Leh Nubra Turtuk Pangong Hanley Kargil Tour

About this tour

Places to visit during the Leh Nubra Turtuk Pangong Hanley Kargil Tour

LEH

Leh, located in Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir, is known for its breathtaking landscapes, Buddhist monasteries, and Tibetan influence, earning it the nickname “Little Tibet.” Key attractions include the Leh Palace, reminiscent of the Potala Palace, and Buddhist sites like Shanti Stupa and Sankar Gompa. The region is famous for adventure activities such as high-altitude treks and river rafting in the Indus and Zanskar Rivers. Leh offers a range of accommodation options, including guesthouses, tourist complexes, and government-run bungalows, which are particularly busy from July to September. Dining options feature Tibetan and Kashmiri cuisines, with local favourites like momos and thukpa and bakeries serving fresh-baked goods.

NUBRA 

Nubra Valley, located between the Karakoram and Ladakh ranges in northern Ladakh, is renowned for its stunning landscapes and high-altitude attractions. Key highlights include the Khardung La Pass, the highest motorable road at 18,380 feet, and its majestic peaks, glaciers, and enchanting valleys. Notable sites include Diskit and Samstanling Gompas, the Panamik hot springs, and opportunities for double-humped camel safaris, river rafting, trekking, and sunbathing on the dunes at Hunder. The valley, also known as Ldumra or the “Valley of Orchards/Flowers,” features fertile soil, abundant vegetation, and the confluence of the Shayok and Siachen rivers. Diskit serves as the administrative headquarters, with Diskit Gompa offering panoramic views, while Samstanling Gompa provides a scenic vantage point. Historically part of the Silk Route, Nubra’s major villages include Kardong, Khalsar, Tirit, Sumoor, Tegar, Pinchemik, Tirisha, and Panamik, with Panamik being a significant stop for caravans and famous for its hot springs.

TURTUK

Turtuk is a remote village in the Leh district of Ladakh, located in the Karakoram ranges near the Line of Control with Pakistan. About 205 km from Leh, it is the last Indian outpost before Pakistan-administered Gilgit-Baltistan. Formerly part of Pakistan’s Baltistan region until the 1971 war, Turtuk is known for its scenic beauty, hospitable locals, and strategic importance as a gateway to the Siachen Glacier. The village opened to tourism in 2010, is divided by the Shyok River and features lush paddy fields, a canal system, and picturesque landscapes.

PANGONG TSO / PANGONG LAKE

Pangong Tso, or Pangong Lake, is a high-altitude, endorheic lake in the Himalayas at about 4,350 meters (14,270 feet). Stretching 134 km (83 mi) long, with approximately 60% in China and 5 km (3.1 mi) wide at its broadest point, it covers 604 km². Despite its saline water, the lake freezes in winter. Pangong Tso is not part of the Indus River basin and is being considered for Ramsar Convention recognition as a transboundary wetland of international importance.

The lake lies in disputed territory, with the Line of Actual Control passing through it. A section 20 km east of the Line is controlled by China but claimed by India. The northern bank features the Khurnak Fort, which China has controlled since 1952. Pangong Tso was the site of military action during the Sino-Indian War of 1962.

The lake’s salty water supports minimal aquatic life, with no fish but some crustaceans. It is a breeding ground for birds like the Bar-headed goose and Brahmini ducks and supports wildlife such as kiang and marmots. Formerly connected to the Shyok River, the lake has shrunk recently and has marshes and wetlands at its edges. The high salinity and harsh conditions contribute to its low biodiversity.

HANLEY

Hanle, about 255 km from Leh in the Changthang Valley, is a remote and scenic village with around 300 residents. It requires an inner line permit for Indian visitors due to its proximity to the Indo-Tibetan border. While Hanle was previously off-limits to tourists, it is now accessible to Indian travellers but remains restricted for foreign visitors.

On November 5, the Indian Astronomical Observatory (IAO) in Hanle and Merak, Ladakh, captured images of a rare red aurora attributed to a Stable Auroral Arc (SAR) event. The IAO, run by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics, uses an All-sky Camera that records this phenomenon, visible from 10 PM to midnight, peaking at 10:40 PM. The Hanle observatory in the Hanle Dark Sky Reserve is known for its pristine dark skies, which are ideal for astronomical observations. 

KARGIL

Kargil, formerly known as Purig, is a district in Ladakh, situated about 205 km from Srinagar. The region has a diverse history, with Purig encompassing areas like Kargil town, Suru Valley, and Shaghkar Chiktan. The name “Purig” may derive from Tibetan for “of Tibetan origin” or “the brave race”, referring to the Dards. Kargil’s name is believed to mean “place between castles” or “central place” from local language terms.

Historically, Kargil was part of the region ruled by Gasho Tha Tha Khan in the 8th century, who established a dynasty there. Various rulers influenced Kargil, and later, it merged with Jammu and Kashmir. With Ladakh becoming a Union Territory on October 31, 2019, Kargil is now part of this administrative region. The district is known for its multi-ethnic population, including Brogpas, Baltis, Purik, Shinas, and Ladakhis, and speaks languages like Shina, Balti, and Purig. Islam was introduced in the 15th century by Mir Shams-ud-Din Iraqi, though Buddhism persists in certain areas. Kargil became a separate district in 1979, and the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council Kargil was established in 2003, consisting of nine administrative blocks and 30 councillors.

