Leh Nubra Pangong Tso Moriri Tour

About this tour

Leh

Leh is the principal city in the Leh district of Ladakh. Situated in the eastern part of Ladakh, it stands at 3,524 meters. The town is known for its picturesque landscape and stunning mountain views. Overlooking the Indus Valley, Leh offers breathtaking views of the Karakoram mountain range, including the majestic Mount Kailash. Leh is a culturally and historically significant town, home to some of the oldest Buddhist monasteries in the world. It is also well known as a base for trekking and mountaineering in the Himalayas. Tourists flock to the city yearly to experience its natural beauty and spiritual atmosphere. Leh has a vibrant culture, with various festivals and events occurring yearly. The most famous is the Hemis Festival, which celebrates the birth of Guru Padmasambhava, the founder of Tibetan Buddhism. Other festivals include the Ladakhi Losar festival, which marks the start of a new year, and the Dosmoche festival, which celebrates the end of the Tibetan calendar year. Leh also has a thriving economy, with several businesses catering to tourists and locals alike. Many shops and restaurants in the city offer traditional Ladakhi cuisine and food from other parts of India. There are also several high-end hotels and resorts and a lively nightlife scene. Leh is an excellent destination for outdoor activities like trekking and mountaineering, with breathtaking views and cultural attractions.

Nubra Valley

Nubra Valley is one of the world’s most beautiful and remote regions. Located in the Ladakh region of India at an altitude of 10,000 feet, the area is home to some of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes and views. It is known for its snow-capped mountains, vast plateaus, glaciers, and rivers. The Nubra Valley is home to two large rivers, the Shyok and the Nubra. These rivers have been the region’s lifeline for centuries, providing the locals with water, food, and transportation. The area has many Buddhist monasteries, providing a unique spiritual experience. The Nubra Valley is known for its unique wildlife, including snow leopards, ibex, and yaks. It is also home to some of the most beautiful birds in the world, such as the Himalayan snowcock and the Tibetan snow finch. The Nubra Valley is an ideal destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers, offering various activities and attractions. From trekking and mountaineering to river rafting and camping, the Nubra Valley has something for everyone.

Pangong Lake

Pangong Lake, located in the Himalayas of India, is one of the world’s most beautiful and serene lakes. It is situated at about 4,350 meters (14,270 feet) and is nestled between India and China, with two-thirds of the lake in China and the remaining one-third in India. The lake has an interesting semi-saline water composition, and its colour changes from azure to light blue to green depending on the time of day and the season. Stunning mountains and vast stretches of dunes and grasslands surround the lake. The lake is home to various flora and fauna, including migratory birds, which arrive in the summer months for food, and multiple species of fish, including the rare snow trout. It is also a great place to go camping and enjoy the stunning surroundings. The lake is a favourite among photographers and nature lovers and has been featured in many Bollywood films. Pangong Lake is one of the few places in the world where one can experience the beauty of nature in its most pristine form. Its stunning views and tranquil atmosphere provide an unforgettable experience and make it an ideal destination.

Tso Moriri

Tso Moriri is a high-altitude lake in the Changthang Plateau in the Ladakh region of India. It is located in the Rupshu region of the Changthang Plateau, about 240 km southeast of the capital city of Leh. It is one of India’s largest high-altitude lakes and the largest in the Ladakh region. Both snow feeds Tso Moriri, which melts from the mountains around it and springs in the lake bed. The lake is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, meadows, and pastures. The lake is home to various wildlife, including the rare bar-headed goose. Several fish species are also in the lake, including the snow trout and the golden mahseer. Although the lake is located in a remote area of India, the area around the lake is dotted with Tibetan Buddhist monasteries and villages. The nearby Korzok village is the last permanent settlement before entering the Changthang Plateau. This lake is a part of the Tso Moriri Wetland Conservation Reserve, established in 2002 to protect the lake’s unique ecosystem. The locals consider Tso Moriri a sacred lake, which is believed to be the home of the mountain god. The lake is also a popular spot for meditation and spiritual practices. Tso Moriri is one of India’s most beautiful places and a popular tourist destination. It is an excellent spot for hikers and nature lovers who want to experience the beauty of the Himalayas and the region’s culture.

