How to plan a trip to Leh Ladakh
Embarking on my Beautiful Ladakh journey, the excitement peaked with a thrilling landing in Leh, capital of mystical region. Stepping outside, the stunning view of the surrounding peaks immediately signalled that I had entered a whole new world. Furthermore, I’m eager to share some tips to ensure your journey be the best it can be! From the ideal duration of your stay to essential do’s and don’ts, I’ve got you covered for a truly fantastic experience! 😎
How To Get Here
Getting to Ladakh typically involves traveling by air or road, as the region is landlocked and has limited accessibility due to its remote location. Here are the main ways to reach Ladakh:
- By Air: Take a flight to Leh Airport from major Indian cities like Delhi or Srinagar.
- By Road: You can drive to Ladakh from Srinagar (via Zoji La Pass) or Manali (via Rohtang Pass) during the open season from May to October.
Remember that the roads can be tough, and high altitude requires acclimatization. Plan your journey in the warmer months.
Best Season To Travel
- Summer (May to September): Peak season, pleasant weather, vibrant landscapes, open attractions.
- Early Spring (March to April): Off-season, warming up, high passes closures.
- Late Autumn (October to November): Fewer crowds, pleasant weather, some pass closures.
- Winter (December to February): Extremely cold, limited access, winter sports like ice skating and festivals for enthusiasts.
What To Pack
- Inner thermals are a must-pack
- Windcheaters can save you from the cold winds
- Sunscreen is also essential to protect your skin from sunburn
- Basic medication is also a must
Here is my detailed post on what to take at ladakh trip
How many days you need?
Typically, for Leh and Ladakh, to explore the region thoroughly, you will need a maximum of 7 days; otherwise, you might experience mountain sickness as In Ladakh there are mountains and 🗻🗻🗻
– By Ladakh😊
How you will plan your itinerary?
Day 1
Check In to your hotel, stroll around Leh market but don’t do any activities as you will need a day to get acclimatise to weather. So whenever you plan your trip always keep 1 day which will be starting of your trip.
Day 2 (Leh city)
Leh Palace 🏰
Leh Palace, open from 8 AM to 5 PM, is a former royal residence perched atop a mountain. Accessible by hike, it offers picturesque city views
Shanti Stupa 🏯
As for Shanti Stupa, a remote place of worship featuring a large golden Buddha statue, its timings are from 6 AM to 6 PM.
Namgyal Tsemo Monastery 🏯
It is located at the town’s highest point on a hilltop with Tsemo Castle just above it, near Leh Palace, you can explore the rich Buddhist heritage.
Stok Palace 🏰
A magnificent, three-storey structure. Still the summer home of the royal family of Ladakh, about 12 of its 80 rooms remain functional today.
Druk Padma Karpo School NOT Rancho school 🏫
If you’re a fan of “3 Idiots,” visiting the Rancho wall replica can be a fun and memorable experience. However, it’s important to note that this is just a demo place; the actual filming location for “3 Idiots” was opposite to this site.
Day 3 (Leh -> Shyam Valley)
Sangam Viewpoint 🚘
A scenic view where the Zanskar River and the Indus River converge.
Magnetic Hill 🚘
Also call zero gravity where layout of the surrounding landscape creates an optical illusion, making it seem like vehicles roll uphill against gravity. The road is when riding from Leh, follow the highway towards Kargil. Park at the Designated Spot, leave your bike in neutral gear. Due to the optical illusion, it might appear as if your bike is rolling uphill. Some visitors also try pouring water on the road to showcase the “uphill” flow, adding to the fun 😀
Gurudwara Pathar Sahib 🪯
A Sikh shrine, remembering Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s visit, has a legendary boulder. The place is peaceful, welcoming everyone. They offer tea and snacks all day, and a heavenly langar is served at 12:30 pm.
Hall of Fame 🏛️
Managed by the Indian Army, this museum and war memorial not only houses a collection of weapons and history exhibits but also features a souvenir shop. When you visit, take a moment to pay your homage to the martyrs of the Indo-Pak War.
Zorawar Fort 🏰
Moreover, the General Zorawar Fort Light and Sound Show is a captivating attraction that lasts about 30-45 minutes. The show narrates the various wars fought by the late Zorawar Singh and delves into the rich history of the fort, providing a deeper understanding of its significance.
Spituk Monastery 🏯
For those seeking a spiritual retreat, the Spituk Monastery is another noteworthy destination. This Buddhist monastery is celebrated for its impressive architecture and offers breathtaking panoramic views, providing visitors with a serene and spiritually enriching experience.
Day 4 (Leh -> Nubra Valley)
Khardungla Pass 🚘
The journey to Khardungla Pass is exciting! It’s one of the world’s highest motorable passes, offering breathtaking mountain views. A thrilling adventure for all, but remember to wear warm clothes, no matter the season.
Diskit Monastery 🏯
Next on your itinerary is Diskit Monastery 🏯, the oldest and largest monastery in Ladakh, renowned for its giant Maitreya Buddha statue and stunning Himalayan vistas.
Sand Dunes / Camel Ride 🐫
Wrap up your exploration by heading to the Sand Dunes for a delightful Camel Ride 🐫. It’s a charming way to enjoy the picturesque region while riding on the exquisite double-humped Bactrian Camels.
