leh ladakh trip guide

Leh in Ladakh Travel Guide: Attractions, Festivals, Hotels

Richard I'Anson/Getty Images

Leh is the erstwhile capital of the Union Territory of Ladakh and the most common entry point into the area. It's also one of the highest permanently inhabited towns in the world. Bounded by two of the world's largest mountain ranges and surrounded by alpine desert, Leh's dry barren landscape is dotted with historic Buddhist monasteries making it an incredible sight to behold. This Leh travel guide will help you plan your trip.

Leh primarily functioned as an important trading hub on routes along the Indus Valley, between Tibet to the east and Kashmir  to the west. It became the capital of Ladakh in the early 17th century, during the region's golden period when trade flourished. King Senge Namgyal completed building a royal palace in Leh and relocated the capital there from Shey. Unfortunately, the royal family were forced to abandon the palace and relocate to Stok in the mid 19th century, after the Dogra invasion.

Leh is located in Ladakh, near the Indus Valley, in the furthest far flung corner of northern India. Its altitude is 3,505 meters (11,500 feet) above sea level.

How to Get There

Regular direct flights to Leh operate regularly from Delhi. There are also flights to Leh from many other cities in India. Some of them are non-stop.

Alternatively, the roads to Leh are open for a few months of the year, when the snow has melted. The Manali-Leh Highway is open from around June to October each year, and the Srinagar-Leh Highway is open from June to November. Bus, jeep, and taxi services are all available. The trip takes about two days because of the difficult nature of the terrain. If you have the time and are in good health, do travel by road as the scenery is amazing. Plus, the gradual ascent will help you acclimatize.

The best time to visit Leh is between May and September, when the weather is the warmest. Ladakh doesn't experience rain like elsewhere in India, so the monsoon season is the perfect time to travel to Leh. 

The two-day Hemis Festival takes place in June or July at the Hemis Gompa to commemorate birth of Guru Padmasambhava, who founded Tantric Buddhism in Tibet. There's traditional music, colorful masked dances, and a fair full of beautiful handicrafts.

The Ladakh Festival is held during September. It opens in Leh with a spectacular procession through the streets. Villagers dressed in traditional costumes dance and sing folk songs, backed by an orchestra. The festival also features musical concerts, dances performed by masked lamas from selected monasteries, and mock traditional marriage ceremonies.

• Read more about the best time to visit Ladakh.

What to Do There

Most tourists spend some time exploring Leh's main market area and the ancient old part of town, while acclimatizing and making onward travel plans. Visit the Central Asian Museum on Main Bazaar Road (open daily from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.) to learn about Leh's role in Silk Road trade. Drop into atmospheric Lala's Art Cafe for something to eat while wandering. It's inside an immaculately restored Ladakhi house that was once lived in by a monk. Go on this guided heritage walk so you don't miss anything.

Leh Palace and Shanti Stupa are renowned for their dramatic views over Leh.

The Hall of Fame is an interesting museum dedicated to the soldiers who helped defend India during wars with Pakistan. The museum also provides information about Ladakhi history and culture. It's operated by the Indian Army and has a collection of weapons, exhibits and souvenirs.

Those who love animals will find a visit to the Donkey Sanctuary worthwhile. It's a home for abandoned and injured donkeys.

What to Do Nearby

The Buddhist monuments around Leh are the biggest draw. Spituk is the closest monastery to Leh, and the 800 year-old Kali temple with a fascinating collection of masks is another attraction there. You can stop at a huge prayer wheel on the way. The other monasteries can also be visited on day trips from Leh. These include Hemis (the wealthiest, oldest, and most important monastery in Ladakh) and Thiksey.

• Find out more about must-see Buddhist monasteries in India.

It's possible to have a regal stay at Stok Palace , about 30 minutes south of Leh. The royal family still lives there and part of it has been turned into a private museum of the Ladakhi royal family.

The picturesque confluence of the Indus and Zanskar rivers can be seen from a viewpoint on the Srinagar-Leh Highway not far from Nimmu.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find appealing hiking opportunities in the area. There are also many longer trekking trails to choose from, such as the popular four-day Sham Trek from Likir to Temisgam (for beginners), and Markha Valley from Spituk.

•   Take a look at these 6 best treks to take in Ladakh.

Mountain climbing trips can be booked to peaks such as Stok (20,177 feet), Goleb (19,356 feet), Kangyatse (20,997 feet) and Matho West (19,520) in the Zanskar mountains.

White water rafting is one of the top adventure activities in Ladakh. It takes place in July and August along the Indus and Zanskar rivers, with various grade rapids for all levels. Spash Ladakh is one of the best rafting operators that offers day rafting excursions from Leh.

Dreamland Trek and Tours is an eco-friendly adventure company that organizes a wide range of trips in Ladakh, Zanskar and Changthang. Other reputable companies include Overland Escape , Rimo Expeditions (costly but high quality), and Yama Adventures. It's recommended that you compare many companies to see what's on offer.

TripSavvy / Alicia Erikson

Side Trips from Leh

Most people who visit Leh also visit Pangong Lake, which featured in the Bollywood move The 3 Idiots . It's one of the world's highest saltwater lakes and looks really surreal.

• Use this complete guide to Pangong Lake to plan your trip.

The Nubra Valley is another must-visit destination. Khardung La connects Leh to the Nubra Valley and is one of the world’s highest motorable roads. Camel safaris, on hairy double-humped Bactrian camels, are an iconic thing to do in the Nubra Valley. The Balti village of Turtuk, near the Pakistan border, is fascinating as well.

• Use this complete guide to the Nubra Valley plan your trip.

Permits are not required for local sightseeing around Leh, Zanskar, or the Suru Valley.

Read more about the top things to do in Ladakh.

Where to Stay

If you're looking for inexpensive homestay or guesthouse accommodations, you'll find many a short distance from town in the agricultural and backpacker hamlet of Changspa. Clean and comfortable rooms are available from around 1,000 rupees per night. Popular places include Lhachik Guest House, Raku Guesthouse and Gangba Homestay, and Shaolin Ladakh. In the same area, family run Oriental Hotel is charismatic with both a hotel and cheaper guesthouse on the same premises surrounded by garden. Rooms on the upper floors have stunning views. You’ll also love the home-cooked, organic, freshly prepared food.

Several hostels have recently opened up around Leh to cater to backpackers who like to socialize and meet people. Zostel is the top one, with a wide range of dorms (mixed and female-only) and private rooms. HosteLaVie and GoSTOPS are other great options. In town, Hearth hostel is a restored community space suited to arty travelers.

Padma Guesthouse and Hotel , on Fort Road, has rooms for all budgets and a fabulous rooftop restaurant. Sia-La Guest House is popular on the same road too. The modern rooms at the Spic n Span Hotel on Old Leh Road, close to the market, are priced from 6,7000 rupees per night.  The Hotel City Palace is recommended as well. Rates also start from 5,000 rupees per night for a double.

If your budget extends further, try these luxury camps and hotels in and around Leh.

Homestays with Trekking and Expeditions in Ladakh

An appealing alternative to camping out while trekking around Ladakh is to stay in local homes in remote villages, which you reach along the way. This will give you a fascinating insight into the life of Ladakhi farmers. You'll even be fed traditional home cooked meals, prepared by the farmer families. Local Ladakhi trekking expert Thinlas Chorol organizes such trips, as well as many other custom trekking itineraries to places off the beaten path. She's the founder of the notable Ladakhi Women's Travel Company -- the first female owned and operated travel company in Ladakh, which uses only female guides.

Also, consider the expeditions to remote villages offered by Mountain Homestays . You'll get to stay in people's homes and take part in initiatives that enhance the livelihoods of the villagers. This includes documenting the traditional handcrafting and organic farming techniques of Ladakh.

Travel Tips

Make sure you allow yourself plenty of time to acclimatize after arriving in Leh (ideally three days if you've flown in) because of altitude sickness. Medication called Diamox (acetazolamide) can help speed up acclimatization process. A doctor's prescription is required. Anyone who has a pre-existing condition such as heart or lung disease, or diabetes should also consult a doctor before traveling.

Laptops also don’t appreciate the high altitude and hard drives are known to crash.

Nights still get chilly during the summer so do bring warm clothes to layer.

Leaving Leh by flight can be a lot more challenging than arriving. Demand for flights is high in peak season, so book well in advance. In addition, flights are sometimes canceled because of weather conditions, so it’s advisable not to book the last flight of the day. Hand luggage used to pose a problem but one bag per passenger is now allowed.

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Leh Ladakh Travel Guide (2024) – Explore the Unforgettable Land of High Passes!

By: Author Sophie Pearce

Posted on Last updated: January 1, 2024

Categories INDIA , JAMMU & KASHMIR

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure policy for details.

Julley from Leh! That means Hello in Ladakh and you’ll find that everyone here is itching to say it to you.

Leh is the super friendly mountain city that is waiting for you to visit them.

When you arrive here, either by bus or plane, you’ll be greeted by the most spectacular panoramic views of snow-capped mountains, ancient palaces, and Buddhist stupas.

It’s also a welcome paradise from the busy, dirty cities like Delhi and Rajasthan.

Here’s the ultimate Leh Ladakh travel guide including how to reach Leh, top things to do, where to stay, and what to eat!

The ultimate Leh Ladakh travel guide

Where is leh ladakh in india.

Leh Ladakh has an interesting mix of cultures and food as it’s on the border of China and its history is closely related to Tibet!

You’ll probably question what country you’re in a lot while you’re here and that’s the beauty of Leh.

What is the best time to visit Ladakh?

The best time to visit is actually in the monsoon season between June – September as Ladakh is a dry spot in a country of constant rain!

They also shut the road after mid-September so it’s best to visit before then or fly!

It’s beautifully sunny every single day at this time and everything almost looks saturated as you’re closer to the sun and higher up at 3,500 metres!

It’s also perfect weather for trekking and is what most travellers flock here for.

How to reach Leh Ladakh: flying vs. the road

There are usually two choices for approaching Leh Ladakh.

You can directly fly to Leh Ladakh from Delhi which is what most travellers prefer as you can skip the long bus journeys up through the Indian states of Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir.

But, this means that you cannot acclimatise very easily and you may suffer from altitude sickness and need a few days to adjust.

If you are prone to altitude sickness, you can get tablets to help with it. The other is to take the long bus journey from Manali to Leh.

This is the cheapest option and actually is not as dangerous as people make out.

Yes, the roads are crazy but the views are absolutely jaw-dropping and are worth the time spent alone.

You’ll pass through valleys, mountain passes, and waterfalls. There’s absolutely no sign of life around in many parts and it’s an experience you won’t forget.

For more information, check out my post ‘Travelling from Manali to Leh by road: all you need to know’.

Taking the bus from Manali to Leh

I took the 18-hour bus from Manali to Leh, which was actually 20 and we arrived in the middle of the night.

Our bus driver did a great thing by dropping us off in the backpacker district of Changspa where there are tonnes of guest houses. But, little were we to know that none would be open for business after midnight!

For a little while, we hung out with some other travellers from the bus in a bakery which turned into a bar late at night and just played the same Ed Sheeran song over and over again.

We had chai while deciding the next plan of action, which was basically to try every guesthouse in the area!

After a little while, we couldn’t find anywhere and a bar called KC garden offered for us to stay at their place for the night. It was an, which was used for group get-togethers and parties!

It had no windows, was freezing cold, and let in all the noise of dogs barking. However, it was a place to crash for the night and we had loads of blankets to keep warm.

It was really generous of him as he didn’t have to offer anything at all. He also didn’t charge which was really kind.

We were stranded in Leh Ladakh

The guy who owned the place said we could sleep in until noon, but when the workers came in the next morning at 7 am – they played really loud music so we would get up!

At first, it was just Buddhist chanting music which was actually really nice.

By 9.30 am, they upped the ante with techno music and that’s when everyone groggily got out of their sleeping places.

The next day, we had a chai together, thanked the guys at KC garden, and then went to try and find a room.

Where to stay in Leh Ladakh: Changspa 

We ended up staying at Hotel Asia which turned out to be the cheapest.

It was 500 a night with a shared bathroom, I hardly slept each night due to the light and noise but it did have hot water every single day!

With a view like this of the mountains, you can’t complain about £5 a night! For bookings see here.

The top things to do in Leh Ladakh

Most people use Leh as a base in Ladakh as it’s the main city with good connections to Nubra Valley, Pangong Lake, and Srinagar in Kashmir.

But, there are lots of things to do in Leh Ladakh itself.

It is really gorgeous to explore too with an epic mountain range, historical palaces, and the iconic Shanti Stupa.

You can’t really get bored, even just if you gaze at the scenery around you.

This would probably be a good first point of call to start off your adventure in Leh. The ancient palace looks down on the rest of the city.

This was the home of Ladakh royalty and was modelled on the Tibetan Potala Palace in Lhasa.

Even though it was built in the 17th century and steeped in history, not many of the ancient artifacts of the royal family remain in the palace.

It’s nine floors of empty rooms save the antique pictures which hang on the walls.

The best part of wandering around this palace is actually the viewpoints from the rooftops!

You can get great panoramic views from all over the city. There aren’t really any restrictions on where you can go here so explore away!

Castle Tsemo

Castle Tsemo stands high on the hill above the Leh Palace.

To reach it in Leh Ladakh, you can get a taxi for around 250 rupees or take the steep winding trek uphill!

There are two parts to Castle Tsemo, a Buddhist temple, and the castle and the Namgyal Tsemo Monastery.

When you’ve caught your breath from the walk, take a peek inside at the beautiful golden Buddha which is perfectly preserved inside.

Next is a climb up the monastery, you’ll pay 20 rupees to head on inside.

At first, I thought this was awesome as it was so cheap, but then I realised that you had to head on up the rooftops of the monastery on these ladders from hell!

These weak, feeble ladders were not attached to the wall in any way and so it was a dodgy climb to the top!

Although these ones were low, the others were pretty much vertical!

Although the views were totally worth it, there was one problem – how was I going to get back down?!

I was petrified and my boyfriend literally had to place my feet on each step of the ladder.

When I got to the bottom, I literally couldn’t breathe haha!

I can laugh now, but I genuinely thought I was a goner. It’s totally ridiculous so if you’re afraid of heights, I wouldn’t recommend it.

Shanti Stupa in Leh Ladakh

The Buddhist Shanti Stupa was one of my favourite attractions in Leh Ladakh. It was donated by the Japanese, built-in 1991, and blessed by the Dalai Lama himself.

Although it is a 500 step walk to the top, the views and the stupa are so worth it! We arrived at around 10 am in the morning and there was literally no one around.

The best time to visit the Leh Ladakh Shanti Stupa is at sunset when the temperatures aren’t so hot and the sun creates a beautiful red glow on the mountains surrounding it.

There is also some really beautiful Buddhist chanting music which is broadcast live from the temple nearby.

When the lights go down on Leh Ladakh, the Stupa lights up and you can see the many stars which appear here due to the limited light pollution. It was magic.

When we visited in the evening time a government official was there, so naturally, some of the Kashmiri soldiers were here on guard.

One of them let me hold this! Stranger things have happened…

Before I got to Leh, I had this awful feeling there wouldn’t be anything around.

Most places in Himachal had a mall road, but I wasn’t sure about Leh.. luckily, I was proved very wrong!

There is a massive main market here which has everything you could wish for.

Restaurants, shops, supermarkets, chemists, the lot. So, don’t worry about getting access to the basics.

There were also these great little fruit and veg markets from the local farms here. The mini peaches, locally called aadu , were to die for!

Trekking Leh Ladakh and Day trips from Leh Ladakh

There are endless options for treks from Leh Ladakh that you can get involved with.

Pangong Lake and Nubra Valley were popular trips also which was a 2-day and 1-night stay.

There were 3, 4, 5 days, and even 20-day treks out of Leh. So, it will be down to personal preference if you wanted a guided trek.

There are a lot of treks that you can do self-guided also. Nubra Valley is around a 3-day trek each way which is supposed to be easy.

But bear in mind that there isn’t any phone signal here so you won’t have Google maps to help you!

Best to download a walking trail map beforehand or buy one from the local shops here.

Read more about day trips from Leh here

Multi-day sightseeing tours in Ladakh

There are many interesting multi-day tours  that can be organized from Leh.

The famous tours are the 2-day Indus river tour where you get the chance to visit some of the most impressive monasteries in Ladakh (Alchi, Likir, and Lamayuru among others), the 3-day Nubra valley tour via the famous Khardung La pass (the world’s highest motorable road) and the tours to the stunning high-altitude lakes of Pangong and Tso Moriri.

You will not find many buses in Ladakh that go to these places. One of the options is to hire a car with a driver, but the cost of transport is not cheap in Ladakh…

If you are a solo traveller or travelling in a small group, using a shared taxi is a great way to reduce the cost of the trip as well as its carbon footprint! 

Where to eat in Leh Ladakh: wonderland restaurant and bakery

The wonderland café was where I usually went for breakfast most mornings.

Loads of their breakfast combos come with coffee and apple juice!

It has a really nice relaxed vibe and an amazing bakery downstairs which offers some great doughnuts and pastries.

Also, If you’re a fan of falafel, these guys do the best I have tasted so far in India. It was light, crispy, and delicious!

World Garden Café

Serving up a huge range of international cuisines, the world garden café is an excellent place to eat at any time of day.

The guys here speak excellent English, are really friendly and the food is cheap and tasty.

This was one of my favourite places to eat in Leh, so don’t miss out!

Dust pollution in Leh Ladakh and harsh temperatures

As the terrain and surroundings are in quite harsh conditions (sometimes it looked like how I imagined Mars to be like) you’ll find it to be dry and dusty.

The pollution in Leh Ladakh was quite high around the main town and so if you have anything like asthma, you’re best to come prepared.

Most days I found myself using my scarf to protect my mouth, nose, and eyes from the dust.

As we’re closer to the sun here, you should always make sure you wear suncream.

When I visited in August, it was boiling hot every day and it was definitely summer clothes weather.

A lot of people had tiny dresses and shorts on which is a nice change from covering up but just make sure you don’t get sunburn!

Staying connected and WiFi in Leh Ladakh

As soon as I set off from Manali on the Rohtang pass my UK and Indian SIM phone numbers lost service and data. But, I thought when I got to Leh, it would come back – how silly I was!

There was absolutely no phone service in the whole town. I’m sure you could get a SIM from Leh if you have an unlocked phone, as most phone packages are regional in India.

This would mean you would lock into their own phone service here. But, for a few days, I just didn’t think it was worth it.

The wifi is also pretty bad and almost non-existent. Most cafés and restaurants offer wifi services but this wouldn’t work half of the time. In fact, on the first day we got here – there was no wifi in the whole town!

If I did get wifi, only certain apps would work like WhatsApp, which was perfect to tell my mum I was alive (mum’s always worry).

There are internet cafés which you can use which are 90 rupees an hour. I actually quite liked not having wifi and being contactable. I’m a 90s kid, so I remember a time before the internet!

It just means that you have a few days to truly enjoy where you are. You’re not constantly looking at your phone, but actually appreciating the scenery and meeting people!

Sometimes, we get so caught up in social media that it’s refreshing to sign off. Get a map, read a book, and talk to people. There was a world before wifi, you know!

That’s my complete travel guide to Leh Ladakh, save it for later!

Leh Ladakh would be a place I would highly recommend travelling to if you visit India.

In fact, I would say it’s on my list of ‘must-sees’. It’s a beautiful mix of culture, colour, history, and scenery which will transport you into another world!

Make sure you put it on your list. If you’d like to read more about the beautiful surrounding areas of Ladakh, read my article ‘the absolute best off the beaten track Ladakh’!

Want to read more on the far North of India?

Manali to Leh by road, all you need to know

A guide to Manali, the hippie town in Himachal

Why you need to visit Shimla

Top things to do in Mcleodganj

A complete Bhagsunag waterfall guide

My complete Rishikesh travel guide

Visiting the Beatles Ashram in Rishikesh

Things to do in Amritsar

Mussoorie Hill Station guide

Wednesday 27th of December 2023

Many Indian’s primary wish to travel Ladakh by a road trip on their own bike. Definitely my dream also. Hope I will also achieve it.

Sophie Pearce

Thursday 11th of January 2024

Yess, it's an epic road trip to Ladakh by road. I have to admit I wouldn't do it again though and would fly haha! Sophie x

Tuesday 29th of August 2023

Wow, this destination looks absolutely breathtaking! Adding it to my bucket list for sure.

Wednesday 30th of August 2023

Hi Suman, totally agree! Leh Ladakh is an epic destination :) Sophie x

Neha Shinde

Thursday 11th of May 2023

Fantastic article. I am very pleased to say that your article is fascinating to read.I always find myself wanting to comment on it.You're doing an excellent job.Keep your writing up

Wednesday 28th of June 2023

Thanks Neha for your kind words. Sophie x

Wednesday 7th of December 2022

Ladakh is not a place where you can go without planning. You will have to consider all the do's and don'ts while deciding on the trip. From the right clothes, the right vehicle, comfortable stay, and places to visit, everything should be pre-planned so that one doesn't miss out on the site's vibe.

Thursday 8th of December 2022

Hi Kamalesh, completely agree with you! Sophie x

Esha Sawant

Tuesday 1st of February 2022

"Hello Admin, Intresting Article, you are doing a great job . Keep it up"

Hi Esha, thank you so much! I'm glad you liked the post :) Sophie x

A 7-Day Leh Ladakh Trip Itinerary For First-Time Visitors

We sent Chandrika on a once-in-a-lifetime Ladakh trip. She came back to tell us how everyone can make it happen.

A land many have heard of, but only the ones with adventure in their hearts have dared to venture to. A land of rugged mountains that coexist alongside the mystical chants of Buddhist prayers – the recently declared Indian Union Territory of Ladakh is this and so much more! 

Located in the northern part of the Indian sub-continent bordering Tibet, Ladakh is shrouded in a certain mystery, despite having gained a lot of popularity in the past few years.

Filled with adrenaline-inducing twists and turns, high mountain passes, and some of the most beautiful mountain ranges in India, a trip through Ladakh is the perfect way to get an introduction to the Himalayan region. 

Ladakh is a high-altitude region, meaning, no matter which part of Ladakh you are at, you’ll find yourself at a minimum altitude of 3000 meters (9800 feet) above sea level. This is important to mention here because this is considerably higher than most people are used to and the high altitude affects many aspects of travel in this region.

To help you execute that dream Ladakh trip, this 7-day itinerary designed by India Someday and Unplugged Life will take you through some of the biggest highlights of the region, while giving you a sense of what it means to be traveling in a destination as unique as this.

How to get to Ladakh

Before we dive deep into the specifics of the itinerary, it’s crucial to plan your arrival in Ladakh. The best way to reach Ladakh is to fly in. The biggest town in Ladakh is Leh, which is connected by air with India’s capital city, New Delhi.

Daily direct flights are running between Delhi ’s Indira Gandhi International Airport and Leh’s Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, run by 3 Indian airlines – Air India, SpiceJet, and GoAir. If you are traveling from another country or Indian city, you’ll first have to get to Delhi to catch the 1.5-hour flight to Leh.

Although there are multiple flights available daily, do keep in mind that the weather in Leh largely determines flight schedules. Turbulent weather is pretty common in this region so flights taking off an hour early or an hour late is not unheard of. Having said that, we have to admit that the destination is worth all that trouble!

Leh Ladakh 7-day itinerary

Day 1 – land in leh and rest.

The erstwhile capital of the Himalayan kingdom of Ladakh, Leh is perched at an altitude of 3524 meters (11562 feet) and is home to some of the most popular attractions in the region.

The landscape in Leh is rugged, with a backdrop of barren mountains, while the weather is generally dry and very hot during the day and slightly chilly at night, depending on which month of the year you visit.

Most flights to Leh land sometime in the morning or early afternoon, so you can expect to have more than half a day to spare. But this is a day to take it easy. Remember you’ve just landed at a high altitude destination practically from the sea level (Delhi lies at an altitude of roughly 200m above sea level) and that means your body needs time to acclimatize to this drastic change.

The process of acclimatization can take a while, about 24-48 hours for most people. But no matter how you feel on day 1 (we know you’re excited!), you must take as much rest as you can and keep yourself hydrated. This is a day of barely any physical activity, so go ahead and enjoy the views from your hotel and indulge in the local Ladakhi food to gear up for the next day.

Where to stay in Leh : Gangba Homestay

A picture-postcard-like setting with a traditional Ladakhi-style building, an apple orchard, and a view of snowy peaks in the distance – Gangba Homestay is truly a home away from home.

Run by a local family, they are the warmest, most welcoming hosts you could ask for in Leh! To top that, the food served in the homestay is delicious and homely, while the rooms are very spacious, well-equipped, and comfortable. But what sets Gangba Homestay apart is their hospitality and the staff’s mindset to always go the extra mile to care for their guests.

Day 2 – Leh city tour

Your second day in Ladakh will also be spent in Leh to continue with the acclimatization process. However, on this day you’ll be taking a tour of the beautiful city and its surrounding areas. 

Confluence (Sangam) of the Indus and Zanskar Rivers

Located around 35 Km away from Leh town, the point of confluence of the mighty Indus and Zanskar Rivers is your first stop for the day. The different shades of green of the two rivers’ water are distinctly visible with bare eyes, making it a place worth visiting during your stay in Leh.

You can either choose to drive down to the exact point of confluence, maybe enjoy the view with a cup of steaming hot tea, or you could also get a bird’s eye view of the confluence from a vantage point. Depending on which time of the year you visit, you’ll notice how different both rivers look individually, leading up to their meeting point.

Magnetic Hill

A very popular tourist attraction in Leh, Magnetic Hill is technically a small stretch of road on the Leh-Kargil Highway. It is popularly known to be a spot where gravitational forces can be defied, due to a so-called magnetic pull from the surrounding mountains. Although this spot has maintained its popularity among tourists, there is not much truth to what happens here.

The landscape of the surrounding mountains and slopes is such that, to our eyes, it looks like the road is sloping uphill, but in reality the road slopes downhill making cars roll down even on neutral gear. But having said that, it’s a great spot to stop by for a while and get a good look at the stunning landscape.

Lunch at a local Tibetan restaurant

Ladakh is not only well known for its natural beauty, but for its delicious local cuisine too. With heavy influences from the neighboring Tibetan cuisine, you’d be missing out on an important cultural element if you don’t give Ladakhi food a try.

Head to Tenzin Dickey Tibetan Restaurant , located less than a kilometer from Leh’s main market, for a sumptuous lunch of local dumplings, noodles, soups, and an assortment of drinks. The restaurant is unassuming and cozy and the food makes you feel right at home.

Belonging to the Namgyal dynasty of Ladakh, Leh Palace is the former residential palace of the royal family. Perched on top of a hill, the palace overlooks Leh and has now been converted into a museum for visitors to get a glimpse of Ladakhi royal heritage.

A tour of the 9-storeyed palace takes you through almost 450 years of artifacts belonging to the royal family. Although the palace is still under renovation, it is worth a visit for the incredible bird’s eye view of the city it offers.

Leh main market

Leh’s main bazaar is a colorful, bustling market in the city center and the perfect place to spend a leisurely evening strolling through its narrow alleys. The market is home to shops selling all kinds of local products – from fresh produce to souvenirs and handicraft items.

Pick up Tibetan prayer flags and wheels or silver jewelry, taste local dry fruits like apricots, figs, and walnuts, and end the day with a meal at one of the many cafes lining the street.

Day 3 – Drive to Nubra Valley via Khardung La

On your third day in Ladakh, it’s time to venture out of the city into the mountains!

The curvy roads of Ladakh can be unforgivable so it is important to be accompanied by an experienced local driver. Some stretches of road are steep and bumpy and you need a good car for better comfort. You can hire a private car but keep in mind that the cost of transport is quite high in Ladakh.

A good option for solo travelers and couples is to use shared taxis that are available for all kinds of tours in Ladakh , including the 3-day Nubra-Pangong tour. This helps saving money by sharing the cost of transport with other travelers. Sharing a car also helps to reduce the number of vehicles on the road, and therefore, the pollution.

The drive from Leh to Nubra Valley takes approximately 5-6 hours. But the biggest highlight of the drive is climbing up to the Khardung La (La is the Ladakhi word for a mountain pass) and crossing it to get to the other side of the Ladakh mountain range.

The pass is situated at an altitude of 17,582 feet (5359m) and is considered to be one of the highest motorable passes in the world.

The winding mountain road leading up to Khardung La is spectacular and is a treat in itself. Once at the top of the pass, spend 15-20 minutes exploring the surroundings without exerting your body too much.

It is important to remember that there is very little oxygen available to breathe at such high altitude, so take it easy and enjoy the breathtaking views of the snow-covered mountains.

Once you cross Khardung La and start driving towards Nubra Valley, the landscape changes dramatically. The drive past Shyok River towards the lush green valley of Nubra is worth keeping your eyes peeled for!

By the time you get to your hotel in Nubra Valley after several pit stops on the way, it’ll probably be late afternoon.

Read more: 8 Snowy Destinations in Asia for Mountain and Winter Lovers

Complete your check-in formalities and head to the famous Hundar dunes to catch the sunset, with herds of Bactrian Camels for company. The Bactrian Camels are native to this region and are known for their ability to withstand high altitudes and extreme cold.

To say the least, the landscape here is equally fascinating, with rolling sand dunes as far as the eyes can see, enclosed by towering rocky mountains on all sides.

Where to stay in Nubra Valley – Stone Hedge Ladakh

A gorgeous property located just 10 minutes away from the Hundar sand dunes, Stone Hedge is one of the most luxurious hotels you will come across in Ladakh.

Like a little oasis in the desert, with a natural spring flowing in the backyard, a lush garden whichever direction you look, and warm and cozy interiors, Stone Hedge sets the bar high.

Their rooms are exceptionally well-furnished with perfect mood lighting, elegant wood furniture, a room heater (rarely found elsewhere in Ladakh), and a lovely balcony that opens up to the backyard.

Day 4 – Drive to Pangong Lake

Check out from your hotel in Nubra Valley this morning and head back to the dunes once again if you want to see it in daylight. The difference is stark and worth another visit. Alternatively, you can directly head to Diskit Monastery in Nubra Valley before starting the drive towards Pangong Lake. 

The Diskit Monastery is the oldest and largest monastery in Nubra Valley. The iconic statue of the Maitreya Buddha stands tall here at a height of 32 meters and overlooks the vast plains of the Shyok River flowing nearby. 

After a tour of the monastery, it’s time to get on your way to Pangong Lake. The drive is roughly 6 hours long and takes you through picturesque mountain roads.

Flanked by the Shyok River on one side for most of the journey, this drive takes you from an altitude of about 10,000 feet (3048 meters) to 14,270 feet (4350 meters), where Pangong Lake is located.

Pangong Tso (Tso is the Ladakhi word for lake) is a saline water lake that spreads across India and Tibet. In fact, 60% of the lake lies in Tibet. But given its massive length and width, it would take roughly 3 hours to drive along its coast only on the Indian side.

Popular for its stunning turquoise blue water, Pangong Tso is one of the biggest attractions in all of Ladakh. However, do keep in mind that the appearance of the lake largely depends on which time of the year you visit.

The lake is completely frozen in the winter while the peak summer months from June to August are when it reveals all its colors.

Once you reach Pangong Tso, check into your accommodation for the night. After that, you’ll have the evening free to either take a stroll near the lake or sit at one of the small restaurants, enjoy the view while sipping hot tea.

Do keep in mind that as the sun sets, it tends to get chilly in this part of Ladakh, the extent of which again depends on the season. So get ready to layer up some warm clothes and snuggle in for the night!

Where to stay in Pangong Tso – Native Huts

There are no permanent hotels near Pangong Lake, so be prepared for a night of adventure staying in these wooden huts specially constructed for tourists while the travel season lasts. The huts come with an attached western toilet and have basic amenities like fresh towels, warm blankets, and charging points (operational from 6 pm to 11 pm).

The owners of these huts are very helpful and accommodating so if you want more blankets or hot water, just let them know. They also arrange fresh, hot meals for guests in a separate dining space inside another hut, and that food at the end of a long, cold day truly warms the heart.

Read more: 10 Awesome Treks And Hikes In India

Day 5 – Drive back to Leh via Chang La

This will be the last day of driving through Ladakh, but expect it to be no less exciting than the previous two days!

The journey from Pangong Lake back to Leh takes close to 6 hours and will take you via Chang La, a mountain pass situated at an altitude of 17,590 feet (5360 meters).

The drive to Chang La is relatively bumpier than what you would have experienced while driving to Khardung La, but the experience of getting to the top of the pass is incredible. 

On the way from Chang La to Leh, make another stop at the famous Hemis Monastery. With a long and rich history, the monastery also houses a museum that showcases artifacts from the museum’s heritage.

Considered to be one of the largest monasteries in Ladakh, the highlight of visiting Hemis is the huge statue of Guru Rinpoche and the monastery’s unique architecture.

Day 6 – Explore Leh

Spend your final day in Ladakh seeing more of Leh and wrapping up your visit. This would be a good day to revisit the local market to pick up souvenirs to take home, in addition to visiting the following places.

Thiksey Monastery

Start your day early with a visit to the Thiksey Monastery to witness the morning prayer chanting session. Get there by 7 am so you can get in the prayer hall in time without disturbing the monks. It may seem way too early, but the experience is magical!

As the sun rises and illuminates the surrounding snow-capped peaks, the monks begin their day together by rhythmically chanting Buddhist prayers – an experience not to be missed in Leh.

Shanti Stupa

Constructed as part of a Peace Pagoda Mission, the Shanti Stupa was built jointly by the Buddhist community of Japan and Ladakh. While the iconic white dome sits at the top, the Shanti Stupa houses the relics of the Buddha at its base.

Visited for its religious as well as architectural value, there’s a certain air of calm surrounding the Stupa, as it sits looking over the vast expanse of Leh.

Stok Palace

Located on the western bank of River Indus, the Stok Palace was originally built as the summer home of Ladakh’s royal family. Currently, this is where the royal family resides all year long.

The palace also has several museum rooms that display lots of ancient artifacts belonging to the royal family- from precious jewelry and royal attires to weapons and items of daily use.

A part of the Stok Palace has now been transformed into a heritage hotel and opened up to travelers who want to experience the royal way of living for a few days.

Lunch in the orchard at Chulli Bagh

After a tour of the Stok Palace, head to the nearby Chulli Bagh, which is essentially the royal family’s orchard, with apricot and walnut trees dominating the scene.

Settle down for a luxurious lunch amidst the lush greenery of the meticulously maintained orchard and enjoy a delicious meal accompanied by freshly plucked fruits from the garden.

Ladakhi cultural show

Now that it’s almost time to wrap up your final day in Leh, head back to the hotel to watch a vibrant cultural show displaying the beautiful dance forms and music of Ladakh.

Ladakh has a rich culture comprising beautiful folk dances native to different parts of the region, performed by both men and women, depending on the dance form.

Decked in traditional costumes and jewelry, it’s a real treat to watch the locals match steps while humming Ladakhi songs. 

Day 7 – Depart from Leh

This is a day of no activity since you have to catch a flight out of Leh back to Delhi. Depending on your flight time, you may be able to squeeze in a couple of hours in the morning to visit the local market or the village if you want, for a final glimpse of life in Ladakh!

Ladakh is vast and a one-week trip may not entirely do justice to its beauty. But if this is all the time you have, this itinerary is a good place to start planning your trip.

In case you want a curated, personalized itinerary, connect with India Someday and Unplugged Life for an unparalleled experience of Leh and Ladakh after checking these tips to spice your travel itinerary up !

Read the author’s honest review of both companies .

Contributing members are responsible for the accuracy of content contributed to A World to Travel.

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A first-timer’s guide to Leh

By Rashmi Shankar

If Ladakh is paradise, Leh is your stairway to heaven. Plan a trip to the land of bluer-than-blue lakes and stark grey mountains with this quick guide:

Getting to Leh

You can fly to Leh from major Indian cities via Delhi (there's also a 4am direct flight from Mumbai), but much of the time you save will be spent acclimatising to the altitude. Your other option is to drive, and there are two ways of getting there:

From Srinagar (415km): The Srinagar–Leh road is open from the first week of May till December, depending on snowfall. The roads are well maintained, the ascent is gradual—chances of mountain sickness considerably reduce—and there are beautiful villages on the way. Perfect for families with elder members and children. You can stop overnight at either Dras or Kargil, which are 140km and 200km from Srinagar respectively.

From Manali (482km): This high-altitude road is snowed under for most part of the year. It opens around the first week of June and remains motorable till October. The climb here is steep, the roads crumbly, and landslides are a real threat. Try this if you're looking for adventure. Travellers usually halt overnight at Jispa, about 140km from Manali .

It is also possible to drive from Srinagar to Leh in a day. But you will need a very early start, an experienced driver and plenty of energy to sit through the drive. Certainly not the best way to arrive in Leh. The most recommended way to travel: drive in, fly out.

Local transport

Taxis can be booked through the hotel or a travel agent, and they charge as per the destination. The Leh main market also has a taxi stand—solo travellers can opt for shared taxis, which are cheaper and can be paid for on a per-person basis. Vehicles for overnight trips cost about 20% more than day trips. For reference, a day trip from Leh to Thiksey, Shey and Hemis monasteries and the Druk Padma Karpo School—of 3 Idiots fame—will cover a distance of approximately 100km and cost Rs2,500 for a Mahindra Xylo and Rs2,800 for a Toyota Innova. Most people don't, but in case you want air conditioning, it costs Rs7/km in addition to the aforementioned prices. [Tip: Contact Ahmad Tullah, local taxi driver at +91-9797522908 or +91-9419340582 for help with taxis, accommodation and packages.]

The Grand Dragon Ladakh offers mountain-view rooms.

Many of Ladakh's top attractions are a day trip away from Leh, which is why it makes sense to camp here. Predictably, the town gets swamped in peak season and places are sold out months in advance. These are the ones to book:

The Grand Dragon Ladakh is centrally heated and has solar-powered rooms with views of the Stok Kangri mountains. (Doubles from Rs11,600)

The 45-room Hotel Shangrila is minutes away from the airport and has a Tibetan-inspired restaurant that serves Ladakhi food. (Doubles from Rs6,500)

A short walk from Leh town, Mahey Retreat has rooms overlooking sprawling gardens that grow most of the produce used by the restaurant. (Doubles from Rs4,600)

The family-run Mogol Hotel has friendly staff and 19 spacious rooms with views of the mountains. (Doubles from Rs4,500)

Backpackers and solo travellers can opt for Shaolin Guest House on Sankar road (starting Rs800 per person) and Zik Zik Guest House on Karzoo lane (+91-94191 79357; doubles from Rs1,000), which are homely, comfortable and easy on the pocket.

