ladakh trip videos

The ultimate travel guide to Ladakh

By Joan Torres 10 Comments Last updated on August 25, 2023

Ladakh is a remote place belonging to a northern Indian state, which for some reason doesn’t receive as many tourists as the rest of the country.

I was wondering: Why is that i wonder? This region is a bit remote and of difficult access. Normally, people don’t know about it or haven’t even heard of it. Why? Maybe it’s because Hindu culture can’t be enjoyed here, which is one of the mains reasons for going to India.

So what can you do and find in there? Ladakh is basically a Himalayan region where authentic Tibetan people live in. It’s often called the little Tibet, and for the Indians themselves, this is the best spot where to spend their vacations in India. Why? In India chaos rules, it’s overpopulated and there’s traffic everywhere.

Ladakh is a different place which differs from all these stereotypes. Here you find peace and silence, which combined with the stunning Himalayan landscape and the  Tibetan culture visible in every corner, sometimes you may even forget that you are actually in India.

That being said,  the following Travel guide to Ladakh aims to provide you with detailed travel tips such as prices, accommodation, and transportation, as well as an overview of the main things to do and see, so you know what to expect upon your arrival in Ladakh.

If you are seeking more in-depth and detailed information, I recommend you to find inspiration on any of the following posts:

Markha Valley Trek, the ultimate budget guide Tibetan culture in Ladakh: Buddhism and gompas A guide to Tibetan food in Ladakh Khardung La: Driving over the highest road the world on a scooter

Ladakh is a region that belongs to the Indian state Jammu and Kashmir, which extends from the Kunlun mountain range to the Great Himlayas .

The whole area of Ladakh is located at a very high altitude. Its capital, Leh, is at 3,500 meters above sea level, and has a large number of peaks reaching over 6,000 meters

Here you find:

Top things to do in Ladakh The people Travel Insurance for Ladakh Language Religion Food Alcohol How much does it cost Trekking Transportation Altitude sickness Safety Visa When to go Get in Money Internet

Top things to do in Ladakh

Ladakh might be a small region within India, but it’s actually double the size of Switzerland. Nevertheless, the unpopulated mountains occupy most part of it. In my opinion, the  top things to do and see in Ladakh are:

If you arrive by plane, the capital is going to be your first destination. Leh is a fantastic place to explore. Leh palace, the most iconic building of the city, is definitely worth a visit. You can also watch the sunset from Shanti stupa, visit Tibetan refugee markets or simply wander around its narrow alleys and streets.

In Leh, you will get a first glimpse of what Tibetan culture   is like.

Nubra Valley

A vast sea of sand dunes in the Himalaya itself. Can you believe it? Nubra Valley is a desert similar to those of Arabia but located at 4,000 meters above sea level and surrounded by the Himalayan range. Here you also find two-humped hairy camels.

Tibetans claim that the origin of this desert comes from Tethys , a sea from the depths from which the Himalayas are supposed to have risen.

Khardung La

This is nothing less than the highest motorable road in the world . It connects Leh with Nubra Valley and its highest point passes over 5,600 meters.

Pangong Tso Lake

A lake located at 4,350m above sea level which extends across India and China. People go to this lake to see the stunning landscape and for hiking.

Chemrey gompa

In my opinion, the most beautiful gompa out there in Ladakh, having been built and perfectly shaped on the top of a steep hill. Looking at it is merely impressive.

Tso Moriri Lake

The highest lake in Ladakh (4,522m) and one of the most beautiful ones owing to its surroundings, green pastures and white peaks

Thiksey gompa

Though the most touristic gompa , this fortification is almost like a small town. It has shops, restaurants, a hotel and a huge monk community living there.

Learning Tibetan culture

Ladakh is the place in the world where Tibetan culture is more accessible. Whereas foreigners have always had restrictions when going to Tibet, in Ladakh you can talk freely, walk around and go wherever you want. If you want to know more about it, I suggest you read this post about Tibetan culture in Ladakh .

Hemis gompa

If you travel to Ladakh during July, Hemis monastery is a must to visit since it’s where the Hemis Festival takes place, a popular festival famous for its masked parade. It’s one of the most sacred rituals in Ladakh.

Hiking around the unique Himalayan range of Ladakh is one of the biggest highlights of the trip. There are an endless number of treks adapted for any kind of traveler. For more information, check on the Trekking section of this guide .

Keep reading: Kashmir Travel Guide

Getting off the beaten track

Ladakh region is already off the path, but during high season (July & August), some spots may get busy. Places like Leh, popular gompas , Khardung La pass and Nubra Valley are probably among the most crowded ones.

If you want to avoid the crowds, Pangong Tso Lake and  Tso Moriri Lake are the perfect options. Trekking is also a good way to get off the beaten track, even in popular treks like Markha Valley .

Last, if you are renting a vehicle,  driving the empty roads of Ladakh is an awesome experience and there are endless unexplored villages where you can randomly stop and look around. I suggest you drive to Chemrey and explore the surrounding area.

By the way, if you decide to visit popular gompas like Thiksey or Hemis, it’s better to go in the afternoon or early evening to avoid the crowds.

The people: the Ladakhis

Ladakhis are both ethnically and linguistically close to Tibetans. During the 8th century, a royal Tibetan annexed the region to himself and as a consequence, a huge number of Tibetans came and established roots there.

In addition, in the past decades, after the invasion of China, thousands of Tibetans have been seeking refuge in Ladakh. Ladakhis are kind people always willing to help or establish a conversation.

Ladakhis neither look like Indians nor feel like Indians. I turned out that i was in Ladakh during Indian Independence Day. In India, this day is quite a big deal, but in Ladakh, it was just a normal day like any other one. Yes, there were a few flags hanged from a few balconies, but that’s it. They told me they don’t feel Indian. Nevertheless, don’t get confused and think that they don’t get along with the rest of the country. In fact, they are really happy with the Indian government because it gives them a significant level of autonomy and freedom.

Travel Insurance for Ladakh

Like any trekking destination, traveling with proper travel insurance is a must.

In the mountains, you can get injured very easily and, if you got seriously injured, you may have to be rescued.

Therefore, I always recommend World Nomads , as it is the only company that provides with unlimited medical coverage plus it covers a big bunch of adventure activities. For example, the basic plan already covers for trekking up to 6,000 meters.

Get your free quote here

Ladakhi is the most common language used across the region and it’s merely a Tibetan dialect . Additionally, Hindi and Urdu are widely used among educated people.

Some useful Tibetan words are:

Hello:  Jullay How are you?:  Khamzang ina-le? Thank you: Jullay – Same as ”Hello”. Literal translation would be ”Greetings” You’re welcome:  O’-Jullay I am sorry:   Gongspa salazad Excuse me:  Gongspa salazad – Getting attention

English in Ladakh

I think Ladakh is one of the places in Asia where English is more widely spoken. In cities and larger towns, almost everybody speaks a fairly comprehensible English. But the surprising thing came on the day when, while driving with my scooter, I randomly stopped to take a picture of an old peasant lady who was collecting wheat. I approached her and kindly asked her if I could take a picture. Then she told me in  English: ”Can I see it?”. I was shocked. We started to talk and she even gave me her address so I could send her the picture.

OK, her English was not great, but if you guys have ever traveled around Asia you will understand what am I talking about. It was the first time ever I could establish a conversation with a random peasant in Asia.

Since most of the population is Tibetan, Tibetan Buddhism is the predominant religion in Ladakh and it plays a key role Ladakhi everyday life. According to a monk I met, families turn at least one of their sons in to Buddhism. Strong Buddhist faith can be felt across all Ladakh, in every village and in every monastery, and that is definitely one of the highlights when traveling to Ladakh.

Nevertheless, a large  Muslim population also lives in this region, especially in the area bordering Kashmir Valley.

Tibetan Food

Food in Ladakh is sort of unique and that’s why I thought it should deserve an extensive separate post. Click here to read about what Tibetan cuisine is like in Ladakh .

Alcohol in Ladakh

Sadly, alcohol in Ladakh is sort of a sensitive topic and it’s not widely available. Apparently, there’s been some issues with alcohol and nowadays it’s quite regulated. You can find it, but only in a few places.

Bars and restaurants have to pay huge fees and mostly can’t afford them. Nevertheless, please don’t start crying yet. There are loads of restaurants who serve it illegally (or unofficially, like they like to call it). They bring it inside paper bags and instead of a glass you get a coffee cup.

Typically they just serve beer and two brands are available: King Fisher , a 5.5% beer brewed in Bangalore which I personally don’t like it because it doesn’t have much gas and God Father , which is the Kashmir state local beer. The label claims to have 8% alcohol but it’s not true. It’s a very light beer but then I realized that the label actually says: maximum 8%. Strange, right?

Note: Remember that Ladakh is a high altitude region and therefore you get drunk way quicker. It can be fun, I know. But if you are having a headache or you are not sure about your acclimatization, you had better stay away from it.

How much will cost you traveling to Ladakh?

While Ladakh is a cheap destination, according to Indians it’s the most expensive place within India. Let me tell you what’s the cost of the most typical things:

Accommodation

I have never in my life seen as many guesthouses as in Leh. There’s a guest house on absolutely every street and corner. That’s the way locals make a living. Please note that these prices refer to high season (summer).

Budget option: You can find very basic rooms for as cheap as 500-800 rupees per night. Normally, these guest houses won’t have internet, and other than a thin mattress and a toilet you won’t get anything else. Nevertheless, most of them have a beautiful garden where you can read, relax or have breakfast. A lot of budget guest houses may be found in Karza road, just 5 minutes away from the city center. I don’t think so you need to book in advance. I found one very quickly during the busiest season in August.

More comfortable option: If you are looking for a slightly better option with a comfortable mattress and wifi, you can find rooms for 1,600 rupees. I stayed one night in Shaolin guest house . Mattresses were superb and they had quite a nice common area with pillows. The staff is a lovely and kind Tibetan family. They speak perfect English. They have a garden as well. It’s a bit far from the busy city center, which means that there’s complete silence.

In restaurants where locals eat, meals typically cost between 60 and 100 rupees. In more touristy (and hygienic) restaurants, meals start at 180 rupees, depending on what you order. Water costs 30 rupees per liter and coffee 50 rupees.

For a half liter beer, you will pay an average price of 170 rupees.

Transportation

Private taxis within Leh: Short taxi rides cost around 200 rupees.

Private taxis to other places in Ladakh: Prices vary depending on where you go. Round trip to Nubra Valley costs 6,800 rupees. Khardung La costs 2,600 rupees and Pnagon Lake, 9,500 rupees. Prices are standard and set by the Ladakh government. They shouldn’t charge you more. Please note that all agencies have shared taxi service and they help you out finding other people to share the car with.

Shared local taxis: Using the local transportation is the cheapest way to move around. For example, going from Leh to Thiksey (20km) costs as cheap as 100 rupees.  For more information, check on the How to move around  section of this guide .

Scooter rental:  Price per day for renting a scooter is 800 rupees. By the way, gas costs 70 rupees per liter.

Motorbike rental: Big bikes cost 1,300 rupees per day. If you are planning to rent it for a long term, I met a guy who managed to pay only 800 a day for a full month rental.

Entrance fees

Entrance fees to gompas cost either 0 or 50 rupees. The only expensive fee I ever paid was when I went to Leh Palace (300 rupees).

Do you need to tip?

You are not forced to tip, but people involved in tourism might expect a tip from you. According to locals, both guide and porters may expect a $1-$2 tip per day. But again, tipping is not mandatory.

Minimum average price per day

Accommodation: Budget single room: 700 rupees

Food: Local breakfast + Lunch in a local restaurant + Dinner in a touristy restaurant: 60 + 80 + 220 = 360 rupees

Beer: 2 beers: 340 rupees

Transportation: Scooter rental + 2 liters of gas: 800 + 140 = 940 rupees

Miscellaneous:  Water + snacks + personal care products =  300 rupees

Total price = 700 + 360 + 340 + 940 + 300 = 2,640 rupees = 40$ a day

Trekking in Ladakh

Hiking the deserted and remote mountains of Ladakh is one of the best trekking experiences you will ever have, and this is not only my opinion but experienced trekkers who said that the Himalayan range of Ladakh is the wildest, most stunning and dramatic you can ever encounter.

Which trek should I choose?

This is a very good question. First, you need to ask yourself: How many days do I want to be trekking? Do I want to sleep in homestays or in a tent? Do I want to go independently or with a guide? Do I want to see people and experience Tibetan culture or just landscape?

There are a lot of different treks which can be adapted to any kind of need. Once you are in Leh, you should go to each and every agency and ask for all options and details. Nevertheless, here’s a quick overview of some of the most popular hikes in Ladakh:

Markha Valley (4 to 9 days): This is the most flexible and adaptable one. It has both culture and amazing landscape. Some sections are pretty challenging. The highest point is 5,200 meters. You can complete the trek in just 4-5 days depending on from where you start. Markha Valley may be one of the most popular treks in Ladakh but still, it is way more authentic than most of the treks offered in Nepal.

Nubra Valley trek (2 to 6 days):  One of the least frequented treks. There are no home-stays and you need to bring your own camping equipment.

Rumtse to Tsomoriri Trek (8 Days Trek) : Local guides claim that this is their favorite trek. It’s characterized by arid plain mountains, nomads and amazing high altitude lakes, the most famous being  Tsokar & Tso Moriri.

Spituk to Matho (3-4 days) : One of the shortest treks and just perfect for those seeking something moderate. This trek goes through Hemis National Park, a place where snow leopards have been spotted.

Lamayuru to Darcha Trek (18 days) : This is one of the longest treks, yet one of the richest in terms of culture. It passes by a big number of Tibetan villages and monasteries, the most famous being Phuktal, a gompa located literally in a waterfall.

Do you need a guide or agency?

First of all, I just want to tell you that there’s no need for booking a trekking tour in advance from your home country . Booking a tour in Leh is significantly cheaper and there are literally dozens of trekking agencies looking desperately for trekking groups. Don’t worry, you won’t miss your trek.

Second of all, you might be wondering… Do I actually need a guide? Or can I do it on my own? That mainly depends on your level of expertise. Me for example, I am not a beginner but I am also not an expert. If I had to go on a 10 days trek on my own, having to bring my own camping equipment and cooking my own food, I would probably starve to death. I don’t know about coordinates or how to use a compass. On the other hand, if a trek has plenty of homestays and a clear route to follow (like Markha Valley for example), then I would feel comfortable to do it on my own.

My suggestion? Trekking agencies are very helpful and they don’t hesitate in providing you with all the information you need. You can ask them whether it’s feasible or not to do it on your own. They will give you the itinerary and all details and then you just make your own judgment.

How to choose the right agency in 4 easy steps

Step 1: Go to 10 trekking agencies and ask for all trekking options and details

Step 2: Once you have decided which trekking are you going to do, ask for prices and choose the 3 cheapest agencies

Step 3: Ask these 3 agencies if the guide who will you trek with is actually a local from Ladakh. When summer comes, some Indians from other regions come to Ladakh to work as guides. Dismiss agencies without a Ladakhi guide. An actual local guide will be a richer experience.

Step 4: Say that you would like to meet the guide in person. Choose the agency with the guide you get best along with.

If you want to know more in depth about prices, accommodation, itinerary, etc., I have written a very detailed guide containing all you need to know to complete the Markha Valley trek .

