Leh Ladakh Tour with Turtuk

If you are planning a Leh Ladakh tour, numerous questions are bound to cross your mind. A trip to Ladakh is unlike any other destination because of its uniqueness and adventurous appeal.

Ladakh, the Land of High Passes, is a recently designated Union Territory of India that was previously part of Jammu & Kashmir. Its scenery is awe-inspiring, with mountains, snow-clad peaks, cold deserts, alpine meadows, and pristine lakes lying close to each other, creating a dramatic and surreal landscape. The challenging terrain of Leh Ladakh, nestled in the Himalayas, invites you to experience a completely different way of life. This land is breathtaking in its purity and has the power to awaken something deep within you. Leh is a small mountain town known for its stunning beauty and warm, humble locals.

For nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike, tourism in Ladakh offers an unparalleled experience. With towering barren mountains, Ladakh is home to some of the highest motorable passes in the world, such as Khardung La (5,359 m), Marsimik La (5,582 m), and Chang La (5,360 m), along with picturesque alpine lakes like Pangong Tso (4,350 m) and Tso Moriri (4,522 m). The region of Ladakh is divided into three main areas: Leh, Nubra, and Zanskar, each offering its own unique attractions. Leh Ladakh reflects a lifestyle of organized simplicity. Beyond adventure and landscapes, Ladakh promotes a mindful way of living rooted in contentment and fulfillment. Traveling through this itinerary allows you to disconnect from the chaos of everyday life and reconnect with the true essence of living on Earth. As you browse Ladakh tour packages online, the call of adventure grows stronger. This destination sparks excitement and promises a life-changing experience.

The Indian high-altitude paradise of Ladakh is one of the most sought-after destinations for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. Mountain bikers, trekkers, and hikers find this region especially appealing. Situated at an altitude of approximately 3,001 meters above sea level, Ladakh feels otherworldly with its towering peaks, deep valleys, ancient monasteries, and alpine lakes.

By Road

Despite its high elevation, Ladakh is well-connected by road to major Indian towns such as Srinagar in Jammu & Kashmir and Manali in Himachal Pradesh. However, road travel is only possible for about six months of the year, as heavy snowfall forces these routes to remain closed during winter.

Biker-favourite Route 1: Manali to Leh

The Manali–Leh highway is more popular, scenic, and adventurous, offering breathtaking views throughout the journey. Leh is approximately 490 kilometers from Manali.

Route 1:

Manali – Rohtang – Gramphu – Kokhsar – Keylong – Jispa – Darcha – Zingzing Bar – Baralacha La – Bharatpur – Sarchu – Gata Loops – Nakee La – Lachulung La – Pang – Tanglang La – Gya – Upshi – Karu – Leh

Route 2: Srinagar to Leh

This route is comparatively less rugged and more gradual in ascent.

Srinagar – Sonmarg – Zoji La – Drass – Kargil – Mulbek – Lamayuru – Saspol – Leh

By Air

Air travel is one of the most convenient ways to reach Ladakh. Several airlines operate direct flights to Leh. Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport is the nearest airport and is well-connected to major Indian cities.

The best time to visit Leh Ladakh is between May and September, when the weather is pleasant and the roads are open.

Summer (May to September):Summer is the peak travel season in Leh Ladakh, with clear skies and comfortable temperatures. Most high-altitude passes and popular attractions like Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri are accessible. Adventure activities such as trekking, white-water rafting, and camping thrive during this season.

Spring (Late April to Early May):Spring marks the beginning of the tourist season as snow starts to melt and temperatures rise gradually. Although some high passes may still be inaccessible, the blooming landscape and fewer crowds make it ideal for peaceful travel.

Autumn (Late September to October):Autumn brings crisp air and vibrant hues to Ladakh’s landscapes. While nights turn colder, most attractions remain accessible until late October, making it a great time for quiet exploration.

Winter (November to April):Winter is the off-season due to extreme cold and heavy snowfall, which leads to road closures. However, it offers unique experiences such as snow trekking and cultural festivals like Losar. Visiting Ladakh in winter showcases its raw, frozen beauty.

Nubra Valley: Formed by the Shyok and Siachen Rivers, Nubra Valley is one of Ladakh’s most popular destinations. It is home to the sand dunes of Hunder, hot springs at Panamik, ancient monasteries, and scenic settlements near the Siachen region.