Aishwarya Venkatraman

Arundhati Ail

Praachi Raniwala

Most restaurants are open throughout the tourist season and are great for people-watching or meeting locals. Settle down with a hot cup of cappuccino at Jeevan Café (+91-9419129157), which also has a small library on the first floor—ask for their pizza and lasagne. Lunch at the value-for-money Summer Harvest restaurant in Changspa and try their hearty thukpa (noodle soup), or walk up to the tavern-like Bon Appetit for a meal with a view—they make great chocolate momos. For a taste of Tibetan cuisine, try Tibetan Kitchen on Fort Road (tip: get a table outside) or the quaint Amdo Café in the main market, which serves steaming momos and thenthuk (noodle soup). Stop by Pumpernickel German Bakery on Zangsti road for fresh bread, cakes and cookies. Don't forget to visit the charming Lala's Café, which is housed in a restored Ladakhi house and serves butter tea. Lamayuru Restaurant on Fort Road is great for vegetarians and is the place to go when you're craving Indian food. Check out our complete list of Leh's best eats here .

Taxi it to the unearthly Pangong Lake. Photo: Shutterstock.com

Art/history: Visit the Shanti Stupa, Leh Palace and the old town in Leh. See local art at the Ladakh Arts and Media Organisation in the old town, which also conducts workshops on subjects such as textiles, design and writing. You could also time your visit to see the colourful Hemis Festival, a two-day celebration in June/July, held at the 17th-century Hemis monastery, about 40km from Leh. Join in for prayers at the Thiksey and Lamayuru monasteries, which are both day trips away from Leh.

Shopping: The Leh main market is home to Tibetan antiques, jewellery and curios. You can also buy handcrafted carpets, rugs and pashmina shawls. Visit the Ladag Apricot store in Zangsti for organic food and jams made with locally sourced apricots.

Voluntourism: If you plan on staying longer, volunteer with the 17000 ft Foundation , which works with schools in villages in and around Leh and offers 10-, 16- and 30-day programmes that involve teaching and infrastructure building, among other things.

Adventure: Adventure junkies can time their visit to watch the Ladakh Marathon . (If you want to participate, here's what you need to know .) For treks and monastery tours, Ladakh Ecological Footprint is your best bet. They also offer river rafting expeditions for beginners and experienced enthusiasts. Frozen Himalayas conducts biking trips to and from Leh and also snow leopard treks in winters.

Overnight trips: Taxi it to the unearthly Nubra Valley and Pangong and Tso Moriri lakes. While the journeys can be made in a day, Kshitij Thube, who biked from Manali to Leh last summer, recommends otherwise. "There are comfortable camps everywhere and stunning views—you can share a camp right on Pangong Lake. There's no point visiting if you can't watch the sun rise and set beyond the lake."

Apart from jackets and warmers, here's what you need to survive:

Waterproof sports shoes

Rainwear (rainproof pants + a poncho + raincoat)

Sunscreen (or else, as Kshitij says, your skin will "peel off your face in two days")

Hats and sunglasses (for sun protection)

Backpack/duffel bag to carry everything you need for smaller trips around Leh

Medicine kit (with Diamox and regular medicines)

(If you're driving) Toolkit with a set of basic tools for the vehicle

Mountain sickness is a real danger and can be fatal

Symptoms of acute mountain sickness (AMS) include headache, light-headedness, breathlessness and nausea. Sujata Sahu, founder of the 17,000 ft Foundation, explains, "Hospitals in Leh are filled with tourists who think the weather is great and take acclimatisation lightly." If you think something's wrong, stop or descend to the lowest possible point immediately.

Medicines such as Diamox may be prescribed by general physicians prior to the trip and help reduce the chances of AMS—in case of any discomfort, this should be your first go-to. Having said that, the body is also fully capable of adjusting to the altitude on its own, if given time. Chewing something (especially garlic and chocolates) helps keep symptoms away. Most local vehicles and campsites are equipped with oxygen cylinders; don't hesitate to use them if/when necessary.

Good to know

Carry government-issued photo-identity proof—driving licence, Aadhaar card, PAN card, etc., which come handy at checkpoints and in case permits are required.

Plastic bags are banned in Ladakh, so make sure you carry biodegradable/paper bags.

The weather is unpredictable: it's usually windy and can go from pleasant to chilly very quickly. Wear layers instead of bulky warmers to stay comfortable at all times.

Keep in mind that most establishments in Ladakh are shut during the off season i.e. the time when roads are closed.

Carry waterproof luggage; this will ensure that the contents of your bag remain dry in case it rains unexpectedly or you need to drive through water.

Remember to take spare batteries for your camera, as the altitude and cold will drain them out quicker.

When travelling around Leh, it's best to avoid alcohol; drink water instead. Breathing in dry air drains the moisture from the lungs, so make sure you consume at least 4–5 litres to stay hydrated.

If you're the one at the wheel, it's important to know that driving here is different from driving anywhere else. It's a constant mental and physical test, and covering more than 50km a day is a challenge for anybody who's not a seasoned driver. Don't push yourself more than you need to. Kshitij adds, "If something goes wrong, you'll fall 1,000ft into the valley." Take it slow and easy, and enjoy the scenery.

Prepaid SIM cards don't work well in Leh, but postpaid do (Airtel, Aircel and BSNL are your best options). The main market in Leh city also has multiple STD booths.

Most importantly, don't try to do too much in too little time. Ladakh is not a place that you see in a hurry.

Next: Watch Condé Nast Traveller reader Veda Hrudya Nadendla travel to Ladakh for her Journey of a Lifetime:

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Leh: A complete guide to the heart of Ladakh

An old Tibetan saying translates to, “ The highest art is the art of living an ordinary life in an extraordinary manner”. In our seemingly ordinary lives, it is up to us to make those extraordinary choices that breathe life into our existence. So, let’s make another one of these extraordinary choices and pack a bag to travel to the land of the high passes – Leh.

Introduction to Leh

Leh is the rustic land with the occasional hints of greenery and surrounded by the brown-grayish Ladakh range. The elegantly flowing Indus river makes Leh a perfect postcard destination. Tibetan Prayer Flags dance in the thin air of Leh while flanking the sides of the roads. They are a visual treat & give a sense of peace. The warm locals, spicy momos, butter tea, and quaint markets make it even more special. Leh might be a cold desert but it has so much to offer. Its true magic can only be felt by being there, and witnessing the scenery with our bare eyes!  In the distance, you will see a few snow-covered peaks calling you. urging you to climb to that summit. But be warned – Leh isn’t like any other destination in the entire world.  It’s on every travel enthusiast’s bucket list and never fails to give an adrenaline rush.

Where is Leh Located?

Leh is located in the Union Territory of Ladakh in the northern part of India.  It’s connected via National Highway 1 to Srinagar and to Manali via the Leh-Manali Highway. The main town of Leh is located in the valley of the upper Indus River at an elevation of 3,520 meters and is surrounded by the soaring peaks of the Ladakh Range , which is a south-eastern extension of the Karakoram Range .

Things to do in Leh

1. leh palace.

Leh Palace is the first thing on anyone’s list when they visit the main town of Leh. Also known as the Lachen Palkar Palace, it’s a magnificent structure overlooking the entire town of Leh. Leh Palace was in the 17th century by Sengge Namgyal, the King of Ladakh at that time. The nine-storeyed Leh palace had its upper floors inhabited by the royal family, while the floors below housed storerooms and stables. The mid-19th century saw the Dogra forces usurping control over Ladakh which forced the royal family to shift to the Stok Palace. This abandoned palace was left to natural ruin and therefore is currently under the care and restoration initiatives of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) .

NOTE: Just a walking distance from Leh Palace, there are two more places of interest – Tsemo Castle and Namgyal Gompa. They are less preferred by tourists in Leh, but if you have extra time in hand, you can consider them.

Tsemo Castle is also of religious, historical, and cultural significance to the people of Ladakh. Namgyal Gompa is a Buddhist Monastery and houses a three-story high gold statue of Maitreya Buddha and ancient manuscripts and frescoes. 

2. Hall of Fame

Hall of Fame is a must-visit for any Indian traveling to Leh, in order to pay homage to the brave soldiers of the Indian Army. It’s a museum, maintained by the army to remember the Indian soldiers who sacrificed their lives during various Indo-Pak wars. It also commemorates the Army’s role in the cloudburst relief of 2010. I personally find the Siachen Glacier section very insightful. It shares lots of information on the survival conditions of our brave soldiers at -50 degrees Celsius. You can also watch a 30-minute film that depicts various aspects of the Kargil war.  A visit to the Hall of Fame indeed gives an emotional rush to patriotic Indians!

3. Shanti Stupa

Shanti Stupa is another marvel of Buddhist architecture and is just a sight to look at. Just imagine a pure white structure against the backdrop of the blue skies and grey mountains. Constructed on top of a hill in the Changspa region, this white-domed stupa was built by a Japanese Buddhist Bhikshu named Gyomyo Nakamura in the year 1999. In order to reach Shanti Stupa, you can take the road leading directly from Leh to the Shanti Stupa. There are some 500 odd stairs to the top. After climbing those treacherous stairs you are rewarded with a view that will make you forget all your fatigue. The Shanti Stupa is one of the best vantage points, offering a mesmerizing view of Leh town with the mountain landscapes in the backdrop. Try to reach in time for the sunset to get an even more gorgeous view.

4. Sangam Point

A 48-kilometer drive from Leh brings you to the village of Nimmu, where a magnificent view awaits you. There is a vantage point in the village from where you can see the confluence of the Indus River and Zanskar River. The word “confluence” literally translates to “Sangam” in Hindi. It’s a beautiful sight to behold. Due to various natural factors, the rivers constantly change their color as well as the force of their flow throughout the year. When the Zanskar river freezes in the winter, the popular Chadar trek takes place. You can experience walking on a frozen lake and seeing the waterfalls that have frozen mid-air. All things considered, this is a must-visit when you come to Leh.

5. SECMOL School

Do you remember Phunsukh Wangdu (Aamir Khan’s character) from 3 Idiots? He played Sonam Wangchuk, a Ladakhi engineer who starts an innovative and sustainable educational institute in Ladakh.  Sonam started the Students’ Educational and Cultural Movement of Ladakh (SECMOL) in 1988 near the Phey village in the Indus Valley. This institution has revolutionized the education system of Ladakh and it is a sight to behold. Constructed with a mix of traditional and modern architectural styles, SECMOL is a must-visit in order to broaden your horizons on education. Not just academic education, but students also learn life skills. Did you know that the students themselves manage the entire campus including growing their own food?

6. Gurudwara Patthar Sahib

Almost 25 kilometers from Leh on the Srinagar-Leh highway is the Gurudwara Patthar Sahib.  It was built in the year 1517 to commemorate Guru Nanak Dev’s visit to Ladakh. This revered place is believed to be the spot where Guru Nanak Dev conquered a demon. Legend has it that when Guru Nanakji was meditating at this place, a demon had hurled a boulder at him in order to obstruct his prayers. But, as soon as the boulder was about to hit Guru Nanakji, it turned into soft wax and failed to harm him. Seeing this the demon then asked for forgiveness for his misdeed and Guru Nanakji forgave him. The boulder seems to have the imprint of Guru Nanak Dev’s body and the footprint of the demon. This boulder is on display at the Gurdwara Pathar Sahib, which is maintained by the Indian Army. 

7. Alchi Monastery

Alchi Monastery built somewhere during the years 958-1055 CE is actually not a monastery but rather a monastic complex of temples in Alchi village located 65 km away from Leh. It is o ne of the most important Buddhist centers in the region.  For the last 500 years, religion has not been practiced in the Alchi Monastery. Hence, it is no longer an active religious center and the monks from the Likir Monastery look after it. Yet, there is still much cultural history within the walls of this monastic complex and the surroundings of the Alchi Gompa offer a very welcoming atmosphere for visitors with small restaurants, tea stalls, and souvenir shops.

8. Magnetic Hill

Visiting Magnetic Hill is the dream of every adventurer. Almost 27 km from Leh, there appears a yellow signboard after which you park your vehicle inside the marked box and put it in neutral. The alleged magnetic pull will get any vehicle moving uphill even with the engine turned off. Technically, your car itself starts rolling down but since the road appears going up, it will make you believe that the car is going uphill. Every theory you might come up with seems to defy gravity. Optical illusion or reality is something for you to find out when you visit this place.

9. Thiksey Monastery

Located on top of a hill in Thiksey approximately 19 kilometers east of Leh, stands a magnificent structure. Affiliated with the Gelug sect of Tibetan Buddhism, the Thiksey Monestary’s structure has an uncanny resemblance to the Potala Palace in Lhasa, Tibet, and it is the largest gompa in central Ladakh. The 12-storeyed monastery is located at an altitude of 3,600 meters in the Indus Valley and houses over 500 monks. Inside you will find many examples of traditional Buddhist art such as stupas, statues, thangkas, wall paintings, and swords. Another noteworthy point about this monastery is the Maitreya Temple installed within its premises, to commemorate the visit of the 14th Dalai Lama in 1970. The temple holds the largest Maitreya Buddha statue in Ladakh, a 49 ft tall statue occupying two entire storeys of the building!

10. Shey Palace and Monastery

Located 15 km away from Leh on the Leh-Manali highway, this old summer retreat of Ladakhi Kings is a magnificent structure now almost in ruins. The Shey palace is located in the village of the same name and was built in 1655.

Within the premises of this palace is another famous structure – the Shey Monastery. Constructed in the same year as the palace, this monastery is known for the giant gold gilded, copper statue of a seated Shakyamuni Buddha.

11. Hemis Monastery

The Hemis Monastery is located in the picturesque Hemis village of Ladakh that rests on a mountain on the west bank of the River Indus. Founded in 1630, the monastery is home to a large number of religious treasures such as Thangkas, weapons, carriers,  tiger skins, skull vessels, swords, and a stuffed vulture pup which are exhibited during festivals. It’s one of the most beautiful monasteries in Ladakh. The annual Hemis festival honoring Padmasambhava happens here in early June and it’s extremely rich and vibrant. The monastery also has a museum & a gift shop.

12. Lamayuru Monastery

Almost 127 km from Leh, on the Leh – Srinagar Highway perched at a height of 3,510 meters is the ancient Lamayuru Monastery. Founded by Mahasiddacarya Naropa way back in the 11th century, Lamayuru looks like a monastery forged out of a lunar landscape. The Lamayuru Monastery is the main seat of the Drikung Kagyu tradition (one of the 8 minor lineages of the Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism) in the lower Ladakh. There are more than 50 monasteries and 300 monks registered under the leadership of this ancient monastery. The sight of this monastery coupled with the Lamayuru village gives the impression of this tiny kingdom. Did you know that Lamayuru Monastery is often referred to as “moonscape” because it has moonlike craters?

13. Stok Palace and Monastery

The current residence of the erstwhile royal family of Ladakh, the Stok Palace is situated 17 km away from Leh. There is a palace museum with displays showcasing the shrine, crown, ceremonial dress, and jewelry of the Ladakhi king. Now, the Stok Palace has been converted into a beautiful heritage hotel. Stok Palace also houses an interesting museum that has a collection of artifacts and relics related to Ladakh’s old monarchy.

Another 2 km from the palace and you’ll come across the ancient Stok Monastery. This 14th-century Monastery is known for its library that holds all 108 volumes of the Kangyur. Kangyur is a collection of sacred texts containing words spoken by the Buddha himself. Stok Monastery also has a 71 feet tall seated statue of Gautama Buddha. An annual ritual of the dance-mask festival also happens here.

14. Likir Monastery

Built in 1065 A.D, Likir Monastery is a seat of history, which is inscribed on the inner walls in black ink. This beautiful monastery is famous for a 25 feet gold-covered Buddha Statue and certain artifacts that are believed to have been created with butter but never melt. The Likir Monastery is located 56 km west of Leh town and is home to 120 Buddhist monks. It’s an insightful place on the Monastery trail of Leh Ladakh, this colorfully vibrant Monastery has many things to show starting from Thangkas to architecture.

15. Leh Main Bazaar

Quaint Bazaars in hilly regions are always a treat. With cozy shops and rustic eateries, places frequented by so many travelers. All the history contained in those walls and all the stories the people have lived through. You can have some really great traditional cuisines in this place and shop for a variety of accessories and woolen clothes. The business hub of Leh, the streets of the Main Bazaar is always bustling with life and is probably the busiest area in the entire town of Leh. For a place that lives life at a calm and peaceful pace, this bazaar seems to exist on a different planet. You can buy souvenirs from Leh market and also withdraw the much-needed cash from ATMs. Don’t miss enjoying the spicy hot momos and visiting bakeries.

16. Jama Masjid

Built-in the year 1666-67, the Jama Masjid is history in real life. This mosque was a symbol of agreement between the then King of Ladakh, Deldan Namgyal, and Mughal Emperor, Aurangzeb. According to which the Mughals were to provide protection to the King of Ladakh in exchange for a small fee. Located in Leh Main Bazaar, it is the largest mosque in Ladakh and it has been rebuilt several times since its erection. 

17. Zorawar Fort

About 6.2 kilometers from the Leh Palace, is a fort built by the little Napolean of India – General Zorawar Singh. Once a military base for the Dogra rulers, this fortress is also called the Riasi Fort. Within its premises, there is a mosque, a Hindu temple, and a natural spring. For the History buffs, there is also a collection of coins, stamps, and other artifacts on display. There is also a road from Leh Main Market leading to the fort so you can choose to either drive or take a 30-40 mins hike.

Please note that above is a very exhaustive list of “Things to do in Leh” and it’s not possible to do everything in and around Leh in a single trip. The mountain terrain and the harsh weather makes it even more challenging. Most of the visitors to Leh only do 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, 10, 11 & 15. If your itinerary is offbeat and experiential, then it may also include 5 & 7 as well. Scroll down, just before last section to see suggested itineraries for a trip to Leh.

Interesting Things about Leh

1. india’s highest residential point of human settlement .

At 3000 meters above sea level, Leh Ladakh is India’s highest residential point of human settlement. A large portion of the area between the Suru Valley and Zanskar Valley, surrounded by the Himalayas and Zanskar Ranges is rough but largely inhabited. The main area of inhabitation is Rangdum and after crossing Rangdum, at a height of 4,400 m above sea level at Pensi-la is India’s Highest Settlement! Life in this region is certainly arduous but the people make the most of their lives by living peacefully and harmoniously.

2. Highest Bridge above Sea Level in the World – The Bailey Bridge

At a height of about 5,602 meters above sea level, The Bailey Bridge is a 30 meters long lattice-steel giant and the world’s highest bridge above sea level. Built in 1982 by the Indian Army, the name of this bridge is actually the common term used for a type of portable, pre-fabricated, truss bridge first developed by the British during World War II. It was used extensively for military purposes by British, Canadian, and eventually by American military engineering units. 

3. The Kung-Fu Nuns of Ladakh

We’ve all seen Monks who’ve mastered Kung Fu in a number of Hollywood and South-East Asian movies but have you ever seen a Kung Fu Nun? The Drukpa Nunnery in Ladakh, almost 100 km from Leh,  is home to a large, self-empowered group of women practicing feminist Buddhism and practicing Kung-Fu. This group of women believe in equality and they all study & seek enlightenment on par with monks. 

4. Twin-Humped Camels of Nubra Valley

“Are there two camels or only one?” That’s probably the first thought someone would have when they see the Double Humped or Bactrian Camel of the Nubra Valley . These are rare species of camel native to the Steppes of Central Asia and the Nubra Valley in Ladakh is the only place in India where we can them. T heir contrasting features from the regular single-humped camel make them a major subject of interest for tourists and visitors to this part of the region. Leh is the getaway to Nubra Valley .

5. The Vibrant Desert

Despite being a cold desert, Ladakh is a rich habitat of Flora and Fauna. From Robins, Finches, Hoopoes, and Redstarts there are over 225 species of birds in this area. You will also find a range of mammals like the Snow Leopard, wild Yaks, Ibex, and rare animals like the Tibetan wild ass, Tibetan antelope, Tibetan gazelle, and Tibetan sand fox among others. With the revival of Buddhist traditions and increasing awareness of the people of this region regarding environmental preservation, the future looks of wildlife in Ladakh looks promising.

Please note that the above-stated facts are just among the few interesting facts about Leh or Ladakh region. Every single place of attraction that we visit in Ladakh, is full of insightfully interesting facts. You can go through our posts on Pangong Lake , Nubra Valley & Tso Moriri Lake to read more interesting facts about Ladakh.

Where to Stay in Leh

Since Leh is the joint capital of Ladakh and also the largest town in the region, hence there is are no shortfalls for accommodation. There is an array of places to choose from depending on your price range or preference. Luxury Hotels, resorts, budget or mid-budget hotels, guesthouses, hostels, homestays, even a few farmhouses – you name it and you probably will find it in Leh. In terms of stay, Leh has everything in every budget. Although, the best place to stay in Leh is to stay in one of the accommodations that are located at a walking distance from Leh Main Bazaar. This will give you the much-required flexibility to you in terms of your evening plans.

Best Time to Visit Leh

The best time to visit any cold place is in the Summer season and Leh is no exception. During the months of June to September, Leh sees summer. The temperature is extremely comfortable to travel around. Ladakh is known for its extremely low temperatures throughout the year but the winters are exceptionally unforgiving. The weather during the winters can get really bad, the roads may be un-motorable due to snowfall or some other sort of natural phenomenon. Therefore, it is most advisable to travel during the summer months to have a smooth trip without any hitches.

Weather in Leh

At an altitude of 3500 meters, the average temperature in Leh reaches 25°C during the day in summer while it dips to -15°C at night in the winter. It can be even colder at a higher altitude and night-time temperatures can drop below 0°C even during summer. If visiting in the summer months, you must also remember that it can get quite dry, therefore it is important that you keep yourself hydrated. It is a must to always take warm clothing when traveling to Leh Ladakh and it is equally important to protect yourself from the strong rays of the sun in this cold desert. If you are traveling to Leh in winter, please carry layers & layers of thermals and other warm clothes. Although, warm clothes are much-needed in summer as well but pack for extreme winter if you travel to Leh in the winter season. 

Altitude and Acclimatization in Leh

Acclimatization is the process of our body getting accustomed to a new climate and weather conditions. If you ain’t acclimatized, you are prone to altitude sickness or Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).

Leh is about 3500 meters above sea level so the air here is thinner than on plains. Hence some travelers, especially the ones who arrive by flight bound to experience altitude sickness. Symptoms like headaches, dizziness, nausea, loss of appetite, insomnia, or shortness of breath are some of the indicators of AMS. When you reach Leh, take maximum rest and keep your excursions light for at least 48 hours to acclimatize yourself. Drink 3–4 liters of water a day to remain hydrated, avoid any kind of alcohol, get enough sleep, and don’t overexert yourself. 

Medical Facilities in Leh

There are adequate medical facilities in Leh, therefore you need not worry. The Base hospital in Leh – Sonam Norphel Memorial Hospital is a walkable distance from the main town area and is a five-minute drive from Fort Road. It is fully equipped with the necessary medical facilities and prompt staff is to help patients. Even Nubra Valley and Kargil have proper medical facilities but it is not the same case for most of the other places in Ladakh like Pangong Tso or Tso Moriri . Therefore, make sure to acclimatize yourself properly in Leh itself and take proper precautions during your travels to other places. Also, please understand that during the summer season, the hospital in Leh is crowded with sick tourists overburdening the hospital’s medical staff. Hence, it’s extremely important to be careful about your health, acclimatize properly and follow the instructions of your group leader or guide (if any).

Things to Remember before Planning a Trip to Leh

Cell service in leh.

The first thing to take note of is that only Postpaid services work in the entire Ladakh. BSNL is the best service provider in Ladakh with the widest area of coverage, followed by Airtel, and Jio. Vodafone and Idea connections work but the coverage is not very good. In Leh town itself, you don’t really have to worry much about connectivity since most areas have pretty good signals. Even the majority of the hotels have WiFi.

What to Pack for Leh

• Thermals  (Most essential)
• Comfortable Walking shoes/sports shoes
• Woollen socks
• Heavy woollens like Sweatshirts, pullovers, warm hoodies
• Comfortable trekking/traveling pants or trousers
• A heavy woollen wind-proof jacket or parka is good to carry even during summers in case the weather changes
• Caps or Hats to protect against the suns
• Balaclava or Monkey cap especially for the winter months
• Sunglasses protect your eyes from the reflections from the snow
• Hand gloves are a must during winters or cold nights during summer.
• Carry sunscreen, a first aid kit, and medicine for Acute Altitude Sickness.
• Carry your own water bottle. It’s economic, eco-friendly and you’ll need to keep yourself hydrated constantly.
• Toilet Paper and Wet Tissues

How to Reach Leh

There are two ways to reach the Leh via road Leh. You can either go to Leh via Manali, Himachal Pradesh, or via Srinagar, Kashmir. Please note that the road journeys to Leh from Kashmir/ Manali offer beautiful sceneries.  At the same time, you also get to see how the geographical features are changing gradually. Do remember the duration and length of the journeys make the road trip extremely challenging. Although, it helps you acclimatize gently as compared to air travel.

By air, you can come in from Delhi which is a short 1h 25m flight, or any other city, and arrive at the Kushok Bakula Rimpochee airport which is only 4 km from the Leh city center. Leh Airport is connected very well with most of the major airports in India.

Suggested itinerary Leh Itinerary

Please follow the link Adventures of Ladakh (arrival in Leh by road from Manali) and Adventures of Ladakh: Women Only (arrival by flight)  links to see two different types of itineraries.  We have designed these itineraries in a manner that travelers see the best of the things as per the time in hand while taking the acclimatization factor into consideration. Hence, you can use these itineraries blindly.

If you are a solo traveler then you can also consider joining our group tours. We organize a mixed group tour to Ladakh and a women-only trip as well to Ladakh. If you want a customized tour package for Ladakh for yourself, then you can reach out to us for the same as well. Please call/ WhatsApp at 9999749677 or email at [email protected]

How to be an ambassador of Responsible Tourism in Leh?

You can be a Responsible Tourism  ambassador in Leh by following a very simple behavior:

• Don’t litter around
• Please maintain silence inside the monasteries
• Please respect the terrain of Ladakh. In case of any visit outside Leh, make sure to always hit the Leh roads before sunset. Driving on mountain roads especially in remote and tough terrain in Leh brings many unforeseen risks.
• Don’t run around or exhaust yourselves. Don’t drink alcohol or do anything else that would lead to AMS.
• Ladakh is a desert area. Hence, please save water during your stay in not just Leh, but the entire Ladakh.
• Be respectful to locals

The above tips are specific to Leh. You can read this article in order to understand more about the practices of responsible tourism that would help you in the longer term.

A trip to Ladakh is of the most memorable trips for any traveler. And, for any trip to Ladakh, you would always begin with Leh as the starting point. It is the heart of Ladakh in all senses. You are definitely in for a lifetime experience on your trip to Leh or Ladakh but just to remember to research & plan well. Acclimatize and respect the terrain. Just follow this detailed guide and you shall be fine.

You may also like

Tso Moriri: A Complete Guide to the Mountain Lake of Ladakh

Khardung La: Important facts and Detailed Guide

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By Air, By Road, By Train: A Complete Travel Guide To Leh, Ladakh

By air, by road, by train: here is everything you need to know before planning a trip to leh, ladakh. bookmark the travel guide now.

By: Karan Kaushik Published: Jan 30, 2022 10:00 AM IST

There are some sojourns in India, where the journey is as blissful as the destination. Mammoth mountain peaks, mesmerising waterfalls, tranquil water bodies, lush fields, and dense forests adorn them. Sometimes, we are fortunate to get a window seat on the flight to marvel at snow-capped mountain peaks that kiss the clear blue sky. And other times, the best views are savoured by train and car. One such journey that offers an incredible experience, no matter what the mode of commute, is the one to Leh. By Karan Kaushik 

Here’s everything you should know before planning your dream trip to Leh

The destination.

Jagged mountains, turquoise lakes, age-old Buddhist monasteries, traditional Ladakhi mud-brick houses, prayer-flag-festooned lanes, charming bazaars, and cool cafes. Only a few places in India reward the discerning traveller as Leh does. From white-water rafting to enriching trails in nomadic and remote villages, the magnificent land of high passes also offers a plethora of thrilling activities for adventure seekers.

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Leh enjoys good air connectivity with major Indian cities via Delhi and Srinagar. While taking a bike trip to Ladakh is on every traveller’s bucket list, not many know a flight could be as exciting. The air journey to Leh allows you to see the mightiest mountain range in the world in all its glory. You will come across the Shivaliks, the Dhauladhars, and the Pir Panjals. As you go up, you will notice massive glaciers that mark the beginning of the Great Himalayan Range.

The flight offers incredible views of snow-clad peaks, which include Parang chu, Phirse chu, Kharpa 6234, Pangyo chu to name a few. The Tso Moriri Lake is also visible. Here’s a tip: make sure you get a seat on the left side of the aisle.

The flight takes you to the Kushok Bakula Rimpochhe Airport, the main airport of Leh. Taxis for Leh city are easily available at the airport.

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Considering Delhi is the base, there are two major routes to Leh. These are the Manali-Leh and Srinagar-Leh routes.

Delhi to Leh via Manali

This route takes you through some incredible points like the famous Rohtang Pass, one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. As you start your journey from Delhi, you will be driving on the Grand Trunk Road, or NH44. You can stop at Murthal for a truly memorable breakfast and fancy some ghee soaked paranthas and lassi. As you move towards Manali , the uphill climb begins around Ghanauli.

After crossing the Rohtang Pass, you will be driving on some of the world’s highest motorable roads. On reaching the Lachulungla Pass, you will be able to witness the entire Ladakh Plateau. During this bike ride, some of the important points that you will be driving through include Karnal, Mandi, Manali, Jispa, Sarchu and Tanglang La. You can take a break in either Manali, Keylong or Jispa and spend a night there before heading forward to Leh.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Kunal Goswami (@_staronearth_)

If you are not in the mood to ride all the way to Leh, you can also book a roadways bus from Manali. There are deluxe and ordinary buses run by HRTC and J&K SRTC between Manali and Leh. You may also hire a cab to reach Leh from Manali.

Note: You’ll have to get a permit to travel beyond Rohtang Pass from Manali.

Delhi to Leh via Srinagar

Perhaps the more popular among the two, this route is a biker’s dream. You start from Delhi, drive through Ludhiana, Jalandhar, Pathankot, Jammu , Patnitop and Anantnag to reach Srinagar. Spend a day soaking in the breathtaking beauty that Srinagar is blessed with. During this journey, you will also be crossing the 9.2km long Chenani-Nashri Tunnel that has reduced the distance between Jammu and Srinagar by 40km.

Fancy a shikara ride in the Dal, drink lots of kahwa, buy yourself a phiran and some saffron and stay the night in Srinagar. The next day, you will be driving through Sonamarg, Zoji La, Dras, Kargil, Lamayuru, Alchi and Nimmoo before finally making your way to Leh.

In Kargil, you must pay your tributes at the Kargil War Memorial. On your way to Leh from Kargil, you can also visit the age-old Mulbekh Monastery. Other important points where you could take little stops are Namik La Top, Lamayuru Monastery, and Fotula Top, which is the highest point on the Srinagar-Leh road.

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Direct buses to Leh from Srinagar are also available in all categories from the Leh bus stand. The morning bus to Leh reaches Kargil by night, where it takes a halt and reaches Leh the next day.

Here’s a tip. It’s best to take the Srinagar-Leh route during your onward journey so that your body could properly acclimatise. You can take the Leh-Manali route during your return journey.  This way, you’d be able to experience the thrill of both these routes. It’s a win-win situation.

Jammu Tawi, at 700km, is the nearest railhead from Leh. It’s well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata. From here, you can hire a taxi or take a JKSRTC bus for Leh. Pathankot, Chandigarh and Kalka are other nearby railway stations from Leh.

• Things to do in Leh

Here are some of the must-visit attractions in Leh.

Pangong Tso Lake

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Located at a height of 4,350m, Pangong Tso is the highest saltwater lake in the world. Its azure blue waters form a beautiful contrast with the arid mountains that stand in its backdrop. The lake shot to fame after it was featured in the movie 3 Idiots . Create your own yellow scooter moment here and you never know you may end up finding your Rancho.

Thiksey Monastery

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by rigzin/nurboo (@_brushandpaint)

Perched atop a hill towards the North of the Indus River, this monastery dates to 1430 AD and houses the Lakhang Nyerma Temple. The monastery is famous for its iconic statue of Maitreya Buddha, which draws visitors throughout the year. Standing 15m tall, the statue was constructed in a period of four years.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Ritu Mittal (@keepclicking2022)

This palace overlooks Leh and offers panoramic views of the town and its picturesque surroundings. The palace features ancient wall paintings, which depict the life of Lord Buddha. The palace has been beautifully restored by the Archaeological Survey of India and serves as a popular tourist spot in the town.

Hall of Fame

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Ramnath Srinivasan (@ramnathsrinivasan)

Located on the Leh-Kargil Road, just 4km from the main city, this museum is dedicated to our brave soldiers, who laid their lives for their motherland. A visit to the museum will fill you with patriotism and make your heart swell with pride.

Shanti Stupa

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Елена ?? Медитации ? Интуиция (@blisstara)

A major attraction in Leh, the stupa was built as a symbol of peace to commemorate 2,500 years of Buddhism. Perched atop a hill, the stupa offers peaceful vibes and great views. Sunrises and sunsets are typically beautiful. The relics of Buddha in the stupa were enshrined by the 14th Dalai Lama.

Hemis National Park

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Niaz Khan (@northnomad_)

If you are a wildlife lover with an adventurous streak, head to the Hemis National Park when in Leh. Sprawled over an area of 3,350 sqkm, the park is home to the elusive snow leopard and a wide variety of birds. The Snow Leopard trek here is one of the most thrilling experiences you can take in India.

Magnetic Hill

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Shiv Ashish ?? (@shiv_ashish)

One of the most fascinating places in the country, the Magnetic Hill lies at a distance of 30km from Leh. It is known for its gravity-defying abilities. There’s a particular point, which has been marked with a square. If you park your vehicle inside that box, you’ll see your vehicle moving in the forward direction on its own. This intriguing experience must be included in your Leh itinerary.

Best Time To Go

If you are travelling by bike, the best time would be around September and October, when the Srinagar-Leh and Manali-Leh highways are open, and the roads are perfect for driving. The tourist season in Leh usually begins in April, but it’s advisable to travel by flight during this time. The Manali road along Rohtang Pass opens around June, making it another good time to visit Ladakh.

For bikers, the months of July, August and September are considered the most suitable. The months between November and March are extremely cold. The highways are closed, and the lakes are frozen. In December, Ladakh is cut off from the rest of the country. If you are planning the Chadar Trek or Snow Leopard Trek, you must visit between January and March.

Related: We Get The Taste Of The Local Life In Ladakh Through Our Immersive Travel Experience

• leh airport
• Manali-Leh Highway
• Srinagar-Leh highway
• Travel Guide to Leh
• travel to leh
• Travelling to Leh

Karan Kaushik

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Leh Ladakh Itinerary 5 Days: Ultimate Itinerary (+ Guide)

Discover the stunning beauty of Ladakh in this short Leh Ladakh Itinerary 5 Days.

Undoubtedly, Ladakh is one of the most beautiful places in the world. Located in the northern-most portion of India, Leh Ladakh is a place ripe with unique experiences, must-do activities, incredible sights & astonishing scenery.

Ladakh is a hot summer destination in India . The place gets maximum attention during April and June, with families, teenagers, and road-trippers all making their way to experience one of the best trips in India. Its dramatic landscape is its single biggest draw, with snow-clad mountains and glistening lakes boasting their charm. Likewise, Ladakh’s diverse topography makes your entire trip worthwhile. No matter where you go or which place you visit, you ought to come across valleys, rustic villages, and peaceful Gompas.

Along with Leh Ladakh’s landscape, its tourist destinations such as Tso Moriri , Nubra Valley , Leh City , Siachen Glacier , and Pangong Lake cultivate a lively sense of tourism. The culture, the traditions, and the local customs create a beautiful blend of harmony to enrich your overall Ladakh tour experience .

With so much to see and do around, we thought of creating the best itinerary for Leh Ladakh that can help you nail your first-ever trip. In this guide, we created a schedule that includes terrific places, top experiences, and must-do tours/activities .

So, without further ado, let’s get started with our Leh Ladakh tour itinerary.

Overview of Leh Ladakh Itinerary 5 Days

The itinerary designed for this Ladakh trip is curated for 5 days. The tour will start and end in Leh .

While not many people visit Leh Ladakh on such a short break, there’s a significant portion of travellers who prefer 5-6 days duration. To cater to these tourists, we created a perfect Ladakh itinerary consisting of all the niche experiences & activities .

Although a 5 Day Leh Ladakh itinerary sounds short, it is still packed with good sightseeing spots , road trip journeys, and must-do activities. Even if you’re a first-time traveller, this 5 day itinerary for Ladakh will come in handy to plan your first ever trip!

The trip can be customized entirely according to your style and preference. Thus, you can include or exclude any destination from the journey as you’d like.

Schedule of Leh Ladakh Trip Itinerary

Day 1 : Arrive in Leh – Sightseeing Tours Day 2 : Leh – Nubra Valley (Khardung La Pass – Diskit – Hunder) Day 3 : Nubra Valley – Pangong Lake (Sumur – Shayok – Tangtse) Day 4 : Pangong Lake – Leh (Chang La – Chemrey – Hemis) Day 3 : Depart from Leh

Essential Planning Tips for 5 Days in Ladakh

These are some vital planning tips one should consider before planning their 5 days trip to Ladakh.

Take a Flight

Since our Leh Ladakh trip is only for 5 days, it makes sense to travel via flight. We won’t recommend a road trip journey to & fro Ladakh , as this is not a feasible option for a shorter travel plan. A minimum of 7-9 days is required to plan a full-fledged road journey to Leh Ladakh. Also, ensure that you arrive in Leh a day before your actual trip. This way, you can also take care of getting acclimated to the altitude of Ladakh.

Pre-Plan your Ladakh Tour

We recommend planning your Leh Ladakh trip at least six months before your actual departure . Considering the summer season in India (April to June), most travellers often book their Ladakh tour to avoid hiked hotel prices & airfare tickets.

Secondly, you’ll need to get your Inner Line Permit arranged. This is only applicable to foreigners (non-Indian residents). An Inner Line Permit is basically a ticket that grants you access to enter the protected areas of Ladakh. These places include visiting Nubra Valley , Pangong Lake , Turtuk , Khardung La , and Tso Moriri . One can get their permits sorted by directly  visiting this website .

The charges for these permits are as follows  –

Environmental Fee : INR 300 Inner Line Permit : INR 20 per day per person Red Cross Fund : INR 100

Note : The above prices can change. Please  visit the website  to stay updated on the latest pricing.

