Ladakh – The Land of High Passes
Genuine travel experiences with a social enterprise
Get a fair idea of the geography of Ladakh
How to reach, acclimatization, permits, etc.
Climate of Ladakh, best time to go
On a tour : by car, on a motorcycle, on foot ?
While on a tour, during a trek, in a monastery ?
Festivals, monasteries, spirituality, folklore
Delicious and inspired from Tibetan food
A trip to Ladakh is a journey to one of the most stunning and spiritual regions of the Himalayas. Known as the Land of High Passes, Ladakh blends raw adventure, ancient monasteries, and breathtaking landscapes, and the spiritual essence of Ladakh. Whether you’re planning a road trip from Manali, a trek across Zanskar, or a serene visit to Pangong Lake, Himalayan Ecotourism offers sustainable and community-based travel experiences that make your trip to Ladakh both memorable and meaningful.
Trip to Ladakh: Essential Tips and Insights for Travelers
Planning a trip to Ladakh is like stepping into another world — where snow-clad mountains, turquoise lakes, and ancient Buddhist monasteries paint a mesmerizing Himalayan canvas. Known as the Land of High Passes or Little Tibet of India, Ladakh offers the perfect balance of adventure, spirituality, and serenity.
Whether you’re a European traveler seeking untouched wilderness or an Indian explorer chasing the thrill of Himalayan roads, Ladakh in 2025 promises a journey that will stay with you forever.
From the windswept dunes of Nubra Valley to the glassy reflections of Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri, and the rugged peaks of Zanskar, every corner of Ladakh tells a story of resilience, simplicity, and natural beauty.
At Himalayan Ecotourism, we help travelers experience Ladakh responsibly — blending exploration with sustainability, and adventure with local connection, and authentic engagement with the villages of Ladakh.
Quick Facts & General Information:
| Category | Details |
| Area | Ladakh covers approximately 59,146 square kilometers |
| Range of Altitude | Varies from about 2,500 meters to over 7,000 meters |
| Administrative Zones | Leh District: Includes subdivisions like Leh, Nubra, and Sham. Kargil District: Includes subdivisions like Kargil, Zanskar, and Drass |
| Population | Approximately 300,000 people |
| Siachen Glacier | Located in the eastern Karakoram range, the Siachen Glacier is one of the largest glaciers outside the polar regions. It’s often called the “highest battlefield in the world” due to the conflict between Indian and Pakistani armies at an altitude above 5,000 m. |
Map & Geography of Ladakh for Your Trip
Ladakh lies in the northernmost part of India, nestled between the Karakoram and the Great Himalayan ranges. The region’s geography is as diverse as its people — from frozen rivers and high mountain passes to ancient villages perched on cliffs.
- Area: ~59,000 sq. km
- Altitude: 2,500 m to over 7,000 m
- Districts: Leh and Kargil
- Major Regions: Nubra Valley, Sham, Zanskar, Changthang, Drass
The mighty Indus River flows across the region, giving life to the fertile valleys of Sham and Leh. Ladakh’s barren high-altitude deserts, shimmering under clear blue skies, are a dream for photographers, bikers, and trekkers alike.
Ladakh is Beyond Monasteries and Markets
Do you want to visit only the Shanti Stupa, Sangam Point, or Hall of Fame? Or would you rather explore a remote village at 4,200 m, a gateway to a high-altitude red lake at 5,100 m?
Stay in a homestay tucked in a gorge, experience meditation in ancient hermitages, and engage with local Yogis to discover Tibetan Shamanism.
Get up close with Thangka paintings, pottery, and mask-making, and immerse yourself in the spiritual essence of Ladakh.
For travelers seeking offbeat adventures, Himalayan Ecotourism offers experiences beyond the ordinary — connecting you with Ladakh’s land, culture, and people.
Travelling to Ladakh
How to reach Ladakh ?
Manali to Leh road
Entering Ladakh and Zanskar region near Sarchu.
