Explore Ladakh
Ladakh
Therapeutic Beauty in Wilderness
Therapeutic Beauty in Wilderness
Ladakh is a union territory constituting a part of the larger Kashmir region. Leh is the largest town of Ladakh. Every district and hamlet in Ladakh has a unique resemblance to the vibrant culture of the region. The locals are very friendly and welcoming. There's a distinct attachment one feels to the serene mountains, lakes and monasteries which words cannot describe. This innate attachment is what makes Ladakh memorable. Beside sightseeing, this place has so much to offer through adventure sports like river rafting, trekking, biking and peaceful activities like stargazing and camping.
Climate
The climate of Ladakh is cold and dry all year round with scant precipitation that leads to snowfall in winter. The climate can be a bit harsh but the beauty of the place makes up for it. Best time to visit this union territory is April to July and September.
- January — Cold
- February — Cold
- March — Cool
- April — Cool
- May — Dry
- June — Dry
- July — Wet
- August — Wet
- September — Dry
- October — Dry
- November — Cool
- December — Cold
Things to do
History & Heritage
The historical monuments in Ladakh are surrounded by valleys and lush greenery enhancing their beauty. You can also visit places with historical importance like the Leh Palace, constructed in the 17th Century. The intricate architecture of the palace and the panoramic views of the Stok Kangri mountains is truly mesmerising. Zorawar fort situated just above this palace is amongst the main places to see in Ladakh. The fort houses a wide collection of specimens of new stamps and coins along with the treasure of the ruler. To have a closer look into the traditional artistic aspect of Ladakh, visit the old school mills that exhibit the crafting process of the Pashima, one of the most expensive handlooms in the world. The Hall of Fame museum in Leh showcases the weapons used in the Kargil War and other exhibits that display the bravery and courageous accomplishments of the Indian Soldiers. To explore more about the war you must visit the Kargil War Memorial.
Festivals
Festivals are celebrated annually at the quaint monasteries of Ladakh like the Hemis Monastery and Matho Monastery. The monks celebrate each festival with amazing enthusiasm that encourages even the locals and tourists to participate in the celebration. The vibrant festivals of Ladakh include Losar, Sindhu Darshan in June, Hemis Tsechu in July, Ladakh Harvest Festival in September, Yuru Kabgyat at Lamayuru Monastery in July, Phyamg Tsedup at Phyang Monastery in July, Matho Nagrang Festival in February/March, and Stok Guru Tsechu at Stok and Spituk monasteries.
Valleys
If you are just seeking innate peace then you can just simply go sightseeing to the lush green valleys or historical monuments surrounding them. Zanskar Valley has mystic cave monasteries and trekking trails. Nubra Valley is equally majestic as it offers breathtaking views and serenity.
Lakes
The clear blue waters of Pangong Lake surrounded by mountains will leave you spellbound. Every year a variety of migrating birds arrive here enhancing the beauty of the lake. Another lake holding tourists under its enchanting beauty is Tso Moriri. You can camp here and make some precious memories to cherish, with your friends and family. Nyak Tso, Mirpal Tso, Stat Tso and Lang Tso, Yarab Tso, Kiagar Tso, Chagar Tso, are some of the other pristine lakes situated in Ladakh.You can trek from one lake to the next seamlessly in a period of a week to 10 days.
Adventure
The astounding landscapes, massive glaciers, snow-laden peaks and cold deserts definitely call for an adventure. Riding on a Bactrian Camel at the sand dunes of Hunder would be most exciting and at the same time serene, as you lose yourself to the scenic beauty of the dunes. For a spine-chilling adventure, a bike ride on the rocky terrains of the Khardung-La pass must be on your tourplan. With the clouds above and mystifying mountains around, this ride will be forever cherished by you. Also, visit the famous Magnetic Hills near Leh and witness magic as your vehicle moves against gravity on its own. Khardung La pass is also home to the highest cafeteria in the world. Overlooking the Himalayan ranges at the pass with steaming hot coffee and lip-smacking noodles is in itself a unique experience. Another adventure sport you can take up is trekking. Though the rough terrains might discourage you from trekking. But, the breathtaking views make the challenge worth it. Some of the best treks in Ladakh include Stok Kangri Trek, Digar La Trek, Chadar Trek in Kargil, Sham Valley Trek, Markha Valley Winter Trek, Zanskar Trek and Nubra Valley Trek.Trek to Drang Drung Glacier and do visit Parkachik Glacier on your way for a great experience. Ladakh is also home to the Indus River and Zanskar river, the smooth rapids of which make river rafting a safe and marvellous experience. The cool breeze, chilly winds, freezing water and majestic mountains surrounding the rivers make this river rafting in Ladakh magical. Moreover, river rafting from Phey to Nimmo as you cross quaint villages and monasteries is very soothing to the body, mind and soul.
