Embarking on a journey to Kashmir and Ladakh promises a surreal experience that is truly unforgettable. Starting from Srinagar, a visit to the magnificent Mughal Gardens like Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh is a must. These gardens, located on the banks of Dal Lake, boast timeless beauty and are a testament to the grandeur of the Mughal era. Chashme Shahi, famous for its natural spring, is another gem that cannot be missed.
Exploring further, a visit to Asia's largest tulip garden, the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden, is a treat for the eyes. The Shankaracharya Temple, dating back to 371 BC, offers a glimpse into the rich history of Kashmir. The Hazratbal Shrine, situated on the shores of Dal Lake, is a sacred place that holds great significance. Moving on to Gulmarg, a ride on the Gondola to reach the Maharani Temple, built in the early 20th century, is an adventure in itself.
Continuing the journey to Kargil, passing through the picturesque village of Sonamarg, known as the "Meadow of Gold," is a delight. Stops at Mulbekh Monastery, Lamayuru Monastery, Alchi Monastery, and Likir Monastery offer a glimpse into the spiritual and cultural heritage of the region. Paying respects at Gurudwara Patthar Sahib and visiting the Confluence of the Indus and Zanskar River are experiences that enrich the soul. Finally, a visit to the Hall of Fame, a tribute to the brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives, is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made during the Indo-Pak wars.
Highlights Of This Tour Package(Inclusions)
- Stay in carefully selected accommodations in Srinagar, Kargil, Leh, Nubra Valley, and Pangong Lake
- Enjoy daily breakfast and dinner during your stay
- Visit Shankaracharya Temple and Hazratbal Shrine
- Explore the beautiful Mughal Gardens, including Chashme Shahi
- Discover the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden
- Take an excursion to Gulmarg
- Visit Mulbekh, Lamayuru, Alchi, and Likir Monasteries
- Witness the confluence of the Indus and Zanskar River
- Explore Gurudwara Patthar Sahib, Magnetic Hills, and Hall of Fame
- Journey through Khardung La Pass, Turtuk, and Pangong Lake with an Inner Line Permit and all necessary fees and charges included
Accomodation:
Stay for 3 nights at Hotel The Mallard Srinagar Or Similar W/ Breakfast, Lunch Or Dinner
Stay for 1 night at Zojila Residency Kargil Or Similar W/ Breakfast, Lunch Or Dinner
Stay for 2 night at Hotel Sia Residency Leh Or Similar W/ Breakfast, Lunch Or Dinner
Stay for 2 nights at Hunder Sarai Resort Nubra Valley Or Similar W/ Breakfast, Lunch Or Dinner
Stay for 1 night at P3 Camp - Pangong Or Similar W/ Breakfast, Lunch Or Dinner
Day Wise Itinerary: Day 01: Welcome to Srinagar!As you step foot in Srinagar, our representative will be eagerly waiting to greet you at the airport. They will assist you in transferring to your hotel, where you can check in and settle down. The entire day is yours to enjoy at your own pace. Take this opportunity to explore the beautiful city of Srinagar or simply relax and unwind at your hotel. Rest assured, a comfortable overnight stay awaits you at your Srinagar hotel.
Day 02: Explore the Beauty of Srinagar
Start your day with a delicious breakfast and get ready for an exciting local sightseeing tour. Immerse yourself in the charm of Srinagar as you visit the renowned Mughal Gardens, Shankaracharya Temple, and Hazaratbal Shrine. These stunning attractions are nestled on the banks of Dal Lake, with the majestic Zabarwan Mountains providing a breathtaking backdrop. The gardens are just a short distance of 12 to 15 kilometers from Srinagar, and along the way, you'll have the opportunity to visit a carpet-weaving factory and explore the old city of Srinagar.
One of the highlights of your tour is Nishat Bagh, a magnificent terraced Mughal garden located near the famous Dal Lake. Known as the Garden of Gladness, Nishat Bagh is the second largest Mughal garden in the Kashmir Valley. With the Zabarwan Mountains and the Pir Panjal mountain range in the distance, this garden offers a truly enchanting view.
Another gem you'll discover is Shalimar Bagh, the largest Mughal garden in India. Situated northeast of Dal Lake, this garden is a sight to behold, especially during the autumn and spring seasons. With the Dal Lake as its backdrop, Shalimar Bagh is a true testament to the grandeur of Mughal architecture.
Don't miss the opportunity to visit Chashme Shahi, a beautiful Mughal garden built around a natural spring in the Zabarwan Range. With its terraces, water pool, and a mesmerizing fountain, this garden is a true oasis of tranquility along the banks of Dal Lake.
