Ladakh Travel Guide
Overview
Ladakh — often called “The Land of High Passes” — is a union territory in northern India known for its dramatic landscapes, snow-capped mountains, ancient monasteries, and crystal-clear lakes. It sits at over 10,000 ft above sea level and is a paradise for adventure lovers, bikers, photographers, and spiritual seekers.
Key Destinations
1. Leh
- Highlights: Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, Magnetic Hill, Hall of Fame, Leh Market.
- Experience: Base for acclimatization and local sightseeing before exploring other regions.
2. Nubra Valley
- Highlights: Diskit Monastery, Hunder Sand Dunes (with double-humped camels), Turtuk Village (last village on Indo-Pak border).
- Access: Via Khardung La Pass, one of the world’s highest motorable roads.
3. Pangong Lake
- Highlights: Stunning blue lake that changes color with sunlight; extends into China.
- Stay: Camps or eco-cottages near Spangmik village.
4. Tso Moriri Lake
- Highlights: Serene high-altitude lake in Changthang region; lesser-crowded alternative to Pangong.
- Experience: Ideal for nature lovers and bird watchers.
5. Kargil
- Highlights: War Memorial, Suru Valley, Mulbekh Monastery.
- Note: Midway point between Srinagar and Leh — great stopover for scenic views.
6. Zanskar Valley
- Highlights: Frozen Chadar Trek (in winter), monasteries, and remote village life.
- Best for: Trekking and offbeat adventures.
How to Reach
- By Air: Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (Leh) connects to Delhi, Srinagar, Chandigarh.
- By Road:
- Manali–Leh Highway (open May–Oct): Scenic drive via Rohtang & Baralacha Pass.
- Srinagar–Leh Highway (open May–Nov): Via Zoji La and Drass Valley.
- Winter Access: Most roads close due to heavy snowfall; only air travel possible.
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Months | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Summer | May–September | Ideal weather, road trips, treks, festivals |
| Winter | October–March | Snow landscapes, Chadar Trek, minimal crowds |
Things to Do
- Bike Trip: Legendary Leh–Manali or Leh–Srinagar routes.
- Camping: Pangong, Nubra, or Tso Moriri.
- Trekking: Markha Valley, Chadar, Stok Kangri (for experienced climbers).
- Monastery Tour: Hemis, Thiksey, Alchi, Lamayuru.
- Photography: Milky Way, lakes, monasteries, and starry skies.
- Attend Festivals: Hemis Festival, Ladakh Festival, Losar (Tibetan New Year).
Local Cuisine
Try:
- Thukpa: Noodle soup
- Momos: Steamed dumplings
- Skyu: Traditional pasta dish
- Butter Tea: Salty tea with yak butter
- Chang: Local barley beer
Where to Stay
- Luxury: The Grand Dragon Ladakh, The Zen Ladakh
- Mid-range: Hotel Omasila, Ladakh Residency
- Budget/Backpackers: Zostel Leh, homestays in Nubra & Pangong
Travel Tips
- Acclimatize for 1–2 days in Leh before heading higher.
- Carry Diamox (for altitude sickness), sunscreen, lip balm, and warm clothes.
- ATMs are limited; carry some cash.
- Respect local customs and monastery rules.
- Plastic use is discouraged — carry refillable bottles.