can we visit ladakh in may

• Destinations
• Testimonials
• Trip Calendar
• Experiences
• Private Trips

Username or E-Mail

Forget Password?

Do not have an account?

Already a member.

10 great reasons to visit Leh-Ladakh in May

Planning a road trip to Leh-Ladakh is more than just booking a package or your flights or rooms, it’s about getting the timing correct, so your time in Ladakh isn’t just memorable but is inspiring and life changing at the same time. 

May is the month which we at tlow know is the best for anyone seeking a raw rugged experience around Leh-Ladakh without the hassle of being stormed by the Goa beach crowd. 

Table of Contents

Pre-season 

The primary reason you should consider your Leh-Ladakh road trip in May, is because its pre-season. Ladakh has been growing in crowd since the dawn of Covid-19. So May is the month, when the roads leading to Leh open. Hence, it’s the best time to hit the road, if you don’t like the herd of crowds that comes with the peak of season. 

Cheaper  

The start of the season is always when things are a lot cheaper than what it is when the season picks up and the crowd starts the flow in. Everything other than the cost of the vehicle will change from May to June. You’ll find a good 30% difference in costing when you plan a trip to Ladakh in May. 

Less crowd  

Crowd is the single defining factor which differentiates between shoulder season and real season. In May, you can say Leh and Ladakh is around 40% of its tourist intake capacity. But as the year rolls into June, it’s when an ocean of humans will be seen at every nook and corner. Even in the middle of nowhere, you’ll find humans. So if you want the cold desert wilderness experience, May is the month. 

Fresh locals 

This is vital to your Leh experience, since everyone in tourism who’s adding value to your holiday is a human. It’s always better to get there at the start, when the humans are fresh in mind, soul and body.  The best conversations happen anytime, but the number of conservations will reduce as the months keep moving ahead. 

Better road condition

Like the humans in the previous point, the roads are also in the best of condition at the start of season. Since most of them are done up before the start of season. 

Less roadblocks

Roadblocks in Leh Ladakh are caused by various factors, one of the biggest causes of roadblocks in Ladakh is falling of rocks which happen when the snow melts and the rocks start to get loose from the streamsof water. May is still the end of winter in Ladakh, so the rocks at the higher passes are still frozen and the chances of road blocks is limited. 

Snowfall at passes 

It can snow any time in Leh-Ladakh at the passes but May is the season when the probability of show fall is higher than the remaining months. Even if you don’t get to see snowfall during the duration of your trip, you will definitely get a better snow experience since again less people means less trash.  

Pleasant weather

Ladakh is one of the few places in the world where you can die from a heat store and a frost bite on the same day. Such is the extreme weather conditions that one has to come prepared for. But the month of May is transition from winter to spring to summer.  You won’t get the extreme dry heat of June to August and at the same time, you won’t get the extreme cold of October to December.  

Traveller vibe 

If you’re a traveller in your mind and soul, then you’ll hate the vibe in June, July and August. The tourists will flock to Ladakh and end up making a mess of what your expectations from this cold desert have been built up in the mind for the last decade.  To get the real rugged feel of Leh-Ladakh pre-season is the only option now in life after Covid. 

Better content 

Let’s be honest, the real reason we all are travelling today is purely content. So if you want those Nat Geo style images from Leh-Ladakh, that have really got you planning a road trip to Ladakh, then May is the month where you get the shots. Any other time of the year and it’s gonna be a task for you to click those pictures. So if content is why you are travelling to Leh-Ladakh, then May has to be the month.

Related Posts

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Trending Blog’s

Trending Trips

4N/5D Bhutan Road Trip

4N/5D South Sri Lanka road trip

3N/4D South Sri Lanka Road Trip

5N/6D Backpacker trip around Bhutan

2N/3D Coorg Budget Road Trip

3N/4D Kashmir Backpacking Trip

Going somewhere.

10 Best Places to Visit Ladakh in May 2024

Various tourists have referred to Ladakh as “the land of dreams” . Different lakes, Breathtaking Landscapes, high-altitude Mountain Ranges, Quaint Communities, Gorgeous Valleys, and religious Monasteries can all be found. The majority of Ladakh is yet unexplored by travellers from all over the world who come to see this beautiful region throughout their vacations.

River rafting, backpacking, mountain climbing, mountain cycling, and other adventurous activities are available to adventure junkies. Animals can therefore be found in plenty, allowing wildlife enthusiasts to participate in activities such as wildlife investigation, bird observation, and so on. Below are the top 10 locations in Ladakh where you can spend your May month vacation.

Table of Contents

Ladakh Weather in May:

In May, Ladakh transitions into a mesmerizing blend of spring and early summer, offering travelers a unique opportunity to experience its beauty. Temperatures range from a brisk 5°C to a more comfortable 16°C during the day, while nights can still be quite chilly, dropping to near or below freezing. This month is characterized by clear, sunny skies and minimal precipitation, making it ideal for outdoor activities like trekking and sightseeing. The snow from winter begins to melt, revealing vibrant valleys and high-altitude lakes in their full glory.

Roads and mountain passes, including the iconic Khardung La and Chang La, become more accessible, inviting adventurers to explore remote areas like Nubra Valley and Pangong Tso Lake. Despite the daytime warmth, visitors should pack layers for the cold evenings and mornings. May also brings cultural vibrancy to Ladakh, with several festivals taking place in its monasteries, offering glimpses into the rich local traditions and spirituality. Overall, May is one of the best times to visit Ladakh for those looking to explore its stunning landscapes and cultural heritage under the comfort of pleasant weather.

List of the 10 Places to Visit in Leh Ladakh in May:

1. pangong lake.

Pangong Lake is situated at a higher elevation in the Himalayan mountain region and has a spectacular environment. With turquoise water, a rocky lakeshore, and a magnificent backdrop, this lake offers a magnificent panoramic viewpoint. The presence of snow in the mountains transforms this location into something that cannot be expressed in language. As the sun’s position moves in this reservoir, you can see changing colours of blue and green. Read more info:  Pangong Tso Lake, Ladakh: How to Reach, Best Time Visit & Weather .

Bird lovers and photographers will relish this location, which is home to a variety of migrating species such as eagles, ducks, and seagulls. Ice skating and outdoor activities are also available right adjacent to the lake for adventure seekers.

Things to Do : Enjoy bird watching, camping by the lake, and photography of the stunning landscape.

How to Reach : The nearest airport is Leh Airport. Pangong Lake is about 5-6 hours drive from Leh via the Chang La pass.

2. Tso Moriri Lake

This lake is positioned among the enormous Himalayan range’s dark hills. This remote lake is a gift from the environment to Leh. Tso Moriri Lake is India’s biggest floating lake. It is 400 kilometers from Pangong Lake and settles at a height of 15000 feet above sea altitude. Because of the difficult climate, only a small number of travellers visit this location. Check more details:  Tso Moriri Lake: Things to Do, How to Reach, Best Time Visit & Weather .

This lake’s magnificence and cleanliness are impossible to convey in a few sentences. There aren’t many people here; it’s only you and this lovely lake.

Things to Do : Witness the serene beauty, spot rare wildlife around the area, and experience the tranquility of the surroundings.

How to Reach : Accessible by road from Leh, approximately 220 km away. The journey requires crossing high-altitude passes.

• 5 Nights 6 Days Ladakh Itinerary
• 7 Days Trip to Leh Ladakh Package
• 5 Days Ladakh Trip Itinerary
• Ladakh Package for 6 Days
• 6 Nights 7 Days Ladakh Itinerary
• Ladakh Itinerary 6 Nights 7 Days
• More Itinerary for Leh Ladakh Click here…

3. Nubra Valley

Nubra Valley is among Leh Ladakh’s greatest popular valleys, with numerous spectacular views that make it a must-see. The Nubra Valley is located 150 kilometers from Leh, the center of Ladakh. This valley is surrounded by a vast expanse of freezing desert, different dehydrated terrains, and beautiful green farmland.

Nubra Valley is adorned with a plethora of colourful Buddhist temples, apple and apricot plants, and beautiful communities situated in the heart of the snowy desert. The Nubra River and the Shyok River, which stream at the valley’s edges, add to the area’s appeal.

Things to Do : Explore the Diskit Monastery, ride Bactrian camels in the Hunder dunes, and visit the hot springs in Panamik.

How to Reach : Located around 150 km from Leh, it can be reached via Khardung La, one of the highest motorable roads.

Enquire Now on Ladakh Tour by Cities

4. Markha Valley

Markha Valley is one of Ladakh’s most stunning valleys, situated in the Himalayan region. Kang Yatse checks up on this location. This valley is undoubtedly a tracker’s dream, with visitors coming from all over the world.

This valley is a naturalist’s dream, with quiet inhabitants, lush green fields, a murmuring river, and other natural wonders. Throughout your journey to this Valley, you must see the different abandoned watchtowers and castles.

Things to Do : Engage in trekking through this popular trail, visit ancient monasteries, and experience the local culture in mountain villages.

How to Reach : The trek starts from Spituk or Stok, which are easily accessible from Leh by road.

5. Khardungla Pass

The Khardungla Pass serves as an entrance to Ladakh’s Nubra Region. It is also recognized as India’s longest motorable roadway, which provides a stunning scenic panorama as well as a sense of accomplishment as you are at the pinnacle of the globe.

This pass is especially significant since it is the only way weapons and other supplies can be delivered to the Indian Army located on the Siachen border. Though this region is every adventurer’s dream, it is among the world’s most deadly passes due to a shortage of oxygen and the possibility of altitude syndrome.

Things to Do : Experience one of the highest motorable roads in the world, and enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayas.

How to Reach : Just 40 km from Leh, it can be reached by road, making for an adventurous drive.

Ladakh Tour Packages 2024

6. Hemis National Park

Hemis National Park is one of the biggest national reserves throughout South Asia, covering 4400 square kilometers. In this Nature Reserve, you can see a variety of animals as well as several uncommon Himalayan birds, making it a delight for bird watchers. Adventurers are attracted to this location because it offers spectacular landscapes while hiking through the landscape. Read Also: Famous Wildlife Sanctuary Ladakh – Changthang and Hemis National Park.

This location is primarily visited by visitors who seek to see snow leopards around Ladakh. Also, read  How to Reach Hemis National Park from Leh .

Things to Do : Wildlife spotting including the Snow Leopard, trekking, and visiting the Hemis Monastery.

How to Reach : About 50 km from Leh, accessible by road. Entry is typically part of a guided tour.

7. Leh Palace

The royal empire of Ladakh resided at Leh Palace. This palace is built in a similar style as Tibet’s Patola Palace, which was built in the 17th century.

This palace is composed of wood, rocks, and sand, and its walls are covered in exquisite paintings and sculptures. Historians, reporters, experienced photographers, and archaeologists are the most common visitors to this location.

Things to Do : Explore the nine-story palace that provides stunning views of Leh and the surrounding areas. Visit the museum inside the palace.

How to Reach : Located in Leh city, it is easily reachable by foot or by taxi from anywhere in Leh.

• Travel to Ladakh from Delhi
• Ladakh Packages from Mumbai
• Trip to Ladakh from Bangalore
• Ladakh Itinerary from Kolkata
• Trip to Ladakh from Chennai
• Leh Ladakh from Pune
• Ladakh Trip from Hyderabad
• Ahmedabad from Ladakh Tour
• Ladakh Tour Packages from Srinagar
• Manali from Ladakh Bike Tour

8. Shanti Stupa

Shanti Stupa is a white-domed Buddhist monument, built in 1991. The Stupa was built in Leh by Japanese Buddhists with the assistance of several Ladakh Buddhists. This is a two-story structure with a Ladakh-style construction.

On the first storey, there is a golden sculpture of Buddha in a sitting posture, while on the second storey, several images reflect Buddha’s entire journey from childhood to death. This Stupa serves as an emblem of peace between Ladakh and Japan.

Things to Do : Enjoy panoramic views of Leh Town, and visit the white-domed stupa which symbolizes peace and spirituality.

How to Reach : Situated on a hilltop in Chanspa, Leh, it can be reached by car or by climbing the stairs from Changspa.

Ladakh Packages By Destinations

9. Magnetic Hill

Ladakh is also known as a territory of strange happenings. Whether it is the landscape, civilization, or anything else, this location never neglects to amaze its visitors. How can we overlook Ladakh’s magnetic Hill while we’re speaking about mysteries?

While travelling between Leh to Kargil, Magnetic Hill is situated 30 kilometers away. Even though the vehicle’s engine is turned off and the car is already in a standby state, the vehicle is considered to travel upward at a slower speed on this road.

This is unthinkable according to the theory of gravitation, but it also happens in the Magnetic Hill.

Things to Do : Witness the optical illusion of vehicles seemingly moving uphill on their own.

How to Reach : Located on the Leh-Kargil-Baltik national highway, about 30 km from Leh.

10. Kargil War Memorial

The Kargil War Memorial, also renowned as the Drass War Memorial, honours army personnel who sacrificed their lives to safeguard their nation. This museum contains a variety of photos and banners.

The museum’s biggest feature is a pink marble wall with the names of soldiers imprinted on it. Each year on July 26th, Vijay Diwas is commemorated to honour the warriors who devoted their lives to bringing success to the battle.

Ladakh is among the nicest destinations to travel to in India, with a variety of sights to see while you’re there. For a thrilling adventure, organize a trip to Ladakh and experience the 10 greatest locations to visit in May.

Things to Do : Pay homage to the soldiers who lost their lives in the Kargil war, visit the museum and see the memorial inscriptions.

How to Reach : Situated in Dras, on the Srinagar-Leh National Highway, about 60 km from Kargil town.

• Honeymoon Places to Visit Ladakh
• Interesting Facts in Ladakh
• Ladakh Popular Places to See
• Famous Lakes in Ladakh
• 5 Star Hotels in Ladakh
• Diskit Monastery Travel Guide
• Places to Visit Ladakh in June 2024
• 14 Things to Do in Ladakh
• Ladakh 10 Reasons to Visit
• Adventure Activities in Ladakh
• Fuel Availability in Ladakh (Petrol Pumps)
• Best Places to Visit August 2024 in Ladakh
• Ladakh Destinations to Visit in September 2024

About The Author

Tusk Travel Team

Related posts.

10 Best Monasteries in Ladakh That You must Visit

Ladakh reopen Pangong Lake for tourist after Covid 19

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Things to do in Ladakh in May

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Looking for a different month?

May is a great time to visit Ladakh .

Ladakh has plenty to offer for visitors of all ages and interests. In this article, we tell you the top things to see and do for your May trip to Ladakh. Get inspired by the events, activities, attractions, and experiences unique to May. We’ll let you know where to explore events based on your interests, whether that’s food, culture, art, music, sport or others.

Table of contents

• Experiences
• Attractions

Best events and things to do in Ladakh in May

Top experiences in may, holidays in ladakh in may.

• Buddha Purnima/Vesak ( May 23 )

Other notable holidays

• Ramzan Id/Eid-ul-Fitar ( April 10 — 11 )
• Ambedkar Jayanti ( April 14 )
• Rama Navami ( April 17 )
• Mahavir Jayanti ( April 21 )
• Bakrid/Eid ul-Adha ( June 17 )
• Muharram/Ashura ( July 17 )
• Independence Day ( August 15 )
• Janmashtami ( August 26 )
• Milad un-Nabi/Id-e-Milad ( September 16 )
• Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti ( October 2 )
• First Day of Sharad Navratri ( October 3 )
• First Day of Durga Puja Festivities ( October 9 )
• Dussehra ( October 12 )

Best attractions for Ladakh in May

Top searches in Ladakh

What's the weather like in ladakh.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Ladakh for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Ladakh in January
• Weather in Ladakh in February
• Weather in Ladakh in March
• Weather in Ladakh in April
• Weather in Ladakh in May
• Weather in Ladakh in June
• Weather in Ladakh in July
• Weather in Ladakh in August
• Weather in Ladakh in September
• Weather in Ladakh in October
• Weather in Ladakh in November
• Weather in Ladakh in December

Explore nearby places

• Vaishno Devi
• Dera Baba Nanak
• Shahdara Sharif

All related maps of Ladakh

• Map of Ladakh
• Map of Jammu City
• Map of Nagrota
• Map of Katra
• Map of Udhampur
• Map of Sialkot
• Map of Vaishno Devi
• Map of Mansar
• Map of Sanasar
• Map of Patnitop
• Map of Narowal
• Map of Kathua
• Map of Dera Baba Nanak
• Map of Madhopur
• Map of Doda
• Map of Pathankot
• Map of Gurdaspur
• Map of Gujranwala
• Map of Rajauri
• Map of Duhka
• Map of Verinag
• Map of Batala
• Map of Dalhousie
• Map of Nurpur
• Map of Shahdara Sharif
• Map of Qadian
• Map of Kohri
• Map of Jhelum
• Map of Khajjiar
• Map of Mirpur
• Map of Anantnag

Ladakh throughout the year

• Ladakh in January
• Ladakh in February
• Ladakh in March
• Ladakh in April
• Ladakh in May
• Ladakh in June
• Ladakh in July
• Ladakh in August
• Ladakh in September
• Ladakh in October
• Ladakh in November
• Ladakh in December

• Itinerary + map in one view
• Live collaboration
• Auto-import hotels and reservations
• Optimize your route
• Offline access on mobile
• See time and distance between all your places

Leh Ladakh in May – A Guide to Plan a Ladakh Trip in May

How about visiting Ladakh in May? Will it be a good idea if you wish to visit Leh-Ladakh region in the month of May? Well, if too have the similar questions in mind, here we will be sharing some tips and guidelines so that you can decide well whether to visit Ladakh in May or not; stay tuned till the last!

If you are an avid follower of Leh-Ladakh, and is yearning for the idyllic time to visit and explore the untouched beauty of this part of the country, May month could be your perfect host! In fact, this is the month of the year that is often revered as one of the most promising months to visit Ladakh.

Now that if you ask, you may ask why the month of May is considered as the best time to visit Ladakh. Well, May months is almost the mid-phase of the year. This is the time, when the seasonal transition occurs at full swing in Ladakh, which in turn, marks the beginning of the tourism season in the region. During this month, all the routes to Ladakh resumes their operation making way for the bikers, backpackers, and all other classes of travellers.

Throughout this month, the region experiences absolutely pleasant climate. Temperature remains moderate as compared to the high elevation of Ladakh. While day temperature remains moderately warm, nights may get a bit crispy. However, on a whole, the temperature level remains within all tolerable limits.

Adding to all these, all the routes to remote tourist destinations also open up during the month of May. If you are planning a trip to Ladakh in May, you can have a remarkable itinerary as in this month, almost all the major tourist destinations can be accessed without any difficulties or seasonal obstacles.

How to Reach Ladakh in May?

Air travel is always considered as the best as well as easiest way to reach Ladakh throughout the year. However, if fun and thrill are the things you are craving for, you should always plan road trip to Ladakh. And in case, you are planning for a trip to Ladakh in May, you can plan your trip via Srinagar-Leh Highway and Manali-Leh Highway.

Ladakh through Srinagar-Leh Highway:

A road trip to Ladakh in May via Srinagar-Leh Highway is a pleasant and equally pleasing experience. By the time May month approaches, most of this route gets cleared, and it get ready once again to cater to the road trippers. However, one needs to check with the local authorities or service providers before embarking on a road trip to Ladakh in May via Srinagar-Leh Highway as at times, the route may not be open to commuters or travellers due to weather conditions.

And while talking about hindrances due to weather, one should also note down that due to bad conditions, avalanches take place close to the Zoji La Pass that causes the road blockage. Once these get cleared, communication resumes all over again, and the route is cleared to continue with the journey to Leh.

To note here, it is advisable not to embark on a road trip to Ladakh in May via this route during the early days of the month for this could be the peak time of avalanche effect in the region.

Ladakh through Manali-Leh Highway:

Manali-Leh Highway remains closed during the early days of May as the route still remains under the clutches of snow. Most of the times, even the cleared sections also get into a bad state due to the effect of the snow on the road. This on a whole, results in temporary blockades of the route.

Nonetheless, towards the end of May, the Manali-Leh Highway gets back to life and starts alluring travellers to embark on their trip to Ladakh in May. The route opens up completely and even public transport also becomes available post the first weeks of June. Hence, if you admire to do Leh-Ladakh trip via Manali-Leh Highways, you have to keep your travel days at the very end of May or even the beginning of June for you to be assured that the road is available for transportation.

Suggested Read: Things to do in Ladakh in May & Places to visit in Ladakh in May

Some shared Taxis are available in Srinagar for transport to Leh Ladakh. However, it is advised that if budget is not a constraint for you, or if you are looking for easier ways to reach Ladakh in May, you should always prefer flight journeys to reach your dream destination. This is because it will ease your cost of having to put up with some rough road and also save you the tiredness associated with navigation through rugged terrains, tricky roads, treacherous slopes, and others.

Points to Note if Visiting Ladakh in May:

Leh ladakh roads in may.

Be it about reaching Leh-Ladakh or manoeuvring across Leh-Ladakh, most of the road regains operation in May month. Starting from Srinagar-Leh Highway and Manali-Leh Highway, other roads that connect Leh with most of the tourist destinations in Ladakh also open up in this month. Thus, visitors get rewarded with easier and safer mode of communication. While approaching towards Leh-Ladakh, one can hire private taxis or rental car services to ease up the journey. On the other hand, once they are in Leh, they can once again book local tour operators; who mostly offer safari jeeps to transfer visitors’ groups. Jeeps are still considered as the most reliable mode of communication while tripping around Leh and other popular tourist destinations in Ladakh.

Accommodation Facilities

May marks the beginning of tourist season in Leh Ladakh. Almost all the accommodation facilities gear up once again to cater to the needs and requirements of all the visitors to Leh-Ladakh region. In this month, it is once again advisable to make prior booking as the influx of visitors starts increasing, and soon, local hotels and other stay options may run out of rooms and services.

However, because it is the start of the season and tourist traffic is manageable, you can land accommodation facilities upon arrival at well-bitted prices. The environment in these facilities is conducive to running warms and cold showers; piped water and the best of washroom utilities against the conditions in January where you are only supplied with an open hole squatting washroom facility.

Clothes for Leh Ladakh in May

Be informed that weather conditions in Leh Ladakh in May remains unpredictable during the day. This means that the sun will be lit but with the occasional cold wind blowing. Moreover, because of the low room temperature, you may feel cold when in shaded areas. Therefore, you are advised to rock into both light and some heavy stuff. A good light woollen jacket with a hoody may do you well over your cotton clothes. Be flexible to adjust your clothes until you feel comfortable for the day. You can rock some good sport shoes. If this is not available then ay shoes with a good sole that is griped well may do you some good experience in Leh Ladakh.

Book your flight early enough

Anyone planning for a Ladakh trip in May via flight, they must book their flights much prior to their flying date. As already mentioned, May month is the opening of the tourism season across Leh-Ladakh region, thus, the number of visitors flying in and out from the region increases tremendously, making it pretty tough or difficult to get available tickets.

Also, due to the huge influx of visitors from all across the globe, the ticket price may spike up without any prior notice. If you are concerned about your budget, you should definitely book your flights much earlier and be stress-free!

Hire Only Local and Certified Tour Guides

Whenever planning a trip to a new destination, it would be always wise to opt for a guide. And in case, you are able to find a local guide, you would be ensured with all the fun and excitement. Adding to this, if the local guide is from a certified agency, you can always rely on the fact that your tour is simply going to be much exciting and a fun-filled one.

While planning for a trip to Ladakh in May, you should always check out for local guides from verified sources and agencies. With local and certified guides, you can save plenty of time while manoeuvring from one location to the other. Moreover, they are the best source of information while visiting remote places and other tourist attraction points.

Keep Some Buffer Days

Ladakh reaches an average height of 3,000m. above the sea level. Keeping this in mind, once should always be careful about getting acclimatised with the different climatic conditions at higher altitudes. Any simple error at such lofty height could end up in inviting unpleasant and challenging situations. Thus, while planning on the tour itinerary to Ladakh in the month of May, one should include some buffer days in their itinerary to settle down and get acclimatised with the prevalent weather conditions.

Why You Should Visit Leh Ladakh in May?

There could be ample of reasons to visit Ladakh in May. However, here are some of the main reasons that would surely entice you to plan a trip at the earliest:

Favourable Weather Conditions

May is the month, the entire Ladakh starts breathing again. It is the month wherein the shimmering beauty and charm of this region starts taking over the visitors with all glitz and glories. This is also the time, the temperature in Ladakh region starts rising up. Days mostly get sunny with an average temperature range of 15-20 degrees. Even if not heavy clothes, warm clothes would do the job of keeping you warm while you unravel the magical beauty of Ladakh in May.

However, temperature during the night usually falls down, and stay limited to somewhere around 6 degrees. Thus, keeping a warm blanket or putting on heavier clothes would keep you get going. On a whole, if you are planning for a trip to Ladakh in May month, you would surely enjoy the weather conditions , and could utilise the max out of it.

An Array of Activities to Enjoy

As snow starts melting with the region getting cleared, it opens up an exciting range of activities for the visitors. With the roads getting cleared, visitors get to indulge in different types of biking tours and activities. Jeep safari tours also resume operation during this month. Local sightseeing tours also reaches its peak as the atmosphere gains much clarity and roads getting clear. Starting from May, the local village tours or tours to remote parts also comes alive. If you are planning for a Ladakh trip in May, you will get plenitude of opportunities and options to join these tours and explore the untouched beauty of Ladakh at its best.

With the beginning of May, Ladakh welcomes it tourism season. With the advent of this month, the roads get cleared off, most of the hotels open their doors once again, tourist attractions across the regions also gets ready for the visitors, and other major tourist destination also comes alive.

With all these positive and inviting changes all around, visitors from different parts of the globe starts planning their trip to Ladakh in May. Hence, if you already have a plan ready to visit this part of the country, you would get to enjoy the region without much congestion or crowd. Also, as most of the visitors are yet planning their trip, there are higher chances that you would be able to avail much discounts across hotels and while booking other services.

Better Services

As mentioned earlier, the month of May brings in all the lost charm and appeal of Ladakh. With snows getting cleared all over, the region starts becoming clear, and thus, most of the services across the region also regains their operation. Planning a visit to Ladakh in May, thus, ensures better range of services. Be it hotel bookings or accommodations, transfer services, local tours, and other services, you would always be promised with better, budget-friendly, and committed services in Ladakh in May.

Things You Need to Keep in Mind in Ladakh in May:

1. Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) or Altitude Sickness may get fatal with people having less immunity or fitness. Always ensure to get properly acclimatised with higher altitude to fall sick due to AMS or Altitude Sickness.

2. Network connectivity remains an issue to the interiors of Leh with only post-paid network functioning in Leh Ladakh.

3. The unpredictable weather conditions during the day may prove a challenge to people who are not very flexible in removing and adding up on the clothing to relieve and retain warm.

Simplified Leh Ladakh itinerary for May by Flight route

Day 01: Arrive in Leh Ladakh by air and spend the rest of the day at leisure.

Day 02: Have a leisure day to get acclimatised followed by local sightseeing by evening.

Day 03: Trip from Leh to Lamayuru; return to Leh for overnight stay.

Day 04: Full day trip Diskit; check-in into a hotel in Diskit for overnight stay.

Day 05: Drive back from Diskit to Leh.

Day 06: Day trip Pangong Tso; overnight stay near Pangong Tso.

Day 07: Return drive from Pangong Tso to Leh

Day 08: Full day tour to Tso Moriri followed by overnight stay.

Day 09: Return to Leh; overnight stay in Leh.

Day 10: Return flight from Leh.

Conclusion:

A tour to Leh Ladakh in May opens many doors to revel in the miraculous beauty of Mother Nature. Whether you a leisure traveller, thrill seeker, solo backpacker, romantic couple, or any other types of travellers, you can always bet on a Ladakh trip in the month of May. Plan a trip to this paradise to delve deep into its bosom to witness, explore, and enjoy Ladakh like never before!

Best Selling Ladakh Packages

Feel The Essence Of Ladakh Package

• Inner Light Permit Charges
• Tour Manager

Explore Ladakh With Turtuk Excursion

Relaxing Ladakh Vacay Package

1N Tsomoriri

Memorable Ladakh Tour With Hanle Stay

Jeep Safari Tour From Srinagar To Ladakh

1N Srinagar

• 01 Hr Shikara Ride

Magical Ladakh Tour With Srinagar, Gulmarg & Pahalgam Excursion

3N Srinagar

• inner Light Permit Charges

Jeep Safari From Manali - Leh Ladakh

1N Sarchu / Jispa

All Packages

Magical Ladakh Tour

Mystic Ladakh Tour

• Inner Line Permits

Tour To Ladakh With Turtuk

• Inner Line Permit Charges

Enthralling Ladakh Tour

Enthralling Ladakh Tour From Srinagar

Enthralling ladakh tour with turtuk.

• inner Line Permit Charges
• camel Safari In Hunder

Best Of Ladakh With Tsomoriri Stay

Amazing ladakh tour with nubra stay, highlights of ladakh package, glimpse of ladakh package, alluring ladakh getaway package, enchanting ladakh tour with nubra pangong & tsomoriri stay, kashmir & ladakh combo package with kargil stay.

• Shikara Ride for 01 Hr

Ladakh Tour Package With Kargil Stay

Exquisite ladakh package with nubra pangong & hanle stay.

• Inner Line Permit

Mesmerizing Ladakh Package With Kargil Stay

Enchanting kashmir & ladakh holiday package.

1N Pahalgam

• Shikara ride for 01 hr

Jeep Safari Tour Package From Manali To Leh Ladakh

Jeep safari tour package from manali - leh ladakh -srinagar with kargil stay, classic leh, nubra valley, pangong , tsmoriri & hanle holiday package.

• tour Manager

Unforgettable Ladakh Tour Package With Sonmarg Stay

1N Sonamarg

1N Jispa / Sarchu

People also Read Ladakh

People also read kashmir.

Subscribe to us

Subscribe to our newsletter and stay updated

Request a call back

Our experts would love to create a package just for you!

Recent Post

Best time to visit.

Best Time to Visit Leh Ladakh – Best Season to Visit Leh

Travel Guide

River Rafting in Ladakh – Leh Ladakh Travel Guide

• Amazing Ladakh Tour(4 Nights)
• Enchanting Ladakh Tour (8 Nights)
• 08 Nights from Manali – Leh – Srinagar(8 Nights)
• Magical Ladakh Tour(5 Nights)
• Mystic Ladakh Tour(6 Nights)
• Tour to Ladakh with Turtuk(6 Nights)
• Ladakh Itinerary for 4 Nights / 5 Days
• Ladakh Itinerary for 5 Nights / 6 Days
• Ladakh Itinerary for 6 Nights / 7 Days
• Ladakh Itinerary for 7 Nights / 8 Days
• Ladakh Itinerary for 8 Nights / 9 Days
• Ladakh Itinerary for 9 Nights / 10 Days
• Ladakh Itinerary for 10 Nights / 11 Days
• Ladakh Tour From Cities
• Kashmir Tour Package
• Glimpse of Ladakh Tour (4 Nights)
• Enthralling Ladakh Tour with Turtuk(7 Nights)
• Jeep Safari from Srinagar – Leh Ladakh – Manali(8 Nights)
• Majestic Ladakh Tour(7 Nights)
• Magical Ladakh Tour with Kashmir(9 Nights)
• Jeep Safari from Srinagar to Leh Ladakh Tour(7 Nights)
• 4 Nights / 5 Days
• 5 Nights / 6 Days
• 6 Nights / 7 Days
• 7 Nights / 8 Days
• 8 Nights / 9 Days
• 9 Nights / 10 Days
• Nubra Valley
• Zanskar Valley
• Tso Moriri Lake
• Leh Ladakh in Jauary
• Leh Ladakh in February
• Leh Ladakh in March
• Leh Ladakh in April
• Leh Ladakh in May
• Leh Ladakh in June
• Leh Ladakh in July
• Leh Ladakh in August
• Leh Ladakh in September
• Leh Ladakh in October
• Leh Ladakh in November
• Leh Ladakh in December

or call us at: +91 9622-484-949

WhatsApp us

Send Enquiry

Our experts will get in touch with you shortly.

View Ladakh Packages

How it works?

• 1 Tell us details of your holiday plan.
• 2 Our Tour Experts will customize the plan based upon your requirements & will email the tour quote with 2-3 different hotel options
• 3 Select & book best deal.

+91 9622-484-949

Get free quote, how it works, get the best ladakh tours packages, why travel with us.

Best Price Guranteed

Package Customization

24*7 Trip Assistance

Refine your package.

• 0 To 5 Nights
• 6 To 8 Nights
• 8 or More Nights

Type Of Packages

• Best Seller
• Family/Leisure
• Jeep Safari

Destinations

Budget per person (in rs.).