Ladakh by Road – Best Way to Travel to Ladakh
While many travelers opt to fly to Ladakh, as it takes just under an hour from Delhi, we strongly recommend experiencing the journey by road. There are two main reasons for this:
Firstly, traveling to Ladakh by road involves crossing the entire Himalayan range, starting from the northern plains of India and progressing to the “Little Tibet” of India. This route offers a gradual transition, allowing you to witness an ever-changing landscape and experience diverse cultures along the way. The journey itself becomes an integral part of your Ladakh adventure.
Secondly, traveling by road provides a natural acclimatization process, helping your body adjust to the high altitudes of Ladakh. By the time you reach Leh, you’ll be better prepared to start exploring right away, while those arriving by air typically need at least two days to acclimatize.
Recommended Route
- Day 1 : Manali – You can start your journey from Delhi with a morning train to Chandigarh which would take around 4 hours. Then you continue by road to Manali. The 6 hr road drive will introduce you to the mountain ranges. Spend your first night here to begin acclimatizing.
- Day 2 : Keylong or Jispa – Located just behind the rain shadow boundary, it’s a much shorter trip thanks to the Atal tunnel that takes you to the Lahaul valley in just 10 minutes. The 9.02 km long Atal tunnel is the world’s longest single tube highway tunnel at an altitude above 3,000 m. The drive from Manali to Jispa will take around 3 hrs. On your way you can enjoy the cabbage gardens and the beautiful views of the surrounding snow capped peaks.
- Day 3 : Leh – The drive from Keylong to Leh takes approximately 10 hours. To fully savor the stunning Manali-Leh route, consider spending an additional night at either Sarchu or Pang, both of which are situated above 4,100 meters. Lato is a village we would like to highly recommend for a night stay before you head to Leh. The purple mountain ranges around Lato are absolutely stunning, and, on a clear night the sky is truly mesmerizing
This recommended route not only enhances your travel experience but also ensures a smoother transition to the high altitudes of Ladakh.
Ladakh by air
Daily flights from Delhi to Leh offer a quick and convenient way to reach Ladakh, with a flight time of approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. Airlines such as Air India, Indigo, and SpiceJet provide regular morning services on this route, departing from Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) and arriving at Leh’s Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (IXL).
However, flying directly into Leh is not ideal for acclimatization. Upon arrival, you’ll need to rest for a minimum of two days at your hotel or homestay to adjust to the high altitude.
For a more immersive experience, we recommend traveling to Ladakh by road and returning by air. This approach not only enhances your journey but also ensures a more comfortable acclimatization process.
Do you want to go to Leh by road in the best and safest way ? Enquire now !
Acclimatization in Ladakh – Staying Safe at High Altitudes
Proper acclimatization ensures a safe and enjoyable trip. Follow these essential tips:
- Stay in Leh for the First 2 Days before heading higher (e.g., Nubra or Pangong).
- Hydrate Frequently – Drink 3–4 liters of water daily; avoid alcohol and caffeine.
- Eat Light – Prefer soups, rice, and local foods like momos and thukpa.
- Rest Well – Sleep early; avoid strenuous activity initially.
- Medication: Consult your doctor about Diamox before your trip.
- Emergency Oxygen: Available in most Leh pharmacies.
- Listen to Your Body: If headaches or nausea persist, descend immediately.
Travel Permits for Your Ladakh Trip
While Leh town is open to all, certain regions like Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri, Nubra Valley, and Changthang Plateau require Inner Line Permits (ILPs).
For Indian Citizens:
- ILP is not required for most areas.
For Foreign Nationals:
- ILP mandatory for restricted zones.
- Obtained from District Commissioner’s Office, Leh.
- Documents: Passport, Visa, and 1 photograph.
- Apply 1 day before travelling to restricted areas.
Need help? Our local Ladakhi team can arrange your permits and logistics easily.
How to Obtain an Inner Line Permit (ILP)
1. Application Process
Location: The ILP can be obtained from the District Commissioner (DC) office in Leh.
Documents Required: You will need to provide a copy of your passport and visa, along with a passport-sized photograph.
2. Time Frame
It’s recommended to apply for the ILP at least one day before your planned visit to the restricted areas to ensure processing time.
For more information on travel permits and assistance with your trip, feel free to reach out to us.
When to go to Ladakh ?
