East of Leh Itinerary
The East of Leh Scenic Drive is a captivating road trip that starts in the city of Leh in India and ends in Tak Tok. Along the way, you'll pass through the towns of Shey and Hemis. This 62 kilometer journey is best done over a two-day period and is best driven during the summer months.
The East of Leh Scenic Drive is filled with historical sites, breathtaking landscapes, and one-of-a-kind experiences. The route is mainly paved with good road conditions, though there are some parts with curvy and narrow roads. Due to seasonal weather conditions, some roads may occasionally be closed.
This road trip is suitable for any driver and can be managed on a fair budget. With its unique sights and scenery, the East of Leh Scenic Drive promises to provide travelers with a high level of experience and memories that will last a lifetime.
2
number of days
60 km
route length
moderate
budget
tourist
good for
on the left
traffic direction
moderate
accident level
START
Leh
Distance 60 km
Driving time 1.7 h
Pace: slow
13.9 kWh
Airports
IXL
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Leh in India is a beautiful place to start a road trip. The East of Leh Scenic Drive offers a stunning view of the surrounding mountains and passes through quaint villages. The drive offers plenty of opportunities to explore the natural beauty and culture of the area.
The most interesting sights to visit in Leh include the beautiful Leh Palace, the largest Buddhist monastery in the world – Thiksey Monastery, the Shey Palace, and the magnificent Shanti Stupa.
The closest international airport for those traveling to Leh by air is the Leh Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (IXL). Car rentals are available at the airport for those wishing to start the East of Leh Scenic Drive.
Leh is a great place to start a road trip with plenty of sights and activities to explore. The East of Leh Scenic Drive provides a great opportunity to experience the beauty of the area as well as the culture. Visitors who come to Leh will be sure to have a wonderful time.
1
Leh
- Shey
Distance 15 km
Driving time 0.4 h
Pace: slow
3.5 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip starting in Leh, India and ending in Shey? This 15 km journey will take you less than an hour and you will get to enjoy the most beautiful sights of the Himalayas. The road will be narrow in sections so make sure to take your time and keep your eyes open. Along the way, you will get to see historical sites, breathtaking views, and maybe even some wild animals. Don't forget to stop and take pictures of the most incredible spots. Once you reach Shey, you will find plenty of attractions to explore. The local culture and architecture are something you won't want to miss. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check the Itinerary of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Enjoy your road trip and have an amazing time!
Shey - India - Asia - Scenic Drive - Pixabay
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2
Shey
- Thiksey
Distance 3 km
Driving time 0.1 h
Pace: modest
0.7 kWh
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Itinerary
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This road trip stage starts in Shey, India and ends in Thiksey. It's a mere 3 km drive, taking less than 0 hours to complete. This is a scenic journey, with narrow roads in sections, so be sure to pay attention while you drive. Along the way, you can visit the Shey Monastery, the oldest monastery in Ladakh, and the Thiksey Monastery, located on a hilltop and offering stunning views of the Indus Valley. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Thiksey - India - Asia - Scenic Drive - Pixabay
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3
Thiksey
- Hemis
Distance 21 km
Driving time 0.6 h
Pace: slow
4.9 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on a thrilling road trip from Thiksey to Hemis - a journey of 23 km that will take you less than an hour! Get ready to be amazed by the scenic views that await you on the journey. Be aware that some sections of the road may be closed seasonally, and that some sections may be very winding with narrow roads. As you drive, take a moment to take in the beautiful views and appreciate the journey. On your way to Hemis, don't forget to stop by the famous Thiksey Monastery and the Hemis Monastery, which are some of the most stunning attractions in the region. You'll also find plenty of accommodation, restaurants, and campsites along the way. To get the best out of your road trip, be sure to check the itinerary for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Enjoy the ride!
Hemis - India - Asia - Scenic Drive - www.flickr.com
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4
Hemis
- Chemrey
Distance 13 km
Driving time 0.4 h
Pace: slow
3.1 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on a thrilling road trip between Hemis and Chemrey! This 13km route will take you less than an hour to complete, and you'll be treated to some truly stunning views along the way. Keep an eye out for the winding road and steep ramps, and be aware that some sections of the route may be closed seasonally. You'll also find some narrow road sections, so make sure you keep your eyes peeled! Enjoy the scenic views as you make your way to Chemrey and don't forget to check out the Itinerary of this stage for more information about attractions, accommodation, restaurants, and campsites along the route.