Pangong Tso: Pangong Lake is one of the highest saltwater lakes in the world and a must-visit in Ladakh. It gained popularity after featuring in films like 3 Idiots and Jab Tak Hai Jaan.

Lamayuru: Lamayuru Monastery, also known as Yuru Gompa, is believed to be the oldest monastery in Ladakh and was originally associated with the Bon religion.

Shanti Stupa: Built through collaboration between Ladakhi and Japanese Buddhists, Shanti Stupa is a white-domed structure perched atop a hill and is said to house Buddha relics.

Khardung La Pass: One of the highest motorable passes in the world, Khardung La serves as the gateway to Nubra and Shyok Valleys.

Magnetic Hill: Located near the Indus River, Magnetic Hill creates an optical illusion where vehicles appear to roll uphill on their own, sparking curiosity and local legends.

Tso Moriri: Tso Moriri is Ladakh’s largest lake and a hidden gem nestled amidst high mountains. Measuring approximately 26 km in length and 8 km in width, it remains relatively untouched.

Diskit Gompa: Famous for its 108-foot-tall Maitreya Buddha statue, Diskit Monastery overlooks the Shyok River and symbolizes peace and protection for the region.

Hanle: Situated around 250 km from Leh, Hanle is a paradise for astronomy enthusiasts. It is home to India’s highest astronomical observatory and a historic monastery built in Indo-Tibetan style.

Turtuk: Located near the India–Pakistan border, Turtuk is the northernmost village in Nubra Valley. Known for its apricot orchards, lush landscapes, and unique history, it serves as a gateway to the Siachen Glacier.

Umling La: Built by the Border Roads Organisation under Project Himank, Umling La is the world’s highest motorable pass at 19,300 feet, surpassing Khardung La and Mana Pass.

From trekking to river rafting, there is a wide variety of activities you can do in Ladakh. To make the most out of your Leh Ladakh Tour, it is recommended for you to indulge in some of these activities.

Camel Safari In Ladakh - The sand dunes of Hunder, located in the Nubra Valley, have acquired the nickname "desert in the sky." Experience a safari on a double-humped Bactrian camel, which was formerly an essential component of the caravans.

Where to do: Nubra Valley

Mountain Biking in Ladakh - Experience the abundance of Ladakh on a mountain bike; you won't be disappointed to find some of the most captivating and seductive scenery.

Where to do: You can do the whole Ladakh circuit on Bike.

River Rafting in Ladakh - Have a go at river rafting. The Indus in the Leh area, the Zanskar in Zanskar, and the Shyok in Nubra. Rafting the Zanskar River is a fun and thrilling experience.

Where to do: Zanskar River

Trekking in Ladakh - There are a plethora of breathtaking scenery in Ladakh that can leave one spellbound. It is also the ideal location for hikers, featuring some amazing vistas and routes that will change your perception of adventure.

Where to do: Lumayuru to Darcha trek, Ripchar Valley trek, Padum to Darcha trek, Lumayuru to Alchi trek, Lumayuru Stok Kangri and Markha Valley trek.

Quad Biking - You simply must go quad biking while visiting the Nubra Valley, often known as the adventure valley. The ideal approach to up the ante on your Leh Ladakh tour package excursion is to go quad biking for 45 minutes.

Where to do: Nubra Valley

Ladakh is called the land of high passes for a reason. The whole region is blessed with passes that are capable of raising your adrenaline. Here are the famous passes of Ladakh that you can’t miss.

• Namik La (12,198 feet) - Located on the Srinagar Leh highway.

• Zoji La (12,400 feet) - Zoji La means Mountain pass of Blizzards.

• Fotu La pass (13,479 feet) - Lies on the Srinagar Leh circuit and is higher than the Zojila pass.

• Nakee La (15,547 feet) - Third and one of the highest mountain passes between Leh to Manali.

• Baralacha La (16,400 feet) - Baralacha La has a summit with crossroads from Spiti, Ladakh, Zanskar, and Lahaul.

• Khardung La pass (17,582) - Once considered to be the highest motorable road in the world.

• Taglang La (17,583) - It's a beautiful journey, so make sure to stop at the pass for sweeping vistas.

• Chang La (17,585 feet) - You will encounter this pass while traveling to Pangong Tso.

• Marsimik La (18,953 feet) - It is located 20 kilometers from the stunning Pangong Tso in the Chang-Chemno range.

• Umling La (19,300 feet) - Highest motorable road in India.