Ladakh
Leh & Ladakh Travel Guide
Blue lakes, mountain passes and Tibetan Buddhist monasteries.
- Best months May–Sept
- Ideal trip length 7–10 days
Ladakh is a high-altitude Himalayan region of stark mountains, deep blue lakes and Tibetan Buddhist monasteries. Leh, its main town, sits at about 3,500 metres and is the base for trips to Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri. It is a trip of landscapes and altitude, best planned over seven to ten days so that your body has time to adjust.
Best time to visit
Recommended
May or June to September is the main season, when roads are open and the weather is warm in the day and cold at night. Winter, from roughly November to March, is extremely cold and many roads and services close, although some travellers go for the frozen landscapes. Check road status before you plan, because passes open and close with the weather.
How to reach
Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (IXL) at Leh has direct flights from Delhi and some other cities. Flying in is the most common way to reach Ladakh, and it means you arrive at altitude straight away, so plan to rest on the first days.
There is no railway in Ladakh. The nearest railheads are Jammu Tawi, for the route via Srinagar, and Chandigarh or Kalka, for the route via Manali, followed by a long road journey.
Two highways lead to Leh: from Srinagar through Kargil, and from Manali over several high passes. Both are seasonal, generally open from late spring to early autumn, and journeys take one to two days with a halt on the way.
Where to stay
Leh town has the widest choice of hotels and guesthouses, and homestays and camps are available in Nubra, near Pangong Tso and in villages. Book ahead for June to August. Camps near the lakes are basic, and nights are very cold.
Top things to see and do
- 1
Leh Palace and Shanti Stupa
A former royal palace overlooking the old town and a white-domed stupa with sunset views over the valley.
- 2
Thiksey and Hemis Monasteries
Large Buddhist monasteries near Leh. Thiksey is known for its hilltop setting and Hemis for its annual festival.
- 3
Nubra Valley
A green valley beyond the Khardung La pass with sand dunes at Hunder, Diskit Monastery and double-humped camels.
- 4
Pangong Tso
A long high-altitude lake that changes colour through the day, with camps along its shore. Special permits are required.
- 5
Tso Moriri and Tso Kar
Quieter high-altitude lakes in the Changthang region, popular with birdwatchers and travellers seeking solitude.
- 6
Lamayuru and Alchi
Old monasteries west of Leh, with Lamayuru set in a moon-like landscape and Alchi known for its ancient paintings.
Food to try
Try thukpa, momos, skyu and tsampa-based dishes, along with butter tea and Ladakhi bread. Leh has cafes serving Indian, Tibetan and continental food, and apricot products are a local speciality.
Travel tips
- Rest for at least the first one or two days in Leh before travelling higher, drink plenty of water, and avoid alcohol and heavy exertion until you have adjusted.
- Consult a doctor before the trip if you have any heart, lung or blood pressure conditions, and ask about altitude medication rather than self-prescribing.
- Indian visitors need permits for certain areas such as Nubra, Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri, and foreign nationals need protected area permits; apply through the official Ladakh administration channels, as rules change.
- Carry cash, sun protection, warm layers and a power bank, and expect patchy mobile connectivity and occasional shortages of fuel and ATMs outside Leh.
Frequently asked questions
How many days do I need for Ladakh?
Seven to ten days is a good plan, with two days to adjust in Leh, a few days around Nubra and Pangong Tso, and buffer days for weather and road delays.
Is Ladakh safe for a first mountain trip?
Many first-time visitors go, but altitude sickness is a real risk. Plan a slow start, stay hydrated, listen to your body and descend or seek help if symptoms get worse.
Can I visit Ladakh in winter?
Yes, but it is very cold and services are limited. Flights usually continue, while many roads close. It suits well-prepared travellers rather than first-time visitors.
Day-by-day itineraries
Official sources
Timings, fees, permits, closures and transport change often. Please confirm current details with the official sources above before you travel.