Travel Q – Do you need an Inner Line Permit in Ladakh? No. Inner Line Permit is no longer required for Indian citizens. Earlier, you had to compulsory book the pass to visit the protected zones of Ladakh. However, now the government has scrapped the idea of improving logistical tourist routes.

Book Your Transport

The second most important thing for your Leh Ladakh itinerary is to book internal transpor t . For this 5 day tour, we recommend booking a private vehicle for your entire Ladakh trip. Riding a motorcycle can be difficult, especially when you’re just getting acclimatized.

You can directly book a taxi from the airport to the hotel journey from the airport itself. To explore Leh Ladakh’s sightseeing, you’ll need to arrange transport in advance. We recommend Expedia for the rental car service, as they tend to provide affordable rates for their private vehicles.

Altitude Sickness  in Ladakh

Many people ignore the altitude sickness problem in Ladakh and then often waste their sightseeing schedule. The best precaution against AMS (acute mountain sickness) is ample rest. At the same time, it may sound like a ridiculous thing to do, especially when you’re travelling to a beautiful region – getting rest is crucial before you start your sightseeing in Leh Ladakh.

Not doing so will only cause you more problems throughout the trip. If you have any medical conditions, please consult a doctor before this trip. It’s best to clarify your fitness levels before you travel to Leh Ladakh.

Moreover, to help you avoid AMS in Ladakh,  read this guide  as an additional resource. It details some steps to handle altitude sickness in Ladakh.

Cost of Leh Ladakh Tour Itinerary

Ladakh is an expensive region to travel to. Significantly, after COVID-19, many hotels and tour operators have hiked their rates to match their daily expenses. On average, a 5-day trip to Ladakh can cost anywhere between INR 12000 – INR 15000 , which excludes to & fro flights and sightseeing entrance fees. Considering flights, expect the price to increase to INR 28000 – INR 32000.

Note – The above prices are an indicative number based on the history of previous tours/packages. You can explore the below packages to find your perfect Leh Ladakh tour –

5D/4N Leh Ladakh – Explore this tour to book a similar version of this itinerary. 7D/6N Ladakh Sightseeing – Book an all inclusive tour for Ladakh via Delhi.

Detailed Leh Ladakh Itinerary 5 Days

Day 1: arrive in leh.

Leh, the city of adventures, is a bustling cold desert town filled with glorious tourist attractions. It isn’t a developed city boasting great amenities and accessibility; it still marks a vital destination to promote adventure tourism.

The rugged roads, dramatic landscapes, snowcapped peaks, bells of the monasteries, and the deserted cold wind makes you feel alive when you’re in the city of Leh. It isn’t only the attractions that drive most tourism, but its unique blend of Indian and Tibetian culture tends to bring out energetic vibes.

Once you reach Leh, the first thing you need to do – is get acclimatized.

Due to Leh Ladakh’s altitude, oxygen levels are minimum – causing you breathing and exertion problems. To avoid any health-related issues, it’s best to recommend giving yourself the time to get acclimatized to Leh’s atmosphere.

Note : You can spend more than a day in Leh to cover most of the city’s major sightseeing. If you take a day off to get acclimatized to the surroundings, it’s recommended to add an extra day to your Leh Ladakh itinerary to visit its important landmarks.

On this day, you can opt to visit Leh Ladakh’s top most attractions including – Shanti Stupa, Leh Palace, Magnetic Hill, and Hall of Fame. To add more sightseeing excursions to your Ladakh trip, you can book a full-day guided tour of the Leh City. This way you can maximize your travel for inner region travel.

Apart from the attractions listed above, there’s plenty to see and do in Leh Ladakh. You can add these places to your Leh Ladakh itinerary – Shey Palace ,  Shey Monastery ,  Gurudwara Patthar Sahib ,  Stok Palace ,  Likir Monastery , and  Thikse Monastery .

Day 2: Leh to Nubra Valley (Drive)

Approx Distance from Leh to Nubra Valley  – 4hr 40mins (160km)

If there’s anything that a traveller might dream of on their Leh Ladakh road trip, it is this journey –  Leh to Nubra Valley . It’s one of the bucket-list activities many adventurers plan for a good reason!

The scenic drive from Leh to Nubra is packed with astonishing scenery, barren landscapes, mighty Himalayas, and the beautiful Zanskar and Karakoram range . These natural settings make the road trip quite memorable!

Visiting Nubra Valley is a must on a Leh Ladakh tour . Every biker dreams of seeing the place and traversing the region to explore its stunning beauty. The valley houses many attractions such as Diskit , Turtuk , Panamik , and many other unspoiled areas. The locals who live here showcase their lively traditions to fascinate tourists from all over the world.

To reach Nubra Valley, you’ll need to start early in the morning. You’ll travel via the Khardung La, which is approximately 38kms from Leh and will take you around an hour to reach. There’s a canteen around the place to stop by and get some refreshments.

Continue your journey from Khardung La to reach Diskit for some sightseeing tours. The town is famous for its landmark – the  Diskit monastery , which is considered the largest gompa ( Tibetian temple) in  Nubra Valley. Nearby the hill lies another milestone of Diskit –  the statue of Maitreya Buddha . Bactrian camel rides and Hunder dunes also remain popular sightseeing tours of Nubra Valley.

You can spend the night at Hunder Village, located 10kms from Diskit. For more hotel recommendations around Nubra Valley, explore this page .

Day 3: Nubra Valley to Pangong Lake (Drive)

Approx Distance from Nubra Valley   to   Pangong Lake  – 6hr 20mins (140km)

Like the other road trips in Leh, the journey from Nubra Valley to Pangong is one of the scenic drives in the country. Every year, many tourists flock to the region of Ladakh to experience the road trip vibes of the Nubra and Pangong. Especially if this is your first-time exploring Leh Ladakh, you shouldn’t miss out on a trip to these places.

Pangong Lake is one of the gorgeous, most beautiful lakes in India. The expansive views of the contrasting blue lake make the waters look adorning to the backdrop of the rugged mountains. During the winters, the temperatures in the area fall below -20°C causing the lake to get frozen completely. Moreover, the lake’s elevation makes the surrounding scenes truly captivating, making you fall in love with Pangong Lake’s beauty.

Travel Q :  Is camping at Pangong Lake allowed? Considering the imbalance in the ecological fragility of the lake, the Government of India has decided to stop overnight camping around Pangong Lake. The sustainability issues made the authorities declare a ban, thus preserving the beauty of the lake. For alternatives around Pangong, check this page.

There are multiple ways to reach Pangong Lake from Nubra Valley. One is via Shyok , where the roads are comprehensive and extensive, and the other via Wari La , which is more of an off-beat experience. Nowadays, most travellers opt to take the Wari La route to explore the mountainous region, and it isn’t the easiest path to drive on and will require profound driving experience to complete the stretch.

Distance from Nubra Valley to Pangong Lake via Shyok route : 140kms (6hr 20mins) Distance from Nubra Valley to Pangong Lake via Wari La route : 375kms (9hrs)

Looking for accommodation near Pangong Lake? Find out the resources below –

Hotels near Pangong Lake : Explore this page to find best hotel stays & deals near Pangong Lake. Campsites near Pangong Lake : The Nature’s Nest Camp near Pangong is the closest you can get to Pangong Lake.

Day 4: Pangong Lake to Leh (Drive)

Approx Distance from Pangong Lake to Leh  – 5hr 30mins (222.9km)

Before returning to Leh, stroll around Pangong Lake to admire the scenic sunrise. You’ll even spot many bird species around the lake, as Pangong is a popular breeding site for migratory birds.

On your way back, you’ll be taking the  Chang La pass . You can visit several attractions here, such as  Chemrey monastery  and  Hemis monastery . The Hemis Gompa is Leh Ladakh’s largest monastery, boasting beautiful shrines and an 8-meter Padmasambhava statue. Before reaching Leh, you’ll also find the famous monastery of  Thiksey . It’s known for its impressive architecture and decorated interior work.

The rest of the day is free for you to explore Leh’s surroundings. Furthermore, if you had spent day one getting acclimatized to Leh’s climate – this is the perfect day to enjoy the serene beauty of Ladakh’s amazing sightseeing spots.

Day 5: Departure

This marks the end of your Leh Ladakh Itinerary for 5 days. You can extend this itinerary to 7 or 9 days, depending on your schedule, and visit places like  Zanskar Valley ,  Kargil ,  Hemis National Park ,  Moonland , and  Tso Moriri Lake .

Accommodation for Leh Ladakh Itinerary 5 Days

When planning your Leh Ladakh tour, accommodation becomes a crucial factor. Firstly, it’s essential to understand that Leh Ladakh isn’t a developed region compared to other metropolitan cities. It boasts many luxury hotel stays, guesthouses, and hostels – but you shouldn’t expect great amenities in places like Nubra Valley and Pangong Lake.

Most of the inner sub-regions feature rustic accommodation with basic amenities & facilities – which is still considered a favorable option amongst travellers who enjoy rustic stays.

For our Leh Ladakh itinerary trip itinerary, we categorized hotels into several price ranges. This will help you select the right hotel for the right price during your stay in Ladakh.

Please find the below resources for the hotel stays in Leh Ladakh  –

Budget Hotels in Ladakh  – Explore this page to find budgeted stays & rental apartments in Leh Ladakh. Mid-range Hotels in Ladakh  – Looking for good amenities? Check this page to find mid-range hotels across Leh. Luxury Hotels in Ladakh  – Fancy a luxurious stay in Ladakh? Check this page to find more.

Recommended : Read this guide to find out the top 5 luxury stays in Ladakh .

FAQs for Leh Ladakh Itinerary 5 Days

How many days are enough for Leh Ladakh? You’ll at least need 10-12 days to cover major sightseeing spots of Leh Ladakh. Considering the distance between Nubra Valley, Pangong Lake, and Leh, you should give yourself the time to soak in Ladakh’s serene beauty.

Are 5 Days enough for the Leh Ladakh tour? Factually, a 5 day trip to Ladakh isn’t a sufficient period to admire Leh Ladakh’s scenery. With so many attractions & experiences, a tour of a minimum of 7-9 days is required. However, if you’re short on time and need a quick breakthrough to fizz past Ladakh’s sightseeing, a 5-day tour is worthwhile.

How much does a Leh Ladakh trip cost? Many tour operators across India will charge different prices for their services & sightseeing add-ons. It ultimately comes to the duration you choose, places you visit, and some off-beat experiences. However, an average 5D/4N Leh Ladakh package costs INR 13,000 (excluding flights). You can check these tours here.

What is the best time to visit Leh Ladakh? Indian summers are the best period to enjoy Leh Ladakh’s mild temperatures. The region   attracts most of the crowd between April and July and is the busiest period to travel within Leh. You can expect temperatures ranging between 15°C – 30°C during this season.

Are Ladakh roads safe? The roads in Leh Ladakh are pretty rugged, featuring  steep cliffs , unpaved lanes, traffic jams, and rocky terrains. The highways in Ladakh aren’t the most drivable paths but certainly, boast incredible scenery and amazing landscape.

Further Readings & Resources

Coorg, India – 15 Absolutely Best Things to Do in Coorg, India Ooty, India – 15 Stunning Places to Visit in Ooty in 2 Days Iceland – 12 Stunning Things to Do in Iceland in October

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Experiential Europe  –  10 Day Europe Trip: Germany, Belgium & France to Ireland Magical Europe  –  London Paris Amsterdam Itinerary: Epic 10 Days in Europe Discovery Europe  –  London Paris Barcelona Itinerary: Ultimate 10 Days in Europe

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Leh Travel Guide

Leh, the capital of Ladakh, has been an important junction on the famous Silk Route of the olden times. It is also the second largest district of the country spreading in an area of 45,110 sq km. Located at an altitude of 11,562 ft, the scenic destination is still dominated by the ruins of the Leh Palace (a major tourist attraction). The former residence of the royal family of Ladakh is built on the lines of the Potala Palace, Tibet. It boasts of being home to several known ancient Buddhist monasteries. It is one of the most-visited destinations in Ladakh and has a lot to offer.

The town is located towards the eastern side of Jammu and Kashmir, at an altitude of 3505 meters above sea level. The area is watered by the Zanskar river which flows into the Indus river. There are two routes to Leh- one from Manali in the south and another from Srinagar in the west.

Tourist Attractions in Leh

The biggest draw for visitors coming to Leh is the Tibetan Buddhist monasteries and historical monuments. The most impressive of all is the famous Shanti Stupa and Ice Stupa, located just outside the town. Besides Shanti Stupa , there is an 800 year old Kali Mandir which houses an exquisite collection of masks.

Then there is the 17th century Leh Palace , built in traditional Tibetan style, which offers breathtaking views of the town. Towards the southeast direction, there is the Thiksey monastery from where one can enjoy amazing views of the sunset. The Hemis monastery is the richest and oldest monastery in Ladakh.

Best Time to Visit in Leh

The best time to visit Leh is between May to September, when the weather is quite genial. Since Ladakh doesn't experience heavy rainfall, therefore monsoon is the best time to visit this region.

How to Reach in Leh

There are flights to Leh from Delhi, Srinagar and Jammu on a regular basis. During the first few months of the year, when the snow gets melted, the roads to the town are open. For those interested in biking tour, they can use Manali-Leh highway and Srinagar-Leh highway from around June to October. One can also use bus, taxi  and jeep services from here.

Where to Stay in Leh

Accommodation in Ladakh ranges between economy to deluxe hotels. These hotels are equipped with modern facilities such as clean rooms, internet, hot water and delightful garden. Some major hotel names include Oriental Guesthouse, Spic n Span hotel and the Grand Dragon hotel. Besides these hotels, one can choose to stay in people's houses at local villages. Here you can enjoy traditional home cooked food prepared by the families and interact with local farmers.

Fairs and Festivals

The most important festival is the 2 days Ladakh festival, which is held during the 1st two weeks of September. It starts in Leh with a huge parade through the streets. The villagers turn up in traditional attire and sing folk songs, supported by an orchestra. The masked monks from selected monasteries perform dances which signify demolition of evil spirits. Then there is Hemis festival which takes place in June/July and lasts for 2 days. It is held at the Hemis Gompa to commemorate the birth of Padmasambhava, the founder of Tantric Buddhism.

• Monasteries
• Attractions
• How to Prepare for Ladakh Trip
• Facilities in Ladakh
• Family Trip to Ladakh
• How and Where to Carry Spare Fuel
• Ladakh With Parents - Senior Citizens
• How to Carry Laptop
• ATM and Bank Facilities in Leh City
• Things to Carry for Ladakh Winter Trip
• Where & How to Rent an Oxygen Cylinder
• Ladakh in June
• Ladakh in May
• Ladakh in July
• Ladakh in September
• Ladakh in October
• Ladakh in August
• Ladakh in November
• Leh to Nubra Valley
• Delhi to Ladakh
• Bangalore to Ladakh
• Pangong Lake to Tso Moriri
• Travel from Manali to Leh
• Leh to Tso Moriri
• How to Travel to Pangong Tso
• How to Travel Nubra Valley to Pangong Tso via Wari
• Srinagar to Leh
• Leh to Khardung La
• Stay in Ladakh
• Rent a Bike in Ladakh
• Rent a Bike in Leh
• Rent a Bike in Srinagar
• Rent a Bike in Manali
• Mobile Phone Services in Ladakh
• Hotels on Manali Leh Highway
• Hotels on Srinagar Leh Highway
• Hotels Near Tso Moriri
• Hotels in Leh
• Hotels Near Pangong Lake
• Hotels in Nubra Valley
• Mountain Biking
• Leh Jeep Safari
• Adventure Sports
• Mountaineering in Ladakh
• Camping in Ladakh
• Buddhism in Ladakh
• Cuisine in Ladakh
• River Rafting in Ladakh
• History & Culture
• Shopping in Ladakh
• Trekking in Ladakh
• Wildlife in Ladakh
• Tips and Suggestions
• Ladakh in January
• Ladakh in December
• Clothes to carry for your Ladakh Trip
• Medical Facilities

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Leh Travel Guide: Planning an Awesome Trip to Leh Ladakh in 2024

Leh Ladakh was honestly never in my travel bucket list. Why?

Because it had become such a mainstream destination in the past couple of years. Any person who I talked to in India just wished to go on a motorbike trip to Leh Ladakh. So, it slightly put me off the idea of visiting this place as I prefer less-touristy destinations.

However, when I got a chance to actually visit this place as part of a collaboration, I finally realized how lucky I was. Because if I hadn’t come across this collaboration, I would have definitely missed out on one of the most gorgeous hill stations in India .

Now, I did not do it on a bike like most people because riding is not my thing. But I did use local transportation to reach and had a proper road trip in this part.

And on my trip, I learned that Leh indeed has a lot to offer if you have sufficient time at hand. In this Leh travel guide, I have mentioned all the important details that you need to know to plan an amazing trip to Leh Ladakh.

Plan a Trip to Leh Ladakh

Now, you hear everyone talking about Leh Ladakh in one go. But very few people know actually what it means.

Ladakh is basically a region (and now a union territory) which is a part of the northern Indian subcontinent. However, the Ladakh region is not only limited to India and extends to China and Pakistan as well. And since this region shares the border with other countries, there is a good military presence here.

Now, Leh is actually just a city in the Ladakh region. It is the largest town in Ladakh and is your starting point to explore this beautiful mountainous region.

How to Reach Leh

Now, the main question arises that how can you reach Leh and then move on to the other parts of Ladakh. Well, as I mentioned above, Leh is the largest town in the Ladakh region. So, it has a good transportation connection to other places like Srinagar, Manali, Spiti, and so on.

Leh city is around 1000 km from Delhi, 470 km from Manali, 420 km from Srinagar, and so on.

Here are a few ways that you can consider to reach Leh city from your respective city.

Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport is the only airport in Leh for which you can get a flight. It has good connections to a lot of major cities like New Delhi, Chandigarh, Dehradun, Amritsar, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and so on.

There are many airlines that work this route as well. So, you won’t find difficulty in finding a suitable flight for you to reach Leh city.

Depending on your starting destination, you might get direct or connecting flights to Leh city. Usually, taking a flight is a good idea if you don’t have a lot of time and are coming from a far off city. However, do remember that flight is convenient but pretty expensive for Leh as well.

Note: Flights to Leh often get canceled due to bad weather conditions. So, be prepared for this scenario as well.

If you don’t wish to increase your carbon footprint, then the best way to reach Leh is by road. Leh city has good connectivity to both Manali and Srinagar. So, you can choose any route that suits you.

Here are a couple of road options that you can choose from to reach Leh city.

One of the most popular modes of reaching Leh is on a motorbike. But let me tell you, this can be a really tiring and uncomfortable journey if you aren’t used to sitting on bikes for a long time.

From Manali to Leh, you have a decent road but there are a few uncomfortable patches on the way. So, it can take you anywhere between 18-20 hours from Manali to reach (don’t believe the Google maps). This is because you have to pass Rohtang Pass on the way which can take a lot of time to cross.

Plus, you should be driving slowly as you will go from Manali (2050m) to Rohtang Pass (3978 m) to Taglang La Pass (5328 m) to Leh (3500 m). 

If you are driving from Srinagar, it is a gradual ascent mostly. So, you won’t see the effects that much here. But still, it will take you around 20 hours to reach by a motorbike.

Car/Mini Bus

For people who don’t know how to ride a bike, taking a car or a minibus is a good option as well, especially if you are a large group. You can start from Delhi or Manali or any place that you wish. But do remember that it will take you around 24 hours to reach Leh from Manali and Srinagar.

But you will have the option to rest in the car. So, if you have a couple of people who know how to drive, then you can easily reach Leh city on time.

Public Transportation

Finally, one of my favorite modes of transportation is public transportation, i.e., buses. However, do note that it takes almost 2.5-3 days to reach Leh by bus. So, only choose this option if you have sufficient time for traveling.

Here is the bus route that you can usually take: Manali – Keylong – Leh or Srinagar – Leh

Note : The direct Delhi to Leh HPTDC bus isn’t available anymore. You can get a direct Manali to Leh HPTDC bus for 2900 INR which includes your meals and stay at Keylong. This bus leaves Manali around 10-11 a.m. every day.

Reaching Manali

You will get ordinary, Volvo, and deluxe buses to Manali from major cities like Delhi, Chandigarh, etc. Usually, a Volvo bus from Delhi to Manali will cost you around 650 – 900 INR and will take around 14-15 hours to reach.

So, if you start around 6-7 p.m. from Delhi, you will be in Manali by 9 a.m. at the most.

Reaching Keylong/Jispa

From Manali, you get several buses to Keylong in a day. The first bus for Keylong leaves around 4.30 a.m. in the morning and the last bus is around 12.30 – 1 p.m. It takes approximately 6-7 hours to cover the Manali to Keylong distance. 

And you will need to stay a night in Keylong to catch the Leh bus in the morning. The cost of the HRTC bus from Manali to Keylong is around 160 INR. 

Alternatively, you also get shared taxis to Keylong for 600 INR which takes around 4-5 hours to reach. Apart from that, there are shared taxis to Leh as well for 2000 INR which takes around 18-20 hours to reach.

Reaching Leh

From Keylong, there is 1 bus to Leh every morning around 5 a.m. The cost of this bus is 545 INR and it takes around 14-15 hours to reach. So, you will be in Leh at around 7 p.m. in the evening.

On the way, this HRTC bus stops at 4 major points including ZingZing bar, Sarchu, Changla Pass, and Taglang La Pass. There are a couple of checkpoints as well where the foreigners need to show their passport as well.

Manali to Leh Bus

If you don’t wish to change buses and go through all the trouble to reach, then you have the option of taking the Manali to Leh Bus that leaves every day. This bus charges 2000 – 2500 INR per person and is basically a 2-day ride. On the first day of the Manali to Leh bus journey, you reach Keylong and then stay a night there in a good hotel that is arranged by the bus operator too.

This hotel and the meals are also a part of the bus charges that you paid. Next day, you start early from Keylong to reach Manali in this bus and end your journey there. It is a tad bit expensive option but it allows you to comfortably enjoy your Leh Ladakh tour without changing buses or purchasing bus tickets again and again.

Leh to Manali

For the return journey, there is only 1 bus from Leh to Keylong every day which leaves around 3.30 a.m. and reached Keylong around 5 p.m. The cost of this bus is around 550 INR and again, there are 4-5 stops on the way.

From Keylong, you get several buses to Manali in the morning for 160 INR. The buses start at 4 a.m. in the morning and are available till 1 p.m. in the afternoon. 

From Manali, you can take a night Volvo back to Delhi and reach Delhi next morning around 9-10 a.m.

There isn’t any railway station in Leh city and the nearest railway station is Jammu Tawi, around 700 km away. So, taking a train is probably not the best way to reach Leh.

However, if you still want to take the train then here is what you can do. Take a train to Chandigarh and then take a bus from there to Manali. The rest of the route is the same as the above and can be completed by bike, buses, shared taxis, or private car.

Best Time to Visit Leh

Well, the route from Manali to Leh is usually closed from October/November to April/May. So, traveling by road during this time is quite dangerous and often impossible. 

Here is a breakdown of what to expect in different seasons of Leh.

Summer Season (April – June)

Undoubtedly the best time to visit Leh, Summer season is when the roads to Leh finally open up. During this time, you can finally plan trips to parts like Nubra valley, Pangong, Hanle, and so on. Most of the places open up for trekking as well during this time so you can plan those as well.

Out of all the summer months, June is the best because the road connectivity is the best during this time. However, be prepared because you will find a lot of tourists swarming the area at this time.

Monsoon Season (July – September)

While a lot of people think that monsoon is not a good time to visit Leh, this is not completely true. Yes, the chances of landslides increase during this period but it doesn’t rain much in Leh itself. Plus, there are relatively fewer tourists around this time so you can truly enjoy the sceneries and landscapes.

Winter Season (October – March)

For obvious reasons, winter is not a good time to visit Leh. There is no road connectivity from the Manali side. And the entire region is covered under a blanket of snow.

However, if you still want to visit then you can fly out to Leh as the airport is still open. And the months of January and February are quite popular for the Chadar trek as well. But a trip to Leh during this time can be the most expensive affair as well.

How Long Should You Plan for Leh?

A lot of people ask me how long should they plan a trip at a certain location. And while there are many places which you can explore in just a couple of days, Leh is not one of them.

This is due to a simple fact that Leh city is at a high altitude. So, there are increased chances of people suffering from Acute Mountain Sickness over here. 

This is why it is important that you spend at least 3-4 days in Leh city itself. Now, you might not have experienced AMS symptoms at other high-altitude places but that doesn’t mean that you won’t face it here as well. 

So, it is better to be safe than sorry. Because if you do experience from AMS symptoms, Leh doesn’t have a highly-equipped hospital to deal with it. And if the symptoms worsen, you will need to be sent back to your city via a flight which can turn out to be very expensive.

So, whenever you plan a trip to Leh Ladakh, keep aside 3-4 days for acclimatization in Leh city. 

Places to Visit in Leh

Leh is not a big city so you can easily explore the sights here in a single day. Just rent a scooty and you are sorted for the day. 

Here are a few top sights that you cannot miss out in the Leh city.

Hall of Fame

One of the top places to visit in Leh is the Hall of Fame Museum. This museum was actually constructed by the Indian army to commemorate the Indian soldiers who died in the Indo-Pak war. A place that will fill you with pride, this museum consists of two storeys. 

There are different sections in the museum where you learn about the Kargil war, Leh history and culture, Ladakh flora and fauna, and so on. And there is a souvenir shop here as well where you can buy any Ladakhi item.

Timings: 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. (Closed from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)

Entry Ticket: 100 INR for adults

Shanti Stupa

One of the most magnificent Tibetan structures built in Leh, Shanti Stupa is situated at a height of 11,840 ft. From here, you can see the entire Leh city laid out below which makes it a good viewpoint as well.

This stupa was constructed in 1991 by the Japanese to promote world peace. And on the Shanti stupa, you will find a huge idol of the Lord Buddha. And his life cycle is painted around the Shanti stupa which is truly fascinating.

Honestly, this is one of the most peaceful places to visit in Leh and should definitely not be missed out.

Timings: 5:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Entry Ticket : Free

Another top place that you cannot miss out while visiting Leh is the magnificent Leh Palace. Although its construction was started in 1553, it was only in the 17th century that it was finally completed. 

This palace was designed keeping in mind the Potala Palace in Lhasa, Tibet, and is one of tallest buildings of that era with nine storeys. From the rooftop of this palace, you get amazing views of Stok Kangri and the Ladakh range. 

The architecture of this palace is truly amazing and there are over 450 years old artefacts inside the palace for the visitors to observe.

Timings: 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Entry Ticket: 50 INR for adults

Leh Marketplace

Leh Main Market is definitely a paradise for shopping enthusiasts. From Pashmeena shawls to woollen socks and hats, you will find it all here. Plus, this whole place is quite lit up at night and is a great place for walking around and taking in the Leh environment as well.

Zorawar Fort

Home to the late Zorawar Singh Kahluria, known as the little Napolean of India, Zorawar Fort is just a 15-minute walk from the Leh city. Made up of local clay, wooden frames, stones, and sun-dried bricks, this fort has an impressive structure. 

But what is even more impressive is the person for whom it was made. General Zorawar is remembered for his struggle against the Chinese and is actually known as the Conqueror of Ladakh.

So, if you love historical places then make sure you visit this fort in Leh city.

Where to Stay in Leh

Currently, Leh has an influx of tourists. As a result, a lot of accommodation options are available now than before. There are a plethora of guesthouses, hostels, and hotels here now. So, finding a suitable stay option isn’t really going to be difficult.

Most of these guesthouses and homestays are nice and cozy and offer delicious, homemade food as well. The prices start from somewhere 400-500 INR per night and can go up to 10,000 – 20,000 INR, depending on the stay and location. 

Food and Drinks in Leh

I am a big-time foodie so whenever I visit a new place, I always indulge in the local food. In Ladakh, you will find a mixture of Tibetan and Kashmiri cuisine. 

If you wish to experience an authentic Leh trip, then here is a list of food and drinks that you should definitely not miss out here.

Of course, visiting Ladakh and not tasting the momos here is a big NO NO. You will find these delicacies in literally every shop here. And trust me, you will be salivating every time you order it.

A popular soup-based dish which includes small thumb-sized pasta pieces. The pasta is made up of whole wheat flour and water. This pasta is then mixed with meat in a stew made up of vegetables like turnip, carrot, etc.

It is quite spicy but tastes really delicious. In layman terms, you can call Skyu your desi Pasta.

A delicacy similar to the Skyu, Chhutagi is pasta made of bow-shape and is also cooked in a broth made up of vegetables like carrots, spinach, turnip, etc. 

A type of Ladakhi bread, Paba is a staple dish in Leh Ladakh which is healthy at the same time. In this recipe, the roasted flour of black beans, peas, buckwheat, barley, and wheat are mixed with the dough. The dough is then kneaded in oil and is eaten with buttermilk, sugar or vegetables.

One of my favorite Ladakhi dishes is the traditional Ladakhi bread, Khambir. It is a whole-wheat bread baked and has a thick crust with a delicious filling. And you can enjoy this delicacy with apricot jam, accompanied by buttermilk or tea.

Finally, one of the most famous drinks that I am personally in love with is Kahwa tea. This tea is made up of green tea leaves along with cardamom, saffron, cinnamon, and a few dry fruit pieces as well. And the added honey makes this tea sweet but perfectly delectable.

It also has anti-inflammatory properties and can be really good if you are experiencing a headache in the hill stations as well. You will find this tea available in almost all the food shops. And if you wish to get it home, then you will find the powdered version in the grocery stores here as well.

A trip to Leh can be pretty iconic as there is so much to see and do here. And there are so many gorgeous destinations near Leh as well that you won’t ever get bored here.

But make sure that you plan your trip well and book all the necessary things beforehand. Apart from that, Leh is quite safe for traveling and you are bound to have fun here.

Let us know in the comments if we missed out on something or if you would like us to add something more.

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12 comments

The scenic beauty and serene atmosphere of Ladakh attract everyone towards it.

Exactly! Ladakh is beautiful. 🙂

We were planning to go to Leh, but postponed due to the pandemic situation for 2nd phase. I am 70 years old, and very much interested for the tour.Now God knows when everything will be normal. Thanks

Hope you are able to visit Leh soon enough. 🙂

Good information.

Good information. I am a tour organiser to Srinager Leh-Ladakh region every year.

Thank you so much. 🙂

This blog is great for a budget traveller like us with complete details. Enjoyed reading this. I have not visited Leh yet due to over-tourism but now I am planning for the city.

Thanks a lot Pam. Hope you visit Leh soon. 🙂

Very good information.

Thank you Dinesh. 🙂

Leh, Ladakh

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As you approach Leh, you’ll have little difficulty imagining how the old trans-Himalayan traders must have felt as they plodded in from Yarkhand and Tibet . This is a true wonderland. It's a mixture of relief at having crossed the mountains in one piece, and anticipation of a relaxing spell in one of central Asia ’s most scenic towns. Leh is a fairytale city surrounded by eye-catching nature. The Ladakhi capital sprawls out of a valley that tapers northward towards eroded snow-capped peaks. Looking to the south, it boasts majestic views of the Stok-Kangri massif as it rests at the foot of a ruined Tibetan-style palace.

The best travel tips for visiting Leh

Avoiding altitude sickness at leh, best things to do in leh, best areas to stay in leh, best restaurants and bars, how to get around, what is the best time to visit leh, how many days do you need in leh, how to get here, tailor-made travel itineraries for india, created by local experts.

13 days  / from 1800 USD

A Trek Through Ladakh's Markha Valley

Trek through the Markha Valley, taking in the jaw-dropping Himalayan landscape, camp in traditional mountain villages, and discover hilltop monasteries. This unique journey combines the culture of the Buddhist faith with the natural beauty of the mountains and the hustle and bustle of Delhi.

15 days  / from 2745 USD

Rajasthan: The Land of Kings

Experience the Land of Kings in luxury.This trip around Rajasthan takes you to Jaipur's palaces, sacred pilgrimage sites and deep into the desert hills. Breathe in the excitement of Dehli and visit the Taj Mahal. Then come nightfall, lay your head to rest in former royal palaces and magical forts.

6 days  / from 785 USD

The Holy City of Varanasi

The flat, sunburnt plains of the Ganges River are India's breadbasket: a densely populated area, it is home to many of the country's greatest sights. See Delhi and all its treasures, then fly to Varanasi, the most sacred stretch of the Ganges and one of India's most intense and atmospheric places.

15 days  / from 3430 USD

Indian Wildlife Safari

Meet Bengals, birds, monkeys, leopards and more on an amazing wildlife extravaganza visiting India's famous national parks. Experience the countryside by rail, soak up some culture at the Taj Mahal and Rantahnbore Fort and finish with some shopping and sightseeing in the bustling capital, Dehli.

10 days  / from 1900 USD

India: from the Ganges to the Golden Triangle

From Dehli's bustling dusty streets to 'the pink city' of Jaipur and Agra's Taj Mahal, this trip ensures you experience all of India's Golden Triangle highlights. You'll visit sacred Varanasi on the banks of the Ganges and Khajuraho's famous temples too.

7 days  / from 880 USD

Magical Kerala

The intense greens of the Kerala backwaters, overhung by innumerable coconut palms, encapsulate tropical India like nowehere else. Enjoy a lazy cruise on a converted rice barge; visit fragrant spice plantations, explore Cochi and spot local wildlife.

11 days  / from 1850 USD

Kerala – God’s Own Country

Southern India is a feast for the senses. The lush greenery of tea plantations, the colourful spice markets and plantations - this itinerary is nothing short of highlights. Take a houseboat trip on the Kerala backwaters before finishing your trip with some leisure beach days.

9 days  / from 1450 USD

North India Explored: From Delhi to Shimla

Experience the striking contrasts of Old and New Delhi; visit the Golden Temple at Amritsar, the holiest of Sikh sites. Head up into the cool green Himalayan Foothills, and to Dharamsala, home of the Dalai Lama, and then to the old British hill station of Shimla, famous for its 'Toy Railway'.

15 days  / from 6835 USD

Gems of India & Taj Mahal

Stay in the most beautiful hotels, have a knowledgeable private tour guide by your side all throughout on this unique trip to India. Visit highlights like the Taj Mahal but also unknown areas like the villages in Rajasthan for nature, wildlife and cultural encounters unique to India.

5 days  / from 503 USD

The Essential Golden Triangle

Explore India’s dusty capital Delhi, taking in the Qutab Minar, crowded bazaars and opulent temples before venturing forth to Agra to see the venerable Taj Mahal. Then decamp to the pink city, Jaipur, for an intoxicating introduction to Rajasthan.

8 days  / from 1550 USD

India's Monuments and Tigers

India’s Golden Triangle is a must-see on any visit to the country. Throw in a game drive around one of the excellent national parks and you’ve got the perfect balance between Indian culture and heritage and an exhilarating wildlife adventure.

12 days  / from 1590 USD

Unmissable India

A visit to India lives long in the memory. Experience the country’s exquisite forts and temples, fabulous food and dusty atmospheric cities as you journey through the Golden Triangle and onwards to the lush southern backwaters of lovely Kerala.

17 days  / from 3284 USD

Treasures of India - South and North

Begin in the coastal charm of Cochin. Travel to the lush tea plantations of Munnar and experience the tranquil backwaters of Kerala. Explore the palaces of Udaipur, the vibrant streets of Jaipur, and the wildlife of Ranthambore. Marvel at the iconic Taj Mahal and conclude your adventure in Delhi.

8 days  / from 1775 USD

Golden Triangle Exploration

Discover India on an 8-day tour exploring Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur, with highlights including the iconic Taj Mahal. Enjoy the convenience of private guides, transportation, and experience the cultural tapestry of India, featuring scenic train rides.

Despite being increasingly touristic, the abiding impression of Leh remains that of a lively yet laid-back place. It's a great spot to unwind after a long journey.

Attractions in and around the town itself include the former palace and Namgyal Tsemo Gompa, perched amid strings of prayer flags, whose layout has changed little since it was founded in the sixteenth century.

A short walk north across the fields brings you to the small monastery at Sankar. Here you'll find modern Tantric murals and a thousand-headed Avalokitesvara deity. Leh is also a good base for longer day-trips out into the Indus Valley.

Among the string of picturesque villages and gompas within reach by bus are Shey, site of a derelict seventeenth century palace, and the spectacular Thikse Gompa. Keep in mind the peak months are July and August.

RoughGuides tip: Planning a trip to India ? Perhaps our local experts in India can help you!

Leh palace, India - Ladakh © Shutterstock

As Leh is 3500m above sea level, some travellers – and especially those who arrive by plane from Delhi – experience mild altitude sickness. The best way to avoid the symptoms – persistent headaches, dizziness, insomnia, nausea, loss of appetite or shortness of breath – is to rest for at least 48 hours on arrival.

Drink 3–4 litres of water a day, avoid alcohol, and don’t exert yourself; try to walk more slowly than usual, especially when going uphill.

From the side alleys of The Bazaar to Leh Palace and hiking up to the Namgyal Tsemo Gompa monastery, here are the best things to do in Leh.

#1 Browse the bazaar in Leh

When you visit Leh, stay in a hotel or guesthouse. On your first day there, explore the bazaar. Many years ago, people from different places came to buy pashmina wool and other things from nomads who came from Tibet.

Today, the streets are filled with shops selling souvenirs and handicrafts. Even if you don't need trekking supplies, look at some of the stores that remain open. You can find bright colors like pink, turquoise and red in the windows.

Tourists usually stay on the main roads but locals go into side-alleys near east and north of the bazaar.

#2 Lord it over the old town at Leh palace

Sengge Namgyal was a ruler from a long time ago. His palace is on top of a tall rock in the old town. It looks like the Potala Palace in Lhasa, with big walls and balconies that are nine stories high.

Since his family left in the 1940s, some parts of it have fallen down because of cannons from Kashmiri. Despite recent restoration work, there’s not much to see in the dark interior; most visitors spider up to the rooftop for lovely views out over Leh.

#3 Hike up to the Namgyal Tsemo Gompa

Once you are acclimatised to the altitude, the stiff early-morning hike up to Namgyal Tsemo Gompa, the monastery perched precariously on the shale-covered crag above Leh palace, is a great way to start the day.

Two trails lead up to “the Peak of Victory”, whose twin peaks are connected by giant strings of multicoloured prayer flags: the first and most popular path zigzags across its south side from the palace road, while a second scales the more gentle northern slope via the north-Leh suburb of Chubi.

This is the route followed by the lama from Sankar gompa, who tends to the shrine each morning and evening. Alternatively, the place is accessible by road.

Namgyal Tsemo Gompa with prayer flags - Leh - Ladakh - Jammu and Kashmir - India © Shutterstock

#4 Geek up at the Central Asian Museum

The Central Asian Museum is housed in a modern re-creation of a Lhasa mansion, with a gently tapering brick tower crowned by a wooden balustrade.

