One of the world’s great drives. Start on Nigeen Lake, climb through Sonamarg and over Zoji La, pause at Drass and Kargil, and descend through Lamayuru’s moonscape into Leh — letting the altitude rise gradually, as it should.
Highlights
- Begin with houseboat nights in Srinagar
- Cross Zoji La into Ladakh by road
- The Kargil war memorial at Drass
- Lamayuru’s moonland at sunrise
- Gradual altitude gain — the gentlest way into Ladakh
The journey
-
Days 1–2
Srinagar
Houseboat arrival and a day among gardens and the old city.
Overnight: Houseboat, Nigeen Lake
-
Day 3
Sonamarg
A short drive to the golden meadow for a night beneath the glaciers.
Overnight: Hotel, Sonamarg
-
Day 4
Over Zoji La
Climb the pass into Ladakh, stop at Drass, continue to Kargil.
Overnight: Hotel, Kargil
-
Day 5
Into Leh via Lamayuru
Through Mulbekh and the moonland of Lamayuru to Leh.
Overnight: Boutique hotel, Leh
-
Days 6–10
Ladakh at leisure
Monasteries, Nubra over Khardung La, and time to explore Leh before flying home.
Overnight: Leh & Nubra
Where you’ll stay
Luxury heritage houseboat
Srinagar
Two nights on Nigeen Lake
River-view hotel
Kargil
Overnight on the Suru
Boutique hotel
Leh
Five nights to explore Ladakh
Included
- Private SUV and driver for the full route
- All accommodation with breakfast and dinner
- Permits for Ladakh protected areas
- 24/7 support from our Srinagar and Leh desks
Not included
- Flights in and out
- Lunches and personal expenses
When this journey works best
Places on this journey
Srinagar & Dal Lake, Sonamarg, Leh, Nubra Valley, Kargil, Drass & Suru