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Things to Do in Ladakh

The best place to find snow leopards in Ladakh is Hemis National Park which is also called the Snow Leopard Capital of the world. Normally the success rate of finding a snow leopard is about 50% in this region. These places to visit in Ladakh, heads the tourists must see list as they can cach the majestic, enigmatic snow leopard and it is one of the best things to do in Ladakh.

The Indus river originating from Mt. Kailash and Mansarovar Lake in Tibet runs across the desert region of Ladakh. While rafting in this river in Ladakh you get to enjoy some fascinating beauty of nature as the river takes you through the gorges in the Ladakh and Zanskar ranges. This river has mainly rapids of Grade I and Grade II and at some places of Grade III.

There are different sections in the river where the difficulty levels vary. However, there is no denying the fact this gives you tremendous pumping of your adrenalin along with a mesmerising panorama of the places around the river banks.

Camel trekking or camel safari in Ladakh was the most common mode of transportation for the purpose of trade, around 3-4 centuries ago. It is still predominantly practiced in the Nubra valley from Hundar to Diskit. Only in this region, you will find the Bactrian camels or double-humped camels and it is one of the amazing things to do in Ladakh.

The distinctive features of these camels are that they store fat instead of water inside the humps. Camel safari tours are also organized here and have become popular among travellers.

The bustling market in Leh is full of various types of curio items, colourful trinkets and such other articles which could be a collector's delight. One should take some memento along with him before leaving ladakh.

The abundance of high and steep slopes in the Trans-Himalayan mountain ranges along with the astonishing beauty of the snow-clad mountains and the frozen lakes, the ever-changing landscape invite skiers from all over India and abroad. Skiing treks are also being taken these days to explore unknown areas of Ladakh and it is one of the must-do activities in Ladakh.

The ever-changing colours of Pangong lake set against the intense blue sky make it one of the most spectacular sites in Ladakh. Pangong Tso is a glacial lake approximately 150 kilometres long, spreading out over India and China. Only 5 hours of driving distance from Leh, this lake is cannot be missed when you are Ladakh. Nestled amidst the mountains at a height of 4350 metres though it is, Pangong Tso maintains a liquid state year-round owing to its saline content and it is one of the best Ladakh tour places.

The beauty of this lake against the backdrop of the majestic mountains is one of the most powerful sights in the world as well as the most peace-giving. Pangong Tso brings the depth of nature’s creativity to light in full force and makes you want to bow in reverence before it. You can also indulge yourself in camping around Pangong Lake which will give you some spectacular views of the lake. This is one place you absolutely must visit when in Ladakh.

We have got some of the best Ladakh packages that cover Pangong Lake with other attractions of Ladakh.

A 17th-century palace built after the fashion of medieval palaces in Tibet, and which stands overlooking the town of Leh, the Royal Leh Palace is one of the most important cultural destinations in Ladakh. Such is its significance that the structure is considered to be one of the most important buildings in Ladakh, despite its dilapidated outlook. Located atop a high hill, the palace offers a panoramic view of the town of Leh spread out against a backdrop of the Stok Kangri and Ladakh ranges. 

The palace also includes a museum which has artefacts dating back almost 450 years. This museum is one of the most attractive parts of the palace. Visiting this museum is a great way to get some valuable insight into the history and culture of Ladakh.

Check out our guide of the road trips to Ladakh and chose the best packages to travel to this heaven on the Earth.

Magnetic Hill is one of the most wonderful natural landmarks in Ladakh and must be seen for its magic to be fully understood. The Magnetic Hill is a “gravity hill’, capable of enacting a unique optical illusion that baffles tourists every time they view it. The hill gives the illusion that an object which is going downhill is actually following an uphill track. Cars that are traveling down the slope seem to be going uphill, thereby apparently defying gravity. 

This unique optical illusion is a rare phenomenon and only a few places in the world produce it. Experiencing the phenomenon of Magnetic Hill will make you marvel at the intricacy and creativity of nature and give you some unique memories to enjoy even after you leave Ladakh. 

