Srinagar to Ladakh Itinerary: Monasteries, Mountain Passes & Magical Landscapes

Nishit Kagalwala
May 2
6 min read

Updated: 5 days ago

There’s more than one way to reach Ladakh. Instead of heading straight to Leh by air, consider a slower, more immersive route that begins in the Kashmir Valley. This overland itinerary gives you time to gradually acclimatize while soaking in the beauty of Srinagar, the drama of Zoji La, and the deep calm of Buddhist monasteries along the way. From shikara rides in Srinagar to the high passes of Leh—this is the journey to remember.

Ladakh is India’s high-altitude escape for seekers and explorers alike

This day-by-day itinerary is designed to balance cultural immersion, scenic drives, and plenty of time to adjust to the altitude.

Let’s dive in.

Day 1: Delhi to Srinagar

Your journey begins in Delhi, but today you're flying to Srinagar, a city that feels like a postcard comes to life.

Dal Lake, Srinagar: Famous for houseboats and serene shikara rides

Morning – Flight to Srinagar

Catch a morning flight to Srinagar (approx. 1.5 hours). As you take off from Delhi, the bustling city will fade behind, replaced by the serene beauty of the Himalayan foothills. As you descend into Srinagar, you’ll be greeted by the stunning sight of Dal Lake and snow-capped peaks in the distance.

Midday – Check-in and Shikara Ride

Check into a houseboat or hotel near Dal Lake. A stay on a houseboat is an experience in itself, as you float on the calm waters surrounded by majestic views. In the afternoon, take a peaceful shikara ride on Dal Lake, or take a leisurely stroll through the Mughal Gardens—Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, and Chashme Shahi. The gardens, with their elaborate designs and vibrant flowers, offer a serene introduction to Kashmir’s beauty.

Evening – Settle In

It’s an easy, relaxing day—time to breathe in the crisp mountain air, enjoy the lake views, and let the tranquility of Srinagar sink in.

Day 2: Srinagar Local Exploration

Srinagar has many layers to uncover. Today, you’ll dive into its rich Mughal heritage and vibrant local culture.

Mughal Gardens, Srinagar: A stunning blend of Persian and Mughal architecture

Morning – Visit the Mughal Gardens

Start your day by exploring the famous Mughal Gardens. Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh are grand examples of Mughal landscaping, with lush green lawns, cascading fountains, and terraced pathways. Don’t miss Chashme Shahi, a smaller, peaceful garden with a natural spring. These gardens, set against the backdrop of the snow-capped Pir Panjal mountain range, are simply breathtaking.

Afternoon – Explore Old Srinagar

Wander through the winding streets of Old Srinagar, where the hustle of modern life fades into ancient lanes lined with traditional wooden houses and vibrant spice markets. Visit the Jamia Masjid, a beautiful wooden mosque with intricate carvings. If you’re up for it, take a short drive to Pari Mahal, a grand Mughal-era structure perched above the Dal Lake with panoramic views.

Evening – Enjoy a Local Feast

Wrap up the day with a delicious local meal. Try a traditional Wazwan, a multi-course feast that’s the heart of Kashmiri cuisine, or sip on saffron-infused Kahwa as you watch the sunset over the lake.

Day 3: Srinagar to Kargil (6-7 hours)

It’s time to hit the road, with an epic drive through the mountains.

Kargil road journey: experience the raw beauty, rich culture, and scenic vistas

Morning – Scenic Drive to Kargil

Start your journey early. Drive via Sonamarg, a picture-perfect valley with snow-capped peaks and sparkling rivers. As you cross the high-altitude Zoji La Pass, you’ll begin to feel the raw, untouched nature of Ladakh. Stop for a moment to take in the breathtaking views—this is a road trip like no other.

Midday – Drass

Take a brief stop at Drass, one of the coldest inhabited places on Earth. While there, visit the Kargil War Memorial—a somber but powerful tribute to the soldiers who fought in the 1999 Kargil conflict. The memorial’s quiet power offers a poignant reminder of the region’s tumultuous past.

Evening – Arrive in Kargil

Reach Kargil by evening and check into your hotel. Take the evening to relax and rest after your long day of driving through some of the most dramatic landscapes in India.

Day 4: Kargil to Leh (with stops at Lamayuru & Alchi)

This is another day on the road, with incredible stops along the way.

Alchi Monastery: A peaceful retreat with ancient murals and spiritual serenity

Morning – Lamayuru Monastery

Start early for a visit to Lamayuru Monastery, perched above the surreal Moon Landscape—a stretch of land that looks more like something from another planet than Earth. The monastery itself is one of the oldest and most picturesque in Ladakh, with views that will take your breath away.

