When to Go
The best time to visit Leh Ladakh is from May to September when the mountain passes are open and the weather is pleasant. This region is remote with high altitude terrain and gets extremely cold in winter when most activities are limited. Planning your trip between May and September will allow you to immerse in adventures while also avoiding roadblocks due to snow. The peak season is from July to mid-September when most festivals happen too. If you prefer fewer crowds, May – June or September – October are good months with the added benefit of lower hotel prices. In this article we gonna discuss what are the thing will get from a Leh ladakh tour package.
How to Get There
The easiest way to reach Leh is by flight. There are regular flights from New Delhi which take around 1.5 hours. There are also limited flights from Srinagar, Jammu, Chandigarh and major cities. Those wanting to experience the adventurous uphill journey can opt for the 2 day road trip from Manali to Leh. This scenic drive takes you over high passes like Rohtang La and Tanglang La as you traverse through valleys and rivers. Acclimatisation to the high altitude is important so take proper rest and stopovers on this journey.
Where to Stay
Leh has accommodation options for all budgets. Luxury hotels, budget guesthouses, homestays and campsites – you’ll be spoilt for choice in the main Leh town! There are also numerous scenic campsites in Nubra Valley, Pangong Lake and other destinations that offer an immersive experience. Depending on your itinerary, look for accommodation in Leh, Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso or other areas you intend to spend time in instead of changing hotels. Book well in advance for July – August.
How to Travel
One of the best ways to experience Ladakh is self-drive car rental or bike rental as it allows flexibility to stop frequently and enjoy the landscape. Shared taxis are easily available from Leh to visit major attractions and towns. These can be booked either directly for the entire cab or on a shared per seat basis. Local buses also connect Leh to important tourist centres but can be crowded and less comfortable. Limited flights operate from Leh to Nubra Valley and Pangong Lake as well.
Permits Required
To visit Nubra Valley, Pangong Lake and other restricted areas, Indian nationals need to obtain Inner Line Permits that can be procured online or from the DM Office in Leh. Foreign nationals need Protected Area Permits and these should ideally be procured through registered travel agents. Please carry copies of identification documents and visa as required to obtain permits. Permits list the allowed destinations and duration, so ensure your travel plan matches accordingly.
Must Visit Destinations
- Pangong Lake – This high altitude saltwater lake stretched across India and Tibet is an unforgettable sight with its vivid blue waters surrounded by mountain slopes. Visit from Leh in a day’s trip or stay overnight in camps at Pangong.
- Nubra Valley – Cross the Khardung La Pass, one of the world’s highest motorable roads to reach the remote yet stunning Nubra Valley. See the sand dunes, scenic vistas, monasteries and double-humped camels here.
- Tso Moriri Lake – This high-altitude lake in the Changthang region is larger than Pangong and just as picturesque with the surrounding mountains reflected in its clear waters. The route has scenic stops like Kiagar Tso and Chumathang Hot Spring.
- Magnetic Hill – This spot on the Leh – Kargil road is known for a gravity-defying optical illusion where vehicles in neutral gear seem to move uphill. An interesting stopover to see the natural phenomenon yourself!
- Shanti Stupa – This beautiful white-domed Buddhist stupa on a hilltop offers panoramic views of Leh town. The ideal place to see sunrise and sunset overlooking the landscape.
- Zanskar Valley – For an immersive experience, take a multi-day trek through the breathtaking Zanskar valley which offers gorgeous high altitude scenery along the way. The famed Chadar trek on frozen Zanskar river is a challenging highlight.
- Hemis National Park – Home to the endangered snow leopard, it is India’s largest national park spanning valleys, glaciers, peaks and more. Besides leopards, see ibex, golden eagles and other Himalayan wildlife.
- Royal Leh Palace – Visit the former home of the royal family of Ladakh for a peek into history along with great views of Leh and the Stok Kangri peak. The architecture and artefacts are noteworthy too.
- Thiksey, Alchi, Hemis Monasteries – Ladakh’s ornate gumphas of Buddhist learning and worship are a must-see. Thiksey’s resemblance to the Potala Palace, Alchi’s ancient murals and Hemis’ architecture are awe-inspiring.