• Less Than 10,000
• 10,000 - 20,000
• 20,000 - 30,000

Hotel Star Ratings

Trek Difficulty

• 0 To 6 Nights
• 7 To 9 Nights
• 10 Nights or Above

How to Plan a Trip to Ladakh in May 2024

May is the peak tourist season in Ladakh and traveling during this month will offer you a memorable experience of your life. The weather is warm with a cool breeze, which makes May one of the best months to visit Ladakh. And if you are traveling to this land of adventures, we have a comprehensive guide to help you plan a trip to Ladakh in May.

You will see an influx of tourists from around the globe in Ladakh who visit here and gain the most cherishable memories of their life. From avid bike rides to families, friend groups to solo travelers, and even families and honeymooners prefer to visit Ladakh for a summer vacation.

Want to know more? Scroll down to know the things to keep in mind while traveling to Ladakh in May, clothes to pack, routes that are open, weather conditions, local transportation, and accommodation.

Ladakh in May – A Complete guide

Is may a good time to visit ladakh.

Yes, May is a good time to plan a trip to May. The weather is pleasant, most hotels and guest houses are open. Adventure activities get started welcoming adrenaline-seekers from all over the world. Internal roads leading to Tso Moriri, Pangong Tso , and Nubra Valley are open too.

Bike rentals, taxis, and public transport services are also easily available. Thus, you want to enjoy your holiday in Ladakh and indulge in fun-filled activities.

Read Also: Reasons to visit Ladakh

Weather Conditions in Ladakh in May

Unpredictable. This perfectly describes the weather in Ladakh in May. The temperature during the day ranges between 15°C and 20°C and during nights drops to 3°C. However, there will be differences in weather and temperature, for example, Leh and Pangong Tso. Leh will be warmer than Pangong Tso. At high-altitude passes, it will be a bit cold but you will get comfortable once you start to drive down. One moment it will be warm and the next cold. So, pack accordingly.

Routes to Reach Ladakh in May

There are two routes for Ladakh – Srinagar Leh Highway and Manali Leh Highway. The Leh-Srinagar road opens in April but the Leh-Manali road opens in late May or early June.

Srinagar to Leh by Road in May

Visiting Ladakh in early May? Traveling from Srinagar to Leh by road is your only choice. However, it also depends upon the weather conditions. This highway may or may not be open in the early part of May, so it is best to plan a Ladakh trip in the middle or end of the month. Also, check the road Srinagar Leh Highway Status and road conditions before visiting. There is no snow on the road but avalanches at ZojiLa are common, which results in road blockage for days.

Manali Leh Highway in May

Manali to Leh Highway in May is closed for most of the month. It opens up in late May or early June. Thus, planning your Ladakh trip in May by this route is not recommended. Like the other route, this one is also cleared of snow, but the road conditions are worse. During this time, BRO works rigorously to make the road safe as much as possible but it consumes a lot of time. If you want to travel by this route, plan during the last days of the month.

Is It a Good Option to Arrive Leh Ladakh in May By Bike Over A Car?

Yes. Traveling to Ladakh by bike is much preferred by avid riders over a car. Keep in mind that only Srinagar to Leh Highway in May is open but the road conditions are terrible.

Crossing the watery snow at Khardung La, Zoji La, Chang La can be dangerous but it will be much easier if you are on a bike. This does not mean that you cannot travel by car. Only avoid it in the early days of May.

Read Also: Best time to visit Ladakh

Is It a Good Option to Arrive in Ladakh By Air in May?

Yes. If you are traveling with family, we recommend arriving in Ladakh by air in May. It is the most convenient way and prevents you from all the hassle en route. Even if you are short on time, you can reach on time and your Ladakh trip will not be canceled. This will also give you more time to explore the attractions in Ladakh, which cannot be possible if you come by road. Book your tickets in advance at affordable prices on airfares to avoid last-minute troubles.

Public Transportation in Ladakh in May

You will face difficulty if you choose public transportation as the HRTC buses from Manali to Leh do not operate in May. It starts in June. From Delhi too, the buses start in the second half of June. You may get buses from Srinagar to Leh in May but that highly depends upon the weather. Shared cabs will be the best option for Srinagar and Manali.

Local Transport in Ladakh

Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, and Tso Moriri can be reached by buses. There are shared cabs too that you can find in Leh. Note that the prices will be higher than the bus but cabs are frequently and easily available.

The worst road conditions you will face will be between Sonamarg and Drass in the form of Zoji La. There will be a lot of slushes while crossing this pass. Exact same situation will be with the Manali Leh Highway. Damaged roads and sections under repair by BRO will be a normal scene. Internal roads in Ladakh will be open in May so you can explore the places easily.

Places to Visit in Ladakh in May

There are a lot of places to visit in Ladakh that you can visit in May. Some of the top tourist places to visit in May in Ladakh are Zanskar Valley, Tso Kar, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri, Nubra Valley, and more. Places to stay at Nubra and Pangong are open and offer a comfortable stay to travelers.

Things to do in Ladakh in May

Ladakh is a place where at every turn you would want to take out your camera and take millions of photos.

So, apart from photography, you can indulge yourself in these activities in Ladakh in May –

• River Rafting
• Experiencing local culture
• Savoring local food
• Attending the festivals

Read Also: Things to do in Ladakh

Festivals Celebrated in Ladakh in May

Ladakh celebrates a few festivals in May. Buddha Jayanti (Vaisakha Purnima) and Ladakh Monlam Chenmo Festival are celebrated in Leh in May in Ladakh that you can attend. Also, Saga Dawa Festival is celebrated at the end of the month.

Where to stay in Ladakh in May

As May is a peak tourist season in Ladakh, the guesthouses and hotels are open. You can find them throughout the region up and running including Leh, Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, and Tso Moriri. You can either book them in advance for a hassle-free trip.

Clothes for Ladakh Trip in May

May is rather a warm month, thus you must pack accordingly. The temperature remains at 16°C during the day and dips to 3°C at night. If you have kids, make sure to carry extra woolens with you.

Here is the list of clothes to pack for the Ladakh trip in May –

• Windproof and waterproof jacket
• Cotton t-shirts and shirts
• Light woolens for night
• Light gloves
• Good pair of sports shoes
• Sunglasses and sunscreen lotion
• Cold cream and lip balm

Other than this, pack toiletries, pain relief spray, first aid kit, and basic medicines for fever, cold, and cough with you.

Tips for Traveling to Leh Ladakh in May

Keep these few things in mind while planning a trip to Ladakh in May –

• You might feel Acute Motion Sickness when traveling by flight to Ladakh. Thus, you must stay in the lower part of Leh Ladakh to acclimatize.
• Leh is the only place where mobile connectivity will be at its best.
• Only postpaid connections work in Ladakh.
• Medical assistance will only be available in Leh and Kargil. There are no hospitals in Nubra, Pangong, etc. for medical emergencies. In such cases, you can also approach the nearest Indian Army post.
• AT such altitude, the oxygen levels get low and, this may cause altitude sickness. You must know the remedies to handle AMS in Ladakh.
• While traveling with family in May, follow all the precautions and take care of your health to avoid any unnecessary issues.
• You can even see snowfall at the top of Khardung La in May. So make sure to visit here.
• You can stay at honeymoon hotels in Ladakh for a memorable trip.
• Due to unpredictable weather, it can be difficult to follow the exact itinerary you have planned.
• So, keep buffer days in between to get maximum experience on the Ladakh trip in May.

Hope this Ladakh travel guide will guide you on your trip to Ladakh in May. Take all the imperative measures and you will have an unforgettable and safe journey in Ladakh.

Read Also: Places to visit in Ladakh for couples

Frequently Asked Questions for Traveling to Ladakh in May

Ques. Is there snow in Ladakh in May?

Ans. Yes, you can find snow in Ladakh in May. Visit the top of Khardung La. However, there will be no fresh snowfall and there will be no snow in Leh city. Also, there is melted snow on the highway leading from Srinagar to Leh.

Ques. Does it rain in Leh in May?

Ans. No. It hardly ever rains in Ladakh in May. The sun shines brightly this month, so make sure to carry sunscreen and sunglasses with you.

Read Also: Places to visit Ladakh

Manmeet Kaur

A writer by profession and a storyteller by heart, Manmeet has a passion for traveling and treating her taste buds to different cuisines. Besides, she loves to binge-watch movies and series every now and then. She is also an avid reader, which keeps her engaged.

Related Posts

10 Best Places to Visit in Sri Lanka

How to Plan a Trip to Ladakh in July

How to Plan a Trip to Ladakh in August (2024)

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Cookie policy

Ladakh Travel Guide for First-Time Visitors

By: Author Tashi Lundup

Posted on Last updated: June 11, 2020

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

How to Get to Ladakh

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

Ladakh is accessible either through the air or by road.

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

Two roads connect Ladakh with the rest of the country.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

See also: 5 Surprising Things About Backpacking Pakistan

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

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

Taxis are available for traveling in and around Leh.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

See also: Song Kol Lake: Horse Trekking in Kyrgyzstan

2. Nubra Valley

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. Pangong and Tsomoriri Lakes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Planning a trip? Go Backpacking recommends:

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

Friday 3rd of April 2020

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

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

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

Supriya Kumar Mitra

Thursday 19th of March 2020

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

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

Getty Images/Lonely Planet Images

Spectacularly jagged, arid mountains enfold this magical Buddhist ex-kingdom. Picture-perfect gompas (Tibetan Buddhist monasteries) dramatically crown rocky outcrops next to fluttering prayer flags and whitewashed stupas, while prayer wheels spun clockwise release merit-making mantras. Gompa interiors are a riot of golden Buddhas and intricately colourful murals and home to red-robed monks. It's a little corner of Tibet marooned in the furthest reaches of India.

Leave the planning to a local expert

Experience the real Ladakh. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Bearing a passing similarity to the Potala Palace in Lhasa (Tibet), this nine-storey dun-coloured edifice is Leh's dominant structure and architectural…

Thiksey Gompa

Glorious Thiksey Gompa is one of Ladakh’s biggest and most recognisable monasteries, photogenically cascading down a raised rocky promontory. At its heart…

Choskhor Temple Complex

The original murals and statues within these four outwardly modest 11th-century temples are considered the crowning glory of Ladakh’s Indo-Tibetan art…

Wanla Gompa

Above Wanla village, tiny medieval Wanla Gompa is dramatically perched on a towering knife-edge ridge flanked by two shattered tower remnants of a now…

Leh Old Town

Behind Leh’s central Jamia Masjid, winding alleys and stairways burrow between and beneath a series of old mud-brick Ladakhi houses and eroded chortens…

Diskit Gompa

Nubra Valley

Directly above Old Diskit, a 2km spaghetti of hairpins winds up to this photogenic monastery complex, much of which dates to between the 14th and 17th…

Yungdrung Gompa

Lamayuru's gompa is one of the most photogenic Buddhist monasteries in Ladakh. Behind glass within the gompa’s main prayer hall is a tiny cave-niche in…

Spituk Gompa

Founded in the late 14th century as See-Thub (Exemplary) Monastery, impressive Spituk Gompa surveys the Sengye Tsangpo (Indus) Valley, with surreal views…

Plan with a local

Experience the real India

Let a local expert craft your dream trip.

Latest stories from Ladakh

Filter by interest:

• All Interests
• Adventure Travel
• Art & Culture
• Beaches, Coasts & Islands
• Food & Drink

Jan 28, 2021 • 5 min read

With suggested itineraries and ideas for alternative destinations, here's everything you need to plan your dream trip to the Himalayan region.

May 1, 2018 • 1 min read

Feb 6, 2014 • 9 min read

Purchase our award-winning guidebooks

Get to the heart of Ladakh with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.

Ladakh and beyond

• Group Tours Calendar
• Planning, Sightseeing & Routes
• Preparing for Ladakh Trip
• Stay, Eat, Permits & Others
• Taxis, Self-Drives & Bike Rentals
• Public Transport & Budget Travel
• Preparing for Spiti Valley Trip

Best Time to Travel Ladakh & Zanskar Valley

A lot of people ask me this many times on the blog to suggest the best time to travel to Leh Ladakh , and I thought it is better to pen it down in an article so that it helps others too and does not repeat on the blog all over again and again.

Well, there are two roads that lead you to Leh Ladakh popular by the names of Srinagar Leh Highway and Manali Leh Highway . Both of them generally remain closed for more than six months from November to April or Mid-May every year because of heavy snowfall on various mountain passes that comes on these adventurous roads.

So, the only time to travel by road to Leh Ladakh is from Mid-May to Mid – October. And the second half of October is a risky affair to travel and May is the only likely option for Srinagar – Leh Highway as Manali – Leh Highway generally opens by June first week or late May.

But, still, the question is :

Let's quickly dive into the details:

“What is the best time to travel Leh Ladakh in these 5-6 months?”

Leh ladakh in april to mid-may.

April is the month when tourists or travelers from all parts of the world start to come to Ladakh. Restaurants start to either open or set up for the coming season. Similarly, the guest houses, camps at Pangong Tso, and Tso Moriri lakes also start to be set up.

By the second week of May, generally, the Srinagar Leh Highway opens, and the influx of tourists starts to get into Ladakh. Supplies flow in along with fresh vegetables and fruits. Hence life comes to normalcy in Ladakh.

In late April, all lakes including Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri start to melt, and by mid-May, they completely melt and start radiating the ever-beautiful blue hues under sunlight. Tourists / Travellers visiting these places get good discounts as it is the onset of the season and with fewer tourists around, it is indeed a better place to be.

The high mountain passes in Ladakh including both Khardung La and Chang La, are under heaps of snow, and passing through them is quite an experience in itself. Carrying shades/glares/goggles are highly recommended at this time of the year.

Leh Ladakh in May – June – July

As I said, in May, most likely, you will only find Srinagar – Leh to be open, so if you are interested in the complete circuit, then it is not the right time. In June beginning or May end, Manali road opens with the opening of Rohtang Pass.

In the initial 7-10 days, the roads are pretty much unstable with common snow slides, and intermittent blockages also happen, but gradually it settles down. And from Mid of June to July just before the onset of monsoon season, it is a very nice time to travel, and indeed a lot of people undertake the road journey to Ladakh at this specific window only.

Dheeraj Sharma

It is the perfect time for those who want to enjoy snow around the road and drive through the snow walls of Rohtang Pass / Rani Nalla and Baralacha La too. However, keep in mind that snow starts to melt which means, ferocious water crossings and rivers are pretty common in this period.

Later you will reach a water crossing in the day, slim are the chances to cross it. So, plan to leave early in the day and reach the early in the day on the destination to have buffer time as well.

from Mid of June to July just before the onset of monsoon season, it is a very nice time to travel and indeed a lot of people undertake the road journey to Ladakh at this specific window only. Best time to travel for seeing snow in Ladakh

Leh Ladakh in August

In August, monsoons are in a full flurry, and rivers and water crossings go ferocious at times when rain is pouring down. Landslides are common too in this period. However, there is a catch, the region beyond Zozi La Pass towards Leh from the Srinagar side and beyond Baralacha La pass towards Leh from the Manali side, being a rain shadow region does not get much affected by rains.

But, surely you will be facing the monsoon hassles up to Baralacha La pass from Manali side and Zozila Pass from Srinagar side. Of course, as happening for the last few years Rohtang Pass & Zojila are most likely to be a nightmare in this period.

Even the definition of Ladakh being the rain shadow region is changing now. We have started getting rain in Ladakh too or at least overcast conditions with light rains now and then. Few cloudbursts and flash floods also have occurred in a couple of years, including 2018. So, be ready for surprises even in the rain shadow region of Ladakh too in the coming years.

Leh Ladakh in September – October

Personally, this is my favorite season to travel to Ladakh with vibrant & burning colors all over in full glory. Post-monsoon, the region becomes devoid of rains and the chill starts to set in with some intermittent light snowfall.

However, the colors of fall/autumn are almost burning with beauty all over the Srinagar Leh Road, Manali Leh Road, and, of course, the entire Ladakh, including Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri & Nubra Valley. The road conditions also improve a lot in comparison to the rest of the season. You will witness the best roads of the season since the maintenance works also settle by that time. It is the best time to self-drive to Ladakh if you are taking a small car like a hatchback or sedan to Ladakh.

Even the water crossings are timid in flow with less water in them and are easy to pass by. The rivers turn into aqua blue color again, giving an entirely different aura to the region. Your body is at the maximum exposure to UV rays, and due to lack of moisture, it becomes a bit difficult to acclimatize as well. But, the beauty on offer is worth anything in the world 😀

Also, it is time when some camps have closed and packed up, and some still run. There is occasional snowfall as well, which might close the road for a day or two temporarily. The Raid-De-Himalayas rally also happens in this window which also disturbs you as a traveler to some extent.

Personally, this is my favorite season to travel to Ladakh with vibrant & burning colors all over in full glory. for those who love vibrant fall colors

Leh Ladakh in November

The period of late October and November is when the cold settles into Trans Himalayas completely with sub-zero temperatures at almost all places above 14000 feet especially over the Manali Leh highway and the high-altitude lakes. The colors though are still beautiful in the region, tourists have almost gone away and only a few brave ones remain 🙂 :).

Most of the guest houses, hotels, and restaurants are closed by this time along with camps at Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri lakes, which are packed up by the last week of September. Dhabhas and camps on Manali Leh Highway are also deserted, and locals go away to their homes to get ready for hibernation in cold winters.

Though both Manali Leh Road and Srinagar Leh Road remain open unofficially, it is highly not recommended to travel over them, especially the Manali Leh Highway with such cold conditions. There will not be many shelters available and black ice on roads that make driving a dangerous affair. Black ice is quite common in this period it starts to appear in October starting as well at some places though it does not last long in the early stages or the winter season.

Interesting Read: 5 Reasons to Avoid Manali – Leh Highway in October – November

Leh Ladakh in December – January – February – March

This period is the coldest in Ladakh where January is the coldest month of all seasons, and Ladakh is cut off from the rest of the world by road. Only a few brave and bold tourists are around even though the roads to Nubra Valley and Pangong Tso Lake over Khardung La Pass, and Chang La Pass respectively are kept open all around the year barring a few days of heavy snowfall .

Late January to February is also the time when many adventure tourists come to Leh Ladakh to walk over the frozen Zanskar River from Padum in Zanskar Valley to Leh , popularly known as Chadar Trek.

In this period, you are at the mercy of extreme cold. Snowfall as well is pretty common and mingled with high-altitude terrain; it makes life difficult to survive and acclimatize as well. The key is to take rest, ample rest in the initial days. Then, gradually start overreaching other high-altitude places. The food options are minimal, and most of the restaurant lives are deserted as their cook is out at their homes.

From November to December / Mid-January types, if the sun is shining the colors in the Lakes such as Pangong Tso or Tso Moriri is breathtaking but the options to stay near them are none or limited. Just some Home Stays in nearing villages where basic facilities will be available to brave the extreme cold.

After Mid-January, both Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri along with other high-altitude lakes start to freeze and become solid as earth as you can drive your car over it, leave alone walk over it. Be responsible and don’t do that of course 😉

These lakes remain frozen almost up to April. So, those looking forward to seeing the magical changing colors of these lakes with sunlight in the day shall refrain from making a trip to Ladakh from January to late April, which is almost for four months.

Still confused??

Are you still confused?? Don’t worry. I will suggest if you want to see heaps of snow and have a good adventure, then you must plan your road trip to Ladakh starting June first/ the second week up to mid of July types.

However, if you are more interested in nature’s lovely colors pallet and maybe you are very much into photography, then the late season is the time. You do not want to miss out on, i.e., late September up to the second week of October when colors are oozing out vividly all over Ladakh!!

Have a travel question?? You can subscribe to my YouTube channel and leave a comment to ask your travel questions on traveling to the Himalayas.

Do you have any questions or suggestions or need any help in planning your trip to Leh Ladakh? If yes, please feel free to post them either in the comments section of this article below. You can also take guidance from many travel experts in our DwD Community Forums and discuss your upcoming travel plans for Ladakh.

If you like the article, please feel free to share it with any of your family or friends who are planning a trip to Ladakh.

• X (Twitter)

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.

Related Posts

Manali leh highway status 2024 – 2025, srinagar leh highway status 2024 – 2025, leh – ladakh bike rental rates 2024-25, 722 comments.

Comments section gets closed in 90 days. To ask your travel questions, you can follow my YouTube Channel for a faster reply or for a much slower reply follow me on Instagram . :)

Hello I am planning to visit leh by flight on 29th August 2019 with my wife & 12 year old daughter. Is it save to travel that time considering rainy season.

Bro! We are a group of friends planning our trip from April 28th and fly directly to leh, will we be able to enjoy our trip without any obstructions(like snow ) or the pangong lake being Frozen or unavailability of accommodation ?

You should look at Leh – Ladakh in Winters – Most Common Itinerary

It will answer all your questions 🙂

What about mid May? I really want to see the unfrozen beauty of pangong!!

In that case plan for mid May to late May, it should melt by that time of the year

we have planned and booked flight ticket from Bangalore to Srinagar on 24th April and return from Leh on 6th May 2018. Plan is to spend 4-5 days in Srinagar and then travel by road to Leh and spend 6-7 days there visiting Nubra , pangong and other sorrounding.

Please suggest as we heard that Srinagar – Leh highway is closed till April end.

Sunil, Srinagar – Leh Highway may or may not be open by last week of April. Considering BRO has already opened Zanskar Valley road, I have hopes by mid of April, they will open Srinagar – Leh Highway too.

Hi Dheeraj,

We two friends are planning a leh ladakh trip in September. We want to experience everything including the snow; hence, what would be your suggestion? Is it good in September? Yes, then which part of the month? Waiting for your reply.

Hari, there will be no snow in September. If you want to enjoy snow, then you have to plan the trip in April – May but then roads are not open and only option is to fly to Ladakh. Else June is when you will find plenty of snow at passes in Ladakh and Manali – Leh Highway

Hi! Planning to go Leh by air on 24th Sep n bck by 2 October by road via Manali .i want to know if October first week will be safe by road from Leh to Manali n and also why return airfares are soo high from Leh.i Jst don’t want to get stuck there because of snow on d way bck

Chaand, just keep an eye on weather once you reach Leh and then take a call. Nowadays, usually first week of October os still OK to travel but sometimes it does snow. Also, plan to directly reach Jispa from Leh without halt at Sarchu.

Hello Dheeraj

I was planning for a trip from Manali tto Leh ladakh and back from Aug 26 to Sep 5. Is it a good timeI for travel? Read every where u mentioned that Aug is not a good time to visit Leh,,

Regards ANimesh

So here is what my Ladakh trip looks like… starting on 16th September and ending on 30th September.

Day 1: Noida – Patnitop (Overnight stay at Patnitop) Day 2: Patnitop – Sonmarg (Overnight stay at Sonmarg) Day 3: +++ Rest Day at Sonmarg + Sight Seeing in Sonmarg & Gulmarg +++ (Overnight stay at Sonmarg) Day 4: Sonmarg – Kargil (Overnight stay at Kargil) Day 5: Kargil – Leh (Overnight stay at Leh) Day 6: +++ Rest Day at Leh + Sight Seeing in & around Leh +++ (Overnight stay at Leh) Day 7: Leh – Nubra Valley (Overnight stay at Diskit) Day 8: Nubra Valley – Pangong Tso Lake (Overnight at Pangong Tso Lake) Day 9: Pangong Tso – Leh (Overnight stay at Leh) Day 10: Leh – Tso Moriri Lake (Overnight stay at Korzok) Day 11: Tso Moriri – Jispa (Overnight stay at Jispa) Day 12: Jispa – Manali (Overnight stay at Manali) Day 13: +++ Rest Day at Manali + Sight Seeing in & around Manali +++ (Overnight stay at Manali) Day 14: Manali – Noida Day 15: Buffer Days Day 16: Buffer Days

Do you think that this plan looks good? I am assuming that I have taken enough breaks in between for the body to acclimatize to the conditions up there! Let me know if there are any changes that you want to suggest!

I would also welcome any feedback from fellow members here!

Thanks and Regards, Abhishek

Looking for a suggestion.

Can I visit just Leh -> Zanskar -> Leh in August ? Is this is good time or will there be rains?

Plan: Sat, Aug 5: Leave Mumbai by flight to Leh, Start on bike / rent car to Kargil Sun, Aug 6: Kargil to Zanskar Mon, Aug 7: Back to Kargil Tue, Aug 8: Back to Leh Wed, Aug 9: Back to Mumbai

Please let me know if the climate is good this time and if this is doable in such short time.

Well since you are flying directly to Leh, it is rain shadow region and hence, even in monsoon, it is fine. However, Zanskar needs at least 4-5 days from Kargil and for Kargil – Leh you need minimum two days. Hence, in 5 days it is not possible.

ok.. thank you for the quick reply.. will plan it well for next year 🙂

Me and my husband are planning to visit Leh-Ladakh (via Manali) from Delhi in the third week of September’ 2017 in our “Ford Eco-sport”. We are a little confused whether it will be OK to take Eco – sport to Leh Ladakh. How much wear and tear can happen to it, and will our Ford Eco-sport will be able to sustain it, as the Ford guys told us not to take it to Leh-ladakh, as it is city car and not made for off road. Can you please guide us? Also, want to know how to connect with other people who are planning their visit to Leh-Ladakh at the same time as it will be good to stay connected with them while travelling.

Neha, Ford EcoSport is very capable of doing the Leh – Ladakh trip. So, don’t worry much about it, just be cautious in driving. You can read: 40 Must Have Things to Carry on Ladakh Self Drive Trip and 7 Useful Tips for a Self Drive to Leh – Ladakh

We are a group of people (2 couples) who would also be travelling to Leh Ladakh (starting on 16th September from Noida and ending on 30th September 2017). But we would be travelling to Leh Ladakh from Srinagar side and would be completing the circuit from Manali side. During the 4th week of September we would be on the Manali side.

It is surely a good idea to connect while travelling.

Cheers! Abhishek

Mr.Sharma, This was a wonderful article. Thank you for providing information. I would like to ask if first week of Aug would be a good time to visit Leh. I am planning to go by air to Leh. Please give your opinion. Thanks.

Since you are planning to go by Air, Ladakh is a rain shadow region and least touched by rains. So, it shall be fine to make a trip by air to Ladakh

Hello dheeraj sir, Is this itinerary good for the 25th october. is this the right time travel ladakh. can we go all the places ?? Day 1 : Rest n local sights Day 2 : magnetic hill n pather sahib n acclimatization. Day 3 : leh to nubra Day 4 : nubra to pangong via Agham Day 5 : pangong to leh Day 6 : Return

Plz reply soon. Thanks

Given the days at hand, it looks fine. Please keep in mind it will be very cold in October at PAngong Tso, best will be to stay at Tangtse or do day trip from Leh.

Thanks for your valuable information. Actually we are planning to visit leh ladakh in 2nd wk of september for 10 days. please tell whether camping is advisable or not during that season if yes mentioned the best place for camping. also tell either visiting all famous lake i.e. pang, tso moriri etc is possible or not.

Thanks again.

Dann, September is a very good time to travel to Leh – Ladakh. You can read: Top 10 Tips for Camping in Ladakh & Spiti Valley

thanks for your reply. tell me about permit also , can’t we get them online so that we can save our time over there? where are these permits required during the traveling ??

Well, the Permits for Leh – Ladakh are available online: Ladakh Inner Line Permits Available Online

However, only permits are applied and you have to take the print out and pay your permit fee in person in Leh at Tourist Info Center or DC office in Leh.

Hi Dheeraj! I want to ask you very important question regarding bikers? The tussle going on between bikers of Manali and Leh is only for Rental bikes? and what about bikers who are on there own bikes, do they also have to face anytype of problems???

There is no issue at all for the own bikes in Ladakh.

I’m planning for a trip to Leh via Manali. Is it okay to plan the trip in August, or it is more advisable to travel by end of June. This will be my first experience, and we’re planning for an SUV.

Best is to travel in September for better road conditions and less challenges, else up to mid July is OK. Avoid monsoon travel in August.

Dear Dheeraj, I am planning a 10 daya trip to Leh with my wife, 7yo son, two brothers starting on 15th June. I will planning to take my Baleno Diesel. It’s the very first time for me to visit Leh. Request your kind suggestions as I am really confused about whether I should make this trip or not. Also request you to advise on travel itinerary and stay options. Look forward for an early response. Thanks.

For hatchback/sedan taking on Manali – Leh Highway Or Spiti Valley via Manali Or Ladakh, please refer the link: FAQ | Can I do Leh – Ladakh / Spiti / Manali – Leh trip in Hatchback or Sedan? for more details.

It will take 4 days to reach Leh from Srinagar side starting from Delhi with stop overs at Jammu, Srinagar, Kargil and 3 days to come back from Leh from Manali side to Delhi with stopovers at Sarchu, Manali. This makes it 7 days. 1 Day is required in Leh for acclimatization. You have about 10 days. 1 Day can be used as Day trip to Pangong Tso and other day can be used as day trip to Nubra Valley or just Khardung La pass.

Opt to go via Manali – Leh Highway and I will suggest that you refer the thread for more details on the route and night halts though it is of 9 days: Manali – Leh – Ladakh – Manali | Itinerary for 9 Days . You can fit in plan I suggested in above para in this plan You can check the nice, preferred list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh (Leh, Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri) including moderate (cheap budget hotels as well) in the series of articles starting on the link here

Thanks again for your valuable suggestions. I have made up my mind for 9 days itinerary suggested by you via Manali -Leh route. Just bit concerned about road conditions vs Baleno. Will be happy if you suggest any precautions.

Actually I am looking for this type of information from very long time but bi cant found it clearly but you describe all this very clearly! Thanks for this article.

That is wonderful to hear, glad the article helped you.

Can we will go to Leh (Manali to Leh via jispa) own car Chevrolet Sail Uva Hatchback 2014 Model. Can I go Chevrolet Sail Uva Hatchback 2014 Model say Yes or Not If we go by my own car – Do you advised me witch route is best for me Manali – Leh – Srinagar/ Srinagar – Leh – Manali . witch cars can cross the Manali – Leh – Srinagar Plz guide me. Please Car Name

As you advised, i have an iternary for my trip. at first can i go to leh rout as shown below by Chevrolet Sail Uva Hatchback 2014 Model I am also running this car to west bangal, char cham, dharmshala, deu all gujrat. so please advice me this car is suatable for me. and with equipment is required for this route.

June – 3: Manali – Jispa (overnight stay) June – 4: Jispa – Sarchu (overnight stay) June – 5: sarchu – Leh (overnight stay) June – 6: Leh – ride to sham valley and sight seeing June – 7: leh – Nubra (overnight stay) June – 8: Nubra – Pangong tso (camping) June – 9: Pangong Tso – Tso moriri – Leh (overnight stay) June – 10: Leh – kargil June – 11: kargil – srinagar

I am still waiting for your suggestion.

Hello Mahesh,

Please avoid night stay at Sarchu and to Manali – Jispa, Jispa – Leh. Then use that day to make two day trip to Nubra Valley and two day trip to Pangong Tso by regular routes as the direct routes, hatches might not survive or you may get stuck in the middle of no help around. Skip Tso Moriri.

Also, if you do the trip in reverse direction, it will be much better. For hatchback/sedan taking on Manali – Leh Highway Or Spiti Valley via Manali Or Ladakh, please refer the link: FAQ | Can I do Leh – Ladakh / Spiti / Manali – Leh trip in Hatchback or Sedan? for more details.

Hello Dheeraj you are amazing ! I am much keen for bike trip on Manali Leh Highway in September as that is the time when road conditions will become good. But some of our female friends wants to live “Jab We Met” moment (or snow ki toh baat hi kuch or hai) so we are travelling in June.. My only concern is for road conditions in mid June specially “Rohtang Pass” I have heard that in june we have to deal with lots of slush on “Rohtang Pass” but as we are going before monsoon so we are hoping we will get some good roads as compare to july or August .. Your knowledge is highly appreciable. So what is your take on “Rohtang Pass” in mid of June ???

Shubham, for snow you have to make a trip around mid of June and also have to go through some bad sections of the roads. The roads will definitely be more challenging as snow melts during that time creating slush and water crossings at many places.

Thank you Friend, Under the guidance of “Devil on wheels” it seems like we are all ready for the trip & the conditions.. Yeah we are expecting water crossings & slush thats the main adventure of this trip but we hope not as much as you have shown in above pics during mid june “Nightmarish roads of Rohtang Pass” ???

Most likely, you will not face that much of slush during that time unless there is debris of fresh landslide.

Thank you so much Dheeraj 🙂

Hi Sir, Your page is awsome. We have a plan in August Please tell whether it is feasible or not.