How to move around: Transportation

Public transportation as such doesn’t exist in Ladakh. Main ways to move around are:

Private taxi

Within Leh , taxi is the only way to move around. Please note that Leh is built on a hill and distances are not short. If you got into Leh by plane, first you need to acclimatize to the high altitude before starting to ascend Leh streets. If your guest house is close to the city center then that’s fine. But if not, on the first day, I strongly recommend you take a cab every time you go back to your guest house. Trust me, I know it by experience. On my first day, I started walking up and down and got a strong headache by the end of the day. For more information, check out High altitude sickness section

For traveling  outside of Leh , any guest house or trekking agency can arrange a taxi for you. Prices are standard, therefore there’s no place for negotiation. Moreover, all trekking agencies offer shared taxi service with other tourists. They just find them for you. The downside of it is that finding someone else might take a while. I suggest you ask as many agencies as possible until you find a full taxi.

Local shared taxi

Local transportation in Ladakh consists of small vans where people go all squeezed up inside. It’s the cheapest way to move around and can be found pretty much everywhere. In Leh, there’s one station right at the city entrance. They are quite effective if you are planning to go to other villages or gompas . The bad side of it, is that they usually don’t go to remote touristic places like Nubra Valley or Khardung La.

Renting a vehicle

All sorts of vehicles are available for rental at many agencies in Leh. I traveled around the region by scooter, but if you really want to enjoy the roads of Ladakh and want to drive further, you should definitely get one of the big bikes that can be found everywhere.

High altitude sickness

Getting sick due to high altitude is such a common issue among most travelers that come to Ladakh, especially those who come by plane. Leh is already located at 3,500m above sea level. If you come by plane, the altitude change is too drastic and your body doesn’t have time to acclimatize. Almost everybody I met, suffered a headache at least during the first couple of days. The first day you arrive in Leh, just rest and don’t make any efforts or you’ll get sick.

While trekking, high altitude sickness may be an important issue. Here’s a detailed article on medical advice .

Is it safe to travel to Ladakh?

Yes, Ladakh is a safe place to travel to. Kashmir state has been a turbulent region since India acquired its independence in 1947. Why? Because it has been heavily disputed with Pakistan and there have been multiple insurgencies and protests that involved numerous deaths.

However, Ladakh has always stayed away from all this. There has never been any signs of terrorism or violent protests. Tension has fundamentally taken place in the Kashmir Valley, located in the western part of the state, bordering Pakistan.

How do you get a visa?

A regular Indian visa is required to travel to Ladakh. You can get a 30 days tourist visa by filling the application form in this link .

For most nationalities, visa fee is $45. After payment, it takes less than a day to receive the visa.

When to go: the weather

Summer (June to mid-September):  Summer is high season in Ladakh. During the day the sun is very harsh and it gets pretty hot. At night, temperatures drop and the weather is pleasant. Snow has completely melted except on the highest peaks. This is the best season for trekking.

Spring (April to May) and autumn (mid-September to November):  Snow starts melting and days become pleasant. Nights are still cold, though. Restaurants start opening (or start closing in autumn) and some mountains are already feasible to hike. The best of it is that you won’t see many tourists around.

Winter (November to March:  Ladakh is completely covered by snow and temperatures are always below 0. Roads to Ladakh are closed, which means the only way to get in is by plane. Restaurants and guest houses are practically all closed. There are a few trekkings which go over a frozen lake, but other than that, hiking during this season is not advisable, as weather is highly unpredictable.

How to get in

The are daily flights from both Delhi or Mumbai to Leh. Landing in Leh is one of the most memorable landings I’ve ever experienced, as you basically fly over the Himalayan range, and then you approach through the Indo Valley.

Getting into Ladakh by land is only possible between June and mid-October . During the rest of the year, roads remain closed. There are two main places  to come from:

Srinagar: Located 434km from Leh, this journey is a trip in itself because it goes through three high mountains passes: Zozi La (3528m), Namki La (3815m) and Fotu La (4108m). Everybody says that this is an unforgettable experience, as you get to see some of the most dreamy views ever. However, the trip may take up to 24 hours, but normally the bus stops halfway between both destinations so to spend the night.

Manali: This is the second route, and instead of coming from the west, you come in from the south. Manali is located 479km from Leh. This road goes through Tang La pass, which is above 5,300 meters.

Ladakh belongs to India and therefore Indian rupees  are the official currency used.

1 US Dollar = 66 Indian Rupees

Cash, credit cards and ATM

In case you are wondering, in Leh at least I counted 5 different ATMs but I wouldn’t rely on them too much. Bring extra cash just in case. You can pay with credit card only in expensive hotels. By the way, outside of Leh doesn’t even dream to find a connection.

Currency exchanging

In Leh, there are plenty of exchange offices and are open until 10pm at least. Exchange rates are good, around 62-63. Outside of Leh it is unlikely to be able to exchange.

Internet signal is really bad in Ladakh. Even in expensive cafes or hotels in Leh, signal is unstable. You won’t be able to connect every day.

10 comments

Hey Joan, Really useful information.The details about People, Language, Religion, Food, Trekking, and Transportation of Ladakh.Thanks for sharing valuable information with us.

Thanks, enjoy Ladakh!

Very Nice information. We got just 7 days. Best option would be flying into Leh than moving around by scooter?

Hi Tiago, yes, that is what I did!

Many thanks Joan, great article. I have a question for you: I’m torn between the Ripchar Valley trek and the Markha Valley trek – I love the idea of remoteness, so a bit worried about how popular Markha is and how busy. On the other hand, I’m not sure how beautiful Ripchar Valley is vs Markha. Any insights? Cheers

Hi Edu, I have never been to Ripchar Valley, so I can’t tell

I’m so amazed by the detail of your page here. It really is an ultimate guide to Ladakh! I just did my first research and more to come! Thank you!

Hey Joan, Thanks for sharing all of that information! Although, I do need to mention that your description of the wifi in Leh is very inaccurate. The telecom provider Airtel now offers fiber optic wifi in Leh. I just ran a speed test while using the network at my guest house and got a download speed of 159 mbps, an upload speed of 95 mbps, a latency value of 13 and a jitter value of 3. Those are great network performance metrics even by first world standards.

Hi Joan, I’m sure it always changes, however as a current update, I came from Srinigar to Leh by local bus mid July. We left Srinagar at 7am and arrived Leh at 9pm. No overnight stop in Kargil, just two 30mins meal breaks along the way. Same driver the whole way who seemed to remain perky. Thanks for your detailed guides as always. It’s nice to have honest info for the lesser traveled paths. So many of us get lost in clickbait travel sites these days. Cheers.

Hi Joan, We are planning to go there July 2024. Do you see any political tensions or protests going on there for its statehood? Just want to check the safety before planning anything. THanks a lot

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Leh-Ladakh Road Trip

Why leh-ladakh road trip.

A Leh-Ladakh road trip is a journey through the breathtaking and rugged terrain of Ladakh, a region located in the northernmost part of India. Ladakh is known for its high-altitude mountain passes, barren landscapes, crystal-clear lakes, and ancient monasteries.

The road trip typically starts from cities like Delhi, Manali, or Srinagar, and takes you through some of the most scenic and challenging roads in the world. The journey usually lasts for 10-15 days, depending on the route and itinerary.

During the road trip, you’ll experience the unique culture and traditions of the region, interact with friendly locals, and witness the stunning beauty of the Himalayas. Some popular attractions that you can visit during the Ladakh road trip include Pangong Tso Lake, Nubra Valley, Khardung La Pass, Hemis National Park, and Diskit Monastery.

A Ladakh road trip is not for the faint-hearted, as the roads can be challenging and the weather conditions can be extreme. However, for those seeking adventure and a truly unforgettable experience, a Ladakh road trip is a must-do. It allows you to connect with nature, push your limits, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

I am also planning this trip for the last 3 years, with hours of research & homework, now, I am sharing my entire Leh-Ladakh road trip planning with you.

        Quick Navigation Index:

• Getting ready for Leh Ladakh Road trip

How to reach Leh?

Choosing the perfect bike for leh-ladakh road trip.

• Why Bajaj Dominar 400?

Essential Riding Gears

Things to carry on leh-ladakh road trip, best time to visit leh-ladakh, leh-ladakh route planning, budget for leh-ladakh road trip, getting ready for leh-ladakh road trip.

I am staying in Mumbai, so I will be starting my journey from here. Meanwhile, while planning this trip, I have also gone through some famous blogs & YouTube videos, which have helped me a lot. Undoubtedly, the most important factor is Passion. Because this type of journey will test all your limits. For that, you have to be well-prepared both, physically & mentally.

Physical fitness is one of the most important factors, which we have to take care of. Because during the entire journey, we are passing through different types of landscapes & weather conditions. And the most extreme terrain of Leh-Ladakh, the land of high passes, with an altitude of more than 18,000 feet. Since the oxygen level is very less at a higher elevation, we must practice some breathing exercises & yoga. Apart from this, swimming and cycling will also help you to increase your stamina.

How to reach Leh-Ladakh? First things first, route selection plays a major role in planning any trip. Furthermore, there are three options available to visit Leh-Ladakh. The shortest route to reach Ladakh is by Air. The nearest airport is located in Leh. Therefore, Leh has good flight connectivity with almost all major cities. From Leh, you can hire a Car or Bike as per your desire for your onward journey.

However, if you wish to travel by Train, first you have to reach Delhi or Jammu Tavi. Mostly all travelers or Riders prefer to begin their journey from Delhi. Because from Delhi they get more travel options. Hence, I also recommend you start your journey from Delhi.

And the last but the most favorable mode of traveling to Leh-Ladakh is by Road. Ladakh is the dream destination of all Bikers. According to me, the best way to explore Ladakh is on the Bike. In most cases, many bikers ride their own bike. But, some of them hire it from various locations like Delhi, Manali, Shrinagar, or even Leh. In short, here you will get any bike of your choice.

For a road trip, your bike is the second most important thing after you. Right now there are many choices available in the market, from which you can select your bike. If you already have a bike, then it’s a wonderful thing. However, you must know the capabilities of your bike. Because this ride will be full of extreme challenges. Furthermore, if the rider has passion, then one can ride any vehicle anywhere. 

But, still, if you want to make your ride more convenient, you must select a bike with higher CC. (more than 200 CC) At present, I personally own a 100 CC bike, but I know the limits of my bike. The engines of 100-200 cc bikes are built for city commuting. And during this trip, most of the time, I will be riding on highways, covering 400-500 km in a day. Hence, I decided to buy a new bike with a higher CC engine & advanced features. Now, the question arises “Which Bike to Buy?” After a comprehensive analysis of the Pros & Cons and a comparison among various bikes, I finally selected the    BAJAJ DOMINAR 400 BS6  as my touring companion.

Why did I choose Bajaj Dominar 400?

I know there will be a question arising in your mind. That is why haven’t I chosen Royal Enfield for my trip, which was the most popular touring bike among riders. Actually, earlier I also planned for Royal Enfield Himalayan, but after reading many negative reviews and watching  shocking videos  on YouTube. I dropped my plans for RE & finalized the Bajaj Dominar 400 BS6.

The reasons for choosing Dominar 400 are:-

373 cc liquid-cooled BS6 engine, Dual-channel ABS, Slipper clutch, 6-speed Gearbox, USD fork in front & mono-shock at the rear, Best in class LED headlights, Full Digital Instrument cluster, Twin Barrel Exhaust, Tubeless tires, Better mileage, Touring Friendly, Availability of spares & service stations all across India.  

We are getting all these premium features at a price of Rs.2,75,000 on-road. That’s why I called it the Best value-for-money Bike . Apart from this, we also require some essential touring accessories for our bike like  Saddle Stay & Top rack, Crash guard , Windshield , Saddlebags, Tank Bag & Top box, etc.  To know more about the essential touring accessories buying guide click the button below.

Riding a bike, for a longer period is not as easy as we think. Before leaving for such a long ride, we must start practicing with short-distance rides. And for a safe & comfortable ride, we need some essential Riding gear for us too.

During, a bike ride, safety gears are very essential for the rider. Proper riding gears will keep you comfortable in a wide range of situations, and when you’re comfortable you’re a better rider. Good riding gears are designed for more than just crash protection; It’s act like your second skin and protects you from hash sun rays, blowing wind, and any unknown object that is flying through the air. Therefore, you must choose your gear wisely.

At high speed, the road surface acts like a big belt sander. Good gears are designed for abrasion resistance and are armored against impacts at your joints. For a complete list of riding gear & detailed   buying guide, click on the read more button below.

This ride is going to be very long, so you must choose your luggage wisely. Avoid carrying unnecessary stuff. Because carrying less luggage will make your ride more comfortable. In this section, I will try to shortlist all the necessary items you will require during this long trip.

• Cloths & accessories

Essential Toiletries

• First aid kit & Medicines

Must have Tools

• Bike Maintenance Kit

Important documents to carry

Laptop & camera gears, cloths & accessories.

You must choose your clothes according to your necessity. Avoid carrying excess luggage during such long trips. Because, at the end of the day, loading & unloading luggage from the bike, after a long tiresome ride, becomes tedious.

You can also carry a sleeping bag with you for extremely cold weather. If you forget to buy something, then you can also get it from Delhi Karol Baug Market.   Also, carry some extra polythene bags for wet kinds of stuff.

I know, I don’t need to mention all this. But, still, I added this section just as a gentle reminder. So we can prepare all the pieces of stuff properly.

First aid kit & Medicines

Medical emergencies can occur anytime & anywhere. So, we should be prepared for it, by carrying some essential generic medicines. The following,  are the medicines that I personally use, & are not prescribed by me. One should take medicines as per his/her body’s requirements.

*AMS is the most common form of altitude sickness we see. It starts off with relatively mild symptoms. But if left untreated, it gets severe and could form into either HAPE or HACE. To Know more about AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) Click on read more

Tools are a vital & essential part of any journey or trip. During an unexpected situation. Especially,  when you are in the middle of nowhere.  In such a situation, if you don’t  even  have the basic tools, then you can be in big trouble. Therefore, tools are the must-have items on your list. The following are the tools, which I personally suggest you carry along with you on your trip.

Bike Maintenance

During this trip, your bike  will   be going beyond its limit. So, periodic maintenance becomes necessary. For that, you require some basic kinds of stuff like Motul Chain cleaner & Lube, Compatible Engine Oil & Coolant, WD-40 Multipurpose spray, Puncher repair kit, 12V Tire inflator, or foot pump. You can also use a puncher-proof solution for your Tubeless tires. T hese are some very important things that every biker should carry. 

Before stepping out for this trip, there are some very important documents that you should be carrying. Like, as Driving License, PAN card, Aadhar Card, extra photographs, and Printed map of the Ladakh region. (also Download Offline maps of the entire region in Google Maps) Take extra copies of all documents. The  MOST IMPORTANT DOCUMENT   for the Ladakh trip is the Inner Line Permit (ILP). To know more about the process of applying for an Inner Line Permit  online, with an Update of March 2023, Click Below.

The above map of the Ladakh full Circuit including Umling La, Marsimik La, Shilung La, Kela Pass, Zanskar, Sach Pass, & Aryan Villages was specially designed for my fellow Riders. This is not the perfect Map I am still working on it, and inputs from readers who have already visited these places is always welcome. To download the Ladakh Map JPEG Click Here.  

To Download Ladakh’s full Circuit Map in PDF format Click here .

Visiting Leh-Ladakh is a lifetime experience. So, Capturing those moments with cameras is as important as the entire Leh-Ladakh trip itself. Therefore, camera gears are an integral part of this trip. Here are some of the gear which I will be carrying on my Leh-Ladakh road trip.

Apart from these, don’t forget to carry all the chargers & some extra USB cables with you. And pack all these gears in a Waterproof & Impact resistant bag. Charge your batteries & power bank regularly to avoid sudden discharge. Because at some remote locations, you will not even get a power point for charging.

