best places to visit in leh ladakh in october

Leh Ladakh in October – How to Plan a Trip & What to See

Can we visit Leh Ladakh in October? The answer to this question is definitely yes. A lot of people travel to Ladakh in October and you can as well. But you must also know that October is not really the tourist season in Ladakh and there will be a few challenges that you must be prepared for.

If you were thinking that you will be the only one in Ladakh in October then you are wrong. There will be quite a handful of people around. I know I said that it is not the tourist season but it is not the off-season as well.

Hotels, restaurants, roads, and pretty much everything will still be open. In fact, visiting Ladakh in October has quite a few perks of its own that you will not get in the earlier months.

In this article, I will discuss a few tips on how you can plan to visit Ladakh in October followed by some details on how you can lay out your itinerary. 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 .

Vargis Khan

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How to reach Ladakh in October

First things first. What is the best way to reach Ladakh in October? This will entirely depend on the dates of your travel. Of the two roads leading to Leh, the one from Manali gets closed for the year in October and Ladakh becomes accessible by road only via Srinagar.

Manali Leh Highway in October

If you are planning to travel from Manali to Leh in October, the safest time to do so is the first week of the month. The highway remains open until mid and sometimes even late October but it is not considered safe for tourists.

The high-altitude passes on the way start receiving snow in September itself and by October, it can be enough to block the road entirely.

If you could not travel in early October, then it is of utmost importance that you reach Ladakh via Srinagar and return the same way.

Baralacha La is usually the first high-altitude pass to receive snow on the Manali route. After Baralacha, there are 3 more passes you will need to cross before you make it to Leh. If the road ahead closes, you will get stuck in between.

There have been instances when tourists were stranded on the highway or were turned back because the road was snowed out. Even if it does not get blocked entirely, the threat of Black Ice will always remain. Accommodation at places like Jispa, Sarchu, and Pang will be difficult to find as well.

If the dates of your travel are after 10th October, it would be best to keep the Manali Leh highway out. If you still want to take a chance then ensure you get complete information about the weather and road conditions first. Take a look at this thread Manali Leh Highway Status where I keep updating the most recent status of the road.

Srinagar Leh Highway in October

The road from Srinagar to Leh remains open in October and can be traveled without much trouble. The only place that you would have to be careful about is the high-altitude pass of Zoji La. It would definitely have received snow in October.

Due to bad road conditions, crossing the pass can become challenging if there was snow on the ground. Before you cross Sonamarg, just ask around how the road at Zojila was. Travel slowly and carefully and you will be OK.

Like all other tourist-related activities, the availability of public transport gets scarce in Ladakh in October. Either there will be no transport available at all or it may not be on schedule due to extreme weather or a possible roadblock.

The chances of this happening are more towards the end of October. If you were planning to use public transport, it would be best to cancel the trip for now and plan it for next year.

The Leh to Manali Bus operated by HPTDC gets withdrawn towards mid of September so that will definitely not be available in October.

Your only option would be the bus service provided by HRTC but chances are that this bus as well will not be available after September. Just assume that after 30th September, there will be no bus available from Leh to Manali or vice versa.

However, if you went via Srinagar, the JKSRTC bus from Srinagar to Leh will still remain available. It operates throughout the month of October except for rare occasions when snowfall can block the road at Zojila.

The flights to Leh remain available for all 12 months. If your flight remained on schedule, you can reach Leh by Air in October and rent a local cab for sightseeing. The only challenge in reaching by flight will be of  AMS in Ladakh  which I have covered further in the article.

Local Commute in Ladakh in October

All the internal roads in Ladakh will remain in October and public transport will remain available as well. For your local commute, you can either board a bus or a private taxi. If you were traveling by your own vehicle, you can drive to any part of Ladakh as long as you have a permit for it.

Where to Stay in Ladakh in October

As you probably would already have guessed by now, you will have no trouble finding a hotel anywhere in Ladakh in October. The place where you may struggle a bit is Manali Leh Highway.

Chadar tents and campsites on this route start wrapping up in October so you may not find so many places to stay. But the rest of the Ladakh will not be a problem.

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 Ladakh in October

This then brings us to the next question. What to see in Leh Ladakh in October? The answer is everything. The entire region remains open in October and you will be able to cover all the places on your itinerary. Let us take a look at them one by one.

Nubra Valley in October

Nubra Valley remains open for tourists in the month of October. You will be able to reach here easily via Khardung La and explore the valley completely.

You can visit all the local villages like Diskit , Hunder, Sumur, and Panamik, and travel as far as Turtuk or Siachen Base Camp . Hotels too will be all up and running in all the villages.

The only catch is that there could be a snowfall at Khardung La blocking the road for a few hours or a day. But other than that, there will be no other hitch in your plans.

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 October. For more details, please read How to Plan a Trip to Nubra Valley in Ladakh .

Pangong Lake in October

Yes, you will be able to travel from Leh to Pangong Lake in October easily. There could be a snowfall blocking the road at Chang La but only temporarily. The bus service to Pangong from Leh remains operational throughout October. Shared cabs too can be boarded from the Leh Bus stand.

The campsites at Pangong start to wrap up for the season in October and are mostly all gone by early November. You will however have no problem finding a place to stay in October.

If you wish to stay at a cemented hotel, you can look for accommodation in the villages of Spangmik , Man, or Merak.  You can find a place to stay here in January or February as well as a matter of fact. For more details, please take a look at How to Plan a Trip to Pangong Tso Lake .

Nubra Valley to Pangong Lake 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 then travel from there to Pangong Lake via Chang La the next day. This route will be open in October as we just discussed.

The second road is Wari La Pass which is the toughest of all three routes. It is a very remote road that only a few tourists or locals travel on.

Wari La also starts receiving snow in October and there is a high chance that it may not get cleared immediately. It would be wise to ask around in Nuba Valley before attempting Wari La in October.

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 October, this road will remain open and safe to travel as well.

There is no public transport available on Wari La and Shyok road though. For more details, please read  How to Travel Directly from Nubra Valley to Pangong Lake .

Tso Moriri in October

Like Pangong and Nubra Valley, Tso Moriri will also remain open in October. You can arrive here either directly from Leh via Chumathang or directly from Pangong Lake via Chushul.

There are plenty of guesthouses and homestays at Tso Moriri (Karzok) where you can stay for the night. 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 .

Tso Kar Lake will be open in October as well. If you were coming from the Manali side, you can visit Tso Kar while coming to Leh by taking a short diversion from Debring. 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. For a visual presentation of the routes I explained above, please see  The Most Comprehensive Road Map of Entire Leh Ladakh .

Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri Direct Route

This is the road that you take to travel directly from Pangong Lake to Tso Moriri via Chsuhul, Loma, Nyoma, Mahe, and Sumdo. On the way, if you had an additional day, you can also cover the small yet beautiful village of Hanle. For more details, please read  How to Travel directly from Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri .

This entire route will remain open for tourists in October. Accommodation on this stretch is available at Man, Merak, and Hanle.

You can look for a homestay at Loma, Nyoma, and Mahe. Mostly, however, it is Hanle that people break their journey for the night. From Pangong, you reach Hanle on Day 1, stay there for the night, and move on to Tso Moriri the next day.

Umling La Pass, which is located near Hanle, will also be accessible in October. But before you go there, ask around in Hanle about the road conditions or if there was a recent snowfall at the pass.

Leh to Kargil Route / Sham Valley

Now we are referring to the highway between Leh and Kargil which the locals usually refer to as Sham Valley tour. The places that you visit on this stretch are Gurudwara Patthar Sahib, Magnetic Hill, Indus Zanskar Confluence, Lamayuru Monastery, Maitreya Buddha, Moonland, Mulbekh, Alchi, Likir, and several others.

For a complete list, please take a look at Places to Visit on Leh to Kargil Route . All these places remain open for tourists for all 12 months and they will be in the month of October as well.

Zanskar Valley in October

Zanskar Valley gets a little tricky in October. It may or may not be open and you will have to find out about it in advance before including it in your itinerary.  Chances however are that it will be open at least in early October.

The only time it could be inaccessible by road is if there was early snow and you were traveling toward the end of October. For more details, please take a look at Zanskar Valley Travel Guide .

Leh Local Sightseeing

A common notion is that Leh remains buried under snow during the winter season which is not actually right. There are frequent snowfalls but it does not completely turn white. Most of the year, it remains dry. In October, the weather will be cold and there could be snow in the city but it will remain open for tourists.

All the local sightseeing places like Leh Palace, Shey Palace, Shanti Stupa, Hemis Monastery, Thiksey Monastery, and the local market will be open and can be visited. For a complete list, please take a look at Places to Visit in Leh City .

Snow in Ladakh in October

If the idea of a live snowfall is on your mind then chances are that you may catch one here in October. It starts to snow at the high altitude passes by mid-September and you may witness a light spell of snow while traveling to Ladakh in October. If not a live snowfall then you will at least get to see plenty of snow around at the top of the passes.

Festivals in Ladakh in October

Diskit Gustor Festival is celebrated in the Diskit Monastery of Nubra Valley in the month of October. It is a grand festival that thousands of people attend.

For more information on festivals in Ladakh and their dates, please read Festivals of Ladakh: A Colorful Celebration of Life . To know the exact dates of the festival, you can take a look at  Ladakh Festival Dates .

Camping,  Rafting & Trekking

Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri are the two best places to go camping in Ladakh. There are a few campsites in Nubra Valley as well where you can stay. All these options remain available in October.

Some other places where you can find camps are Pang and Sarchu on the Manali Leh route, Sham Valley, and Srinagar Leh highway.

If you were camping in your own tents, the entire Ladakh is a vast camping ground for you. 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 How and Where to Camp in Ladakh .

I know there are a couple of tour companies in Leh that can arrange rafting for you if you were up to brace the cold waters of the Zanskar River in October. Just ask around in Leh and you will easily find a rating agency. I will personally not recommend going rafting in October.

Ladakh is home to several trails leading deep into the Himalayas. Stok Kangri Trek is probably the most famous one but there are several others as well. Sham Valley Trek and Markha Valley Trek are the two other well-known ones.

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.

Weather of Leh Ladakh in October

The weather in Ladakh will be terribly cold throughout the month. Sun may remain gone for an entire day and there will be a chance of snowfall even in Leh City. Days will be dry and cloudy and nights will be freezing. It will be slightly better towards the beginning of the month but will then keep getting colder with each passing day.

October is the month of the autumn season and in places like Nubra Valley, Sham Valley, and Suru Valley, you will see plenty of golden orange, giving a magical touch to the landscape.

The average temperature in Leh City in October ranges between a maximum of max 14°C and a minimum of -1°C. At places like Pangong and Tso Moriri, this will be even lower by several degrees. At the top of the passes, even during the day, the temperature will remain close to 5°C.

Clothes to Pack for Ladakh in October

Thermals and woolens at this time are a must. Carry your clothes in a way that you can wear them in layers. For example, wear thermals/warmers first and put on regular cotton clothes above them. Then wear a woolen sweater followed by a thick windproof jacket on the top.

This way, you can put on the clothes as you feel cold and remove them in layers when you start to feel warm. Gloves, woolen socks, and a woolen cap that can cover both your head and ears are a must. Please take a look at Clothes for Ladakh Trip: What to Pack for more details.

In terms of shoes, your normal sports shoes will do just fine but make sure you are carrying woolens socks as well to keep your feet warm.

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.

Some other things to carry will be a pair of sunglasses, some basic medicines, a sunblock lotion, cold cream, lip balm, moisturizer, a pain relief spray or balm, and other toiletries based on your needs.

Mobile Network & Connectivity

BSNL has the largest network in Ladakh and works even in places like Nubra Valley and Pangong Lake. The voice clarity however is questionable with BSNL connections.

The best networks of Leh and Nubra Valley are Jip and Airtel. You can actually get 4G speed with these networks. At Pangong, only BSNL works intermittently. None of the networks work at Tso Moriri. Between Leh and Kargil, Airtel is the best.

The most important thing to remember however is that only postpaid phones work in Ladakh. If you had a prepaid phone, it will be as good as a paperweight the moment you land in Leh. For more details, please take a look at  Mobile Network in Ladakh & Data Connectivity .

Acute Mountain Sickness

Altitude sickness in Ladakh is both a risk and a threat. Several tourists have lost their lives because of AMS. The chances increase even more when you are catching a flight to Leh.

To ensure that you do not suffer from AMS, take plenty of rest and spend at least the first two days in Leh City only. This way, if your condition started to get worse, you can go see a doctor and even get hospitalized if needed. Since there are no hospitals elsewhere, traveling to any other place on Day 1 or 2 will be a risk.

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 .

Medical Assistance

The hospitals in Leh City remain open for all 12 months. So yes, in case of an emergency, you can visit and consult a doctor in any of the hospitals.

There is no hospital in Nubra Valley, or at Pangong or Tso Moriri. But in case of a medical emergency, you can approach the nearest Indian Army post for assistance. For a visit in October, I will highly recommend that you carry some basic medicines for cold, flu, and fever along.

Itinerary for Leh Ladakh in October

Mentioned below are a few examples of itineraries that you can follow for your trip to Leh Ladakh in October. I will suggest a few different examples of itineraries depending on the mode of your mode of travel and the places you wanted to cover.

I am suggesting a travel plan that will cover all of the tourist attractions in Ladakh. You can however add or remove places based on your preference and time in hand.

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

The above plan was suitable for someone traveling by Bus or shared cab. If you were going to rent a private taxi or motorcycle, you can modify it to a plan like below.

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

If you wanted to travel from Manali to Leh then the plan can be like below.

• Delhi to Manali – Day 1
• Manali to Jispa – Day 2
• Jispa to Pang – Day 3
• Pang 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 Kargil – Day 11
• Kargil to Srinagar – Day 12
• Srinagar to Jammu – Day 13
• Jammu to Delhi – Day 14

If you wanted to start from Srinagar, the itinerary can be like the one mentioned below.

• Delhi to Jammu – Day 1
• Jammu to Srinagar – Day 2
• Srinagar to Kargil – Day 3
• Kargil to Leh – Day 4
• 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

Please note that for all of the places I mentioned above, you will need to obtain an inner line permit. The procedure to procure the permit is all online now and is very easy. You should be able to get your permit within minutes. For more details and step-by-step directions, please take a look at  How to Get an Inner Line Permit for Ladakh .

Keep Buffer Days in Your Itinerary

This is very important. Do not bind yourself to strict timelines and keep at least 2 days as a buffer. It will definitely snow at the high-altitude passes in Ladakh and you got several to cross.

It is a possibility that you were visiting Nubra Valley and cannot return because the road across Khardung La was blocked due to recent snowfall. Or maybe you were at Pangong while it snowed at Chang La.

You must keep a couple of days in hand for situations like this. If all went well and according to the plan, you can use these days in hand to either rest in Leh or explore some other areas. Or you can come back home and rest a while after you returned from the trip.

Leh Ladakh Bike Trip in October

Is a bike trip to Ladakh possible in October? Yes, it is. But you will have to go via the Srinagar Leh route and return the same way. The only way to include Manali in the trip is if you were traveling early in the month and the weather gods really favored you.

If you were catching a flight to Ladakh, you can still rent a bike in Leh and then use it for local sightseeing. The rent usually is between Rs. 1000 to Rs. 2000 depending on the type of bike you chose.

Even scooters like Activa are available for rent if you want to use those for your local commute in Leh City. You can use it for visiting the local market, Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, etc.

Leh Ladakh in October – Conclusion

I believe that covers most of what you should know about visiting Ladakh in October. 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.

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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 !!!

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How to plan a trip to leh ladakh, srinagar leh highway status 2024 – 2025, zojila pass road status and condition 2024 –..., 139 comments.

I am planning to visit Leh ladakh on 1st Oct 2023, whether roads to Umlingla Pass will be open at that time? can i visit with my car that is not 4*4 ?

It depends on the weather but the road usually remains open in October. Which car do you have?

Tata tigor , wheelBase – 2450 , ground clearance – 165. Route – Hanle -> Photila Pass -> Umling la Pass

Is it possible to take my car?

Ground clearance could be a problem on the way but you are taking the Photila route anyway. It is doable. Do not go via Nurbula

Thanks for your reply Vargis.

You are welcome !!!

Hi Vargis, hope this message finds you in good health. Need some guidance from you.

My team is planning to visit Ladakh in the month of October, this year.

This is my itinerary: 15th: flight to Srinagar, stay at Srinagar (5200 ft) 16th: Srinagar to Kargil via Drass, stay at Kargil (8780 ft) 17th: Kargil to Leh via Lamayuru, stay at Leh (11482 ft) 18th: DC office, Leh sightseeing, stay at Leh 19th: Leh to Nubra via Khardungla, stay at Nubra (10000 ft) 20th: Nubra to Turtuk and back, stay at Nubra 21st: Nubra to Pangong Tso, stay at Pangong (13862 ft) 22nd: Pangong to Leh, stay at Leh 23rd: buffer day + shopping, sightseeing stay at leh 24th: Flight from Leh

Is it a feasible plan? Please suggest any modification.

Hi Kaustav – This plan is doable bhai. No change needed

Hi Vargis ,

Hope you are doing well.. We are planning srinagar Kargill leh ladakh Pangong manali trip from Bangalore.. and we are taking car from Delhi on 15th oct 2022 and we are planning to retuen Delhi on 29th oct 2022. I request you to advise whether our scheduled time is safe and cover all these regions?

It is a little late in the season. You will have to keep the Manali Leh route out of your plans and there is a very high chance that there could be snow at the top of the passes en route. Secondly, if you are renting a car from Delhi, it will not be allowed for sightseeing in Ladakh

Hi Vargis, info that you table are very nice and clear. Missed to thank you when we made my first bike trip ( delhi – chandigarh – manali – leh – kargil – srinagar and all the way back to Kanyakumari ) in July 2018. Missed to thank you, then. ‘m planning for a trip this winter . Would be looking for your inputs. God Bless.

Hello Vargis, I have been following yout blog since I started planning for the Leh-Ladakh trip. It’s really a gem. I have planned the below itinerary tentatively. The main challenge is here my aged in laws, who will be going with us. 10th oct – reach Leh in the early morning, After rest, sight-seeing nearby, night stay at Leh 11th oct – Sham valley tour incl Lamayuru, night stay at Leh 12th oct – Go to Nubra valley 13th oct – hunder/turtuk visit, else go to pangong 14th oct – Visit pangong, night stay at Spanghmik/others 15th oct – Visit Tso moriri 16th oct – return to leh 17th oct – fly out from leh —— Is this itinerary holds good as we are travelling with senior citizen? We will have private car with us and will carry oxygen cylinder with us. Also as we are already acclimatizing in Leh and Nubra and then going to Pangong/Tso Moriri, is the night stay at the later places still not advisable?

Hi Vargis … ur information is so helpful n so easy to understand…. As a couple we r planning a trip on 30th Sept 2021 arriving frm Mumbai early morning n plan to stay in Leh for a day n then next day taking a bike trip to Diskit n would stay there for 4 nights n travel frm there to do the sights of neighboring places … do u think it’s ok or shd I just stay for a night n stay as we travel to other places… after my 4th night in Diskit I will be back in Leh for a night n hv my flt bk to Mumbai on 6th Oct…. pls advice

Hi Vargis… thanks for your information regarding the trip to Ladakh in the month of October…We from Guwahati are planning a trip to Ladakh in October…We are 14 people….We will be flying to Leh on 11th of October… Will stay there on 12th too and 13th we will be going to Nubra followed by Pangong…Just tell me do we need to carry portable oxygen cylinders with us?

I am doing a road trip from Bangalore to Leh on 23rd Oct. I read your post and i have ruled out Manali route and would be taking the Srinagar. I want to cover Kahrdungla ( Not sure if that would be open during that time) Pangong Lake Thiksey Monastery . Whats the best route that i can do

Hey Vargis,

You advise helped me during my Spiti trip on RE. Now, Im planning to do Leh again in 3rd and 4th of October by car. Let me know if it possible for non 4×4 car to do high passes in snow ? I will be driving Tata Nexon (FWD)and planning to use Nylon ropes on tyres as a precaution in Snow. Other details would help me to plan. Btw, I would take Srinagar Leh highway for to & fro… places to visit: Khardungla, Nubra, Tso Morriri , Hanle

Hi Vargis – Is a road trip by Manali to Leh in October end possible? I understand it all depends on the weather but what are the chances historically?

Hi Shoyab, It is usually closed by October end. Even if it is open, it is definitely not safe to travel on.

Very good information….thanks…. we are senior citizens couple above 65 years…..would you advise us to travel on both of us to ladakh for about 15days from last few days of September end from Shrinagar where we expect to reach by 26th September 2021 from chandigarh…of course, we live in Mumbai but will be reachingchandigarhfrom Manali…..yourwriteup.on spiti valley is also very informative & useful …thanks…Kishor Karia thanks

How are you traveling after you reach Chandigarh Sir? Private taxi?

