leh ladakh best time to visit 2023

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Best Time to Travel Ladakh & Zanskar Valley

A lot of people ask me this many times on the blog to suggest the best time to travel to Leh Ladakh , and I thought it is better to pen it down in an article so that it helps others too and does not repeat on the blog all over again and again.

Well, there are two roads that lead you to Leh Ladakh popular by the names of Srinagar Leh Highway and Manali Leh Highway . Both of them generally remain closed for more than six months from November to April or Mid-May every year because of heavy snowfall on various mountain passes that comes on these adventurous roads.

So, the only time to travel by road to Leh Ladakh is from Mid-May to Mid – October. And the second half of October is a risky affair to travel and May is the only likely option for Srinagar – Leh Highway as Manali – Leh Highway generally opens by June first week or late May.

But, still, the question is :

Let's quickly dive into the details:

“What is the best time to travel Leh Ladakh in these 5-6 months?”

Leh ladakh in april to mid-may.

April is the month when tourists or travelers from all parts of the world start to come to Ladakh. Restaurants start to either open or set up for the coming season. Similarly, the guest houses, camps at Pangong Tso, and Tso Moriri lakes also start to be set up.

By the second week of May, generally, the Srinagar Leh Highway opens, and the influx of tourists starts to get into Ladakh. Supplies flow in along with fresh vegetables and fruits. Hence life comes to normalcy in Ladakh.

In late April, all lakes including Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri start to melt, and by mid-May, they completely melt and start radiating the ever-beautiful blue hues under sunlight. Tourists / Travellers visiting these places get good discounts as it is the onset of the season and with fewer tourists around, it is indeed a better place to be.

The high mountain passes in Ladakh including both Khardung La and Chang La, are under heaps of snow, and passing through them is quite an experience in itself. Carrying shades/glares/goggles are highly recommended at this time of the year.

Leh Ladakh in May – June – July

As I said, in May, most likely, you will only find Srinagar – Leh to be open, so if you are interested in the complete circuit, then it is not the right time. In June beginning or May end, Manali road opens with the opening of Rohtang Pass.

In the initial 7-10 days, the roads are pretty much unstable with common snow slides, and intermittent blockages also happen, but gradually it settles down. And from Mid of June to July just before the onset of monsoon season, it is a very nice time to travel, and indeed a lot of people undertake the road journey to Ladakh at this specific window only.

Dheeraj Sharma

It is the perfect time for those who want to enjoy snow around the road and drive through the snow walls of Rohtang Pass / Rani Nalla and Baralacha La too. However, keep in mind that snow starts to melt which means, ferocious water crossings and rivers are pretty common in this period.

Later you will reach a water crossing in the day, slim are the chances to cross it. So, plan to leave early in the day and reach the early in the day on the destination to have buffer time as well.

from Mid of June to July just before the onset of monsoon season, it is a very nice time to travel and indeed a lot of people undertake the road journey to Ladakh at this specific window only. Best time to travel for seeing snow in Ladakh

Leh Ladakh in August

In August, monsoons are in a full flurry, and rivers and water crossings go ferocious at times when rain is pouring down. Landslides are common too in this period. However, there is a catch, the region beyond Zozi La Pass towards Leh from the Srinagar side and beyond Baralacha La pass towards Leh from the Manali side, being a rain shadow region does not get much affected by rains.

But, surely you will be facing the monsoon hassles up to Baralacha La pass from Manali side and Zozila Pass from Srinagar side. Of course, as happening for the last few years Rohtang Pass & Zojila are most likely to be a nightmare in this period.

Even the definition of Ladakh being the rain shadow region is changing now. We have started getting rain in Ladakh too or at least overcast conditions with light rains now and then. Few cloudbursts and flash floods also have occurred in a couple of years, including 2018. So, be ready for surprises even in the rain shadow region of Ladakh too in the coming years.

Leh Ladakh in September – October

Personally, this is my favorite season to travel to Ladakh with vibrant & burning colors all over in full glory. Post-monsoon, the region becomes devoid of rains and the chill starts to set in with some intermittent light snowfall.

However, the colors of fall/autumn are almost burning with beauty all over the Srinagar Leh Road, Manali Leh Road, and, of course, the entire Ladakh, including Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri & Nubra Valley. The road conditions also improve a lot in comparison to the rest of the season. You will witness the best roads of the season since the maintenance works also settle by that time. It is the best time to self-drive to Ladakh if you are taking a small car like a hatchback or sedan to Ladakh.

Even the water crossings are timid in flow with less water in them and are easy to pass by. The rivers turn into aqua blue color again, giving an entirely different aura to the region. Your body is at the maximum exposure to UV rays, and due to lack of moisture, it becomes a bit difficult to acclimatize as well. But, the beauty on offer is worth anything in the world 😀

Also, it is time when some camps have closed and packed up, and some still run. There is occasional snowfall as well, which might close the road for a day or two temporarily. The Raid-De-Himalayas rally also happens in this window which also disturbs you as a traveler to some extent.

Personally, this is my favorite season to travel to Ladakh with vibrant & burning colors all over in full glory. for those who love vibrant fall colors

Leh Ladakh in November

The period of late October and November is when the cold settles into Trans Himalayas completely with sub-zero temperatures at almost all places above 14000 feet especially over the Manali Leh highway and the high-altitude lakes. The colors though are still beautiful in the region, tourists have almost gone away and only a few brave ones remain 🙂 :).

Most of the guest houses, hotels, and restaurants are closed by this time along with camps at Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri lakes, which are packed up by the last week of September. Dhabhas and camps on Manali Leh Highway are also deserted, and locals go away to their homes to get ready for hibernation in cold winters.

Though both Manali Leh Road and Srinagar Leh Road remain open unofficially, it is highly not recommended to travel over them, especially the Manali Leh Highway with such cold conditions. There will not be many shelters available and black ice on roads that make driving a dangerous affair. Black ice is quite common in this period it starts to appear in October starting as well at some places though it does not last long in the early stages or the winter season.

Interesting Read: 5 Reasons to Avoid Manali – Leh Highway in October – November

Leh Ladakh in December – January – February – March

This period is the coldest in Ladakh where January is the coldest month of all seasons, and Ladakh is cut off from the rest of the world by road. Only a few brave and bold tourists are around even though the roads to Nubra Valley and Pangong Tso Lake over Khardung La Pass, and Chang La Pass respectively are kept open all around the year barring a few days of heavy snowfall .