Capturing footage is a task that comes with great responsibility. Especially, when you are in a Military zone, you should always make sure that National Security is undistributed.

Once you prepare your luggage, now it’s time to decide the best season for visiting Leh-Ladakh. Choosing the proper season is an important factor behind the success of your Leh-Ladakh road trip. With the arrival of summer, tourist season starts, as all the high passes are open. However, the first highway opens in mid-April which is the NH-1, Srinagar-Leh Highway via Zojila Pass. (Alt. 11649 ft.) And from mid-May, the Manali- Leh  Highway also opens up via Rohtang Pass.  (Alt. 13050 ft.) 

Summer Season (April - June)

With the beginning of April, the peak season starts in Leh-Ladakh. Most of the tourists & bikers visit Ladakh during this period. Therefore, everything becomes expensive including food & stay. But, if you want to experience the snow then, this is the best time to visit Leh-Ladakh.

Monsoon Season (July-August)

After mid-July, the monsoon season starts here, which lasts till the end of August. During this, you may face extreme weather in Ladakh. With frequent landslides, roadblocks, black ice, etc.

Pre-winter Season (September - October)

September to mid-October is an amazing time to visit Leh and Ladakh. After the monsoon, the sky gets clear, the landscape becomes greener. Due to fewer tourists & bikers, you can get everything at a cheaper rate.

Winter Season (October-November)

By the end of October, the cold has completely taken over the area. The temperature drops below zero degrees at all locations. Almost all the tourists leave the place. Most of the hotels, guesthouses, and restaurants shut down their businesses and start leaving the place until next summer.

Full Winter Season (November to March)

This is the coldest time in Ladakh. Even the region gets completely cut off from the rest of India by road. The only way to reach Leh is by flight. From mid-January to mid-March, the adventure starts. The tourists arrive in Ladakh for the famous Chadar Trek, where they walk over the frozen Zanskar River.

In Leh-Ladakh every season has its own charm, and it’s totally depending upon you, which type of adventure you like. 

The next important step is to choose your route. There are two routes popular among the riders. Both routes start from Delhi. Further, you have two options, one is from Manali & other is via Srinagar. However, for a return journey, you also have two choices. Either you can return by the same route or choose an alternate one. 

Route 1:  Delhi → Srinagar → Leh → Khardung La → Nubra Valley → Pangong Tso  →  Karu → Sarchu → Manali → Delhi. Route 2:  Delhi → Manali → Sarchu → Leh → Khardung La → Nubra Valley →  Pangong Tso  →  Leh → Srinagar → Delhi Distance:  Approximately 2,850 km for both routes.

Both routes have their own characteristics. The srinagar to Leh route offers better road conditions and picturesque views. Whereas the route from Manali offers more scenic views but with extremely rugged terrain. Which increases the level of difficulty and danger as well. 

However, there is good news for all riders!

Rohtang Tunnel (Atal Tunnel)

On 3rd October 2020, The newly constructed Rohtang Tunnel aka the Atal Tunnel was inaugurated by our Hon. PM Shri Narendra Modi. This tunnel will start from Dhundi (south portal) and ends at Sissu (north portal). This 8.8 km long tunnel will reduce the distance between Manali and Keylong by about 46 km. The Rohtang tunnel will be one of the longest road tunnels in India built at an altitude of 3100 mt.

Our route (Mumbai to Leh)

Our journey will start from Mumbai, the distance from Mumbai to Leh is approximately 2,845 km. I have often seen many riders riding in a hurry. They just focus on their final destination & skip many important places which are coming on the way. I personally believe that we should enjoy our journey, so we decide to spend enough time at each & every location coming on the way.

Srinagar to Leh via Gulmarg & Sonamarg (517km)

After spending one day in Srinagar, the next day we will be leaving for Sonamarg via Gulmarg. We will have our night stay in Sonamarg, &  the next  morning we will proceed to Leh via Kargil. We have chosen the Srinagar route because in this route the altitude rises gradually. As a result, your body gets used to high altitudes & which reduces the chances of AMS . 

Leh Sightseeing (Alt. 11,562 ft.)

On our first day in Leh, we will be exploring places in Leh namely, Shanti Stupa, Leh Palace, Gurudwara Pathar Sahib, Magnetic Hill, Spituk Monastery, Hall of Fame, Thiksay Monastery, and Leh Market. This would also help us in acclimatization. We will also be visiting the DM office to put a Hanle & Umling la Stamp on our ILP permit on the same day.

I would like  to mention o ne more important thing. Throughout the entire Leh-Ladakh road trip, you will be passing through various altitudes. So, you might face some difficulties in breathing. Therefore, I recommend you to travel taking proper halts. Keeping this point in mind, I have also mentioned the altitude of every place which we will be visiting.

Leh - Khardung la pass - Hunder (Alt. 11,562 - 18,380 - 10,000 ft.)

The next day, early morning we will be proceeding to Khardung la Pass, one of the highest motorable roads in the world at an altitude of 18,380 ft.  From there we will be going towards Nubra Valley via Khalsar – Diskit and will Reach Hunder. This place is famous for its cold desert & double Hump Camels. Later we will have our night stay in Hunder.

Our Route : Leh – Khardungla Pass – Khalsar – Diskit – Hunder  (Total distance 125 km)

Hunder - Turtuk - Tykashi - Thang - Hunder (Alt. 10,000ft. - 12,000 ft.)

In the morning, first, we will be visiting Thang, The Last Village in India. After spending some time at Thag we return to Tyakshi. Tyakshi is a remote village in the Leh district of Ladakh, India, located on the banks of the Shayok River in the Nubra Valley .  It is situated on the Line of Control, We will be spending some time there, and then we’ll visit one more Famous village named Turtuk. Turtuk is one of only four Balti villages under Indian administration. Then we continue our journey back to Hunder. 

Our Route : Hunder – Turtuk – Tyakshi – Thang – Hunder    (Total distance 220 km)  Hunder  Khalsar – Sumur – Panamik – Sasoma – Warshi – Siachen Base Camp – Warshi.

Hunder - Khalsar - Panamik - Siachen Base Camp - Panamik (Alt. 10,000ft. - 12,000 ft.)

Then we will be visiting Siachen Base camp. Earlier, a special permit was required to visit Siachen. But, recently Defense Minister Rajnath Singh announced that tourists can now visit Siachen Glacier, which is the highest battlefield and one of the most difficult terrains on Earth. Now you don’t require any separate permit to visit Siachen. 

But at Panamik, Sasoma or Warshi Army Check Post is located, you have to show your existing ILP permit & providing your ID details they will allow you to visit Selfie Point & OP Baba Temple. In night we camped at Yarab Tso Lake near Panamik Village. You can stay Panamik or Sumur Village. 

Our Route :  Hunder –  Khalsar – Sumur – Panamik – Sasoma – Warshi – Siachen Base Camp – Yarab Tso

Panamik - Khalsar - Pangong Tso (Alt. 12,000 - 13,860 ft.)

The next day, we will be visiting the iconic Pangong Tso. Pangong lake is a bit far away from Warshi, so we need to start our journey as soon as possible. Because we need to reach Pangong lake before sunset. The starch of Pangong lake is very long. There are many tents stays available here for tourists. We will be spending our nights in tent stays or homestays near Spangmik, Maan, or Merak Village.

Our Route : Panamik – Khalsar –  Agham – Shyok – Durbak – Tangtse –  Spangmik –  Maan    (Total distance 235 km)

Pangong Tso - Hanle (Alt. 13,860 - 14,800 ft.)

Here we will get up before Dawn to capture the time-lapse of this Beautiful lake. After spending some time we will start our journey toward Hanle. But Hanle is a bit far away from Spangmik & road condition is not good. Hence, we will try to reach Hanle as soon as possible. We will be staying in Home Stay here.

Our Route : Maan – Merak – Chushul – Razangla – Loma Bend – Hanle  .   (Total distance 162 km)

Hanle - Umling-la - Hanle (Alt. 14,800 - 19,024 ft.)

From Hanle, we will be going to visit the  Umling La Pass in Ladakh at an altitude of 19,024 Feet. Now it’s the highest motorable pass in the world. The BRO opened this pass for military use in 2017. But now in 2022, Civilians can also be allowed to visit here. (depends upon political conditions on Indo-Chine Border)

BRO had built and opened the world’s highest pass over Umlingla pass, connecting the Chisumle and Demchok villages. Umling La pass is about 105 km from Hanle Village and about 235 km from Leh. 

There are 5 routes through which you can reach Umling La Pass and each of them gives you a unique experience. Let us have a look at all 5 routes for Umling La Pass.

Route 1: Loma-Dungti-Koyul-Demchok-Umling La (132Km approx)

You need a special permit signed by the District Magistrate of Leh to travel on this route.

Route 2: Loma-Dungti-Koyul-Chisumale-Umling La (125Km approx)

Route 3: hanle-photi la-chisumale-umling la (photila offroad | 77km approx).

The Normal permit is enough for traveling on this route. However, you can descend to Demchok from Umling La Pass and back to Hanle.

Route 4: Hanle-Punguk-Ukdungle-Nerbole-Chisumale-Umling La Pass (Punguk to Nerbole Offroad | 93Km approx)

For traveling on Hanle-Ukdungle-Nerbole -Umling La Pass, a normal permit is all you need.

Route 5: Hanle-Boog-Nerbole-Chisumale-Umling La Pass (Boog to Nerbole Offroad | 75Km approx) 

For traveling on Hanle-Boog-Nerbole -Umling La Pass, a normal permit is all you need.

The Navigation to the Umling La pass is not available on Google maps. Hence, you can’t find turn-by-turn Navigation here, so don’t rely on it.

For a better understanding of the route, you can download the route map given below. To Download the Route Map of Umling La Pass in PDF format Click Here.

Things to remember before you plan for Umling La Pass:

• Umling La Pass is located at a massive altitude of 19,024ft and is characterized by extremely thin air, which makes even normal breathing very difficult.
• If you are suffering from any respiratory problems or any other kind of breathing or heart issues, you should avoid traveling to this pass.
• In Ladakh, AMS (altitude mountain sickness) is quite common, and you should properly acclimatize yourself before deciding to take a trip to Umling La Pass. To know more About  AMS & how to prevent it click here.

My Tentative Route: Hanle – Ukdungle – Chisumle – Umlingla – Demchok – Koyul – Photi-la – Hanle

Hanle - Tso Moriri (Alt. 14,800 - 14,840 ft.)

From Hanle, we will be going to Tso Moriri, also known as Mountain Lake. It is located at an altitude of 15,075 feet. The lake is surrounded by high mountains. To reach Tso Moriri, you will have to reach Karzok first. Here we will spend our night in Homestay.

Our Route: Hanle – Loma Bend – Nyoma – Mahe Bridge –  Sumdo – Karzok (Total distance 150 km)

Tso Moriri - Pang (Alt. 14,800 - 15,600 ft.)

After capturing some photos of this picturesque Lake, we will start our return journey towards Pang. We will be passing through one more beautiful lake called Tso Kar & Thukje Monastery. And we’ll try to reach Pang for our night stay. Pang is located on the Leh-Manali highway.

Our Route: Karzok – Sumdo – Tso Kar – Thukje – More Plains – Pang (Total distance 150 km) 

Pang - Manali (Alt. 15,600 - 6,730 ft.)

From Pang, we will start our return journey to Mumbai via the Leh-Manali highway. This route is very scenic and passes through many high passes. We will try to cover the maximum distance, but with proper halts at every spot mentioned below. We will try to reach Manali before evening. After passing Keylong we have two routes to reach Manali. One is via regular Rohtang Pass, and the other via the newly opened Rohtang Tunnel (Aka Atal Tunnel) from Sissu to Dhundi. This 8.8 km long tunnel reduces the distance by about 46 km. After reaching Manali we will stay there & relax for one day.  However, there are many Camps or tents available for tourists in all spots. So, we will halt anywhere, when it’s dark, as we avoid night driving.

Our Route: Pang – Lachung La – Whisky Nala – Naki La – Gata Loops – Sarchu – Baralacla pass – Jispa –  Keylong – Sissu – Atal Tunnel,  Rohatang  – Dhundi – Manali  (Total distance 255 km) 

Return route (Manali to Mumbai)

From Manali, we will start our return journey to Mumbai. But, we will not be following the same route from which we used earlier. While returning we will try to explore each & every popular place coming on the way. Our entire return route is given below. (Total Distance 2785 Km)

Budget is a very important part of every trip. Especially, for a long road trip. Yes, this trip is going to take more than 25 days. Because, we will be staying one or more days at every major location like Ahmadabad, Jaipur, Delhi, Srinagar, etc. So, I am giving my tentative budget for this entire trip, including Petrol, Stay, food, bike maintenance, etc. (rates given below are based on Jan-2022. prices are Subject to change)

The above prices are given as per my calculations, it may vary from person to person. The prices mentioned above are excluding Bikes, Accessories, Riding gear, Camera gear, etc. You can choose them as per your choice & budget. 

By writing this article I have just tried to share my personnel views & plans of my upcoming trip. Apart from this, you have any queries please feel free to comment below or contact us.   

In the future, I will be sharing complete videos on the topics mentioned above. to stay updated please subscribe to our YouTube channel. & if you like this article please share it with your family & friends.

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7 incredible Ladakh experiences you probably haven’t heard of

By Arundhati Ail

Sprawling beautiful landscapes, cool blue lakes, calming monasteries and towering snow-capped mountains—the cold desert of Ladakh has it all. With new COVID-19 rules in place, if you’re fully vaccinated, you can explore the breathtaking region minus the need for any RT-PCR tests.

We spoke to Gulzar Hussain of the outdoor adventure company Frozen Himalayas for his insider recommendations of the best in Ladakh. From adrenaline-inducing treks to palaces that take you back in time, here’s how you can go off the beaten path on your next trip to Ladakh.

Instead of Nubra valley, stay in Zanskar

The Chadar trek, also known as “Frozen river trek”

The next time you’re travelling to Ladakh, skip the camel watching and stay at Nubra valley and escape into Zanskar valley instead. Accessible through the Penzi La pass 160km from Kargil, this 5000sq.km valley is home to one of the last remaining cultural settlers of Tibet. Set up camp by one of the two pristine blue lakes in the region, visit the many monasteries around, like Rangdum, Sani or Karsha gompa, and get your dose of adventure with the Chadar Trek—also known as the “Frozen River trek” in the winter. Distance from Leh: 12 hours .

Instead of going to Pangong lake, visit Tso Moriri

Tso Moriri Lake

Said to be the largest high altitude lake in India that is entirely in Indian territory, Tso Moriri lies 4,000 metres above sea level. The picturesque lake in Rupshu Valley offers calm and solitude, flanked by mountains on all sides. Unlike Pangong lake—the popular choice among tourists since the famous 3 Idiots scene there—you will need an Inner Line Permit to visit Tso Moriri. But the sprawling blue lake makes it worth it and you even get to enjoy two more lakes on the way—Tsokar Lake and Tso-Kyagar. Distance from Leh: 5 hours, 30 minutes.

Explore the Ladakhi village of Turtuk instead of Diskit

Balti village in Turtuk 

While most tourists choose to stay in Diskit village for its high altitude, views of the Shyok river and the Diskit monastery, lower in the landscape is Turtuk—a smaller village with a rich history and stunning scenery. The lesser-known hamlet is the one of the northernmost villages in India, beyond which lies Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir. The village lies between Nubra and Baltistan, on the banks of the Shyok river, and was once an important gateway for the Silk Route. The tiny village is dotted with apricot and walnut plantations, and houses a 16th century polo ground and the Balti Heritage House and Museum—a 140-year-old structure built with wood and stone. Distance from Leh: 5 hours, 30 minutes.