Ladakh weather
Ladakh, located on the Tibetan Plateau, experiences a continental climate characterized by stark temperature extremes. The region is situated in a rain shadow area, making it a high-altitude desert with very little precipitation. The lack of vegetation further intensifies the climate, contributing to the extreme conditions.
Winters in Ladakh are exceptionally cold, with temperatures around Leh often dropping below minus 30°C at night. In contrast, summer days, particularly in July and August, can be surprisingly warm, with temperatures exceeding 30°C.
Although the monsoon doesn’t reach Ladakh, it does have some influence on the region’s summer weather. During this season, the skies can become cloudy, light rains may occur, and thunderstorms are possible. If you’re aiming for the best chance of clear skies, consider traveling before or after the monsoon season.
Spring and autumn are relatively short but can offer more moderate temperatures, making them good seasons for travel. However, the weather can still be unpredictable, so it’s essential to be prepared for a range of conditions.
The beautiful blue sky on a clear day
Summer is the best time to travel to Ladakh. But if you want a cloud free weather, you better come in June or in September.
Best Time to Visit Ladakh for Your 2025 – 2026 Trip
The best time for a trip to Ladakh depends on what you want to experience.
- May–June: Roads open, ideal for road trips and sightseeing.
- July–August: Warm days, perfect for trekking, biking, and photography.
- September–October: Crystal-clear skies, fewer tourists, best for culture and landscapes.
- November–April: Winter brings the famous Chadar Trek and frozen beauty, but only for the adventurous.
Avoid visiting right after heavy rains or snow, as mountain passes can temporarily close.
Best time to go for bike trip to Ladakh
For biking enthusiasts, the ideal time to travel is from May to October. Be cautious of early or late-season snowfalls, and regularly check weather updates.
Is winter a good time to go to Ladakh ?
Winter (January-February) is perfect for the Chadar trek and snow leopard spotting. Despite the cold, Ladakh’s roads are well-maintained, and Khardung La pass remains open for military and civilian use, even during heavy snowfall.
Ladakh temperature chart
JAN
VERY COLD
Avoid
FEB
VERY COLD
Avoid
MAR
VERY COLD
Avoid
APR
TEMPERATE
You may go
MAY
PLEASANT
You may go
JUN
PLEASANT
Best time to go
JUL
PLEASANT
Best time to go
AUG
PLEASANT
Best time to go
SEP
PLEASANT
Best time to go
OCT
COLD
You may go
NOV
COLD
Avoid
DEC
VERY COLD
Avoid
Moving in Ladakh
Transport during Ladakh trip
Essential Transportation Options for Your Ladakh Adventure
Due to its vast expanse and challenging road conditions, having the right vehicle is crucial for a successful trip. Himalayan Ecotourism provides two exceptional transportation choices to suit your travel preferences:
1. Travel in a Private Vehicle
- Comfort and Safety: Opt for a private vehicle with Ladakhi drivers who are well-versed in navigating Ladakh’s rugged terrain and ensuring your safety on the road.
- Local Expertise: Enjoy the added advantage of having a knowledgeable guide accompany you in the vehicle.
- Ideal For: Travelers seeking a comfortable, safe, and informative journey through Ladakh.
2. Explore Ladakh on a Motorcycle
- Adventure on Two Wheels: Experience the thrill of exploring Ladakh on a Royal Enfield motorcycle.
- Support Team: Travel with our dedicated team, which includes a backup jeep equipped with a driver, a guide, and a mechanic.
- Safety Note: Due to challenging road conditions and high passes, motorcycle travel requires careful driving and previous biking experience.
- Ideal For: Experienced bikers looking for an adventurous and immersive way to explore Ladakh.
Staying in Ladakh
Where to Stay During Your Trip to Ladakh?
Accommodation Options in Ladakh: What You Need to Know
Understanding your accommodation options is crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Here’s a comprehensive guide to staying in Ladakh:
Seasonal Availability
Most properties in Ladakh are operational from June to September. To ensure your stay is confirmed, we offer comprehensive booking services and have established strong relationships with local accommodations.
