+91-8929175340
These were the words that Amir Khusro used to describe Kashmir. He was a poet during the Maluk Dynasty when they entered through the Karakoram into Kashmir. This is the earliest reference of Kashmir as Paradise. Kashmir continued to be the favourite destination for rulers to come. The most famous of them were Shah Jahan and Aurangzeb who used Srinagar as their summer capital. A plethora of gardens was built by the Mughals that added an organised layer to the free-flowing beauty of Kashmir.
Kashmir鈥檚 beauty lies essentially in its picturesque views and the simplicity in its natural landscape. Rows of cypress trees along the banks of Jhelum nestled between the foothills are fresh breath against wherever else you come from. The meadows jutting out of supple hills throw a range of shades at you, leaving a sense of contentment behind. Kashmir has a unique way of seeping into your being with its surrealism.
If there is heaven on the earth, it has to be Kashmir only. Embellished with oodles of natural marvels, Kashmir is a land of beauty and elegance. The exquisiteness of this hill station can be experienced at its best when you pay a visit to it. Visit all the famous tourist destinations of Kashmir, be it the capital city - Srinagar, the Vale of Kashmir 鈥 Pahalgam or the Meadow of Flower 鈥 Gulmarg. From enjoying a houseboat stay in Srinagar to sightseeing tour in Pahalgam, to having some fun in the snow in Gulmarg, Kashmir Tour Package covers all.
Ladakh 鈥 Introduction
Set amidst the epic Himalayas, Ladakh is a rustic and heavenly beautiful travel destination. The rugged valleys and mountains, winding roads coupled with the vibrant cultural life maintain the exuberance and charm of this region.
The iconic Magnetic Hill, the turquoise coloured Pangong Lake, the confluence of two mystical rivers, ancient and awe inspiring monasteries and the highest passes are a few of the marvellous attractions of Leh and Ladakh in general. The wide array of trekking routes will satiate your soul and enrich the senses. The moon-like desert mountains continue to be an exceptional destination for adventure seekers and admirers of Buddhism and phenomenal mountain vistas.
Leh is the joint capital and largest town of the union territory of Ladakh in India. Leh was also the historical capital of the Himalayan Kingdom of Ladakh, the seat of which was in the Leh Palace, the former residence of the royal family of Ladakh, built in the same style and about the same time as the Potala Palace in Tibet. Leh is at an altitude of 3,524 metres (11,562 ft), and is connected via National Highway 1 to Srinagar in the southwest and to Manali in the south via the Leh-Manali Highway.
So, pack some travel essentials with you to explore the most enthralling destination of India and bring back souvenirs of endless memories with you.
Day 1 : Srinagar Arrival & Rest local sightseeing
On your arrival at Srinagar airport, our representative will assist you with transfers to your pre-booked hotel/houseboat. On your arrival at the Srinagar Airport, you will be taken for a short drive through the heart of New Srinagar city, passing the Abdullah bridge which connects the banks of the Jhelum river.
After freshening up, proceed for city tour of Srinagar. Visit the famous Mughal gardens of Nishat (The garden of pleasure) & Shalimar (Abode of love). Visit Chashma Shahi, Shankaracharya Temple and Pari Mahal.
Nishat Bagh: The Garden of bliss laid down by Asif Khan father of Empress Noorjahan in 1633AD on the bank of Dal Lake with Zabarvan Massif at the back. In Nishat commands magnificent view of the Lake and the snow-capped Pir Panchal range to the west of the valley.
Shalimar Bagh: The Abode Of Love. Is said to have been a village, built by Paravarassna II.
He used to stay here when on a visit to Sukhswami a saint living near Harwan. In 1619 Jehangir ordered a garden to be laid out this spot, calling it, Ferrah Bakkash (Delightful). In 1727 A.D Zaffar-Khan. A governor during the reign of Shah Jahan made an extension of it and called it Faiz Baksh (Bountiful).
Cheshma Shahi or the Royal Spring was laid by Shah Jahan in 1632 A.D. It is 9 Km. from the city centre and is famous for a spring of refreshment digestive water, having a natural spring of Pure, Cool and Sparking water.
Two kilometers uphill from Cheshma Shahi is situated the Pari Mahal ( The palaces of Fairies), a school of astrology founded by Prince Dara Shikoh, Emperor Shah Jahan's eldest son who was killed in the war of succession. The Cheshma Shahi-Pari Mahal area has been developed into a Tourist Village.
The Shankracharya Temple made of ancient grey stones adorns thickly wooded Shankaracharya Hill. It was earlier known as Takht-i-Sulaiman, meaning Throne of Solomon, but has been renamed after a saint who preached enlightenment here in AD 750. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple rests at an altitude of 1000 feet and can be reached in 10-15 minutes by stairs. Enjoy stunning views of the locales from up there after offering prayers to Lord Shiva.