Get your adrenaline rush on the Sham Valley trek instead of the Markha valley trek

Tingmosgang Monastery (Tingmosgang Gompa) in Sham Valley

Jahnavi Bhatt

Condé Nast Traveller

Aishwarya Venkatraman

The Markha valley trek is among the most popular treks in Ladakh. Spanning about a week, the trek involves river crossings, passing through beautiful villages and crossing the Kongmaru La pass, all while enjoying Mt. Kang Yatse. But if you’re looking for an easier trek, suitable for complete beginners and families, the Sham Valley trek is a great alternative. The trek takes you through Ladakhi villages—where you will have beautiful homestay options. Visit the Alchi monastery—which is more like a complex of temples—and while you’re in the area, enjoy a meal at the Alchi Kitchen. The unique restaurant helmed by chef Nilza Wangmo offers traditional Ladakhi delicacies with a modern twist like saffron paneer momos, sandwiches made with khambir—the local whole wheat bread and skyu—a soup-based dish with root vegetables and pieces of pasta-like dough. Alchi Kitchen on Instagram .

Skip the popular monasteries for Matho Monastery and Stok Palace .

Stok Palace

If you’re taking a trip to the Thiksey monastery in the Indus valley 20km from Leh, look out for the Matho Monastery right opposite. Though it’s a little more offbeat than the former, it has a lot on offer for history buffs. The monastery was founded in 1410 and houses a large collection of Buddhist thangkas or paintings from the 14th century. And if it’s historical structures you’re looking for, look beyond the well-known monasteries and consider a trip to Stok Palace in Leh. The stunning property is almost 200 years old and is said to have been built entirely by Ladakhi craftsmen as the residence of the Namgyal dynasty. It houses royal apartments, prayer chambers, a museum, sprawling courtyards and a temple. It has also been converted into a heritage hotel, where you can book yourself into royal suites or villas amidst apricot and willow trees. Stok Palace: Stok Palace, Post Box #8, Stok, Ladakh, India 194101

Enjoy the scenery from Namgyal Tsemo Gompa instead of the Shanti Stupa

Tsemo Castle and Namgyal Tsemo Gompa atop a mountain

The white-domed Shanti Stupa in Leh is known for its magnificent structure and stunning views of the landscape. But if you want to avoid the crowds, head to the Namgyal Tsemo Gompa close-by, just behind the Palace of Leh, where you can enjoy the same views, minus the chatter of tourists. This Buddhist monastery founded in 1413 houses a three-storey tall gold statue of Maitreya Buddha. Here, perched on a mountain-top, you can enjoy panoramic views of Leh, against the bright blue sky.

Get a history lesson at the Central Asian Museum instead of Leh Palace

Although not as grand as the Leh Palace, the Central Asian Museum next to the main market in Leh says a lot about the history of the region. Ladakh has always been an important place of trade in Central Asia and the museum houses artefacts, maps, manuscripts and pieces of heritage that highlight this role. Here, you can even get a glimpse into the old Ladakhi way of life through the many day-to-day artefacts on display—from utensils and coins to copies of hand-written Qurans and even a prototype of an ancient Ladakhi kitchen. Central Asian Museum: Main Bazaar Road, Leh, 194101

How to plan for a trip to Ladakh: Ultimate Guide

Ladakh, located in the Himalayas, is one of the most beautiful places in India. Ladakh has very diverse landscapes with snowy mountains and vast deserts to explore. The trekking trails of Ladakh range from short walks to multi-day treks which include camping along the way! You can even trek across the frozen Zanskar River ! Ladakh makes an ideal destination for nature lovers who want to spend some time away from the noise and pollution of the cities. Trekking in Ladakh will also give you an insight into the lives of locals, who live in remote areas away from all basic amenities. This guide on how to plan for a trip to Ladakh will walk you through everything you need to know about this popular trek, from choosing your company and guides to packing and more. By following our advice in this guide, you’ll be ready for the adventure of a lifetime!

Preparation

The Himalayas are beautiful and majestic, but they’re also unforgiving. When planning your trip , be sure you have enough money saved up in case anything goes wrong; basic travel health insurance is highly recommended. The most dangerous part of your journey will likely be flying into Leh Airport, which sits at 13,500 feet above sea level. You need special permits to take flights into or out of Leh Airport. Those wanting to fly in or out need approval from local police and aviation authorities, who require detailed information about members of your party as well as emergency contact information—basically, it needs to be clear that you won’t go rogue on your way back home.

Train yourself for walking

Start by walking every day, maybe right after you wake up or before you go to bed. If possible, walk outside. Try not to take your phone with you—leave it at home and give yourself time for reflection. This will help you make sense of what is happening around you, which in turn will make it easier for you when it comes time for your trek. You can start small; instead of trying to cover 10 miles in one day, aim for 5 and work your way up from there as necessary. Start out slow if you have done little or no physical activity—it’s important that you feel good about walking before doing something more challenging like hiking up mountains.

Packing List

The checklist is critical—you do not want to end up on your trip only to realize you have forgotten something important. For clothing, pack more than you think you need. It’s helpful to keep in mind that if you get anything soiled, you can send it home and buy more when you arrive at your destination. Be aware of regional cultural standards as well. In some places, there may be different dress requirements for men and women or other norms that differ from what travelers are used to backing home; checking with someone who has already been there will help avoid any unfortunate surprises along these lines. Please check our trekking gear checklist for the Himalayas for more information.

Hiring a Guide

Perhaps you have attempted some smaller treks, but now it’s time to take on a larger challenge. As one of India’s most popular destinations, there are countless companies offering tours in and around Leh. If you have your heart set on exploring its hills and valleys but don’t want to go it alone, hiring a guide is certainly recommended. It will ensure that your trip goes smoothly and you see as much as possible while away from home. Guides can help with everything from local etiquette and language skills to identifying animal tracks along trails; they even make sure that you’re keeping up with group hiking times.

Trekking Through Leh

With mountains surrounding it, Leh has many beautiful treks and hikes. The higher altitudes mean that oxygen is more sparse, making these trips quite challenging. Despite that, Ladakh has an extremely strong trekking community which makes sure that even novice hikers have an incredible experience in a safe environment. For people who don’t live in Leh and are only planning on visiting for two or three days, however, it can be difficult to find good trekking guides and set up reliable transportation.

The best time to visit Ladakh

The best treks in Ladakh can be planned at any time of year, and are particularly popular during May-June and September-October. Some treks are best done in winter when there is less snow and freezing cold temperatures; winters have on average 35 days of bright sunshine and fresh icy landscapes. If you prefer to avoid traveling with large crowds, June maybe your ideal month. Fall months tend to be rainy so if you want clearer skies, avoid September through November. During these months, travel might be difficult due to heavy rains in some regions but it does make for gorgeous scenery as well as more solitude at certain monasteries along your route.

The Last Leg of the Journey

Make sure you do your homework and research where you’re going. Of course, we have no way of knowing what sort of treks will be available in the future, but here are some general considerations: During winter months (November-March), expect snow and frigid temperatures—something to keep in mind if you’re planning on hiking higher altitudes. While there is the accommodation on site, many hotels operate as teahouses with limited amenities—think bunk beds and thin blankets. If you can swing it, consider staying at one of Ladakh’s resorts or guesthouses from late March through early November; they offer much more comfortable accommodations at slightly higher prices than teahouses.

Suggested Itinerary

The trip of a lifetime will take you up and over some 20,000-foot peaks. That means there are no shortcuts; you’ll have to acclimatize slowly and carefully. Make sure that your itinerary includes rest days—and plenty of them. You can never spend too much time in Manali, Leh, or Srinagar, so be sure not to race through these towns. If your budget allows, make reservations at one of these gorgeous hotels in India’s highest city! From rest days, it’s on to Kargil: While popular with Indian tourists, foreigners often skip Kargil on their way from Delhi to Leh—but don’t!

Daily Schedules

Planning and preparing in advance is vital when it comes to any significant trip. It doesn’t have to be hard, though: A basic daily schedule goes a long way toward ensuring that you don’t forget something critical. When making your schedule, think about what time of day you are at your best level physically, mentally, and emotionally.

If possible, give yourself an hour or two between each daily activity so that you can feel refreshed and energized before moving on to something else. With adequate rest—and some luck—you will find that you are more capable of handling unexpected situations like blisters or lost keys than if you were exhausted after every physical task is completed. Try not to underestimate how much energy it takes just being in a different environment with different people!

Should I Trek Alone?

Consider that solo travel can be both thrilling and terrifying, liberating and frustrating. Some may argue that it’s more dangerous because you’re less likely to be noticed in an emergency—and that you won’t have anyone around who can help you. In reality, there are pros and cons regardless of your choice.

What matters is whether or not you feel comfortable traveling alone. This is not only about the solo trek, if you are a female hiker, HikePackers will not recommend trek alone in India due to sexual assault and rape rates in India being quite high. Here is the report from Statista .

Safety Precautions While Trekking in Ladakh

If you are planning on going on a hike, then take precautions like carrying sufficient first aid kits, torchlight, and extra clothes. Make sure that your trekking guide knows all about first aid and can handle any emergency situations if you fall sick or get injured during your trip. The altitude sickness can be life-threatening; it is important that you carry oxygen cylinders if you have medical conditions such as heart or lung diseases. Avoid traveling alone, especially in off-season periods; bring along people who are known to each other at least 4 days prior to the start of your trip. Choose smaller hiking trails rather than longer routes so that accidents don’t occur during a long journey back home.

Ladakh is one of India’s most beautiful tourist destinations, with high altitude valleys surrounded by snow-capped mountains and terraced fields that spread out beneath. This makes it a fantastic place for hiking or trekking, and there are many companies that offer trips around some of its key sights. However, before embarking on your trip make sure you have taken all precautions.

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Leh Ladakh FAQs – Planning, Sightseeing & Routes

Let us look at some of the most common questions asked on my blog about planning a trip to Leh Ladakh. I am starting this five-article series of Leh Ladakh FAQs to answer all your questions about planning a trip to Ladakh.

It will be easy for me to redirect you to the right question and its answer in these articles instead of repeating the same answers again and again in the comments section of various blog articles on this website.

I will also keep updating this Leh Ladakh FAQ series with new questions in case I have missed answering any and also keep my answers fresh with updated information about planning a trip to Ladakh.

Let's quickly dive into the details:

Ladakh Trip Planning

This section should answer all your questions related to the planning aspects of a trip to Leh – Ladakh. Once, you go through these questions you will understand how you can easily plan for your upcoming Leh Ladakh trip.

Q1. How to reach Leh Ladakh?

You can reach Leh Ladakh either by road or by air. Unfortunately, there is no connectivity to Ladakh by train. You can either reach Jammu or Srinagar by train and then reach Leh by road to Leh from either of these places.

By Road : Ladakh is connected by the two adventurous roads popular by the names of Manali Leh Highway which connects Leh to Manali and the other one is Srinagar Leh Highway that connects Leh with Srinagar.

By Air : Leh is also connected with Delhi, Jammu and Srinagar airports by direct flights. Delhi to Leh there is a daily direct flight service offered by many airlines.

Q2. How many days do I need for a Leh Ladakh road trip?

It will take four days to reach Leh from Srinagar Leh Highway starting from Delhi with stopovers at Jammu, Srinagar, Kargil. Then, it takes three days to come back to Delhi from Leh using Manali – Leh Highway with stopovers at Sarchu/Jispa/Keylong & Manali.

This makes it seven days. Then, you need at least one day is required in Leh for acclimatization. So, overall in just eight days, you can cover Manali Leh Highway, Srinagar Leh Highway and Leh town only.

Now, at least three days are required to travel for sightseeing to Nubra Valley and Pangong Tso using the direct route from Shyok village.

So, a total of at least 11-12 days is required to make a road trip to Leh Ladakh that makes some sense.

Q3. How do I plan my Ladakh trip by air?

You can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Ladakh by Air for 8-9 days which is followed by many travelers including myself, in the article Leh Ladakh Most Common Itinerary by Air .

Q4. How do I plan my Leh Ladakh Road Trip?

You can check a very balanced and most common itinerary followed by many travelers including myself covering Srinagar – Leh, Manali – Leh, Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri of about 12-14 days in this detailed travel plan for Leh Ladakh road trip .

Q5. Can I do a Leh Ladakh trip in 9 days?

The short answer to the question is yes. However, as you read in Q# 2 that you need 11-12 days at least for a road trip to Leh Ladakh. Opt to go via Manali – Leh Highway to save a day and refer my Leh Ladakh in 9 Days – Itinerary.

Q6. Can I do a trip to Ladakh in 4-5 days?

If you want to make a trip to Leh – Ladakh in 4-5 days, then the only option is to fly into Leh and fly out from Leh. In the first two days, you will need for acclimatization to combat AMS. Once your body is acclimatized,

• if you are making Ladakh trip in 4 days, then, do a day trip to Nubra Valley on the third day and then do a day trip to Pangong Tso on the fourth day.
• if you are making Ladakh trip in 5 days, then, use the last three days to do a three day trip to Nubra Valley and Pangong Tso by using the direct route from Nubra Valley to Pangong Tso via Shyok village or Wari La routes.

Q7. Is it possible to do Leh Ladakh trip in 2-3 days?

The short answer to the question in “Yes.” However, does it makes sense to make a 2-3 day trip to Ladakh, well, kinda “No.” You need at least 7-8 days for making a road trip to Leh Ladakh, and in that as well you will touch Leh and come back home without visiting any sightseeing places in Ladakh.

So, if you want to make a trip to Ladakh in 2-3 days, the only option is to fly into Leh. But, then as per acclimatization recommendation, you need at least 36 hrs of acclimatization.

Hence, for the first two days, you will be restricted to Leh only after you fly into Leh. Then, on Day 3, if planning a three day trip to Ladakh, you can either make a day trip to Nubra Valley or make a day trip to Pangong Tso.

Q8. Should I go to Ladakh from Srinagar Leh Highway or Manali Leh Highway?

I will suggest you should always try to plan the trip to Ladakh from Srinagar Leh Highway side, as it is much much easier on your body and help you acclimatize to the high altitude of Manali – Leh Highway in the return journey.

Secondly, it allows you to enjoy the beauty of Manali Leh by splitting the journey almost evenly in two days with a night halt at Sarchu. It is difficult to sleep at Sarchu when coming from Manali side due to AMS issues.

Thirdly, it will allow you to fit the trip to Tso Moriri lake into the itinerary in a much better way when returning from Manali Leh Highway.

Also read : 5 Reasons to choose Srinagar – Leh Road over Manali – Leh Road

Q9. What is the best time to travel Leh Ladakh?

It is always nice to plan your journey in June to mid – July when the roads to Ladakh are open from both Srinagar as well as Manali sides. In addition to it, this is the time when you find a good amount of snow on the roads, especially June.

However, please keep in mind that road conditions hardly improve on Manali – Leh road and remains almost quite challenging/adventurous throughout the season. It improves towards the end of the season that is September or October but by that time snow is all gone and the risk of road closure increases especially towards the end of October.

So, you need to be prepared for all the adventure that Manali – Leh Highway offers a traveler in June – July and the situation worsens when the monsoon hits Northern Indian in late July and August.

In monsoon/rains, you will need to face challenges almost up to Baralacha La pass with slush on the roads beyond which it becomes a bit dry as you enter the rain shadow region of Ladakh.

IMHO, whatever best window to visit Ladakh you will get so that you avoid monsoons, see/experience snow and all roads are open for you will be like 15th June – 15th July window.

