Day 1- Delhi → Manali (550 kms – 12 hrs)

Begin early via the Chandigarh–Mandi highway for a long yet scenic drive into the Himalayas. As you approach Kullu, the Beas River accompanies much of the route, offering beautiful photo stops. If time allows, visit Hadimba Temple, Naggar Castle, or Jogini Waterfalls before enjoying an evening stroll through Mall Road or Old Manali cafés. Rest overnight before heading toward higher altitudes.

Day 2 – Manali → Jispa (93 kms – 5 hrs)

Drive through the Atal Tunnel into the striking landscapes of Lahaul Valley. Seasonal snow can sometimes be experienced near Koksar, while Sissu and Tandi offer some of the best scenic viewpoints for photography. Refuelling at Tandi or Keylong is recommended before continuing deeper into the mountains. Overnight in Jispa helps with gradual acclimatisation.

Day 3 – Jispa → Purne (100 kms – 6 hrs)

The route crosses Shinku La Pass into the remote Zanskar region, where roads become more rugged and adventurous. Expect dramatic mountain scenery, occasional water crossings, and peaceful high-altitude stretches. A stop at Gombo Ronjon offers impressive views before reaching Purne village beside the Tsarap River.

Day 4 – Phugtal Monastery Excursion

Today involves a scenic trek to the spectacular Phugtal Monastery built into a cliffside cave. The walk offers beautiful views of the Tsarap gorge, monastic life, and untouched landscapes. After exploring the monastery and surrounding area, return to Purne for a relaxed evening.

Day 5 – Purne → Padum (60 kms – 4 hrs)

The drive continues deeper into Zanskar Valley through quiet villages and river valleys. Padum, the main town of the region, offers small markets, cultural interactions, and nearby monasteries such as Karsha or Stongde, both known for their serene settings.

Day 6 – Padum → Leh via Lamayuru (200 kms – 12 hrs)

This is a long but rewarding high-mountain drive crossing passes like Singe La and Sirsir La. The landscape constantly changes from rugged valleys to open plateaus. A sunset stop at Lamayuru reveals the famous Moonland terrain before continuing onward to Leh for overnight rest.

Day 7 – Leh Local Sightseeing

Spend the day exploring Leh at a comfortable pace for acclimatisation. Visit Leh Palace and Shanti Stupa for panoramic views, explore the Hall of Fame museum for regional insights, and experience the spiritual atmosphere at Thiksey and Hemis Monasteries. An evening walk through Leh Market completes the day.

Day 8 – Leh → Nubra Valley via Khardung La (175 kms – 6 hrs)

Cross Khardung La, one of the world’s highest motorable passes, before descending into Nubra Valley. Diskit Monastery and its giant Buddha statue offer sweeping valley views, while Hunder’s sand dunes and Bactrian camels create a unique desert-in-the-mountains experience. Overnight in Nubra.

Day 9 – Nubra → Siachen Base Camp + Sumoor (180 kms – 7 hrs)

Drive toward the Siachen Base Camp viewpoint and war memorial (subject to permissions). Later, relax at Panamik hot springs and visit the peaceful Samstanling Monastery before settling in Sumoor for the night.

Day 10 – Sumoor → Pangong Lake (235 kms – 6 hrs)

The drive follows the Shyok River through striking terrain with frequent photography opportunities. If permitted, a detour to Karakoram Dwar adds historical interest. Sunset at Pangong Lake is often the highlight, with ever-changing colours reflected in the water.

Day 11 – Pangong → Hanle (150 kms – 4 hrs)

Travel across the remote Changthang plateau, passing nomadic settlements and occasional wildlife sightings. A visit to Rezang La War Memorial adds historical depth before reaching Hanle, known for its monastery, observatory, and exceptionally clear night skies.

Day 12 – Hanle → Umling La / Mig La → Hanle (200 kms – 6 hrs)

An adventurous excursion leads to Umling La, among the highest motorable roads in the world. The route via Norbu La and Photi La offers dramatic landscapes and excellent photography opportunities. Return to Hanle for rest and acclimatisation.

Day 13 – Hanle → Tso Moriri (160 kms – 6 hrs)

Drive across remote plateau terrain with a stop at the geothermal Puga hot springs. Tso Moriri Lake offers a quieter alternative to Pangong, with beautiful lakeside scenery and birdlife around Karzok village where you’ll stay overnight.

Day 14 – Tso Moriri → Jispa (300 kms – 7 hrs)

A long but scenic drive passes through the vast More Plains before crossing Baralacha La. Stops at Suraj Tal and Deepak Tal provide excellent photo opportunities as the landscape gradually shifts back toward greener valleys near Jispa.

Day 15 – Jispa → Delhi

The journey concludes with a drive back via the Atal Tunnel, Kullu Valley, and the plains. Expect changing landscapes, final mountain views, and memories from one of the most diverse Himalayan road adventures. Julley – until the next journey.