14thAugust :- DELHI – Leh 15th August:- Leh 16th August:- Leh – Turtuk 17th August:- Turtuk – Nubra Valley 18th August:- Nubra – Pangong Via Aghyam Shiyok( We are in a doubt about it) 19th August:- Pangong – Leh 20th August:- Leh – Alchi – Magnetic hill – Kargil 21th August:- Kargil – Padum 22nd August:- Padum 23rd August:- Padum Or Rnagdum or Sankoo 24th August:- Back to Kargil 25th August:- Kargil – Srinagar 26th August:- Srinagar – Kolkata

Your plan looks good to me. On 23rd, you can stay at Rangdum. There is a new guest house there called LA Himalaya with attached bathrooms.

We have contacted Rigzin Da. He is managing except Kargil and Leh. Will it be wise to use Agyam Shiyok road to reach Pangong During August???

Well, as long as you can find some company to travel with you at Agham village, local driver should be able to get you through with that route. You will get to know about the present status once you reach up there.

Thank you so much dheeraj for your precious info 🙂 We are planning to visit Manali-Leh on the mid of June17 and will take halt in Keylong/Jispa & Sarchu but as it is the peak time of tourists attraction.. is it advisable to pre book our accommodations near Keylong/Jispa & Sarchu or we will easily get accomodations after reaching there ???

Arjun, I will not recommend you to have a night halt at Sarchu while going to Leh. You can stay while coming back. Keylong has plenty of options and if you are not particular, you can find. For Jispa, I will suggest to pre-book as limited options are there.

Thank you Dheeraj, There is no plan to have a halt at Sarchu as altitude is so high there but if we have to Just for the knowledge is it advisable to pre book our accomodations at Sarchu or we will get easily after reaching there??? & we will come back through via Srinagar 🙂

Good, yeah, in such a case it should be OK. Also keep Tso Kar in mind in case of emergency for a stay. It is not that far from the main highway.

There will be plenty of options at Sarchu, since, it is not final to stay there, better book it on the spot.

Hii Dheeraj thank you so much for your precious info 🙂 We are planning our trip to mid June17.. as it is the time when most tourists prefer to travel & we are planning to halt on Keylong/Jispa & Sarchu.. So do we have to pre book our accommodations as there are many tourists or we get accommodations easily after reaching there???

Replied on the other thread.

Hi Dheeraj, I am planning to visit Leh Ladakh in second half of October 2017. Is it advisable ? Will we get a chance to visit all the attractions ? Please give me your valuable suggestions.

Also to add, I am planning a trip of 10 days. I would request you to suggest me a better schedule.

Will you be flying to Leh or making road trip?

I will be flying. I have two options. Either in October 2017 Or around 15th May 2017. So, which option is preferable ? Please suggest me a better trip of 10 days.

Both the months are not so good for road trip but since you are flying I will suggest May over October with two points

1. In May you will find snow and pleasant weather at least in Leh, Nubra and around not as cold. 2. October, will be windy, cold and dry.

You should refer: Leh – Ladakh | Most Common Itinerary by Air

Are you making a road trip?

Hi Dheeraj, Thanks for the wonderful blog!!

Iam planning for a bike trip to leh via manali-leh route and come back through leh – srinagar highway to Delhi. I am planning to take this trip by either july or september. Also iam planning to complete the circuit in 9 – 10 days. Is it possible to complete it within planned time?? I wish to enjoy in light snowfalls. SO please advise me on the good time to take the rip.

Iam bit confused avout the permits. Do bikers from other state need to get permit in all places throughout manli leh highway??

In leh do we neef to drive j&k registered bikers?? Is own bikes or rented bikes not allowed in leh for expedition???

FInal question.. which is better to take the trip either through some travel agency package or going individual???

please clarify my doubts. Thanks in advance….

Give me your contact mail id……

Thank you Siraj.

It will take 3 days to reach Leh from Delhi via Manali side with stopovers at Jispa, Manali and 4 days to come back to Delhi from Leh via Srinagar side with stop overs at Jammu, Srinagar, Kargil . This makes it 7 days. 1 Day is required in Leh for acclimatization. You have about 10 days. 1 Day can be used as Day trip to Pangong Tso and other day can be used as day trip to Nubra Valley or just Khardung La pass.

Thanks a lot Dheeraj for clarifying my queries.

Could you please advice me on the best season to start my trip. I wish to enjoy the trip with snowfall. How long snow will be there once the passes are opened up?

On going through blog, i got the clarification about the bike permits in ladakh region. Thanks a lot for the briefly analysed blogs. It’s a really helpful and much needed one for all the new comers.

Do [email protected] provide any packages for the leh-ladak trip?? I have found this one while reading the blog. you have also suggested some to get in touch with them for bike rentals and packages.

Siraj, in that case plan the trip in second week of June when you can see snow on Zojila and Manali – Leh Highway. Snowfall is pure luck based. Yes, those guys provide customized packages of Leh – Ladakh

If you travel form Manali to Rohtang Pass, permit is required for bikes too.

Thanks Dheeraj!!

As you advised, i have an iternary for my trip.

June – 17: Manali – Jispa (overnight stay) June – 18: Jispa – Sarchu (overnight stay) June – 19: sarchu – Leh (overnight stay) June – 20: Leh – ride to sham valley and sight seeing June – 21: leh – Nubra (overnight stay) June – 22: Nubra – Pangong tso (camping) June – 23: Pangong Tso – Tso moriri – Leh (overnight stay) June – 24: Leh – kargil June – 25: kargil – srinagar (fly to home)

does this iternary looks good? Need your thoughts on this.

By june 10, the manali-leh highway will be clearing up? So, i need your advice on starting the trip by this date. Becoz, you have specified like wait for 2 weeks once the roads are opened to stabilize.

Siraj, please skip Sarchu as you will not be acclimatized to sleep up there altitude. Better make Jispa to Leh in a day. No need to do Sham Valley but do rest as Sham Valley can be covered while going to Kargil. You cannot do Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri to Leh in a day. Skip Tso Moriri for now. It is probable that Manali – Leh Highway will open by second week of June.

Thank you very much for giving lots of useful information which is really needed for all the travelers.

Me and my friends are planning to ley ladhak trip. please suggest me, which way to choose Srinagar – ley or manalli -ley. and I’m worried about AMS. kindly suggest the good time to visit. your suggestion will really help me to make my trip memorable.

Thanks In Advance Srinivas

Firstly, I will suggest you that please plan it in other direction as going via Srinagar – Leh Highway will be much much easier on your body and help you acclimatize to the high altitude of Manali – Leh Highway. Also, it allows you to enjoy the beauty of Manali – Leh by splitting the journey almost evenly in two days which is very difficult in the other direction. Thirdly, it will allow you to fit Tso Moriri lake into the itinerary in better way. You can read more reasons on the link here

You can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Leh – Ladakh followed by many travellers including me at the link here for 13-14 days: Most Common Itinerary for Leh – Ladakh .

You can check the nice, preferred list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh (Leh, Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri) including moderate (cheap budget hotels as well) in the series of articles starting on the link here

Dear Dheeraj, Which would be a better date for arriving in leh this year 17 july or 24 july. We are 4 friends entering leh via srinagar and exiting via manali as per your suggestions. We would be taking zoomcar from chandigarh. We have to complete the chandigarh-leh-chandigarh circuit in 9 days . Kindly suggest keeping in mind the road and monsoon condition.

Faraz, I will prefer 17th July to travel to Ladakh. It will take 3 days to reach Leh from Delhi via Manali side with stopovers at Jispa, Manali and 4 days to come back to Delhi from Leh via Srinagar side with stop overs at Jammu, Srinagar, Kargil . This makes it 7 days. 1 Day is required in Leh for acclimatization. You have about 10 days. 1 Day can be used as Day trip to Pangong Tso and other day can be used as day trip to Nubra Valley or just Khardung La pass.

Also, I hope you are aware about: Rented Self Drive Cars in Leh – Ladakh Banned “FORCIBLY”

This is Akshay from Mumbai; Me and three of my friends have planned the trip to Leh-Ladakh from 26th May to 4th June.

Actually at the start we were five however one of our friend dropped out due to some reasons;so we are looking for a someone to join us.

If you see blogs and travel tips for Leh-Ladakh trip u will find out that 5 is the best count to have if you are planning for Leh-Ladakh and of course to cut down cost of private vehicle because private vehicle is one of the important factor to have cost effective leh ladakh trip.

So those who want join please contact at my email : [email protected] and contact no :9664823811.

Will explain you all our itinerary on call or mail but for your information we are coming to Srinagar by flight which has halt at Delhi so anyone can join us from Mumbai, Delhi or Srinagar.

P.S : Those who planning leh ladakh for long tym and those who got ditched by their friends this is the tym guyz..we will together make one hell of trip!!!!!!

Regards, Akshay Mayekar

It is best to post a travel calendar entry as well from the main menu

Hi Dheeraj, firstly thanks a lot for writing this blog. Its very informative. I have always wanted to take a bike trip to Leh. I have not been riding much for past few years & I am someone who is very much susceptible to cold. Going by you blog, road conditions are poor in June-July season and in mid-September temperature will be a challenge. This has got me confused. Can you suggest which time i should go ? Also I want to opt for a packaged tour. Can you suggest any particular group or website ?

Vivek, well, you should be able to do the trip in September. You can do it in second week of September and you should be good with road conditions and temparatures. If you are looking for a package tour, get in touch with [email protected]

Last year i had trip from 10 June16 to 21June2016 through Delhi-Srinagar-Leh-Pangong-Sarchu-Manali-Delhi. In 2017 i want to start the trip in April last week or early may. What you suggest Please Guide.

Ashish, you will be able to only make the trip to Ladakh in April by air only. Are you going by Air? Or in case in May if Srinagar – Leh road opens, you will be able to take that road. How many days you are thinking?

Thanks for your reply Dheeraj. I am planning around 10-11 Days by Own car. Please suggest the earliest suitable time and Itinerary.

Earliest will be June month to go from Manali – Leh Highway.

Opt to go via Manali – Leh Highway and I will suggest that you refer the thread for more details on the route and night halts though it is of 9 days: Manali – Leh – Ladakh – Manali | Itinerary for 9 Days . You can fit in plan I suggested in above para in this plan

hey dheeraj,

kiddo to the blogg. honestly i have been researching about my trip for the last one month nothing helped expect your blogg..we are number of 4 on bikes, planning to travel on 1st week of july 17.around 10 days trip .can please help us with details.i have covered almost all the parts of south india on bike,what are the best places to visit during this time and which route preferably. we are planning to rent a bike from LAH or delhi.one of this place preferably what-so over is better.thank you so much in advance .regards shemeem (Kerala)

Regarding bike rentals in Leh, check: Leh – Ladakh Bike Rental Rates 2017-18

thank you so much dheeraj .do you advice taking flight instead to leh and rent a bike would save some time ?? please advice as me and my friend are looking for a good bike trip :’) is it possible during the 1st week of july

Best option of travel is to reach Srinagar by air and then travel to Ladakh by road. Once in Leh, hire local bike on rent in leh and then do Ladakh sightseeing. Then either take Manali Leh highway with HPTDC bus or shared taxi or fly out of Leh.

Dear Dheeraj,

I am having Safari Storme SUV -Ex (2 wheel drive) and planned to visit Ladakh by road via Manali-Leh route in 3rd week of June-17. I would like to know, other travelers are using 2 wheel drive or 4×4 is compulsory?

Devendra, 4×2 will just do fine. No worries on that front. 10000s of 4×2 cars including hatches and sedans do Ladakh trip every year.

Dheeraj, I am very confused now. I am planning this trip in late August’17. Most probably between 25th August and 10 September. Is it sane to go as I do not have much biking experience. I have done few trips on my bike and I cannot postpone it to 2018 as my friend has already decided to go this year no matter what. Only 2 of us will go on separate bikes. What would you suggest considering we will be on bikes not cars.I am not considering June or July as there will be a lot of rush that time. And its all about peace 😛

August is not far behind in terms of rush Vaibhav. I will recommend that you plan the trip in September second half to beat the rush and help you being a novice biker. The roads and conditions are less troublesome.

lol same here

We are four cousins (men) planning to take Manali Leh in mid June’ to July 2017as mentioned in this article (Mid of June to July just before the onset of monsoon season)- Could you share the road time table and also the good time to travel

Pavan, are you making the Spiti Valley trip or Ladakh trip or combination of both?

This is a very nice blog and it was very memorable trip It was such a fantastic post I really really like It Thanks for sharing Nice Information

Thank you Dorjay

Thank you so much for your blog. You made my jaw dropped because of many amazing information you have provided.

I plan to solo travel to Ladakh this September with budget trip. My itinerary is as below:

Day 1 (Wed): Arrive Leh from New Delhi, rest in Leh Day 2 (Thu): Rest in Leh Day 3 (Fri): Day 4 (Sat): Tso Moriri, overnight in Changpa Day 5 (Sun): Tso Moriri, overnight near the lake. Day 6 (Mon): Back to Leh by bus, overnight in Leh Day 7 (Tue): Head to Nubra Valley, rest in Diskit/ Hunder Day 8 (Wed): Diskit/ Hunder/ Nubra Valley, overnight in Spangmik Day 9 (Fri): Back to Leh by bus Day 10: Head to Pangong Lake, overnight near the lake Day 11: Head to Leh, rest in Leh Day 12: Head to Padum, Zanskar Valley, overnight in Padum Day 13: Head to Leh Day 14 + Day 15: From Leh to Delhi.

Do you have any recommendation? Is it ok if I should take a cab to go to Tso Moriri, Nubra Valley and Pangong Lake and back by bus? Is it safe for female traveler to bike in Ladakh?

Look forward to hearing from you soon.

You have good amount of days in hand and hence I will suggest you to follow the route as per acclimatization rules. First visit Nubra Valley, then visit Pangong Tso and then visit Tso Moriri. Padum, Zanskar requires 4-5 days at ease from Kargil, so I do not see you having time for it.

Thanks so much Dheeraj! I really love to go to Padum and Zanskar. It’s not easy for me if I skip those places 🙁

But you do not have 4-5 days in hand from Kargil. Can you spare time for it or skip other places?

Do you have any recommendation to change my itinerary so that I can have 4-5 days for Padum and Zanskar? I can skip other places. Thanks Dheeraj.

I am going to suggest following plan:

Day 1 (Wed): Arrive Leh from New Delhi, rest in Leh Day 2 (Thu): Move to Kargil Day 3 (Fri): Kargil to Padum (Zanskar) Day 4 (Sat): Rest day at Padum (Visit Karsha, roam around in Padum) Day 5 (Sun): Rest day at Padum (Visit Zangla, Stongde monasteries) Day 6 (Mon): Move to Kargil Day 7 (Tue): Move to Leh Day 8 (Wed): Move to Nubra Valley Day 9 (Fri): Nubra Valley to Leh Day 10: Head to Pangong Lake, overnight near the lake Day 11: Head to Leh, rest in Leh Day 12: Head to Tso Moriri Day 13: Tso Moriri to Leh Day 14 + Day 15: From Leh to Delhi.

Sending you thousand of kisses! Thank you Dheeraj.

Thank you 🙂

This is an amazing website.

I am planning to start my bike expedition from 21st of September. My route is Jammu – Srinagar-Kargil-Zanskar-Leh-Nubra-pangong-Tso moriri-Keylong-Dalhousie-Dharamshala

It will need atleast 25 days to cover all these places and i am least concerned about time as i had quit my job. Now i have questions like,

1) If i start from Jammu on 21st and reach Kargil on 23rd, Is it advisable to reach Zanskar(Padum) on 24-25th? Are roads accessible at that time? 2) If i start from jammu and follow the Sarchu – Manali highway in 2nd week of October, Is it advisable? 3) Contrary, if i start from Manali Leh highway, can i cover zanskar in the second week of October? I had to cover zanskar anyhow, thats why my plans are becoming very confusing.

Please reply as its becoming very confusing for me.

I also manage my personal blog, http://www.theCrazyRider.com

Great to connect Sachendra.

1. Yes, you can reach there to Padum but it will be a bit cold. 2. It will be risky and I do not recommend in general. Read: 5 Reasons to Avoid Manali – Leh Highway in October

Well, same problem will be with Zanskar Valley, I will not recommend that too that late in the season.

We have an offer for Pajero white board from a rental company. Do we face any issues in Leh from taxi union check posts?

Best Regards Gopinath

If they check papers, they need to be in your name or someone you can prove relation with.

Hello Dheeraj,

your website is a bible. I have almost figured out everything reading it. I am planning to visit Leh in the first week of october. Flight from Delhi to Ladakh. Could you recommend some hotels good for this season? ANy special care I should think of since I am travelling with 10 year old. Thanks.

You can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Leh – Ladakh by Air followed by many travelers including me at the link here for 9 days: Leh – Ladakh | Most Common Itinerary by Air .

For the leh – ladakh taxi union rate list 2015 – 16 including the contacts of some reliable taxi drivers within Leh – Ladakh, check the link here . You can get about 10-12% of discount by directly getting in touch with drivers and of course, talking in person rather on phone always help in bargaining more.

For the list of good restaurants in Leh – Ladakh or eateries or food joints where food is enjoyed by many travellers including me, you can check the link here: List of Good Restaurants in Leh – Ladakh | Restaurant Reviews

Check the list of things to carry for Leh – Ladakh or other trip including basic medical kit, clothing, must haves etc. at the link here: List of Things to Carry for Leh – Ladakh trip .

We are a couple from Kolkata planned to travel Kashmir and leh with all sightseeing via kargil road by hiring motorcycle.From 11th October to 21 October… Will it be troublesome?? But we don’t want to cancel it….please suggest me in details…

I will not suggest going beyond Penzi La that late in the season. It will be a bit risky and of course dry and cold.

Thanks for your suggestion .But we are not going to pensi la.we want to travel lamayur,nubra,pangong. in motorcycle.Please suggest in details how safe are these.Is it safe for a single couple to travel Kashmir and leh by bike in that time??

You said Zanskar Valley, so thought you want to go to there. That should be OK but avoid coming back from MAnali side. Srinagar – Leh route is still OK in October. It will be cold, there will be less tourists around and most hotels/restaurants will be closed for the season.

Thanks. But I want to know how safe is pangong and nubra road for bike tour for a single couple in 3rd week of October…?? Please suggest..what may be the difficulties for single couple??

Safety wise, Ladakh is one of the safest places in terms of crime and they treat tourists like guests. But, it will be damn cold and yes of course deserted roads will be there as less tourists will be present. The response time in case of need or any help will be more and more as less people travel on these routes..

Please suggest me where can we get bike for hire in Srinagar and leg in October… Do we need to book it early or available that we can go and burgain there.

Supriyo, most things are shut in Srinagar now a days. You cannot use a srinagar bike in ladakh for sightseeing, so be aware about that. One side drop of bike will cost around 10K more.

Thank you.I have installed and registered in DOW apps but but I can’t post anything.. Anyway, we are a single couple planned a bike tour from 11october to 21 october.We have planned to hire bike in Srinagar for 4 days and travel to leh via kargil by public transport and again hire bike in leh for 5 days.Please suggest for.. 1.Where can we hire bike in Srinagar?? Cost??terms?? Anything else that I don’t know?? 2.Where can we hire bike in Leg??Cost??terms?? Anything else?? 3.Is panggong,nubra,lamayuru routes will be OK in those seasons for bike riding?? 4.what are the necessary things we should carry?? 5.how to know if anybody want to join us?? 6.Budget stays in pangong,nubra etc. Please suggest anything more to keep in mind that I don’t know…

Your first 5 posts are not visible unless approved. Your posts are already there and answered: https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/india/plan-ladakh-zanskar-trip/topic4507.html#p34716

Hi Dheeraj, Congratulation for your blog.. it is really interesting and useful. My girlfriend and I would like to go to ladakh the newxt november.. but it seems so cold overthere… so What do you think? are there any other interesting mountains sites in the India Himalaya region that are more accessible in that period? Or… if I decided to go to Ladakh in that period… where do you think could go around? and how many degrees below zero could I experience? Thanks so much Simone

Hello Simone,

In Ladakh, you can very well make a trip to almost all the places within Ladakh but you will have to fly by air to Leh and fly out of Leh. Of course, you will have to bear with cold conditions and limited stay + food options. You can refer the plan at: Leh – Ladakh in Winters – Most Common Itinerary

Planning to go in mid august with friends and bike trip in and from leh itself..? Is it recommendable to go during that time of rains..?

Abhi please read: 10 Tips for a Trip to Ladakh in Monsoons

Your article is quite informative. Thanks. It would be nice if you can help me plan up my trip to Lay-Ladakh . Myself and my wife ( mid 40) and twin daughters aged 16 planning to travel to Lay from Bangalore on 9th of October, because, that’s when children get holidays and would like to stay at lay-Ladhak till 16th of October. ( basically 5 day, stay in Lay) Can you please suggest the places that we can cover and suggest an itinerary for me. We plan to take up a flight from Bangalore to Delhi. and after that, I have absolutely no idea about the mode of transport or route i should take. Is it better to go on our own or take up a camp. if taking up a camp, which one is better? Hope, that’s not very expensive. Please suggest. Looking forward to your reply.

Warm Regards,

I will be in leh on 12th July till 20th July 2016.

I have some questions in mind so could you please suggest me the best answer

In which place shall I stay in Leh?

Also, where shall I get good accommodation like tent or home stay?

In which place shall visit during the period i.e. between 12th July to 20th July 2016?

Also, it would be better if you suggest me the place where shall I get Bike on rent?

On 22nd July, I have trained from Jammu so is there any public transport or anything else through which I can go from Leh to Jammu via Kargil?

Apart from that you can suggest me better plan.

Awaiting for your prompt reply.

Hello Ashish,

I can answer you better if you tell me how are you reaching Leh on 12th July, I see you will travel by road to Jammu from Leh on 20th

Thank You Dheeraj for the replying . I will be reaching Leh by plane

Hi Dheeraj, I am planning to do circuit from Chandigarh – Srinagar – Leh – Manali – Chandigarh. Dates are 2 nd august to 13 august.

1. What is your opinion above dates of travel? 2. Will it be good for bike riding? 3. As heard of uttarakhand cloud burst.. So any chances of consequences? (I can understand it cannot be assured right now… but still if you have any predictions.)

Hi Swapnil,

You should read: 10 Tips for a Trip to Ladakh in Monsoons which will answer many of your doubts.

I am planing to travel Leh-Ladakh…we are 6 people…we will be traveling to and fro Leh airport from mumbai… But we are very much confused about the dates.. Please suggest Aug 26th to 4th Sep Sep 2nd to 11th Any 1..thou there isn’t much difference in the date…we are preferring Sep…but jz rains may spoil the trip so need your guidance

September will be a better time to do so.

I am from Bangalore and planning to do a solo trip on a budget in the month of August 2016. I have planned out a small itinerary, would love to have your opinion regarding the same. Day 1 : Bangalore to Delhi by flight Day 2 : Delhi to Manali by Volvo bus Day 3 & 4 : Manali to Leh by bus with overnight stay at Sarchu Day 5 : Local sightseeing/Rest Day 6 : Hire a bike in Leh for the rest of the trip. Sham Valley Day 7 : Leh to Nubra valley. Overnight stay at Hunder. Day 8 : Nubra valley to Leh Day 9 : Leh to Pangong Tso. Overnight stay at Spangmik. Day 10 : Pangong Tso to Leh. Day 11 : Leh to Delhi by flight. Delhi to Bangalore by flight.

Let me know what you think of this.

Hi Dheeraj, I am planning to travel to Leh-Ladakh in first week of October 2016 with hubby and 8 year old daughter. Please help me with below questions,

1. Is this time of the year OK for travel ? (considering kid in mind)Will it be too cold ? 2. Planning for self drive from Manali to Leh and then back from Leh by flight. 3. Is it good for traveling around Leh ? Weather conditions ? 4. Is it OK to travel by road with the kid ?

Thanks Ashwini

Hi Ashwini,

1. No, time is not OK most of the camps are winded up and it gets cold in high places in Ladakh 2. Manali – Leh is not recommended at all in October and especially with kids, will not suggest taking risks, even though now a days it is slightest. 3. Cold mostly.

We are following for advice to driver via Srinagar to Leh. But question are we allowed to driver a hire tempo traveller from punjab via Srinagar to Leh. And for local ladakh sight seeing via taxi.

No, ladakh sightseeing you need local ladakh tempo travller

Yes Dheeraj. I’m aware about the local sightseeing must be done via their local transport. But reaching Leh on our own hire vehicle(Tempo traveller) from punjab – are we allowed that via srinagar.

Or we need to take the tempo from srinagar itself.

We are planning our journey as below from 14th Jul to 25th Jul.

Day 1 – Delhi to Srinagar (flight) Day 2 – Srinagar to Pahalgam to Srinagar Day 3 – Srinagar to Gulmarg to Srinagar Day 4 – Srinagar to Kargil (Via Sonamarg and Dras) Day 5 – Srinagar to Leh Day 6 – Leh (Tour of Local Monasteries) Day 7 – Leh to Nubra Lake Day 8 – Nubra Lake to Leh Day 9 – Leh to Panggong Lake and Back to Leh Day 10 – Leh to Kelyong Day 11 – Kelyong to Manali Day 12 – Manali to Chandigarh

1. Need your advice on the plan – is it ok ? 2. Taking tempo traveler from punjab (For day 2 to 5 and 10,11, 12) 3. For local sighting seeing will take the local transport in leh (For day 6,7,8,9)

Regards, Karen Sandhu

1. Your plan looks OK to me. 2. Sounds good, local sightseeing you need local tempo traveller

Yes, Karen. you are fine to reach Leh in outside taxi or rented vehicle.

Hi, please give me update infomation for bus service timing from Leh to srinagar nowdays (Days and timing) and also tell me bus service or taxi in Low budget for visit Pangong Lake,Tso morriri , Nubra valley, khardungla top etc.

Please refer: Rates & Time table of Bus Services in Leh – Ladakh

I am planning a trip to Ladhak from 6th Aug to 17th Aug. A brief itinerary is as follows

Day 1st Pune – Srinagar airport – Local Trip Day 2nd Srinagar – Gulmarg– Srinagar Day 3rd Srinagar – Sonamarg – Kargil – Lamayuru ( We would prefer staying at Lamayuru instead of Kargil. Is this feasible? Day 4th – Lamayuru – Leh Day 5th Tour of Local Monasteries Day 6th Leh – Pangong Lake Day 7th Pangong – Leh – Khardungla – Nubra Valley Day 8th Back to leh Day 9th leh – Sarchu Here can we cover morey plains? Day 10th Sarchu – manali Day 11th Manali local sightseeing Day 12th Manali – Chandigarh Airport Drop

1. Any comments/suggestions on the itinerary? 2. Can we hire open jeep/mahindra thar in leh? If yes, can you share some relevant contacts?Chauffeur driven would also do. 3. You have already mentioned details about the weather conditions in the first week of August, but as we wont be riding on bikes, how much difficulties we might face? 4. How much it would cost approximately for the above itinerary considering we are 4 adults travelling.

1. Changes suggested below 2. No self drive option available in Leh, you can hire taxi there 3. Well, below Ladakh range, there will be rains which will have swollen water crossings, slush on roads, landlsides will be common too 4.

Day 1st Pune – Srinagar airport – Local Trip Day 2nd Srinagar – Gulmarg– Srinagar Day 3rd Srinagar – Sonamarg – Kargil Day 4th – Kargil – Leh Day 5th Tour of Local Monasteries Day 6th Leh – Nubra Valley Day 7th Back to Leh Day 8th Day trip to Pangong Tso or go to Sarchu/Pang from Panogng Tso next day Day 9th Sarchu/Pang Day 10th Sarchu/Pang – manali Day 11th Manali local sightseeing Day 12th Manali – Chandigarh Airport Drop

Thanks for the reply Dheeraj. Need clarification on below two points:

1. Regarding water crossings and slush on roads, how much does it affect while travelling in a four wheeler(we are not riding on bikes)?

2. Regarding open jeep/mahindra thar – We dont need a self drive vehicle. A car with driver will do. But the main requirement is we need an Open Jeep. So would be great if you can share some relevant contacts.

Hi, I am planning to visit leh on 2 Oct 2016 with my wife for around 10 to 11 days. I will fly from pune to leh. Then will book hotel there and take bike of rent i will visit different place there. So i have some question below: 1. How easily we can get hotel there with affordable rate during given time frame? 2.I will be traveling different place on bike with my wife , my wife don’t ride bike so is it possible to visit place like Chang La Pass,Taglang La Pass,Khardung La Pass,Tso Kar Lake,Pangong Tso Lake etc. in 7-8 days time frame. 3. Is it safe to travel in leh alone with wife ?

Thanks in advance. Rahul

Rahul in October it is off seaosn in Ladakh and cold too. Most of the camps besides the Pangong Tso lake gets packed up and most hotels/restaurant in Leh gets closed.

Hello, sir I want to know about Local bus service around leh Ladakh Local sightseenig is available on nowdays july 2016.plz Reply

No there is no local bus service in Leh for sightseeing purposes. Local tour operators might be running some taxis for the same.

I am planning to travel Srinagar-Leh-Manali with my mom. The trip would be for around 10-12 days and wil include Sonmarg, Dras, Kargil, Lamayuru, Leh, Nubra, Pangong, Sarchu, Rohtang and finally Manali. Which would be the best time to travel July end (around 27 July.) or mid September (around 20 Sep.)? How are the road conditions during the given period? Any suggestions or must visit places are welcomed!

Mid septembers is a good time to travel Ladakh, always. You can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Leh – Ladakh followed by many travellers including me at the link here for 13-14 days: Most Common Itinerary for Leh – Ladakh .

Thanks for the deails.I have planned somewhat similar itinerary. The only difference is we will finishing the tour at Chandigarh. How is the weather during the September end (20-30 September)? Are there any chances of rain or snow fall? Does temperature dip ver much at night or high passes? Can you please mention some advantages of visiting Leh in September over July or any points which are best to visit in September? How much time does it take to reach Chandigarh from Manali as the last flight from Chandigarh is at 7 pm. ? Thank You!

Very little rain or snowfall may happen during that period. Regarding points, please read the article above. Chandigarh – Manali is around 9 Hrs

We have planned to ride Leh in September starting from 16 -Sep to 1st-Oct. We are 6 riders on our own starting from Jammu- srinagar-leh-manali-Chandigarh My main concern is the weather, road conditions & stay in last 2 weeks of September. My question are : 1: Is riding during this time safe( like landslide & rains) ? 2: is this the good time for the road trip ? 3: What about the camp stay in pangong? will that be open ? 4: Can we setup our own tent ? (with proper Sleeping bag n all) 5: Will there be snow ? 6: What about the land slide & rain in last two week of September ? Will we face that ?

Thanks in Advance

Regards. Bharat V

Hello Bharat,

1. YEs, time is good to travel, in fact best time to travel to Ladakh 3. Yes, there will be options available 4. Yes you can setup your own camps where other camps are pitched. DO NOT pitch at banks of the lake as it is not authorized and leagal to camp besides the lake. 5. In case it snows the day you visit. 6. Usually things are stable in September

I’m Bhoomik From Chennai

What are the places would u suggest to visit if i would like to cover Nook and corner of leh ladakh and near by and how many days will it take. Please suggest Me everything.

All depends upon how many days you have in hand and your mode of transport

Can Padum and Zanskar valley be travelled in third week of October??

I will not suggest it because the winter sets in by end of September and Penzi La can close for few days in case of heavy snowfall.

I am planning to travel ladakh in mid of june, and I want to visit Zanskar, I’ll follow your suggested common itinerary for this trip. So is it possible to cover Zansakar in this itinerary and if yes, can u please share me the travel guide to cover the same or any other possibilities.

Thanking you.

Zanskar Valley needs at least 4 days on confortable level ex. Kargil. Do you have 4 more days in hand?

Hello sir, I have planned for visit to Ladakh during 18june to 24 june .Is it the best time to visit .plz Reply

It is good time to visit Ladakh Raj

You are doing an excellent job. I would like to thank you sincerely for it. I have a query that I want to travel with my husband to Leh from 2 sep to 8sep 2016. But I am bit afraid as I have read that weather in leh keeps changing drastically and at that time it would be monsoon so lot of thunderstorm. I was going to follow your iteneary for this short trip of 6 nights stay. Could you please guide me and clear my mind, Is September a good month to travel? I am planning to viist Nubra & Panong Tso and stay 1 night at each place. If we get stuck at somepoint, Is help available? I know probably I am worrying too much but I woul dbe very thankful to you if you can throw some lights on my query. Thanking you

If you are flying in and flying out of Leh, there is no issues at all during that time. Ladakh is a rain shadow region and September is a good time to travel

Thank you Dheeraj for your prompt reply. Any extra precaution to be taken care of during the visit?