If you want to see beautiful colors of Ladakh, then the second half/late of September is THE best time to visit Leh – Ladakh when these colors are oozing and burning out vividly. Of course, the road conditions get better in late September type when rains reside in the region completely.

It is my favorite time to visit Leh – Ladakh region and yeah, tourists headcount all dips a bit in late in the season.

Also read : Best time to Travel Leh Ladakh

Q10. Can I travel to Leh Ladakh in August or Monsoons?

The end of July and August is monsoon time in general up here in North India. At some parts of Manali – Leh Highway (like before Baralacha La) and Srinagar – Leh Highway (like before Kargil) you will face monsoon hassles.

What it means is that the rivers will be flowing violently, there will be mud on the roads (Zojila Pass, Rohtang Pass becomes hellish) and of course, landslides will be common in lower Himachal and other parts of J&K.

Dheeraj Sharma

But once you get closer to Ladakh, then Ladakh being a rain shadow region is very less affected by monsoon rains. Things are changing all over the world, but it is a safe assumption.

As said above, intermittent landslides or roadblocks are pretty common in the month of monsoons but these landslides are cleared in a day or two unless there is a very major one or a big cloudburst/flash flood.

Having said all of that,

Rains do reach Ladakh nowadays but in general, it is overcast days or in the form of light rain. You should definitely read my 10 Tips for a Trip to Ladakh in Monsoons .

Q11. How can I plan a trip to Ladakh in Winters?

In winter, the roads to Ladakh from Manali and Srinagar are closed. Hence, the only way to make a trip to Ladakh in winters is to fly to Leh and then do the sightseeing within Ladakh to places like Pangong Tso, Nubra Valley, and Tso Moriri.

The roads within Ladakh over Khardung La and Chang La remain open all around the year barring few days of heavy snowfall. So, you can make a trip to both Nubra Valley and Pangong Tso over them, respectively.

There are no high passes that come on the way to Tso Moriri via Mahe bridge route. Hence, the road from Leh to Tso Moriri remains mostly open all around the year from the Mahe bridge route. Similarly, the road connectivity between Leh and Hanle exists in the winter months.

The key things to note when planning a winter trip to Leh Ladakh are mentioned below:

1. It will be cold, read very cold, so go prepared well enough!!

Directly flying to Leh, that too in winters, may trigger some acute mountain sickness issues. So, keep sipping black tea, black coffee, or hot honey lemon tea to combat cold and still keep your body hydrated. Take garlic & black pepper too as they provide warmth in the body and supports in fighting the cold.

2. Carry good sleeping gears

As not all hotels will be open, so you might be staying at homestays, especially at Nubra, Pangong Tso, and Tso Moriri. Best is to carry your sleeping bags if you find the quilts provided by the homestay uncomfortable or inadequate.

3. Prepare your budget well, expect less discount from stays, taxis or food and carry enough cash

You must prepare your budget well as both stay and taxis will charge approximately similar amounts. Some stay even charge more than usual season time rates because of the continuous use of heating equipment.

The majority of the restaurants will be closed, so you will have to eat food at the hotels or homestays only.

Carry enough cash as ATMs in Leh might have operational issues.

4. Plan at least a couple of buffer days in hand avoid hassles from an abrupt snowfall

Snowfall in winters will be a common affair. BRO tries to keep the roads over Khardung La and Chang La open all around the year but in case of heavy snowfall, the road may get closed for a couple of days.

You must always have at least a couple of buffer days at hand when planning a Ladakh trip in winters because of unexpected inclement weather, roadblocks or flight cancellations due to weather.

5. Enjoy the frozen vistas & book a window seat of your flight

Finally, do not forget to carry good winter clothes or winter gear so that you can enjoy the frozen vistas without fighting much to just survive.

And do book a window seat to capture some of the majestic frozen aerial views of the Himalayas.

In the end, from these tips on traveling to Ladakh in winter , you can see that the Ladakh trip in winter indeed is fun yet requires some caution to travel safely. So, only plan if you are used to such cold conditions or at least know that you will be able to bear them.

Leh Ladakh Sightseeing

This section should answer all your questions related to the sightseeing aspects of a trip to Ladakh. Once, you go through these questions you will understand various places to visit in Ladakh.

Q12. What are the places to see on a Leh Ladakh Trip?

When you make a trip to a place like Ladakh, it is not just the destination that matters but the journey too. On a road trip to Ladakh, there is just so much to see and cherish that you just cannot consume it all at once. Apart from the named famous places, there is so much to see, view and explore on almost every other turn on a Ladakh road trip.

When you travel to Ladakh by road, you reach Leh first either by Srinagar Leh Highway or Manali Leh Highway, both of which have their beauty and landscapes. Once you reach Leh, you can start exploring the places within Ladakh like Leh town itself, Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, and Tso Moriri to name a few.

Q13. What are the places to see on Srinagar Leh Highway?

There is plenty to see and explore on this 434 KM long Srinagar to Leh journey. There is so much contrast in the way the overall beauty and the gradual altitude change when we travel from Srinagar to Leh.

On Srinagar Leh Highway, once you leave Srinagar, you can visit Sonamarg, Zojila Pass, Drass, Kargil War Memorial, Kargil, Mulbekh Maitreya Buddha Statue, Lamayuru Monastery , Fotu La Pass, Nakee La Pass and places to see in Sham Valley nearby Leh like Magnetic Hills , Indus – Zanskar river confluence nearby Nimmu, Pathar Sahib Gurudwara, Alchi or Likir. All these places have been covered in the article Sham Valley Sightseeing.

Q14. What are the places to see on Manali Leh Highway?

All over the Manali Leh Highway, you will come across various sightseeing places and mountain passes including Rohtang Pass, Baralacha La Pass, Lhachlung La Pass, Namki La Pass, and Taglang La Pass. There is a beautiful lake Surajtal and one pond named Deepaktal. You can get to know them in detail in my guide on sightseeing places in Manali – Leh Highway .

The overall journey over Manali Leh Highway is an experience of a lifetime with magnificent views of the trans-Himalayas. I bet you will never have a dull moment when traveling on this most adventurous highway in India.

Q15. What are places to see in Leh or around Leh?

Leh is the main town in Ladakh and its district headquarters. All the administration offices are present in Leh for the Ladakh sub-district. Locally you can visit many places apart from strolling at the main market road, Changspa road and fort road with some good restaurants and dine-ins.

Apart from it, in the local sightseeing places of Leh , you can visit The Khar – Leh Palace, Tsemo Castle, Namgyal Gompa, Shanti Stupa, Hall of Fame, Sankar Gompa, Datun Sahib, Sidhu Ghaat and Zorawar fort.

Apart from these places, there are other nearby monasteries like Phyang, Spituk, Shey Palace, Thiksey Monastery, Hemis Monastery, Matho Monastery, Stok Palace and Stakna Monastery. It all depends upon if your interest lies in these places or not.

Then finally you can visit Sham Valley which includes Alchi, Likir, Basgo Palace, Magnetic Hills, Confluence of Zanskar and Indus river at Nimmu village, and Gurudwara Pather Sahib.

Q16. What are the places to see in Nubra Valley?

Nubra Valley is situated north of Leh, and Khardung La pass connects Nubra Valley with Leh. It is about 120 odd KMs from Leh, and you can visit the following places in Nubra Valley based upon the time you have in hand. I will recommend that you give a minimum of two days, if not three.

In case you want to visit Turtuk, you must dedicate three days for the Nubra Valley trip from Leh.

• Diskit : Diskit monastery is the largest and oldest Buddhist monastery in Nubra Valley. It houses a 106 feet tall Maitreya Buddha statue. There is Lachung Temple as well which is quite close to the monastery.
• Hunder : Hunder is famous for its sand dunes and double-humped bacterian camel safari. It offers a beautiful landscape.
• Turtuk : Opened for tourists in 2010, Turtuk offers a much different landscape and cultural orientation than the rest of the Nubra Valley. You can see apricot trees loaded around the entire village with views closer to the Karakorum range.
• Sumur : Somewhere between Sumur and Kyagar, you can visit the Samstanling monastery.  Personally speaking, can be skipped.
• Panamik : It has hot water springs and a sacred Yarab Tso lake nearby the entrance of the village. Personally speaking, can be skipped.

Travel Tip : If you have three days in hand, Turtuk is a MUST VISIT place in Nubra Valley.

Q17. What are the places to see in Pangong Tso?

The journey from Leh to Pangong Tso is about 170 KMs where you travel over Chang La pass to reach Lukung or Spangmik, the villages beside the beautiful Pangong Tso.

There isn’t anything to see in Pangong Tso rather the lake itself. If you have time, you can visit Harong Wetlands that offer some scenic beauty or travel on the desolated route of Spangmik – Man – Merak – Chushul along the shores of Pangong Tso lake.

When you travel to Pangong Tso from Leh , you can also cover some of the monasteries that fall on the way like Hemis, Thiksey, Shey Palace and Stakna.

Q18. What are places to see in Tso Moriri?

Tso Moriri lake is about 240 KMs from Leh, and it takes two days to visit Tso Moriri from Leh. Tso Moriri itself is one of the sightseeing places in Ladakh, and the journey to this pristine, sometimes neglected lake, offers some magnificent views. I always prefer it over Pangong Tso Lake, its bigger counterpart 🙂 🙂

When you plan to visit Tso Moriri, you should not miss spending some time at Tso Kiagar. It comes on the way to Tso Moriri from Sumdo after crossing Chumathang.

When traveling from Leh to Tso Moriri , you can stop for snacks at Upshi dhabhas, then have lunch at Chumathang Hot Springs dhabha/restaurant. Once you take the right from Mahe towards Tso Moriri, you will reach Tso Kiagar.

After visiting Tso Moriri lake, you can plan to come to Leh next day covering Tso Kar Lake and Taglang La pass route. Sometimes people do spend a day at Tso Kar lake too, especially those who love birding.

Hemis, Thicksey, Shey, and Stakna monasteries also fall on the same route of Leh to Tso Moriri. So, if you have not visited any of them previously, depending on the time, you can visit them when traveling to Tso Moriri.

In general, people visit Tso Moriri lake when traveling from Leh to Manali over Manali – Leh Highway. You can exit to Manali Leh Highway from Tso Moriri from Tso Kar lake – Debring route and continue further on Manali Leh Highway towards Pang and Sarchu.

It takes three days to reach Manali from Leh covering Tso Moriri with one night halt at Tso Moriri and other at Sarchu.

Q19. What are the places to see in Hanle?

Hanle is one of the offbeat places in Ladakh and is about 275 KMs from Leh. When planning a trip to Hanle from Leh , you can consider clubbing it with the trip to Tso Moriri, of course by adding an extra day in the overall plan.

Hanle has a hilltop monastery that offers some fabulous panoramic views and also houses the world’s highest observatory in the world at a staggering height of 4500 Mtrs.

The Hanle Observatory is operated by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics, Bengaluru and currently the second-highest optical observatory in the world, with an installed telescope of about 2.01 meters (6.5 feet) diameter.

The beauty of Hanle is unmatched than the rest of the Ladakh and you need to visit it to believe it. Once you are in Hanle, if you have an extra day at hand,  you can travel to Photi La pass and try your luck with Umling La pass, although civilians are not allowed to travel to Umling La pass.

Alternatively, you can make a day trip to the unknown desolated lakes of Changthang region, Kyon Tso 1 or Ryul Tso or Kyong Tso 2 / Chilling Tso .

Routes & Road Conditions in Ladakh

This section should answer all your questions related to routes and road conditions of a trip to Leh Ladakh. Once, you go through these questions you will understand the road conditions and various routes to travel in Ladakh.

Q20. Can I go from Nubra Valley to Pangong Tso directly?

Those who are short on time can take the direct route from Nubra Valley to Pangong Tso either from the shorter Shyok Village route or from, the longer Wari La route. To take any of these direct routes from Nubra Valley to Pangong Tso, you do not need any special permits and the permits for Pangong Tso & Nubra Valley are sufficient.

When we talk about the shorter route of Nubra Valley to Pangong Tso from Shyok village, it feels tempting to take it when you know you can do it in 5-6 hrs instead of going back to Leh in that time.

However, the route used to have very challenging conditions which have been settled a lot in the last couple of years (2017, 2018). Especially starting from 2018, the direct route from Nubra Valley to Pangong Tso is prevalent among many tourists.

Having said that, the road conditions on this route from Shyok village to Pangong Tso have some bad road stretches and sometimes the Shyok river swells to block the road. There are a couple of landslide-prone sections of the roads as well.

Hence, you must inquire about the road conditions at Agham village before going ahead toward Shyok village. Also, if you are alone, then it is always advised that you wait for a few vehicles at Agham village and proceed ahead in a group of vehicles. This tip will give you company and a sense of security in case of any misadventure.

The next possible way to reach Pangong Tso from Nubra Valley directly is to take the route from Wari La pass. It is a longer route and takes about 10 hrs to reach Pangong Tso from Nubra Valley. It takes you to Shakti / Serthi villages just below the Chang La pass that falls on Leh – Changla – Pangong Tso route.

Hence, it is longer and covers the majority of the route you will cover when coming from Leh to Pangong Tso.

Similar to the less frequently used Shyok route, the route from Wari La pass to Pangong Tso is a bit more desolate. Unless you have some company with you on this route, it is always better to avoid it. I am saying not because there are bad road conditions but, yes, being desolate has its own risk associated.

A lone vehicle in such remoteness does carry a lot of risks in case there is any mechanical failure. Hence, if you the Shyok village route is closed and you want to go directly from Nubra Valley to Pangong Tso, wait for some vehicles to come at Agham village and tag along with them.

Q21. Can I go from Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri directly?

The short answer is “Yes”, you can travel from Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri directly if you are an Indian . The foreigners are not yet allowed to travel beyond Man – Merak village check-post at Pangong Tso.

However, you can take the beautiful route along the shores of Pangong Tso driving through Man – Merak – Chusul – Tsaga – Loma – Nyoma – Mahe – Sumdo villages to reach Tso Moriri.

Starting 2018, there is a special permit given by the DC office in Leh, which is nothing but an extra stamp that says you are permitted to travel on the Chusul route as well to reach Tso Moriri or Hanle from Pangong Tso directly.

These permits of a direct route from Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri are not available online and need to be applied/get stamped in person at Leh DC office.

Sometimes army personnel at Chushul check post deny the passage even with permits, so keep that back of your mind and be ready to shuffle the plan accordingly.

As per the road conditions, the direct route from Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri is completely a dirt track with quite a bumpy ride up to Tsaga. That churns most things in your stomach. Beware of the beauty of the route too, itis just outstanding !!

Finally, very fewer people take this route from Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri, and you will not see anyone around you in the miles. So, take the calculated risks. You may sync up with few vehicles at Pangong Tso if they are traveling in that direction and travel as a convoy to help each other when in need.

Q22. Can I travel to Hanle?

Yes, you can travel to Hanle, if you are an Indian but foreigners are not allowed to travel to Hanle. The permits to Hanle have started to get re-issued at Leh DC office in June 2018. It was stopped for a short period as some bikers went far ahead and created a ruckus, which forced the army to issue orders for stopping people from taking these routes.

You need to apply for Hanle permit in person at the DC office in Leh. You need to get an extra special stamp for Hanle when applying for a permit at the DC office in Leh. If you have that special stamp/permit, you will be allowed to travel to Hanle from Loma at the check-post. Without that stamp/permit for Hanle, the Loma check-post will not allow you to go through towards Hanle.

Q23. Can I travel to Umling La Pass?

Starting May 2018, no civilians are further allowed to travel to the Umling La pass, the highest motorable pass in the world at an altitude of 19300 feet. The people who traveled to Umlinga La did it without any special permit and when the road was being constructed.

