ladakh tourism time to visit

The Best Time to Visit Ladakh

Climate, Festivals and Other Things to Do

David Bathgate/Getty Images

High-altitude Ladakh, in the far northern Indian Himalayas , has an extreme climate with a long and brutal winter. Hence, the best time to visit Ladakh is during the region's summer when the snow on the high passes melts—that is, unless you're heading there for adventure travel!

Read more about the top things to do in Ladakh .

The Weather in Ladakh

The climate in Ladakh is divided into only two seasons: four months of summer (from June until September) and eight months of winter (from October until May). Summer temperatures are pleasant and range from 59 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit (15 to 25 degrees Celsius), whereas winters are extremely cold. Temperatures in the region can drop as low as -40 degrees!

Peak Season in Ladakh

If you want to beat the tourist rush and get discounted accommodations, visit Ladakh in late April or May when the weather is starting to warm up and businesses are beginning to re-open. If you want to see plenty of snow but experience warmer weather, and don't mind the crowds, visit Ladakh during June or July. August is peak monsoon time and it does rain (either a lot or a little), so you may want to avoid traveling there then or go towards the end of the month. The bursts of colorful leaves on trees make mid-September until mid-October picturesque. Temperatures start dropping and the tourist season is over, so it's much quieter.

Getting to Ladakh

Flights to Leh, the erstwhile royal capital of Ladakh, operate year-round. Roads within Ladakh are also open throughout the year. However, the passes leading into Ladakh are buried under snow during the colder months. Therefore, if you wish to drive (the scenery is spectacular and it helps with acclimatization, although the two-day journey is long and grueling), the time of year will be an important consideration.

There are two roads to Ladakh:

• Manali-Leh Highway is the most popular route. It cuts through five high mountain passes including Rohtang Pass in the Pir Panjal range, and three passes in the Zanskar range (Baralacha Pass, Lachulung Pass, and Taglang Pass at 17,480 feet above sea level). This route does have a steep ascent, which may cause altitude sickness. It's open from around mid-June until early October. However, travel becomes risky from mid-September onward due to the chance of snow, and reduced options for accommodations and transport (many buses and taxis stop running).
• The Srinagar-Leh Highway (NH 1D) is the most reliable and least challenging route. It runs alongside the Indus River and via Zoji Pass, Drass ( the second coldest inhabited place on Earth ), Kargil, and Fotu Pass (the highest pass on the route at an altitude of 13,478 feet above sea level). It's usually open from mid-May or early June until the end of October or mid-November. However, July and August are best avoided, as you'll have to contend with both monsoon rain and the bulk of pilgrims going on the Amarnath Yatra. In addition, some people may wish to avoid Srinagar and Kashmir due to the ongoing civil unrest plaguing the area.

When to Visit Ladakh for Trekking Season

The main trekking season extends from June to September in Ladakh. However, the Chadar Trek is a renowned winter trek in the region. From mid-January until the end of February, the Zanskar River forms a slab of ice so thick that it's possible for humans to walk across it. It's the only way in and out of the snow-bound Zanskar region. The Chadar Trek, ranging from seven to 21 days in duration, moves from cave to cave along this icy "road." Read more about the best treks to take in Ladakh for all fitness levels .

Hemis National Park is open year-round but the best time to visit to spot the elusive snow leopard is between December and February when it comes down to the valleys.

Spring is one of the most beautiful and scenic times to visit Ladakh. Trees are blooming, yet the mountains are still snow-capped, creating amazing landscapes.

Events to check out:

• The annual Nagrang Festival typically takes place in March at Matho Monastery. It marks the appearance of trance oracles that perform stunning acts and give predictions.

Summer is popular with trekkers and visitors of all kind. Temperatures are warm, but rarely exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit (32 degrees Celsius), and days are long and sunny. Both of the roads to Ladakh are easy to drive at this time of year as well, an important consideration for some travelers.

• The  Sindhu Darshan Festival (June)  is a performing arts and culture festival on the banks of the Sindhu River.
• The  Hemis Festival (June or July) is celebrated with two days of traditional music, colorful masked dances, and a fair full of striking handicrafts at Hemis Monastery.

Fall is not quite as busy as summer but still offers fantastic weather. While some campsites will have shut down for the season, hotel room rates are less than summer's peak.

• The  Ladakh Marathon (September)  hosts various running races in and around Leh, for Indian and international competitors.
• The tourist season winds up in Leh with Ladakh Festival (September), the biggest festival of the region. It features a captivating street procession, polo matches, archery shows, cultural performances, and handicraft exhibitions.
• September's Nubra Festival brings folk dances and music to different villages.
• The annual two-day  gustor  ritual is part of November's Thiksey Festival at Thiksey Monastery.

Winter in Ladakh is quite harsh, and thus, many travelers choose not to visit during this season. Those who do make the trek will be rewarded with solitude and a seemingly never-ending stretch of mountain ranges, valleys, and monasteries. Temperatures can be brutally cold. 

• Losar is a 15-day festival that marks the beginning of the New Year in Ladakh. The main celebrations happen on the first three days.
• Spituk Festival, held in January or February, marks the annual two-day  gustor  ritual at Spituk Monastery.
• Dosmoche, held in February, is part of a grand two-day celebration of good over evil, originally started by Ladakh royalty, at Leh Palace, and Diskit and Likir monasteries.

Known for its brutal winters, the best time to visit is during the summer when the snow on the high pass has melted.

Ladakh's busiest months are June and July, so if you want to avoid the crowds consider visiting in late April and May.

Monsoon season in Ladakh begins in July and ends in September, however August tends to be the peak month for heavy rain.

Britannica. "Ladakh." Retrieved March 8, 2021.

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The best time to visit Ladakh

By Arundhati Ail

The mesmerising landscapes of Ladakh have something to offer in every season, and when you plan your trip can make all the difference to your experience. Whether you’re looking to explore Leh, spot the snow leopard, trek through lush valleys or catch spring blossoms, a trip to Ladakh will require a fair bit of planning. Here are all the details you need on the best time to visit Ladakh.

Jump to: Best time to visit Ladakh Temperature in Ladakh When does it snow in Ladakh? Best time to spot snow leopards in Ladakh Cheapest time to visit Ladakh Busiest time to visit Ladakh How many days are enough for a Ladakh trip?

When is the best time to visit Ladakh?

The best time to visit Ladakh is in the summer. From April to mid-September temperatures are warmer and this is the peak season in Ladakh. The snow typically clears up by early April, and the Srinagar-Leh highway opens up for visitors. However, if you’re visiting between April and June, it’s best to fly in, as not all roads are fully functional during this time.

Summer is the best time to visit Leh, the Nubra Valley and high-altitude lakes like Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri, as temperatures are pleasant and roads are open. This is also the best time to visit Ladakh for treks like the Sham Valley trek and Markha trek. April is the apricot blossom season in Ladakh, and this is also a good time for birding and spotting wildflowers.

June to September is the best time to visit Ladakh for a road trip. The Manali road along Rohtang Pass opens up in June, and all the roads and passes in the region clear up by this time, making it the best time for bike trips in the region. Come winter , the lakes in Ladakh freeze over and are covered with a sheet of ice. The region receives heavy snowfall and the only way to reach is by air.

Temperatures through the year in Ladakh:

• Summer (April to July): 3°C-25°C
• Monsoon (July to September): 3°C-17°C
• Winter (October to March): -11°C-15°C

Ladakh lies in a rain shadow region and does not experience a heavy monsoon. While rainfall peaks in August, anticipate irregular showers even in the summer and winter.

When does it snow in Ladakh?

Snowfall in Ladakh typically begins in October, as temperatures drop and winter sets in, and can continue until late March. High-altitude passes like Khardung La can receive intermittent snow throughout the year. If you’re looking to visit for snow, it’s best to keep a watch on the weather forecast in the region for accurate updates.

When is the best time to spot snow leopards in Ladakh?

While winter in Ladakh is harsh, with minimum temperatures touching -11°C, it is also the best time to spot the elusive snow leopard. While November to April are best for snow leopard tours, Naturalist and guide Payal Mehta, who often leads snow leopard tours in Hemis National Park, advises against visiting during the bitter cold months from mid-December to late January. Winter tours are focussed on snow leopards, but Mehta also recommends looking out for smaller animals like the Himalayan wolf, red fox, bharal and urial, woolly hare, pika and more. Find a full guide to Hemis National Park here .

What is the cheapest time to visit Ladakh?

The harsh winter months make up the off season in Ladakh , which means hotel and flight prices are lowest during this time. It is not advisable to travel to Ladakh in peak winter (December to February). Heavy snowfall and extreme temperatures mean that several roads and passes are blocked or closed. While Leh Airport is operational throughout the year, flight diversions and cancellations are likely during this time.

When is the busiest time to visit Ladakh?

April to September is the peak tourist season in Ladakh, though road traffic tends to be at its highest between June and September when tourists opt to drive or bike to the region. If you’re looking to avoid the crowds, visit between October and November or March to May.

How many days are enough for a Ladakh trip?

About 7-10 days are ideal for a trip to Ladakh, given the travel time and acclimatisation. Irrespective of when you visit, account for 2-3 days to acclimatise to the high altitude at your accommodation. Ladakh is at an altitude of 3,000m and skipping this step can lead to altitude sickness. If you plan a 7-10 day trip, you can have five or more days to explore the region once you have acclimated. Most treks in the region last 5-10 days, except the beginner-friendly Sham Valley Trek that lasts three days. Beyond wildlife and treks, there’s a lot the region has to offer, including beautiful homestays and luxury tents , a dark sky reserve for stargazing and delicious local food .

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Plan your trip during best season to experience the best of this stunning destination

Best time to visit Ladakh by bike or cab is during the month of June. The months from mid-September to mid-October are considered to be the best season to enjoy the stunning beauty of the landscape of Ladakh and Leh. The month of March is considered to be the best time to visit Ladakh for adventure trip. While the months from April to mid-May remain the peak season for Ladakh tourism. During the months from August to December, it gets quite risky and dangerous to visit Ladakh as monsoon and winter take a toll on Ladakh during these months. Hotel, flights and food may get expensive during the peak season in Ladakh. If you are planning to visit here during these months, book your tickets in advance. 

Bike Trip to Ladakh :

Best time to visit Ladakh on bike is during summer season. Summers in Ladakh are characterized by comfortable, and cozy weather with sun shining over the snow clad mountain peaks. The plain sailing roads without any blockage by landslides or snowfall, also make it the best time to visit Ladakh on bike . During winters and monsoons, it becomes quite difficult to travel by road. Warmer weather in summer months (May through early October) makes sightseeing in Ladakh quite enjoyable, and one can cover almost all major Ladakh places such as Pangong Lake and Nubra Valley that are open for tourists.

The best time to visit Ladakh by road is from mid-May to September as the Leh Manali Highway opens up via Rohtang Pass. Mid-September to mid-October is an amazing time to visit Leh and Ladakh as the place is permeated in flamboyance through the Srinagar-Leh as well as Manali-Leh roads. Road conditions are better during this time. For enthusiastic bikers, the best time to visit Ladakh on bike is during the months of July and August as all passes and streets to the land are opened and the land turns exceptionally welcoming. Let’s have a look at the segregation to decide on which is the best month to visit Ladakh.

April - June ( 2°C to 19°C ) :

With the month of April, travel passes for tourists are open. Hence, summer season is the best time to visit Ladakh . The weather during this time is crisp and the skies are clear, offering splendid views that can be enjoyed through a ride on bike or jeep.

During the late April, the region sees the melting of the lakes, and one can witness a spread of brilliant colours everywhere. And, with the beginning of the month of June, one can hop on an excursion to Rohtang Pass as well.

July - September ( 3 °C to 17°C ) :

Experiencing irregular heavy rainfall during the monsoon season starting from the month of July, it is advised not to get on an excursion to Ladakh this time. With frequent landslides, roadblocks, and snow slides, it becomes quite difficult to walk or drive here.

Though, the month of September can be considered as a good time to visit Ladakh. For, the precipitation stops and there is hardly any humidity.

October - March (-9 °C to 2°C) :

With temperature dropping to minus degrees, it is not recommended to visit Ladakh during the winter season. Covered with snow, driving through roads can be quite dangerous.

However, adventure lovers can choose to hop on Chadar Trek during the months of January to March.

Festivals in Ladakh

Festivals enhance the beauty of any destination, and that is true for Ladakh as well. The deserted land of Ladakh comes to life during these festivities wherein the natives gather around to become a part of the celebrations. Monasteries of Ladakh become venues of celebration where the locals perform famous folk dances, songs, and dramas of the region. Some of the popular festivals in Ladakh are -

Hemis Festival: Hemis festival is an important festival of Ladakh organised in June to celebrate the birthday of Guru Padmasambhava, who founded Tantric Buddhism in Tibet. Monks can be seen wearing sparkling brocade robes and colourful face masks. They perform a dance-drama displaying the life, principles, and mission of the Guru.

Thiksey, Karsha and Spituk Gustor: This two-day festival is celebrated in different months every year in Thiksey, Karsha, and Spituk. These Gustors signify the victory of good over evil. The performers wear variety of masks while they perform, and these masks symbolise gods, goddesses, guardians, and protectors. As the festival comes to an end, the evils are figuratively killed, and their images are burned.

Dosmoche Festival: Celebrated in May in the regions of Liker, Deskit monastery, and Leh, this is one of the most renowned festivals of Ladakh. The courtyard of the Leh Palace is the venue to enjoy this two-day festival in Leh. It is celebrated in the beginning as well as at the end of the Tibetian Year. Monks make their offerings using crosses made of threads to turn evil and ghosts into protectors and guardians of people against natural calamities that might occur in the following year.

Ladakh Harvest Festival: The Ladakh Harvest Festival commences from 1st September and lasts for 15 days thereafter. The natives celebrate their rich diversity with enthusiasm and vigor. Locals take part in dance performances, wedding ceremonies, drama, music, and many other forms of art.

Climate in Ladakh

Summer season in ladakh.

Summer (April-June): With the mountains warming up and the land blooming, it is a tourist season in this region. The landscape is quite barren framed by the snow-capped mountains giving it a beauty that is like no other, making it best season to visit Leh . The lakes begin to melt (Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri) painting the landscape with beautiful colors. Travelling by road is a popular way to see this region. The Passes Khardung La and Chang La are popular routes to take granting breathtaking vistas to be captured by the cameras. The Rohtang and Baralacha Pass are an ideal way to complete the circuit. This is a trip of a lifetime and the best time to visit Leh by road , many traversing it on a motorbike consider it a rite of passage.

Monsoon Season in Ladakh

Monsoon (July-August): With the heavy rains and with all hilly terrains, this region too gets blocked. Tourism shuts down due to the landslides and the ‘moving’ earth. Even though there is a different sort of beauty granted to the region during this season, only tourists in four wheel vehicles brave this region.

Winter Season in Ladakh

Early Winter (September-October): This is the time for trekking and exploring the region on foot making it the b est time to visit Leh Ladakh . The cool mountain breeze begins to set into the region. Occasional snowfall lends the region a dreamy glow. This along with the water bodies turning the most alluring shades of blue, the region seems to transform into a dream land turning this time best season to visit Leh Ladakh .

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FAQ's of Ladakh

How long would it take to get acclimatized in ladakh.

The time taken for acclimatization differs from person to person. Usually oen must rest for one whole day even if you are feeling ok. Avoid alcohol for a minimum of 3 days, and increase your intake of water. The biggest cause of Acute Mountain Sickness is dehydration.

Where can I do white water rafting in Ladakh?

There are several tour operators in Leh that provide rafting packages to travellers on the thunderous rapids of Indus and Zanskar Rivers.

Where can I enjoy camping in Ladakh?

Travellers can stay in a camp in towns along Leh– Manali highway, trek on Chadar River, and expedition to Stok Kangri summit.

Why should I go for nature walks in Ladakh?

An acclimatisation walk for a day or two is recommended for beginners looking to trek or visit higher altitudes in Ladakh.

What are famous treks in Ladakh?

Markha Valley trek, Chadar trek, Stok Kangri Trek, and Padum to Darcha trek are among some popular treks in Ladakh .

Is it safe to visit Ladakh?

Yes, it is safe to visit Ladakh. Ladakh is located in one of the safest parts of India, therefore it is safe to visit.

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What is the best time to visit Leh Ladakh?

The best time to visit Leh Ladakh is from late April to mid-July, when both the Srinagar Leh highway and Leh-Manali highway are open, allowing for easy access to the region. This period also offers the opportunity to witness the breathtaking snow-capped landscapes, especially along the Leh-Manali highway. Another favorable time to visit is from mid-September to October when Ladakh is at its most beautiful, and visitors can enjoy discounts due to fewer tourists. However, it's advisable to avoid traveling to Leh Ladakh during the monsoon season from late July to August due to the risk of landslides. During this time, the roads, particularly the Srinagar Leh highway and Leh Manali highway, are often covered in sludge, making travel hazardous. Peak Season: The peak tourist season in Leh Ladakh is from April to mid-July, attracting a significant number of visitors eager to explore the region's stunning landscapes and cultural heritage. During this time, the weather is favorable, and the roads leading to Ladakh are open, making it an ideal time for adventure enthusiasts and sightseers alike. Shoulder Season : September to October marks the shoulder season in Leh Ladakh when the region is still accessible, and the weather remains pleasant. This period offers a quieter and more serene experience compared to the peak season, with fewer tourists and discounted rates available for accommodations and activities. Off Season: The off-season in Leh Ladakh falls from November to March, as well as July and August. During these months, the region experiences harsh weather conditions, with extreme cold temperatures and the risk of road closures due to snowfall. Additionally, July and August are prone to monsoon rains, leading to landslides and making travel challenging and risky. As a result, visitor numbers decrease significantly during the off-season, and many establishments may close temporarily.

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Best time to visit ladakh (A complete weather guide of Ladakh)

No matter what time of the year you visit Ladakh you will find something that will touch your spirit. Want to know which is the best time to visit Ladakh ?

Well, The Thumping Nomad lists down the complete weather guide of what you can expect when you visit Ladakh in different times of the year.

Millennials – the internet savvy, tech crazy, and the restless souls have a craving for everything they get to see on their digital sphere. They want the point of differentiation from others as well in every aspect. And at the very same time, they don’t want to be left behind. When its come to travel, there is one place that’s in the checklist of every one of them- Ladakh.

While most of them plan for Ladakh in the summer months to beat the tropical heat and get snapped among the snow-capped peaks and deserted open stretch of plains. Most of the camps, hotels and homestay start operations to cater to their basic need including a Wi-Fi connection. The deserted region of Leh goes running in full steam hosting the tourists and travellers alike.

Now comes the one who want to go a step ahead, who want to test their mettle, they test the waters in the sub-zero temperatures in the Himalayas. With very basic facilities at their disposal, they set out for a journey very few opt for.

April to May (Max Temp: 16.8ºC  Min Temp: -1.3ºC )

If you are one of those who likes to travel when the places are less crowded then this is just the ideal time for you as April marks the beginning of the tourist season in Ladakh. Hotels, guest houses and restaurants start to open. Also, camps at Nubra Valley , Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri open during this time.

Only by mid-May Srinagar-Leh highway opens so before that you can only fly to Ladakh by taking flight from Delhi, Srinagar, Chandigarh or Jammu to Leh.

As this is just the start of the season you can get good discounts from hotels, camps and guesthouses.

June to July (Max Temp: 24.5ºC Min Temp: 6.6ºC ) (Best time to visit Leh Ladakh by road)

This is the peak tourist season of Ladakh as both the highways ( Srinagar-Leh highway and Manali-Leh Highway ) are open by 1 st week of June. So if you are looking to complete the road trip circuit this is the best time to do so. This season can be considered as the Best time to visit Leh Ladakh by road (Bike or SUV).

[If interested check out a detail road guide for Manali-Leh-Highway ]

With the opening of roads, there is a huge engulf of adventure seekers to Ladakh by road. So if you are one of those who likes a healthy crowd and hustle bustle of a place then this is the ideal time to visit Ladakh.

Weather-wise this will be the best time to visit Ladakh as the weather is mostly pleasant during these months. Also, there will be a lot of festivals in local monasteries.

The most famous annual festival of Hemis Monastery is celebrated in July.

[Check out Various Monasteries of Ladakh ]

August to Mid September (Max Temp: 24ºC Min Temp: 5.4ºC  )

This is the time when the monsoon is in full swing in the Himalayas. Although Ladakh is cold desert and a rain shadow zone but travelling by road till Zoji La on Srinagar-Leh highway and till Baralacha la on Manali-Leh highway will be a difficult task. There can be a lot of landslides, rivers are full of water and there will be a lot of loose gravel and slush on the roads and this makes travelling tough via road during these months.

So if you are planning your journey during these months it is advisable to get yourself updated with weather forecasts.

Mid-September to October (Max Temp: 20.5ºC   Min Temp: -0.5ºC)

As the monsoon recedes from Himalayas and autumn starts to set in this will be an amazing time to see the wonderful colours of nature in Ladakh. Colour of river water again turns crystal blue or turquoise or green that’s for you to decide. Chill in the air sets in and most of the tourists have gone back. Most of the restaurants, hotels, guest houses and camps close by mid-October.

So if you are looking for a tranquil experience with beautiful shades of nature then this is the ideal time for you to visit Ladakh.

November (Max Temp: 7.4ºC  Min Temp: -6.7ºC )

By this time the temperature has dipped to sub-zero levels and winter has set in. Both the highways will be officially closed for vehicular traffic due to heavy snow. Almost all the tourists have left the scene.

Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri will be starting to freeze.

December to March (Max Temp: 6ºC   Min Temp: -14.2ºC  )

This is the time coldest time in Ladakh when the temperature can dip to -15 degrees at many places. And during this time Ladakh is totally cut off from rest of the world by road. The only way to reach Ladakh is to fly to Leh. But flight frequency is also very low during this time of year. Due to extreme cold and lack of basic facilities during this time of year acclimatization can be very difficult.

In recent years the Chadar Trek on river Zanskar River has become very famous in a month of January to Mid March.

So if you are looking for some Ice Age kind of adventure with bone-chilling temperatures then it’s high time because “ I Like to move it! Move it!”

Best time to visit Leh Ladakh on Bike

Surrounded by the Karakoram and Himalayan mountains  Ladakh  is the second largest district of India.  Ladakh literally  refers to the land of high passes and is a cold desert. This is a land of high passes, serene lakes, rugged terrain and vast open lands.  Ladakh  with its rugged terrain is beloved of adventure travellers especially the bikers. Since both the highways ( Srinagar-Leh highway and Manali-Leh Highway ) are open by 1 st week of June, so June to September will be the best time to visit Leh Ladakh on bike.

Temperature Data of Leh Ladakh

[For Historic data visit Climate Data Org ]

Festivals in Leh Ladakh

Ladakh is not only the place of scenic beauty but it’s having a beautiful Ladakhi culture as well. One should explore this Ladakhi culture while their visit. Festivals in Ladakh are in certainty the most ideal approach to get a look at the Ladakhi culture. Various festivals celebrations are going on throughout the year. See the updated(till the year 2020) list, explore and enjoy!

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Comprehensive Travel Guide to Ladakh in North India

Ladakh is the most beautiful place I’ve ever seen. Located in the far northern corner of the Indian Himalayas, the rugged and remote region is surrounded by snow-capped peaks of the Zanskar, Ladakh and Karakoram ranges. While hilltops are dotted with crumbling ancient monasteries and valley floors are decorated by irrigated green crops and tiny villages.

It’s a region that promises a great adventure, sitting at a lofty 3,500m+. From high altitude lakes, to trekking between remote villages, there’s so many memorable and otherworldly experiences and places to explore in this corner of the world.

I’ve now visited Ladakh twice; spending nearly six weeks each time based in Leh. Based on my own experience, I’ve decided to put together this comprehensive travel guide to Ladakh, with absolutely everything you need to know about travelling to Leh and beyond.

Disclaimer:  This post contains affiliate links which means I get a commission if you buy a product through my link at no extra cost to you. By doing so, I can keep this blog going and continue to create helpful guides for you. Read more:  Privacy Policy

Overview of Ladakh

Ladakh covers the far northern extent of the Indian subcontinent and is bordered by Pakistan to the west and China and Tibet to the north and east. Technically, the broader Ladakh region is also partly in Pakistan, which is known as Gilgit-Baltistan. Together, Ladakh and Gilgit-Baltistan are culturally, ethnically and historically very similar.

Ladakh was part of the former Tibetan Kingdom and is still home to a predominantly Buddhist population today. This means that the culture, language, food, atmosphere and architecture of the region are completely different to what you might find elsewhere in India.

Ladakh was also considered part of Jammu and Kashmir state in India, but since 2019, Ladakh is now a Union Territory.

Leh is the capital and transport hub of the Ladakh region. This is where you’ll want to base yourself when exploring Ladakh. While some people confuse Leh and Ladakh as being the same thing, Leh is the town while Ladakh is the name of the broader region.

When is the Best Time to Travel to Ladakh

High season runs from  June to August  in Ladakh. This is when the region sees its best weather with warm days and relatively mild nights. The roads are also almost guaranteed to be clear of snow during these summer months, making places easier to access.

If you want to join any tours or treks from Leh, then this is the perfect season to meet other travellers and join groups. Outside of these months it can be hard to find regular departures for tours. 

The roads connecting Leh with Manali and Srinagar are usually open from April or May until September or October, depending on conditions. The Leh-Manali Road tends to open later and close earlier due to its higher elevation.

If you’re interested in trekking in the region, try to visit from August up to mid-September. This is when the weather is warm and the trails are cleared of excess snow and ice. High passes and peaks are usually much safer to cross during these months.

How to Get to Leh, Ladakh

Now, this is where the adventure really begins. You can reach Leh, Ladakh by road or by air. Flying is the only option available all year round, while travel by road is possible usually from May until October. There are shared and public transport options by road from either Kashmir or Himachal Pradesh.

If you’re short on time or aren’t up for many days spent doing long drives on some pretty rough roads, then flying is the better option. There are frequent flights throughout the year from Delhi to Leh. In winter, this is the only way into the region.

Flights are run by Air India, Vistara, SpiceJet, and IndiGo. Flights are around 1.5 hours and cost anywhere from 3000INR (AU$60) to 9000INR (AU$180) one way.

Undoubtedly, the road trip to get to Leh is one of the best in the world. It’s not for the faint-hearted though as the roads are rough, with steep drops down one side. However, improvements are made each year with large parts of the drive now sealed.

To reach Leh by road, you can come from two directions: Srinagar in Kashmir to the west or Manali in Himachal Pradesh to the south-east. There are public buses, government tourism buses and shared taxis plying these routes during the summer months.

For most travellers, coming from Manali is most convenient and the more popular option, although the road is far more arduous. The Srinagar-Leh road is less travelled but is a great option if you plan to explore Kashmir or think you might have problems with sudden changes in altitude.

The highest point on the Srinagar-Leh route is Fotu La at 4,100m, having a more gradual altitude change up to Leh at 3,500m. Whereas the Manali-Leh road runs at an average height of 4,000m, including three passes over 5,000m, the highest being Tanglang La at 5,320m.

For a detailed look at all these transport options running between Srinagar and Leh and Manali and Leh, read this: How to Get to Leh, Ladakh by Public Transport

Is it Safe to Visit Ladakh?

The politics of the region can be confusing and can flare up at any time. However, Leh town has remained peaceful for many years now. The border regions close to Pakistan and close to Tibet occasionally have tensions flare up, so keep your eye on local news if you plan on heading up to Ladakh, but in general this occurs far from Leh.

However, I would say Ladakh feels very safe when travelling there. There’s a huge military presence everywhere you look, so border clashes rarely spillover anywhere close to Leh.

Ladakh also has one of the lowest crime rates in India. The people are extremely lovely and welcoming; it’s definitely one of the most relaxing places to experience in India.

Read next: Ultimate North India Itinerary: Kashmir, Ladakh and Himachal Pradesh

Where to Stay in Leh

There are so many accommodation options in Leh, from backpacker hostels to 5 star high end hotels. The best option in my opinion is one of the many local guesthouses. These are usually family owned and a great way to get to know the Ladakhi culture. I’ve stayed at many different places in Leh, so I can recommend a few at different price points.