Late January to February is also the time when many adventure tourists come to Leh Ladakh to walk over the frozen Zanskar River from Padum in Zanskar Valley to Leh , popularly known as Chadar Trek.

In this period, you are at the mercy of extreme cold. Snowfall as well is pretty common and mingled with high-altitude terrain; it makes life difficult to survive and acclimatize as well. The key is to take rest, ample rest in the initial days. Then, gradually start overreaching other high-altitude places. The food options are minimal, and most of the restaurant lives are deserted as their cook is out at their homes.

From November to December / Mid-January types, if the sun is shining the colors in the Lakes such as Pangong Tso or Tso Moriri is breathtaking but the options to stay near them are none or limited. Just some Home Stays in nearing villages where basic facilities will be available to brave the extreme cold.

After Mid-January, both Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri along with other high-altitude lakes start to freeze and become solid as earth as you can drive your car over it, leave alone walk over it. Be responsible and don’t do that of course 😉

These lakes remain frozen almost up to April. So, those looking forward to seeing the magical changing colors of these lakes with sunlight in the day shall refrain from making a trip to Ladakh from January to late April, which is almost for four months.

Still confused??

Are you still confused?? Don’t worry. I will suggest if you want to see heaps of snow and have a good adventure, then you must plan your road trip to Ladakh starting June first/ the second week up to mid of July types.

However, if you are more interested in nature’s lovely colors pallet and maybe you are very much into photography, then the late season is the time. You do not want to miss out on, i.e., late September up to the second week of October when colors are oozing out vividly all over Ladakh!!

Have a travel question?? You can subscribe to my YouTube channel and leave a comment to ask your travel questions on traveling to the Himalayas.

Do you have any questions or suggestions or need any help in planning your trip to Leh Ladakh? If yes, please feel free to post them either in the comments section of this article below. You can also take guidance from many travel experts in our DwD Community Forums and discuss your upcoming travel plans for Ladakh.

If you like the article, please feel free to share it with any of your family or friends who are planning a trip to Ladakh.

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I am Dheeraj Sharma - a traveler, techie, and Himalayan lover. Since 2009, I have been helping thousands of travelers every year plan memorable & budget-friendly trips to the Himalayas - Smartly, Safely, and responsibly.

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Hello I am planning to visit leh by flight on 29th August 2019 with my wife & 12 year old daughter. Is it save to travel that time considering rainy season.

Bro! We are a group of friends planning our trip from April 28th and fly directly to leh, will we be able to enjoy our trip without any obstructions(like snow ) or the pangong lake being Frozen or unavailability of accommodation ?

You should look at Leh – Ladakh in Winters – Most Common Itinerary

It will answer all your questions 🙂

What about mid May? I really want to see the unfrozen beauty of pangong!!

In that case plan for mid May to late May, it should melt by that time of the year

we have planned and booked flight ticket from Bangalore to Srinagar on 24th April and return from Leh on 6th May 2018. Plan is to spend 4-5 days in Srinagar and then travel by road to Leh and spend 6-7 days there visiting Nubra , pangong and other sorrounding.

Please suggest as we heard that Srinagar – Leh highway is closed till April end.

Sunil, Srinagar – Leh Highway may or may not be open by last week of April. Considering BRO has already opened Zanskar Valley road, I have hopes by mid of April, they will open Srinagar – Leh Highway too.

Hi Dheeraj,

We two friends are planning a leh ladakh trip in September. We want to experience everything including the snow; hence, what would be your suggestion? Is it good in September? Yes, then which part of the month? Waiting for your reply.

Hari, there will be no snow in September. If you want to enjoy snow, then you have to plan the trip in April – May but then roads are not open and only option is to fly to Ladakh. Else June is when you will find plenty of snow at passes in Ladakh and Manali – Leh Highway

Hi! Planning to go Leh by air on 24th Sep n bck by 2 October by road via Manali .i want to know if October first week will be safe by road from Leh to Manali n and also why return airfares are soo high from Leh.i Jst don’t want to get stuck there because of snow on d way bck

Chaand, just keep an eye on weather once you reach Leh and then take a call. Nowadays, usually first week of October os still OK to travel but sometimes it does snow. Also, plan to directly reach Jispa from Leh without halt at Sarchu.

Hello Dheeraj

I was planning for a trip from Manali tto Leh ladakh and back from Aug 26 to Sep 5. Is it a good timeI for travel? Read every where u mentioned that Aug is not a good time to visit Leh,,

Regards ANimesh

So here is what my Ladakh trip looks like… starting on 16th September and ending on 30th September.

Day 1: Noida – Patnitop (Overnight stay at Patnitop) Day 2: Patnitop – Sonmarg (Overnight stay at Sonmarg) Day 3: +++ Rest Day at Sonmarg + Sight Seeing in Sonmarg & Gulmarg +++ (Overnight stay at Sonmarg) Day 4: Sonmarg – Kargil (Overnight stay at Kargil) Day 5: Kargil – Leh (Overnight stay at Leh) Day 6: +++ Rest Day at Leh + Sight Seeing in & around Leh +++ (Overnight stay at Leh) Day 7: Leh – Nubra Valley (Overnight stay at Diskit) Day 8: Nubra Valley – Pangong Tso Lake (Overnight at Pangong Tso Lake) Day 9: Pangong Tso – Leh (Overnight stay at Leh) Day 10: Leh – Tso Moriri Lake (Overnight stay at Korzok) Day 11: Tso Moriri – Jispa (Overnight stay at Jispa) Day 12: Jispa – Manali (Overnight stay at Manali) Day 13: +++ Rest Day at Manali + Sight Seeing in & around Manali +++ (Overnight stay at Manali) Day 14: Manali – Noida Day 15: Buffer Days Day 16: Buffer Days

Do you think that this plan looks good? I am assuming that I have taken enough breaks in between for the body to acclimatize to the conditions up there! Let me know if there are any changes that you want to suggest!

I would also welcome any feedback from fellow members here!

Thanks and Regards, Abhishek

Looking for a suggestion.

Can I visit just Leh -> Zanskar -> Leh in August ? Is this is good time or will there be rains?

