Ladakh Expedition - May 2026
A 20+ day self-drive odyssey from Bangalore to Leh and back via Pune, Udaipur,
Jaipur, Amritsar, Srinagar — exploring Nubra, Khardung La, Pangong Tso, Hanle
and Umling La.
This is an ambitious 20-plus day road trip for experienced drivers and adventure seekers who want to cross India from the Deccan to the high Himalaya. Start in Bangalore and head west and north through Pune, Kevadia and the palaces of Udaipur and Jaipur, then onward to the Golden Temple in Amritsar before entering Kashmir and the high-altitude wonderland of Ladakh. Base in Leh for acclimatization, then explore Nubra Valley (via Khardung La), the Siachen-area viewpoint, Pangong Tso (stunning colour-changing lake), Hanle’s dark skies and Umling La — one of the world’s highest motorable roads. Return via Sarchu–Manali, Kullu and the central plains back to Bangalore. The route is engineered as a mix of long driving days, rest/acclimatization days in Leh, and short excursion days so the group can manage altitude gain safely. Expect remote stretches, army checkpoints, BRO-maintained high passes and unforgettable vistas. Permits (ILP/PAP) are required for many restricted areas; travel insurance, medical prep and a high-altitude plan are essential. We take of them.
Inclusions
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Pre-trip planning & route map.
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Lead vehicle
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Permits assistance (ILP/PAP paperwork support) for restricted zones.
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Emergency oxygen cylinder(s) and a basic high-altitude first-aid kit
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Hotel/tented stays as per itinerary (mix of hotels & mountain camps).
Exclusions
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Personal meals unless specified, fuel, tolls, and vehicle repairs.
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Vehicle insurance & damage (driver/owner to clarify).
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Any government fines, Army NOCs beyond tourist permits, or extra-route detours.
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Optional local fees (camera, camping shore fees).
ITINERARY / SCHEDULE
Day 1 - May 10
850 KmsBengaluru to Pune/Beed (MH)We flag off our convoy from Bengaluru from a common meet up point andproceed towards Pune. Overnight stay in Pune.Day 2 - May 11
550 KmsPune to Kevadia (GJ)Today we drive from Pune towards Kevadia (Gujarat) via Mumbai. We experience smooth drive on Pune Mumbai Expressway.Kevadia is famous for world’s tallest Statue Of Unity (SOU).We Reach around evening and experience Laser Light Show at SOU.Overnight stay in Kevadia.Day 3 - May 12
400 KmsKevadia to Udaipur (RJ)Today Morning we again visit The Statue of Unity statue which is 182 metres (597 ft).It rises 54 metres (177 ft) higher than the previous record holder, the Spring Temple Buddha in China's Henan province. Post SOU we head towards Udaipur.After we reach Udaipur we explore Udaipur lake and Sajjangadh Monsoon Fort and reach our hotel.A drive of different terrains and culture which gives you an experience of diversities India has across the nation. The day is long, upon reaching the hotel have dinner and rest.
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Required
- Valid government ID and passport for foreigners; latest ILP/PAP printed copies.
- A mechanically sound SUV (high clearance, 4×4 recommended) with spares, tools and jump starter.
- Experience with long-distance driving and high-altitude tolerance; prior long drives preferred.
- Fitness to walk short trails and handle thin air; carry prescription meds and travel insurance.
- Warm layered clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, water purification tablets and hydration plan.
Important safety & altitude notes
- Spend 48+ hours acclimatizing in Leh; follow descent/aspirin/acetazolamide guidance if recommended by a physician. Gradual sleeping-altitude gain (≤500 m/day above 3,000 m) is advised.
- Carry oxygen and know symptoms of AMS/HAPE/HACE (headache, breathlessness, persistent cough); descend immediately if severe.
May 10, 2026
Duration : 20 Days
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Leh
Leh, Himachal Pradesh, India