Hmm, well, do read 9 Mistakes People Commit on a Ladakh Trip AND Acute Mountain Sickness and Importance of Acclimatization

HI Dheeraj, Me and my wife wish to travel in the second week of August. Do you recommend that time for travel? its her birthday so don’t want to mess it up 🙂

It is monsoon time in general up there in North and at some parts of Manali – Leh Highway (like before Baralacha La) and Srinagar – Leh Highway (like before Kargil) you might need to face monsoon hassles but once you get closer to Ladakh, then Ladakh being rain shadow region is least affected by monsoon rains, though rains does reach Ladakh now but to minimum and mostly it might remains overcast conditions. There is no thumb rule of certainty about weather conditions but above is generally common pictures seen over last few years except ugly 2010 …

Please refer the link in our community: FAQ | Is Monsoon season good time to travel to Ladakh? for more details.

Hi Dheeraj. We are 4 persons all adults of a family two gents and two ladies plan to visit zhanskar valley from Jalandhar. Pl suggest best itenry We have a total of 7-8 days from 11 June We will be going in Pajero sports 4by4

Harish, I always suggest: Zanskar Valley – Most Common Itinerary

I am planning to visit ladakh in September so can we find snow at that time of period

Snow will not be present in the month of September in Ladakh unless it snowfall on that very day when you are there

hi Dheeraj.

Your posts are so so awesome.

I need your advice on our road trip plan. We are a group of 8 friends, 25-35 yrs old males & females, planning for Delhi-Leh-Delhi by our own two cars. I am keen to have your advice on the following:- 1. Are Maruti Swift diesels recommended for this trip? 2. Except me, all other 7 friends are first timers for Ladakh trip but all of them have done lot of self driven road trips in north india, so is it advisable for us to go to ladakh during Jun-July or Aug-Sep?

your valuable insights will be highly helpful for all of us. Thanks.

hello Dheeraj,

I will be travelling to Leh Ladakh during 1st october to 12th october on my Santro. Is it doable on a Santro? i will self drive and travel with my wife and son. Please advice.I will be going via Srinagar.

Thanks for setting up all the information in one place. I have planned trip to LEH during September. Travel plan is for ~22 days, in that I would like to cover kargil/leh/manali/delhi[in and around places ]/Agra and then I would ride back to Bangalore. Here’s what I have planned, please help me to head in right direction and plan better.

TRIP START DATE: SEP 02 2016 [ Friday night ] END DATE: SEP 25 2016 [ Saturday ]

Sep 2nd [ night ]:- I will be getting my bike [ Apache 180 ] from Bangalore via train and reach Delhi on Sunday 04 Sep 04 : Will head to Pathankot . [ THAT’s ALL ] After going through all the places suggested by you for other travelers, I had made a rough plan on where to visit. But then I would like to hear it out from the right person rather than going with one of mine.

Looking forward for advice to plan things even better.

This is from Delhi to Delhi, now depending upon days left in 22 days with you, you can try to spend more time at places example go to Turtuk in Nubra Valley, take three day journey over Manali – leh Highway

U r just amazing!!!

I have planned a family trip to Leh – Ladakh during 10 Oct to 16 Oct 2016. It will be a 12 member group with age ranging from 7 years to 65 years. Will be reaching Leh by flight from Delhi and return on 16 morning by flight. The flight tickets are already booked. I have the the following questions: 1. Will it be appropriate to travel with such age group? (Keeping in view the temperature and terrain) 2. Suggest me the places to visit as I have not yet planned the itinerary. 3. Suggest me suitable hotels/ camps/ homestay for your suggested itinerary. 4. What is the minimum temperature expected during our visit?

Needless to say, it will be quite cold up there in Ladakh especially at places like Pangong Tso. You do not have much time on hand so can follow the first 6-7 days of itinerary in: Leh – Ladakh | Most Common Itinerary by Air

Hi dheeraj I read all your post for leh ladak i was very impress I would like to take three days journey on Srinagar – leh highway I would like to use alternate route which goes Kargil ,Batalik ,Dah,Skurbuchan My back journey is leh to manali iwould like to go to spiti valley too Can you set my iternary and which is the best season to visit and how many days should I keep no time limite I

Hello Sonali,

You can follow th below plan:

Day 1 | Delhi – Jammu / Patnitop — Overnight at Jammu or Patnitop

Day 2 | Jammu / Patnitop – Srinagar — Enjoy walk around Dal lake and may be Shikara ride as well — If you have time then check out, floating market, Shalimar Garden. — Overnight at Srinagar

Day 3 | Srinagar – Zozi La – Drass – Kargil — Enjoy the vistas enroute — Have late drunch meal at Drass is you are a vegetarian as sometimes it gets difficult to find veg. food at Kargil — Overnight at Kargil

Day 4 | Kargil – Lamayuru – Leh — Cover Mulbekh Maitrey, Lamayuru Moanstery, Lunar Landscapes — On the way you can also see Gurudwara Pather Sahib, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Nimmu — Overnight at Leh

Day 5 | Leh Local Sightseeing + Inner Line Permits — To know the about the places to visit check the link: Travel Guide for Local Sightseeing of Leh Town in Ladakh — For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link  here — Overnight at Leh

Day 6 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder — Head for Nubra Valley and stay overnight at Hunder — On the way enjoy a cup of soup at Highest Motorable Pass (as claimed) Khardung La

Day 7 | Hunder – Sumur/Kyagar – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh — Sumur has a famous monastery to check out and Panamik has hot water springs — Overnight at Leh

Day 8 | Rest day at Leh to enjoy local culture and some shopping OR Monastery tour — Monastery tour may include Hemis, Thicksey, Stakna and Shey monasteries. They come on the route of Pangong Tso but as you will be doing day trip, it will be a bit hectic to include them on that day only. — Overnight at Leh

Day 9 | Leh – Hemis Monastery – Pangong Tso Lake — Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on the go towards Pangong Tso — Overnight at Pangong Tso (Spangmik)

Day 10 | Pangong Tso Lake – Shey – Thicksey – Leh — Overnight at Leh

Day 11 | Rest day at Leh to enjoy local culture and some shopping OR Monastery tour OR you can do tour to Sham Valley — Monastery tour may include Hemis, Thicksey, Stakna and Shey monasteries. They come on the route of Pangong Tso but as you will be doing day trip, it will be a bit hectic to include them on that day only. — Sham Valley include Alchi, Likir, Basgo Palace, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Nimmu, , Gurudwara Pather Sahib — Overnight at Leh

Day 12 | Leh – Tso Moriri via Chumathang — Cover Karzok Monastery — Overnight at Karzok or Tso Moriri

Day 13 | Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Debring (Manali – Leh Highway starts) – Moore Plains – Pang / Sarchu — Try to start early in the day so that you reach Sarchu where the accommodation options are better than Pang — Overnight at Sarchu or Pang

Day 14 | Pang / Sarchu – Baralacha La – Jispa — On the way cover Suraj Tal, Deepak Tal which are on the road sides only — Overnight at Jispa

Day 15 | Jispa – Chandratal Day 16 | Chandratal – Kaza on the way (Ki, Kibber, Gette) Day 17 | Kaza/Langza Homestay (Hikkim, Koumik, Langza) Day 18 | Kaza – Pin Valley – Dhankar – Tabo Day 19 | Tabo – Kalpa Day 20 | Kalpa – Narkanda Day 21 | Narkanda – Chail / Shimla – Delhi

Add a day from Kargil to travel to Dah – Hanu villages and next day traveling to Leh from Dah – Hanu or Alchi wherever you take the night halt.

Hi dheeraj,

Your blog is amazing and definately a bible for ppl who want to travel to ladakh..i’m planning for 11 day trip to leh ladakh starting from either 3rd sept to 13sept or 9th sept to 19th sept. Can you please suggest me a gud detailed itinerary and also which dates would be best. Im from chennai and would prefer taking flight from chennai to leh and back..also can u suggest me whr all can i rent bikes.i would wanna drive a bike around for the experience and thrill of it..would like to do some camping as well.. Thanks in advance Regards, Neelam

I think I replied to your other comment

Type above and press Enter to search. Press Esc to cancel.

Privacy Overview

Ad blocker enabled.

The Top 20 Things to Do in Ladakh, India

The remote, high-altitude Union Territory of Ladakh opened to visitors in 1974 after decades of conflict, and has since developed into a prominent tourist destination. Once part of the Tibetan Empire, Ladakh became an independent kingdom in the 9 th century, eventually expanding into what is now Western Tibet. The kingdom prospered as a nexus for the trade of Pashmina wool between Tibet and Kashmir . However, invasion from the Dogra region of neighboring Jammu ended the kingdom in 1834; later, Ladakh was incorporated into the state of Jammu and Kashmir. It became a separate union territory in October 2019.

These days, Ladakh lures tourists with a mix of Tibetan Buddhist culture, dramatic scenery, and outdoor adventure activities. The fact that the region remains cut off by road for most of the year has helped it retain its distinctive customs and lifestyle.

Read on to find out the top things to do in Ladakh and when is the best time to visit Ladakh .

Wander Through Leh's Main Market

memindshot/Getty Images

If you fly into Leh, Ladakh's tourist hub , you'll need to spend a few days there to acclimatize to the high altitude. Start off by wandering through the market area in the town center to orientate yourself. This lively commercial district was recently given a makeover as part of a beautification project. Rows of Ladakhi women sit on the sidewalks selling homegrown local produce, and the shops are stocked with everything from souvenirs to trekking gear (it's also possible to rent climbing and trekking gear at Venture Ladakh ). Check out the Tibetan Refugee Market for prayer wheels, sound bowls, thangka paintings, and jewelry. You'll find plenty of travel agents to help with your plans as well. Drop into the Central Asian Museum on Main Bazaar Road (open daily from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.) to learn about Leh's role in Silk Road trade.

Take a Heritage Walk of Leh's Old Town

Pavel Gospodinov/Getty Images

Behind the market area, Leh's atmospheric Old Town is an amazingly well-preserved maze of narrow lanes and centuries-old mud brick houses. This rare example of an intact historic Tibeto-Himalayan urban settlement was originally situated within a walled fortification. The New York-based World Monuments Fund has included the Old Town on its list of 100 Most Endangered Sites due to the threat of damage from climate change and poorly-planned modernization. It's now being preserved by the Tibet Heritage Fund .

Start your exploration of the Old Town at Jama Masjid (mosque) near the market. Attractions include several Buddhist temples and chortens , and the interesting  LAMO arts center in a pair of magnificently restored 17 th -century mansions. Go on this guided heritage walk so you don't miss anything.

Enjoy the Views from Leh Palace

Natapong Supalertsophon/Getty Images

While you're exploring Leh, make your way over to Leh Palace (formally known as Lachen Palkar Palace), perched above the Old Town. Completed by King Sengge Namgyal in the early 17 th century, this former royal palace has outstanding medieval Tibetan architecture. Unfortunately, the royal family were forced to abandon the palace and relocate to Stok in the mid 19 th century after the Dogra invasion. Much of it was in ruins until the Archeological Survey of India's restoration.

Leh Palace can be reached by walking uphill from town or by road. Tickets to go inside cost 300 rupees (about $4) for foreigners, and 25 rupees (about 40 cents) for Indians. The Palace Museum has regal memorabilia for you to check out; however, the superb views over town are arguably the biggest draw.

Spend Sunset at Shanti Stupa

Laphon Pinta/Getty Images

Shanti Stupa is another standout place in the vicinity of Leh for views, and it's particularly evocative at sunset. The white-domed stupa was built between 1983 and 1991 by a Japanese Buddhist group to celebrate 2,500 years of Buddhism. This symbol of peace occupies a barren hilltop in Chanspa, opposite Leh Palace. Get there by taxi or climb about 500 steps to be rewarded with the panoramic view from the top. The stupa is open from dawn to 9 p.m. and is illuminated at night. Head there for sunrise if you like to wake up early.

Give Some Love to Abandoned Donkeys

Christopher Loh/Getty Images

When many donkeys reach the end of their useful working lives, they are abandoned on the streets, where they become weak and are attacked by stray dogs. Animal lovers will appreciate the wonderful work the Donkey Sanctuary is doing to provide a "home for homeless donkeys" and treat their injuries. The sanctuary cares for up to 30 donkeys at a time, and visitors can pet and feed them. It's located in Upper Leh, about 15 minutes north of town on Korean Temple Road.

Try Local Food

asafta/Getty Images

You'll find that Ladakhi cuisine is heavily influenced by the surrounding regions, including Tibet and  Kashmir . Don't limit yourself to momos (dumplings) and thukpa (noodle soup) when visiting this area. There are many other traditional dishes to try. One of them is skyu, a delicious indigenous pasta stew with root vegetables. Alchi Kitchen at Chhutey Rantak in Leh gives a modern twist to it. Ladakhi Women's Cafe , a welfare enterprise run by a local group of women in Leh's main market, serves up inexpensive homestyle lunches. Dzomsa on Fort Road does authentic Ladakhi breakfasts featuring khambir (bread), signature butter tea (with yak butter and salt), and homemade apricot preserve. The Tibetan Kitchen on Fort Road is renowned for its succulent momos and other Tibetan fare.

Want to learn how to cook Ladakhi food too? Tendrel Travel offers momo making classes led by local chefs.

Visit the Monasteries

GARCIA Julien / hemis.fr/Getty Images

Most tourists visit at least one Buddhist monastery in Ladakh. Nearly half the population there practices Tibetan Buddhism, so spectacular monasteries are dotted all over the region. Most can be visited on day trips from Leh or on the way to other destinations. Spituk is the closest monastery to Leh, whereas Lamayuru and Alchi (both on the way to Kargil) are the region's oldest monasteries. The ancient ruins of Basgo Monastery , near Alchi, are on the WMF's list of 100 Most Endangered Sites. Diskit Monastery, with its gigantic Maitreya Buddha statue, is in Ladakh's Nubra Valley . The most incredible (and most inaccessible) monastery is Phugtal, halfway between Padum and Darcha in the Zanskar region. It can't be reached by road, so you'll have to trek or ride a pony to it.

Experience Ladakhi Village Life

WIN-Initiative/Getty Images

Ladakh is a marvelous place to experience village life and there are options for all kinds of travelers. For luxury travelers, Shakti Ladakh has transformed several old village houses in rural Ladakh into elegant lodging; Nimmu House , too, provides quality accommodations in a village setting. Those who aren't too fussed about facilities will find plenty of homestays in various quaint villages. Farmstays Ladakh is a relatively new initiative that brings visitors to stay with farming families in Phyang and Phey villages. Another community empowerment initiative, Mountain Homestays , has appealing properties in rural Ladakh too. Alternatively, adventurous travelers can join a village-to-village trek, such as the popular Sham Trek (see below). Dreamland Adventures offers numerous homestay treks .

Go Trekking

TripSavvy / Alicia Erikson

There are treks for all levels of fitness and experience in Ladakh. The region is quite the trekkers paradise with stark landscapes, high-altitude passes, ancient gompas , unusual flora and fauna, fascinating villages, and even frozen rivers in winter. If you don't want to camp out, there are now village homestay accommodations on many treks. The four-day Sham Trek is regarded as the beginner's trek (although it still isn't easy). It starts in Likir, and goes through the arid Sham region to the west of Leh. If you're up for a challenge, try the Chadar Trek along the frozen Zanskar River. It's one of the most difficult in India!

Stay with Royalty at Stok Palace

Katie Garrod/Getty Images

19 th century Stok Palace, about 30 minutes south of Leh, has been turned into a heritage hotel and private museum of the Ladakhi royal family . The palace overlooks the Indus Valley, and is smaller and cozier than the one in Leh. The erstwhile king still lives there; he's passionate about conserving Ladakhi culture and likes his discerning guests to have a personal experience. While the museum is open to everyone, overnight guests are given a guided tour of the palace (including the monastery and throne room) and may even dine with the king. Impromptu cooking sessions are possible in the royal kitchen as well. Of course, the privilege doesn't come cheap. The six carefully restored palace rooms are priced from around 18,000-38,000 rupees (about $250–540) per night, inclusive of meals for two people. They're only open during the summer months though. Guests can stay in the two-bedroom villas in the royal apricot orchard year-round.

Glamp at High Altitudes

Indus River Camp

There are plenty of happy glampers in Ladakh. Luxury tented camps have cropped up in popular places such as the Nubra Valley and Pangong Lake . The most glamorous ones are The Ultimate Traveling Camp's opulent Chamba Camp near Thiksey Monastery and Chamba Camp at Diskit . These seasonal camps are open from mid-May to the end of September or October. Exclusive bespoke itineraries are offered at each. Elsewhere, the 42-acre Indus River Camp is an excellent less-costly option on the river bank, conveniently only 15 minutes from Leh. This stunning location offers activities such as yoga, cycling, rock climbing, and visits to a local camel sanctuary.

Have a Bollywood Moment at Pangong Lake

The final scenes of the 2009 hit movie "The 3 Idiots" were shot at Pangong Lake —and ever since it was released, Indian tourists have been flocking there to have their Bollywood moment (props are even available for hire). At 4,350 meters above sea level, this surreal salt water lake is among the highest in the world. It's also unusual because it's completely landlocked. The lake is about a six-hour drive southeast of Leh, on the border of China-dominated Tibet. It's disputed territory, so permits are required to visit the area. Stargazing is sensational at night!

Spot Himalayan Marmots

SomersetMaugham/Getty Images

While driving through Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary on the way to Pangong Lake, you'll probably encounter some vehicles stopped on the side of the road. It's a popular location to spot Himalayan marmots, which emerge from their winter hibernation in May and bask in the sun. The furry rodents are a type of giant ground-dwelling squirrel and are among the longest-hibernating mammals in the world. Marmots are usually timid—but because these ones have become used to tourists giving them food, they will actually approach people. Do obey the signs that say not to feed them, as it is causing concerning changes to their behavior.

Eat at the Highest Cafeteria in the World

Diana Mayfield/Getty Images

Khardung La, which passes over the Ladakh mountain range on the way to the Nubra Valley, may not actually be the highest drivable road as is often claimed (the Indian government has stated its altitude to be only 17,582 feet above sea level, as opposed to 18,380 feet). However, you can still grab a bite to eat at Rinchen Cafeteria, the "highest cafeteria in the world". Avoid spending any longer than about 15 minutes there though, as the super high altitude is likely to make you feel lightheaded and unwell.

Ride Camels Through the Sand Dunes

Kriangkrai Thitimakorn/Getty Images

A camel safari through the desert is an iconic thing to do in Rajasthan . It's also possible in Ladakh, although the camels are the rugged double-humped Bactrian variety. The safaris take place in the sand dunes between Diskit and Hunder in the Nubra Valley . Camel riding also is possible at Sumur, but the dunes are less impressive.

Learn About Balti Culture and Traditions

It's often said that India is one of the most diverse countries in the world. You'll really understand why at the Balti village of Turtuk in the Nubra Valley, close to the Pakistan border. Baltistan was part of Pakistan until India reclaimed some of it during the 1971 Indo-Pakistani War, and Turtuk was off-limits to tourists until 2010 due to security concerns. The Balti Heritage Museum in Turtuk showcases local history, starting from the time the village was inhabited by the Brokpa tribe and later overtaken by warriors from Central Asia. See if you can meet the "king" of Turtuk, Yabgo Mohammad Khan Kacho, a descendant of the Yabgo Dynasty that ruled Baltistan for 2,000 years. He still lives in the former palace and has set up a museum there dedicated to the dynasty's memorabilia. Old wooden mosques that have withstood the test of time are another attraction in Turtuk. Spend a night or more in a luxury tent at Turtuk Holiday Resort or Maha Guest House . Balti Farm at Turtuk Holiday Resort prepares fabulous Balti cuisine.

Get an Adrenaline Rush from River Rafting

Thomas L Kelly/Getty Images

River rafting in Ladakh is one of the top adventure activities in India and a whole lot of fun. It takes place along the Indus and Zanskar rivers, with various grade rapids for all levels. The Chilling-to-Nimmu stretch of the Indus River is ideal for white water junkies who love an adrenaline rush, as there are plenty of rapids on this three-hour, grade 3+ stretch. Splash Ladakh is one of the best rafting operators. You'll be picked up from your hotel in Leh early in the morning, driven to Chilling (an hour and a half away), collected from the end point near Nimmu, and dropped back at your hotel mid-afternoon. Longer rafting expeditions with riverside camping are offered, too.

Marvel Over Magnetic Hill

NMitra/Getty Images

Is it an optical illusion, or is something more mysterious going on at gravity-defying Magnetic Hill on the the Srinagar-Leh Highway? Place your car in neutral gear and it will appear to roll uphill on this bizarre stretch of road. According to the sign, there's a real magnetic force at play. Locals and the Indo-Tibetan Border Police have claimed that the magnetic power can be experienced if flying above the hill in a helicopter or airplane as well. You'll find Magnetic Hill just before the confluence of the Zanskar and Indus rivers near Nimmu, about a 30-minute drive from Leh.

Admire the Confluence of the Indus and Zanskar Rivers

Irene Becker Photography/Getty Images

The Indus and Zanskar rivers meet not far from Nimmu (at a place locally called sangam ) and it can be seen from a picturesque viewpoint on the Srinagar-Leh Highway. The color of the water is renowned for changing—from green to blue to gray—throughout the day and year. Aim to be there in the morning around 10:30 a.m. for the best light and brightest spectacle. It's quite awe-inspiring. What's also astounding is that the Zanskar River freezes over in winter, while the Indus flows faster with ice floating on it. After admiring the vista, head to Nimmu village for lunch.

Pay Your Respects to Kargil War Heroes

RNMitra/Getty Images

The highway between Srinagar and Leh passes through Kargil in western Ladakh. This town is roughly equidistant from each place (five hours) and is considered to be the gateway to Ladakh. Unfortunately, it has been the site of some awful border clashes with Pakistan. The worst of these was the Kargil War in 1999. The Indian Army has built a Kargil War Memorial at the war zone in Drass (about an hour from Kargil towards Srinagar) to honor the hundreds of soldiers who lost their lives defending India from invasion. A 20-minute documentary about the war is screened at the memorial. Other attractions include a Bofors gun, MiG-21 fighter aircraft, war bunkers, an eternal flame, and stones with soldiers names engraved on them. It's very moving and thought-provoking.

Leh in Ladakh Travel Guide: Attractions, Festivals, Hotels

6 Best Treks to Take in Ladakh for All Fitness Levels

Ladakh's Nubra Valley: The Complete Guide

12 Major Mountain Ranges in India

A Summer Exploring the Culture and Sights of Ladakh

20 Top Things to Do in Diverse India

How to Visit Pangong Lake in Ladakh: The Complete Guide

15 Ways and Places to Experience Rural India

The Best Time to Visit Ladakh

16 Best Tourist Destinations in India

10 Mindblowing Buddhist Monasteries in India

How to Go Teahouse Trekking in Nepal

The Top 15 Hiking Destinations in India

11 Popular Adventure Travel Activities in India

13 Exceptional Homestays in India

Five Amazing Hiking Routes Among the High Mountains of the Himalayas

Best time to visit Ladakh

Temperature, climate & weather, temperature and precipitation in leh-ladakh, what is the coldest month in leh-ladakh.

The coldest month is January, with an average temperature of -3°C (27°F) during the day and an average temperature of -15°C (5°F) during the night. As the weather is always dry and sunny, it does not feel as cold as one would expect and travelling in Ladakh at this time of the year is a wonderful experience.

How many days per year does it rain in Leh-Ladakh?

Ladakh is a high-altitude desert, there are only 13 rainfall days per year and 106 mm (4.2 in) of accumulated precipitation. This is the reason why water is a very precious resource and saving water when travelling in Ladakh is important.

What is the driest month in Leh-Ladakh?

The driest months are June and October, with less than half day of rainfall per month and 4 mm (0.2 in) of precipitation.

What is the warmest month in Leh-Ladakh?

The warmest month is July, with an average temperature of 25°C (77°F) during the day and an average temperature of 10°C (50°F) during the night. Average temperatures in August are just 1°C (2°F) lower.

What is the wettest month in Leh-Ladakh?

7-day weather forecast for leh-ladakh, best season to visit leh-ladakh, winter in ladakh (january, february, march).

Spring in Ladakh (April, May, June)

Summer in ladakh (july, august, september), autumn in ladakh (october, november, december), private taxi, shared taxi, map of ladakh, hotels in ladakh, sightseeing tours, tour packages, travel itineraries, practical info, ladakh travel guides, client reviews.

Leh Ladakh in May – How to Plan your Trip, What to See

Can we visit Leh Ladakh in May? The answer is a definite yes. It may not be the best time for people wanting to plan a road trip but surely has a few aces up its sleeve.

It is the month of May that officially marks the beginning of the tourist season in Ladakh and brings thousands of enthusiastic tourists, travelers, motorcyclists, and adventure junkies with it.

The weather at this time is perfect with moderately warm days and pleasantly cool nights, which makes it a great time to plan a trip with your family as well.

In this article, I will share some tips on how you can plan your trip to Leh Ladakh in the month of May. If you have any questions,  you can  contact me on Instagram  and I will be happy to answer. You can also consider  subscribing to my YouTube channel  and asking a question there.

To organize your trip to Ladakh, book a taxi, rent a bike, or get the best hotel rates, you can contact  Kunal @ 9910402252 . From luxurious hotels to budget stays, he can help get you the best rates possible.

Vargis Khan

Quick Navigation

How to reach Leh Ladakh in May

Let us first talk about how you can reach Ladakh in the month of May. There are two aspects to it depending on whether you were planning to travel in early May or toward the end of the month.

For other details on visiting Ladakh outside the month of May, please take a look at How to Plan a Trip to Leh Ladakh – A Complete Travel Guide .

Srinagar to Leh by Road in May

If you are planning a road trip to Ladakh in early May then reaching Leh via Srinagar and returning via the same way is really your only choice.

Traveling from Srinagar to Leh by road in May also depends on the weather conditions. Historically, however, the highway remains open for most of the month; or at least the second half. To track the latest updates on this route, please take a look at Srinagar Leh Highway Status and Road Conditions .

To be on the safer side, do not plan your trip in the early part of May though. Even after the snow has been cleared, avalanches at Zoji La at this time are quite common which can block the road for several days altogether. To ensure that you do not get stuck somewhere and are able to travel as planned, prepare your itinerary around or after the 15th of May.

On a general basis as well, the condition of the road is bad in the early days as BRO works to stabilize it. Delaying by a few weeks will ensure that your trip will be a bit smoother and a lot safer. For more information, please read Srinagar Leh Highway Route Guide & Road Map .

Manali Leh Highway in May

Manali Leh highway remains closed for either all or most of the month in May. Sometimes it does get open earlier, like towards the end of April or early May but that happens very rarely.

Most of the time, it will only open towards the end of the month, around 20-25th or later. To track the latest updates on this route, please take a look at Manali Leh Highway Status and Latest Updates .

It is best advised to not plan a Manali to Leh road trip in May. This is because even if the road did get cleared of snow, its condition will be terrible with a high chance of temporary closures.

BRO works rigorously during the initial few weeks to make the road as safe as possible and sometimes closes sections of it for a few hours or even an entire day. If that happened, you will be stranded on the road and forced to turn back to the nearest available accommodation.

To travel from the Manali side, ensure that you either start your trip in the last week of May. If you were starting earlier then go to Ladakh via Srinagar and return via Manali. But keep the dates of your Leh to Manali journey in the last week of May only.

For more information on the route, please read Manali to Leh Route Guide and Road Map .

This, in my opinion, is the best way to plan a Ladakh trip in May. This will eliminate all the ifs and buts and you can rest assured that your plans will not get canceled, postponed, or changed.

This is also the best way for people who are short on time. As a rule of thumb, plan a road trip only when you have at least 9 days or more. If you had a lesser number of days, then reaching Leh by Air will be the best way.

Book your tickets a few months in advance and you can save some money as well. The only challenge in reaching by flight will be AMS in Ladakh which I have covered further in the article.

By Public Transport

Reaching Ladakh by public transport in May will be a little difficult. The HRTC bus from Manali to Leh starts in the first week of June. The HPTDC Bus only starts in the second half of June. The Delhi to Leh Bus service also starts in the latter part of June.

Depending on the weather, the Srinagar Leh Bus may start in May but only towards the end of the month. So if the only time that you can plan a trip is in May and you can only do so by public transport, then your best would be to board a shared cab from Srinagar.

From the Manali side as well, shared cabs start as soon as civilian traffic is allowed, way sooner than the bus. So if you were lucky and the road was open at your time of travel, a shared taxi is what you will travel by.

Local Commute

In Ladakh however, buses on all routes like Nubra, Pangong, and Moriri will be available. From the bus stand itself, you can also find shared cabs in Leh as well.

Just reach there in the morning and if you couldn’t find a bus for your destination, look for a shared taxi which is mostly a Sumo or Bolero. Fare per person will be a little higher than the bus but these are more frequent and easily available.

Where to Stay

May is peak tourist season so you will have no problem finding a place to stay. Hotels and guest houses everywhere will be completely up and running including Leh City , Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri, Srinagar Leh Highway, and Manali Leh Highway (if it was open).

Whether or not to book in advance is entirely your choice. I will recommend booking your stay in Leh City but for the rest of the places, you can negotiate an on-the-spot deal.

Places to Visit in Leh Ladakh in May & Things to Do

Pretty much all of Ladakh remains open for tourism in May. You will be able to visit all of the major attractions and explore as much as you can. Let me break it down by some of the most visited tourist places in Ladakh.

Nubra Valley in May

Nubra Valley remains completely open for tourists in May. You will be able to reach here easily via Khardung La and visit all the local villages like Diskit, Hunder, Turtuk , Sumur and Panamik, and Warshi . Hotels too will be all up and running.

You can either travel by your own vehicle or book a private taxi. If traveling on a budget, you can either board a Bus or shared cab from Leh Bus stand; both of which will be easily available in May. For more details, please read How to Plan a Trip to Nubra Valley in Ladakh .

Pangong Lake in May

Like Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso will also be open for tourists in May. You can reach here via the Chang La route and stay at either the campsites or guest houses in the nearby villages. All the camps will be up and running and you will not have any problem finding a place to stay.

If you want to stay within cemented walls, then look for accommodation in either Spangmik, Man, or Merak villages where you can stay here as a paying guest.

The Bus service becomes operational as well. If not the Bus, you can board a shared cab from Leh Bus stand; or book a private taxi. For more details, please read How to Plan a Trip to Pangong Tso Lake .

Nubra Valley to Pangong Tso Direct Route

There are three ways that you can travel from Nubra Valley to Pangong Lake or Vice Versa. The first way is that you go back to Leh and go to the lake the next day. Or you can take the road across Wari La pass which is the toughest of all three routes.

The third way is the Shyok road which is the shortest and now also the easiest. By this route, you can make it to Pangong from Nubra in just about 6 hours.

In the month of May, this road will remain open and safe to travel as well, except for a few bad sections which is anyway a common occurrence in all of Ladakh.

Wari La will most probably be closed in May but it entirely depends on the weather and how fast BRO was able to clear the snow. It will be best for you to inquire about the road status before finalizing your itinerary. For more details, please read How to Travel Directly from Nubra Valley to Pangong Lake .

Tso Moriri in May

Tso Moriri is all open for tourists in the month of May. You can easily reach here via Chumathang from Leh or the Chushul route from Pangong.

There are several guesthouses and campsites in Karzok which will be up and running in May, and you will have no problem finding a place to stay. In fact, accommodation choices at Tso Moriri are better than even Pangong. For more details, please read How to Plan a Trip to Tso Moriri .

Chushul Route & Hanle

The direct route from Pangong to Tso Moriri via Chushul too is open for tourists at this time It is ideally a 2 days journey with a night halt at Hanle but if you wanted to, you can make it directly to Karzok as well. Just make sure that you start early in the day. It will easily be a 12 to 14 hours journey so start and plan accordingly.

Reaching Hanle in May will also not be a problem. To get here, you will first travel from Pangong to Chushul via Man and Merak.

Then you will take the road to Loma via Tsaga. At Loma, you will register yourself at the check post, turn left and drive for about 50 kilometers to arrive at Hanle.

There are a couple of guesthouses in Hanle where you can stay. If not, then just talk to the locals and stay at a villager’s house as a paying guest.

The next day, you will drive back 50 kilometers and then take the road towards Karzok (Tso Moriri) via Nyoma, Mahe, and Sumdo. For more details, please read How to Travel directly from Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri .

There are three ways that Tso Kar can be visited. If you were coming from Manali to Leh by road, then it will fall on the way. You can just take a short diversion of about 20 kilometers from Debring (after More Plains and Pang) and make a short visit to the lake.

