Leh Nubra Turtuk Pangong Tso Moriri Tour

About this tour

Leh, the second-largest district in India and the largest in Ladakh’s union territory, sits at an impressive altitude of 3,534 meters (11,562 feet) above sea level. Surrounded by the majestic Himalayan and Karakoram mountain ranges, it has become a popular destination for adventure enthusiasts, offering activities like trekking, mountain biking, and river rafting. Leh is also renowned for its cultural and historical significance. The city is home to the world-famous Thiksey Monastery, the largest Tibetan monastery outside of Tibet, and other notable landmarks such as the Leh Palace, the Shanti Stupa and the Hall of Fame. As the central hub for tourism in Ladakh, Leh hosts various cultural festivals, including the Ladakh Festival, Hemis Festival, and Sindhu Darshan Festival. Unique events like the annual Yak Race and Snow Leopard Festival add to Leh’s rich cultural tapestry.

Nubra Valley

Nubra Valley is an isolated valley in north India. It is located at an elevation of 10,000 feet above sea level in the northeastern region of Ladakh. The valley is sandwiched between the Ladakh Range and the Karakoram Range. The Nubra Valley has a unique geographical location, as three mountain ranges surround it. The Karakoram Range forms the western border, the Ladakh Range is in the south, and the Siachen Glacier lies in the east. The valley is divided into the Shyok Valley and the Nubra Valley. The Shyok Valley is located in the southeastern part of the valley and is known for its beautiful landscapes and rugged terrain. The Nubra Valley is located in the north-western part of the valley and is known for its lush green pastures, meandering rivers and snow-capped mountains. The Nubra Valley is home to the Nubra people, a nomadic tribe who have lived in this region for centuries.

The people of Nubra Valley are mainly Buddhists and practice Tibetan Buddhism. Nubra Valley is also home to many wildlife, including snow leopards, Himalayan wolves, ibex, and blue sheep. It is also home to the world’s highest motorable road, the Khardung La Pass. The Nubra Valley is a stunningly beautiful region, and it is no surprise that it is a popular tourist destination. From its stunning landscapes to its unique culture and wildlife, there is something for everyone to enjoy in the Nubra Valley.

Pangong Lake

Pangong Lake is a high-altitude lake in the Himalayas in Ladakh’s disputed India-China border region. The lake stretches 134 kilometres, two-thirds within Chinese territory, while the rest extends into India. At its widest point, the lake spans 5 kilometres across. The lake’s average depth is just 30 meters (98 feet), and its maximum depth is around 60 meters (197 feet). Pangong Lake is a saline water lake whose salinity increases from east to west. The lake’s water is generally a bright turquoise colour but can be shades of blue and green depending on the amount of sediment and algae in the water. The lake is home to several species of migratory birds, including the bar-headed goose, Brahminy duck, and the black-necked crane. It is also home to various fish, including the snow trout and the Schizothorax.

Tso Moriri

Tso Moriri is a high-altitude lake in India’s Changthang region of Ladakh. It is situated at an altitude of 4,525 metres in the Rupshu region of Kargil district. It is the largest of the high-altitude lakes in the Trans-Himalayan biogeographic region. It is the second-largest of India’s only three big permanent high-altitude lakes, the other two being Tso Kar and Pangong Tso. The lake is located in a region known as the Rupshu Plateau, which is populated by a select few nomadic communities and surrounded by snow-covered mountains of the Zanskar range. It is a popular destination for trekkers and photographers. The lake is also home to various birds and wildlife, including the endangered black-necked crane. The lake is also of religious and cultural significance to the local people. It is considered the abode of the local gods and is a pilgrimage site for Buddhists. The lake is also a popular destination for migratory birds, especially the black-necked crane, symbolising luck in the local culture. Several villages, including Karzok, Sumdo, Korzok and the newly established town of Igoo, surround Tso Moriri. These villages are the only settlements in the area and are home to a small population of nomadic herders. Tso Moriri is protected by the Tso Moriri Wetland Conservation Reserve, established in 2005. The Department of Wildlife Protection of the Government of India manages the reserve. 