Budget: Raybo Hostel

Budget: Peace Guest House

Midrange: Chandan Guest House

Midrange: Rock Castle Residency

High-end: Grand Dragon

Read more: Best Places to Stay in Leh, Ladakh For All Budgets

Where to Eat in Leh

The food is one of the highlights of Leh for me. The town is packed full of great cafes and restaurants, serving local Tibetan and Ladakhi food , as well as a range of cuisines from Thai to Italian. Some of my favourites include:

• Bodhi Terrace
• Tibetan Kitchen
• Wanderers Terrace
• Asian Corner

Read more: 10 Best Cafes in Leh, Ladakh

How to Get Around Ladakh

Once you find yourself in Leh town, getting around Ladakh is relatively easy with a variety of options. Whether you hire your own transport or opt to go with public transport, travelling by road in Ladakh is one of the best experiences in the region.

I opted for a combination of public transport and organised group tours to get around to most places. I found this the perfect balance as a budget traveller. Although taxis come in handy too, especially to more obscure places.

Here are your options:

Public Transport

Once in Leh, public transport is a little limited. You’ll need a lot of time and patience if you plan on using local buses to get to all the best places.

Heading east of Leh, if you want to explore Shey Palace, Thiksey Monastery, and Stakna Monastery , you can start by taking one of the local buses leaving from Leh main gate to Choglamsar. From there, you can take another local bus which runs along the main road past Shey and Thiksey. Tickets cost as less than 50 INR and these buses run regularly throughout the day when full. Getting back to Leh can be difficult, as you’ll have to wait on the highway and flag down a passing bus. Hitchhiking is an option.

It is also possible to get to other popular destination further afield by bus. There are usually weekly buses to Diskit in Nubra Valley, Pangong Lake, and Tso Moriri . But you’ll have to check at the main bus station in Leh for the latest timetable.

For other places out west, there are daily buses to Lamayuru . Usually a few buses per week to Likir (for the Sham Valley trek) and Chilling (for the Markha Valley Trek). But again, check at the station for the latest timetable. Photos above are the current schedule as of 2023.

Note: The local bus timetable tends to change each year and throughout the season depending on demand. Heading down to the station to ask in person is usually the only way you’ll find out the latest information. Unfortunately, the buses aren’t overly reliable in Ladakh.

Shared Taxis and Group Tours

By far the most convenient way of getting to the main attractions is by joining a group tour. While I don’t usually do this while travelling, in Ladakh it makes a lot of sense for budget travellers.

Agencies in Leh organise group tours to Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley and Turtuk . These are generally four days, three nights, or three days, two nights if you omit Turtuk.

Prices start from 24,000 INR (AU$450) for a whole vehicle and driver for three days to Pangong Lake and Nubra Valley. More if you add Turtuk. You can then divide this amongst 6-7 people to share the cost.

Accommodation is then up to you to organise and pay for yourself. You can either wait until you arrive and find something that the driver’s recommend, or you’ll find many options for Pangong Lake and Diskit or Hunder (Nubra Valley) online.

Prices will be much the same across all agencies as the drivers work as part of a union with set pricing structures. You can simply walk around Leh and just find an agency that has a group leaving on the your preferred date. They often have signs on their doors displaying the next departures.

Private Taxis

For closer day trips around Leh, getting a taxi can be a convenient and relatively inexpensive way to go. As mentioned above, the taxis are part of a union, so they all carry a booklet and price list inside their cab. You can simply ask to check the price, with no room for bargaining.

Popular day trips include combining Shey, Thiksey and Hemis together, which can cost around 3700 INR (AU$70) for the day.

Otherwise, taxis are also convenient if you want to get dropped at the trailhead of a trek for example, like to Likir (2000 INR or AU$40) or Chilling (3600 INR or AU$70).

Hiring a Motorbike

Hiring a motorbike is a popular choice for Indians who love to explore the Ladakh roads on two wheels. There’s plenty of places in Leh to hire a Royal Enfield , with prices starting relatively low per day.

However, the roads are not for inexperienced riders and I would suggest making sure that you’re competent and have a motorbike license before thinking about hiring a bike in Ladakh.

I noticed a lot more scooter rentals around Leh on my last visit. This would be a good alternative to get around if you’re not confident on a motorbike.

How Long to Spend in Ladakh

You’re asking the wrong person! I’ve spent 12 weeks in total over two trips to the Ladakh region, so I will likely encourage you to spend as long as possible. But if I’m being practical, I would say 10 days minimum if you want to do some sightseeing outside of Leh. Two weeks if you want to also add on a short trek like Sham Valley or Markha Valley.

You can spend much longer than that as well, if you want to add on lesser visited places like Zanskar Valley or Tso Moriri.

Read next: A Detailed 10 Day Leh Ladakh Itinerary

Sightseeing Permits for Indians and Foreigners

While you generally only need your passport to travel to Leh, you will also need a permit to reach some places considered sensitive. Both Indians and Foreign Nationals require permits to visit some places. For Indians, this is called an Inner Line Permit and for foreigners, it’s called a Protected Area Permit .

The following places require this permit:

Pangong Lake

Nubra valley.

• Tso Moriri Lake
• Dha-Hanu Valley

You can either do all the work yourself at the Permit Office (Deputy Commissioner Office) in Leh or if you book a tour with an agency like to Pangong Lake etc., they will do the permits for you. It takes just a few hours to get a permit usually, although it depends how busy the office is.

The cost of the permit is 400 INR environment fee, 100 INR Red Cross donation, and 20 INR per day for wildlife protection fee. So, for a three day trip to Pangong Lake and Nubra Valley, expect the permit to cost 560 INR (AU$11).

For other places like Thiskey, Hemis, and Lamayuru, you just need to cary your passport on you for ID. A permit is not required for these places.

Best Things to Do and See in Ladakh

There are plenty of things to do and see in Ladakh such as remote valleys, rural villages, hilltop monasteries and high altitude lakes. Here are the essential places to visit during your time in Ladakh:

The main hub and tourist centre of Leh is the market. The main thoroughfare is Leh Bazaar Road, which is a wide pedestrian market and shopping street. Filled with souvenir shops, book shops, general stores, trekking gear stores, tour agencies, cafes and banks, you can get whatever you need around the market area.

At the northern end of the Main Bazaar Road is Jama Masjid (main mosque), and you’ll also find the main Leh Buddhist Temple on the western arm of the bazaar road. Decorated with prayer flags and with the towering Leh Palace above the old town, it’s undoubtedly the most vibrant place to be in Leh.

Shanti Stupa

Offering one of the best views in all of Leh town, Shanti Stupa is the white peace pagoda you can see north-west of the bazaar on a small hilltop. It was built in 1991 with funds from the Japanese, similar to the one in Pokhara, Nepal.

The platform around the stupa offers a panoramic view of the town and surrounding valley. It’s undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Leh at sunset time, when the last light of the setting sun streams through the valley creating some beautiful shadows on the ridgelines of the mountains.

You can take a taxi up to the stupa and temple complex or walk up the 500 stairs from the end of Changsha Road. A taxi from Leh market up to the stupa and back, including waiting time costs about 400 INR (AU$8) per car.

Entry fee is 50INR (AU$1).

The most imposing landmark of Leh town, the old palace has undergone plenty of renovations over the last few years and has been opened to the public as a museum and incredible vantage point.

It was originally built in the 17th century by the royal family, Namgyal, as they ruled over the Himalayan Kingdom of Ladakh, in Western Tibet. It was then abandoned in the mid-19th century when the Dogra forces invaded Ladakh and the royal family was forced to flee to Stok.

Today, you can explore the nine levels of the palace, although it’s mostly empty with not much remaining from its time as a palace. There has been a lot of effort to turn some rooms into a museum, which makes it a really interesting place to visit. Plus, the view from the ninth floor is outstanding, looking right across the town below.

You can drive up to the palace, but it’s much quicker to walk up from the bazaar and old town area with stairs leading up from the bottom.

Entry fee is 100 INR (AU$2)

Tsemo Maitreya Temple

The beautiful monastery that sits perched above Leh Palace is my favourite place to be at sunset time. This incredible ruined fort complex and Buddhist temple is one of the highest points in town to enjoy the view of the valley as the sun sets.

You can drive up to the temple, or hike up to it from two different directions. The walk up from Chubi is done on a paved trail with stairs. It starts beside the Chubi HP Petrol Station on Sankar Road. But, most people hike up from Leh Palace, with a dirt trail cut into the mountain. It’s a bit of a workout if you’re not yet acclimatised to the altitude.

Entry fee is 30 INR (AU$0.60)

Khardung La Road Pass

Ladakh is known as the Land of High Passes for a reason. There are several high passes you can drive or hike over in the region, but none are as famous as Khardung La. Once the highest motorable road in the world (now overtaken by another road in India), Khardung La sits at 5,360m.

It connects Leh with Nubra Valley and is the most used pass for tourists heading over to Hunder, Diskit and Pangong Lake. However, some also just drive up to the pass as a day trip and drive back to Leh, but the real adventure is continuing onto Nubra Valley.

The road is generally in decent condition and mostly sealed, but it can close suddenly due to landslides or snow fall, so check ahead of time. It’s generally only open from June until September for tourists.

The most popular excursion from Leh is to Nubra Valley. This fabled valley carved out by the Shyok River and bordered by the Karakoram Mountains was once part of the old Silk Road trading route across Asia. Connecting Pakistan with Tibet, it is one of the most remote parts of India that has only been open to tourism for a couple of decades.

To reach the valley, you must cross the Khardung La pass from Leh and then head to Diskit, the main town in Nubra. Diskit is home to an old monastery built into the side of the rocky cliffs. There is also a large 100 ft Maitreya Buddha statue with incredible views down both sides of the valley.

Heading west of Diskit is Hunder, where you’ll find sand dunes backed by snow-capped mountains. If the landscape was enough to blow you away, there are also double humped camels or Bactrian camels roaming the dunes as well.

Entry fee for Diskit Monastery is 40 INR (AU$0.80)

As one of the world’s highest saltwater lakes, Pangong Tso is also one of Ladakh’s most famous attractions. Located at 4,250m, it’s a long drive to reach the lake from Leh over at least one high pass. Most people include a trip to Pangong with Nubra Valley, but you can also simply head to Pangong Lake from Leh, crossing the Changla Pass at 5,360m.

It’s a sacred site for Buddhists, with almost 2/3 of the lake actually lying across the border in Tibet. It’s bright blue colour against the arid, desert-like mountains makes it an otherworldy sight that draws thousands each year.

Due to the long drive, most people spend a night at the lake. The most popular place is Spangmik , a cluster of glamping style tents and small hotels. However, the overcommercialisation of this village has led many people to continue further to Man or even further to Merak . Here, you’ll find more laidback tents and homestays.

If you can allow an extra couple of days, I highly recommend heading to Turtuk from Nubra Valley. This is the northernmost accessible village in India and is home to ethnic Balti people, who now mostly reside in Baltistan across the border in Pakistan.

The remote village is a beautiful spot to explore, with friendly people who are very welcoming and happy to show you their traditional lifestyle. Because of the long drive, you must stay the night in the village, which only adds to the experience.

You’ll find plenty of homestays who provide beds and meals to travellers fro about 1000INR (AU$20) per night.

Thiksey Monastery

A short drive from Leh along the Keylong-Leh Road, you’ll find several outstanding monasteries to visit. However, arguably the most beautiful is Thiksey Monastery. It’s known to have a distinct resemblance to Lhasa’s Potala, the former seat of the Dalai Lamas in Tibet.

Built cascading over a small hill with the grandest temples sitting at the top, you can either walk up to the top through the alleyways passing monk residences on the way. Or you can drive closer to the top, and simply walk to the temples.

Entry fee is 50 INR (AU$1)

Hemis Monastery

Arguably the most important monastery to visit during your time in Ladakh, Hemis Monastery is the largest in the region. While it was officially established in the 17th century, many believed that it’s meditation caves go as far back as the 11th century.

The monastery is hidden, tucked into a gorge in Hemis National Park about an hour’s drive from Leh. There is a large courtyard in the middle of the complex, from where you can visit the main temples and the museum.

The museum is fascinating, holding some of the most important Buddhist monuments, artwork, relics and artefacts. It also provides an interesting insight into the local culture and history of Buddhism in Ladakh.

Hidden away off the main highway connecting Srinagar to Leh, Alchi Monastery has remained untouched throughout centuries of invasions and attacks. This is not a typical monastery that you see in Ladakh, but a complex filled with sacred shrines and important Buddhist art.

Some of the nearly 1,000 year old murals are considered to be some of the best preserved in the world. Even if you think you’ve seen enough monasteries in Ladakh, this is an important one you’ll want to make time for.

Lamayuru Monastery

Lamayuru is the oldest monastery in Ladakh. Back in the 11th century, it is said that Mahassidha Naropa came to meditate in a cave there. A temple was built around the cave (which can still be visited today) and then the remainder of the complex was built in the 16th century by King Namgyal. 

Built over several levels across the rocky landscape, the Srinagar-Leh Highway passes right through the village and monastery. It’s easily one of the most impressive sights, with the towering peaks surrounding it and the incredible geological area known as moonland running through the valley.

It’s a long but beautiful drive along a sealed highway from Leh to Lamayuru, it takes around 3 hours one way. There are restaurants and homestays around Lamayuru village if you want to stay the night.

Enty fee is 50 INR (AU$1)

Want more? Read next: 25 Best Things to Do in Ladakh

Trekking in Ladakh

Trekking in the Indian Himalayas is completely different to trekking in Nepal. The ranges around Leh are rugged, wild and far less trafficked. Plus, it’s one of the best ways to get to know Ladakhi culture and spend time in rural villages.

Homestay Treks

If you’re interested in trekking in Ladakh, there are two main trekking routes that are popular for independent hikers (without a guide) which utilise homestays as nightly accommodation:

Sham Valley Trek: Known as the “Baby Trek”, although that’s a bit deceiving. This three day trek is a great introduction to the region. With relatively short distances to cover each day and beautiful villages to stop and spend the night in homestays, it’s easy to organise with minimal planning. The maximum elevation is just under 4000m, so it doesn’t ascend too much higher than Leh itself, making it a nice one to do for those short on time and not yet acclimatised to the region. Read my guide to the Sham Valley Trek .

Markha Valley Trek: The more popular option and one I highly recommend to keen hikers. The Markha Valley Trek is a 4-5 day one way trek through the Markha Valley just south of Leh. It also utilises a homestay system across all the villages along the valley floor, making it a convenient trek with minimal planning involved as well. It’s highest point is Kongmaru Pass on the final day at 5,250m, which means you’ll want to at least have spent a few days in Leh acclimatising before attempting this trek. Read my guide to the Markha Valley Trek .

Camping Treks

If you prefer to get off the beaten track and explore the landscapes beyond the villages, then you’ll have to opt for a camping trek. This means you’ll have a guide and a team of mules to help carry all the necessary gear and food. These require a bit more organising, but any of the agencies in Leh will be able to help.

Kibber to Tso Moriri (Parang La Trek): Certainly one of the most spectacular and challenging of the longer treks in Ladakh, the hike from Spiti Valley to Tso Moriri follows an old trading route between Ladakh and Spiti. Almost all of the 10 day trek is above 4000m, with the highest point being Parang La at 5,580m, meaning it’s quite a difficult one and is for experienced and keen hikers only.

Rumtse to Tso Moriri: Another stunning trek across rugged and remote country, this 8 day trek links Rumtse near Hemis National Park to the high altitude lake Tso Moriri, passing Tsokar lake and Changpa nomads along the way. Most of this trek is well over 4000m, with the highest point being at 5,400m, making this a very difficult trek as well.

Zanskar Valley (Padum) to Darcha: This used to be a popular long trek in the Zanskar region, but with road construction between Padum and Darcha, there is no real need to trek the route anymore. However, the 10 day trek will still be a regular offering at least for another couple of years until traffic really builds on the new road. It takes you from the remote Zanskar Valley down to Lahaul Valley, mostly sitting between 3,500 and 4,000, with one pass over 5,000m, Shingo La.

Trekking Agencies

For those longer camping treks, you’ll need the help of a local trekking agency. While there are plenty of them in Leh, you can simply go around and talk to multiple agencies about cost, inclusions, and the general quality of gear.

However, it’s important to go with a decent company for these kinds of expeditions. Quality of gear, guide experience and reliability are extremely vital on high altitude treks. If you’re wondering what trekking agency to trust, I have two recommendations:

• Ladakhi Women’s Travel Company: the first and only female owned and operated trekking agency in Ladakh, they only employ local women as guides and support local communities. Check their website .
• Lungta Tours and Travel (based at Rock Castle Residency): for bigger expeditions and longer treks, I highly recommend Gonbo. He can organise a range of treks with over 20 years of experience in adventure tourism. Email: [email protected]

More Important Info for Exploring Ladakh

• Water: The local water is not safe to drink straight from the tap, but take a LifeStraw bottle or other filtered water bottle and you won’t have to purchase single use plastic water bottles that end up in landfill.
• SIM: A regular Indian SIM card will not work in Ladakh and Kashmir. You’ll have to purchase a new local SIM in Leh. The Airtel shop is tucked down a side alley at the southern end of the Leh Market. It’s listed as Airtel Store on Google Maps.
• Money: There are a couple of SBI ATMs in the main Leh Market street. There is almost always a queue and they occasionally run out of cash, but generally fixed pretty quickly.
• Alcohol: Drinking is not part of the culture in Ladakh and you won’t find it offered much at restaurants or cafes. However, there are a couple of wine and beer shops with limited hours.
• Language: The local language is Ladakhi, but you’ll also hear other languages like Tibetan, Hindi and Kashmiri. English is pretty widely spoken, although some of the taxi drivers only speak basic English.
• Festivals: There are many festivals and events on throughout the year in Ladakh and timing your visit with one is ideal. Each of the monasteries have their own festival, including a masked dance of the monks. Your guesthouse owner will be able to tell you if there is one going on during your stay. The Dalai Lama also visits Ladakh most years during the summer and conducts live teachings. Check his schedule online to see if you can time your visit for that as well.
• Clockwise: Remember to walk clockwise around any stupa or prayer wheel you pass in Ladakh. For Buddhists, this purifies negative karma and is a sign of respect.

Altitude Sickness and How to Avoid

No guide to Ladakh would be complete without mentioning the altitude. Leh sits at an elevation of 3,500m making it one of the highest places in India. Almost everyone who arrives in Leh will feel the sudden change in altitude within a few hours and it will likely continue for a couple of days until you acclimatise.

Flying in from Delhi obviously leaves you more susceptible to altitude sickness because your body will have no time to adjust. Those who come from Kashmir or Himachal Pradesh will have had more time to slowly acclimatise on the way.

The common symptoms are headache, nausea, shortness of breath and tiredness. These are completely normal and will likely go away after a couple of days. More serious symptoms include, vomiting, difficulty walking and dizziness, persistent coughing, chest tightness, confusion or coordination problems.

Tips to Avoid Altitude Sickness in Ladakh

• Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! Drink plenty of water starting from before you arrive in Leh. This is the best way to help your body acclimatise.
• Rest. Prioritise rest in the first 2-3 days of arriving in Leh. This means minimal walking and activities for at least 48 hours. Try to eat in at your guesthouse and only go for a short walk of less than a kilometre at a time.
• Eat small, regular meals. Nausea is a common initial symptom, so eat small, simple meals for the first couple of days regularly. Energy is important.
• Diamox or other altitude medication. Some people like to take diamox or other medication to help prevent altitude sickness. However, they can have serious side effects, so talk to your doctor first.
• Don’t ascend any higher for a few days. Plan your trip so you’re spending the first few days of your visit around Leh without going any higher. Try to allow at least 3-4 days in Leh before heading off on any trek or over Khardungla to Nubra Valley.

How Much Does a Ladakh Trip Cost?

If you’re on a budget, then here’s what you can expect to pay for things in Ladakh (if you want to spend more, you definitely can):

• Accommodation: 450INR (AU$9) for dorm bed or 800INR (AU$16) for private room at a guesthouse
• Meals: 150INR (AU$3) at a local restaurant or 350INR (AU$6) at a more tourist-oriented place
• Entrance fees: Most monasteries charge around 50INR (AU$1) for entry
• SIM card: They charge around 500INR (AU$10) for registration, setup and a 28 day package at AIRTEL in Leh
• Three day tour to Pangong Lake and Nubra Valley: 4,000INR (AU$80) for a seat in a shared group tour
• Permit: 560INR (AU$11) for three days to Pangong lake and Nubra Valley

Looking for More North India Travel Guides?

• How to Explore Zanskar Valley in North India
• A Travel Guide to Spiti Valley
• A Travel Guide to Aru Valley in Kashmir
• 10 Best Things to Do in Srinagar
• Ultimate North India Itinerary for 1 Month

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Ladakh, the land of high passes, is a mystical region nestled in the Himalayas that has been a favorite of tourists, trekkers, and adventure enthusiasts for ages. The breathtaking beauty of the mountains, coupled with the rich cultural heritage and local traditions, makes it a must-visit destination for anyone who loves exploring unexplored territories. A tour to Ladakh is an adventure that one will never forget.

As you arrive in Ladakh, the barren landscape with snow-capped mountains and stunning views of the Indus river will leave you spellbound. The region has a distinct culture and heritage that can be seen in the local monasteries, temples, and festivals that are celebrated throughout the year.

There are many places to visit in Ladakh that are sure to amaze you. From the ancient monasteries of Hemis and Thiksey to the famous Nubra Valley and Pangong Tso Lake, the region is full of picturesque locations that will make you feel like you're in a dream. Adventurous souls can indulge in trekking, river rafting, and mountain biking in the region.

Our Ladakh tour packages offer a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and heritage. We take care of all the travel arrangements, including accommodation, transportation, and sightseeing, so that you can relax and enjoy your trip without any worries. Whether you are a solo traveler or traveling with your family and friends, our packages cater to all your needs.

Book your Ladakh tour package with us and embark on a journey of a lifetime. Explore the untouched beauty of the Himalayas and create memories that will last a lifetime..

What are the best places to visit in Ladakh?

The best places to visit in Ladakh are:

1. Pangong Tso Lake

2. Nubra Valley

3. Hemis National Park

4. Khardung La Pass

5 .Shanti Stupa

6. Thiksey Monastery

7. Magnetic Hill

8. Leh Palace

What are the best things to do in Ladakh?

Best things to do in Ladakh are:

1. Visit ancient monasteries like Hemis and Thiksey

2. Explore the stunning Pangong Tso Lake

3. Drive through the Khardung La Pass, the world's highest motorable pass

4. Go on a camel safari in the Nubra Valley

5 .Trek to the Markha Valley

6. Experience river rafting in the Zanskar River

7. Attend local festivals like Hemis Tsechu and Ladakh Festival

8. Enjoy a hot air balloon ride over the scenic Ladakh landscape

What is the best time to visit Ladakh?

The best time to visit Ladakh is from May to September, as the weather during this period is pleasant, and the roads are open. The summer months are ideal for sightseeing and adventure activities, while the monsoon season is best avoided due to the possibility of landslides and roadblocks.

How many days are enough for Ladakh?

To fully explore and experience Ladakh, it's recommended to spend at least 7-10 days in the region. This will give you enough time to acclimatise to the high altitude, explore the local culture and heritage, and indulge in adventure activities like trekking, river rafting, and mountain biking.

Are there any entry permits required to visit Ladakh?

Yes, entry permits are required to visit certain areas of Ladakh, including Pangong Tso, Nubra Valley, and Tso Moriri. These permits can be obtained from the DC office in Leh or through a travel agent. It's important to obtain the necessary permits before visiting these areas to avoid any inconvenience.

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Ladakh Travel Guide for First-Time Visitors

By: Author Tashi Lundup

Posted on Last updated: June 11, 2020

In this Ladakh travel guide, you'll learn the best time to visit Leh and Ladakh, how to get around, and what to see and do once you get there.

Ladakh, comprising Leh and Kargil districts, is situated amidst the Himalaya and the Karakoram mountain ranges.

Famous as a Buddhist ex-kingdom, Ladakh is well-known for its monasteries or gompas .

Ladakh is referred to as “Little Tibet” due to the strong influence of Tibetan culture on the region and “Land of High Passes” as it has natural beauty in abundance.

Ladakh is sandwiched between Tibet in the east, Kashmir in the west, the Xinjiang province of China in the north, Pakistan in the north-west, and Himachal Pradesh's Lahaul and Spiti valleys in the south.

Leh, the capital of Ladakh and one of the most popular destinations for tourists in the region, is located at an altitude of 3,500 meters.

The town of Leh was an important trade center for Central Asia on the Silk Route and also served as a transit point for traders on the Leh-Yarkand (presently in Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, China) route.

Table of Contents

How to Get to Ladakh

When to visit, how to get around , things to do , eco-responsible tourism in ladakh.

Ladakh is accessible either through the air or by road.

There are direct flights from New Delhi to Leh on all days, whereas direct flights are also available to Leh from Mumbai in summer.

Two roads connect Ladakh with the rest of the country.

One could reach Leh by road from Manali or Srinagar. The 490 km-long Leh-Manali highway is open from May or June until mid-October.

One has to cross three passes – Rohtang La (3,980 m), Baralacha La (5,030 m), and Taglang La (5,328 m) to enter Ladakh region from Manali.

On the Leh-Srinagar road, one has to cross two passes – Fotu La (4,108 m) and Zoji La (3,528 m) to reach Leh.

Summer is the best time to visit Ladakh. One could visit Ladakh from May to September when the weather is pleasant.

Ladakh is not accessible by road throughout the year as both the Leh-Manali and Leh-Srinagar roads are closed for more than six months due to heavy snowfall.

However, the roads within Ladakh are still open in winter.

When the roads are closed in winter, the airlines become the lifeline of the people.

It is altogether a different experience in winter with sub-zero temperatures and plenty of snowfall.

The Chadar Trek and Snow Leopard sighting trek are the major activities that are organized for tourists in Ladakh in winter.

See also: 5 Surprising Things About Backpacking Pakistan

The bus services in Leh are limited. While the remote and far-flung areas are connected through a bus run by the road transport corporation (RTC), the bus services in Leh town and peripheral regions are privately-owned.

As a result, the schedule of the bus service is often erratic.

Taxis are available for traveling in and around Leh.

One can choose different types of taxi, ranging from Toyota Innova to Maruti Van, depending on the budget.

People traveling alone or in a small group are encouraged to book shared taxi tours while visiting Ladakh .

Shared taxis are available for tours to all the major tourist attractions (Nubra valley, Pangong lake, Indus valley, etc.).

Using shared taxis will not only save money but also reduce the impact of carbon emissions on the environment.

It's not only weather that one should keep in mind while planning a trip to Ladakh. One has to keep acclimatization to the altitude in mind too.

At a minimum, allow for a full day of rest on the day you arrive in Leh. It is vital to drink a lot of water to stay hydrated at high altitudes.

Inner line permits (ILP) are required for both domestic and foreign tourists visiting any of the sensitive zones such as Nubra, Pangong, Tsomoriri, and the Aryan valley due to security reasons.

ILPs are available online for both domestic travelers and foreigners and are valid for 15 days.

1. Monasteries of the Indus valley: Leh, Shey, Thiksey, and Hemis

As Ladakh is a Buddhist-dominated area, the region is peppered with monasteries of different sects and size.

Perched high on the hill behind the nine-story high Leh Palace is the Namgyal Tsemo Monastery.

Constructed in the 15th century, the monastery is famed for its three-story high gold idol of Maitreya or the Future Buddha.

Shey, once the summer capital of Ladakh, is the house to Shey monastery renowned for a giant copper statue of Buddha gilded with gold.

On the way to Pangong Lake is the majestic Thiksey monastery that is famed for its resemblance to the Potala Palace in Lhasa, Tibet.

The monastery is famous for its 15-meter high statue of the Maitreya Buddha.

Perhaps the most famous and well-known monastery in Ladakh is the Hemis Monastery, located at a distance of 45 km from Leh.

One of the largest and wealthiest monasteries in Ladakh, Hemis Monastery is famous for the Naropa Festival, which is held every 12 years according to the Tibetan lunar calendar.

See also: Song Kol Lake: Horse Trekking in Kyrgyzstan

2. Nubra Valley

One of the major attractions in Ladakh is the Nubra Valley or “the valley of flowers.”

Compared to Leh (3,524 m), Nubra is at a lower altitude of 3,048 meters above sea level.

Nubra is also the gateway to the famous Siachen Glacier , which lies to the north of the valley, whereas the Karakoram Pass is in the northwest of the valley.

Hundar and Turtuk are the two most visited villages in Nubra valley.

Hundar is renowned for its dunes and the double-humped Bactrian camel.

The village of Turtuk, famous for the Balti tribe, was opened for tourists in 2010. The Balti tribe still follows its age-old customs.

Diskit monastery is the largest gompa in the valley, located just 7 km from Hundar.