The other way, if you reached Leh by flight or via Srinagar, is to take the road across Tanglang La and visit Tso Kar via Debring. The third way is to reach here from Tso Moriri via Sumdo and Polo Kongka La and then continue to either Leh or Manali.

All three roads will remain open in May and you will have no problem including Tso Kar in your itinerary. Accommodation here is available in the form of campsites and Chadar tents if you want to stay for a night.

For visual information on the routes I explained above, please see The Most Comprehensive Road Map of Entire Leh Ladakh .

Umling La remains accessible in the month of May and you can include it in your itinerary. You will first have to reach Pangong, then Hanle via Chushul, and then plan a day trip to Umling La pass from there.

Zanskar Valley in May

To reach Zanskar Valley, you need to take the road from Kargil to Padum via Suru Valley . In the month of May, the road will definitely remain open until Rangdum.

But Pensi La Pass may be close towards the start of the month. So please check the weather and road status before finalizing your itinerary.

Sham Valley / Leh to Kargil Route

Last, but not the least, you can also visit Sham Valley in May. The road between Leh and Kargil actually remains open all year long so you will definitely be able to visit places like Gurudwara Patthar Sahib , Indus Zanskar Confluence, Magnetic Hill , Lamayuru Monastery, Mulbekh Maitreya, Moonland, etc.

If you were traveling on the Srinagar Leh Highway, then all these places will fall on the way and you can cover them all by taking short sightseeing breaks.

Sham Valley is actually the area around the villages of Likir, Suspool, and Hemis Shukpachan. It is best known for its trek routes and is among the least visited places in Ladakh. It will be open in May and you can definitely visit here. To know more, please read How to Plan a Trip to Sham Valley .

Snow in Ladakh in May

By May, most of the snow would already have melted away. The only chance of finding some will only be at the top of the high-altitude passes. Rohtang Pass, Zoji La, and Baralacha La are some of the passes that have those famed snow walls on both sides of the road as the route gets opened in May.

In Ladakh, you will find snow at the top of Khardung La and Chang La as well. But it will only be the high-altitude areas where you may find some snow on the ground. There will be none in lower areas. Chances of catching a live snowfall in Ladakh in May are next to none.

Festivals in Ladakh in May

Ladakh Monlam Chenmo Festival and Buddha Jayanti (Vaisakha Purnima) are celebrated in Leh in the month of May. Saga Dawa Festival is celebrated all over Ladakh towards the end of the month. For more information on festivals in Ladakh and their dates, please read  Festivals of Ladakh: A Colorful Celebration of Life .

Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri are the best spots for camping in Ladakh. There are a few campsites in Nubra Valley and on Srinagar to Leh and Manali to Leh routes too.

You can definitely pitch your own tent if you were carrying all the necessary gear . Just make sure you bring in the best quality sleeping bag to keep you warm in 0 degrees temperatures.

You can also rent camping gear and sleeping bags in Leh City as well. For some more tips on camping in Ladakh, please take a look at Tips for Self-Camping in Ladakh .

If you are into trekking, then you can go on Sham Valley Trek, Markha Valley Trek, and Stok Kangri Trek. An easy one would be from Lamayuru to Alchi.

In Zanskar, the trek to Phuktal Monastery is another relatively easy one that can be done in 2-3 days. For an even longer duration and exploring deep into the Himalayas, you can go on a snow leopard expedition. Chadar Trek remains unavailable in May.

This is one of the greatest and most fun activities you can do in Ladakh in May. Just talk to any of the local tour operators in Leh and they will arrange rafting for you.

Weather of Ladakh in May

The weather in Ladakh starts to clear in the month of May. This is the time that officially marks the arrival of the summer season here.

But when it comes to a place like Ladakh, summer is almost non-existent and very short. The only difference is that it will not be uncomfortably cold. You will be able to greatly enjoy your trip and enjoy weather that is tricky and unpredictable.

I have seen snowfall in Ladakh even in the month of May at the top of Khardung La . But for the most part of the day, it is going to be moderately warm and pleasant cold in the evening and morning.

Temperature of Ladakh in May

The temperature will hover between 15°C to 20°C during the day but will drop close to 5°C at night. Please note that these are average maximum and minimum numbers based on historical data.

Depending on the weather and time of the day, the temperature may go up or even further down. For example, around Pangong and Moriri lakes, the night temperate will be close to 0 or a couple of degrees below it.

Clothes to Wear in Leh Ladakh in May

The weather in Ladakh in May is going to be unpredictable and tricky. What I mean by this is that the temperature will differ heavily depending on the time of the day and where you were.

For example, there will be a huge difference between the temperature of Leh City and Pangong Tso. The temperature will be even colder at high altitude passes while it will turn a bit warm as you start to drive down.

There will also be a major difference in the temperature during the day and at night. So you need to bring clothes that can be worn or removed one by one in layers per your comfort. Clothes that you can adjust until you are comfortable.

Do not bring all your thick woolen clothes because then either you will be feeling hot, or feeling cold if you remove them. You cannot also bring all tight clothes because they cannot be worn on top of one another.

If it was me, I will pack my regular cotton clothes, some light woolens, a heavy windproof jacket, thermals (that I can wear under my trousers) and a pair of gloves.

I will ensure that my jacket has a hood to it and if it doesn’t, I will also pack a cap to protect my head and neck. For more details on this topic, please read What Clothes to Pack for Leh Ladakh Trip .

Your packing will also vary if you were traveling to Ladakh with family . If you had kids in the group, please make sure that you plan on keeping them completely covered at all times.

There are no special shoes needed for Ladakh. Your normal sports shoes will do just fine. Just check the sole and make sure it has enough grip left on it.

Other Things to Carry for Leh-Ladakh Trip in May

Some other things to carry while traveling to Leh Ladakh in May are as mentioned below.

• A pair of sunglasses
• Some basic medicines for flu, cold, headache, upset stomach
• A sunblock lotion of the highest SPF that you can find
• Moisturizer
• A pain relief spray or balm
• Other toiletries based on your needs

For more information, please read Ladakh Checklist: Things to Carry for Leh Ladakh Trip .

Mobile Network & Data Connectivity

BSNL   has the largest network in Ladakh and works even in the remotest areas. The problem however is that the voice clarity may or may not be that good. The network is intermittent and will come and go as it pleases. Data connectivity would either be slow or not available at all.

Airtel and Jio work very well in Leh and Nubra Valley with 4G data speed. You will get reception even on Leh Kargil Road with these networks.

All other networks including Vodafone and Idea only work in Leh City. You will not get any service on these networks anywhere else in Ladakh.

The most important thing to remember is that only a postpaid phone works in Ladakh. If you have a prepaid connection, it will stop working the moment you land in Leh. For more details, please take a look at  Mobile Network & Data Connectivity in Ladakh .

Medical Assistance

Leh has a large hospital that is capable of handling any sort of medical emergencies. I believe there is a small dispensary in Nubra Valley as well. Other than these two places, there are no hospitals or clinics anywhere else in Ladakh.

Hence, it becomes of extreme importance that you keep a close watch on how you were feeling. If you start to feel unwell, it will be in your best interest to get back to Leh and wait it out there. If your condition worsens, seek medical help immediately.

You should also carry a medical kit of your own. Include medicines for ailments like fever, cough, cold, body ache, headache, and upset stomach.

Carry a pain relief spray, an antiseptic lotion, lip balm, cold cream, moisturizer, sunblock lotion, and a few Band-Aids. In case of an emergency, you can also seek medical assistance at the nearest Army post.

Acute Mountain Sickness

The chances of suffering from altitude sickness are greatest if you were catching a flight to Ladakh. In order to handle it better, I will highly recommend that you rest in Leh City for an entire day after landing there.

Do not travel anywhere and stay at your hotel only. If you feel better by evening, then you can step out to see the market and local places like Leh Palace and Shanti Stupa, etc.

Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri are where most people suffer from AMS. You must keep these places towards the end of your itinerary. On the Manali Leh route, Sarchu and Pang are at the highest altitude and you will definitely feel some symptoms of AMS here.

For a very detailed version of the information on AMS and tips on how can you tackle it better, please read How to Handle Acute Mountain Sickness in Ladakh .

Itinerary for Leh Ladakh by Air

Mentioned below are a few itineraries that you can follow for your trip. I will first suggest an itinerary if you reached Leh by Air, and then I will suggest an itinerary for a road trip as well.

If reaching Ladakh by Air, below is an example of an itinerary that you can follow.

• Arrive in Leh. Rest and arrange Permits – Day 1
• Leh to Lamayuru to Leh – Day 2
• Leh to Diskit – Day 3
• Diskit to Leh – Day 4
• Leh to Pangong – Day 5
• Pangong to Leh – Day 6
• Leh to Tso Moriri – Day 7
• Tso Moriri to Leh – Day 8
• Fly Out – Day 9

This, of course, is just a sample itinerary but it is one plan that you can follow irrespective of your time and mode of travel. There is still no public transport available on Shyok Road, across Wari La or Chushul / Hanle route. So people traveling by bus or shared cabs will have no choice but to follow this itinerary only.

By Private Cab

If you were renting a motorcycle or booking a private cab, then you can modify the plan to something like the one below.

• Diskit to Pangong Tso – Day 4
• Pangong Tso to Hanle – Day 5
• Hanle to Karzok (Tso Moriri) – Day 6
• Karzok to Leh via Tso Kar – Day 7
• Fly Out – Day 8

Also read: How to Plan a Solo Trip to Ladakh

By Road from Srinagar to Leh in May

If you were planning a complete road trip to Ladakh, below is a sample itinerary that you can follow. For the sake of this article, I will assume Delhi is the starting point. Manali to Leh route mostly remains closed in May so you really will have no choice but to get to Leh by Srinagar and return the same way.

• Delhi to Jammu – Day 1
• Jammu to Srinagar – Day 2
• Srinagar to Kargil – Day 3
• Kargil to Leh – Day 4
• Leh – Day 5
• Leh to Diskit – Day 6
• Diskit to Pangong – Day 7
• Pangong to Hanle – Day 8
• Hanle to Karzok – Day 9
• Karzok to Leh via Chumathang or Tso Kar – Day 10
• Leh to Batalik / Kargil – Day 11
• Batalik / Kargil to Srinagar – Day 12
• Srinagar to Jammu – Day 13
• Jammu to Delhi – Day 14

Following this itinerary, when you reach Leh from Kargil on Day 4, you will do so via Lamayuru. But on your way back on Day 9, you can choose an alternate route via Batalik.

By Road from Manali to Leh in May

If the Manali route was open, then you can follow either of the following two itineraries.

• Karzok to Pang via Tso Kar – Day 10
• Pang to Jispa – Day 11
• Jispa to Manali – Day 12 (Skip this day if you were short on time and go straight to Manali from Pang)
• Manali to Delhi – Day 13

If you were wondering what to do about petrol or Diesel on such a long route, please read How to Manage fuel availability on Ladakh Trip .

Another way to do this trip will be to start from Manali and end at Srinagar, like below.

• Delhi to Manali – Day 1
• Manali to Jispa – Day 2
• Jispa to Pang – Day 3
• Pang to Leh – Day 4
• Leh to Kargil – Day 11
• Kargil to Srinagar – Day 12
• Jammu to Delhi – Day 14

Manali to Manali Ladakh Itinerary

Or you can do the entire trip from Manali to Manali only, in the following manner.

In all of the itinerary above, you can add more days wherever you feel comfortable; like adding another day of stay in Leh City and or in Nubra Valley at Turtuk.

Honeymoon in Leh Ladakh in May

Gone are really the days when Ladakh was a place of motorcyclists and adventure junkies. Now people have started to consider Ladakh for family vacations as well as their honeymoons.

If you were thinking of planning your honeymoon in Ladakh in May then my answer is yes you can do it. The weather will be pleasant and the number of tourists wouldn’t be too high like it gets in the following months; making it a perfect place to plan your honeymoon.

There are plenty of luxurious hotels in Leh City these days suitable for a honeymoon. I would strongly recommend that you book a private cab for the entire trip though.

Road Connectivity and Condition

Since the Srinagar route has just opened a few weeks before, it will be in its worst-ever shape. Melting snow would have created numerous water streams and slush all across. Bad sections of the road will majorly be between Srinagar and Sonamarg.

The worst section, however, will be between Sonamarg and Drass in the form of Zoji la . You will have to tackle a lot of mud and slush while crossing over Zojila at this time. Between Drass and Leh however, roads will be average with a few bad patches in between.

The same will be the case with the Manali Leh highway as well after it gets opened in the last few days. Numerous water streams, damaged roads, and sections under repair by BRO will be a normal occurrence.

All the internal roads in Ladakh remain open in May so you will have no problem reaching any of the local places for sightseeing.

The roads toward Nubra, Pangong, and Tso Moriri will be a mix of good and average. Bad sections will be limited to the top of Khardung La and Chang La. The presence of snow and water streams creating by melting of it will, however, be in plenty on these routes as well.

Leh Ladakh in May – Conclusion

I believe that covers most if not all that you should know about visiting Ladakh in May. If you have any questions, you can contact me on Instagram  and I will be happy to answer. You can also consider  subscribing to my YouTube channel  and asking a question there.

Please go to the Instagram Feed settings page to create a feed.

Vargis.Khan

Not much to write about me really except for that I love to travel around whenever I can and to wherever I can. This blog is just a small attempt to share my travel experiences with the world. Hope you like it !!!

Related Articles

How to plan a trip to leh ladakh, srinagar leh highway status 2024 – 2025, zojila pass road status and condition 2024 –..., 39 comments.

Hi vargis bhai, Good morning,we are palnning ladkh trip (4 members 2 ADULTS 2 CHILDEREN AGE 11 AND 9) in the month of june ,can you suggest me reliable and good tour company for hotels and travelling.

THANKS IN ADVANCE

Sunil Bhai you can try talking to Kunal @ 9910402252

Good information was shared, thanks for this.

Thank you for taking the time to drop a note !!!

I AM PLANNING TO VISIT LEH FROM 21ST MAY. MY FAMILY MEMBER DO HAVE A HISTORY OF HIGH BP. WHAT CARE SHALL I TAKE.

Thanks for explaining all of it beautifully. I am planning to bring a drone for photography. Is it allowed to do photography with Drone.

Thank you for taking the time to drop a note. You can use your Drone but be very careful around the Army areas.

Hello. Very nicely written and we’ll explained article. I am planning to visit leh from 17 to 22 may with one elderly around 70 yr and one kid of 7 yr. Will they face any problem during the trip. I’m a bit apprehensive.

Hi Savvy – They both should be Ok as long as there is no medical history, any ailments that can turn serious and you plan enough acclimatization time on the way.

Thanks for the details.. curious if you are aware and can recommend any groups that travel together via rented cars.

Thanks Shefali. Sorry, I do not know of any groups

Hi Khan bhai- very Nice & crisp information. I am visiting Leh Ladakh for my second trip on 20th may. This will be self driven one. The 1st trip was way back in 2013.

Thanks, Kantha Bhai. 20th May is doable, it will be all open by then

Hi Vargis, I am planning to do Ladakh and Srinagar trip on 15th May 2024. I wanted to know whether it will be cool to travel during elections? Will I have any problems in travel and everything open in ladakh?

Thanks the information u gave above is very nicely drafted I m visiting leh Ladakh with my family in mid May

Loved the way you had put across the information. No strigs attached and all relevant required info collected categorized and given . Hats off to your willingness to put this extra effort and share.

Thank you Anand

Hi, वर्गिस खान, हम कुछ दोस्त मई महीने के आखिर १० दिनों में लद्दाख जाने की यात्रा बना रहे हैं हम सोच रहे हैं के हम मोटरसाइकिल द्वारा मनाली रोहतांग दर्रे से होते हुए लद्दाख जाए क्या ये उचित रहेगा। मेरा मार्गदर्शन करे। क्या ये उचित रहेगा?

Thank you so much for recommending Abass Ali for our Ladakh trip. We had the most amazing trip. Really a humble and a kind hearted human being. Very skilled and experienced driver with a comfortable and well maintained Innova.

Contact him @ +919622971759 or +919469271786

Hello Vargis It was fun going through your blog. Me n wife are thinking of a visit to Ladakh end May this year. Not sure with the covid situation all over. We r fully vaccinated n don’t mind travelling. How is the situation in Ladakh. Yet to book flights. Will look forward to your reply. Dr K Raghu

Hello Dr. Raghu,

If you and your wife are fully vaccinated then you should not face any problem I believe. Hotels are open there and accepting guests, not all but enough. They are asking for COVID test report done within the last 96 hours but your vaccination proof will cover that.

Hello Vargis, me and my friends will be visiting Leh on 12th May and as per our Iternary we’ll be leaving Leh to go to Kargil and from Kargil to Srinagar on 20th May. Would you suggest that the roads to Srinagar will be open at this time of the month.

Hi Varghis,

First of all. Thank you. I am planning a trip to Leh in May-June with family and have been doing research on the itinerary. Nothing comes close to your blog.

Now a query. As part of our trip in late May-early June, we are flying in and flying out of Leh so not doing the Srinagar-Leh highway. We are still keen on visiting Kargil. One part of the possible itinerary we are thinking is, while returning from Nubra valley, we head over to Uley. Stay the night. The next day morning we head to Kargil for a day trip, cover the memorial at Dras and return back the same day for another night at Ule. Next day morning we head back to Leh while covering Sham valley and points on way

Need your advice if this is doable? Will any of the roads in be shut in late May/Early June timeframe.

We will be travelling in a large group in Innova.

Kindly advice.

Hi Nilesh – Can you tell your complete itinerary please and I can then suggest.

Beautifully explained Bhai. I missed bike trip with my friends this May. Hopefully i will plan in 2020. Will get in touch with you when i plan my trip next year. Hope you keep writing and get blessed from Almighty.

Thanks Amir Bhai

Khan Shab beautifully detailed and narrated your article will help me immensely as I am reaching Leh with family on 26th May this year. Except more blogs from you, regards.

Thank you for taking the time to drop a note Mr. De I am glad the information was of help. Do let me know how your trip went after you return.

Certainly Khan shab I’ll let you know when I come back on 2nd June.

Have a safe trip !!! 🙂

Immaculate article with tons of useful information. I was able to get all the information I needed in just one article. Thanks a lot Vargis Khan!

You are welcome Darpan Bhai. I am glad that the information posted was of help. Thank you for your kind words.

How about visit ladhakh in September 2018? It will be my first visit and I don’t want huge crowd…

September is the perfect time to visit Ladakh, best time actually.

Thank you for the reply…!!

You are welcome

Beautifully written Vargis Bhai. Keep it going.

Thanks Geetesh Bhai

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Leh Ladakh Travel Guide (2024) – Explore the Unforgettable Land of High Passes!

By: Author Sophie Pearce

Posted on Last updated: January 1, 2024

Categories INDIA , JAMMU & KASHMIR

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure policy for details.

Julley from Leh! That means Hello in Ladakh and you’ll find that everyone here is itching to say it to you.

Leh is the super friendly mountain city that is waiting for you to visit them.

When you arrive here, either by bus or plane, you’ll be greeted by the most spectacular panoramic views of snow-capped mountains, ancient palaces, and Buddhist stupas.

It’s also a welcome paradise from the busy, dirty cities like Delhi and Rajasthan.

Here’s the ultimate Leh Ladakh travel guide including how to reach Leh, top things to do, where to stay, and what to eat!

The ultimate Leh Ladakh travel guide

Where is leh ladakh in india.

Leh Ladakh has an interesting mix of cultures and food as it’s on the border of China and its history is closely related to Tibet!

You’ll probably question what country you’re in a lot while you’re here and that’s the beauty of Leh.

What is the best time to visit Ladakh?

The best time to visit is actually in the monsoon season between June – September as Ladakh is a dry spot in a country of constant rain!

They also shut the road after mid-September so it’s best to visit before then or fly!

It’s beautifully sunny every single day at this time and everything almost looks saturated as you’re closer to the sun and higher up at 3,500 metres!

It’s also perfect weather for trekking and is what most travellers flock here for.

How to reach Leh Ladakh: flying vs. the road

There are usually two choices for approaching Leh Ladakh.

You can directly fly to Leh Ladakh from Delhi which is what most travellers prefer as you can skip the long bus journeys up through the Indian states of Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir.

But, this means that you cannot acclimatise very easily and you may suffer from altitude sickness and need a few days to adjust.

If you are prone to altitude sickness, you can get tablets to help with it. The other is to take the long bus journey from Manali to Leh.

This is the cheapest option and actually is not as dangerous as people make out.

Yes, the roads are crazy but the views are absolutely jaw-dropping and are worth the time spent alone.

You’ll pass through valleys, mountain passes, and waterfalls. There’s absolutely no sign of life around in many parts and it’s an experience you won’t forget.

For more information, check out my post ‘Travelling from Manali to Leh by road: all you need to know’.

Taking the bus from Manali to Leh

I took the 18-hour bus from Manali to Leh, which was actually 20 and we arrived in the middle of the night.

Our bus driver did a great thing by dropping us off in the backpacker district of Changspa where there are tonnes of guest houses. But, little were we to know that none would be open for business after midnight!

For a little while, we hung out with some other travellers from the bus in a bakery which turned into a bar late at night and just played the same Ed Sheeran song over and over again.

We had chai while deciding the next plan of action, which was basically to try every guesthouse in the area!

After a little while, we couldn’t find anywhere and a bar called KC garden offered for us to stay at their place for the night. It was an, which was used for group get-togethers and parties!

It had no windows, was freezing cold, and let in all the noise of dogs barking. However, it was a place to crash for the night and we had loads of blankets to keep warm.

It was really generous of him as he didn’t have to offer anything at all. He also didn’t charge which was really kind.

We were stranded in Leh Ladakh

The guy who owned the place said we could sleep in until noon, but when the workers came in the next morning at 7 am – they played really loud music so we would get up!

At first, it was just Buddhist chanting music which was actually really nice.

By 9.30 am, they upped the ante with techno music and that’s when everyone groggily got out of their sleeping places.

The next day, we had a chai together, thanked the guys at KC garden, and then went to try and find a room.

Where to stay in Leh Ladakh: Changspa 

We ended up staying at Hotel Asia which turned out to be the cheapest.

It was 500 a night with a shared bathroom, I hardly slept each night due to the light and noise but it did have hot water every single day!

With a view like this of the mountains, you can’t complain about £5 a night! For bookings see here.

The top things to do in Leh Ladakh

Most people use Leh as a base in Ladakh as it’s the main city with good connections to Nubra Valley, Pangong Lake, and Srinagar in Kashmir.

But, there are lots of things to do in Leh Ladakh itself.

It is really gorgeous to explore too with an epic mountain range, historical palaces, and the iconic Shanti Stupa.

You can’t really get bored, even just if you gaze at the scenery around you.

This would probably be a good first point of call to start off your adventure in Leh. The ancient palace looks down on the rest of the city.

This was the home of Ladakh royalty and was modelled on the Tibetan Potala Palace in Lhasa.

Even though it was built in the 17th century and steeped in history, not many of the ancient artifacts of the royal family remain in the palace.

It’s nine floors of empty rooms save the antique pictures which hang on the walls.

The best part of wandering around this palace is actually the viewpoints from the rooftops!

You can get great panoramic views from all over the city. There aren’t really any restrictions on where you can go here so explore away!

Castle Tsemo

Castle Tsemo stands high on the hill above the Leh Palace.

To reach it in Leh Ladakh, you can get a taxi for around 250 rupees or take the steep winding trek uphill!

There are two parts to Castle Tsemo, a Buddhist temple, and the castle and the Namgyal Tsemo Monastery.

When you’ve caught your breath from the walk, take a peek inside at the beautiful golden Buddha which is perfectly preserved inside.

Next is a climb up the monastery, you’ll pay 20 rupees to head on inside.

At first, I thought this was awesome as it was so cheap, but then I realised that you had to head on up the rooftops of the monastery on these ladders from hell!

These weak, feeble ladders were not attached to the wall in any way and so it was a dodgy climb to the top!

Although these ones were low, the others were pretty much vertical!

Although the views were totally worth it, there was one problem – how was I going to get back down?!

I was petrified and my boyfriend literally had to place my feet on each step of the ladder.

When I got to the bottom, I literally couldn’t breathe haha!

I can laugh now, but I genuinely thought I was a goner. It’s totally ridiculous so if you’re afraid of heights, I wouldn’t recommend it.

Shanti Stupa in Leh Ladakh

The Buddhist Shanti Stupa was one of my favourite attractions in Leh Ladakh. It was donated by the Japanese, built-in 1991, and blessed by the Dalai Lama himself.

Although it is a 500 step walk to the top, the views and the stupa are so worth it! We arrived at around 10 am in the morning and there was literally no one around.

The best time to visit the Leh Ladakh Shanti Stupa is at sunset when the temperatures aren’t so hot and the sun creates a beautiful red glow on the mountains surrounding it.

There is also some really beautiful Buddhist chanting music which is broadcast live from the temple nearby.

When the lights go down on Leh Ladakh, the Stupa lights up and you can see the many stars which appear here due to the limited light pollution. It was magic.

When we visited in the evening time a government official was there, so naturally, some of the Kashmiri soldiers were here on guard.

One of them let me hold this! Stranger things have happened…

Before I got to Leh, I had this awful feeling there wouldn’t be anything around.

Most places in Himachal had a mall road, but I wasn’t sure about Leh.. luckily, I was proved very wrong!

There is a massive main market here which has everything you could wish for.

Restaurants, shops, supermarkets, chemists, the lot. So, don’t worry about getting access to the basics.

There were also these great little fruit and veg markets from the local farms here. The mini peaches, locally called aadu , were to die for!

Trekking Leh Ladakh and Day trips from Leh Ladakh

There are endless options for treks from Leh Ladakh that you can get involved with.

Pangong Lake and Nubra Valley were popular trips also which was a 2-day and 1-night stay.

There were 3, 4, 5 days, and even 20-day treks out of Leh. So, it will be down to personal preference if you wanted a guided trek.

There are a lot of treks that you can do self-guided also. Nubra Valley is around a 3-day trek each way which is supposed to be easy.

But bear in mind that there isn’t any phone signal here so you won’t have Google maps to help you!

Best to download a walking trail map beforehand or buy one from the local shops here.

Read more about day trips from Leh here

Multi-day sightseeing tours in Ladakh

There are many interesting multi-day tours  that can be organized from Leh.

The famous tours are the 2-day Indus river tour where you get the chance to visit some of the most impressive monasteries in Ladakh (Alchi, Likir, and Lamayuru among others), the 3-day Nubra valley tour via the famous Khardung La pass (the world’s highest motorable road) and the tours to the stunning high-altitude lakes of Pangong and Tso Moriri.

You will not find many buses in Ladakh that go to these places. One of the options is to hire a car with a driver, but the cost of transport is not cheap in Ladakh…

If you are a solo traveller or travelling in a small group, using a shared taxi is a great way to reduce the cost of the trip as well as its carbon footprint! 

Where to eat in Leh Ladakh: wonderland restaurant and bakery

The wonderland café was where I usually went for breakfast most mornings.

Loads of their breakfast combos come with coffee and apple juice!

It has a really nice relaxed vibe and an amazing bakery downstairs which offers some great doughnuts and pastries.

Also, If you’re a fan of falafel, these guys do the best I have tasted so far in India. It was light, crispy, and delicious!

World Garden Café

Serving up a huge range of international cuisines, the world garden café is an excellent place to eat at any time of day.

The guys here speak excellent English, are really friendly and the food is cheap and tasty.

This was one of my favourite places to eat in Leh, so don’t miss out!

Dust pollution in Leh Ladakh and harsh temperatures

As the terrain and surroundings are in quite harsh conditions (sometimes it looked like how I imagined Mars to be like) you’ll find it to be dry and dusty.

The pollution in Leh Ladakh was quite high around the main town and so if you have anything like asthma, you’re best to come prepared.

Most days I found myself using my scarf to protect my mouth, nose, and eyes from the dust.

As we’re closer to the sun here, you should always make sure you wear suncream.

When I visited in August, it was boiling hot every day and it was definitely summer clothes weather.

A lot of people had tiny dresses and shorts on which is a nice change from covering up but just make sure you don’t get sunburn!

Staying connected and WiFi in Leh Ladakh

As soon as I set off from Manali on the Rohtang pass my UK and Indian SIM phone numbers lost service and data. But, I thought when I got to Leh, it would come back – how silly I was!

There was absolutely no phone service in the whole town. I’m sure you could get a SIM from Leh if you have an unlocked phone, as most phone packages are regional in India.

This would mean you would lock into their own phone service here. But, for a few days, I just didn’t think it was worth it.

The wifi is also pretty bad and almost non-existent. Most cafés and restaurants offer wifi services but this wouldn’t work half of the time. In fact, on the first day we got here – there was no wifi in the whole town!

If I did get wifi, only certain apps would work like WhatsApp, which was perfect to tell my mum I was alive (mum’s always worry).

There are internet cafés which you can use which are 90 rupees an hour. I actually quite liked not having wifi and being contactable. I’m a 90s kid, so I remember a time before the internet!

It just means that you have a few days to truly enjoy where you are. You’re not constantly looking at your phone, but actually appreciating the scenery and meeting people!

Sometimes, we get so caught up in social media that it’s refreshing to sign off. Get a map, read a book, and talk to people. There was a world before wifi, you know!

That’s my complete travel guide to Leh Ladakh, save it for later!

Leh Ladakh would be a place I would highly recommend travelling to if you visit India.

In fact, I would say it’s on my list of ‘must-sees’. It’s a beautiful mix of culture, colour, history, and scenery which will transport you into another world!

Make sure you put it on your list. If you’d like to read more about the beautiful surrounding areas of Ladakh, read my article ‘the absolute best off the beaten track Ladakh’!

Want to read more on the far North of India?

Manali to Leh by road, all you need to know

A guide to Manali, the hippie town in Himachal

Why you need to visit Shimla

Top things to do in Mcleodganj

A complete Bhagsunag waterfall guide

My complete Rishikesh travel guide

Visiting the Beatles Ashram in Rishikesh

Things to do in Amritsar

Mussoorie Hill Station guide

Wednesday 27th of December 2023

Many Indian’s primary wish to travel Ladakh by a road trip on their own bike. Definitely my dream also. Hope I will also achieve it.

Sophie Pearce

Thursday 11th of January 2024

Yess, it's an epic road trip to Ladakh by road. I have to admit I wouldn't do it again though and would fly haha! Sophie x

Tuesday 29th of August 2023

Wow, this destination looks absolutely breathtaking! Adding it to my bucket list for sure.

Wednesday 30th of August 2023

Hi Suman, totally agree! Leh Ladakh is an epic destination :) Sophie x

Neha Shinde

Thursday 11th of May 2023

Fantastic article. I am very pleased to say that your article is fascinating to read.I always find myself wanting to comment on it.You're doing an excellent job.Keep your writing up

Wednesday 28th of June 2023

Thanks Neha for your kind words. Sophie x

Wednesday 7th of December 2022

Ladakh is not a place where you can go without planning. You will have to consider all the do's and don'ts while deciding on the trip. From the right clothes, the right vehicle, comfortable stay, and places to visit, everything should be pre-planned so that one doesn't miss out on the site's vibe.

Thursday 8th of December 2022

Hi Kamalesh, completely agree with you! Sophie x

Esha Sawant

Tuesday 1st of February 2022

"Hello Admin, Intresting Article, you are doing a great job . Keep it up"

Hi Esha, thank you so much! I'm glad you liked the post :) Sophie x

• Group Enquiry? NEW

5 Days Leh Ladakh Itinerary

• Jammu And Kashmir

Day 1: Arrival in Leh Day 2: Leh to Sham Valley Day 3: Leh to Nubra Valley via Khardung-La Pass Day 4: Nubra Valley to Leh Day 5: Leh to Pangong Lake Day 6: Departure  Ladakh has always been known as an “explorer’s hub” with a panoramic view and numerous picturesque places to visit. The views offered here are breathtaking and one of its kind in the entire nation. Leh Ladakh is visited by thousands of solo travelers, groups of friends and families every year making it a popular tourist attraction all across the globe. However, not many know that this bustling place can be easily explored with an itinerary of Leh Ladakh in 5 days. There are a plethora of unique destinations such as Leh , Nubra valley,  Kargil , Zanskar Valley and many more. Choose a Ladakh tour package by Thrillophilia and gear up for an amazing adventure through the scenic landscapes of Leh and Ladakh. On your 5 days trip to Ladakh, you will get a chance to learn about the rich culture and admire the beauty of this Himalayan paradise. You can visit some famous attractions like the beautiful Pangong Lake and the historic Leh Palace. Also, you can take part in thrilling activities like trekking amidst the mountains or exploring local villages to learn about their unique culture during your trip to Ladakh

You can also enjoy camel rides amidst the dunes while exploring Nubra Valley. If you are a trekking lover, you can trek on various famous routes like the Markha Valley Trek and the Stok Kangri Trek. So, book your Ladakh tour package by Thrillophilia and have a remarkably adventurous travel experience.