1. Homestays in Ladakh
Authentic Experience: For an immersive and authentic Ladakhi experience, consider staying in a local homestay. These accommodations offer a unique insight into Ladakhi culture and hospitality.
Availability: Homestays are often open year-round, even when other properties are closed. However, they may not be listed online, making it essential to book through a trusted local partner like us.
2. Staying in a monastery in Ladakh
Staying in a Buddhist monastery in Ladakh offers a unique opportunity for those seeking a profound spiritual experience in the highest reaches of the Himalayas. The tranquil environment, combined with the presence of Buddhist monks, creates an atmosphere conducive to introspection and meditation, ideal for self-contemplation.
While some monasteries do provide dormitory accommodations for visitors, the comfort level is typically very basic. For a more balanced experience, Himalayan Ecotourism recommends staying in a nearby homestay. Your local hosts will ensure your comfort and well-being, while still allowing you to immerse yourself in the monastic life. You can easily participate in the morning prayers and other spiritual activities by spending your days at the monastery.
To enhance your experience, we also suggest engaging one of our spiritual guides, often English-speaking Buddhist monks, who can help you navigate the rituals and communicate with other monks in the monastery.
3. Camping in Ladakh
Wilderness Adventure: For those seeking adventure, we offer camping experiences in the Ladakhi wilderness. Our team of experts will set up comfortable and safe camps with high-quality equipment.
Trekking Camps: During treks, you may have the option to choose between homestays or camping. Our team ensures that camping gear is of the best quality and carried by mules for your convenience.
4. Village Stays in Ladakh
Rustic Charm: Experience the simplicity of village life with stays that include basic facilities such as dry toilets. This option provides a more rustic, yet culturally rich experience. You will have to compromise slightly on your comfort when travelling to remote villages in Ladakh
For tailored accommodation options and to secure your stay, contact us today.
When you are on a trek, you will either have the option of staying in a homestay or camping. The camping equipment is carried by mules.
Let’s know your preferences, we will make it for you.
A traditional guesthouse in Ladakh
Some of the guesthouses are the best choice for comfort and experience
Culture of Ladakh
Culture & People of Ladakh: What Every Traveler Should Know
Ladakh’s culture is deeply influenced by Tibetan Buddhism. Prayer flags flutter on every pass, stupas gleam in sunlight, and monasteries echo with the chants of monks.
Visit Hemis, Thiksey, Alchi, or Diskit Monastery to witness this living heritage. The people of Ladakh are known for their warmth, simplicity, and resilience — traits shaped by life in such extreme altitudes.
Festivals like Hemis Festival, Losar, and Ladakh Festival fill the valleys with vibrant colors, dance, and music.
Respect local customs, avoid single-use plastics, and support local products — every mindful action helps preserve Ladakh’s fragile ecosystem.
Local Food & Cuisine to Try in Ladakh
Ladakhi Cuisine: A Flavorful Blend of Tradition
Ladakhi cuisine is a unique blend of Tibetan, Indian, and Chinese flavors, shaped by the region’s cultural heritage and geographical constraints. Locally-sourced ingredients are used to make traditional dishes like –
- Tsampa : Naked barley roasted on fire and then ground into flour. Staple food of Ladakh. Popular among all locals and nomadic tribes.
- Chhang : Home brewed alcohol from barley
- Tshog : Tsampa mixed with butter, chhang and sugar
- Thukpa : Noodle soup made with vegetables, meat (optional), and noodles.
- Momo : Steamed or fried dumplings filled with meat or vegetables
- Skew : Traditional Ladakhi soup made with small, thumb-sized dumplings and vegetables
- Gundruk : A tangy and nutritious soup made from fermented green leafy vegetables.
- Chhurpi : Dried and smoked yak cheese, used in soups, stews, or as a snack
- La chu : A wild rhubarb, eaten raw by peeling of the red stem skin.
- Zha-thuk : Tender shoots of stinging nettle, dried to preserve the goodness, and create wholesome flavor of soups.