3. Pangong and Tsomoriri Lakes

The other major attractions for tourists are Pangong and Tsomoriri lakes.

Pangong Lake, situated at the height of 4,350 m, is a five-hour drive from Leh.

Pangong Lake is 134 km long, and almost 60% of the length of the lake is in the Tibetan Autonomous Region.

Pangong Lake is an important breeding ground for a variety of birds, including many migratory birds.

Meanwhile, to the southeast of Leh in eastern Ladakh at a distance of 240 km far from Leh is the Tsomoriri Lake situated at an altitude of 4,522 m.

The lake is the breeding ground for the highly threatened black-necked crane.

One of the outstanding features of the area around Tsomoriri Lake is the nomads known for moving from one place to the other.

Tsomoriri, one of the highest brackish water lakes in the world, is 19 km in length.

Ladakh's ecosystem is fragile. Since Ladakh is a cold desert, water is a precious resource in the region.

However, due to rapid urbanization and an increase in the number of hotels and guesthouses, mainly in Leh town, people have abandoned centuries-old practices.

Instead of traditional dry compost toilets, flush toilets are being used in hotels and households. 

These are putting a lot of strain on the already depleted sources of water, such as natural springs and it's also contaminating the groundwater.

It is, therefore, advisable to save as much water as possible by taking a bath using buckets instead of showers.

Also, because Ladakh has limited waste management infrastructure, make efforts to reduce garbage by consuming less packaged food and plastic bottles.

It is estimated that more than 3.5 million plastic bottles for mineral water and carbonated drinks are generated in Leh each tourist season.

Instead of buying plastic bottles, refill water bottles from the hotel or water vending outlets in Leh, such as Dzomsa.

I hope this Ladakh travel guide has provided insight into what it would be like to visit this wondrous region of northern India.

Tashi Lundup has been working as a guide with Ju-Leh Adventure for almost 10 years; he has accompanied hundreds of tourist groups during treks and cultural tours in Ladakh. Tashi is also a writer for local magazines such as Stawa .

Planning a trip? Go Backpacking recommends:

• G Adventures for small group tours.
• Hostelworld for booking hostels.

Friday 3rd of April 2020

Thanks for this very useful guide. I'm supposed to travel to Ladakh this summer, I hope it will be possible!

Hi Thom, I'm envious. I considered going to Ladakh overland while in McLeod Ganj (northern India) but ran out of energy after having been in India for seven weeks.

Whether you're able to go this summer or further in the future, I hope you have a wonderful time!

Supriya Kumar Mitra

Thursday 19th of March 2020

This year I will visited this place, Have you faced any breathing problem?

I did not travel to Ladakh personally, so I can't speak from personal experience. The high-altitudes do require you take time to acclimatize upon arrival, drink lots of water, try to get rest in the first few days and eat well.

Best Time to Visit Ladakh – A Complete Travel Guide

If you asked when is the best time to visit Ladakh, my answer would be that it depends on you. Let me explain. The best time to visit any place is different for every person. I am basing this on assumption on the fact that not everyone is looking for the same thing. Other factors like budget, mode of travel, etc also come into the picture.

With that being said, there is a certain time of the year when every tourist destination receives the majority of its visitors. In the case of Ladakh, it is the months from June to September that are considered as the best time to visit. But will that suit you as well? If yes, then which month is the best? Read on to find out.

Quick Navigation

When is the Best Time to Visit Ladakh

Ladakh presents a different color in every season. Every month brings its own set of surprises and its own set of delights. It has a little bit for everyone; from adventure seekers to photographers, to people looking for a bit of solitude to even families looking for a fun vacation.

It is that forbidden mysterious land that opens its doors for visitors only for a few months and then shies away under a thick white sheet of snow. Deciding on the best time to visit Ladakh can be a little confusing so let me break it down month by month.

Please note that in this article, I will only talk about the best time to visit Ladakh. For other details like how to reach, what to see, where to stay, and public transport services, please take a look at How to Plan a Trip to Leh Ladakh – Complete Travel Guide .

The temperature that I am mentioning below is the historical average in Leh City. Depending on the time of day, it will be different. High altitude areas like Pangong Lake and passes en route will be way colder than this. Please remember that during the night, the temperature here can go down to as low as 40 °c.

Ladakh in January to March

Until the month of March, winter in Ladakh remains at its peak. The temperature at night can drop to as far as minus 20 degrees Celsius.

January and February is the best time if you want to plan a trip to visit Ladakh in winter. All the lakes including Pangong and Moriri are completely frozen at this time. The famous Chadar trek also happens around this time only.

You cannot camp at Pangong Lake in winter though. There will be no campsites available and you will have to look for a guest house in either Durbuk, Tangtse, Spangmik, Man, or Merak. If you did not find accommodation, you will have to return to Leh after making a day trip to the lake.

Since all hotels are not operational at this time, you will have to call ahead and inquire. A few hotels remain open in winters as well but you will have to make your bookings in advance.

Running water may not be available everywhere as the water in taps freezes. Hot water will be presented to you but in buckets. Please check with your hotel about this before booking your stay.

Electricity too is limited to only a few hours of the day. It is not an ideal time to go unless you are capable of handling the extremely cold weather.

• Average Temperature in Leh City: -10 °c Minimum and 15 °c Maximum
• Clothes Needed: Heavy woolens, caps, windproof jacket, warm socks, thermals

Ladakh in April

Come April and everyone who is planning a trip to Ladakh that year starts to get anxious, waiting for the highways to open. Snowfall stops and summer starts to step in.

BRO continues to work clearing the snow and both the roads remain closed for most of the month of April. It is towards the end of April that Srinagar Leh highway is declared open but that depends on the weather and is not always the case. Sometimes the date can even get pushed up to early May.

Hotels and guest houses start to open up preparing for the tourist season. The only way to reach Ladakh in April is either by flight or by Srinagar Leh road towards the end of the month.

April is not really an ideal time to go, though. You do not get to see any snow and the weather will be freezing cold. You may have trouble finding accommodation and will miss traveling on Manali Leh or Srinagar Leh highway.

By Late April, all the lakes including Pangong and Moriri would have completely melted to their natural blue. The roads towards Nubra and Pangong are open this month. However, the route may get closed temporarily if it snows at Khardung La or Chang La.

• Average Temperature in Leh City: 5 °c Minimum and 25 °c Maximum
• Clothes Needed: Woolens, caps, windproof jacket, thermals

Ladakh in May

The month of May marks the beginning of the Tourist season in Ladakh. Srinagar Leh highway is declared open either by late April or early May. The opening of the Manali Leh route depends on how fast BRO is able to clear the snow but it is usually towards the end of the month.

Hotels and guesthouses would have become operational completely. There would still be a lot of snow around, especially towards the top of the peaks.

The roads at this time are usually in a bad situation as BRO starts the restoration work. Visiting Ladakh this time would mean that you either go there by Air or take the Srinagar Leh Highway in traveling early in the month.

If you want to include the Manali route as well, plan towards the end. Before doing so, make sure the road is open for tourists. You can check this post, Manali Leh Highway & Road Conditions where I post updates regularly.

• Average Temperature in Leh City: 13 °c Minimum and 28 °c Maximum
• Clothes Needed: Regular summer clothes, light woolens, caps, windproof jacket

Ladakh in June

The tourist season by this time is at its full peak. All the hotels and guest houses would be completely functional. This is the time to go if you also want to catch some snow at the passes on Manali Leh highway.

The roads however are still not completely restored and you may encounter a lot of rough patches on your way. You also will encounter a lot of water streams on the way as the snow starts to melt. By end of June, the region around Srinagar and Manali also starts getting pre-monsoon showers.

• Average Temperature in Leh City: 17 °c Minimum and 30 °c Maximum

Ladakh in July

This is one of the perfect months for the Ladakh trip if you can make it in the first half before Monsoon hits the Himalayan region. Roads are in near perfect condition and all of Ladakh is open for visitors including some of the internal roads like the Wari La Pass route.

Ladakh at this time is filled with tourists and the valleys will present you with grand vistas all around. If visiting in the latter part of the month, be ready to handle rains on the way.

• Average Temperature in Leh City: 16 °c Minimum and 35 °c Maximum

Ladakh in August

If greenery is on your mind, then this is the time to go. You may encounter rain but it is mostly limited to areas around Kullu, Manali, Srinagar, and Sonamarg.

Ladakh is in a rain shadow area and experiences very little rain. With all the global warming though, things have started to change and it can rain even in Ladakh sometimes. The unfortunate cloud burst incident of 2010 is an example of that.

Once you cross Baralacha La on the Manali Leh route and Zoji La on the Srinagar Leh highway, you ideally enter a rain shadow area where there is either very little or no rain at all.

If you are prepared and do not mind the rain, traveling at this time will present you with lush green valleys. You should also be for a lot of slush, landslides, and puddles. If the weather turned worst, the roads can also be blocked temporarily until they are cleared.

For a road trip by bike at this time, make sure you waterproof everything.

• Average Temperature in Leh City: 18 °c Minimum and 35 °c Maximum

Ladakh in September

The month of September is a perfect time for a Ladakh visit.  Monsoon would be gone but would have left plenty of greenery behind in Kashmir and Himachal. Ladakh will be blossoming with colors everywhere.

Hotels and guesthouses will be all functional and roads in near perfect condition. The entire Ladakh brims with astonishing beauty at this time. If you were lucky and traveling after 15th September, you may also catch a snowfall at the top of any of the passes en route.

Ladakh in October

October marks the beginning of the winter season. Cold starts to settle everywhere. High altitude regions already start experiencing zero degree temperatures at night and there is a high chance that it may snow anytime.

Hotels and guest houses mostly would have closed already by late October. The top of almost high altitude passes would have received snowfall.

Srinagar Leh route remains open for most of October. Manali Leh Highway however closes around the 10th of the month. If planning a road trip this month, make sure you plan your itinerary in a way that you cross the Manali route maximum before the 10th.

• Average Temperature in Leh City: 0 °c Minimum and 20 °c Maximum

Ladakh in November & December

Come November, the Srinagar Leh road closes and Ladakh gets totally cut off by road. A trip at this time can only be planned by flight. Srinagar Leh route may remain open in November sometimes but it is not advised at all to travel on.

The month of December is mostly the same as November. Both these months are probably the worst time to go. The weather will be very cold, vistas will be dull and you will not get to enjoy the trip.

Winter trip means snow all around which is not the case in November and December. Leh City in fact will be deprived of snow at this time.

• Average Temperature in Leh City: -7 °c Minimum and 10 °c Maximum

So depending on what I described above, below is a summary of the best time to visit Ladakh.

Best Time to Visit Ladakh by Road

The best time to visit Ladakh by road is the months of June, early July, and September.

Srinagar Leh highway opens sometime in April and closes by mid-November. Manali to Ladakh opens by late May and will close by Mid October.

The first few weeks of this time will present you with highly damaged roads that may even get temporarily closed. Later few weeks towards closing will always pose a risk of snowfall at top of the passes which may close the roads again. July and August will pose the problem of monsoon.

So by road, you should choose a time when the roads are stable and you can cover both the highways. Start from either Manali or Srinagar and end the trip at the other place, completing the Ladakh circuit.

Also read: Srinagar Leh Highway Route Guide and Road Map

Best Time to Visit Ladakh for Photography

The best time to visit Ladakh by photography is the months of July, August, and September. But it actually depends on what you are interested in shooting. If greenery is on your mind then your best bet would be August and September. During the monsoon, the valleys of Manali, Kashmir, and Lahaul are at full blossom and a delight to shoot.

If you do not want to risk the rain, the best time to visit Ladakh for Photography would be September. Monsoon would have just left the valley but you will still find plenty of green around Manali and Kashmir.

Go to Suru Valley and Zanskar and you will have grass and leaves changing colors from green to orange and even red as the fall season progresses. The same is the case with Nubra valley as you proceed towards Turtuk Village .

If you want to shoot a white Ladakh, then you should plan in late January or early February. On an overall basis, September is the best time to visit Ladakh for photography. Ladakh in September means multiple colors all around under a deep blue sky and you will just love what you shoot at this time.

Best Time to Visit Ladakh by Bike

Late June, early July, and September is the best time to visit Ladakh by Bike. Any earlier than this will see you struggle on bad broken roads.

August will have you getting drenched in rain as the Monsoon at this time is at its full swing which also means more furious water crossings. Any later than September will be too cold to be riding on motorcycles to Ladakh with a risk of snow and black ice.

Also read: Manali Leh Highway Route Guide and Road Map

Best Time to Visit Ladakh by Car

The best time to visit Ladakh by Car is from June to September. But it depends on what do you exactly mean by Car and what would you rather prefer.

If your car is a Sedan or Hatchback, you should only plan in early June and September. By this time, there are no chances of any rain or landslides, water crossings are not that furious or deep, and road conditions are a little better.

If you are in a 4X4 or SUV, then you can go anytime between June and September. If you want to go offloading and want to drive on broken roads, do it in May after Srinagar Leh highway opens or early June as soon as the Manali Leh highway is declared open.

Best Time to Visit Ladakh with Family

The best time to visit Ladakh with family is from July to early September. If you are traveling by Air and hiring a taxi in Ladakh with family, then any month between July and September is an ideal time to go.

If you are however planning to drive on your own, then do it in early June or September. You of course do not really want their hearts pounding as you take the car across a running water stream, or through slush on a narrow road, or getting stuck somewhere after the road is closed due to a recent landslide.

The weather after September 15th gets a little cold to be enjoying with your kids and elders. For more details, please take a look at How to Plan a Trip to Ladakh with Family .

Best Time to Visit Ladakh by Flight

The best time to visit Ladakh by flight is from May to September. But this is open for discussion as well. Going by air will pretty much come down to what you are looking for and when can you go.

Ladakh is accessible by Air throughout the year. You always have the option of hiring a cab there for local sightseeing. If snow is what you want, visit in January or February. Otherwise, any time from May to September will be ideal to be in Ladakh.

Best Time to Visit Leh Ladakh for Honeymoon

The best time to visit Ladakh for a honeymoon is in April, September, or early October. The weather at this time will be just perfect for a honeymooning couple.

Other than this, you can actually go anytime between April to Mid-October if you are catching a flight. The only problem is that the sun in June, July, and August is a little too harsh for a honeymoon.

For a road trip, September is a good time if you want a trip with very less adventure, or anytime from July to September if your spouse is as adventurous as you are.

Best Time to visit Ladakh for Snow

The best time to visit Ladakh to see snow is in late January, February, or early March for a winter trip and May, early June, late September, and early October for a summer trip.

January to early March is when the region is buried under a thick sheet of snow. The lakes of Pangong and Tso Moriri will be completely frozen at this time.

If you only want to see a little bit of snow and do not want to plan a winter trip, you should plan in May or early June. This is when you will definitely find some snow at the top of the passes. You can also plan in late September or early October and may even catch a snowfall at this time.

Best Time to Visit Ladakh by Public Transport

If you are planning to travel by Public transport, you should visit Ladakh in July, August, or early September. The buses from Manali and Srinagar to Leh and other internal areas of Ladakh remain available during this period only.

This is also the time when the entire valley is filled with tourists. If not a bus, you have the highest chance of boarding a shared taxi within your budget in these months.

There will be very little waiting time anywhere. Even if you cannot find a bus or taxi, you will still have the option of hitchhiking.

Also read: Complete List of All Tourist Attractions in Ladakh

Best Time to Visit Leh Ladakh via Manali

Manali Leh highway opens in early June. So anytime between 15 th June till 15 th July and September would be best to travel on this road.

The first two weeks of June will put you on bad roads with a possibility of a temporary shutdown due to restoration work. August will see you getting drenched in rain and may even come across a landslide. October onwards will have you encounter extreme cold with a high chance of snowfall at Baralacha La.

Best Time to Visit Leh Ladakh via Srinagar

The best time to visit Leh Ladakh via Srinagar is in May, June, early July, and September. It is pretty much the same deal as the Manali Leh highway. The only difference is that this road opens a month earlier and closes a month later.

An ideal time from Srinagar would be between Mid May to early July and September.; for the same reasons that I mentioned for Manali Leh road. Rains can play havoc around Zoji La so late July and August are best avoided.

Also read: Is Srinagar Leh Highway Safe for Tourists?

 Best Time to Visit Ladakh on a Budget

If planning a budget trip to Ladakh, the best time to go would be anywhere between July and September. All hotels are open during this time and you have a higher possibility of finding accommodation within your price range.

Public transport services too will be all operational and you can easily find a Bus or shared taxi towards any desired destination. Go any earlier or later than this and you may struggle to find budget accommodation and transport.

Best Season to Visit Ladakh

The season of summer and fall are the best to visit Ladakh. The weather in summer is suitable for all kinds of tourists and will make the journey pleasurable.

Go there in September during the fall season and you will witness the natural beauty at its best. You will see beautiful colors within the shades of grey of a cold desert under a deep blue sky. It is not just the trees, leaves, and flowers that you will find colors in, but also in the mountains.

Also read: How to Plan a Trip to Ladakh by Public Transport

Best Month to Visit Ladakh

June and September are the best months for a trip to Ladakh.

Best Time to Visit Ladakh in Winter

Late January, February, and early March are the best time to visit Ladakh in winter.

I think I have covered the topic of the best time to visit Ladakh from every aspect here, and I hope this information was of help. If you have any further questions, please feel free to ask in the comments section below, or at our Community Forum , and I will be happy to answer.

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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How to plan a trip to leh ladakh, srinagar leh highway status 2024 – 2025, zojila pass road status and condition 2024 –..., 126 comments.

Thank you for sharing this info. I am planning a trip to Ladakh next month. Hope my trip will be successful.

Have a safe trip bhai !!!

I have decided to visit Ladakh via Srtinagar and back via Manali in between last week of July and first week of August with my family. What is your opinion please?

Bhai if possible push it by a few weeks. You know how monsoon has been so far in the year. Heavy rains everywhere

Hi Vargis Bhai, I have planned for Ladakh tour via Srinagar and willing to back via Manali from last week of July to first week of August with my family. Will it be suitable?

hi khan bhai, i am solo starting from Jammu to ladakh and then via Manali to chdigarth. apoox 13 days travel. should i start from Jammu on 1st September or last week of September. i am asking as my train is weekly once from Mumbai.

Hi Sanju Bhai – September 1st week will be a better choice

hi khan bhai, i am solo starting from jammu to ladakh and then via manali to chdigarth. apoox 13 days travel. should i start from jammu on 1st september or last week of setember. i am asking as my train is weely once from mumbai.

Hi Sanju Bhai – September 1st week will be a better choice

Hi Vargis, I’m planning a car trip to Ladakh in Aug 1st week with family. It’s a duster 2 wheel drive. I plan to go from the Manali side, and come back from the same route as I don’t intend to go to Zojila and Srinagar. Will it be raining too heavily? Or is it just mild rains which is manageable to drive. While I’ve a lot of driving experience, but I’ve driven only a bit in mountains. Regards, Amit

Hi Amit – Hard to say right now to be honest, will depend on the weather. There could be heavy rains on Manali Leh stretch, especially between Manali and Sarchu.

Thank you so much for writing such exceptional vlogs. Please help me in one thing: may I visit Ladakh from Manali side in early October with sedan car with my wife and 11 years old child?

Thank you, Sujit. Visiting in early October is doable. Which car do you have?

Dear Vagiskhan ji, your way of explaining the touring is amazing. You covered all the points of all sections of people. Your article is like a data set about Ladakh tourism . Thank you so much ji. We four people planning to be there in September last week by public transport or by rental car from Delhi. We are little bit confused in between the two. Our motto of journey is to enjoy the Himalayas inch by inch…. In that way rental taxi seems to be the best I believe… Kindly give your opinion Ji …

Me and My friend are planning trip to Leh ladhak between May last week and June First Week, we have heard that its very cloudy in this period of time, So whats your suggestion ?

No, it’s not. I am myself planning a trip at this time

Excellent blog Vargis bhai .. just happened to stumble upon it and am enjoying reading the details you have provided. I am planning to visit Ladakh this year and finding it difficult to choose between late May (kids vacations so can easily leave them with parents) and late September (best time scenery wise). Just hoping I won’t miss much if I travel in May

Thanks, Nilesh Bhai. May end will be a better option with kids.

Excellent detailed travelogue

Thank you !!!

Hi Vargis, I am planning a bike trip to Leh Ladakh via Srinagar at 1st week of August with my wife. Is this a good time to visit Ladakh or should I wait till September.

Hi Robin – It will be best to wait until September

Hi – we are planning a trip around this Diwali. While I understand the cold part, not sure why you say November is the worst part to visit. Can you pls elobrtare?

Is it safe to travel Leh in a hatchback with a family of three?we are planning the first time.is the road from nubra to pangong good?is the month of September good for budget travelling

[…] You can travel in early October as well but can be a little risky. Nakee La starts receiving snow towards the end of September and so do the other 4 passes. Traveling in October means that there will be a high chance of the road getting blocked by snow, leaving you will be stranded. For more details, please take a look at When is the Best time to visit Ladakh. […]

I have gone through your writings. Excellent! We are planning to to Ladakh next year. We are senior citizens from Kerala trying to drive down

Hi, I have been following your blog on Leh Manali highway. As the clearing work by BRO has started. Will it be accessible by 20th of May. I am planning to take Srinagar Leh for Leh and return from Leh to Manali

Yes it will be

Hi, You have wealth of information, feeling lucky. As you have said in earlier blogs that Manali leh route is inaccessible in May and opens in first week of June. Will it be different this year as it will be accessible by 20th May.

Thanks for your reply.

Hi Vineet – Chances are that yes it will be all open by 20th this year

Thanks a lot

Hi Vargis, We are planning for a bike trip 2 guys and one girl from manali to leh by bike on 13th june to 23rd june. Are the roads open or blocked ??Is it good time to go by bike. please let us know . And we are not going in any package groups so are there frequent garage shops on the way if anything happens to the bike ??

We are 9 pax. 4 couples and a single ladie. Ages between 45 and 70 years old. We want to travel to Ladack during Ladack Festival, in September. Please suggest us an itinerary from Delhi to Ladack, including Daramsala also. We want go by car and train and back Delhi by flight. Thanks Anabela Marinho

Hello Sir, Actually, we are (Couple) planning to visit Leh in Last week of March. Could you please guide for same.

Please read this Deepak.

https://vargiskhan.com/log/leh-ladakh-in-march/

Hi, Your travel blogs are very detailed and informative, useful for me as a solo traveler. Pls inform how long does it take to get necessary permits for specific tourist spots in Leh Ladakh

Thanks Thyagrajan. Only a couple of hours at most. Or you can just tell the hotel to arrange it for you.

Hi vargis, I will be thankful if you help me out here, four of us planning to visit Leh after 15th oct , will reach Srinagar by flight and then will head out to Leh and the other places like Pangong Nubra etc, then returning to Delhi from Leh by flight …. is it possible at that Time…..?????

Hi Vargis, I am awed reading your blog containing such a detailed info on Leh. A group of 4 of us are planning to visit Leh in the Last week of October. You said the best time to go for biking is till September. So is not OK if we try to bike in October last week? Cant we get a budget home stay and bike rent facilities at that time?

Hi Mukund – A trip in October will be great as well but since you are on bike, you would have to be prepared for cold weather. If you were planning after October 15th, you may also have to keep Manali Leh route out of your plans.

jammu tawi to srinagar road is full time open or not..i am planning to go by bus………i will come from delhi to jammu tawi by train,…then i want ti take public transport bus…srinagar to leh bus available??

Yes it is available

Hi Varis Bhai, Nubra to Pangong route via shyok in last week of July.. is it commutable? I heard Shyok river water is too high…

Hi Arindam Bhai – Sorry for replying late. Yes it is possible in July, shouldn’t be a problem.

Dear khan, you hv suggested in stead of booking travel co, hired car are available after landing. Can you suggest for staying arrangement in diff places

Hi Varghis bhai,

I am planning a Leh trip from 13 July to 25 July on motorbike. IS t his best time to visit Leh…considering there will be no rain?

There can be some rain around Kashmir Valley and Manali Deepu Bhai so please pack and prepare accordingly.

Hi Bhai, I am From Pune. me n my 3 friends planning for Leh trip in August (20-29) or October (10-18) by flight from delhi to Leh.. Which is most preferable dates?

And more are roads are open if we go from Manali or Srinagar?

Srinagar Leh road will be but Manali to Leh may get closed.

Hi Pranita – October 10-18 will be preferable. It will be a bit cold but number of tourists would definitely be less

Thanks for reply. But we are not getting tours on October. They are saying it’s not preferable and we don’t arrange in October. What to do ?

Why do you want to go with a tour company? Just fly into Leh and rent a taxi there. That will cost you much less.

Hi Vargis Bhai.. I am from Kerala Planning for a Solo bike ride from Chandigarh to Ladakh in the Month of September (Say from 8 to 17). I have R15 V3. Please advice if it is Ok with R 15? Can you please help me finalizing an itinerary for me for this schedule? Thanking you in advance. Manoj Daya

Remove the lower faring from the bike Manoj Bhai, rest should be fine. Please take a look at the following post about itinerary.

https://vargiskhan.com/log/ladakh-travel-guide/

Hello Vargis bhai,

I’m very grateful for your blogs and info as it helped me a lot last year when i did Manali-Leh-Srinagar. Thanks a ton.

I’m planning for another ride this year and i have mentioned itinerary below. Kindly review once and let me know if you find any challenges or have any alternate suggestions. Your approval will be my ‘Final-Go’ 😛

Sept 22nd : Chandigarh – Narkanda 23rd : Narkanda – Chitkul 24th : Chitkul – Nako 25th : Nako – Kaza (via Geu mummy temple) 26th : Villages around Kaza 27th : Kaza – Chandartaal 28th : Chandartaal – Jispa 29th : Jispa – Leh 30th : Leh (get the ILP and all) 1st Oct : Leh – Tso Moriri 2nd : Tso Moriri – Hanle 3rd : Hanle – Umling La – Hanle 4th : Hanle to Leh 5th : Leh – Sonmarg 6th : Sonmarg to Gulmarg 7th : Gulmarg (Local) 8th : Gulmarg – Sheshnag (via Srinagar and Pahalgam) 9th : Sheshnag – Jammu/Udhampur 10th : Jammu/Udhampur – Chandigarh.

Please let me on the closure of any routes mentioned above if you think the dates doesnt go with the climate. Also if you find that Oct 1st or 2nd week is too late to ride on those roads due to snowfall or closing the road for usual traffic (Keeping in mind that roads can be closed anytime due to climate but still)

P.S : I have Royal enfield Himalayan with me to ride, just so that it can help you to analyse the status.

Please reply back with your opinion.

Thank you for all the assistance, Sagar

Hi Sagar Bhai,

1. Umling La in all probability won’t be allowed. 2. Leh to Sonamarg will be too long, you may have to break at Drass. 3. Add a day in Pahalgam. Gulmarg to Pahalgam and then trek to the lake will be tough. And it would be a shame to come to Pahalgam and not stay there a day.

Wow, Thank you so much for opening up my mind Vargis bhai 😛 So you mean to say – Umling la is not possible at all ? 🙁 Its not open for civilians yet thats what you meant ? – As i will be travelling to leh via Kaza and not Rohtang, then ILP is not necessary right ? But what if they ask me for ILP in Koksar and Sarchu check post ? Will they leave me without ILP ? – So you would suggest a day ride from Gulmarg straight to Sheshnag and next day stay at Pahalgam then leave towards chandigarh ?

1. As of last year and as of now Umling La is out of bound for tourists. We should know more once tourist season starts. 2. ILP is something u get for Ladakh in Leh. If you are asking Rohtang Permit, then you do not need it as you will come from Kaza. 3. No. Reach Pahalgam, check in to a hotel and plan the trek the next day. Keep a day in Pahalgam for sightseeing purpose.

Im from Malaysia and Leh has been in my bucket-list. I find your articles helpful and based on that I have outlined the below itinerary: Day 1- Fly fr Delhi to Leh. Walk around Leh in the evening. Day2- Leh & surrounding- Shanti Stuppa, Leh Palace & Thiksey Monastery Day 3- Leh- Nubra Valley- Khardungla Pass, Maitreya Buddha Statue, Hundur Sand dunes Day4: Nubra-Panggong Tso Day 5: Panggong Tso to Leh via Changla Pass Day 6: Leh- Basgo- Hall of Fame, Basgo Monastery, Magnetic Hill Day 7: Back to Delhi.

Intially planned end of May but flight cost was very high. Thinking of 20th April/ Aug 9th/ 9 Sept.

My question: Hows the itinerary and what would be the best time to go among the dates. Its for 2adults and 1 child (9yo).