What kind of clothes should we bring to Ladakh?

Please see this

https://vargiskhan.com/log/clothes-for-ladakh-trip-pack/

Dear please advise for family trip to leh-ladakh in September end is good or October 1st week?? 10-12days plan

Hello Naveen – Please try in September. October will be a little too cold for a family trip.

The Agham Shyok road remains open in October as well?

Yes it does

On an overall basis, would you call October a good month to go or a bad one?

Only early part of the month can be called a good time.

Hi Vargis. Me and my wife are planning to visit Leh on around 20th October. Leh to Nubhra to Pangong is on our mind. Considering the steep taxi rates (24k for this) I’m much more inclined towards renting a bike (BTW I’m a biking enthisiast but never did any long journeys much). I understand it’ll be difficult considering the snow, winds and bad weather. Can you draw some points on how to narrow down on one. And if yes what should be of prime importance if planning by bike.

Hi did you travelled LEH on the month of October end. If you did can you share some of your experiences.

hello to all, i am planing my leh trip by flight from delhi to leh on 5th of oct with my wife then from leh to all local destination by rented bike if any couple want to join us by rental car or bike so we both can hire one car and one bike in sharing fare so we can enjoy both in our journy bike and car..let me know 971566659890.thanx

Hello Vargis, I hope your doing well. I am planning a bike trip from Hyderabad to Ladakh. My trip will start from Oct. 11 and I have planned to reach the ladakh by 15th Oct. or 16th Oct. via Srinagar route. I am also planning to visit Khardung la, Pangong lake and want to return from Manali highway to Haridwar. Can you please tell me is this a good plan and how many days should I take for this route plan? If this is not a good plan, can you please suggest me some better option, so I can cover all these destinations. Awaiting your response! Thanks!

Hi we planned to arrive ladakh by October 3rd morning and return on 7th of October by flight from Hyderabad . Please help us the best places to visit and we can make the trip as a good trip.

Hi Vargis, I am Planning to go to leh Ladakh, with family , just after Diwali this year , reaching there end of Oct and coming back in beginning Nov.. do you think this is an ideal time for visit, I understand it will be cold but is it going to be sunny. I am a nature photographer and that’s one of attraction to visit leh / Ladakh .. your advise would be of great help .. I read in many websites that its going to be very cold and many hotels close down, however many hotels remain open ( those who have heating ) and many tourists also travel .. so is my confusion .. Thanks & regards Avijit

Dear Vargis Very useful information. We are planning to drive from Delhi to ladhak 4 friends in October. We will be coming from different parts assembling in delhi. Your suggestions for any rental agency to hire cars More importantly what type or car would u recommend ? Petrol / Duesel / four wheel / Bolero or is a sedan good enough … looking forward to hear from you Tarun

Asslamwalekum , bhai we are planning for 29 step to 6 October is it safe to travel by car , we will only take two breaks like first stop is Delhi to mankind then direct leg ,is it good

Walaikum As-Salam. Manali to Leh direct will be a very long journey, you will have to break the journey in between.

hello sir, How can I get reached in leh and back to delhi, since one option is to take flight from Delhi to Leh. The fare for delhi to leh fly is affordable fare is around 2500 rupees, but the return flight from leh to delhi requires around 3 times the fare of delhi to leh fly that is around 6 to 7 thousand. Why is that so? Is there any other options possible? Please help us. We are planning the trip in October.

Hi Sidharth – You can try reaching Ladakh via Srinagar by Bus, or come back by Bus

Dear vargis All your blogs are very helpful for me in planning my trip. As I m doing it solo need info on my planned itinerary Date :-sep28 to Oct 12 29-sep Chandigarh to kasol- 30 sep kasol- to Manali 1 Oct Manali and kulu (Tuesday rhotang pass closed) 2 Oct Manali to pang (Gandhi jeyanthi will rhotang pass be opened) 3rd oct pang to pangong tso 4th oct pangong to nubra to tutuk 5th Oct nubra to leh 6th Oct leh 7th Oct leh to drass 8th Oct drass to gulmarg to Srinagar 9th Oct Srinagar to Katra 10th Oct Katra to golden temple 11th Oct amristar to Chandigarh

Please let me know if this works Email [email protected] Mobile :-+919944506111

How are you traveling Aswin?

Hello vargis… Thank you for your quick reply. Renting a bike at Chandigarh And also can you please let me know 1 )if I the get the permits done through online for rhotang and leh inner circle do I have to visit the respective office to get stamped or something?

2) can I travel to pangong tso from pang without going to leh because I don’t most people prefer the route

3) I am skipping tso moriri because I need to visit golden temple on my return so in order to get 2 days

Thanks in advance for the same

1. Please see these two posts

https://vargiskhan.com/log/rohtang-permit-2019/

https://vargiskhan.com/log/how-to-get-ladakh-permit/

2. No you cannot go there without geting your permits stamped at Leh first.

Thank you for the information vargis… I went through both your blogs… Clear that without going to leh and get my online permit stamped I cannot move to nubra valley… Thanks again

That is correct Aswin. You are welcome !!!

Thank you for the timely reply… As I m a solo Traveller sorry to ask you again I got info from another lead that I can travel to pangong tso from pang without going to leh … Getting permits done through online and stamped in some tourist center… Can you please suggest me on that alone… And also as I m renting bike from Chandigarh will I be allowed to travel inside leh nubra and pangong… Please provide me leads… Will be very helpful

That is not correct. Only way around this is if someone can get the permits stamped on your behalf and courier them to you. Secondly, your Chandigarh rented bike will not be allowed to go to Pangong so you will have to go to Leh first to rent another bike from there.

Dear Varghis, first of all, thank you for creating such an amazing, super-informative blog. You have been a great source of help for many of my trips to the Himalayas! 😀

We are a group of four friends and planning to visit Ladakh in first week of October this year. We will hire a 4×4 SUV with good ground clearance for the entire duration of our trip. Our itinerary is as follows:

Day 1 (2nd Oct) – arrival in Leh; acclimatization; getting all the permits done Day 2 (3rd Oct) – Leh to Diskit; night stay in Diskit Day 3 (4th Oct) – Diskit to Pangong Tso via Agham-Shyok road; night stay near Pangong Day 4 (5th Oct) – Pangong to Hanle; night stay in Hanle Day 5 (6th Oct) – Hanle to Tso Moriri; night stay in Karzok Day 6 (7th Oct) – Tso Moriri to Leh Day 7 (8th Oct) – Back to Delhi

Wanted to know your thoughts on the feasibility of this plan. If it’s doable (considering the weather in October) or too hectic? Unfortunately, we don’t have time for spare days so will it make more sense to skip some destination?

Look forward to hearing from you.

Regards, Sagun

Hi Sagun – Plan is doable. There won’t be any problem completing it at all.

Hi Vargis, thanks a lot for your feedback! Just a quick follow-up question: If we do the itinerary in reverse (i.e. go to Tso Moriri first), do you think there is a greater risk of AMS in that case? Or the first day rest in Leh and gradual ascent on Day 2 should be fine?

Hi Sagun – Yes, there is a greater risk of AMS if you went to Moriri first. Better to do it the way you planned it.

Just wanted to let you know that we got back from a wonderful trip to Ladakh earlier this week. We managed to do Pangong to Tso Moriri in one day (took us about 8-8.5 hours with plenty of stops though) and thus got ourselves an extra day in Leh for R&R. The drive along Pangong was truly mesmerizing with some incredibly beautiful villages (especially Merak) along the way. Glad we took that route while going to Tso Moriri.

Thanks once again for all your suggestions and advice.

Cheers, Sagun

Hi Sagun – That is good to hear. I am glad that your trip was fun. Thank you so much for taking the time to drop a note and let me know.

Hi Everyone,

Good Day!!!

We are planning ladakh trip on 5th october. We are travelling from south to delhi by air then in car by road. Since this this our first experience and the unconditional climate, we are looking for a team where we can travel together from delhi to ladakh. If any one who is interested please let me know.

me too leaving on 5th of oct with my wife from delhi please what app me:971566659890 thanx.

We (Husband-Wife) too are planning to visit Leh during 1st week of Oct. If your sharing plan is still open, please mail your itinerary to [email protected] or sms your number at 9830023731.so that we can take this to next level…. – Harish

Dear Vargis Bhai, I am planning to visit Leh from 1st October to 7th October 2019 as my son’s examination will be get over on 30th September..I along with my wife & two kids (11yrs+4yrs)…Is this the right time to visit Ladakh or I have to wait for june’2020?????? Need your valuable suggestions. Please reply soon….

Ibrar Bhai yes you can go but it will be very cold in October so please prepare accordingly.

Hi, my husband, I along with our 3.5 yr old son want to travel to ladhak between 25 Sept to 4 Oct 2019. Is it OK for kids to travel at this time. I have not read any experiences along with toddlers so confused as not sure if kids face altitude sickness.

Please see this post. Should answer your questions.

https://vargiskhan.com/log/traveling-to-ladakh-with-children/

Hi vargis i just seeing your feed back for all traveler, it is so valuer for them. i have also a almost same question but little difference, We are 3 couple age group 50-56, have some bP problems. We have planed the tour between 18oct to 24 oct. We are from delhi. Here is any risk for us from the weather or oxygen problem. we have a plan to to nubra and stay there, is it fine or not. kindly give my valubale feed back. thanks dear vargis

Hello Mr. Mohan – I would strongly advise consulting a Dr. first and take recommended precautions. A friend of mine died yesterday in Ladakh due to acute mountain sicknes so please practice caution. See the post below.

https://vargiskhan.com/log/rest-in-peace-my-friend/

Hi VARGIS We are planning to fly Leh on 24 of Oct 2019 and return on 31 of Oct please Guide

We are flying to leh on 28 Sept,2019 and will be back by 6th October.

So we have planned like below –

Day 1 – Leh Day 2 – Leh to Nubra via Kharding La Day 3 – Nubra to Turtuk and Back to Hundar Day 4 – Hundar to Pangong Day 5 – Pangong to Tsomoriri Day 6 – Tsomoriri to Leh Day 7 – Rafting at Zanskar River Day 8 – Leh Local sight seeing Day 9 – Fly Out.

Q1.Hundar to Pangong, road will be opened during that time? Q2.Pangong to Tsomoriri , road will opened? or do we need to back to leh and then from leh to Tsomoriri? Q3.Is it possible to do the rafting during that time in Zanskar River?and the strating point is how much from leh?

please let me know if you have any suggestions on this?

1. Yes 2. Yes it will be open 3. Yes it is possible. Starting point is Nimmu near Leh

Is it safe to visit Chusul area ( upto Mirpal Tso) in last week of October ? Regards .

You can go towards Chushul but I doubt they will allow you to go towards Mirpal Tso

Hello Mr.Vargis Khan – I am a solo traveller and will be flying into Leh on the 27th morning. I will have time until the 31st afternoon for sightseeing. After that starting from the 11th of November, I can take a few more days to stay there. I have a few questions. It would be very helpful if you could give me some information on this.

1. How much time should I allocate for the Thiksey Gustor festival and when is the right time to go there? 2. Will it be possible to rent a bike and go to the Nubra Valley and come back to Leh within two days, for e.g., on the 29th and 30th? 3. Will it be possible to go to Pangong Tso on the 11th or 12th of November? Once again, I am thinking of renting a bike. 4. Any possibility of buses operating to Manali post 11th of November?

Your response will be much appreciated. Thanks in advance.

I am planning Leh (14-20th Oct) with wife and 9 year old son is that comfort or it’s tough for child

We will not cover many location stay in hotel and want to relax

It should be OK but make sure you pack well though. It has started to snow at Khardung La and gotten very cold in Ladakh.

We are planning to fly Leh and then by road to nubra and pangong , then come back. And fly back from Leh itself.i read your article which gave us an idea. Thanks for that. Any other suggestions sir ?

We are planning from 10th to 15th of October , sorry , forget to quote that

No, pretty much the same as to what I mentioned in the article. Weather has gotten very cold so please pack accordingly.

hey vargis IS IS SAFE to take direct route from nubra to pangong via shyok during mid october?

Yes it is Avish

Need your advice on below :

1. Are there decent hotels to stay in October first week in nubra and pangong ?

2. Do we get shared taxies while traveling from/to leh to nubra and pangong ?

3. Is it advisable to travel directly from nubra to pangong .

M landing in leh on 29 Sept and flying out on 3 oct. Really looking forward to your response.

1. Yes 2. Yes 3. Yes but there are no shared cabs on the direct routes.

Hey Vargis. We 2 people planning to go Leh by air on 29th september. There we want to take bike on rent and visit all the place by bike. Or return flight is on 4th October. We are having several queries 1. We eagerly want to drive bike there and want to visit all places by bike from there. Kindly comment on this. 2. Can u give us the plan accordingly.

1. Yes you can ride around on bikes but it will be very cold as well so prepare accordingly. 2. You can travel like this

29 – Leh. Arrange permits and bikes 30 – Leh to Lamayuru to Leh 1 – Leh to Diskit 2 – Diskit to Turtuk to Panamik 3 – Panamik to Pangong to Leh 4 – Return

We have planned trio to ladakh And we’ll reach leh by flight on 2nd oct and retuen flight is on 8th oct. Pls suggest us itienry as this one is our first time. We r 4 around age group of 25 to 30. Is it good time to rent bike and roam around leh or taxi would be preferable.?? Thanx in advance

Hi Savan – Private taxi will be better but will also be costlier. You can travel like this.

2nd – Leh. Rest, arrange permits and taxi 3rd – Leh to Kargil via Lamayuru 4th – Kargil to Leh via Batalik 5th – Leh to Diskit 6th – Diskit to Turtuk to Panamik 7th – Panamik to Pangong to Leh 8th – Fly Out

Or Like this

2nd – Leh. Rest, arrange permits and taxi 3rd – Leh to Lamayuru to Leh 4th – Leh to Diskit 5th – Diskit to Pangong to Leh 6th – Leh to Tso Moriri 7th – Tso Moriri to Leh 8th – Fly Out

Sirji what about nubra velly…??is it not on the route??

Hii vargis ! Your blogs are really helpful for All the travellers. I have some queries. Actually me n my husband are planning Leh road trip in October 1st week. Can we complete the full circuit starting From Delhi-manali -Leh-Srinagar-delhi. Wil the manali route be open in October first week? If yes how many days are required to complete this circuit n if no then any other route if you can suggest. Thanks in advance

As long as your trip is within first 10 days of October then yes, you should be able to complete the entire circuit. About 12-14 days is a safe number to assume for the trip.

Ok thank you so much for replying.. So happy yeyeye. We can complete the circuit.. thanks again. N keep doing this great work and keep travelling!!!!

You are welcome !!! 🙂 Do let me know how your trip went after your return

Yes. Surely

Hlo sir me and my friends planning to visit leh from 4 oct to 7oct .so i just want to ask that 3 days is enough .

3 days is not really enough but if that is all the time you can afford, then read through the post below.

https://vargiskhan.com/log/ladakh-in-3-days-plan-trip/

Hi Reetika, I’m also visit leh from 4th October to 6th October with my wife. If you want you can join with us.

Superb blog with parent like guide …thanks for your valuable inputs …it will be really helpful for adventure lovers …i just want to know one thing …chance of getting share cab to & from Ley towards other destinations ?

Thanks a lot for your wonderful advice, could you help suggest if there any high latitude issue i m planning to travel from [boarding from Delhi] 27th sept to 2nd OCt 2018 along with my 2.5years kid

Kindly help to answer followings:

1) are we good with our itinerary along with timing we choose? 2) is it safe to travel with my kid 3) Also during this week ,will Manali-Leh highway be opened? 4) we have not yet booked return ticket from Leh- to Delhi, what if we choose road trip to Leh-Srinagar and thereafter Srinagar to Delhi by Air.

Please help to reply at the earliest.

Thanks a Ton!

Hi Ajay Bhai,

1. Timing is OK but it will be very cold so prepare acccordingly. 2. Unless there is any medical history, you should be OK. I will still strongly recommend a visit to the doctor to get a professional opinion and some other tips. 3. Yes 4. Yes you could do that as well. Sounds like a good plan.

Hello sir, We are planning the leh trip by flight on oct 16 from delhi. We have to visit the places like Nubra valley, Khardung La, pangong Tso,Hemis national park and Kargil. We’ll be there on Oct 16’th morning. And planning to visit the leh palace,Hemis national park on the same day itself by means of public transport. And on the next day we would like to go for a bike trip to Pangong TSO , can we back to leh on the same day itself? And the same way on oct18’th another bike trip to Nubra valley and Khardung La and back to leh on the same day. On oct 19’th plannig to visit the Kargil by car. And on 19th morning we will be back to Delhi. Will the plan work for us? If so how can we get the cars and bikes on rent? If any permission needed to visit any of the mentioned places how could we get those? If the above mentioned plan ain’t a better idea can you suggest us a better plan? thank you.

hello sir, please give us your suggestion.

Hello Sidharth,

1. Leh to Pangong and back on same day – Yes you can do it. 2. Nubra and Leh same day – Yes you can do it. 3. How to get Permits – Please see this link. https://vargiskhan.com/log/obtaining-ilp-for-ladakh/ 4. There are several places you can rent bikes from in Leh. Just take a walk around in the city and you will come across several rental agencies and mechanics.

Hi vargis Khan , this is tarun sharma .we are planing to visit leh in the first week of Oct 2018 . it that ok traveling with 8 years old kid?

Hi Tarun – Yes it is. Just be prepared for the cold though, specially with the child traveling. Do take a look at this post as well.

Hi, I am planning to visit Leh from 19th Oct-23rd october this year 2018 . Please reply to my queries below . As stated, i have read your whole page and got some valuable inputs but would like you to address below queries:

1. September third week is best to visit Leh and ladakh? 2. Should we book room once reach leh or prior booking should be done? 3. One or two jackets are enough to cover the trip ? 4. Which are the best places to enjoy without no rush

Please reply.

1. Yes it is a good time 2. Book in advance wherever you can 3. Yes but carry some light woolens or Thermals as well 4. Spend a day at Nubra, Pangong and Moriri each and that should cover majority of the must visit places.

Thanks for the reply Vargis.

You are welcome Lalit !!!

Quite helpful. However I have a few things to ask. Plz look into my itinerary : 2nd oct – Delhi To leh (Flight) 3rd oct – Leh to Pangong then Pangong to Nubra 4th oct – Nubra to Tso moriri 5th oct – Tso moriri to Leh 6th oct – Leh to Lamayuru and back 7th oct – Back to Delhi ‘Is Pangong to Nubra possible on 2nd oct via the Shyok rd you mentioned?’ Is this plan gonna work? Please suggest.

Hello – You can visit Nubra and Pangong in Oct 2nd week but your itinerary seems a bit off. Take a look at this article please. I have suggested a few itineraries here to cover Ladakh in 5 days. On 6th day, you can fly out.

https://vargiskhan.com/log/visit-leh-ladakh-in-5-days/

Hi, planning to fly leh in first week of oct for 6 days…any suggestions ?? what and how to cover places

How are you planning to travel locally in Ladakh Lokesh? Also, take a look at this post please.

https://vargiskhan.com/log/leh-ladakh-in-6-days/

Sir we r planning explore Delhi to ladakh and back to Manali by Royal Enfield Byk in the month of October 15th this year So kindly advice some valuable tips

Hi Subrata – My advice would be the same that I mentioned in the article above.

my programme to leh-ladakh tour from 20th Oct to 24 Oct’2018 with family. please advise weather condition, location we can visit… Any risk about oxigen problem ?

It depends on how many days you have in hand but the following posts should be of help. Please take a look.

https://vargiskhan.com/log/rent-oxygen-cylinder-for-ladakh-trip/

https://vargiskhan.com/log/tourist-attractions-in-ladakh/

Hello Vargis … thx for putting this together. This is really helpful. Just wanted some advice as we 6 people all around 40.. plan to travel to Leh around 3rd wee of October through Manali . Understand that it might be risKy but really wanted to explore that route as we have not been through that n the past. We have been to Djojila pass etc through Srinagar. Do advice…. we loo fwd. Thx

Hello Jyoti,

Giving an exact reply would be a bit tought right now because it all depends on how the weather trends in October. Historically, the road remains open until late October so you should be able to travel in 3rd week but best would be to wait until late September before finalizing your plan.

Hi Thanks so much for compiling this info. We are a group of 20 ppl with teenage kids and want to travel to leh on 15 oct 2018. For a week. We will be flying from Delhi to Leh . Would it be a good time to come to come there

If you are flying then yes it is a good time to go but do not delay it any further.

