Get set for an adventure of a lifetime as you drive your way through the mesmerizing landscape of North India from Delhi to the heart of the mighty Himalayas, at the height of more than 18,000 ft traversing some of the captivating sights in the tribal wonderland of Himachal, Ladakh region of Kashmir as well as through scenic meadows of Kashmir valley. All these three regions are a must sign on for long distance drive list and indeed on the bucket list of many a driving enthusiasts.
However, what prevents most people from taking the wheel is logistic difficulties, planning hassles, permit requirements, en route requirements or the absence of back up support. For all such people the Other Home brings a chance to wheel around the bend with its associate adventures over land. At hand is a 13 day self drive trip from Manali to Srinagar. The landmarks on the way are Keylong, Jispa, Leh, Pangong Tso, Nubra Valley, Turtuk and Kargil. Many rivers and passes interspersing the moonscape of Lahaul and Ladakh make it one of world’s best long driving circuits.
The 13- days drive weaves its way through a diverse terrain of quaint villages, picturesque countryside, and extraordinary roads to treacherous heights where the adrenalin rush is high but oxygen levels low. Lahaul- Ladakh Expedition is a Motoring expedition where participants will drive together in a group following convoy rules.
For more details contact The Other Home at gaurav.sharma@theotherhome.com. Mobile number : 9266626262
Trip Start Date – 16th June 2013
Price – INR 63,500/- per person on twin sharing basis inclusive of meals, accommodation, back up team, permits etc. (fuel and personal expenses not included)
Itinerary –
Day 01 Manali
All participants must reach Manali by evening. Relax and acclimatize or enjoy the hustle and bustle of the Mall road. Overnight at Holiday Inn Hotel, Manali.
Day 02 – Manali to Jispa via Rohtang Pass (13,050 feet / 138kms)
Make an early start at 4 AM and drive to Jispa, a small village in the Lahaul region. On way, stop at Keylong village from where you can see the awe-inspiring Shangri Glacier in all its majesty. Overnight at Jispa.
Day 03 Jispa
Take a break in Jispa today to acclimatize and to get ready for the steep climb in the coming days!
Day 05 – Leh
It is time to give your nerves the much deserved rest. Spend a relaxing day in Leh or the roof of the world as it is known. Visit the long abandoned Namgyal Palace, an imposing structure situated on a hill. Overnight in Leh.
Day 06 – Leh – Pangong Lake (310 kms round trip)
Start early at 5 AM to drive to Pangong Lake, situated at an altitude of 14,271 feet above sea level, in the northeast of Leh. Drive on till you reach Pangong Lake, a tourist paradise and of great geological significance. Part of the lake runs through the Indo-Chinese border. Interestingly this is also the lake you discovered in Bollywood hit ‘Three Idiots’. Drive back to Leh.
Day 07 – Leh –Nubra Valley (120 kms)
After breakfast, start driving towards Nubra Valley (Valley of Flowers) situated in the north of Leh, at about 10,000 feet above sea level. The road, which climbs up and over the Khardung La, at approximately 17,600 feet, is believed to be the highest motor able road in the world. Spend the night in the organic camps.
Day 08 Nubra – Leh (120 kms)
Post-breakfast, drive to Deskit and Hunder village, where you can enjoy a camel safari on two hump bacterian camels in white sand dunes. Drive back to Leh after visiting Shanti stupa and Leh fort on the way. Overnight in Leh.
Day 9 – Leh
You have done a lot of driving. Take a break and relax in the laid back town of Leh. If you are up to it test your nerves at river rafting !
Day 10 Leh –Kargil (230 kms)
After breakfast, leave for Kargil. Enroute, stop at the Magnetic Hill. You can actually switch off the ignition and still move up hill at a speed of 20 km/ hour. Overnight in Kargil.
Day 11 – Kargil – Srinagar (204 kms)
Early morning, leave for Srinagar, crossing Zozilla Pass (11,575 ft) and Drass Valley, the second coldest inhabited place in world. Stop at Sonamarg to see Thajiwas Glacier. Overnight stay in a deluxe house boat.
Day 12 – Srinagar
Spend the day sightseeing in Srinagar, a paradise valley in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. Enjoy a shikara ride on Dal Lake and see the floating vegetable gardens. Also see Nishant Bagh, Shankaracharya Temple and shop for souvenirs at Lal Chowk market.
Day 13 – Srinagar – Back Home
After an early Breakfast we start driving back home.
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This is an excellent guide.Thanks very much for sharing these tips! Thanks for sharing ladakh road trip. India Holiday Packages let's you to explore fascinating destinations of India.
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