Major Attractions of Leh Ladakh

Alchi Monastery: The Alchi Monastery, located in Alchi Village in Leh District, Ladakh, is one of the oldest Buddhist monasteries in the region. Established between 958 and 1055 AD, it is renowned for its unique Kashmiri-style architecture and ancient wall paintings. Though traditionally attributed to the famous scholar-translator Rinchen Zangpo in the 10th century, inscriptions suggest the Tibetan noble Kal-dan Shes-rab founded it in the 11th century.

The monastery is on the Indus River’s banks, about 66 km from Leh. Unlike other Ladakhi monasteries often perched on hilltops, Alchi Monastery is on the plains. It comprises three main structures: Dukhang (assembly hall), Sum Tsek (a three-story temple with significant statues), and the Manjushri Temple. The monastery features exquisite murals, wood carvings, and notable statues such as the Bodhisattva and Maitreya Buddha. Alchi is part of the ‘Alchi group of monuments,’ which includes the villages of Mangyu and Sumda Chun, all known for their distinctive craftsmanship and historical significance.

Gurudwara Pathar Sahib: Located 25 miles from Leh on the Leh-Kargil road, Gurdwara Pathar Sahib is a revered Sikh shrine built in 1517 to commemorate Guru Nanak Dev’s visit to Ladakh. The Gurdwara is 12,000 feet above sea level and is notable for its association with a miraculous event involving a large boulder.

According to legend, during the construction of the Leh-Nimu road in the late 1970s, a large boulder obstructed the path and could not be moved despite attempts to dynamite it. The bulldozer driver and an army officer had dreams advising against moving the stone. Local Lamas then revealed that the boulder had an impression of Guru Nanak’s body, who had visited the area in the 16th century. The legend states that a demon, enraged by Guru Nanak’s presence, attempted to crush him with a boulder. However, the boulder softened upon contact with the Guru, and the demon’s foot became embedded in it when he tried to push it. This event led the demon to repent and change his ways. The Gurdwara, now maintained by the Indian Army, is considered sacred by Sikhs and local Buddhists. The boulder with Guru Nanak’s imprint and the demon’s footprint remains a central feature of the shrine.

Hemis Monastery: Hemis Monastery, located in Ladakh’s Hemis Valley, is a significant Buddhist site founded in the 11th century by renowned monk Naropa. It is noted for being the wealthiest monastery in Ladakh and the only one to have escaped plunder throughout history, likely due to its hidden location. The monastery gained prominence under Staksang Raspa and King Senge Namgyal in the 1630s. Following the Drukpa style, its architecture resembles Bhutan’s Paro Taktsang Monastery. The road to Hemis is lined with stupas and Mani stones, adding to its serene atmosphere.

Hemis Wildlife Sanctuary:

Hemis National Park, located in Ladakh, India, is the largest national park in South Asia, spanning 4,400 sq km. Established in 1981 and named after Hemis Monastery, it is renowned for its rich wildlife, including 200 snow leopards and the unique Ladakh urinal. The park is home to 74 bird species and 16 mammal species, such as the Asiatic ibex, Eurasian brown bear, Tibetan wolf, and red fox. The park features diverse landscapes, including alpine forests, subalpine juniper, and dry birch. It also encompasses the Stok Kangri peak and parts of the Zanskar Range. Key activities include trekking and camping. The best time to visit is from May to October, when temperatures range from 4°C to 25°C. 

Jama Masjid:

The Jama Masjid, located in the heart of Leh’s bazaar, is the largest mosque in Ladakh. Built in 1666-67 AD through an agreement between Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb and Ladakhi ruler Deldan Namgyal, it symbolises Mughal-Ladakhi relations. The mosque features a double-domed structure with modern carvings and Quranic quotes. It includes a memorial dedicated to the Sufi saint Mir Syed Ali Hamdani. The mosque’s architecture blends traditional Islamic design with local influences, including intricate wooden carvings and elegant minarets. 

Lamayuru Monastery:

Lamayuru, located on the Leh-Srinagar Highway and about 127 km from Leh, is renowned for its “moonscape” landscape and the ancient Lamayuru Monastery. The monastery, founded in the 11th century by Mahasiddha Naropa, is one of the oldest in Ladakh and was initially built into a cave with a unique lunar-like terrain. The monastery, also known as Yungdrung Tharpaling, has a rich history involving significant figures like Rinchen Zangpo and Denma Kunga Drakpa.Lamayuru was historically significant, enjoying special autonomy and tax exemption. However, it suffered destruction during Zorawar Singh’s 1834 invasion, which led to the massacre of many monks. Despite this, the monastery was rebuilt with contributions from Kyabje Bakula Rangdol Nyima Rinpoche and has since flourished. Today, Lamayuru Monastery houses 350 monks and includes a well-established retreat centre. The annual Yuru Kabgyat festival, featuring mask dances and rituals, is a major attraction.