Tso Moriri is a small and dainty lake in Ladakh. Falling as it does on the Ladakhi end of the Changthang Plateau, it is fed by the trickling streams and melting snows of neighbouring mountains. Tso Moriri is at an approximate distance of 250 kilometres from Leh, and a drive of roughly 8 to 10 hours is required to reach here. However, Tso Moriri amply repays the effort it takes to reach here in the form of gorgeous panoramic views. One must take an experience of camping around this beautiful lake to enjoys scenic views of nature.

The simplicity of the lake is the best feature of the lake- its still waters are undisturbed by the commotion and there isn’t as much touristic crowd disturbing the silence as is found near Pangong Tso. Tso Moriri is lovely in its beauty, and admiration for the simple perfection of the area flows naturally when you are near the lake. 

One of the most important tourist destinations in Leh, Nubra valley is a place that cannot be missed if you are traveling to Ladakh in the summer. Nubra valley offers tourists the chance to enjoy a multitude of adventures. The 150-kilometer-long valley is rich in sightseeing opportunities. From the Diskit monastery to the sand dunes to the Shayok and Nubra Rivers, there is a lot to enjoy here. 

Paying visits to the local villages of Hunter, Turtuke, and Diskit is also a good way to enjoy the sights of Nubra valley. Trekking and camping is an adventurous way to enjoy Nubra valley but you can also engage in jeep and camel safaris. Hiring a local guide is a good way of enjoying the valley in all its aspects. 

Kargil was once a busy town as it was within the trade route to and from China, Afghanistan, India, Turkey. It is the second biggest town of Ladakh and lies in the west of Leh facing the Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan.

The town became popular after a war was fought over the region between India and Pakistan. However, the town has remained largely peaceful till then and is home to a number of scenic attractions.

One of the most renowned passes in India, Khardunga La is a high-altitude motorable pass in Ladakh. According to the locals, it is the highest motorable pass in India though opinion is divided on the matter. Khardung La is majestic in its scope and visiting it is one of the most exotic experiences you can have in Ladakh. 

The pass is situated at an altitude of nearly 18,500 feet and the views from here are awe-inspiring. Sharp, chilly winds blow here relentlessly and add to the adventurous nature of the pass. An army canteen near the pass provides tourists with the chance to enjoy a nice hot cup of tea and some snacks as they gaze tirelessly upon the fascinating view.

While on your bike trip to Leh Ladakh you will get various passes and mountains that will make heart bubble more than the wheels of your bike.

Situated at a height of 3510 meters and about 127 Kms from Leh this is the oldest Tibetan Buddhist monastery. The monastery is maintained by the Red Hat sect of Buddhism.

The beautiful collection of wall paintings rich in color, murals, thangkas, and scriptures make the visit to the monastery worthwhile. The landscape here resembles a mainland like a terrain and has led to a spurt in camps and road trips conducted in this region.

There are a lot of camps in Ladakh where you can get to witness the beauty of the region in its amazing way. Book one for yourself now.

Alchi Monastery is one of the oldest monasteries in Ladakh. An ancient Buddhist monastery complex makes up the monastery and houses several chortens and temples. Alchi Monastery primarily includes three major shrines that are important to Buddhism- the Dukhang (Assembly hall), the Sumtsek and the Temple of Manjushri. These shrines date back to the 12th century and are considered to be of great significance in the Ladakh region. 

Several wall paintings also decorate the monuments of the monastery and reflect both Buddhist and Hindu ideals. Wooden artefacts are also an important part of the monastery’ decor and are considered to be important artistic works. Alchi Monastery is a monument to Ladakh’s past and therefore plays an important role in the culture of the region. Its location on the banks of the Indus river further adds to the glorious experience of visiting the monastery. 

Located 15 kilometers south of Leh on the Leh-Manali road is the famous Shey monastery complex. Shey was the summer capital of Ladakh in the years gone by and the palace and the monastery are reflections of a bygone era. The palace is mostly in ruins today but the monastery is still worth a visit. The monastery houses a grand statue of Shakyamuni Buddha and it is one of the best Ladakh places.

This 12-meter-high statue covers all three floors of the monastery and is one of the most spectacular man-made wonders to be seen in Ladakh. The upper floor of the monastery is covered in beautiful, intricately designed paintings while the lower floor features a library rich in ancient books. Small shrines further add to the depth of the monastery. 