Chemrey - India - Asia - Scenic Drive - Pixabay
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5
Chemrey
- Tak Thok
Distance 8 km
Driving time 0.3 h
Pace: slow
1.8 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on an unforgettable 8km road trip from Chemrey to Tak Tok! This short drive will take you less than an hour and you’ll be able to take in the stunning views along the way. Don’t forget to take note of the scenic roads, steep ramps, winding sections, and narrow roads. In Chemrey, make sure to visit the Chemrey Monastery, the oldest monastery in Ladakh. In Tak Tok, you must visit the Tak Tok Monastery, the oldest and second largest monastery in Ladakh. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the “Itinerary” of this stage. Get ready for an amazing experience!
Tak Thok - India - Asia - Scenic Drive - Pixabay
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Tak Thok
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Tak Tok is an isolated, but charming town in the far east of India, located at the end of the East of Leh Scenic Drive. This winding drive is a must-do for any traveler, as it offers stunning mountain views and glimpses into traditional Indian culture. The journey ends at Tak Tok, a tranquil town with a peaceful atmosphere and plenty of activities and sights to explore.
One of the most interesting places to visit in Tak Tok is the traditional Tibetan monastery, where visitors can learn more about the area's culture and beliefs. It's also a great spot for photography, with picturesque views of the snow-capped mountains in the distance. Other attractions include the local markets, where visitors can find handmade items from the region, and the nearby lakes, perfect for a peaceful stroll.
Tak Tok is also the perfect spot for a rest stop after the long drive, with plenty of eateries and places to stay. If you're looking to explore more of India, the closest international airport is the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi (DEL).
So if you're looking for an unforgettable road trip, the East of Leh Scenic Drive is the perfect option - and Tak Tok is the ideal destination to finish off your journey.
East of Leh at a glance
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Start:
Leh
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End:
Tak Thok
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Distance:
60 km
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Stay:
2 days
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Getting there:
Leh Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (IXL)
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When to drive:
June, July, August, September
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
The East of Leh Scenic Drive is a captivating 62-kilometer journey that takes travelers from the bustling town of Leh to the serene environs of Taktok in India. This route is not just a drive but an exploration that offers a rich tapestry of cultural, historical, and natural splendors. For an immersive experience, it is recommended to allocate two days, allowing ample time to savor each destination's unique offerings.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
The journey includes stops at the historically significant towns of Shey and Hemis, each boasting a unique cultural heritage and breathtaking natural vistas. Among the must-visit sites are:
- Shey Palace and Monastery: Once the summer capital of Ladakh, Shey features an ancient palace and a monastery with a giant copper statue of Shakyamuni Buddha plated with gold.
- Hemis Monastery: Known as the biggest and richest Buddhist monastery in the Ladakh region, Hemis holds an annual festival that showcases the vibrant local culture through music, dance, and elaborate costumes.
Travelers are treated to panoramic views of stark Himalayan landscapes, which serve as the backdrop to these cultural landmarks.
Best Time to Go:
The best time to venture on this Scenic Drive is during the summer months, typically from June to September when the weather is warm, and the skies are clear. This period also coincides with the Hemis Festival, usually held in June or July.
Potential Risks:
It's essential to be aware of the unpredictable mountain weather, which can lead to sudden Road closures. The drive includes challenging sections with tight curves and narrow Roads that demand attentive driving skills.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- The route is predominantly paved and well-maintained, ensuring a smooth driving experience for all types of vehicles.
- The drive offers a rich insight into the lives of local Ladakhi communities, with opportunities to interact and learn about their way of life.
- The Road traverses high-altitude terrain, including some passes over 5,000 meters, offering spectacular views and the thrill of driving through the roof of the world.
A good choice for:
Embarking on the East of Leh Scenic Drive is more than just a Trip; it's a journey through time and terrain that offers a glimpse into the soul of India's northern frontier. Laden with historical significance and framed by the awe-inspiring Himalayas, this adventure promises to be etched in your memory as a true high-altitude Himalayan escapade.
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