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Ladakh Tourist Places: Leh, Nubra and Pangong: The blue expanse of Pangong Tso between bare Ladakh mountains

Ladakh Tourist Places: Leh, Nubra and Pangong

High passes, blue lakes and quiet monasteries, planned by a Srinagar-based team.

Places to visit in Ladakh: a high-altitude desert

Ladakh is a cold desert high in the Himalayas, and it has welcomed tourists since 1974. You spend your days crossing mountain passes, visiting monasteries and sleeping beside lakes like Pangong Tso.

Leh sits at about 3,500 m, so plan your first day for rest. Your body needs time to adjust, and you will enjoy the rest of the trip far more.

We3 Holidays has planned Ladakh trips from Srinagar since 2008. We handle your permits, hotels, cab and rest days, so you can focus on the views.

Ladakh at a glance

PlaceBest forDistance from Leh (approx.)Time needed
LehPalaces, monasteries, marketsStarting point2 days
Nubra ValleySand dunes, Khardung La, Diskit120 to 150 km2 nights
Pangong TsoLake views, sunrise and sunsetAbout 160 km1 night
TurtukVillage life, apricot orchardsAbout 205 km1 night

Distances are approximate. Road and weather conditions change the driving time.

Ladakh trip from Srinagar or by air

Choose the route that suits your time, budget and comfort.

By air to LehBy road from Srinagar
Best forShort trips, first-time visitorsRoad-trip lovers, scenery
TimeAbout 1 hour from Srinagar2 days of driving
SeasonAll yearSummer only, when the road is open
AcclimatisationRest 1 full day in LehThe gradual climb helps your body adjust

Srinagar to Leh by road: two-day plan

The drive covers about 420 km. Most travellers split it into two days.

  • 1

    Day 1: Srinagar to Kargil

    You cross Sonamarg and Zojila, then drive through Drass. Vehicles cross Zojila on a time schedule, so the day starts early. Plan 7 to 8 hours.

  • 2

    Day 2: Kargil to Leh

    You pass Lamayuru and the Indus valley. Plan 6 to 7 hours.

Start early both days. Mountain weather changes fast, and landslides can slow the road.

Srinagar to Leh by air

Flights connect Srinagar and Leh. Book early in summer, because seats fill up. Rest on your first day in Leh, and avoid hard sightseeing.

Our Srinagar team knows this road well. We plan your stops, your driver and your rest days, so the journey stays safe and relaxed.

Top places to visit in Ladakh

The Indus and Zanskar rivers meeting at Sangam in Ladakh

Leh

Leh is your base. Visit these places over two days:

  • Leh Palace: Climb to this old royal palace for views over the town and the valley.
  • Shanti Stupa: Come at sunset for calm views and soft light.
  • Hall of Fame museum: Learn about the Indian Army and the region’s history.
  • Leh Market: Shop for pashmina, local crafts and apricot products.

With an extra day, add nearby monasteries such as Thiksey and Hemis.

Prayer flags fluttering beside a high-altitude lake in Ladakh

Nubra Valley

You reach Nubra over Khardung La, one of the world’s highest motorable passes, at about 5,359 m. Stay at the pass for only 15 to 20 minutes, because the air is thin. On the other side, the valley opens into green villages and sand dunes.

  • Hunder sand dunes: Ride a double-humped camel across the dunes.
  • Diskit Monastery: Visit the oldest and largest monastery in the valley.
  • Stay: Overnight in a camp or hotel near Hunder or Diskit.
Whitewashed stupas and prayer flags in Ladakh

Pangong Tso

This long, high-altitude lake changes colour through the day, from turquoise to deep blue. Stay overnight to see it at sunrise and watch the stars after dark. Nights here are very cold, so pack warm layers.

A group of bikers celebrating beside a mountain lake in Ladakh

Turtuk

This green village sits near the border. Walk through its apricot orchards, meet local families and learn about the Balti culture. Many travellers call it the most peaceful stop on the trip.

Best time to visit Ladakh

  1. May to June

    Roads open and the days feel pleasant. Snow still covers the passes.

  2. July to August

    This is peak season. The days are warm and all routes are open.

  3. September

    Crowds thin out and the skies turn crisp and clear.

  4. October to April

    The weather turns very cold and many roads close. Choose this window only if you are an experienced traveller.

Ladakh permits

Some areas of Ladakh need a permit, including Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso and Turtuk. Rules differ for Indian and foreign travellers, and they change from time to time. Indian travellers pay an environmental fee online. Foreign nationals need a Protected Area Permit.

Share your ID details when you book. We arrange the permits for you, you pay the fees directly, and we tell you what to carry. Always carry printed copies and your original ID on the road.

How to stay healthy at altitude

  • Rest for a full day when you reach Leh.
  • Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol on the first two days.
  • Walk slowly and take breaks.
  • Tell your driver or guide at once if you feel a strong headache, dizziness or breathlessness.
  • Carry any regular medicines and talk to your doctor before you travel.

What to pack for Ladakh

  • Warm layers, a windproof jacket and thermal wear
  • Sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat, because the sun is strong at altitude
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • A power bank and a reusable water bottle
  • Valid photo ID and permit copies
  • Some cash, since ATMs and networks can be limited outside Leh
  • A postpaid SIM, because prepaid SIMs from outside Jammu & Kashmir do not work

Ladakh tour packages

Ladakh trip FAQs

What are the best places to visit in Ladakh?

Leh, Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso and Turtuk top most lists. Leh gives you palaces and monasteries. Nubra offers dunes and Khardung La. Pangong brings the famous blue lake, and Turtuk adds a quiet village stay.

What is the best time to visit Ladakh?

Visit between May and September. July and August bring warm days and open roads. September offers fewer crowds and clear skies. Winter is very cold, and many roads close.

How many days do I need for Ladakh?

Plan at least six to seven days. You need one day to rest in Leh, then time for Nubra, Pangong and the local sights. Add more days if you want Turtuk.

Can I drive from Srinagar to Leh?

Yes, in summer. The road covers about 420 km and usually takes two days, with a night in Kargil. Weather can close the road, so keep your dates flexible.

Do I need a permit for Ladakh?

You need a permit for areas like Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso and Turtuk. We arrange it for you when you book. Carry printed copies and your original ID.

How do I avoid altitude sickness in Leh?

Rest for a full day after you arrive, drink plenty of water and walk slowly. Avoid alcohol for the first two days. Tell your guide at once if symptoms get worse.

Should I fly to Leh or drive from Srinagar?

Fly if you are short on time. Drive if you love road trips and travel in summer. The slow climb by road also helps your body adjust.

Can We3 Holidays plan my Ladakh trip?

Yes. We plan your route, hotels, cab and permits. Send us your dates and group size, and a Srinagar coordinator replies with a day-by-day plan and a clear quote.

The Indus and Zanskar rivers meeting at Sangam in Ladakh

Plan your Ladakh trip

A coordinator in Srinagar replies with a day-by-day plan and a clear quote, usually within 2 hours.

Recognised by the travel trade

Member of TAAI, TAFI, ADTOI and TAAK. Registered with J&K Tourism.

  • Travel Agents Association of India
  • Travel Agents Federation of India
  • Association of Domestic Tour Operators of India
  • Travel Agents Association of Kashmir
  • Registered with the Department of Tourism, Jammu & Kashmir