To top off your sightseeing experience, make sure to visit the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden. Spread over a vast area of 12 hectares, this garden is Asia's largest tulip garden and a sight to behold. Although it is only open in April, the garden boasts an impressive collection of 70 varieties of tulips. As you explore the garden, you'll also come across delightful rose beds that add even more allure to this popular tourist attraction.
Get ready to be captivated by the beauty of Srinagar as you embark on this unforgettable sightseeing tour. The ancient Shankaracharya Temple, dating back to the 4th century, sits atop Gopadari Hill in the south-east of Srinagar. Legend has it that Raja Gopadatya built the temple in 371 BC, naming it 'Gopadari' after himself. It is believed that the great philosopher Shankracharya resided here during his visit to Kashmir, leading to the temple being known as Shankaracharya Temple.
The circular chamber main shrine offers a stunning view of the valley. Renovations were carried out during the reigns of Lalitaditya and Zain-ul-Abideen, with stone steps leading to the shrine built by Maharaja Gulab Singh. On the other hand, the Hazratbal Shrine, located on the left bank of Dal Lake, derives its name from the Kashmiri words for 'holy place'. This shrine holds immense significance for Muslims. After exploring these sacred sites, head back to your hotel for a peaceful overnight stay.
Day 03: Full Day Excursion to Gulmarg
Embark on an exciting adventure to Gulmarg today after a delicious breakfast. As you arrive at Gulmarg, be prepared to be mesmerized by the breathtaking panoramic views that await you. The vehicle will conveniently drop you off at the parking area, just a short distance of 1-1.5 km from the Gondola. From there, you have the option to explore the sights on foot, take a thrilling horse ride, or even hop on an ATV (all-terrain vehicle) by paying directly, as there are some union issues to consider. Don't miss the opportunity to indulge in pony rides to the enchanting Maharani Temple and the historic St. Mary's Church (additional cost applies). For an unforgettable experience, we highly recommend taking a Gondola ride (cable car) that will transport you to Kongdori (Phase 1) and Apharwat Peak (Phase 2), both situated at astonishingly high altitudes, making it one of the highest in Asia.
Did you know that the magnificent Maharani Temple was constructed in 1915 by Mohini Bai Sisodia, the wife of Maharaja Hari Singh, the last Dogra king of Jammu and Kashmir? This temple is home to sacred shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Interestingly, it was also the filming location for the iconic Bollywood movie "Aap ki Kasam," starring Rajesh Khanna and Mumtaz. So, don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in the rich history and cultural significance of this temple while enjoying a delightful pony ride (additional cost applies).
St. Mary's church was constructed during the British colonial era. The 110-year-old church in Gulmarg underwent a renovation in 2003, giving it a fresh look with a revamped façade. After 14 years, the first Christmas mass was celebrated in the church. Saint Mary's Church, built in the early 20th century, boasts grey stone walls that shine beautifully in the winter, especially when covered in snow. The green tiled roof, wooden walls adorned with decorations, and its overall size give it the charm of a countryside chapel.
The gondola lift operates in two stages, transporting visitors to and from Kongdoori Mountain, a part of the nearby Afarwat Peak. The first stage goes from Gulmarg resort at 2,600 m to Kongdoori Station in the picturesque Kongdori valley. The second stage, with 36 cabins and 18 towers, takes skiers to a height of 3,747 m on Kongdoori Mountain. The gondola operates from 10 AM to 5 PM, but please note that timings are subject to change due to weather conditions.
In the evening, return to Srinagar and enjoy an overnight stay at a hotel in the city.
Day 04: Transfer from Srinagar to Kargil via Sonamarg
Get ready for an exciting day as we embark on a journey from Srinagar to Kargil via the breathtaking village of Sonamarg. Known as the 'Meadow of Gold', Sonamarg offers a picturesque view of the Sindh Valley, the largest tributary of the Kashmir Valley. As we continue our drive, brace yourself for a bumpy ride as we conquer the wet Zojila pass, standing tall at 3527 meters. This pass serves as the Gateway to Ladakh, adding a touch of adventure to our trip.
Our next stop is Drass, the second coldest inhabited place on Earth, where we will spend some time exploring its unique charm. After a thrilling two and a half hour drive, we will finally reach Kargil, situated at an altitude of 2710 meters. Kargil has been welcoming tourists since 1974, offering a glimpse into the rich culture and history of Ladakh. Rest and relax at your hotel in Kargil, as we prepare for more exciting adventures ahead.
