Leh Ladakh Trip

1. What are the best places to visit in Ladakh?

Pangong Lake

About the place: A Leh Ladakh trip is incomplete without visiting Pangong Lake as it is the most iconic one for Ladakh tourism. This beautiful lake is snuggled at an elevation of 4,350 meters and is also called “Pangong Tso''. It stretches for about 12 kilometers and gained popularity after the “3 Idiots” movie was shot here. The azure of the lake is mostly light blue but you might even see it turning green sometimes. Other than this, it even features a number of camps where you can experience a stay right next to this majestic lake. The views that it extends are panoramic and one must not miss out on a chance of visiting this beauty.

Location: Leh district, Ladakh, India

Nubra Valley

About the place: Famed as the tri-armed valley, the Nubra valley is one of the best inclusions in the Ladakh tour packages. With the rustic sand dunes and complementing views of nature, this place is a true treat to one’s eye. When here, you can actually take in the desert life with sand dunes, camping, two-humped camels, and a whole lot more unique experiences. You can also enjoy camping in this valley and savor the fun with its Arabian nights. Another tourist spot in the Nubra valley is the Panamik village where you take a dip in the hot water springs and rejuvenate yourself inside out!

Location: Ladakh, India

Chadar Trek

About the place: Ever dreamt of walking on ice? Well, this is the trek with which you can live your dream and actually walk on a frozen river. This experience is one of its kind as in the winters the Zanskar river freezes completely and forms a blanket of ice on which you can actually walk. This is a 6-day long trek and is truly an unmissable spot in Leh. This might sound a little challenging to you, but this trek ranges between moderate to a high level in difficulty, and one can complete it with little extra effort. There are several Ladakh packages for the Chadar trek so make sure you book one for yourself this winter!

Hemis National Park

About the place: Booming up Ladakh tourism, Hemis National Park receives a high influx of travelers every year. This is the largest National Park of South Asia and is located on an elevation ranging from 3,300 to 6,000 meters above the ground. Here you can witness a wide array of flora and fauna like the Tibetian wolf, red fox, Asiatic ibex, Eurasian brown bear, leopards, and countless other variants of wildlife. If you are a wildlife lover, make sure that you add this amazing National Park to your Leh Ladakh trip itinerary for ultimate fun.

Location: Hemis, Jammu & Kashmir

Hall of Fame Museum

About the place: Another one gaining popularity in the Leh Ladakh tour itinerary is the Hall of Fame Museum. Taking you back to the time of the Indo-Pakistan war, this place is built to honor the soldiers who lost their lives to save the nation. To keep their bravery stories alive, here you can witness the photos and installations of that time. Other than this the names of all the soldiers who sacrificed are inscribed on the walls. Not only this but you can also witness the arms and other amenities that were used by them to safeguard the country. Right from biographies, pictures, seized arms here you can find all the things of the Indo-Pakistan war!

Location: Leh, Jammu and Kashmir 194101

Khardung La

About the place: Leading to the Nubra valley, the Khardung La pass is a typical tourist attraction of Ladakh. This is one of the most thrilling passes of Ladakh and is controlled by the Border roads association. This pass leads to the Nubra and Shyok valley and was built back in 1976. It is perched at an elevation of 5,603 meters above the ground and is the most adventurous motorable pass of Ladakh. Once you reach the top of the pass you can take the bird’s eye view of the Karakoram range and the Himalayas. Make sure that your Leh Ladakh tour packages are inclusive of this destination as it’s a prominent one for Ladakh tourism.

Location: Ladakh, India

Moonland

About the place: As the land resembles the shape and texture of the moon, it is named the moon land. When you’ll be here on your Leh Ladakh trip you can literally feel like being on the moon. This is a unique geographical zone location and receives a high influx of visitors round the year. It is said that on the full moon day the land glooms with moonlight and becomes even more beautiful. If you are looking for a place that is less explored and yet fantastic then the moon land is the place for you. If you wish to take a closer look at its beauty then you can climb up the Meditation Hill and soothe your eyes with the wonderful views.

Location: Leh-Srinagar Highway, Ladakh

Gol Market

About the place: Located in the heart of Ladakh, the Gol Market is a true shoppers paradise. Right from the local apparel to the generic items here you can find all of it. Other than these, here you can find a number of stalls selling cute little souvenirs and even antiques. Not only this but here you can also buy woolen clothes or some hand-tailored apparel with the embroidered Ladakhi work. You will fall in awe of this place with its vibrant collection of items and you’ll surely end up buying some beautiful things.

Location: Near Central Market, Ladakh

Hemis Monastery

About the place: Located 45 km south of Leh is the Hemis Monastery which is one of the most placid tourist spots on the Leh Ladakh tour. It is famed for its annual mask festival which is a two-day long spiritual celebration. The monasteries are well decorated at this time and you can notice elegant murals, deities, paintings on cotton and silk, and a lot more wonderful things. Not only this but it’s fully covered with prayer flags that look fantastic while fluttering with the wind. It even has a huge copper Lord Buddha status installed that can be spotted from a distance!

