Travel

Kashmir, Zanskar & Ladakh

The Grand Himalayan Passage

A well-crafted Himalayan journey designed for Indian travellers, combining the beauty of Kashmir, the untouched landscapes of Zanskar, and the spiritual charm of Ladakh — covering all major highlights in a comfortable and efficient itinerary.

Recommended Travel Period:

June to September, when roads to Zanskar and Ladakh are open and weather conditions are favourable.

Journey Summary:

This exciting journey begins in Srinagar with its iconic lakes and Mughal gardens, continues across the scenic Zoji La into Ladakh, and ventures into the remote Zanskar Valley. Experience monasteries, glaciers, high mountain passes, and traditional Himalayan culture before concluding in Leh with its famous monasteries and heritage sites.

Journey Flow:

Srinagar (2N) → Kargil (1N) → Padum (4N) → → Kargil (1N) → Leh (2N)

Journey Highlights:

  • Shikara ride on Dal Lake, offering a peaceful experience through floating gardens and traditional houseboats
  • Mughal Gardens & Srinagar Old City, showcasing Persian-style landscaping and historic Kashmiri architecture
  • Sonamarg & Zoji La Pass, known for alpine meadows and dramatic mountain transitions
  • Kargil War Memorial at Drass, a tribute to Indian soldiers with views of the battlefield peaks
  • Suru Valley views of Nun & Kun peaks, featuring lush valleys set against towering snow-clad mountains
  • Pensi La & Drang-Drung Glacier, offering breathtaking views of one of Ladakh’s largest glaciers
  • Zanskar monasteries: Karsha, Stongde & Sani, reflecting ancient Buddhist traditions  and scenic hilltop settings
  • Zangla village & palace, providing insight into traditional Zanskari life and history
  • Bardan Monastery & Lungnak Valley, known for its serene setting along the river and spiritual ambiance
  • Visit to Phugtal Monastery, a unique cave monastery dramatically built into a cliffside
  • Mulbekh Maitreya Buddha, an ancient rock-carved statue symbolizing Buddhist heritage
  • Lamayuru Moonland landscape, famous for its unusual terrain resembling the surface of the moon
  • Alchi Monastery, renowned for its ancient murals and Indo-Tibetan art
  • Thiksey, Hemis & Shey Monasteries, representing Ladakh’s rich monastic culture and architecture
  • Leh Palace & Shanti Stupa, offering panoramic views and glimpses into Ladakh’s royal past

Day 1: Arrival in Srinagar:

Arrive in Srinagar and transfer to your hotel or houseboat. In the evening, enjoy a relaxing shikara ride on Dal Lake, where you glide past floating gardens, wooden houseboats, and local life unfolding on the water.

Stay: Srinagar

Day 2: Srinagar Sightseeing:

Visit the famous Mughal Gardens — Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh and Chashma Shahi, known for their terraced lawns, fountains, and views of Dal Lake. Later, explore Pari Mahal, a historic garden offering panoramic views, and wander through Srinagar Old City, visiting Jamia Masjid and vibrant local markets filled with traditional crafts.

Stay: Srinagar

Day 3: Srinagar to Kargil via Sonamarg & Zoji La:

Drive through Sonamarg, a scenic valley surrounded by snow-capped peaks and alpine meadows. Cross the dramatic Zoji La Pass, marking the transition from Kashmir to Ladakh. Stop at Drass to visit the Kargil War Memorial, which honors soldiers and provides insight into the region’s history, before reaching Kargil.

Stay: Kargil

Day 4: Kargil to Padum via Suru Valley & Pensi La:

Drive through the beautiful Suru Valley, known for its green landscapes and stunning views of the Nun & Kun peaks. Cross Pensi La Pass, offering spectacular views of the Drang-Drung Glacier, one of the largest in Ladakh. En route, visit Sani Monastery, one of the oldest in the region, before reaching Padum.

Stay: Padum

Day 5: Padum Sightseeing:

Visit Karsha Monastery, the largest in Zanskar, perched on a hillside with panoramic valley views, and Stongde Monastery, known for its peaceful setting and traditional architecture. Later, explore Zangla village and its historic palace, offering a glimpse into the region’s royal past and local lifestyle.

Stay: Padum

Day 6: Padum to Purne via Bardan Monastery:

Drive through the scenic Lungnak Valley, following the river through remote villages and rugged landscapes. Visit Bardan Monastery, beautifully located on a rocky outcrop above the river, before continuing to the quiet village of Purne. After exploring, return to Padum by evening.

Stay: Padum

Day 7: Phugtal Monastery Visit & Return to Padum:

Visit the famous Phugtal Monastery, uniquely built into a cliffside cave overlooking the Lungnak River. This remote monastery offers a rare spiritual experience and stunning views. After exploring, return to Padum by evening.

Stay: Padum

Day 8: Padum to Kargil:

Drive back via Pensi La and Suru Valley, enjoying once again the scenic landscapes, glacier views, and mountain vistas along the route to Kargil.