Day 05: Transfer from Kargil to Leh via Lamayuru
Embark on an exciting journey from Kargil to Leh via Lamayuru on Day 05 of your trip. Start your day with a delicious breakfast and bid farewell to your hotel. As you hit the road, make sure to visit the enchanting monasteries of Mulbekh and Lamayuru along the way. Mulbekh Monastery, also known as Mulbekh Gompa, is a remarkable sight to behold. Nestled in the Zanskar region of Ladakh, this monastery consists of two gompas - one Drukpa and one Gelugpa Buddhist monastery. Perched atop a crag 200 meters above the road, the double gompas offer a breathtaking view.
They were once connected to the nearby palace of Rajah Kalon of Mulbekh, and you can reach them by following a steep footpath winding up from behind. Next, make your way to Lamayuru Monastery, located in the Leh district. This famous Buddhist monastery stands tall at an impressive height of 11,520 feet. Known for its grandeur, Lamayuru is a must-visit destination. It holds numerous legends and stories within its walls. In the past, it consisted of five colossal buildings, but only one remains today. Nevertheless, it still holds the title of being the largest monastery in the area and is home to approximately 150 Buddhist monks. In earlier times, this number reached as high as 400.
As you continue your journey towards Leh, make sure to pass through the breathtaking Namkila Pass and Fatula Pass. These mountain passes, situated on the Srinagar-Leh road, offer an exhilarating experience as you traverse through the highest points of the Himalayan Zanskar Range. Standing tall at an impressive height of 13,478ft (4,108m) above sea level, Fotu La pass steals the spotlight as the highest point on the highway, surpassing even the renowned Zoji La. Don't miss the opportunity to pause along the way and soak in the awe-inspiring views of the snow-covered mountain ranges that surround you.
While en route to Leh, take a moment to explore some remarkable landmarks. One such gem is the Alchi Monastery, a collection of ancient Buddhist shrines that holds immense religious significance in Ladakh. Founded in AD 1000 by the legendary translator Rinchen Zangpo, this gompa boasts a rich history. It is said that Rinchen Zangpo brought skilled wood carvers and sculptors from Kashmir to construct this magnificent complex. Inside, you'll discover a series of temples and chortens from different eras, with some of the oldest wall paintings in Ladakh adorning its walls. The centerpiece of this ancient treasure trove is the mural of 1000 Buddhas, a true masterpiece. Additionally, the shrine houses exquisite statues of Lord Buddha and other deities, adorned with intricate wooden carvings reminiscent of the Baroque period.
Another must-visit destination on your way to Leh is the Likir Monastery, also known as Likir Gompa. Situated in the village of Saspol, approximately 52 km (32 miles) west of Leh, this monastery belongs to the Gelugpa monastic order of Tibetan Buddhism. It was constructed by Lama Duwang Chosje under the patronage of Ladakh's fifth King, Lhachen Gyalpo. The monastery complex is home to numerous shrines, and it currently accommodates around 120 Buddhist monks. Immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere of Likir Monastery and witness the spiritual devotion that permeates its walls. This sacred site offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Ladakh and provides a tranquil respite amidst the stunning landscapes of the region.
Nimmu Valley is a stunning location where the Indus River and Zanskar River converge. The Indus River flows through the arid landscapes of Ladakh, providing essential life support to the region. Zanskar, a tributary of the Indus, joins it from the north-east. The journey of the rivers is a sight to behold, passing through the breathtaking Zanskar Gorge, a paradise for trekkers. During your drive along the Indus River, make sure to visit the renowned Gurudwara Pathar Sahib and Magnetic Hill, as well as the Hall of Fame.
Embark on a scenic drive along the majestic Indus River and make sure to include a visit to the renowned Gurudwara Pathar Sahib and Magnetic Hill, as well as the fascinating Hall of Fame.
Gurudwara Pathar Sahib, located 25 miles from Leh in the Ladakh region of Jammu and Kashmir, holds great significance. It is believed to be the place where Guru Nanak, the founder of the Sikh religion, defeated a demon. Despite the predominantly Buddhist surroundings, this Gurudwara is revered by both Sikhs and Tibetan Buddhists, who honor Guru Nanak as Guru Gompka Maharaj and Nanak Lama.
Next, experience the wonder of Magnetic Hill, a popular attraction in Ladakh. This gravity hill is said to defy the laws of physics, as vehicles parked at a specific spot on the hill appear to move uphill against gravity. Situated around 30 km from Leh, at an elevation of approximately 14,000 feet above sea level, Magnetic Hill is a must-visit. Don't forget to admire the Sindhu River flowing on the eastern side of the hill, originating all the way from Tibet.