It has a reasonable collection of artefacts, clothing and photographs that focus on the deep connections between Ladakh and the rest of Central Asia, forged through its position on the Silk Route.

#5 See the Peace Pagoda at Shanti Stupa

Easily visible above Leh is the toothpaste-white Shanti Stupa, nearly 3km west of the bazaar by road.

Inaugurated in 1985 by the Dalai Lama, the “Peace Pagoda”, whose sides are decorated with gilt panels depicting episodes from the life of the Buddha, is one of several such monuments erected around India by a “Peace Sect” of Japanese Buddhists.

#6 Read the “dos and don’ts” at Sankar Gompa

Nestled amid the shimmering poplar coppices and terraced fields of barley that extend up the valley behind Leh, Sankar Gompa, 2km north of the town centre, is among the most accessible monasteries in central Ladakh.

The monastery is the official residence of the Kushok Bakula, Ladakh’s head of the Gelug-pa sect. Above the Du-khang (main prayer hall) stands the gompa’s principal deity, Tara, in her triumphant, one-thousand-armed form as Dukkar, or “Lady of the White Parasol”, presiding over a light, airy shrine room whose walls are adorned with a Tibetan calendar and tableaux depicting “dos and don’ts” for monks – some of which are very arcane indeed.

Leh is glutted with accommodation , much of it refreshingly neat and clean. Most places close between October and April; due to the short season prices do not fluctuate much, but you can bargain in the shoulder months.

Most of the town’s cheaper guesthouses are in the leafy areas of Changspa to the west.

In the north there are a few mid-range and increasing number of upmarket hotels all come with piped hot water. Note that because of the early morning flight timings, checkout at most places is 9–10 am.

Browse the best hotels in Leh.

Leh’s thriving restaurant and café scene is run by a mixture of refugees, and businessmen from the rest of India looking to cash in. Tibetan food has a high profile alongside classic Indian and Chinese cuisine, plus there’s an increasing range of European, Israeli and other international dishes to add variety. Here’s where to eat.

Changspa Road

You can find a variety of cafes, restaurants, and small bars offering both local and international cuisine. This area is particularly popular among backpackers and tourists.

Fort Road is another bustling area in Leh with numerous dining options. You can find restaurants and cafes serving traditional Ladakhi cuisine.

Main Bazaar

The Main Bazaar area in Leh is a commercial hub and is home to several restaurants and cafes. Here, you can explore a mix of local eateries and multi-cuisine restaurants serving Indian, Tibetan, and Continental dishes. This area is usually crowded, especially during the peak tourist season.

Changspa Village

Located a little outside the city centre, Changspa Village offers a tranquil setting and is home to several guesthouses and restaurants.

Shanti Stupa also known as Peace Pagoda on hilltop of Chanspa, Leh city, Ladakh, India © Shutterstock

From walking to mountain biking, it is easy to get around Leh. Here’s how to do it.

Leh is a compact town, and many of its attractions are within walking distance. Walking is a great way to explore the local markets, monasteries, and nearby viewpoints. It's a leisurely option that allows you to soak in the local atmosphere, but it may not be suitable for longer distances or reaching remote areas.

The main office of the Taxi Operators Cooperative is located near the tourist information centre, though most long distance shared taxis depart from a yard opposite the bus station. Each driver carries a booklet of fixed fares to just about everywhere you might want to visit in Ladakh, taking into account waiting time, vehicle size and night halt charges.

Mountain bikes can be rented. They also whisk riders up to the 5359m-high Khardung La pass by jeep for a fun cycle back to Leh.

The tourist season in Leh can be divided into four distinct periods but summer (May to September) is peak tourist season. The weather during this time is mild, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Travellers can easily explore popular attractions like Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso Lake, and Tso Moriri Lake as the roads are open.

Leh experiences a brief monsoon season (July to August), accompanied by sporadic rainfall. Although the rainfall is relatively low, there is a risk of landslides and road closures.

Autumn (September to October) brings pleasant weather to Leh, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F). Clear skies provide stunning views, making it an excellent time for sightseeing and photography.

From November to April, Leh enters winter, characterised by extremely cold temperatures that drop well below freezing point. Heavy snowfall leads to the closure of many roads and high-altitude passes, including the renowned Khardung La.

However, if you're interested in experiencing snow and seeking a more secluded and peaceful trip, visiting Leh during the winter months is an option. The popular winter adventure activity of Chadar Trek on the frozen Zanskar River awaits adventurous souls.

Find out more about the best time to visit India .

Kashimir carpet shops in the main shopping street in downtown of Leh City © Shutterstock

To fully explore and appreciate the beauty of Leh, you will need a minimum of 3 to 4 days. This duration allows you to acclimatise to the high altitude and visit some of the main attractions in and around the capital.

During your stay in Leh, you can explore the Leh Palace, a nine-story royal residence with stunning views of the city and surrounding landscapes. You can also visit the iconic Shanti Stupa, a Buddhist white-domed monument offering panoramic views of Leh and the Himalayas.

In addition, Leh serves as a base for various day trips and excursions to breathtaking destinations such as Pangong Tso, a stunning high-altitude lake famous for its changing hues, and Nubra Valley, known for its scenic beauty, sand dunes, and the Diskit Monastery.

If you have more time available, you can extend your stay in Leh to explore other attractions like the ancient monasteries of Alchi and Lamayuru, or venture into remote areas like Zanskar Valley and Tso Moriri.

Getting to Leh, the capital city of Ladakh, typically involves travelling by air or road. Both offer stunning views of the Himalayas and picturesque landscapes.

Leh airport is just 5 km south of the city, on the main highway.

Long-distance services use the main bus station, a 15 min walk or taxi ride south of the bazaar, including the deluxe HPTDC buses to Manali. Regional services often depart from the bus station too, local minibuses use a stop near the archery stadium.

Shared jeeps are widely used for transportation around Ladakh and to destinations further afield, such as Kargil, Manali and Srinagar. They’re best booked through travel agencies since the official taxi stands will only deal with full vehicles.

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Leh & Ladakh Tours & Trips

Located in India spreading to the Himalayas , Leh Ladakh in makes for a great destination for a package tour. The area provides plenty of trails for hiking or bike riding and offers stunning scenery with snow-capped mountains. Pangong Tso is a must-see lake that is famous for its ever-changing colours.

81 Leh & Ladakh tour packages with 59 reviews

• Christmas & New Year

The Best of Kashmir & Ladakh

It was amazing trip. Very well organised. Hotels were excellent. Best way to experience the beautiful Kashmir.

The Best of Leh Ladakh : The Land of High Passes

The Ladakh experience was absolutely Incredible. I fell in love with Ladakh on this trip.

• Hiking & Trekking

Leh Ladakh Tour

We visited Leh Ladakh last year, it is one of the most beautiful destinations I visited. Khardung-la pass, Pangong lake, Nubra valley and all the monasteries in Leh are worth a visit. I recommend Alkof Holidays and Leh Ladakh to everyone and I also recommend you to take a safari on double humped camels, it would be amazing.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Paradise On Earth - Ladakh And Kashmir

We had booked this tour through MTA. Our tour guide Deepak was awesome. He was knowledgeable, friendly and very responsible. Will surely recommend this tour to my friends. This was an awesome trip for me.

• In-depth Cultural

The best of Leh Ladakh with a personal guide HB

After sightseeing Rajasthan and the Southern India we made for Leh with Paylesstoursindia. Leh is absolutely incredible India region worth going and exploring. We were provided with an excellent driver and a personal guide who made this experience even better. Wonderful itinerary and decent accommodation.

In The Land Of Lama - The Great Ladakh Tour

MTA was a phenomenal company, and saw to my every request. As I traveled privately during a surge in the pandemic, there was added stress related with social distancing and testing, but MTA assisted me with finding test sites, transportation, and safe mask expectations. I wanted to visit several northern India sites within a short two week span, but they customized the trip for me in a manner that was action-packed, but not exhausting. The guides and drivers were knowledgeable and professional, and even allowed for me to explore some city sites on my own during free time. My process from start to finish was fluid and exceptional. Yes, I paid a chunk for this trip, but it was worth every rupee. I left feeling completely satisfied with my experiences, and MTA helped make it the trip of a lifetime.

Land of the Lamas

Namaste!!! I would like to thank you and your company for the excellently organized tour “Land of Lamas”. Your constant attention to us throughout the trip justifies the name “TourRADAR”. I would like to say a special thank you for visiting the Akshardham Temple in New Delhi and the Taj Mahal and the Red Fort in Agra, which were not included in the program. Your guides deserve special attention. I would like to note their attentiveness, care and erudition. Thank you very much again. This trip will remain in our memory for the rest of our lives and will strengthen our former love for India (Bharat), its culture and history. Sincerely, Alexander

India – Leh Ladakh Adventure

Leh Ladakh Tour - 8 Days

I really enjoyed my tour. This is a very remote area with unique culture and nature. I 've been there at the beginning of April before the tourist season starts, so I enjoyed the absence of crowds. However, nights were very cold, some hotels did not have heating, so hot bottles were my best friends. During the day the weather were beautiful, sunny. I enjoyed snow on the passes we crossed. My guide and driver were excellent. People we met at the hotels demonstrated wonderful hospitality. The tour company that organized this travel experience was very good, professional and responded to all my requests. I was feeling so happy during this trip, in peace with nature and the world ????

Beautiful Ladakh

My experience was amazing with Leh and we really enjoyed the tour and loved all the sightseeing places and all the guides was great and knowledgeable and hotels was good and happy with all the services and wonderful Leh tour.

Leh and Ladakh Holidays

Super Tour, mega schöne Landschaft, sehr nette Leute. Der Guide war hervorragend und hat sich sehr gut um uns gekümmert.

Mystical Ladakh: A Cultural Expedition

Amazing tour! We are family of four, with 2 daughters (8 and 5 years old), who dared to go to Leh in December. We had a great time and learned a lot from our guide Lotus. He was very knowledgeable and always passionate to share and discuss about everything we asked (and with our girls there were a lot of questions). We were lucky with weather, as it was always sunny and not that cold during the day. We really liked our hotel (The Grand Dragon Ladakh) with great food and really nice cozy rooms. We highly recommend this tour!

Hiking the High Tibetan Monasteries of Ladakh

Leh Ladakh Tour Package from Delhi

Leh Ladakh Luxury Tour Package

What people love about leh & ladakh tours.

Had the most amazing time traveling Kashmir & ladakh. Enjoyed every minute of the tour.Our tour guide was fantastic. Showed us all the amazing spots.We would definitely recommend Swastik India to anyone looking to travel to Kashmir & Ladakh.

Very well planned and organised tour. It's been a journey we will remember for a long time.

The visits in Leh and to Nubra Valley and Pangong Lake were fantastic. The guide and driver were professional and the guide had good knowledge. I was very disappointed in two things, one the Ladakh Imperial hotel, rooms were good but the service was poor. The second thing was having to cross Changla Pass twice, the road is very very poor and it would have been possible to travel to Pandong from the Nubra valley on good roads, crossing the Changla pass only once.

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• Leh Ladakh in March – A complete travel guide
• Ladakh Tourism Guide
• January 27, 2024 January 27, 2024

Visiting Leh Ladakh in March month may offer you an amazing experience until you are afraid of extreme cold weather of Ladakh. Generally, December to March is peak winter season in Ladakh. Even, you may experience freezing cold in November and April months. While some areas might still have snow, it’s a great time to visit for those seeking a different perspective of this mesmerizing Himalayan region. However, tourists with small kids, elderly and those physically and medically unfit should avoid travelling to Leh Ladakh in March month. If you want to experience cold weather of Ladakh along with snow (or snowfall), March month can be a good choice for you. Here’s a complete travel guide for Leh Ladakh in March:

1. Weather: – March marks the end of extreme winter, and temperatures start to rise a little, but it’s still cold. Daytime temperatures can range from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F), while nights can be quite chilly with temperature dipping as low as minus 15 degrees C (-15°C) .

2. Accessibility: – Leh is usually accessible by road from Manali and Srinagar, but road conditions may vary due to melting snow and ice. Manali-Leh road generally opens in late April or May month but Srinagar-Leh road opens in April. Check with local authorities or travel agencies for the latest road conditions.

3. Acclimatization: – Leh is situated at high altitudes, and acclimatisation is crucial. Spend the first couple of days in Leh to acclimatise before venturing to higher altitudes. Remember, March month being cold, it can really be problematic for those suffering from breathing or heart related problems.

4. Places to Visit: – Some areas of Leh Ladakh in March may still have snow, enhancing the beauty of the landscape. Popular places to visit include: – Pangong Lake : It might be frozen, but the snow-covered landscape is stunning. – Thiksey Monastery: Explore the cultural and spiritual heritage of Ladakh. – Magnetic Hill: Experience the magnetic phenomenon. – Shanti Stupa: Enjoy panoramic views of Leh. – Khardungla pass : One of the highest motorable mountain passes in the world. – Nubra Valley: Enjoy the vast open valley with greenery and sand dunes.

(Please note that all the monasteries and places near Leh like Hemis, Thiksey, Shey, Shanti Stupe, Spituk monastery, Hall of Fame, Leh Palace, Lamayuru, Alchi, Likir etc. may remain open round the year. Generally Khardungla, Nubra and Pangong also remain open in winter time but sometimes heavy snowfall may block the road temporarily for few hours or one-two days. Hotels/guesthouses/camps at Tsomoriri, Hanle and other high altitude areas remain shut in winter time from November to April)

5. Festivals: – If your visit coincides with Losar, the Ladakhi New Year, you can witness local celebrations and festivities. It usually falls in February or March. In short, winter is the time to celebrate festivals in Leh Ladakh.

6. Packing Essentials: – Dress in layers to accommodate temperature variations. – Bring warm clothing, including a good jacket, thermal wear, socks, cap and gloves. – Sunglasses and sunscreen are essential due to the high-altitude sunlight.

7. Accommodation: – Check for hotel availability as some places may be closed or have limited services during the offseason. Only a few hotels and guesthouses/homestays remain open in Leh Ladakh in March. Also, make sure that the room has adequate warmth with help of heavy bedding, room heater or central heating system.

8. Local Cuisine: – Enjoy Ladakhi cuisine. Thukpa, momos, and butter tea are local favorites in winter time. Many shops, restaurants and cafes remain closed in Ladakh in winter time. You can have your meals at your hotel. However, many eateries remain open in winter.

9. Photography: – March offers unique photography opportunities with a mix of snow-covered landscapes and emerging signs of spring.

10. Permits: – Verify if any permits are required for the areas you plan to visit. Check with local authorities or your travel agency. Please note that you need to have a permit, which you can book online , to visit places in Ladakh. Foreigners can book their permits from Deputy Commissioner office in Leh.

11. Health Precautions: – Be cautious of altitude sickness. Stay hydrated and take it easy during the first few days. – Carry any necessary medications, as medical facilities may be limited in remote areas.

12. Road Conditions: – Keep track of road conditions, especially if you plan to travel by road from Manali or Srinagar. Please note that both the roads, i.e. Manali-Leh and Srinagar-Leh may remain closed after snowfall between December and April.

13. COVID-19 Considerations: – Check for any travel restrictions, testing requirements, or quarantine guidelines due to the ongoing global situation. However, as on January 2024, there are no such restrictions for tourists.

14. Local Culture: – Respect local customs and traditions. Learn about Ladakhi culture by interacting with locals and visiting monasteries. You can see the actual Ladakhi culture and customs during winter time when local residents mostly stay home doing household works and chanting prayers. Winter is also a time of struggle for residents and all agriculture works come to a grinding halt during this time period.

Visiting Leh Ladakh in March offers a unique and serene experience with a mix of winter landscapes and the promise of spring. Ensure you plan accordingly and stay informed about local conditions for a safe and enjoyable trip.

In a nutshell, if you have problem with cold or if you have medical condition, you should avoid travel to Leh Ladakh in March. May to September is the best time to visit Ladakh for general tourism purpose. But, if you are curious to experience Leh Ladakh in winter time, and you want to enjoy the cold, March is the best time for you to plan a one-in-a-lifetime trip to Ladakh.

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Complete Travel guide to Leh Ladakh, India

Flights for Ladakh leave early in the morning and you tend to be sleepy and lackluster because of the hour of the day! But as you get closer, the view outside your window quickly changes your mood!  It's exhilarating to be so close to the Himalayas and the view from the top is stunning. So make sure to get that window seat! Plain and simple - if you have never been to Ladakh, you must !

Apart from Butter Tea and Momo's, Monasteries, and Pashmina, it's the Roof of the World! Breath-taking scenic locales, clean fresh air, strong sunshine, and adventure in the mountains thrills travelers, not only from India but all over the world.

Leh Ladakh Itinerary: Trip to Leh Ladakh (8 days)

There are many ways to enjoy Ladakh, but here is our favorite itinerary perfected over 15 years and almost 100 trips to Ladakh . It has a bit of everything for everyone!

Looking for a detailed itinerary? WOW, Club has got you covered, check our itinerary attached below to find our upcoming Leh Ladakh trip and travel with us :)

WOW Pro Tip: On arrival in Leh, rest the first day; this is most important for acclimatization and will make or break your holiday. Avoid going to the higher reaches till your body gets used to the atmosphere. Drink lots of mineral water specifically, not tap water.

• Day 1 ) Arrive at Leh:

The full name of the Leh airport is quite a mouthful - Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport! Take sufficient rest today and have light meals to get adjusted to the high altitude.  Later in the evening, in case you are feeling well, you can explore nearby Shanti Stupa and Leh Palace.

• Day 2) Thiksey Monastery

Thiksey Monastery easily the largest one in Ladakh, has similarities to the revered Potala Palace In Lhasa, Tibet. This is just about 20 km from Leh city which takes approximately 30 mins to reach. We've found this the perfect, calming way to get our week in Ladakh started.

To know more about Thiksey Monastery and other famous Monasteries of Ladakh go ahead and click the link below :

• Day 3) Leh to Nubra Valley (160 km) :

Drive to Nubra Valley passing the world's highest motorable road Khardung La Pass! Start early as it's a long journey of approximately 6 hours. Keep your cameras ready! This drive is full of adventure and beautiful views. When you reach K-Top, take pictures and selfies, after all, you are standing at 18,500 feet above sea level! We always advise our travelers to not spend too much time at K-point or to exert themselves here as the air is thin and you'd be prone to getting altitude sickness. Upon arrival at Nubra, have a rest, and later in the evening visit the Sand Dunes in Hunder Village, where you may opt for a ‘Double Hump Bactrian Camel’ ride.

• Day 4) Visit Diskit Monastery

Return back to Leh from Nubra Valley again passing through Khardung La Pass. A must-visit on the return journey is the Diskit Monastery which is famous for its massive 100 ft Maitreya Buddha statue. Explore the nearby Leh market at leisure. Leh market is great for buying things like woolen and traditional handicrafts. Our travelers usually pick up something made in Yak wool!

• Day 5) Leh to Pangong (147 km) :

From Leh and you'll reach in about 7 hours, through Changla Pass which is the third highest motor-able pass in the world. It's a long journey but totally worth it!

• Day 6) Explore Druk White Lotus School

Return to Leh and en route visit the famous Druk White Lotus School (Rancho School) and the richly decorated Hemis Monastery with its prayer flags fluttering in the breeze.

• Day 7) Adventue day in Leh:

This can be a day devoted to adventure! White Water Rafting on the Zanskar River, followed by Magnetic Hill and Chai at the Gurudwara Pathar Sahib.

• Day 8) Time for the goodbyes:

After a refreshing holiday in Ladakh, head to the airport for your flight back home.

WOW Pro Trip:  Please do not spend more than 20-30 minutes on K-top or at Changla Pass as it can potentially trigger a bout of altitude sickness. Read more about our Health Tips for Ladakh in our blog The Road to Ladakh: How to plan ALL your logistics

Is Ladakh safe for Women?

Ladakh is indeed one of the safest places for solo women to travel in India. The locals are warm and caring and go out of their way in making visitors, especially women feel welcome. Women love Ladakh because it's a great place for adventure and natural beauty.

Which is the best month to go to Ladakh?

• The best time to visit Ladakh is between May and September . These are the summer months.
• Later in winter , starting from October to April, flights still operate to Ladakh, though there are fewer tourists - And it's really cold!
• Remember that it snows from December to March.

How cold is Leh- Ladakh in winter?

• Ladakh in Winter is for travelers and not tourists! The temperatures in Ladakh drop up to -30 degrees Celsius, so yes,  is it very, very cold.
• Also, winter is a great time for photography in Ladakh - Think of barren lands completely covered with white sheets of snow, frozen rivers, clear blue skies, stars at night, and above all, NO hordes of tourists.
• Hotels tend to be a bit expensive at this time because there are only a few that remain open with central heating.

WOW Pro Tip: ⚠️ Especially, in the month of September and October, the UV rays are harshest and you must protect your skin using Hats / Caps and good high SPF sunscreen lotions.

5 BEST Places to Visit in Leh Ladakh

• Zanskar - is one of the most isolated regions of Ladakh. Famous for the Zanskar River frozen trek, remote cave monasteries, and of course the river rafting with its landscape and unusual rock formations.
• Nubra Valley - located at a distance of about 100 km from Leh, on the other side of Khardung La Pass, it is also referred to as the 'valley of flowers
• Pangong Lake - The Bluest of Blue, it's the world’s highest saltwater lake. One-third of the lake lies in India and two-thirds in China. The lake is 5 km wide at its broadest point and its total length is 134 km. Being highly saline, there is no trace of fish or any aquatic life in it. Surreal.
• Tso Moriri - Also known as Mountain Lake, it is located in the Changthang Plateau of Ladakh. Beautiful and stunning like Pangong but less commercialized and you need to have more time in hand if you wish to visit here, as compared to visiting Pangong.
• DHA and Hanu - are two village settlements in the Kargil region of Ladakh, whose claim to fame is that they are the last Aryan villages of India.  Some of the villagers are supposed to be the descendants of Alexander the Great. They came here more than 2000 years ago.

What is the famous food of Ladakh?

• Hot momos and chutney with the local thukpa are things that you will enjoy in Ladakh.
• Remember to visit the nearby markets in Ladakh to purchase the yummy apricot jam.
• Don't forget to bring home some Yak Cheese . Delicious.
• Have you ever had Pink tea Butter Tea or Sea Buckthorn Juice? Unusual, so try it out when you are here.
• And then there is the Chaang, a Tibetan wine made from barley, millet, or rice grains, it's a little heady at this altitude, so be careful!
• Eating local food is the best way to experience a destination's cuisine and so you must eat home-cooked food by a local Ladakhi family.
• You could check out the Stok Village, about 17 km away from Leh where you can enjoy homemade food & Chaang, and homestays!

BEST Restaurants in Leh

• Bon Appetit (Outdoor) - Multi Cuisine
• ChopStick - Thai and Chinese
• Lichen Bar and Restaurant - Multi Cuisine with Bar
• Amigo - Korean Restaurant
• Coffee Culture - For Coffee and Cakes
• Bodhi Greens - Vegan Restaurant
• Tatami at Wazwan - Kashmiri Cuisine

The approximate rate per person is 500 to 700 INR .

Important things you must know before leaving for Leh Ladakh:

• Primarily, we must be aware that Leh Ladakh is a high-altitude destination, all should take Diamox a day before the date of departure. Moreover, we must remember that Leh acts as a midpoint in Ladakh and is at a height of approx. 11,000 ft. Nubra is 10,000 ft. whereas Pangong is approx 14,000 ft. Hence, we always come back to Leh from Nubra for a night, before we leave for Pangong for better acclimatization. Medicines have to be carried to Nubra and Pangong, as there are no hospitals or pharmacies in the areas.
• There is a shop called 'ORGANIC LADAKH' where we get good organic lip balms made out of Apricots and essential oils. Plus you get Ladakhi keychains at a lower cost here than in the rest of the market. Good and authentic apricot jams and oils with bath and body products can be bought here. It is within a walking distance from Spic and Span hotel, a little outside of the local market. Want to know more about the famous places to shop in Ladakh and what is special to buy in Ladakh? Click on the link below to get the best markets and shops found by our travelers:
• Organic Ladakh also has solid perfumes in cute little containers which are either wooden containers or brass containers with a bit of painting on them. There are Yak and Goat cheese also available, these are usually in small batches as they are freshly prepared and brought there. They also have eco-friendly and sustainable wooden combs, toothbrushes, and an organic variety of soaps and scrubs with them.
• There are good places to eat in the local market. Tibetan food is readily available in all places. However, there is a 5* hotel named 'CHOSPA' right in front of Spic N Span. They have a cafe and a restaurant on the ground floor right when you enter the premises. The food is delectable with an elite vibe and they serve good cheesecakes and ginger beer.
• Leh Chen Bar is a good place for drinks, especially beer , and overall has a pleasant ambiance. But do note - we strongly advise all our travelers to not consume alcohol at least for the first 2 days because this makes acclimatization very problematic.
• The weather in Ladakh can be unpredictable. It might get hot in the afternoons in Leh and Nubra. Pangong is cold at all times and freezing at night
• Thangka paintings are scroll paintings painted on cotton cloth and the borders/ frame is made of silk cloth. These paintings are available in a lot of shops but it is important to find trustworthy shops. The small paintings can range from INR 2500-3000 but can often be bought for INR 1800-2000 . The most famous paintings in these are of Tara Devi, Tree of Life, and Buddhas . One of the shops which our travelers have appreciated is Zhanskar Arts.
• Generally, all our travelers are excited to see the woolen headbands that the local women knit in the market, outside Leh palace, and can be found easily on the side of the roads and pavements and you can ask them to make a color of your choice. Almost everyone buys them.

Ready to travel to Ladakh?

It's extremely important to stay in good hotels so here's our list of recommendations  - The Road to Ladakh: How to plan ALL your logistics , do check it out. Hopefully, you've now got it all together -  plan and checklist for Ladakh.

And of course, you're most welcome to hop on to our women-only trips in Ladakh. Check out our upcoming trip here  Ladakh is a great option for solo women travel or with a small group of friends who are ready for adventure!

• How To Prepare for a Trip to Ladakh
• Shopping in Ladakh – Hits, and misses
• The Kumbh Mela of Himalayas – Naropa Festival
• The Road to Ladakh: How to plan ALL your logistics
• The Monkey year festival at Hemis

Happy Wandering :-)

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How to Plan a Trip to Leh Ladakh

How to Plan a trip to Leh Ladakh really is more of a general question that can be further broken down for a better explanation. In this article, I will divide this question into different categories and provide links to articles where I have detailed the information related to it.

I have been blogging about Ladakh for quite some time; since my first visit there to be honest actually. This website has a long list of articles covering different aspects of visiting Ladakh scattered over numerous pages.

So I thought to add this one front page and keep it sticky more from a navigation point of view. Please take a look at the post below it should answer all your questions about traveling to Ladakh.

If you have any questions, you can contact me on Instagram and I will be happy to answer. You can also consider subscribing to my YouTube channel and asking your question there.

For getting the best hotel rates, motorcycle rentals, and taxi charges, and to organize your trip to Ladakh, you can speak with Kunal @ 9910 402 252 . Give him my reference and you will surely get a discounted rate.

Vargis Khan

When to go to Ladakh

This of course is the first question that comes to mind after you have finally decided to visit here. Ladakh remains closed and cut off from the rest of the country for several months a year.

Most of the tourism here happens between the months of June and September. When should you plan will depend on a lot of factors like how you are traveling; if there is any budget restriction; what exactly do you want to see etc.

Considering all these factors, take a look at the articles below which I am sure will help you finalize the month of your travel.

• When is the Best Time to Visit Ladakh
• When is the Best Time to Visit Zanskar Valley

Quick Navigation

How to Prepare for Ladakh Trip

Once you have decided when to go, next in line comes the question of how to prepare. Ladakh is not really a place where you can just pack your bags and go. You will have to seriously consider every aspect of the trip and pack accordingly.

This will include packing the right kind of clothes, getting your vehicle ready, and carrying every essential item that you will need for the trip. Below is a link to articles where I have provided this information in detail.

• List of things you must carry for a Ladakh Trip
• Clothes for Ladakh Trip: What to Pack
• Important Tips on Dealing with Acute Mountain Sickness in Ladakh
• How to Carry your Laptop to Ladakh
• Things to Carry for Ladakh Winter Trip
• Ladakh by Flight VS Ladakh By Road
• How and Where to Carry Spare Fuel for Ladakh Trip
• How to Transport your Motorcycle for Ladakh Trip

Family trip to Ladakh

Not before long, Ladakh was considered a destination only for the adventurous type or motorcycle enthusiasts. It was awarded the nickname of ‘Bikers Paradise’ because it was one of those areas where nobody went.

A trip to Ladakh in many ways was considered a completely off-roading experience. These were the times when Ladakh was just a name that people read in the books, a name that was not even remotely related to vacations.

The horizon of tourism in Ladakh has much changed in the last few years. The number of people visiting here increases with each passing year and the place is slowly getting developed as a tourist destination.

The fact, however, cannot be denied that it is still a harsh terrain that is also challenging. If you are thinking of visiting Ladakh with family then you would need to really prepare for it; especially if you coming to Leh Ladakh with a kid or your parents.

The two articles below talk in detail how about you can plan a trip to Ladakh with your family. The first one has information on preparations and precautions that you should practice while visiting Leh Ladakh with a child whereas the second one provides information on a trip to Ladakh with your parents or other elders of the family.

• How to Visit Ladakh with Family
• Leh Ladakh with Family – Trip of a Lifetime
• Family Trip to Ladakh – Fun, Adventure, and Much More
• Planning a Trip to Ladakh with Children or Infants
• Traveling to Ladakh With Parents – Senior Citizens

What to Buy in Ladakh

Once you have reached Ladakh, you of course would not want to come back empty-handed. There is plenty to buy in the markets here. The bazaars of Leh will mesmerize you with the superior artistry and sheer range of artifacts on display.

The markets are stocked with fine products all year long, and you will lose track of time as you drift from one store to another, lost in admiration.

Please read Shopping in Ladakh – What to Buy for a list of items that you can consider shopping for; along with names of some recommended stores.

Foods to Try in Ladakh

One of the primary attractions of going to a new place is to have a taste of local food. The same is the case with Ladakh. The local cuisine here is a fusion of Tibetan and Kashmiri dishes that you must get a taste of.

This mountain kingdom has been at the crossroads of trade between Tibet, Nepal, and Kashmir, and the delicacies here clearly reflect the varied cultural influences.

Please read Foods to try in Ladakh – What to Eat for a list of some dishes and beverages that you must taste while in Ladakh.

Cost of Ladakh Trip

The budget for the trip is one of the biggest deciding factors. A lot of people think that a trip to Ladakh is going to cost a fortune which is not entirely true.

While it may cost you a bit more than visiting some other areas, the truth however is that with proper planning and information, you can easily make a trip to Ladakh within budget.

Below is a list of articles that can help you calculate the overall cost you will incur during the trip; and how you can keep it within budget.

• How to Calculate Minimum Budget for Ladakh Trip
• How to Calculate Cost of Motorcycle Trip to Ladakh
• 12 Tips for a Budget Trip to Ladakh
• How to Make a Budget Ladakh Trip by Public Transport
• Taxi Rates in Ladakh
• Motorcycle Rental Rates in Ladakh
• Budget Trip to Zanskar Valley – How to Plan Your Journey?
• Motorcycle Rental Rates in Srinagar
• Motorcycle Rental Rates in Manali

Is Ladakh Safe?

Safety, of course, should always be the first thing considered before you go visit a new place. When it comes to Ladakh, a one-line answer is that yes, it is very safe to travel. But the answer cannot always be that simple because there will be several terms and conditions applied.

I always believe that a person’s safety always is in their own hands and gets driven by judgments they make. Ladakh is a high-altitude desert and getting here would need you to travel on some steep, narrow, and sometimes even dangerous roads.

So to get to Ladakh by road, you would need to have some driving experience and especially in the hills. You do not want Ladakh to be the first time when you were behind the steering wheel for the first time in the mountains.

If you have never driven in the hills before, please visit some other hill station first, get some experience and then drive to Ladakh.

The crime rate in Ladakh is almost next to none. You will be driving through miles of nowhere, all alone, and won’t be bothered by anyone. People here are simple and humble and will mind their own business.

So in short, as long as you drive sensibly, do not take any unnecessary risks, do not get into any altercations, know where you are headed, have proper permits, and do not go wandering around where you shouldn’t then Ladakh is a very safe place to visit.

For further information on the topic broken down by areas, I will recommend reading through the articles below.

• Is Ladakh Safe for Tourists
• How safe is Srinagar Leh Highway for Tourists
• Is Kashmir Safe for Tourists?

Time Required for Leh Ladakh Trip

This will entirely depend on where you were coming from and your mode of travel. But a minimum of 7 to 14 days is what I recommend for a trip to Ladakh. 7 Days if you were flying in and out of Leh City; and 12 to 14 days if you wanted to make it a road trip.

You can, of course, do away with a lesser number of days as well but with the above mentioned period of time, you can be sure that your trip will not be rushed, you will see all that there is to see and will make the best out of your time.

How can you break this time down further and plan your day-by-day itinerary is mentioned in the Itinerary section below.

Itinerary for Ladakh Trip

A well-laid itinerary in my opinion is the most important part of the Ladakh trip. Based on the days you have in hand, you must have a carefully drafted plan on where do you want to be on which day.

A Ladakh trip is not really a frequent affair so while you visit here, you need to make sure that you make the most out of it and visit as many places as you possibly can.

I have written several articles providing examples of different itineraries broken by days; links to which I have provided below. Depending on how long your trip is going to last, you can pick an itinerary from the ones I have listed in these articles.

• 2 Days Itinerary for Ladakh / Weekend Trip to Ladakh
• 3 Days Itinerary for Ladakh
• 4 Days Itinerary for Ladakh
• 5 Days Itinerary for Ladakh
• 6 Days Itinerary for Ladakh
• 7 Days Itinerary for Ladakh
• 8 Days Itinerary for Ladakh
• 9 Days Itinerary for Ladakh
• 10 Days Itinerary for Ladakh
• 11 Days Itinerary for Ladakh
• 12 Days Itinerary for Ladakh
• 13 Days Itinerary for Ladakh
• 14 Days Itinerary for Ladakh
• 15 Days Itinerary for Ladakh
• Itinerary for Zanskar Valley
• Srinagar to Ladakh Itinerary
• Manali to Ladakh Itinerary
• Ladakh Winter Trip Itinerary
• Itinerary if you are flying to Ladakh
• Zanskar Itinerary, Route Details, and Road Map
• Leh to Zanskar Itinerary – How to Plan your Journey?
• Ladakh Itinerary by Flight
• One Week Itinerary for Ladakh

What to See in Ladakh

The next piece of information that you should keep handy is a list of places that you would like to see. You have been told that the entire Ladakh is a tourist destination in itself which is entirely correct.

Every turn of the road here will present you with something new and you will not get tired of clicking your camera for hours. But there must be some places that can be called the prime attraction, correct? You are right.

In the articles below, I have listed every place in Ladakh that is worth a visit. Depending on the time you have for the trip, you can decide which one (or all of them) you want to cover.

The first article provides a list of all the places in Ladakh while the other ones break it down by the region.

• A Complete List of All Tourist Attractions in Ladakh
• Tourist Places in Leh City
• A Detailed Explanation of Festivals of Ladakh
• Ladakh Festivals Dates
• Tourist Attractions on Srinagar Leh Highway
• What to See on Manali Leh Highway
• Tourist Attractions in Nubra Valley
• Primary Attractions of Zanskar Valley
• Sightseeing in Padum

What to do in Ladakh

After what to see, the next question that comes to mind is about things to do in Ladakh. And by that, I mean what else to do apart from visiting all the places I listed above.

Everyone will go and visit all the tourist attractions that they can, depending on the time they have in hand, but what else? What other fun and exciting activities can you be a part of in Ladakh?

If this thought has been on your mind then I recommend that you take a look at the articles below. Out here, I have listed some of the most popular and common tourist activities in Ladakh that you should know of before going there.

• What to do in Ladakh | Fun Things to do in Ladakh

Where to Stay in Ladakh

In recent years, Ladakh has seen a great boost in tourism; especially after the release of the movie “3 Idiots”. With that being said, the fact however cannot still be denied that it is still a remote region, one that remains cut off from the rest of the world for several months in a year.

Before going to a faraway land like this, you must have information about what your accommodation choices are. It will be a crucial part of your itinerary to know where you can stay for the night and where can you not.

In the series of articles below, I have provided information related to the staying options in different regions of Ladakh. You will also find the names and phone numbers of some recommended hotels at the links below.

Based on your own choice, you may choose to call and book in advance; or reach the place, find a hotel of your liking and negotiate an on-the-spot deal.

• Hotels at Pangong Lake
• Accommodation on Srinagar Leh Highway
• Hotels on Manali Leh Highway
• Guest Houses and Hotels in Nubra Valley
• Recommended Hotels in Leh City
• Hotels in Zanskar Valley
• Accommodation at Tso Moriri
• Hotels on the routes to Tso Moriri
• How to Book  HP PWD Guest House
• List of Good Restaurants in Leh City
• List of Vegetarian Only Restaurants in Ladakh
• Camping in Ladakh

Monasteries in Ladakh that allow Night Stay

A lot of people look forward to staying at a monastery for the night to experience something different and local. This option is not available at all the monasteries.

In Ladakh, there are only 5 monasteries that I know that have this kind of arrangement. Before you decide to stay here though, please know that your stay will be very basic and may feel uncomfortable to you.

A friend of mine decided to do this as well only to tell me the next day that he regretted his decision the entire night. But if you want do want to give it a try, then you can stay at either of the following monasteries for the night.

• Phuktal Monastery, Zanskar Valley (Best place to get this experience. I have stayed here and it was awesome)
• Hemis Monastery, Ladakh
• Thiksey Monastery, Ladakh
• Lamayuru Gompa, Ladakh
• Rangdum Gompa, Zanskar Valley

Availability of basic facilities in Ladakh

The next crucial information that you must make yourself aware of is in terms of the availability of basic facilities in Ladakh. By this, I mean facilities like mobile services, hospitals, gas stations, etc.

This may not be such a big problem in Leh City but can become a concern while traveling to other areas of Ladakh. In the articles below, I have provided more information related to this topic.

• When and How to Rent an Oxygen Cylinder for Ladakh Trip
• ATM, Mechanics, and Petrol Stations on Srinagar Leh Highway
• ATM and Bank Facilities in Leh City
• Mobile Phone Services in Ladakh

Getting your vehicle Ready

A trip to a place like Ladakh is stressful not just for the traveler but also for their vehicles. All the information above was related to getting yourself ready for the tough trip ahead but then what about your vehicle?