Sorry long post. TQ

Hi Shamini – Yes the itinerary is perfect but only if you are going to rent a private taxi for entire trip. There is no public transport available on Nubra to Pangong direct route.

Hello. I am planning to visit Ladakh & Nubra valley in first week of March 2019. 1. Could you let me know what temperature will I get at that time? 2. Will I get running water in tap, electricity, and basic other necessities at that time? 3. Will I be able to stay at Nubra Valley at that time?

See this post please.

Hello bro… We r planning to visit ladhak on 30 dec to 2 jan is it a right time to visit there with family even i have one kid and he is 8 year old.. We r planning to come there by air from delhi…

Kindly give me a right feedback

Waiting for your kind reply??

Kunal Bhai it is not the best time but you can go if it is snow what you are after. Weather is very cold so please pack accordingly and take care of your little one. Keep him well covered and protected. Don’t let him run around and exhaust himself.

Hi friend, myself Aravind from Bangalore. We are planning to visit leh on first week of November. Is this the good time to visit considering climate and hotel availability?

November is not the best of the times to visit Ladakh but you can definitely plan a trip still. Just make sure that you pack well because it is really very cold over there right now.

We are 4 adults planning to go to Leh ladakh via Manali 1st week of October. I know this is not the right time to ask but it will be helpful if you could just suggest about the roads & things to carry.

Roads are all open and will be by first week of October. For things to carry, please see the following post.

https://vargiskhan.com/log/ladakh-checklist-things-to-carry-for-ladakh-trip/

Hi Vargis, we are 6 people planing to visit leh ladakh by next march end april first week. is it good time to visit there in march april.

Hi Sapan – You will have to take a flight as both the roads will still be blocked. It is a good time though since there won’t be many tourists around

Vargis bhai, which mobile network will work straight from jammu – leh – manali? i’ve reached jammu jammu today. pls suggest!!

Shubham Bhai only BSNL / MTNL will work at majority of the places. Rest all will be limited to only a few places.

Hello Vargis,

We are 5 adults planning to go for a trip to Leh ladakh from 11th aug- 18th august or 28th july – 4th august.

1.Could you just suggest if it the right time to visit all the sites in Leh enjoy the sight seeing. 2. Will it be raining heavily during this period? And will this spoil our sight seeing? 3. We are traveling by flight on both the dates.

Kindly give your suggestions.

Thank you, Shrddha

Hi Shrddha – If you are reaching Leh by flight and coming back the same way then you do not have to worry about rain. Ladakh is in rain shadow and it either rains very less there or not at all. Risk of rain is on the Manali – Leh and Srinagar – Leh route but you won’t be on those roads anyways.

Thank you for your reply. Yes we will be travelling by Flight. So as per your suggestion its a good time to go in mid August without worrying much about the rains and impact on the sight seeing , Right ?

Regards, Shrddha

And also since our tour is restricted to 6 days we are not visiting the Sham Valley and Shey village. Do you suggest we do these places or is it fine to drop them.

No, if you only have 6 days then drop these places.

Hi Shrddha – No one can really predict mother nature for sure. It is not supposed to be raining in Ladakh at all but then a cloudburst did happen in 2010. Historically though and with the exception of that one year, it doesn’t rain in Ladakh so much that it would disrupt your plan. If it does then there could be a temporary roadblock at top of the passes but that is usually for a few hours, at worst a day.

I m planning a trip to ley ladakh with my family via car. I wanted to see snow on both sides of the road, wanted to enjoy snow and wanted the journey to be safe. Roads should be clear and not broken as well. Plz recommend the month for the trip for both the routes( via manali and srinagar)?

If you want to see that much of snow that either go in April end or May first week as soon as Srinagar Leh highway opens. Or go in May end or June first week as soon as the Manali Leh highway opens. You will however only find this kind of snow either at Zojila top, or Rohtang Top or Baralacha La top, nowhere else.

You are welcome

Hello vargis bhai….thanks for this valuable information…I am planning my trip around 14th june via manali to leh road by hrtc bus….plz tell me whether hrtc bus service will be available at that time and will it be safe to travel manali leh highway around mid june ??

Hi Harry, It depends on how soon the road opens but in all probability, yes the HRTC bus will be available.

Thanks bhai

You are welcome Bhai

I would like to thank you for your blogs as they help a lot. After reviewing your blogs we planned for Saach Pass last year and now planning for Leh.

We are a family of 4, 2 kids age 8+ and 3+and planning to travel by safari in end of May via Srinagar Leh Highway.

Last year in Saach kids didn’t experienced any severe problem so we are daring this trip although we have bought oxi meter and cylinders for this trip

We would like to plan the trip for 10 days and would appreciate your advise

Regards Vani

Hi Sachin, Pleast take a look at the post below for some tips while traveling to Ladakh with kids. Please let me know if you need any other help.

https://vargiskhan.com/log/traveling-to-ladakh-with-children/

Hi Mr Vargis,

We are planning to visit Kashmir this coming September from 10 -19 and there will be 5 of us. FYI, we will arrive New Delhi on Sept 9 at 10.00 pm and will overnite in airport before we can catch early flight on the next morning.

Since this will be our first time travelling India/Kashmir, would like to seek your advise/opinion where should we drop first : i) Ladakh – then take bus from Ladakh to Srinagar and flight from Srinagar back to New Delhi or ii) Srinagar – then take bus to Leh (Ladakh) and fly back to New Delhi

– Is it enough time (10 days) to cover both Srinagar (Gulmarg, Sonamarg, Pahalgam & Yusmarg) and Ladakh (Pangong Tso Lake, Tso Mariri, Khardungla Pass, Nubra Valley, Turtuk & visit old town city)? – Which route/way will be easier and cheaper? – Is there any place (above listed) is not suggested to visit in September? – is it possible for you to draft out rough itinerary for us for this trip?

Our flight from New Delhi to Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) will be on 19 Sep at 11.10pm.

Hello Reita,

1. Landing in Sriangar, taking a bus to Ladakh and then flying out of Leh will be better. 2. 10 days is not at all sufficient to cover all the places. You must add more days to your travel plan. 3. Sriangar to Ladakh will be easier. 4. All can be visited in September. All areas are open. 5. 19 days as I suggested will not be enough. You will have to add more places. You will also have to hire a local taxi in Sriangar to cover Gulmarg, Yusmarg, Pahalgam etc. It will be hard to cover these by local buses.

Hi Vargis ji,

I am Sushruth from Mysore . My friends and I are planning to visit leh and Ladakh from 18th of June to 30th , we are more inclined towards hiring a self driven car ( may be zoom car) from Delhi and travel towards Leh. Is it advisable to self drive or do we need to accompany driver along with us , we are finding it difficult to decide on this factor since quite a few people have expressed that it is very difficult to drive on this highway . What do you advise ?

Hello Sushruth Ji – As long as you have decent enough driving experience including plains and hills both then it is Ok to drive on your own to Ladakh. Do keep in mind though that self drive rentals are only allowed till Leh. You will not be able to use it for sightseeing in Ladakh and will have to rent a loca taxi for that purpose.

Thank you. Aren’t the self driven cars allowed in nubra valley , khardung la and pangang so ?

You are welcome and no they are not.

hi, i am from haridwar, we (three families) are planing our trip in August (9th to 15th). is this a good time to travel leh ladakh and if you can please guide me about the iternary, places to visit n stay

August is the time of Monsoon but yes you can go. How are you traveling and for how many days?

Hello Vargis Bhai,

Thanks for the detail info. I am planning my trip based on your blog.

I am from Bangladesh and planning for a Bike trip from Manali to Leh with couple of my friends. We have two choices for the trip. 14th June to 24th June and 20th August to 30th August.

Which time will be perfect for us?? We are semi professional riders 😛 😛

Hello Islam Bhai, June will be better as August is the time for monsoon and that may create some problem.

Hi Vargis Bhai, happened to read about ‘black ice’. Is thia a real threat for riders? Have you personally experienced it? Am going on 1st week of september. Will you be around there that time?

Hello Dennis Bhai – I have experienced it but not while going to Ladakh. It was during a different trip in Himachal. Don’t worry, you won’t find any of it in September. Threat of black ice is usually early in the morning, after the sun comes up it melts away.

Sir, myself from Kerala. I am planning to visit Leh , by the the first of October. Bolero is my vehicle. I am planning around a15 days trip. I covered all your articles. Great help you are offering through this. Is that a good option, that start by 1st October or start by last week September like 25th .. ???

Thanks in advance

Hello Sarath – Timing is OK. I would recommend that you start by last week of September, take the Manali Leh highway to reach Ladakh and come back via Srinagar.

Thanks a lot, friend. I guess tyre sealants are not a practical option…

Hi Vargis, how are the possibilities of getting a puncture along ladakh route? 9Since enfield isnt tubeless) Is SLIME sealant a good option? getting conflicting opinions..curious to know what you say about slime/ any other sealant for tubed tyres. Thanks

Possibiity is high DJ Bhai. During my last trip to Ladakh, I had 9 flat tyres total in 12 days, almost one every day. Best way out is to carry 2-3 spare tubes, a foot pump and tools to replace the tubes. Go to any mechanic or puncture repair shop and learn how to replace the tube. Once you know how to do that, you are good to go. If you get a flat tire, replace the tube, pump the air in and be on your way. Get the puncture tube fixed at the next repair shop you come across.

Hi Vargis, Do you have any updates on latest weather status in leh, Nubra and Pangong. I am planning to do these 3 places from 10th to 18th July on bike. Should I expect lot of rains?

Hi Bhushan – No rain around Leh, Nubra and Pangong. All routes are open.

Hi, thanks for so vivid details.we have planned a trip of 11 days from 29th August to 8 September 2017 covering the full moon on 6 September.includes srinagar 1 day,kargil 1 day,leh 4 days,nubra 2 days,pangong 1 day,tsomoriri 1day. Is this period or planning good for visit leh.

Hi Sougata, Timing is good. Let me know how how you have prepared your itinerary, how and where you are traveling from and I can suggest if the planning is good as well.

Our journey starts by night stay at srinagar (29th August) then to kargil(30th August) and leh (31st August& 1st sep ),nubra ( 2 nd & 3rd sep), back to leh (4th sep),pangong (5th sep), pangong to tsomoriri (6th sep),back to leh (7th sep), morning flight to Delhi(8th sep).we don’t want to cover leh manali route so it ends at leh.

Adjust one day from somewhere in the itinerary between Pangong and Tso Moriri. It is actually a 2 days journey. Which route do you intend on taking?

drive to Tomoriri via Tsagala.Leave in the morning and drive to Chumathang stop at Upshi for passport checking. On the way visit Sumdah village and then to Tso-moriri.

I am a bit confused here. Do you want to go to Moriri from Pangong via Changthang or from Leh via Chumathang?

Hi ! We, a family of 5 adults and 2 children, will not start from Manali for Leh before 30th September this year. Can we get any Govt transport that time? Please advise.

You may be able to board the HRTC bus, provided that it has not already snowed anywhere on the highway. HPTDC bus service gets withdrawn by Sep 15th.

Hi, is there local bus transport available from Leh to khardungla?

yes you can take any bus going towards Nubra valley. Read the article below for more details.

https://vargiskhan.com/log/leh-bus-service-buses-ladakh/

Hi, is there JKRTC bus service available from Leh to Khardungla?

Thanks for this truly well written article!

Thank you for taking the time to drop a note Dennis.

Hi, I am from Kerala, planing for a solo Enfield Ladakh ride in Sept. Any riders like to join? [email protected]

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• Best Time to Visit Ladakh: Discover the Finest Travel Season

The best time to visit Ladakh to explore the region at its finest is during summer, which lasts from June to September. Also known by the name ‘Little Tibet of India,’ Leh Ladakh is like a paradise during this time of the year. The pleasant atmosphere, clear sky, and sunny days make it a perfect time to explore the picturesque beauty of the region during summer. You can engage in various outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, and white-water rafting during this season.

However, the exploration of the captivating landscape of Ladakh is not just limited to summer. As the region goes through different seasons throughout the year, each offers its own unique opportunities for adventure. From traversing through the breathtaking natural vista to exploring the ancient monasteries and local culture, Ladakh will make your adventure unforgettable any time of the year. Nevertheless, it’s crucial to choose the season that suits you best.     

1. Summer (June to September)

2. monsoon (july to september), 3. autumn (september to october), 4. winter (november to february), temperatures in ladakh by month, rainfall in ladakh by month, what is the best time to visit ladakh, peak tourist season in ladakh, discover the must-see destinations of leh ladakh, travel tips for the ladakh tour, cultural exploration: festivals and event calendar, explore different seasons in ladakh.

Ladakh, a.k.a. ‘Little Tibet’ is a land of enchanting natural beauty and dramatic landscape. This Himalayan region experiences five major seasons throughout the year. Each season comes with different atmospheric characteristics offering different travel experiences. To learn more about the seasons, delve into the details below.

Summer is considered the best time to visit Ladakh and lasts from June to September. This season is popular among the tourists. During these months, the weather is most favorable with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). It is an ideal time for outdoor adventures such as cycling, biking, trekking, camping, and so on. 

While Ladakh is known for its arid climate, it does experience a mild monsoon season. This season extends from July to September and coincides with summer. Rainfall is minimal compared to other regions of India, but occasional showers may block the roads. During occasional downpours, the region also experiences mudslides, imposing difficulty in traveling. When it’s not raining, the sky is clear with sunny days. The average temperature during this time is similar to that of summer, i.e. 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F).

Autumn can also be considered as another best time to visit Leh Ladakh. Stretching from September to October, autumn comes with a delightful transition from summer to winter. The landscape transforms into a palette of golden hues as the leaves change color. The terrain is vibrant with picturesque visuals. The average temperature during this season ranges from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F). 

With the start of November, winter comes into action lasting until February. The region is covered in snow with stunning visuals of the towering snow-capped mountains. The average temperature during this time of the year falls below 0°C (32°F). During winter most parts of the region become inaccessible by road, and the areas become quieter and less crowded.

• Spring (March to May)

With the end of winter, spring rejuvenates the vista with vibrant blossoms. Spring lasts from March to May and kicks in with a burst of flora throughout the landscape. Apricot and almond trees are common sights during this season. It is also an ideal time for photography enthusiasts. The weather is much milder than in winter with average temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F).

What to Expect from Ladakh Travel in Each Season?

As each season has different characteristic features, your travel experience will also vary accordingly. Below are some pointers that give you a glimpse of what each season has in store for your Ladakh tour:

• Mild and pleasant daytime temperatures
• Accessible roads to major attractions
• Vibrant landscapes with blooming flowers and lush greenery
• Peak tourist season with crowded popular destinations
• Ideal time for trekking, biking, and outdoor activities
• Cultural festivals in monasteries are in full swing
• Minimal rainfall
• Ocassional showers can lead to blocked roads and landslides
• Lush green landscape with various shades of green
• Fewer tourists due to the inconvenience of occasional rain showers
• Transition from summer to winter with cooler temperature
• Stunning fall foliage with golden hues
• Pleasant weather and fewer crowds
• Ideal for trekking and exploring remote monasteries
• Clear skies for stargazing
• Snow-covered landscape adds pristine charm to the entire vista
• Extremely cold weather conditions with limited road access to some areas due to heavy snowfall
• Engage in winter adventure activities such as trekking, ice festivals, and wildlife watching
• Opportunity to experience the region in a quieter environment
• Limited tourist infrastructures, but offers less crowded accommodations
• The landscape rejuvenates with fresh blossoms.
• Apricot and almond tree blossoms make the terrain picturesque
• Perfect for landscape photography
• Treks at lower altitudes become accessible
• Relatively smaller crowd than in the summer

Let’s look at the weather in Ladakh month by month. The table below shows the average temperature and rainfall, giving you a clear picture of how the weather changes in the region.

The unique terrain of Ladakh is primarily characterized by a cold and dry climate, resulting in low rainfall in the region. Located in the rainshadow region of the Himalayas, Ladakh typically experiences minimal precipitation, usually below 10 mm, except during the months of July and August. The table below offers a comprehensive analysis of Ladakh’s annual precipitation.

The live graph and current forecast containing rainfall, temperature and winds frequency in Ladakh region will help you plan your trip better:

The most favorable time to visit Ladakh for most travelers is during summer, the months from June to September. During this period, the weather is at its most pleasant, with daytime temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Summer allows you to access all major attractions and engage in a variety of activities, including trekking and biking. The landscape is revived with vibrant colors suitable for photography. Besides, summer is another best time for Leh Ladakh is autumn and spring. Both these seasons offer the enchanting landscape of Ladakh and allow you to explore the terrain in relatively quieter surroundings. 

The peak tourist season in Ladakh is during the summer months, from June to September. During this time, Ladakh experienced the highest influx of tourists. Because of the milder temperature and clear view of the landscape, this season is more appealing to travelers. Several factors contribute to the popularity of Ladakh in the summer. Besides the captivating natural beauty, it’s a good time to explore the cultural festivals and events during this season. The roads leading to Ladakh from other parts of India are also open, making it accessible to a broader range of visitors.    

Ladakh is a crown jewel of India with fascinating destinations to visit. This is the northernmost part of India and is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, monasteries, and unique culture. In your journey, consider exploring some of these popular tourist destinations:

• Leh : It is the capital city of Ladakh and is a hub for its rich culture, tradition, and history.
• Pangong Lake : It is an iconic high-altitude lake most known for its alluring shades of blue. It is also famous for camping and stargazing.
• Tso Moriri Lake : This is in a remote region surrounded by snow-capped mountains. It offers a scenic view and a peaceful ambiance for relaxation.
• Nubra Valley : You can visit Nubra Valley via Khardung La Pass, one of the highest motorable passes in the world. 
• Hemis Monastery : This is the largest monastery in Ladakh situated about 45 km from Leh. It is famous for the Hemmis Festival and its ancient architecture.
• Zanskar Valley : It is popular for its trekking route and offers the exploration of the beautiful village of Padum.
• Alchi Monastery : It is famous for its exceptional artwork and is one of the oldest monasteries in Ladakh listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Thiksey Monastery : Nestled on a hill, this monastery offers panoramic views of the Indus Valley.
• Spituk Monastery : This monastery is famous for its annual Gustor Festival and offers a serene setting for exploration.
• Chang La Pass : This is another high-altitude pass in Ladakh known for its pristine beauty and the Chang La Baba Temple.

These are just a few of the many wonderful Ladakh attractions for exploration. In addition, you may also check out some of our exceptional Ladakh tours as mentioned below:

• Ladakh Tour with Nubra Valley and Pangong Lake
• Ladakh Extended Tour
• Impressions of Ladakh   

These expert travel tips will help to explore the place with ease. Therefore, consider incorporating these tips to get the best out of your adventure:

• Plan your trip in advance. Make sure to book accommodations and transportation early, especially during the peak tourist season.
• As Ladakh is situated at around 3,500 m (11,500 ft.), acclimatization to the altitude is essential.
• Dress in layers and pack thin or thick clothes as per the season you are traveling.
• Use sun protection such as sunglasses, hats, or sunscreen.
• Stay hydrated.
• Be aware of altitude sickness in the Himalayas and apply necessary preventive measures.
• Respect the local culture.
• Be prepared for changing weather and road conditions.
• Make sure to carry all necessary permits and travel documents.
• Travel responsibly and do not litter the place. 

Explore Ladakh in the best way possible with these top things to try in Leh Ladakh , and make your dream adventure an epic success!

With the majority of local people following Buddhism in Ladakh, they celebrate various Buddhist festivals and events with utter joy. Some of the most revered festivals and events are:

• Ladakh Festival : This festival is celebrated annually in September to boost tourism during the tourist season or the best time to visit Ladakh. The celebration involves traditional music, dance, and a variety of local cuisines.
• Hemis Festival : This is an annual celebration held in July at Hemis Monastery featuring masked dance performances by monks.
• Stok Festival : It is celebrated in August at the Stok Palace as a part of a cultural celebration.
• Nubra Valley Festival : It is celebrated every September in Nubra Valley marked by the celebration of local culture and tradition.
• Lamayuru Gustor Festival : This Buddhist festival is celebrated in October at the Lamayuru Monastery.
• Losar Festival : It is a Ladakhi New Year celebrated in December or January with joyous music and dance.
• Thiksey Gustor Festival : It is celebrated in October at Thiksey Monastery featuring mask dances and rituals.
• Saka Dawa Festival : Celebrated in May or June, this festival marks the birth of Buddha, his enlightenment, and death.

The best time to visit Ladakh may not be the same for everyone, and we can assist you in determining which season best suits your adventure preferences. Join hands with Himalayan Glacier LLC and embark on an epic journey to Ladakh. With our expertise and dedication, we ensure that your Ladakh experience is not only memorable but also transformative. Our team of experts and Ladakh tour guides, boasting decades of experience, will ensure you make the most of your trip. Prioritizing your safety and comfort, Himalayan Glacier will help you discover the enchantment of Ladakh. Contact our team of experts via WhatsApp at ( +1-410-307-00 07) for more details.

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Is it safe to travel to Ladakh alone?⛰️Summer or winter- Which is the best time to visit Ladakh!

Is it safe to travel to Ladakh alone? While Ladakh is relatively safe for solo travelers, it’s essential to exercise caution, especially when trekking in remote areas or driving on mountain roads. It’s advisable to inform someone about your itinerary and carry emergency essentials.

The best time to visit Ladakh is during the summer months from May to September when the weather is pleasant, and most of the region’s attractions are accessible.

Everyone who visits Ladakh, frequently referred to as heaven on earth, is charmed. Memorable landscapes are created by the spectacular Himalayan terrain, calm streams, and towering mountains against a clear blue sky.

Ladakh attracts an immense number of tourists every year because of its exceptional beauty. While some people like the summer because of its comfortable temps for exploring, others prefer the hard winters because of their desire for adventure and the challenging weather.

• 🌦️ Understanding Ladakh's Climate

☀️ Summer Season (March to June):

⛈️ monsoon season (july to september):, ⛄ winter season (october to february):, q. is ladakh accessible during the winter months, q. are there any festivals celebrated in ladakh, q. what should i pack for a trip to ladakh, q. can i visit ladakh during the monsoon season, 😇 conclusion, 🗨️ share your thoughts in the comments: what do you think is the best time to visit ladakh, 🌦️ understanding ladakh’s climate.

Ladakh’s climate is characterized by its extreme temperature variations and low precipitation levels. The region experiences two distinct seasons: summer and winter.

🕒 Unveiling the Best Time to Visit Ladakh

Planning a trip to Ladakh requires careful consideration of the timing, as this remote region experiences extreme weather conditions throughout the year.

• Ideal for exploration, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 25°C.
• All tourist attractions are open, offering breathtaking views of mountains, passes, lakes, and villages.
• Glaciers melt, creating colorful landscapes and vibrant hues of nature.
• Experience local festivals like YuruKabgyat, Saka Dawa, and Hemis Festivals.
• Roads are less rugged, perfect for road trips.
• Rainfall is short-lived but may enhance adventure activities like river rafting.
• The temperature remains pleasant, ranging from 5°C to 20°C.
• Perfect for experiencing Ladakh’s rainfall and snowfall amidst comfortable temperatures.
• Ladakh receives heavy snowfall, with temperatures dropping significantly.
• Ideal for trekking enthusiasts, especially for the Chadar Trek at Zanskar Valley.
• Accessible primarily by flights, offering unique experiences like Snow Leopard Safari.
• Adventurous activities abound, though roadblocks due to snowfall may occur.

The best time to visit Ladakh depends on personal preferences and interests. Some cherish the tranquility of summer, while others seek the thrill of winter adventures.

🙋🏻‍♀️ FAQs About Travelling To Ladakh

There are a lot of questions that come to our mind while planning to travel to Ladakh, some of the commonly asked questions are answered below.

A. Yes, Ladakh is accessible during the winter months, but travel may be challenging due to heavy snowfall and sub-zero temperatures. However, winter sports enthusiasts can enjoy activities like ice skating and snow trekking.

A. Yes, Ladakh is known for its vibrant festivals, including the Hemis Festival, Ladakh Festival, and Losar, which offer unique insights into the region’s culture and traditions.

A. It’s essential to pack warm clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, and adequate hydration supplies, especially if you’re traveling during the summer months. Additionally, carry any necessary medications and consult your doctor regarding altitude sickness prevention.

A. While Ladakh experiences minimal rainfall, the monsoon season from July to August may lead to road closures and landslides, affecting travel plans. It’s advisable to check weather forecasts and road conditions before planning your trip.

In conclusion, Ladakh beckons adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike with its unparalleled beauty and rich cultural heritage. By understanding Ladakh’s climate, festivals, and attractions, you can plan your visit to coincide with the best time to experience everything this enchanting region has to offer.

And, don’t forget to plan your dream vacation with Fiery Trippers for a personalized and romantic getaway.

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Rahul Siddharth

He is a dedicated travel writer with a wealth of 10 Years + experience that enriches his narratives. He holds a degree in Hospitality and Hotel Administration from IHM Dehradun, which he couples with hands-on expertise in the field. Drawing from his diverse experiences, Rahul's writings offer readers a captivating glimpse into the world of travel. Embark on a journey of exploration and inspiration with Rahul as your guide. Read More

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Best Time To Visit ladakh

Ladakh also has earned many sobriquets. It is called 'Land of high passes' for some of the highest motorable mountain passes present here, for instance, Khardung La (17,000 Feet); 'roof of the world' for its location at a staggering elevation of 9,800 Feet and more as you ascend further; 'Little Tibet' for the boundary it shares with Tibet and sheltering a large Tibetan Buddhist population. It’s also growing to be India’s adventure capital. The remote, barren and beautiful land is filled with stark grey mountains, trekking routes, azure lakes, rivers, glaciers, and isolated tiny hamlets. In summer, the entire region buzzes with attractions, outdoor activities, and cultural activities, while winter allures with frozen white landscapes and monsoon bring out the picturesque romance. Seasonal impediments here are occasional landslides in monsoon and roadblocks in winter due to heavy snowfall. The best time to visit Ladakh depends simply on the kind of travel experience you have in mind.

Take a Look

• Theme of Ladakh [Adventure, Romantic]
• You'll love Ladakh for [Scenic views, Vibrant culture, Adventure sports]
• Watchout for [Harmful UV rays, Breathlessness, Lack of modern amenities]
• Best Time To Visit April - September
• Altitude 9,800 ft. above sea level

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ladakh Travel Talk Sharing travel experiences - one story at a time

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If you are planning a road trip to Leh-Ladakh from Delhi, here is a ready itinerary for you. Happy driving!

Frequently Asked Questions

Best Season to visit Ladakh

The bliss of summer season in ladakh (april to june).

Indubitably, this is the best season to visit Ladakh. Eagerly anticipated, summer is the peak tourist season in Ladakh and temperatures around this time range from 30 degree Celsius to a minimum 5 degree Celsius. The snow has melted giving way to vibrant life and buzz of tourist activity. One can indulge in almost everything that this remote land has to offer when the sun is bright and pleasantly warm. Camping by the Pangong Tso Lake under a starry sky on a summer night is what tourists and enthusiastic travellers love to do. The lake is best enjoyed during day time when it mirrors the brilliant blue sky while surrounded by sweeping vistas of the mountains. Biking in Ladakh is a treat to the senses as you navigate the surreal landscapes and scenery. Drive through the unimaginable Khardung la (considered world’s highest motorable road) at a staggering height of 17,000 Feet. For thrill-seekers like you, summer season is a boon when mother nature opens its door to navigate their way through Ladakh’s gorgeous valleys, remote villages, centuries-old Gompas (monasteries), hidden valleys, formidable passes, and cosy homestays during treks that can take days to complete. Rafting is another activity enjoyed in summer in Ladakh, Kharu-Spituk route (for first-timers and amateurs) to the challenging Phey-Nimmo on the Indus River that takes days to complete. A miracle of nature, the Magnetic Hill (a gravity hill) must be explored to understand its rare phenomenon. Another major attraction, hop on to a Bactrian camel (double-humped camels) and take a safari across the dunes of Hunder in Nubra Valley. To top it all, Ladakhis celebrate the very colourful Hemis Festival (during June or July depending on the Tibetan calendar) at the 11th century Hemis Monastery. The spectacle of the masked dance – Cham, performed by the monks in brightly-coloured attire, dancing to the rhythmic music, is an event, you don’t want to miss! Locals come out in their traditional garb with their unique headgear and jewellery to celebrate.