Due to its proximity to the China border, the army has completely stopped civilians from traveling to this highest mountain pass of the world as of 2020. Maybe in the future, the army might start allowing the tourists but nothing certain for now.

Interesting Read : Top 13 Highest Motorable Passes in the World

Q24. Can I visit Tso Moriri from Manali?

As Tso Moriri comes as a diversion on the way from Manali to Leh, a lot of people think about taking the diversion and traveling to Tso Moriri from Manali side . However, it is not recommended at all.

When you are traveling on Manali Leh Highway, you plan to stay overnight at Manali and Jispa / Keylong. Both of these places cannot help you acclimatize to such a high altitude of Tso Moriri (4500 Mtrs).

Hence, with the body which is not acclimatized, sleeping at such high altitude can cause severe health issues. Keep in mind; it is a remote place in Ladakh and any major medical help required will be far away in Leh.

You also need permits to visit Tso Moriri lake, which you can get stamped in Leh after paying the respective fees of online permit copies. So, you will need someone to deliver these permits in advance.

Finally, if you are traveling by outside Leh rented a taxi or outside Leh rented bike, you will not be allowed for sightseeing in Ladakh including Tso Moriri.

Hence, it is not wise to travel to Tso Moriri from Manali side. However, after making the trip of Ladakh visiting Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, you should visit Tso Moriri while exiting from Manali Leh Highway. This way, it fits in your overall Ladakh plan and also helps you sleep at Tso Moriri with an acclimatized body.

You can also read in detail about 5 reasons not to visit Tso Moriri from Manali side .

Q25. Can I visit Pangong Tso from Manali?

Similar to the question answered for traveling to Tso Moriri from Manali, it is highly not recommended to travel to Pangong Tso from Manali side. Tso Moriri still is a short diversion from Manali Leh Highway, but then for Pangong Tso, you are looking to travel from Jispa/Sarchu to Pangong Tso directly which is much longer in the distance.

It will leave you tired and alleviate the chances of getting stuck with AMS badly with an already un-acclimatized body. Any major medical help required will only be available in Leh.

Pangong Tso is an inner line region in Ladakh. It requires you to have an Inner Line Permit to travel to it, which can be stamped or authorized in Leh only after paying the required fees for them.

Finally, you will need a Leh based taxi to travel to Pangong Tso as outside Leh rented taxis or self-drive cars are not allowed for sightseeing in Ladakh. Similarly, you cannot take an outside rented bike to Pangong Tso as well.

Hence, first go to Leh, rest for a day and then travel to Nubra Valley first to get your body acclimatized. Then travel to Pangong Tso for an overnight stay. This way you reduce the chances of getting hit with AMS and have other required things including permits & taxis in the order as well.

Q26. Is there any map of Leh Ladakh?

Yes, there exist DoW Maps of Ladakh which I created to give you the details on places, distances, important monasteries, mountain passes, lakes, etc. in entire Ladakh covering Nubra Valley, Sham Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri, Hanle and other parts of Changthang Valley.

The map also helps you get an idea of the fuel availability in the entire Ladakh region, road difficulty level along with which type of car you might need to cover a particular stretch (a bit outdated maybe), list of ATMs in Ladakh. You must note that though Black Diesel/Petrol is available in certain villages, the quality of such fuel is compromised and shall only be considered in worst-case scenarios.

Q27. Can I cross Rohtang Pass on Tuesday?

If you are traveling from Manali side to Rohtang Pass, you will not be allowed to travel on Manali – Rohtang Pass road . Also, the permit to cross Rohtang Pass will not be issued on Tuesday.

However, you can travel from Keylong side to Rohtang Pass on any day, including Tuesday. You do not need any permit for Rohtang Pass when you travel to Manali from Keylong side.

Other Articles in the Series

• Leh Ladakh FAQs – Preparing for Ladakh Trip
• Leh Ladakh FAQs – Eat, Stay, Permits, Phone Services & Others
• Leh Ladakh FAQs – Taxis, Self-Drives & Bike Rentals
• Leh Ladakh FAQs – Public Transport & Budget Travel

In the next article of the series, I will answer the frequently asked questions about stays and accommodation in Ladakh, where to eat in Ladakh and inner line permits for Leh Ladakh. I hope this article answers your questions concerning planning a Ladakh trip, sightseeing in Ladakh and road conditions/routes within Leh Ladakh. 

Have a travel question?? You can follow me on Instagram and subscribe to my YouTube channel to ask your travel questions in a direct message on Instagram or comment on my YouTube videos.

If you loved this article, DO NOT forget to hit the share button to share it with your friends and family planning a trip to Leh Ladakh.”

So, what are you waiting for? Just plan your vacation to Ladakh in the coming season and I am sure you will never forget about the heavenly experience.

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I am Dheeraj Sharma - a traveler, techie, and Himalayan lover. Since 2009, I have been helping thousands of travelers every year plan memorable & budget-friendly trips to the Himalayas - Smartly, Safely, and responsibly.

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Leh ladakh faqs – public transport & budget travel, leh ladakh faqs – taxis, self-drives & bike rentals, leh ladakh faqs – stay, eat, permits & others.

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Hello dheeraj Ji,

my self vijay beladkar . i am planing cycling kalka – spity valley – manali july first week (approx 15 days) . can you give me suggestion of this route

Hi, Thanks for the very informative post, DHEERAJ SHARMA. If you could help with my query, it would be really helpful of you. I am currently planning a trip to Kashmir, Lay Ladakh, Srinagar, Phalagam and Sonmarg, from April `13 2019- April 21. Can you, if possible, provide information on which places to visit, and also make us an itinerary which covers all of the important destinations from the above locations in the given time frame. If possible, can you detail a budget with travel and accommodation recommendations? In short, Could you please provide a quotation for this trip, with itinerary list and accommodation for 8 days, and where to go and how to get there.

Kind Regards, Nitin

Hi, Thanks for your very informative post. I am currently planning a trip to Kashmir, which will include a visit to Lay Ladakh, Srinagar, Pahalgam and Sonmarg. Could you provide details about what places to visit, and if possible, construct an itinerary for it, with recommendations about accommodation, food and etc, and a possible budget? Our trip will range from 13 April- 21 April. We need to definitely visit all of the above locations. Also, can you make please make an itinerary that covers all of these places in the given time, and tell us whether it is a suitable time to visit them.

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A complete guide to Ladakh Trip Plan – FAQs answered

Last Updated on: May 20, 2021  

Ladakh is no doubt a fascinating place. Anyone who has once visited Ladakh can never forget its landscape, its people and the eternal beauty hidden between those colourful layers of mountains. Of late, Ladakh has been hit by overtourism and it has definitely taken a toll on its fragile ecosystem. Even then, the place remains gorgeous and there are many who has not yet visited this wonderland. So here we share our Ladakh Travel Guide that will help you in Ladakh trip plan .

Ladakh Trip Plan

We have tried to answer most of the questions that we usually get about planning a Ladakh trip. We will try to update the information also with time.

When is the best time to visit Ladakh?

Now that you have decided to visit Ladakh, the first question that might come to your mind is that when to visit. Please keep in mind that Ladakh is a cold desert located in the trans-Himalayan region. The place remains cut off from the rest of the country by roads during the winter season.

Most of the tourism in Ladakh happens between the months of June to September. During this time, the roads to Ladakh remain open from both Manali and Leh side. In June, you might find a good amount of snow on the roads.

In short, mid-June to September is the best time as well as the season to visit Leh and Ladakh.

If you want to experience how the cold desert looks with a blanket of snow, then visit during the winter. But remember, the weather remains extremely cold during this time, often going down to subzero in the morning and as low as -25 degrees in the night.

How to Reach Leh, Ladakh?

The easiest way to enter Leh (it also takes the shortest time) is by taking a flight. There are regular flights from Leh to New Delhi. On a clear day, you can get magnificent views of the Himalayas from the flight. During the winter months, when the roads are closed, flights are the only option to reach Leh.

The nearest railway head is Jammu. From Jammu, you can reach Srinagar and then travel onwards taking the Srinagar Leh Highway to Leh. The Indian Government has announced an ambitious project from Jammu to Leh. When it will happen, it is definitely going to be an engineering marvel just like the Darjeeling Himalayan Railways, Nilgiri Railways and Kalka-Shimla railways.

There are 2 routes to enter Leh by road.

Entering Leh by Srinagar-Leh Highway

The distance covered is almost 419 km in this route. The Srinagar Leh Highway connects the Valley of Kashmir to the trans-Himalayan region of Leh. The change in the landscape in this route is quite stark. From the green valleys of Kashmir, you will enter the rugged landscape of Ladakh. A stopover at Kargil or Drass is recommended. Infact, we would suggest you to stay at Kargil for a couple of days if you have time. There are a lot of things to do in Kargil itself.

Entering Leh by Manali-Leh Highway

The distance covered in this route is 473 km. The Manali Leh highway is full of adventure. The road crosses through rugged territory and wilderness very unlike the Srinagar Leh Highway. You have to cross 5 mountain passes and several water streams on your way. The Manali Leh Highway is one of the most exciting and visually stunning routes that you will come across in the country. A stopover is recommended in this route as well at Sarchu or Keylong.

Should I enter Leh by Srinagar side or Manali side?

We would suggest you to enter Leh from the Srinagar Leh Highway, as it helps to acclimatize better.

While returning take the Manali Leh Highway. Stop for the night at Sarchu so that your trip is well divided into 2 days and you can enjoy the beauty of the Manali Leh Highway.

How to move around in Ladakh?

Once you are in Leh, there are so many places to see in the city itself as well as around. The easiest way to move around in Ladakh is by hiring a car. If you are going with your family or a number of friends, then this is the best option.

You can also rent a bike and do sightseeing in Leh city and around. For long-distance journeys also, bike rentals are available. Infact, a lot of people travel to Ladakh from their hometown in a bike for an ultimate adventure. Ladakh is a bikers’ paradise where you can proudly ride your beast in full glory!

For those looking for budget options, there are no public bus services available in Ladakh for different destinations like Diskit in Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso-Moriri and others. However, these buses do not ply everyday. The buses are available only on certain days of the week and at a fixed time. So if you want to avail public transport, keep in mind about the bus schedule and timings.

You can also look for travel partners while you are in Leh. You will find that the travel shops in Leh put up notices for travellers wishing to join a certain trip. If you join such trips, then the cost of travel reduces to some extent.

Is there any permit required for Ladakh trip?

You do not require any permit to visit Leh and the places around it. But you will need an Inner Line Permit (ILP) to visit the remote places in Ladakh like Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley Tso Moriri and others.

Places that do not require an ILP to visit

• Leh city, Shanti Stupa, Shey Palace, Hemis Monastery, Alchi Monastery
• Zanskar Valley
• Suru Valley – Phey, Nimmoo, Alchi, Likir, Lamayuru, Mulbek
• Places on Srinagar Leh Highway
• Places on Manali Leh Highway

Where to apply for ILP

The ILp is issued from the DC Office at Leh which remains opened from 9 AM to 5 PM from Monday to Saturday. ILPs are issued between 10 AM and 3 PM. A self attested photocopy of a valid ID proof is required for obtaining the permit. You can either visit the DC Office yourself to get the permit or can get it done by any travel agent or your hotel.

The cost of the Inner Line Permit for Leh is divided into 3 parts – INR 400 per person for environment tax, INR 20 per person per day for wildlife protection fees and INR 20 per person per day towards Red Cross Society.

Now, you can apply for ILP online.

For foreign nationals applying for permit in Ladakh, passport and visa documents are required. Also you need to travel through an approved travel agent in Ladakh.

Places to visit in Leh Ladakh Trip

Ladakh is such a place that stores surprise in every nook and corner. It is one place where not only the destination but also the journey is spectacular. There is so much beauty and so much to see in Ladakh, you will find that a single visit is not enough! Whatever you see and experience will be cherished forever. Both the highways that connect Leh to the rest of the country are full of surprises.

What are the places to see in Srinagar Leh Highway?

The best part of the Srinagar Leh Highway is that you get to see the transition in the landscape so well. From the lush green valleys of Kashmir, you enter the rugged terrains of Ladakh. Starting from Srinagar, you will pass through the beautiful Sonmarg. Zojila Pass is the next that you cross, followed by Drass, Kargil War Memorial and Kargil.

Next, you will encounter the giant Maitreya Buddha Statue at Mulbekh , Fotu La and Nakee La pass followed by Lamayuru Monastery, the moonland. Just as you are approaching Leh, there are many other places of attractions as well. The magnetic Hill, the confluence of Zanskar and Indus River at Nimmu, Gurudwara Patthar Sahib and the Alchi and Likir Monastery are located in Sham Valley and will fall on your way to Leh.

We would recommend keeping a separate day for Sham Valley sightseeing. The rest you can visit while on your way to Leh from Srinagar.

What are the places to see on Manali Leh Highway?

Manali Leh Highway is known for the high altitude mountain passes, rugged landscape and the hairpin bends. You will encounter the Rohtang pass, Baralacha La Pass, Namik La and Tanglang La Pass . The beautiful Suraj Taal will also fall on the way.

This route is full of adventure crossing over water streams, taking the hairpin bends at Gata Loop or driving over the rough rocky terrain. This journey is going to be one of the most memorable ones. We are sure that you will not be bored even for a moment on this highway!

What are the places to see in Leh and around?

Leh is the district headquarters of Ladakh and its main town. It is a quaint town and has a very cosmopolitan vibe to it. The markets are quite colourful and full of life.

At Leh, you can visit the Leh Palace, Hall of Fame, Sindhu Ghat, Leh local Market, Shankar Gompa and the magnificent Shanti Stupa . If you want to climb the Shanti Stupa, do it during the sunset or sunrise. You will get some amazing views from there.

If you are interested in monasteries, then keep 1 day aside for visiting the Hemis Monastery, the largest one in Leh. The Hemis Festival is one of the major festivals around here visited by a number of people. Along with it, visit the Thiksey Monastery, Phyang, Spituk, Stakna Monastery, Shey Palace and Stok Palace .

WANT TO KNOW MORE ABOUT THE MONASTERIES OF LADAKH ?

Finally, another day should be lept aside for Sham Valley that includes Alchi Monastery, Likir Monastery, Basgo Palace, Magnetic Hills, Gurudwara Patthar Sahib and the confluence of Indus and Zanskar River at Nimmu .

Popular places beyond Leh

Pangong tso or pangong lake.

This is perhaps one of the most famous destinations in Ladakh. And also hit by overtourism the most. The place is beyond beautiful. We have no words to describe our feeling when we first saw the azure waters of the Pangong Tso from a distance. The time spent by the blue waters of the lake surrounded by the ochre mountains is simply magical.

The journey from Leh to Pangong Tso is about 170 km and you have to cross the Chang La Pass. You can do a day trip to Pangong Lake , but in that case, you will be able to visit upto Spangmik only. We would highly recommend you to stay for a night there.

Homestays are available in the villages around the lake. The luxury tents at the lake have been banned as of 2019.

If you have an extra day, then you can visit the villages of Man and Merak . But you have to mention this in your ILPs specifically.

The Hemis Monastery , Thiksey and Stakna Monastery and the Shey Palace will fall on the way to Pangong Lake from Leh. You can plan a visit to these places on your way to Pangong.

Nubra Valley

Nubra Valley is situated to the north of Leh. The famous Khardung La Pass connects Nubra Valley to Leh. Nubra Valley is strikingly beautiful. A cold desert and the home of the double-humped Bactrian camels, Nubra Valley is a place of dreams. At night the sky lits up with thousand stars.