Later in the evening, we will take you for 1-hour Shikara ride in the world-famous Dal Lake, enjoy the beauty that God has graced this city with, which is often compared to Venice. You will get views of some very interesting places around the Lake.
Dinner & overnight stay at Srinagar.
Day 2 : Srinagar 鈥 Sonamarg 鈥 Drass 鈥 Kargil (220 kms, 7 hrs drive)
After breakfast & checkout from the hotel, start your journey on 434 KM long Srinagar 鈥 Leh Highway also known as National Highway 鈥 1D (NH 鈥 1D). It is the most reliable and one of the only two ways to reach Leh 鈥 Ladakh by road, the other one being Manali 鈥 Leh Highway Generally, travelers or adventure lovers from all over the world loves or dreams to undertake this road trip of their lifetime by covering both routes connecting Leh 鈥 Ladakh to rest of India. Apart from being famous for its enchanting views, this highway holds a strategic importance for India and being close to LOC, you see the heavy army presence on it when you travel through Srinagar 鈥 Leh Highway.
The highway runs alongside the Indus River and through some extremely harsh and barren terrain including the three high mountain passes named Zozi La (3528 Mtrs), Namki La (3815 Mtrs) and Fotu La (4108 Mtrs). In any case, Srinagar 鈥 Leh highway offers some breathtaking landscapes ornamented by various historical and cultural constructions which are just like a dream treat for any traveler driving/riding through Srinagar 鈥 Leh Highway.
On the way, visit Sonamarg (Known As Meadow of Gold) at 2690 Mtrs. You will be mesmerized by the greenery sprinkled around the snow covered mountains. One can also enjoy a pony ride that will take you to Thajiwas Glacier (at your own cost). One can see snow here all around the year. Sonamarg is also known as Gateway to Ladakh. Drive through Drass (famous as the second coldest inhabited place in the world) and then cross mighty Zoji-la Pass (11,500-ft. / 3,505 m), often called the daddy of passes to reach Kargil.
Dinner & Overnight Stay at hotel in Kargil.
Day 3 : Kargil 鈥 Lamayuru 鈥 Confluence 鈥 Magnetic Hill 鈥 Leh (230 kms, 8 hrs drive)
After breakfast, start your drive towards Leh.
Enroute visit Lamayuru monastery, one of the oldest Monastery of Ladakh and enjoy the view of Moon Landscape. Lamayuru is roughly 100 km before Leh, right after Fotu la, the highest pass on the Srinagar Leh highway. A peculiar landscape near Lamayuru on Leh Kargil Road is the MoonLand. It is called so fondly, because the landscapes here are said to
be like that of the moon. It has also been said often, that on a full moon night, the area is an extraordinary sight to behold, something one doesn't get see everyday, making it a must visit area of the town.
Further visit Confluence of river Indus & river Zanskar, Magnetic Hill, Gurudwara Shri Pathar Sahib and Hall of Fame museum.
Once you cross Nimmu village, you follow the Indus running through a deep gorge, and emerge to view a dramatic confluence of the muddy Indus with the sparkling blue Zanskar.
The next stop is not one to be missed 鈥 around 5km further, you will find a sign on your side of the road that reads 鈥淢agnetic Hill鈥. Park your vehicle, turn off the engine, release the brake and you will find yourself moving uphill for a good 10ft or more, without any external assistance! The explanation for this gravity-defying feat is something as mundane as an optical illusion but you be the judge!!
Your next stop can be at Gurudwara Pathar Sahib. According to legend, in 1517 when Guru Nanak was on his way back after a two year journey to Nepal, Sikkim and Tibet, he stopped and spent time here. The Gurudwara holds the rock with the imprint of Guru Nanak鈥檚 sitting body and is visited by people of all the faiths.
Reach Leh by evening. Dinner & overnight stay at hotel in Leh.
Day 4 : Leh 鈥 Acclimatization 鈥 Shanti Stupa 鈥 Leh Palace
It is advisable you use this day to acclimatize to the low air pressure at higher altitudes (11,562 ft.) of Leh. In the evening, we will take you to Shanti Stupa and Leh Palace.
Shanti Stupa is a Buddhist white-domed stupa (chorten) on a hilltop in Chanspa, Leh district, Ladakh, in the north Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. It was built in 1991 by Japanese Buddhist Bhikshu, Gyomyo Nakamura and part of the Peace Pagoda mission. The Shanti Stupa holds the relics of the Buddha at its base, enshrined by the 14th Dalai Lama. The stupa has become a tourist attraction not only due to its religious significance but also due to its location which provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Leh Palace is a former royal palace overlooking the Ladakhi Himalayan town of Leh. Modelled on the Potala Palace in Lhasa, Tibet, the palace was built by King Sengge Namgyal in the 17th century. It is nine storeys high; the upper floors accommodated the royal family, while the lower floors held stables and store rooms.