The allure of monsoon season in Ladakh (July to September)

July through Mid-September brings monsoon in Ladakh and with it comes occasional landslides and roadblocks. Ladakh is a rain shadow area, which means the place enjoys moderate rainfall, yet whenever it does, there are bouts of the shower. The temperature at this time stays from a minimum 3 degree Celsius to maximum16 degree Celsius. The two rivers Indus and Zanskar swell up and meander through the valleys with their full might, is a sight to behold. If not outdoors, then experience monastic life in the spectacular monasteries (gompas) of Ladakh. There are several of them including Hemis Monastery, Thiksey Monastery, Diskit Monastery, Spituk Monastery, Phugtal Monastery, etc. On a beautiful rainy day, walk into one of the German bakeries in Leh town and sit leisurely sipping one of your favourite beverages as the rain thrum on the roof and windows. Better if you find a local eatery and try some of the Tibetan/Ladakhi cuisines; say dumplings or thukpa. As monsoon ceases toward the latter part of September, Ladakh is clad in gorgeous hues of nature in all its glory; the spectacle lingers on till early October. It is also the time preferred by thrill-seekers wanting to indulge in aero-sports.

The thrill of winter season in Ladakh (October to March)

A winter trip to Ladakh must be carefully planned amid harsh cold conditions with temperatures plummeting sub-zero levels that settles between -5 degree Celsius to -30 degree Celsius. Travelling to Ladakh during winter have their perks too, it unfolds amazing snow-covered landscapes, frozen lakes to walk over, icy treks among others. On top of it, there isn’t much tourist rush, and for adventure lovers, this means being able to enjoy Ladakh without interruption. Hotel rates are also cheaper. January is one of the best months to visit Ladakh for trekking as it is the time when one of the most adventurous and most difficult treks of the world - the Chadar Trek opens up till mid-March attracting adventure enthusiasts from across the globe. Walking over the frozen Zanskar River can be intimidating yet a speechless moment. Skiing and ice hockey are also other exciting winter activities here.  Both are a favourite pastime of the Ladakhis. No wonder, Ladakh is growing as a destination for winter sports lovers in India. Moreover, winter is the time for several cultural and religious celebrations in Ladakh. Join the locals to celebrate the winter festivals such as Thiksay Gustor, Ladakhi Losar, Spituk Gustor, Diskit Gustor and Yargon Tungshak, among others. When the cold takes on you, you can always warm up to Ladakh’s butter tea in the morning, or savour a hot bowl of thukpa for dinner.

How to reach Ladakh

• By Air : Leh Airport is officially known as Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport is the nearest airstrip to Ladakh, which is connected to cities Delhi, Jammu, Chandigarh and Srinagar via flights operated by airlines such as Air India, Spice Jet, Go Air and Vistara. It takes about 10 minutes from the airport to reach the nearest town of Leh in Ladakh region. The airport lies 3256 metres (10680 Feet) above sea level thus making it one of the highest airports in the world.
• By Rail : The closest railway station is Jammu Tawi Railway Station at about 700 km from Ladakh. From Jammu, you can head to Srinagar by road and then to Ladakh, which is about a two-day journey from Srinagar with a night halt in Kargil. Jammu Tawi is a major railhead in the state of Jammu and Kashmir and has good rail connectivity to major Indian cities such as Delhi, Pune, Chennai, Mumbai, Guwahati, Kolkata, Kanpur, Allahabad, and Varanasi.
• By Road : The Manali-Leh road and the Srinagar-Leh road are the two routes that lead to Ladakh. The Srinagar-Leh road (415 km) is open from the first week of May till December, depending on snowfall. There are beautiful villages and scenery on the way. You can stop for an overnight stay at either Dras or Kargil, which are 140 km and 200 km from Srinagar respectively. The high-altitude Manali-Leh road (482), which is snow-laden most of the year, opens around the first week of June and remains accessible till October. Travellers usually halt overnight at Jispa.

Q. What is the peak tourist season in Ladakh?

A: April to June (summer) and September is the best time to visit Ladakh. You will get some of the best sights and fantastic opportunities for sightseeing when the weather is pleasant, and the whole region is brimming with vibrant colours of mother nature.

Q. When is the best time to go on a road trip to Ladakh?

A: September would be the best time to do so. The roads are clear of roadblocks because of snowfall. The routes that lead to Ladakh - Srinagar to Leh and Manali to Leh is accessible with fewer challenges as compared to winter (November-February) and monsoon (July-August). Besides, the peak tourist season has almost ended then, and one can get the best deals on hotels too.

Q. Is it best to visit Ladakh in summer?

A: Summer (April-June) is undoubtedly the best season to travel to Ladakh. It is when the snow melts and spectacular hues are spread all across the region. Breathtaking scenery along with enchanting Buddhist festivals like the famous Hemis Festival (June-July) can be witnesses during this period. Trekking, rafting and camping too can be experienced. It is a high season for tourists.

Q. Can we visit Ladakh in December for Chadar Trek?

A: Frozen river trekking at Zanskar Valley, famous as the Chadar Trek is one of the most popular adventure activities in Ladakh . People from across the world come to this place to experience this highly adventurous trek. However, winters in Ladakh can get extremely cold, reaching sub-zero temperatures. Most trekking routes are closed after November due to heavy snowfall. If you are planning to go for Chadar trek in Ladakh, then it is open from mid-January till mid-March.

Q. What kind of clothes should we pack when travelling to Ladakh?

A: The temperature in Ladakh is freezing most time of the year, and the mercury plummets at night and gets chilly though the sun can be warm during the day and a t-shirt and pants would do you good. It is advised to carry warm clothes. Carry inner thermal suits, pullover, jacket, woollen socks, hand gloves. If you are visiting Ladakh in June and July, you will require windcheaters, raincoats and gumboots. Also, carry sunscreen as the sun at high elevations like Ladakh can be harsh on your skin during day time.

Q. When is the best months to visit Ladakh for budget travellers?

A: April and September are low season for tourists in Ladakh and is best suited for budget travellers. Around this time, many guest houses and hotels in Ladakh offer lucrative deals to lure tourists. You will get hotel rooms at low and affordable prices.

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Best Time to Visit Ladakh

Weather Conditions in Ladakh

For many people, visiting Ladakh is a dream. The seemingly unending winding roads, the open skies, the rugged mountains and the snowy peaks in the distance – who wouldn’t want to be a part of the world here? But Ladakh is also rugged terrain and you have to know the best time to visit Ladakh before you plan your trip.

Most Popular Ladakh Tour Packages

Most people have this image of themselves on a touring bike, zooming down the roads in Ladakh. But it is not like that all the year round. It is a good idea to read up on the best time to go to Ladakh before you plan your trip. Here’s a month-wise guide the best time to visit Ladakh tourism .

The tourist season truly begins in summer, from the month of April to be exact. In summer, lakes like Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri begin to thaw, and hotels and guesthouses begin to offer discounts. In April, the heavy snowfall stops. But the maximum temperature is 15 degrees centigrade while minimum is -1. 

However, the roads and passes are not open yet and the weather is still not sunny enough. So, if you’re wondering whether this is the best time to visit Leh Ladakh by road, it isn’t. It’s preferable to take a flight to Ladakh if you do want to visit in April.

If you’re in Ladakh at this time, you will be treated to a glorious vista of open blue skies. But it’s still a good idea to wear warm clothes at this time. 

The Srinagar-Leh roadway opens up at this time but it is still not the best time to visit Ladakh on bike. The temperatures are still on the low side and you don’t want to be caught unawares by the after-effects of winter as the roads are still slippery and wet from melted snow. There are still people who come into Ladakh at this time, but most of them do so by air as this is most comfortable. The Leh Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport is the main airport where flights from Delhi, Srinagar and Jammu land. If you love snow, you will enjoy the sights around you as remnants of snow still persist at this time. It’s a good time to visit the monasteries as well.

In early June, the Manali road along Rohtang Pass opens up and June is actually one of the best times to visit Ladakh. You can still find snow on some of the roads and mountains. By mid-June most of the snow melts so you can visit the monasteries, stupas and lakes as well. From early June till November, you can reach Ladakh via the Kargil route. Some of the roads are flanked by high snow banks, especially around Rohtang and even Baralacha Pass. The snow, even as it melts away, can create some stunning landscapes. 

July, August and September

If you are a biking enthusiast, then these months definitely are the best time to visit Leh Ladakh on bike. All the passes and roads are open and clear. The different shades of browns, greens and white create beautiful vistas all around you, making for some stunning photo-ops. The max temperature at this time is a pleasant 25 degrees while minimum is at 10 degrees.

For those taking the Manali route, do note that the Rohtang Pass can get quite congested at this time. If you’re travelling from Srinagar, it is a good idea to leave early in the morning to avoid heavy traffic at Zojila Pass. 

The climate at this time is equable but it’s also unpredictable. The weather is overcast and Ladakh could get rainfall. Also, by mid-August, monsoons are in full swing and this means that rivers will be flowing full, so take due care while travelling. 

By September, the peak season is over and there will be fewer people around. In late September, if you’re lucky, you might be in for a treat with an early bout of snowfall. Road conditions are usually better in September, and so this is the best time to visit Leh Ladakh by road. 

The seasons change once more from late September to October. Ladakh is beautiful at this time and both, Srinagar-Leh and Manali-Leh roads are open and perfect for driving or riding on bikes. In fact, many people say this could be the best time to go to Ladakh. 

However, by late October the weather turns really cold and there are places that experience sub-zero temperatures as well. By this time, there are very few tourists around. By November, even though the highways are open, most people avoid travelling because of the extreme cold weather and the black ice which begins to appear by the end of this month.

November to March

This is Ladakh’s winter, where maximum temperatures are at 7 degrees and minimum hover at around -6 degrees. The weather is freezing cold and the highways are closed at this time. The Pangong lake and others will freeze over. But the roads to the lake and Nubra Valley over Khardung La Pass and Chang La Pass are kept open. 

December is the coldest month in Ladakh, and it is cut off from the rest of the country by road. Winters at this time are extreme. However, in January, up until mid-March, adventure enthusiasts come to Ladakh for the famed Chadar Trek across the frozen Zanskar River. It is extremely cold, with frequent and heavy snowfall. This weather is really for those who can bear the biting cold. Nevertheless, you will come across some amazing sights that will stay with you for the rest of your life. 

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Best Time To Visit Ladakh

From the month of May, the climate gets pleasant and Ladakh begins to receive visitors from all parts of the world. So, the best time to visit Ladakh is in summer, from mid-May to late September to get the best possible weather and the most spectacular scenery. During these months the pristine natural beauty of Ladakh would be at its best with scenic landscapes, lovely lakes, snow-capped mountains, and magnificent plateaus.

• Peak Season –  May to September
• Shoulder Season –  April, October, and November
• Low Season –  December to March

Ladakh is famous for its scenic conditions, which make Ladakh a popular summer vacation destination. And May to September is a great time to visit Ladakh to get the most from your trip. But there are many tourists who prefer to visit Ladakh in spring or winter. And if you are one of those then don’t worry, we have got you covered. You will find all the information you need about all the seasons of Ladakh and why should you visit Ladakh during that season. So, that you can get most of that season and enjoy your time best in Ladakh. After reading this article you can take an informed decision that which season is best for you to visit Ladakh.

Climate and weather of Ladakh

Ladakh has unique seasons, especially if you are new to the area or India as a whole. The area experiences extreme weather conditions. You need to be familiar with this fact before planning your tour. Even the most experienced tourist in the area will agree that the exact dates for opening up roads leading to this fantastic area are not static. It changes depending on the prevailing weather. And the monsoons in this region are far fewer as compared to the rest of India and hence you can see more variety in the climate and weather. The winter is mostly very cold and the monsoons do not make much impact on the climate of Ladakh. You can visit Ladakh in winter too but be ready to encounter extremely low temperatures during this time. The months of May to September are ideal for most of the tourist planning to visit Ladakh. During this time the climatic conditions are much milder than during the cold winter seasons.

Tourist preferred months to visit Ladakh

We have gathered information after doing some surveys to know the tourists’ preferred time to visit Ladakh and found some interesting facts. And we will answer you exactly which season would be best for you to visit Ladakh. We have grouped different months of the year as per the visiting preference of travelers.

• Pleasant climate (May, June, July, August, and September). Best time to visit Ladakh.
• Mild Cold weather (October, November, and April). Good time to visit Ladakh.
• Extreme cold weather (December, January, February, and March) . Chadar Trek Visit time.

Pleasant Climate (May, June, July, August, September) – Best time to visit Ladakh

Why you should visit now.

These months are well-known for their pleasant climate with a mildly cool breeze at night. Adventure seekers from across the country throng to Ladakh to enjoy the charm of this pleasant climate. Also, the most popular tourist destinations with unique geographical features are easily accessible by road during these months. All these provide amazing opportunities for tourists to view the lovely valleys, spectacular peaks, and stunning landscapes of Ladakh. The beautiful, sunny weather also allows you to try and experience Lakhadi cuisine taking in the outside environment as many times as you want without worrying about the cold or the rain. You can also get luscious teas and local Tibetan and Lakhadi beverages and food like delicious Momos or Thukpa. During the summer season is when the markets are at their peak all the businesses including bakeries, restaurants have got their best products out at very affordable prices.

Starting from the month of May, all the businesses and tourist spots would be opened. Markets have started to function in full swing allowing you to cosset in almost everything that this amazing place has to offer. The bright sunny sky and pleasurably warm weather with a mildly cool breeze is a treat to the soul. Beautiful camping sites like the Pangong Tso Lake, watching nature do its wonders and all the birds, insects, and trees dancing to the rhythm of nature takes the human delight and glee to another level. Watching an abundance of tourists all coming from different areas of the country during this peak season makes you appreciate diversity and you can’t help but be happy around people that are likely engulfed by the beauty of this small little town. Beautiful lakes can be enjoyed best in day time of summer, reflecting the vast blue sky, all-encompassing the beautiful Himalayan Mountains, whereas at night the beauty of lakes is enhanced by the starry night skies.

These five months are also the best time to visit Ladakh for bike riders. Biking in Ladakh is a luxury to the senses as you steer the dreamlike sceneries and landscapes. Traveling through the incredible Khardung la that is possibly the world’s highest motorable road at an overwhelming height of 17,500 feet is nothing less than a heavenly experience. If you are an adventure seeker, the summer season is the best to plan a trip, when the ecosystem is refreshed and wildlife and nature unlock its gate to helm their way through Ladakh’s elegant valleys, culturally rich villages, centuries-old Gompas (monasteries), veiled valleys, arduous passes, and snug accommodations during journeys that can take days to complete that you will be able to treasure for the rest of your life.

Activities during this period

Among so many other activities you are offered in this place, you can also enjoy rafting in this season in Ladakh that will cover the Kharu-Spituk route for first-time travelers to the stimulating Phey-Nimmo on the Indus River for people who are pro at rafting. The summer season in Leh Ladakh offers your senses with many miracles of nature, you can take safari across dunes of Huner in Nubra Valley and hop on Bactrian camels or indulge in aero-sports offered by the region in this season for the adrenaline junkies. Also, the high treks in Ladakh can be best enjoyed in the summer months. In fact, the summer season is the best time for trekking in Ladakh. The moderate temperature makes Ladakh a wonderful place for summer trekking. The cool climate and the challenging landscape of Ladakh make Ladakh one of the most popular destinations for summer trekking. And the Ladakh tour packages available during summer help you make the most of this and other adventurous activities available in Ladakh.

Festivals during this period

Depending on the Tibetan calendar you can also experience the Hemis Festival that falls around summer as well in the Hemis Monastery enabling you to experience one of the oldest and richest cultures of the world. The display of Cham-the masked dance by the Monks in cultural attires that are colorful and hypnotic with the beautiful tunes of their indigenous music is a sight that you will get to see only if you are lucky and plan your trip in this season. Locals are dressed in their traditional apparel with their inimitable headgear and jewels to celebrate this festival.

However, if you were to take all these elements into consideration, you might realize that May to September is the best time to visit Ladakh to make the most of your vacation. Not only does Ladakh offer some of the best scenery to be found anywhere, but it also offers a great vacation or getaway atmosphere for many people who want to get away from the larger cities and the hustle and bustle of life. And that is why it is among the finest places on the planet where a lot of tourists come to experience its unmatched beauty during this time. So, these five-months are the best time for travelers to visit Ladakh. During our survey, we found most of the tourists who were visiting during these five months were completely satisfied with the moderate and pleasing weather.

Travel tips

• Book your flight tickets early, as, it’s a peak season the prices would go higher.
• Rest on the first day of arrival and stay hydrated for acclimatization
• Carry an oxygen cylinder in your vehicle before visiting higher altitude places
• Wear sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful rays.
• Wear goggle during sunny days
• Check the weather prediction report a day before your visit
• Carry a BSNL, Airtel, or Jio postpaid SIM card with you

Mild cold weather (October, November, and April)

Now that you know that May till September is the best time to visit Ladakh, you should also know what’s in the months of April, October, and November that might interest you to visit this enchanting place.

The weather would not be balmy during these months, as a spell of winter should be in effect. April is the end of the winter season and November is the beginning of the winter season. You might also experience snowfall during these months. As much as snowfall is a beautiful blessing of Nature and all the living things, plants we consume, the water we drink, wildlife would not be able to survive without this blessing. However, it can get messy and cause many problems as well especially for tourists who travel around Leh Ladakh instigating sporadic roadblocks and landslides, you can be prone to a bit of danger. Many people don’t tend to travel to Leh Ladakh in this season because it limits their sightseeing and other activities, the markets also slow down so you can have difficulty finding things that you need. To enjoy the full and true spirit of Leh Ladakh you should opt to plan your trip between May and October. Sometimes the temperature drops below the freezing point during these months. The nights are very cold and uncomfortable as complained by a lot of tourists.

Also, it is not a suitable time to ride a bike in Ladakh. The cold weather makes it very hard for bike riders to keep themselves warm and enjoy the beautiful sights of Leh Ladakh. As beautiful and magical as the scenery can be October is not the best time for a bike trip to Leh Ladakh to be able to enjoy the place abundantly and whole-heartedly, you will be feeling cold more than anything else.

It may not be the best time to visit Ladakh, but don’t get disheartened, streets are less crowded during this time. And these months are the ideal time for travelers on a budget to Ladakh because the peak tourist season is just starting in May or ended in September and good hotel rooms are available at affordable rates. And It would be easy to find a hotel in Ladakh that suits your needs and budget. There are many luxury hotels that offer great prices during these non-tourist seasons.  When it comes to the great sceneries during these months, nothing beats the scenic view of snow-capped mountains. The vibrant and fresh atmosphere that gives the crisp feeling and the spectacular scenery of majestic mountains make it an unforgettable experience for many travelers. The cool breeze of the Himalayas will blow the chill winds of winter. You can still visit some of the most beautiful attractions of Ladakh. In fact, most of the tourists are captivated by the splendor and grandeur of these rejuvenating landscapes. Tourists who visit Ladakh during these months should dress up properly in warm clothes because this is the time to beat the cold!

As per the travelers, the weather is good but a little chilly during these three months of October, November, and April. However, some tourists found nights to be very cold during November and April. So, visiting Ladakh during these months of the year is a good idea but you should carry enough warm clothes to wear.

• On the day of arrival, rest for few hours for acclimatization and stay hydrated
• Carry warm clothes like thermals and sweaters
• Carry mask and sanitizers
• Check weather prediction report at least a day before your visit
• Carry a lip balm
• Carry a power bank with you, as there are multiple power cuts in Ladakh

Extreme cold weather (December, January, February, and March)

These are the coldest months of the year, that’s why it’s often difficult to bear for the people who visit Ladakh during this time of the year. Most of the recreation options are closed during this period because of the freezing cold air and heavy snowfall. Most of the attractions and other significant places remain shut during this period and the only popular activity is the Chadar trek on the frozen river of Zanskar. Moreover, only a few shops remain open for shopping during the winter months. The weather is so varied that you never know what kind of weather you’re going to get – you could be lucky enough to get a sunny day, or you could be subjected to what is sometimes referred to as ‘the winter of your life. There are many reasons for this, not least the fact that Ladakh is so isolated during this period that there is little chance of experiencing the rest of the world while you’re there. Since there is snow all over the place, it is advisable not to go outside during the time of the heavy snowfalls. Moreover, ensure to have an appropriate pair of winter footwear as they are more difficult to deal with in the snow .

This is definitely the coldest time of year, but it certainly has its share of spectacular scenery. You can enjoy the amazing view of snow-covered landscapes and the majestic mountains. But it’s not just the landscapes and the mountains that are popular in winter – the amazing Ladakhi culture has a huge part to play. There are many interesting festivals, and you can take part in the process, or simply enjoy and admire it. If you would prefer to take part in winter activities, there are several options. You can go ice climbing, and ice skate in the many places that are open during these months. Or if you’re feeling brave, you can try the Chadar trek to enjoy the walk on the frozen river Zanskar. Chadar trek starts in the month of January and ends in February. You can enjoy the wonderful view of unique waterfalls during the Chadar trek.

Besides, the cold climate makes for some of the best winter sports such as ice skating and snowboarding. However, due to the low infrastructure in Ladakh and the shortage of essential winter supplies, these sports remain difficult to enjoy to the fullest. The winter in Ladakh also offers the visitors a chance to explore the beautiful landscape, frozen lakes, rivers, cliffs, alpine terrains, and more. Also, you can enjoy the festival such as Spituk Gostor festival, Ladakh Losar (New year of Ladakh), Stok Festival, Dosmoche, Thiksay Gostor, etc. And there is something absolutely amazing about seeing a Ladakh glacier up close. You can explore them during this time and there are guided tours available where you can follow the path of the glaciers and see them in their glory. And, there are also numerous places where you can enjoy the wonders of the enchanting icy surfaces. There are several winter resorts in Ladakh that provide the required comfort and facilities for the winter in Ladakh tour.

It’s important to be aware of the weather conditions before embarking on your Ladakh getaway. Even if you don’t have to deal with snow, the temperature can drop to below the freezing point at -20°C. So you want to make sure that you can bring warm clothes and a few layers of clothing. You also need to think about bringing an extra pair of boots to protect your feet. After all, you won’t want to be out in the middle of nowhere in the dead of winter – why get yourself in trouble?

• On the day of arrival, it is very important to rest to acclimatize the body and stay hydrated
• Carry a winter jacket
• Don’t leave the plane on arrival until you wear the winter jacket and woolen cap
• Carry heavy woolen socks, woolen monkey cap, and woolen hand gloves
• Carry a lip balm and cold cream
• Carry a power bank with you, as the cold temperature drains out the battery quickly. And there are multiple power cuts in Ladakh

Month-wise  weather data  of Ladakh to choose the best suitable month for you to visit

As, weather plays a very important role to time your visit to Ladakh, use the month-wise weather data of Ladakh given in the table above before planning a visit to Ladakh.

Read the month-wise summarised data of the weather of Ladakh and temperature below which would be very helpful to plan your visit to Ladakh. The data given on this page is pulled from the climate-data website , and timeanddate website , as the data of these websites, are more accurate than any other weather data of Ladakh. The data shows the average weather of the whole Ladakh. So, the actual weather may vary from place to place in Ladakh.

Weather in Ladakh during the month of January

January is the coldest month of Ladakh. HIghway to Ladakh from Srinagar and Manali would be closed during this month. Taking a flight to Leh would be the only way to reach Ladakh in January. This extremely cold weather affects the water supply. If you visit Ladakh in January you will notice water scarcity. A lot of shops and tourist spots would be closed during this month. There would be heavy snowfall during this month. You can ice skate on the surface of frozen lakes, as the surface of lakes and rivers freezes. Also, Chadar Trek on the frozen Zanskar River starts in January until mid-February. If you are an adventure seeker, you can visit Ladakh in January for the Chadar trek.

• The average maximum temperature in January 2021: -15.3 °C (4.4 °F)
• The lowest temperature: -26.2 °C (-15.1 °F)
• The average snowfall in January 2021 was of 8 days with a total of 35 mm.
• The longest day of the month was the 31st of January 2021.
• The shortest day of the month was the 1st of January 2021.
• The number of daylight hours on the longest day in February 2021 amounts to 10 hours, 31 minutes, and 04 seconds.
• The number of daylight hours on the shortest day in February 2021 amounts to 9 hours, 55 minutes, and 32 seconds.

Weather in Ladakh in the month of February

The month of February is more or less the same as the month of January. February is the second coldest month of Ladakh. The highway would be closed making flight the only viable option to arrive Leh. Chadar trek continues during this month too and a lot of tourists participate in the Chadar Trek. You can visit Ladakh during this month for snow leopard trekking in Hemis National park. Don’t worry it would be very less crowded and you would really enjoy it.

• The average maximum temperature in February 2021: -13.1 °C (8.5 °F)
• The lowest temperature in February 2021: -22.8 °C (-9 °F)
• The average snowfall in February 2021 was of 9 days with a total of 43 mm.
• The longest day of the month was the 28th of February 2021
• The shortest day of the month was the 1st of February 2021
• The number of daylight hours on the longest day in February 2021 amounts to 10 hours, 32 minutes, and 46 seconds
• The number of daylight hours on the shortest day in February 2021 amounts to 11 hours, 25 minutes, and 05 seconds.

Weather in Ladakh in the month of March

The month of March is considered the last month of winter. And finally, the spell of harsh freezing winter ends with the end of this month. However, the weather would still be very cold but lesser cold than the month of February. You can visit Ladakh in March to see the snow on roads and mountains.

• The average maximum temperature in March 2020: -9.4 °C (15 °F)
• The lowest temperature in March 2020: -20.8 °C (-5.4 °F)
• The average snowfall in March 2020 was of 9 days with a total of 45 mm.
• The longest day of the month is the 31st of March 2021.
• The shortest day of the month was the 1st of March 2021.
• The number of daylight hours on the longest day in March 2021 amounts to 12 hours, 31 minutes, and 12 seconds.
• The number of daylight hours on the shortest day in March 2021 amounts to 11 hours, 27 minutes, and 11 seconds.

Weather in Ladakh in the month of April

The month of April is the end of the winter season and the start of the spring season. This is the month when tourists start visiting Ladakh. But don’t expect the usual Indian spring season which is mild and pleasant. It would be ice cold at some places during nights with the temperature dropping below -2°C at some point.

Although there won’t be any heavy snowfall, there might be some light snowfall during this month. The Zojila road which is the gateway to Ladakh usually opens in the month of April. But don’t rely on it. And the traffic movement starts with a lot of tourists visiting Ladakh. If you visit Ladakh by road during this month, you might experience some roadblocks and you have to wait for a long time to get the road cleared.

The early weeks of April might be very cold but you will notice green leaves bursting out of trees in the last week of April. The green leaves start growing from the month of March but can be seen clearly in the month of May. The glaciers starting to melt during the mid-spring season and during the end of the spring season, the water level of rivers slowly rises .

• The average maximum temperature in April 2020: -4.3 °C (24.3 °F)
• The lowest temperature in April 2020: -16.6 °C (2 °F)
• The average snowfall in April 2020 was of 8 days with a total of 45 mm.
• The longest day of the month 30th of April 2021.
• The shortest day of the month 1st of April 2021.
• The number of daylight hours on the longest day in April 2021 amounts to 13 hours, 31 minutes, and 21 seconds.
• The number of daylight hours on the shortest day in April 2021 amounts to 12 hours, 33 minutes, and 12 seconds.

Weather in Ladakh in the month of May

The weather would be pleasant with bright sunny days in May but the nights would be chilly. The snow begins to melt during this month and a lot of tourists who visit Ladakh by road get to see snow for the first time. This month is considered to be a good time for travelers to visit Ladakh by road.

• The average maximum temperature in May 2020: 1.5 °C (34.7 °F)
• The lowest temperature in May 2020:-11.1 °C (12 °F)
• The average snowfall in May 2020 was of 8 days with a total of 45 mm.
• The longest day of the month 31st of May.
• The shortest day of the month 1st of May
• The number of daylight hours on the longest day in May 2021 amounts to 14 hours, 16 minutes, and 05 seconds.
• The number of daylight hours on the shortest day in May 2021 amounts to 13 hours, 33 minutes, and 10 seconds.

Weather in Ladakh in the month of June

The month of June brings the end of the spring season. The weather would be very pleasant during day time but some nights would be chilly at higher altitude areas like Pangong. The month of June is one of the best months to visit Ladakh.