Plan: Sat, Aug 5: Leave Mumbai by flight to Leh, Start on bike / rent car to Kargil Sun, Aug 6: Kargil to Zanskar Mon, Aug 7: Back to Kargil Tue, Aug 8: Back to Leh Wed, Aug 9: Back to Mumbai

Please let me know if the climate is good this time and if this is doable in such short time.

Well since you are flying directly to Leh, it is rain shadow region and hence, even in monsoon, it is fine. However, Zanskar needs at least 4-5 days from Kargil and for Kargil – Leh you need minimum two days. Hence, in 5 days it is not possible.

ok.. thank you for the quick reply.. will plan it well for next year 🙂

Me and my husband are planning to visit Leh-Ladakh (via Manali) from Delhi in the third week of September’ 2017 in our “Ford Eco-sport”. We are a little confused whether it will be OK to take Eco – sport to Leh Ladakh. How much wear and tear can happen to it, and will our Ford Eco-sport will be able to sustain it, as the Ford guys told us not to take it to Leh-ladakh, as it is city car and not made for off road. Can you please guide us? Also, want to know how to connect with other people who are planning their visit to Leh-Ladakh at the same time as it will be good to stay connected with them while travelling.

Neha, Ford EcoSport is very capable of doing the Leh – Ladakh trip. So, don’t worry much about it, just be cautious in driving. You can read: 40 Must Have Things to Carry on Ladakh Self Drive Trip and 7 Useful Tips for a Self Drive to Leh – Ladakh

We are a group of people (2 couples) who would also be travelling to Leh Ladakh (starting on 16th September from Noida and ending on 30th September 2017). But we would be travelling to Leh Ladakh from Srinagar side and would be completing the circuit from Manali side. During the 4th week of September we would be on the Manali side.

It is surely a good idea to connect while travelling.

Cheers! Abhishek

Mr.Sharma, This was a wonderful article. Thank you for providing information. I would like to ask if first week of Aug would be a good time to visit Leh. I am planning to go by air to Leh. Please give your opinion. Thanks.

Since you are planning to go by Air, Ladakh is a rain shadow region and least touched by rains. So, it shall be fine to make a trip by air to Ladakh

Hello dheeraj sir, Is this itinerary good for the 25th october. is this the right time travel ladakh. can we go all the places ?? Day 1 : Rest n local sights Day 2 : magnetic hill n pather sahib n acclimatization. Day 3 : leh to nubra Day 4 : nubra to pangong via Agham Day 5 : pangong to leh Day 6 : Return

Plz reply soon. Thanks

Given the days at hand, it looks fine. Please keep in mind it will be very cold in October at PAngong Tso, best will be to stay at Tangtse or do day trip from Leh.

Thanks for your valuable information. Actually we are planning to visit leh ladakh in 2nd wk of september for 10 days. please tell whether camping is advisable or not during that season if yes mentioned the best place for camping. also tell either visiting all famous lake i.e. pang, tso moriri etc is possible or not.

Thanks again.

Dann, September is a very good time to travel to Leh – Ladakh. You can read: Top 10 Tips for Camping in Ladakh & Spiti Valley

thanks for your reply. tell me about permit also , can’t we get them online so that we can save our time over there? where are these permits required during the traveling ??

Well, the Permits for Leh – Ladakh are available online: Ladakh Inner Line Permits Available Online

However, only permits are applied and you have to take the print out and pay your permit fee in person in Leh at Tourist Info Center or DC office in Leh.

Hi Dheeraj! I want to ask you very important question regarding bikers? The tussle going on between bikers of Manali and Leh is only for Rental bikes? and what about bikers who are on there own bikes, do they also have to face anytype of problems???

There is no issue at all for the own bikes in Ladakh.

I’m planning for a trip to Leh via Manali. Is it okay to plan the trip in August, or it is more advisable to travel by end of June. This will be my first experience, and we’re planning for an SUV.

Best is to travel in September for better road conditions and less challenges, else up to mid July is OK. Avoid monsoon travel in August.

Dear Dheeraj, I am planning a 10 daya trip to Leh with my wife, 7yo son, two brothers starting on 15th June. I will planning to take my Baleno Diesel. It’s the very first time for me to visit Leh. Request your kind suggestions as I am really confused about whether I should make this trip or not. Also request you to advise on travel itinerary and stay options. Look forward for an early response. Thanks.

For hatchback/sedan taking on Manali – Leh Highway Or Spiti Valley via Manali Or Ladakh, please refer the link: FAQ | Can I do Leh – Ladakh / Spiti / Manali – Leh trip in Hatchback or Sedan? for more details.

It will take 4 days to reach Leh from Srinagar side starting from Delhi with stop overs at Jammu, Srinagar, Kargil and 3 days to come back from Leh from Manali side to Delhi with stopovers at Sarchu, Manali. This makes it 7 days. 1 Day is required in Leh for acclimatization. You have about 10 days. 1 Day can be used as Day trip to Pangong Tso and other day can be used as day trip to Nubra Valley or just Khardung La pass.

Opt to go via Manali – Leh Highway and I will suggest that you refer the thread for more details on the route and night halts though it is of 9 days: Manali – Leh – Ladakh – Manali | Itinerary for 9 Days . You can fit in plan I suggested in above para in this plan You can check the nice, preferred list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh (Leh, Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri) including moderate (cheap budget hotels as well) in the series of articles starting on the link here

Thanks again for your valuable suggestions. I have made up my mind for 9 days itinerary suggested by you via Manali -Leh route. Just bit concerned about road conditions vs Baleno. Will be happy if you suggest any precautions.

Actually I am looking for this type of information from very long time but bi cant found it clearly but you describe all this very clearly! Thanks for this article.

That is wonderful to hear, glad the article helped you.

Can we will go to Leh (Manali to Leh via jispa) own car Chevrolet Sail Uva Hatchback 2014 Model. Can I go Chevrolet Sail Uva Hatchback 2014 Model say Yes or Not If we go by my own car – Do you advised me witch route is best for me Manali – Leh – Srinagar/ Srinagar – Leh – Manali . witch cars can cross the Manali – Leh – Srinagar Plz guide me. Please Car Name

As you advised, i have an iternary for my trip. at first can i go to leh rout as shown below by Chevrolet Sail Uva Hatchback 2014 Model I am also running this car to west bangal, char cham, dharmshala, deu all gujrat. so please advice me this car is suatable for me. and with equipment is required for this route.