Ladakh is rich in monasteries but the Diskit monastery is one of the most renowned of all monasteries in the region. Located in Nubra Valley, this monastery is the oldest and the largest monastery in the Ladakh. A grand 100-foot statue of the Maitreya Buddha is ensconced at the entrance to the monastery and makes a grand and awe-inspiring picture as you approach it. 

The monastery is located on a high plain with the Shylok river flowing peaceably by. A number of other shrines and temples are also located inside the monastery. The monastery hosts a “Festival of the Scapegoat" during February, one of the best festival Ladakh region could have, a festival which reflects the spirit of the culture of Ladakh. It is an enjoyable festival though tourists find it hard to attend because the snows block Nubra Valley from civilization in the winters.

Built in the loving memory of Guru Nanak Dev, this Gurudwara is a sacred site revered by the devotees. It is located on the Leh-Kargil highway and falls on the route to Leh. While Leh has countless places brimming with tourists, this place is still not known by many and is a true treasure for the solace seekers. If interesting tales bewitch you then this holy place holds a huge rock which is said to be thrown away by a demon on Guru Nanak Dev and was never removed.

Even after repetitive efforts, no one was able to push away this mighty structure and this is the reason it is called the Pathar Gurudwara. Visiting this serene site is indeed one of the best things to do in Ladakh if you are touring with your family as this quaint slice has everything to soothe your soul.

There is another must-see attraction in Leh Ladakh tour and that is the Tso Kar Lake. Also called ‘White Lake' is one of the three high height saltwater lakes in Ladakh. The Tso-Kar Lake is known as 'White Lake' on the grounds that the white salt of the water stores everywhere throughout the lake shores. Tso-Kar Lake is the littlest lake among the three vital lakes in Ladakh. 

The Tso-Kar lake is extremely well known with bird watchers. The range encompassing Tso-Kar lake is rich with wildlife and birds. Be that as it may, the principle fascination among the birds' life at Tso Kar is dark necked cranes. The dark necked cranes, known for their devotion, come to Tso Kar to lay eggs.

You can check out the best trekking experiences in Ladakh to make your Ladakh trip more adventurous.

Drass valley is known as the Gateway to Ladakh and is the second highest and coldest inhabited area in the world after Siberia. The valley begins at Zozi La and extends till Kargil. During the summer months, the valley completely changes from a snow-bound place to lush green meadows with colourful fragrant flowers enhancing the beauty of nature and it is one of the best Ladakh visiting place.

Ladakh features several sanctuaries and national parks, but the Donkey sanctuary is one of the most unique sanctuaries in the region. This sanctuary is a small affair set up by a private citizen in order to provide a home to donkeys who were left homeless after they had served their use in other establishments. 

The Donkey sanctuary gives hurt and homeless donkeys a place of refuge where they can recover their lost sense of life and regain their lost strength. Visiting the Donkey sanctuary in Ladakh is a good way to get a look at a different aspect of Ladakhi culture and the drive up to the place makes for a good road trip. 

The town of Hemis is famous for its monastery is the largest monastic organisation in the Ladakh district. The Hemis monastery is considered to be the one of the richest monasteries in India with some very rare and exquisite antique collections like the copper statue of Buddha, inctricately carved gold and silver stupas and some exotic Thangkas and it is one of the famous Ladakh visiting place.

Hall of Fame near Leh is actually a museum dedicated to the Indian army's heroic struggles during the war in Kargil and Siachen sectors. It's a very interesting museum displaying the weapons employed during the Kargil war and belongings of the enemy soldiers including their outfits found after the Kargil war and is one of the famous Ladakh tour places.

Also, on display are the different outfits of the heroic soldiers with multi-layered shoes to protect them from frostbite, their frozen foods which they warm with balls of Hexamycin tablets before dinner. Due to the excessive cold in the Ladakh region with the temperature hovering between -300 C to -500 C it is difficult to strike a fire. This is also the reason why there were so many deaths of our heroic soldiers during the Siachen war.

The Thiksey monastery is situated in the Indus valley and is just 18 kms away from Leh. The 12-storey monastery contains ten temples with an assembly hall and living quarters for the monks and also a nunnery. The 40 foot. high statue of Maitreya Buddha is the prime attraction here and is dedicated to the Goddess Tara. 

