The great Himalayan circuit: A 10-day journey through Kashmir, Ladakh, and Himachal

If you’ve ever dreamed of conquering the Himalayas in a single trip, buckle up! This wonderful 10-day adventure through Kashmir, Ladakh, and Himachal Pradesh, will be like hopping from one postcard to another—each surprising you with its uniqueness, beauty, adventure, and “I need more vacation days” moments.

Srinagar: Start in Srinagar, where the Dal Lake shikaras (wooden boats) glide over still waters, and houseboats offer old-world charm with modern comfort. Pro tip: Sip on some Kashmiri Kahwa (saffron tea) while deciding whether to buy a Pashmina or just take a million photos of them.
Gulmarg: Next, head to Gulmarg, where the highest cable car in Asia (Gulmarg Gondola) will whisk you up to a snow-covered wonderland. If you don’t slip on ice at least once, did you even go to Gulmarg?Sonmarg: A drive to Sonmarg (literally “Meadow of Gold”) feels like entering an ethereal realm. Go for a pony ride or just stand still, you would love whatever your do here.

Kargil & Drass: Heading towards Ladakh, stop at Kargil War Memorial in Drass, where history and patriotism give you goosebumps. Also, be prepared for locals who can tell better war stories than any Bollywood movie.

Leh: Leh is a place where Tibetan prayer flags dance in the wind, and monks stroll past street cafes, creating a scene straight out of a travel documentary. Explore Shanti Stupa, Leh Palace, and Hemis Monastery before indulging in a plate of momos at a cozy local café.

Nubra Valley & Pangong: Cross Khardung La (one of the highest motorable roads in the world) to reach Nubra Valley—where sand dunes, camels, and mountains exist in one frame. Pangong Lake, meanwhile, changes colors faster than your mood on a Monday morning.

Spiti: After Ladakh, Spiti will indeed feel like a spiritual detox. Visit Key Monastery, gaze at Chandratal Lake, and enjoy the fact that phone signals are practically extinct.
Manali: Your final destination, Manali, is the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Soar through the skies while paragliding in Solang, unwind at charming cafés in Old Manali, and let out a wistful sigh of “I wish this trip would never end”—the perfect way to conclude your 10-day journey.

The Himalayan circuit is not for the faint-hearted (or weak-kneed). But if you’re ready for surreal landscapes, unpredictable roads, and the best travel stories ever, it’s an adventure you won’t forget!