Lastly, pay your respects at the Hall of Fame, a museum near Leh Airfield. This museum, built and maintained by the Indian Army, serves as a tribute to the brave soldiers who lost their lives during the Indo-Pak wars. It is a memorial that showcases artifacts and documents related to various wars, particularly the Kargil war. Take your time exploring the exhibits on the ground floor, which provide information about the courageous soldiers, and don't miss the souvenir shop. On the first floor, you'll find a collection of weapons used in the wars and important documents. There is also a dedicated section honoring the heroes of the Siachen glacier.
After a day filled with exploration, check-in to your hotel in Leh and unwind. Enjoy a comfortable overnight stay, ready to continue your adventure in this captivating region.
Day 06: Journey from Leh to Nubra Valley through Khardung La
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before departing from the hotel for Nubra Valley, also known as the 'valley of flowers' (120 kms/4-5 hrs drive). The road to Nubra Valley will take you over Khardung La (5602 mts, 18,390 ft, 39 km from Leh) - the highest motorable road globally. As you traverse this pass, be prepared to be mesmerized by the breathtaking views of the Indus valley, the vast peaks and ridges of the Zanskar range, and the towering Saser massif to the north. Nubra Valley is nestled between the Karakoram and Ladakh ranges of the Himalayas in the northern part of Ladakh.
Upon reaching Nubra, settle into your hotel or camp in Hunder. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll through the quaint villages to experience the local way of life. If available, you can also arrange a visit to a Ladakhi home (additional cost may apply). Enjoy an overnight stay at the camp or hotel.
Day 07: Full Day Excursion to Turtuk
After a hearty breakfast, get ready for an exciting day ahead as we head to Turtuk Village, the last border village accessible to visitors before reaching the Pakistan border. Turtuk is truly a hidden gem in Ladakh, often overlooked by many. This village shares a similar culture and language with Ladakhi people. The majority of the population in Turtuk follows the Nurbakshi Muslim religion, while some belong to the Shai community.
Prepare to be amazed by the stunning colors of the mountains surrounding you. The hues change as you travel, with some mountains displaying various shades of brown, while others have a hint of green on their rocky surfaces. The journey from Hunder to Turtuk, with its winding roads, the vibrant Shayok River, and the picturesque mountains, will undoubtedly be one of the highlights of our trip. Keep an eye out for the breathtaking scenery near Changmar village. Tonight, we will stay overnight in Nubra Valley.
Day 08: Transfer from Nubra Valley to Pangong Lake via Shyok
Let's start the day with an early breakfast and then head out from the camp/hotel towards Hunder. Here, you can enjoy a camel ride on a Bacterian Camel amidst the sand dunes of this high altitude desert with snowcapped mountains in the background. As you drive between Hunder and Diskit, you'll see sand dunes along the road, giving you a feeling of being in the Thar Desert of Rajasthan. It's a unique sight with Rocky Mountains on one side and snow-capped mountains in the distance.
On the way back, make a stop at Diskit, the main town of Nubra Valley. Take a leisurely stroll around the bazaar, watching the locals go about their daily lives. Don't miss the 515-year-old Diskit Monastery, perched beautifully on a hilltop overlooking the entire valley.
Diskit Monastery, also known as Diskit Gompa, is one of the oldest and largest monasteries in Leh Ladakh. Founded in the 14th century by Changzem Tserab Zangpo, this Buddhist center is home to a magnificent 100-foot high Maitreya Buddha statue, inaugurated by the Dalai Lama. Climb to the top of the Gompa for a breathtaking panoramic view of the Nubra valley.
After navigating through the challenging road patches towards Pangong Tso via Agham & Shyok Valley, the journey becomes truly picturesque. Passing through the rugged terrains towards Durbuk & Tangtse, you'll encounter quaint villages of Changthang before being greeted by the breathtaking sight of Pangong Lake at 14,000 feet. This iconic blue brackish lake stretches over 133 Kms, with a portion extending beyond the "Indo China Border". The serene beauty of this natural wonder is truly unforgettable, attracting visitors worldwide, especially after being featured in the hit movie 3 Idiots. Upon reaching, we settle in at our Camp Near Pangong Lake for a cozy dinner and overnight stay.
Day 09: Transfer from Pangong Lake to Leh
After a relaxing morning by the stunning Pangong Lake, it's time to head towards Leh. Known as the 'high grassland lake' in Tibetan, Pangong Tso is a massive brackish lake in Asia. You might remember its breathtaking beauty from the Bollywood movie 3 IDIOTS (2009). This disputed territory is on its way to being recognized as an important wetland under the Ramsar Convention, making it the first trans-boundary wetland in South Asia. As you catch sight of the serene blue waters and rocky lakeshore, it's hard to believe the vastness of this lake.