June – 3: Manali – Jispa (overnight stay) June – 4: Jispa – Sarchu (overnight stay) June – 5: sarchu – Leh (overnight stay) June – 6: Leh – ride to sham valley and sight seeing June – 7: leh – Nubra (overnight stay) June – 8: Nubra – Pangong tso (camping) June – 9: Pangong Tso – Tso moriri – Leh (overnight stay) June – 10: Leh – kargil June – 11: kargil – srinagar

I am still waiting for your suggestion.

Hello Mahesh,

Please avoid night stay at Sarchu and to Manali – Jispa, Jispa – Leh. Then use that day to make two day trip to Nubra Valley and two day trip to Pangong Tso by regular routes as the direct routes, hatches might not survive or you may get stuck in the middle of no help around. Skip Tso Moriri.

Also, if you do the trip in reverse direction, it will be much better. For hatchback/sedan taking on Manali – Leh Highway Or Spiti Valley via Manali Or Ladakh, please refer the link: FAQ | Can I do Leh – Ladakh / Spiti / Manali – Leh trip in Hatchback or Sedan? for more details.

Hello Dheeraj you are amazing ! I am much keen for bike trip on Manali Leh Highway in September as that is the time when road conditions will become good. But some of our female friends wants to live “Jab We Met” moment (or snow ki toh baat hi kuch or hai) so we are travelling in June.. My only concern is for road conditions in mid June specially “Rohtang Pass” I have heard that in june we have to deal with lots of slush on “Rohtang Pass” but as we are going before monsoon so we are hoping we will get some good roads as compare to july or August .. Your knowledge is highly appreciable. So what is your take on “Rohtang Pass” in mid of June ???

Shubham, for snow you have to make a trip around mid of June and also have to go through some bad sections of the roads. The roads will definitely be more challenging as snow melts during that time creating slush and water crossings at many places.

Thank you Friend, Under the guidance of “Devil on wheels” it seems like we are all ready for the trip & the conditions.. Yeah we are expecting water crossings & slush thats the main adventure of this trip but we hope not as much as you have shown in above pics during mid june “Nightmarish roads of Rohtang Pass” ???

Most likely, you will not face that much of slush during that time unless there is debris of fresh landslide.

Thank you so much Dheeraj 🙂

Hi Sir, Your page is awsome. We have a plan in August Please tell whether it is feasible or not.

14thAugust :- DELHI – Leh 15th August:- Leh 16th August:- Leh – Turtuk 17th August:- Turtuk – Nubra Valley 18th August:- Nubra – Pangong Via Aghyam Shiyok( We are in a doubt about it) 19th August:- Pangong – Leh 20th August:- Leh – Alchi – Magnetic hill – Kargil 21th August:- Kargil – Padum 22nd August:- Padum 23rd August:- Padum Or Rnagdum or Sankoo 24th August:- Back to Kargil 25th August:- Kargil – Srinagar 26th August:- Srinagar – Kolkata

Your plan looks good to me. On 23rd, you can stay at Rangdum. There is a new guest house there called LA Himalaya with attached bathrooms.

We have contacted Rigzin Da. He is managing except Kargil and Leh. Will it be wise to use Agyam Shiyok road to reach Pangong During August???

Well, as long as you can find some company to travel with you at Agham village, local driver should be able to get you through with that route. You will get to know about the present status once you reach up there.

Thank you so much dheeraj for your precious info 🙂 We are planning to visit Manali-Leh on the mid of June17 and will take halt in Keylong/Jispa & Sarchu but as it is the peak time of tourists attraction.. is it advisable to pre book our accommodations near Keylong/Jispa & Sarchu or we will easily get accomodations after reaching there ???

Arjun, I will not recommend you to have a night halt at Sarchu while going to Leh. You can stay while coming back. Keylong has plenty of options and if you are not particular, you can find. For Jispa, I will suggest to pre-book as limited options are there.

Thank you Dheeraj, There is no plan to have a halt at Sarchu as altitude is so high there but if we have to Just for the knowledge is it advisable to pre book our accomodations at Sarchu or we will get easily after reaching there??? & we will come back through via Srinagar 🙂

Good, yeah, in such a case it should be OK. Also keep Tso Kar in mind in case of emergency for a stay. It is not that far from the main highway.

There will be plenty of options at Sarchu, since, it is not final to stay there, better book it on the spot.

Hii Dheeraj thank you so much for your precious info 🙂 We are planning our trip to mid June17.. as it is the time when most tourists prefer to travel & we are planning to halt on Keylong/Jispa & Sarchu.. So do we have to pre book our accommodations as there are many tourists or we get accommodations easily after reaching there???

Replied on the other thread.

Hi Dheeraj, I am planning to visit Leh Ladakh in second half of October 2017. Is it advisable ? Will we get a chance to visit all the attractions ? Please give me your valuable suggestions.

Also to add, I am planning a trip of 10 days. I would request you to suggest me a better schedule.

Will you be flying to Leh or making road trip?

I will be flying. I have two options. Either in October 2017 Or around 15th May 2017. So, which option is preferable ? Please suggest me a better trip of 10 days.

Both the months are not so good for road trip but since you are flying I will suggest May over October with two points

1. In May you will find snow and pleasant weather at least in Leh, Nubra and around not as cold. 2. October, will be windy, cold and dry.

You should refer: Leh – Ladakh | Most Common Itinerary by Air

Are you making a road trip?

Hi Dheeraj, Thanks for the wonderful blog!!

Iam planning for a bike trip to leh via manali-leh route and come back through leh – srinagar highway to Delhi. I am planning to take this trip by either july or september. Also iam planning to complete the circuit in 9 – 10 days. Is it possible to complete it within planned time?? I wish to enjoy in light snowfalls. SO please advise me on the good time to take the rip.

Iam bit confused avout the permits. Do bikers from other state need to get permit in all places throughout manli leh highway??

In leh do we neef to drive j&k registered bikers?? Is own bikes or rented bikes not allowed in leh for expedition???

FInal question.. which is better to take the trip either through some travel agency package or going individual???

please clarify my doubts. Thanks in advance….

Give me your contact mail id……

Thank you Siraj.

It will take 3 days to reach Leh from Delhi via Manali side with stopovers at Jispa, Manali and 4 days to come back to Delhi from Leh via Srinagar side with stop overs at Jammu, Srinagar, Kargil . This makes it 7 days. 1 Day is required in Leh for acclimatization. You have about 10 days. 1 Day can be used as Day trip to Pangong Tso and other day can be used as day trip to Nubra Valley or just Khardung La pass.