Places to visit during Leh Nubra Pangong Tso Moriri Tour

Hall of fame War memorial

The Hall of Fame War Memorial Leh is a memorial located in the city of Leh, India. It commemorates the courageous soldiers who have sacrificed their lives to serve their country. The monument was constructed in the year 2009 by the Indian Army in honour of the soldiers who fought and died in the Indo-Pak wars, Kargil War, and other operations. It is situated at the head of the Leh-Manali road, at Choglamsar, about 10 km from Leh. The memorial is a tribute to the soldiers who laid down their lives during the wars in the region. It has a large hall in the centre, with many plaques and photographs of the fallen soldiers. These plaques contain the names of the soldiers, their rank, and the place and date of their death. There is also a unique memorial stone bearing the image of the Indian flag and a list of all the wars fought by the Indian Army in the region. It is a place for people to pay their respects and remember the sacrifices made by the brave soldiers. It is a reminder of the courage and dedication of the soldiers and a place for people to honour them and pay their respects.

Shey Monastery

Shey Monastery is a Tibetan Buddhist monastery in the Shey region of Ladakh, India. It is believed to have been founded in the 11th century by the Indian master, Phagspa Shesrab. It was once home to over 500 monks and was an important religious site for Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery is on a hill overlooking the Shey region, with the main complex surrounded by several smaller temples and stupas. It is built in traditional Tibetan architecture, with ornate carvings, intricate paintings, and gold-plated statues. The main complex comprises a temple, a library, and several chapels. The monastery is renowned for its impressive murals depicting different aspects of Buddhist teachings. The murals date back to the 15th century and are believed to have been painted by Central Asian artists. In addition to its religious significance, the monastery is an important cultural and historical site. Every summer, it hosts a traditional festival attended by thousands of pilgrims from all over the world. Visitors can witness the festival’s traditional dances, musical performances, and traditional Tibetan activities. The palace has been well preserved and contains many ornate carvings and murals. Today, the monastery continues to be a place of worship and learning and remains an important cultural and religious site for Tibetan Buddhists.

Thiksey Monastery

Thiksey Monastery, or Thikse Gompa, is a Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Ladakh, India. It was founded in the 15th century by Palden Sherab and is part of the Gelugpa school of Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery is perched on top of a hill in the Indus Valley and overlooks the villages of Shey and Thiksey. It is about 19 kilometres east of Leh, the capital of Ladakh. It is a twelve-story complex with several temples, stupas, statues, wall paintings, and a massive statue of the Maitreya Buddha. The monastery is home to over one hundred monks and is an essential centre of the Gelugpa school of Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery also has a library that houses rare Buddhist scriptures, historical manuscripts, and ancient religious texts. The monastery also houses a small museum that displays an extensive collection of artefacts, religious objects, and paintings. Thiksey Monastery is a popular pilgrimage site for Buddhists and a tourist destination. It is known for its colourful festivals, which include masked dances and traditional performances. The monastery is also a popular venue for spiritual retreats and meditation workshops. Visitors can also participate in monastic activities, such as chanting and rituals. 

Shanti Stupa

Shanti Stupa is a Buddhist monument in Chanspa, in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. The Stupa is a white-domed structure on a hilltop overlooking the city and the surrounding valley. It was built in the traditional Japanese style with a golden spire. The structure is made from white granite and marble and features intricate carvings and designs. The Stupa is also a pilgrimage site for Buddhists and other visitors, as it is believed to be a place of peace and meditation. The Shanti Stupa is also a popular tourist destination and is visited by people worldwide. The monument is also a symbol of unity and friendship between India and Japan. It serves as an example of how two cultures can unite to promote peace and harmony.

Leh Palace

Leh Palace is a nine-story palace located in the heart of Leh, the capital of the Indian Union territory of Ladakh. Built in the 17th century by the Namgyal dynasty, it is the most prominent landmark in the city. The palace is built in the traditional Tibetan style and has survived many centuries of harsh weather. The palace has massive stone walls, red ochre-painted mud-plastered walls, wooden doors and windows painted in vibrant colours, and a multi-tiered roof made of wood and slate. The palace contains many exciting features, including several large open courtyards, a library, a small museum, and a large assembly hall. The palace’s interior is decorated with beautiful murals, paintings, and wall hangings. The palace also houses several shrines, including shrines dedicated to the Buddhist gods and goddesses and shrines dedicated to the departed members of the royal family. 