• The average maximum temperature in June 2020: 8.6 °C (47.5 °F)
• The lowest temperature in June 2020: -4.6 °C (23.7 °F)
• The average snowfall in June 2020 was of 8 days with a total of 43 mm.
• The longest day of the year is the 21st of June 2021.
• The shortest day of the month 1st of June 2021.
• The number of daylight hours on the longest day in June 2021 amounts to 14 hours, 26 minutes, and 09 seconds
• The number of daylight hours on the shortest day in June 2021 amounts to 14 hours, 17 minutes, and 00 seconds

Weather in Ladakh in the month of July

May, June, July, and August are the best four months of Ladakh weather with a pleasant climate and moderate temperature. The natural beauty of Kargil can be seen in its best during this month. Tourists love the weather of Ladakh during this time of the year.

• The average maximum temperature in July 2020: 14.8 °C (58.7 °F)
• The lowest temperature in July 2020: 2.5 °C (36.4 °F)
• The average snowfall in July 2020 was of 10 days with a total of 53 mm.
• The longest day of the month 1st of July 2021.
• The shortest day of the month 31st of July 2021.
• The number of daylight hours on the longest day in July 2021 amounts to 14 hours, 23 minutes, and 43 seconds.
• The number of daylight hours on the shortest day in July 2021 amounts to 13 hours, 51 minutes, and 41 seconds.

Weather in Ladakh in the month of August

The climate would be pleasant with bright sunny days. The weather at night might be very pleasing during this month. Visiting Ladakh during this month would be a great idea considering the pleasing weather. However, the sunshine would be of very high intensity, so, you should wear sunscreen and sunglasses during this month in Ladakh.

• The average maximum temperature in August 2020: 15.3 °C (59.5 °F)
• The lowest temperature in August 2020: 4.1 °C (39.4 °F)
• The average snowfall in August 2020 was of 11 days with a total of 64 mm.
• The longest day of the month is the 1st of August 2021.
• The shortest day of the month is the 31st of August 2021.
• The number of daylight hours on the longest day in August 2021 amounts to 13 hours, 50 minutes, and 07 seconds.
• The number of daylight hours on the shortest day in August 2021 amounts to 12 hours, 54 minutes, and 44 seconds.

Weather in Ladakh in the month of September

Although the month of September is a time of Summer in Ladakh, the last week of September brings chilly air of winter and the temperature might begin to decrease. For the local inhabitants of Ladakh, this month is the best month of the year. As harvesting starts in September. A lot of festivals can be seen during this month of pleasant weather.

• The average maximum temperature in September 2020: 10.5 °C (50.8 °F)
• The lowest temperature in September 2020: -1.6 °C (29.1 °F)
• The average snowfall in September 2020 was of 7 days with a total of 37 mm.
• The longest day of the September month in the year 2021 is the 1st of September.
• The shortest day of the September month in the year 2021 is the 30th of September.
• The number of daylight hours on the longest day in September 2021 amounts to 12 hours, 52 minutes, and 42 seconds.
• The number of daylight hours on the shortest day in September 2021 amounts to 11 hours, 52 minutes, and 04 seconds.

Weather in Ladakh in the month of October.

The month of October is the Autumn season of Ladakh. The Last week of October may bring the cold weather of early winter. On sunny days it might be mild temperature during day time. But the nights of October month might be very cold. Also, there is a chance that you might experience snowfall during this month. Visiting Ladakh during this time of the year would be very affordable, as hotels and Taxis offer great discounts.

• The average maximum temperature in October 2020: 2.3 °C (36.2 °F)
• The lowest temperature in October 2020: -11.2 °C (11.9 °F)
• The average snowfall in October 2020 was of 4 days with a total of 19 mm.
• The longest day of the month is the 31st of October 2021.
• The shortest day of the month is 1st of October 2021.
• The number of daylight hours on the longest day in October 2021 amounts to 11 hours, 49 minutes, and 58 seconds.
• The number of daylight hours on the shortest day in October 2021 amounts to 10 hours, 49 minutes, and 20 seconds.

Weather in Ladakh in the month of November.

This is the month of late autumn or early winter. If there would be snowfall during this month, it would bring the cold breeze of winter. Also, the Zojila road gets blocked. If it doesn’t snow then the temperature might stay above freezing point and the Zojila road remains open. So, if you are visiting Ladakh during this month, you should consider booking the return ticket to not take the risk of the Zojila roadblock.

• The average maximum temperature in November 2020: -5.9 °C (21.4 °F)
• The lowest temperature in November 2020: -19.8 °C (-3.6 °F)
• The average snowfall in November 2020 was of 4 days with a total of 20 mm.
• The longest day of the month is the 1st of November 2021.
• The shortest day of the month is the 30th of November 2021.
• The number of daylight hours on the longest day in November 2021 amounts to 10 hours, 47 minutes, and 28 seconds.
• The number of daylight hours on the shortest day in November 2021 amounts to 10 hours, 03 minutes, and 53.

Weather in Ladakh in the month of December.

December is the month of extreme cold with a freezing temperature. All the water bodies get frozen during this month. During this month the temperature barely rises above 0°C. Heavy snowfall during this month causes the temperature to fall below the freezing degree.

• The average maximum temperature in December 2020: -12.6 °C (9.3 °F)
• The lowest temperature in December 2020: -25.4 °C (-13.8 °F)
• The average snowfall in December 2020 was of 5 days with a total of 25 mm.
• The longest day of the month is the 1st of December 2021.
• The shortest day of the year is the 21st of December 2021.
• The number of daylight hours on the longest day in December 2021 amounts to 10 hours, 02 minutes, and 53 seconds.
• The number of daylight hours on the shortest day in December 2021 amounts to 09 hours, 52 minutes, and 29 seconds.

Best time to visit the top tourist attractions in Ladakh.

Best time to visit nubra valley in ladakh.

Nubra Valley is famous for its wonderful natural landscapes and unique sand dunes that offer a spectacular view of natural beauty. The road to the beautiful valley of Nubra is accessible throughout the year. But during the months of November to March, the weather would be extremely cold and there would be snowfall. The month of April is a good time to visit Nubra, but the chill of winter would be still there and you might feel very cold during the nights. However, May and June is the best time to visit Nubra. when the weather would be pleasant. The months of July and August are also not a very good time to visit the Nubra valley. As you might experience very blazing hot weather during the day time. September is a great time to visit Nubra with its pleasing climate. And October is also a good time to visit Nubra valley, but the nights might be very cold.

So, the best time to visit Nubra Valley is April, May, June, September, and October. During these months, a walk through this valley will rejuvenate your mind and spirit. Trekking in and around the Yarab Tso is the perfect way to explore and enjoy the natural beauty of Nubra valley. And camel Safari would be best enjoyed during these months of the year. And the night camping would be amazing, in the evening, people sit around a fire to sing, talk and share poetry. The distance from Leh to Nubra Valley is around 160km and it would take 4 to 5 hours drive to reach.

Best time to visit Pangong Lake and Tsomoriri Lake in Ladakh

The Pangong and Tso Moriri Lake are the two most famous lakes of Ladakh. May to September is the best time to visit these enchanting Lakes. You can also visit the lakes during winter, as the lake gets frozen, you can walk or ice skate on it. But to enjoy the wonderful view of these lakes to their fullest, May to September is the best time to visit.

Best time for Leh Sight seeing in Ladakh.

You can visit Leh any time of the year for sightseeing. Famous tourist attractions in Leh are Shanti Stupa, Leh Palace, Hall of fame, Magnetic Hill, Spituk Monastery, Gurudwara Pather Sahib, Sangam: Indus-Zanskar river Confluence, Rancho’s School, Shey Palace, Thiksey Monastery, and more. The best tourist preferred time to visit these places is April to October.

Best time for Kargil Sight seeing in Ladakh.

The natural beauty of Kargil can be enjoyed any time of the year. But the peak tourist season of Kargil sightseeing is May to October. During these months the Zojila road stays open, so a lot of tourists visit Kargil via Srinagar. Famous tourist attractions of Kargil to enjoy during these months are Kargil Warfare Memorial, Suruh Valley, Hunderman Village, Pensila valley.

Best time for Zanskar Valley in Ladakh.

Zanskar valley is very popular among tourists as it provides magnificent sightseeing panoramas. The best time to visit Zanskar valley is from Late June to September. During these months you can enjoy the picturesque and attractive locations in this valley, which adds all the more to its popularity. The picturesque surrounding and the peaceful environment of Zanskar are very soothing and help one to reflect on their happiness and sorrows. You can arrive at Zanskar valley from Srinagar to Kargil and then from Kargil to Zanskar. Or you can travel Zanskar valley directly from Leh.

Best time for Chadar trek in Ladakh.

January and February are the months when the thick ice sheets of frozen Zanskar river are good enough to trek.

Final words

You can visit Ladakh any time of the year if you are free only at a particular time of the year. However, if you have the flexibility in scheduling your vacation to visit Ladakh any time of the year, then May to late September is the best time to schedule your visit to Ladakh.

If you are planning your visit right now. Visit the Ladakh tour Packages page and go through the packages that we offer. If you have any more questions, you can send us a mail or call us between 9:00 am to 7:00 pm.

Related Questions

Leh ladakh opening time 2021.

The NH1 road from Srinagar opens earlier than the Manali road. And the NH1 road usually opens in April. In the year 2021, the road was opened on the 28th of February, but heavy snowfall on the Zojila pass caused the road to block again. As per the officials, the road would open again in the first week of April.

How many seasons are there in Ladakh?

For the local residents of Ladakh, the seasons are like any other place. i.e, 1. Spring. (April, May, and June) 2. Summer (July, August, and September) 3. Autumn (October, November, and December) 4. Winter (January, February, and March)

Which is the hottest month of Year in Ladakh?

July and August are the hotest months of the year in Ladakh.

Which is the coldest month of Year in Ladakh?

January is the coldest month of the year in Ladakh.

Which month does it snow in Ladakh?

Snowfall can be seen anytime during the months of October, November, December, January, February, March and April. But January and February are the months of Heavy snowfall.

When can I see snow in Ladakh?

There can be snowfall anytime up to the month of April in Ladakh, but the snow at the roadside melts completely only in the last week of June. So, you can visit anytime up to June to see snow in Ladakh. However, you need to visit Ladakh via NH1 road from Srinagar to play with snow at the roadside. Snow at mountains and glaciers can be seen around the year, and you can visit any time of the year to watch this snow from a distance.

When does the Zojila road gets open?

The status of Zojila completely relies on the weather. Heavy snowfall causes the road to gets blocked. The snowfall has to be cleared out of the way to open the highway for traffic. The roads usually gets blocked in the month of November and open in the month of April. However, changes in weather may change the pattern.

Is the weather of Ladakh suitable for vacation?

The weather of Ladakh in summer is deemed suitable and pleasant for tourists to spend their vacation. Check the table given above to see which month is best for you to visit Ladakh. However, you will notice a difference in Ladakh weather because of the high altitude nature of this area.

Is the humidity very low in Ladakh?

The amount of precipitation in Ladakh is very variable. Ladakh is one of the driest parts of the country. In this dry village, sweet and rich apricots grow.

How to prepare for Ladakh weather?

If you have already planned for a Ladakh trip. It would be best to check the weather forecast in the evening before you start your trip. The weather keeps changing, so, don’t rely on one forecast. Keep checking the forecast. The forecast of weather is most accurate a day earlier. Double-check the morning of the Ladakh trip.

Regardless of the predictions, the weather may change really quickly and dramatic differences between one place and the another are no exception. Therefore it is best to be prepared for weather variations. Pack some warm clothes, no matter what season you are traveling to Ladakh or whatever the forecast is predicting.

Book your Ladakh Trip with us for the best deals. Find our Leh Ladakh bike trip packages here.

Sam K. Pandepa

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Ladakh travel tips — 11+ Ladakh tips & things to know before going to Ladakh

Ladakh, a region in the northern part of India, is a popular tourist attraction because it offers visitors stunning natural beauty, unique cultural experience, adventure tourism, and more. A visit to Ladakh is always an adventure, so be well-prepared yourself to have a wonderful time there. So, what you need to know before going to Ladakh or what to know when traveling to Ladakh? Let’s check out our Ladakh travel tips (Ladakh tips) with 11+ tips for visiting Ladakh, things you should know before going to Ladakh, things to know before going to Ladakh as follows!

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Here are several things you need to know before traveling to Ladakh. They are certainly helpful for adventurers, nature lovers and Himalayan tour participants like you. Just take a quick look at these and plan your trip, you will surely enjoy yourself in Ladakh.

Ladakh’s Climate (# ladakh travel tips)

One of the important Leh Ladakh travel tips that you need to keep in mind is that the weather is severe in this part of India. So, you must bring sweaters and warm coats whenever you visit Ladakh.

Those who can’t stand the cold even with warm clothes should avoid a Ladakh journey in winter, from November to March, when it is extremely cold, with temperatures dropping well below freezing point. The average temperatures range from -20°C to 10°C (-4°F to 50°F). Most of Ladakh, including popular tourist destinations like Pangong Tso and Nubra Valley, remains inaccessible due to heavy snowfall, and many guesthouses and hotels are closed.

The best time to visit this region is in summer, from April to June, when the weather is pleasant and the temperatures are relatively moderate. The average daytime temperature is from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). It is an ideal time for outdoor activities like trekking through mountains and valleys, rafting, and enjoying the stunning landscapes.

Acute Mountain Sickness (# ladakh travel tips)

It’s important to note that Ladakh is located at a high altitude and a Ladakh trip will surely take you to mountains of 3,000m to 7,000m (10,000 ft to 23,000 ft) above sea level. Therefore, you must be aware of Acute Mountain Sickness (ASM), usually occurring at altitudes above 2,500m (8,000 ft).

AMS is a common condition caused by the reduced oxygen levels and lower air pressure that can occur when you ascend to high altitudes too quickly without giving your body enough time to acclimatize. AMS can cause shortness of breath, severe headaches, vomiting, and loss of appetite among others.

Being aware of AMS is one of the important and must-know things for Ladakh travel. You should consult your doctor and carry AMS drugs with you. Without AMS drugs, suffering AMS may lead to bubbles forming in the lungs. This is a medical emergency that, if left untreated, can result in coma or death. You should also bring a personal thermometer, sphygmomanometer and first aid kit. You should check your temperature whenever you feel dizzy in high altitude areas in Ladakh.

Car rental in Ladakh (# ladakh tips)

How to explore Ladakh when you’re not ready to go mountain biking or hiking? Consider a Ladakh road safari! A Ladakh road safari or road trip offers a unique and adventurous way to experience the beauty and cultural richness of the region. This option is also a much more cost-effective way to explore the world’s highest road in Ladakh.

However, it is important to note that Ladakh’s high-altitude environment and challenging road conditions require careful planning and preparation for a road trip. You should make sure you are physically fit, acclimatize properly to the altitude, carry essential supplies, and have a reliable and well-maintained car.

Many tour operators and travel agencies in Leh offer organized Ladakh road safari packages, including vehicle rentals and experienced drivers. They allow up to 6 people per drive. These agencies can be found in the main bazaar area of Leh town. Some well-known car rental agencies here include Avis, Himalayan Wheels, and Discover Ladakh Adventure Tours & Travel.

You can also drive yourself or hire a driver if you are not capable of driving on high mountain roads. You should plan ahead, book your car rental in advance, and check the availability of vehicles during your travel dates, especially during the peak tourist season (April to September), as availability may be limited. You can use online car rental platforms. Websites or apps such as Zoomcar, Revv, and Savaari provide options for renting self-drive cars in various locations in Ladakh.

Accommodation for tourists in Ladakh  (# ladakh tips)

Ladakh offers tourists several accommodation options such as hotels, guesthouses, homestays, campsites and tents, but the number of these facilities is limited.  You should know that it’s hard to find a luxury place to stay somewhere not in Leh, so just expect standard ones with HVAC, TV and hot shower.

The availability of accommodation options may vary depending on the season and the specific region of Ladakh you plan to visit. During the peak tourist season (April to September), you should book your accommodation in advance, especially if you have specific preferences or requirements. If you wish to see the snowy beauty of the Himalayas in winter, be aware that nighttime temperatures drop below zero. Without a place to stay, you’ll have a hard time staying in your car or by a campfire with warm clothes.

While planning your stay in Ladakh, consider factors such as location, accessibility, services offered, and the proximity to major attractions or activities you wish to explore. Researching and reading reviews from reliable sources can help you make informed decisions and find the accommodation that suits your needs and enhances your Ladakh experience.

What to wear for a Ladakh trip?

If you reach this tip, you know that temperature in Ladakh ranges from -20°C to 25°C and it changes significantly between daytime and nighttime. Therefore, Ladakh travel clothing tips tell you that there is no other choice but warm clothes.

The following clothing and footwear are recommended for your adventure in Ladakh:

• A combination of lightweight and warm layers to adjust to the changing temperatures such as t-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, sweaters or fleeces, and a warm jacket or down coat for colder evenings.
• Thermal base layers to provide extra warmth, especially during early mornings and higher altitudes.
• A waterproof and windproof jacket or shell to protect against rain, wind, and sudden weather changes.
• Comfortable pants, jeans and shorts for daily wear.
• A hat or cap to shield you from the sun and cold winds, and gloves for colder temperatures.
• A scarf or neck gaiter to provide additional warmth and protection for your neck and face.
• Comfortable, waterproof, and sturdy footwear suitable for walking on uneven terrain and long hikes.
• A sufficient number of socks, including woolen or thermal socks for colder days.

If your warm clothes do not provide enough protection from the cold, it is better to buy more of them in Leh. Those products are handmade with natural fur. It feels well-deserved as soon as you put them on and they are also affordable.

What to put in your luggage for a trip to Ladakh

Apart from the above clothing and footwear, the following items are recommended to be in your luggage:

• A good pair of sunglasses with UV protection to protect your eyes from the strong sunlight at high altitudes;
• A high SPF sunscreen to protect your skin from the intense sun at higher altitudes and a lip balm with SPF to prevent chapped lips;
• A daypack or backpack to store your essentials during excursions or hikes;
• A reusable water bottle with insulation to stay hydrated to keep your water cool.
• Any necessary medications, including those for AMS, a personal hygiene kit along with a basic first aid kit for minor injuries or illnesses;
• A power bank to charge your electronic devices due to limited access to electricity in some areas, and adapters for charging your devices if needed;
• A good camera to capture the beauty of the Himalayas;
• GPS devices if possible;
• Emergency lights, torches and portable gas stoves for your nighttime travel to get light and drink hot water.

What is the currency in Ladakh?

The currency used in Ladakh is the Indian Rupee (INR), as Ladakh is a part of the Indian Territory. 1 INR = 0.012 USD.

The rule of thumb is to carry INR in cash when traveling to Ladakh. While a few establishments in major towns like Leh may accept credit cards or digital payments, cash is widely used, especially in remote areas with no internet connection and for small transactions. You should exchange currency before arriving in Ladakh or in major cities like Delhi or Srinagar, as currency exchange facilities are limited in Ladakh.

Leh, the main town of Ladakh, has only a few ATMs where you can withdraw cash using your debit or credit card. However, it’s important to note that ATMs can sometimes run out of cash or experience technical issues. So, you should carry sufficient cash with you and withdraw money when you have the opportunity to do so.

SIM cards and telecommunication networks in Ladakh

On your Ladakh adventure, you will certainly need a 4G travel SIM card to help you check in anytime anywhere possible, stay in touch with your loved ones or find your way. Where to buy a 4G travel SIM card? The most common option is to buy it at the airport. All airports have service counters operated by local network providers to provide SIM cards to travelers.

There are 4 main network providers in Ladakh: Airtel, Jio, Vodafone Idea (VI), and BSNL. Each provider may have different network coverage and signal strength in different areas. You should inquire about the network coverage of various providers and choose one that offers better connectivity based on your travel plans.

You should keep in mind that the network coverage in Ladakh can be limited, especially in remote areas and high-altitude regions. While major towns like Leh and Kargil have better network connectivity, you may experience weak or no signal in certain areas, particularly in mountainous and rural locations.

Notes on food in Ladakh (# things to know before going to ladakh)

Most of the food available in Ladakh is non-vegetarian. If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free diets, it’s important to be prepared. At restaurants, you should communicate your needs to the restaurant staff. Ladakh may have limited options, but some restaurants are accommodating and can provide suitable alternatives.

You should eat or buy and pack food from wherever you pass with a store open because you won’t be able to find food vendors on your way to Ladakh. When you’re looking for a place to stay, you should see if they also serve food. Otherwise, you will have to go a long way to find food only.

You should also bring some canned food for use. When traveling to remote areas or during long journeys, it can be helpful to carry snacks like energy bars, nuts, or dried fruits to keep you fueled between meals.

What about local cuisine? It is advisable to explore the local Ladakhi cuisine to experience the unique flavors of the region. Try traditional dishes like thukpa, momos, skyu, and chutagi. These dishes are widely available in local restaurants and eateries. Don’t miss out on trying butter tea (gur-gur chai), a traditional Ladakhi beverage. It has a distinct taste and is an integral part of Ladakh’s culinary culture.

How to get to Ladakh? (# what you need to know before going to ladakh)

You can get to Ladakh by road or by air from major cities in India, but most tourists prefer travelling by air. The Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh is the only airport serving Ladakh. It has regular flights connecting Leh to major cities in India, including Delhi, Mumbai, and Srinagar. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use pre-arranged transportation to reach your destination in Ladakh.

Ladakh is accessible by road from Srinagar City or Manali City of India. From Srinagar, the Srinagar-Leh Highway (National Highway 1D) is a popular route to reach Ladakh. It is open from around May to November, depending on weather conditions. The journey takes approximately 2 days with an overnight stop in Kargil.

From Manali, the Manali-Leh Highway (National Highway 3) is another scenic route to reach Ladakh. It is open from around June to September. The journey takes around 2 days, including an overnight stop in Keylong or Sarchu.

Transportation in Ladakh (what you need to know before traveling to ladakh)

Within Ladakh, there are several transportation options for you. Taxis, shared taxis or shared jeeps are common modes of transport here for short trips or longer journeys to other destinations in Ladakh. You should negotiate fares or use pre-paid taxi services available at the Leh Taxi Stand.

Another option is buses. However, bus service is limited in Ladakh, mainly operating between Leh and nearby towns. These buses are a budget-friendly option but may have limited schedules and can be crowded.

If you prefer to explore Ladakh at your own pace, renting a private car or a motorbike is an option for you. However, it’s important to note that driving in Ladakh can be challenging due to the mountainous terrain, narrow roads, and high altitudes. It is better to have prior experience in driving in such conditions.

If you prefer a hassle-free experience, you can opt for private tour operators who provide transportation services along with organized tours and itineraries. These operators can arrange vehicles, drivers, and guides based on your preferences and requirements.

If you want a unique and memorable way to explore the region’s desert landscapes, particularly in the Nubra Valley, take a camel safari – a ride on the back of a Bactrian camel led by experienced handlers or guides who are familiar with the region.

Camel safaris in Ladakh often include visits to small villages and monasteries along the way, providing opportunities to interact with the local people and learn about their way of life. You can experience Ladakhi hospitality, taste local cuisine, and gain insights into the region’s rich culture and traditions.

Some famous monasteries in Ladakh

Monasteries, also known as gompas, hold great significance in Ladakh’s cultural and spiritual landscape. They are an integral part of the region’s Buddhist heritage and offer a unique experience for visitors.

Monasteries are places of worship, meditation, and learning, where monks and nuns reside and practice their faith. Visiting the monasteries in Ladakh provides a window into the region’s rich cultural heritage. You can witness Buddhist rituals, observe monks engaged in prayer and chanting, and gain insights into the philosophy and teachings of Tibetan Buddhism.

Ladakh’s monasteries are also renowned for their stunning architecture and picturesque locations. Perched high on hilltops, nestled in the valleys, or built along mountain slopes, these monasteries exhibit a blend of Tibetan, Indian, and Central Asian architectural styles. Intricate murals, colorful frescoes, and ornate sculptures adorn the monastery walls, showcasing the artistic richness of the region.

Here are some of the most popular monasteries in the region.

Thiksey Monastery, located on top of a hill close to Leh, is one of the most prominent and largest monasteries in Ladakh. It is known for its resemblance to the Potala Palace in Lhasa, Tibet, and its grand Maitreya (Future Buddha) statue, which stands at a height of around 49 feet.

Hemis Monastery, situated in the Hemis village, is one of the wealthiest and most famous monasteries in Ladakh. It is renowned for its annual Hemis Festival, during which the monastery comes alive with vibrant mask dances and cultural performances.

Alchi Monastery, located in the Alchi village, stands out for its unique artistic style. It houses some of the oldest and finest examples of Kashmiri-influenced Buddhist art in the form of murals, sculptures, and wood carvings.

Lamayuru Monastery, also known as the “Moonland of Ladakh,” is one of the oldest monasteries in the region. It is perched on a hill and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding lunar-like landscape. Lamayuru is also associated with the annual Yuru Kabgyat Festival, featuring colorful mask dances.

Other monasteries popular among tourists are Phuktal, Karsha, Diskit, Likir, Namgyal Tsemo, Basgo, etc.

A journey to Ladakh is like the road to paradise in the Himalayas and we hope those Ladakh travel tips are useful for you as you plan your own Ladakh tour, then go for it to gain an unforgettable experience in your life.

Quick questions about Ladakh

Is ladakh safe for tourists.

Ladakh’s mountainous terrain and desert-like characteristics make it a captivating destination for travelers seeking unique landscapes and a sense of adventure. It is generally considered safe for tourists.

How high is Ladakh?

Ladakh is situated in the Trans-Himalayan region and is characterized by its high altitude, rugged mountains, and sparse vegetation. Its elevation ranges from 3,000m to 6,000m (9,800 ft to 20,000 ft) above sea level.

Does Ladakh have the highest roads in the world?

Well, Ladakh has claimed that it is home to some of the highest mountain passes (motorable) in the world such as Khardung La, Chang La and Tanglang La. The highest altitude is 19,300 ft above mean sea level.

When can I go to Ladakh to see the snow?

To see snow in Ladakh, it is best to plan your visit during the winter months, from November to March, when snowfall is more frequent and the region is covered in snow.

However, it’s important to note that the winter season in Ladakh is extremely cold, with temperatures dropping well below freezing, especially in higher-altitude areas.  Many tourist facilities and accommodations in Ladakh may be closed or operate on a limited basis during the winter season.

Does the Indus River flow through Ladakh?

Yes, the Indus River flows through Ladakh. The Indus is one of the major rivers in the Indian subcontinent, and it originates in the Tibetan Plateau in China. It enters the Indian Territory in the region of Ladakh and flows through the Leh district, which is a part of the Union Territory of Ladakh.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Leh-Ladakh-Zanskar you can refer to

• 10D9N Discover Ladakh, India from Singapore [All-Inclusive]
• 7D6N Ladakh Private Tour
• 6D5N Ladakh Private Tour
• 9D8N Chadar Frozen River Trekking Experience
• 11D10N Stok Kangri Summit Trek from Leh

Read more Ladakh blog — How to plan Leh Ladakh trip & suggested Ladakh itinerary 15 days.

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Best Time To Visit Leh Ladakh: A Complete Guide

Last Updated: October 19, 2023

Leh Ladakh, often referred to as ‘The Land of High Passes’, is a mesmerizing destination nestled amidst snow-clad mountain peaks and alluring valleys. When you decide to visit Leh Ladakh, timing is everything. Here, we present a detailed guide to ensure you choose the best time to visit, optimize your trip, and revel in all the beauty and adventure Leh Ladakh has to offer.

The Summer Season (April-June)

The peak season (july-august), the autumn season (september-october), the winter season (november-february), 1 the best time to visit ladakh and leh.

The months from late April to early June mark the beginning of the tourist season in Leh Ladakh. The pleasant Ladakh temperature and blooming valleys provide an idyllic backdrop for travelers. The Srinagar-Leh highway usually opens up by mid-April, closely followed by the Manali-Leh highway in early June.

Visiting Ladakh in these months ensures travelers witness the pristine beauty of the Zanskar Valley, Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley, and Tso Moriri Lake without the challenges posed by heavy snowfall. Moreover, the Hemis Festival, a significant celebration of Tibetan Buddhism, usually falls in June. If you aim to soak in local culture and witness vibrant Ladakhi traditions, visiting Ladakh during the Hemis Festival is recommended.

July to August is the peak tourist season. The Manali route is fully operational, and the Leh-Manali roads, as well as the Srinagar-Leh highway, are buzzing with activity. While the region sees very few tourists during the colder months, the count surges during this time. Ladakh tourism thrives, especially because of adventure lovers seeking thrilling escapades amidst the high mountain passes like Chang La, Khardung La, Baralacha Pass, and Rohtang Pass.

However, it’s worth noting that monsoon season also coincides with this period. While Leh Ladakh remains largely unaffected by the rains, the Manali-Leh and Srinagar-Leh routes can experience occasional blockages.

