A 5-night, 6-day package is a popular and well-balanced choice for a Leh-Ladakh tour, allowing you to hit the major highlights while still prioritizing essential acclimatization. Here is a typical and highly recommended itinerary for this duration.
Day 1: Arrival in Leh and Acclimatization - Arrive at Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (IXL) in Leh. Transfer to your hotel and check in. Spend the entire day resting and acclimatizing to the high altitude (11,500 ft). This is the most important part of your trip to prevent Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). In the evening, you can take a light stroll around the Leh market.
Day 2: Leh Local Sightseeing After breakfast, head out for a tour of Leh's local attractions. Visit the Hall of Fame, a museum dedicated to the Indian Army. Drive to Gurudwara Pathar Sahib and witness the legendary Magnetic Hill. See the confluence of the Indus and Zanskar rivers at Sangam. Return to Leh for the evening and visit the serene Shanti Stupa for a panoramic sunset view of the town.
Day 3: Leh to Nubra Valley via Khardung La - After an early breakfast, begin your drive to Nubra Valley. The journey takes you over the Khardung La Pass, one of the world's highest motorable roads. In Nubra Valley, check into your camp or hotel. In the evening, explore the stunning sand dunes of Hunder and enjoy a unique double-humped camel safari.
Day 4: Nubra Valley to Pangong Lake via Shyok River - After breakfast, start your journey from Nubra Valley to the iconic Pangong Tso. This is a scenic and adventurous route that takes you along the Shyok River. Arrive at Pangong Lake and check into your lakeside camp. Spend the evening by the lake, enjoying the famous changing colors of the water and the breathtaking landscape.
Day 5: Pangong Lake to Leh - Wake up early to witness a magical sunrise over Pangong Lake. After breakfast, drive back to Leh via the Chang La Pass. On the way, you can visit the Thiksey and Hemis monasteries, two of the most significant monasteries in Ladakh. Arrive in Leh and enjoy your final evening.
Day 6: Departure from Leh - Enjoy a final breakfast in Leh. Transfer to the airport for your onward journey, taking with you the incredible memories of your Ladakh adventure.
This itinerary is designed to maximize your experience while being mindful of the altitude. Many tour operators offer variations of this package, which can include different monasteries or activities.