Diskit is around 120 km from Leh. We recommend minimum of 2 days at Nubra Valley if not 3. If you want to visit Turtuk, then 3 days are required. You can visit these places in the Nubra valley:

• Diskit: Diskit Monastery is the largest and the oldest monastery in Nubra valley. Just opposite the monastery is a huge statue of Maitreya Buddha
• Hunder: This is the home of the double humped Bactrian camels. The place is known for its sand dunes, camel safari and breathtakingly beautiful landscapes.
• Turtuk: Further Hunder, the road goes to Turtuk, the last village of the Indian Territory and the base of Siachen glacier. Turtuk has a much different landscape than the Nubra Valley and you will get a close view of the Karakoram range.
• Panamik: From Diskit, one road goes along the Shyok River to Sumur Village and further to Panamik. The place is known for hot springs.

Tso-Moriri Lake

Tso Moriri is located about 250 km from Leh and is a high altitude mountain lake in Ladakh. The landscape is simply breathtaking at Tso Moriri . Korzok is the base village for the lake.

The distance of 250 km means that you Tso Moriri cannot be covered on a day trip. The trip from Leh takes almost over 8 hours. Camping is not allowed beside the Tso Moriri Lake as it is a protected wetland. You can stay at the homestays in Korzok.

While travelling to Tso Moriri from Leh, you can stop at the Upshi villages , hot springs at Chumthang and at Tso Kiagar , a lesser-known lake.

After visiting Tso Moriri Lake, you can either come back to Leh after visiting the Tso Kar Lake, or you can also take the route that connects the Leh Manali Highway. You can keep a visit to Tso Moriri at the end of your trip and can exit Ladak by this route. But this can be done only if you have your own vehicle at disposal or travelling by private taxi.

The Aryan Villages of Dah Hanu

This is said to be the villages of the Aryan tribe. The race is referred to as Drokpas or Dard. There is actually a cluster of 5 villages, and you can visit only Dah and Hanu village. Tall and fair-skinned with high cheekbones and light eyes are said to be the key features of the tribe. A trip to this village will be culturally enriching. Apart from the beautiful natural landscape and the interesting Brokpa culture, you will stumble upon ruins of history here and there in the village.

A permit is needed to visit Dah Hanu villages. From Leh, you can visit Dah crossing Nimmu and Khaltse. Public buses are available to Dah, but you need to check the timings. If you want to stay, there are a couple of homestays available too.

Alternative travel routes in Ladakh

In the last few years, with the influx of more tourists, more routes have been opened for tourist traffic. These alternate routes mean you can travel directly from Nubra Valley to Pangong Lake or from Pangong to Tso Moriri without returning back to Leh. But do remember, that these routes, though operational are not among the priority routes. These routes pass through the remote regions and are often not in the best conditions. Traffic is also very low on these routes. So if you are taking any of these alternative routes, ask first about the conditions. Take a calculated risk while travelling on these roads. It is better if you could tag along with some other vehicles and move as a convoy. Even if you have planned to travel on these routes, be prepared that you might be stopped at any place. Often road conditions are not conducive and you will be not allowed to move in a particular way. So keep buffer days and be prepared to be flexible in your plans.

Is it possible to travel directly from Nubra Valley to Pangong Tso?

There are 2 routes from Nubra Valley to Pangong Tso:

The shorter route via Agham and Shyok village that directly reaches to Pangong Tso and takes around 5 hours time. However, the road conditions from Shyok village to Pangong Tso has some bad stretches and some landslide prone sections also. So it is better to inquire about the road conditions before starting off in this route.

The second one is the longer route through the Wari La pass. It takes about 10 hours from Nubra Valley to reach Pangong Lake. This route takes you to the Chang La Pass that falls on the Leh to Pangong Tso route. Though this road is in better condition than the other, it remains quite desolate and thus has its own risk associated with it.

Is it possible to go directly from Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri?

Indians are allowed to travel directly from Pangong Lake to Tso Moriri. Foreign nationals are not yet allowed to travel beyond Man and Merak village checkpost.

You can take the route through Man – Merak – Chusul – Loma – Mahe – Sumdo to reach Tso Morir i.

You have to separate permit from DC Office in Leh to travel through this route. You have to visit the DC office in person to get this pass.

Travelling to Hanle

Hanle is a lesser-visited place in Ladakh, located 275 km from Leh. Hanle has a monastery located on a hilltop from where you can get panoramic views of the area. It also has the World’s highest observatory at a height of 4500 metres. The Hanle Observatory is operated by Indian Institute of Astrophysics, Bengaluru and is currently the highest optical observatory in the world.

Hanle can be reached by two routes – one from Tso Moriri and the other from Pangong Tso. You can add an extra day to your Tso Moriri trip and visit Hanle.

You can also visit Hanle from Pangong Tso by taking the road from Man and Merak towards Hanle via Chushul.

Remember, that to visit Hanle, you need to visit the DC office at Leh in person. A special permit is required for travelling to Hanle.

If you want to visit Hanle, a probable itinerary can be: Leh – Pangong Tso – Man – Merak – Hanle – Karzok (Tso Moriri) – Leh

Is it possible to travel to Umling La pass?

Umling La Pass is the highest motorable mountain pass in the world at 19300 feet. Since May 2018, civilians are no longer allowed to travel to Umling La, due to its close proximity to the China border.

How many days are required for a Leh Ladakh trip?

The number of days you want to spend in Ladakh depends entirely on you. It also depends on the way you want to travel to and from Leh. We would recommend a minimum of 5 days in Ladakh excluding the days you need to get in and out of Ladakh. Once you decide on the number of days, plan your itinerary and also include the number of days to get in and out of Ladakh.

Do not rush to tick off the checklist here. Ladakh is to be experienced and you cannot do that if you rush. The distances are long through not very well maintained roads. The journey is going to be tough. Also, try to add a couple of buffer days to your itinerary .

HERE IS A TENTATIVE 6 DAYS ITINERARY OF LADAKH

Ladakh and Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) – how to deal with altitude sickness in Ladakh?

Leh is located at an altitude of over 11000 feet or 3500 m. altitude acclimatization is very important in order to travel in Ladakh. This means giving your body complete rest so as to let it get used to the reduced oxygen level there. Even if you have visited Ladakh before, it is important for you to get acclimatized and you will be knowing better!

• It is advised to get 3 days of complete rest to get yourself acclimatized. Even if you are visiting for a short duration, you should keep one full day to acclimatize. Do not travel much during the day. It is better to stay inside your hotel or guesthouse for the day.
• Do not climb the Shanti Stupa on the first day of your visit to Ladakh.
• Keep yourself hydrated. You might not feel thirsty at the cold weather, but water intake is important to prevent AMS.
• Refrain from having alcohol or smoking too much. Alcohol is your worst enemy at high altitudes.
• Increase your altitude gradually. This is why it is better to enter Leh through the Srinagar Leh Highway and exit through Leh Manali Highway.
• Take your time to do things. Avoid overexertion. Do not rush, do not hurry! In this way, you will not only help yourself, but also be able to appreciate the beauty of the place.
• Avoid sleeping during the day.

Is mobile network available at Leh and Ladakh?

Only postpaid mobile connections work in Ladakh, as well as in entire Jammu & Kashmir. BSNL is by far the best network in terms of coverage followed by Airtel. You will get full connectivity in Leh city. With BSNL you will be connected at most of the places in Nubra Valley except Turtuk. Connectivity is negligible in Pangong Lake and you will get intermittent BSNL connectivity at Tso Moriri.

As for Airtel , you will get a full 4G connection in Leh city. At Nubra Valley you will get a connection at Hunder and Diskit, but not at Turtuk. There is no Airtel connectivity at Pangong and Tso Moriri Lake. You will remain connected at Kargil and Drass as well.

Your JIO phone will have 4G connectivity in Leh city and Kargil. You will get connectivity at Hunder and Diskit, but not at Tso Moriri and Pangong Lake.

Tips for Ladakh trip on a budget

Travelling to Ladakh is a bit costly. Over a few years, many travellers and tourists are visiting Ladakh and there are still a few budget travellers who want to enjoy Ladakh without pinching their pocket too much. A few tips for them:

• Try to visit in the shoulder season in April/May or August/September.
• If you are planning to travel by air, book your tickets in advance.
• Do not pre-book your accommodation and taxis. Do on spot booking. You might get some good deals.
• Travel and stay in groups. This will help you to share the transport cost.
• Choose your accommodation and places to eat in a wise manner.
• If you are travelling solo, you can join other solo and group travellers who are looking to  fill up their cars. The restaurants and shops in Leh usually put up notices like these. This is another way to reduce your travelling expenses.

Overtourism and Ladakh

Even though we have covered this at last, but this is the most important point . Of late, we have seen Ladakh has been affected by overtourism to a great extent. While this had caused a lot of problems for the locals, it has also hit the natural ecosystem. Pangong Lake, the place that we had all to ourselves when we visited Ladakh for the first time in August 2014, can now be seen full of people and vehicles. We definitely do not want people to stop visiting Ladakh, but we definitely want you to remember this while making your planning your Ladakh trip. A few things that you do might help lessen the impact on the environment. Travel with responsibility, because you have to leave the place as beautiful and grand for your future generation!

• Respect the nature and environment. Do not litter, do not throw plastics and other garbage around. I keep iterating this time and again, so please bear with me.
• Carry cleanliness drive wherever you go.
• Please do not demand luxury here. Although Leh now has a number of luxury stays, but for places beyond Leh like, Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri, please do not demand such treatments. These places are best experienced close to nature without all the lavishness. Stay in eco-friendly accommodations wherever possible.
• Do not waste water.
• Carry a water bottle with you for refilling. Please shun the plastic bottled water.
• Be sensible to the local people, culture and traditions.
• Ask for permission before taking photographs.
• Do not disturb the wildlife. On our way to Pangong Lake, we saw many going near the marmots and feeding them. While it seems fun apparently, but it is disturbing them and should not be done.
• Drive responsibly and try to help others. If possible, consider sharing transport.
• Listen to music, but keep the volume to yourself.
• Try to benefit the local population in every way.

A few more Pictures of Leh & Ladakh

Ladakh is a panacea for all the wanderlust souls. It is one place that we can blindly point at and say “I want to go there again and again”. We have tried to cover the most important questions related to travelling to Leh and Ladakh. If you have any other questions, please feel free to ask by commenting below. If you find this Ladakh Trip Plan useful, please share it with your family and friends.

Pin it for a later read!

Agni Amrita

Related posts.

Hunderman – Ghost Village near Kargil with Museum of Memories

A Trip to Changthang Valley in Ladakh and a Failed one to Tso Moriri

Changpa Tribe of Changthang, Ladakh – The Story of Pashminas

Sham Valley in Ladakh – A Complete Travel Guide

Basgo Monastery, Ladakh – Ruins of Palace and Fort

Saspol Caves – Best-kept Secret of Sham Valley, Ladakh

21 comments.

Loving your blog- you have gone to a great deal of effort, so thanks!

I was wondering if you could advise me a little?

I am fortunate enough to be flying solo into Leh early September until early October- I have 30 days including arrival and departure day. I have trekked/camped/hiked and travelled a lot on my annual leave breaks, prefer low key stuff, on a budget but will be able to cover the routes I really want to do. Not crazy on hostels, more homestay style with the very occasional mini modest splurge. Not a young woman anymore- > 50, but fit and strong and resilient.

I was thinking of going directly down to Likir/Uleytopko region (Uley eco place $$?/Likkir farmhouse $?) area to spend 3 nights acclimatising and easy day walks. Loosely I have come up with the following-

Day 1-4 Likkir/Uleytopko

Day 4- 8 Sham Valley homestay or camping trekking from Likir (inc Hemis monastery, etc), back to Leh

Day 8-10 Leh based

Day 10-17 Markha Valley trekking (inc Shey/Thiksey/Stakna Monasteries, etc) (or I could do a fixed departure group trek Rumtse-TsoMori that leaves a week later taking 11 days -this one takes in the first few days in Zinchen/Spituk/Rumbak/Stok La plus monasteries before starting in Rumtse- this would change up my order a bit obviously)

**Day 17- from here I have 12 days available to see other regions. My thoughts are Nubra/Pangong/Turtuk and Zanskar with acouple of rest days inbetween – what do you think? How would you put a 28 night trip together for good flow?

Love to hear from you if you have time- I have reached that info overload stage and as am going solo have no one really to discuss it with.

Thanks so mych again for your great blog! Gill

Is it safe to visit Ladakh during mid of October?

Yes, you can.

Agni and Amrita – Super blog, what i liked most is the simple narrative with the right amount of relevant information supported by pictures. Minute but very crucial details, so very important for travellers in the planning stage, is extremely invaluable and your post does just that.I am in the planning stage for a Sept Ladakh trip and a bit unclear on the subject of Pangong Tso Day trip.Let me explain my predicament : I don’t want to stay overnight in Pangong tso ( Not sure if we are allowed at all now ) due to the threat of AMS, sleeping at 4225 mtrs elevation ( This would be the penultimate day of a 15 day trip coming from Srinagar side. I would have been properly acclimatised, spending 1N in Sonmarg, 2N in Kargil, 2N in uleytopko,2N in leh, 3N in Nubra valley and yet i dont want to sleep @ 4225 mtrs Therefore, if i have to see Pangong, i am left with only a day trip option. I have the following questions : On google maps, if i put leh to Pangang tso, it shows 223 Kms ( 5 1/2 hrs ) and a point on the opposite side of Merak. Is this the point when we say Pangong lake?. Is viewing the lake near Spangmik not good? ( 156 kms – 4 hrs ). Assuming the answer is yes to this question How many hours of travel by Innova crysta from Leh to spangmik ? ( Difficult to believe Google ) Is the day trip doable ?. Is September 3rd week easy or difficult to cross Chang La ? Apologise for a lengthy request. Brevity was never my forte. Appreciate responses to my questions and any other advise on the day trip to Pangong tso. Thanks

Thank you for your kind words. Leh to Spangmik will take around 5-6 hours depending on the number of breaks you take. Also, if you wish to stop at Hemis, Thiksey and Shey Monastery on the road, then it will take more time. September 3rd week will be a good time to visit. I don’t think crossing the Chang La will be an issue. However, everything depends on the weather. We visited in July and there was quite a bit of snowfall at Khardung La (which is again not expected). Please keep reading our blog and encouraging us. Thank you, again!

Ladakhi people are celebrating its union territory status. Good time to visit. Ladakh will develop now more rapidly

Yes, true that is. It is a good time to visit Ladakh.

I have been to Ladakh many times and still want to go again! That is a very comprehensive guide you made. I really want to go to the Aryan Villages of Dah Hanu. Maybe someday! Places like Alchi monastery and Umling La pass have also been on my mind. I think people should travel responsibly in Ladakh. I have seen how it has become a victim of overtourism.

Thank you Abhinav! Hope Ladakh remains as beautiful in future also.

Wow thats one exhaustive blog on Ladakh i must say . I have read innumerable blogs on the same but yours covers the information so well. Ladakh is still due on my list and have to make it soon before ut becomes a prohibited zone.

Thank you Debjani!

Ladakh landscape is awesome! It looks like a hidden Indian gem! As the 4G is also available, I think it soon will be a popular destination.

Thank you so much. 4G is available only in the main towns.

Hey, this is such an in-depth guide with literally all the information anyone could ask for. To be honest, I didn’t even know where Ladakh was before I came across your blog post! But now I feel like this is definitely a place I would enjoy visiting – these mountains are just absolutely stunning!

Thank you Sarah! Ladakh is a trans-Himalayan region in India – a place for the ultimate adventure. Please do visit Ladakh, I am sure you will love the place.