Leh Market

Leh Market is a bustling market in the heart of Leh, India. The market has colourful stalls selling everything from traditional Ladakhi handicrafts and woollens to fresh fruit, vegetables, and Tibetan artefacts. The market is also known for its vibrant street life, and it is a great place to mingle with locals and buy souvenirs. Leh Market was established in the 18th century. Today, it is home to more than 200 shops and vendors, and it is the largest market in the region. The market is open all year round, and it is a great place to buy traditional Ladakhi items, such as woollens, jewellery, and souvenirs. Leh Market is a great place to soak up Leh’s culture and atmosphere.

Gurudwara Patthar Sahib

Gurudwara Patthar Sahib is a Sikh temple in the Leh district. It was established by Guru Nanak Dev Ji in 1517 AD, during his fourth Udasi (spiritual journey). It is located in a sparsely populated Shey area, about 15 km from Leh. The Gurudwara is situated at an altitude of 4,267 meters above sea level and is considered one of the highest Gurudwaras in the world. The Gurudwara is a place of worship and pilgrimage for Sikhs and other devotees. The Gurudwara is a two-story structure of grey stone surrounded by a courtyard. The main entrance is adorned with a pair of flags. It has a holy tank called Amrit Sarovar. Inside the Gurudwara, there is a large hall where the Sikh Holy Book, Guru Granth Sahib, is kept. The Gurudwara has a kitchen where food is prepared for the devotees. A library and a museum are also located inside the Gurudwara. 

Magnetic Hill

Magnetic Hill is a unique hill near Leh in Ladakh, India. It’s found along the Leh-Kargil-Baltik National Highway, around 30 km from Leh. The mountain has an optical illusion, and the downhill road appears uphill. This illusion is created by the hills’ surrounding slopes and curves, giving the impression that the downhill road is uphill. This optical illusion is further enhanced by a magnetic field in the area, hence the name Magnetic Hill. Visitors can experience this magical phenomenon by parking their vehicles at a particular spot and switching off their engines. The car will then appear to move uphill despite going downhill. The Magnetic Hill also has religious significance in Ladakh as it is believed that Lord Shiva resides on the hill and that it has healing powers. Many people visit Magnetic Hill to pray and seek blessings from Lord Shiva.

Khardung La

Khardung La is a mountain pass in the Ladakh region, India. It’s known as one of the highest motorable passes globally, reaching an elevation of 18,380 feet (5,602 meters). The pass is located on the Leh-Kargil-Srinagar highway and connects Leh to the Shyok and Nubra valleys. It is a popular tourist destination, and the views from the past are spectacular, with snow-capped peaks and deep valleys. The pass is also a popular spot for trekking and mountaineering. It is often referred to as the “Roof of the World”.

Diskit Monastery

Diskit Monastery is found in the Nubra Valley of Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir, India. Founded in the 14th century, the monastery is the central hub of Buddhism in the Nubra Valley. The monastery is home to more than 300 monks and is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists, particularly for the Gelugpa sect. The monastery complex includes a large prayer hall, a library of ancient manuscripts, a giant statue of the Future Buddha Maitreya, several shrines, and several prayer wheels. The monastery’s main attraction is the giant, 32-meter-high Maitreya statue, one of the tallest statues of Maitreya in the world. The statue, which stands atop a hill overlooking the monastery, is visible from miles away and is a popular tourist spot. The monastery also hosts an annual festival in the summer, which includes prayers, dances, and other activities.

Shyok River

The Shyok River is a tributary of the Indus River that originates in Tibet and flows through Ladakh in India. The Shyok River is 545 kilometres (338 mi) long and flows through the Ladakh region of Jammu and Kashmir. The Shyok River is the primary water source for the city of Leh and is an essential source of irrigation for the area. The river is also known for its spectacular scenery and many gorges, canyons, and rapids. The river is also home to various fish and wildlife, including the endangered snow leopard. The Shyok River is an essential source of hydropower, and several hydroelectric projects have been built along its course. The river is also an important source of tourism for the region, and rafting trips and other adventure activities are available there.