Turtuk

Turtuk is a small village in the Nubra Valley in the Leh district of Ladakh, India. It was part of the former kingdom of Baltistan, now part of Pakistan. Turtuk is the northernmost village in India, located at a distance of about 215 kilometres from Leh. The primary language spoken in Turtuk is Balti, a language closely related to Tibetan. Turtuk is known for its spectacular views of snow-capped mountains, lush green fields, and orchards of apricots, apples and walnuts. The village is home to the Balti people, who are of Tibetan heritage and are known for their distinct culture and traditions. Turtuk has become increasingly popular among travellers in recent years due to its unique culture and stunning landscape. The village offers many activities, such as trekking, paragliding, and jeep safaris. There are also several monasteries and gompas nearby that are worth visiting. Turtuk is an ideal destination for anyone exploring Ladakh’s beauty and experiencing its people’s culture and lifestyle.

Places to visit during Leh Nubra Turtuk Pangong Tso Moriri Tour

Hall of the fame War memorial

The Hall of Fame War Memorial is located in Leh, Ladakh. Established on April 8, 1996, by the Indian Army, it honours the soldiers who sacrificed their lives in the 1999 Kargil War and earlier conflicts, including the 1947-48 Kashmir War. Constructed by the Indian Army’s Kargil-based Victor Force, the memorial features a circular design with a marble monument and a bronze statue of a soldier in combat posture. It includes a museum displaying weapons, uniforms, photographs, and war memorabilia. A wall at the memorial, painted in the colours of the Indian flag, lists the names of the martyrs, symbolising patriotism and national pride.

Shey Monastery

Shey Monastery is a Tibetan Buddhist monastery in the Leh district in India. It was founded in the 16th century by the first incarnation of the King of Ladakh, Deldan Namgyal. It is the region’s largest monastery and home to more than 300 monks. The monastery is atop a hill 15 km away from Leh town and overlooks Shey village. It is one of the oldest Buddhist monasteries in the region and is known for its beautiful architecture and religious importance. The monastery houses many ancient manuscripts, murals, and artefacts. The monastery’s main highlight is its towering statue of the Maitreya Buddha, which stands at nearly 5 meters in height. The statue is made of copper and has various intricate designs. The monastery also houses several other statues and murals depicting multiple Buddhist deities. The monastery is also known for its annual festival called Shey-Tiger. It is held in June and is celebrated with great enthusiasm. During this festival, the monks perform various rituals and prayers. Besides its religious importance, Shey Monastery is also a popular tourist destination. 

Thiksey Monastery

Thiksey Monastery is a Buddhist monastery situated in Thikse, Ladakh, India. It is the largest gompa in Central Ladakh and belongs to the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery is located on a hilltop with a majestic view of the Indus Valley and is one of the most-visited tourist destinations in Ladakh. The monastery was founded in the 12th century by Paldan Sherab, a disciple of Tsongkhapa, and was later expanded by the Ninth Karmapa in the 16th century. It is the most important monastery in Ladakh and is home to many monks and nuns. The complex has around 20 temples, stupas, and small shrines and is home to the 12-meter-high Maitreya Buddha statue, the largest in Ladakh. The monastery also houses a copy of the Kangyur, a collection of Buddhist scriptures, and a library containing many ancient manuscripts. The complex also includes a museum displaying artefacts such as thangkas, jewellery, and coins dating back to the 12th century. The annual Gustor festival is celebrated here with great fanfare and attracts many visitors. Visiting the Thiksey Monastery provides a window into Ladakh’s rich culture and traditions and is an unforgettable experience.

Shanti Stupa

The Shanti Stupa is a Buddhist stupa with a white dome perched on a hilltop in Chanspa, Leh district, Ladakh, India. Erected in 1991 by Japanese Buddhist Bhikshu Gyomyo Nakamura, it houses relics of the Buddha at its base, which the 14th Dalai Lama enshrined. The stupa stands 12,000 feet above sea level and is visible across Leh. The Stupa is made of white-washed marble and decorated with gold-plated spires. It is built as a pyramid, with a base of 30 feet and a height of 25 feet. The Stupa is surrounded by four smaller stupas with a large prayer wheel in the centre. The Shanti Stupa symbolises peace and harmony and has become an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists. The primary purpose of the Shanti Stupa is to promote world peace and inter-faith harmony. Thousands of people visit the Stupa yearly to pay their respects and meditate. The Stupa also serves as a memorial to the victims of the Ladakh conflict and is a symbol of hope for the future.

