If you are looking for a relatively short, moderately challenging, and exceptionally scenic trek, this journey is ideal. The route follows sections of the ancient Silk Route once used by camel caravans transporting goods from Central Asia across the Himalayas into northern India. While traders are now long gone, their legacy remains visible in the Nubra Valley through the presence of Bactrian camels, descendants of the original beasts of burden. The trek offers striking contrasts of desert, river valleys, and high mountain passes, culminating in a spectacular drive across Khardung La, one of the world’s highest motorable mountain passes.
| Tour Highlights | |
| Season | May to October |
| Total Duration | 10 Nights / 11 Days |
| Trekking Days | 05 Days |
| Total Trekking Hours | Approximately 25 hours |
| Special Features | Ancient Silk Route, Nubra Valley landscapes, Bactrian camels |
| Trek Grade | Moderate |
| Maximum Altitude | Approx. 5,300 m |
Day 01: Arrive Delhi
Arrive in Delhi and receive a traditional welcome followed by assistance and transfer to the hotel for check-in. After rest, proceed for a guided sightseeing tour of Delhi. Visit the historic Old Delhi area including Jama Masjid, the Red Fort, and Raj Ghat. Continue to New Delhi to see India Gate, the President’s House, and ceremonial avenues before returning to the hotel for overnight stay.
Day 02: Delhi – Leh
Transfer to the airport for your journey to Leh. On arrival, assistance and transfer to the hotel. The remainder of the day is kept free for acclimatization to the high altitude. Later, enjoy a gentle walk around Leh town (approx. 3,500 m), visiting Leh Market, Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, and a local monastery. This walk helps the body gradually adapt to the altitude. Overnight stay in Leh.
Day 03: Leh – Sabu – Pulu Digar (Approx. 4,400 m)
Drive to the village of Sabu, where the trek begins. The trail crosses a bridge and ascends gradually through grassy meadows frequented by yaks and dzo. As you climb higher, enjoy impressive views of Stok Kangri to the south. The day involves steady ascents and is moderately strenuous, ending at the campsite at Pulu Digar.
Day 04: Pulu Digar – Chumik Tangmo
After breakfast, trek towards Digar La (approx. 5,300 m). The ascent to the pass is steep, but the panoramic views from the top are rewarding, with the Karakoram Range to the north and the Stok Range to the south. Prayer flags are traditionally offered at the pass, a custom dating back to ancient Silk Route traders seeking safe journeys. Descend gradually to Chumik Tangmo, a pleasant riverside campsite.
Day 05: Chumik Tangmo – Hotong
Today’s trek passes through diverse landscapes. Shortly after starting, reach the village of Digar, then continue along a hot and dusty trail through desert terrain. En route, encounter a striking sand dune, an unexpected highlight in the mountains. The trail continues through a marshy area before reaching Hotong, a scenic campsite set among trees.
Day 06: Hotong – Rongjuk
Continue trekking along the left bank of the Shyok River. The terrain remains arid and warm, so adequate hydration is essential. After a long day, arrive at the riverside village of Rongjuk. The cold waters of the river offer a refreshing way to unwind after the trek.
Day 07: Rongjuk – Khalsar
The final trekking day is short and easy, taking approximately one to two hours. Reach Khalsar, a settlement in the Nubra Valley. From here, continue by road across Khardung La (approx. 5,359 m), one of the highest motorable mountain passes, and return to Leh.
Day 08: Leh Sightseeing
Proceed for a full-day Indus Valley monastery tour. Visit Shey Monastery, the former capital of Ladakh, known for its large gold-gilded statue of Buddha Shakyamuni. Continue to Thiksey Monastery, an impressive hilltop complex with a towering statue of Maitreya Buddha. Later visit Hemis Monastery, one of the largest and most important monasteries in Ladakh, famous for its annual festival dedicated to Guru Padmasambhava. Conclude the day with a visit to Stok Palace and Museum, showcasing royal artefacts and traditional Ladakhi heritage. Overnight stay in Leh.
Day 09: Leh – Delhi
Transfer to the airport for your return journey to Delhi. On arrival, transfer to the hotel. Later, enjoy a guided sightseeing tour including Humayun’s Tomb, the Lotus Temple, and Qutub Minar. Return to the hotel for overnight stay.
Day 10: Delhi – Agra – Delhi (Optional Excursion)
Early morning drive to Agra, the former Mughal capital. En route, visit Sikandra, the tomb of Emperor Akbar. In Agra, explore the Taj Mahal, an enduring symbol of love built by Shah Jahan, followed by a visit to the imposing Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After sightseeing, return to Delhi in the evening.
Day 11: Depart Delhi
The tour concludes with assistance for your onward departure. Thank you for travelling with us, and we look forward to welcoming you again on another journey.
