Best Time to Visit Ladakh 

We have Ladakh trip packages that you can choose to travel to any season. Even though you can plan a trip to Ladakh at any time of the year but the best season depends on the kind of holiday you are looking forward to.  Below we have mentioned what summer, monsoon and winter have for you.  

Summer Season (March to June): 

The actual summer season in Ladakh begins in April and goes up till June. During these months the pleasant temperatures range from 5°C to 25°C. Days are warm while the night becomes cold. The tourist season in Ladakh begins in May. Choose from Leh Ladakh tourism packages during this time to indulge in sightseeing and indulge in a variety of adventurous activities.  

Monsoon Season (July to September):

Being located at high altitude, Ladakh is a rain shadow region which means it receives little to no rainfall during the monsoon season. The temperature ranges from 10°C to 25°C. However, you still need to be prepared and carry waterproof clothes when coming to Ladakh during these months. Most of the time the skies are clear and blue and the weather is a favour for sightseeing or adventure activity.  

Winter Season (October to February):

The high altitude region of Ladakh starts receiving snow in the second week of October. Winters in Ladakh are harsh with temperatures ranging from -5°C to 10°C. There are frequent road blockings due to heavy snowfall. However, a plan to Ladakh in the winter season can be planned by flight. Stunning icy landscape, Chadar/Frozen Zanskar river trek, and many winter festivals are some reasons you should definitely plan a winter Ladakh trip.  

How to Reach Ladakh

Being one of the most visited tourist destinations in India, you can travel to Ladakh by all modes of transportation. However, the best depends on the kind of experience you are looking for, and how soon your want to reach the destination. The best ways to reach Ladakh are mentioned below: 

By Air: Ladakh has its own airport in the capital city, Leh, Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, which connects well with the major cities and states of India including Chandigarh, Delhi, and Mumbai, Bangalore and more. The airport is situated at a distance of approx 2 km. So, you can take a taxi from the airport to reach your hotel or final destination. When taking Leh Ladakh tours with us, you will be greeted by our tour representative at the airport who will transfer you to your hotel. 

By Public Transport:

• By Bus: Ladakh is well connected by road from Jammu & Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh. If you plan to travel from Manali, there are only two buses run by HRTC buses and HPTDC semi-deluxe tourist buses. You can even board an HRTC bus from Delhi. There are many private buses that run between Leh and Manali. However, if you wish to travel from Jammu & Kashmir, you can board a JKSTRC bus that runs daily. The bus starts from Srinagar and takes a halt in Kargil.   
• By Train: There is no railway station in Ladakh. The nearest railway station is in Jammu which is at a distance of  697 km. From Jammu  Tawi railway station you can take a taxi or local bus to reach Leh.  

By Taxi: You can either hire a taxi to Ladakh from Delhi. Make sure that an expert professional driver accompanies who is aware of the routes. If you plan on going to Ladakh from the Manali side, then your driver would need to drive swirling roads covering approx 1023 km.  

By Bike: If you wish to take a Ladakh bike trip, can choose to travel either from Manali or Srinagar side. Manali is the most preferred route for the Leh Ladakh bike trip. If you choose to book and join a group bike tour package to Ladakh with Go2Ladakh, you will be provided with bikes in Manali. But if you want to start with a bike trip to Ladakh from Delhi, you can get customized bike tour packages for Leh Ladakh wherein we can allot you a bike, riding gear and accessories at an additional cost.  

Top Things to do in Ladakh 

To enjoy a whale of a time in Ladakh be it with your family, friends or solo, there are a plethora of exciting activities to indulge in. Below are some of the activities that we include in our Leh Ladakh packages to make a holiday worth cherishing. From trekking to hiking, to camping to bike riding to shopping to relishing Ladakhi food and so much more, you are spoilt for choices for activities in Ladakh. 

• Experience Camping 

There is no better experience than camping under a starry night sky. Be it leisurely or adventure-filled camping in Ladakh, you will get an unmatched holiday experience. This is one of the best things to do in Ladakh as the lofty barren landscape and alpine make for a great setting for camping. 