Dinner & Overnight Stay at hotel in Leh
Day 5 : Leh - Khardung-La - Diskit - Hundur - Nubra Valley (approx 150 km)
After breakfast in the morning, we will drive to Nubra Valley. En route visit Khardung-La, the highest motorable road in the world at 18,380ft. The pass on the Ladakh Range lies north of Leh and is the gateway to the Shyok and Nubra valleys. The Siachen Glacier lies part way up the latter valley. Built in 1976, it was opened to public motor vehicles in 1988 and has since seen many automobile, motorbike and mountain biking expeditions. Maintained by the Border Roads Organization, the pass is strategically important to India as it is used to carry supplies to the Siachen Glacier.
The foremost tourist attraction in Khardung La is the excitement of travelling to the highest motorable road itself. There are spectacular views that greet you along the way, that of Leh City & the surrounding mountain ranges. Because of extremely low oxygen and air pressure, you will probably suffer from Altitude Mountain Sickness, or AMS. It is best, therefore, not to spend more than 15 minutes on the K-top.
It is better to acclimatize by staying 3-4 days in Leh before travelling to Khardung La Pass. You should carry medicines like Diamox and plenty of water to avoid dehydration. Sunglasses and woollen clothing is a must.
Nubra Valley is popularly known as Ldorma or the valley of flowers. It is situated to the north of Ladakh between the Karakoram and Ladakh ranges of the Himalayas. Arrive at Hunder & check in at Hotel. Later enjoy the Camel ride on sand dunes. Like an oasis amidst the cold desert, Hunder Sand Dunes are beautiful beyond imagination. Located at an altitude of 4,000 meters, the desert is cut across by a gentle stream and the beautiful countryside. With such stunning landscapes against the backdrop of the snow-clad mountains, the Hunder Sand Dune looks nothing less than a fairy world. Beyond its beauty, the dunes are home to the Bactrian Camels, the major key players during the ancient silk route, and Pashmina Goats. Tourists can also go on a safari on the Bactrian camel that will take them back to the time when the trade was quite prominent within Central Asia and to the remote village of Hunder.
Later visit Diskit Village, the impressive 32 meter tall statue of Maitreya Buddha is visible from a distance as soon as one enters the Diskit Region. Perched atop a hillock, facing the Shyok River towards Pakistan and complementing the surroundings, Maitreya Budhha was constructed in 2006 keeping in mind three objectives - protection of Diskit Village, prevention of further war with Pakistan, and to promote world peace. The statue was inaugurated by H.H Dalai Lama in 2010. The imposing and colourful image, also known as Jampa is mounted on a large hall that has a preserved a huge drum and a collection of statues and Buddhist literature. One can see statues of Shakyamuni Buddha and Guru Rimpoche inside the hall.
Dinner and overnight stay at Hotel/Camp in Nubra Valley.
Day 6 : Nubra Valley 鈥 Shyok 鈥 Durbuk 鈥 Tangste 鈥 Pangong Lake (approx 160 kms)
After early breakfast, start your scenic drive towards Pangong Tso. This route follows the Shyok River from Agham to Shyok Village, 36 km. You will have to cross the water streams on the way. Stop at Shyok village for a quick bite and snacks and move to Pangong Tso which is perhaps one of the most amazing lakes in Asia which changes its color 4 鈥 5 times a day.
The Pangong Lake or 鈥渓ake of the great hollow鈥 is considered as the largest lake in Asia. The water is clearer though salty. It is believed that these waters must have been fresh at some ancient age. The mountain ranges at the Pangong鈥檚 north-western extremity are of lime stones which seem to affect its water. The Crystal clear salty water shines in many shades of blue depending upon its depth. It literally changes shades with sunlight. With a backdrop of mountains of various hues and colors, it is a sight for the Gods. At an elevation of 4300 meter, the air is cool even in summers at Ladakh. Pangong Lake is about 4 Km wide on the average and at least 136 Km long. The extent of the known portion is, therefore, upwards of 250 square miles (400 sq km).
At evening, enjoy the breathtaking views of Pangong Lake. Dinner & overnight stay at Pangong Lake.
Day 7 : Pangong 鈥 Chang-La 鈥揟hiksey 鈥 Shey 鈥 Rancho School 鈥 Leh (approx 160 km)
After breakfast at campsite, we will start our journey to Leh. En route you will cross Spangmik, Lukung, Tangste, Durbuk and Chang-La.
Ladakh is famous for its high altitude mountain passes as some of the highest motorable road are located in the Ladakh region.. The third highest motorable mountain pass in the world, Chang La Pass, situated at an altitude of 5,360 meters above sea level, is named after the Sadhu Changla Baba. The Pass temple was built after him only. The place is famous for its scenic and serene natural beauty which attracts tourists from all around the world. The nearest settlement to this place is the little hamlet of Tangste. It is the main gateway for the Changthang plateau situated in the Himalayas.