Leh Palace:

Established in the 17th century by King Sengge Namgyal, Leh Palace is a nine-storey building in a style reminiscent of the Potala Palace in Tibet. Located on a raised platform, the palace was the royal residence until the mid-19th century, when the Dogra forces took over Ladakh and the royal family moved to Stok Palace. The ASI (Archaeological Survey of India) is actively working to restore the palace.The palace features traditional Indo-Tibetan architecture with massive walls, wooden balconies, and ancient murals. From the roof, it offers panoramic views of Leh and its surroundings. The lower floors were used for storage and stables, while the upper floors housed the royal family. The palace also includes the Palace Museum, which showcases ornaments, jewellery, and Tibetan paintings. It is 4.5 km from Leh Airport and 2.2 km from the city centre.

Magnetic Hill:

Magnetic Hill, located on the Leh-Kargil-Srinagar highway, about 30 km from Leh, is renowned for its optical illusion. Vehicles appear independently when parked in a specific spot with the engine off. This phenomenon, which defies gravity, is caused by the surrounding landscape’s layout, creating an illusion of an uphill slope when it is, in fact, a downhill gradient. The effect is purely visual and not due to any magnetic force.

Shey Monastery And Palace:

Shey Monastery and Palace, located in Ladakh, offer a rich historical and cultural experience. The current Shey Monastery was built around 1655 by King Deldan Namgyal, replacing the original 10th-century structure that had fallen into ruins after being abandoned due to an attack by the Dogra Kings. The Shey Palace, once a summer capital, was eventually replaced by Stok Palace as the royal residence. The monastery remains an important site, maintained by monks, and is known for its stunning landscapes and the most significant victory stupa in Ladakh. Visitors can climb the zigzag staircase to explore the monastery and view the monastery’s architectural features and the ruins of the old palace.

Spituk Monastery:

Spituk Monastery, also known as Spituk Gompa or Pethup Gompa, is an 11th-century Gelug Buddhist monastery about 8 kilometres from Leh, Ladakh. The monastery was originally a Red Hat institution, founded by Od-de, the elder sibling of Lha Lama Changchub Od. It later came under the Yellow Hat sect in the 15th century. It houses around 100 monks and is renowned for its giant Kali statue, unveiled during the annual Gustor Festival. The monastery also features a museum with ancient masks, antique arms, and numerous thangkas. “Spituk” means “exemplary,” reflecting its significance in Buddhist heritage. The monastery’s architecture blends Tibetan and Indian styles, offering stunning views of the Indus Valley.

Stok Palace Museum:

Stok Palace, situated in Stok village near Leh, Ladakh, is a 19th-century royal residence built by King Tsespal Tondup Namgyal. Serving as a summer retreat for the Ladakhi royal family, the palace now functions as both a museum and a heritage hotel. It showcases royal artefacts, including crowns and Buddhist thangka paintings, and offers a unique heritage stay experience. Nearby, Stok Monastery, founded in the 14th century, features a library of Buddhist texts and hosts an annual dance-mask festival. The palace and monastery collectively offer a rich glimpse into Ladakhi history and culture.

Thiksey Monastery:

Thiksey Monastery, located 19 kilometres east of Leh in Ladakh, India, is a significant Gelug sect Buddhist monastery founded in 1433 AD by Spon Palden Sherab and Jangsem Sherab Zang. It features a twelve-storey complex with impressive Buddhist art, including stupas, thangkas, and a 49-foot statue of Maitreya Buddha. The monastery’s architecture resembles the Potala Palace in Tibet and offers panoramic views of the Indus Valley and Stok range. It is known for its annual Gustor ritual and the Cham Dance festival. Thiksey also houses a nunnery and supports various initiatives for Buddhist nuns.

Tso Moriri:

Tso Moriri Lake, located in the remote Rupshu Valley of Ladakh, India, is approximately 250 kilometres southeast of Leh. This stunning lake, part of the Tso Moriri Wetland Conservation Reserve and the highest Ramsar site in the world, spans about 19 kilometres in length and 7 kilometres in width. The lake receives water from mountain springs and snowmelt and is a crucial habitat for diverse wildlife, including migratory birds, Tibetan gazelles, and Tibetan wolves. The nearby Korzok Monastery, a 400-year-old site, houses around 70 monks and is known for the Korzok Gustor Festival featuring traditional Chham dances. The lake’s beauty, marked by its striking blue hues, contrasts with the harsh and challenging living conditions around it, particularly during winter.

Zangla Monastery:

Changchub Choling Monastery in Zangla, Ladakh, accessible via a narrow track from Padum, houses 18 nuns and 15 novices. Supported by the Jamyang Foundation since 1989, the monastery features essential facilities like a library, classrooms, and individual rooms. The daily routine includes early prayers, meditation, and Buddhist studies, with additional lessons in English and mathematics when volunteers are available. Despite the harsh environment and limited access to fresh vegetables and healthcare, the nuns, some of whom use traditional remedies for health issues, are actively involved in the community.