September and early October offer a golden opportunity for those who prefer fewer tourists and wish to experience the autumnal charm of the Ladakh valley. The region is painted in hues of gold and brown, and the climate remains pleasant. Although it’s the peak season, all major routes, including the Leh Manali highway route and Srinagar-Leh highway, are functional.

Adventure activities remain on the cards, with treks like the Markha Valley trek becoming popular during this time. Moreover, the Dosmoche Festival, a two-day festival in Leh, is celebrated with gusto, presenting another cultural extravaganza.

The coldest months in Leh Ladakh are from mid-January to mid-February. During this period, the temperature can plummet drastically, requiring very warm clothing. Most areas, including Nubra Valley and Pangong Tso, are blanketed in snow.

The famed Chadar Trek, an exhilarating walk on the frozen Zanskar River, is an attraction for adventure enthusiasts during this time. While the Manali-Leh roads and Srinagar-Leh highway remain closed due to heavy snowfall, the Zojila Pass might be navigable till mid-November before the onset of heavy snow.

For those seeking solitude and an unadulterated experience of snow-clad landscapes, this is the best time to visit Leh Ladakh. Ice skating, snowboarding, and other winter sports are also on offer for thrill-seekers.

2 Year-round Attractions

While the best time to visit Leh Ladakh hinges on personal preferences, some attractions are appealing year-round. The Leh Palace, monasteries echoing Tibetan Buddhism, Ladakh Festival, and local markets provide glimpses into the rich heritage and culture of the region irrespective of the season.

3 Tips for a Successful Trip

• Plan Well: Always check the status of the Manali-Leh and Srinagar-Leh highways before planning your trip.
• Stay Acclimatized: Leh is at a high altitude. It’s essential to give your body time to adjust to prevent altitude sickness.
• Dress Appropriately: Layers are your best friend in this region. Ensure you carry warm clothing, especially if visiting during the winter season.

4 Wrapping Up

In conclusion, the best season to visit Leh is subjective and largely depends on what you seek. Whether it’s the bustling peak tourist season or the tranquillity of the winter months, Leh Ladakh promises a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Whatever time you choose to visit, the enchanting landscapes, rich cultural tapestry, and the allure of adventure await in this mesmerizing Himalayan haven. Safe travels!

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• india tourism
• best time to visit ladakh

Best Time To Visit Ladakh

Best season to visit leh ladakh.

The Best time to visit Ladakh is during the summer season from the month of April to July during this time Ladakh temperature is between 15 to 30 Degree Celsius. Ladakh is known for its extremely low temperatures almost all through the year. While it is quite pleasant in the summer time, the winters are exceedingly cold unforgiving. Well, in that case, naturally the best time to visit Ladakh is during the summers.

Summers in Ladakh (June- September) are truly beautiful with moderate temperatures and hospitable environment for the tourists. During the remaining part of the year, the Manali-Leh highway which is the only means to reach Ladakh , remains non-functional. Although, there is another route, that can be used to reach the place, the Srinagar-Leh highway, it can get affected with landslides as well. Moreover, it is during summers that you can enjoy the entire setup of the place in totality. Said to be a dream destination for most of the people, Ladakh comes across to be a worth visiting place for the travellers. Be it the splendid set up showcasing snow covered mountains well blended with alluring valleys and lakes, Ladakh is sure to touch your chord at its best. Beautifully displaying the sights of the splendid field of valleys and slopes adjoined with the relishing knowledge of perseverance via the spectacularly beautiful neighbourhood, this place calls to endure you with the best experience.  However, the land of Ladakh has its own charm in the winters as well. This is the reason why many people, especially the truly adventurous ones, seek to visit the place when it is blanketed in snow. The Frozen River Trek , which is also one of the most famous and unique treks, is also carried out in winter, upping the excitement quotient in the travellers to visit Ladakh during this harsh but glorious period. Check out some more amazing best places to visit in Ladakh before you plan your trip.

2023 Most Popular Ladakh Tour Packages

Ladakh during the summer time (march- june).

While you ponder over and continuously think about the, you would be happy to read through this piece of information that endures enlightening to the fullest regarding the popular times to visit Ladakh along with the Best Season to Visit Ladakh.

Ladakh Temperature

20-30 Degrees

Ladakh weather remains warm and comfortable and sun shines brightly.

Why to visit now

Out of all the seasons, summer calls to be one of the best seasons when you can witness and enjoy the energizing surrounding of the place to the fullest. At this season the snow seems to have softened rendering spectacular buzz of sceneries.The late April showcases excellent changes. The Pangong Tso lake and the Tso Moriri lake begin to melt fast at this time considerably disclosing the spectacular hue and sight of the place. At this time Leh out cases beautiful weather condition endowing clear sky.At this time, you must consider visiting places like Stongdey Monastery, Likir Monastery, Shey Monastery and Thiksey Monastery .

Significance

At this time you can also relish best festivals like YuruKabgyat, Hemis Festivals, SakaDawa which is only held during the month of June. The Hemis festival which is celebrated in honour of the founder of Tibetan Buddhism, Guru Padmasambhava is one to witness. It showcases the amazing masked performances, brightly hued costumes and unique music which simply cannot be missed.

Know before you visit

Between April to mid of May there is no heavy snowfall and the summer season slowly and steadily takes over the place completely. The travellers who aim to visit Ladakh during this time can search for homestays, hotels , places, and guesthouses on many online sites.  If you plan on visiting during this span of time then you must definitely opt for flight booking as all the passes and the roads to the place is generally blocked or are not open. However, though it is summer time Ladakh weather at this time is not warm or sunny. The beginning of the seven to ten days in the month of June isn’t meant for traveling purpose to Ladakh as most of the roads at this time is blocked. At this time, if you wish to travel to Ladakh, you must definitely choose flight as this is the best option if you wish to travel. The major airport in the area to visit this area during the summer season is the KushokBakulaRimpochee Airport. Also, in the mid of this time, the travellers must surely visit the highway in between Srinagar and Leh. This is the highway that remains open at this time of the year. If you wish to visit Ladakh by road during this time then you must consider going from the Valley of Kashmir via Kargil, which is about a distance of four hundred and thirty-four kilometres. This is the route that remains open from the early month of June to the month of November. Finally, the longest road route that is about a distance of four hundred and seventy-three kilometres, the Manali-Leh road route is open in the middle of June and remains open until early October.

Wear sunscreen and protect yourself from direct sunshine as the thin atmosphere here can cause the sunrays to get quite intense. Beginning of the season still calls for you to pack in some warm clothes as the nights can get bit too cold.

Ladakh during the Monsoon time (July-August)

Temperature.

10-20 Degrees

Monsoons in Ladakh are as harsh and untoward as winters if not more. The air is crisp, blue and usually clear. Beginning in July, monsoons in Ladakh do not last long, and whatever little rainfall that the area receives is generally in the form of heavy but short-lived downpours.

Why you should visit now

Ladakh weather is refreshing and perfect for outings. It is also a great time for adventure activities such as white water rafting which can be indulged in at Indus and Zanskar rivers. The period from May to October is also a wonderful time for going on the many treks organized in the area, especially the Kang Yatse trek, Markha Valley trek and the one from Spituk to Stok .

Monsoon is the time of many mesmerizing festivals such as Karsha Gustor that is held at Karsha, Zanskar Valley’s biggest monastery; the PheyangTsedup, which is the annual festival, organized at the Pheyang monastery; KorzokGustor, which is held at Korzok monastery, located near Moriri Lake.

The place is infamous for occasional incidents of landslides and cloudbursts during this period. This time of the year, roads, especially the Manali-Leh highway can become hard to traverse owing to washing off of the narrow road or landslides due to rains.

If travelling to Ladakh in Monsoons, it is necessary that you pack such clothes that are light weight and easy to dry and wear shoes that are waterproof. Make sure you also carry a raincoat and/or an umbrella and sunscreen with you. Check the weather report before embarking on your journey to stay safe.

Ladakh during the winter (September-February)

Below 0 Degree (minimum most recorded temperature here is -23 Degrees)

During the winters Ladakh temperature steadily drops from September (5 Degrees to -21 Degrees ) to January (-2 Degrees to -14 Degrees ) and then gradually rises again. The weather is pleasantly chilly at the early phase (September-October) of the season, with cold winds blowing in the evenings. The latter phase of winters (November-February) can be extremely unbearable with temperatures dipping violently, making it impossible to enjoy your stay. Temperature in Kargil during this part of the season can drop up to -50 Degrees !

Winter calls to be the time when you can relish the beauty and adventure of trekking through one of the best treks in the world known as the Chadar Trek. Moreover, you are also sure to relish trekking over the solidified and grand Zanskar River, which is highly loved and cherished by the travellers. Only the early phase of the winters are good for travelling to the place. This period is ideal for many great and popular treks in Ladakh including the famous Frozen River Trek or the Zanskar Valley trek. The period from mid of January to March is however best suited for Chadar trek .

Many remarkable festivals fall during the wintertime in Ladakh. These prominently include SpitukGustor, Stok Monastery Festival, Dosmoche, ThiksayGustor, Matho Monastery festival and Ladakhi Losar. While the ones falling in summers are shadowed by tourist crowds and photographers, attending these winter fests are sure to give you a glimpse into the lives and culture of the locals like none other.

Know Before you visit

Ladakh sees very sparse crowd of tourists from November to February due to heavy snowfall in the area. This is also the reason why many trekking routes too are closed down at times. Also, be prepared for frequent power cut in this season.Hance, book some amazing Ladakh Tour Packages online here with Thomas Cook.

The extremely low temperature and high altitude can cause AMS or common cough and cold. Hence, it is good to be prepared with necessary precautions such as multiple layers of warm clothing, necessary medicines and taking enough fluids. You can take oxygen at oxygen bars if experiencing dizziness and headaches, which is common due to the high altitude. Carry a 1000mAh power bank and several spare batteries as the cold tends to drain out batteries quickly.

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What is the Best Time to Visit Ladakh?

Every year, many people dream of going to Ladakh. They are curious about the ideal time to explore this mesmerizing destination. Knowing the best time to visit Ladakh, you can understand the land and plan your trip well. Ladakh is a special place that many people want to see.

You can delight in the breathtaking views of sprawling valleys and majestic hills that extend as far as your eyes can reach. Some people enjoy the summer season, enjoying the pleasant and comfortable weather, while others seek the thrill and excitement of the harsh but captivating winters.

Table of Contents

Vibrant Summers in Ladakh: A Thriving Tourist Season

As April arrives, Ladakh welcomes the onset of summer, and with it comes the bustling tourist season. This is the time when the region comes alive with various activities for visitors to enjoy. During this season, the temperature ranges between 7°C to 26°C, creating a pleasant and comfortable climate perfect for exploration. The summer months in Ladakh begin in March and extend until June, allowing ample time for travelers to soak in the sun and experience the pleasant weather that makes the entire Union Territory a delightful destination.

Why are Summers the Best Time to Visit Ladakh?

Summers in Ladakh are the best time to visit for many reasons:

Firstly, all the attractions of the Union Territory reopen during this season, making it convenient to explore the lakes, passes, villages, and other essential destinations . Moreover, the summer weather is pleasant, allowing visitors to enjoy comfortable nights without a significant drop in temperature. The clear skies offer breathtaking views of distant mountains, making it a paradise for photography and videography enthusiasts.

Additionally, adventure seekers and bikers find summers in Ladakh amazing, as both highways are clear and free from snow, facilitating their thrilling journeys.

Things to Do in Ladakh in Summer

Besides finding out the best time to visit Ladakh, let’s consider the top things to do in Ladakh for Summer vacations:

1- Explore the Wonders of Pangong Lake

Pangong Lake is an extraordinary place in Ladakh that you should visit, especially in the summer. It is a big lake, covering an area of 600 square kilometers. This lake even goes into China and Tibet! You will see particular kinds of small animals called crustaceans in this lake.

You will also see thousands of beautiful birds flying above the lake. For a unique experience, camping by the lakeside is highly recommended. If you are lucky, in June, you might see some rare ducks and geese. It will make your visit to Pangong Lake even more fabulous!

2- Experience the Marvels of Gravity Hill

There is a special place called Gravity Hill that is also known for its magical powers. People say it has a strong magnet that can make vehicles move uphill! It is a hill that looks different because of how the land is shaped. Even though it seems like going uphill, it’s going downhill. This makes it a unique and exciting spot to explore. You should visit this interesting place in June when the weather is nice, and you can explore the area with lots of excitement.

3- Discover Tranquility and Beauty at Thiksey Monastery

There is a beautiful Tibetan Buddhist Monastery in Ladakh called Thiksey Gompa. It is located high up at an altitude of 3,600 meters. This beautiful monastery has 12 floors and is also known as Thikse Gompa . You will find many things related to Buddhism, like old writings, paintings, statues, and swords. This monastery is very famous and attracts many tourists every year.

Summer is a wonderful season to explore this enchanting monastery because the weather is pleasant, and you won’t feel tired. While you are there, remember to visit the Tara Temple inside the complex, where you can see 21 beautiful images of the goddess Tara. It’s a truly amazing sight!

4- Embark on an Exciting Biking Expedition at Khardung La Pass!

Are you ready for an exhilarating bike adventure during your Ladakh trip? Look no further than Khardung La Pass! Situated at a staggering altitude of around 18,300 ft, it holds the prestigious title of the world’s highest motorable road. Biking through Khardung La Pass is an absolute thrill and one of the most adventurous activities in Ladakh.

As you reach the top and witness the sign proudly proclaiming “Khardungla Top – highest motorable road in the world,” a profound sense of accomplishment fills your heart. For all thrill-seekers and adventure enthusiasts, embarking on this bike ride adventure is an absolute must-do when you visit Ladakh.

5- Explore the Fascinating Royal Palace of Leh

If you are passionate about history, visiting the Royal Palace of Leh is a must during your Ladakh trip. This impressive palace was built a long time ago, in the 17th century, by a king named SenggeNamgyal . It was the notable house where the royal family lived. The palace looks special, just like the famous Potala Palace in Tibet. There is a museum with old paintings, exciting things from the past, and unique items. You can easily reach this place as it’s 2 km away from the city of Leh.

Monsoon Magic in Ladakh: Adventure and Serenity Amidst Refreshing Showers

During a particular time in Ladakh called the monsoon season, it usually rains between July and September. But before the rain comes, in early June, a particular road called Manali-Leh opens up. This beautiful road lets people travel through it and see the amazing sights. The weather during this time feels cool, making it comfortable for everyone. Ladakh is a special place because it is protected by the big Himalayan mountains, which make the rain go away. That’s why Ladakh gets less rain than other places. 

During the monsoon season, adventure enthusiasts can enjoy thrilling experiences like rafting at level III in the Zanskar River and embark on exciting treks in Spituk, Kang Yatse, and Markha Valley. Although the climate in this rain-shadow area can change, Ladakh has not experienced any extreme rainfall or extreme weather conditions. So, take advantage of the chance to explore Ladakh’s enchanting beauty during the monsoon season and indulge in thrilling adventures amidst the scenic landscapes !

Winter Wonderland in Ladakh: Embrace the Snowy Adventures

In winter, Ladakh becomes a magical snowy place with super cold temperatures. It can be as freezing as -22°C to -7°C, especially in high places above 14,000 ft. Many tourists say goodbye to Ladakh during this time, but a few brave people stay to enjoy the chilly weather.

During winter, it’s hard to travel on the Srinagar-Leh and Manali-Leh highways. They become blocked by snow, except for the first week of October when some people can still pass through, depending on the weather. But don’t worry! You can still go to Ladakh by direct flight from Delhi to Leh. Airplanes can fly there even in winter. If you’re in another city, some flights connect to Leh too.

With December and January being the coldest months, Ladakh attracts numerous adventurous individuals seeking thrilling experiences during this time of the year. They come to have fun in the snow, like going on snow leopard safaris and participating in the famous Chadar Trek in the beautiful Zanskar Valley. Sometimes the roads get blocked by heavy snow, but the rest of the region stays open. You can still see the beauty of Ladakh in winter.

So get ready for exciting snowy adventures and explore the fantastic wonders of Ladakh in winter. There’s so much fun and natural beauty waiting for you!

The Bottom Line

Ladakh is a beautiful place to visit all year round. The weather is nice in summer, and the land is colorful, perfect for exploring outside. You can enjoy the refreshing rain during the rainy season and have exciting adventures. During winter, Ladakh turns into a magical place. It becomes a snowy wonderland where you can have fun playing in the snow and even spot some animals around. No matter where you go, Ladakh is a beautiful and unforgettable place for everyone to have fun.

FAQs about the Best Time to Visit Ladakh

If you’re lucky in June, you might spot rare ducks and geese like Brahmin ducks and bar-headed geese at Pangong Lake. Winter also offers chances to see wildlife in their natural habitat.

Ladakh is accessible annually by air, with direct flights from Delhi to Leh. However, road access via Srinagar-Leh and Manali-Leh highways depends on weather conditions, especially during winter.

I hope you enjoy our article, do check out more of our  amazing articles .

Huma Chaudhary

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Top 15 places to visit in ladakh that will leave you spellbound.

Ladakh, also known as the “Land of High Passes,” is a region located in the northernmost part of India, a Union Territory, which was previously a part of Jammu and Kashmir. Ladakh is famous for its rugged terrain, stunning natural landscapes, and unique cultural heritage. The region is surrounded by some of the world’s highest mountain ranges, including the Himalayas, Karakoram, and the Ladakh range. It’s a land of the coldest deserts in the world; it is a land to be lost in the beauty of rugged terrains and click awesome pictures; seeking solace in numerous Gompas and satisfy your adventures soul by indulging in various adventure activities like trekking , rafting, paragliding, mountain climbing, biking etc.

You will also encounter various remotest villages and get fascinated by their rustic life as Ladakh is also home to a diverse population that includes Tibetans, Muslims, and Buddhists. The region’s strategic location at the crossroads of Central Asia, India, and Tibet has shaped its unique culture, architecture, and cuisine. The traditional Ladakhi way of life is centred around farming, trading, and livestock rearing, and the locals have developed a close relationship with their environment.

The place has a rich cultural heritage and an awesome palace – Leh Palace. The list is endless and this is just the tip of an iceberg. Ladakh Tourism Map is filled with numerous beautiful places to overpower your soul with delight. Ladakh will never be monotonous as it has so much to offer to a tourist. And, that’s why, Ladakh is unquestionably one of the best places to visit in India for a vacation.

In this blog, we will mention the top 15 best tourist places in Ladakh to help you plan your trip to this beautiful and fantastic world of bliss.

Also Check Out Some of the Most Popular Leh Ladakh Tour Packages

Pangong Lake – Color Changing Lake

Situated at the height of 4350 m in the Himalayas, Pangong Lake is the world’s highest salt water lake.  Picturesque mountains in the background, landscaped vistas and tranquil blue waters of the lake would teleport you into the world of fantasy. It is one of the most popular points of tourist interest in Leh Ladakh. Pangong Lake got its name from a Tibetan word ‘Pangong Tso’ which means ‘High Grassland Lake’. The most interesting fact about this lake is that it changes its color, appearing blue, grey, green or red at different points of time. You can only feel its true bliss, if you visit here once.

Highlights – May to September is the best time to visit Pangong Lake.

Also Check Out: Popular Lakes in Ladakh

Lamayuru – Moonland of Ladakh

Have you ever seen a moonlike landscape for real? No? Then Lamayuru in Leh is a place to be in. It is often called a ‘Moonscape for tourists. It was founded in the 11th century by Mahasiddacarya Naropa. The landscape of Lamayuru is surreal, sublime, moonlike and divine.

Lamayuru is known for its rugged landscape, odd geographical formations, picturesque views and Lamayuru monastery which is situated at a height of 3510 meters. If you are looking for a beautiful place to click some awesome pictures then Lamayuru is one of the most popular tourist destinations to visit in Ladakh.

Highlights – Yuru Kabgyat is the annual festival of Lamayuru Monastery which is the center of attraction of this monastery. The famous mask dance performed by Lamas is the best part of this festival.

Also Read: Must Visit Monasteries in Ladakh

Zanskar Valley – Valley of secluded serenity

Zanskar is one of the best tourist attractions to visit in Leh Ladakh. If you are in a need of solace and serenity then this desolated Himalayan range will definitely soothe your mind and soul. It is less crowded and beautiful which would be a perfect destination to spend some moments of peace. Glittering blue of the skies, snow covered steep terrains, awesome weather and mind – boggling water bodies will be the perfect landscape to disappear in the folds of time to dance and dream.

Highlights – June to September is the best time to visit Zanskar Valley. Trekking adventure, Paragliding, water rafting in Zanskar Valley are some of the best things to do in your Ladakh trip.

Also Read: Incredible History of Ladakh

Kargil – Adventure Hub

Your Holidays in Ladakh are incomplete without visiting Kargil. Kargil is one of the top tourist attractions in Ladakh. It is situated on Srinagar- Leh highway. If you are a thrill seeker, you must not miss Kargil because it is a hub of adventure sports like trekking, camping, river rafting and mountaineering etc.

The most interesting part is the Line of control which is just 11km away from Kargil. It divides India from Pakistan. It is also a tourist paradise as many beautiful and old gompas and monasteries, scenic valleys and stunning mountain ranges will come in your way when you wander like a wanderer in its lanes.

Highlights- Sumdo chinmu village to Alchi, Zoji, Padum to Lamayuru are some of the best trekking adventures you can enjoy in Kargil, during your Ladakh trip. May to July is the best time to visit Kargil.

Also Read: Popular Adventure Sports Activities in Ladakh

Khardung- La Pass- Scenic Motorable Pass

Welcome to the highest motorable passes in the world. What? You haven’t visited Khardung- La Pass yet? Really? Then you must visit this place once in your lifetime as it is one of the must visit tourist destinations in Ladakh.

Khardung – La Pass is a gateway to Nubra and Shyok valleys. It is an endless world of scenic vistas. The thing of beauty and bliss is here forever. For a thrill seeker, nature lover, solace seekers, Khardung – la pass is one of a kind. You will never be able to forget its charm if you visit here once.

Highlights – May to September is the best time to visit Khardung- la Pass. It is the best place for adventure bikers.

Also Check Out: Other Popular Mountain Passes in Ladakh

Magnetic Hill – Place Where Gravity Fails

It is one of the most popular Ladakh Tourist attractions in Ladakh. I am sure you would definitely want to see a place where science takes a backseat and gravity has no meaning. There is a yellow sign board in Magnetic hill which says ‘The phenomenon that defies gravity’.

It instructs you to park your vehicles at the base with a white point on the road, which is also known as magnetic road and when you park your vehicle at that spot, your vehicle will automatically move forward. Isn’t it interesting? This place should definitely be on your list of top places to visit in Ladakh.

Highlights- May to September is the best time to visit Magnetic Hill. The best thing you can do here is photography of the scenic vistas.

Also Read: Religious Tourism in Ladakh

Spituk Gompa – Seek the Divine Grace

Travelling to Ladakh would elevate your travel experience to a higher level if you visit some sacred places to seek solace.

Spituk Gompa is one such place to be in. It is also one of the most popular destinations in Ladakh. The gompa is located at the top of the hill and the scenic views from the hill would overpower your mind with delight.

The Gompa was established in the 11th century by Od- De.  It houses the divine image of Mahakaal which is only shown in the annual festival of Spituk in January.

Highlights- Spituk Monastery’s Museum has a rich collection of ancient masks, Thangkas and antique items. May to September is the best time to visit Spituk Gompa but if you want to enjoy the Spituk Festival then visit in January. 

Also Read: Arts & Culture of Ladakh

Hemis National Park & Wildlife Sanctuary – Say Hello to the wild world

How many of you are fond of exotic and rare wildlife species, endangered flora and pristine wilderness? I am sure all of you would love to visit Hemis National Park Wildlife Sanctuary in Ladakh . It was named after Hemis Monastery in 1981.

Your experience of witnessing this nature’s wonder would be interesting if I tell you that this wildlife Sanctuary is full of alpine vegetation like Veronica, Anemone, Gentiana, Lloydia etc and animals like Snow Leopard, wild sheeps, shapu, ibex and goats, bharal, dholes etc. would blow your heart away.

Don’t forget to look for 70 different species of birds like Throated thrush, Robbin acceptor, Himalayan whistling Thrush etc.  This place is one of the best places to explore in Ladakh.

Highlights – May to October is the best time to discover Hemis Wildlife Sanctuary in a Jeep Safari.  Do visit Hemis Monastery, it is very famous for its mask festival.

Also Read: Ladakh Wildlife Information

Tso Moriri Lake – Hidden beauty of Ladakh

If you are exploring Ladakh then Tso Moriri Lake should be the place you must not forget to be in. It is one of the offbeat destinations to explore in Ladakh. Located in Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary, Tso Moriri Lake is a piece of heaven for the people who love calm and scenic places.  It is not wrong to call it one of the most beautiful places in Ladakh to enjoy your day. It is 4000 meters above sea level, decked with snowcapped mountains all around, beautiful migratory birds and rare Tibetan wolves.  For honeymoon couples, this place would be an absolute bliss because of its picturesque setting which gives a romantic feel.

Highlights – May to August is the best time to visit Tso Moriri Lake.  During January to March this lake remains frozen. It is located near the Line of actual control. You Need an Inner Line Permit to visit this place.

Also Read: Best Time to Visit Ladakh

Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary – Preserving Wild Wonder

A protected area located in the Leh district of Ladakh covers an area of 4,000 square kilometres, Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a wide range of flora and fauna. It is situated at an altitude of 4,500 metres above sea level and is known for its high-altitude lakes, including the famous Pangong Tso. Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary in Leh is the best place to spot several endangered and rare species of animals, such as the snow leopard, Tibetan wild ass or Kaing, Tibetan argali, and the black-necked crane. Other species found here include the Tibetan wolf, Eurasian brown bear, marmot, and several species of birds, such as the bar-headed goose, Himalayan snowcock, and the great crested grebe.

The sanctuary is a popular tourist destination and is visited by wildlife enthusiasts and adventure seekers from all over the world. Visitors can go on guided treks, wildlife safaris, and bird watching tours to explore the sanctuary and its rich wildlife.

Highlights: May and September is the best time to visit Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary as the weather is relatively milder this time.

Also Read: Summer Weather in Ladakh

Leh Palace – Regal Beauty Preserved

Leh Palace, also known as Lhachen Palkhar, is a magnificent structure situated in the city of Leh. Perched on a hill overlooking the city, providing a breathtaking view of the surrounding Himalayan mountains, Leh Palace is an iconic landmark of the region, and it is a must-visit destination for anyone travelling to the region. The palace offers a unique blend of history, culture, and architecture, making it a fascinating place to explore and learn about the rich cultural heritage of the region. The construction of the palace dates back to the 17th century when King Sengge Namgyal, the ruler of the Namgyal dynasty, commissioned its construction. The palace was built as a royal residence for the king and his family and also served as the administrative centre of the kingdom. The palace has nine stories, and its architecture is a blend of traditional Tibetan, Indian, and Islamic styles.

The palace has been converted into a museum that showcases the rich history and culture of the region. The museum exhibits various artefacts, including thangkas (Tibetan Buddhist paintings), old photographs, traditional costumes, and other objects that give visitors a glimpse into the lives of the royal family and the people of the region.

Highlights: Leh Palace remains open from 8 AM to 5 PM everyday and morning is the best time of the day to visit the palace to avoid crowds.

Also Read: Information About Stock Palace

Thiksey Monastery – Serene Spirituality Awaits

Thiksey Monastery , also known as Thiksey Gompa, is a Tibetan Buddhist monastery located approximately 19 kilometres east of Leh, in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. It is situated on a hilltop overlooking the Indus Valley and is considered one of the most beautiful and largest monasteries in Ladakh. It is an architectural masterpiece and is famous for its resemblance to the Potala Palace in Lhasa, Tibet. The complex comprises several temples, halls, and chambers, which are adorned with beautiful murals, thangkas, and statues of various deities. The main prayer hall is adorned with a 15-metre-high statue of Maitreya Buddha, which is the largest of its kind in Ladakh.

Apart from the main prayer hall, the monastery also has a nunnery, a library, a museum, and a school for young monks. The nunnery houses nuns who follow the Gelugpa order, and the school provides education to young monks from various parts of Ladakh. One of the interesting facts about it is, the complex also has a set of buildings which accommodate female renunciates.

Highlights: Thiksey Monastery is also famous for its annual festival, which takes place in the eleventh lunar month (October or November) and is celebrated with great pomp and show.