Midday – Alchi Monastery

Next, head to Alchi Monastery, renowned for its ancient murals and art dating back over a thousand years. The monastery’s quiet, contemplative atmosphere makes it a perfect spot to take in Ladakh’s spiritual side. Don’t forget to stop at Alchi Kitchen for a tasty local meal—apricot curry and buckwheat pancakes are highly recommended!

Evening – Arrive in Leh

By late afternoon, you’ll reach Leh. Take the evening to rest, acclimatize to the altitude, and get ready for the adventures ahead.

Day 5: Local Leh Exploration

Today, take it easy as you adjust to the altitude of Leh, which sits at around 3,500 meters above sea level

Leh Palace: A 17th-century marvel offering stunning views and insight into Ladakhi history

Morning – Leh Palace

Start your exploration with a visit to Leh Palace. This former royal residence offers panoramic views of the town, with the Indus River winding through the valley below. The palace itself is a fascinating blend of Tibetan and Ladakhi architecture, filled with artifacts that tell the story of the region’s royal past.

Afternoon – Shanti Stupa

Next, head to the Shanti Stupa, a beautiful white-domed structure built to promote peace. It’s especially stunning at sunset, when the golden light casts long shadows over the valley.

Evening – Leh Market

In the evening, take a walk through Leh Market. You’ll find local handicrafts, Tibetan jewelry, and vibrant textiles. It’s a great place to shop for souvenirs and experience Leh’s lively atmosphere. Grab a hot cup of butter tea or sample some delicious local momos.

Day 6: Shey, Thiksey & Hemis Monasteries

Today, dive deeper into the spiritual heart of Ladakh with visits to three important monasteries.

Shey Monastery: Former royal palace, home to a 12-meter copper Buddha statue

Morning – Shey Monastery

Start the day with a visit to Shey Monastery, which was once the royal palace of the Ladakhi kings. The monastery is home to a giant Buddha statue, and the views from here are absolutely stunning.

Midday – Thiksey Monastery

Next, head to Thiksey Monastery, a striking hilltop monastery that resembles the Potala Palace in Tibet. If you’re lucky, you might catch the morning prayers, where monks chant in unison amidst the stillness of the mountains.

Afternoon – Hemis Monastery

Finish your monastery tour with a visit to Hemis Monastery, the largest and most famous in Ladakh. If you’re traveling during June or July, time your visit with the Hemis Festival, where masked dances and vibrant celebrations bring the monastery to life.

Evening – Return to Leh

By evening, head back to Leh and relax after a spiritually enriching day.

Day 7: Optional Extensions

Today is yours to explore further or take an optional extension to Nubra and Pangong Lakes.

Stok Palace: 19th-century royal residence of Ladakh's Namgyal dynasty, now a museum

Morning – Free Day in Leh

Spend your day exploring at your own pace. You can visit the Stok Palace, which offers a more intimate glimpse into the royal heritage of Ladakh, or head to the Central Asian Museum to learn about the region’s fascinating history.

Optional 3-Day extension: Nubra + Pangong

If you’re looking for a more adventurous add-on, here’s your chance to visit the iconic Nubra Valley and Pangong Lake.

For the best Hotels in Ladakh, explore our expert recommendations.

Optional Extensions: Nubra & Pangong Lake

Day 7: Leh to Nubra Valley

Diskit Monastery, Nubra’s oldest gompa, houses a 32-meter Maitreya Buddha

Start your journey early and cross Khardung La, one of the highest motorable passes in the world. From there, head to the picturesque Nubra Valley, known for its towering sand dunes and serene landscapes. Stop at Diksit Monastery and see the imposing Maitreya Buddha statue.

Day 8: Day Trip to Turtuk

Take a trip to Turtuk, a border village with a unique Balti culture. It’s a beautiful, off-the-beaten-path destination, with apricot orchards and striking views.

Day 9: Nubra to Pangong Lake

Pangong Lake is a high-altitude saltwater lake famous for its vibrant blue waters

Drive via the Shyok River route to the stunning Pangong Lake. Spend the afternoon by the lake, soaking in the surreal beauty of the turquoise waters against the backdrop of rugged mountains.

Day 10: Pangong to Leh

Return to Leh via Chang La Pass and spend your final evening in the town.

Day 8 or 11: Return Journey

You’ll fly back to Delhi, but not without a last look at the majestic Himalayas from the window seat. Take this last moment to reflect on your unforgettable adventure through Ladakh.

Explore the alternative route to Ladakh via Amritsar and Manali

Whether you stick to the main route or add on the Nubra–Pangong circuit, this itinerary offers a slower, richer, and more unforgettable way to experience the Himalayas.

Planning a trip like this can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be. If you'd like help fine-tuning this journey or booking reliable stays and local experiences, we’re just a message away.