Ladakh, as I mentioned, is still a remote region and if your vehicle breaks down on you, it can very well ruin your entire trip. You must get your machine ready, be it a car or a motorcycle. Pay close attention to every part, and every detail, and repair or replace whatever seems dicey.

In the articles below, I have provided information on which vehicle you can bring to Ladakh, which you should not, and then how to get your respective vehicles ready.

• How to Prepare your Motorcycle for Ladakh
• How to Prepare your Car for Ladakh Trip
• Why you should rent a Taxi in Ladakh
• Which is the Best Car for Ladakh Trip
• How to Go to Ladakh on 100CC Motorcycle
• Which is the Best Motorcycle for Ladakh Trip

Renting a Motorcycle for Ladakh Trip

A trip to Ladakh is more fun when you are traveling by your own vehicle but a lot of people also complete the journey on a rented motorcycle. There are several places that you can rent a bike from for the trip like Manali, Srinagar or Leh itself.

However, before you finalize the deal, you must carefully inspect the motorcycle to ensure that it will not give you trouble anywhere.

In the articles below, I have provided information on where you can rent a bike from with some recommended names; and what is it that you should pay heed to before renting a bike.

• Why and When should you rent a motorcycle for Ladakh Trip?
• How to rent a Bike in Srinagar
• How to Rent a Bike in Manali
• Where to Rent a Bike in Srinagar
• Where to Rent a Bike in Manali
• How to Rent a Bike in Leh City
• Leh City Bike Rental Charges

How to Travel to Ladakh

Now since we have all the information we need, let us talk about how to travel to and in Ladakh. In the articles below, I have talked about how to journey on the two roads leading to Ladakh, the Manali – Leh, and Srinagar – Leh route; and then how to go to areas like Nubra Valley and Pangong after you have arrived in Leh.

The first article is a very comprehensive road map of the entire Ladakh region; then the following articles are detailed explanations of the route.

Apart from the direct routes from Leh City, I have also talked about some of the internal roads that you can take to reach from one place to another without going back to Leh. This includes roads like Agham – Shyok, Wari La, and Changthang Valley.

• A Detailed Road Map of Ladakh
• How to Travel to Umling La
• Traveling from Srinagar to Leh
• How to Travel from Manali to Leh
• Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri
• How to Travel to Tso Moriri from Leh
• Leh to Nubra Valley
• How to Travel to Pangong Tso
• Leh to Khardung La
• How to Travel to Hanle
• Sham Valley Travel Guide
• How to Travel to Zanskar Valley
• Nubra Valley to Pangong Tso via Agham Shyok road
• Nubra Valley to Pangong Tso via Wari La
• How to Visit Siachen Glacier

Permits for Ladakh

Ladakh is an area very close to the India-China border and hence, everyone visiting here is required to obtain a permit from the DM office. This permit is not applicable for reaching Leh city but is a mandate for visiting other areas like Nubra Valley, Pangong, and Tso Moriri.

In the articles below, I have explained the entire procedure in detail along with the charges applicable. Another permit you will have to worry about is Rohtang Pass if you are starting from Manali.

This permit is needed to be obtained from Manali. I have also provided links below to the article where I have talked about this permit in detail.

• How to Obtain Inner Line Permit for Ladakh
• Procedure to Obtain Protected Area Permit for Ladakh
• How to Obtain Rohtang Pass Permit

Public Transport Services in Ladakh

Off-late, a lot of people have started to visit Ladakh using public transport services in form of Buses or shared cabs. Some people reach Leh by Air and then catch a bus to other places while others start their journeys by bus from places like Srinagar and Manali.

Public Transport in Ladakh until a few years back was not really that great but has improved greatly in the last few years. If you too are planning a trip here by Public transport, then in the article below you will find information related to bus schedules and shared taxis.

• How I Traveled to Ladakh by Public Transport
• Ladakh Bus Service Schedule
• Leh to Nubra Valley Bus Service
• Pangong Tso Bus Service
• Leh to Tso Moriri Bus Service – Fare & Schedule
• Manali to Leh Bus Service
• Leh to Manali Bus
• Srinagar to Leh Bus Service
• Leh to Srinagar Bus
• Delhi to Leh Bus Service
• Leh to Delhi Bus
• Public Transport Services in Zanskar Valley
• Zanskar Valley Taxi Rates
• Ladakh Bus Schedule
• Bus Service in Leh City
• Zanskar Valley by Public Transport

Solo Trip to Ladakh

A trip to Ladakh without any doubt needs some time which unfortunately not everyone can afford to spare. Sometimes for one reason or another, a lot of us are unable to find someone to accompany us on the trips.

A solo trip to Ladakh however is no less adventurous than with a few friends. If you too were planning to visit Ladakh solo, then below is a list of articles that can help you plan your trip better.

• How to Plan a Solo Trip to Ladakh
• Safety Tips for a Solo Trip to Ladakh
• How I traveled to Ladakh by Public Transport Alone
• Memoirs of my Solo trip to Ladakh

Interesting Reads

Links below are articles that I call an “interesting read” for the Ladakh trip. This is some intriguing and good to know information related to some places here; like the unexplained phenomenon of Magnetic hill and some other places that are known to be haunted. Take a look.

• The Beasts of Changthang Valley
• The Ghost of Gata Loops
• The Magnetic Hill of Ladakh
• The Heroes of Rezang La

Last but not the least, below are some articles where I have shared some quick tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. Most of these tips are based on my own personal experience of Ladakh after being there several times. Read through and I am sure this information can be of help to you.

• Things that you must NOT do in Ladakh
• Driving Tips for Ladakh
• Riding to Ladakh with a Pillion
• Visiting Ladakh on Scooter

When is Ladakh open for Tourists?

If this question was asked about 10 or 15 years ago, the answer would have been the months from June till September. These were in fact the only 5 months when Ladakh use to see any tourist footfall. But much has changed now. You may in fact find it a bit hard to believe but Ladakh is now open for tourists throughout the year.

It is true that you may not be able to reach here by road in the months of November till April, but regular flights still remain available. Now tourists arrive in Ladakh not just to enjoy the summer but a freezing winter as well.

There was a time not too long ago when you would have to definitely book your stay in advance if visiting in winter. But now, you can land in Ladakh at any time of the year and will easily find a place to stay.

With that being said, the harsh cold of Ladakh is not everyone’s cup of tea. Only the adventurous type visit during these months; or people who have already been to Ladakh once before and now came a second time to see it covered in snow.

So when is Ladakh open for tourists? If we talk about tourists in general including all types, then people start to visit here sometime by Mid April.

By May, most of the hotels are up and running and tourist season is in full swing by May end. People from all over the world continue to flock here till September and then the number starts to go down again by October.

Months to visit Ladakh

So in order for an easier and better understanding, below are links to articles where I have explained Ladakh with respect to that particular month only.

Information in these articles is on how to reach, where to stay, what to eat, what to expect, itinerary to follow, and how to prepare. Depending on which month you were planning to go in, take a look at that particular post and you will find all the relevant information.

• Ladakh in January
• Ladakh in February
• Visiting Ladakh in March
• Ladakh in April
• Ladakh in May
• How to Plan Ladakh in June
• Ladakh in July
• Ladakh in August
• Trip to Ladakh in September
• Ladakh in October
• Ladakh in November
• Winter Trip to Ladakh in December

Zanskar Valley

If Ladakh can be called a remote place in India, then Zanskar Valley is actually a remote region in Ladakh itself. Over the last few years, Tourism in Ladakh has seen a great boost.

Almost everyone is planning to go to Ladakh and during peak tourist season, it can get a bit crowded as well. Zanskar Valley on the other hand is a place that is not yet affected by this tourist mania.

Due to its location, not many people visit here and that is what makes it perfect for people who want to be away from the crowd. Zanskar in fact has a few aces up its sleeve, things that not even Ladakh can offer.

Parkachik Glacier, Shafat Glacier, Nun Kun Massif, and Drang Drang Glacier are three of the star attractions of Zanskar. Nowhere in our country can you see a glacier so up close and so easily reachable.

It is true that visiting Zanskar will definitely add a bit of a cost and days to your itinerary; but if you can afford it, I highly recommend making Zanskar a part of your Ladakh trip.

Below is a list of articles that pertain to visiting Zanskar Valley. Go through the posts below and you will know all there is about visiting Zanskar.

• Zanskar Valley – A Complete Travel Guide & Itinerary
• Kargil to Padum Route Guide
• Phugtal Monastery – A Complete Travel Guide
• Mobile Phone Connectivity in Zanskar Valley

Is Ladakh Dangerous?

One line answer to this question would be that no, Ladakh is not dangerous. But much of this would depend on you yourself. A person’s safety is always in their own hands and it gets decided by the decisions they make and actions they take.

People in Ladakh are simple and humble but this does not excuse you from behaving irresponsibly. Do not get into any unnecessary altercations, do not try to offend them in any way, do not try to drive around in a vehicle rented outside Ladakh and you will be OK.

If you are asking the question in terms of the terrain then yes, the roads here are a bit risky and challenging. But as long as you have some experience of driving, especially in the hills, then it is nothing that you cannot handle.

Just get your vehicle well serviced, plan carefully, keep an eye on the weather and you got nothing to worry about.

Is Ladakh Worth Visiting?

And finally the question of whether or not you should make this trip. If you are unsure of whether you should go or not then take my word for it. Ladakh is worth every minute and penny you spend here.

This will be a trip of a lifetime irrespective of how you are traveling. Just put all doubts aside and embark upon a journey that you will cherish memories of for life.

Why one should visit Ladakh?

You should visit Ladakh if you want to go on a trip that you will remember for life. It is truly one of a kind experience that I must urge you to have. Ladakh is a place like no other and it has a little something for everyone.

It does not matter if you were an adventure enthusiast, biker, photographer, family person, or just someone looking to spend some time in peace, you can rest assured that Ladakh will not disappoint you.

I hope the information above on how to plan a trip to Leh Ladakh was of help. If you have any questions, please feel free to ask in the comments section below. You can also  follow me on Instagram  and chat with me live there or  subscribe to my YouTube channel and ask a question there.

Vargis.Khan

Not much to write about me really except for that I love to travel around whenever I can and to wherever I can. This blog is just a small attempt to share my travel experiences with the world. Hope you like it !!!

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Thank you so much for the classified information, it will be helpful for me because I am planning to road trip from Noida to Ladakh by bike. it will be my first ride in my life. I am excited

Please also share your experience with me about the bike trip I want to go

Thank you so much buddy

You have provided one of the best guide on Ladakh, just loved it

Thank you !!!

You have provided a well-informative blog. I have gone through many blogs of yours and you write it so well.

This is so Insightful guide Vargis, I loved this alot

Thank you Ankita

Planning a trip to Leh Ladakh requires careful consideration due to its remote location and challenging terrain. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you plan your journey:

Research and Itinerary:

Research the best time to visit Leh Ladakh. The region is accessible from May to September when the roads are open. Decide on the duration of your trip and create a rough itinerary. Popular destinations include Leh, Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley, and Tso Moriri Lake. Acclimatization:

Leh Ladakh is at high altitude, and acclimatization is crucial to avoid altitude sickness. Plan to spend a couple of days in Leh before venturing into higher-altitude areas. Stay hydrated, avoid heavy physical activity initially, and consider carrying medications for altitude sickness. Permits:

Check if you need any permits to visit specific areas. Permits are required for places like Nubra Valley, Pangong Lake, and Tso Moriri Lake. Obtain the necessary permits from the District Commissioner’s Office in Leh. Transportation:

Decide on your mode of transportation. You can either hire a cab, rent a motorcycle, or drive your own vehicle. If you plan to drive, ensure your vehicle is in good condition, and carry spare parts, tools, and a first aid kit. Accommodation:

Book accommodations in advance, especially during peak season. Leh has a variety of options, including guesthouses, hotels, and homestays. In more remote areas, accommodation options may be limited

Hi Vargis tried to connect u on instagram but it says u hv disable messages , i have few questions to ask you, though you have mentioned everything in your article but was wondering if things changed now.

1. Am travelling with my mother so avoiding directly landing to leh and instead thinking to arrive from road via srinagar or manali. which one u recommend ? 2. Are self driven cars from outside (srinagar, chandigarh) allowed in leh ?

Hi Rishabh,

1. Srinagar route will be better Bhai to reach Leh 2. No. Outside taxis can only be used to reach Leh. You cannot use them for sightseeing and will have to leave it parked at the hotel

Hi Vargis Can you please advise whether Ladakh trip is feasible between 1st Oct to 15th Oct. I intend to drive from Kolkata with my wife and 10 year old daughter in our Bolero Neo. I picked this time primarily to avoid the summer heat of the plains through which I would have to travel if I plan for May – June. Can I take the Manali Leh Highway during this time of Oct? Can I do a day trip for Pangong lake from Leh? Do I need to carry snow chains for the wheels? Which areas can I visit during this time without the risk of getting stranded?

Request pls advise for me to plan accordingly.

You can Sid but hard to tell right now. It will all depend on how the weather next year is. If it started to snow early, it won’t be a good idea. Best to wait until Sep next year before finalizing. My advice is that you plan between Sep 15 to 30th to be on the safer side. It won’t either be hot at that time, nor crowded

Can it be planned between 24th September to 8th October.

Yes it can be

Hi vargis, I am planning a trip to Leh with my mother , tentative date of my coming is 16th August 2023, planning to cover nearby places on 17th August then a 3 day trip to Nubra-Pangong from 18 to 20th August, 2023, then will leave for Delhi on 21 August 2023. Do i need to book hotels for leh/nubra/pangong in advance? and what about getting shared taxis for the said trip…. pls guide.

Hi Supriyo – You can find accommodation on the spot as well but shared taxis could be a problem. It will be better to book a private cab if you have your mother with you.

Actually, hiring a reserved cab will be out of budget for me.. so was searching for shared cab.

Hello Vargis,

Hope you are doing well.

I have been one of the silent followers of your amazing blog for a while and it has helped me many times to build my itinerary for any Himalayan trips in the past.

This month, 4 of us are planning on visiting Leh-Ladakh by road from Chandigarh Airport in a cab, preferably Innova. We have made this itinerary. I would want to know your views regarding the same.

Day 1 : 24th June, Sat – Road Trip: – Chandigarh Airport (Start at 7:30 AM) – Atal Tunnel (Rohtang) – Sissu – Stay: – Sissu Zostel

Day 2 : 25th June, Sun – Road Trip: – Sissu – Keylong – Suraj Tal – Baralacha pass – Leh – Stay: – Leh Zostel

Day 3 : 26th June, Mon – Local Sightseeing – Leh Palace – Stok Palace and Museum – Hemis Monastery – Thiksey Monastery – Leh Market – Evening – Stay: – Leh Zostel

Day 4 : 27th June, Tue – Road Trip: – Leh – KhardungLa Pass – Panamik – Sasoma Check Point – Siachen Base Camp – OP Baba Shrine – Nubra Valley (NOTE: Local sightseeing on the next day) – Stay: – Nubra Valley

Day 5 : 28th June, Wed – Road Trip: – Nubra Valley – Local Sightseeing – Diskit Monastery – Hunder – Tyakshi – Turtuk (NOTE: Local sightseeing on the next day) – Stay: – Turtuk

Day 6 : 29th June, Thur – Road Trip: – Turtuk – Local Sightseeing – Pangong Lake View Point – Merak Village – Kakstet Village – Man Village – Stay: – Man Village, Pangong Lake

Day 7 : 30th June, Fri – Road Trip: – Pangong Tso – Local Sightseeing, (if any more required) – Kyagar Tso – Karzok, Tso Moriri (NOTE: Local sightseeing on the next day) – Stay: – Karzok, Tso Moriri

Day 8 : 1st July, Sat – Road Trip: – Tso Moriri – Local Sightseeing – Leh – Stay: – Leh Zostel

Day 9 : 2nd July, Sun – Road Trip: – Leh – Phyang Gompa – Magnetic Hill – Sangam view point – Kargil War Memorial, Dras – Dras – Stay: – Dras

Day 10 : 3rd July, Mon – Road Trip: – Dras – Kargil – Local Sightseeing – Mulbekh – Local Sightseeing (Monastery) – Leh – Stay: – Leh Zostel

Day 11 : 4th July, Tue – Road Trip: – Leh – Manali – Stay: – Manali Zostel (Vashisth)

Day 12 : 5th July, Wed – Road Trip: – Manali – Chandigarh (Reach by 5:00 PM MAX)

Eagerly waiting for your inputs.

Regards, Sourav

Day 4 – You cannot cover Siachen Base Camp on this …. You will only reach Nubra Valley from Leh

Day 10 – Go all the way to Kargil … Do not stay in Dras

Just remember that you taxi from Chandigarh will not be allowed for sightseeing in Ladakh. You will have to rent another cab there

Hi Vargis Somewhere on this site I read that there are no hatchback cars /cabs available . But getmecab.com provides hatchback cabs. Do u know if it’s a genuine cab service site?

You cannot use an outside rental for sightseeing in Ladakh. You will have to rent a local cab in Leh and they usually do not have hatchbacks, mostly SUVs.

I’m sorry, I missed to mention that getmecab.com claims to provide a hatchback to go from Kargil to Srinagar.

Yes, you will get it between Kargil and Srinagar

Thanks, that’s great relief. 🙂

Me & my group had a great time in Ladakh (May 26 to June 2). Thanks to this site of yours, I had good info about everything. :). We experienced almost everything….snowfall, landslide, heavy rains in sand dunes, traffic jams , temperatures upto -5 degree celsius (at Pengong Lake), good food, rough & tough road travel, scenic beauty, taste of real mountain fresh water ..etc etc. 🙂 A thing I must mention for others — Only carry the Postpaid SIM of Airtel, BSNL or MTNL. The Jio works only in 30-40% of the area. Vodafone doesn’t work at all.

Have your ever in recent years hired an innova at leh for Nubra n Pangong without using any influence?

I never had to hire a cab in Leh actually

Someone recently called you about leh and when he discussed the taxi fare which I guess was around rs 8000 for Nubra n Turtuk, you replied u can hire a flight with that amount. So was curious to ask u the charges

It will depend on how many days you are hiring the taxi for. If you just want a cab for 3 days from Leh for Nubra and Turtuk, it will cost you between Rs 10000 to Rs. 15000, depending on the time of your travel

Means 8000 are genuine charges for a 3 day trip to Nubra n Turtuk. By saying u can hire a flight with amount doesn’t justify your last comment. We all learn from you, we all respect you and we all xpct healthy answers from you

Bhai I do not know which comment you are referring to. It is possible that there were flights available to Leh for Rs. 8000 at the time when I made that comment. I did fly in and out of Leh in 2021 for Rs. 9500 just because the flight rates were low at that time and I was lucky to get a return ticket for that amount.

I did book a Vistara flight from Mumbai to Leh for rs. 85000. 🙂 I’m flying later this week.

All the best for your trip. Have fun.

It was a type of Rs. 85000 for my flight ticket. Please read it as Rs. 8500/- 🙂

Haha …. for a minute I thought, “Wow, he REALLY wants to go to Ladakh”

All the best for your trip Bhai

Nice Blog…. This is really amazing. Great information about Leh Ladakh.

do we get wifi in leh?

Yes, wi-fi is available in Leh

Due to your complete guide on leh, we successfully conducted our self planned tour of Ladakh in June-23. Thanks a lot.

Thank you Rajesh

Your guidance help us to enjoy Ladah last month.

It is urgent …as leh has made 2 days stay compulosry to stay in leh ..after landing can i travel to kargil for 1 days and return next day and stay next day in leh… Can this be done as per goverment rules and my stay for 2days will be done..

Yes you can

I came across your blog today while planning my trip to Ladakh, and thought of writing to you. I’m travelling to Ladakh with my parents from 13-24 June. Was planning to visit Leh, Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri and Kargil. We’ll be taking flights on the Delhi-Leh route for both onward and return journeys. Could you please help us in deciding on an itinerary for this trip? I’d also dropped you a message on Instagram, but wasn’t sure if you’d check it.

Your blog’s been super helpful in planning the trip so far, so even if you can’t reply to this, just wanted to thank you for all the content you’ve put up 🙂

Thank you, Prateek. I believe I have answered all your questions on Instagram. Let me know if you need any other help.

Hello Vargis, I have gone through your many blogs and based on that kind of finalised below itinerary. I am planning to visit Leh in mid May 2022 along with parents ( ~70 years age), tentative itinerary: Day1 – Bangalore to Srinagar –> Stay at Srinagar Day2 – Srinagar to Kargil ( on the way Sonmarg, Baltal & Drass) –> Stay at Kargil Day3 – kargil to Leh ( On the way Alchi, magnetic hill ) –> Stay at Leh Day4 – Leh local sight seeing & permits for other places –> Stay at Leh Day5: Activities at Leh –> Stay at Leh Day6 – Leh to Nubra Valley via Khardungla pass –> Stay at Nubra valley (Hunder) Day7 – Nubra valley to Pangong Tso –> stay at Pangong Tso tents Day8 – Pangong Tso to Leh via Chang la–> Stay at Leh Day9- Leh to Tso moiri –> stay at Korzok village Day10 – Tso Moiri to Sarchu –> Stay to Sarchu Day11 – Sarchu to Manali –> Stay at Manali Day12 – Manali to Chandigarh –> Stay at Chandigarh Day13 – Chandigarh to Bangalore Could you please suggest if Day7 and Day9 can be done with parents due to AMS.. for Day9, is there a suggestion to come down yo low altitude place? additionally due to AMS , shall we skip Say9? Any kind of advise will be helpful .. This itinerary is made after going through your blogs .. Best Regards, Nusrat

Hello Vargis, I am planning to visit Leh in mid May 2022 along with parents ( ~70 years age), tentative itinerary: Day1 – Bangalore to Srinagar –> Stay at Srinagar Day2 – Srinagar to Kargil ( on the way Sonmarg, Baltal & Drass) –> Stay at Kargil Day3 – kargil to Leh ( On the way Alchi, magnetic hill ) –> Stay at Leh Day4 – Leh local sight seeing & permits for other places –> Stay at Leh Day5: Activities at Leh –> Stay at Leh Day6 – Leh to Nubra Valley via Khardungla pass –> Stay at Nubra valley (Hunder) Day7 – Nubra valley to Pangong Tso –> stay at Pangong Tso tents Day8 – Pangong Tso to Leh via Chang la–> Stay at Leh Day9- Leh to Tso moiri –> stay at Korzok village Day10 – Tso Moiri to Sarchu –> Stay to Sarchu Day11 – Sarchu to Manali –> Stay at Manali Day12 – Manali to Chandigarh –> Stay at Chandigarh Day13 – Chandigarh to Bangalore Could you please suggest if Day7 and Day9 can be done with parents due to AMS.. for Day9, is there a suggestion to come down yo low altitude place? additionally due to AMS , shall we skip Say9? Any kind of advise will be helpful .. This itinerary is made after going through your blogs .. Best Regards, Nusrat

Hello Vargis, I am planning to visit Leh in May 2022 along with parents ( ~70 years age), tentative itinerary: Day1 – Bangalore to Srinagar –> Stay at Srinagar Day2 – Srinagar to Kargil ( on the way Sonmarg, Baltal & Drass) –> Stay at Kargil Day3 – kargil to Leh ( On the way Alchi, magnetic hill ) –> Stay at Leh Day4 – Leh local sight seeing & permits for other places –> Stay at Leh Day5: Activities at Leh –> Stay at Leh Day6 – Leh to Nubra Valley via Khardungla pass –> Stay at Nubra valley (Hunder) Day7 – Nubra valley to Pangong Tso –> stay at Pangong Tso tents Day8 – Pangong Tso to Leh via Chang la–> Stay at Leh Day9- Leh to Tso moiri –> stay at Korzok village Day10 – Tso Moiri to Sarchu –> Stay to Sarchu Day11 – Sarchu to Manali –> Stay at Manali Day12 – Manali to Chandigarh –> Stay at Chandigarh Day13 – Chandigarh to Bangalore Could you please suggest if Day7 and Day9 can be done with parents due to AMS.. for Day9, is there a suggestion to come down yo low altitude place? Any kind of advise will be helpful .. This itinerary is made after going through your blogs .. Best Regards, Nusrat

Very informative article people who want to visit Ladakh valley, thanks for sharing this information.

Hi Vargis, We are planning for a road trip to Ladakh in first week Sept 2021. Between 7th Sept to 16th we are in or around Leh. Would be interested to participate if any Monastery having any festival during this time so that we can have glimpse of it. Please let me know

Hi Alok – Ladakh festival is held in Leh in September but I am not sure if it will happen this year due to COVID. Take a look at this post please

https://vargiskhan.com/log/festivals-of-ladakh/

I really enjoyed reading your post. This is a very nice article for traveling and It was an amazing blog I really like it, all pics are very beautiful. Thanks for sharing this article. search “bobadventures” to visit us

Great blog post. Nicely written.. really enjoyed it a lot. You have covered almost every thing one need to know before visiting ladakh. And wonderfully described all the famous tourist places of ladakh. Thanks ladakh.club

Asalam alikum vargis bhai Mujhe yeh maloom karna hai .agar hum Rt pcr report le kar aye delhi se. Kya phir bh humara corana test hoga leh ya ladakh me. Ple Please guide kar dejye app

Walaikum Salam Saad Bhai – Nahi agar aap RTPCR saath leke aate ho toh test nahi hoga

I want to go to Manali to ladakh in Jan 2023 after 3 months from now, and as roads are closed i will have to book a flight to get in and out of ladakh so can I know the nearest airport from which i should book my flight so that it becomes cheap for me.. please help

There is an airport in Leh itself if that is what you meant to ask. You can book a direct flight from Delhi to Leh

Hello. I am from kolKolkata. I want to visit ladakh next year . recently I heard that Siachen base camp is open for tourists from October ’19. So please inform me from where I can get my permit to go there ?

Hello Vargis, will it be possible to cover entire Ladakh circuit stretching from turtuk to hanle to the lakes and entire Spiti circuit from Mumbai within 30 days including buffer days?

Hi this is Sarojit Dutta from Kolkata. First of all I am sending you our vijaya greetings. Inspired by your writing we are planning to visit Leh and surroundings in the last week of May 23. We are 18 people altogether junior most is 8 years and senior most is 75 years old. We are planning to follow your Srinagar to Srinagar 12 days itinerary. Our question is if it possible to make it a 9 or 10 days itinerary? And what kind of vehicles are available there for 18 people? We hope to get your advice on this matter. Whether we will have change the itinerary or not.? Please help and oblige. Thanks.

Our plan is to go Kargil,Leh,Turtuk,Panamik,Pangon lake,Hanle,Tso Morri Batalik and back to Srinagar.

Thanks for your reply. Actually we are following your Srinagar to Leh trip. On day 1 Srinagar to Kargil. Day2 Kargil to Leh. Day 3 Leh. Day 4 Leh to Turtuk. Day 5 Turtuk to Panamik. Day 6 Panamik to Pangon lake. Day 7 Pangon to Hanle. Day 8 Hanle to Tso Morri. Day 9 Tso Morri to Leh. Day 10 Leh to Batalik. Day 11 Batalik to Srinagar. After going through your article we made this itinerary. Our question is whether we can make this little shorter or it’s perfect? Again I make it a point that we are a group of seniors and junior members. Please advise us about the itinerary and about vehicles availability there. Thanks again

Hi Sarojit – 9 to 10 days from where? Kolkata? I am guessing you will be flying to Srinagar?

[…] Also Read: How to Plan a Trip to Leh Ladakh – A Complete Travel Guide […]

[…] Also Read: How to Plan a Trip to Leh Ladakh – A Complete Travel Guide […]

Thanks vargis for sharing such valuable content. You are doing great job .Pictures are spectacular. Also visit my site to related to travel and other stuff . Thanks

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Hello Bro, Very fast hearty thank you for so detail blog. I am planning to go leh with my gf on bike trip and want to do self camping. Can you please suggest what are the precision need to take and is it safe do self camp with a Girl ?

Dear VargisKhan, I was planning to go on a Road Trip via Bike this year 2020 to Ladakh from Delhi to Kargil via Leh, since the COVID-19 situation is not yet back to normal condition, I would like you to suggest me with appropriate solutions/suggestions. As I am a solo traveller, so please suggest.

1. Would it be safe to travel to Ladakh during year 2020 2. If yes which month would be more likely to travel. 3. Weather we would be able to avail Inner line permits. 4. If yes, how many locations we can cover. 5. What would the better suggestion on the stay and food.

Since I have been planning this trip since last 3 years and finally I plan to execute in this year, and unfortunately due to COVID-19, I’m bit confused.

Could be please suggest me.

Regards, Harish Kumar

Hi Vargis, This blog is amazing. It provides me all the information about traveling to Leh Ladakh. I was looking for a guide like this for a very long time. Now, I can plan my trip to Leh Ladakh without worrying and forgetting anything. Thank you very much for this amazing blog.

My brother and me are planning 5-6 days trip to leh- ladakh in July month. We are planning Leh ( 2D and stay), Nubra Valley ( 1 stay) , Pangong lake (1 Stay).

it is costing about 20k – 25k per person if we plan with tourist agencies.

If we plan by own, as we are only 2 of us, renting taxi or cab can not be affordable for us. We are planning to cover nearby spots (Magnetic Hill, Gurudwara etc) on bike and nubra valley and pangong lake by public transport. But as you mention in your blog that public transport is very rare and tedious.

So can you please suggest if we go with travel agencies is feasible or planned by own and how can we plan?

Hi Amit – If you are going in peak tourist season, public transport will not be hard to find. Shared cabs will be easy to get actually. When are you going?

SALAMWALEKUM BHAI FIRST OF ALL THANKS FOR PROVIDING SUCH A DETAILED INFORMATION

I AM PLANNING TO LEH FIRST TIME THIS YEAR, EVEN I BOOKED MY TICKETS FOR RAIPUR TO DELHI ON 9TH JUNE AND RETURN ON 27TH JUNE FIRST I WANT TO KNOW THAT THIS YEAR I GET TO HEARED DAT ROADS MIGHT OPEN IN MID JUNE, IS DAT TRUE? IS I HAVE TO RESHEDULE MY TICKETS?

Walaikum As Salam Bhai – Nahi it will be all open by May end. You will not need to reschedule.

Hello.. have been going through your blog for quite a while and you have done a great job here. we are planning a trip to leh from Delhi in the last week of April starting from 25th April Saturday early morning and return by 3rd of may sundy evening. We have XUV500 manual front wheel drive, total 5 members and 9 days with use so is this trip possible?? what should be the best route?? where should we talk halts in this route?? what would be the total cost?? thank you

You cannot do it in April Harry unless you are ready to throw it at least 3-4 days more.

Ok.. thank you for the info virgis.

you are welcome brother !!!

Hi, I plan a bike trip from Srinagar to Leh Ladakh on June 2020. So could you please suggest which tour agency will be best for the same. I want to join a group and hire bike too.

I am sorry but I have never worked with any tour agencies.

Hi, I am planning to visit Leh in 29 dec 2019. Kindly advice if its ok I travel in flight

As long as you do not have a medical condition and allow time for your body to acclimatize when you reach there, yes.

Hi, I am planning to visit Leh in 2nd week of June 2020. Kindly advice if its ok I travel in Hyundai i20. Srinagar – Leh – Numbra Valley – Pangong – Pang – Kaza – Sarahan – Shimla – Delhi 2 adults and 1 child of 10 years Is this circuit doable in Hyundai i20 petrol.

Yes you can. Just be a bit careful. I have done Ladakh in a Maruti Swift which has the same ground clearance as i20

Hi, I am planning to visit Leh in 2nd week of June. Kindly advice if its ok I travel in Hyundai i20. Srinagar – Leh – Numbra Valley – Pangong – Pang – Kaza – Sarahan – Shimla – Delhi 2 adults and 1 child of 10 years Is this circuit doable in Hyundai i20 petrol.

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Will u apart of it . i m planning on *New* *Year* *2020* Hey. I ‘m Rohan. basically from Delhi based adventurer who were very much enthusiasm in various adventurious activities such as biking trekking and exploring . Since, last year I had done many stunning activities in ownself such as … 1. Solo Camping in kodai jungle 2. Continuous Single-day Riding from Delhi to Badrinath in a peak Monsoon 3. Winter Riding in Lahul & Spiti on Adhoc Conditions 4. Also had cover Various trek like valley of flower & Hemkund Yatra or much more…. while uncertainly I had meet up with an accident on May month as when way up to leh ladakh with bike. this “ll not come to end my adventurous activity. Now after 5 month of recovery – I ‘m again starting from beginning .. so as of now, These coming winter *** I *am* going to start an expedition of *stok* *kangri* trekkable mountain in _ladakh_ on winter seasion and this is going to be really adventurous. Although all trip planning are yet to complete and still gathering the essentials for these expedition . Probably, Stok kangri unofficially closed while on winter’s so beginning *January* would be the perfect i guess for trekking. Hence if someone interested to be apart of these *journey* or become *member* and want to give any *suggestion* . Please do contact – *8376072108* (** _what’s_ _app_ **)

All the best Rohan !!!

Thanks.. vargis khan 🙂 Do u have any suggestion for me ***on stok kangri expedition..? These would be mine 1st winter solo expedition if someone not joins me.

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Hi Sir, Your information is very helpful. Sir, I am planning to go ladakh in July by next year. My itinerary is given below:

Day 01: ARRIVAL LEH.

Day 02: LEH LOCAL TRIP After breakfast drive for local trip (Hemis, Thiksey, Shey palace, Shanti stupa Leh palace, Hall of fame & Sptiuk)

Day 03: LEH TO LAMAYURU AND BACK After breakfast drive for Lamayuru, On the way visit Sptiuk, Hall of fame, Magnetic hill, Confluence and Moon land.

Day 04: LEH – TURTUK After breakfast drive to Nubra Valley via Khardungla (highest motor able road in the world, 18,380ft). Night stay at Turtuk village.

Day 05: TURTUK – HUNDAR After breakfast drive to Hundar village, visit Diskit Gompa on the way.

Day 06: HUNDAR – PANGONG LAKE via Shyok Road. After breakfast drive to Pangong Lake through Shyok river.

Day 07: PANGONG-TSOMORIRI. After breakfast drive to Tsomoriri via Chusal and Nyuma.

Day 08: TSOMORIRI TO KEYLONG. After breakfast drive to Keylong via Tso-kar on the way visit Tso-kar and Pang.

Day 09: KEYLONG TO MANALI. In the morning leave drive to Manali. In the evening enjoy Manali Mall.

Day 10: MANALI DEPARTURE

Sir, now my questions are: 1. Is this itinerary is good to do in July next year? 2. Is this route good or I should go by road from manali and return by flight? 3. Is it ok to be there in July with 2 years child? 4. How will be the weather there in July?

Thanks in advance Sir.

Hi Kaushik,

1. Yes 2. Either way is good. Same thing. 3. Please see this post.

https://vargiskhan.com/log/traveling-to-ladakh-with-children/

4. Pleasant during day, moderately cold during night.

Hello sir, we are 5 person planning to ladakh in june 2020

DAY 1- departure from Vadodara at 1:35pm overnight train journey

DAY 2-arrival at pathankot junction at 12:40 pm departure for manali Solang valley reached at 11:00pm

DAY 3-solang valley manali to jispa ( 6 hours drive)

DAY 4-Jispa to leh(10 to 11 hours journey)

DAY 5-Leh (half day rest/ilp and half day leh local sight seeing

DAY 6-leh to nubra valley via khardugla pass(6 to 7 hours drive)

DAY 7-nubra valley to pangong lake vai agham shyok river route(6 to 8 hours)

DAY 8- Pangong lake via pang village(7 to 8 hours)

DAY 9-pang village to manali(9 to 10 hours drive)

DAY 10-Manali to Chandigarh(10 hours)

DAY 11-chandigarh to Vadodara (overnight train journey)

DAY 12-arrival at Vadodara

My questions are 1)what are approximate price of taxi for this manali to return manali whole journey 2)can is it double pangong lake to pang/sarchu in one day? 3)is this itinerary is good? 4)advise if any

Thank you in advance sir

Please reply sir

Are you planning to hire taxis for the entire trip because you will have to rent multiple. Your Manali taxi will not be allowed in Leh.

Hey Vargis, Thanks for the detailed guide! Planning a road trip to Ladakh with my friends and this will surely help me. Keep Blogging

Thanks Jatin Bhai for taking the time to drop a note.

thanks for sharing useful travel details for leh ladakh, but can you please suggest any of best travel agency in leh, we need local transport to visit. please help me

Please contact Rohit @ 9999622213 or 9910722252

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I am Planning to go to Ladakh in the third week of September. My Itinerary is

Day 1. Amritsar – Leh Flight (Via Delhi) – Only local sightseeing on day 1 Day 2. Leh – Diskit- Hunder Day 3. Hunder – Turtuk Day 4. Turtuk – Pangong Tso Day 5. Pangong Tso – Hanle Day 6. Hanle – Tso Morriri – Leh Day 7. Leh – Kargil Day 8. Kargil – Srinagar, Srinagar – Amritsar Flight

1. Would like to know if this is doable especially Day 6. 2. Please suggest if any other changes are required 3. Do I need to pre-book all the hotels or can it be done on the spot. 4. Will I get a shared taxi for the entire trip?

My travelling plan 1 sep to 7 sep 19. Is it safe as all state facing heavy rains & recently landslide in manali. & also advise Nubra to Pangong(Via Shyok river) it will be safe or not ?

Hard to predict, it is not safe right now to go via Manali. Nubra and Pangong will be OK.

hello vargis, Earlier we had planned a vacation to visit leh via Srinagar from Delhi on 30 august 2019.we have leaves for aroumd 19 days. Now we are re-planning the route to LEH via Manali on our own motorcycles and return from leh via spiti valley to Shimla and then Delhi. In the current scenario is it safe to travel to leh via manali.??? keep up the good job you are doing and praying for return of peace for the beautiful people of Kashmir. regards sourav nath

Hi Sourav, Ladakh and Manali route are safe, no worries there.

Thank you for the update

You are welcome !!!

Hello Vargis! Due to the current situation, the treks are cancelled. And thus, I’m left with to and fro flight tickets from Srinagar (on 22nd August and 30th August). Please do suggest me the best option to avail them as I’ll not get any thing if I cancel them from my side. Is it safe to visit Leh in those days? Will there be any transport facility? If so could you suggest me the itinerary. Thanks in advance.

Hi Srini – You should cancel your tickets for now, its curfew there. I am cancelling my tickets too for 30th Aug.

It seems cancellation penalty would be levied by the Airlines. If the Govt says no to tourists then why do these airlines don’t follow the guidelines. Really confused. Will you wait till the last minute or cancel the tickets?