Thanks a lot Dheeraj for clarifying my queries.

Could you please advice me on the best season to start my trip. I wish to enjoy the trip with snowfall. How long snow will be there once the passes are opened up?

On going through blog, i got the clarification about the bike permits in ladakh region. Thanks a lot for the briefly analysed blogs. It’s a really helpful and much needed one for all the new comers.

Do [email protected] provide any packages for the leh-ladak trip?? I have found this one while reading the blog. you have also suggested some to get in touch with them for bike rentals and packages.

Siraj, in that case plan the trip in second week of June when you can see snow on Zojila and Manali – Leh Highway. Snowfall is pure luck based. Yes, those guys provide customized packages of Leh – Ladakh

If you travel form Manali to Rohtang Pass, permit is required for bikes too.

Thanks Dheeraj!!

As you advised, i have an iternary for my trip.

June – 17: Manali – Jispa (overnight stay) June – 18: Jispa – Sarchu (overnight stay) June – 19: sarchu – Leh (overnight stay) June – 20: Leh – ride to sham valley and sight seeing June – 21: leh – Nubra (overnight stay) June – 22: Nubra – Pangong tso (camping) June – 23: Pangong Tso – Tso moriri – Leh (overnight stay) June – 24: Leh – kargil June – 25: kargil – srinagar (fly to home)

does this iternary looks good? Need your thoughts on this.

By june 10, the manali-leh highway will be clearing up? So, i need your advice on starting the trip by this date. Becoz, you have specified like wait for 2 weeks once the roads are opened to stabilize.

Siraj, please skip Sarchu as you will not be acclimatized to sleep up there altitude. Better make Jispa to Leh in a day. No need to do Sham Valley but do rest as Sham Valley can be covered while going to Kargil. You cannot do Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri to Leh in a day. Skip Tso Moriri for now. It is probable that Manali – Leh Highway will open by second week of June.

Thank you very much for giving lots of useful information which is really needed for all the travelers.

Me and my friends are planning to ley ladhak trip. please suggest me, which way to choose Srinagar – ley or manalli -ley. and I’m worried about AMS. kindly suggest the good time to visit. your suggestion will really help me to make my trip memorable.

Thanks In Advance Srinivas

Firstly, I will suggest you that please plan it in other direction as going via Srinagar – Leh Highway will be much much easier on your body and help you acclimatize to the high altitude of Manali – Leh Highway. Also, it allows you to enjoy the beauty of Manali – Leh by splitting the journey almost evenly in two days which is very difficult in the other direction. Thirdly, it will allow you to fit Tso Moriri lake into the itinerary in better way. You can read more reasons on the link here

You can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Leh – Ladakh followed by many travellers including me at the link here for 13-14 days: Most Common Itinerary for Leh – Ladakh .

You can check the nice, preferred list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh (Leh, Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri) including moderate (cheap budget hotels as well) in the series of articles starting on the link here

Dear Dheeraj, Which would be a better date for arriving in leh this year 17 july or 24 july. We are 4 friends entering leh via srinagar and exiting via manali as per your suggestions. We would be taking zoomcar from chandigarh. We have to complete the chandigarh-leh-chandigarh circuit in 9 days . Kindly suggest keeping in mind the road and monsoon condition.

Faraz, I will prefer 17th July to travel to Ladakh. It will take 3 days to reach Leh from Delhi via Manali side with stopovers at Jispa, Manali and 4 days to come back to Delhi from Leh via Srinagar side with stop overs at Jammu, Srinagar, Kargil . This makes it 7 days. 1 Day is required in Leh for acclimatization. You have about 10 days. 1 Day can be used as Day trip to Pangong Tso and other day can be used as day trip to Nubra Valley or just Khardung La pass.

Also, I hope you are aware about: Rented Self Drive Cars in Leh – Ladakh Banned “FORCIBLY”

This is Akshay from Mumbai; Me and three of my friends have planned the trip to Leh-Ladakh from 26th May to 4th June.

Actually at the start we were five however one of our friend dropped out due to some reasons;so we are looking for a someone to join us.

If you see blogs and travel tips for Leh-Ladakh trip u will find out that 5 is the best count to have if you are planning for Leh-Ladakh and of course to cut down cost of private vehicle because private vehicle is one of the important factor to have cost effective leh ladakh trip.

So those who want join please contact at my email : [email protected] and contact no :9664823811.

Will explain you all our itinerary on call or mail but for your information we are coming to Srinagar by flight which has halt at Delhi so anyone can join us from Mumbai, Delhi or Srinagar.

P.S : Those who planning leh ladakh for long tym and those who got ditched by their friends this is the tym guyz..we will together make one hell of trip!!!!!!

Regards, Akshay Mayekar

It is best to post a travel calendar entry as well from the main menu

Hi Dheeraj, firstly thanks a lot for writing this blog. Its very informative. I have always wanted to take a bike trip to Leh. I have not been riding much for past few years & I am someone who is very much susceptible to cold. Going by you blog, road conditions are poor in June-July season and in mid-September temperature will be a challenge. This has got me confused. Can you suggest which time i should go ? Also I want to opt for a packaged tour. Can you suggest any particular group or website ?

Vivek, well, you should be able to do the trip in September. You can do it in second week of September and you should be good with road conditions and temparatures. If you are looking for a package tour, get in touch with [email protected]

Last year i had trip from 10 June16 to 21June2016 through Delhi-Srinagar-Leh-Pangong-Sarchu-Manali-Delhi. In 2017 i want to start the trip in April last week or early may. What you suggest Please Guide.

Ashish, you will be able to only make the trip to Ladakh in April by air only. Are you going by Air? Or in case in May if Srinagar – Leh road opens, you will be able to take that road. How many days you are thinking?

Thanks for your reply Dheeraj. I am planning around 10-11 Days by Own car. Please suggest the earliest suitable time and Itinerary.

Earliest will be June month to go from Manali – Leh Highway.