Stay: Kargil

Day 9: Kargil to Leh via Lamayuru & Alchi:

Visit the Mulbekh Buddha statue, an ancient rock carving reflecting early Buddhist influence. Continue to Lamayuru Monastery, set amidst the unique Moonland landscape known for its unusual formations. Later, visit Alchi Monastery, famous for its ancient murals and intricate artwork, before reaching Leh.

Stay: Leh

Day 10: Leh Sightseeing:

Visit Thiksey Monastery, known for its resemblance to the Potala Palace and panoramic views, followed by Shey Palace, the former royal residence with a large Buddha statue. Continue to Hemis Monastery, one of the richest and most important in Ladakh. Later, explore Leh Palace, stroll through the local market, and visit Shanti Stupa for sunset views over the town.

Stay: Leh

Day 11: Departure from Leh:

Transfer to Leh Airport for your onward journey.

Travel Style

Comfortable Private Tour | Cultural & Scenic Exploration

This itinerary is designed for Indian travellers looking for a balanced mix of sightseeing, comfort and adventure. While accommodations in remote areas like Zanskar are basic, the journey offers unforgettable experiences across some of the most beautiful regions of the Himalayas.

Stay Plan

Hotels Envisaged & Program Option

A clear day-wise look at destinations, planned programs, hotel options, and room categories for this journey.

Scroll table on smaller screens
Scroll table on smaller screens
DayDestinationProgramHotel NameRoom Type
Day 1SrinagarSrinagar Arrival & Leisure DayQayamgah/The Lalit/Taj Dal View/Sukoon HouseboatVillas/Deluxe Room/Superior Room/Deluxe Room
Day 2SrinagarLocal Sightseeing in SrinagarQayamgah/The Lalit/Taj Dal View/Sukoon HouseboatVillas/Deluxe Room/Superior Room/Deluxe Room
Day 3KargilSrinagar to KargilHotel The KargilPremium Room
Day 4PadumKargil to PadumZang’ser SaraiMud Yurts River Facing
Day 5PadumLocal SightseeingZang’ser SaraiMud Yurts River Facing
Day 6PadumLocal SightseeingZang’ser SaraiMud Yurts River Facing
Day 7PadumLocal SightseeingZang’ser SaraiMud Yurts River Facing
Day 8PadumPadum to KargilHotel The KargilPremium Room
Day 9LehKargil to LehDolkhar Leh/The Grand Dragon Ladakh/SimilarDuplex Villa/Luxury Room
Day 10LehLocal Sightseeing in LehDolkhar Leh/The Grand Dragon Ladakh/SimilarDuplex Villa/Luxury Room
Day 11DepartureDeparture from LehNANA
Total Package CostSpeak With A Travel Designer

Payment & booking assistance

  • 50% ADVANCE TO BE PAID & balance of total tour cost will have to be paid 30 days before the date of travel
Package Inclusions
  • Hygienic & comfortable transportation (Premium - Innova Crysta ; Luxury - Innova Crysta ; Super Deluxe - Innova
  • Welcome drinks on arrival at Hotels/Camps
  • Accommodation as per no. of Pax
  • Meal Plan as per client preferences
  • Highly professional Driver
  • All Toll Taxes & Parking Charges
  • Inner line Permit
  • Oxygen Cylinder
Package Exclusions
  • Doesn’t include any personal expenses
  • Doesn’t include any sightseeing adventure activity fees/entry charges
  • Doesn’t Include any property add on service charges
  • Doesn’t include any extra transportation charges due to any natural calamity.
Cancellation Policy
  • If cancellations are made 30 days before the date of travel then 25.0% of total tour cost will be charged as cancellation fees.
  • If cancellations are made 15 days to 30 days before the date of travel then 50.0% of total tour cost will be charged as cancellation fees.
  • If cancellations are made 0 days to 15 days before the date of travel then 100.0% of total tour cost will be charged as cancellation fees.
FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to travel on the Kashmir, Zanskar & Ladakh itinerary?

The recommended travel period is June to September, when the roads connecting Srinagar, Zanskar and Leh are open and weather conditions are ideal for sightseeing. During these months, travellers can comfortably experience mountain passes, monasteries, glaciers and scenic valleys.

Is this itinerary suitable for families and first-time travellers?

Yes. This journey is designed for Indian travellers seeking a comfortable balance of sightseeing, culture and adventure. While some drives are long due to the remote Himalayan terrain, the itinerary is well-paced with overnight stays that allow travellers to explore each destination without feeling rushed.

What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

The itinerary features carefully selected premium, luxury and super deluxe hotels, depending on the package chosen. In remote destinations like Padum, guests stay in comfortable boutique properties such as Zang’ser Sarai, offering an authentic Zanskari experience while maintaining essential comforts.

Are permits required for travelling to Zanskar and Ladakh?

Yes. Certain regions of Ladakh require Inner Line Permits (ILPs) for Indian travellers. These permits are included in the package and are arranged by the tour operator, ensuring a hassle-free travel experience.

What is included in the tour package?

The package includes private transportation, accommodation, welcome drinks, meals as per the selected plan, a professional driver, toll taxes, parking charges, Inner Line Permits and an oxygen cylinder for high-altitude travel. Personal expenses, entry fees, adventure activities and additional costs arising from unforeseen circumstances are excluded.