Location: Leh, Jammu, and Kashmir

Magnetic Hill

About the place: One of the must add to your Ladakh tour itinerary is the Magnetic hill. The logic behind the concept of this hill is unknown but if you leave your car unlocked on it, you will notice it moving uphill. Yes, it’s hard to believe but it’s said it happens due to the magnetic force but there is no source. Make sure that you park your car at neutral gear at the specified point as you can witness the magic only if it’s parked there. To your surprise, the car will move at 20 kmph and this hill is surely an unmissable part.

Location: Ladakh, India

Thikey Monastery

About the place: One of the most elegant and intricately built monasteries of Ladakh is the Thiksey monastery. It contributes to Ladakh tourism and is a 12-story complex where more than 500 monks live. It is snuggled at an elevation of 11,800 feet above the ground and is nurtured by the Geluga community. When here, you can witness the manuscripts of Buddhism, stupas, journals, books, paintings, and a whole lot more of the Buddism culture. This place is known for its quietude and serenity and is the best place if you are looking for some time for yourself!

Location: Leh Manali Highway, Thiksey, Jammu & Kashmir

Kargil

About the place: Another must-add to the Leh Ladakh tour packages is Kargil! This is the second largest town of Ladakh and is enveloped by the Indus river. The panoramic views and vantage points offered by this quaint town are numerous and each one of them showcases amazing vistas of nature. This is one of the prominent tourist destinations for travelers coming to Ladakh. It is famed for its raw landscapes and is often visited by adventurous travelers. It is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and clear rivers where you can experience adventures like mountaineering, trekking, and a lot more.

2. What are the best things to do in Ladakh?

Witness the Hemis Festival

About the activity: A must-witness one on your Leh Ladakh tour is the Hemis Festival. At this festival, you can watch the Llamas performing wonderful dance acts and see the region well-decorated with the prayer flags that turn up the region prettier.

Location: Hemis Monstery

Experience the Camel Safari:

About the Activity: Ladakh is famed for its double-humped camels and you can experience a safari in various regions. The terrains are rugged and when the camels walk on them you can just relax and watch the Nubra River.

Location: Hunder

Visit the highest cafe in the World:

About the Activity: Ever thought of sitting high and having a meal? Well, the Maggie story cafe at Khardungla Pass is here for you. Here you can enjoy hot served maggie overlooking the beautiful views of the highest motorable pass.

Location: Khardungla Pass

Enjoy the unique Yak Cheese Momos:

About the Activity: Ever wanted to try something unique? The Yak cheese momos are the answer. Locally these are called Chhurpi and are made out of the Yak cheese. These yaks are known for butter, milk, meat, and various other things.

Location: Gesmo restaurant, Opp. Hotel Yak – Tall Fort Road Leh Jammu and Kashmir, 194101

Get High with the local Brew: Chang

About the Activity: A Leh Ladakh tour is incomplete without enjoying Chang which is a local brew of Ladakh. This made by using the local butter tea and is made in a fermenting miller container.

3. What is the best time to visit Ladakh?

Ans. The best time to visit Ladakh is in the month of April to July as it experiences the summer season and the weather is pleasant. The temperature varies between 15 to 30 degrees in these months and in the rest of the year it’s freezing.

4. How to reach Ladakh?

Ans. Reaching Ladakh is an easy one as it is well-connected:

By Road: Leh is well-connected by road and one can reach Manali and then take the Leh-Manali highway. This is a beautiful road so make sure that you either opt for a bike trip or road trip as the views are breathtaking.

By Air: Leh is connected with non-stop flights and has its own airport. You can either take a flight direct to Leh or take a flight till Kully and then take a taxi to Leh.

By Train: There is no railway station in Leh but you can take a train to Jammu and then take a taxi till Leh.

5. How much time does it take to get a visa to Ladakh?

Ans. For Ladakh tours, there is no visa requirement and you just need a tourist permit to visit a few restricted areas. An additional environment-free and Red cross fund fee is also applicable for the inner line permit of Ladakh. You need to apply from this online and it takes one working day to process the application. Please ensure that you carry a valid identity proof with yourself along with the permit.

6. What kind of accommodation is available in Ladakh?

Ans. While heading for the Ladakh tour make sure that you plan your accommodation well as it has all kinds of it. Right from the camp stays, lavish hotels to hostels and homestays here you can find everything in all kinds of budget. If you are planning for a long trip booking a homestay or hostel is recommended as it will cost you comparatively lower than the boutique hotels. Also, ensure that you experience camping at least for one night either at Pangong or Nubra valley.

7. How much does it cost to tour Ladakh?

Ans. The Lakadh tour cost depends on the choice of individual and what kind of places you are looking to cover, stay and other comforts. Usually, a Ladakh trip ranges between INR 15,000 to INR 50,000 based on personal choices. You can even go for Ladakh tour packages and grab amazing deals to lower the cost.

8. How many days are enough in Ladakh?

Ans. If you are planning to cover each and every attraction and region of Ladakh then you need a minimum of 15 days as it even takes 2-3 days for some people for acclimatization. But if you are short of days then you can cover the major attraction in 7 days or simply just book any of the Leh Ladakh tour packages to have a hassle-free short journey!

