Leh Ladakh 10-Day Road Trip Itinerary: Pangong Lake & Nubra Valley

Explore the majestic beauty of Ladakh with this detailed 10-day road trip itinerary that covers the iconic Pangong Lake, the pristine Nubra Valley, the spiritual charm of Leh, and the adventurous passes along the way. Perfect for solo travelers, families, couples, and groups, this blog includes the best attractions, suggested timelines, food spots, and how Elephant Cabs can enhance your Ladakh experience with reliable transport.

Day 1: Arrival in Leh (Altitude: 3,500 m) – Acclimatization & Local Sightseeing

Morning:

• Arrive at Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh.

• Get picked up by Elephant Cabs in a pre-booked, air-conditioned SUV or tempo traveler.

• Check-in to a comfortable hotel in Leh city.

Afternoon:

• Rest and acclimatize. Hydrate well and avoid alcohol or strenuous activity.

Evening:

• Visit Shanti Stupa for panoramic sunset views over Leh.

• Stroll through the local Leh Market.

Day 2: Leh Local Sightseeing Tour

Morning:

• Start with Shey Palace, once the summer capital of Ladakh.

• Head to Thiksey Monastery, known for its 12-story structure and Maitreya Buddha.

• Continue to Hemis Monastery, Ladakh's wealthiest gompa.

Afternoon:

• Stop for lunch at Gesmo Restaurant (famous for momos and thukpa).

• Visit Leh Palace, built in the 17th century.

• Explore the Hall of Fame museum.

Evening:

• Dinner at Tibetan Kitchen – try local Ladakhi cuisine.

Day 3: Leh to Nubra Valley via Khardung La (160 km, 5-6 hours)

Morning:

• Begin your journey early with Elephant Cabs.

• Drive through Khardung La (5,359 m), one of the world’s highest motorable roads.

Afternoon:

• Reach Diskit and visit Diskit Monastery with the giant Buddha statue.

• Continue to Hunder and explore sand dunes.

Evening:

• Enjoy a double-humped Bactrian camel safari.

• Stay overnight in a Nubra Valley camp or hotel.

Day 4: Nubra Valley to Turtuk and Back

Morning:

• Take a drive to Turtuk, a Balti village close to the Indo-Pak border.

• Explore its unique culture, apricot orchards, and historic mosques.

Afternoon:

• Have lunch with a local family or a small eatery serving Balti dishes.

• Visit the local museum and King’s house.

Evening:

• Return to Hunder or Diskit for another night.

Day 5: Nubra Valley to Pangong Lake via Shyok (7-8 hours)

Morning:

• Depart for Pangong Tso via the scenic Shyok route.

• Cross riverbeds, mountain passes, and charming hamlets.

Afternoon:

• Reach Pangong Lake (4,350 m), where the water changes shades of blue.

• Capture moments at shooting locations from Bollywood movies (3 Idiots).

Evening:

• Stay in a lakeside camp.

• Enjoy a Ladakhi dinner and star-gazing.

Day 6: Pangong Lake to Leh via Chang La (6 hours)

Morning:

• Wake up early for sunrise photos over Pangong.

• Start return journey to Leh through Chang La Pass (5,360 m).

Afternoon:

• En route visit Chemrey Monastery and Druk Padma Karpo School (Rancho’s School).

• Stop at Karu for lunch.

Evening:

• Arrive in Leh and unwind.

• Enjoy dinner at Bon Appetit, famous for open-air views and pizzas.

Day 7: Leh to Tso Moriri Lake (220 km, 8-9 hours)

Morning:

• Depart early for Tso Moriri via Chumathang hot springs.

• Stop for refreshments and photographs.

Afternoon:

• Arrive at Tso Moriri, a high-altitude lake at 4,522 m.

• Visit Korzok Monastery.

Evening:

• Stay overnight in a homestay or eco-camp.

• Spot rare birds like the Bar-headed Goose.

Day 8: Tso Moriri to Tso Kar to Leh (240 km, 9 hours)

Morning:

• Depart for Tso Kar, the white lake famous for salt deposits and birdlife.

• Cross Polo Kongka La and Puga Valley.

Afternoon:

• Stop for photos and lunch near the lake.

• Return to Leh via Tanglang La (5,328 m).

Evening:

• Check in at hotel.

• Visit Leh Main Bazaar for souvenirs.

Day 9: Leh Leisure + Shopping + Food Day

Morning:

• Explore cafes: Goji Cafe, Coffee Culture, Lala’s Art Cafe.

Afternoon:

• Visit Central Asian Museum.

• Try yak cheese at local stores.

Evening:

• Shop for pashmina shawls, prayer flags, and apricot jam.

• Farewell dinner at The Grand Dragon hotel restaurant.

Day 10: Departure from Leh Airport

• Book your drop to the airport with Elephant Cabs.

• Say goodbye to the land of high passes.

Why Choose Elephant Cabs for Your Ladakh Journey?

• Well-maintained Fleet: Sedans, SUVs, Tempo Travellers & Luxury Coaches

• Custom Routes: Tailored road trips for solo travelers, families, or groups

• Expert Drivers: Trained in mountain driving and local routes

• Safety & Comfort: Air-conditioned vehicles, oxygen cylinder support

• One-Way or Roundtrip Booking: From Manali, Srinagar, Leh & more

Final Thoughts

This 10-day Leh Ladakh road trip itinerary offers a perfect balance of adventure, culture, and tranquility. From monasteries and high-altitude passes to stunning lakes and desert valleys, it showcases the very best of Ladakh. With the dependable service of Elephant Cabs, your journey is not just scenic, but also seamless.

Stay tuned for more detailed travel guides and unforgettable experiences in the heart of the Himalayas.