Leh Palace

Leh Palace is an ancient royal residence on a hilltop, providing a commanding view of Leh in the Leh District of Ladakh, India. The palace was built in the 17th century by Sengge Namgyal. It is nine storeys high and was the highest building in Leh at its construction. The palace is modelled after the Potala Palace in Lhasa, Tibet, and is the most prominent landmark in Leh. The palace was the residence of the royal family of Ladakh until the mid-19th century and was later abandoned. In the 1990s, the Archaeological Survey of India restored the palace. It is now open to the public and houses a museum and a reference library. The palace is built on Tsemo Hill, overlooking the town of Leh. It is constructed over two levels and is nine storeys high. The lower level is called the Stok Palace and is the residence of the current royal family of Ladakh, the Namgyal dynasty. The upper level is the Leh Palace and is open to the public. The palace is constructed from mud bricks and timber and is decorated with wall paintings and murals. It features several courtyards, balconies, terraces, and temples and shrines. The palace also features a two-storeyed audience hall for public ceremonies and receptions. The palace is open to the public and houses a museum and a reference library. The museum is divided into three sections and displays the royal family’s jewellery collection, coins, weapons, and other artefacts. The library contains manuscripts, books, and ancient documents related to the history and culture of Ladakh.

Leh Market

Leh is the capital of Ladakh, a region in India. It is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning mountain scenery, outdoor activities, and vibrant culture. Leh’s primary market is the city’s main shopping area, with a wide variety of local stores, restaurants, and hotels. The Leh Market is near the Leh Palace in the city’s old quarter. The market operates daily except on Sundays and offers a range of vendors showcasing traditional Ladakhi items such as handicrafts, clothing, jewellery, musical instruments, and antiques. The Leh Market is also famous for its vibrant street food scene. Here, you can find local specialities such as momos (dumplings), thukpa (noodle soup), and churro (fried dough). Food stalls sell international fare, such as pizzas, burgers, and sandwiches. The Leh Market is also known for its traditional medicine shops. These shops sell various herbs and medicines believed to have medicinal properties. Many of these remedies are also used for spiritual purposes. The Leh Market is also home to several small shops selling traditional Ladakhi souvenirs, such as Tibetan carpets, jewellery, and prayer flags. Several bookstores also sell English, Hindi, and Tibetan books. The Leh Market is a great place to explore and experience the culture and history of Ladakh. There are various traditional items, handmade goods, and delicious food here.

Gurudwara Patthar Sahib

Gurudwara Patthar Sahib is a historical Sikh shrine located in the town of Leh, India. It is one of the most important Sikh shrines in the world and is visited by thousands of pilgrims each year. The shrine honours Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, who is thought to have travelled to the area during the 16th century. The shrine is located at an altitude of 4,000 meters (13,000 feet) and is the highest Sikh shrine in the world. The Gurudwara is built in the shape of a rock and is believed to have been constructed by Guru Nanak. The shrine comprises four walls and a roof and is surrounded by a courtyard. Inside the Gurudwara is a small room where prayers are offered and kirtan (devotional songs) are sung. The Gurudwara is home to several sacred relics, including a sword and a turban believed to have belonged to Guru Nanak. It also houses several ancient manuscripts, including the religious scriptures and teachings of the Sikh faith. The Gurudwara Patthar Sahib symbolises the strong bond between the Sikh faith and the people of Ladakh. The shrine is a reminder of Guru Nanak’s teachings of peace and love and serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for all who visit it.

