Ladakh and Delhi, India 8-Day Trip Itinerary

Arrive in Leh & Hotel Transfer

Arrive at Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (IXL) in Leh.

You will be at a high altitude (3,500m / 11,500ft), so it's crucial to prioritize rest and acclimatization. Transfer to your hotel.

Drink plenty of water, avoid strenuous activities, and listen to your body to prevent acute mountain sickness (AMS).

Check-in & Rest

Check into your hotel.

Spend the morning resting and allowing your body to adjust to the high altitude. It's essential not to exert yourselves.

Leisurely Lunch

Enjoy a light lunch at your hotel or a nearby cafe.

Opt for simple, easy-to-digest food.

Gentle Leh Bazaar Walk

Take a very gentle stroll through Leh's main bazaar.

Observe local life, browse shops, but avoid climbing stairs or hills. Focus on photography of local architecture and vibrant market scenes.

Keep your pace slow. Avoid sudden movements or heavy lifting.

Welcome Dinner in Leh

Enjoy an early dinner at a local restaurant, trying some traditional Ladakhi cuisine like Thukpa or Momos.

Shey Palace & Monastery

Visit the former summer palace of the Ladakhi kings, housing a huge copper-gilded statue of Buddha Shakyamuni.

Enjoy the panoramic views for photography.

Located about 15 km from Leh. Entrance fee applies.

Thiksey Monastery

Explore one of the most magnificent monasteries in Ladakh, resembling the Potala Palace of Lhasa.

Marvel at the 15-meter high Maitreya Buddha statue and intricate murals. Excellent photo opportunities.

About 18 km from Leh. Early morning prayer ceremonies are a special experience if you arrive earlier.

Lunch in Leh

Return to Leh for lunch at a local restaurant, perhaps trying more local delicacies.

Hemis Monastery

Visit the largest and wealthiest monastery in Ladakh, famous for its annual Hemis Festival.

Explore its beautiful complex and take photos of the traditional Buddhist architecture.

Approximately 45 km from Leh. Entrance fee applies.

Shanti Stupa at Sunset

Head to Shanti Stupa for panoramic views of Leh town, the Indus Valley, and the surrounding mountains.

Capture stunning sunset photographs.

Requires a short climb or a drive. Free entry.

Dinner & Relaxation

Enjoy a relaxed dinner in Leh town and prepare for the next day's excursion.

Pangong Lake Day Trip

Embark on a full-day excursion to the stunning Pangong Tso (Lake).

The journey itself is an adventure, crossing the Chang La pass (17,586 ft) and offering incredible photography opportunities of barren mountains and traditional villages.

Start early for the best experience. Pack snacks, water, and warm clothing. Remember to take photos of the unique landscapes.

Explore Pangong Lake

Spend time at the mesmerizing Pangong Tso, famous for its ever-changing shades of blue.

Walk along the shore, enjoy the serene atmosphere, and capture unforgettable photographs of the lake against the backdrop of mountains.

The lake is partially in India and partially in China. No boating is allowed on the Indian side for tourists. Basic lunch options (Maggi, tea) are available near the lake.

Return Journey to Leh

Begin your scenic drive back to Leh, stopping for additional photo opportunities along the way.

Dinner & Rest

Enjoy a well-deserved dinner after a long day of travel and sightseeing.

Relax at your hotel.

Depart Leh for Delhi

Check out from your hotel and transfer to Leh Airport (IXL) for your flight to Delhi (DEL).

Arrive in Delhi & Hotel Check-in

Arrive at Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in Delhi.

Transfer to your hotel and check-in. Leave your luggage and prepare for an afternoon of sightseeing.

Humayun's Tomb

Visit Humayun's Tomb, a magnificent garden tomb and a precursor to the Taj Mahal.

Its intricate Mughal architecture is a fantastic subject for photography.

A UNESCO World Heritage site. Entrance fee applies.

Qutub Minar Complex

Explore the Qutub Minar complex, another UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring the towering minaret, Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, and the Iron Pillar.

Entrance fee applies.

India Gate Photo Stop

Drive past or stop for a quick photo at India Gate, a war memorial located on the Rajpath.

It's especially beautiful in the evening lights.

Free access.

Dinner in Connaught Place

Enjoy dinner at a restaurant in Connaught Place, a bustling commercial and financial center with a mix of modern and colonial architecture.