Can i get you number…I’m very upset…i have already book flight on 13 october

It was very helpful…but can we go to nubra valley and stay over night there and nubra to pangong stay over there…is it possible on 13 oct ?

Yes you can go to Nubra and Pangong and stay there for the night on 13th. As a matter of fact, you can stay at these places even in peak winter, in December and January as well.

Thank you very much…but we going with family…is it safe to pass from khardungla top and changla pass on octuber 14 to 15??

Please help me out

Yes it is safe. There are plenty of tourists in Ladakh in October so you really have nothing to worry about.

Hello; I’m going to Leh in November so can you recommend me some hotels there that are not too expensive? Thank you!

Please take a look at this post.

https://vargiskhan.com/log/good-budget-hotels-in-leh-with-tariff/

Really very useful! thank you!

Dear Vargis

Thanks for this article, we have bought the flight ticket for first and second week of October 2018

and would need your advise if tour agent is needed at this critical period, instead of using public transport

It’s our first to North India

Thanks Yong Malaysia

Hello Yong – No need to hire a tour agent, you will just end up paying more. If not the bus then you will still be able to find shared taxi to other parts of Ladakh in October.

Then how we can go to nubra valley and pangong lake…without agent? We r 7person (family) member women also.

HI vargas bhai, have got a great deal of respect in my minmind for ur work and experience and the enthusiasm to share it with the world and help.. I would be very thankful to you if u help me decide upon the best out of two months, start of October or may to see the best of beauty in ladakh as a whole and pangong.. the reason for the question is that we are planning our couple shoot there and because of our tight schedules, sadly now we are left with just these two time options.. we were to go in third week sept but circumstance made us cancel the trip. So when would be the best time according to ur experience.. to see the best of beauty of ladakh as a whole and beautiful colors of pangong.. please help

Hello Dhara Bhai – Thank you so much for your appreciate words. I am glad that the information posted was of help. Coming to your question, if possible at all, please make the trip in October itself. November will get colder, chances of snowfall and passes getting blocked will be way higher. Between Oct and Nov, you should plan within this month.

Hello vargis, thank’s for the response. However, I was not asking between Oct and Nov. I just have two options in my bucket, month of may and October. So can u consider my concerns mentioned earlier and suggest me better of these two months. Thanx

Hello Dhara – Month of May would be much better as compared to October.

Hey thanx a lot vargis, u are doin a great work. I might need u further, for suggestion, if so, it would be great if u email me with your number so that i have ur email id and number for indepth discussion related to this.. thanx again 🙂

Hi Dhara – Please email me your number and I will give you a call. You can send me an email using the contact me button in the menu

I’m traveling to Leh on Sunday with a foreign citizen and am really tensed about a few things. Would it be possible for you to share your number and get on a quick call. Would really help calm my nerves down.

Thanks in advance Sahil

Sahil – I replied on your email with my number.

Thanks for your useful information, I have plans to go to Leh and stay there in the winter from early November until the end of 1/2018. What difficulties do I need to know? Does the airport in Leh operate in winter? Really thank you if I could know the difficulties I will encounter on my trip. You have great articles and useful.

Please take a look at the articles below. Let me know if you have any further questions.

https://vargiskhan.com/log/ladakh-in-winter-necessary-preparations-precautions/

https://vargiskhan.com/log/ladakh-winter-travel-guide-ideal-itinerary/

https://vargiskhan.com/log/ladakh-winter-trip-essentials-items-carry/

Thank you, it was very helpful to me!

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• 30 Places To Visit And Things To Do in Leh

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Tourist Places in Leh

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Places to Visit in Leh

Pangong lake.

Pangong lake is one of the most popular places to visit in Leh and is located just 160 kilometres away from Ladakh. The drive to Pangong lake is an exciting experience offering scenic views. It is a beautiful lake with crystal blue waters blessed with pleasant weather throughout the year. Pangong Tso is also amongst the camping places in Ladakh.

Enjoy the solitude near the placid waters of this magnificent lake in Ladakh and take out your cameras to capture the picturesque view of this wonderful place. Black-necked Siberian can be spotted near the Mahe marshes, the only breeding place for these rare migratory birds and making it one of the most scenic places to visit in Leh Ladakh.

Top Experiences To Do in Pangong Lake

Khardungla Pass

Interested in motoring? Here’s what you should definitely try.

Maintained by the Border Roads Organization, this pass on the Ladakh Range in Leh is claimed to be the world’s highest motorable pass. Reaching to the top of the Khardungla Pass is a challenging journey. One might even face vomiting, tremendous headache and other symptoms along with blurry vision. The lack of oxygen at the top can hamper your brain’s activity. It is advised to drink some black tea before you start.

But once you make it to the top, the mesmerizing view is worth all the obstacles and nothing can stop you from drinking the beauty of this snow kingdom. Other than motoring, Khardungla Pass is also famous for its multi-cuisine serving Indian, Chinese, Tibetan and even Korean and making it one of the most scenic places to visit in Leh Ladakh.

For a comfortable stay check out this list of hotels in Ladakh and chose the one that will give you the utmost luxury. Checkout & Book:   Leh Ladakh Group Tour Packages

Magnetic Hill

Top Experiences To Do in Magnetic Hill

Nubra Valley

Trekking on the rocky, colossal trails of this valley is a truly exciting experience as it is situated near the banks of the pure Nubra river. Nubra Valley is also famous for its camp around, get lost in the majestic beauty of Nubra valley and it is one of the best places to see in Leh Ladakh. The valley is named as “the valley of flowers” and it has some of the most beautiful, vibrant and colourful flowers set amidst lush green landscape. This place is popular because of its serene and tranquil ambience. You can Also Checkout:  Ladakh Family Tour Packages

Top Experiences To Do in Nubra Valley

Tso Moriri Lake

Lamayuru Monastery

Famous as Tharpa Ling, the Lamayuru monastery is not only the oldest but one of the largest monasteries in Leh. The monastery is located at an altitude of 3,510 m and is amongst the most serene and tranquil Leh tourist places. Home to over 50 monks, it is a famous ancient Buddhist shrine and belongs to the Red-Hat Sect of Buddhism. Decorated with beautiful wall paintings, thangkas, ancient murals, scriptures and sculptures of Buddha and other deities, this place amuses the visitors with its beautiful architecture and spiritual charisma. A cave named Naropa’s Cave is also located nearby, which is another centre of attraction. Its annual festival "Yuru Kabgyat", "Mask Dance" and many rituals like "Burning of Effigies", also attract tourists from across the world.   Location: B.P.O Khaltse, Ladakh, Leh, Jammu and Kashmir 194106 Timings: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm Best Time to Visit: Between May and September Click here to Book:   Leh Ladakh Bike Trip

Diskit Gompa

Shanti Stupa

In this world, much in need of peace, the white, beautiful and serene Shanti Stupa on a hilltop in Chanspa, Leh district, Ladakh, in the north Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir provides a fabulous, unobstructed view. This white beauty amidst the snow lets you experience a moment of breathlessness and it is one of the beautiful places to see in Leh Ladakh. Situated at a height of 4267 metres, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, the Stupa is at a distance of about 5 km from the Leh City. 

It was built by the Japanese monks to promote world peace and also to celebrate the 2500 years of Buddhism. Therefore if you wish to experience peace amidst all the noise, among the places to visit in Leh, there’s no one better than Shanti Stupa. It is a combo of serenity, peacefulness and exotic views.

We have the guide of Manali to Leh road trip . Don't forget to check it out before you make a plan. Also Checkout:   Ladakh Tour Packages From Delhi

Shey Monastery

Are you interested in the historical know-how of the Kargil War, then Kargil falls among the most suitable places to visit in Leh Ladakh.

Famous for the very known Kargil War, Kargil is a city situated near the Line of Control (LOC) between Pakistan and India. It is the second largest town in Ladakh after Leh. With an elevation of 2676 metres, it is situated along the banks of Indus River. The sonder feeling that one gets after making a visit to the city of Kargil is beyond expression. 

It is an avoidable adventure that lets you pray for the families who lost their loved ones during the war and compels you to bow down to the war heroes.

Places to stay: Check out the best hotels in Kargil and book one before you arrive.

Kargil Travel Guides: 1.  Srinagar to Kargil Travel Guide                                       2. Kargil to Leh Travel Guide

Royal Leh Palace

Marking its place in one of the most striking places to visit in Leh Ladakh, The Royal Leh Palace showcases the grandeur of the era gone by. The scenic location of the structure adds up to its beauty. It stands, overlooking the Ladakhi town, Leh and was built back in the 16th century. The Palace is as high as a nine-storey building and the upper floors are occupied by the royal families while the lower ones were the storerooms and had stables for the animals. While on the top, you can enjoy the panoramic views of the rustic Zanskar valley which contrasts with the clear blue skies. Such views are a feast for the eyes, mind, and soul and rejuvenate as well. If history attracts you then this is the perfect place for you as here you can witness the Chinese paintings which are approximately 450 years old and more such beauties of the previous days. Don't forget to check out the  list of best hotels in Leh  that will make your stay wonderful.

Alchi Monastery

One of the renowned places to see in Leh Ladakh, i f you are touring Leh then you will be surprised to know that this place is dotted with a number of monasteries, and the Alchi monastery is also one of them. Famed as the Alchi Gompa this is one of the oldest parts of the monastic complex and is administered by the Likir Monastery. This place is a treasure for the ones seeking a tranquil setting as the aura is forever magnetizing and intricate carvings are a plus. The monastery comprises of three shrines in total one of the  Dukhang, the Sum Tsek and the Temple of Manjushri and each one of them has a story to tell. When here, you can see the monks perform several ceremonies and worship in the complex itself.  Also, this is one of the most lesser known places to visit in Leh. This  guide of Delhi to Leh  will help you understand the journey better and will make you fall in love with the beauty of the region.

Gurudwara Pathar Sahib

Home to plenty of beautiful and ancient monasteries, Leh also boasts of a Sikh holy shrine, the Gurudwara Pathar Sahib dating back to the 15th century. One of the most sacred Leh tourist places, it is believed to be built at the same place where Guru Nanak Singh Ji rested, meditated, and defeated a demon while returning from his Nepal trip.  When a boulder was found in the shape of Guru Nanak during excavation in 1970, this place became a divine place for Sikhs. A gurudwara was constructed here to pay homage to the almighty and seek blessings. Nestled amidst majestic Himalayan peaks, this Gurudwara is one of the highest located Sikh shrines. The shrine is managed by the Indian Army who also prepares Langar for all the visitors and makes sure to provide them with all essential facilities.   Location:  NH1, Phey, Leh, Jammu and Kashmir 194101 Timings: 4:30 am to 8:00 pm Best Time to Visit:  May to October Planning a honeymoon trip, Checkout:  Ladakh Honeymoon Packages from Delhi

Sangam Point

Scanning for amazing places to visit in Leh? You’ll be delighted to know that places like Sangam point do exist. With the literal meaning fusion, this is the locale where the two rivers of Leh, Zanskar and Indus combine. Each one of them has variable texture while the Indus exhibits textures of green Zanskar is more of browns. When the two fuses into one another the view are truly majestic and is a feast for the eyes. Snuggled on the National Highway 1 this place falls on the route to Leh and you need not to take different roads to reach here. Enjoy rafting in Ladakh  with the fast and high rapids of the Zanskar river.

Tso Kar Lake

Unravel the paradisiacal virtue of nature or just lie down along the Tso Kar Lake which has several scenic bounties in its abode. Holding a place in of the most refreshing things to do in Leh, this lake is toured by flocks of visitors all around the year. The lake is scattered over an area of 9 km and has a rustic reflection. While the contrast of the sand with the muddy water camouflage is common. The views which you’ll be witnessing here will definitely make you fall in love the place and will make you visit again and again. You can also spot the nomadic along the lake and each one of them has an interesting tale to tell about their life. If you wish to know about the region then they are the best people to ask. You can check out the  best trekking experiences in Ladakh  to make your Ladakh trip more adventurous.

Namgyal Monastery

There is another monastery which is a must visit for you in  your Ladakh Sightseeing Tour ,  Extending the unparalleled combination of tranquility and beauty Namgyal Monastery is one of the most scenic places to visit in Leh. Locals call it the temple of Dalai Lama and peace is interwoven the aura of the place. While one segment contains the Namgyal Tantric College where the tantric practices are common the other segment contains the Buddha statue. This private monastery of Dalai Lama is named after the female lifelong deity and is one of the best spiritual centers of the region. Checkout  Leh Ladakh Bike Trip from Delhi for a adventure trip to Leh Ladakh.

Hall of Fame

You might have definitely heard about this place while on your  Leh Ladakh road trip .  Keeping alive the soldiers in the heart is one of the best things to show gratitude towards them, and staying intact to this “Hall of Fame” was built. Holding a wide array of weapons of the Indo-Pak war this place is all devoted to showcase the grandeur of the soldiers. The museum is majorly segmented into two parts the upper part consists of the variants of weapons and arms while the other part holds the apparels which were worn by the soldiers at the time of war. On the lower floor, you can spot several paintings and scenes of the Kargil war which set an exemplary of their never give up attitude. Also, there is a wall named the “Lest we forget” which has the photographs of the soldiers who gave their lives to save the country. Checkout & Book:   Premium 6 Days Leh Ladakh Sightseeing Trip

Thiksey Monastery

Explore the corners of the Thiksey Monastery which is indeed one of the best things to do in Leh. Located on the top of the hill, this Tibetian style monastery is approximately 19 km from Leh. The architecture of this monastery is similar to that of the Potala Palace of Lhasa and is also one of the largest gompas in the central Ladakh. Something which makes this place unique is its location, as it is settled at an altitude of almost 11,800 ft along the Indus valley. If you wish to take a closer look at the culture of Buddhism then place holds multitudes of stupas, artworks and more such beautiful things of the religion. Another point of interest at this place is the temple in its complex which was built to commemorate the Dalai Lama. The environs of the place are exceptional and, is one of the best places to visit in Leh if you are on a vacation with your family. Have a look at this  weather guide of Ladakh  and prepare yourself for the chilling yet soothing atmosphere.

Hemis Monastery

Love the unexplored regions? Unravel the calmness of the Hemis Monastery and add unique experience in your Leh trip. Build in the era of Dhukpas this gompa is elegantly crafted and showcases exceptional art. The key element of this place is the proximity of Leh which is it is located just 45 km away from the center of the town. This Himalayan Buddhist Monastery will undeniably win your hearts as the environs are fresh as it is established on the banks of the Indus river. If you wish to pay homage to Buddha then this is your place to be and if art attracts you then this place is a true paradise for you as it owns several variants of it. Also witnessing this serene beauty is one of the best things to do in Leh and is not victualed by masses. This guide of Mumbai to Ladakh  will help you understand the journey better and will make you fall in love with the beauty of the region.

Drass Valley

Get sunk in the wilderness, have an exhilarating experience trying to grasp a breath in Drass Valley. Popularly known as the “Gateway to Ladakh”, it tops in the list of places to visit in Leh where you cannot click a bad pic. The coldest inhabited place in the country provides you with an experience of intensely beautiful, challenging, numbing and freezing winters. 

The stark and raw beauty of the barren brown mountains leaves you overwhelmed. The craggy landscape compels you to stand a little longer and gaze at the amazing sight on the banks of Drass River. Enjoy the hot water springs, and be a part of this scenic beauty dancing upon you.

Book a homestay in Ladakh that will make you fall in love with Ladakh more.

Things to Do in Leh

Go on a jeep safari.

Motor Biking

Attend Festivals of Leh

Shopping at Leh

Visiting the local market of Leh is an excellent way of interacting with the locals and learning about their tradition and customs. Besides, a visit to the local market allows you to purchase unique items such as semi precious stones, pearls, tribal jewellery, organic products and local handicrafts and it is one of the best things to do in Leh.

1) Pashmina Shawls

Every woman would love to add the graceful, beautiful and fine pashmina shawl to her wardrobe. It is made up of cashmere wool which comes from pashmina or changthangi goat. The pashmina goat can be spotted in the high altitudes of Himalayan ranges.

2) Prayer Wheels

It is a spiritual item which consists of a cylindrical wheel mounted on a spindle made up of coarse cotton, Leather, stone, wood and metal.

It is believed that these relics that are original parts of lord Buddha’s body still exist which includes the much talked about sacred relic of his tooth.

Manali to Leh road trip : Don't forget to check it out before you make a plan.

Go on a Camel Safari

If you want to feel the essence of lush green vegetation, talk to the locals, feel the clean blue sky and tan yourself in the scorching heat then a Camel Safari or Caravan is the best thing to do in Ladakh . Hopping on for a ride on the camels and exploring the sand dunes is another must do in Ladakh. 

Not just a one-humped camel, but gush over by having a ride on the camel with two humps, popularly known as the Bactrian Camel. From kids to youngsters, a Camel Safari is something that every age group is excited about. The famous Camel Safaris in Ladakh  are Angling to Stok and the  Silk Route Caravan.

Best Ladakh Tour Packages

6 days ladakh backpacking tour.

About the destination :

A journey to the top of the world, Leh-Ladakh features most of the world’s highest motorable passes with the spectacular beauty of snow-capped mountains. Admired for its unparalleled scenic views, pristine icy lakes, and swirling roads, Ladakh is becoming the most Instagrammable place in India and is on everyone’s bucket list. It offers you a stay amidst the beautiful valley of mountains and a starlit sky in the night. The unique thing about the Ladakh terrain is that it has mountains, forests, deserts, lakes, rivers, waterfalls in one beautiful and dynamic geography.

Quick info:

Route: Leh - Sham Valley - Khardungla- Nubra Valley - Pangong - Chang-la - Leh.

Duration: 6 days & 5 nights 

Start point:  Leh Airport

Endpoint: Leh Airport

Passes covered: Khardung-la (18,000 ft) and Chang-la (17,688 ft)

Manali to Ladakh Bike Trip from Delhi | Book Now & Get 3000 Cashback

Quick Facts:

Temperature:  Day: 8°C to 15°C and Night: -5°C to 3°C

Maximum Altitude:  5,328 m (17,480 ft) at the Taglang La mountain pass.

Difficulty Level: Moderate 

Railway Station: Nearest is the Jammu Tawi Railway Station (700 km)

Airport: Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, Leh

ATM: On a bike tour to Leh Ladakh through the Manali to Leh route, you will find only one ATM at Keylong, but later there are several ATMs at Leh. Stay during your Manali to Leh Bike Trip Accommodation on double (for couples) and triple (for others) sharing basis in Guesthouse/hotel/Camp Meals during your Manali to Leh Bike Trip: Day 2: Dinner Day 3- Day 11: Breakfast Mode of transport during your Manali to Leh Bike Trip: AC Semi sleeper tickets from Delhi to Manali and return (depending on the variant selected) The bikes are provided with fuel from day 2 to day 11  350cc Royal Enfield motorbike for Single riders  500cc Royal Enfield for Double riders

Variants of the package

Cost without Bike & Fuel: INR 35300/- per person Double Rider RE 500cc with Fuel & Helmets: INR 42300/- per person  Single Rider RE 500cc with Fuel & Helmets: INR 48900/- per person

Leh Ladakh Group Tour Package with Camping I Flat 17% off

12 Days Leh Ladakh | Fuel Included

Quick Info:

Route: Delhi - Manali - Jispa - Sarchu - Leh - Nubra via Khardung La Pass - Pangong Lake - Leh - Lamayuru - Kargil - Zojila Pass - Sonamarg - Srinagar.

Duration: 12 Days & 11 Night 

Start point: Delhi

Endpoint: Srinagar

Passes covered: Khardung-la (18,000 ft), Chang-la (17,688 ft), Rohtang Pass (16,051 ft), Lachung La(16,600 ft), and Baralacha la ( 16,000 ft)

About 12 Days Manali Leh Srinagar Sightseeing Tour :  

With this incredible trip, you get the chance to visit Kashmir, Ladakh, and Himachal Pradesh—the three most stunning regions—all at once. The route includes some of the highest motorable crossings in the world, stunning lakes, snow-capped mountains, incredible camping opportunities, and much more! Ladakh, which is on everyone's bucket list and is fast becoming India's most Instagrammable location, is admired for its unmatched picturesque views, pure frozen lakes, and winding roads.

Manali Leh Srinagar Bike Adventure

About the Tour :  

Get ready to make your dream of riding in Ladakh come true in the action-packed bike trip where one would be experiencing the fusion of thrill, serene beauty and culture of the "Land of High Passes", as the entire tour is exclusively elected by Thrillophilia's outdoor experts. This circuit features some of the world’s highest motorable passes with the spectacular beauty of snow-capped mountains, Lakes, rivers on their side while covering these breathtaking destinations, Solang valley, Gata Loops, Zojila pass, Kargil, Magnetic hill, Confluence of Indus, And Zanskar river, Dal lake and much more waiting on the way!