Magnetic Hill

Magnetic Hill, a gravity hill near Leh, India, is located approximately 30 km from Leh along the Leh-Kargil-Baltik National Highway. The hill inclines about 11 degrees, and when a car is parked on the incline and the engine is turned off, the car appears to roll uphill instead of downhill. The vehicle moving uphill has been attributed to the optical illusion created by the surrounding hills, which makes the hill seem to slope downwards. The phenomenon has been a source of interest and fascination for many tourists and locals alike. Several local legends and stories surround the hill, which is considered to be a mystical place. Some locals also believe that the hill has magical powers and that spiritual forces have blessed it. The hill has also become famous for adventure activities such as paragliding, trekking, and mountain biking. It is also a popular destination for road trips and camping. Several routes can reach the hill, including a road from Leh to Kargil. The hill is part of the Indo-Pakistani Line of Control, and it is also a popular spot for Indian and Pakistani troops to exchange greetings. It is also home to several military posts. The area also has several wildlife species, including foxes, Himalayan wolves, and snow leopards. The hill is also a popular destination for stargazing, as the area is known for its clear night skies. The hill is also home to several Hindu and Buddhist shrines, which attract pilgrims from all over India.

Khardung La

Khardung La is a mountain pass situated in the Ladakh region of India. Located in the Leh district of the union territory of Ladakh, it stands at an elevation of 5,359 meters above sea level. The pass is the gateway to the Nubra and Shyok valleys and is the highest motorable road in the world. Khardung La is a strategic military location, as it is the gateway to the Siachen Glacier, the world’s highest battlefield, located just 45 miles (72 km) to the north. The pass is situated on the original trade route from Leh to Kashgar in China and was used by traders, pilgrims, and soldiers for centuries. A small market is still held here each summer. The pass is known for its beautiful views of the Karakorum mountain range and the Zanskar range to the south. The road to the pass is paved and is generally free of snow for most of the year. The pass is open from May to October, although it can be closed due to weather conditions. The Indian Army maintains a small post at the top of the pass, and visitors must obtain a pass from the army to visit the area. The pass is also home to a small Buddhist shrine dedicated to the goddess Durga.

Diskit Monastery

Diskit Monastery is a Buddhist monastery in the Nubra Valley of Ladakh, India. It belongs to the Gelugpa Tibetan Buddhism sect and is the Diskit village’s main centre. The monastery was founded in the 14th century and contains several essential statues and wall paintings. It is home to the most enormous statue of the Maitreya Buddha in Ladakh, which is over 35m in height. The monastery also houses an extensive collection of sacred Buddhist texts, including the Kangyur and Tengyur. The complex also includes several smaller temples and stupas. There is also a prayer wheel here, which is said to bring good luck when it is turned. Every year, in July, the famous festival of Dosmoche is celebrated here. During this festival, the local people come together to honour the guardian deities of the monastery. The monastery is located at an altitude of 10,000 feet and is accessible by road. It is near the Nubra River, the region’s primary water source. The monastery is integral to Ladakh’s cultural heritage and a must-visit for any traveller.

Shyok River

The Shyok River is important in the Ladakh region of India. It is one of the main tributaries of the Indus River and originates in the Rimo Glaciers in the Karakoram Range. The Shyok River is 534 km long and flows in a generally southwesterly direction through the Ladakh region to join the Indus River near Skardu in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. The Shyok River valley is an integral part of the Indus Valley civilisation. Archaeological evidence suggests that the river was an important trade route and settlement from at least the 3rd century BCE. The river also served as an essential link between the Indian subcontinent and Central Asia. The Shyok River is an important source of fresh water for the region, supporting a variety of wildlife and vegetation. The river is home to various fish species, including mahseer and snow trout. The river also provides water for irrigation and drinking to the local population. The Shyok River is a popular destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers. It is a great place to go rafting, kayaking, and camping. The river also provides a beautiful backdrop for trekking and mountaineering in the Ladakh region.