- Tantur : Boiled leafy greens are cooled, then mixed with yogurt and seasoned with a pinch of salt
- Khambir – Traditional Ladakhi bread. It is dense and filling, often paired with butter tea
- Phirni – Sweet rice pudding
Responsible & Sustainable Tourism in Ladakh
Ladakh is one of the most beautiful yet delicate regions of the Himalayas. Its high-altitude deserts, glaciers and small traditional villages can feel the impact of tourism very quickly. That’s why we place a strong focus on travelling responsibly and encouraging every visitor to understand the region with sensitivity. You can read more about our approach to responsible tourism here.
At Himalayan Ecotourism, our Ladakh journeys are designed with the local communities and environment in mind. We make sure that every trip:
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Involves experienced local guides and uses local support services
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Reduces plastic and waste as much as possible
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Contributes to clean-up efforts, plantation drives and nature protection
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Helps families in remote villages earn a fair, steady income
Plan Your Trip to Ladakh with Himalayan Ecotourism
Ready to explore Ladakh beyond monasteries and markets? Experience remote villages, high-altitude lakes, meditation in ancient hermitages, and the spiritual essence of Ladakh with Himalayan Ecotourism (HECO). Every journey supports local communities, protects nature, and leaves you with memories for a lifetime.
Contact us today to start your off-the-beaten-path, eco-friendly Himalayan adventure!
FAQs About Ladakh Trip
What clothes should I bring to travel to Ladakh ?
If you’re traveling during the best season—from June to September—you can expect pleasant daytime temperatures, making light clothing suitable. A simple T-shirt is often enough for daytime, but be prepared for sudden changes. Cloudy weather or higher altitudes (such as Tso Moriri, which is at 4550 meters) can bring a sharp drop in temperature. In such cases, it’s wise to have two extra layers ready to keep warm. It’s also essential to pack a light windbreaker or raincoat, as the weather in the mountains can be unpredictable.
What SIM cards will work in Ladakh ?
Due to Ladakh’s strategic location, there are restrictions on SIM cards. Only postpaid SIM cards will work in the region, so if you’re using a prepaid SIM, it won’t connect to the network. If you don’t have a postpaid connection, you can easily purchase a local SIM. Jio and Airtel provide the best coverage in Ladakh, and you can obtain a SIM card from the main market in Leh.
Can I withdraw money from ATMs in Ladakh ?
You’ll find many ATMs in Leh and in larger villages such as Khaltse, Thiksey, and Karu. However, foreign travelers sometimes experience difficulties withdrawing money with international credit cards. If you encounter this issue, try selecting “Saving” as the account type, as it often helps. It’s best to withdraw cash in Leh before heading to more remote areas of Ladakh. The ATMs located on the ground floor of the “Montagne” restaurant near the main market in Leh are known to work well with foreign cards.
What is the best time for a trip to Ladakh?
May to October for easy travel, July–September for warm weather, and December–February for winter adventures.
How can I plan a budget trip to Ladakh?
Choose shared taxis, stay in local homestays, and join group eco-tours for cost-effective travel.
Is Ladakh safe for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The locals are welcoming, and most areas are well-connected and safe.
Do you fantasize staying a homestay at a village nestled in a marvellous gorge?
Wake up to breathtaking cliffs and peaceful village life. Enjoy home-cooked Ladakhi meals and authentic experiences with local families.
Do you wish to experience meditation in an ancient hermitage?
Find calm and connection in centuries-old hermitages, where meditation lets you experience Ladakh’s spiritual heartbeat firsthand.
Do you want to have an upclose experience of the Thangka paintings, pottery and mask making of Ladakh?
Witness artisans creating intricate Thangka paintings, traditional pottery, and ceremonial masks — a rare chance to dive into Ladakh’s vibrant cultural heritage.
Do you want to understand the essence of Buddhist culture through Tibetan Shamanism and insightful conversations with a Yogi?
Learn from a local Yogi about Tibetan Shamanism and Buddhist traditions, gaining a deep understanding of Ladakh’s spiritual life and philosophy.
Other Pages about Ladakh
Treks in Ladakh
Our selection of treks in Ladakh and Zanskar, one of the most stunning region on earth !
Spiritual tour to Ladakh
Learn about Tibetan Buddhism and dive in to the ancient wisdom
Experiential journey
Travel with a social enterprise that gives you the best experience of Ladakh