They are giving a full refund only till 16th of August as of now so I haven’t cancelled yet. Will call the airline again in next couple of days to find out if the date has been extended. There is no point in going right now really. Nothing has happened because of the increased security but the real outcome will only be be visible after the curfew is relaxed. It is a security risk.

Hi, I’m planning to visit Leh-Ladakh on 17th August. (Delhi to leh via flight) . What is the latest situation there? Is it safe now? (I’m coming from Sri Lanka)

Ladakh is completely safe.

Hey Vargis…our journey is well planned(Confirm train tickets,Confirmed hotel bookings)but again the situation arised in Kashmir… Worried so much…

Called our hotel yesterday, they told me that it is better if you ignore kashmir route.But we are supposed to go by Srinagar to leh bus.Our journey is on October12 from Kolkata.

What to do now plss help.

Too early to say anything right now Sayak. Only the coming weeks will tell if Srinagar will be safer in October or not. My own trip is at stake. All we can do right now is wait and observe.

Yes Vargis same situation going on our mind…just to wait and observe..

Patience…Patience…Patience…

Hope everything goes well.

Hello Vargis, because I am italian I dont know how is the real situation in India so I want to ask you how is safe to visit Ladakh in august with the current sitation in kashmir- Thanks a lot. Pietro

Hard to say anything as of now Pietro. Only time will tell how the people react and the situation develops. Give it a few more days, a week at least and then decide whether to continue or cancel

What do you think of current situation in Jammu Kashmir? I have booked a flight from Srinagar- Mumbai on 17th August? I am flying in to Leh on 7th August.

Should we cancel our plan or should we avoid Srinagar and return via Manali to Mumbai.

Please advise, Very confused what to do

Can you please give your contact number on my email address?

Wait for next few days and see how the situation develops before you decide on what to do. If the situation in Kashmir remains tense then you should return via Manali.

Hi Deepali , were you able to return from leh to srinagar and as a result take the flight from srinagar? please let me know as i am planning to book tickets from srinagar to mumbai for 1st week of october

I am planning with my family. I want stay Package. Is it very difficult?

No it is not

Hi, we have booked nature nest camp in pangong for stay on 14th August with family. Will it be too cold at night ? Are there any good wooden or cemented structures where you can stay close to pangong lake where it will not be too cold ? Thanks

Yes it will be a bit cold but only if you step outside. The camps are all very warm inside. There are a few cottages as well but the inside environment will be the same as camps.

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The information is helpful, I also like to know if I take bike on rent from Delhi whether original rc is required. Because from Delhi they are not providing original RC BUT photocopy they will give

You will need the RC of course.

Hi Vargis, I have already booked the flight tickets to Leh and back. I am now looking for accommodation and local transportation. Spoke to a few hotels for complete tour package. It’s costing approx 70K minimum for 3 people. Is this a reasonably good rate? Hotels are cheaper if we book through online apps but in that case, how do we book transportation? Is it possible to find private taxis once we land in Leh? What would be the cost for 6/7day private taxi? Please suggest.

70k sounds a little much for accommodation for 3 people. Book it on your own Balaji. Shared taxis are easily available from Leh Bus stand itself. Fare depends on the destination and not duration really

I have two extra days as a solo traveler before joining a group (first week of September). Is it advisable to go to Tso Moriri on Day 2 and Day 3 from Leh, (after rest on Day 1), as the group tour is not covering Tso Moriri? First time to Ladakh (flying in to Leh). Would one day rest in Leh be enough to acclimatize to Tso Moriri altitude?

Thanks, Paritosh.

Hi Paritosh,

Yes that would be a good idea but make that call once you are there in Leh. Rest on Day 1 and if you feel better, go to Moriri on Day 2. If you felt symptoms of AMS on Day 2 as well in the morning, best would be to rest in Leh as well because going to Moriri will just make the situation worse.

Very good post!!

It’s looking nice and containing good information. Thanks for sharing this post.

Thanks for taking the time to drop a note Varun

Dear Vargis, do I need to book from here the guesthouses in Ladakh in the second half of August? Thanks a lot from Rome Pietro

Hi Pietro – No you will find accommodation on the spot as well

Hi Vargis. We are Roadwanderers_wanderislife. We are couple riders. have planned a trip to leh in July next month from Delhi to Leh via srinagar following the route you recommended above. Due to Time constraint we are flying back to Delhi on 28th July, Sunday. What are the possible options of shipping the bikes from Leh to Delhi?

There are a few travel agencies in Leh that can do it for you. Based on a friend’s experience from last year,

1. It will be a costly affair 2. He got his bike back almost after a month and a half 3. There were damages to the bike

Hi vargis, Your blog is extremely useful.

I will be visiting leh for 8 days and 9 nights which includes leh, nubra, pangong and tsomoriri. Is there anyway I can include either chanthang national park or hemis national park. Also is it worth it ?

Hi dear Vargis, I am an italian man and I am planning to go to Ladakh next august. Thanks a lot for your precious information. I want to ask you how many ways I have to come back to manali from Leh by road (I think to go to Leh by plane and comingback by car). Can I take a shared taxi or a shared jeep? Thanks. You are great

Thank you for your kind words. You can come from Leh to Manali by Bus, private taxi, shared taxi or rented motorcycle.

Thanks for your preciuos anwer. My last question: because of I will go alone, do you think it is possible/easy to find a seat in a private taxi going back to Manali? I mean is it easy and common to share a private taxi with other tourists?

Thanks a lot Pietro

Yes, you will easily find a seat.

Hi Vargis, I would say….if one day in this summer the road to Manali will be opened because of I ve just read your last article….snow in June!!! 🙂 thanks a lot. cheers. Pietro

Hi Petro – As of now the estimate is that it will open by June 10th 🙂

Hi, we are planning to go to Leh by September by flight and will reach by 10 am. Can we plan for Nubra valley on Day 2 after taking rest on day 1?

Yes you can but you will have to arrange permits before it.

That we will try to arrange. Thanks bro.

Sorry Vargis for my questions but I am planning my solo trip and I have to take advantage of your wisdom about travelling in Ladakh. I have a doubt….because of I have the flight back to Italy the day 3 of september and the second half of august is monsoon time in India: do you suggest to come back from Leh to Manali – Delhi by plane or by car? Do you think is safer by plane? I only dont want to regret not to make that fantastic road….Any suggestion? Thanks a lot Pietro

I want to share my one concern with all of u. Actually Me & Mine 3 friends had being preparing for Ladakh circuit on 7th of June, 2019 (Night) with 2 Bikes, since from one month ago. But, Uncertainty one of our friend had some unconditional circumstances at home so he won’t join us for trip.

All of us had earlier done Lahul & Spiti on early October winter altogether & gather mesmerising experience.

We also had done lots of Biking & Trekking trails last year –

Badrinath Riding (single day) Solo Camping at kodai jungle & Valley of Flower Trekking & Also Explore the Corbett National park trails and many more….

But, Today when there is only 1 week left for 7th June, 2019 .. We have no choice left because 3 people with 1 bike make no worth.

Hence, still as a hope i have posted my query to this page that if someone planning or wants to go in Ladakh on 7th June, 2019 . Please join us & take our one friends with him so that Dreams won’t die of our third friend.

My Name is Rohan Nahar from Delhi wish to complete the Ladakh circuit on 7th June,2019 via Srinagar to Leh to Manali within 10-12 days. Do Make Call or what’s app on this Number – 8376072108 to join. Mail – [email protected]

Jai Hind . Keep Safe . Make Enjoy!

We are planning a Road trip to Ladakh. Can you please suggest a way to visit Sasoma and / or Murgo? Thanks in advance!!! Cheers!

Hi Vargis, Our plan to Chandigarh -jammu-srinagar-kargil-leh from 25th May to 05 June. Now news is Srinagar National Highway Closed Due to Landslide. please suggest : 1. Any alternate route 2. should be cancel or delay the trip 3. Is this clear by tomorrow, any update.

Thanks in advance, Amit Thakur

First of all, hats off to your painstaking efforts to make all this knowledge available to the public!

I plan to visit Ladakh in the first week of September (flying in to Leh, and have 7 full days excluding the travel days). Solo traveler, but don’t want to be too adventurous. So how feasible is to tie up with some travel agency or hotel in Leh, so that they can add me to an existing group after I arrive in Leh? Or should I try to arrange everything beforehand?

I don’t want to go running around for accommodation or transport options everywhere but I don’t want to book a full package from Delhi/Mumbai. I am ok with a little above budget travel, but not too exorbitant. My itinerary is flexible (you can assume the usual places for first timers–Leh, Nubra valley, Pangong, maybe Tso Moriri).

Any tips would be helpful.

Hi Paritosh – It all depends on how you are planning to move around in Leh. Planning on your own will cost you less than joining some tour group.

But getting shared rides and accommodation on my own would be easy? I mean ok not to plan it all ahead months in advance? I don’t want to reach Leh and then find out that the only option I have is to hire a private taxi all for myself 🙂

Dear Paritosh. I stayed in a Hostel named Zostel (Shaheen Guest House) Very reasonabley priced and u can share taxi ride pillion with other guests staying there. There is a notice board where u can requeast for a trip or offer shared trips. Works well in good season.

The articles you have written are extremely helpful for all the travelers out there who wish to visit Leh, this almost looks like Wikipedia. 🙂

I am looking for some inputs from your end for my Manali-> Leh–> Srinagar adventure and its going to be a solo. Any tips from you on this is highly appreciated.

Below is my plan.

28th June : Bangalore to Delhi via flight and board evening bus to Manali. 29th June : Explore Manali 30th June : Manali to leh via Keylong 1st July : Reach Leh and explore Leh 2nd July : Leh to Nubra Valley 3rd July : Nubra to Leh 4th July : Leh to Pangong Tso 5th July : Pangong Tso to Leh 6th July : Explore Leh 7th July : Leh to Sriningar 8th July : Reach Srinagar in the morning and take flight in the afternoon to Bangalore.

Note : I am on a budget trip and mostly want to utilize only public bus and choose shared taxi only in worst case. I often go on high altitude mountain treks so not much issue on mountain sickness.

Thanks in advance. Vinutha

Hi Vinutha – Thank you for your kind words. Your itinerary looks good and doable.

Hello sir Kindly help me about m visiting to ladhak with my wife

9th July – reaching Leh 

10night – nubra

11- pangong 

12 – Leh ( or I should visit some other place and from there can move to Kargil )

13- Kargil 

14- Srinagar hotel drop ( Srinagar hotel not needed in package ) 

6 days 5 nights 

Couple Is it ok , should I go to somewhere else rather then coming back to Leh on 12 th. From there I can move to Kargil . Do u have something to say about Srinagar boat houses to stay over night

Kindly reply my khan

Bro.. I going to ladhak leh via jammu Srinagar Kargil leh manali chandigarh. In btw August 24th to sep3.. Is it a good time to visit

Yes this is a good time to go Sandeep. But make the final call in August only after checking how the Monsoon trends this year.

Bhai ji namaskar,

Hum 3log(family) 12june ko lucknow se nikalenge via jammu,srinagar. Hum leh ladakh aur spiti ek sath karna chahte hai Humne jo circuit socha hai wo aapko day by day bata du.(ambala,patnitop,sonmarg,leh,siachin base camp,dikshit,meerak,hanley,tsomoriri,upshi,keylong,kaza,chandigarh,delhi,lucknow.) Mere paas nexon petrol hai aur main har baat ke liye prepare rehna chahta hu kyuki mere alawa meri family me dono ladies hai(age-36&38). So agar aap humari trip plan karne me humari help kare to aapke aabhari rahenge. Budget hotels,medication,reserve fuel,aur jo kuch bhi hume sath carry karna chahiye jo hume nahi pata hota aur bure waqt me jarurat pad sakti ho. Is pure circuit ko kaise plan kare.? Kab kaha ruke aur kis route ko follow kare.? Jaise hum leh se khardungla ho ke siachin base camp ja ke dikshit ya huntar rukna chahte hai aur next day agham shyok ho ke panggong jana chahte hai. Meerak isliye rukna socha kyuki pata chala waha budget stay mil jayega jabki aur jagah per kaafi mehnga hai. Hum night stay under 800-1000 me karna chahte hai. Aur jo aapse advice ho jaye wo us hisaab se taiyari kar lenge.

Ye trip humari family ka sapna hai bhaiji aur aapse behtar guide hume nahi mil sakta so please humari is trip ko achchi yaado wali trip banane me humari help kare. Hume aapke guidence ka intzaar rahega

Kitne din ke liye trip plan kar rahe ho aap?

15-18din ke liye

Bhaiji i am still waiting

Bhaiji namaskar,

Aaj permit apply kar raha tha so confuse ho gaya kyuki usme agham shyok ho ke pangong jane ka koi route permit nahi show ho raha hai Ek option me khardungla warshi tkyashi and 2nd option me karu changla durbuk meerak hai So kaise kya kiya jayega.?

Namaskar Pushkar Bhai – Shyok road ka alag se koi permit nahi hota. Aapko Nubra Valley aur Pangong ke hi permits hain. Shyok road ke liye bhi vahi chal jaayenge. Vaise online permit na hi ho. Vahan jakar on the spot hi le lena kyunki stamp karane ke liye office toh aapko jana hi padega.

Thanks bhai

Bhai what about urination facility in arround leh and ladakh? Actually bhai jis tarah hume paani pite rehna hai to jahir hai ki washroom jana hi padega and hum logo ko to utni problem nahi hai but ladies ke liye to ye problem hi hai raaste me travel karte time.? So tell me on route facelities.(example – leh khardungla to nubra.

Koi intezaam nahi hai as such … beech beech mein chhote dhaabe vagerah aate rehte hain, vahan dekh sakte ho

Bhai humne aapse kaha tha ki 9ko nikalenge so according to that 13ko leh me honge aur fir nubra(warshi,turtuk) aur pangong(via agham syok) ke baad hum leh se keylong aur waha se kaza jayenge. Bhai ab tak koi road status (open or close) nahi pata chala hai aapke paas koi update hai to please hume bataiye ya hum kaha se pata kar sakte hai.? 1. Leh-keylong 2. Keylong-kaza

Pushar Bhai 10 tareekh tak khulne ki ummeed hai is waqt baaki aage toh sab BRO par depend kar sakta hai. Pakki confirmed date koi hai hi nahi.

Bhai main akela hi meri nexon drive karne wala hu pura circuit me koi suggetions.? Aur bhai Maine tyre puncture kit , towing rope, oxygen can, tyre inflator, pressure gauge, nylon rope (in case skid anywhere so make snow chain), camphor, chocolates, glucose, electrol, dryfruits, diamox, medical kit with ibrufen ye prepare kar liya hai so anything else which i forgot.?

Bhai any suggetions.?

Nahi Bhai .. kaafi hai. Jerry Cans bhi rakh lo ek do 5 ya 10 liters wali spare fuel carry karne ke liye.

Gaadi mein heater use mat karna drive karte hue. Band gaadi mein heater chalega toh vahan mountain sickness ho sakti hai. Sheesha halka khula rakh kar hi chalana.

Vargis Bhai Thanks alot for the information. Hoping to meet you somewhere amidst beautiful mountains of ladakh. Will be eagerly waitng to share my enthralling experience with you. Have a gud life ahead.

You are welcome Pushkar Bhai. It will be a pleasure to meet you sometime. I was actually going to ask you that myself, that do let me know how your trip went after you return.

Hi mr. Vargis, kindly let me know how and from where can I get permit for UMLING LA.

Hi Vatsal – Umling La is still off limits for tourists

Thanks a lot Mr. Vargis

Hi, Vargis. Is it true that solo foreigners are barred from taking public transportation e.g. public bus, shared taxi, etc.? Aside from permit, bike rental and sensitive zone, is there any other restriction for foreigners to travel solo in this region?

No such restriction at all. The only restriction is accessibility to some close to border areas deemed as unsafe for foreign nationals

Hi All, There are enough accomm available in and around Pangong Lake. Some camps have been demolished but not all. I stayed in one yesterday and there were other biker groups. Roughly 100 pax can stay frm what i noticed. This is right nxt to lake. And more accomm available in Spangmik.

Thanks Premjit for sharing that information

Superb article Vargisji. We are travelling to Leh via Srinagar on 20th May. Considering the extended winter season. Will the road to Leh be opened till then. Also, we will be halting first day at sonamarg. Second at kargil. Third and fourth at leh. Then one night halt at nubra and one at pangong. And then back to Leh. Is the schedule.

Hopefully we will be able to get over the AMS.

Also was curious to know if we get any shops / villages or hotels in between the road trips. Or is it hours of journey before you see any faces.

Hello Rajesh Ji, Thank you for your appreciating words.

1. Road – Yes it will be open by 20th May 2. Schedule – Yes it is OK and I am assuming that you are traveling by your own vehicle? 3. Yes, since you are traveling at a relaxed pace, you will be able to get over AMS 4. There are plenty of shops in between

Great.. thanks Vargisji.. thanks for the reply. Keep posting about this beautiful place.

Yes we will have a hired SUV for the entire journey. Any idea when the sunrise and sunset takes place around in May 20. Heard that it rises early and the trip would be better if we start early and end early in the evening.

What actually we can eat /drink to cope up with high altitude and the cold weather. We are Jains so have restrictions in food eating.

Yes, starting early in the day is always the best thing to ensure that you are reaching your destination well in time. For AMS, please take a look at the post below. Nothing specific that yuo need to eat really.

https://vargiskhan.com/log/dealing-acute-mountain-sickness-ladakh/

Any updates on Srinagar leh highway opening date?

Also, camping at pangong as per your blog is banned. So where can we stay in case we need to spend a night nearby the river..

Also, any idea about the temperature difference likely in next one month. Currently they are hovering in the single digit.. can they touch double digit in next one month or so..

Srinagar Leh highway – May 1st Camping at Pangong – It was banned earlier but as per the latest update, it will probably get allowed again at some distance from the lake Temperature – Days will be pleasantly warm but nights will be very cold

Updates on Camping in Pangong please Vargis ji.. Also how is the route from Nubra to Pangong.. is it open and safe?

There are still a few camp sites operating at a little distance from the lake Rajesh Ji.

Camping at Pangong lake has been stopped by the Leh administration.

There are camps operating in Pangong now. At a distance from Lake. Not in the lake.

Thanks Premjit

I must thank you Vargis I had completed my trip between 23rd April and 1st May. Road conditions throughout is as expected. Leh – Fotu La good roads except broken stretches on Lamayuru – Fotu La. Snow on stretches reaching and leaving Khardung La. Generally good roads around Nubra. Diskit to Pangong has some broken stretches. 2 or 3 stream crossings. All manageable. Changla Pass was the toughest part. Lot of snow and traffic jams caused by inexperienced drivers/riders (me included) 🙂 Roads are bad descending Chang La towards Karu. Becomes really good nearing Karu till Ladakh.

An extraordinary article for the general population who need to head out to Ladakh… Making a trip to Ladakh has dependably been in my container list… This will unquestionably help as a kind of perspective

Thank you for the appreciating note !!!

Hi I am planning for a Leh trip in June second week. Reaching Leh by Delhi Manali Leh bus.Next day to visit Pangong Tso and return Leh by shared taxi. We 8 people are coming. So if we hire one taxi what would be estimate? and any other places can be covered on the way tovisit on the same day? Similarly direct bus to Srinagar will be available from Leh that time? Details please

Hi Vargis, planning first visit to Leh with my wife. Please can you help in listing down the must visit places nearby. Plan is for 6-7 days. Will plan an itinerary based on your inputs.

The trip is planned in mid of May from Bangalore. And budget is 20k per person. Is it best to have a package trip or plan our own itinerary?

These are the places in my mind(may be not in order) 1. leh 2. kargil 3. khardungla 4. nubra valley – same as visit to diskit? 5. pangong 6. tso moriri

Also needed to know the camping options in the visited places to further places if it saves time.

Also, please let me know the cheapest and fastest way to Leh from Bangalore.

5night 6 days Per Person Rs 18000 (excluding GST) Inclutions Taxi for 5 days 6th day drop at Airport or bus stand Accommodation at 3* hotel reenam or similar Lunch and dinner Local sightseeing Note : Camping has been stopped by Leh administration. Although visit is possible

Day-1 : Leh local Sightseeing Stay at hotel reenam: 2 night Visit to Spituk Monastery, Magnetic hill, Sangam of Zangakar & Indus river, military Hall of Fame. Afternoon visit to Shanti Stupa (Japanes monastery), Leh royal Palace. Evening at Leh market for shopping Overnight at Leh.

Day-3: Leh to Nubra Valley Stay at nubra organic retreat: 2 night Morning drive to Nubra Valley 125km crossing Khardongla Pass 18360 ft, the world highest motorable pass. At the top of Khardongla enjoy the nature beauty of snowcapped Himalayan mountains and feel the closeness to Siachen Glacier. Afternoon visit to Diskit and Hunder Monasteries and the white sand dunes. Take a Camel Safari on the double humped camels. Overnight at Nubra valley

Day-5: Nubra Valley to Tsomoriri Lake Stay at Tsomoriri lake view hotel or Tromoriri camp : 1 night

Hi Vargis, this blog is really informative. Great effort. i am planning for a trip in 1st part of this July along with another friend. Looking forward to start & end our trip of Leh-Ladakh from Amritsar. Wanted to know about renting bikes from there. Will it be good idea? As u had said few issues such as at Leh where we won’t be able to use other city rented bikes thr.

Hi Jijin – If you rent motorcycle from anywhere outside of Leh City, it can only be used to reach Leh. For visiting any other areas in Ladakh, you will have to rent another set of bikes from Leh and leave your Amritsar bikes parked at the hotel.

Thanks for the reply Vargis. Apart from that any other issues in renting bike from Amritsar? Do we get many options for of d bikes & rental companies there? Any suggestions from your end?

No, that is the only issue. I am sorry but I do not have any rental contacts in Amritsar..

Hey Vargis wanted to understand on the rental of bikes at Leh. To go to Nubra Valley, Pangang Tso, Tso Moriri, etc we have to hire the bike locally from Leh?? Or if we can connect these places together (without coming to Leh) and continue on our bike which we will rent from Amritsar.

That is correct. You cannot rent a bike and take it to anywhere in Ladakh. For sightseeing, you will have to rent a local bike in Leh

Hello dear.. Can you please suggest whether the bike tour packages offered for leh trip is worthy or not.. If yes that what should be the best price.. I and my husband are planning to do a Srinagar to leh to Manali trip on bike this summer.. Your valuable opinion would be most appreciated

Hello Sneha – It all depends on what the tour package includes but yes they can be a good choice if you do not want to ride solo. Hard to predict a price because it will depend on the package.

Thank you Vargis for such prompt reply

You are welcome Sneha !!!

Hii Vargis, I’m from Gujarat, booked the flights for Chandigarh round trip 1st june to 9th june. And I want to plan a tour to Leh. It would be so nice of you to help me plan out the itinerary for the same. I wish to visit Manali, Jispa, Leh, Nubra and Pangong. Thanks a lot.

I have prepared a rough layout. Please help me out with it. Thanks. 1st June – Arrive in Chandigarh Airport at 11:45 a.m. , Reach Manali by night. Night stay in manali 2nd June – Manali to Jispa 3rd June – Jispa to Leh 4th June – Sightseeing around Leh 5th June – Leh to Nubra (where should we slend overnight in Nubra?) 6th June – Nubra to Pangong (which route should we take?) 7th June – ??? 8th June – ??? to Manali, Departure from Manali to Chandigarh 9th June – Reach Chandigarh Airport before 1:30 pm

I’m confused what to do on 7th june? Please help!

Hi Rutul – First of all, how are you planning to travel after you have landed in Chandigarh and throughout the duration of your trip.

Thanks for replying Vargis. Actually We are a group of 7. From Chandigarh we will take a volvo bus till Manali. And then share taxi cab till Leh. Then we are planning to rent motorbikes around Leh. If we rent motorbikes from Leh to travel to Nubra and Pangong we will have to come back to Leh to return the bikes but I guess we do not have enough time to return back Leh. So if you can suggest any ideas!

Your itinerary looks Ok till Pangong. From Nubra to Pangong, you will reach via Shyok route. However, if you come back to Manali on Leh registered bike and left those there, you will have to pay about 10-15k more per bike over and above the rental. There is really no way around it. Either take it back to Leh or pay the money.

Yeah I am aware of that! So I guess we will have to opt for a car instead of bikes! But I want to know is that where should we plan to be on the 7th and 8th of june. I mean is there any place where we can have a hault(or spend a night) when traveling from Pangong to Manali?

And will the roads be open in may end-june beginning?

Yes the roads will be all open by then.

Yes you could opt for a taxi as well but know that it will cost you way more. Take an estimate of about 40k for Leh – Nubra – Pangong – Manali journey; could even be more. If you are OK with the price then it would be a good choice. From Pangong, come back to either Pang or Sarchu and stay there for the night. Next day, do Pang/Sarchu to Manali. If taxi is not within budget, then you would to add a day to your plan, go back to Leh from Pangong, drop the bikes and then either catch a bus for Manali; or board a shared taxi.

Since you explored ladakh area many times, I want to ask Can I go from Jispa – Zanskar Sumdo – Purne- Anmo – Padum on Motorcycle (specifically from Purne to Anmo ) What about road conditions, i want to go in summers. Waiting your reply Vargis Bhai….

Rohit Bhai the road connecting Jispa and Padum is not yet complete so no, you cannot take this road right now.

Thanks for replying

Hi, I have plan to ride Cgarh – Kargil – Ladakh and return via same route or via Rohtang between April 22 – May 1. Do u think it is doable wrt weather conditions?

Srinagar Leh route yes but not via Manali. That will not open at least until Mid May

Thank you. If i plan one side via Killar – Kistwar is it better doing onward journey or while returning? Or it doesnt matter 🙂

You mean take Killar Kishtwar route to exit on Manali Leh highway? Even that will not be possible before late May. Sach Pass opens sometimes in early June to be exact.

No instead of taking pathankot was thinking of doing via dalhousie – killar – kistwar – srinagar one way.

Same thing. From Dalhousie you will have to take the Sach Pass route via Bairagarh which won’t be open till late May or early June

I understand now. So if i want to experience the “cliffhanger” only option is to ride back and forth on the way back if time permits. Thank you for the clarification. Will update the road condition and details as i start the trip. Cheers.

Hi vargis, My trip is planned like hiring bike from Chandigarh and the rout is like Chandigarh – Jammu – Srinagar- kargil- leh- Pangong- manali – Chandigarh. Would spend some time to gulmarg and other places as well. I appanning to go by mid of May month and it’s 2 weeks trip. Will the routs are open and climate is ok for bike ride on that time ? Please give me your suggestions if there any changes to be made . Thanks

Hi Ajmal – Yes the route via Srinagar will be all open by Mid-May but it really depends on the weather.

We are planning to visit Leh on 19th oct 2018 by flight and will be right back by 26th oct. and we are planning to rent a bike tell me is it possible in a week. We r three people

Hi Shaifali – Sorry about the delayed response. Yes it is possible but do pack and prepare for cold weather since you are planning on riding around a bike.

Need urgent help..We stuck in leh due to rain.we have to go to nubra today but roads closed.our driver said to shift plan further by one day but we have to come back at same day we were coming because permit can’t be extended..We will miss turtuk and hot water springs.. Please guide.

Hi Mandeep – Sorry about the delayed reply. I missed your question until now.

Hello Vargis, I was eonderwon if you knew whether it is possible for tourists to visit Hanle on the PAP noe, or whether it is still of limits. We would love to visit the Observatory there!

Thank you, laura

Hi Lauradelee – Sorry to tell you but Hanle is completely off limits for foreign nationals due to security reasons. With a PAP, you can travel no further than Pangong Tso.

Thanks for the elaborate & wonderful travel guide. I am planning to travel to Leh on 21st Sep and return on 02 nd Oct from Srinagar.

Day 1 – Arrive at Leh Day 2 – Leh – Enroute Khardungla – Nubra Valley Day 3 – Nubra – Turtuk – Nubra Day 4 – Nubra – Leh Day 5 – Leh – Pangong Day 6 – Pangong to Tsomoriri Day 7 – Tso Moriri – Leh Day 8 – Head to Kargil Day 9 – Kargil to Srinagar Day 10 – Srinagar Day 11 – Day trip of Gulmarg Day 12 – Flight

Will book a car with a driver.

This is my itinerary, please could you let me know if I am need to add any more places in ladakh

Many Thanks Sourav

You do not have to come back to Leh from Nubra. You can go directly to Pangong from there. Plan it like this.

Day 1 – Arrive at Leh Day 2 – Leh – Enroute Khardungla – Nubra Valley Day 3 – Nubra – Turtuk – Nubra Day 4 – Nubra – Pangong via Shyok road Day 5 – Pangong – Hanle via Chushul Day 6 – Hanle to Tsomoriri Day 7 – Tso Moriri – Leh Day 8 – Head to Kargil Day 9 – Kargil to Srinagar Day 10 – Srinagar Day 11 – Day trip of Gulmarg Day 12 – Flight

Please can you tell me the approximate cost if I book a personal cab for my entire trip. Your prompt response will be really nice 🙂 Planning to book everything by this weekend. Need to plan my expenses accordingly. We are group of 4 ppl.

Talk to Nasir in Leh @ 9906229203. He runs his own taxi there and can give you the cost estimate.

Much Thanks for the prompt response. Any other place should I incorporate in my itinerary. In Nubhra, I am going to Hunder and turtuk.

In pangong I am planning to book royal camp, Apple Nubhra cottage in Nubhra and Tso moriri inn in karzok, Any idea or inputs, how are this place ?

Hi Vargis, How is the situtation now in leh after cloudbusrt?

Hi Siddharth – Situation is fine and under control. It was just one village that was affected.

First of all I want to than you Mr. Vargis. I traveled to leh ladakh from 23rd June to 7th July. Your blog help me lot. Many places I have seen which other Traveller don’t know the name . I’m traveling again in Sept end. I want to ask you about one rout. Instead of going diskit via khardung la if we take this rout than how? Leh- thiksey- kari- chemrey- sakti- khalsar

Kindly reply

Thank you Vatsal. I think you are asking about the Wari La route. Take a look at this post please.

https://vargiskhan.com/log/nubra-valley-to-pangong-tso-via-wari-la/

Thank you very much for providing such extensive information on your site. It has become my bible for Ladakh trip planning.

I will be traveling there from 3rd Aug to 19th Aug 2018 and I wanted to check with you couple of things –

1. Delhi-Srinagar-Kargil-Leh-Manali-Delhi Route: how rainy will that route be, is that area prone to landslides as well? Is it safe security wise to go during that time especially since it is around Independence day (yesterday also there were couple of shootings in Srinagar)?

2. Manali Leh Manali route: I am expecting that I won’t find much rains after crossing Rohtang pass but since it has been raining very heavily that side in past few days, will it be safe to travel due to landslides,cloud bursts,strong flowing streams etc?

Hi Rishabh – It can rain anywhere anytime these days brother, there is no telling. Ladakh is in a rain shadow area and it is not supposed to be raining there at all but these days, it rains even in Ladakh too. Fried of mine just came back yesterday and they encountered rain at Pangong – Hanle route. So the only thing to do is to prepare well for the rain and travel carefully.

Hi Vargis, thank you for providing such fantastic information – it has been an immense help in planning our trip!!

I was wondering if you could advise what electricuty sockets we’re likely to find throughout Manali, Leh, Nubra, Pangong region. I’ve read both 2 pin and 3 pins but I was wondering if one of more common.

I appreciate electricity might be scarce or limited in some areas, but I would at least like to have the best adapters!

Hi Lauradelee – There is really no definite telling, entirely depends on the choice of the hotel owner. But yes, 2 pins are more common than 3 pins.

Hello Vargis , Actually m going 2 Ladakh 1st tym , so i don’t have any Idea about routes , but i want 2 cover d below places

Leh Khardungla Pass Magnetic hill Pangong Lake Rohtang Pass Spiti valley Killar valley (complete cliffhanger route) Sach pass

So can i cover all these in circuit & how many days it will take to travell all these places & btw my 1st priority is Killar valley & Sach Pass , specially High Passes & is Umlingla accessable now or not or any other High passes with in these places route

If you want to cover Ladakh, Spiti and Pangi all n the same trip then you need at least 3 weeks to do it. Umling La is off limits for tourists so you cannot go that way; at least not this year.

Thanx 4d reply & ya i can spent 3 weeks 4 it , but can u plz suggest the route

You are welcome. How are you traveling and from where?

M travelling 4rm bike , 4rm Lucknow (UP)

Hi Mr. Khan,

I am an avid admirer of your blog. It has some fantastic information about Spiti Valley & Leh-Ladakh. The reason I am writing this is I am planning a road trip to Leh-Ladakh in May-June next year. We shall be travelling in group of 6 people of 28-35 age in a single SUV. Following is the itinerary I customised for this trip. The trip has to be complete within 10 days due to time constraint. Please look into it if it shall be possible & it would be very helpful if you can tell me how much the approximate trip cost shall be incurred per person (no breakup needed) as I shall have to pitch it to my fellow travellers. Day 1 Delhi-Patnitop Day 2 Patnitop-Sonamarg Day 3 Sonamarg-Leh (Lamayuru Monastery, Likir Monastery) Day 4 Leh Local sightseeing (Leh Palace, Santi Stupa, Get Inner Line Permit) Day 5 Leh-Nubra Valley (Khardung La Pass, Diskit Monastery) Day 6 Nubra Valley-Pangong Lake (Shey Palace, Thicksey Monastery, Hemis Monastery) Day 7 Pangong Lake-Hanle-Chumathang (Chusul, Hanle Observatory, Hanle Monastery) Return to Chumathang for night stay Day 8 Chumathang-Tso Moriri-Sarchu (Tso Moriri Lake, Tso Kar Lake) Day 9 Sarchu-Manali (Keylong & Khardung La Pass) Day 10 Manali-Delhi

Hello Mr. Das,

Giving a cost estimate will really be tough because it will actually depend on lot of factors, fuel cost being the highest, accommodation next. The route above will have you drive about 3500 kilometers so depending on your car’s mileage, you can do the math. At an average, keep a minimum budget of Rs. 2000 per room for accommodation, Rs 1000 per person. Rest of the expenses will really depend on you. Take a look at the article below.

https://vargiskhan.com/log/calculate-minimum-budget-for-ladakh-trip/

Your itinerary too would have to be changed a bit. Sonamarg to Leh will be a very long journey. so you must start early, by first light of the day. You cannot cover Hanle on Day 7 and then reach Chumathang, that is just not possible. You will have to give up Hanle and head straight to Karzok on this day. Do Karzok to Sarchu on Day 8 and then to Manali and Delhi.

Hi Mr. Khan, Thanks a lot for your response. Actually I forgot to mention that we shall be going to Leh-Ladakh trip in hired car as we are from Kolkata & hence it shall not be possible for us to self drive. Also we prefer budget accommodation. I just wanted to know how much shall be our gross cost of the trip. Thanks again for your input.

A great article for the people who want to travel to Ladakh… Traveling to Ladakh has always been in my bucket list… This will surely help as a reference

Thank you for appreciating !!!

We are planning a trip to Leh in Mid October. I have heard from people that its not advisable to stay overnight at Pangong in that season as it will be very chilly. But bloggers and travelers have strongly recommended an overnight stay in Pangong to completely absorb its beauty. Would you recommend staying overnight at Pangong in mid October 2018. Also, would you recommend Alpine Huts for that stay. I am really planning to book one of them. Thanks in advance

Hi Mansi – Yes, if you are going to Pangong then a night stay there is highly recommended. Without it, you will barely touch the lake and start on your way back to Leh. Huts are a great choice for stay, better than some of the camp sites actually.

Thanks for the prompt reply. Would bug you again in case of any questions 🙂

You are welcome !!! 🙂

Hi Vargis, this is Swati here from Doha. I plan to visit leh by flight from Delhi. I will be travelling alone. Kindly assist me in simple safe itinerary with best hotels and not sure what is the best camp in pangong(as I heard there are no hotels there) I prefer a short trip of 5-7days max as I will be leaving behind my 4 year old son with my husband and in laws, so I need to get back asap as this will be my first-time leaving my son behind, so I might be very anxious. Is the idea of going to leh and nearby places alone crazy or I should not think so much and go for it? How do i commute to all these places? Money is not a problem so pls suggest me the best hotels and transportation. Your blog is amazing. No amount of thanks is enough.planning to travel on 24th July till 31st July.thanks.

We will be visiting from the UK in September. Can you tell me if it possible to obtain 2 consecutive protected area permits, so that we will have access for 14 days?

I know it is not always possible to extend a permit, so I wondered if this option is possible, as we will have 2 weeks to enjoy your beautiful country and we would like to spread out our visits to each place.

Many thanks Laura

Hi Lauradelee – As far as I know, you would not get 2 consecutive permits but the best person to answer that would be a travel agent. These guys have contacts and he may be able to manage you a permit for 14 days.

Hi, Vargis ..

We are planning a trip from to Leh.

We plan as follow:

Day 1-Arrive in leh Day 2-Leh to Nubra Day 3-Nubra to Pangong Day 4-Pangong to Leh Day 5-Leh to tso moriri Day 6-Tso moriri to leh Day 7- Leh to Manali

Is this itinerary possible ?? can he hire cab/ taxi from leh for day 7 and drop it in manali and what will be the approximate cost involved .

Please guide

Yes the itinerary is doable. For taxi in Ladakh, please contact Nasir @ 9906229203. He runs his own taxi in Ladakh and will be able to give you a cost estimate.

Hi Vargis Sir,, give me your email please, i will write up my experience of my travel to ladakh. Things are much changed as compared to previous years

eg: if you are on a tight schedule, then it will be hard to get a sharing taxi during peak season (cabs are less & tourist are more), you will have to go to a agency and ask and make a deal as those agencies put sharing crowd in tempo travelers. but this happens rarely now I’l give you details

Hi Jack Bhai,

My email is [email protected]

I will be very glad to publish your post on the blog. Definitely share some tips please that can be of help to others.

Sent you details 🙂

Got it brother. Just one more thing. Can you also write a few lines about yourself and send it? I would like to add a “About Jack Dcosta” box at the bottom of the article.

Thanks, emailed you!

Got it. Thanks brother.

Hi Vargis, did you upload my post?, if yes, share the link… thnkx in advance

Hi Jack – Posted at the links below.

https://vargiskhan.com/log/ladakh-travelogue/

http://roadragas.com/index.php?threads/ladakh-diaries-a-trip-to-remember.4012/

Sahi yaar. thnkx 🙂 My next trip is shimla manali, so i would be going through again on all your posts for rohtang pass, spiti valley, & chandratel lake… Thanks again

That is awesome. When are you planning Spiti?

next year june..Spiti or chandratel, this time with my mum

You should do Spiti and Chandratal both. These days I actually like Spiti better than Ladakh. Way less crowded.

