A Complete Guide to Leh Ladakh

Can’t wait to plan your trip to Ladakh? Well, you may have to wait for the best time for the Ladakh trip. The summer months are the best season to visit Leh Ladakh and therefore, they are the busiest. It is during those times when the frozen lake begins to melt and that means a prismatic view sparkling with colours! From April to Mid-October, Ladakh welcomes guests from all over the world. So, you are welcome to come anytime during these months!

Air travel makes it possible for you to travel during the winter months as well. However, Ladakh travel in winter means a freezing cold. If you are okay with the cold, you are all set to go. Just remember to pack tons of winter clothes!

Well, the answer is all of Ladakh, but that will be a long trip! So, let’s start with the famous tourist spots. As we know, Ladakh is home to some majestic monasteries, beautiful lakes and mesmerising valleys. All this and much more lies awaiting in the land of Leh Ladakh. We have handpicked some of the best places you should not miss while on a Ladakh trip!

This is probably the first place you should go to after arriving in Ladakh. It’ll give you much-needed peace and calm. Perched on a hill, Shanti Stupa offers panoramic views of the mountains and the city below. It is one of the most beautiful Buddhist monuments in the country.

Let’s visit the former residence of the King and Queen, the Leh Palace. It is located in a picturesque location overlooking majestic mountain ranges and the beautiful Leh city. This 9 storied building will give you a glimpse of the royalty.

Remember the last scene of 3 idiots? The scene was funny, but do you remember the beautiful lake? That is our next stop where you can witness the incomparable beauty of the Pangong Tso lake! The path towards Pangong Tso from Leh is as beautiful as the destination. It starts from Leh and passes through beautiful hamlets and passes. Once you reach Pangong, have some delicious and hot lunch in the local dhabas. And it’ll be good to spend some time here and rest in the village after a long ride.

Isn’t a drive to Khardung la, the highest motorable road in the world, exciting? The spiral roads with unpredictable turns will take you to South Pullu, where the fully constructed road ends. From there to the pass, you will move through a bunch of bumpy and stone stacked roads. Seems thrilling, doesn’t it? During this ride, you will witness nature like never before. Its raw, immaculate and extraordinary self will amaze you. Get ready to be astonished by the vastness of such beauty! Also, drink a hot cup of tea once you reach the top.

Next on our list? A Buddhist monastery. Built by the Ladakhi King, it is 45 km away from Leh. You will find an out-of-the-world copper statue of Buddha in the monastery with Thangka paintings and other significant relics. Did you know who takes care of these monasteries? It is the Red Sector Dugpa Kargyupta order of Buddhism that takes care of the matters here. Also, if you want to experience the vibrant culture of these monasteries, head to Ladakh during July, when the Hemis Festival is in full swing!

Once you have seen all Leh Ladakh offers and clicked as many pictures as you want with the magnificent mountains as the backdrop, it is time for some fun! What fun you ask?

Are you a beginner or an experienced trekker? To be honest, it doesn’t matter! Leh has something for everyone. Its rugged mountains and hidden trails have made Ladakh heaven for trekkers. The most popular trekking trail for beginners is the Sham Valley Trek, also known as ‘the baby trek’ (interesting name, right?) You can start with this 44-day trek. You can also choose from some other popular trekking trails, Markha Valley, Lamayuru to Alchi, Chadar trek and Ripchar Valley trek. What are you waiting for then? Get ready to enjoy your time in the lap of nature.

Rafting in the Zanskar river in Leh is an experience beyond words. If you love adventures, you should try river rafting here at least once in your lifetime! Start by asking someone in the Leh Tourism department about the procedure. First, they’ll take you to your destination a few hours away from the city. Once you reach there, change into wetsuits and attend a verbal training explaining the basics of rowing. After that, your ride will start! The ride will begin with some rapids at first, but after a while, as you approach Sangam Point, the route becomes much calmer. You can witness the scenic beauty and experience the thrill like never before! What’s more? You will be offered a hot and delicious meal by the Leh tourism operators after the ride!

How can any trip be complete without shopping? Shopping is a must while you are in Ladakh. From silver to Tibetan jewellery, postcards to home decor, Leh is a great place to buy some local souvenirs. The roads are lined with shops selling so many things! You can buy some amazing things at the flea market located on the main road too! A shopping tip? Do a little haggling to get the best deals!

So, here is our Ladakh tour guide for you! Book your tickets, hotel rooms and pack your bags. Happy travelling!