If you wish to get a leisurely camping experience, you can make the most of it at the beautiful locations of Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri; Hunder Village of Nubra Valley and some quaint areas around Leh.  However, if you wish to go for an adventure camping, you can head to camp at some lesser-known destinations while trekking. For instance, you can pitch your own tent at the confluence of rivers, places in Zanskar Valley,  alpine meadows, and more.  

• Go for Trekking

Being a land of alpine lakes, high mountain passes, deserted mountains, and quaint hamlets, Ladakh makes for an amazing place to indulge in trekking from grade moderate to difficult. This is yet another best thing to do in Leh Ladakh. Choose from our wide range of Leh Ladakh adventure trip packages that are designed for both amateur & advanced level trekkers. So, come to this beautiful region of India when unlimited adventure awaits you. Some of the treks in Ladakh that you can enjoy include: 

• Chadar Trek 
• Stok Kangri Trek
• Lamayuru to Alchi
• Ripchar Valley
• Padum to Darcha, 
• Lamayuru to Darcha Trek, 
• Jhunglam Hemis to Padum Trek 

• Get Adrenaline Rush Mountain biking Experience 

No doubt, Ladakh is a heaven for mountain bikers. The winding roads cutting their way to the scenery that leaves one wonderstruck is where every mountain bikers get inspiration from. Cycling in Ladakh is one of the best activities as it not only gives you an adrenaline rush but lets you witness a dream-like landscape. Come and ride through the treacherous trails to some of the high mountain passes like Khardung La or along the gushing Zanskar and Indus rivers. Mountain biking in Ladakh will also give you a chance to witness the culture and tradition of various regions as you get to pass through many villages. Some of the best mountain biking places in Leh Ladakh include:  

• Pangong Tso
• Leh to Zingchen
• Skiu to Chilling
• Warila-Khardungla-Nubra & Sham
• Stok, Stakna & Thiksey Monasteries
• Spangmik Man, Merak and downhill from Changla
• Leh to Sankar Gompa, Shanti Stupa, and Namgyal Tsemo

• Indulge in an Exciting Jeep Safari 

The best Leh Ladakh tour packages also include Jeep Safari activity which is thrilling and comfortable at the same time. You get to witness wild, amazing and beautiful Ladakh from close quarters. Come and indulge in Jeep Safari which takes you through the expansive valleys, the endless swirling roads; remote villages, and some of the highest mountain passes. You can explore almost every region of Ladakh by enjoying a Jeep safari, the best routes preferred are mentioned below: 

• Srinagar to Leh
• Manali to Leh
• Kaza-Keylong-Sarchu-Leh
• Nubra Valley via Khardung La
• Leh-Pangong-Tso Moriri
• Kargil-Suru Valley-Zanskar

• Enjoy a Wildlife Tour

Boasting unique flora and fauna, Ladakh offers a great chance to enjoy in Ladakh to wildlife enthusiasts. The fauna of Ladakh has so much in common with that of Tibet and Central Asia, and the flora is similar to that of the Tibetan Plateau. The region is home to approx 318 species of birds. Coming to the animals, Ibex is a major attraction found in Ladakh. 

Other than this, the region is also known for sighting snow leopards, Bharal (blue sheep), marmot, Tibetan urial sheep (shapo), Tibetan argali sheep (nyan), and Tibetan wild ass are some of the commonly seen species in Ladakh. On the other side, red fox, lynx, Tibetan gazelle, Tibetan antelope, Pallas's cat, and Tibetan Wolf are spotted rarely in Ladakh.  

Head to Hemis National Park, Karakoram (Nubra Shyok) Wildlife Sanctuary, and Changthang Cold Desert Wildlife Sanctuary, to make the most of your wildlife tour in Ladakh.  

• Get the Fun  of Horse Riding 

Amongst all the thrilling and exciting activities in Ladakh, horse riding can’t be overlooked, which is equally fun and adventurous.  It is yet another best way to explore the rugged landscape of Ladakh. Some of the famous tourist places in Ladakh that you can visit while horse riding are Stongdey Monastery & Penzila Pass, and Zongkhul Gompa. Where to enjoy the best horse riding in Ladakh? Well, head to Changthang, Tso Moriri Lake and Zanskar Valley. 