Correct, Ladakh is become very crowded with lot traffic these days. Do you have any contact for this Spiti & Chandratal taxi package or have to search by own for taxi or agency in Manali

Sorry bro, don’t have any contacts for taxi or agencies.

Acha no worries..

Hello Vargis, Please check if some modifications required in the itinerary we have planned for our trip Please confirm if there will be issues in going directly from Nubra to Pangong and Pangong to Tso moriri (though the travel agent confirmed its feasible) Also will there be issue of AMS because we will be staying overnight at Pangong at Moriri which are relatively at higher altitudes.

waiting for your suggestions. Thanks you in advance

18th August: Land at Srinagar airport and rents car for and directly move towards sonamarg and stay overnight

19th August: Move from sonamarg towards kargill and stay overnight at kargill

20th August: Move from kargill towards Leh covering magnetic hill, gurudwara, hall of fame, lamayuru and confluence of Indus and zanskar Spend evening in leh

21st August: Local day in leh visiting shey, thiskey and stock palace Overnight at hotel

22nd August: Guided Drive to nubra valley Stay overnight

23rd August Do atv activity and camel ride on sand dunes drive towards pangong lake Over night stay at pangong

24th August After breakfast leave for tso mori lake and stay overnight tso mori

25th August After breakfast leave for leh

26th August Leave by morning flights

Your itinerary is fine Chandan but how are you planning to go from Pangong to Moriri? The permits for Chushul route are not being issued this year so you will have to come back from Pangong to Leh and then go to Moririri.

Hi Vargis, the agent confirmed there is no issue of permits currently. :/

Thanks Chandan. I too heard back that permits are now being issued for Chushul route.

I am not sure abt the trip from Pangong to tso moriri, our local hired driver in leh told us that this year, no permits will be issued on this route, and the route will be closed for tourists. Some issue happened last year regarding a tourist rider who went on this route and lost his way and passed the checkpost without checking in – out and some mismatch became regarding entry and exit of vehicles along that way… so just keep in mind

Regarding AMS.. the key point is dont do any activity in haste manner, just walk slow 7 dont exhaust yourself if you feel you are going out of breath, just sit down, have good amount of water and relax for few mins

Thanks Jack. And yes, You are right. They were not issuing permits for Chushul route and Hanle earlier this year but have started now.

Sir, we are planning to start our journey from 8th june to 17th .Following are the iternery 1. Chandigarh to solang Valley. will stay one night. 8th jun 2. Solang to Jispa.will stay for one night 3. Jispa to Upsi. we r avoiding sarchu due to ams.but What about accomodation? 4. Upsi to leh. Actually we have 10 days only.so we have doubt should we go to Ladhak or not? Can u tell us best possible iternery. we r only 2 on a single bike.Actually we r more concerned abt Ams. Also I have migraine prblm. Should I worry reaching leh?

Hi Vipul – Why do you want to stay at Upshi? There is nothing there and it is hardly 1 hour away from Leh. Why not go directly to Leh?

Hello sir, Actually we have doubt whether we will be able to make it to leh or not from Jispa or not. Also tell us should we carry fuel or not. We have avenger 220

Yes you can make it to Leh from Jispa but just make sure that you start by first light of the day. Regarding fuel, please take a look at the post below.

https://vargiskhan.com/log/fuel-availability-in-leh-ladakh-manage/

Vargis Bhai, Hats off to your efforts to provide info. and guidance for Ladakh travellers like us.

We are leaving on 1st June morning from Chandigarh in 2010 model Maruti SX Zxi ( 2 couples – 4 person in total ) . Hoping for no issue with the vehicle. . Will reach Jammu ( 1st) , Srinagar (2nd) , Kargil(3rd) & Leh (4th June). Return via manali starting from Leh on 11th June . No hotel booking done so far. Kindly advice on hotel availability and road conditions and availability of Petrol in Nubra and Leh Manali highway cos I don’t want to carry petrol can in my car due to safety hazards. Thanks & Regards. – Pradeep

Pradeep Bhai – Sorry about delayed response. I guess you are already on your way by now.

Hi vargis bhai, Loved your article for planning a trip to ladakh. I am planning a trip to ladakh next july with my cousins I know its too early to ask,but if you could help me out with the itinerary for around 7-10 days. And which route will be best as i am really adventure junkie for to and fro travel. And lastly is it advisable to do self camping while on the trip maybe near leh or any place in between any recognisable nearby stop or village.

Vikram Bhai – Thank you for your kind words. Where are you traveling from and how are you traveling? You can definitely camp on your own but not everywhere. There are several dhabas en route and it would be wise to camp close to a dhaba rather than in the middle of nowhere.

Hi Varghis bhai,

Thanks for your response.

Day1-I will be travelling from mumbai by flight and will meet my cousins in jammu who stay there.

Day 2- From Jammu we are planning to go srinagar and maybe halt there for sighseeting that day.

Day 3- Leave for Leh.

Currently we have i20 vehicle for journey and we are 5 people.

But we are trying to arrange for an SUV as it is more comfortable and safe and maybe couple of more guys may join us after that.

So pls advise for remaining itinerary Including at what places to stay during journey.

I am travelling for the first time to ladakh and want places like pangong lake, Nubra Valley etc to be covered.and other must see places.as well.

We are planning 7 days for Ladakh places only

So kindly suggest places as per 7 days

And then while returning planning to come by Manali route.

And as before pls suggest places for stay during there as well.

Lastly, pls sugget cost of petrol per person if we go by I20 or if we plan to go by Suv for Jammu- Srinagar- Leh- Manali route

7 days will be a bit of rushed journey but you can travel in the following manner.

1. Srinagar to Kargil 2. Kargil to Leh 3. Leh (Arrange permits) 4. Leh to Nubra Valley (Diskit) 5. Diskit to Pangong via Shyok road 6. Pangong to Pang / Sarchu 7. Pang Sarchu to Manali

For cost estimate, please take a look at this article.

Hello vargisji Can u suggest me an itinerary for my parents for leh, nubra, pangong and tsomoriri and whatever sightseeing they can do while travelling through that way. They will be reaching on 16th Aug and will need to catch return flight on 24th Aug. And if any time is left they would like to visit zanskar and kargil.

Kindly suggest

Hello Vivek Ji – They are reaching there by flight and then hiring a local taxi, right? Or are they reaching there by road?

They will be reaching there by flight and then will hire a local taxi for the trip

kindly suggest the itinerary

Hello Vivek Ji,

They can follow the itinerary below.

16th – Leh – Rest and arrange permits 17th – Leh to Kargil 18th – Kargil to Leh 19th – Leh to Nubra Valley (Diskit) 20th – Nubra valley to Pangong via Shyok road 21st – Pangong to Leh 22nd – Leh to Tso Moriri 23rd – Moriri to Leh 24th – Fly Out

Dear vargisji Thanks for the reply.

Is there anything to see or visit in Kargil. As my tour operator is saying that one should visit Kargil only if one visit Zanskar as there is nothing to see In Kargil. So need ur help

There is not much to see in Kargil but since it is your parents, it will be better for them to not rush through the journey and rest in Kargiil before coming back. For coming back to Leh, they can travel via Batalik as well.

Hai.. vargis

We are 6 in member , we are planning the trip for leh on sep,2018 can u jst suggest me what should be the better way to reach lah and visit all the places of leg. Our trip is for 7- 10 days at max

Hi Jyotishree, How are you traveling and from where?

Jyotishree Madam, My best half and I will be visiting Leh Ladakh during Sep 2018 for 10 days max. I have prepared the itinerary and sending to vargis khan for suggestions. once the itinerary is finalised i will post it in the road raga forum and you can decide upon that. We are in 40s age from Chennai and pure veg, preferring Home Stays and Tourist Shared SUVs for our Trip via Srinagar route. Regards Sundar

Hello Mr. Chennai – Please let me know what your itinerary is and I will be happy to advise.

Vargis Bhai

We have arrived leh and planning for pangong tso tomorrow, we have kids age 3 and 8 should we make plan to stay in pangong overnight or should go and come back same day bearing in mind small kids What sort of stay we may get in pangong I mean comfort and cozy. We have came via Srinagar by road

Thanks in advance

Sachin Bhai there are several camp sites at Pangong and they are quite warm and comfortable. I hope you are not planning to go to Pangong first. Please cover Nubra valley and then go to Pangong, thus giving more time for acclimatization. Nubra is actually at an even lower altitude than Leh so that will be helpful.

I would be on Package Tour by Make My Trip, travelling from 21st May 2018 to 28th May 2018 ((7 Nights / 8 Days). We are group of 4. (Aged between 18 -45). Any thing to be arranged of my own or MMT will arrange every thing, which they are claiming to do. Any extra precaution to be taken by us, specially medication. What would be temperature during my stay period. What type of woolens to carry. Please advice

Hi Vinit – I am not sure about Makemytip or what arrangements they will make. Just carry some light woolens with a heavy warm and windproof jacket. Temperature will be warm enough during day but nights will get cold.

Ok so the revised itinerary is Day 1 : Manali to Jispa night stay at jispa Day 2 : Jispa-Sarchu-leh night stay at Leh Day 3: leh local sightseen Day 4: Leh to Nubra Valley night stay at Nubra valley Day 5 : Nubra valley to Pangong lake Day 6: Pangong to leh Day 7: leh to Tso moriri via Chumatang Day 8: Tso moriri to Sarchu via Tso kar Day 9: Sarchu to Manali I think this should be fine or any suggestions from your side.

Hello Vargis, First of all i would like to thankyou for such detailed information. We are planning to explore Leh in first-second week of July by our own vehicle. I would like to share my itinerary. Please go throughit and suggest some changes based upon your vast experience. Day 1 : Manali to Jispa night stay at jispa Day 2 : Jispa-Sarchu-leh night stay at Leh Day 3: leh local sightseen Day 4: Leh to Nubra Valley night stay at Nubra valley Day 5 : Nubra valley to Pangong lake Day 6: Pangong to Tso Kar/Tso moriri Day 7: Tso kar/Tso moriri to Jispa Day 8: Jispa to Manali

You cannot go directly from Pangong to Tso Moriri via Chushul. Permits for that are not being issued this year. You will have to return to Leh and then go to Moriri the next day so please add that day in between here.

From Tso Moriri, Jispa will be way too long. Do Moriri to Pang / Sarchu and then to Manali the next day.

Thanks for your support. Whether we can go to Tso Kar from Pangog on Day 6 and on Day 7 Tso Kar to Sarchu and on Day 8 Sarchu to Manali.

No Amit. You cannot do Pangong to Moriri right now. You will have to ,

Pangong to Leh Leh to Moriri via Chumathang Moriri to Sarchu via Tso Kar Sarchu to Manali

amit bhai last year we went through this route. at the border of leh and sarchu we changed our car like we got into the j&k registered car and straight went to tsomoriri. from there next day we went to pangong lake and the day after we went to nubra. and last we went to leh. u can even do that if your travel agent of j&k arranges the car as i said

Hello sir, I’ll be reaching leh by 19th of this month. I’m planning to visit three places nubra pangong and tsomoriri. I do not know how to drive a geared bike but I have been driving scooter for past 3years. I’ll be renting scooter from leh probably access 125cc. Will it be in good condition? I have read ur article pertaining to scooter ride to leh but my concern are the scooters available there serviced properly? What things should I pay attention too before renting a scooter? Any other tips for scooter ride for this year?

There are a lot of people offering bikes and Scooters on rent. Some of them are good and some bad. You will have to test ride a few to find a good one.

Hello We 5 people are planning to go Leh from delhi via Srinagar on 11th may by car. All Boys

Please plan our itinary’thanks in Advance

Hi – How many days do you have for the trip?

never seen such a lucid explanation capturing each and every nuance of the itinerary..great job bhai

Thanks Shakti Bhai for your kind words.

I’m planning to do a complete circuit of spiti and leh and i’ll be travelling on my own vehicle (car) in june first week. I have prepared an itinerary for 14 days to cover both the places ( 4-5 days for Spiti valley and 7 days for Leh, nubra valley and pangong tso and tso moriri). However, wanted to be sure which route would be better to avoid AMS — (delhi -shimla -narkanda -chitkul -tabo -kaza -chandratal -keylong -leh) or (delhi -srinagar -leh – nubra valley -pangong tso -tso moriri – keylong -chandratal -tabo -kaza- chitkul -shimla -delhi) . Please advise as i would be travelling with my wife and friends. Also, please share any itinerary for the the complete trip (leh +Spiti).

Your suggestion will be great help for us…

Hi Abhi – Do Delhi, Shimla, Leh, Srinagar. It will be better this way. Let me know what your itinerary is and I can suggest any changes if required.

Thanks for your help. I have prepared the below itinerary for this trip which is completely based on google maps and few itineraries from your older posts. Please review and let me know if any changes are required.

Day 1 | Delhi – Shimla / Narkanda – SATURDAY (400 km/9-10 hrs) Day 2 | Narkanda -Sangla / Chitkul (Kinnaur Valley) – SUNDAY (185km/6 hrs) Day 3 | Chitkul – Pooh -Nako – Nako Lake – Geyu Mummy – Tabo – MONDAY ( 250km/ 5-6 hrs) Day 4 | Tabo – Dhankar – Dhankar Lake – kaza – Losar -kunzum la – Chandratal – TUESDAY ( 150km/ 5-6 hrs) Day 5 | Chandratal – battal – chatru – gramphu – rohtang pass – keylong – jispa – WEDNESSDAY ( 203km/ 4-5 hrs) Day 6 | Jispa – sarchu – pang – leh – THURSDAY (355km/8-9hrs) Day 7 | Leh Sight seeing + ILP – Friday Day 8 | Leh – khardung la – kardungla village – diskit – hunder – diskit – SATURDAY (140km/5hrs) Day 9 | Nubra valley to pangong tso (spangmik) via agham shyok – SUNDAY (190km/6-7hrs) Day 10 | Spangmik – Merak – Chushul – karzok (Tso Moriri) – MONDAY (210km/ 7-8 hrs) Day 11 | Karzok to Leh via shey, thiksey, stakna – TUSEDAY ( 211km /5-6 hrs) Day 12 | Leh – Kargil -Dras – WEDNESSDAY (280km/6-7 hrs) Day 13 | Dras – sonamarg – srinagar – patnitop – udhampur – THURSDAY (381km/ 11-12 hrs) Day 14 | Udhampur – pathankot – jalandhar – ludhiana – ambala – Delhi ( 624km/ 11-12hrs)

Please see my comments below.

Day 1 | OK Day 2 | Will be a very long drive so start as early as you can from Narkanda. Can even take 8 hours. Day 3 | Very long drive again. 8-9 hours Day 4 | Long drive, almost 8-9 hours Day 5 | 8-9 Hours Day 6 | 9-10 hours Day 7 | OK Day 8 | OK Day 9 | OK. But there is a chance that Shyok road may even remain closed. Day 10 | Cannot get permits for Chushul route this year, at least not for now. Day 11 | OK Day 12 | OK Day 13 | Extremely long drive Day 14 | Extremely Long drive

Abhi bhai, can I join you in your trip

Hi Sateesh, I would be travelling with my family & friend (couple) so completely booked. However, we can definitely join together on the trip if you too want to follow the same itinerary. Regards, Abhi

I googled where to travel on summer vacation and I reached on your post and Realized Leh Ladakh is nice adventure place. so I plan a trip for Leh Ladakh. Thanks for sharing

Thank you for taking the time to drop a note Karan. I appreciate it.

Wow, awesome and very detailed blog. You have been very actively and genuinely answering to every query.

Thanks Mukesh Bhai

Hi vargis Khan,

How will be August end to visit ladakh. Is this season good to visit and how will be the road conditions. Are there good chances of rain during this time..also the roads to nubra valley and pangong lake are open during this time. Also can you suggest itinerary for 7d during August end.

Hi Ravin Take a look at the article below below. Should answer most of your questions above visiting Ladakh in August.

https://vargiskhan.com/log/ladakh-in-monsoon-safe-trip/

Roads will remain all unless a recent landslide blocks any section of the road. Unless it is a massive landslide, BRO usually clears the road in a few hours.

Itinerary from where and how will you be traveling?

Hi vargish Khan,

Thanks for the information.. Then mid September can be planned? What about the rain in leh and also on leh to Manali. We will be to travel from leh to Manali through road during this time. Another point is we want to travel tso moriri lake. So how will be roads condition on this area during this time.

Yes September is actually the best time to travel to Ladakh and I will recommend it if you can change your plan to Sep. There will be rain at this time. Road conditions will be good too. You can go to Moriri but will first have to go to Leh to get the permits.

Vargish Bhai,

Sept 15-23 how will be weather . My point is we will face snowfall n all. N what about cold? Will it be more chilly in mid of Sept or normal temperature to visit. Thanks a lot in advance.

Ravin Bhai it usually starts to snow at Khardung La and Chang La top by mid Sep so yes, you may find snow there but there will not be a snowfall in the lower areas (towns). Weather will be about OK, pleasant days but cold nights.

Thanks vargis Bhai..but roads to nubra, pangong and tso moriri will be open during snow in mid September. Snowfall will be very heavy or it will be normal and visit these places with less blockage

Bhai Roads are all open in September, do not worry about that part at all. In September roads are in their best condition actually.

Hi Vargis Bhai,

Please let me know if below plan is doable around 2nd week of June. We will be visiting local and on the ways places also.

Day 1–Delhi–Patnitop Day 2–Patnitop–Srinagar Day 3–Srinagar–Sonmarg Day 4–Sonmarg–Lamayuru Day 5–Lamayuru–Leh Day 6–Leh–Leh Day 7–Leh–Nubra Day 8–Nubra–Nubra Day 9–Nubra–Spangmik Day 10–Spangmik–TSO Moriri Day 11–TSO Morir–Sarchu Day 12–Sarchu–Manali Day 13–Manali–Delhi

Thanks Amit

Amit Bhai, how are you traveling? Riding your own bike I guess?

Just one change in the entire itinerary. Add one more day between Spangmik and Moriri. Plan it like this.

Day 9–Nubra to Spangmik Day 10–Spangmik to Hanle Day 11 – Hanle to Tso Moriri Day 12–Tso Moriri to Pang / Sarchu

Vargis Bhai, I’m travelling in a car. If i have choose from Hanle and TSO moriri, which one is must visit, extending a day will be difficult as i have my return tickets booked from Delhi on 14th day.

Amit Bhai you are talking about traveling from pangong to moriri via chushul, correct? If days are limited then do not extend but make sure that you start from Pangong by first light of the day. This is extremely important. Distance is not that great but the bad condition of the road will keep your speed strictly limited.

Thanks Vargis Bhai

Hello Vargis!

Amazing amount of information on this site. I had submitted an inquiry using the form on this site however, haven’t heard since. It might be the busy schedule that you juggle.

Nevertheless, if you can help us (got married recently) plan a honeymoon outing between June 8th & June 22nd, it would be greatly appreciated!

Regards, Kiran Bangalore

Hi Kiran – Sorry about the email. Gets a bit hard to keep a track and reply on all, sorry that I missed responding on yours.

Congratulations on your marriage. I wish you both the best. God Bless you !!!

You will have to get me a little more details though. You want to cover Ladakh between June 8th to 22nd? From where? You are catching a flight from Bangalore to Srinagar? How do you intend to travel locally then? Hire a taxi for the entire trip since it is your honeymoon?

Thanks for the reply, Vargis! Couldn’t reply sooner due to my own travel too.

Well, I was hoping to discuss the details via an email or Whats’app nevertheless, here is an overview of our plan. Since the last message, the plan has changed to probably drop Kashmir off and concentrate only on Leh-Ladakh region:

Day 1 Reach Leh by flight and relax

Day 2 Visit Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa and Leh Market

Day 3 Travel to Sangam from Leh (48 Km (Indus River & Zanskar river meet), Magnetic Hills(27 km), Gurudwara pattar sahib, Alchi (flood plains),Spituk Gompa Monastery & Hall of Fame Back to Leh for night stay

Day 4 (BIKE RIDE) Travel to Diskit – Nubra Valley via Khardunga La,Diskit (118 KM) Diskit Monastery,Shyok river(on the way), Hunder sand dunes (127.5KM) Night stay at Diskit

Day 5 (BIKE RIDE) Travel to Sumur (33KM)(1 hour), Panamik Hot springs, Khalsar(lunch)(23 Km) Return to Diskit for night stay

Day 6 (BIKE RIDE) Travel to Turtuk (92KM) 2-4 hours Return to Diskit for night stay

Day 7 (BIKE RIDE) Travel back to Leh Lunch at Khalsar (23 KM) and return to hotel

Day 8 Travel to Pangong Tso Lake, Shea Palace, Changla Pass, Spangmik Village Night stay at Pangong

Day 9 Visit Hemis Monastery, Karu(may be for lunch),Thikey on the way back to Leh Night stay at Leh

Day 10 Travel to Tsomoriri lake view point Night stay at Tsomoriri

Day 11 Travel back to Leh Night stay at Leh

————————————————————————————————————————————————-

As can be seen, a bike ride has been planned between Days 4-7. Please confirm if this is feasible to cover all the places/locations included. Do also feel free to include any other interesting/must see places we may have missed.

Kindly also let us know if the planned days/activities have sufficient buffer time to not make it very strenuous. We can stretch the entire trip by another 2 days as well.

Would be great if you can suggest recommendations for the night stays throughout the trip. We have split the itinerary by making 2 base-camps (one in Diskit & another in Leh), to facilitate covering as many locations/places around these places; as they are in different directions.

Thanks in advance again for the response anticipated shortly.

Regards, Kiran

Hi Kiran, Below is my recommendation on your travel plan. I am also considering that you are able to extend another 2 days.

Day 1 – Looks good Day 2 – Looks good Day 3 – Go all the way till Kargil and stay there for the night. Day 4 – Return to Leh Day 5 – Leh to Diskit – Stay for the night Day 6 – Diskit to Turtuk – Stay at Turuk for the nights Day 7 – Turtuk to Diskit to Khalsar to Panamik – Stay at Panamik for the night Day 8 – Return to Leh Day 9 – Leh to Pangong Day 10 – Pangong to Leh Day 11 – Leh to Moriri via Chumathang Day 12 – Moriri to Leh via Tso kar and Tanglang La

It will be better to travel this way in Nubra rather than returning to Diskit everytime. Turtuk and Panamik too have some good stay options.

Thanks again for the quick response, Vargis. So, I will consider that all interesting places are covered?

Can you provide recommendations for the stays at each place and if comingb them in advance is a most/necessity – given that the season would have just opened?

You are welcome KIran and yes, all major tourist places are covered. For recommended places to stay, take a look at the articles I listed above under Where to Say heading.

No need for advance booking. Just reach your destination, find a hotel per your liking and check in.

Will check! It’s all getting exciting by the minute. Will keep you posted about progress! 🙂

It will definitely continue to get even more exciting by each passing day.

Hi Vargis Sir.. Always you helped me regarding the trip details and all about leh.Thnkx alot 🙂 I forgot the imp thing which is Drinking water (Purified ones) Any info on this as to where it will be available, because i plan not to buy those small plastic bottles everyday as it will be too much cost and plastics 😛 Are there those big water bottles or any refill areas for drinking water?

Hi Jack, Thank you for your kind words. Drinking water pretty much will work the same way as it does in our cities. 1 liter or 2 liter bottles will be the only choice. Any bigger than that and your biggest concern will be on how to carry it around. Hotels and Restaurants mostly have water purifiers installed so that is one place where you may check for refill.

Oh ok Thnkx ..

Hi vargis ji I have booked flight tickets to reach leh on 6th july morn and return fliight on 17 july from leh My iteneary for road trip Plan 1 6 july Leh rest 7 july Leh to nubra 8 july nubra to pangong via shylok 9 july pangong to leh via changla pass 10 july Leh to Hanle (refuel the tank and move on) 11 july Hanle – Unmigla – Hanle 12 july Hanle – Karzok 13 july Karzok to Leh 14 july Leh to kargil 15 july Kargil to Leh 16 july rest 17 july morn flight to delhi

plan 2 or 6 july Leh rest 7 july Leh to nubra 8 july nubra to pangong via shylok 9 july pangong to hanle ( to continue beyond i may need petrol? is it available in hanle) 10 july Hanle – Unmigla – Hanle 11 july Hanle – Karzok 12 july Karzok to Leh via “Debring” 13 july rest 14 july Leh to kargil 15 july kargil to leh 16 july rest 17 july morn flight to delhi

My questions are 1.I made plan 1 considering the availability of fuel? if fuel available in Hanle i will go with plan 2

2. Can i add any other place in the trip as i want to cover Leh fully ( have i missed any place???)

3.On 16 july can i travel on Leh manali highway till some distance ???

4. Is it possible to visit manali and come back???? ( in same Leh rented bike) ( instead of two days rest and kargil visit)

13 july Leh to sarchu 14 july sarchu to manali 15 july manali to sarchu 16 july sarchu to leh 17 july morn flight to delhi

If not allowed to return from manali on Leh rented bike ? till what distance i can travel in Leh bike on Leh manali route?

Sorry for long post Thanks in advance.

Hello Srinivasan Bhai,

Your second itinerary is much better and ideal. Go with that plan please.

1. You can get fuel at Pangong Tso in black, approximately Rs. 100 per liter. You can also get it at Karzok for this price. Hanle I am not sure but it may be available this year because of Umling La. 2.Do not go to Manali as it may become a problem. Since you have time, you can either cover Zanskar Valley from Kargil, or cover the Batalik route and Sham valley. Something like this.

Leh to Kargil Kargil tO Padum Padum to Kargil Kargil to Leh

Leh to Kargil Kargil to Batalik (will have to get permit for this) Batalik to Hemis Shukpachan Hemis to Leh

I will recommend covering Zanskar valley though.

Thanks a lot. I will discuss Zanskar valley idea with my friends and will plan accordingly. The problem is fuel ???? As u mentioned If i can get in Pangong Tso and Karzok then for sure I will start Leh – nubra ; nubra – pangong (fill tank again & carry 15 litre backup) ; Pangong – hanle; Hanle – unmigla – hanle; hanle – karzok (fill tank again & carry 15 litre backup ) hanle – Leh

Total 6 Days Then will give a try Leh to Kargil Kargil tO Padum Padum to Kargil Kargil to Leh

Thank a lot for answering all my queries. Between I am a Vlogger https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOROckvpeBSwvYosQ9W2l4A?view_as=subscriber

In all my leh videos I have to give credit to u for helping me plan better

Did we talk last year as well? That Zojila Pass video looked familiar? This is not your first Ladakh trip then? How are you planning to carry around fuel?

Ya last year was my first trip via srinagar with my family members.

This year I planned to cover the leh region alone with friends.

2 jeery cans on each side of bike ( 10 liters each). I have a pillion too. But our luggage is very minimum.

2 Jerry Cans should suffice really, more than enough. To be on a safer side, before you start towards Hanle, get a tank full done at Chadar tents at Pangong. You will find fuel there. One tank full and 20 liters of spare fuel will be more than enough for Pangong to Hanle to Karzok to Tandi (next petrol pump). I have done this with just one tank full, and some spare fuel in 2 liters Pepsi bottles flung over my back in bag. I kept emptying them one by one after every 40-50 kilometers or so. Are you planning Umling La as well?

Yes buddy If i get permit and BRo allows then Umling-la is on the cards.

Leh nubra ; nubra – pangong ; (300km ) (15 litre) Pangong – hanle; Hanle – unmigla -Hanle; (162+210 = 375 km) (19 litre) Hanle – Karzok; Karzok – sarchu; sarchu -leh (619 km ) (31 litre)

total petrol = 15+19+31 = 65 around 70 I will try in pangong Tso Hanle and Karzok I assumed 20 Km/litre ????

Planning a thunderbird 350 its fuel tank is 20 litre whereas RE classic is 13.5 litre

My itinerary fully depends on fuel availability at Pangong Hanle and karzok

20-25 kilometers is a safe number to assume. Tank full at Leh and it will see you easily till Pangong. Then Tank full at Pangong again and you will comfortable make it to Hanle. So your 20 liters will still be saved. As I suggested, arrange for 2 liters Pepsi or Coke Bottles as kind of safe reserve. Not hard to carry as well and will easily fit in with your luggage.You can carry about another 6-8 liters this way.

I have an Electra and completed the Leh-Diskit-Pangongp-Hanle-Karzok-Pang-Sarcu-Tandi only with Pepsi bottles, nothing else so you really have nothing to worry about.

For Umling La, take a look at this post where I explained the entire route in details.

https://vargiskhan.com/log/umling-la/

Sure vargis ji, I will carry extra fuel and according to availability will refuel in stops u mentioned. Umling la post is very useful. And This year people want to give it a try and this post of yours on Umling la is very much needed one.

Thanks a lot

Thanks Srinivasan Bhai. Do let me know how your trip went after your return

Sure will let you know how the trip went. And i may ask more doubts before leaving on July 5th… Hope u wont mind Thanks a lot .

No problem brother. Happy to help.

Srinivasan Bhai – Take a look at this article. You should have no problem with fuel.

https://vargiskhan.com/log/fuel-availability-leh-ladakh-manage/

This article is based on situation as of last year September so most recent.

We are planning a bike trip from Manali to Leh -Srinagar and than back to Manali.

Day 1-Manali to Jispa- Day 2-Jispa to Sarchu- Day 3-Sarchu to Leh- and local sight seeing on that day- Day 4-Leh to Nubra- Day 5-Nubra to Pangong- Day 6-Pangong to Tso Moriri Lake- Day 7-Tso-Moriri to kargil- Day 8-Kargil to Srinagar and than back to Manali

Is this itenary possible ?? Can i just rent a bike from Manali and leave it at Srinagar ? I also plan to do river rafting at Nemu? Will it take extra day ? I m planning to go on 31 st May ? So should i book the hotels or should bargain at the hotels there ? Can you please tell me the time (hours ) for the above itenary?

Or should i start my journey from Srinagar ? However, I heard that one incures transportation cost if i take a bike from srinagar and leave it at manali ?

Hello Namrata,

1. You will have to add a day in Leh after arriving here, in order to arrange for permits. 2. Pangong to Tso Moriri is way too long or a single day. This is ideally a 2 day journey. 3. You cannot do Moriri to Kargil in a day. This too is a 2 days jorney at the least. 4. Yes you can rent a bike from Manali and leave at Srinagar but that will incur additional cost of around 10-15,000 apart from your daily rental 5. Yes, rafting at Nimmoo will by an additional day 6. No need to book in advance. 7. You must add more days to the trip. 8 day is way too less to cover the route you want to cover.

Thanks for your reply.

I m planning to hire a car from Delhi for the whole trip. They claim that such leased car is allowed in Leh. Is it true ?..

Hi Namrara – The leased car from Delhi will only be allowed till Leh. To visit other areas in Ladakh like Nubra and Pangong, you will have to rent a local cab from there. The Delhi cab will not be allowed to ply on these routes.

Good Evening Vargis

Please suggest wheather this plan is ok to visit leh or u want to change .

17 june 2018. Night at sonamarg 18 june 2018. Night at kargil 19 june 2018. Night at leh 20 june 2018. Night at leh 21 june 2018. Night at nubra valley 22 june 2018. Night at leh 23 june 2018. Night at Pangong 24 june 2018. Night at leh 25 june 2018. Night at leh 26 june 2018. Night at sarchu 27 june 2018. Night at manali 28 june 2018. Home

Regards Khawinder Sharma Punjab

Kaise ho Khawinder Bhai?

Your plan looks great. Just one minor change I will suggest. Rather than coming from Nubra to Leh, go directly to Pangong via Shyok road. Ask while you are in Nubra valley and if the road is open, then you do not have to come back to Leh again. This way you will save a day in between.

The day you saved above, use it while traveling to Manali. Add a night stay at Jispa at the camp site or wooden cottages. Very scenic place and a good experience. I will highly recommend it.

Thanks for giving valuable sugestion..

You are welcome

Dear Vargis Ji, Good Evening, I am planning to come to Leh on 5th April 18 from Delhi & will be back on 11th April 2018. Going there with my 2 friends. Can u help me in making a suitable itinerary for 5 days. I want to go to Nubra Valley, visit Changthang wild life sanctuary or Hemis National Park, Pangong lake/ Tso Moriri lake & local sight seeing.

Thanks & Regards, Harish aggarwal

Hello Harish Ji – I am guessing that you will be renting a private taxi for traveling locally, is that correct? Visiting Changthang as well in 5 days would be a bit tough so I will recommend that you keep that out and only travel towards Nubra and Pangong. Please take a look at the article below for a few recommended itineraries. Let me know if you have any other questions.

Dear Vargis Ji, Thanks for replying, We will have Mahindra Xylo there for moving around. I have read all your options of 6 days itinerary. Your last 2 options are the ones, which cover the most. Only catch is, we will there on 5th April by Morning flight & coming back on 11th April, the weather will permit the way from Nubra to pangong or not? Can u put some light on it? Regards, Harish Aggarwal

You are welcome Harish Bhai. Yes, you will be able to cover Nubra and Pangong at that time. Roads will remain open. Please take a look at the post below where I have provided more information on this.

https://vargiskhan.com/log/ladakh-roads-in-winter/

Hello Mr khan Your blogs have been of immense help in planning our upcoming trip to Ladakh in the 1st week of june2018. Wanted to know about the latest condition of Agham Shyok road as I have found in some blogs that this Nubra to Pangong route has seen vast improvement of late. I will be travelling with my wife & son , & will it be safe to take this route as it saves a day which is really crucial considering our packed itinerary?

Hello Mr. Mukherjee – It is correct. There has been a lot of work on Shyok road last year and it is now in a much better and safer condition to travel on. See below of a picture of the road from last year.

https://vargiskhan.com/log/agham-shyok-road/

Thanks a lot Mr khan for sharing this valuable information. Please suggest whether the innova or the xuv should be the preferred taxi for the entire Ladakh trip.

You are welcome Mr. Mukherjee. Please go for an XUV as it has better ground clearance at 200MM as commpared to Innova at 176MM.

Many thanks

Hi Vargis Sir…As i will be going with my dad to Ladakh, we plan to take private cab from srinagar to Leh via Drass so that for 1-2 hrs we can spend at Drass Memorial and then direct to leh As my dad is 63, is it safe to take him in those areas for a period of 10 days total (We plan to visit our family doctor in advance for safety tips & medication) There wont be any major health issues as such, right?

Thanks in advance for the response

Hello Jack – 63 is not that old to be honest, he is still a young man. Do not worry, lot of people go there with their parents but yes, do consult your doctor.

Hi, vargis. This is chetan from Mumbai. Your blogs are helping many out there. I just need a piece of advice from you. We are planing a 16 day trip to ladakh. We’ll enter leh from srinagar and exit from manali. We have our friend whose uncle stays in jalandhar and has a tavera which is his personal car having white number plate whose registration done in himachal pradesh itself. The uncle claims that he’ll help showing us ladakh. He’ll pick us from jamu tawi and will drop us back in chandigarh. What do you advice, we go with him or take a tourist yellow plate car? Taking uncles car will save us a hell lot of money and the same car can enter everywhere being white number plate Suggestions required! -waiting for your reply.

Hi Chetan– If the vehicle is registered in your uncle’s name and he is driving it himself, by all means please go with him. If you taake a yellow number plate taxi, you will again have to rent a local taxi in Ladakh which will shoot your total expense of the trip very high.

Sry for same comments .It was due to some misunderstanding.We are friends from the same group prasad and me.

No worries brother

Hi, Vargis. This is Prasad from Mumbai. Your blogs are helping many out there. I just need a piece of advice from you. We are planing a 16 day trip to ladakh. We’ll enter leh from srinagar and exit from manali. We have our friend whose uncle stays in jalandhar and has a tavera which is his personal car having white number plate whose registration done in himachal pradesh itself. The uncle claims that he’ll help showing us ladakh. He’ll pick us from jamu tawi and will drop us back in chandigarh. What do you advice, we go with him or take a tourist yellow plate car? Taking uncles car will save us a hell lot of money and the same car can enter everywhere being white number plate Suggestions required! -waiting for your reply.

Hi Prasad – If the vehicle is registered in your uncle’s name and he is driving it himself, by all means please go with him. If you taake a yellow number plate taxi, you will again have to rent a local taxi in Ladakh which will shoot your total expense of the trip very high.

Ty for ur info n suggestion. N u have good sense of humour bro 😉

Thanks Prasad

We are going leh on 12 June 2017 from Srinagar​ leh highway. 1)Will the surgical strike effect our trip to leh? 2) We are a total 8 person plus one driver in my personal innova(white numer plate).Is there a problem with this?Will our car be restricted anywhere considering the total number of commuters in our car?

No such restriction on Srinagar Leh highway. You will be able to complete the journey without any problem.

Is it safe going Leh by flight??

But which one is more adventure. Traveling by flight or bike to Ladakh?

Ladakh by Bike is definitely more adventurous as compared to flight.

Hi vargis, our plan to visit spiti, ladakh, sachpass in 25th June to 15 July with our bikes, our plan is Shimla to kalpa Kalpa to kaza Kaza to kaylong Kaylong to leh Leh to nubra Nubra to pangong Pangog to hanle or tso moriri depends on permit Hale or tso moriri to leh Leh to sonmarg or Srinagar Srinagar to kistwar Kistwar to sachpass to killar Killar to Manali Is this plan ok for June to July15 ? And my bike is activa5g 109cc,

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A 6 days Ladakh Travel Guide

Last Updated on: Feb 19, 2021  

There are two types of travellers – one who have visited Ladakh and the other who haven’t! Ladakh is a magical place. All those who have visited Ladakh cannot get enough it. And there are others who are still in two minds about visiting this enchanting land. And I don’t blame them. And this Ladakh Travel Guide is for all those planning their trips to Ladakh.

Nestled between the Himalayan, Zanskar and the Karakoram ranges, Ladakh seems to be quite isolated and cut-off from the rest of India. Infact, Leh is accessible by roads only during a certain time of the year (between June to October) when the Manali-Leh and Srinagar-Leh Highways are not blocked due to snow. Ladakh stands at an altitude between 10000 to 15000 ft ASL and experiences extremes of temperature between 25 degrees to -30 degrees!

But visiting this wonderland is not that difficult. Ladakh offers a variety of options to the tourists. From its magnificent monasteries to the azure blue lakes and the cold deserts, the eternal beauty that lies hidden between those layers of mountains, Ladakh will steal your heart. Here is a 6 days Ladakh Travel Guide that will answer almost all your questions and will allay your fears. 

We had visited Ladakh after our trip from Amarnath Yatra . We could not actually decide between travelling to Ladakh or exploring the Kashmir region. Kashmir is equally beautiful and we had been looking into Kashmir Tour Packages as well. Somehow, Ladakh won and Kashmir was kept for sometime later!