Start Point: Delhi

Passes Covered: Khardung-la (18,000 ft), Chang-la (17,688 ft), Rohtang Pass (16,051 ft), Lachung La(16,600 ft), and Baralacha la ( 16,000 ft)

Women Only Sightseeing Group Tour of Ladakh

Call our destination expert to book: 8619833383 

About the Destination:

The crown of India is beautified by Ladakh, the land of high passes, situated in the picturesque state of Jammu and Kashmir. Regarded as an exotic tourist destination, it is a land filled with breath-taking natural beauty and mystique.

From majestic mountain passes and tranquil monasteries to magical lakes, Ladakh trip is sure to take your breath away. During summer, this beautiful region is adorned with a plethora of vibrant colors, but come winter time it is transformed into a snowy white wonderland, often cut off from the rest of the world.

As a destination, Ladakh is replete with every sight imaginable; from sapphire blue lakes to jade green meadows and even dry and arid grasslands serve to make this land of extremes a must-go destination on every traveler's bucket list, and that is the very reason that no one should ever miss the chance of visiting this Paradise. That is why this Ladakh tour package is here to bring everyone on an equal pedestal by bringing together women of a different metal and organizing a women-only trip to Ladakh.

About the Activity:

Treat yourself to 6 nights 7 days of mystery with the women-only tour to Ladakh. Start your trip from the charming town of Leh, which will woo you with its quaint markets and charming palaces. Visit the beautiful Sham valley and the ancient monasteries.

Take a trip down to enchanting Nubra valley and visit the famous Diskit Monastery and the Hall of Fame, to experience local culture at its best.

With this one of the unique Ladakh tour packages of ours, lose yourself in the hypnotizing beauty of the colorful Pangong Tso and enjoy a memorable sunrise and sunset by the lake. A thrilling camel safari and drive through the highest motorable road in the world, seems just too good to be true!

Departure Dates:  May (19,25,31), June (6,12,18,24,30), July (6,12,18,24,30),  Aug (5, 11,17,23,29),  Sept (4,10,16,22)

Best of Ladakh

Leh Ladakh Group Adventure | With Turtuk Village

About the Tour :

Situated right on the border on the northwest edge of Ladakh is Turtuk which was once a part of Pakistan till the 1971 Indo-Pak war to be specific. With this 7 days tour to Ladakh, enjoy a journey to the top of the world featuring most of the world’s highest motorable passes with the spectacular beauty of snow-capped mountains. Admired for its unparalleled scenic views, pristine icy lakes, and swirling roads, Ladakh is becoming the most Instagrammable place in India and is on everyone’s bucket list.

Quick Info :

Route:  Leh - Sham Valley - Khardungla - Nubra Valley - Turtuk - Pangong - Chang-la - Leh

Duration: 7 days & 6 nights 

Passes Covered: Khardung-la (18,000 ft) | Chang-la (17,688 ft)

Manali To Leh Cycling Tour

Ladakh is the emergent favorite of travelers, not just from India, but from the entire world. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains on all sides, the beauty of this place is unparalleled, and you will agree to that as soon as you set foot here. And despite being so far off and on the rain shadow side of the Himalayas, Ladakh is very well connected, especially the capital city of Leh. Apart from the main airport in the capital, you can arrive in Ladakh via road too, with highways coming in from Srinagar and from Manali, the latter being one of the most beautiful highways in the country.

And this is another reason why Ladakh is a favorite of adventure junkies. You can ride a bike till here, or can even cycle up to this beautiful land of Leh, some 11,400ft above sea level.

Quick info about Manali To Leh Cycling Tour :

Route: Manali - Marhi - Sissu - Jispa - Patseo - Sarchu - Pang - Tsokar - Rumptse - Leh - Khardung-La - Leh

Duration: 13 Days & 12 Night 

Start point: Manali

Endpoint: Leh

Passes Covered: Rohtang La (3879m), Baralacha La (4892 m), Nakli La (4800m), Lachalung La (5100m), Tanglang La (5350 m), and Khardung La (5602 m)

Manali to Leh Jeep Expedition with Tso Moriri Lake

Fixed departure dates:  Multiple dates open to Join a Group departure in June, July, August and September and can be customized on request for separate group also.

About the Activity: 

• From the pleasantly hospitable town of Manali, the Manali to Leh Jeep expedition takes you on a roller coaster drive through distinct geographies portraying diverse geographies. From hill town to high altitude arid desert, this safari is one mega experience.
• The Manali to Leh by road traverses over five high altitude Himalayan passes such as Rohtang (3,978m), Keylong (3,350m), and Tanglang La (17,585ft) showcasing an ever changing dynamic landscape that alters from barren lands to lush green pastures. With our Ladakh tour packages, you can head out for an amazing vacation with your gang.
• Tsomoriri Lake is the one attraction that demands all your attention during this jeep ride which is now Tso Moriri Wetland Conservation Reserve. It is the largest of the high altitude lakes entirely within India at an altitude of 4522 meters.
• Interact with the amazing landscapes beautified by the natural formations throughout the journey. You will come across the undeniable beauties of Khardung La Pass, Pangong Lake, Deskit, Hundar, the confluence of Zanskar and Indus Rivers, Nubra Valley etc. which all are covered in this Ladakh tour packages.
• These places have been occupied by multitudinous mountains, valleys, small streams, rock formations, monasteries, gompas and what not.
• By the end of the journey multi-hued prayer flags, Tibetian chortens, and friendly locals would be etched in your memories for a very long time to come.
• Number of PAX       Standard               Deluxe                 Super Deluxe
• Min 02 pax               Rs. 37470            Rs. 38090                Rs. 39660
• Min 03 Pax               Rs. 28530            Rs. 29260                Rs. 30620
• Min 04 pax               Rs. 24950             Rs. 25280                Rs. 27140
• Min 05 Pax               Rs. 22090             Rs. 22780                Rs. 24220
• Min 06 Pax               Rs. 20780              Rs. 21400                Rs. 22970
• Min 07 Pax               Rs. 22540             Rs. 23220                 Rs. 24700
• Min 08 Pax                Rs. 21500            Rs. 22130                  Rs. 23700
• Min 09 Pax                Rs. 20300            Rs. 20960                  Rs. 22460
• Min 10 Pax                Rs. 19690             Rs. 20320                  Rs. 21880
• Min 11 Pax                 Rs. 18870             Rs. 19520                 Rs. 21040
• Min 12 Pax                  Rs. 18480            Rs. 19100                 Rs. 20670
• Extra Bed Child            Rs. 8800             Rs. 9800                    Rs. 10700

People Also Ask About Leh

What is famous in leh ladakh, what are the famous things to do in leh, which are the famous places to visit in leh, is ladakh worth visiting, how many days are enough for leh ladakh, what is the best time to visit leh ladakh, what should i carry for the ladakh trip, which are the best ladakh tour packages that we can book from thrillophilia.

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Leh Top Attractions

Chumathang Hot Spring is a natural wonder located in the Leh district of Ladakh, India. Situated at an altitude of approximately 4,000 meters (13,123 feet), it is one of the most well-known hot springs in the region. The site is renowned for its therapeutic and healing properties, attracting visitors seeking relaxation and relief from various ailments.The hot spring's mineral-rich waters are believed to have medicinal benefits, especially for joint and skin conditions. Many travelers make the journey to Chumathang to take a rejuvenating dip in the warm waters and experience its therapeutic effects amidst the stunning Himalayan landscape.Apart from its healing properties, Chumathang Hot Spring offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains and the tranquil Indus River flowing nearby. The surrounding region is also rich in biodiversity, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers.Chumathang Hot Spring is a unique attraction that not only provides a calming escape but also offers an opportunity to connect with nature's soothing elements in the high-altitude beauty of Ladakh.

Tsaga La Pass is a breathtaking mountain pass located in Leh district of Ladakh, India. Situated at an elevation of around 15,000 feet above sea level, it is a significant route that connects the Indus Valley with the Nubra Valley. The journey to Tsaga La Pass is a thrilling adventure, offering travelers mesmerizing vistas of the surrounding landscapes on the Leh Ladakh tour.The drive to the pass is an exhilarating experience, taking you through rugged terrains, barren mountains, and occasional streams. The rugged beauty of the region, with snow-capped peaks contrasting against the clear blue skies, leaves a lasting impression on visitors. Tsaga La Pass also holds historical importance as it was once a part of the ancient Silk Route.Travelers often make stops at vantage points along the pass to capture the stunning scenery with their cameras. The pass is accessible from Leh, and the journey typically takes a few hours, but it is advisable to check road conditions before embarking on this adventurous trip. Tsaga La Pass is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and those looking to immerse themselves in the awe-inspiring beauty of Ladakh.

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Reasons to visit Leh-Ladakh in October 

If you are planning a road trip to Leh-Ladakh in the month of October then the first thing to remember is that it’s the start of winter. So expect the temperatures to be extremely cold in the nights. If you can bypass the cold weather, there are a lot of things to explore and experience which are not really possible in the rest of the year. 

Table of Contents

1. pleasant weather:.

In October, Leh-Ladakh experiences pleasant weather with clear blue skies and mild temperatures. The summer crowds have subsided, and the region is less crowded, allowing for a more peaceful and relaxed experience.

2. Autumn Colours:

October is the time when the landscape of Leh-Ladakh transforms into a mesmerizing palette of autumn colours. The mountains and valleys are adorned in shades of red, yellow, and orange, creating a breathtaking sight that is perfect for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers.

3. Festivals and Celebrations:

October is a festive month in Leh-Ladakh, with various cultural festivals and celebrations taking place. The Ladakh Festival, Hemis Festival, and Thiksey Gustor Festival are some of the prominent events that showcase the region’s rich culture, traditional music, vibrant costumes, and lively dance performances.

4. Lower Prices and Fewer Tourists:

As October marks the end of the tourist season in Leh-Ladakh , you can benefit from lower prices on accommodation, flights, and other travel expenses. The reduced number of tourists allows for a more intimate and immersive experience, allowing you to explore the region without the crowds.

5. Off-Roading and Adventure Sports:

Leh Ladakh is known for its thrilling adventure sports and off-roading experiences. In October, the roads are in good condition, making it an ideal time for exhilarating bike rides, jeep safaris, and mountain biking in this rugged terrain.

6. Wildlife Spotting:

October is a great time for wildlife enthusiasts as they can spot various species of migratory birds and animals in Leh-Ladakh. The Hemis National Park, home to the elusive snow leopard, opens its doors for visitors, offering a chance to catch a glimpse of this majestic creature.

7. Trekking Opportunities:

As the roads and passes are still accessible in October, you can embark on thrilling trekking adventures in Leh-Ladakh. The Markha Valley Trek, Chadar Trek, and Stok Kangri Trek are popular options that offer stunning panoramic views of the mountains, frozen rivers, and picturesque landscapes.

8. Monasteries and Buddhist Culture:

Leh-Ladakh is known for its rich Buddhist heritage, and visiting the monasteries in October provides a serene and spiritual experience. You can witness the daily rituals of the monks, listen to their mesmerizing chants, and explore the ancient monastic complexes.

9. Stargazing:

Leh-Ladakh is one of the best places for stargazing due to its clear night skies and minimal light pollution. In October, the weather conditions are favorable for observing the starry expanse, making it a paradise for astronomy enthusiasts.

10. Authentic Cultural Experiences:

With fewer tourists around, October provides an opportunity to interact with the locals and experience the authentic Ladakhi culture. You can participate in traditional ceremonies, engage in homestays, savour local delicacies, and learn about their way of life, enriching your travel experience.

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10 Things You Must Know Before Visiting Ladakh in October

You might be wondering whether a trip to Ladakh in October is such a good idea.

Yes, it’s true it isn’t the busiest time of the year for Ladakh. The summer months are well and truly gone with most tourists along with it. But why should that be a bad thing?

What to Know Before Visiting Ladakh in October

Ladakh in October is arguably the most beautiful time of the year. With 360 degree views of snow capped mountains and gorgeous autumn trees, who wouldn’t like that?!

But there are a few things that you should know before heading to this Himalayan paradise. If you bare these things in mind the biggest thing you’ll have to worry about is having enough storage for all the photos!

1. Anticipate Snow

Ladakh is filled with amazing mountain views, alpine lakes and fantastic treks only made more beautiful by the snow. 

There’s usually only a light dusting of snow in the lower regions of Ladakh in October. However, in the higher regions you should anticipate lots, and I mean LOTS.

Basically the higher up you go, the more snow you’ll find. The best way to see this is on the Khardung La Road. 

Once home to the highest pass in the world, the Khardung La road ascends up to over 18,000ft (around 5,359m). You’ll find hardly any snow at the bottom but gradually you’ll start to see more and you definitely won’t be disappointed when you reach the Khardung La Pass , way up at the top! It’s the perfect place in Ladakh to make a snowman that’s for sure.

If you’re planning a trip to Ladakh in October, it’d be a good idea to brush up on your snow photography skills , as you’ll want to be able to properly capture the stunning beauty of the Himalayas.

2. Be Careful on the Roads

As fun as the snow is, it can make things problematic if you don’t plan ahead.

The roads lower down in Ladakh are completely fine in October so no need to worry. Apart from the pot holes anyway. Oh and the cows. Be careful of the cows, they’re all over the roads.

The roads higher up in the Ladakh mountain ranges however are particularly prone to closure. The Leh to Manali Highway is especially a NO-GO in October. Most of the highway is unpredictable even during the summer months so it’s really not worth risking it at this time of the year. Unless you want to be rescued by helicopter anyway…

For those of you planning on driving to Ladakh from other Indian states make sure you check the status of the roads . Most will be fine but it’s always best to check.

Flying into Ladakh is a less risky mode of transport. There are pretty frequent flights into Leh throughout October. The altitude of the airport isn’t too high so snow is less of a worry, but later on in the year flights may get delayed or even cancelled in November/December time.

3. Prepare for the Altitude

This is a bit of an obvious one. But it’s hands down the most important thing to consider about Ladakh, no matter what season it is. They don’t call it the ‘land of the high passes’ for nothing.

Unless you acclimatise then it’s going to be a pretty miserable trip.

The air is so thin at that altitude that even going up a few stairs is a struggle. There are anti-sickness tablets that you can buy to prevent the sickness and headaches but make sure you’re stocked up on Paracetamol just in case. 

If you’re staying in Leh then I’d recommend staying around town for the first few days to let your body adjust. It’s a beautiful town with lots of small walks and monasteries to explore. Take advantage of those before heading off on an intense trek!

4. Be a Smart Packer

Ladakh in October can get pretty cold, especially in the mornings and evenings. Make sure you’re a smart traveller and pack appropriately. Hats, scarfs and gloves are definitely needed in the evenings or if venturing up into the mountains.

Mid-day temperatures are still quite warm, around 19-23 degrees towards the start of October and a slightly cooler 12-16 degrees towards the end.

However, since the majority of the hotels in Leh lack central heating, definitely think about packing the winter PJ’s! Luckily most of the hotels provide thick blankets.

We hadn’t even thought about this, but the hotel provided us with a hot water bottle each which we were extremely thankful for (as most nights were below 0 degrees)! You can pick up small ones which are easy to squeeze into the suitcase if you have room. You’ll thank me for this one, trust me!

Make sure you have plenty of long sleeved T-shirts and thin jumpers to wear which you can easily roll up and chuck in your rucksack during the day. And of course, pack a comfortable pair of trainers or walking boots because you’ll be doing a LOT of walking.

5. Expect Power Cuts

You can expect power cuts in Leh every single night like clockwork. The restaurants luckily stay open but say goodbye to the Wi-Fi (which is temperamental at the best of times).

Make sure you have a torch with you. Without the street lights visibility is low, especially with pollution from some of the cars too. If like us, you like to walk to places as much as you can, then torches are a necessity. The roads aren’t the best even in broad daylight so to avoid falling down pot holes or bumping into the cows take a torch!

Bare in mind this also means that your accommodation won’t have power either. Most places have back-up generators but sometimes they don’t work either so keep that in mind too especially for charging your phones, cameras etc.

6. Working the Cash Machines

Ah, Indian cash machines. Prepare to get frustrated every time you use them. This is a more general thing for the whole of India but it applies for Ladakh in October too!

Even if you’ve read this article before heading to Ladakh and mastered your Indian ATM technique I can’t guarantee you will have 100% success. Half the time the cash machines don’t have any cash in them anyway!

If I can give you one piece of advice that you take away from this article, it’s make sure you get as much cash out as you can when the ATM is working.

The opening times for the ATM’s definitely aren’t consistent. Plus some of them don’t accept foreign cards and occasionally not travel cards either.

Nowhere in Ladakh accepts card so try to have as much cash on you or even foreign currency to exchange in case you can’t access cash whilst you’re here.

At the ATM, make sure that after you select ‘cash withdrawal’ always select from the ‘credit card’ option. It’s the only option that works.

Also, at the end of every transaction, even if it was successful, always press cancel or clear on the keypad to stop the next person withdrawing from your account!

7. Phone Service is Non-Existent 

Even though there are telephone lines all throughout Ladakh, phone service is non-existent.

It’s definitely worth buying an Indian SIM card because you can load it with a very small amount of money and it will last you the whole trip. Data is extremely cheap in India so make the most of it. We were grateful for google maps on the trip that’s for sure. Especially since no one seems to know where anywhere is in India!

The locals phones all seemed to work fine but it was patchy at best for our phones. 

Your best bet is to find a cafe which has good Wi-Fi when you arrive. We found the internet was best in Leh, in the Barista Cafe and Leh Cafe, plus both places do a fantastic coffee!

8. Be Polite

This is obviously a given, but the locals respond well to tourists that make an effort to say hello to them. 

Even just knowing the word for hello (Juley – pronounced “joo-ley”) and thank you (Tu-Chi Che) will go a long way.

You’ll find the locals are some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet. The buddhists and children especially are very smiley and happy to help with directions or queries.

9. Tourist Information

The tourist information is in the centre of Leh. The ladies behind the desk are really helpful and can provide lots of advice so definitely pay them a visit!

They’re also really helpful in telling you the best places to go for tours and for buying bus tickets as there are so many in the centre it’s impossible finding the right one.

You can ask them how much you should pay for certain tours and taxi’s too so you can avoid being ripped off!

10. Enjoy the Local Food

Last but not least, enjoy the delicious selection of local food! 

Ladakh is largely made up of people with Indian, Tibetan and Chinese origin so you can get food from all three delicacies.

The dumplings and hot and spicy soups are particularly delicious and extremely comforting after a cold trek through the Ladakhi mountains.

So there you have it! That just about covers all the things you need to know before heading to Ladakh in October. It’s a stunning part of the world that you will no doubt love and treasure the memories forever!

Samantha Walker

One of the founders of People of the Planet. Psychology graduate, digital marketer, and lover of travel and exploring new places!

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Best Places to Visit in Leh – The Complete Guide

Saransh agarwal.

• October 22, 2019

A trip to Leh-Ladakh, has over the years become a popular bucket list item for anyone and everyone who likes to travel. And this comes as no surprise at all. Be it the more popular places like the Pangong Lake, Khardung La or the less popular but enriched with culture the Hemis or the Thiksey monastries of Leh, there is no end to the amazing places to visit in Leh Ladakh. And here is your detailed guide with complete information to make this dream vacation a memorable one.

If you like watching a video to get all the information, then this video is for you!!

HOW TO REACH LEH

Srinagar to Leh highway : There are both government and private buses on this route, though not as frequent as on the Manali highway.

Suggested Read: Follow this step by step itinerary to make the most of your Manali Leh cycling expedition .

WHERE TO STAY IN LEH

Leh has some wonderful stays. It has both hotels and hostels to serve all kinds of travellers visiting Leh, both the luxury travellers as well budget travellers. Depending on your inclination, feel free to book from the following options:

Luxury Hotels

Leh boasts of some of the hotels with world class amenities and picture-perfect views. When you are looking for the perfect stay with no hassles, you can be rest assured that the following hotels will live up to your expectations:

The Grand Dragon Ladakh

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tripti Dahiya (@traveldustblog) on Aug 11, 2020 at 5:01am PDT

Ladakh Sarai Resort

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ladakh Sarai (Luxury Resorts) (@ladakhsarai) on Jun 25, 2018 at 11:59pm PDT

TIH The Zen Ladakh

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Vineet Alexander (@vinalexus) on Oct 26, 2018 at 5:50am PDT

View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Abduz (@theabduz) on Feb 2, 2020 at 6:32am PST

Budget Hostels

Leh is a host to all demographics of tourists. None more so than the students and working professionals who visit this place to escape the fast paced lives that they are leading and want to soak in the best of what nature has to offer. If you are travelling on a shoe-string budget or want to meet the like minded free spirited travellers make sure that you try these hostels below.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jigar🇮🇳 (@jigzz_shah) on Apr 27, 2019 at 3:15am PDT

Raybo Hostel

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Raybo Hostels (@raybohostels) on Feb 4, 2018 at 5:59am PST

Hearth Stays

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Hearth Hostel (@thehearthstays) on Mar 15, 2019 at 2:46am PDT

Woosah Hostel

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Woosah Hostel Leh (@woosahhostel_) on Sep 20, 2020 at 5:50am PDT

• If, during your trip you do plan on sleeping in Nubra Valley , Himalayan Bunker in Hunder village is a good option.
• Otherwise homestays in Turtuk village is another good option.
• At Pangong lake , there are a lot of dhabas and motels to choose from.
• Be it Nubra Valley, Pangong or other places in these areas they are definitely worth it when it comes to the night view of the sky.
• While visiting Tso Moriri , you will find a few motels relatively nearby.