Other than this one can also see some rare, precious stupas, wall paintings, statues and swords in the monastery. The Ladakh travel guide lists some of the best monasteries to be visited on your visit to Leh Ladakh.

Don't want to feel homesick in Ladakh? Check out the best homestays in Ladakh and get that homely feel.

Hemis festival takes place in the Hemis monastery of Ladakh every year on the tenth day of the Tibetan lunar month. The festival is held to commemorate the birth anniversary of Guru Padmasambhava. This is a two-day affair and one of the biggest included in the ladakh travel guide, in which the Lamas participate in mask dances religious plays with accompaniment of drums, cymbals and long horns and it is one of the best things to do in Ladakh.

Local Tibetans eagerly waiting for the festival attire themselves in colourful dresses and join in the festivities. Every 12 years during the Tibetan Year of Monkey a 'Thanka' two-storey high and depicting the Guru is displayed. The 'Thanka' is richly embroidered with semi-precious stones and pearls. A fair is also held during this festival where beautiful handicrafts are displayed.

Losar festival is perhaps the most popular and eagerly-awaited festivals in Ladakh. It starts on the first of eleventh month of every year. The rituals and rites which are performed during the Losar festival is a mixture of Buddhist and pre-Buddhist religious practices. The start of the festival is heralded with the end of the harvesting season. 

People dress themselves up in new attires and women adorn themselves with fine jewelleries to join the festive spirit. Goats and sheep are kept reserved for use during the festival time. Chang, a local beer made from Barley, flows freely as a part of the celebrations.

Almost all the monasteries or Gompas in Ladakh organise yearly festivals in their individual units. A large percentage of these festivals take place during the winter months probably because those are the months of relative inactivity for the local people.

The biggest and the most famous festival of Hemis is held in late June or early July, Lamyuru festival takes place in early July, Phyang in late July or early August. Some festivals are also held in February.

Ladakh by virtue of its geographical location is cut off for most of the year from the world outside. So, as the brief summer season approaches, people welcome it with gay abandon. The season normally lasts till September before engulfing region once again in a thick sheet of snow for the next eight-nine months and it is one of the best things to do in Ladakh.

Before the start of the winter season, it becomes engrossed in vibrant festivities by organising the Ladakh festival which continues for seven days. The festival starts with long processions followed by various types of dances like lion dances, Yak dances etc.

Numerous stalls are opened displaying finest exhibitions of handicrafts, excellent and tasty local food and the local beer Chang made of Barley adds a heady concoction to the spirit of the festivities. Various forms of sporting activities like Archery,  Polo matches, white-water river rafting, and treks are organised throughout the duration of the festival.

Copper samovars are basically tea kettles with a provision for heating water by burning coal kept within a hidden container. These samovars are very popular with the tourists. There are also Tibetan designs embossed on the outer surface of the samovars to make them look attractive and appealing.

The prayer wheel is a cylindrical wheel which has a spindle attached to it. The spindle could be made of metal, stone, wood or leather. The words "Om Mani Padme Hum" are inscribed on the wheel.

Q) How are the road conditions in Leh Ladakh?

A: During your road trip or while traveling by road, you will be passing through 30% road and 70% off roads.  After crossing Manali you will reach Leh, then onto Pangong and Nubra which is a mixture of both roads and off-road. Also, you will find sections of asphalt and areas with huge stones in the way. The best part is that your whole adventure will be mostly on the off-road.

Q) Can I do Manali to Leh with 1 stop at Sarchu?

A: Although this is possible on your trip I would suggest you shouldn’t. Leh trip is mostly about experiencing scenic views and its stunning surroundings. So while you are driving down the roads from Manali to Leh it is always better to make 2 stops. You might be a bit late but the joy of experiencing the natural beauty will let you feel more relaxed. As you make the stops you will have some time to adjust your body to acclimatize to the high altitudes, reducing chances of getting AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness). Though there are some beautiful campsites at Sarchu where you can have a comfy stay.

Q) Can I go to Nubra valley and come back in the same day?