En route to Leh, make a stop at Hemis Gompa, the largest monastery of the Drukpa Kagyu Order of Tibetan Buddhism.
Hemis Gompa: Located 40 kms southeast of Leh, Hemis Monastery is the biggest and most renowned monastery in Ladakh. Built under the rule of King Singge Namgyal in 1672 AD, this monastery hosts an annual festival in the month of which is a major tourist attraction. The vibrant day-long festival, known as Hemis Tsechu, is also a state holiday. The monastery boasts stunning paintings and a statue of Lord Buddha, which are definitely worth seeing.
Continue your journey until you reach Leh. Check in at your hotel and unwind. In the evening, take a leisurely walk around the market for some last-minute souvenir shopping, if you feel like it.
Day 10: Departure from Leh
On Day 10, we express our gratitude for choosing our services and guarantee a timely transfer to the Domestic Airport. This will enable you to catch your flight to your next destination, carrying with you unforgettable memories of your time in Leh. Tour Ends!
Excludes:
- Exclusions may include optional enhancements such as room or flight upgrades, as well as local camera or video fees
- Additional sightseeing, activities, and experiences that are not part of the itinerary
- Early check-in or late check-out from hotels, unless stated otherwise
- Meals including breakfast, lunches, dinners, and drinks (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic), unless specified in the itinerary
- International and/or domestic flights, unless explicitly stated as part of the package
- Excess baggage charges, and any baggage not covered in the fare
- Tips for services and experiences are not included
- Please refer to the useful information and terms for a detailed list of what is included and excluded in the package.
Important Notes:
- Additional charges will apply if extra or oversized luggage requires an additional or upgraded vehicle.
- Non-Muslim travelers are allowed to arrive at any airport in the Kingdom.
- Travelers with a business, commercial, or family visit visa are not allowed to arrive in Jeddah, Medina, Taif, and Yanbu after May 29th.
- The last date for accepting passengers with Umrah visa is June 3rd.
- Only postpaid connections work in Jammu & Kashmir.
- 2 Star & 3 Star hotels in Srinagar, Gulmarg & Pahalgam have non-AC rooms.
- Optional sightseeing activities such as Pony Ride at Pahalgam, Gulmarg Gondola Ride, visit to Aru & Chandanwari, and Sonamarg Trip to Thajiwas Glacier are not included in the package and will incur extra charges.
- Entrance fees for all gardens range from Rs 20 to 70 per person per garden and must be paid directly by the guest.
- Each Shikara ride can accommodate a maximum of 4 passengers per boat.
- The Shankara Acharya temple is open from 07:00 AM to 05:00 PM.
- Cameras and mobiles are not allowed inside most temples, so it is advisable not to carry them during temple visits.
- Each room can accommodate a maximum of 3 adults, and a mattress or rollaway bed will be provided for the third occupant.
- Transportation will be provided as per the fixed itinerary, and any changes made after confirmation may incur additional costs borne by the customer. The vehicle operates from 08:30 AM to 07:30 PM.
- Availability of tours, weather conditions, and operational possibilities determine itinerary changes.
- Efforts will be made to cover missed tours due to closure or maintenance, if time permits.
- The routing of the tour may be amended for operational reasons, but all mentioned services will remain unchanged.
- AC vehicles are non-operational in hill stations to prevent damage or breakdown.
- Commercial vehicles are not allowed to play music in hill areas to prevent accidents.
- Airline seats and hotel rooms are subject to availability at the time of confirmation.
- Alternate accommodation will be arranged in a similar standard hotel if listed hotels are unavailable.
- Transportation will be provided as per the fixed itinerary.
- Changes to the itinerary after confirmation may incur additional costs borne by the customer.
- Some sightseeing may be mentioned multiple times in the itinerary, but no refund will be provided if not covered the second time.
- Prior to traveling to Ladakh, it is recommended to undergo a health check-up and carry necessary medication as per advice.
- It is assumed that the customer has completed or will complete the suggested health check-up before traveling at the time of booking.
- No changes to the itinerary will be permitted after booking has been confirmed.
- Upon check-in at the hotel, guests may be required to provide an advance/security deposit based on the hotel's policy.
- The deposit will be refunded during check-out, deducting any charges for items from the mini-bar, late check-out, or damages to the accommodation.
- Tickets for attractions, museums, trains, cable cars, ferries, rides, safaris, etc. are not included unless explicitly stated as part of the package.
- For inquiries regarding cancellations and refunds, please consult our Cancellation Policy.
- We reserve the right to issue a full refund if we are unable to provide services due to technical reasons.
- It is important to adhere to the terms and conditions mentioned to ensure a smooth travel experience.
- Please feel free to contact us for any further assistance or information.
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