• Take a Ride on Bactrian Camel  

Enjoying a camel ride in Ladakh is unique and different from experiencing it in any other part of the world. Why? Because here you get to experience it Bactrian (double-humped) camels. We do include a Bactrian camel ride in our Leh Ladakh holiday packages that are fun and entertaining. To experience a joyful Camel Safaris in Ladakh head to Nubra Valley. It starts from Hunder and Diskit and takes you through picturesque settings of Nubra Valley. The safari also covers areas like Pinchimik,  Tiggur,  and Yulkam which lies on the historic Silk Route. 

• Indulge in Shopping 

From Ladakh, you can’t return home with empty hands. Shopping in Ladakh will leave you amazed as there are a variety of things to buy from souvenirs to handicrafts that are locally made. Some of the must-buy items in Ladakh include Apricot items, kitchenware, Tibetan handicrafts like prayer wheels and flags, Buddha statues, carpets & rugs, singing bowls, choktse (carved wooden tables painted in colours), and pashmina wool products. You can take back souvenirs like jewellery, bamboo baby cradles, baskets, masks, etc.  The best places to go shopping in Ladakh include: 

• Leh Main Bazaar
• Ladakh Apricot Store
• Zanskar Arts
• Tibetan Market
• Himalayan Pashmina Shawls
• Dalai Lama Charitable Trust Handicraft Emporium
• Women’s Alliance of Ladakh Shopping Hub.

• Relish Ladakhi Cuisine 

The food of Ladakh is inspired by Tibetan culture and is rich, colourful and flavoursome.  Momos and thukpas you will find anywhere in Ladakh but then there are so many other dishes to try that vary in taste, preparation and presentation.  Some of the must try food in Ladakh are Thenktuk, Mokthuk, Tapu, Skieu, Paba, Tigmo, Chutagi, Khambir. The side dishes that shouldn’t be overlooked are Tsamik, Chhupri, Holkur, Apricot jam, juice or syrup. 

• Get a Homestay Experience 

Nothing can be better than experiencing a homestay in Ladakh which gives an insight into the authentic Ladakhi hospitality.  You can choose to stay in various settings be it a completely homely vibe or the one with modern amenities. Our best Ladakh tour packages include a stay at the beautiful homestays in Leh and Zanskar. This will be the best way to interact with the local people and learn about their culture, traditions and lifestyle.  

Best Places to Visit in Ladakh 

When wondering about the best places to visit in Ladakh, you can get confused as there are many. Every place in the region has its own beauty that leaves the tourists amazed. Of many, there are some places we make sure to add to our Leh Ladakh package. Let’s quickly check the places that you will witness when choosing to travel with us. 

• Pangong Lake 

A  visit to Pangong Tso is a must when in Ladakh. Filled with saline water, Pangong Tso has an unbelievable phenomenon of changing its watercolour from blue to green or even grey at different hours of the day. It’s a magical experience to be here as the site offers awe-struck views that will remain etched in your heart forever.  This picturesque location’s beauty is enhanced by the arrival of migratory birds. So, don’t forget to carry your camera when visiting Pangong Tso. You can enjoy camping under the starry night sky here to wake up to the mesmerising view of the sunrise. 

Distance from Leh: 229 km

• Nubra Valley 

Yet another beautiful place that you get to visit on booking your Ladakh tour package is Nubra Valley. You reach here by making your way through the highest motorable mountain pass Khardung La which is also a tourist attraction. You can take a tea/coffee break at Khardung La, get some pictures clicked and continue your journey to Nubra Valley. Diskit and Hunder villages are the much-celebrated places here. Head to Diskit village to explore the famous Diskit monastery under which the 108 ft. tall statue of Maitreya Buddha can’t be overlooked. The place offers a bird’s eye view of the beautiful Nubra Valley. 

Taking a short detour of approx 12 km from Diskit you reach Hunder, where you will witness the unique Bactrian (double-humped) camels and enjoy an enthralling ride on them. You can even enjoy camping at Hunder. 

Distance from Leh: 159 km 

• Magnetic Hill

Head to Magnetic Hill to witness some magic or an optical illusion. Whatever it is, be there to judge on your own. The vehicles here have defied the law of gravity. In the sense, that when you keep your vehicle in neutral gear, you will see it drifting on its own uphill. The place is located on the Leh-Kargil-Baltic National Highway, and to date, it is a mystery and leaves the tourist wonderstruck. Other than witnessing this wonder, you can click pictures or simply embrace nature’s beauty. 

