day 3: Sham Valley acclimatisation
Alchi, Pathar Sahib and the confluence at a measured pace.
Day 4: Leh to Nubra
Diskit Monastery, Hunder and Nubra overnight.
Day 5: Nubra to Pangong
Shyok route when open and Pangong overnight.
Day 6: Pangong to Leh
Return across the Chang La side; final evening in Leh.
Day 7: Departure
Airport transfer. Keep an additional buffer when flight connections are critical.
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.