Changla Pass

Changla Pass is a mountain pass in the Himalayan mountain range in the union territory of Ladakh, India. It is located at 17,586 feet (5,360 m) above sea level. It lies on the road from Leh to the Pangong Lake. The Changla Pass is the third-highest motorable road in the world and is a major attraction for tourists who visit Leh and Ladakh. The road leading to it is a steep, winding route with numerous hairpin bends. The Changla Pass is often blocked by snow in the winter months and is open only from June to September. During the summer months, it is a famous trekking and biking destination. The pass provides spectacular views of the snow-covered peaks of the Himalayas and the stunning Pangong Lake. It is also a gateway to nearby attractions such as the Tso Moriri Lake and the Tso Kar Lakes. The Changla Pass is also a section of the ancient Silk Road, a network of trade routes linking China, Central Asia, and the Mediterranean. Traders used the pass to transport goods, including spices, textiles, and precious stones. Tibetan traders also used the pass to bring horses from Tibet to Ladakh. The Changla Pass is an important strategic point and has been the site of numerous battles between India and China. The Indian Army has also used it as a supply route to its regional troops.

Rancho School

Rancho School is a unique educational institution in the Leh Ladakh region of India. It was founded in 2008 by Sonam Wangchuk, a local innovator and social reformer. The school is located in the remote village of Phyang in Ladakh. It is dedicated to educating children innovatively and holistically, focused on sustainable development and self-reliance. Rancho School focuses on experiential learning, encouraging students to creatively explore their surroundings and solve problems. The school also provides opportunities for students to explore their own culture and ways of life. The school currently serves over 100 students, ranging in age from 6 to 18. Rancho School is committed to providing quality education focusing on holistic development. The school has implemented various initiatives to ensure students receive the best education possible, including delivering high-quality facilities, resources, and instruction. The school also works to promote local traditions and culture. It has implemented various initiatives to preserve the language and culture of Ladakh, such as organising cultural festivals and workshops. Rancho School has been successful in providing quality education to the students of Ladakh and has been recognised for its innovative approach. 2014, the school was awarded the prestigious Indira Gandhi Award for National Integration.

Tso Kar Lake

Tso Kar Lake, also known as Tso Kargyam, is a salt lake in the Changthang Plateau of Ladakh, India. It is situated at an altitude of 4,585 meters (15,080 feet) above sea level and is the second-highest lake in India. The lake is also home to various migratory birds and species of wild animals, including the rare black-necked crane. Barren mountains of the Karakoram range surround the lake and are a popular destination for tourists and photographers. The lake receives water from snowmelt off the surrounding mountains and springs, resulting in generally shallow and crystal-clear waters. The lake is around 10,000 years old, and a small island in the middle of the lake is considered a sacred site for Buddhists. In summer, the lake is covered with a layer of salt and is a significant source of salt for the nearby villages. Typical wildlife species found in the lake include the black-necked crane, bar-headed goose, snow cock, and Tibetan wild ass. Also, the lake is home to various rare and unique fish species, such as the snow trout. The lake is easily accessible from Leh town and takes around two hours by road. The best time to visit the lake is between May and September. 

Puga Hot Spring

Puga Hot Spring is located in the Changthang region of Ladakh, India. It is situated at an elevation of 14,000 feet, making it one of the highest hot springs in the world. This hot spring is known for its healing properties as it contains minerals like Sulphur, Magnesium, Calcium, and Iron. It is believed that the water of this spring can cure skin and joint-related ailments. The hot spring is located near the Sumdo village of Ladakh, on the banks of the Puga River. The spring is accessible by car or motorbike, and the drive to the spring takes around 2 hours from Leh. The best time to visit this hot spring is during the summer months of April to October. The Puga Hot Spring is a natural source of hot water, and the water temperature ranges from 50 to 60 degrees Celsius. The water is believed to have healing properties and is said to cure various skin diseases. A naturally formed pool surrounds the spring, and bathing in it is supposed to cure joint pains and respiratory problems. Many accommodation options are available in the area, ranging from homestays to guest houses. Visitors can also enjoy trekking, camping, and sightseeing in the area. The Puga Hot Spring is an excellent place for those seeking a unique and rejuvenating experience in Ladakh. 