Quick Navigation

5 Days Itinerary for Leh Ladakh Trip

Day 1: arrival in leh.

1. Upon your arrival in Leh, you will be welcomed by our representatives to help you get to the hotel. 2. Once you reach the hotel, you must complete the formalities and documentation while checking-in. 3. Post the check-in, we will provide you with a welcome breakfast and leave you to rest in your rooms. 4. Your Ladakh expedition will begin in the evening at Shanti Stupa , a white-domed Buddhist stupa located on a hilltop, which denotes 2500 years of Buddhism. 5. Then we will move on to the Leh Palace which was constructed in the 17th century. It will give you a great opportunity to learn more about their culture. 6. After visiting both the tourist attractions, you can visit Leh market  where you can shop for local handicrafts &  you will get a chance to enjoy delicious Ladakhi cuisine as well. 7. Once you are done with the shopping, mouth-watering dinner will be waiting for you. If you are Planning a Trip to Ladakh, must Checkout: Leh Ladakh Tour Packages Also Checkout:  Ladakh Family Tour Packages

Day 2: Leh to Sham Valley

1. Wake up to the beautiful views of mountains visible from your windows and a delicious breakfast in bed. 2. On your second day in the 5 days trip to Ladakh, get ready for an adventurous trip to “Sham Valley”. 3. You can pay your respect to the martyrs of the Indo-Pak war at the Hall of Fame. 4. You can enjoy a scrumptious langar at Gurudwara Pathar Sahib and understand more about the history of how it was constructed by the Indian army. 5. Another tourist attraction included in your 5 days Leh Ladakh itinerary is the Magnetic Hill , which is a small stretch of the road that defies the principle of gravity. 6. You can also visit SECMOL, the school where the movie 3 Idiots was shot. 7. After a day filled with thrilling adventure you can return back to the hotel for dinner and get some goodnight sleep. Distance between Leh and Sham Valley: 75 kms Know More:  Manali to Leh Ladakh Guide Click Here to Book:   Ladakh Tour Packages From Hyderabad

Day 3: Leh to Nubra Valley via Khardung-La Pass

1. After getting a healthy breakfast in the morning, prepare yourself for the ultimate adventure planned for the day. 2. You will get an opportunity to experience some of the highest passes in the world starting with Khardung-La Pass, the world's highest motorable road. 3. Once you are done exploring the Khardung-La Pass you will be taken to Nubra Valley and its sand dunes for a change in landscape. 4. You can enjoy the exclusive double-humped camel ride, found in this region on the silk route. 5. Then you will be taken to camping sites in Nubra valley where you can enjoy a bonfire under the sky full of stars. Distance between Nubra Valley and Khardung-La Pass: 120 kms If You are Planning to rent a bike in Ladakh then Checkout:  Leh Ladakh Bike Rentals Also Book:  Ladakh Tour Packages From Surat

Day 4: Nubra Valley to Leh

1. Wake up to a gorgeous morning in the Nubra Valley where you will be served a wholesome breakfast. 2. Get ready for the main highlight of your 5 days trip to Ladakh, as we brace ourselves to visit the Pangong Lake. 3. Pangong Lake is one of the highest altitude lakes in the world where you can witness the water change its color from blue to red to green. 4. We include spending some leisure time in the beautiful surroundings of Pangong Lake with your loved ones in your 5 days Leh Ladakh itinerary. 5. Then we will camp overnight near the Pangong Lake where you will be provided with mouth-watering dinner. Distance between Nubra Valley and Leh: 160 kms Must Read:  Srinagar to Leh Road Trip Guide You can Also Checkout:  Leh Ladakh Group Tour Packages

Day 5: Leh to Pangong Lake

1. Wake up to the mesmerising views of Pangong Lake and get a scrumptious breakfast. 2. As we head back to Leh, we will make a pitstop at the Chang-La Pass which is one of the highest passes in the world. 3. You can visit Changla Baba Temple on top of the pass. 4. Further we will move forward to the Druk Padma school where the last scene of the famous ‘3 Idiots’ movie was shot. 5. If time permits, you can also visit Shey Palace and Thiksey Monastery on your way back to Leh. 6. Upon reaching Leh we will head back to the hotel where you can relax, have dinner in peace and stay for the night. Distance between Pangong Lake and Leh: 223 kms Know More:  Road Trip to Leh Ladakh Guide Checkout & Book:  Leh Ladakh Tour Packages From Pune

Day 6: Departure

1. You will be served breakfast in the dining area of the hotel. Post that you can complete the check-out formalities. 2. Once the documentation is completed you will be transferred to the airport in our car or shuttle. 3. Fly out of Leh with a bag full of memories from this magical land. You Can also book:  Manali to Leh Bike Trip Package from Delhi

Essential Information About 5 Days Leh Ladakh Itinerary

Ladakh weather & temperature.

Ladakh is known for its extreme cold weather and picturesque beauty. The altitude range of Ladakh varies from 9,000 feet at Kargil to 25,000 feet at Saser Kangri. Summers at Ladakh are quite comforting but winters are unbearable at times. The months between December to February witness minus temperatures and high atmospheric pressure which makes it more difficult to breathe. Also Checkout:  Ladakh Honeymoon Packages from Delhi Also Checkout and Book:  Ladakh Tour Packages From Ahmedabad

How to Reach Ladakh?

Know More: How to reach Ladakh Guide

1. By Air: The easiest and ideal way to reach Ladakh is by air. There are numerous flights that fly to Ladakh from all over the world. The nearest airport to Ladakh is Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport which is around 4 kilometers away from the main city. 2. By Road: There are two major routes to reach Leh Ladakh - one through Manali and other through Srinagar. Ladakh is around 450 kilometers away from both the cities. You can hire a cab or board a bus or drive your way to get there. 3. By Train: There is no train station in Ladakh but you can reach the nearest railway station in Jammu, Jammu Tawi at the distance of 700 kilometers from Ladakh.  Click here to Book:  Leh Ladakh Bike Trip from Delhi                                    6 Days Leh Ladakh Sightseeing Tour

Travel Tips for Ladakh

1. A trip to Ladakh can put you in unexpected situations so you must always carry basic medicines for headache, fever and stomach ache. 2. The only network provider that works in Ladakh is a postpaid BSNL connection so you must buy one upon your arrival 3. ATMs are in scarce quantities so one must carry adequate supply of cash in hand Know More:  Delhi to Leh Ladakh Guide Also Checkout:  Manali to Leh Ladakh Bike Trip from Delhi

What to Pack for Ladakh Trip

1. Packing clothes for a 4 to 5 days trip to Ladakh depends upon the season in which you are planning to visit. 2. If you are planning to visit in the summer season then you can pack regular cotton clothes such as T-shirts and jeans. 3. You can also carry a couple of thermals and light woolens as well as a waterproof jacket as the weather is really unpredictable here. 4. You must carry a few warm socks and caps as well.  Recommended Read:  Mumbai to Ladakh - A Detailed Travel Guide Must Checkout:   Ladakh Tour Packages From Chennai

Best of Leh

Things to Carry for Ladakh Trip

1. Sunscreen lotion 2. Sunglasses 3. Gloves 4. Cap 5. Cold cream/Lip Balm/Moisturizer 6. Mustard Oil 7. Toiletries such as Comb, Towel, Face wash, toilet paper, deodorant, soap 8. Eatables such as dry fruits, chocolates, teabags, maggie packets, coffee pouches 9. Water bottles 10. Medicines 11. Electronic devices such as power bank, car charger, memory cards, spare battery 12. Documents such as Medical insurance, printout, passport size photographs, copies of flight tickets, etc. 13. Sundry cash Plannig a bike Trip to Ladakh, do Checkout:  Leh Ladakh Bike Trip Packeges Also Book:  Leh Ladakh Tour Packages From Nagpur

Where To Stay In Leh – Ladakh

1. The Apricot Tree: Located on a magnificent cliff overlooking the Indus River, the Apricot Tree is one of the most luxurious hotels of Ladakh. It is a great getaway for families and huge groups of friends who wish to spend leisure time in a peaceful and serene environment. Each room is accompanied with private balconies and views of mountainous terrains. 2. The Nimmu House: If you are looking for opportunities to indulge yourself in Ladakhi culture then the Nimmu house is ideal for you. They offer beautifully constructed eco-resorts situated in the traditional village of Nimmoo. Apart from comfortable and luxe stays you can involve yourself in wellness activities such as meditation and yoga to rejuvenate yourself. 3. Stok Palace: Built by the king of the Namgyal Dynasty in 1820, Stok Palace is one of the most luxurious hotels in Leh. All the rooms come with vintage decor and premium amenities. They have a museum open to the public making it more attractive to the public. You can also get  delicious Ladakhi, Indian and Tibetan cuisines at your doorstep.  Click here to Book:  Leh Ladakh Package For Couple                                    Ladakh Packages from Chandigarh

Inner Line Permits

All foreign tourists in a group of at least two or more individuals planning to visit Ladakh are required to apply for a Protected Area Permit (PAP). There are several travel agents in Leh that can assist you in providing the same. Both Indian and foreign tourists are required to submit an inner line permit for certain areas in Ladakh so it is advisable to apply for one just in case. In order to get the permit you are required to submit an application form available in the local cyber cafes and photo state shops at the DC’s office. The application submission is done between 3 PM to 5 PM at a nominal fee of INR 20. Also Check Out:  Ladakh Tour From Kolkata                              Leh Ladakh Tour Packages from Delhi

People Also Ask About Ladakh

Which are the best places to visit in ladakh.

Here are some best places to visit in Ladakh : 1. Pangong Lake: Pangong lake is one of the most popular tourist attractions of Leh. It is located around 160 kilometers away from Ladakh at an elevation of 14,270 feet and offers picturesque views of crystal clear blue water. The lake is 12 kilometers long between the boundaries of India and China. 2. Nubra Valley: Nubra Valley is a gateway to stunning parts of moonscapes that starts in China and ends at Ladakh. It is home to Hunder Sand Dunes, Diskit Monastery, Yarab Tso Lake, village of Turtuk and Samstanling Gompa. It also houses the oasis of the town which makes it a great place to stop and gaze at the magnificence of landscapes around. 3. Kargil: Kargil is the second largest city of Ladakh after Leh and is known for its rich culture, history and political importance. This city sits at a height of 2,676 meters above sea level along the bank of the Indus river where you can witness extreme cold conditions as the temperature drops to minus 45 degrees in winters. This city is famous as the battleground of the Kargil war fought in 1999 in which Pakistani soldiers disguised themselves as Kashmiri citizens and infiltrated the region. Also Book:  Leh Ladakh Tour Packages From Mumbai

Can I do a Leh Ladakh trip in 4-5 days?

When is the best time to plan a vacation to ladakh, how much does a ladakh trip cost, how far is ladakh from manali, how far is sham valley to leh, how far is pangong lake to leh.

Trending in Ladakh

Sightseeing in ladakh.

Biking in Ladakh

Ladakh Top Attractions

Heaven, Peace, Silence, and Tranquility at one place? Come and spend a few hours at Pangong Lake in Ladakh! A pristine place in Ladakh marked by subtle to high peaks around, crystal blue waters and the vast expansion catches the eye so much, so long as if a magic is happening right in front of the eyes. Let our Ladakh holiday packages transport you to this mesmerizing destination, where nature's grandeur unfolds in every corner.Pangong Lake, also known as Pangong Tso, lies calmly at a breathtaking elevation of 14,270 feet. Interestingly, the lake is 12 km long and marks itself between the laps of India and China. Rather, 60% of the portion is stretching in the neighboring nation and this excites every traveler to be here.The surreal clean blue waters are actually brackish or salty in nature and this feature doesn’t let any aquatic life survive in the same. Moreover, the temperature range between -30 to -10 degrees make even this salty lake freeze with thick ice sheets, which is quite opposite in case of salt ridden water bodies.This picturesque landscape location enhances its beauty with the arrival of migrating birds every year and attracts many travelers in search of adventure, photographs, bird-watching and chilling experience. Pangong has another unique and catchy feature; when it acts like a chameleon and changes its color from blue to green to even grey at times. The brackish water of Pangong attracts the migratory birds every year during winters in Ladakh.

One of the most beautiful parts of the moonscapes of Ladakh, Nubra Valley is a deep-cut gorge created by the combined effects of Shyok and Nubra (Siachen) rivers. A high altitude cold desert, Nubra Valley is actually an extension of the Tibetan Plateau (Qing-Zang Plateau) that starts in China and extends up to Ladakh. This valley in the plateau separates the Ladakh Range from the Karakoram Range. But more than anything, Nubra Valley is the most beautiful region in all of Ladakh. Home to wonders like the Diskit Monastery,Hunder Sand Dunes, Samstanling Gompa, Yarab Tso Lake, and the villages of Turtuk and Panamik.Located about 160 km from Leh, the capital of Ladakh, Nubra Valley is a great attraction to all those who come here. The gateway to the upper reaches of the country, especially Siachen, Nubra Valley has an oasis of a town in the heart, Diskit, making a great place to stop you and reflect at the beauty around. And while you are at it, take a short detour to the famous white sand dunes of Hunder. The shapes and forms that these dunes take during different times of the year mesmerize every visitor who comes here. To make it further interesting, there are the double-humped Bactrian Camels, offering rides through the dunes.And when it turns dusky, head to the Diskit Monastery and visit the towering statue of Maitreya Buddha which looks over the entire valley and blesses it for another day to come.Planning a Trip to Ladakh, Experience of Chadar Trek - The Frozen River Trek

More Ladakh Attractions

Ladakh travel guides.

Ladakh Reviews

Popular Nearby Places Around Ladakh

More things to do in ladakh, more on ladakh tourism, popular related destinations.

Best Domestic Packages

Best international packages, domestic honeymoon packages, international honeymoon packages, places to visit in india, international places to visit, things to do in india, international things to do, popular on thrillophilia.

• We assure the privacy of your contact data.
• This data will only be used by our team to contact you and no other purposes.

Your enquiry has been received successfully. Our destination expert will reach out to you soon!

• +91-9310109466

20 Best Enchanting Tourist Places to Visit in Ladakh for an Incredible Holiday

Home / Blog / 20 Best Enchanting Tourist Places to Visit in Ladakh for an Incredible Holiday

Embark on a journey to witness the mesmerizing scenery of Ladakh – a Himalayan destination that every traveler must visit at least once. The high-altitude desert remains cool throughout the hottest months, offering the perfect escape from the summer heatwave. Our comprehensive Leh Ladakh Travel Guide offers insights into the best tourist attractions for your dream trip.

Ladakh landscapes are alluring, dreamy and fascinating. It is on the bucket list of all travelers. At once in a lifetime, we all desire to travel to Ladakh. Rugged landscapes, high altitude lakes and monasteries, mighty Himalayan mountains, highest motorable passes, snowfall, captivating motor biking expeditions and mesmerizing trekking trails, rafting, camping in the meadows, serene stopovers, enchanting festivals and unique cuisines, rituals and culture makes Ladakh is one of the most scenic destinations to travel for every kind of wanderer. Ladakh is one of a kind tourist destination which you must visit at least once in a lifetime.

Quick Travel Information on Ladakh Tourism

Let’s know about ladakh’s top 20 incredible tourist attractions.  if you are planning leh- ladakh tour this blog will definitely help you..

• Nubra Valley
• Hemis National Park
• Pangong Lake
• Tsomoriri Lake
• Markha Valley
• Diskit Monastery
• Thiksey Monastery
• Khardung-la Pass
• Shanti Stupa
• Magnetic Hill
• Zanskar Valley
• Namgyal Tsemo Gompa
• Alchi Monastery
• Hall of Fame
• Gurudwara Pathar Sahib
• Kargil Valley
• Spituk Monastery
• Hemis Monastery

Avail Up to 30% Early Bird Discount on Our Leh Ladakh Tour Packages . Contact Us Now via Call or WhatsApp at +91-8802149265 for More Details and Booking.

1. Nubra Valley- Wholesome for Memories

Poetry of the mighty mountains, the green landscapes of the enchanting Nubra Valley will blow your heart away. It comes first in the list of 20 top tourist places to visit in Ladakh. Wherever you go, the varied landscapes, the color changing sky will captivate your soul forever, keep your camera ready.

Arid sand dunes, ancient ruins and euphoric Buddhist monasteries have kept the valley’s aura peaceful, mysterious, and spiritual for over a decade. This beautiful valley is located at the confluence of the Shyok and Siachen. You will also see the unique double humped Bactrian camels. However, people love to do rafting, ATV rides and camel safari but the essence of Nubra Valley is not in adventure activities, it’s in listening to the silence of the myriad landscapes of Nubra Valley. Take a moment to explore and you will feel that nature is meditating.

Enjoy the therapeutic hot springs of Panamik Village, the holy Yarab Tso Lake’s stillness will teach you to return to what is sacred as you breathe more deeply in its serenity. The monasteries and sand dunes of the magical Hunder village are a must not miss. The farming villages, the Baltistani dishes make holidays wholesome forever. Nubra Valley is a must visit place in Leh-Ladakh.

2. Hemis National Park- A Place to Become One with the Wild

Hemis National Park is one of the top tourist attractions to explore in Ladakh sightseeing Tour. It is a wild realm of Himalayan wildlife species who will enchant you with their sights, sounds and stories. Located in Eastern Ladakh, the park is spread over 4400 sq. km. You will be amazed to know that it has the highest population of Snow leopards globally. It is home to many interesting wildlife species such as Red fox, Agrali, Asiatic Ibex, Eurasian Brown Bear, etc. in total there are around 16 mammal species and 73 bird species to see and enjoy the wildlife tourism of Hemis National Park. not to forget the floral species of the park.

The alpine vegetation, rare medicinal plants makes the place an interesting sight to explore to learn about plant life. There are more than 200 snow leopards in the park. Located inside the national park are the monasteries – Gotsang Gompa and Hemis Monastery whose sacred space has the power to rejuvenate your soul from the fangs of chaos. There are many villages inside the park which will captivate your eyes. Rumbak Valley in the park is a fantastic bird watching attraction which you must not miss. Trekking to Stok Kangri and Markha Valley will elevate your adventure experience to a different level.

3. Pangong Lake- Serene, Sublime and Secluded Beauty

Situated at the height of 4350 m, this is the highest saltwater lake in the world. It’s one of the most beautiful surprises of nature to mankind. Extending to almost 160 km, its one third part is the euphoria of tourists and the other two thirds are in China. Pangong Lake got its name from a Tibetan word – Pangong Tso which means ‘High grassland Lake’. Tourists from all across the globe come to see this richest pearl of the Leh Ladakh tourism. The most interesting highlight of the beautiful lake is that it changes its colors to blue, grey, and green at different times. The climate is very harsh to bear in winters as it is one of the high-altitude lakes in Leh Ladakh. Summer months are perfect to enjoy the beauty of panoramic Pangong Lake.

4. Tsomoriri Lake- Picture of Infinite Beauty

If you are looking for a place to dive deep into the calmness, then why not head to Tsomoriri Lake of Ladakh. It is one of the popular points of tourist interest in Ladakh for peace and nature lovers. Beauty of this lake would awaken in you a feeling that you never knew you had.

Decked in the beautiful Changthang Valley, Tsomoriri lake’s lovely loneliness will heal your tired soul from the chaos of the world. It’s a lake of quietude and peace. Vibrant in color, surrounded by tall peaks, this is a home to many amazing featured creatures such as the bare-headed goose, great-crested grebe, Brahmin duck and brown-headed gulls. It’s also a wonderful place to spot Bharal or blue sheep, marmots, Tibetan sheep, red fox and kiang or Tibetan ass. For a bird watcher and wildlife lover, Tsomoriri lake is an opportunity to meet Himalayan wildlife species and avifauna.

Note- You can enjoy a thrilling mountain biking adventure to make your day memorable in Tsomoriri lake. It is also the highest Ramsar site in the world. So, you cannot put a camp or set up any type of accommodation around this lake.

5. Changthang- Gentle and Wild Paradise for tourists

Beauty of both India and Tibet, the beauty of Changthang will make your heart dance with joy. Isn’t it exciting to see the life of Changpa Tribes, Ladakhi and Tibetan nomads living in higher altitudes? This beautiful place will be the music to your soul. Deep gorges, canyons and vertical passes will meet your eyes wherever you go. You will find Changthang to be one of the top 10 most amazing tourist attractions of Ladakh. Gigantic Peaks and highest summits make the sight even more beautiful. Life here is very difficult, the cold climate of this area and the resilience of people inspires us a lot to face difficulties in life.

The arrival of winter brings challenges in the life of the Changpa Tribe. The temperature went down to as low as -30 degrees. People here live in harmony with nature and the wild. Nomads protect their domestic animals such as goats from wild animals and in return they get butter, milk, wool and meat for sustenance. However, you will be mesmerized by the simplicity of lifestyle and the natural beauty of Changthang.

Note- The major highlight of Changthang is Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary which you must visit to completely explore the beauty of Changthang. Spread over an area of 1600 sq. km, this is one of the top tourist attractions to visit in Leh Ladakh. There are a variety of Himalayan floral and faunal species which you have never seen before. You will discover snow leopard, Wild ass, brown bear, mormot, wild yak, Bharal and wolf etc. Don’t miss the most beautiful lake – Tso Moriri and the world’s highest village Korzok Village. This is also very famous for spotting species of water birds, migratory birds, and a variety of avifauna. Visiting Changthang in Ladakh would definitely be memorable.

6. Markha Valley – Soul of Adventurous and Nature lovers

The beauty of Ladakh Himalayas cannot be fully explored if you have not been to Markha Valley. It is one of the most popular treks of Leh -Ladakh. Adventures from all over the world consider Markha Valley in the list of top 5 places to explore in Ladakh. You will be in a dreamland when you see the variety of landscapes this valley is blessed with. It will also take you to the most popular National Park – Hemis National Park which will give you an amazing opportunity to see Himalayan wild animals. You will be in the wild realm of several species like Ladakhi Urial, Lynx, Mountain hare, marmot, red fox, great Tibetan sheep, – Arghali and Dhole etc.

Also, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the hidden wonders of Leh- Ladakh such as Rumbak and Yurutse village. You will be spellbound to see the unique lifestyle and soul uplifting rich indigenous culture of Indo- Tibetans. The beautiful sceneries of the valley along the way also attract the lens of many photographers.

Note – The Tibetan markets and Buddhist monasteries will nourish your soul with excitement and spiritual wisdom.  June and September are the best months to explore and enjoy Markha Valley Trek. Markha Valley will be the best place for solace seekers, nature lovers and adventure loving souls.

7. Diskit Monastery – Get the Divine Grace

One more sacred place to find yourself.  Located in Nubra Valley, Diskit Monastery is one of the famous attractions to visit in Ladakh. The main highlight of Diskit Gompa is the 106 ft huge Statue of Maitreya Buddha inaugurated by HH Dalai Lama. if you see its surroundings, you will never want to go back. The gorgeous views of Nubra Valley’s colorful landscapes blend with the serene silence of the Gompa. It was built by Changzen Tserab Zangpo in the 14th century. December is the best time to visit here as the Dosmoche Festival is celebrated here. The intricate frescos and wall paintings, images of Buddhist deities. Above the monastery is the LachungTemple where the large idol of Tsong Khapa, the founder of the Gelugpa sect of Buddhism is worshiped.  The gorgeous views of Diskit village are irresistible.

8. Thiksey Monastery- Elevated Seat of the Divine

19 km away from Leh, Thiksey Monastery will find the radiance of lost souls. Overlooking the Indus River and Stok range, it offers panoramic views with sacred ambiance to the peace seekers.  It is a must visit attraction in your Ladakh sightseeing tour.

It is a beautiful 12 storey building which displays the wonders of Buddhist art and culture. You will behold Buddhist art in its most elevated form. See the beautiful Thangkas, swords, wall paintings, statues etc. one of the most remarkable attractions is the Maitreya Temple which showcases a 49 ft tall statue of Maitreya Buddha. It is so huge that it covers the two floors of the building.  You must visit Tara Temple dedicated to goddess Tara, there are 21 images of goddess Tara kept in glass covered wooden shelves. Also see Stangyur and Kangyu, the two popular Buddhist.  scriptures in Lamokhang Temple. It’s a wonderful place to blend into the rhythm of serenity.

9. Khardung La Pass- Snowy Wonder of Ladakh

Enchanting gateway to Nubra and Shyok valleys of Ladakh, Khardungla Pass is one of the highest motorable passes in the world. The views here will captivate your heart and soul. You won’t be able to stop clicking pictures of this mesmerizing pass.

It is very popular among the adventurers who came here for biking adventures from all over the world. It is at an elevation of 5,395 meters. It’s also a very important tourist attraction which is maintained by the Border Roads Organization. The journey to Khardungla is very exciting. You will come across many hairpin bends and high gradients on the road. You need an Inner Line Permit to enter Khardung La Pass. frost covers, hairpin bends makes driving on the roads exciting and dangerous. So always be careful and enjoy the beauty of the enchanting Khardungla Pass. Indeed, it is one of the most picturesque tourist attractions to explore when you are enjoying Leh Ladakh sightseeing tour.

Note- April to June and the month of September to October is the best time to visit Khardung La Pass. if you are a passionate bike rider then it will be one of the best places to visit in Ladakh, cold breeze of the Himalayan mountains, snowy roads and challenging bends will definitely make your adventure soothing.

10. Shanti Stupa- Namobuddha

The soul uplifting white domed Buddhist monument known as Shanti Stupa is one of the best places to explore in Ladakh. Decked in a steep hilltop at a height of 11,841 ft, it is a sacred Buddhist pilgrimage place consecrated by the e14th Dalai Lama. Giver of serenity and peace, the view of Shanti Stupa is one of a kind.

The most healing view to your soul will be the gilded statue of the Buddha and the Dharmachakra (wheel of life).  The stupa is a relic of Lord Buddha which was built in 1991 by a Japanese Buddhist named Bhikshu Gyomyo Nakamura.  It was built to promote world peace and to commemorate 2500 years of Buddhism. The mind-boggling views of Leh and Changspa village, mesmerizing sunsets, the beauty of the twilight due to sunset and the spiritual vibe makes this place one of the best tourist attractions to explore in Ladakh for a spiritually inclined and peace-loving soul. Devotees move the wheels and pray to God for their wellbeing.

Note- Timings – 5:00am to 9:00pm & Best time to visit – July to September 

11. Zanskar Valley- Mesmerizing Valley of Himalayas

If you are fond of exploring remote and enchanting locations, then visiting Zanskar Valley would be a great decision. It is one of the best places to visit in the remote corner of Ladakh.  This valley is the crowning jewel of the northern flank of the great Himalayas. Zanskar Valley’s mesmerizing landscapes, sparkling water bodies and weather will definitely blow your heart away. Consider this place for honeymoon holidays in Ladakh as the valley’s irresistible charm will be in tune with your romantic heart. Zanskar valley would be one of the most wonderful holiday options for families, couples, and adventurers.

You will enjoy amazing opportunities to try water rafting, paragliding and trekking. In fact, there are many mind-boggling trekking options such as Padum Trek, Lamayuru to Darcha Trek. Zongla, Zongkhul etc. are the centuries- old monasteries to restore your sacred reserve of energy. Connecting the valley of Suru and Zanskar, the beautiful Penzil a Pass is an amazing attraction and spot to enjoy camping.

Note – Winters are harsh. Temperature drops down to -30-degree Celsius and the roads are heavily covered in snow. The best time to enjoy the beauty of Zanskar Valley is between the months of June to September.

12. Magnetic Hill- A Place That Defies Gravity

A place which defies Gravity and amaze your curious mind is known as Magnetic Hill of Ladakh. Located at the Leh- Kargil highway, it is one of the top places to visit in Leh- Ladakh.  It is marked by a yellow sign board which states that “The phenomenon that defies Gravity” there is a box which is marked with a white point on the road, also known as the magnetic road, is used to park vehicles. If you park your vehicle at the indicated spot, you will be amazed to see that your vehicle will be moving forward at a speed of 20km/h. The meandering Sindhu River at the east of Magnetic hill is a great place to capture delightful sceneries.

An interesting myth is associated with Magnetic Hill. Villagers here believe that once upon a time this road used to lead people straight to heaven. Those who deserved and pure by heart were pulled directly to heaven. Those who didn’t deserve couldn’t make it to paradise. According to a popular theory people believe that it’s just an optical illusion. The road which actually goes uphill seems like it’s going downhill. Driving here will not be a hindrance if you visit it in the months of July and October.

13. Namgyal Tsemo Gompa- Purify Your Heart in the Seat of Divine

Renowned for the three-storey high solid gold idol of Maitreya Buddha, just behind the magnificent Leh Palace, Namgyal Tsemo Gompa is a beautiful monastery of Ladakh.  It is one of the must-see tourist attractions in Leh- Ladakh.

The scenic villages, Zanskar Valley, meandering Indus River makes the surroundings visually appealing to the tourists. It was built by King Tashi Namgyal in 1430 AD. Its ambiance is enough to awaken spirituality from the sacred depths of the soul. If you are fond of spiritual places, then you must visit Namgyal Tsemo Gompa. one-storey high statues of Avalokitesvara and Manjushri also captivate the soul and mind. When you come down from the hill you will also behold Shankar Gompa which is connected to Namgyal Tsemo Gompa. These two monasteries are ritualistically connected. Monks from Shankar Gompa worship Lord Buddha and lit butter lamps at Namgyal Tsemo Gompa. The heavenly vibe of this Gompa makes the heart cheerful.

14. Alchi Monastery- Radiance of the Divinity

Built by Ringchen Zangpo, the eminent translator of Sanskrit Buddhist text into Tibetan, Alchi Monastery is one of the popular religious places to visit in Ladakh. It is a blessed seat of various gods such as principal Buddha Vairocana Lhakhang, Lhotsava Lhakhang, Jamyang Lhakhang (Manjusri temple) and sumtsag Lhakhang. The Indian style Thangka paintings is one of the main highlights of Alchi monastery. It lies on the serene banks of the Indus River. There are many splendid paintings and thousands of miniature paintings of Lord Buddha which captivates the mind. There are souvenir shops, restaurants, and tea stalls for the recreation of tourists.  You will feel the infinite wisdom of spirituality in the ambiance. The surrounding will nourish your soul to make you feel connected to the divine.

15. Leh Palace- Royal Charm of Ladakh

In the 1500s King Sengge Namgyal built the magnificent Leh Palace but it was completed in the 17th century. Today Leh Palace is now one of the top tourist attractions to explore in Ladakh.  Its facade looks like the Potala palace in Lhasa, the capital of Tibet. It’s a masterpiece of medieval Tibetan architecture which also boasts 9 storeys. If you look at the view from Leh Palace roof you will be spellbound by the beauty of Ladakh’s magical landscape and the mighty Stok Kangri. The wooden carved figurines in the Palace entrance, wooden balconies and Stupas and mural fragments are amazing sights to please your eyes and soul. Chandazik Gompa and the Chamba Lhakhang Temple within which dwells the infinite wisdom of ages and sacred vibe. The museum in Leh Palace carries some artifacts which are more than 450 years old. The palace is under the maintenance of the Archaeological Survey of India.

16. Hall of Fame- Heroes of the Nation

Keeping alive the memory of brave Indian Soldiers who sacrificed their lives in Indo- Pak wars, the Hall of Fame Museum is a treasure and watch worthy tourist attraction of Ladakh.

Located in the Leh- Kargil Road it was built in the memory of Brave Indian soldiers who protected the country with the sacrifice of their life. This museum contains the weapons used in war. In the upper floor, in OP Vijay Gallery you will discover the weapons used in Kargil War. It also contains various apparel and amenities by the Indian Army. There are various pictures of army posts showing the difficult life of soldiers. You will also see the pictures of Kargil Wars.

The wall named “Lest we Forget” shows the pictures of soldiers who sacrificed their life for the nation. In the ground floor there is a projection room where you can watch the documentary on Operation Vijay. You will be deeply moved by the last letter of Captain Vijayant Thapar which is framed on a wall to his parents before he attained martyrdom. There are some sections which also showcase the history and culture of Ladakh region.

Timings – 9:00am to 1:00pm and 2:00pm to 7:00pm

Note- On the front of the Hall of Fame there is a statue of Lord Buddha with a beautiful message which says, “It is better to conquer yourself than to win a thousand battles. Then the victory is yours. It cannot be taken from you, not by angels or by demons, heaven or hell.” What a beautiful message to mankind!