Opt to go via Manali – Leh Highway and I will suggest that you refer the thread for more details on the route and night halts though it is of 9 days: Manali – Leh – Ladakh – Manali | Itinerary for 9 Days . You can fit in plan I suggested in above para in this plan

hey dheeraj,

kiddo to the blogg. honestly i have been researching about my trip for the last one month nothing helped expect your blogg..we are number of 4 on bikes, planning to travel on 1st week of july 17.around 10 days trip .can please help us with details.i have covered almost all the parts of south india on bike,what are the best places to visit during this time and which route preferably. we are planning to rent a bike from LAH or delhi.one of this place preferably what-so over is better.thank you so much in advance .regards shemeem (Kerala)

Regarding bike rentals in Leh, check: Leh – Ladakh Bike Rental Rates 2017-18

thank you so much dheeraj .do you advice taking flight instead to leh and rent a bike would save some time ?? please advice as me and my friend are looking for a good bike trip :’) is it possible during the 1st week of july

Best option of travel is to reach Srinagar by air and then travel to Ladakh by road. Once in Leh, hire local bike on rent in leh and then do Ladakh sightseeing. Then either take Manali Leh highway with HPTDC bus or shared taxi or fly out of Leh.

Dear Dheeraj,

I am having Safari Storme SUV -Ex (2 wheel drive) and planned to visit Ladakh by road via Manali-Leh route in 3rd week of June-17. I would like to know, other travelers are using 2 wheel drive or 4×4 is compulsory?

Devendra, 4×2 will just do fine. No worries on that front. 10000s of 4×2 cars including hatches and sedans do Ladakh trip every year.

Dheeraj, I am very confused now. I am planning this trip in late August’17. Most probably between 25th August and 10 September. Is it sane to go as I do not have much biking experience. I have done few trips on my bike and I cannot postpone it to 2018 as my friend has already decided to go this year no matter what. Only 2 of us will go on separate bikes. What would you suggest considering we will be on bikes not cars.I am not considering June or July as there will be a lot of rush that time. And its all about peace 😛

August is not far behind in terms of rush Vaibhav. I will recommend that you plan the trip in September second half to beat the rush and help you being a novice biker. The roads and conditions are less troublesome.

lol same here

We are four cousins (men) planning to take Manali Leh in mid June’ to July 2017as mentioned in this article (Mid of June to July just before the onset of monsoon season)- Could you share the road time table and also the good time to travel

Pavan, are you making the Spiti Valley trip or Ladakh trip or combination of both?

This is a very nice blog and it was very memorable trip It was such a fantastic post I really really like It Thanks for sharing Nice Information

Thank you Dorjay

Thank you so much for your blog. You made my jaw dropped because of many amazing information you have provided.

I plan to solo travel to Ladakh this September with budget trip. My itinerary is as below:

Day 1 (Wed): Arrive Leh from New Delhi, rest in Leh Day 2 (Thu): Rest in Leh Day 3 (Fri): Day 4 (Sat): Tso Moriri, overnight in Changpa Day 5 (Sun): Tso Moriri, overnight near the lake. Day 6 (Mon): Back to Leh by bus, overnight in Leh Day 7 (Tue): Head to Nubra Valley, rest in Diskit/ Hunder Day 8 (Wed): Diskit/ Hunder/ Nubra Valley, overnight in Spangmik Day 9 (Fri): Back to Leh by bus Day 10: Head to Pangong Lake, overnight near the lake Day 11: Head to Leh, rest in Leh Day 12: Head to Padum, Zanskar Valley, overnight in Padum Day 13: Head to Leh Day 14 + Day 15: From Leh to Delhi.

Do you have any recommendation? Is it ok if I should take a cab to go to Tso Moriri, Nubra Valley and Pangong Lake and back by bus? Is it safe for female traveler to bike in Ladakh?

Look forward to hearing from you soon.

You have good amount of days in hand and hence I will suggest you to follow the route as per acclimatization rules. First visit Nubra Valley, then visit Pangong Tso and then visit Tso Moriri. Padum, Zanskar requires 4-5 days at ease from Kargil, so I do not see you having time for it.

Thanks so much Dheeraj! I really love to go to Padum and Zanskar. It’s not easy for me if I skip those places 🙁

But you do not have 4-5 days in hand from Kargil. Can you spare time for it or skip other places?

Do you have any recommendation to change my itinerary so that I can have 4-5 days for Padum and Zanskar? I can skip other places. Thanks Dheeraj.

I am going to suggest following plan:

Day 1 (Wed): Arrive Leh from New Delhi, rest in Leh Day 2 (Thu): Move to Kargil Day 3 (Fri): Kargil to Padum (Zanskar) Day 4 (Sat): Rest day at Padum (Visit Karsha, roam around in Padum) Day 5 (Sun): Rest day at Padum (Visit Zangla, Stongde monasteries) Day 6 (Mon): Move to Kargil Day 7 (Tue): Move to Leh Day 8 (Wed): Move to Nubra Valley Day 9 (Fri): Nubra Valley to Leh Day 10: Head to Pangong Lake, overnight near the lake Day 11: Head to Leh, rest in Leh Day 12: Head to Tso Moriri Day 13: Tso Moriri to Leh Day 14 + Day 15: From Leh to Delhi.

Sending you thousand of kisses! Thank you Dheeraj.

Thank you 🙂

This is an amazing website.

I am planning to start my bike expedition from 21st of September. My route is Jammu – Srinagar-Kargil-Zanskar-Leh-Nubra-pangong-Tso moriri-Keylong-Dalhousie-Dharamshala

It will need atleast 25 days to cover all these places and i am least concerned about time as i had quit my job. Now i have questions like,

1) If i start from Jammu on 21st and reach Kargil on 23rd, Is it advisable to reach Zanskar(Padum) on 24-25th? Are roads accessible at that time? 2) If i start from jammu and follow the Sarchu – Manali highway in 2nd week of October, Is it advisable? 3) Contrary, if i start from Manali Leh highway, can i cover zanskar in the second week of October? I had to cover zanskar anyhow, thats why my plans are becoming very confusing.

Please reply as its becoming very confusing for me.

I also manage my personal blog, http://www.theCrazyRider.com

Great to connect Sachendra.

1. Yes, you can reach there to Padum but it will be a bit cold. 2. It will be risky and I do not recommend in general. Read: 5 Reasons to Avoid Manali – Leh Highway in October

Well, same problem will be with Zanskar Valley, I will not recommend that too that late in the season.

We have an offer for Pajero white board from a rental company. Do we face any issues in Leh from taxi union check posts?

Best Regards Gopinath

If they check papers, they need to be in your name or someone you can prove relation with.