Changla Pass

Changla Pass is a mountain pass located at an elevation of 17,586 feet in the region of Ladakh in India. It is situated on the Leh-Kargil-Baltik National Highway 1, the Srinagar-Leh Road. The pass is between Tangtse in Leh and Durbuk in the Changthang region of Ladakh. It is the second-highest motorable pass in the world after Khardung La. The pass is an essential gateway to the Changthang region and is used by the Indian Army for road transportation. It is between India’s most important mountain ranges, the Himalayas and the Karakoram. The pass offers magnificent views of the surrounding landscape and is a popular tourist attraction. The pass is often called the “Gateway to Ladakh” as it connects Leh to other regions of Ladakh. The pass is usually closed during winter due to heavy snowfall. It is open for transportation only from May to October. The pass is generally covered in snow and is often very windy. It is a popular destination for bikers and adventure seekers.

Thiksey Monastery

Thiksey Monastery, located in Thiksey, Ladakh, India, is a Tibetan Buddhist monastery following the Gelugpa tradition. It’s connected to the Phelgyeling Monastery in Lhasa, Tibet, and holds significant cultural and spiritual importance. The monastery is located at an altitude of 12,150ft. Thiksey Monastery was founded in the 16th century by Sherab Zangpo of Stod. It is situated on a hilltop and is an impressive complex of buildings with various shrines, temples, stupas, and a nunnery. Several shrines and temples within the monastery, including the main prayer hall, house a 15-meter-high statue of the Maitreya Buddha. The monastery also houses a museum and library. It is home to around 400 monks who study and practice the teachings of the Buddha. The monastery also serves as a cultural centre, hosting annual festivals such as the Gustor Festival, where the monks perform Cham dances and masked dramas. The monastery is open to visitors and tourists daily and is a popular destination for religious pilgrims and tourists alike. Visitors can also participate in meditation classes, visit the museum, attend cultural events, and explore the surrounding area.

Rancho School

Rancho School, Leh is a private school in Leh, Ladakh, India. It is affiliated with the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) and offers classes from Nursery to 12th grade. The school was founded in 1998 by Her Highness Gyalmo Rigzin Wangmo. Rancho School is a co-educational institution that provides quality education to its students through a well-designed curriculum. The school also offers co-curricular and extracurricular activities for its students. Some of the facilities provided by the school include a library, a computer lab, a science lab, a playground, and a cafeteria. The school also has a student council that works towards improving the school.

Tso Kar Lake

Tso Kar Lake is a high-altitude lake in Ladakh, India. It is located in the Rupshu Valley, east of the Ladakh Range. Vast wetlands surround the lake, home to several species of migratory birds and a breeding ground for the endangered black-necked crane. An abundance of rare medicinal plants are found in the wetlands around the lake and are used in traditional medicine. 

Puga Hot Spring

Puga Hot Spring is a small hot spring located near the village of Puga in the Changthang region of Ladakh, India. The spring is surrounded by a vast landscape of mountains and plateaus, making it a popular tourist destination. The water is also said to improve blood circulation and has a mild scent. Visitors can also enjoy the beautiful scenery of the area. Visitors can also take a jeep or a trekking route to reach the spring. The nearest accommodation is the Puga Guest House, located two kilometres away. The hot spring is open from 5:30 am to 6:00 pm daily. The water temperature ranges from 40–50°C (104–122°F). It is advisable to bring a swimsuit, as the hot spring is not covered.

Tanglangla Pass

Tanglangla Pass is a high mountain pass in Ladakh, India. It sits at 17,582 feet (5,359 meters) above sea level, making it the second-highest motorable pass globally, just after Khardung La Pass. This pass connects Rumtse and Upshi villages in the Ladakh region of the Indian Himalayas. The Indian Army must reach remote Ladakhi areas. Tourists, adventurers, and bikers also visit for its stunning mountain and valley views. The pass is icy and extremely cold, dropping to -20 degrees Celsius in winter. It’s usually open from June to September. The road is challenging and demands skilled driving due to its twists and turns. Landslides and avalanches can occur, so caution is essential when travelling here.