17. Gurudwara Pathar Sahib- Sacred Bliss

Revered seat of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism- Gurudwara Pathar Sahib is one of the most beautiful religious places to visit in Ladakh. There is a very interesting story about this sacred place. It is said that Guru Nanak Dev Ji was meditating at this place, but a demon was constantly creating hindrance in his meditation. He was throwing big rocks to disturb him, but Guru Nanak Dev Ji turned the rock into soft wax which was completely harmless. Seeing this the demon realized that Guru Nanak Dev Ji is not a normal person and he asked for penance for his deed. Guru Nanak Dev Ji forgave him. In Gurudwara Pathar Sahib you can see the imprint of the body of Guru Nanak Dev Ji in a boulder and the footprint of the demon. This place is maintained by the Indian Army. Tibetans revered Guru Nanak Dev Ji as a Buddhist saint. Hence, they call him Guru Gompka Maharaj.

18. Kargil Valley- Land of Warriors

Kargil Valley, the second largest town of Ladakh is one of the incredible places to visit in Ladakh. It has been a major trade center in the past having trade relations with China, Central Asia, and different parts of India. It is one of the most visited tourist destinations for mountaineers and trekkers.

It is the place where the famous Indo- Pak war happened in May- July 1999. Tiger Hill, Tololing, Mushku valley and Batalik are some of the best attractions which became the heart of Kargil tourism.

One of the best highlights of Kargil is the enchanting Suru Valley which is a hidden bliss. The meandering Suru River runs through the valley, decked with mesmerizing villages, you won’t be able to set your eyes off from its beauty.

Adventurers love Kargil as it offers great opportunities for mountain adventure such as trekking and mountaineering. You can also try snow skiing and river rafting. There are many Buddha statues, fort Palaces, ancient Rock carvings, war memorials, monasteries and mosques which dazzles the eyes and mind.

19. Spituk Monastery- Seat of Sacredness

Decked on a conical hill with three chapels in the periphery of Leh, Spituk Monastery is one of the best tourist attractions to include in your Ladakh itinerary. It was built in the 11th century by Od- de, elder brother of Lha Lama Changchub Od.  The meaning of the name of the monster y is Exemplary which is quite apt as it is one of the most magnificent and desirable seats of Lord Buddha.

Festival of Gustor is celebrated with great pomp and show with beautiful, masked dance performances in the11th month of the Tibetan calendar. It is a celebration of peace and prosperity. It is celebrated in such a grand way that you will hear prayers and rituals 7 days before the day of the festival. It belongs to the Gelugpa lineage of Buddhism. There is a beautiful image of Mahakaal which is kept covered and unveiled in the annual festival of Spituk held in the month of January. Indeed, it is one of the blessed seats where the sacredness of faith is visible in an exalted form.

20. Hemis Monastery – Awake the Inner Peace

the western banks of the Indus River are blessed with the sacredness of Hemis Monastery. It is one of the top visiting spiritual tourist attractions in Ladakh. It is said that the monastery was built before the 11th century. Re-established in 1672 by Sengge Namgyal, the king of Ladakh. It is one of the most magnificent monasteries of Leh-Ladakh.  It is decorated with beautiful colored flags on all four sides. The wall stones are decorated with religious figures.

You will also find an amazing collection of Thangkas and stupas. Don’t miss the grand annual festival of the birth anniversary of Guru Padmasambhava. During the festival you will see the annual bazaar where Ladakhis from remote areas come to buy and sell wares. You will also see the mask dance performance which represents the reincarnation of Buddha. This monastery belongs to the Drukpa lineage of Buddhism. Every 12 years during the Hemis Festival, one of the largest Thangkas is displayed in front of a large crowd.

Its large library contains ancient religious texts, some of them are in unknown languages which will arouse your curiosity. Tourists who are spiritually inclined or who are looking for peace would definitely find Hemis Monastery one of the best places to fine-tune the soul.

Enjoy and explore the wonderful destinations of Leh- Ladakh. Trust us, Ladakh is the most beautiful mountain desert region of India. Holidaying here will be one of the most memorable trips of your life. You will leave its shores but the beauty of Ladakh will keep calling you.

Best Travel Tips to Enjoy Ladakh Trip and Make Amazing Memories

Without planning and knowing your destination, traveling to any place might be physically and mentally overwhelming. As you don’t know what kind of challenges you will face. It is very essential to know the basic information about the destination you are traveling to. Knowing the weather conditions, accommodation facilities, culture and destination information makes you a smart traveler. In a place like Ladakh which is blessed with myriad landscapes, harsh weather conditions and unique culture, it is very important to think wisely and collect important information to plan your holiday. The comfort comes with proper planning.  Here are some important travel tips for Leh- Ladakh Holidays –

• Ladakh is a land of variations. It is very important to know the weather conditions in advance. In some regions of Ladakh you will experience subzero temperatures, at some places the temperature will fall down to – 30-degree Celsius in winter season. In summer the temperature is quite comfortable. However, you still need to keep some warm clothes as the weather is unpredictable. The road side of the passes is still covered with snow even in the month of June. So, we really can’t say. Keep woolen clothes ready.
• Some of the places in Ladakh require an Inner Line permit. Plan in advance where you want to explore and get the Inner Line Permit online or from the DC office in Leh.
• The level of oxygen is low when you are in the high-altitude area of Ladakh region. Some of you will suffer from mountain sickness. Keep your pace of travel slow and don’t rush to places when you are having acute mountain sickness. Let your body rest for a day or two after a high climb of 2000ft for acclimatization. You can also carry Oxygen cylinders. Keep the necessary medicines in your bag. Stay healthy.
• Get the post- paid BSNL mobile connect from any phone shop. It’s the only mobile connection that functions in Ladakh.
• Keep plenty of cash in Hand. There are less ATM machines in Ladakh. Most of the places do not accept credit cards. In Leh Market you will find ATMs of different banks.
• Always keep multiple copies of valid ID Proof, PAN card or passport. It will be needed in military checkpoints.
• It is not bad to know about the major tourist attractions, culture and heritage of Ladakh before going. It will enrich your travel experience.
• You can always rent cars and bikes to enjoy your Himalayan holidays in the best possible manner.
• Always book your hotel in advance in Leh. March to June is the peak tourism season. You will find it difficult to get accommodation.
• You must hire a private tourist guide to travel locally in Ladakh. Also get the advantage of local transport facility as it is not advisable to travel to most of the areas by foot due to mountain sickness.

Popular Leh Ladakh Tour Packages 2023

Frequently asked questions, why must you visit ladakh.

Leh Ladakh is one of the top destinations to visit in India. It is a dream destination of many. High mountain passes, Chadar frozen lake, monasteries, tough terrains, beautiful snowfall and many adventure activities makes it the most wholesome destination for any kind of tourist. A tourist will never get bored here. In fact, every mile will invoke curiosity as Ladakh landscape keeps on changing textures. It is indeed a must visit destination for wanderers.

What are the top destinations to visit in Leh- Ladakh?

Some of the top-rated tourist attractions in Ladakh are –

• Pangong Tso Lake
• Khardung La Pass
• Chadar Trek

What is the best time to visit Leh- Ladakh?

The best time to visit Ladakh depends on the choice of season. In summer April to May the tourist season starts in Ladakh. From the end of April, the ice of Tso Moriri and Pangong Tso Lake starts melting. The Srinagar-Leh highway opens from the first week of May which makes it more crowded and the best time to visit Ladakh. But Khardung-La and Chang-La passes remain closed due to snowfall.

In Mid-September to October months the temperature starts to cool down a bit. The minimum 1 degree Celsius.

October to March, winter starts. At this time the maximum temperature is 7 degrees and the minimum are -6 degrees Celsius. The lakes freeze completely and it’s time to enjoy the famous Chadar Trek of Ladakh. The Zanskar river freezes completely in winters.

How is the weather in Ladakh?

Ladakh is definitely included in the travel list of most Indian tourists. Since Ladakh is a cold and extremely cold region, you should plan your trip to Ladakh according to your cold tolerance. In high altitude places there would be harsh weather conditions. Temperature will drop down to subzero levels. Summer months are a good time to plan your trip but for those who love snowfall, winter is the best time but the cold weather will give you chills.

What is the best way to travel to Ladakh?

The simplest way to travel to Ladakh is by air. Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport located in Leh, is the major airport of Ladakh. You can get regular flights from Delhi, Jammu, Srinagar, Mumbai, Kolkata and Chandigarh etc. If you prefer to go by rail it’s actually not a favorable option. You cannot reach Ladakh directly by train. There is no train station in Ladakh. The only nearest railway station is Jammu Tawi Station which will help you to reach Ladakh from Jammu. If you want adventures and the scenic beauty in your view then a road trip is highly recommended. You can access the roads of Ladakh from the month of May to October. After that heavy snowfall, bad road conditions will make it inaccessible. Buses, cars, jeeps and motorbikes are easily available for Ladakh Trip.

What are the popular adventure activities for tourists in Leh Ladakh?

Ladakh’s cold deserts, rugged terrains call for amazing adventures. It is one of the top destinations for adventurers. Some of the most popular adventure activities to enjoy in Ladakh are –

• Mountain Biking
• wildlife safari
• Quad Biking
• Rock climbing
• Paragliding

What are the popular trekking routes in Ladakh?

Without trekking adventure your holidays in Ladakh would be incomplete. Trekking is one of the top adventure activities to do in Ladakh.  The landscape of Ladakh is best for trekkers due to the snow-capped mountains and high cold deserts, sparkling lakes and natural beauty.  Some of the most popular trekking routes of Ladakh are –

• Markha Valley Trek
• Nubra Valley Trek
• Chadar Frozen River Trek
• Rumtse to Tso Moriri Trek
• Stok Kangri trek
• Sham Valley Trek
• Spituk to Stok Trek
• Lamayuru to Alchi Trek
• Zanskar Trek from Padum to Lamayuru
• Snow Leopard Trek
• Padum to Darcha Trek

What are the accommodation options available in Ladakh for tourists?

Don’t worry you will get clean and moderate budget accommodation in Ladakh. Hotels in Ladakh offer the best hospitality to the tourists with all the facilities that a traveler needs.  However, if you are in High altitude region or village, you will not get any luxury hotels, but the guest houses will welcome you with warm hospitality and decent facilities. You will get good accommodation options to stay with family.  Any moderate budget stay accommodation in Ladakh would cost around 1500 to 2000 for double bedrooms. Luxury lovers will also get good accommodation options with all the comforts. Some of the best Luxury accommodation options are The Grand Dragon Ladakh, Woody Vu Stok House, Chamba Camp, Nubra Organic Retreat and Stok Palace Heritage Hotel.

What are the popular must-see cultural festivals in Ladakh?

Some of the popular and must-see cultural festivals to enjoy in Ladakh are –

• Losar Festival- February to March
• Hemis Tsechu- Late June to July
• Sindhu Darshan Festival- June
• Ladakh Harvest Festival- September
• Saka Dawa Festival- June
• Dosmoche Festival – May
• Yuru Kabgyat – June

Is Ladakh a good destination for Honeymoon couples?

Good? Say Best! Don’t underestimate Ladakh’s beauty. It is one of the most beautiful tourist destinations of India. Honeymoon couples must visit Ladakh. Every landscape of Ladakh is colorful, beautiful, steeped in beautiful history and amazing stories. The unique cultural experiences, the thrilling adventure activities, the scenic motorable passes, the enchanting monasteries, everything Ladakh is blissful for a romantic couple. For honeymoon couples Ladakh is a must recommend.

Like & follow us on our following official social media channels

Facebook | Twitter | Linkedin | Instagram | Youtube

Also Check Out: Popular India Tours | Tour Packages | India Tour Packages | International Tour Packages

International Trending Holiday Destinations – Nepal Tours | Bhutan Tours | Singapore Tour | Thailand Tours | Sri Lanka Tours | Maldives Tours | Dubai Tours | Indonesia Tours

Other Popular Trending Holiday Destinations in India – Kashmir Tour | Himachal Tour | Uttarakhand Tour | Rajasthan Tour | Gujarat Tour | Sikkim Tour | Kerala Tour | Andaman Tour | Madhya Pradesh Tour | North East Tours

Tour Packages by Interest – Adventure Packages | Wildlife Packages | Pilgrimage Packages | Heritage Packages | Hill Station Packages | Weekend Packages | Honeymoon Packages | Beach Packages | Chardham Packages | Trekking Packages

Other Interesting India Travel Guide Blogs to Read

• Must Visit UNESCO Heritage Sites in India
• Best Places to See Snowfall in India
• Best Hill Stations to Visit in India
• Best Honeymoon Destinations in India
• Best Winter Tourist Destinations in India
• Best Places to Visit in East India
• Top Places to Visit in North East India
• Best Beaches to Visit in India
• Pilgrimage Tourist Places in India
• Popular Heritage Tourist Places in India
• Top Tourist Destinations to Explore in India
• Best Places to Visit Near Bandhavgarh

Other Interesting Adventure & Trekking Travel Guide Blogs to Read

• Best Trekking Trails in Ladakh
• Best Trekking Places in Uttarakhand
• Panch Kailash Yatra Trek Information
• Best Trekking Places in Sikkim
• Top Adventure Tourism Sports in India
• Best Trekking Places in Himachal
• Best Winter Treks in India
• Best Treks in India Himalayas
• Top Summer Treks to Do in Uttarakhand
• Best Summer Treks in India

Other Interesting Destinations Travel Guide Blogs to Read

• Cherrapunji Travel & Tourism Guide
• Madhya Pradesh Tourism Guide
• Best Places to Visit in Sikkim
• Palolem Beach Goa Travel Guide
• Best Places to Visit in North East India Tour
• Munnar Tourism – Top Tourist Places & Things to Do
• Best Places to Visit in Chail Himachal Pradesh
• Alleppey Tourism- Best Places to Visit
• Top Places to Visit in Patnitop
• Best Places to Visit in Jammu and Kashmir
• Must Visit Waterfalls in Karnataka
• Best Places to Visit in Himachal Pradesh
• Best Places to Visit in Bhopal
• Shillong Meghalaya Tourism Information
• Gulmarg Tourism- Top Places to Visit
• Best Places to Visit in Patnitop
• Best Places to Visit in Tamil Nadu
• Top Tourist Destinations of Madhya Pradesh

Other Interesting Rajasthan Travel Guide Blogs to Read

• Best Places to Visit in Rajasthan
• Mount Abu Tourism- Best Places to Visit & Things to Do
• Best Places to Visit in Jaipur Rajasthan
• Top Places to Explore in Jaisalmer Rajasthan
• Best Sightseeing Places in Jodhpur Rajasthan
• Ranthambore Jungle Safari Trip
• Ranthambore National Park Travel Guide

Other Interesting Uttarakhand Travel Guide Blogs to Read

• Best Places to Visit with Family in Uttarakhand
• Best Hill Stations to Visit in Uttarakhand
• Best Tourist Places in Rishikesh
• Chardham Yatra Travel Guide
• Best Places to Visit in Mussoorie
• Top Things to Do in Uttarakhand
• Best Places to Visit in Nainital
• Yamunotri Temple Information
• Gangotri Temple Information
• Badrinath Temple Information
• Kedarnath Temple Information
• Best Places to Visit in Harsil Valley
• Best Places to Visit in Uttarkashi
• Best Places to Visit in Haridwar
• Best Places to Visit in Chopta

Other Interesting Wildlife Travel Guide Blogs to Read

• How to Plan a Jungle Safari Trip to Ranthambore National Park?
• Famous National Parks of India
• Best Places to Visit Near Kaziranga National Park
• Jim Corbett National Park & Tiger Reserve
• Ranthambore National Park & Tiger Reserve
• Best National Parks to Visit in Summer Season in India
• Kaziranga National Park: A Comprehensive Travel Guide

Other Interesting International Travel Guide Blogs to Read

• Best Islands to Visit in Maldives
• Best Places to Visit in Indonesia
• Best Places to Visit in Paro Bhutan

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• February 2024
• January 2024
• December 2023
• November 2023
• October 2023
• September 2023
• August 2023
• February 2023
• January 2023
• December 2022
• November 2022
• October 2022
• September 2022
• August 2022
• February 2022
• January 2022
• December 2021
• November 2021
• October 2021
• September 2021
• Andhra Pradesh
• Himachal Pradesh
• International
• Jammu & Kashmir
• Luxury Train
• Madhya Pradesh
• North East India
• North India
• South India
• Tourism News
• Travel Guide
• Uttar Pradesh
• Uttarakhand

Don’t wait any longer. Contact us!

• [email protected]

One of the India’s leading startup Bon Travel India specializes in offering the best holiday packages and tour services in India & Worldwide.

Noida - INDIA

Our Services

• Holiday Packages
• Hotel Booking
• Air Ticketing
• Visa Assistance
• Wildlife Tours
• Beaches Tours
• Trekking Tours
• Pilgrimage Tours
• Hill Stations Tours
• Weekend Tours

Get Updates & More

Subscribe to the free newsletter and stay up to date

• Privacy Policy
• Term & Conditions

+91-8802149265 

Subscribe to Updates

Get the latest creative news from FooBar about art, design and business.

By signing up, you agree to the our terms and our Privacy Policy agreement.

What's Hot

10 best things to do in montreux for an enthralling time in the town of switzerland, kashmir in october: the ultimate guide to planning your fall trip, the most complete guide to help you while visiting goa in october 2024.

9 Best Places To Visit In Leh Ladakh in May For A Delightful Vacay In 2024!

Can we take a trip to Ladakh in May? This is the first thing that comes to our mind when we think about Ladakh in May. Though Ladakh is accessible throughout the year, most people still look for bike trips. And all of it starts from the last week of May. Adventure activities are the USP of Ladakh and one of the major reasons why people visit here.

So if you are planning on a visit to Ladakh, then May can be an ideal time to do it. Therefore, here is a list of some amazing places to visit in Leh Ladakh in May. We have a few names that you can put in your itinerary before heading to this destination.

Here is a list of amazing places to visit in Leh Ladakh in May.

1. markha valley.

• Markha Valley is popular due to the trek it offers to visitors. It is one of the most popular treks offered in Ladakh.
• The landscape and pristine beauty of Markha Valley is also spellbinding and you will love it.
• Markha Valley trek is done through the Hemis National Park which is also a protected area of the place.
• You can find tents as accommodation options and several homestays too. So, there are no reasons to get worried about this.
• Make sure you do not miss out on the Markha Valley trek which is an easy-moderate trek enjoyed by the trekkers.

2. Turtuk village

• One of those villages in Nubra Valley that offers a pristine and majestic view of the landscapes in Ladakh.
• This is one of the last villages of Ladakh towards the north side before Tibet.
• The Turtuk Village offers a breathtaking view of mighty snow-laden mountains.
• This is the village that turns green during the summer season starting in May. The travelers get to enjoy both faces of Ladakh.
• There are multiple places to stay in Turtuk Village but people still prefer taking a single day trip to this place and then staying at Diskit.

3. Likir Monastery

• Likir Gompa is another amazing destination of Ladakh and the prime attraction of this place is the 75 feet high Maitreya Buddha statue.
• Likir Gompa or Monastery is located on a hill summit that allows visitors to enjoy a beautiful view of the surrounding. If you are an avid photographer, you will love spending time here during May because of the clear sky.
• The gompa is located at 3700 m elevation and is approximately 52 km from Leh.
• One of the most popular festivals of Likir Monastery is the annual event of Dosmochey that is celebrated in the 12th month of the Tibetan culture between the 27th and 29th day of the month’s calendar.
• One of the most popular festivals of Likir Monastery is the annual event of Dosmochey that is celebrated in the 12th month of Tibetan culture between the 27th and 29th day of the month’s calendar.

4. Royal Leh Palace

• The timings to visit the royal Leh Palace is between 7 am and 4 pm and approximately 2 hours will be sufficient here.
• There is a small entry fee at the Royal Palace which is 15 INR for Indians and 100 INR for Foreign Nationals.
• The Leh Palace is believed to be built in the 17th Century by Sengge Namgyal. It is also believed that this palace looks very much similar to the Potala Palace in Lhasa.
• The entire palace is segmented into different parts and one of them is the Leh Palace Museum which has a range of antiques, rich collections of artifacts, and a lot of other things too.
• The palace also has royal family utensils, jewelry, used ceremonial dresses, and a lot of other things on the showcase.

5. Nubra Valley

• Approximately 116 km from Leh City, starts the territory of Nubra Valley which is an amazing place to visit.
• You get to take a ride of the Bactrian Camels which are also known as two-humped camels. They are a rare species to find and in all of India, they can be found in Nubra only.
• The most popular attraction of Nubra Valley is the Diskit Village and the monastery that goes by the same name.
• A 32 ft high Maitreya Buddha statue is the highlight of Diskit Monastery. You can also visit the other amazing villages of the valley including Hundur, Bagdong, and others.
• Even the avid adventurers can find peace in the valley because there are a lot of good activities to enjoy including ziplining, ATV rides, and more.

6. Khardung-la Pass

• It falls approximately 39 km from Leh City and is one of the highest motorable roads in the world.
• Khardung La is located at an astonishing height of 5359 m above sea level and is a thrilling place for visitors due to the view and sheer altitude.
• You will have to obtain an inner line permit to visit the Khardung La point.
• There is a quick suggestion that we would like to provide. If you are going for the first time then do not spend more than 10 minutes in Khardung pass. The astonishing heights of this pass can lead to breathlessness and can be fatal at times.

7. Shanti Stupa

• The best time to visit Shanti Stupa is between 5 am and 9 pm and about an hour is enough to enjoy the attraction in may. Know more about Shanti Stupa .
• It was built in 1914 and is a very important attraction of Ladakh.
• The monument is a symbol of peace and has been built to depict the same thing.
• This is an attraction where people would love to go and stand on the top of the place to witness the beauty of the surrounding.

8. Khardung-la Pass

Khardung-la Pass in Ladakh is still covered in snow, making for a challenging yet rewarding journey for adventure seekers. The scenic vistas are breathtaking.

• The journey to Khardung-la Pass is an adventure in itself, with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. In May, the pass may still be covered in snow, adding to the thrill of the journey.
• Khardung-la Pass is surrounded by several scenic trekking routes, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
• May is a great time to go trekking, with moderate temperatures and clear skies.
• The scenic vistas from Khardung-la Pass are a photographer’s paradise, with snow-covered mountains, dramatic landscapes, and clear blue skies.
• May is a great time to capture the beauty of the region.
• Khardung-la Pass is located near several attractions, including the Nubra Valley, Diskit Monastery, and Hundar Sand Dunes.
• Visitors can explore these nearby destinations and learn about the rich culture and history of Ladakh.
• Khardung-la Pass is a popular destination for adventure seekers, with activities such as mountain biking, quad biking, and camel safaris.
• In May, visitors can enjoy these activities in the beautiful surroundings of the pass.

9. Leh Market

In May, the Leh Market in Ladakh is bustling with activity, with vendors selling a variety of local handicrafts, food, and souvenirs. The atmosphere is lively and colorful.

• The market is filled with shops selling a variety of local handicrafts, including traditional Ladakhi clothing, jewelry, and handmade crafts.
• The market is also home to numerous food stalls, offering a range of delicious local delicacies, such as momos, thukpa, and yak cheese.
• Visitors can also find a wide range of souvenirs to take back home, including prayer flags, paintings, and other traditional items.
• The market is a lively and colorful place, with locals and tourists alike mingling and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.
• May is a great time to visit, as the weather is pleasant and the crowds are manageable.
• The market is located in the heart of Leh town, making it a convenient destination for visitors to explore other nearby attractions, such as the Leh Palace and Shanti Stupa.

As we have already talked about this fact that May is the embarking month of Leh Ladakh. So during this month, there is still a lot that goes up in the city. You can enjoy the amazing beauty of Ladakh and keep an eye on the weather forecast as well.

We would suggest that if you wish to enjoy the adventure activities that are offered in Ladakh then either make your plans in the last week of May or from the first week of June. Also if you are planning to ride your bike on the Manali Leh highway then visiting Leh Ladakh would be a bummer for you. That’s because it doesn’t reopen until the second week of June.

See Also: Best time to visit Leh Ladakh |  Places to visit in Leh Ladakh in September

Top 6 tourist places to visit in Ladakh | Hidden places to visit in Leh Ladakh

Places to visit in Leh Ladakh for honeymoon | Leh Ladakh in May

Places to visit in Leh Ladakh in October

It looks like Kimberly Garrison is on a mission to enjoy her days in different cities. Halling from an orthodox family of Edinburgh, she has fought her way to choosing and following this life. Now she is a traveller by heart and a writer by profession.

Related Posts

Everything you should know about river rafting in ladakh in 2023, all you need to know for your trip to ladakh in november 2023, top 8 destinations in leh ladakh in march for a wonderful vacation, a biker’s paradise and the best places to visit in leh ladakh in july 2023, leave a reply cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Type above and press Enter to search. Press Esc to cancel.

10 Best tourist places to visit in Ladakh in 2024

L adakh is often called the "Land of High Passes" because it's full of tall mountains and stunning scenery. People come here from all over the world to see the amazing views, visit old monasteries, and experience the unique culture. If you're thinking of visiting Ladakh in 2024, we've made a list of the top 10 places you just can't miss! Also, besides sightseeing, there are lots of fun things to do in Ladakh , like stargazing, trekking, and river rafting.

Pangong Lake - Azure Oasis

Pangong Lake is one of the most popular tourist attractions of Ladakh, Pangong Lake is a shimmering oasis of crystal-clear blue waters nestled between rugged mountains. Located at an altitude of 4,350 meters, this breathtaking lake stretches across the border into Tibet. The lake is located on the Changtang plateau in eastern Ladakh, this lake is a fantastic spot for camping. It's really popular with tourists right now, making it one of the best places to visit in Ladakh. If you want to avoid the crowds, it's a good idea to visit during the off-season.

Best Time to Visit: June to September

Nubra Valley - Valley of Flowers

The valley is accessible via the world's highest motorable pass, Khardung La, and offers a unique blend of adventure and tranquillity. The sandy hills in Nubra Valley give visitors a feeling like they're in the Arabian Nights story. Another cool place to check out in Nubra Valley is Panamik village, known for its hot springs that smell like sulfur.

Best time to visit: During the autumn season between the months of July to September.

Leh Palace - Ancient Royal Residence

Leh Palace represents Ladakh's rich history and culture. It was built in the 17th century by King Sengge Namgyal and has nine floors. From here, you can see beautiful views of the mountains and valleys around. Inside, you can walk through its maze-like halls, admire old paintings and objects, and learn about Ladakh's royal family. Plus, there's a lovely Buddha statue at the back, making it even more special.

Best time to visit: The ideal time to visit Leh Palace is in the evening. The weather is pleasant, and you'll be treated to a stunning view of the city as the sun sets.

Tso Moriri Lake - Jewel of Changthang

Tso Moriri Lake is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and pristine meadows, this high-altitude lake is a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Visitors can spot rare species such as the black-necked crane and bar-headed goose, while soaking in the serenity of the landscape.

Best Time To Visit: From May to early September

Diskit Monastery - Serene Himalayan Sanctuary

Diskit Monastery sits atop a hill, looking out over Nubra Valley. It's one of the oldest and biggest monasteries in Ladakh, dating back to the 14th century. Inside, you'll find a huge statue of Maitreya Buddha and many old books and items. You can join the monks for their prayers in the morning, wander around the beautiful halls and rooms, and take in the amazing views of the area.

Best time to visit: July to September

Hemis Monastery - Spiritual Oasis

This monastery is renowned for its annual Hemis Festival, which attracts devotees and tourists from far and wide. Visitors can explore the monastery's museum, which houses a priceless collection of thangkas, statues, and religious relics, and witness the colourful masked dances performed during the festival.

Best time to visit: April to August

Alchi Monastery - Hidden Artistic Gem

Alchi Monastery, also called Alchi Gompa, is found along the banks of the Indus River. It's like finding a hidden treasure chest full of really old art and buildings. It was built way back in the 10th century! People love it for its beautiful paintings, fancy wood carvings, and ancient books. When you visit, you can spend time admiring the detailed art on the walls of the temples and other buildings. It's a peaceful place where you can feel a special kind of calm.

Best time to visit: May to October

Magnetic Hill - Gravity-Defying Wonder

Magnetic Hill is definitely one of the coolest spots in Ladakh. It's a hill that seems to break the rules of gravity, making cars and bikes look like they're rolling uphill! Scientists and tourists have been scratching their heads over it for ages. You can find it on the Leh-Kargil-Srinagar highway. Visitors can park their vehicles at a specific spot and see this strange phenomenon up close. After that, you can take in the beautiful views of the Indus Valley from the area around the hill.

Lamayuru Monastery - Enigmatic Landscape

If you're looking to explore one of the most breathtaking hidden gems in Leh, Lamayuru Monastery is one of the oldest and most beautiful monasteries in Ladakh. Founded in the 11th century, this monastery is renowned for its stunning architecture, ancient murals, and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can explore the monastery's prayer halls and chapels, participate in meditation sessions led by resident monks, and hike to the nearby Moonland, a surreal landscape of eroded rock formations.

Best time to visit: June to September

Shanti Stupa - Beacon of Peace

Shanti Stupa is a symbol of peace and harmony in the Himalayas. Built by Japanese Buddhist monks in the 1980s, this white-domed stupa offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making it the perfect spot for meditation and reflection. Visitors can climb the steps to the top of the stupa, spin the prayer wheels, and soak in the serene ambience of this sacred site.

Best time to visit: May to September

Whether you're an adventure seeker, a history buff, or a spiritual seeker, Ladakh offers a wealth of experiences that will leave you spellbound. So pack your bags, embark on an unforgettable journey, and discover the timeless beauty of this Himalayan paradise in 2024.

Frequently asked questions

1. When is the best time to visit Ladakh?

Ladakh is best visited during the summer months, from May to September, when the weather is pleasant and most of the mountain passes are open. However, some adventurous travellers also visit during the winter months to experience the snow-covered landscapes and frozen lakes.

2. What are the accommodation options available in Ladakh?

Ladakh offers a range of accommodation options, including hotels, guesthouses, homestays, and campsites. In Leh, you'll find a variety of hotels and guesthouses catering to different budgets. In more remote areas like Nubra Valley and Pangong Lake, accommodation options may be more limited.

3. What are the transportation options available?

The main mode of transportation in Ladakh is by road. You can either hire a taxi or rent a motorcycle to explore the region. Public buses also operate between Leh and some of the major towns and tourist destinations.

4. Is altitude sickness a concern in Ladakh?

Yes, altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), can be a concern due to Ladakh's high altitude. It's important to acclimatize properly by spending a few days in Leh before venturing to higher altitudes and drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated.

List of famous things to buy in Ladakh

You will be redirected to your dashboard shortly. We will also call you back in 24 hrs .

• Leh Ladakh With Kid: A Journey We’ll Cherish For A Lifetime

24 Dec 2021

Be it the local cuisine of Ladakh or just the scenic wonders, Ladakh never disappoints you with the series of attractions and adventure trails it offers on a holiday. The amazing journey and majestic mountains are surely worth a visit and majorly the reason why Chitra and her family decided to venture on a journey to Ladakh. We had never thought of visiting Leh Ladakh with kid or our family but both my husband and I were always very excited to visit the place. When we were planning our holiday, at first we did not consider Ladakh at all, for only the name of the  place strikes a holiday full of adventure and thrill which we though was not possible with our family. But when we came across TravelTraingle, we were very happy with the fact that the folks planned a great holiday to Ladakh with kid and family and we had a truly amazing time.

Details Of Our Trip To Leh Ladakh With Kid

Trip Type: Family Trip Cost: INR 95800 No. Of People: 4 Adults, 1 Child Duration: 7 Nights 8 Days Inclusions: Breakfast, Dinner, Airport Transfers, Airport Transfers, Welcome Drink on Arrival, Government Taxes/VAT/ Service Charges, Hotel, Cab for sightseeing Exclusions: Lunch, English Speaking Driver, Camel ride, Entry fee charges, Flight, Rafting

Our Leh Ladakh Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Leh Day 2: Transfer to Sangam and sightseeing Day 3: Sightseeing Day 4: Camping at Nubra Valley Day 5: Transfer to Tuktuk and sightseeing Day 6: Drive to Pangong and sightseeing Day 6: Return back home

  40 Best Things To Do In Ladakh That You Can’t Afford To Miss In 2022!

Best Weather To Travel To Leh Ladakh

We were worried about the weather and oxygen level because I was travelling with my parents and child. But the weather was very pleasant, and we got informed about ways to acclimatize and precautions we should take. Hotel manager, tour manager, Driver everyone was very caring and supportive throughout the journey. I booked additional oxygen cylinder for my parents but we did not use it. The average temperature in Leh Ladakh during this time is around 21 degrees.