Wildlife
Hemis national park is home to several species of birds like Golden Eagle, Himalayan Griffon Vulture, Chukar, Robin accentor, Black-winged snowfinch, among others. It is also home to more than 200 snow leopards. Karakoram (Nubra Shyok) Wildlife Sanctuary is primarily known for its migratory population of Tibetan Antelopes. It is also home to endangered medicinal plants. Popular animals in Nubra Shyok include Wild Yak, Ibex, Shapo, Argali, Bactrian Camels, Lynx etc. Changthang Cold Desert Wildlife Sanctuary is not only home to rare species of animals and birds but also to over 200 species of wild plants. To visit this protected area, a prior permission from the District Magistrate of Leh is mandatory.
Monasteries/Places of Worship
The quaint monasteries of Ladakh are beautifully designed and carefully maintained. The monks and their chantings are so peaceful and memorable. Some of the famous monasteries include Namgyal Tsemo Monastery, Hemis Monastery, Thiksey Monastery, Diskit Monastery, Spituk Monastery, Alchi Monastery, Phuktal Monastery in Kargil, and Chemrey Monastery. The Chemrey Monastery is especially known for the enormous statue of Padmasambhava. Mulbekh Monastery in Kargil is famous for its nine meter statue of Maitreya Buddha. Is there anything more magical than sitting amidst gorgeous mountains and gazing at a sky filled with stars on a peaceful night? Lamayuru, the Moonland of Ladakh, will give you the answer for that. Though it's famous for its quaint Tibetan Buddhist Monastery, this hamlet is where you get to witness the true beauty of nature. Stargazing is the best activity you can do here whilst on your trip.
How to spend time / how long will it take?
You can travel across Leh & Ladakh within 7 to 10 days. However, if you are here for trekking, the trip would be subjected to an extension depending on the Trek trail. You can start off by exploring the Leh region as it is home to prominent historical places like Zorawar Fort and Leh Palace. From here you can explore Kargil for a day crossing beautiful hamlets on your way. While you are here, spend a day at the Zanskar Valley. Take the Khardung La conventional route to reach the beautiful Nubra Valley where you can easily spend a day. Moving towards the eastern part of Ladakh visit the Pangong Lake for its mystifying beauty. Further you can visit the monasteries and end your trip stargazing at the Moonland of Ladakh, Lamayuru.
Cuisine
- The different local dishes and cuisines of Ladakh closely resembles the region’s rich culture and history. They are flavoursome, colourful and highly nutritious.Tibetan influence on Ladakhi cuisine is evident from some of the famous food items like Thukpa, Kholak and Momos (Dumplings). Other well-known delicacies from Ladakh include Skyu and Chhutagi. You must also try their Butter tea, Khambir, Chhang, Tingmo, Paba, Mokthuk, Tapu and Thenktuk.
Costs
- When dining out an average meal in Ladakh usually costs around 144 INR per person. Breakfast prices are usually a little cheaper than lunch or dinner.
- The cost of post paid SIM card starts from 299 INR
Visa
- Indian Passport and OCI Card holders do not require a Visa
- Other need to apply for an Indian visa
Season to Visit
- April
- May
- June
- July
- September
Typical Duration to Visit
- 7 - 10 days
Known For
- Mountains
- Monasteries
- Lakes
- Valleys
- Biking
- River rafting
- Trekking
- Wild Life
- Festivals
Areas to Visit
- Khardung La Pass and Magnetic Hills in Leh for adventure
- Sand Dunes of Hunder in Leh region
- Monasteries in Ladakh region
- Hemis National Park in Ladakh for wildlife and nature
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