Stop here for quick tea and snacks and move towards Leh.
On the way back, we will be visiting Thiksey Gompa, Shey Gompa, and Rancho school.
Thiksey Gompa is located close to Shey and is about 17 kms from Leh. This monastery is considered to be one of the most beautiful monasteries in Ladakh and belongs to the Gelukspa order.
Shey Gompa is about 15 kms from Leh. It used to be the summer palace of the kings of Ladakh. There are lots of Stupas and Gompas built around the palace. Shey Gompa was built in the beginning of 17th century AD by Deldan Namgyal. One of the major attractions in Shey is the 12m Shakyamuni Buddha statue located inside the Dresthang Gompa.
Stop at Rancho School (popularized by movie 3 Idiots) on your way back.
Reach Leh by evening. Evening free for leisure. You can check out any of the fancy cafes the town has to offer.
Ladakh exhibits many markets which are famous for Tibetan handicraft items, Ladakhi gowns as well as ornaments and also other local handicraft items. Some of the popular shopping items of Leh Ladakh are:
Tibetan Handicrafts: Prayer wheels, Thangpa paintings, Buddhists masks, Tibetan trumpet, bell, Gur tea churners, Buddhist flags, etc.
Ladakhi Ornaments: Turquoise stoned Jewellery, Tibetan Silver Jewellery, semi-precious stoned Jewellery, etc.
Pashmina Products: Shawls, stoles, woollen garments, caps, gloves and socks
Other Handicraft Items: T-shirts with various motifs and designs, Hand-woven rugs, carpets, etc.
Dinner & Overnight stay in the hotel.
Day 8 : Leh airport drop
After breakfast at hotel, check out and we will drop you at Leh airport for your onward journey.
Payment Terms & Methods :
* 20% Advance Percentage of total booking amount
Cancellation & Refund Policy :
* Upon cancellation, refund will be made after deducting the Retention Amount.
Nomadic Steps View Profile
5 / 5
About Nomadic Steps
Contact Agent Plan A Trip Text Me
Client Testimonials
Razwanour Rahim -
Reviewed: Jan 22, 2018
We are looking for a travel agent that provides tour packages to exotic locations. I am really glad that I found this organization. Unlike others, it has genuine connections and thus it offers interesting packages. I would genuinely like to recommend this company to everyone.
Bijesh -
Reviewed: Jan 15, 2018
Being a travel enthusiast, I was searching for a travel agency that can provide exciting travel packages across exotic locations. I tried many travel websites but I found this company to be the best. And, trust me, it was one of the best decisions I have ever made. I got numerous exciting deals on every package I chose. I believe this company is one of the most trusted travel agents.
Santanu Roy -
Reviewed: Jan 05, 2018
Traveling is my passion. So, I always remain in search of the best travel deals. And, thus I hunt for reliable travel agents that offer the best deals in the market. I found this company while browsing different websites and it caught my attention as it was offering a 3 day and 4 night package at very reasonable prices. Since then, I recommend this website to everyone.
Nomadic Steps
5 /5Srinagar - Pahalgam - Sonamarg - Leh Ladakh - Kargil - Gulmarg
08048779500
Get QuoteKatra - Srinagar - Pahalgam - Sonamarg - Leh Ladakh - Kargil - Gulmarg
08048779500
Get QuoteSrinagar - Pahalgam - Sonamarg - Leh Ladakh - Kargil - Gulmarg
08048779500
Get QuoteSrinagar - Pahalgam - Sonamarg - Leh Ladakh - Kargil - Gulmarg
08048779500
Get QuoteNew Delhi - Shimla - Manali - Chandigarh City
08048026916
Get QuoteJammu - Katra - Patnitop - Srinagar - Pahalgam - Sonamarg - Gulmarg
08047018023
Get QuoteSrinagar - Pahalgam - Leh Ladakh - Kargil - Gulmarg
08047019249
Get QuoteJammu - Katra - Patnitop - Srinagar - Amritsar - Pahalgam - Sonamarg - Gulmarg
08048003179
Get QuoteJammu - Katra - Patnitop - Srinagar - Pahalgam - Sonamarg - Gulmarg
08047017530
Get QuoteKatra - Patnitop - Srinagar - Kashmir - Pahalgam - Sonamarg - Gulmarg
08047017437
Get QuoteJammu - Katra - Patnitop - Srinagar - Amritsar - Sonamarg - Gulmarg
08047016933
Get QuoteSrinagar - Kashmir - Pahalgam - Sonamarg - Gulmarg
08048002480
Get QuoteShimla - Kufri - Sarahan - Sangla - Kalpa - Kaza - Leh Ladakh
08048403820
Get Quote