Hello Dheeraj,

your website is a bible. I have almost figured out everything reading it. I am planning to visit Leh in the first week of october. Flight from Delhi to Ladakh. Could you recommend some hotels good for this season? ANy special care I should think of since I am travelling with 10 year old. Thanks.

You can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Leh – Ladakh by Air followed by many travelers including me at the link here for 9 days: Leh – Ladakh | Most Common Itinerary by Air .

For the leh – ladakh taxi union rate list 2015 – 16 including the contacts of some reliable taxi drivers within Leh – Ladakh, check the link here . You can get about 10-12% of discount by directly getting in touch with drivers and of course, talking in person rather on phone always help in bargaining more.

For the list of good restaurants in Leh – Ladakh or eateries or food joints where food is enjoyed by many travellers including me, you can check the link here: List of Good Restaurants in Leh – Ladakh | Restaurant Reviews

Check the list of things to carry for Leh – Ladakh or other trip including basic medical kit, clothing, must haves etc. at the link here: List of Things to Carry for Leh – Ladakh trip .

We are a couple from Kolkata planned to travel Kashmir and leh with all sightseeing via kargil road by hiring motorcycle.From 11th October to 21 October… Will it be troublesome?? But we don’t want to cancel it….please suggest me in details…

I will not suggest going beyond Penzi La that late in the season. It will be a bit risky and of course dry and cold.

Thanks for your suggestion .But we are not going to pensi la.we want to travel lamayur,nubra,pangong. in motorcycle.Please suggest in details how safe are these.Is it safe for a single couple to travel Kashmir and leh by bike in that time??

You said Zanskar Valley, so thought you want to go to there. That should be OK but avoid coming back from MAnali side. Srinagar – Leh route is still OK in October. It will be cold, there will be less tourists around and most hotels/restaurants will be closed for the season.

Thanks. But I want to know how safe is pangong and nubra road for bike tour for a single couple in 3rd week of October…?? Please suggest..what may be the difficulties for single couple??

Safety wise, Ladakh is one of the safest places in terms of crime and they treat tourists like guests. But, it will be damn cold and yes of course deserted roads will be there as less tourists will be present. The response time in case of need or any help will be more and more as less people travel on these routes..

Please suggest me where can we get bike for hire in Srinagar and leg in October… Do we need to book it early or available that we can go and burgain there.

Supriyo, most things are shut in Srinagar now a days. You cannot use a srinagar bike in ladakh for sightseeing, so be aware about that. One side drop of bike will cost around 10K more.

Thank you.I have installed and registered in DOW apps but but I can’t post anything.. Anyway, we are a single couple planned a bike tour from 11october to 21 october.We have planned to hire bike in Srinagar for 4 days and travel to leh via kargil by public transport and again hire bike in leh for 5 days.Please suggest for.. 1.Where can we hire bike in Srinagar?? Cost??terms?? Anything else that I don’t know?? 2.Where can we hire bike in Leg??Cost??terms?? Anything else?? 3.Is panggong,nubra,lamayuru routes will be OK in those seasons for bike riding?? 4.what are the necessary things we should carry?? 5.how to know if anybody want to join us?? 6.Budget stays in pangong,nubra etc. Please suggest anything more to keep in mind that I don’t know…

Your first 5 posts are not visible unless approved. Your posts are already there and answered: https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/india/plan-ladakh-zanskar-trip/topic4507.html#p34716

Hi Dheeraj, Congratulation for your blog.. it is really interesting and useful. My girlfriend and I would like to go to ladakh the newxt november.. but it seems so cold overthere… so What do you think? are there any other interesting mountains sites in the India Himalaya region that are more accessible in that period? Or… if I decided to go to Ladakh in that period… where do you think could go around? and how many degrees below zero could I experience? Thanks so much Simone

Hello Simone,

In Ladakh, you can very well make a trip to almost all the places within Ladakh but you will have to fly by air to Leh and fly out of Leh. Of course, you will have to bear with cold conditions and limited stay + food options. You can refer the plan at: Leh – Ladakh in Winters – Most Common Itinerary

Planning to go in mid august with friends and bike trip in and from leh itself..? Is it recommendable to go during that time of rains..?

Abhi please read: 10 Tips for a Trip to Ladakh in Monsoons

Your article is quite informative. Thanks. It would be nice if you can help me plan up my trip to Lay-Ladakh . Myself and my wife ( mid 40) and twin daughters aged 16 planning to travel to Lay from Bangalore on 9th of October, because, that’s when children get holidays and would like to stay at lay-Ladhak till 16th of October. ( basically 5 day, stay in Lay) Can you please suggest the places that we can cover and suggest an itinerary for me. We plan to take up a flight from Bangalore to Delhi. and after that, I have absolutely no idea about the mode of transport or route i should take. Is it better to go on our own or take up a camp. if taking up a camp, which one is better? Hope, that’s not very expensive. Please suggest. Looking forward to your reply.

Warm Regards,

I will be in leh on 12th July till 20th July 2016.

I have some questions in mind so could you please suggest me the best answer

In which place shall I stay in Leh?

Also, where shall I get good accommodation like tent or home stay?

In which place shall visit during the period i.e. between 12th July to 20th July 2016?

Also, it would be better if you suggest me the place where shall I get Bike on rent?

On 22nd July, I have trained from Jammu so is there any public transport or anything else through which I can go from Leh to Jammu via Kargil?

Apart from that you can suggest me better plan.

Awaiting for your prompt reply.

Hello Ashish,

I can answer you better if you tell me how are you reaching Leh on 12th July, I see you will travel by road to Jammu from Leh on 20th

Thank You Dheeraj for the replying . I will be reaching Leh by plane

Hi Dheeraj, I am planning to do circuit from Chandigarh – Srinagar – Leh – Manali – Chandigarh. Dates are 2 nd august to 13 august.

1. What is your opinion above dates of travel? 2. Will it be good for bike riding? 3. As heard of uttarakhand cloud burst.. So any chances of consequences? (I can understand it cannot be assured right now… but still if you have any predictions.)

Hi Swapnil,

You should read: 10 Tips for a Trip to Ladakh in Monsoons which will answer many of your doubts.

I am planing to travel Leh-Ladakh…we are 6 people…we will be traveling to and fro Leh airport from mumbai… But we are very much confused about the dates.. Please suggest Aug 26th to 4th Sep Sep 2nd to 11th Any 1..thou there isn’t much difference in the date…we are preferring Sep…but jz rains may spoil the trip so need your guidance

September will be a better time to do so.

