Article Published On - 12-02-2025
This breathtaking Ladakh trekking route spans from the Indus Valley near Leh to Nubra Valley and crosses Digar La Pass at an elevation of 5,400 meters. Pangong Lake offers stunning natural wonders, snow-encrusted mountain passes, isolated villages, and a colourful tapestry of Buddhist traditions, making this trek one of the region’s most spectacular and rewarding treks. Enjoy an exhilarating journey that passes under Stok Kangri, Karakoram Ranges, and Saser Kangri while traversing from Indus Valley through Nubra Valley into stunning Pangong Lake- one of the highest saltwater lakes worldwide.
Day 1: Reach Leh
Consider flying to Leh, as this road journey is likely to take more time, and timed travel arrangements will ensure a more seamless arrival experience.
Day 2: Dalhousie – Kalatop – Khajiyar – Chamba (55 km)
Start your journey from Dalhousie and head towards Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary, known for its thick deodar forests and breathtaking views. Take a stroll or just sit back in peace while gazing upon its varied Himalayan plant and animal life. Continue onward to Khajjiar – often called India’s “Mini Switzerland,” featuring verdant meadows and an idyllic lake – which features lush meadows. Relax among its natural charm or visit historic Khajji Nag Temple (if time allows). Proceed towards Chamba, which boasts temples, palaces, and a vibrant cultural scene as well.
Day 3: Drive from Leh to Saboo (3900 m) and trek to Saboo Phu (4200 m)
After breakfast, embark on a short drive to Saboo Village in Ladakh’s picturesque countryside. Navigate through its streets until reaching the starting point for your trek; cross a bridge and trek along expansive meadows where locals graze livestock; enjoy a leisurely 3 km trek before reaching Saboo Phu, a lush land used as summer grazing ground.
Day 4: Saboo Phu to Digar La base
On this journey to Digar La base, be prepared for breathtaking vistas of the majestic Stok range and the surrounding landscape. Your campsite will be located on a broad hilltop at the intersection of two valleys – take note of prayer flags to your right as this marks where Digar La pass is, which you’ll traverse tomorrow.
Day 5: Digar La base to Digar La (5432 m), descend to Chumik Yokma (4650 m) (12 km)
At the base after a two-kilometre walk, a challenging ascent begins. Although difficult and demanding, this path is clearly indicated; keep an eye out for Himalayan wildlife including Tibetan wolves and Snow leopards; breathtaking vistas include Stok Range, Karakoram Range and Saser Kangri from Digar La; journey back down through picturesque Nubra valley which is one of Ladakh’s most stunning areas.
Day 6: Chumik Yokma to Digar
At our trekking journey start point is Comesar Village. Transportation will then be organized to take us directly to Hunder in the upper regions of Nubra Valley, where accommodations will be arranged at either a homestay or guesthouse, where we can rest and unwind.
Day 7: Hunder to Wari La (5300 m) – Chag La (5360 m) and Pangong Tso (4400 m) (240 km)
Starting after breakfast, your journey through challenging mountain passes such as Wari La and Chang La will lead you to Pangong Tso; Ladakh’s largest high-altitude lake located near China with half within Indian territory and the other half located within China – enjoy leisurely strolls along its shores in your free time before staying overnight at either a homestay or guesthouse.
Day 8: Pangong Tso to Chang La and Leh
Start an exhilarating adventure today, traversing the majestic Chang La Pass to Karu before arriving at Leh as your final destination.
Nearest Airport: Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport of Leh (IXL). Regular flights leave Delhi, Srinagar, and Chandigarh.
By Road: Starting Location: Saboo Village, located 7-8 km outside Leh (accessible by taxi).
Endpoint: Leh (after Pangong Tso drive return).
From mid-June to mid-September: Now is a best time of year, when clear skies, dry terrain and comfortable daytime temperatures combine perfectly. Nubra and Pangong both boast open, secure roads.
Director & Founder
With over 12 years of experience in the Himalayas, Preetam has summited multiple 6000 - 7000 meter peaks and led more than 200 expeditions across iconic routes like Bali Pass, Buran Ghati, Rupin Pass, Pin Bhabha, Stok Kangri, and Black Peak. His deep mountain experience and leadership make him a trusted name in Himalayan trekking. Write to him at: preetam@trekupindia.com