Things To Do In Leh Ladakh That Made Our Trip Memorable!

While you travel to this place, you’ll witness many attractions in Leh Ladakh that are not to be missed if you’re traveling for the first time. From adventure to sightseeing there is everything to experience in Leh Ladakh with kid.

1. Exploring The Beauty Of Leh

Our drive to Sangam was full of scenic sights and we really enjoyed the journey. On our way, we also visited the Magnetic Hill and Gurudwara Patthar Sahib and the holy ambience of the place along with the amazing weather made our day. The ride was full of stopovers to many attractions on the way. We visited the Confluence of Zanskar and Indus River and clicked some amazing pictures. Our child was also very enthusiastic all through the journey and kept telling us that it was a beautiful place. On your way back, we also got to visit the Ladakh Hall of fame. We went shopping and also enjoyed some local food. On our Ladakh trip, we also got to visit the Shanti Stupa, Leh Palace and Leh Market.

2. The Nubra Valley: A Must Visit

One day, early in the morning we proceed to Nubra Valley via the Khardungla pass. Khardung la Pass is located on the way from Leh to Nubra Valley in Ladakh. It is the highest motorable road in the world as signs put up by the Border Roads Organization proudly proclaim. After arriving at the Nubra Valley we were amazed to see the beauty of the place. Pink and yellow wild roses covered the whole place and the view was heavenly. Later we went to the White Sand Dunes at Hunder. We were also overwhelmed to see the Bactrian Camels around sand dunes.

Trip To Ladakh With Family Soon? Here’s All You Need To Know Beforehand

3. Living The Rural Life

Turtuk lies in the Baltistan Region and is one among four such villages in India, the other three being Tyakshi, Chalunkha and Thang. Turtuk is the last outpost of India at Thang after which Pakistan-controlled Gilgit-Baltistan begins. We bought different variety of fruits available in the area including apricots and also clicked a lot of pictures. One of the gateways to the Siachen Glacier, this place is perfect for travelers interested in the lives of the people living in the villages of Ladakh.

4. Camping By The Majestic Pangong Lake

Our stay by the Pangong is an experience to remember. Pangong Lake is one of the most amazing lakes in Asia which changes its color 4 – 5 times a day. The beautiful hues made us feel that we were completely on a different planet. Experiencing a camp stay in Leh Ladakh with kid was also different. Staying in a camp is one of the best places to stay in Leh Ladakh.

12 Astounding Spots For Trekking In Ladakh That Need To Be On Every Hiker’s Bucket List In 2022

Shopping In Ladakh

We went for shopping in the Hall of Fame (Leh) our experience was very nice. We bought few pashmina shawls, woolen caps and few handicraft items for gifting purpose. Very good quality stuff at reasonable rates.We also did shopping in local markets. Picked some very unique items. I am very happy and satisfied. There are many shopping places in Leh Ladakh from where one can buy the popular local goods.

  Visit These 19 Monasteries In Ladakh For A Purifying Experience In 2022

Dos And Don’ts On Your Ladakh Travel

According to me, if you want to enjoy then you should not have very pack itinerary. Choose your itinerary based on your interests and try to spend more time in it. Ladhak required 3-5 hour journey almost every alternate day. So be prepared for that. Don’t go for very short trip like 3-4 days. Go for 6-10 days trip.

Some Ladakh Tips For Travelers

• Take rest for the 1st day. So that your body acclimatize to high altitude.
• I know as a traveler we feel like wasting one day but it is worth, if you want to enjoy the rest of the trip.
• Drink a lot of water. Keep yourself warm.
• You may stuck in pass for hours, so go with an open mindset for anything and everything.

Highlights Of Our Trip

• Pengong lake was amazing.
• Walk in turtuk village was a unique experience.
• Khardungla pass and changla pass was also great, we played in the snow had lot of fun.

Our Experience With Travel Triangle

I must say our tour operator was very nice and friendly. She gave me a lot of information about the do’s and don’ts, as I was very confused when I read about oxygen level.She was very patient. I called her multiple times and she was happily solving/answering all my queries. I am very particular about my requirement and choices. She patiently understood and gave me suggestions according to my need.

  Magnetic Hill In Ladakh: A Handy Guide To Unravel This Mystery In 2022!

If you too are planning a holiday with your family, do not strike off Ladakh from the list as we can plan an amazing holiday for you to the place. Let TravelTriangle plan and adventurous yet safe holiday to Ladakh with your family.

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Common Queries People Ask While Planning A Ladakh Vacation

Is Ladakh safe for tourists?

Being contrary to the hype made by media, Ladakh is quite a safe place for tourists which is far away from all the chaos. The touristy areas of Leh Ladakh are located away from the zones which are restricted or prone to curfew.

Is Ladakh safe from terrorism?

The terrorist attacks and curfews are quite prevalent in the state of Jammu And Kashmir but Ladakh is safe from all these disturbances. Especially the Eastern side of Ladakh which also includes the capital city of Leh.

Is Leh Ladakh worth visiting?

Ladakh is a land which is known for its beautiful lakes and valleys which are backed up the mighty ranges of mountains. It is one of the most beautiful places in India which cannot be missed.

Is alcohol allowed in Ladakh?

Drinking alcohol while driving can be fatal to life as the roads are very steep and rough. And drink and drive on these roads can cause accidents.

What mainly attracts tourists to Ladakh?

Apart from the beautiful views of Ladakh, the place is a famous Tibetan handicraft, prayer wheels, Buddhist masks, Thangka paintings, and silver jewelry.

Recent Posts

12 Superbes parcs aquatiques à Jaipur pour rester au frais en été 2024.

30 Meilleurs cafés à Delhi que vous devez visiter au moins une fois en 2024

Parachutisme en Inde: 9 meilleurs endroits pour explorer le ciel en 2024

31 Meilleurs endroits romantiques à Delhi et dans ses environs que tous les couples doivent visiter

Les meilleurs 22 des endroits à visiter à Maharashtra en été 2024 pour des vacances fraîches

12 Parcs aquatiques à Hyderabad pour profiter à nouveau de vos vacances d’été à l’ancienne en 2024

Trending Blogs

20 Mysterious Places In India To Visit In 2023 More Bizarre Than The Bermuda Triangle

10 Scariest Roads In India That Are A Driver’s Nightmare

101 Places To Visit In India Before You Turn 30 in 2024

35 Exotic Places To Visit In December In India 2024 To Enjoy A Surreal Vacation

60 Best Honeymoon Destinations In India In 2024

95 Best Honeymoon Destinations In The World In 2023 For A Romantic Escape!

Best Places To Visit In India By Month

Best places to visit outside india by month.

• TravelTriangle
• Romantic Travel »
• Tour Packages
• Honeymoon Packages
• Family Packages
• Budget Tour Packages
• Luxury Tour Packages
• Adventure Tour Packages
• Group Tour Packages
• Kerala Tour Packages
• Goa Tour Packages
• Andaman Tour Packages
• Sikkim Tour Packages
• Himachal Tour Packages
• Uttarakhand Tour Packages
• Rajasthan Tour Packages
• Tour Packages From Delhi
• Tour Packages From Mumbai
• Tour Packages From Bangalore
• Tour Packages From Chennai
• Tour Packages From Kolkata
• Tour Packages From Hyderabad
• Tour Packages From Ahmedabad
• Kerala Tourism
• Goa Tourism
• Sikkim Tourism
• Andaman Tourism
• Himachal Tourism
• Uttarakhand Tourism
• Rajasthan Tourism
• Hotels in Kerala
• Hotels in Goa
• Hotels in Sikkim
• Hotels in Andaman
• Hotels in Himachal
• Hotels in Uttarakhand
• Hotels in Rajasthan

• Best Of The Best
• Free Newsletter
• Brain Health
• Cancer Research
• Diet Studies
• Environment News
• Historical Research
• Longer Life News
• Parenting Research
• Weight Loss Studies

© 2024 41 Pushups, LLC

5 Places To Visit In India That Should Be On Your Bucket List

India, a land of vibrant culture, ancient history, and breathtaking scenery, beckons travelers from all corners of the globe. From the majestic marble monument of the Taj Mahal to the serene beauty of the Kerala backwaters, the country offers an unparalleled diversity of experiences. Whether you seek spiritual enlightenment, adventurous escapades, or simply a taste of exotic flavors, India has something to enthrall you. Dive deeper and discover the top destinations to include on your unforgettable Indian itinerary.

For Indian food lovers, one ingredient, Curcumin, commonly found in Indian food, improves memory, mood, and attention, highlights one study . Curcumin is most commonly found in turmeric, a key spice in Indian cuisine. Yum! But first, it’s time to plan your trip. In our search for the best places to visit in India, we examined 11 expert websites and sought the most suggested places. We also considered where these locations ranked on their list. Of course, you may entirely disagree with this — and that’s fine! Let us know which one is your favorite place or the one that is on your bucket list. 

The List: Best Places to Visit in India, According to Travel Experts

1. varanasi.

Topping travel blogger Hippie in Heels ‘ list of must-sees in India is Varanasi, a city unlike any other. Here, the sacred Ganges River flows , witnessing a unique and deeply personal cycle of life and death. Along its banks, burning ghats become the final resting place for many Hindus , their ashes carried away by the holy waters.

Touropia delves deeper into the city’s heart, the ghats – those wide steps leading down to the Ganges. They describe the famous Dashashwamedh Ghat , a bustling hub for pilgrims, and the Manikarnika Ghat , dedicated to cremation rituals. But Varanasi isn’t just about death. Here, life pulsates too. Yoga sessions unfold at the water’s edge, barbers offer traditional shaves, and skilled hands weave exquisite silk sarees. Touropia suggests a sunrise boat ride as the perfect way to experience the city’s awakening beauty.

Lonely Planet , however, prepares you for Varanasi’s raw honesty. This, they say, is a place where life and death intertwine . Breathe deeply, join the early morning yogis practicing by the river, and embrace the intensity of this unique destination. Myholidays strikes a more spiritual note, calling Varanasi a place to witness the “surreal beauty of God and nature” – particularly during the auspicious month of October.

Whether you seek cultural immersion, spiritual awakening, or simply a glimpse into a world vastly different from your own, Varanasi promises an unforgettable encounter.

The Taj Mahal needs no introduction. It’s the undisputed king of Agra, gracing nearly half of the reviews we analyzed and topping countless lists. As Tourmyindia puts it, this “monument depicting love and devotion” is a world-famous testament to Mughal architectural prowess. But Agra’s magic extends far beyond the ivory marble masterpiece.

For history buffs, Agra is a treasure trove. Planetware mentions the mesmerizing beauty of other Mughal monuments like Itimad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb and Akbar’s Mausoleum , their intricate marblework as captivating as the Taj itself. Not to be missed is the Agra Fort , another UNESCO World Heritage Site that whispers tales of a bygone era.

Breathe Dream Go helpfully reminds us that the best time to experience Agra’s wonders is between September and March , when the weather is pleasant and sightseeing becomes a joy.

And don’t forget to indulge in some local shopping ! Be sure to snag some Agra Petha , a sweet treat made from ash gourd, as Travel Diary suggests. Remember to pack your camera – you’ll want to capture every unforgettable moment in this city where Mughal marvels meet modern charm.

Craving a slice of paradise? Though geographically small, Travelogy India assures us Goa packs a big punch for tourists. Picture yourself sinking your toes into golden sands , swaying palms framing immaculate sunrises and sunsets. As the day heats up, cool off in the turquoise waters of the Arabian Sea , or for the thrill-seekers, try parasailing, windsurfing, or water-skiing . And when hunger pangs strike, Goa promises a feast for the senses – from delectable seafood to the vibrant flavors India is famous for.

But Goa’s charm extends beyond its beaches. My Adventures Across the World suggests it as the perfect escape from bustling cities and temple tours . Here, the Arabian Sea lulls you into relaxation, a welcome change from the usual itinerary. Goa’s unique blend of Indian and Portuguese cultures adds another layer of intrigue. As Planetware points out, this fusion is everywhere – from the majestic Baroque architecture and grand cathedrals to the fiery vindaloo curries infused with Portuguese spices.

Looking for a taste of Goa’s nightlife? Tourmyindia has you covered. Trendy bars, vibrant beach shacks, and pulsating clubs cater to every partygoer’s desire. And for those seeking a luxurious escape, South Goa offers a haven of upscale resorts . So, whether you crave sun-drenched relaxation, cultural exploration, or a night of dancing under the stars, Goa promises an unforgettable experience.

4. Leh Ladakh

Ever dreamt of exploring the otherworldly landscapes of Tibet? Lonely Planet suggests Ladakh, India’s very own “high-altitude moonscape,” as a pretty darn close substitute. Here, you’ll be greeted by towering Tibetan monasteries – don’t miss the architectural marvels of Hemis and Thikse. For the active traveler, Ladakh offers incredible homestay treks, letting you experience the region’s unique beauty at your own pace. And if you’re lucky, you might even witness a vibrant monastic masked dance festival , a kaleidoscope of color against the backdrop of the dramatic Himalayas. Lonely Planet sums it up perfectly: Ladakh offers experiences “closest independent travelers can come to actually setting foot in Tibet.”

Myholidays paints a similar picture, calling Ladakh a cultural cousin to Tibet and a land unlike any other in India. Here, the Siachen Glacier and the Great Himalayas pierce the sky, creating a landscape that beckons adventurers. Think scaling challenging peaks, navigating exciting jeep tours, conquering rushing rivers on white-water rafting adventures, or embarking on exhilarating high-altitude treks .

For wildlife enthusiasts, Global Grasshopper throws in a thrilling prospect: the chance to spot the elusive snow leopard . Ladakh’s mountains and valleys provide the perfect habitat for this rare cat, making your exploration all the more exciting. But even if the elusive leopard stays hidden, Ladakh’s jaw-dropping beauty is reason enough to visit.

Breathe Dream Go  suggests the best time to embark on your Ladakh adventure: the summer months, from June to September . This coincides with two of the region’s most beloved festivals – the Hemis Festival in July and the Ladakh Festival in September . So, pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and prepare to be dazzled by the otherworldly beauty and cultural richness of Ladakh, India’s “Little Tibet.”

Udaipur isn’t just another destination on the map – it’s a place that steals hearts. Hippie in Heels , who clearly can’t get enough of this city, calls it India’s “romantic white city.” Picture yourself strolling along flower-lined streets, the gentle breeze carrying the scent of jasmine and marigold. As Planetware describes it, Udaipur truly “oozes romance.”

The crown jewel of the city is undeniably the City Palace Complex , a majestic structure that’s still home to the royal family. My Adventures Across the World warns of potential crowds, but the chance to witness a piece of living history is surely worth navigating some elbows.

But Udaipur’s magic extends far beyond its palaces. The city itself is built around a series of lakes, with Lake Pichola being the undisputed star. Take a boat tour on its glistening waters, and you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the City Palace Complex, particularly captivating at sunrise or sunset . Hippie in Heels even suggests staying in a lakehouse with palace views for a steal! Imagine waking up to that panorama every morning.

Finally, no trip to Udaipur is complete without a dip into the vibrant local markets . Here, you’ll find a kaleidoscope of colors, enticing aromas, and friendly faces – a glimpse into the heart and soul of this enchanting city. So, if you’re seeking a romantic escape , a brush with royalty, or simply a place of undeniable charm, Udaipur beckons you to explore its magic.

• Hippie in heels
• Lonely Planet
• Tourmyindia
• Breathe Dream Go
• Travel diary
• Travelogy India
• My adventures across the world 
• Global Grasshopper

Note: This article was not paid for nor sponsored. StudyFinds is not connected to nor partnered with any of the brands mentioned and receives no compensation for its recommendations. This article may contain affiliate links in which we receive a commission if you make a purchase.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

The best of London for free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy London without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Things to Do
• Food & Drink
• Coca-Cola Foodmarks
• Attractions
• Los Angeles

Get us in your inbox

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

Six London art exhibitions we can't wait to see in May 2024

Openings to satisfy all your springtime art cravings

You know what goes really well with ice creams and pints in the sun and skiving off work to sit in the park? A trip to a dark, weird little art gallery, that's what. You won't regret it, because it's a month full of art treats; there are erotic drawings, huge immersive sound installations, cryptic film pieces and loads of brilliant feminist history. So enjoy May the way god intended: by going indoors and staring at paintings and weird art films. 

Six London art exhibitions opening this May

Beryl Cook/Tom of Finland 

This double-header is all about celebrating bodies, sensuality, sexuality, bawdiness and good times. Cook joyously depicted the wild lives of English women with overblown, cartoon-y brilliance, while Tom of Finland painted hyper-erotic visions of idealised male bodies. Whoever you’re here to see, you’re in for a good time. 

Beryl Cook/Tom of Finland is at Studio Voltaire, May 15. More details here . 

‘Now You See Us: Women Artists in Britain 1520-1920’

For centuries, art was the domain of men - but this lot didn’t give a hoot. Tate Britain is celebrating 400 years of female artists in this country, painters who kicked against the norm and persevered despite encountering endless resistance. In the process, they’ll show how Mary Beale, Angelica Kauffman, Elizabeth Butler, Laura Knight and more forged a path into art for countless women to come.

‘Now You See Us: Women Artists in Britain 1520-1920’ is at Tate Britain from May 16. More details here . 

Judy Chicago: ‘Revelations’

Few artists are as deserving of the title ‘icon’ as Judy Chicago; she’s spent her career quite literally blazing a trail (no, literally, there’s been a lot of smoke and fire in her art) for feminist art, creating works filled with trippy swirling colours, clever conceptual installations and hefty amounts of righteous ire. Somehow, this is her first solo show at a major London institution. 

Judy Chicago is at the Serpentine, May 22-Sep 1 2024. Free. More details here .

‘ Reverb ’ 

The Vinyl Factory/180 The Strand returns with another multimedia art extravaganza. This one explores the ‘intersection of art and sound’, featuring the work of over 100 artists who like making a racket. Carsten Nicolai, Hito Steyerl, Jeremy Deller and Theaster Gates are all involved, and you can expect 180’s usual mix of immersiveness and incredible production value, Plus there’ll be the return of Devon Turnbull’s Hi Fi Listening Room, which got five stars in this very publication not long ago. Recent shows there haven’t been great, but this is promising to be a return to form.

‘Reverb’ is at 180 Studios from May 23. More details here . 

Matthew Barney: ‘SECONDARY: Light Lens Parallax’ at Sadie Coles HQ

The modern master of deeply cryptic, heavily symbolic, endurance-testing art returns to London following his blockbuster at the Hayward Gallery two years ago. This time, he’s doing a show in five (!!) parts across galleries in New York, LA, Paris and London, all centred on a film being shown at the Fondation Cartier. Look, do I know what this is about or how it’s going to work? Absolutely not, but it wouldn’t be Matthew Barney if you could understand it. 

Matthew Barney: ‘SECONDARY: Light Lens Parallax’ is at Sadie Coles HQ from May 24. More details here . 

Vanessa Bell: ’A Pioneer of Modern Art‘

This small display will explore the pioneering role Vanessa Bell played in the development of contemporary art, looking at how she became a leading light of the Bloomsbury Group and helped break down barriers between art and craft in the process. 

‘Vanessa Bell: A Pioneer of Modern Art’ is at the Courtauld Gallery from May 25. More details here . 

Want more? Here are the top ten exhibitions in London . 

• Eddy Frankel Art & Culture Editor

Share the story

An email you’ll actually love

Popular on Time Out

Discover Time Out original video

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Claim your listing
• Time Out Offers FAQ
• Advertising
• Time Out Market

Time Out products

• Time Out Offers
• Time Out Worldwide

• International edition
• Australia edition
• Europe edition

From Colombia to Syria justice is possible for survivors of sexual violence in war

For the first time Ukraine had the right conditions to make reparations to those subjected to crimes such as rape and sexual slavery. What would it take to replicate this globally?

A cross the world, women and girls continue to be plagued by gross human rights violations. One that is specifically targeted at them is conflict-related sexual violence. Living in conflict, for so many people, means the possibility of being subjected to life-altering crimes such as sexual torture, rape and slavery.

Now, survivors of wartime sexual violations in Ukraine are to receive reparation payments . It is a landmark case – the fastest that a country at war has created a system to fulfil the right to reparation . Why has this right not been enacted in a timely manner globally?

In my work, we discuss the “ecosystem” for reparation. We think of it as a list of ingredients that make reparation feasible; Ukraine is the first time I have seen all of the ingredients present.

The first ingredient is the government’s willingness to talk about reparations. It recognises that conflict-related sexual violence is happening, and it is the government’s obligation to fulfil the right to a remedy and reparation – even if it is Russian soldiers committing the crimes .

Ukraine also obeys the rule of law and possesses strong state institutions. The checks and balances within these institutions enables government-led reparation programmes.

The opposite can be seen in Central African Republic , where there is willingness to provide reparation but the rule of law and state institutions are fragile and often absent across the country, making it difficult to do so.

It also pays to have powerful friends. The scrutiny of other European countries and the US on Ukraine has placed pressure on Kyiv to act on human rights violations committed in its territory. And this pressure is combined with financial support and knowhow for delivering reparations.

The same international pressure is not placed upon Nepal , which signed a comprehensive peace agreement in 2006 containing the promise of reparations. Almost 20 years later, no survivor has seen any reparations. Imagine how different the situation could be if other countries had a strategic interest in repairing the harm done to Nepali survivors.

Along with democracy and a recognition of human rights, security is crucial for local media and civil society to exist. Yes, Ukraine is in an active armed conflict. But there are areas of the country where it is possible to work, and civil society and the media are strong.

after newsletter promotion

Yemen has also been in conflict since 2014 , but there is no safe place for media and civil society to operate, and little prospect of reparations. These actors are needed to push the government domestically.

The need for female leaders to pursue reparations cannot be understated. From the Ukrainian first lady, Olena Zelenska, and other women in government to survivors themselves, it is women who have put conflict-related sexual violence on the Ukrainian government’s agenda.

Survivors talking about their suffering is a powerful ingredient of reparations. But speaking out is terrifying – more than 30 years after the war in El Salvador, survivors there have still not come together to demand reparations.

Finally, reparations require money. There are ways to finance reparations in Ukraine, whether from international donors, as is the situation now, or from innovative financing mechanisms, such as the possibility of repurposing seized Russian assets.

In my own country of Colombia, 9 million people are eligible for reparations after six decades of conflict. While 1 million have received something, the remaining measures still come with an estimated bill of 300bn Colombian pesos (£60m), an overwhelming amount for the Colombian government. In Ukraine the reparations could be paid in full using the frozen funds from the sale of Chelsea FC .

These ingredients are not magic; they take work and need to be sustained. And even in the most adverse contexts, where none of these ingredients are present, a survivor is still entitled to reparation.

This is the situation of survivors from Syria . They have no democratic government, no rule of law, no security, no attention and no resources. And yet Syrian survivors living in Turkey are receiving psychological care, physiotherapy and compensation from the Global Survivors Fund and local partners as interim remedies. It is not reparation in the legal sense, but it is the reclamation of the survivors’ dignity and the recognition of their humanity.

Repair is possible when people care about it. The staff of the Global Survivors Fund care, the organisations we work with locally care, donors care, and survivors care about each other. Caring is the first ingredient to overcome challenges.

Dr Clara Sandoval is a Colombian-born director of programmes at the Global Survivors Fund and professor of human rights law at Essex University and the Geneva Academy

• Sexual violence
• Rape and sexual assault
• Ending sexual violence in conflict
• Central African Republic

More on this story

Live Russia-Ukraine war live: Russia claims it has hit Ukraine’s southern army HQ

Ukraine war briefing: Kharkiv residents suffer as Russia intensifies attacks

Ukrainian woman, 98, walks six miles alone to escape Russian-held territory

Debris from North Korean missile found in Kharkiv, say UN sanctions monitors

Drone footage shows Ukraine's 'Harry Potter castle’ in flames after Russian missile attack - video

Red Cross decides against suspending Russian branch despite links to Kremlin war machine

Russia makes more gains around Avdiivka as Ukraine awaits US aid

Ukraine agriculture minister detained in multimillion-dollar corruption inquiry

Most viewed.

• Logout Login
• Adventure Holidays
• Weekend Getaways
• Driving Holidays
• Travel News

Top Searches

Maharashtra May Travel

World Deep Blue Hole

Kedarnath Yatra

India Temples

Hindu Temples

India Hottest Destinations

How to book your Kedarnath Yatra Helipad service in 2024?

Times of India TIMESOFINDIA.COM / Created : May 1, 2024, 16:00 IST

You're Reading

Kedarnath, a key Hindu temple in the Himalayas, offers spiritual significance. Accessible by foot or helicopter, the 2024 booking via IRCTC Heli Yatra involves registration, operator selection, OTP verification, online payment, an … Read more

Kedarnath, a key Hindu temple in the Himalayas, offers spiritual significance. Accessible by foot or helicopter, the 2024 booking via IRCTC Heli Yatra involves registration, operator selection, OTP verification, online payment, and ticket download. Read less

More from Travel News

Top places to spot wildlife in Karnataka

Steps to follow:.

Comments (0)

Refrain from posting comments that are obscene, defamatory or inflammatory, and do not indulge in personal attacks, name calling or inciting hatred against any community. Help us delete comments that do not follow these guidelines by marking them offensive . Let's work together to keep the conversation civil.

Comments ( ) Sort: Newest UpVoted Oldest Discussed Down Voted closecomments

SIGN IN WITH

Or post without registration.

Visual Stories

Popular Galleries

Maharashtra Day: Best places to visit in Maharashtra in May TRAVEL TRENDS , MAHARASHTRA

Must-visit places in India for nature and wildlife enthusiasts TRAVEL TRENDS , INDIA

India’s most loved destinations among foreign tourists TRAVEL TRENDS , INDIA

Trending stories.

• Decoding Devil's Tower, and why was it named so?

• 5 breathtaking temples to visit in India

• Shraddha Kapoor’s top 7 favorite travel destinations

Prime locations in India for black panther and tiger sightings

• 1 How to book your Kedarnath Yatra Helipad service in 2024?
• 2 5 breathtaking temples to visit in India
• 3 Shraddha Kapoor’s top 7 favorite travel destinations
• 4 Switzerland: Inside Zermatt, the car-free haven in the Swiss Alps
• 5 Spain Unveiled: A Journey Through Madrid, Valencia, and País Vasco

THE DEFINITIVE GUIDE TO DESTINATIONS, ITINERARIES, THINGS TO DO, RESTAURANTS, NIGHTLIFE and LOTS MORE!

FOLLOW US ON

Places to visit.

• Places to visit in Bangalore
• Places to visit in Mumbai
• Places to visit in Delhi
• Places to visit in Goa
• Hotels in Goa
• Hotels in Jaipur
• Hotels in Shimla
• Hotels in Mumbai

Things To do

• Things to do in Goa
• Things to do in Mumbai
• Things to do in Bangalore
• Things to do in Delhi

Travel Inspiration

• Visa on arrival for Indians
• Honeymoon Places in india
• Hill Stations in India
• Weekend getaways in Mumbai
• Weather in Delhi
• Weather in Chennai
• Weather in Bangalore
• Weather in Mumbai

Best Beaches

• Goa Beaches
• Mumbai Beaches
• Pondicherry Beaches
• Kerala Beaches
• Restaurants in Bangalore
• Restaurants in Chennai
• Restaurants in Pune
• Restaurants in Jaipur
• Hill Station near Delhi
• Winter trip to Ladakh
• Places to visit in Kerala
• Winter Honeymoon Destinations
• UK visa guide for Indians
• Winter Trip to Manali
• Vaishno Devi Yatra
• Special Train Ticket Booking
• HP inter-state Bus
• Honeymoon Destinations India

Latest News

• Fly-cruise to the enchanting continent of Antarctica, the last frontier
• World’s deepest blue hole discovered, with hidden tunnels and caves!

Congratulations!

You have been successfully added to the mailing list of Times of India Travel. To complete the subscription process, kindly open your inbox and click on the confirmation link which has been emailed to you.

Share with friends

Thank You for sharing! Your friend will receive the article link on email mentioned.

• (For more than one recipient, type addresses separated by commas)

Kedarnath, a key Hindu temple in the Himalayas, offers spiritual significance. Accessible by foot or helicopter, the 2024 booking via IRCTC Heli Yatra involves registration, operator selection, OTP ve...

Android Police

Samsung galaxy watch fe: news, rumors, and what we'd like to see.

Samsung's working on a cheaper smartwatch, and we're pretty excited

Samsung's Wear OS watches are some of the best out there , but even with frequent sales, they're not exactly cheap; if you're not paying full price, the Galaxy Watch 6 is still likely to cost you $250 or more on sale. Samsung has a habit of releasing lesser versions of existing products under the Fan Edition banner, though, and if a recent leak is to be believed, that strategy is making its way to the company's wearable offerings. We've heard that there's a Samsung Galaxy Watch FE in the works, and if history is anything to go on, it should be considerably more affordable than Samsung's top-of-the-line smartwatch offerings. Here's what we know about the Watch FE, plus what we hope it'll be like.

Rumors and what we know so far

The samsung galaxy watch fe rumors are slim pickings.

To date, there's only been a single leak about the Galaxy Watch FE, but it's a fairly substantial one. In early April, Android Headlines caught wind of three new model numbers for Samsung wearables : SM-R866F, SM-R866U, and SM-R866N. As the Galaxy Watch 4's model numbers all started with a similar SM-R860, AH has interpreted these model numbers as three variants of a refreshed and rebranded version of that wearable, each meant for a different market. The one ending in F is meant to be a US model, and we're really hoping that's the case: the recent Galaxy Fit 3 isn't sold stateside.

The Galaxy Fit 3 is official, packing the best bits of Samsung's smartwatches

What we'd like to see in the galaxy watch fe, make it good, make it cheap.

So while we don't know much about this upcoming wearable yet, the idea of a less-premium Wear OS watch from Samsung has our minds buzzing with possibilities. Here's what we hope the new device will be line.

A starting price of $200 or less

Samsung's FE series isn't quite budget — the Galaxy S23 FE retails for $600 — but Fan Edition products do exist to undercut Samsung's premium products enough to reach other segments of consumers. Given the Galaxy Watch 6 starts at $300 for the 40mm version and is regularly on sale for $250 and occasionally even less, the Galaxy Watch 6 will need to come in at a starting price of $200 or less to feel meaningfully less expensive than Samsung's explicitly higher-end option.

Samsung's existing Wear OS devices have all been offered in two sizes: the Watch 6 is available in 40mm and 44mm sizes, the Watch 6 Classic and 43 and 47. Not every smartwatch comes in multiple sizes — the Pixel Watch is a notable example there, available only in a single 41mm size — but only offering a single size will naturally alienate a large portion of the watch-wearing population. Possibly more to the point, the Watch FE's across-the-aisle competition, the Apple Watch SE, does come in two sizes.

US availability

The recent Samsung Galaxy Fit 3 isn't available at retail in the US, so this one's pretty obvious: we hope you'll be able to buy the Galaxy Watch FE stateside. Samsung's existing Galaxy Watch wearables are already among the more affordable, up-to-date Wear OS options in the US (again, you can get a Watch 6 for $250 or less), but it'd be nice to see the Watch FE bring a similar experience downstream for American shoppers.

Part of the initial leak that hinted at the Watch FE's existence in the first place does suggest that the wearable will be available in three variants: one for the Korean market, one for the US market, and a third for the rest of the world. Still, it might be a little early to take that as gospel. Until we hear more on this, we're counting it as a wish.

The Watch 6 Classic is available in black and silver colorways; the less expensive Watch 6 comes in gray, silver, or gold. At the very least, we'd like to see a Watch FE in those same three color options, and ideally even more. The Galaxy S23 FE comes in a deep purple and a lively green color, and while I wouldn't expect anything quite that in a smartwatch, a blue or rose gold option would be nice.

Long update support

The Galaxy Watch 6 series is guaranteed four years of OS updates and five years of security patches. Given Samsung's recent commitment to long update timelines — the Galaxy S24 series has been promised seven years of updates, and Samsung recently surprised us by extending its update timeline for some older devices . In light of all that, it'd be a shame to see the Galaxy Watch FE stumble on updates. The same five-year lifespan as the Galaxy Watch 6 would be great to see.

When can we expect to see the Galaxy Watch FE?

Given we've only just learned of the Galaxy Watch FE's existence, we don't have much to go on when it comes to a potential release date. We've heard that Samsung's upcoming foldables, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 and Galaxy Z Fold 6 , could be announced in July; it's possible we'll get a full unveil of the Watch FE at the same time. Whenever it happens, we're looking forward to it: Wear OS sorely needs some more affordable options.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6: News, leaks, rumored price, and release window