Day 5 (Nubra Valley – Turtuk – Nubra Valley)
Explore Turtuk – Thang 🌳
Turtuk stands as the ultimate outpost in India, marking the commencement of Pakistan-controlled Gilgit-Baltistan. Additionally, it serves as a gateway to the Siachen region. Visiting this locale is a source of pride for every Indian citizen, being the final village on the Leh Baltistan border. Notably, one can observe both Indian and Pakistani bunkers, and the Shyok River flows into Pakistan from this point.
Yabgo Royal House 🏛️
The Yabgo rajas of Chorbat-Baltistan trace their dynasty back to Central Asia. They have maintained a palace in Turtuk since at least the 15th century. What remains is a modest two-storey courtyard house with aged wooden columns and an upstairs museum. The current King is likely to give you a history lesson. He might point out the royal genealogical chart, the three styles of royal crown (Pashto, Mongol, and peacock-feathered turban), and the weapons of his various forebears. You can actually talk to the king.
Day 6 (Nubra Valley -> Pangong Lake)
Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary
Home to various species, including the Himalayan marmot, this sanctuary features inhabitants adapted to its high-altitude plateaus and rocky terrain. Alongside marmots, residents include the Tibetan wild ass (kiang), snow leopards, and migratory birds. However, it’s essential to avoid feeding wildlife as it disrupts their natural behaviors, poses health risks, and alters the ecosystem. Observing from a distance is encouraged to maintain their well-being and the ecological balance.
Pangong (Tso/Lake) 🌊
A stunning site that stretches nearly 150km along the India-China border. Moreover, camping by the lake is a fascinating activity, offering the chance to experience its captivating beauty. The lake’s colors shift from deep blue to turquoise, adding to the allure of this natural wonder.
Day 7 Pangong Lake to Leh
Chang La Pass 🚘
Chang La Pass, is one of the world’s highest motorable passes at 5,360 meters. Connecting Leh to the picturesque Pangong Lake, it offers stunning mountain views. The pass, known for its unpredictable weather, adds an adventurous touch to the journey. Travellers should acclimatise due to the high altitude. Besides its natural beauty, Chang La is home to the Chang La Baba Temple, adding a touch of spirituality to the breathtaking road trip.
Hemis Monastery and Museum 🏯🏛️
Hemis Monastery, a renowned site in Ladakh, boasts one of the most famous monastic structures. Notably, the centerpiece is an awe-inspiring statue of Padmasambhava, a revered Buddhist teacher, standing over 30 feet tall and crafted from copper, gold, and silver. This remarkable statue holds the global recognition as the largest Padmasambhava statue.
Thiksey Monastery 🏯
Moving on to Thiksey Monastery, situated atop a hill, it bears a striking resemblance to the Potala Palace in Tibet. Furthermore, being the largest gompa in central Ladakh, Thiksey is a must-visit destination near Leh. For an enhanced experience, be sure to ascend to the top floor, where you can explore the prayer room of the monks.
Day 8 Tsomoriri Lake 🌊
The Tsomoriri Lake is located in the Changthang Plateau region of northern India. It is also known by the name Tso Moriri, Lake Moriri, or “Mountain Lake”. The lake is an artificially created reservoir and is the fourth largest in the world, after Lake Mead, Lake Powell, and Lake Hyder. The lake is protected as the Tso Moriri wetland conservation reserve. This enchanting lake contains the water of springs and snowmelts. Tsomoriri Lake is a wonderful attraction to visit during your Ladakh trip. It’s almost near to Pangong Lake.
So here you will be thinking why I have add day 8. Actually if you have extra day or you want to swap any of the above day then you can go to Tsomiri trust me you will not regret.
I have categorised the places which are best for long drive by car/bike and with pictureq view and the ones with monastery/fort
🏯 – Monastery
🚘 – Motorable passes
🏰 – Palace / Fort
🌳 – Village
🌊 – Lake
🏛️ – Museum
Some useful tips
- Acclimatization: Ladakh is at a high altitude, so it’s essential to acclimatize properly to prevent altitude sickness. Spend the first day in Leh relaxing and gradually engage in more strenuous activities.
- Permits: Certain areas in Ladakh, especially near international borders, may require n Inner Line Permit (ILP) for tourists. you can obtain the permit in Leh online through Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC). Check the specific categories and validity periods for the areas you plan to visit, and carry necessary documents, such as a copy of your passport and visa.
- Weather: Ladakh experiences cold weather, even in summer. Pack accordingly with warm clothing, especially if you plan to visit high-altitude places like Pangong Lake.
- Respect Local Customs: Ladakh has a rich cultural heritage. Respect local customs, especially when visiting monasteries. Dress modestly, remove your shoes before entering, and avoid disturbing religious ceremonies.
- Health Precautions: Carry any necessary medications, as the region might have limited healthcare facilities in remote areas. Stay hydrated, protect yourself from the sun, and be cautious with the thin mountain air.
- Explore Local Festivals: If your visit coincides with local festivals, such as the Hemis Tsechu, consider attending to experience the vibrant culture and traditions of the region.
- Environmental Responsibility: Be mindful of the fragile ecosystem. Avoid littering, respect wildlife, and follow responsible tourism practices to minimise your environmental impact.
Some useful links
- Ladakh Tourism: The official website provides information on tourist destinations, accommodations, and travel tips.
- Travel Health Advice for Ladakh: Get health-related information and vaccination recommendations for traveling to Ladakh from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
- Adventure Sports in Ladakh: Explore the adventure activities available in Ladakh, such as trekking, river rafting, and mountain biking.
- Leh Airport: Information about the Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh, including flight schedules and services.