Day 1 – Rest and Acclimatisation:

As you arrive at Leh, don’t just rush with your tour. The first day should be kept for acclimatisation. You are arriving at a much lower height to a height of 11000 ft. your body needs time to adjust. Use this day to roam around Leh. Visit the Shanti Stupa in the afternoon and stay till the evening. You can also visit the colourful local markets of Leh. Take a look at the junk jewellery and the colourful funky dresses. Experience the colour and flavour of Leh to the full.

Day 2 – Pangong Blues:

Visit the famous Pangong Lake today. Start early in the morning. Pangong Tso (Tso means lake) is 160 km from Leh and you have to cross the world’s 3rd highest motorable Pass, the Chang La (17586 ft). After you pass Chang La, the barren landscape will change into beautiful meadows with streams flowing by. You can see yaks and the cute marmots on the road. You will reach Pangong by noon. Stay overnight by the lakeside at tents. See the changing colours of the lake at a different time of the day.

Start from Pangong towards Leh. On the way back, visit the Hemis Monastery , Thicksey Monastery, Shey Palace, Rancho’s School (Rancho from the movie 3 Idiots) and the Sindhu Ghat. Hemis Monastery is one of the largest and oldest monasteries of Leh. You can realise the grandeur of the monasteries only after you visit them.

Day 4 – Monastery Hopping:

Keep this day for Monastery hopping . Start early to visit the famous Lamayuru Monastery. Lamayuru is 120 km from Leh town.   Lamayuru is also called the moon land. The view of the monastery from the road is simply breathtaking. While returning from Lamayuru, visit the Alchi, Likir and Spituk Monastery and Gurudwara Pathar Sahib. Also, visit the Magnetic Hills. On this particular stretch of Srinagar-Leh Highway , you can see the road going uphill. Yet if you turned off the engine of the car and let it stand neutral, it will slowly start moving!

Day 5 – Nubra Valley:

Head towards the mystical Nubra Valley today. While going, you have to cross world’s highest motorable pass, the Khardung La (17580 ft). you can stop at the Pass and to take proud photographs and also have tea at the Army Canteen.

As you will reach Hunder, you will see stretches of sands. Just imagine your car running through pitch-black road with soft yellow sands on both sides. Will it not look like straight out of a picture? At Hunder, ride on the double-humped back camel. Visit the Distik Monastery beside the Shyok River. Stay at Hunder this night and star gaze at the clear night skies.

Return from Nubra Valley to Leh. Spend this day at Leh exploring the town and local market. You will also need the much deserved rest after so much travel.

Return from Leh the next day.

Your Ladakh trip of 6 days is completed. If you manage to add a couple of days, then you can also visit the Tso Moriri and Hanu Dha. This is the most basic tour of Ladakh. It has other adventure options also. There are many trek routes here. The famous Chadar Frozen River Trek is done in the months of January and February. Bike trip to Ladakh is also a good option for all the adventure seekers.

Some important tips for the Ladakh Travel Guide:

• Altitude: Leh is at a height of 11480 ft
• Best Time to visit: June to September
• The best way to visit Leh by road is to enter by the Srinagar-Leh Highway and return by the Leh – Manali highway. This also helps in proper acclimatisation. Or else, you can book a flight.
• During June to September, the weather remains pleasant. In the day, you will need light clothes while at night, you might need a light sweater.
• Since Ladakh is at a greater height and if you have breathing problems, it is better to consult your doctor before visiting. Usually, there is nothing to fear. Most people manage very well even at such heights.
• We did the trip by hiring a private car. You can also check out various Leh Ladakh Tour Packages and choose according to the number of days you have.
• Please keep Ladakh clean and do not litter. Travel well and responsibly.

Agni Amrita

Related posts.

Hunderman – Ghost Village near Kargil with Museum of Memories

A Trip to Changthang Valley in Ladakh and a Failed one to Tso Moriri

Changpa Tribe of Changthang, Ladakh – The Story of Pashminas

Sham Valley in Ladakh – A Complete Travel Guide

Basgo Monastery, Ladakh – Ruins of Palace and Fort

Saspol Caves – Best-kept Secret of Sham Valley, Ladakh

Since long want to visit ladakh and your picture and articles made me more inclined to visit it soon.

This place looks AWESOME! Would definitely love to visit! <3 You're guide is definitely note-worthy. Will bookmark this! 😀

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The ultimate travel guide to Ladakh

By Joan Torres 10 Comments Last updated on August 25, 2023

Ladakh is a remote place belonging to a northern Indian state, which for some reason doesn’t receive as many tourists as the rest of the country.

I was wondering: Why is that i wonder? This region is a bit remote and of difficult access. Normally, people don’t know about it or haven’t even heard of it. Why? Maybe it’s because Hindu culture can’t be enjoyed here, which is one of the mains reasons for going to India.

So what can you do and find in there? Ladakh is basically a Himalayan region where authentic Tibetan people live in. It’s often called the little Tibet, and for the Indians themselves, this is the best spot where to spend their vacations in India. Why? In India chaos rules, it’s overpopulated and there’s traffic everywhere.

Ladakh is a different place which differs from all these stereotypes. Here you find peace and silence, which combined with the stunning Himalayan landscape and the  Tibetan culture visible in every corner, sometimes you may even forget that you are actually in India.

That being said,  the following Travel guide to Ladakh aims to provide you with detailed travel tips such as prices, accommodation, and transportation, as well as an overview of the main things to do and see, so you know what to expect upon your arrival in Ladakh.

If you are seeking more in-depth and detailed information, I recommend you to find inspiration on any of the following posts:

Markha Valley Trek, the ultimate budget guide Tibetan culture in Ladakh: Buddhism and gompas A guide to Tibetan food in Ladakh Khardung La: Driving over the highest road the world on a scooter

Ladakh is a region that belongs to the Indian state Jammu and Kashmir, which extends from the Kunlun mountain range to the Great Himlayas .

The whole area of Ladakh is located at a very high altitude. Its capital, Leh, is at 3,500 meters above sea level, and has a large number of peaks reaching over 6,000 meters

Here you find:

Top things to do in Ladakh The people Travel Insurance for Ladakh Language Religion Food Alcohol How much does it cost Trekking Transportation Altitude sickness Safety Visa When to go Get in Money Internet

Top things to do in Ladakh

Ladakh might be a small region within India, but it’s actually double the size of Switzerland. Nevertheless, the unpopulated mountains occupy most part of it. In my opinion, the  top things to do and see in Ladakh are:

If you arrive by plane, the capital is going to be your first destination. Leh is a fantastic place to explore. Leh palace, the most iconic building of the city, is definitely worth a visit. You can also watch the sunset from Shanti stupa, visit Tibetan refugee markets or simply wander around its narrow alleys and streets.

In Leh, you will get a first glimpse of what Tibetan culture   is like.

Nubra Valley

A vast sea of sand dunes in the Himalaya itself. Can you believe it? Nubra Valley is a desert similar to those of Arabia but located at 4,000 meters above sea level and surrounded by the Himalayan range. Here you also find two-humped hairy camels.

Tibetans claim that the origin of this desert comes from Tethys , a sea from the depths from which the Himalayas are supposed to have risen.

Khardung La

This is nothing less than the highest motorable road in the world . It connects Leh with Nubra Valley and its highest point passes over 5,600 meters.

Pangong Tso Lake

A lake located at 4,350m above sea level which extends across India and China. People go to this lake to see the stunning landscape and for hiking.

Chemrey gompa

In my opinion, the most beautiful gompa out there in Ladakh, having been built and perfectly shaped on the top of a steep hill. Looking at it is merely impressive.

Tso Moriri Lake

The highest lake in Ladakh (4,522m) and one of the most beautiful ones owing to its surroundings, green pastures and white peaks

Thiksey gompa

Though the most touristic gompa , this fortification is almost like a small town. It has shops, restaurants, a hotel and a huge monk community living there.

Learning Tibetan culture

Ladakh is the place in the world where Tibetan culture is more accessible. Whereas foreigners have always had restrictions when going to Tibet, in Ladakh you can talk freely, walk around and go wherever you want. If you want to know more about it, I suggest you read this post about Tibetan culture in Ladakh .

Hemis gompa

If you travel to Ladakh during July, Hemis monastery is a must to visit since it’s where the Hemis Festival takes place, a popular festival famous for its masked parade. It’s one of the most sacred rituals in Ladakh.

Hiking around the unique Himalayan range of Ladakh is one of the biggest highlights of the trip. There are an endless number of treks adapted for any kind of traveler. For more information, check on the Trekking section of this guide .

Keep reading: Kashmir Travel Guide

Getting off the beaten track

Ladakh region is already off the path, but during high season (July & August), some spots may get busy. Places like Leh, popular gompas , Khardung La pass and Nubra Valley are probably among the most crowded ones.

If you want to avoid the crowds, Pangong Tso Lake and  Tso Moriri Lake are the perfect options. Trekking is also a good way to get off the beaten track, even in popular treks like Markha Valley .

Last, if you are renting a vehicle,  driving the empty roads of Ladakh is an awesome experience and there are endless unexplored villages where you can randomly stop and look around. I suggest you drive to Chemrey and explore the surrounding area.

By the way, if you decide to visit popular gompas like Thiksey or Hemis, it’s better to go in the afternoon or early evening to avoid the crowds.

The people: the Ladakhis

Ladakhis are both ethnically and linguistically close to Tibetans. During the 8th century, a royal Tibetan annexed the region to himself and as a consequence, a huge number of Tibetans came and established roots there.

In addition, in the past decades, after the invasion of China, thousands of Tibetans have been seeking refuge in Ladakh. Ladakhis are kind people always willing to help or establish a conversation.

Ladakhis neither look like Indians nor feel like Indians. I turned out that i was in Ladakh during Indian Independence Day. In India, this day is quite a big deal, but in Ladakh, it was just a normal day like any other one. Yes, there were a few flags hanged from a few balconies, but that’s it. They told me they don’t feel Indian. Nevertheless, don’t get confused and think that they don’t get along with the rest of the country. In fact, they are really happy with the Indian government because it gives them a significant level of autonomy and freedom.

Travel Insurance for Ladakh

Like any trekking destination, traveling with proper travel insurance is a must.

In the mountains, you can get injured very easily and, if you got seriously injured, you may have to be rescued.

Therefore, I always recommend World Nomads , as it is the only company that provides with unlimited medical coverage plus it covers a big bunch of adventure activities. For example, the basic plan already covers for trekking up to 6,000 meters.

Get your free quote here

Ladakhi is the most common language used across the region and it’s merely a Tibetan dialect . Additionally, Hindi and Urdu are widely used among educated people.

Some useful Tibetan words are:

Hello:  Jullay How are you?:  Khamzang ina-le? Thank you: Jullay – Same as ”Hello”. Literal translation would be ”Greetings” You’re welcome:  O’-Jullay I am sorry:   Gongspa salazad Excuse me:  Gongspa salazad – Getting attention

English in Ladakh

I think Ladakh is one of the places in Asia where English is more widely spoken. In cities and larger towns, almost everybody speaks a fairly comprehensible English. But the surprising thing came on the day when, while driving with my scooter, I randomly stopped to take a picture of an old peasant lady who was collecting wheat. I approached her and kindly asked her if I could take a picture. Then she told me in  English: ”Can I see it?”. I was shocked. We started to talk and she even gave me her address so I could send her the picture.

OK, her English was not great, but if you guys have ever traveled around Asia you will understand what am I talking about. It was the first time ever I could establish a conversation with a random peasant in Asia.

Since most of the population is Tibetan, Tibetan Buddhism is the predominant religion in Ladakh and it plays a key role Ladakhi everyday life. According to a monk I met, families turn at least one of their sons in to Buddhism. Strong Buddhist faith can be felt across all Ladakh, in every village and in every monastery, and that is definitely one of the highlights when traveling to Ladakh.

Nevertheless, a large  Muslim population also lives in this region, especially in the area bordering Kashmir Valley.

Tibetan Food

Food in Ladakh is sort of unique and that’s why I thought it should deserve an extensive separate post. Click here to read about what Tibetan cuisine is like in Ladakh .

Alcohol in Ladakh

Sadly, alcohol in Ladakh is sort of a sensitive topic and it’s not widely available. Apparently, there’s been some issues with alcohol and nowadays it’s quite regulated. You can find it, but only in a few places.

Bars and restaurants have to pay huge fees and mostly can’t afford them. Nevertheless, please don’t start crying yet. There are loads of restaurants who serve it illegally (or unofficially, like they like to call it). They bring it inside paper bags and instead of a glass you get a coffee cup.

Typically they just serve beer and two brands are available: King Fisher , a 5.5% beer brewed in Bangalore which I personally don’t like it because it doesn’t have much gas and God Father , which is the Kashmir state local beer. The label claims to have 8% alcohol but it’s not true. It’s a very light beer but then I realized that the label actually says: maximum 8%. Strange, right?

Note: Remember that Ladakh is a high altitude region and therefore you get drunk way quicker. It can be fun, I know. But if you are having a headache or you are not sure about your acclimatization, you had better stay away from it.

How much will cost you traveling to Ladakh?

While Ladakh is a cheap destination, according to Indians it’s the most expensive place within India. Let me tell you what’s the cost of the most typical things:

Accommodation

I have never in my life seen as many guesthouses as in Leh. There’s a guest house on absolutely every street and corner. That’s the way locals make a living. Please note that these prices refer to high season (summer).

Budget option: You can find very basic rooms for as cheap as 500-800 rupees per night. Normally, these guest houses won’t have internet, and other than a thin mattress and a toilet you won’t get anything else. Nevertheless, most of them have a beautiful garden where you can read, relax or have breakfast. A lot of budget guest houses may be found in Karza road, just 5 minutes away from the city center. I don’t think so you need to book in advance. I found one very quickly during the busiest season in August.

More comfortable option: If you are looking for a slightly better option with a comfortable mattress and wifi, you can find rooms for 1,600 rupees. I stayed one night in Shaolin guest house . Mattresses were superb and they had quite a nice common area with pillows. The staff is a lovely and kind Tibetan family. They speak perfect English. They have a garden as well. It’s a bit far from the busy city center, which means that there’s complete silence.

In restaurants where locals eat, meals typically cost between 60 and 100 rupees. In more touristy (and hygienic) restaurants, meals start at 180 rupees, depending on what you order. Water costs 30 rupees per liter and coffee 50 rupees.

For a half liter beer, you will pay an average price of 170 rupees.

Transportation

Private taxis within Leh: Short taxi rides cost around 200 rupees.

Private taxis to other places in Ladakh: Prices vary depending on where you go. Round trip to Nubra Valley costs 6,800 rupees. Khardung La costs 2,600 rupees and Pnagon Lake, 9,500 rupees. Prices are standard and set by the Ladakh government. They shouldn’t charge you more. Please note that all agencies have shared taxi service and they help you out finding other people to share the car with.

Shared local taxis: Using the local transportation is the cheapest way to move around. For example, going from Leh to Thiksey (20km) costs as cheap as 100 rupees.  For more information, check on the How to move around  section of this guide .

Scooter rental:  Price per day for renting a scooter is 800 rupees. By the way, gas costs 70 rupees per liter.

Motorbike rental: Big bikes cost 1,300 rupees per day. If you are planning to rent it for a long term, I met a guy who managed to pay only 800 a day for a full month rental.

Entrance fees

Entrance fees to gompas cost either 0 or 50 rupees. The only expensive fee I ever paid was when I went to Leh Palace (300 rupees).

Do you need to tip?

You are not forced to tip, but people involved in tourism might expect a tip from you. According to locals, both guide and porters may expect a $1-$2 tip per day. But again, tipping is not mandatory.

Minimum average price per day

Accommodation: Budget single room: 700 rupees

Food: Local breakfast + Lunch in a local restaurant + Dinner in a touristy restaurant: 60 + 80 + 220 = 360 rupees

Beer: 2 beers: 340 rupees

Transportation: Scooter rental + 2 liters of gas: 800 + 140 = 940 rupees

Miscellaneous:  Water + snacks + personal care products =  300 rupees

Total price = 700 + 360 + 340 + 940 + 300 = 2,640 rupees = 40$ a day

Trekking in Ladakh

Hiking the deserted and remote mountains of Ladakh is one of the best trekking experiences you will ever have, and this is not only my opinion but experienced trekkers who said that the Himalayan range of Ladakh is the wildest, most stunning and dramatic you can ever encounter.

Which trek should I choose?

This is a very good question. First, you need to ask yourself: How many days do I want to be trekking? Do I want to sleep in homestays or in a tent? Do I want to go independently or with a guide? Do I want to see people and experience Tibetan culture or just landscape?

There are a lot of different treks which can be adapted to any kind of need. Once you are in Leh, you should go to each and every agency and ask for all options and details. Nevertheless, here’s a quick overview of some of the most popular hikes in Ladakh:

Markha Valley (4 to 9 days): This is the most flexible and adaptable one. It has both culture and amazing landscape. Some sections are pretty challenging. The highest point is 5,200 meters. You can complete the trek in just 4-5 days depending on from where you start. Markha Valley may be one of the most popular treks in Ladakh but still, it is way more authentic than most of the treks offered in Nepal.

Nubra Valley trek (2 to 6 days):  One of the least frequented treks. There are no home-stays and you need to bring your own camping equipment.

Rumtse to Tsomoriri Trek (8 Days Trek) : Local guides claim that this is their favorite trek. It’s characterized by arid plain mountains, nomads and amazing high altitude lakes, the most famous being  Tsokar & Tso Moriri.

Spituk to Matho (3-4 days) : One of the shortest treks and just perfect for those seeking something moderate. This trek goes through Hemis National Park, a place where snow leopards have been spotted.

Lamayuru to Darcha Trek (18 days) : This is one of the longest treks, yet one of the richest in terms of culture. It passes by a big number of Tibetan villages and monasteries, the most famous being Phuktal, a gompa located literally in a waterfall.

Do you need a guide or agency?

First of all, I just want to tell you that there’s no need for booking a trekking tour in advance from your home country . Booking a tour in Leh is significantly cheaper and there are literally dozens of trekking agencies looking desperately for trekking groups. Don’t worry, you won’t miss your trek.

Second of all, you might be wondering… Do I actually need a guide? Or can I do it on my own? That mainly depends on your level of expertise. Me for example, I am not a beginner but I am also not an expert. If I had to go on a 10 days trek on my own, having to bring my own camping equipment and cooking my own food, I would probably starve to death. I don’t know about coordinates or how to use a compass. On the other hand, if a trek has plenty of homestays and a clear route to follow (like Markha Valley for example), then I would feel comfortable to do it on my own.

My suggestion? Trekking agencies are very helpful and they don’t hesitate in providing you with all the information you need. You can ask them whether it’s feasible or not to do it on your own. They will give you the itinerary and all details and then you just make your own judgment.

How to choose the right agency in 4 easy steps

Step 1: Go to 10 trekking agencies and ask for all trekking options and details

Step 2: Once you have decided which trekking are you going to do, ask for prices and choose the 3 cheapest agencies

Step 3: Ask these 3 agencies if the guide who will you trek with is actually a local from Ladakh. When summer comes, some Indians from other regions come to Ladakh to work as guides. Dismiss agencies without a Ladakhi guide. An actual local guide will be a richer experience.

Step 4: Say that you would like to meet the guide in person. Choose the agency with the guide you get best along with.

If you want to know more in depth about prices, accommodation, itinerary, etc., I have written a very detailed guide containing all you need to know to complete the Markha Valley trek .

How to move around: Transportation

Public transportation as such doesn’t exist in Ladakh. Main ways to move around are:

Private taxi

Within Leh , taxi is the only way to move around. Please note that Leh is built on a hill and distances are not short. If you got into Leh by plane, first you need to acclimatize to the high altitude before starting to ascend Leh streets. If your guest house is close to the city center then that’s fine. But if not, on the first day, I strongly recommend you take a cab every time you go back to your guest house. Trust me, I know it by experience. On my first day, I started walking up and down and got a strong headache by the end of the day. For more information, check out High altitude sickness section

For traveling  outside of Leh , any guest house or trekking agency can arrange a taxi for you. Prices are standard, therefore there’s no place for negotiation. Moreover, all trekking agencies offer shared taxi service with other tourists. They just find them for you. The downside of it is that finding someone else might take a while. I suggest you ask as many agencies as possible until you find a full taxi.

Local shared taxi

Local transportation in Ladakh consists of small vans where people go all squeezed up inside. It’s the cheapest way to move around and can be found pretty much everywhere. In Leh, there’s one station right at the city entrance. They are quite effective if you are planning to go to other villages or gompas . The bad side of it, is that they usually don’t go to remote touristic places like Nubra Valley or Khardung La.

Renting a vehicle

All sorts of vehicles are available for rental at many agencies in Leh. I traveled around the region by scooter, but if you really want to enjoy the roads of Ladakh and want to drive further, you should definitely get one of the big bikes that can be found everywhere.

High altitude sickness

Getting sick due to high altitude is such a common issue among most travelers that come to Ladakh, especially those who come by plane. Leh is already located at 3,500m above sea level. If you come by plane, the altitude change is too drastic and your body doesn’t have time to acclimatize. Almost everybody I met, suffered a headache at least during the first couple of days. The first day you arrive in Leh, just rest and don’t make any efforts or you’ll get sick.

While trekking, high altitude sickness may be an important issue. Here’s a detailed article on medical advice .

Is it safe to travel to Ladakh?

Yes, Ladakh is a safe place to travel to. Kashmir state has been a turbulent region since India acquired its independence in 1947. Why? Because it has been heavily disputed with Pakistan and there have been multiple insurgencies and protests that involved numerous deaths.

However, Ladakh has always stayed away from all this. There has never been any signs of terrorism or violent protests. Tension has fundamentally taken place in the Kashmir Valley, located in the western part of the state, bordering Pakistan.

How do you get a visa?

A regular Indian visa is required to travel to Ladakh. You can get a 30 days tourist visa by filling the application form in this link .

For most nationalities, visa fee is $45. After payment, it takes less than a day to receive the visa.

When to go: the weather

Summer (June to mid-September):  Summer is high season in Ladakh. During the day the sun is very harsh and it gets pretty hot. At night, temperatures drop and the weather is pleasant. Snow has completely melted except on the highest peaks. This is the best season for trekking.

Spring (April to May) and autumn (mid-September to November):  Snow starts melting and days become pleasant. Nights are still cold, though. Restaurants start opening (or start closing in autumn) and some mountains are already feasible to hike. The best of it is that you won’t see many tourists around.

Winter (November to March:  Ladakh is completely covered by snow and temperatures are always below 0. Roads to Ladakh are closed, which means the only way to get in is by plane. Restaurants and guest houses are practically all closed. There are a few trekkings which go over a frozen lake, but other than that, hiking during this season is not advisable, as weather is highly unpredictable.

How to get in

The are daily flights from both Delhi or Mumbai to Leh. Landing in Leh is one of the most memorable landings I’ve ever experienced, as you basically fly over the Himalayan range, and then you approach through the Indo Valley.

Getting into Ladakh by land is only possible between June and mid-October . During the rest of the year, roads remain closed. There are two main places  to come from:

Srinagar: Located 434km from Leh, this journey is a trip in itself because it goes through three high mountains passes: Zozi La (3528m), Namki La (3815m) and Fotu La (4108m). Everybody says that this is an unforgettable experience, as you get to see some of the most dreamy views ever. However, the trip may take up to 24 hours, but normally the bus stops halfway between both destinations so to spend the night.

Manali: This is the second route, and instead of coming from the west, you come in from the south. Manali is located 479km from Leh. This road goes through Tang La pass, which is above 5,300 meters.

Ladakh belongs to India and therefore Indian rupees  are the official currency used.

1 US Dollar = 66 Indian Rupees

Cash, credit cards and ATM

In case you are wondering, in Leh at least I counted 5 different ATMs but I wouldn’t rely on them too much. Bring extra cash just in case. You can pay with credit card only in expensive hotels. By the way, outside of Leh doesn’t even dream to find a connection.

Currency exchanging

In Leh, there are plenty of exchange offices and are open until 10pm at least. Exchange rates are good, around 62-63. Outside of Leh it is unlikely to be able to exchange.

Internet signal is really bad in Ladakh. Even in expensive cafes or hotels in Leh, signal is unstable. You won’t be able to connect every day.

10 comments

Hey Joan, Really useful information.The details about People, Language, Religion, Food, Trekking, and Transportation of Ladakh.Thanks for sharing valuable information with us.

Thanks, enjoy Ladakh!

Very Nice information. We got just 7 days. Best option would be flying into Leh than moving around by scooter?

Hi Tiago, yes, that is what I did!

Many thanks Joan, great article. I have a question for you: I’m torn between the Ripchar Valley trek and the Markha Valley trek – I love the idea of remoteness, so a bit worried about how popular Markha is and how busy. On the other hand, I’m not sure how beautiful Ripchar Valley is vs Markha. Any insights? Cheers

Hi Edu, I have never been to Ripchar Valley, so I can’t tell

I’m so amazed by the detail of your page here. It really is an ultimate guide to Ladakh! I just did my first research and more to come! Thank you!

Hey Joan, Thanks for sharing all of that information! Although, I do need to mention that your description of the wifi in Leh is very inaccurate. The telecom provider Airtel now offers fiber optic wifi in Leh. I just ran a speed test while using the network at my guest house and got a download speed of 159 mbps, an upload speed of 95 mbps, a latency value of 13 and a jitter value of 3. Those are great network performance metrics even by first world standards.

Hi Joan, I’m sure it always changes, however as a current update, I came from Srinigar to Leh by local bus mid July. We left Srinagar at 7am and arrived Leh at 9pm. No overnight stop in Kargil, just two 30mins meal breaks along the way. Same driver the whole way who seemed to remain perky. Thanks for your detailed guides as always. It’s nice to have honest info for the lesser traveled paths. So many of us get lost in clickbait travel sites these days. Cheers.

Hi Joan, We are planning to go there July 2024. Do you see any political tensions or protests going on there for its statehood? Just want to check the safety before planning anything. THanks a lot

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Published: April 02 , 2024 10:30 AM IST

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പലര്‍ക്കും കാത്തുകാത്തിരുന്ന് യാഥാര്‍ഥ്യമായ യാത്രയാണ് ലഡാക്കിലേക്കുള്ളത്. ചിലരെങ്കിലും കാത്തിരിപ്പു തുടരുകയുമാണ്. കാലാവസ്ഥ കൊണ്ടും ഭൂമിശാസ്ത്രപരമായ സവിശേഷതകള്‍ കൊണ്ടും അന്യഗ്രഹ പ്രതീതി സമ്മാനിക്കാന്‍ വേണ്ട പലതുമുണ്ട് ലഡാക്കില്‍ . ട്രെക്കിങ്ങിനെത്തുന്നവരും ബൈക്ക് ട്രിപ്പിനെത്തുന്നവരും മഞ്ഞും മഞ്ഞുപുലിയെ കാണാനെത്തുന്നവരുമെല്ലാമുണ്ട് ലഡാക്കിലേക്കുള്ള യാത്രികരുടെ കൂട്ടത്തില്‍. വര്‍ഷത്തില്‍ എല്ലാ സമയവും ലഡാക്ക് യാത്രയ്ക്ക് അനുയോജ്യമല്ല. ഏതൊക്കെയാണ് ലഡാക്ക് യാത്രക്കുള്ള നല്ല നേരങ്ങള്‍. 

ഓരോ കാലത്തും ഓരോ അനുഭവങ്ങളാണ് ലഡാക്ക് സമ്മാനിക്കുക. അതുകൊണ്ടു തന്നെ എപ്പോള്‍ യാത്ര പോകുന്നുവെന്നത് പ്രധാനമാണ്. ഏപ്രില്‍ മുതല്‍ സെപ്തംബര്‍ പകുതി വരെയാണ് ലഡാക്കിലെ വേനല്‍ക്കാലം. ഇക്കാലത്താണ് ഏറ്റവും ഉയര്‍ന്ന നിലയിലേക്ക് ഈ ഹിമാലയന്‍ പ്രദേശത്തെ താപനില എത്തുക. ഏപ്രില്‍ തുടക്കത്തോടെ സാധാരണഗതിയില്‍ മഞ്ഞുരുകി തുടങ്ങും. അതോടെ യാത്രികര്‍ക്കു മുന്നില്‍ ശ്രീനഗര്‍ - ലേ ദേശീയ പാത തുറക്കും. 

ഇനി ഏപ്രില്‍ മുതല്‍ ജൂണ്‍ വരെയുള്ള കാലത്താണ് വരുന്നതെങ്കില്‍ റോഡു മാര്‍ഗം വരാതിരിക്കുന്നതാണ് ഉചിതം. ആകാശമാര്‍ഗം തിരഞ്ഞെടുക്കാം. ഈ സമയത്ത് മഞ്ഞുവീഴ്ചയേയും മണ്ണിടിച്ചിലിനേയും തുടര്‍ന്നു റോഡു മാര്‍ഗമുള്ള യാത്ര ദുഷ്‌ക്കരമായിരിക്കുമെന്നതാണ് കാരണം. നേരെ മറിച്ച് വേനല്‍കാലത്തു ലേയും നുബ്ര താഴ്‌വരയും പാങ്കോങ് തടാകവുമെല്ലാം താരതമ്യേന എളുപ്പം എത്തിച്ചേരാവുന്ന കേന്ദ്രങ്ങളായി മാറും. 

ഷാം വാലി ട്രക്ക്, മര്‍ക്ക ട്രക്ക് എന്നിങ്ങനെയുള്ള ലഡാക്കിലെ ട്രെക്കിങുകള്‍ക്ക് പറ്റിയ സമയവും ഇതു തന്നെ. ലഡാക്കിലെ അത്തിപ്പഴത്തിന്റെ സീസണ്‍ ഏപ്രിലിലാണ്. അതുകൊണ്ട് ഏപ്രിലിലെ യാത്രകള്‍ അധികമായി ഈയൊരു സാധ്യത കൂടി തുറന്നു തരുന്നു. മാത്രമല്ല വേനല്‍കാലത്താണെങ്കില്‍ പ്രശാന്തമായ കാലാവസ്ഥയും തെളിഞ്ഞ ആകാശവും പ്രകൃതി ഭംഗി കൂടുതല്‍ നന്നായി ആസ്വദിക്കാനും പക്ഷി നിരീക്ഷണത്തിനുമെല്ലാം സഹായിക്കുകയും ചെയ്യും. 

ലഡാക്കിലേക്ക് റോഡ് ട്രിപ്പ് പ്ലാന്‍ ചെയ്യുന്നവര്‍ക്ക് കുറിച്ചുവയ്ക്കാവുന്ന സമയം ജൂണ്‍ മുതല്‍ സെപ്തംബര്‍ വരെയുള്ളതാണ്. ജൂണിലാണ് മണാലി വഴിയുള്ള റോത്തങ് പാസ് തുറക്കുക. ഇതേ സമയത്തു തന്നെ ലഡാക്കിലേക്കുള്ള മറ്റു റോഡുകളും തടസങ്ങള്‍ നീക്കി തുറക്കും. ഏപ്രില്‍ മുതല്‍ ജൂണ്‍ അവസാനം വരെയുള്ള വേനലില്‍ ലഡാക്കിലെ ശരാശരി താപനില മൂന്നു ഡിഗ്രി സെല്‍ഷ്യസ് മുതല്‍ 25 ഡിഗ്രി സെല്‍ഷ്യസ് വരെയാണ്. ജൂലൈ മുതല്‍ സെപ്തംബര്‍ വരെയുള്ള മണ്‍സൂണ്‍ കാലത്ത് ഇത് മൂന്നു ഡിഗ്രി മുതല്‍ 17 ഡിഗ്രി വരെയായി താഴുന്നു. ഇനി ഒക്ടോബര്‍ മുതല്‍ മാര്‍ച്ച് വരെയുള്ള മഞ്ഞുകാലത്തിലേക്കുവന്നാല്‍ ശരാശരി താപനില -11 ഡിഗ്രി മുതല്‍ 15 ഡിഗ്രി വരെയായി പിന്നെയും താഴും. 

മഴയും മഞ്ഞും

ഹിമാലയത്തിലെ മഴ നിഴല്‍ പ്രദേശങ്ങളിലൊന്നാണ് ലഡാക്ക്. അതുകൊണ്ടു തന്നെ കനത്ത മഴക്കാലം ലഡാക്കിലുണ്ടാവാറില്ല. ഓഗസ്‌റ്റോടെ മഴക്കാലം പരമാവധിയിലെത്തുന്നു. അപ്രതീക്ഷിതമായ കാലാവസ്ഥയുടെ ഭൂമികയാണ് ഹിമാലയം. അതുകൊണ്ടുതന്നെ ഏതു വേനലിലും മഞ്ഞുകാലത്തും പ്രതീക്ഷിക്കാവുന്ന ഒന്നാണ് മഴ. ഇക്കാര്യം കൂടി മനസില്‍ കരുതിക്കൊണ്ടു വേണം യാത്രക്കായി ഒരുങ്ങാന്‍. 

ഒക്ടോബറിലാണ് സാധാരണ ലഡാക്കിലെ മഞ്ഞുവീഴ്ച്ച ആരംഭിക്കുക. ലഡാക്കിലെ മഞ്ഞുകാലം മാര്‍ച്ചു വരെ നീളാറുണ്ട്. കര്‍ദുങ്‌ല പാസ് പോലുള്ള ഉയര്‍ന്ന പ്രദേശങ്ങളില്‍ വര്‍ഷത്തില്‍ എല്ലാ സമയത്തും മഞ്ഞു വീഴാറുണ്ട്. എന്നാല്‍ മഞ്ഞുകാലത്ത് ഇത് കൂടുതല്‍ ശക്തമാവുമെന്നു മാത്രം. മഞ്ഞുകാണാനാണ് ലഡാക്കിലേക്കു പോവുന്നതെങ്കില്‍ യാത്രക്കു മുമ്പേ പ്രദേശത്തെ കാലാവസ്ഥാ മുന്നറിയിപ്പ് നോക്കിയിരിക്കണം. 

അപ്പോഴും ഡിസംബര്‍ മുതല്‍ ഫെബ്രുവരി വരെയുള്ള കഠിനമായ മഞ്ഞുകാലത്ത് ലഡാക്കിലേക്കുള്ള യാത്രകള്‍ ഒഴിവാക്കുന്നതാണ് ഉചിതം. മഞ്ഞുവീഴ്ച്ച ശക്തമാണ് എന്നതിന് റോഡും ചുരങ്ങളും അടച്ചിരിക്കുന്നുവെന്ന അര്‍ഥം കൂടിയുണ്ട്. അപ്പോഴും വര്‍ഷത്തില്‍ എല്ലായ്‌പ്പോഴും തുറന്നിരിക്കുന്ന ലഡാക്ക് വിമാനത്താവളത്തെ ആശ്രയിക്കാവുന്നതാണ്. 

ഏപ്രില്‍ മുതല്‍ സെപ്തബര്‍ വരെയുള്ള സമയത്താണ് ലഡാക്കിലേക്ക് ഏറ്റവും കൂടുതല്‍ സഞ്ചാരികളെത്തുന്നത്. അതുകൊണ്ടുതന്നെ ഈ കാലമാണ് ലഡാക്കിന്റെ സീസണ്‍. റോഡ് മാര്‍ഗമുള്ള ലഡാക്ക് യാത്രകള്‍ ജൂണ്‍ മുതല്‍ സെപ്തംബര്‍ വരെ പരമാവധിയിലെത്തും. ബൈക്കിലായാലും കാറിലായാലും ഈ കാലത്തെ യാത്രകള്‍ പരമാവധിയിലെത്തും. ആള്‍ക്കൂട്ടം കുറഞ്ഞ സമയത്തെ യാത്രകളെ ഇഷ്ടപ്പെടുന്നവരാണ് നിങ്ങളെങ്കില്‍ ഒക്ടോബര്‍- നവംബര്‍, മാര്‍ച്ച്- മെയ് മാസങ്ങളെ യാത്രക്കായി തെരഞ്ഞെടുക്കാം. 

മൗണ്ടന്‍ സിക്‌നസ്

തെക്കേ അറ്റത്തുള്ള കേരളം പോലുള്ള സംസ്ഥാനങ്ങളില്‍ നിന്നും ലഡാക്കിലേക്കുള്ള യാത്രകള്‍ക്ക് കുറഞ്ഞത് 8-10 ദിവസങ്ങളെങ്കിലും വേണ്ടി വരും. യാത്ര ട്രെയിനിലാണെങ്കില്‍ പിന്നെയും ദിവസങ്ങളുടെ എണ്ണം കൂടും. ഏതുകാലത്ത് നിങ്ങള്‍ ലഡാക്കിലേക്കുള്ള യാത്ര പ്ലാന്‍ ചെയ്താലും രണ്ട് - മൂന്നു ദിവസങ്ങള്‍ കാലാവസ്ഥയുമായി പൊരുത്തപ്പെടാന്‍ എടുക്കണം. നമുക്ക് പരിചിതമല്ലെങ്കിലും ഹിമാലയ യാത്രകളില്‍ ഇത് വളരെ പ്രധാനമാണ്. സമുദ്ര നിരപ്പില്‍ നിന്നും മൂവായിരം മീറ്റര്‍ ഉയരത്തിലുള്ള സ്ഥലമാണ് ലഡാക്ക്. യാത്രക്കിടെ അക്യൂട്ട് മൗണ്ടന്‍ സിക്‌നസ് അഥവാ എഎംഎസ് വരുന്നത് അത്ര നല്ല അനുഭവമായിരിക്കില്ല. 

അഞ്ചു മുതല്‍ പത്തു ദിവസം വരെ നീളുന്നതാണ് ഈ മേഖലയിലെ ട്രക്കിങുകള്‍. ഏറ്റവും ചെറിയ ശാം വാലി ട്രക്ക് പോലുള്ള തുടക്കക്കാര്‍ക്കുള്ള ട്രക്കിങുകള്‍ പോലും മൂന്നു ദിവസമെങ്കിലും നീളാറുണ്ട്. ലഡാക്കിലെ ബൈക്ക്- കാര്‍ യാത്രകള്‍ പോലെ ട്രക്കിങുകളും വലിയ സാധ്യതയാണ് യാത്രികര്‍ക്ക് മുന്നില്‍ തുറക്കുന്നത്. മനോഹരമായ ഭൂപ്രകൃതിയും ടെന്റിലേയും ഹോം സ്‌റ്റേകളിലേയും താമസവും പ്രകാശ മലിനീകരണമില്ലാത്ത ആകാശവും പ്രാദേശിക ഭക്ഷണവുമെല്ലാം ട്രെക്കിങ്ങിലൂടെ ലഭിക്കും.

Embark on the Ultimate Summer Adventure: Discover the Best Times to Explore the Mystical Landscapes of Ladakh.

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