Travel India Info

Visiting Leh Ladakh – Trip Planning

for Tourists

Exploring Leh Ladakh in July 2023

Are you contemplating a journey to the mesmerizing land of Leh Ladakh? Look no further for a concise overview of our unforgettable July 2023 expedition to this breathtaking destination. We aim to provide you with valuable insights to aid in planning your own visit. My wife and I were fortunate to embark on a captivating adventure in Leh Ladakh during July 2023. Our meticulously crafted itinerary included a delightful two-night sojourn in Leh, followed by a blissful two- night stay in the enchanting Nubra Valley, an unforgettable night by the pristine Pangong Lake, and, to conclude, another night in Leh before our homeward journey. Hailing from North America, we had previously explored various corners of India, yet the allure of Leh Ladakh had always eluded us. This was primarily due to our preference for winter travels, which kept us away from the scorching Indian summers. However, the undeniable charm of Ladakh finally enticed us to embark on this remarkable journey in July 2023. To ensure a seamless Ladakh experience, we made the wise decision to secure a reliable car and driver for our week-long adventure, prior to our departure for India. Drawing upon recommendations from friends and family, we arranged for the services of a capable driver, Takspa. Remarkably, we maintained constant communication with Takspa, even from Canada, thanks to WhatsApp. This enabled us to receive invaluable hotel recommendations and pre-departure travel tips, making Takspa an indispensable asset to the success of our trip. Choosing the right accommodations in Leh Ladakh is of paramount importance. The key attractions for tourists typically include Leh, Nubra Valley, and Pangong Lake. It is crucial to note that Nubra Valley and Pangong Lake should not be treated as mere day trips from Leh. The journey from Leh to Nubra Valley spans approximately 160 kilometers via the picturesque Khardung La Road, taking around 4.5 hours of travel time. Alternatively, opting for National Highway 3 extends the distance to approximately 200 kilometers, with a travel time of approximately 5.5 hours. It is essential to bear in mind that Ladakh's terrain involves navigating hilly, winding roads, demanding utmost alertness and careful driving. Also driving through the mountains after dark is dangerous and not advisable. Pangong Lake, on the other hand, lies roughly 250 kilometers away from Nubra, requiring nearly a 7 hour drive. If your itinerary includes visits to Leh, Nubra, and Pangong, it is imperative to arrange for overnight stays in these distinct locations to fully savor the beauty and experiences they have to offer.

Accommodations We Selected

During Our Visit:

Gyalpo Residency in Leh:

Phone: +91 93206 11526

Our initial two nights in Leh were spent at the delightful Gyalpo Residency. This well-placed hotel is just a short drive from Leh Airport, making it incredibly convenient for weary travelers. Furthermore, it boasts close proximity to Leh Main Market, adding to its appeal. We had reserved a 'Garden View Premier Room,' which pleasantly surprised us with its spaciousness and a generously-sized king-size bed. The bathroom was equally impressive, featuring a separate, partitioned glass shower—a delightful touch that enhanced our stay. What truly stood out during our time at Gyalpo Residency was the exceptional hospitality of the hotel staff. From the warm and welcoming front lobby personnel to the attentive restaurant staff, every team member was courteous and eager to assist guests with a genuine smile. We wholeheartedly recommend Gyalpo Residency to fellow travelers, as it offers a five-star lodging experience at a fraction of the cost one might incur at a place like 'The Grand Dragon,' which we initially considered but ultimately chose Gyalpo due to the substantial price difference. Mr. Antony Gomes, the hotel manager, deserves special mention for his outstanding assistance throughout our stay. He was always readily available to answer our questions and frequently inquired if there was anything more the hotel could do to make our stay even more comfortable. On the day of our departure back to Delhi, which required an early morning flight, Mr. Gomes went above and beyond by arranging for the hotel to provide us with a packed breakfast. We departed the hotel for the airport at 6:30 AM, grateful for the exceptional hospitality we had experienced during our stay. And Yes! Gyalpo also provides a free airport pickup and drop for their guests.