9. What are the best adventure activities to do in Ladakh?

Ans. The best way to experience the adventure is to go for one of the adventure-filled Ladakh tour packages. Some of the best adventures that you can experience here are:

River Rafting: if you wish to experience a combination of water sport and amazing views of the valley, then you can go River rafting at the Zanskar or Indus river. Both of them experience 4-5 rapids and a thrilling journey on the waters.
Hiking: This is another great thing that you can witness in Ladakh as it has a number of options like the Stok Kangri Trek, Snow Leopard Trek, Ripchar Valley Trek, Lamayuru To Darcha Trek, Jhunglam Hemis To Padum Trek, and the most famous Chadar trek.
Camel Safari: Ladakh is famed for its double-humped camels and you can experience a safari in various regions for a wonderful experience.
Quad Biking: There is no better option than off-roading on the roads of Ladakh with an ATV ride. You can witness the tinge of thrill while you zoom on the rugged terrains of Ladakh.
Ice Skating: When the city gets frozen, Ice Skating becomes the most popular adventure here in Ladakh. You can skate over the frozen lands and learn to balance while you glide on the ice blankets.
Mountain Biking: Cycling on the whirling roads? Yes, you need to be a pro at cycling as the roads are not that easy and are perfect for adventure seekers.

10. What are the best things to do in Ladakh at night?

Ans. Booking any of the Ladakh tour packages? Make sure that you add a night experience to your package. Some of the best ones to add are:

Arabian night at Nubra valley: Famed as the tri-armed valley, the Nubra valley is one of the best inclusions in the Ladakh tour packages. With the rustic sand dunes and complementing views of nature, this place is a treat to one’s eye. Also, it is known for its Arabian nights where you can witness bonfire, food, and dance performances to keep the entertainment high.
Camping under the sky: Visiting Ladakh and missing out on camping? No chance. You can experience fun-filled nights at Pangong Lake, Nubra valley, and various other valleys that offer camping to the visitors.
Visiting the Shanti Stupa: Under the moonlight, this place turns out beautiful! This is a place that you can even visit in the daytime but it gets even quieter and prettier under the moonlight.
Wistering Bar: While Ladakh has a small number of bars the Wistering Bar is the most popular one. It opens till late in the night and you can witness the Ladakhi decor and grab a few drinks here.

11. Which are the best places to eat in Ladakh?

Ans. If you are a foodie then Ladakh has a whole wide platter of cushions for you. Some of the best restaurants here are:

The Tibetan Kitchen: Located right in the center of Ladakh is The Tibetan Kitchen where you can savor the traditional Tibetan food and also have some of the local delicacies. Some of the must-haves here are Gyaku, and Thukpa.
Bon Appetit: Built on the traditional architectural style this fine-dine restaurant is a great choice for all kings of visors. It is known for its Tandoor items so make sure you try some of them when here.
Alchi Kitchen: Another one located right in the Ladakh market is the Alchi Kitchen. Here you can relish some of the local delicacies like skyu, thukpa, chhutagi, momos, and khambir.
Sky Wok Restaurant: One of the recently opened restaurants in Ladakh is the Sky Wok. It is known for its ambiance and Thai food.

12. Which are the best places to stay in Ladakh?

Ans. On a Leh Ladakh trip, you can book Ladakh packages with a combination of stays ranging from camps, boutique hotels, or even hostels. Some of the best hotels in Ladakh are:

Hotel Silver Cloud: This is a boutique hotel with all the modern manatee and elegant decor. Activities like hiking, bike tours, and indoor games are facilitated here.
Reeyork Homestay: Feed like home with this homestay which won’t hit your pocket at all and has all the amenities you are looking for in an accommodation
Hotel The Zen Ladakh With more than 44 rooms and an in-house restaurant this is another great stay in Ladakh. It has a terrace, pool, gardens, and gaming zones for the visitors.
The Druk Ladakh: If you wish to go lavish on your Ladakh trip, then this is the place for you. Equipped with all the modern amenities and top-class services it offers around 100 different rooms ranging from deluxe, suites to basic rooms with garden views.

13. What are the best historical places to see in Ladakh?

Ans. Some of the best historical places that you can visit on your Leh Ladakh trip are:

Leh Palace: This place is surely a hard one to miss if you are a history lover. It is located at a 15-minute walk from the main market and is a 17th century Palace. It has some ruins that you can easily spot while you climb up to it.
Leh Shanti Stupa: Famed as the epitome of peace the Leh Shanti Stupa is one of the best historical places. It was built back in the early ’90s and has its replica in various parts of the country.
Alchi Monastery: This beautiful monastery was built back in the year 958 and is intricately built. If you are a historic buff then this is a great choice for you.
Stok Palace Museum: Built back at the time of king Zorawar Singh, this museum holds the relics of Ladakh’s old monasteries. It is revered by various historians and anthropologists as it holds ancient coins, guns, jewelry, and an assortment of Ladakh kingdoms.