BEST PLACES TO EAT IN LEH

Leh boasts about some very good places to eat. When in Leh you could very well try the multicuisine restaurants Il Forno (Leh Main Market) and Bonfire (Old Fort Road). Both these restaurants offer some quality food and ambience. You should definitely try the Italian cuisine at Il Forno and fried momos at the Bonfire.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Yogesh Sarkar (@yogeshsarkar) on Sep 22, 2019 at 2:55am PDT

For quality vegan food, Bodhi Greens is a really good option. The host is quite welcoming as well.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bodhi Greens | Chef Varun (@bodhigreens) on May 31, 2019 at 1:01am PDT

• When you are on the road, Hunder as well as Diskit have quite a few joints to eat. However, do not expect out of the world places to eat here.
• When you are in Turtuk , you will find a few cafes to choose from. However, I would recommend trying out the Balti Kitchen . Raheem (who is the chef) is a one man show here serving some amazing food.
• Pangong lake has multiple dhabas for you to choose from.

HOW TO TRAVEL AROUND LEH

Given how beautiful Leh Ladakh is, you will be mesmerised with its charms irrespective of what option you choose to travel.

Option 1 – Bus

You can take a bus to the various places to visit in Leh. However, these buses do not visit all the spots on a daily basis. Some spots may not have any bus service at all. Others maybe as low as once or twice a week as well. Therefore, it is recommended that you check before hand for when are the buses available for the places you choose to visit. You can get this information from the JKSRTC Bus Stand .

Option 2 – Taxi

Hiring a taxi for the duration of your visit is a much better option. it will prove to be expensive yes, but this will be the most convenient as well. You can either ask the place where you are staying to help you hire a taxi or hire one from the Leh taxi stand . Beyond that feel free to contact one of the most friendly taxi driver, Stup-gyes (Number: +91 9469660648) . To understand the rates, refer to taxi union rate list for 2020-2021 season . To give you an idea, we paid 20k for 2.5 days for Mahindra Xylo. We covered Nubra Valley, Turtuk and Pangong Lake!

Option 3 – Bike

One of the most popular option, especially when it comes to a group of friends or among a relatively younger group of travellers in general, is the motorbike. This place is literally heaven for the bikers! Traversing Leh and all those places around on a bike, is the perfect mix of adventure and breathtaking views at your own speed. You can hire a bike from the many shops on the Fort Road . You can get the rate list for the 2020-2021 season here .

Option 4 – Bicycle

This is no doubt the toughest option out there but also with the most sense of accomplishment. Bicycle has gained quite a bit of popularity to reach Leh from Manali and then to also conquer Khardung La on it. However, bicycle in not popular when it comes to other places a little far way from Leh, like the Pangong lake or Nubra Valley. Still, for the local Leh sightseeing a bicycle is a fun option. You can rent a cycle from the many shops on Fort Road . Another adventure activity is to drive with your cycle to Khardung La top, and cycle back down. Getting all the thrills of a downhill ride without having to bear the physical pain to get your cycle to the top. A lot of these cycle shops offer this activity!

PLACES TO VISIT IN LEH – LADAKH

There is no disputing the fact that Leh-Ladakh region is most popular for its monastries, lakes and the landscape in general. And to make the most of your time here, read the following places that you can visit depending on your inclination and the time that you may have on your hands.

In case you want to experience all the places to visit through a video, and at the same time get all the information on places that are worth visiting in Ladakh, then do watch this video!!

Section 1 – Local Sightseeing in Leh

Out of the innumerable places to visit in Leh Ladakh, lets start with the places that are perfect for local sightseeing in Leh and other nearby places . I would recommend that you take 2 days to cover the good part of what I am about to mention in this section:

1. Leh Palace

Built in 16th century by Sengge Namgyal, Leh Palace is a testament to the pride of Namgyal dynasty. Leh Palace has become quite the popular tourist place in Leh for the splendid views it offers and how majestically it overlooks the charismatic Ladakhi village of Leh. The palace now houses a small exhibition detailing about the history of the palace and Leh in general. It is a short hike up from the Leh Main Market if you are on foot.

2. Namgyal Tsemo Gompa

Built in 15th century by the king Tashi Namgyal is a place famous for its Buddhist principals and teachings. Idols in Namgyal monastery are still worshipped and monks lights the lamps on a daily basis. It is at a walking distance from Leh Place and offer some splendid views for photography.

3. Shanti Stupa

Shanti Stupa is one of the more popular monastries in Leh-Ladakh. Every monastery offer peaceful and positive vibes and in that regard Shanti stupa is no different. Built in 1991 by Japanese Buddhist Bhikshu, Gyomyo Nakamura, it is a white-domed stupa on a hilltop in Chanspa. Make sure you head here for some peace of mind and the perfect sun-sets!

4. Hall of Fame

Hall of fame was built to memorialize the bravery and names of all those soldiers who fought and were martyred in the Indo-Pakistan war. It is to honor the Indian soldiers and serves as the reminder of the fact that their service to the nation will never be forgotten. Run by the Indian Army, the Hall of Fame houses, weapons, history exhibits & a souvenir shop as well.

5. Leh Main Market

Leh Main Market or Leh Main Bazaar is one of the liveliest places to visit in Leh. It is always brimming with people and is popular for shopping, eating meals in the cafes, the delicious street food, buying souvenirs, pashmina shawls, Buddhist relics or jamming with strangers to perfect tunes, this market has it all. One of the best places to spend an evening in Leh.

6. Thiksey Monastery

Thiksey Monastery is a thing of beauty. This 12 storeyed gompa is a home to more than 500 monks. This monastery is one of the largest in central Ladakh and you should definitely visit, if you want to know more about the Buddhism culture in general and more specifically see all the beautiful artwork and stupas up close.

7. Hemis Monastery

Just like Leh Palace, Hemis Monastery is another important place in the Ladakhi history, that can be attributed to the king Sengge Namgyal. For any traveller, Hemis almost always makes the list of places to visit in Leh-ladakh. With all its murals, paintings and stupas it is a paradise for someone who can appreciate art or wants to learn more about the Buddhism culture. Hemis sees a huge influx of people during the annual two day festival which just makes the monastery absolutely vibrant.

8. Spituk Monastery

Spituk Gompa has as old a history as any other monastery out there. Having stood tall through the test of time, this beautifully carved monastery is home to more than 100 monks. Spituk Gompa (also known as Pethup Gompa) is about 8km from Leh. This serene monastery observes Gustor Festival from 27-29th of the 11th month of Tibetan calendar every year and it is a sight worth witnessing first hand.

Without a doubt, these are some of the must visit places in Leh. If you still end up with more time on your hand you can visit the following places – Zorawar Fort, Datun Sahib, Sindhu Ghat, Sankar Gompa and Phyang Monastery.

Section 2 – A Day in Sham Valley near Leh

It is important to note that all the places that I mention in this section are in between Sham Valley and Leh. A day trip on this Leh Srinagar highway till Sham valley and back can easily be done in a day. Read along to learn all that you can do in one day:

1. Gurdwara Pather Sahib

Amongst the many beautiful monastries and in the land of monks stand a Gurdwara to pay homage to Gura Nanak Dev Ji. According to the legend , Guru Nanak conquered a demon at this very same place and forgave him for his sins. The Gurdwara is about 23km from Leh, on the Leh-Kargil highway and is maintained by the Indian Army. Did you know – this place is equally respected by Sikhs as well as Ladakhis. Make sure you visit the place to soak in its peaceful vibes!

2. Magnetic Hill

Magnetic Hill is one of those places that you wouldn’t believe exists until you actually visit it it on your own. At about 27 km from Leh, there appears a yellow signboard after which the magic happens. You park your vehicle inside the marked box, switch the gear to neutral and voila, you appear to defy all laws of gravity. Two possible explanations are prominent: First, that it is just an optical illusion given the whole landscape and that you aren’t actually going uphill but rather downhill. Second theory, which is still unproven is that due to magnetic pull of the earth cars tend to move uphill on their own. Well, in any case you can only find out once you visit this intriguing place!

3. Sangam – Zanskar and Indus River Confluence

At Nimmu, a simple yet a soothing view awaits you. This is where Indus river and Zanskar River meet. This place of confluence of these two rivers has also popularly came to be known as Sangam. Given the various factors, the rivers change their color as well as force of their flow throughout the year. When the Zanskar river freezes in winters, the ever so popular Chadar trek takes place wherein the experience of walking on frozen lake and seeing waterfalls that have frozen mid-air is quite a sight.

4. Basgo Palace and Monastery

Basgo is quite popular for its ruins. At about 40km from Leh, Basgo Palace is stands tall atop a cliff. It houses three splendid temples that date back between 15th and 17th century. These temples are namely – Chamba Lhakhang, Serzang and Chamchung. Palace and monastery, given their position above the Basgo town, they offer some breathtaking views. This place has also been named in the world’s 100 most endangered heritage sites by the World Monuments Fund.

5. Likir Monastery

Likir monastery or Likir Gompa is quite deeply routed in the history of Buddhism. Built in 11th century, the monastery is believed to be protected by the serpent spirits. Some of the models are made of butter and yet they do not melt, how cool is that? The monastery is about 56km from Leh and one that you should not skip. Especially so, if you want to learn more about the Buddhist culture as there is a public library on the premises.

6. Alchi Monastery

Located at about 66km from Leh, Alchi monastery or Alchi gompa is no more an active monastery and is maintained by the monks of Likir monastery. This monastery is one of the oldest ones in Leh. With such historic murals, sculptures and paintings, this monastery is a testament to an era gone by. There are camps as well in the Alchi village should you wish to spend the night here in absolute peace and away from hustle bustle of Leh.

Visiting all these places is sure to uplift your spirits, bring you quite a bit of joy and relieve the tensions of your daily lives. You can either choose to stay at Alchi or come back to Leh. Generally people travel back to Leh the same day. Should you end up with a lot more time on your hand feel free to visit Rizong Monastery and if you go further on the highway still you can visit the Hemis Shukpachan village for some photograph worthy views.

Section 3 – Rest of Amazing Ladakh

Now that we are done with places to visit in Leh and nearby areas, let’s move a little further. Even though the places in this section maybe a little distant from Leh they still are the ones that are most popular and on every ttraveller’s bucket list. If you plan on visiting all of them on this list it might take you about 3 days or so.

1. Khardung La

Khardung La is one of the highest motorable roads around. At 17,852ft, this mountain pass offers the perfect challenge to ride to the top. This ride is the holy grail for bikers. Also, A few of the operators and cycle shop owners (on Leh fort road) are offering to drive you to the top and then you can come back down on a cycle for an exhilarating adventure. At such a height Khardung La offers some splendid views that are second to none. When you set out on the tour for rest of Ladakh this mountain pass will serve as the gateway to Shyok and Nubra valley.

2. Nubra Valley

Nubra Valley is one of the most beautiful places in all of Ladakh. About 160km from Leh, Nubra has it all, be it monasteries, lakes, cold desert, sand dunes or absolutely peaceful villages. Any soul that has stepped foot here has left with nothing less than pure bliss and a peace of mind. That figures, given the profound natural beauty of the valley. However, given the sensitivity of the region and its proximity to Siachen, essential permits need to be taken to visit Nubra valley. Read along for the various places that you can visit in Nubra Valley:

a. Diskit Monastery

One of the oldest surviving monasteries in the Nubra Valley, the Diskit Monastery (Gompa) has become quite popular amongst tourists. It also features the statue of Maitreya Buddha, standing tall with an impressive height of 106ft. The monastery oversees the beautiful village of Diskit. The ministry also runs a school in association with the NGO, “Tibet Support Group”.

b. Hunder Sand Dunes

Ladakh is a cold desert and its terrain and beautiful landscapes are a testament to that. To add to that you can actually find sand dunes in Hunder village of Nubra Valley. And if that wasn’t enough to convince you, how about the fact that you can find the Bactrian two humped camels here. Also, you can take a ride. Now, how cool is that!

c. Panamik Village

Panamik is a small village by the Nubra river and offers some splendid panoramic vistas to soak in. It is popular for its hot sulfur springs which is believed to have medicinal properties. Also, should you visit Panamik make sure you shop from here for their Pashmina shawls and other Kashmiri and Tibetan artefacts.

d. Turt uk Village

Turtuk is one of the northernmost villages in Ladakh. If you ever thought of having a place of your own amongst the mountains in a small beautiful village, well Turtuk is it. This village is surrounded by some of the most beautiful views you are ever likely to see. This untouched gem has now been open to tourists for some while. Locals are more than happy to share their stories and the cafes here serve good food. Do try Balti Kicthen, if you do choose to visit this place.

Other than these places Nubra Valley is also home to the Yarab tso Lake and Samstanling Gompa. Should you have more time on your hand and want to explore you can definitely try out these places.

3. Pangong Tso

Pangong Lake or Pangong Tso situated at a height of 14,270ft, it is the definition of calm. You could spend an entire day and still not get enough of it. 60% of the lake is in China while the rest remains within the borders of India and much lesser part of it is still accessible to public. And yet when you will look at it, you will only be able to see the lake till the horizon. Interestingly, given the time of day and year, you can see the water in the lake have different colors. The lake shot to fame after the movie “3 idiots” and has been on everyone’s bucket list when it comes to places to visit in Leh-Ladakh.

4. Tso Moriri

Surrounded by towering peaks, Tso Moriri (or Moriri lake) remains quite secluded from the outside world. It is a lesser known/visited alternative to Pangong Lake. Like Pangong lake, Tso Moriri is frozen during the winters too. And owing to the landscape around it, this is quite the place for photography. Given that the lake is situated in the Changtang Wildlife Sanctuary, you may also be able to spot the likes of bare-headed goose, the Brahmin duck, the great-crested grebe and the brown-headed gull. Himalayan hares are popular as well around the lake.

With this comes the end to this section that talks about some of the most popular places to visit in Leh-Ladakh. If after visiting all this you still seem to have time on your hand for your dream trip to Leh-Ladakh, I would recommend that you rent a bike from Leh and traverse the Manali-Leh highway. You will see sceneries that you didn’t know exist and you will have an experience to cherish forever. I along with two of my best friends cycled from Manali to Leh on the same highway and those are the days that are etched in my memory as some of my best on this beautiful planet!

Suggested Read: Should you feel like reading about the highway or our experiences from the trip feel free to give these articles a read .

HOW TO GET PERMITS TO VISIT PLACES IN LEH-LADAKH?

Ladakh being close to the border, some of these areas that lie under the Inner Line, require that in order to visit, Indian tourists get Ladakh Inner Line Permit (“ILP”) and foreigners get Protected Area Permit (“PAP”). Places to visit in Leh-Ladakh that fall under Inner Line and require permits are Khardung La, Nubra Valley, Turtuk, Dah-Hanu villages, Man, Merak, Nyoma, Loma Bend, Tyakshi, Chan La, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri, Chusul, Hanle, Digger La, Tangyar (for trekking only). Both ILP and PAP permits can be obtained online through the www.lahdclehpermit.in website. Please note however that permits for Hanle and Pangaon lake to Tso Moriri direct route can only be obtained by going in person to the Leh DC office . Alternatively, you can get the permit online but will still have to go to the Leh DC office to get the permits stamped. Please note that places like Leh, Tso Kar, or Zanskar Valley do not require any permits.

SOME HELPFUL TIPS FOR THE TRIP

• It takes 6-7 days or so to enjoy most of the places to visit in Leh-Ladakh. If you have lesser time, then you will have to pick which places interest you the most.
• While renting a bike, make sure that it is in a proper condition for a hassle free ride.
• Some parts of this tour can cause you high altitude sickness or mountain sickness. Best is to spend a couple days in and aroud Leh so as to acclimatize to the altitude.
• If at any point you feel breathless, you could return to the car and stay put for a while and/or use camphor (kapur). You should also keep doctor prescribed medicine.
• Travelling in hills can always cause motion sickness. Please only keep doctor prescribed medicine.
• Tourists while visiting Nubra valley, generally sleep at either Hunder or Diskit village. Though, my personal recommendation is to spend one night in Turtuk, at one of their homestays and get to know more about the people and wake up to a peaceful morning with stunning views.
• Should you decide to stay the night at Pangong, there are camps available. Though, be ready for strong winds at night.
• Only BSNL and Airtel post-paid sim or a locally bought pre-paid sim card are the only ones that work in Leh.
• Generally speaking the temperatures are always low in the region and especially so at night, make sure that you pack enough warm clothes for the trip.
• Make sure that you do not litter at all. It is your responsibility to keep such a pristine place clean.

Have you made a list of places to visit in Leh-Ladakh yet? Let us know some of your favourite ones in comments below!

ENJOYED READING ABOUT PLACES TO VISIT IN LEH-LADAKH?

Read more articles related Manali and Leh: Manali to Leh cycling – Complete guide Photo Blog – Ditch your Enfield and take a CYCLE from Manali to Leh! 7 day solo trip to Manali Trek to Beas Kund, Solang in Manali

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Thank you for giving this more information about the Ladakh and places i really liked it, Awesome I enjoyed reading your blog post. The places listed here on this blog are too good. Good job!

Thanks for the appreciation! Glad it was helpful

Very comprehensive and informative! I think these tips and advice are much helpful. Thank you for such detailed description of the destination. Leh is really awesome tourist Spot.

Glad you found the blog helpful. Hope you have a wonderful trip!

Thanks for this informative article

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25 Best Things to Do in Ladakh

Located in the Greater Himalayas in far North India, Ladakh is one of the most incredibly beautiful places I’ve ever seen with my own eyes. The rugged arid valleys are flanked by the jagged, snow-capped peaks of the Zanskar, Ladakh and Karakoram ranges and hilltops are dotted with crumbling ancient monasteries.

It’s undoubtedly an unbelievable adventure to even reach Leh, the capital of Ladakh. The town sits at a lofty altitude of 3500m and requires a long road journey or spectacular flight to reach. But from there, you can explore the surrounding area, which has plenty of things to do and see from Buddhist monasteries to high altitude lakes.

I’ve visited Ladakh twice now and spent over two months in total in the region. It’s easily one of my favourite places to visit in India. This post will give you a detailed look at the must see sights in the Ladakh region for your next trip to North India. See you there!

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Why Visit the Ladakh Region?

Ladakh covers the far northern extent of the Indian subcontinent and is bordered by Pakistan to the west and China and Tibet to the north and east. Flanked by the dramatic Karakoram Mountains and Zanskar Range, the region is an incredibly beautiful part of the Greater Himalayas.

Characterised by an arid mountain area, known as a cold desert, the landscape is one of the most unique aspects of Ladakh. That coupled with a fascinating history of the ancient Silk Road and a predominantly Buddhist population, the region is very different to the rest of India.

Leh is the main town and transport hub of the Ladakh region. This is where you’ll want to head to explore Ladakh. While some people confuse Leh and Ladakh as being the same thing, Leh is the town while Ladakh is the name of the broader region. From old monasteries dotting ridgelines to delicious Tibetan food, there are many reasons why Ladakh offers one of the best adventures in India.

Essential Reading: Comprehensive Travel Guide to Ladakh

How to Get to Leh, Ladakh

You can reach Leh by road or by air. However, getting to Leh is no easy feat, especially if you decide to take the road option.

The journey to Leh by road is one of the  greatest road trips  in the world and is not for the faint-hearted. To reach Leh by road, you can come from two directions:  from Srinagar or from Manali . There are public buses, tourist buses and shared taxis tackling the roads in both directions during summer.

For most travellers, coming from Manali is convenient and the most popular option, although the road is more arduous with three high passes. On the other hand, the Srinagar-Leh road is less travelled but is a great option if you want to explore Kashmir. The Srinagar-Leh route also has a more gradual altitude climb compared to Manali.

If you prefer to fly, there is a small airstrip in town at Leh Airport . There are frequent flights to Delhi throughout the year. In winter, this is the only way in and out for tourists. Prices can vary hugely and when any of the roads from Delhi to Ladakh are washed out or closed, expect prices to skyrocket. The flight time is around 1.5 hours and tickets can cost between 3000 rupees (AU$60) up to 10,000 (AU$200) rupees one way.