Red Fort Photo Opportunity

Visit the majestic Red Fort.

While the interior can be explored, a morning photo stop at its impressive exterior is a must for its historical grandeur.

The Red Fort is closed on Mondays. Since this is a Wednesday, you can opt to go inside if you wish for more detailed exploration (approx. 2-3 hours) or stick to exterior photos to save time for Chandni Chowk.

Chandni Chowk Exploration

Immerse yourselves in the vibrant chaos of Chandni Chowk, one of Delhi's oldest and busiest markets.

Explore various lanes selling everything from spices to jewelry, and perhaps try some famous street food (use caution with hygiene). Great for street photography.

Navigate by rickshaw or on foot. Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas. Try parathas at Parathe Wali Gali.

Lunch in Old Delhi

Enjoy a traditional Indian lunch in Old Delhi before departing for Agra.

Drive to Agra

Embark on a comfortable private car journey from Delhi to Agra, the city of the Taj Mahal.

The journey typically takes around 3-4 hours.

Check-in to Agra Hotel

Arrive in Agra and check into your hotel.

Take some time to freshen up and relax after the drive.

Dinner in Agra

Enjoy dinner at your hotel or a recommended local restaurant in Agra, preparing for an early start to visit the Taj Mahal.

Travel to Agra

Depart from Delhi early morning for a comfortable drive to Agra, the city of the Taj Mahal.

Enjoy the scenic countryside during your journey.

Lunch in Agra

Enjoy a traditional Indian lunch at a local restaurant in Agra.

Visit Taj Mahal

Explore the iconic Taj Mahal, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Marvel at its exquisite marble architecture and romantic history.

Best viewed in the late afternoon for beautiful light. Wear comfortable shoes and dress respectfully. Photography is allowed.

Explore Agra Fort

Discover the impressive Agra Fort, another UNESCO World Heritage site.

This massive red sandstone fort was once the imperial city of the Mughal rulers.

Offers great views of the Taj Mahal from certain points. Guided tours are available at the entrance.

Dinner in Agra

Savor an evening meal at a restaurant with views of the Taj Mahal or a local specialty restaurant.

Journey to Jaipur

After breakfast, embark on a picturesque journey to Jaipur, the Pink City of Rajasthan.

En route, you may consider a brief stop at Fatehpur Sikri (if time permits, not included in duration).

Lunch in Jaipur

Enjoy lunch upon arrival in Jaipur, sampling local Rajasthani cuisine.

Visit Amber Fort

Explore the magnificent Amber Fort, a sprawling palace complex built with pink and yellow sandstone.

Enjoy the stunning architecture and panoramic views.

Located just outside Jaipur. You can take an elephant ride or jeep up to the fort entrance (extra cost).

Hawa Mahal Photo Stop

Make a quick photo stop at the iconic Hawa Mahal, or 'Palace of Winds', known for its unique honeycomb facade.

The best views are from the street opposite the palace. You can also enter for an additional fee if time permits.

Discover City Palace

Visit the City Palace, a beautiful complex of courtyards, gardens, and buildings, home to the former royal family of Jaipur.

Features impressive architecture and a museum showcasing royal artifacts.

Dinner in Jaipur

Enjoy a delicious dinner in Jaipur, perhaps at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the illuminated city.

Bazaar Shopping in Jaipur

Immerse yourselves in the vibrant bazaars of Jaipur, such as Johari Bazaar for jewelry, Bapu Bazaar for textiles, and Tripolia Bazaar for bangles and carpets.

A great opportunity for souvenirs!

Bargaining is expected. Look for block-printed fabrics, precious stones, lac bangles, and traditional Rajasthani crafts.

Farewell Lunch in Jaipur

Enjoy a final lunch in Jaipur, perhaps trying a thali or another local delicacy.

Travel to Delhi Airport

After your Jaipur explorations, embark on your journey back to Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) for your evening flight.

Check-in & Dinner at Delhi Airport

Arrive at Delhi airport with ample time for check-in procedures and a quick dinner before your international flight.

Ensure you have all necessary travel documents and allow for potential traffic on the way to the airport.

Depart for Kuala Lumpur

Board your direct flight from Delhi back to Kuala Lumpur, concluding your incredible journey through India.