Great guide for visiting Ladakh. I’ve heard about this Himalayan region, but didn’t realize it was so beautiful. I’d love to visit it someday, so I’ll bookmark your post for future reference. It contains a lot of useful information. Do you have to ask for permission when photographing people, or just about everything?

Thank you Anda! It is better to ask permission for photographing people. For landscape and monasteries, you do not need permission. But a lot of the places are near the international border. At these places and army camps, you are not allowed to take any photographs. Don’t worry, you will see notices of “no photography” at those places. Rest, all good. 🙂

If anyone is planning a trip to Ladakh, they need to read this post. So much useful information to help get the most out of the trip. I was particularly interested in the advice about altitude sickness.

Thank you Laura. Yes, Altitude Sickness is something that you have to keep in mind while visiting Ladakh.

This is an excellent guide to visiting Ladakh. I’d never heard of it before reading this, and I’d love to visit one day! The landscape is incredible, and I love the remoteness of it all. I’m certain I’d suffer from altitude sickness, so I appreciate you listing your tips here. It’s an amazing place and I’m adding it to the India list if I ever get to visit.

Thank you Lisa. Ladakh is truly amazing – a difficult place to visit, but once you are there, you will definitely fall in love with it!

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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!

• What to buy in Ladakh? — Top 9+ Ladakh souvenirs & must things to buy in Ladakh
• Ladakh blog — How to plan Leh Ladakh trip & suggested Ladakh itinerary 15 days

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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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‘conan o’brien must go’: where to watch the new travel series online.

The former late night host is on a mission to meet his fans from all around the world.

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After his appearance on the Hot Ones web series and his return to NBC’s Tonight Show as Jimmy Fallon’s guest, Conan O’Brien is back on TV with his new travel series, Conan O’Brien Must Go .

All four episodes of Conan O’Brien Must Go are available to stream online starting today. You can watch the travel series with a subscription to Max .

At a glance:  How to watch   Conan O’Brien Must Go online

• Release date:  April 18
• Stream online :  Max
• No. of episodes : 4

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'conan o'brien must go' review: conan's max travel series is smartly stupid fun, jean smart to receive the hollywood reporter's trailblazer award at the seattle international film festival.

The new travel series is receiving mostly positive reviews. “ Conan O’Brien Must Go  is a smartly dumb show — or a stupidly smart show — focused (loosely) on what is essential about travel,” Hollywood Reporter chief TV critic Daniel Fienberg writes in his review . “It’s a series about arriving in a new place open to meeting new people, learning new languages, tasting new foods and experiencing uncomfortable new circumstances … and then making fun of them, when all the while you’re mostly mocking yourself and the fears people have about stepping outside of their comfort zones.”

Learn more about Max and the best deals for the streamer here .

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Trans care restrictions force some families to travel hours, spend hundreds for treatment

More than 20 states have gender-affirming care restrictions.

Misty Stamm was working tirelessly to figure out the details: waking up early, the hourslong drives, booking hotels and finding doctors who could legally administer gender-affirming hormone therapy to her 16-year-old transgender daughter.

Stamm is living in one of the 24 states where legislation is restricting gender-affirming health care for transgender youth, so she and parents like her must make long, expensive trips out of their home states to find the care their children need, according to a new report from the Southern Equality Research and Policy Center.

“If we didn't have the care, I don't think she'd be alive,” said Stamm.

Stamm, who lives in Tennessee, drove five hours to get her daughter to a gender clinic in Ohio when her family first started considering care options. She wanted her daughter to be seen by a physician in person.

With new gender-affirming care restrictions set to go into effect soon in Ohio, Stamm and her daughter have since turned to a telehealth provider in Virginia.

However, they still have to drive two hours to Virginia for the online appointment, as to not break Tennessee law, which also bans telehealth providers from providing care and treatments like puberty blockers and hormone therapies to a minor located in the state.

Stamm told ABC News that the time, effort and money they’re spending to access care is worth it.

When she came out as transgender at 13, “the mental health issues stopped completely,” said Stamm. “That affirmed to us that this was the right thing.”

Stamm's daughter had been in counseling and therapy since she was in fifth grade, struggling with her mental health and experiencing depression, anxiety and suicidal ideations.

At age 14, Stamm's daughter received puberty blockers to temporarily pause the development of physical sex characteristics. As her daughter grew older, the family and physicians together decided to move forward with hormone therapy. Throughout this process, they said, psychologists and therapists were consulted and were required for approvals.

“There's no talk of surgery or anything like that,” said Stamm. “That's a decision that she can make when she is an adult.”

Meanwhile, her mental health has progressed exponentially – Stamm said her daughter has since been released by her therapist and is only seen occasionally, as needed.

"She's just doing so well, and if we didn't have access -- we have to have it. She has to have it."

MORE: Report: LGBTQ content drove book banning efforts in 2023

Gas, airfare, lodging and other expenses to cross state lines and access gender-affirming care could cost hundreds to thousands of dollars, the Southern Equality report states.

Stamm says she and her husband have spent likely thousands of dollars in travel costs to get care and are anxiously awaiting the day their daughter turns 18 so she can access care more freely.

The report from Southern Equality Research and Policy Center found that it could take almost 20 hours of driving roundtrip for some families across the South and Midwest to reach a state where trans youth care is legally accessible.

Families with transgender children across southern Florida, Louisiana, Missouri and Texas are the hardest hit, according to the report -- they would need to take a more than eight-hour car ride one way to get to a clinic that serves trans youth.

For Jennifer, an Austin, Texas, resident who asked to go by a pseudonym for safety concerns, said the health care bans in her state threw her family into logistical and financial chaos.

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Her 15-year-old daughter’s appointments to begin hormone therapy were canceled before the law in Texas even went into effect. When they sought out care in Louisiana, providers also were canceling appointments.

She sought out the help of local advocacy groups to help her family find a provider in Texas' neighbor to the west, New Mexico.

However, the costs continue to mount: “We are in a position that we could afford to buy plane tickets and stay in a hotel for a couple of nights and pay all of the out-of-pocket expenses for the medical care,” said Jennifer. “For a lot of people, that's probably not an option.”

Though telehealth has expanded opportunities for access to care, policies like those in Tennessee restrict these appointments for prescriptions from happening in the state and force some families like the Stamms to cross borders for online appointments.

Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee, who signed the gender-affirming care ban , has defended the bill against legal challenges.

"Tennessee is committed to protecting children from permanent, life-altering decisions," said Lee in a post on social platform X after the Justice Department argued the law violates the Fourteenth Amendment's Equal Protection Clause.

Supporters of gender-affirming medical care bans argue that children should wait until they’re older to make these medical decisions, and that there needs to be more research on the impact of these procedures on patients.

In the state’s court filings in opposition to a lawsuit against the ban, the state invokes Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization – the decision which overturned Roe v. Wade and ended federal protections for abortion rights.

The state argues that Dobbs allows states “to regulate medical treatments” and that it does not discriminate against transgender people because “not all transgender individuals use puberty blockers, hormones, or surgery.”

“This Court should acknowledge divergent views and hold that the responsibility to choose between them rests with the people acting through their elected representatives,” read the state’s filing.

The Tennessee Legislature is now considering a bill that could make it a felony to help a minor access gender-affirming care out-of-state without parental consent.

MORE: Kansas governor vetoes gender-affirming trans youth care ban

Transgender care for people under 18 has been a source of contention for state politicians in recent years, impacting a group estimated to make up less than 1.5% of the population ages 13-17, according to an estimate from researchers at the University of California, Los Angeles .

Often due to discrimination, stigma, and gender-related stress, trans youth are at increased risk for poor mental health and suicide, substance use, experiencing violence, and other health risks, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Major national medical associations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Medical Association, the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, and more than 20 others have argued that gender-affirming care is safe, effective and medically necessary.

“Allowing them to live in their identity is what saves their mental health,” Jennifer said in response to criticism over transgender medical care.

As families continue to seek out avenues for care, Jennifer and Stamm want lawmakers to know that they're just a "normal, regular family."

“I want them to see us as people,” Jennifer said. “We are their neighbors, we are people who teach their kids in school. We are people they work with.”

Stamm adds, "She's just a regular kid, just trying to be a regular kid. … This has just presented so many challenges for her and we feel isolated. Our circle is tight and small ... Hopefully, people will be a little bit more empathetic to what we're going through. And how ridiculous all of this is."

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China Had a ‘Special Place’ in Modi’s Heart. Now It’s a Thorn in His Side.

As Narendra Modi seeks a third term as prime minister, India’s rupture with China looms over a pillar of his campaign: making his country a major power.

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By Mujib Mashal and Sameer Yasir

Reporting from New Delhi

Narendra Modi once looked up to China. As a business-friendly Indian state leader, he traveled there repeatedly to attract investment and see how his country could learn from its neighbor’s economic transformation. China, he said , has a “special place in my heart.” Chinese officials cheered on his march to national power as that of “a political star.”

But not long after Mr. Modi became prime minister in 2014, China made clear that the relationship would not be so easy. Just as he was celebrating his 63rd birthday by hosting China’s leader, Xi Jinping — even sitting on a swing with him at a riverside park — hundreds of Chinese troops were intruding on India’s territory in the Himalayas, igniting a weekslong standoff.

A decade later, ties between the world’s two most populous nations are almost completely broken. Continued border incursions flared into a ferocious clash in 2020 that threatened to lead to all-out war. Mr. Modi, a strongman who controls every lever of power in India and has expanded its relations with many other countries, appears uncharacteristically powerless in the face of the rupture with China.

As Mr. Modi seeks a third term in an election that begins on Friday, the tensions weigh heavily on the overarching narrative of his campaign: that he is making India a major global power and, by extension, restoring national pride. Far from the 2,100-mile border, along every avenue where India seeks to expand, China looms as a fierce competitor.

In India’s own backyard in South Asia, China has used its vast resources — the fruits of economic reforms introduced decades before India’s — to challenge Indian pre-eminence, courting partners through infrastructure deals and gaining access to strategic ports.

More broadly, China and India are vying to lead the developing nations of the so-called global south. When India hosted the Group of 20 summit last year, using it to showcase its support of poorer countries, Mr. Xi skipped the event. China has also been a major roadblock in India’s campaign to gain a coveted permanent seat on the U.N. Security Council.

“Today, you encounter an India which perhaps you had never seen before, in many senses,” said Nirupama Menon Rao, a former Indian ambassador to China and the United States. “I think the Chinese are increasingly aware of it, and they would still like to pull us down, to create barriers.”

India’s estrangement with China has provided an opening for Western nations to expand defense and economic ties with New Delhi, a distressing development for Beijing.

India signed a series of deals with the United States last year to strengthen military cooperation . India has also drawn closer to the other two members of the so-called Quad, Australia and Japan, as the group works to counter China’s projection of power.

In addition, India sees an opportunity as the United States and Europe look for alternatives to China as a place to make their products. One early success has been sharply increased production of iPhones in India.

But even with these openings, China continues to expose Indian insecurities. The Chinese economy is about five times the size of India’s, and China remains India’s second-biggest trade partner (after the United States), exporting about six times as much to India as it imports. China spends more than three times what India does on its military, giving its forces a significant advantage across land, sea and air.

The Indian military, which has long struggled to modernize, is now forced to be conflict-ready on two fronts , with China to India’s east and archrival Pakistan to its west.

Tens of thousands of troops from both India and China remain on a war footing high in the Himalayas four years after the deadly skirmishes broke out in the disputed Eastern Ladakh region, where both countries have been building up their military presence. Nearly two dozen rounds of negotiations have failed to bring disengagement.

Although the political opposition has tried to paint Mr. Modi as weak in the face of Chinese encroachment, the border incursions are unlikely to hurt him much politically, given the lack of news coverage from a largely sympathetic Indian media .

Still, Mr. Modi has had to prioritize billions of dollars for border infrastructure and military upgrades as India still struggles to cover the basic needs of its 1.4 billion people. His government is drawing up plans to repopulate hundreds of border villages as a second line of defense against the constant threat of Chinese encroachment.

S. Jaishankar, Mr. Modi’s external affairs minister, admitted recently that there were “no easy answers” to the dilemma posed by India’s aggressive neighbor. “They are changing, we are changing,” Mr. Jaishankar said . “How do we find an equilibrium?”

In a book published in 2020, just as he had taken over as Mr. Modi’s trusted foreign policy architect, Mr. Jaishankar wrote that the tensions between the United States and China set “the global backdrop” for India’s choices in a “world of all against all.” India’s ambitions as a major power, he wrote, would require a juggling act: “engage America, manage China, cultivate Europe, reassure Russia.”

India’s rise as a large, growing economy has allowed it to hold its ground — working with any partner it can benefit from — in a polarized and uncertain world.

Even as India has expanded defense ties with the United States and doubled bilateral trade over the past decade, to about $130 billion in goods alone, it has resisted American pressure to reconsider its strong relations with Russia. India has deepened connections with Europe and the Middle East, too; trade with the United Arab Emirates alone has reached $85 billion.

While India remains wary of becoming a pawn in the West’s fight with Beijing, and has not forgotten its frosty history with the United States, China has become an unavoidable focus after being a secondary threat for much of modern Indian history.

India’s socialist founding prime minister was accommodating of Communist China, but the bonhomie was shattered by a monthlong war in 1962 that left thousands dead. The relationship began to normalize in the 1980s even as incursions continued, and open channels of communication kept tensions down and elevated trade.

“It was a different China,” said Ms. Rao, the former top diplomat.

The situation changed in the years before Mr. Modi took office, she said. As its economy soared, China began flexing its muscles — investing heavily in its Belt and Road infrastructure initiative, which India saw as threatening its security and spheres of influence, and moving more aggressively on its borders and in the Indian Ocean.

Still, Mr. Modi, blacklisted by the United States when he was a state leader over his role in bloody religious riots, continued to extend a hand to Beijing. As prime minister, he did not allow the embarrassment of the Chinese incursion in 2014 to dampen his red-carpet welcome to Mr. Xi. His subtle message — a warning that “a little toothache can paralyze the entire body” — carried the hope that Mr. Xi would come around.

That hope ended with the deadly 2020 clash in Eastern Ladakh. Now, it is clear that New Delhi is resigned to a long-term threat from China, a shift evident in Mr. Modi’s push for road and tunnel construction in border areas to support a large troop presence.

Over the past five years, more than 2,200 miles of roads have been built along the border. In the Kashmir region, over 2,000 workers have been busy for three years digging a high-altitude tunnel that will improve connectivity to Ladakh.

When the tunnel project, which will cost more than $850 million, is completed, it will ensure that traffic moves year round, and reduce travel time by hours.

“For four months, the supplies to the Indian Army were cut off because the road would get closed,” said Harpal Singh, the project head. “After this tunnel is complete, that will not happen again.”

Mr. Modi’s government is also trying to revive hundreds of villages along the border to fortify defenses.

Through a program called Vibrant Villages, the government is working to develop infrastructure, extend services and nurture tourism in the hope of reversing the economic migration that created “ghost villages.”

“What India could have done in the last 20 years, they have to do now in two,” said ​​Sonam Murup, a retired Indian Army officer from Ladakh, referring to infrastructure development in his area.

“Our situation is much better now,” he said. “But when you look toward the Chinese side, you can see villages full of lights.”

Joy Dong contributed reporting from Hong Kong.

Mujib Mashal is the South Asia bureau chief for The Times, helping to lead coverage of India and the diverse region around it, including Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal and Bhutan. More about Mujib Mashal

Sameer Yasir covers news from India and other countries in the region. He is based in New Delhi. More about Sameer Yasir