Ladakh (1 National Park):
- Hemis National Park
Route Overview
- Starting Point: Leh
- Destination: Hemis National Park
- Duration: 2-3 days (adjustable depending on activities)
Day 1: Arrival and Acclimatization
- Destination: Leh (Altitude: ~3,500 m)
- Arrive at Leh via flight or road.
- Spend the day acclimatizing to the high altitude.
- Explore local attractions like Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, and the Leh Market.
Stay: Leh hotels or guesthouses.
Day 2: Travel to Hemis National Park
- Distance: ~50 km from Leh (~2-hour drive).
- Route: Leh → Karu → Hemis.
- Start early from Leh to reach Hemis National Park.
- Entry Point: Rumbak Valley (popular starting point for trekking).
- Activities:
- Visit Hemis Monastery, a cultural highlight.
- Begin your wildlife trek—look out for the elusive Snow Leopard, Blue Sheep, Tibetan Wolves, and Golden Eagles.
- Explore Markha Valley, known for its dramatic landscapes and small villages.
Stay: Camping or homestays in villages like Rumbak or Ule Tokpo.
Day 3: Wildlife Trekking and Exploration
- Activities:
- Continue exploring trails through the national park, focusing on the park’s biodiversity and high-altitude flora.
- Visit Stok Kangri Base Camp if you’re a trekking enthusiast.
- Engage with local communities to learn about their traditional lifestyle.
Stay: Return to Leh or extend your stay in the park.
Optional Extensions
- Indus Valley Exploration: Combine your trip with visits to nearby attractions like Thiksey Monastery and Shey Palace.
- Stargazing: Hemis is a fantastic spot for clear, starry skies.
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: May to October for trekking and wildlife; winter (January to March) for Snow Leopard spotting.
- Permits: Ensure you have any required permits for entering the park and trekking.
- Gear: Carry warm clothing, trekking gear, and sturdy shoes.
- Health: Stay hydrated, avoid strenuous activity on the first day, and carry necessary medications for altitude sickness.