Tanglangla Pass

Tanglangla Pass, or Tang La, is a mountain in Ladakh, India. It is located at an altitude of 17,480 feet (5328 meters) and is considered the second highest motorable pass in the world. The pass is a part of the Manali-Leh Highway and is near the famous Pangong Lake. The Tanglangla Pass is a gateway to several high-altitude lakes, passes, and glaciers, including the Karakoram Pass, Chang La, and the Pangong Lake. The pass is also a popular trekking destination. It is known for its stunning landscapes and views of snow-capped mountains, including the Zanskar Range, Karakoram Range, and the Great Himalayan Range. The pass is also home to several wildlife species, including blue sheep, snow leopards, ibex, and Himalayan marmots. The temperature at the pass can drop to minus 30 degrees Celsius during the winter, making it an icy region. The pass is accessible from Leh, the capital of Ladakh. The road to the pass is open for vehicles from May to October. The pass is also a popular destination for bikers and adventure seekers. The Tanglangla Pass is an important tourist destination and is a popular stopover for those planning a trip to Leh. 

Food to try during Leh Nubra Turtuk Pangong Tso Moriri Tour

Thukpa

Thupka is a traditional and hearty noodle soup from the Ladakh region of India, also popular in Tibetan cuisine. It features a variety of ingredients, such as vegetables, chicken, beef, or pork, combined with noodles in a flavorful broth. Common garnishes include chopped green onions, soy sauce, and chilli oil. Thupka is incredibly comforting during cold winter in Ladakh, offering warmth and nourishment. As a staple of Ladakhi cuisine, it is often served with other traditional dishes like momos and thukpa. The soup is versatile, allowing for adjustments in spiciness and ingredient choices, and is typically enjoyed hot. Thupka is considered a healthy option due to its high nutrient content, providing vitamins, minerals, protein, and fibre while low in fat and calories. This makes it a nutritious choice, particularly for those seeking to maintain or lose weight.

Momos

Momos are a popular Tibetan dish, especially in Leh Ladakh, India. Momos are dumplings filled with vegetables, meats, or cheese and are usually served with a spicy sauce. Momos are traditionally steamed but can also be fried. Momos can be served as an appetiser, a main course, or a snack. Momos are often served with a side of soup or a vegetable dish. Momos are a popular street food in Leh Ladakh and are often served at festivals and other celebrations. Momos are believed to have originated in Tibet but are now widespread in many parts of the world, including India.

Chhang

Chhang is a traditional alcoholic beverage of the Ladakh region of India, made from barley and millet fermented with yeast. It is served in a bowl-shaped container called a ‘Changpa’ and is a popular drink during celebrations and festivals. The brewing process of Chhang is complex and requires several ingredients, such as barley, water, and yeast. The traditional method of brewing Chhang has been handed down through generations and remains a core aspect of Ladakhi culture. Chhang is believed to have medicinal properties and is said to help cure various illnesses. Chhang is made in multiple flavours, including salty, sweet, and sour. Chhang is served in a variety of ways, including straight, mixed with tea, or mixed with other beverages.

Skyu Thukpa

Skyu Thukpa is a traditional Ladakhi noodle dish with whole wheat dough and a soup-like broth. The dish is a speciality of Ladakh, a region in the north of India, and is a popular street food. It’s typically accompanied by vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, beans, and spinach. The broth is made with cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, black pepper, cumin, turmeric and garlic. The noodles are usually boiled and then cooked in the broth. Skyu Thukpa is traditionally served with chutney or pickle on the side. The dish is believed to have originated in the 15th century during the reign of the Ladakh’s ruler, King Tashi Namgyal. It is a popular dish among locals and tourists visiting the region.

Skyu Curry

Skyu Curry is a traditional Ladakhi dish known as Skyu Gogji. It is prepared by mixing boiled potatoes, radishes, turnips and spinach with a spicy red chilli paste and then cooking it in a cast iron wok. Skyu Curry is usually served with steamed rice, roti, chapati or tsampa. Skyu Curry is a popular dish in the region and is served in many restaurants and street food stalls. Skyu Curry is believed to have originated in the 16th century when the area was under the rule of the Dogras of Kashmir. The dish is usually made with fewer spices than other curries, making it a milder and healthier choice. Skyu Curry is also a popular dish for travellers and locals alike, as it is easy to make and can be served as a main course or side dish. Skyu Curry is an excellent way to boost your intake of vegetables, providing a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fibre.