The Creek in Nubra Valley:

Phone: +91 98215 66869

Our next stop was The Creek Resort in Nubra Valley, a truly unique and captivating experience. Tucked away amidst lush greenery, this resort features just 12 cabins scattered across the landscape, each offering breathtaking mountain views. Finding this hidden gem might be a bit of a challenge, as it's tucked away from the main highway. However, most taxi drivers are familiar with its location and should be able to take you there without any issues. The cabins themselves are tastefully adorned and thoughtfully designed to create a tranquil atmosphere, allowing tourists to unwind while immersing themselves in the picturesque surroundings. For bird enthusiasts, this location is a real treat, providing opportunities to spot unique bird species in the early morning hours. The cabins are generously spacious, each equipped with a comfortable king-size bed and a modern western-style washroom. Our cabin even had the added luxury of an outdoor open-air shower. The dining area, set in an outdoor ambiance with nightly bonfires, further enhances the sense of relaxation and connection with nature. The resort offers access to a variety of activities, including fishing, rafting, and visits to nearby monasteries. Notably, the famous Diskit Gompa, a popular tourist attraction in Nubra, is just a short 5- kilometer drive from The Creek Resort. Although our stay was regrettably brief due to time constraints, we eagerly anticipate returning for a more extended visit in the future. For those who plan on visiting the Nubra area and want to check out The Creek can contact the Property manager directly by email at creekdiskit@gmail.com.

Pangong Retreat Camp: Phone:

+91 84919 47042

During our one-night sojourn at Pangong Lake, our taxi driver had suggested Pangong Retreat Camp and made reservations on our behalf. Our room was simple but comfortable, featuring a double bed, basic furnishings, an outdoor sitting area on a deck, and a western-style toilet. While not a large hotel, this type of accommodation is ideal if you prioritize proximity to the lake. It's essential to keep in mind that the images you see on certain hotel websites may not accurately represent the current state of the property. At Pangong Retreat Camp, there is indeed an unobstructed view of Pangong Lake from some areas, but additional camp-style rooms have been built in front of it, partially obscuring the view. Access to the lake from Pangong Retreat Camp isn't as straightforward to walk down to the lake. However, having a car at our disposal was a significant advantage as our driver who knew the area well drove us right up to the lake. If your preference is to stay even closer to the lake, it may be worthwhile to explore alternative options, Some camp hotels are quite close to the lake. In conclusion, as you plan your Leh Ladakh adventure, we hope our experiences and recommendations can serve as valuable guidance. Adequate planning, advance accommodation bookings, and the appreciation of the breathtaking beauty of this extraordinary destination will ensure that you have a memorable visit. If you have a question regarding trip planning from abroad related to touring India contact me by email. vkmailcheck@gmail.com

Places to see in Leh Ladakh

Ten popular places to visit during your visit to Leh Ladakh are: 1. Pangong Lake 2. Shanti Stupa 3. Leh Palace 4. Thiksey Monastery 5. Gurudwara Pathar Sahib 6. Dikit Gompa – Nubra 7. Nubra Valley 8. Khardung La 9. Magnetic Hill 10. Leh Main Market for Souvenir

Pangong Lake: The top tourist

destination in Ladakh

Pangong lake at an elevation of approximately 4,350 meters claims the title of the highest saltwater lake on our planet. Its crystal-clear azure waters create a stunning juxtaposition with the arid, rugged mountains that encircle it. Stretching across an astonishing expanse of nearly 160 kilometers, this remarkable lake straddles the borders of two nations: India lays claim to one-third of its shoreline, while China possesses the remaining two-thirds. What truly captivates the beholder is the lake's ability to transform its mesmerizing hues, shifting from shades of blue to green and even hints of red, depending on the ever-changing weather conditions.

Highway Driving in Leh - The Importance

of Rest Stops

Embarking on extended journeys along mountainous roads can be both physically demanding and mentally taxing. The necessity for a restroom break or a rejuvenating cup of coffee is a universal need. In the vast expanse of Leh Ladakh, such rest stops can be scarce once you venture beyond the city limits. Therefore, when traversing these rugged terrains, it is prudent to come prepared, carrying along snacks and an ample supply of water. There are some places where you can get refreshments as you drive on highways. However options are limited so when you see a place make the best of it. You may drive for several hours before you find another one. On our return journey from Pangong Lake to our Leh hotel, we stopped at a Restaurant named Khangsar Restaurant. A very spacious location next to a small lake. The food was also excellent. To provide you with a glimpse of its allure, we've included a photograph of the restaurant owners and the surroundings. Here, you can revel in the serenity of water and mountains, making it an ideal place for families with children to stretch their legs and unwind. Khangsar Restaurant is conveniently located approximately 7 kilometers away from the TCP army checkpoint along this route. If your travels take you along this path, we highly recommend making a stop to experience the hospitality and charm of this establishment

Cell - Mobile Phones - Internet in Leh

Ladakh

Your foreign phone will NOT work in Ladakh. Even prepaid Sim Cards of other Indian states will not work in Leh - Ladakh. Hopefully your driver should have a phone. However, when driving though hilly areas there may be no phone signal even for local residents. The only place tourists from abroad will have access to Internet will probably be at your hotels. Make sure the hotels you select offer WiFi. In our case I think the only place where we had no WiFi was Pangong.