A Road Trip to Leh: The Luxurious Way

Traversing through the challenging terrain that leads up to Leh, is every road-trip enthusiast’s travel dream. The virgin locales, rocky mountains, breathtaking views, tranquil gompas, bustling bazaars and delectable food scene – what’s not to love! Drop the idea of roughing it out like a conventional road-trip because this once-in-a-lifetime experience is best enjoyed in the lap of luxury. This exhaustive guide will help you explore Leh the opulent way.

Where to Stay?

There are two ways to access Leh – via Manali and via Srinagar. Unless you are on a pan-J&K trip, the former is more practical. Even through this route, you’ll reach your destination on the third day of hitting road. So, it is imperative to plan your halts carefully. These stop-over destinations offer the perfect blend of comfort and luxury.

1. ManuAllaya Resort Spa, Manali

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After being on the road for more than 10 hours, with two more days of driving ahead, ManuAllaya Resort Spa is just the kind of destination you need to rest and recoup. The plush facility with its traditional architecture fused with modern design and amenities such as well-furnished rooms, cottages, in-house spa and a temperature-controlled swimming pool is just the kind of pampering you deserve.

Tariff: INR 14,666 onwards*

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2. Jispa Valley Camp

Almost half-way between Manali and Leh, Jispa makes for an ideal stopover. While you won’t find the quintessential resort experience here, the Jispa Valley Camp right by the river side, surrounded by green fields and towering mountains, is just right for a close-to-nature experience. The tents in the camp are packed with all modern amenities needed for a comfortable stay. Good food, helpful staff and the customary bonfire in the evening will help calm your nerves after a grueling drive in the Himalayan terrain.

Tariff: INR 1,750 to 4,650*

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3. The Grand Dragon, Leh

Nothing redefines luxury like this swanky resort situated in the heart of Leh. With a spectacular view of the Great Himalayas in the backdrop, The Grand Dragon has been designed so you could soak up the incredible hospitality of this old mountain kingdom. With its traditionally-designed rooms, cultural events, barbeques and bonfires, the facility is all about unadulterated pampering.

Tariff: INR 19,999*

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4. The Pangong Inn

Your Leh road trip is incomplete without a tryst with the gorgeous Pangong Tso. Planning a night halt is recommended to enjoy the exotic locales and virgin beauty of this destination at leisure. Located in the vicinity of this popular lake, The Pangong Inn is the only luxury resort in the area. As opposed to the tents and camps that can get quite windy and cold at night, the Pangon Inn offers a fine blend of luxury with nature’s splendour.

Tariff: INR 4,600-14,200*

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5. Lchang Nang Retreat, Nubra Valley

Nestled between rugged mountain peaks, Nubra Valley is another must-see destination on your Leh trip. At the heart of this spectacular landscape, lies a little piece of bliss – the Lchang Nang Retreat. Set up in the midst of a vast orchard comprising apple, apricot and elm trees, and flanked by the Siachen River, this halt is meant for experiencing serenity with the right dose of luxury thrown in the mix.

Tariff: INR 12,750 onwards*

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Which Vehicle to Take?

Given the tough and unforgiving terrain you’d be traversing through, picking the right vehicle is of utmost importance. SUVs with their high ground clearance, 4x4 transmission, and big tyres are your safest bet here. If you don’t own one, considering renting a self-driven Toyota Fortuner, Audi Q3, Mitsubishi Pajero Sport or Ford Endeavour for a comfortable and enjoyable road trip.

Read more: How About a Road Trip to Leh-Ladakh With Your Dad?

What to Shop For?

The old town of Leh is a known for its vibrant bazaars, dotted with curios and souvenirs you can bring back as keepsakes. Pashmina shawls, silver and traditional Ladakhi turquoise stone jewelry, rugs, carpets, Tibetan handicrafts, as well as dried fruits and authentic saffron are some of the things that must feature on your shopping list. The most sought-after shopping destinations here include De Pashmina Emporium, Tibetan Handicraft Community Showroom, Choglamsar, Shar Market, Buddhist Thangka House, Moti Market, Ladakh Art Palace, in addition to government-run emporiums and handloom centers.

Where to Eat?

No holiday is complete without some insane gastronomic indulgences and Leh is poised to spoil you silly on that count. Some of the best restaurants in Leh to look out for are:

1. Bon Appetit (multi-cuisine)
2. Wonderland Restaurant and Coffee Shop (rooftop café)
3. Ladakh Café (vegan menu), Tibetan Kitchen (authentic local cuisine)
4. La Piazzetta (Italian)
5. Amigo (Korean)

What to Carry?

1. A good navigation device like MapMyIndia or Garmin Nuvi series to make sure you don’t lose direction when internet connectivity goes kaput
2. Advanced camera devices like GoPro to capture the essence of those abounding breathtaking views
3. A portable mobile hotspot to secure internet connectivity
4. Powerbank charger to keep your gadgets alive and kicking
5. An extra spare tyre and a can of fuel for emergencies
6. A torchlight, Swiss knife and scissors
7. Gaiters and warm clothing (it can get pretty chilly on the passes)
8. First-aid kit with basic over-the-counter medicines and Diamox to counter effects of high-altitude
9. Sun protection: UV sunglasses and skincare products like moisturizers, sunscreen lotion and lip balm.
10. Energy bars and compact snacks like chocolates and nuts

Now is the time to plan that long-awaited awaited road trip to Ladakh!

Book Your Leh Holiday Now!

*Prices may vary