Read more: How to Get to Leh by Public Transport

When is the Best Time to Visit Ladakh

High season runs from June to August in Ladakh. These are the best months for road safety, as the weather is at its warmest and the snow has been cleared from most passes. However, it’s also the busiest time, although it’s not as crowded as other parts of India.

Still, if you want to join any tours or treks, then it’s the perfect season to meet other travellers and join groups. Outside of these months it can be hard to find regular departures for tours.

On the other hand, you can also go to Ladakh between April and June or from September to October, before and after most of the tourists arrive and leave. However, road conditions can’t always be guaranteed and you’ll have to check closures before departing.

Where to Stay in Leh

There are plenty of accommodation options for all budgets in Leh. For budget travellers, the best accommodation are the family-run guesthouses that you can find around the market and Fort Road. You could easily find somewhere to stay upon arriving by walking around, but here are my top picks if you want to book ahead.

Budget: Raybo Hostel

Budget: Peace Guest House

Midrange: Chandan Guest House

Midrange: Rock Castle Residency

High-end: Grand Dragon

Read more: Best Places to Stay in Leh for All Budgets

Permits and Ticket Prices for Ladakh

For some places around Ladakh, travellers require an Inner Line Permit or Protected Area Permit . These places include Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley and Tso Moriri, with check points on some of the roads and passes. Permits are approved by the Deputy Commissioner’s Office in Leh and are valid for a maximum period of 15 days for foreigners.

While you can arrange the permit yourself, if you’re joining a jeep tour to Pangong and Nubra Valley the travel agency can easily arrange it for you. The permit costs 560 rupees (AUD$11) for a standard three night tour from Leh for a foreigner.

Apart from the permits, entry fees are pretty cheap around Ladakh. Most monasteries charge somewhere between 30-50INR (AU$0.50-1) for entry, with a couple of exceptions like Hemis Monastery and Alchi Monastery which charge 100INR (AU$2).

How to Get Around Ladakh

Once you find yourself in Leh town, getting around Ladakh to all of the attractions listed below is relatively easy with a variety of options. Whether you hire your own transport or opt to go with public transport, travelling by road in Ladakh is one of the best experiences in the region. The options you have include:

• Public bus: There are limited public bus services to places around Leh, however you’ll need a lot of time and patience to reach most places. Head to the bus station in Leh to check the latest schedule and whether buses are running at all (it highly depends on demand sometimes).
• Shared tours: A convenient way for all travellers is to join one of the organised tours leaving Leh regularly during high season. Virtually every travel agency in Leh have departures a few times per week, usually covering the same route: Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley and, sometimes Turtuk over 3-4 days. This is a great way for budget travellers to share the cost of a driver and vehicle.
• Private taxi: Taxis operate as part of a union in Ladakh, which means prices are set for each destination. You can easily get a taxi in Leh for day trips and dropping at trekking route trailheads for a fair price.

I opted for a combination of public transport and organised tours to get around to most places. I found this the perfect balance as a budget traveller. But, taxis can also be very convenient for obscure trips like to the trailhead of trekking routes.

Read more: A Detailed 10 Day Leh Ladakh Itinerary

Best Things to Do in Ladakh

Ladakh is a large area, covering numerous valleys, villages, monasteries, lakes and peaks. There are plenty of sights and attractions to keep you busy for weeks. Even after two trips there, I still have places on my list that I want to visit next time.

Below I’m outlining the 25 best things to do in Ladakh, based on my experience in the region. This covers the essential things to see and do if you want to get the most out of your trip to North India. But it also includes a few off the beaten track places as well, such as Zanskar Valley, for those that have extra time.

1. Leh Market

The main bazaar and tourist area in the middle of Leh town is the hub of all the action. It has everything you might need, such as souvenir shops, trekking gear shops, travel agencies, cafes, supermarkets, banks and a government-run tourist information office.

It’s the best place to people watch and enjoy the best that the town has to offer. The main thoroughfare is Old Fort Road and Main Bazaar Road, with part of the Bazaar Road being pedestrian only. This is where you’ll find some of the best cafes and restaurants in town as well.

You can also access Leh Palace on foot from the northern end of the bazaar, which is worth a visit (detailed below).

2. Central Asian Museum

I highly recommend a visit to the Central Asian Museum, which is tucked behind the Main Bazaar Road. It’s the best place to learn about the history of the Ladakh region and is housed inside an old mosque.

It features some incredible photographs from the ancient Silk Road days, plus artefacts showcasing the local culture and history. The top level also offers a nice view of Leh Palace and the Sikh temple.

Entry fee: 50 INR (AU$1)

3. Shanti Stupa

Shanti Stupa is one of the most popular things to do in Leh. The white washed stupa sits atop a hill to the northwest of Leh town. It’s nowhere near as old as many of the monasteries around Ladakh and was built just in 1991.

However, the appeal for non-Buddhists is the incredible vantage point of the stupa, which offers one of the best views over Leh. You can either drive up to the stupa or walk. If you want to walk, you can find a steep staircase at the end of Changspa Road which consists of around 500 steps to reach the top. Otherwise a taxi will set you back about 400INR (AU$8) return from Leh town.

It’s best to head up there at sunset, when the last light offers an incredible glow across the valley and mountains.

4. Leh Palace

Leh Palace is the remaining evidence of Leh’s status as the royal capital of Ladakh from the 17th century onwards. It was the residence of the royal family who ruled over most of Western Tibet at the time. The incredible structure still stands tall above Leh town and is one of the best things to do in Ladakh.

You can explore the nine levels of the palace, which has recently seen a lot of effort put into turning some rooms into a museum. Plus, the view from the ninth floor is outstanding, right across the town below.

You can drive around to the palace by road. Or, you can climb up from Leh Bazaar on foot and just admire the incredible view over the valley. You’ll find stairs leading up to the palace from Old Leh town, which can be accessed by taking the small street running off the main market near the Jama Masjid (main mosque).

Entry fee: 100 INR (AU$2)

5. Namgyal Tsemo Monastery

Sitting high above Leh Palace is Tsemo Monastery and the old fortress ruins. As one of the highest points in Leh town, it easily offers one of the best views.

The beautiful monastery was founded in the 15th century and is one of my favourite spots to watch the sunset. You can drive up to the temple, or hike up to it from two different directions.

The walk up from Chubi is on a paved trail with stairs. It starts beside the Chubi HP Petrol Station on Sankar Road. But, most people hike up from Leh Palace, where you’ll see a dirt trail cut into the mountain. It’s a bit of a workout if you’re not yet acclimatised to the altitude!

Entry fee: 30 INR (AU$0.60)

6. Pangong Lake

Pangong Tso is one of the highest saltwater lakes in the world sitting at 4250m. It’s also one of Ladakh’s biggest drawcards. The fluorescent blue colour of the water amongst the arid slopes of the mountains is a truly spectacular sight.

It’s considered sacred for Buddhists and almost 2/3 of the lake actually lies across the border in Tibet. Pangong is over 150km east of Leh town and requires a long drive to reach, including crossing a high mountain pass, Chang La, at over 5000m.

Many people travel to Pangong Lake to spend the night there or as part of a multi-day tour to Nubra Valley from Leh. You’ll find many glamping style accommodation and guesthouses strung along the shores of the lake to choose from.

Most people stay at a place called Spangmik , a cluster of hotels on the lake shore. However, we asked our driver to continue to the last village called Man , which only had a couple of places and a more laidback vibe. Or you can continue even further to Merak , one of the last villages before the Tibet border.

Prices can vary wildly and many charge at least 2000 INR (AU$40) per person for a glamping style tent.

Where to stay? Nirvana Resort in Spangmik or Pangong Travel Camp in Man

7. Khardung La

While there are numerous high passes you can cross while exploring Ladakh, the most famous is Khardung La. This road pass was once considered to be the highest road pass in the world and sits at 5360m. It connects Leh with Diskit in Nubra Valley and is usually included as part of a tour to the valley and Pangong Lake.

The drive from Leh to Khardung La is just 40km, but takes over an hour due to the constant hairpin bends and some patches of rough conditions. The road is only open from May until October and, depending on when you drive the road, it can have snow and be riddled with landslides. However, there’s constant construction and improvements going on, meaning it’s mostly kept in good condition.

Be prepared for a lot of crowds and traffic, with a bit of a chaotic atmosphere as everyone tries to get out and take a photo. There are a couple of teahouses up there and a military outpost, so you can have a break and soak in the feeling of driving up over 5000m.

8. Nubra Valley

One of the most popular excursions from Leh is to travel north to Nubra Valley. This is the most recently opened area of the Ladakh region and was once an important valley through which traders on the Silk Road passed through. Nubra Valley stretches from the Karakoram Mountains in Pakistan to the border of Tibet. 

To reach Nubra Valley, you’ll have to cross the incredible Khardung La pass from Leh. It forms a tri-armed valley cut by the Nubra and Shyok Rivers and backed by the Karakoram Mountains. Its Tibetan name Dumra means “valley of flowers”, as it’s easily one of the most beautiful parts of the region.

Other than the obvous beauty, most people head to Nubra to also visit Diskit Monastery, the Hunder sand dunes and Bactrian camels. You can also access Turtuk and Siachen Glacier from Nubra Valley.

9. Diskit Monastery and Buddha Statue

The main town in Nubra Valley is  Diskit , which has a beautiful monastery and plenty of hotels and restaurants servicing all the bikers and tours en route. Diskit Monastery dates back to the 14th century and is the oldest and largest in Nubra Valley.

It occupies a spectacular location, high up on the rocky slopes of the valley. Also known as Diskit Gompa, the monastery’s most prominent attraction is the 100ft Maitreya Buddha statue which offers a panoramic view of the valley floor.

Entry fee: 40INR (AU$0.80)

Where to stay? Ama Guesthouse or Himalayan Regal House

10. Hunder Sand Dunes

On the western outskirts of Diskit, you’ll find a stretch of sand dunes, which offer a bizarre contrast to the snow-capped mountains surrounding them.

Double humped camels known as Bactrian camels roam around the dunes, and there are plenty of people offering camel trips and tours. This is by far the most popular thing to do in Nubra Valley, but we decided to just spend time patting the camels instead!

You can also stay in Hunder, a smaller village than Diskit and closer to the sand dunes. It’s part military base and part local village, with some basic shops and restaurants.

Where to stay? Hunder Stay and Camp or Hunder Haven

For those with more time, a drive further west from Nubra Valley will bring you to the village of Turtuk. This is the northernmost accessible village in India. Technically a part of Baltistan, which is mostly now in Pakistan, the village is home to ethnic Balti people.

It’s a picturesque village on the banks of the Shyok River and if you climb up to the small temple on the side of the slope high above, you’ll get spectacular views of snow capped mountains through the valley.

The town is not always included on a tour but it’s certainly one of the most beautiful and unique places to see in Ladakh and is worth the long drive. There are various homestays available in Turtuk if you want to spend the night, and I highly recommend that you do.

Where to stay? Khan Homestay offers rooms for 1000 rupees (AUD$20) or Sukoon Homestay charges around 1600 rupees (AU$30).

12. Shey Palace

Shey Palace is just 12km south of Leh town and an old royal palace and monastery complex dating back to the 17th century. It was used as a summer retreat by the royal family until they fled during the Dogra invasion of the 19th century to nearby Stok.

While the palace is now in ruins, the monastery is worth visiting and requires a bit of a steep climb to reach. The main temple houses a large copper statue of Shakyamuni Buddha, which is the second largest of its kind in Ladakh.

From the vantage point offered by the complex on the edge of the valley, you can see right across the area, including further down to Thiksey Monastery, Stok and Stakna.

13. Thiksey Monastery

Further down the Keylong-Leh Road from Shey Palace, you’ll come across the impressive Thiksey Monastery. This is one of the grandest monasteries in the Ladakh region and I highly recommend a visit. It consists of 10 temples, a nunnery and an assembly hall, all of which are built up over the top of a hill, similar to many other monasteries in the region.

Thiksey is known to have a distinct resemblance to Lhasa’s Potala, the former seat of the Dalai Lamas. It’s incredibly impressive as soon as you arrive in the car park at the bottom and gaze up at the structures cascading down the hill.

You can walk your way up through the complex, following narrow passageways to reach the more important temples at the top. Towards the back of the complex, the monastery also operates a restaurant open all day for visitors. While an unlikely highlight, we thought it had some of the best North Indian food we’d eaten in Ladakh and at very reasonable prices.

Entry fee: 50INR (AU$1)

14. Spituk Monastery

If you’re short on time and looking for a monastery closer to Leh, Spituk Monastery is just 7km outside of town on the other side of the airport and past the Hall of Fame Museum. While it appears much smaller than other monasteries like Thiksey, it’s far less visited and offers a quieter experience.

The view from the top of the monastery complex is quite stunning, with a vista across Leh town, Leh Palace and the valley towards Stok Kangri. It’s best visited at sunrise or sunset if you want the perfect lighting.

There’s a small museum and a few temples to visit around the top of the monastery, with friendly monks to show you the way.

Entry fee: 20 INR (AU$0.40)

15. Hemis Monastery

Arguably the most important monastery to visit during your time in Ladakh, Hemis Monastery is the largest in the region. While it was officially established in the 17th century, many believed that it was used as a temple as far back as the 11th century.

It’s built in between a gorge in the Hemis National Park with a large courtyard at its centre. The buildings are intricately carved in a traditional Tibetan technique with paintings around the windows and doors. There is also a fantastic museum inside with an important collection of Buddhist artefacts and relics.

One of the best times to visit the monastery is during the festival dedicated to Guru Rinpoche which is held in June or July each year. It’s an incredibly popular event on the Ladakh calendar and one that attracts hundreds of people every year.

Hemis is an hour’s drive south from Leh off the Leh-Manali Highway.

16. Stok Monastery

Just outside of Leh and across the valley at the base of Stok Kangri, Stok village was home to the royal family of Ladakh, the Namgyals, after they fled during the invasion of the Dogras. The small settlement is dominated by the old Stok Monastery, founded by Lama Lhawang Lotus in the 14th Century.

In front of the monastery is an impressive 71-foot Gautama Buddha statue, built just 10 years ago, which offers a great view over the village and back towards Leh. A taxi from Leh to Stok and back will cost around 1200 INR (AU$24), including waiting time at the monastery and lunch at a home stay.

17. Gyab-thago Heritage Home Stay in Stok

While the monastery is the dominating highlight, Stok village is also home to a number of homestays and local restaurants. I recommend arranging a visit to Gyab-thago Heritage Homestay. This lovely family offer a daily lunch (with prior arrangement) showcasing local Ladakhi dishes.

From home brewed Chhang beer to butter tea, veg momos and skyu noodle soup, you’ll get to taste the delicious home-cooked local food. Plus, they also have a 200-year-old house out the back that they will take you on a tour of to see how the older generations used to live.

Where to stay? Many homestays offer beds or try the 5 star Stok Palace Heritage Hotel , inside the converted old palace for something really unique.

18. Markha Valley Trek

There are numerous treks in Ladakh, however, the most popular one for independent hikers is Markha Valley trek. It’s easily accessible from Leh and can be organised completely on your own because there’s a good network of homestays along the way. You can also arrange local taxis to drop and pick you up from the trailheads at Chilling and Shang Sumdo.

The trek takes around 4-5 days to complete, including the crossing of Kongmaru La at 5250m. This obviously means you’ll want to be well acclimatised in Leh before attempting this trek.

It offers one of the best ways to explore the landscapes of Ladakh at a slower pace and enjoy the hospitality of the old Tibetan villages. Make sure you check out my guide if you plan on doing it yourself, otherwise you can also hire a guide or join a tour from Leh.

Read more: A Guide to Hiking the Markha Valley Trek

19. Sham Valley Trek

If you’re looking for a shorter or easier trek in the region, the Sham Valley trek is a popular option as well. Another homestay adventure starting in Likir, you don’t necessarily need a guide for this trek and it can be done independently just like Markha Valley.

Covering approximately 30km over three days and ascending over numerous passes at around 4,000m, it’s still no walk in the park, and you’ll want to have at least a few days in Leh to acclimatise before setting out.

Read more: Complete Guide to the Sham Valley Trek in Ladakh

20. Zanskar Valley

Zanskar Valley is seldom visited by tourists who travel to Ladakh. It’s very remote, has basic infrastructure and is a challenging place to reach. However, it’s also one of the most rewarding places to visit in the entire country.

The high altitude, Zanskar Valley sits in the lower Ladakh region south of Leh amongst breathtakingly rugged mountains surrounded by crumbling ancient Buddhist monasteries. While it doesn’t appear too far away from the town of Leh, the journey to reach Zanskar Valley requires a pretty epic road trip on either a bus or shared taxi.

Once you reach Padum, at the centre of Zanskar, however, you’ll be one of only a few visitors to explore the area per year. There are some fascinating old monasteries and palaces to explore, as well as a rewarding trek out to Phuktal Monastery, one of the last remaining places like it in India.  

Read more: How to Explore Zanskar Valley in North India

21. Alchi Monastery

Hidden away off the main highway connecting Srinagar to Leh, Alchi Monastery is often forgotten on a trip to Ladakh. However, its strategic location has allowed it to remain untouched even during countless invasions by enemies over the centuries.

Instead of being built cascading down a hilltop like other Ladakh monasteries, the complex is spread out with multiple temples, shrines, assembly halls and a monastic school. The old Buddhist buildings are uniquely carved with decorated wooden details on the doors and windows.

However, one of the complex’s most important feature is the almost 900-year old colourful murals which have remained intact and well-preserved over the years inside the temples. Some depict historical events, while others include thousands of pictures of Buddha. It’s considered one of the most important historical sites in Ladakh.

It’s located an hour and half west of Leh, on the way to Lamayuru and Srinagar.

22. Lamayuru

Along with Hemis Monastery, Lamayuru is one of the most important monasteries in the Ladakh region. The awe-inspiring complex is built amongst the otherworldly landscape and rocky terrain between Srinagar and Leh. The main highway passes right through Lamayuru village and the view of the monastery from the road is certainly worth a quick photo stop before exploring it further.

Lamayuru is the oldest monastery in Ladakh, with the central prayer cave dating back to the 11th century. The remainder of the complex was built in the 16th century by King Namgyal. 

There is an annual festival known as Yuru Kabgyat held at Lamayuru sometime between June or July each year. It’s one of the best experiences in Ladakh, attracting Buddhist pilgrims from near and far, as well as many tourists who wish to witness the famous masked dances.

The village around the monastery has plenty of guesthouses and restaurants open for visitors who wish to spend time at the monastery. Lamayuru is two and a half hours drive from Leh, on the way to Kargil and Srinagar.

23. Tso Moriri

While everyone who travels to Ladakh wants to visit the huge Pangong Lake, there is another just as beautiful lake known as Tso Moriri or the “Mountain Lake”. It’s located on the Changthang Plateau south of Leh at an altitude of 4522m.

The lake and surrounding area are protected under the Tso Moriri Wetland Conservation Reserve, as it attracts a range of wildlife, including migratory birds, marmots and on rare occasions, the Tibetan wolf.

The lake is very remote and requires an epic 6-7 hour drive to reach from Leh. There’s very limited infrastructure around the lake, but you can find some basic homestays and glamping accommodation in Karzok village on the western side of the lake. Any travel agency in Leh will be able to help arrange a jeep and driver to get you to Tso Moriri, but expect it to be pricey.

Where to stay? Tsomoriri Resorts or MilkyWay Guesthouse

24. Stok Kangri

For any keen adventurers, one of the ultimate experiences in Ladakh is climbing Stok Kangri. The peak stands at 6153m just across the valley from Leh town. It’s considered the perfect introduction to mountaineering for beginners, with little technical skills or experienced required. But it’s not for the faint hearted.

The expedition takes between 4-6 days, beginning from Stok village and heading to base camp. The main challenge during a Stok Kangri trek is the summit day. Trekkers have to brave sub-zero temperatures and trek on a glacier for about 6-7 hours in the dark, before walking on the ridgeline for two hours to reach the actual summit.

It’s recommended to spend at least a couple of days around Leh town before you attempt the climb to acclimatisation. There are a few agencies in Leh that are able to arrange a Stok Kangri climb, with most ascents done in the summer time. 

25. Mulbekh Monastery

Sitting 600 ft above the Leh-Srinagar Highway in a village called Mulbekh, Mulbekh Monastery is one of the most unique things to do in Ladakh. Home to a stunning 30-ft tall Buddha statue carved into the rock, it’s unlike anything else in the region.

