Roof of the World: A 9 to 11-Day Private Expedition through the Trans-Himalayan Jewels of Ladakh
Overview & Info
Ascend to a realm of stark beauty and spiritual stillness with Travel Astu, your premier authority in high-altitude Himalayan exploration. This "Jewels of Ladakh" circuit by Astu is a masterfully designed Ladakh private expedition that traces the ancient Silk Road route from the lush meadows of Srinagar and Sonmarg to the lunar landscapes of Leh. Travel Astu Pvt Ltd has engineered this comprehensive 9-day (extendable to 11 days) immersive program to ensure international and domestic travelers witness the full spectrum of the Trans-Himalayas—from the crystal turquoise of Pangong Lake to the world’s highest motorable passes.
Your private mountain sanctuary with Astu Travel is defined by safety, power, and comfort. You will navigate the rugged terrain in a premium private SUV (Scorpio/Innova/Xylo), driven by expert mountain pilots. To ensure a world-class experience, our package is completely all-inclusive of permits and logistics, including the necessary Inner Line Permits for restricted areas like Turtuk and Nubra Valley. Stay in a curated mix of luxury desert camps and heritage hotels, supported by our 24/7 high-altitude guest relations team. With Astu, your Ladakh odyssey is a seamless journey into the Land of Endless Discovery.
Jewel’s of Ladakh: Day-to-day itinerary
Your high-altitude odyssey begins with a breathtaking flight from Delhi over the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas. Upon arrival in Srinagar, a Travel Astu representative will receive you and transfer you to the "Meadow of Gold," Sonmarg. The afternoon is yours to relax and breathe in the crisp mountain air amidst alpine forests.
Overnight: Sonmarg (Premium Hotel)
After a hearty buffet breakfast, we begin the dramatic ascent of the Zoji La Pass, the gateway between the lush Kashmir valley and the rugged cold desert of Ladakh. We stop at the Drass War Memorial, the second coldest inhabited place on earth, to pay homage to the heroes of the 1999 war before arriving in the historic town of Kargil.
Overnight: Kargil
Drive through the heart of the "Land of the Lamas." Witness the 1st-century Mulbek Chamba (Maitreya Buddha carved in rock) and the moon-like cratered landscapes of Lamayuru. After a stop at Magnetic Hill and the confluence of the Indus and Zanskar rivers (Sangam), we arrive in the capital city of Leh.
Overnight: Leh (3, 4, or 5-Star Hotel)
An early start takes us across the Chang La Pass (17,590 ft). Descend into the Changthang plateau to witness the surreal beauty of Pangong Tso. This high-altitude saltwater lake, stretching into China, is famous for its mesmerizing transition from turquoise to deep indigo.
Overnight: Pangong (Luxury Glamping Camp)
Wake up to a pristine sunrise over the lake. After breakfast, we trace our way back to Leh. This afternoon is reserved for "Slow Travel"—explore the local Leh Bazaar, visit the Shanti Stupa for a panoramic view of the valley, or enjoy a quiet café in the old town.
Overnight: Leh
Today, you conquer the legendary Khardung La Pass, historically celebrated as one of the world's highest motorable roads. Descend into the Nubra Valley (the Valley of Flowers). Experience a unique Bactrian Camel Safari amidst the silver sand dunes of Hunder.
Overnight: Nubra Valley (Luxury Desert Camp)
A rare journey to the northernmost tip of India. Turtuk was under Pakistani control until 1971 and retains a distinct Balti culture, language, and architecture. Wander through apricot orchards and meet the local community in this beautifully preserved border village before returning to Nubra.
Overnight: Nubra Valley
We ascend Khardung La once more, offering a second chance for iconic photography of the Karakoram Range. Arrive back in Leh by afternoon. Enjoy a final Travel Astu farewell evening in the local markets to pick up Pashmina shawls or Tibetan handicrafts.
Overnight: Leh
After a final Himalayan breakfast, your Travel Astu private vehicle will provide a seamless transfer to the Leh Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport for your flight back to Delhi, concluding your journey through the Land of Endless Discovery.
Optional 11-Day Tso Moriri Extension
Instead of departing, we drive south toward the remote Changthang Plateau. Tso Moriri is a Pearl of the Himalayas, a protected wetland sanctuary. Encounter the nomadic Changpa herdsmen and rare wildlife like the Tibetan Wild Ass (Kiang) and Black-necked Cranes.
Overnight: Tso Moriri (Luxury Fixed Camp)
A scenic drive back to Leh via the Puga Hot Springs and the Tsokar Lake (The White Lake). This route offers some of the most spectacular, vast landscapes in Ladakh, far from the usual tourist crowds.
Overnight: Leh
Transfer to Leh Airport for your onward journey, carrying home the spirit of the high mountains.
FAQs
Travel Astu (also known as Astu) provides premium private SUVs such as the Mahindra Scorpio, Toyota Innova, or Mahindra Xylo. These vehicles are specifically maintained for high-altitude roads and are driven by expert mountain drivers who prioritize your safety on the passes.
Yes. To visit restricted areas like Nubra Valley, Pangong Lake, and Turtuk, special permits are required. Travel Astu Pvt Ltd handles the entire permit process, environmental fees, and Red Cross fees, so you don't have to wait in government offices.
Your health is our priority. Our itinerary is designed to help you acclimatize gradually as you move from Srinagar to Leh. Your Astu Travel driver and guide are trained to monitor for Altitude Sickness (AMS), and oxygen cylinders are provided in the vehicle for emergency use on high passes like Khardung La.
Absolutely. Your quote is 100% all-inclusive. This includes all entrance fees to monasteries and museums, as well as all road taxes, toll taxes, fuel, and parking. We also cover the driver’s night stay and fooding allowances.
In remote zones, we provide Luxury Swiss Tents/Glamping with attached bathrooms and running hot water. In Leh and Kargil, we use 3, 4, or 5-star hotels (as per your choice). Every stay includes a buffet breakfast and dinner.
Yes. We provide local government-approved and licensed guides who are experts in Ladakhi culture and Himalayan Buddhism. They will accompany you to the monasteries and villages, providing deep insights into this "Land of Endless Discovery."
Every guest is assigned a dedicated 24/7 high-altitude coordinator. You will have their direct contact number. Whether you need to adjust your oxygen supply or change a dinner time, our team is active and responsive in real-time.