Distance from Leh: 26 km   

• Zanskar Valley 

A land of monasteries, adventure and pristine nature; Zanskar valley is famous for the winter Chadar/Frozen Zanskar River. But apart from this, there are so many treks for both beginners as well experienced trekkers including Lamayuru to Darcha, Stok Kangri Trek, Lamayuru-Padum Trek and so many more. You can even enjoy river rafting here with up to Grade IV rapids. Other than offering opportunities to the adventure buffs, those looking to simply soak in nature; can head to visit the alpine lake, remote villages and sacred monasteries like Sani, Karsha, Stongdey, and Phugtal monasteries.  

Distance from Leh: 463 km

• Hall of Fame 

A museum dedicated to the Indian army to salute the brave soldiers who stood as a shield during the Indo-Pak wars. It is a two-storey museum, which comprises several sections. The first floor has various kinds of weapons used by the soldiers during the Kargil war,  along with arms and ammunition.  On the same floor, in different sections, there are apparel and amenities used in the Siachen region by the Indian army. As you walk through the ground floor, you will find pictures of the Kargil war hanging on the walls of the museum. There is also a projection room on the same floor, where you can watch a documentary on ‘Operation Vijay.’ It doesn’t end here, there are a lot more, to witness and experience in the museum and for this, we add this place to our Leh tour packages.  

Distance from Leh:  4 km 

• Turtuk Village 

An offbeat place in Ladakh, Turtuk is enclosed by Nubra Valley on one side and Baltistan on the other and is very close to the Indo-Pak border. You come here, hike, trek and visit monasteries. The main charm of Turtuk village is in its people. They are so kind and greet you with such a warm heart. You can experience Balti culture here by staying at the guesthouse or homestay here, interacting with the locals and trying the Balti cuisine. What you shouldn’t miss out on here is relishing the fresh apricots that are locally grown here and taken back home for your friends and family. Remember you need to obtain an Inner Line Permit (ILP) to explore the beauty of Turtuk Village.

Distance from Leh:  103 km 

• Leh Palace 

Nestled atop Namgyal Hill, the Leh Palace is the epitome of splendid history and makes to our Leh trip packages. It is a 9-storey palace and is preserved as Ladakh’s heritage. As you take a walk in the palace, you will come across a victory tower towards the top of the palace which was built in the memory of Ladakhi soldiers. Other than this, there are ancient mural paintings adorning the interiors of the Leh Palace. 

Distance from Leh:  2 km 

• Dha-Hanu 

Home to the Drogpa (Brokpa) tribe of Leh, Dha-Hanu are for those who are culture buffs.  The tribe is different from the Ladakhi tribe found in the rest of the region and offers warm hospitality to the tourists visiting them. The tribe here are known for their unique headgear and ornaments so looking at the people here wearing them will be a good experience in itself. Get pictures clicked with them and gather many memories to take back home. 

Distance from Leh:  188 km 

• Hanle 

Situated in the Changthang region of Ladakh, Hanle is a picturesque and historic village that offers magnificent views and has religious and astronomical significance. It is home to Indian Astronomical Observatory which is believed to be the world's highest located site for infrared, optical, and gamma-ray telescopes. On being here, you can indulge in nature walks, stargazing or photography. Also, don’t miss out on visiting the 17th century Hanle Monastery. 

Distance from Leh: 254 km

• Lamayuru 

A small village that boasts a moon-like landscape, Lamayuru is also called the ‘moonscape for tourists.’ The village looks even more beautiful during full moon night. You can take a stroll at night and enjoy stargazing. Other than this, head to visit Lamayuru monastery, which has some beautiful frescoes and masks. 

Distance from Leh:  114 km 

Best Cuisine of Ladakh

Rest assured when you book your Leh and Ladakh tour packages with Go2Ladakh as you are going to make the most of your holidays in the region by experiencing every bit of the region. How can the food of Ladakh be left behind? With us, you get to try the cuisines of Ladakh. 