Also Read: Information About Matho Monastery

Nubra Valley – Nature’s Tranquil Escape

Nubra Valley is a breathtakingly beautiful destination located in the northernmost part of India, in Ladakh. It is a high-altitude cold desert that is renowned for its mesmerising landscapes, picturesque villages, ancient monasteries, and unique culture. The valley is situated at an elevation of about 3,000 metres above sea level and is surrounded by majestic snow-capped mountains that make it a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The valley is accessible via the Khardung La Pass, which is one of the highest motorable roads in the world, and offers a thrilling experience for those who dare to take the journey.

Nubra Valley is also famous for its double-humped Bactrian camels, which can be seen grazing on the sand dunes in the region. Visitors can enjoy a camel safari and explore the valley’s remote corners, visiting ancient gompas and remote villages. The valley is also a popular trekking destination, with several trails offering stunning views of the mountains and valleys.

Highlights: The best time to visit Nubra Valley is between May and September, when the weather is mild and pleasant. However, visitors should be prepared for sudden changes in temperature and weather conditions, as the region can be quite unpredictable.

Also Read: Information About Hunder Sand Dunes

Alchi Village – A Peaceful Oasis

Alchi is a small village situated in the Leh district of the Ladakh region in India. It is located on the banks of the Indus River and is famous for its ancient Alchi Monastery , which is over a thousand years old. The village is surrounded by stunning landscapes of snow-capped mountains, lush greenery, and the glistening river, making it a popular destination for tourists. The monastery houses some of the most beautiful and well-preserved murals, sculptures, and artefacts that offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Ladakh.

Apart from the monastery, Alchi village is also known for its vibrant and colourful markets, where one can buy locally produced handicrafts, clothes, and souvenirs. The village is also home to several small cafes and restaurants, serving delicious traditional Ladakhi cuisine. The locals of Alchi are warm and welcoming, and their traditional way of life is still preserved in the village. Overall, Alchi is a must-visit destination for anyone travelling to Ladakh, offering a unique cultural experience amidst breathtaking natural beauty.

Highlights: Food is one of the main reasons to visit Alchi. Some of the must have dishes of Alchi are walnut salad, mok-moks (momos), Kashmiri pulao, baril, paba, tangutur, etc.

Also Read: Popular Festivals of Ladakh

Chadar Trek – Once in a lifetime experience

What could be the experience of trekking in a frozen lake? Have you ever thought about that? Well, if you want to experience something like this, Chadar Trek would be one of the best things to do on your Ladakh Trip.

Holidays in Ladakh without trekking aren’t fun. So, one must take part in adventurous trekking for once in a lifetime. It is a popular river in Zanskar valley which remains frozen in winters. It resembles a Chadar i.e. blanket of ice. Its beauty is always at its peak which is best for clicking awesome pictures for wonderful moments and memories. If you are visiting Ladakh, you must do Chadar Trek, it will make your trip wonderful.

Highlights- Best time to do this trek is between January to February.

Also Read: Best Season for Trekking in Ladakh

I know that this list is not enough to explain the beauty of Ladakh. There are other numerous beautiful places to visit in Ladakh which I will cover in my next blog. The places I mentioned come in the list of top 15 places to visit in Ladakh. I hope this will definitely help you in planning a wonderful vacation in Ladakh.  Ladakh is a place one should definitely visit if they truly want to know the meaning of beauty and adventure.

Other Important Ladakh Tourism Information Links

• Popular Short Treks in Ladakh
• Best Ladakh Tour Packages
• Things to Do in Ladakh

Frequently Asked Questions

Do we need permits to visit nubra and pangong.

Yes, special permits will be needed to visit Nubra and Pangong.

What is the best way to travel to Ladakh, by air or by road?

It totally depends on your preference. Ladakh is a very scenic location. If you want to enjoy picturesque views then traveling by road is the best option for you. However, a road trip is a long journey. There are two routes for Ladakh by Road, one is through Manali and the other is through Srinagar. By Air is the best option for those who want comforts and want to reach Ladakh in a hurry and then enjoy the scenic spots. Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport located in Leh is the nearest airport which is connected with the major cities. Travelling by air will save a couple of days and there is no need to take a Rohtang Pass Permit.

Is Ladakh a safe destination to travel with small kids?

Ladakh is safe to travel with family or small kids but with some precautions.

• If you are travelling with an infant or a small kid then do not plan your trip to a high or low altitude place. It's not safe for health purpose.
• Weather might not be suitable for small kids, so keep warm clothes.
• Keep your and your kids body hydrated.
• If the kid is not physically fit then a trip to Ladakh is a big NO.
• Newborns will be sensitive to everything. Be it weather, sunlight, snow etc. So, travel when they are at least 7 to 12 months old. It is not medical advice but precaution is always necessary.

What are some of the most essential things to carry on a Ladakh Trip?

• All the important travel documents and Id card, driving license, Aadhar Card etc. is essential to carry in Ladakh.
• Passport size pictures
• Medical insurance
• Comfortable footwear and warm clothes. Pair of socks, mufflers, gloves and caps.
• Necessary medication to prevent altitude sickness
• Camera, because you will come across beautiful locations.
• Power bank, spare battery, extra memory card and charger

What type of clothes should I carry on a Ladakh Trip?

Ladakh’s weather conditions will be harsh, depending on the time you are travelling. Always carry heavy woolen clothes, comfortable footwear, thermals, gloves, socks, jackets for your comfort. In summer, you can carry light cotton T-Shirts and light jackets. If you are travelling in Rainy season then carry a raincoat, a pair of shoes and light clothes.

How is the mobile and internet connectivity in Ladakh?

Post -paid connections work well in Ladakh. At a few places Airtel connection would work but BSNL will not function properly. You have to get a BSNL or MTNL postpaid connection. In major cities your internet will work well but you will get the facilities of internet not more than 3G. At some places there is no connectivity.

How is the ATM facility in Ladakh?

In Leh market ATM facility is available but at another places ATM is hard to find. So, please carry enough cash, as small shopkeepers will not accept cards.

Are there any direct flights for Ladakh from Delhi & Mumbai?

Yes, if you are travelling to Ladakh from Mumbai then Go Air, SpiceJet operates flights from Mumbai for Leh. It is a very convenient option. From Delhi also Indigo and Go Air offer flights to reach Ladakh. Depending on the time you are going, prices of flights will be raised or reduced.

Published: 15 Mar, 2023 | Last Updated:  05 Feb, 2024

About the author

Pallavi Roy

She is a candle who burns and melts in the chaos of infinity, from where her visceral whistles and leaves an imprint of desire in her heart to know the map of an Island where there are different sunrises and sunsets. Her curiosity brightens to conquer the hearts unrelieved and sometimes mysterious. Her name is - Pallavi Roy - A traveller by soul and a writer by Profession.

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Ladakh’s path to autonomy: Overcoming adversity

Against the backdrop of historical marginalisation and neglect, Ladakh’s journey towards autonomy has been marked by struggle, negotiation and triumph

The accession of the erstwhile State of Jammu and Kashmir to India on October 26, 1947, inflicted significant socio-economic and political setbacks on the Buddhist-dominated Leh district in the strategic Trans-Himalayan Ladakh region, renowned as “the roof of the world” and “the land of the Lamas”. Likewise, the predominantly Buddhist Zanskar tehsil in the Karil district of Ladakh bore the brunt of these consequences, enduring even greater hardships than its counterpart, Leh.

The genesis of the Muslim-majority Kargil district in 1979 under Sheikh Abdullah’s leadership aimed at fostering discord between his co-religionists and the Buddhists, aiming to thwart the latter’s aspirations for autonomy and union territory status for Ladakh. This move exacerbated the plight of the Buddhists, imperilling their religion, culture, societal fabric and demographic integrity due to two primary factors.

Firstly, successive Kashmiri-dominated administrations viewed Ladakh as an appendage to Kashmir, disregarding the political and economic aspirations of its Buddhist populace. Ladakh, akin to Jammu province, was seen as a colony by Kashmiri rulers, perpetuating a sense of marginalisation among the Buddhists. Secondly, the pernicious influence of the Kashmiri elite over New Delhi’s corridors of power further marginalised the Buddhists’ voices, with central authorities consistently favouring Kashmiri interests and dismissing Ladakh’s concerns.

In response to this systemic neglect, under the astute leadership of Head Lama Kushok Bakula Rinpoche, the Buddhists initiated protests in 1952, demanding meaningful political representation and autonomy. Despite their fervent appeals and warnings, both Srinagar and New Delhi brushed aside their grievances, exacerbating disillusionment among the Buddhist populace.

The culmination of discontent erupted in October 1989, with widespread protests and clashes between Buddhists and authorities. The resultant Tripartite Agreement of October 29, 1989, brokered by the central Government, temporarily assuaged tensions by establishing the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC) at Leh.

However, this resolution faced vehement opposition from Kashmiri leaders, including Farooq Abdullah, who viewed it as a threat to Kashmiri hegemony.

Despite the establishment of LAHDC Leh in 1995, the Buddhists remained dissatisfied due to continued interference from Kashmir-centric authorities, rendering the council ineffectual. Consequently, they intensified their agitation, advocating for Ladakh’s Union Territory status and other demands, citing central rule as the sole recourse to address their grievances.

The turning point came after June 19, 2018, when the central Government assumed direct control of Jammu and Kashmir, embarking on a series of measures to appease the Buddhist community. These included the establishment of the University of Ladakh, granting divisional status to Ladakh and ultimately, separating Ladakh from Jammu and Kashmir to fulfil the long-standing demand for Union Territory status.

Additionally, substantial budgetary allocations were made to bolster Ladakh’s development.

These initiatives underscored the efficacy of central rule in addressing the aspirations of the marginalised Buddhist population.

Rather than pursuing Statehood, the Buddhists are urged to strengthen LAHDC Leh and collaborate with the Modi Government to safeguard their cultural heritage and counter demographic challenges. The period between 2018 and 2023 epitomises a transformative phase for Ladakh, wherein central intervention proved instrumental in redressing historical injustices and empowering its Buddhist populace.

(The writer is former Dean of Jammu University’s Faculty of Social Science; views are personal)

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Meet Vanika Choudhary, the chef taking Indian cuisine in a bold new direction

 A leading light in India's burgeoning farm-to-table movement, Mumbai-based Vanika Choudhary is shining a spotlight on preservation and foraged ingredients.

Vanika Choudhary is surrounded by a mind-bending array of salts, pickles and ferments. There are yuzu-fermented cherries, achars (pickles) made from swede-like tamyung from Ladakh and herby Himalayan salt. “It’s my way of spotlighting and preserving recipes and foraged ingredients that are precious to our country but never make it to the mainstream dining scene,” she says.

The founder of Mumbai’s fine-dining restaurant Noon is in London for a two-day residency at restaurant 180 Corner. It’s part of an international tour, during which she’s been gilding her reputation for creating innovative dishes that offer a taste of India’s regions. Last night, her 10-course tasting menu revealed her flair for marrying flavour and texture, with dishes including charcoal-grilled lamb in a fermented pumpkin marinade, foraged mushroom with fava bean miso and sourdough roti served alongside pungent wild garlic and plump, yellow chilli-daubed lobster.

Eight years ago, Choudhary quit her job as COO of a media company to pursue her vision of fostering a farm-to-table movement in India’s largest city. She didn’t complete any formal training, focusing instead on absorbing culinary knowledge from her family, before opening her first venture, Sequel, in Mumbai in 2016. She set aside time each day to expand her knowledge of ingredients and take courses in culinary nutrition — resulting in Sequel’s focus on seasonal, organic produce and dishes that reflect her upbringing in the Kashmir city of Jammu.

Here, close to the foothills of the Himalayas, her father, a silk producer and botanist, would nurture crops and sun-dry morels on the roof. Meanwhile, her mother and grandmother would use a pestle and mortar to pound seasonal achars: mango in summer, fiddlehead ferns during the monsoon, galgal (aka hill lemons) and kohlrabi in winter. And when Choudhary was pregnant and living in Mumbai, craving the flavours of her childhood — gucchi pulao (pilau with morels) and kanji (a fermented carrot drink) — the concept for her next venture, Noon, gathered pace. “Everything I’d observed in our kitchen growing up shaped me as a cook,” she says. “But as much as I loved eating my grandmother’s food, I realised that for Noon, I wanted to create a new language for Indian food, based upon our incredible indigenous produce.”  

So began a creative journey that saw Choudhary return to Jammu to finesse her family’s recipes and spend time in the mountains, followed by a transformative period at the monastery of Buddhist monk and revered chef Jeong Kwan in South Korea, which enhanced her understanding of ancient preservation techniques.  

Noon opened in 2022, and its menu is informed by up to 150 ferments — including miso, mead, garums (fermented fish sauce), vinegars and kombuchas — that take inspiration from Korea and Japan but spotlight indigenous Indian ingredients. “It’s fascinating to observe the alchemy of fermentation — how air, water, salt, mustard oil or spices completely changes an ingredient’s flavour profile,” Choudhary says. She adds that India’s own rich history of preservation — from the achars found in every home to regional specialities such as kanji or sader kaenz (a fermented rice-water drink) — is often overlooked. “The onus on us as chefs is to preserve this legacy and carry it forward,” she notes.

That same intent drives the links Choudhary has forged with rural communities and farming collectives in India. In the north, she works with Ladakh Basket, a Kashmiri social enterprise comprising 35 women farmers, and she has similar connections in the Western Ghats, in the south. “When it comes to bringing about social change, it’s not just about establishing financial freedom for these women — it’s also about impacting biodiversity,” Choudhary says.  

She’s also keen to address the decline in foraging she’s seen in many of India’s more remote regions in recent years. Choudhary showcases wild foods at her restaurants in an effort to revive the practice and retain vital skills — and she’s already seeing the impact.

“These people [in remote areas] are going back to foraging, which was something they’d stopped doing, and now, for the first time, that produce is being used in a restaurant,” she says. Across a vast country where recipes and methods can vary hugely over short distances, Choudhary works with remote rural populations with the aim of keeping alive micro cuisines and their stories. “A lot of our culinary traditions are oral, and that’s why it’s important to spend time with tribal communities, to understand where our food culture comes from and how we’ve evolved — they’re our best teachers,” she says. “As a chef, I genuinely believe you can’t look at food in a progressive way unless you know the history behind it.” Choudhary hopes more people will become aware of the huge diversity within Indian cooking. This ambition plays out at Noon through menus accompanied by maps of India that chart the origins of ingredients and influences, whether that’s fermented sourdough rotis from the north, mahua trees from Central and Southern India or the ubiquitous jackfruit, whose use in savoury achars Choudhary subverts by making ice cream with it.

Some dishes, such as crab pani puri, take inspiration from Indian street-food snacks or traditional workers’ staples, and are given an elevated twist, while others are based around seasonality. Among Choudhary’s favourite ingredients are Kashmiri morels, fiddlehead ferns, which appear during the rainy season in the Himalayan belt, and Ladakh’s skotse (a garlicky herb that only grows above 18,000ft), which Choudhary’s team picks, sun-dries and compresses into fragrant bundles.

The chef is currently writing her first book and has further international collaborations in the diary, but she still sets aside time for foraging trips, whether in Kashmir, Ladakh or the Western Ghats. “Unless you’re out there, you’re not being curious enough and you won’t be aware of what’s hyper seasonal, which is an intrinsic part of foraging. Without this you can’t create a menu,” she says.  

Back at Noon, Choudhary and her team experiment with a range of techniques to turn this rich inspiration into a constantly evolving menu. “Research and development is a massive part of what we do and it’s this process that encourages you as a cook to push boundaries to create something new,” she says. “You learn from the past and you ferment the future.”

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The kids are going to summer camp. Time to plan an adult vacation.

The nearby trip can be comforting while also maintaining independence.

Michelle Minor drove more than 600 miles last summer to drop off her 12-year-old son at NASA space camp, his first overnight summer camp. Once he was settled in, Minor didn’t drive back home. She and her partner drove about two hours away to Nashville, where they stayed for the week.

“I wanted to be close. That’s really it. I did not feel like I could have him far away,” Minor said, who lives in Evanston, Ill., multiple states away from her son’s camp in Alabama. “I think he kind of also felt comforted by the fact that I was close by, that I wasn’t states and states away.”

It was an added bonus that for the first time in a long time, Minor and her partner got to enjoy a couples vacation. They’re planning a similar trip this August, when Minor’s son goes back to overnight camp.

“We could get to know each other as just adults again, doing things that we like, that aren’t necessarily related to us being parents, like art museums or live music. ... We could actually go see live music that starts at 9 p.m., and we don’t have to get up and make scrambled eggs at 7:30,” she joked.

Every summer, more than 26 million kids and adults attend camps, with overnight camps increasing their enrollment, according to the American Camp Association. As some parents sort out their children’s summer plans and make camp packing lists, they’re also planning nearby trips of their own. Here’s how to start thinking about one.

What to consider

Jody LeVos, chief learning officer at the children’s education company Begin, said staying close by while kids go to camp can be comforting for parents, but still allows children to build friendships and independence.

“It’s not going to impact the child’s experience. They’re away from their parents, whether the parent is half an hour away or six hours away, so it’s more about the parent and what makes them comfortable,” LeVos said.

She says each child develops independence at their own pace, but when they’re emotionally and mentally prepared, overnight camp can be a great opportunity for kids to enhance their skills. The transition, however, can be nerve-racking for parents who are seeing their child’s growing independence.

“Parents may be asking the what-ifs, you know, what happens if my child needs me or gets hurt? And so there is some anxiety around, what will the child do when I’m not there to protect them or respond to their every need?” LeVos said.

She recommends practicing overnight camp routines with children who are going away for the first time, like having them sleep in their sleeping bag at home first and practicing other routines that may typically get done with help from parents.

Melanie Gast is planning her first summer vacation spent without her older kids. After years of attending camps near their home in West Palm Beach, Fla., her 13-year-old daughter and 10-year-old son will attend their first overnight camps during the same week; an outdoors summer camp for the eldest, and a nearby overnight science camp for her son.

“I look at this as an amazing vacation for my husband and I,” Gast said. She and her husband will bring their 2-year-old daughter along on the trip to Memphis, but they’re planning to take turns entertaining her at the hotel while the other parent visits Graceland, the National Civil Rights Museum and other sights.

“We’ll still have a baby, but that’s really different than having a teenager and a 10-year-old,” Gast said. “So for me this is the best it can get.”

Most parents find a camp first then find a nearby city to explore, but it’s possible to reverse engineer that part of the process. The most important thing to do is make sure the chosen camp will be one that keeps your child engaged from start to finish. Once your kid is enrolled, you can start planning your own nearby getaway, but know that unforeseen hiccups at camp could cut a parent’s vacation short, such as illness.

Gast chose Memphis as the city she wanted to visit for vacation, then found summer camps for her children that were within a driving range that made her comfortable. Both Gast and Minor said a city that’s about a three-hour drive or less from camp is best.

LeVos says parents who are nervous about how well their child is adapting to their new environment should make time for movement to relieve stress.

“Going for a walk at night, looking up at the stars, knowing that your child is looking at the same stars can be really helpful and remind families that they may be a little bit apart, but they’re still together,” she said.

LeVos also recommends journaling, for both children at camp and their parents, to explore what emotions come up when the family is apart. Once reunited, family members can use their notes as an entry point for understanding how the time went for everyone.

A win for both parents and kids

At the end of camp, LeVos says children will likely return home feeling proud of the way they cared for themselves and developed new skills for managing their emotions.

That’s what Minor experienced when her son returned from camp last year. He did better than she expected. “I was like, ‘Oh, okay, you did bring all the clothes home? You actually wore all of them versus wearing the same thing? Oh, you did good.’ Those are important life skills,” she said.

She’s more comfortable sending her son back for another overnight camp this year, but she’ll still be vacationing nearby, just in case.

“This is an opportunity to not only still be the best parent – because as a parent, you get a lot of credibility when you send your kid to space camp, but then you also get to enjoy some of the benefits in a rewarding way,” Minor said. “Everybody wins here.”

Sheeka Sanahori is a travel journalist and video producer based in Atlanta. You can find her on Instagram: @sheeka.sanahori .

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Luckily for flyers, it’s gonna be May very soon.

“May and September are great months to travel, as they’re before and after peak summer here in the US,” flight attendant Bernice Padilla, 29, confided to SWNS .

“You have less crowds and more affordable prices, but the weather is still nice,” she continued. “Every country has their specific shoulder season, so I recommend doing some research before booking.”

Padilla, a flight attendant for six years who has visited 44 countries, is sharing tricks of the travel trade — from flights to book to countries to explore.

The Dallas-based flight attendant , who boasts 144,300 followers on TikTok , said that while Europe is a hot destination for American travelers, it’s best to book holidays in “overlooked” destinations.

“Everyone loves to go to London, Rome, Paris and Barcelona,” she explained. “ I am going to Argentina in a few weeks, for example. I think it is good to book places that aren’t as popular with tourists.”

She added: “Even [if] people are still wanting to visit Europe, there are so many places that aren’t as popular, like Albania and countries on the coast.”

Padilla also revealed her preference for booking the earliest possible flight to avoid delays.

“ If there are any delays , it ends up being a domino effect. Say there is a delay in California due to the weather — then my flight here can’t take off until that flight takes off,” she reasoned. “Everything trickles down, whereas if you fly early, your plane will be there from the night before.”

And when it comes to packing, Padilla recommends traveling with carry-on luggage , especially in the summer.

If that’s not possible, she relies on compression packing cubes .

“I still have a problem with overpacking, but I try not to overpack as much,” she confessed. “I always travel with compression cubes — that way you can fit more into your suitcase.”

Her travel must-haves include a reusable water bottle , a sweater or blanket , a pen to fill out any forms that might be needed at arrival, noise-canceling headphones , and a portable charger .

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What fuels nascar legend jimmie johnson’s love of travel.

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Johnson at his Motorsports Hall of Fame induction ceremony.

Most of us will never know what it feels like to stand on a stage and give a speech after being enshrined in the hall of fame for our chosen industry. Driving legend Jimmie Johnson surely does. Already this year, Johnson has been inducted into the Motorsports Hall of Fame and the NASCAR Hall of Fame. Arguably the most skilled person ever behind a steering wheel, Johnson has a record-tying seven NASCAR Cup Series championships, 83 race wins and an astounding 374 top-10 finishes.

Though he’s not on the track nearly as much these days as he used to be, the 48-year-old Johnson hasn’t said when he’s going to put his car in park forever. For now, the Southern California native seems content owning the Legacy Motor Club team, racing part time in the States while living in London with his family and traveling during any free time between.

During one of those recent pit stops in the schedule, Johnson sat with Forbes Travel Guide to talk racing, retirement and the one Asian country he hasn’t reached yet.

What’s been the proudest on-track accomplishment of your illustrious career?

It’s hard to pick one. I was at it for a while. There were these breakthrough moments in my career where particular victories unlocked the next opportunity. When I go back to my younger days, there are so many moments. But I would say one that’s very logical and one many will grasp and understand is winning my seventh championship and being able to tie Richard Petty and Dale Earnhardt.

In addition to that amazing accomplishment, that [2016 Ford EcoBoost 400] was probably one of the more challenging races I had. I think I only led a lap and a half of the entire event. But I led the lap that mattered the most. The emotional roller coaster that I went on that day, along with my family and fan base, [was a lot]. I was convinced, with 15 laps to go, that it wasn’t my year. I wasn’t going to be the champion. And 15 laps later, I was standing there on the front straightaway, couldn’t even control myself. I was just floundering around and jumping all over the place like a fool.

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The two-time Daytona 500 winner.

You haven’t retired, but you’re not fully active on the NASCAR schedule. Give your definition of where you are in your career right now.

Yeah, it’s funny. When I stepped away from full-time driving in NASCAR, that was my announcement — that I would no longer race full time in NASCAR. The label “retirement” was thrown on me straight away. I spent a couple of years in IndyCar, living out a childhood dream of mine of doing sports car racing. I felt like I would come back to NASCAR, given the right opportunity.

Much like a musician, I can’t put my instrument down. I feel very fortunate that, in my sport, I can continue to do it late into my career where a lot of stick-and-ball guys in their late 20s and mid-30s, that opportunity goes away for them. So, having this great sport that I can still compete in at 48 [is wonderful]. Believe me, I plan to push it further — as long as I get the green light from family and sponsors.

I’m very interested in [racing in] the marquee events. I’m still very interested in racing and the experience I have in the car. My focus has changed a little bit here, becoming a team owner. It’s been a nice shift for me because it’s allowing me the head space to enjoy the limited schedule that I’m running but also fighting for a greater cause and making Legacy Motor Club stronger.

You mention the marquee events. Let’s talk about the travel to Daytona and Bristol and all these top events. What are some things you do to stay sharp for all the moving around that you do during the season?

I feel like being aware of the time zone I’m flying to and trying to get some rest accordingly has been wise for me. Of course, staying hydrated [is key]. I always load up on a bunch of vitamins. More so than normal. When I know I’m going to fly [I take vitamins] just to try to fight off any viruses that are floating around or exposure I might have to illness.

I’ve always found that when I arrive somewhere, if I can get in a little workout — I’m just trying to recenter myself; nothing crazy — or just go outside and get a nice walk or go for a jog [it’s beneficial]. My wife loves to walk, so we’ll often do a walk. If I’m solo, I’ll go out and just try to get a run in and take in the sights of wherever I am. That grounding moment gets my heart rate up and helps pull me into that time zone.

Johnson enjoys traveling around Europe with his family.

Have you been able to explore the U.K. much?

Yeah, it’s been adventurous and fun. We know we’re here for a short period of time, so we’re trying to maximize what we have in and around England. We’ve already been to Scotland and Ireland. We’ve been to Holland, Spain and France multiple times. We’re leaving tomorrow for Japan with our kids.

Through the long grind of racing nonstop, my wife and I have always loved travel and have tried to spend time in Europe. Really anywhere that we can go. There were a few summers when my family came to Europe and was based here while I stayed in the States and worked. When I would have an off weekend — there aren’t many in NASCAR — I would join my family and spend a couple of weeks and then go back to racing. We just have a love of travel, a love of culture and a love of culinary experiences.

We’re maximizing our time here in the U.K., doing anything and everything we can. Even if it’s a weekend that we stay in the U.K., we’re off in a car. We’re in the countryside. This last weekend, we were exploring and eating at great little countryside pubs and staying in a quaint little cottage. Something you would never do in the States, right?

Will you be exploring Japan for the first time?

Yeah, first time in. We’re avid skiers, and it’s been tough for me to not chase some snow because I understand the snow is just epic in Japan. But it’s much more of a cultural experience with taking the girls. We’re hitting four different cities, starting in Tokyo and Kyoto . I can’t remember the other two.

Maybe Osaka ?

Yeah, I think Osaka is one. But there’s another one. My wife is a gallerist and owns an art gallery. There’s this little town we’re going to that has a permanent art installation that’s on an island.

When you pack for Japan or any of your other trips, what are a few things that are always in your luggage?

Well, being in England, your wellies [or rain boots] and your slicker are mandatory because it’s going to rain. Happens all the time. And that’s new for me. I didn’t need to plan on rain so much in the States.

I would also say my earbuds. I’ve also found that listening to — and you might find this ironic — sound baths or Tibetan bowls is something that’s calming for me and helps me sleep. I found some that tuck in [my ears] that I can sleep with. I pop them into sleep on flights. Or, if I need to try to nap to get into a certain time zone, the Tibetan bowls just knock me out.

The Queen City is Johnson’s U.S. home.

Where will home base be when you move back to the U.S.?

I grew up in Southern California but moved to North Carolina in ’97 and have been there since. Charlotte is the town that we live in, and we still have our place there, and we’ll return whenever this adventure wraps.

What do you miss most about Charlotte?

Charlotte’s an amazing city. We’ve really been able to enjoy its growth. I’ve lived there for so long now that I’ve been able to watch it change, grow up and mature. It’s been nice to be a part of that. I’ve come to better understand that Charlotte’s not going anywhere. It’s always going to be there. But what I miss are the people. Been there for so long. I have so many great relationships, friends, coworkers and on and on. I truly miss the people.

You’re scratching Japan off the bucket list next. Where are a few other places you want to go but haven’t yet?

We had a trip planned to Thailand that, unfortunately, we had to cancel due to some civil unrest years ago. And then my wife was pregnant with our second daughter, Lydia. We found out just two or three weeks before our trip. She was so ill with morning sickness that we had to cancel the trip a second time.

There’s still so much of the world to see. But our 20th wedding anniversary is coming up this December. We need to make that trip. I’m not sure if it’ll work for that celebratory trip, but at some point, we want to go experience it.

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