Believed to have been built about 800 years ago, it’s accessible by a steep footpath up from the road. It’s just 45 km from Kargil or 260 km from Leh on the incredible road trip between Leh and Kashmir. It’s possible to combine Alchi, Lamayuru and Mulbekh on one long day trip from Leh or stay in Lamayuru for a one night trip.

More North India Travel Guides

• Complete 10 Day Leh Ladakh Itinerary
• Best Cafes in Leh
• Best Places to Stay in Leh
• How to Explore Zanskar Valley
• A Guide to Hiking the Markha Valley Trek
• A Travel Guide to Spiti Valley

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[…] Read next: 18 Best Things to Do in Ladakh […]

[…] the best months to visit the Himalayas in India. This is the short time when roads are open to Ladakh and Spiti Valley in the far north. However, most of the rest of the country succumb to intense […]

For those who want to explore Ladakh, you have created a thorough and interesting guide. I appreciate the way you divided the material into categories and added pertinent details and advice. Your writing is compelling and clear.

[…] Best Things to Do in Leh, Ladakh […]

[…] to what you’ll find in Ladakh and Zanskar Valley, Spiti Valley is home to some incredible monasteries, including the postcard […]

[…] for its bright blue colour, similar to more popular Pangong Lake in Ladakh, Chandratal is an incredible sight. With no public transport options, and a rough detour off the […]

[…] views over the arid, snow-capped landscape. This itinerary I’ve put together covers the best things to do in Ladakh over 10 days based on my multiple trips to the […]

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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.

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Places to Visit in Ladakh

• Places To Visit In Ladakh

50 Stunning Places To Visit In leh Ladakh 2021 ladakh memorable vacation

What do you exactly think when you hear the name Ladakh? Well, for most of us it is the land of the mighty Himalayas, glossy glaciers, sparkling emerald lakes, azure sky and swirling roads. But wait, there is much more to it. Ladakh is also very well known for its unique culture, super delicious Ladakhi cuisine, absolutely satisfying Momos, warm friendly people and a welcoming atmosphere.

The rare beauty of Ladakh beckons many travellers to have fun in the open skies amidst soaring mountains and awe-inspiring landscapes. It is a great place for adventure sports and there are some amazing places to visit in Ladakh that are absolutely incredible and mind boggling. It is unquestionably one of the most appealing holiday destinations in the world. What are you waiting for? Get set for the most soothing, stunning and adventurous holiday of your life. Let’s explore this alluring place through our Leh Ladakh travel guide and get engrossed.

Ladakh has a bundle of fascinating places and attractions and you are going to love every second of your holiday here . Although there is a long list of places to visit in Ladakh, here are a few must visit places.

• Nubra valley : Valley flower of Ladakh
• Pangong lake :stunning Blue lake
• Hanle : large historic village in
• Zanskar valley :Snow region
• Changla pass : 2nd hightest Motorable raod
• Alchi Monastery :world Heritage
• Lamayuru Monastery : Moon land view
• Khardung la pass : Highest Motorable road h
• Turtuk Village : taste of Baltistan Culture
• Leh palace : Ladakh Royal Palace
• Rancho School :3 Idiot school
• Shanti stupa : Build for world peace
• Hemis monastery :Oldest Monastery in Ladakh
• Thiksay Monastery : Valley flower of Ladakh
• Shey palace : Mini Potala Palce
• Siachen base camp : Summer king residency
• Hall of fame :museum/war memorial house
• Chadar trek : Zanskar frozen river trek
• Sonamrg :Stunning hill station
• Tsomoriri lake : picturesque high-altitude lake
• Magnetic Hill : Rolling downhill
• Sangam Point : Zankser & indus river confluence
• Hemis National Park : world famous for its majestic snow leopards,
• Stok palace : Beautiful palace
• Pang : Beauty of Long drive
• Stok Kangri : Highest expedition in stok range
• Tanglang La : One of Highest pass in world
• Markha valley : Valley flower of Ladakh
• panamik : hot water spring
• lamayuru :Moon land of Ladakh
• Mulbek Chamba : 1000-year-old Maitreya Buddha rock carved
• Ladakh conclave : presenting rich culture of Ladakh
• Jispa : valley of beauty with river
• Tsokar lake : famous for bird watching trip
• Gata Loops : most scenic drive in Himalayan
• spituk Monastery : Beautiful Monastery
• Suru Valley : Beauty of kargil
• Kargil war memorial : war memorial built by the Indian Army
• Kargil :Beautiful town LOC Indo Pak
• Atal tunnel : world's longest highway tunnel connecting
• Secmol Campus : Innovative and creative of ladakh
• Mahabodhi Meditation centre : practice of mind
• Ice stupa :Mesmerising artificial glaciers in Ladakh
• Pathar Sahib Gurudwara :beautiful Gurudwara sahib
• Basgo palace :stunning palace
• Phyang Monastery : spiritual destination
• apricot blossom Festival : fragrance and sweetness
• Lamayuru Monastery : beautiful Moonland view

Zanskar Valley:

Nestled in the eastern corner of Ladakh, the Zanskar Valley is one of the best places to visit in leh ladakh in june. Zanskar is a semi desert and one of the most charming places in Ladakh. It is an ideal hill retreat with fantastic Tibetan style monasteries, snow clad mountains and stunning landscapes. Although the valley is cut off from the rest of the world for over nine months of the year due to heavy snowfall, it is very popular for its twisty trekking trails and daring white water rafting . Tourists like to explore this valley in cars and bikes to experience the thrill of driving through a difficult and challenging topography.

The valley is also blessed with two small and serene alpine lakes that are simply gorgeous. Do visit Nimu to see the convergence of the Zanskar and the Indus rivers and do not miss visiting the very famous Panikhar Fort located on the border of the Suru Valley. With azure blue streams and shimmering glaciers, Zanskar Valley is certainly among the best Ladakh tourist places.ocated at a breathtaking taking height of about 4350 meters, on the Indo-China borders, Pangong Tso is a beautiful glacial lake and one of the best places to visit in Ladakh. Boasting of being the world’s highest salt water lakes, Pangong Lake is popular for its changing colours and emerging in different shades of blue, green and sometimes red. Surrounded by the barren Himalayas, this brackish lake is greeted by several migratory birds and is an ecstasy for photographers, ardent bird watchers and adventure buffs. Tourists who love camping also get a chance to spend a night camping under the starlit sky and feel the nature closely without any walls. Brought to limelight by the movie, ‘Three Idiots’, Pangong Tso is among the most renowned tourist attractions in Leh Ladakh having magical vibes that will charm you meticulously.

Go2ladakh.in tips Be sure to carry packaged water, route maps and information.470 Km from Leh : Bes time to visit : July to September Inner Line Permit : Required Read More

Nubra Valley

Nestled at a distance of about 140 kilometres from Leh, Nubra Valley is unquestionably one of the most illustrious tourist attractions in Leh Ladakh. It is an expansion of the Tibetan plateau that divides the Ladakh Range from the Karakoram Range. Being a high altitude cold desert, this valley is renowned for the meeting of Shyok and Siachen rivers, double humped camels, glistening streams, flourishing green villages and rugged mountain peaks. Do take a roundabout route to see the distinguished white sand dunes of Hunder and get mesmerised by its ever changing shapes and forms. Do not miss visiting the famous Diskit Monastery and the hot springs of Panamik. Being in Nubra Valley is actually an eye-opener; it is surprising to see people living in such difficult conditions. The unearthly beauty and the vibe of this valley attract travellers from all over the world who yearn to visit extraordinary places.

Nubra Valley have limited ATM. It is advisable to carry cash from Leh itself. Best time to visit : April to September Inner Line Permit : Required

Chadar Trek

Have you ever imagined walking on a frozen lake amidst snow covered mountains and shimmering streams? Well, if yes, then Chadar Trek is the place for you. It is one of the most unbelievable places to visit in Leh Ladakh and probably the most adventurous, daring and challenging treks in India. In the winter season, the Zanskar River freezes and resembles like a white blanket and since ‘Chadar’ means blanket, hence the trek is popularly known as the Chadar Trek. It is a six day trek across the ice-covered Zanskar River which usually takes place during the concluding part of January till about end of February depending upon the weather conditions.

The thrill of walking on the ice-clogged river, camping in caves and the enchanting beauty is breath taking and simply beyond comparison. It gives a great adrenaline rush and is meant for travellers who are ready to experience adventure at the greatest level. ly lives of the monks. If you are looking to discover the real Ladakhi village culture and life, Alchi will surely win your heart.

Go2ladakh.in tips Tourists who intend to go on this trek must be fit and carry a medical certificate read more Details about chadar trek 2022 Best time to travel 10 jannuray to mid mid as per leh temperature Inner Line Permit : Required Read More

Hall Of Fame

Nestled at Leh-Kargil Road approximately 4 kilometres from Leh, the Hall of Fame is a place which certainly makes every Indian very proud. It is certainly one of the best places to visit in Ladakh. It is actually a museum that was built in the memory of all the fearless and courageous soldiers who sacrificed their lives fighting for India at the Indo-Pakistan War. It is basically a heartfelt attempt to keep the soldiers alive in the heart of every Indian and to show gratefulness towards them.

The museum is divided into two parts. The upper part showcases arms, weapons and apparels worn by the soldiers whereas the lower part consists of paintings, pictures and biographies of the heroic soldiers. There is also a wall named ‘Lest We Forget’ which exhibits the portraits of all those soldiers who gave their lives fighting. Visitors also get a chance to watch a detailed documentary on Kargil War. It is a great place to honour our daring soldiers who lost their lives to guarantee our safety and security. It is one of the best places to visit in Ladakh for tourists with children who are keen to know more about India’s rich history.

Go2ladakh.in tips There is an entry fee of INR 10 and cameras are allowed inside at an additional cost.

Magnetic Hill

Located at a distance of about 30 kilometres from Leh on the Leh-Kargil Highway, Magnetic Hill is one of the interesting places to visit in Ladakh and is very well known for its magnetic properties. It is believed to have mysterious magnetic properties and this phenomenon is a sensation that attracts tourists from all over the world. The magnetism is apparently so strong that it has the power to pull a car uphill. Well, whether it is a visual illusion or actual magnetic force it is not certain but it is surely a fun thing to experience. So, be sure to include this phenomenal hill in your list of places to visit in Ladakh with memorable Ladakh Holiday!

Go2ladakh.in tips TMake sure you carry enough water and snacks with you as this area does not have many eating joints.

Khardung La Pass

Want to know how it feels to be on the top of the world? Well, head to Khardung La Pass, one of the highest motorable passes in the world and one of the best places to visit in Ladakh for visitors who are adventurous. It is a gateway to Nubra and Shyok Valleys with spectacular views of mountain valleys and swirling roads. Also known as the ‘Pass of Lower Castle’, it is a very significant road as it is the way to carry necessities to the Siachen Glacier . Conversely, it is also a paradise for adventure buffs with several motor bike and mountain biking expeditions.

Tourists can also enjoy tea and snacks at the army canteen and buy knick-knacks from a souvenir shop. This mountain pass is on the bucket list of all travel junkies and undoubtedly one of the most loved tourist places in Ladakh.Go2ladakh.in tips : Since it is located at such a high altitude and oxygen levels are very low, it is advisable not to stop here for more than twenty minutes.

Go2ladakh.in tips Best time to visit : April to September and winter snow fall , check the leh weather Inner Line Permit : Required

Located in the capital town of Leh, the Leh Palace is the most excellent example of medieval Tibetan construction and architecture. Built in the seventh century by King Sengge Namgyal, it is made with mud, sand, stones and wood which provides warmth in the winter season and sets up a cool atmosphere in the summer season. Even though the palace is not classically decorated, there is something about the architecture of the palace which makes it appear majestic and grand. It is one of the best places to visit in Ladakh for people who like to explore the historical wonder. This nine storied structure provides a panoramic view of sunrise and sunset and the bustling town of Leh. It is open from seven in the morning till about four in the evening and is now a museum showcasing royal belongings and artefacts such as paintings, crown, traditional dresses, utensils and jewellery. This palace has an unparalleled aura and definitely cannot be missed by any traveller.

Go2ladakh.in tips Please note that photography is strictly prohibited inside the palace. Best time to visit : all season

Hemis Monastery

Nestled at the foothills of Indus, Hemis Monastery is one of the most popular places to visit in Ladakh. It is the largest monastery in Ladakh famous for its annual mask festival. It is also one of the richest monasteries in India with rare and antique copper statue of Buddha, skilfully engraved gold and silver stupas and some out of the ordinary Thangka paintings. Tourists can worship the statues of Buddha and Guru Rimpoche and cleanse their minds and souls. The best time to visit this monastery is certainly during the Hemis Festival where tourists get a chance to see the performance of masked dancers, listen to melodious traditional music and relish local delicacies. This monastery is beyond doubt an incredible mix of spirituality and awe-inspiring beauty that leaves the visitors in admiration of this wonderful place.

Go2ladakh.in tips Go2ladakh.in tips : Shoes are not allowed inside the monastery so it is best to leave them in the car. Best time to visit : Hemis festival in July

Tso Moriri lake

Surrounded by a beautiful backdrop of the snow-clad mountains, Tso Moriri is the largest high altitude lake in India and is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Ladakh. It is affirmed as a wetland reserve and claims to be the highest Ramsar site in the world. With the reflection of the surroundings immersed in the azure blue waters, this scenic lake is massively beautiful and peaceful.

The serenity and the tranquillity of the lake attract several migratory birds including the Brahmin duck and the brown headed gull. It is a perfect travel destination for bird watchers, photographers, peace lovers and off-beat travellers who crave to see the untouched beauty of Ladakh. Due to its high altitude, it is a lesser known lake and hence much less crowded than its contemporary twin Pangong Tso. Get ready to be hypnotised because this natural marvel will blow your mind away and compel you to simply stare at it endlessly! Check here more Manali to tsokar and tsomoriri

Go2ladakh.in tips Tso Moriri is in a remote area and therefore there is literally no network signal at the lake. Best time to visit : summer and winter Inner Line Permit : Required

Shanti Stupa

Located at an altitude of about 3609 metres on a hill in Chanspa, Shanti Stupa is a magnificent abode of harmony and serenity and is one of the popular places to visit in Ladakh. Overlooking the bustling town of Leh, this glorious structure was constructed by the Japanese Buddhists along with the locals to rejoice 2500 years of Buddhism and is an emblem of peace. It is a milky white domed structure spread over two levels. The first level has a life-size golden idol of Buddha and the second level exhibits the life of Buddha from birth until death. Offering stunning views of the elegant surroundings,

Go2ladakh.in tips Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and clothing as reaching at the top of hill requires a small trek. Best time to visit : ll season

Sangam Point

The word, ‘Sangam’ actually means meeting or confluence of rivers and Sangam Point is the place where the Zanskar River meets River Indus. Located on the National Highway 1, this point is truly splendid and beyond comparison as both the rivers have distinctive and unique colours making it a sight to behold. While the Zanskar River is brown and slightly muddy, the River Indus on the other hand reveals emerald and green hues. Both the rivers form a single trail and are clearly distinguished by their colours. Although the confluence can be best observed during the spring summer months but the tranquillity, the aura and the magic of the place can be felt the moment one reaches there and enjoy your white water rafting . If you are a nature fanatic and are always keen to explore natural wonders, this place surely has to be in your list of the best places to visit in Ladakh.

Go2ladakh.in tips The confluence point is located about 35 kilometres from Leh, immediately before Nimmu Village on the Shrinagar Leh Highway . Best time to visit : April to September

Alchi Monastery

Nestled on the banks of River Indus, Alchi is a quaint little village in the Himalayan region of Ladakh. With fertile lands, lots of apricot trees, Buddhist monasteries and temples, this village is nothing but a spiritual bliss. It is also home to an ancient monastery which dates back to 900 years. Devotees from all over the world flock here in search of everlasting peace and solace. In fact, it is one of the few places where you actually get a chance to learn the teachings of Lord Buddha and see the daily lives of the monks.

If you are looking to discover the real Ladakhi village culture and life, Alchi will surely win your heart. It is breathtakingly beautiful and the charming scenery of this village gives all its visitors a wonderful chance to create memories of a lifetime. Food lovers can also satisfy their culinary craving with super delicious and scrumptious local dishes such as Walnut Salad, Momos, Kashmiri Pulao, Baril, and Tangutur. Tourists interested in adventure sports can also indulge in river rafting at the Alchi Nyemo. So, if you are looking for a tranquil stay away from the hustle bustle, this place certainly deserves a chance to be in the list of the most unbelievable places to visit in Leh Ladakh.

Although there is a medical health care centre but it is advisable to carry basic medicines and a sun screen. Best time to visit all season special visit in summer time

Hemis National Park

Keen to witness the best of Ladakh sightseeing? If yes, then head straight to the Hemis National Park. Located at an elevation of about 3000 to 6000 metres above sea level, this park boasts to be the largest national park in South Asia and one of the best places to visit in Ladakh for its unique attraction. Established in the year 1981, it is also known as the Snow Leopard Capital of India. It is renowned for sheltering quite a number of snow leopards. The park also confines six villages – Kaya, Rumbak, Shingo, Urutse, Chilling and Sku, and other wild life in Ladakh which are home to some 1600 people. There are no hotels in or near the park but home stay facilities are found in all the six villages.

This national park is also a paradise for nature enthusiasts and ardent bird watchers as it is the protected home for rare animals like Leopards, Tibetan Wolves, Ladakhi Urial, Red Fox, Asiatic Ibex, Shapu, Wild Sheep and over 73 species of birds and about 17 mammals. Get a chance to enjoy pollution free environment, serenity, trekking and hiking and make the most of it!Go2ladakh.in tips : Vehicle movement is strictly banned inside the park and trekking is the only option hence be sure to wear comfortable shoes

Tso Kar lake

Scattered over an area of about 9 kilometres, Tso Kar is a marvellous salt water lake at the Rupshu Plateau in Ladakh Valley. Situated at an elevation of approximately about 14700 feet, this lake is supposed to be more peaceful and serene than its other two contemporaries (Pangong Lake and Tso Moriri). It has that untouched feel about itself and is also widely known as the White Lake due to the white salt deposits on its shores. Displaying amazing flora and fauna, this lake attracts several migratory birds such as black-necked crane, Brahmin ducks and bar-headed geese. Offering great views and lovely opportunities for photography, this oscillating lake is surrounded by yak sheds, nomadic families and a monastery. With a number of picturesque bounties in its abode, it is an excellent place for overnight camping, bird watching or to simply sit back and have fun in the surroundings. What are you waiting for? Just add Tso Kar in your Leh Ladakh sightseeing list .

Chang La Pass

Behold the spectacular views of arid landscapes, spellbinding valleys, snow capped mountain peaks and rolling meadows, ChangLa Pass is one of the highest motorable roads in India. Famed as the Gateway to Pangong Tso, it is a popular spot to have a hot cup of tea and Maggie at an elevation of 5360 m. While here, Thiksey Monastery, Shey Palace and Hemis are some of the nearby tourist places in Ladakh that can be explored. Location: It lies on Highway-21 (Leh-Manali Highway) between the valleys of Leh and Shyok River.

Go2ladakh.in tips The pass is smoothly operational between May and October.and you can also travel to shyok river to pangong lake other information acute mountain sickness treatmen. Inner Line Permit Required

Tanglang La

Embark on an exciting journey to the second highest motorable road in Ladakh. Experience the thrills of riding on a loose stone road, with unexpected twists and turns at low oxygen levels. It is a vast expanse of nothingness and with only Sarchu and Upshi as the nearest human settlements. Located at an altitude of 17582 ft., this hinterland is one of the most popular places to visit in Ladakh among motorcyclists . Location: Adjacent to the NH -21 or Leh-Manali Highway and can be reached through 21 Gata loops.

Lamayuru Monastery

Bask into the calming vibe of Lamayuru Monastery in Ladakh. Perched on a cliff amidst the mysterious valley, it is among the oldest and largest monasteries and important tourist places in Ladakh. It is so old and full of lore, which can be seen in its architecture, wall paintings and history. While here, walk past the prayer wheels, explore the old structures of the monastery, enjoy the panoramic of the valley, marvel at the temple art or simply sit in meditation. This place will only leave you with good memories.

Spituk Monastery

Spend the day exploring the ancient memorials, impressive frescoes, numerous thangkas, intricately detailed statutes and age-old scriptures, Spituk is truly a paradise for history buffs. Currently, it is home to 100 monks and the carefully hidden image of Mahakali. Spituk means exemplary and this 11th-century monastery does justice to its name. The annual Gustor Festival is the best time to experience this place in its full glory; witness the temple deity - Mahakali and enjoy the traditional Cham Dance.