Agriculture is obviously not the source of living here. Despite the harsh climatic conditions here, locals grow most grains and vegetables. Non-vegetarian food such as yak meat, mutton & chicken is enjoyed by the people living here. The food of Ladakh is greatly influenced by Tibet which means you will surely get to try momos and thukpa.  Some of the famous food to try in Ladakh includes:  

• Thenktuk
• Mokthuk
• Tapu
• Tigmo
• Skieu
• Chhurpi (Yak Cheese)
• Chutagi
• Paba
• Khambir

There are side dishes as well that shouldn’t be overlooked like Tsamik, Holkur Apricot jam, juice or syrup.  Apart from these, the cuisine of Ladakh will always remain incomplete without sipping the local beverage like: 

• Gur Gur Chai (Butter Tea)
• Chhang (Alcoholic Beverage)
• Cholak
• Tangdur
• Sea Buckthorn Juice

Clothing Tips for Leh Ladakh Tour Packages

The moment you plan a Ladakh trip, the next step is to pack your stuff and a lot of questions keep revolving around the mind like What should I wear in Ladakh or What should I carry on my Ladakh trip. Don’t worry, to make it easier for you, we have created a list of clothes you should pack for your Leh Ladakh trip.  

• Light Woollens even when travelling during the summer season as temperature during night drops.  
• Inner thermals 2-3 pairs (winter season must-haves). 
• Windcheater or Fleece Jacket. 
• Good hiking shoes. 
• 2-3 pairs of woollen socks. 
• Heavy woollens 2-3 sets – Parka, Sweatshirts, Pullovers, Warm Hoodies (Winter season)
• Hat and Caps to stay protected from harmful UV rays of the sun.
• Hand gloves both woollen and bike riding. 

Things to Carry on Trip to Ladakh

One of the most searched queries on the internet is ‘what are the things to carry on the Leh Ladakh trip. Below we have tried to cover all the essential items that you shouldn’t miss out on packing before embarking on your Leh Ladakh trip.  

Documents

Secure your trip to Ladakh by carrying all the government-issued identity proofs like aadhaar card, voter card, driving license, and passport along with their photocopies. Certain areas in Leh Ladakh are restricted and to visit them you need a permit. To get your permit issued carrying your ID proof is mandatory.  

Apart from this, carry passport size photographs, printed itinerary and tickets,  medical insurance (if any), 

Clothing & Footwear

Remember that weather in Ladakh is unpredictable. If it is warm during the day, the temperature can drop at night, resulting in cold nights. 

• Carry light woollens 
• Pack clothes that you can wear in layers including regular cotton T-shirts and sweatshirts
• For indulging in activities like trekking or hiking, keep gloves, muffler, scarf, cap, warm socks, good hiking boots, sports shoes and more
• Jeans, trousers, track pants and comfortable lower/pyjamas  
• Heavy Woollens and 2-3 thermals (winters)
• Water Proof Jackets
• Windcheater

First-Aid Box with Medicines 

As you will be travelling to high altitude region, good medical help/facility will be limited to Leh only. So, it is advised to carry a first-aid box with basic medicines like:

• Diamox for Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)
• Paracetamol/Crocin for fever
• Digene/Pan 40 for stomach issues
• D Cold/Vicks for cold and cough 
• Pain relief sprays like Moov/Volini 
• Crepe/First-aid bandages
• Antiseptic cream/solution like Dettol/Savlon 
• Electral/ORS Sachets 
• Anti-Allergy eye drops or medicines 

Other Items to Pack 

• Sunscreen with SPF 50 
• Lip Balm
• Moisturizer 
• Hand Sanitizer
• Sanitary Napkins/Tampons 
• Wet Tissue Paper 

Electronic Gadgets to Pack 

• Power Bank
• Phone Charger 
• Tripod Stand
• Rechargeable Torchlight 

Ladakh Tips- Safety Guidelines

Travelling is fun but you should always do it responsibly and safely. Below are some tips that will help you be safe on your Ladakh trip. Take a quick look:  

• If you are up for a bike trip, make sure to wear your safety guards like helmet, elbow and knee pads throughout the trip.
• Take a day’s rest after reaching Leh. This will help you acclimatize and not become a victim of AMS. 
• Do not depend wholly on Google maps. Carry a physical route map or take help from the locals if possible. 
• Wear your sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses that will protect your skin and eyes from harmful UV rays of the sun.