Food to try during Leh Nubra Pangong Tso Moriri Tour

Thukpa

Thukpa is a traditional Tibetan noodle soup famous in the Himalayan region, including Leh. It consists of flat noodles, vegetables, and meat or other protein. The broth is usually made from beef or chicken stock and seasoned with garlic, ginger, and other spices. It is typically served with a topping of chopped scallions and chilli peppers.

Momos

Momos are Nepalese and Tibetan dumplings popular in the Leh region. They are made using flour-based dough, filled with vegetables or meat, and then cooked by steaming or frying. Momos can be served as an appetiser or a main course and are often served with spicy chutney and tomato or chilli sauce.

Skyu

Skyu soup is a traditional Tibetan soup made with beef, potatoes, turnips, onions, garlic, and various herbs and spices. It’s usually paired with steamed or fried bread and can be topped with grated cheese, chilli flakes, and spring onions. The soup is generally filling and a great way to warm up on a cold evening or day.

Chutagi

Chutagi is a popular traditional dish of the Ladakhi people of Leh, India. It is a dumpling from buckwheat flour filled with vegetables, spices, and herbs. The dough is rolled into small balls and steamed. It is usually served with a spicy tomato-based sauce. Chutagi is often eaten as a snack or part of a meal. 

Chhang

Chhang is a traditional Tibetan-style barley beer popular in the Ladakh region of India. It is made by fermenting barley malt with yeast. The barley is soaked, ground into a fine powder and mixed with water. This mixture is then left to ferment for several days before it is strained and served. Chhang is usually served in a glass and can be cold or warm.

Khambir

Khambir is a traditional local flatbread from Leh, the capital of Ladakh in India. It is a round, thick bread made with flour, water, whole wheat flour, and salt. It is then baked over an open fire, giving it a unique smoky flavour. It is usually served with butter, chutney, and other curries. Khambir is a popular dish for special occasions, festivals, and religious events.

Khattey Kadoo

Khatta Kaddu is a traditional dish of Ladakh, a region in India known for its mountainous terrain and Buddhist culture. It is a spicy and tangy dish with pumpkin and lentils cooked in a thick gravy of spices, onions, tomatoes, and yoghurt. The meal is typically enjoyed with steamed rice, a favourite in the area. Its unique mixture of sweet, sour, and spicy flavours makes it a favourite among many Ladakhis.

Skyu Thukpa

Skyu Thukpa is a popular traditional dish from the Ladakh region of India. It is a hearty soup with buckwheat noodles, vegetables, and meat. The soup is usually served with a side of chutney or pickles. Skyu Thukpa is an essential part of Ladakhi cuisine and can be found in many regional restaurants.

Skyu Curry

Skyu curry is a traditional Ladakhi dish that is served in the form of a thick stew made with mutton or beef. It is served over rice or noodles and is often accompanied by a side of pickled vegetables. The main ingredients of the curry are onions, tomatoes, garlic, ginger, and various spices. The curry is cooked for several hours on low heat, allowing the flavours to blend and develop. The result is a rich, savoury dish that is sure to satisfy. Skyu curry is a popular dish throughout Ladakh and is a must-try for anyone visiting the region.

Best Time for Leh Nubra Pangong Tso Moriri Tour

Leh experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year. January is the coldest month, with nights plunging to -19°C and daytime temperatures ranging from 0°C to 12°C under sunny skies. In February, temperatures gradually rise but remain cold, ranging from -20°C at night to 12°C during the day. By March, the weather begins to warm up significantly, with temperatures ranging from -8°C to 18°C. In April, the warmer season starts with temperatures ranging from 4°C to 22°C. May sees further warming, with temperatures varying from 8°C to 26°C. June is the hottest month in Leh, reaching up to 30°C. July remains warm, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. August begins to cool down slightly, ranging from 10°C to 25°C. September starts the cold season, with temperatures from 0°C to 15°C. October sees a further drop, ranging from -10°C to 10°C, and November returns to colder temperatures, similar to January. December, the second coldest month, ranges from -10°C to 10°C.