Go2ladakh.in tips Location: 8 kilometres from Leh in Spituk Village, Leh district, Ladakh, northern India. Timings: 5:00 AM to 7:00 PM (Mondays to Sundays) Best time to visit : all season

Markha Valley Trek

A stunning river valley nestled in the spectacular Hemis National Park, Markha Valley is a popular tourist place in Ladakh and a prime trekking route. This trail offers some of the best trekking experiences in the region. Cross waist-deep rivers and the high passes like Kongmaru La at 17,060 ft. Enjoy outstanding views of Mt Kang Yatse and mesmerising rocky canyons. Who knows, you might also spot a snow leopard. Markha Valley trail is full of adventure and incredible beauty that you mustn't miss!

Go2ladakh.in tips Location: Leh, Ladakh sham valley Best time to markha trek: summery and autumn Read more

Suru Valley

A break from the vast barren lands of the region, the green landscapes of Suru Valley feels like a breath of fresh air. Dotted with villages and plantations and the view of Suru River and the majestic Himalayas in the background, it is one the most beautiful valleys on the face of this earth. Spend a day in Suru, and you will not feel like leaving!

Go2ladakh.in tips Location: Suru Valley is situated on Kargil Road across Pensi La. Best time to visit : spring & summer time , explore the apricot blossom tour

War Memorial Kargil

Wonder of Ladakh best package to visit and Pay homage to the bravery and sacrifice of the Indian Army officers and soldiers in the 1999 Kargil War. Get to know the challenges faced by our brave soldiers in the higher terrains of Drass, Kargil and Batalik and still emerged victorious. The Kargil Memorial is open throughout the year. However, the roads to Kargil are only operational during the months of March to October.

Go2ladakh.in tips Best time to visit : sindependence day 15 august best time , normally you can travel from march to October from Srinaga to leh please check kargil to Drass valley road status if you travel in winter and spring Location Kargil War Memorial, NH1-D, Drass, Kargil-Ladakh 194102, India (The memorial is located on the main highway connecting Kashmir and Ladakh.

Siachen Base Camp

Witness the world's highest battlefield in the world where nature is a bigger threat than bullets - Siachen Base Camp has now been opened for tourism by the Ministry of Defense. Experience what our soldiers go through on a daily basis to protect the most strategic point of the border. At an altitude of 24000 ft, the temperature drops to less than -50 degrees and oxygen saturation- only 10%. Apart from all this, Siachen is one of the most challenging places to visit in Ladakh and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. You can try check tour included explore Siachen

Go2ladakh.in tips The civilian treks are approved by the MOD, but the actual opening is yet to be announced. As of now tourist not allowed to travel to saichen base camp Best time to travel : April to September Inner Line Permit : Required Location Siachen Base Camp in Partapur, Ladakh.

Turtuk Village

Carts full of barley straws and land covered by apricot trees, encircled by the picturesque mountain valleys, Turtuk is a beautiful hamlet lying on the banks of Shyok River and is a wonderful tourist place in Ladakh. Due to its 2.5km close proximity to LOC, it is seen with military convoys. Most of the population here is Muslim Balti and practises agriculture and cattle rearing. With Nubra Valley on one side and Baltistan on the other, Turtuk is an enigma in itself.

Go2ladakh.in tip TLocation: Leh District of Nubra Valley and 205km from Leh city. Best time to travel : April to September Inner Line Permit : Required Location Siachen Base Camp in Partapur, Ladakh.

Rancho school

Relive the movie 3-idiots by visiting the beautiful campus of Druk White Lotus School. Popularly known as the Rancho School, it is an educational institution that focuses on eco-friendly activities, innovation and local culture; good for us - it is also open for tourism. You can get yourself clicked at the iconic 3-idiot wall or chill at Rancho Cafe. This school is much more than the movie and is an important place to visit in Ladakh.

Go2ladakh.in tip Location: Situated on the way toward Shey Palace and Thiksey Monastery in Shey Region of Ladakh. Best time to visit: Timings: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM Inner Line Permit : Required Location Siachen Base Camp in Partapur, Ladakh.

Straight out of the Disney movie - Frozen, The Ice Stupa is yet another one of the Sonam Wangchuk’s projects. Witness two giant artificial glaciers created in the form of beautiful stupas adorned with colourful prayer flags. It is an innovative solution to the water crisis of Phyang village in Ladakh. It is a one of a kind innovation under the Students' Educational and Cultural Movement of Ladakh (SECMOL) and should be on your list of places to visit in Ladakh. And also read best places to explore in winter

Go2ladakh.in tip Location: Phyang Village, Leh District, Ladakh (17km from the Leh City Center) Best time to visit: Preferably during the day during the Winter seasons (December to March)

Pathan Sahib Gurudwara

Meditate at the same place where the most-revered Sikh guru - Guru Nanak Ji once meditated. Famed by the place where ‘Guru Nanak Ji defeated a demon’, this place has a very intriguing story attached to it. It was founded by the lamas covered in prayer flags and is worshipped by Buddhist and Sikhs alike. The boulder is the major highlight of the gurudwara which is believed to have the body imprint of Guru Nanak Ji. Currently maintained by the Indian Army, it is a must-visit tourist place in Ladakh.

Go2ladakh.in tip Location: NH1, Phey, 194101 (Near Kargil) Best time to visit All time

Stok kangri

If you are a passionate trekker, Stok Kangri trek should definitely be on your list. The highest and most prominent peak in Ladakh, it is every adventure lover's dream. Soak in the enchanting panoramas of the Karakoram and Zanskar Ranges, and the fresh mountain breeze while you ascend on the mountain. If you're lucky, you can also get a sneak peek of K2. Upon conquering the peak at an altitude of 6153m, quaint villages, picturesque views, untouched beauty and intriguing stories, are some of the few things you'll take away from this trek.

Go2ladakh.in tip Stok Valley route is closed for the year 2021-2022 due to the threat of glacial melting. Location: It is situated in Hemis National Park near Stok Village and around 15 km away from the capital city of Leh. Best time to visit The best time to take this trek is between May to October. Trekking Pass :Required

Kargil Town

The second capital and second-largest city of Ladakh, Kargil is an iconic destination for the entire nation. Famed by the Kargil War of 1999, it is one of the best places to visit in Ladakh to experience patriotism. Apart from being rich in cultural, historical and political importance, it is a beautiful city nestled in the mountains. There are many things to explore in Kargil - Kargil War Memorial being the highlight along with the Twin Lakes, Mulbekh Monastery and Rangdum Monastery. Nestled right in the middle of majestic Himalayas and beside the pristine Indus River, Kargil is nothing less than a heaven, Kargil is nothing less than a heaven and suggest to one halt one stay in kargil

Go2ladakh.in tip Location: Kargil District, Ladakh Best time to visit April to September Read more Suggest to read how to travel kargil to zansker

Thiksey monastery

Our very own Patola Palace of Tibet, Thiksey Monastery is one of the prime places to visit in Leh Ladakh. It is the largest monastery in the central land of Ladakh and is commemorated by the 14th Dalai Lama in the 1970s. A 15m tall statue of Maitreya Buddha is the main attraction here along with the stunning Assembly Hall, Tara Temple and Lamokhang Temple and Quarters. If you want to experience the monastery at its best colourful self, you must visit during the Gustor Festival in the month of October-November.

Go2ladakh.in tip Location: Thiksey, Manali-Leh Highway, Ladakh, India. Best time to visit Timings: 7:00 Am to 7:00 PM Entry Fee: INR 20 per person Read More

OStargaze from one of the highest astronomical observatories in the world, Hanle is a quaint, peaceful and calm village away from the hustle-bustle of busy life. Noted for being home to the Indian Astronomical Observatory at the height of 15000ft, it also has some historical relevance to it. Check out the 17th-century stunning Hanle Monastery against the mesmerising backdrop of the mountains, it will transport you to another place. An ideal place for some soul searching, Hanle is a hidden gem waiting to be explored!

Go2ladakh.in tip Location: Hanle Village, Changthang, Ladakh. It is located 255km from the city of Leh. Best time to visit April to September best package with to explore hanley Inner Line Permit : required

Translated as Meadow of Gold in Kashmiri , Sonmarg is a beautiful concoction of lush green valleys, pristine lakes, snow-capped mountains, dense forests and numerous peaks. Located at the height of 2800m, it offers a chance to unwind and heal amidst Mother Nature. A popular honeymoon destination in the north, it also caters to adventure enthusiasts. Trekking, Rafting and Camping are a few of the many adventure activities you can indulge in. Sonmarg also serves as a camping site for pilgrims heading to Amarnath. An all in one destination, Sonmarg is the best vacation place you can ask for!

Go2ladakh.in tip Location: Sonmarg, Ganderbal District, J&K, India. 85 km from Srinagar and Best time to visit all Season

Donkey sanctuary

Go check out a sanctuary that is entirely dedicated to the most hardworking animal - the Donkey. Don't believe us? The Donkey Sanctuary is one of the most unique places to visit in Leh Ladakh. It is a great project by Stany and Joanne and sheltered by a local Sonam Angchuk. The sanctuary takes in the stray donkeys, and heals, shelters and cares for these poor souls. The best way to help them is to give donations and find them fundings. Location: Korean Temple Road, Khakshal Village, Leh Ladakh. It is only 3 km from the city of Leh.

Go2ladakh.in tip Leh city Gnagles

Panamik hot water spring

Unwind at the Panamik Hot Springs in Ladakh surrounded by the stunning views of the Himalayan mountains. Located in the Panamik Village, it is the best place to visit in Ladakh after an exhausting trek or a long tour. The sulphur-rich waters of the spring are believed to cure rheumatism and major skin ailments. With close proximity to the Siachen Glaciers and Indo-Tibetan border, this entire region is blessed with the breathtaking beauty of the trans-Himalayas.

Go2ladakh.in tip Men and women have separate pools along with a shower area to provide a comfortable experience. Location Panamik Village, Nubra Valley, Ladakh, India. Approximately 150 km north of Leh City Centre. Best time to visit : Spring & Summer and Timings :Sunrise to Sunset Entry Fee: INR 20 per person

Mulbek Chamba

Home to a 30 feet tall sculpture of Maitreya Buddha, carved on an enormous stone slab, Mulbekh Monastery is one of the amazing offbeat tourist places to visit in Ladakh. Dating back to 800 years, it portrays some mind-boggling influence of both Buddhism and Shaivism. There are two gompas inside the main temple - Serdung Gompa and Rgaldan-se Gompa. If you're heading to Kargil, you must add this to your itinerary too.

Go2ladakh.in tip Men and women have separate pools along with a shower area to provide a comfortable experience. Location Situated on the first stop after Kargil towards Leh on the Srinagar-Leh highway. It is 260 km away from Leh and 45km from Kargil. Best time to visit : Spring & Summer and Timings: 08:00 AM to 06:00 PM Entry Fee: Free

Phyang Monastery

Perched on a hilltop above the tiny village of Chhiwang is the stunning Phyang Monastery. The gompa is home to a plethora of statues, paintings, murals and artefacts as old as 900 years. There is so much to witness here that the best way to explore this place is to get on with it. The monastery starts with the Dukhang or main assembly hall leading to Dukhang verandah intricately painted by the colourful murals of the Guardians of the Four Directions. The central statue is of the Boundless Light Buddha besides the statues of a large Avalokitesvara with 1,000 arms. You can also find images of Shakyamuni and Maitreya among other religious and non-religious artefacts. Don't forget to check out the temple of Mahakala. A paradise for historians, Phyang Monastery is one of the best places to visit in Ladakh.

Go2ladakh.in tip Location Phyang Village, Leh, Ladakh. Around 22 km west of Leh city. Best time to visit : Spring & Summer and Timings: 08:00 AM to 06:00 PM Entry Fee: 30 per person

Mahabodhi Meditation Center

Looking for a spiritual retreat amidst the picturesque mountain ranges? Then Mahabodhi Meditation Center is the perfect place for you. Established in 1986 by Bhikkhu Sanghasena, this place offers both spiritual as well as humanitarian assistance to the needy in the remote areas of Ladakh. Attend a 14-day meditation session where you get to meditate at a different picturesque location each day under the guidance of experienced masters. Mahabodhi Meditation Centre is one of the best places to visit in Leh Ladakh for people looking to heal their mind, body and soul.

Go2ladakh.in tip Location Mahabodhi International Meditation Centre, Devachan, Leh, Ladakh Best time to visit : Spring & Summer and Timings: 08:00 AM to 06:00 PM Entry Fee: 30 per person

Secmol Institute

Founded by a group of Ladakhis to reform the educational system in 1988, The Students’ Educational and Cultural Movement of Ladakh is a great initiative to develop young minds along with conservative. The school campus is completely eco-friendly and offers courses such as the solar design-build course. SECMOL has also been an active part in finding solutions to the geographical challenges of Ladakh; some of them include providing renewable energy through solar panels, solar pump, biomass cooking, and growing organic food and preserving it for winters. They also solve the water scarcity issues in the area. They are also a part of the Ice Stupa initiative. A group of good people doing good work; SECMOL is one of the best places to visit in Ladakh.

Go2ladakh.in tip Location SECMOL Campus, Phey, Ladakh. Situated next to Indus River, 17km away from Leh.

Atal tunnel

Drive through the longest tunnel in the world, the Atal Tunnel is one of India's star possessions. This 9.02 km-long tunnel connects Manali to Lahaul-Spiti Valley. A tribute to former PM Atal Bihari Vajpai, this tunnel is open for year-round connectivity even in the harshest winters. Now reaching Leh from Manali in the peak winters via road will seem like icing on the cake. So, pack your bag and head to the road trip of your lifetime!

Go2ladakh.in tip Location Manali, Himachal Pradesh Best time to travel : All Time

Apricot blossom Festival

The vibrant white-pink flowers against the clear blue skies against the backdrop of barren mountains, the apricot blossom in Ladakh is a sight to behold! It is India’s version of Cherry blossoms in Ladakh or maybe even prettier than that. The bloom is seen in the offbeat regions of Leh-Kargil including Hardass, Kakkar, Aryan Valley and many more. Usually seen in the month of April, it makes the region one of the most spectacular places to visit in Leh Ladakh. So, head to Ladakh to get the experience of cherry blossoms without burning a hole in your pocket.

Go2ladakh.in tip Location Alchi , Kargil , Turtuk , skurbuchan Best time to travel : march to April Month

Ladakh conclave

Witness the culture and talent of Ladakh at the Ladakh Conclave. Held in the month of February, it is a one-of-a-kind initiative by the Ladakh government as a road map to winter tourism in Ladakh. Till now, Ladakh was only visited by tourists for the Chadar Frozen Lake trekking experience. But through this conclave, Ladakh will be showcased as the hub of winter sports, culture and culinary experiences. Some of the highlights of this conclave include Mountaineering, Heritage Walk, Polo Match, Rafting, Climbing, Cultural procession, etc.

Go2ladakh.in tip Location The venue includes two of the most popular places to visit in Ladakh - Leh and Kargil and will be celebrated Best time to travel :Calaender update in end of year

Tibetan market

Shop till you drop amidst the mesmerising Himalayas and verdant valleys. The Tibetan Market is among the important places to visit in Leh Ladakh for every shopaholic. It is a typical flea market thronged with stalls selling antique items, semi-precious stone jewellery, world-famous silver Ladakhi jewellery, Himalayan Pashmina shawls, homemade apricot jam, local handicrafts and what not. It is the best place to take home quality souvenirs at dirt cheap prices. Best shopping places in Ladakh

Go2ladakh.in tip Keep aside your last day of the trip for a stress-free shopping experience. Location Leh City, Ladakh, India Best time to visit Timings: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM ( All Days Of The Week)

Stok palace

Step back in time at a 200-year-old palace in Ladakh, the Stok Palace is an ode to the royal era of the Namgyal Dynasty. Currently, a part of this structure is a heritage hotel, a museum and a cafe. The museum houses some of the most valuable possessions of the royal family such as the King's crown, jewellery embellished with turquoise and lapis lazuli, the queen's yub-jhur(headpiece) and their dresses. There is also a knotted 16th-century afghan sword and impressive thang pa paintings, making it one of the best places to visit in Ladakh for art historians. End your tour with a hot cup of coffee at the in-house cafe overlooking the River Indus and spectacular valleys.

Go2ladakh.in tip Keep aside your last day of the trip for a stress-free shopping experience. Location Stok Palace Museum, Stok, Leh, Ladakh, India Best time to visit Timings: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (all days) Entry fee : INR 50 per person (Museum)

Shey palace

Get awe-inspired by the 17th century Royal Palace atop of Shey Ridge or the three-storied copper gilded statue of Shakyamuni Buddha it houses. Shey Palace is one of the best places to visit in Ladakh. This enchanting palace entails a series of ruins, a palace temple and many articles of historical importance. In the month of August, the Shey Palace transforms from ruin to royal. During the festival of Shey Doo Lhoo, it comes alive with spirituality and devotion. The palace is accessible through a steep climb but the end result will be worth it.

Go2ladakh.in tip Keep aside your last day of the trip for a stress-free shopping experience. Location Shey, 15 kilometres from Leh, Ladakh, India Best time to visit Timings 7:00 AM - 8:00 PM.(All days of the week)) Entry fee : INR 30 per person (For the Monastery)

Blessed with the ardent beauty of the valleys and spectacular landscapes, Pang is the highest army transit campsite and one of the most picturesque places to visit in Ladakh. The untouched terrains and tiny hamlets on both sides make the whole region jaw-dropping beautiful. Located at an altitude of 15640 m and closer to the borders of China and Pakistan, it is a remote location for backpacker and solo rider trip not family yet to be explored by regular tourists. If you're travelling to Leh, it is a perfect overnight stay location. June to October are the best months to witness this place in its full glory.

Go2ladakh.in tip Keep aside your last day of the trip for a stress-free shopping experience. Location 180 km from Leh City centre on Manali-Leh Highway. Best time to visit from June to September

Camp beside the scenic riverside and mist-covered mountains in the valley of Lahaul, Jispa is straight out of a landscape painting. The unaudited beauty and fresh mountain breeze of this quaint village makes it the best place to unwind after a long motor bike ride . While it is a known pit-stop among the adventure enthusiasts passing through the legendary Leh-Manali Highway , this hamlet is still a hidden gem for the common public. Trek through the rolling meadows or devour some lip-smacking local food- Jispa won't leave you disappointed!

Location One of the 20 villages in Lahaul Valley on Leh-Manali Highway. 7 km from Darcha Read more Hotels in jispa . Best time to visit from June to September

Aryan valley

The Aryan valley is also called DhaHanu valley. The place is accessible from Leh as well as Kargil. It lies at around 100 kilometres from Leh. There are four villages which form a part of the Aryan Valley.

From Leh, tourists take the route on the right from Khaltsi check post. On the way, you cross the following villages – Domkhar, Skurbuchan, Achina Thang, Hanu, Biama and Dha. From Kargil, tourists can take the route via Batalik, which passes through Hambuting la, Lalung, Silmoo and Batalik. This is considered as the last Aryan village in India, and the people are said to be the direct descendants of Alexander’s men. The tribe or race here is termed as Drokpa or Dards. This region is scarcely populated.

Apricots are cultivated in abundance in this region. They sell apricots as well as use it for preparing apricot jam. Yak milk is commonly consumed here. The places of interest in this region include a couple of museums – one in Garkon, and a second one in Dha. These museums have various historic artefacts on display, like tools, decorative pieces, picture gallery, etc. Apart from the museums, tourists can also be a part of the local harvest festival, the Bonona festival. It is celebrated in September. They perform the traditional dance as a part of the celebration. The celebrations last for 3-4 days.

The Aryan valley does not see a great footfall in terms of tourism. Accommodation can be arranged in tents here. Visitors can also visit the local community school, shamanic shrines, local houses, etc. The locals are very accommodating and friendly people, although, only a handful of them speak Hindi. The tourists can take a walk around the villages to experience the old architecture, the green fields, and the local lifestyle.

Location Sham vally Dha Hanu Best time to visit from June to September Inner line permit required to visit the Dah Hanu villages.

Shaitan Singh Memorial

Shaitan Singh Memorial, also known as the Rezang la War memorial, was constructed in the memory of the soldiers of 13 Battalion of Kumaon Regiment, led by Major Shaitan Singh during the Indo-China War in 1962.Rezang la is a sensitive area as it is very close to the Indo-China border. It is situated a few kilometres after the village of Chushul, at a distance of 210 kilometres from Leh.

A Chushul War Memorial has been constructed here to honour the heroes of the war in 1962. Getting to this location is difficult, as the permits are not granted readily. There are two roads leading up to the Shaitan Singh Memorial – one is via the Spangmik village. It is along the Pangong lake. Another route to get here is via Mahe, which passes via Loma and Tsaga La. The names of all the 120 soldiers of the Battalion are listed on the War Memorial here as a small tribute, and guarantee goose bumps as one reads these names.

Location Man Merak area Best time to visit all Time Inner line permit required to visit the Pangong lake

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