When the Ladakhi welcome you at their home
Oasis in the mountain desert
The villages of Ladakh possess a unique charm. Being a high-altitude desert, Ladakh’s landscape is dominated by arid mountains, bare of forests, and marked by distinct stratum and rock formations. Amid this rugged terrain, thin green lines trace the valleys, following rivers fed by melting glaciers from the towering peaks.
In villages, these narrow green threads transform into lush expanses, filled with trees, fields, and meadows. The villagers skillfully divert river water through intricate networks of small canals to irrigate their lands. The transition from the stark, arid landscape into these villages is magical—temperatures become more temperate, biodiversity flourishes with the presence of cows, goats, sheep, and the sounds of birds.
In Ladakh, human settlements create vibrant pockets of life, where nature blooms alongside them.
AERIAL VIEW
Of the valley with Chemrey and Thaktok monastries.
Homestay in Leh Ladakh
Room in a homestay
This is a typical room in a homestay in Ladakh.
Most villages in Ladakh do not offer luxury accommodations. Staying in these villages means living in the homes of the locals. And this is exactly what we prefer. While comfort is something we value—and we will plan some pleasant, comfortable nights for your stay in Ladakh—we also believe that staying in village homestays will give you the most authentic experience of Ladakhi life.
The lifestyle in Ladakh is so distinct that you won’t want to miss spending a few days across its different villages.
That being said, be prepared for very basic living conditions. The bedding is often simple, the mattress might be hard, and hygiene standards are far from what is typical in Europe. The toilets are usually dry and outside, and many homestays don’t have bathrooms.
However, what the homes lack in comfort is more than made up for by the warmth and hospitality of your hosts. You’ll spend your time in the main living room, often doubling as a kitchen, where elderly family members might be spinning prayer wheels while reciting Buddhist mantras as children play and laugh nearby.
Once your mind is adjusted to less comfort, a village homestay in Ladakh becomes a truly wonderful experience!
Best villages in Ladakh
Ladakh’s villages offer a blend of breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and immersive experiences. Whether accessible by road or reachable by foot, here are the top 10 villages you must visit:
1. Photoksar
Photoksar is a scenic village located in the Zanskar Range. Surrounded by majestic mountains, it offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. Himalayan Ecotourism works closely with the village to develop unique activities like trekking to Tso Marpo and cultural exchanges. The village also boasts a 600-year-old monastery with stunning wall paintings, recently renovated by the local youth.
2. Tar
Nestled within a valley that transforms into a dramatic gorge, Tar is a picturesque village accessible by foot. A short trek takes you to a fertile oasis of terraced fields irrigated by glacier-fed streams. With several homestays available, visitors can enjoy a peaceful overnight stay and experience the village’s charm.
3. Turtuk
Located in the Nubra Valley, Turtuk is a historical village with deep cultural significance, as it was part of Baltistan before joining India in 1971. This village stands out for its apricot orchards, traditional stone houses, and breathtaking views of the Shyok River and Karakoram mountains. Explore its unique Balti culture, handicrafts, and rich history.
4. Likir
Known for its impressive monastery perched on a hill, Likir is a spiritual and cultural gem in Ladakh. Aside from the monastery, Likir offers pottery classes run by local artisans who have preserved this tradition for decades. It’s a great way to engage with the village’s creative heritage.
5. Lamayuru
Famous for its “moonland” landscape, Lamayuru is home to one of the oldest monasteries in Ladakh. Himalayan Ecotourism organizes spiritual encounters with local Yogis here, offering visitors a chance to receive teachings and guidance in Tibetan Buddhism, making it a spiritually enriching experience.
6. Sumda Chemno
An offbeat destination, Sumda Chemno is known for its ancient metalwork tradition and heritage monasteries. It’s an excellent choice for travelers looking to explore Ladakh’s lesser-known spiritual sites while supporting community-driven tourism.
7. Alchi
Alchi is famous for its ancient monastery, which dates back over a thousand years. In addition to the spiritual richness, staying in Alchi offers a tranquil experience with its peaceful environment and traditional Ladakhi hospitality.
8. Matho
Perched near a ridge, Matho is known for its monastery and vibrant Matho Nagrang festival. Himalayan Ecotourism offers spiritual retreats here, where visitors can learn meditation and Tibetan Buddhism, making it a quiet retreat from the busier tourist trails.
9. Dah
Dah is home to the unique Aryan culture, where villagers claim to be descendants of the soldiers of Alexander the Great. The village offers an intriguing cultural experience as well as stunning landscapes. Its distinct identity sets it apart from the other villages in Ladakh.
10. Panamic
Located in the Nubra Valley, Panamic is famous for its hot springs, which are believed to have medicinal properties. Visitors can also enjoy the views of snow-capped mountains and the nearby Siachen glacier.
11. Maan
Maan is situated on the banks of Pangong Tso, one of the most famous lakes in Ladakh. The village provides serene views of the lake and surrounding mountains, making it an excellent place for stargazing and wildlife observation, including migratory birds.
These villages not only offer scenic beauty but also deep cultural interactions, enriching your experience of Ladakh beyond the ordinary tourist trail.
PHOTOKSAR VILLAGE
The perfect destination for an immersive experience of Ladakh and Zanskar.