A: Well, if you see theoretically it will be a yes and practically it will no. For reaching Nubra valley you will be passing through Khardungla, the highest motorable road in the world. And it’s not a good idea to pass such a high altitude twice. As Nubra Valley is known for its beauty and the magnificence, spend some time enjoying the serenity of this region.

Q) Can I go to Pangong Tso Lake and come back in the same day?

A: Well, if you see theoretically it will be a yes and practically it will no. Panging Tso Lake is quite far away to cover in just one day. Also, you will be passing through the third highest motorable pass in the world, Chang La. As for the one who loves to explore the natural beauty Panging Lake is one of the most enchanting in the entire trip.  Another interesting thing is that you will be camping here for the night. Spend the night under the sky and staring at the lake as it glitters in the moonlight. It will be totally worth it.

Q) Can I do Leh to Srinagar in one day?

A: Yes, this is possible in one day. The road which you will pass here is very good. Only a few sections are bad roads around Zojila pass and Sonamarg. You might also face the rain in between your trip and the roads might get a bit slippery. You can also take a stop at Kargil where you can enjoy the beauty of the place and also visit the Kargil war memorial.

Q) Is there any lack of oxygen in Ladakh?

A: If you are traveling at  1000 above sea level will find difficulty in breathing or is likely to fall prey to altitude sickness. It happens due to the low level of atmospheric oxygen.

Q) What are the symptoms of High Altitude sickness? How long does it take to get acclimatize in Ladakh?

A: Few of the symptoms of high altitude include giddiness, loss of appetite, lack of sleep and difficulty in breathing. The best way to get acclimatize in Ladakh is a natural rest for at least 48 hours.

Q) Is there an ATM at Leh, Nubra & Pangong, Can we use Credit Cards?

A: A very few operator and hotels accept credit cards here and there will be a service charge of 2%. You will find ATM’s of Jammu and Kashmir Bank, State Bank of India, HDFC Bank, Axis Bank and Punjab National Bank in Leh city. Outside Leh city, there are no ATMs.

Q) Do credit cards work in hotels and restaurants?

A: Yes, credit cards are accepted in a few hotels in Leh. There are some restaurants too that accept the credit cards but they charge 2% service tax.

Q) What permits do I need for a complete Ladakh trip?

A: Ladakh region requires some inner line permits across few places such as to cross Rohtang pass, Nubra Valley and Pangong Lake. If you cross Rohtang early in the morning, chances are that there might be no one to check your permit. But it is better to get your permits. For Nubra and Pangong, you need 2 permits each.

Q) Which is the best time to visit Ladakh?

A: The best time to visit Ladakh is between May and September when the weather in Ladakh is the warmest. Ladakh doesn't experience rain like elsewhere in India, so the monsoon season is the perfect time to travel to Leh.

Q) Can we Visit Ladakh with Kids?

A: Ladakh is best for group tours and bike tours. It is not sensible for the kids. If you are traveling with kids you should be wary of all the conditions. It is advisable for tourists to not take children below the age of 5 years, as they may face acclimatization issues.

Q) What kind of accommodation is available in Ladakh?

A: While visiting Ladakh you will find that there are four different categories graded to a hotel- A, B, C, D.  When it comes to A class hotels, their facilities and services are simply comparable to any 3-star hotel. Each hotel in Ladakh is designed with the traditional architecture of the region and feature oversized rooms equipped with modern amenities. These rooms are furnished with Ladakhi and Tibetan décor.

Q) How many minimum days are required to explore Ladakh?

A: You will need at least a minimum of 15 days to explore the amazing Ladakh including the monasteries, villages, and forts. You first two days will be acclimatization days. You might also take some extra time if you are planning to head out for a mountain trek.

Q) What kind of clothes should we bring there?

A: If you are trekking 4000 meters above sea level, you need warm woolen clothes. Rain and snowfall can take place in June and July and therefore windcheaters and raincoats are good. If you are into trekking, a pair of waterproof shoes are a must. T-shirts and shorts can do during the daytime but after evening the climate gets chilly and one requires a jacket and pullover.

Q) What kind of tourist vehicles are found in this region?

A: While you are Leh you will find different kinds of tourist vehicles like Toyota Qualis and Mahindra Scorpio vehicles. You will not find auto rickshaws here.