Ladakh Nubra Pangong Hanle Tso Moriri Kargil Tour

About this tour

Ladakh is a cold mountain desert with a fragile ecology, capable of supporting limited development due to its unique terrain and climate. Formerly part of Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh’s strategic location on India’s frontier with China necessitates a significant military presence. In 2019, Ladakh was separated from Jammu & Kashmir and designated a Union Territory.

Geography & Climate of Leh
Leh, the main town in Ladakh, is situated in the trans-Himalayas at an altitude between 3,310 m and 3,915 m. Its terrain is sloped, with steep areas in the Snemoling and Skampari wards. Leh experiences a cold desert climate, with winter temperatures falling to as low as -13°C (a record low of -28.3°C), while summers are sunny with cool evenings. The region receives minimal annual rainfall (102 mm), though flash floods and mudslides in 2010 caused significant damage.

Connectivity
Leh is accessible via National Highway 1, connecting to Srinagar and the Leh-Manali Highway (both open from May to November). The town’s Kushok Bakula Rinpoche Airport offers flights to major Indian cities, including Delhi, Srinagar, Jammu, and Mumbai. However, there is no rail connectivity to Leh.

Brief History of Ladakh

Ladakh has been inhabited since Neolithic times, with evidence of its early settlement. Around the 1st century CE, it became part of the Kushan Empire, and by the 2nd century, Buddhism arrived from Kashmir. In the 8th century, Tibetan control was established, although the local population was non-Tibetan. Nyima-Gon founded the first Ladakhi dynasty in the 9th century, and the Namgyal dynasty ruled from the 10th to the 19th century. In the 17th century, Sengge Namgyal established the royal seat at Leh Palace. Ladakh was incorporated into the Dogra state of Jammu and Kashmir in the 19th century.

Buddhism remains the predominant religion, followed by Islam, Hinduism, and Christianity. Ladakh was historically a key point on trade routes connecting Punjab, Kashmir, Tibet, and Baltistan, influencing its architecture and culture. However, its mountainous isolation limited exposure to cultural and technological advancements. Motorised vehicles were first seen in Ladakh with Indian Air Force planes after India’s independence in 1947.

Kargil: A Journey of Adventure, History, and Culture 

Kargil offers an enriching experience, blending history, adventure, and local culture. Known for its role in the 1999 Kargil War, it is a destination for history lovers, nature enthusiasts, and thrill-seekers. You can explore ancient monasteries, trek rugged landscapes, and engage in the region’s vibrant culture. And the best part? It can all be done affordably with the right travel tips, including budget accommodations, local eateries, and hidden gems.

Getting to Kargil

By Air: The closest airport is Leh Kushok Bakula Rimpochee, about 220 km from Kargil. You can take a taxi or bus to Kargil, which takes 6-7 hours.

By Road: Kargil is accessible from Srinagar (230 km) and Leh (220 km) via regular buses or private taxis. Travel time from Srinagar is around 8-9 hours, and 6-7 hours from Leh.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit Kargil is from May to September when temperatures are mild (10°C to 25°C), perfect for outdoor activities. Winters (November to February) can be harsh, with temperatures plummeting below -20°C, but winter sports and the region’s winter charm also attract visitors during this season.

Top Attractions in Kargil

• Kargil War Memorial: This memorial, which includes a museum displaying photos, weapons, and artefacts from the 1999 Kargil War, is a tribute to the soldiers of the conflict.
• Suru Valley: About 40 km from Kargil, Suru Valley offers stunning natural beauty, ancient monasteries like Rangdum Monastery, and panoramic mountain and river views.
• Mulbekh Monastery: Located 41 km from Kargil, this 8th-century monastery is home to a 9-meter-high rock-carved statue of Maitreya Buddha, along with beautiful murals and artwork.
• Nun Kun Peaks: Towering over 7,000 meters, these peaks are a haven for mountaineers and adventure enthusiasts and offer breathtaking views.
• Kargil Market: Experience local culture and shop for Ladakhi clothing, handicrafts, and local food items, such as butter tea, momos, and thukpa.

Kargil to Leh Routes  

There are two routes from Kargil to Leh, both covering similar distances but with different travel times:

• Route 1 (via Lamayuru): Kargil – Namika La – Fotu La – Lamayuru – Khalsi – Nimmu – Leh. This is the most common route, following the main Srinagar-Leh highway and taking 7-8 hours with sightseeing stops.
• Route 2 (via Batalik): Kargil – Hamboting La – Batalik – Aryan Valley – Khalsi – Nimmu – Leh. This lesser-known route takes 9-10 hours due to narrower roads but offers the opportunity to explore the scenic and less-travelled Aryan Valley.

Kargil to Leh Bus & Taxi Services

• Bus Service: A state-operated bus runs daily from Kargil to Leh, departing at 8 am and arriving by 4-5 pm. The fare is approximately ₹400-₹500 per person. The bus operates between May and September, with possible service in October depending on weather conditions.
• Taxi Service: Private taxis are available from Kargil to Leh, costing between ₹7,000 and ₹13,000, depending on the season and negotiation. Taxis can be arranged through hotels or directly at the Kargil taxi stand.

The Road from Leh to Nubra Valley 

The journey from Leh to Nubra Valley is a must-do for those visiting Ladakh, though it requires a special permit for foreigners, which can be challenging if you travel solo. The road covers about 115 km and takes 5-6 hours, passing over the famous Khardung La Pass, the most elevated motorable road in the world at 5,600 meters. The journey offers breathtaking views, but the narrow, winding roads can be unnerving, especially for those uncomfortable with heights.

At the top of Khardung La, travellers can enjoy chai, take pictures by the iconic signs, and admire the fluttering Tibetan prayer flags. As you descend, the scenic Nubra Valley comes into view, with the Shyok River flowing through sand, mud, and water. Upon crossing the river, the village of Sumur awaits, known for its lower altitude (3,100m) and ease of breathing compared to Leh.

Sumur is an excellent base for exploring the valley. It has a small monastery, a centuries-old traditional Ladakhi house, and adventure options. Nearby, Diskit Monastery offers more stunning views. Visitors can also explore the desert-like dunes by buggy or ride rare Bactrian camels, one of the few places where these two-humped camels still roam.