I am from Bangalore and planning to do a solo trip on a budget in the month of August 2016. I have planned out a small itinerary, would love to have your opinion regarding the same. Day 1 : Bangalore to Delhi by flight Day 2 : Delhi to Manali by Volvo bus Day 3 & 4 : Manali to Leh by bus with overnight stay at Sarchu Day 5 : Local sightseeing/Rest Day 6 : Hire a bike in Leh for the rest of the trip. Sham Valley Day 7 : Leh to Nubra valley. Overnight stay at Hunder. Day 8 : Nubra valley to Leh Day 9 : Leh to Pangong Tso. Overnight stay at Spangmik. Day 10 : Pangong Tso to Leh. Day 11 : Leh to Delhi by flight. Delhi to Bangalore by flight.

Let me know what you think of this.

Hi Dheeraj, I am planning to travel to Leh-Ladakh in first week of October 2016 with hubby and 8 year old daughter. Please help me with below questions,

1. Is this time of the year OK for travel ? (considering kid in mind)Will it be too cold ? 2. Planning for self drive from Manali to Leh and then back from Leh by flight. 3. Is it good for traveling around Leh ? Weather conditions ? 4. Is it OK to travel by road with the kid ?

Thanks Ashwini

Hi Ashwini,

1. No, time is not OK most of the camps are winded up and it gets cold in high places in Ladakh 2. Manali – Leh is not recommended at all in October and especially with kids, will not suggest taking risks, even though now a days it is slightest. 3. Cold mostly.

We are following for advice to driver via Srinagar to Leh. But question are we allowed to driver a hire tempo traveller from punjab via Srinagar to Leh. And for local ladakh sight seeing via taxi.

No, ladakh sightseeing you need local ladakh tempo travller

Yes Dheeraj. I’m aware about the local sightseeing must be done via their local transport. But reaching Leh on our own hire vehicle(Tempo traveller) from punjab – are we allowed that via srinagar.

Or we need to take the tempo from srinagar itself.

We are planning our journey as below from 14th Jul to 25th Jul.

Day 1 – Delhi to Srinagar (flight) Day 2 – Srinagar to Pahalgam to Srinagar Day 3 – Srinagar to Gulmarg to Srinagar Day 4 – Srinagar to Kargil (Via Sonamarg and Dras) Day 5 – Srinagar to Leh Day 6 – Leh (Tour of Local Monasteries) Day 7 – Leh to Nubra Lake Day 8 – Nubra Lake to Leh Day 9 – Leh to Panggong Lake and Back to Leh Day 10 – Leh to Kelyong Day 11 – Kelyong to Manali Day 12 – Manali to Chandigarh

1. Need your advice on the plan – is it ok ? 2. Taking tempo traveler from punjab (For day 2 to 5 and 10,11, 12) 3. For local sighting seeing will take the local transport in leh (For day 6,7,8,9)

Regards, Karen Sandhu

1. Your plan looks OK to me. 2. Sounds good, local sightseeing you need local tempo traveller

Yes, Karen. you are fine to reach Leh in outside taxi or rented vehicle.

Hi, please give me update infomation for bus service timing from Leh to srinagar nowdays (Days and timing) and also tell me bus service or taxi in Low budget for visit Pangong Lake,Tso morriri , Nubra valley, khardungla top etc.

Please refer: Rates & Time table of Bus Services in Leh – Ladakh

I am planning a trip to Ladhak from 6th Aug to 17th Aug. A brief itinerary is as follows

Day 1st Pune – Srinagar airport – Local Trip Day 2nd Srinagar – Gulmarg– Srinagar Day 3rd Srinagar – Sonamarg – Kargil – Lamayuru ( We would prefer staying at Lamayuru instead of Kargil. Is this feasible? Day 4th – Lamayuru – Leh Day 5th Tour of Local Monasteries Day 6th Leh – Pangong Lake Day 7th Pangong – Leh – Khardungla – Nubra Valley Day 8th Back to leh Day 9th leh – Sarchu Here can we cover morey plains? Day 10th Sarchu – manali Day 11th Manali local sightseeing Day 12th Manali – Chandigarh Airport Drop

1. Any comments/suggestions on the itinerary? 2. Can we hire open jeep/mahindra thar in leh? If yes, can you share some relevant contacts?Chauffeur driven would also do. 3. You have already mentioned details about the weather conditions in the first week of August, but as we wont be riding on bikes, how much difficulties we might face? 4. How much it would cost approximately for the above itinerary considering we are 4 adults travelling.

1. Changes suggested below 2. No self drive option available in Leh, you can hire taxi there 3. Well, below Ladakh range, there will be rains which will have swollen water crossings, slush on roads, landlsides will be common too 4.

Day 1st Pune – Srinagar airport – Local Trip Day 2nd Srinagar – Gulmarg– Srinagar Day 3rd Srinagar – Sonamarg – Kargil Day 4th – Kargil – Leh Day 5th Tour of Local Monasteries Day 6th Leh – Nubra Valley Day 7th Back to Leh Day 8th Day trip to Pangong Tso or go to Sarchu/Pang from Panogng Tso next day Day 9th Sarchu/Pang Day 10th Sarchu/Pang – manali Day 11th Manali local sightseeing Day 12th Manali – Chandigarh Airport Drop

Thanks for the reply Dheeraj. Need clarification on below two points:

1. Regarding water crossings and slush on roads, how much does it affect while travelling in a four wheeler(we are not riding on bikes)?

2. Regarding open jeep/mahindra thar – We dont need a self drive vehicle. A car with driver will do. But the main requirement is we need an Open Jeep. So would be great if you can share some relevant contacts.

Hi, I am planning to visit leh on 2 Oct 2016 with my wife for around 10 to 11 days. I will fly from pune to leh. Then will book hotel there and take bike of rent i will visit different place there. So i have some question below: 1. How easily we can get hotel there with affordable rate during given time frame? 2.I will be traveling different place on bike with my wife , my wife don’t ride bike so is it possible to visit place like Chang La Pass,Taglang La Pass,Khardung La Pass,Tso Kar Lake,Pangong Tso Lake etc. in 7-8 days time frame. 3. Is it safe to travel in leh alone with wife ?

Thanks in advance. Rahul

Rahul in October it is off seaosn in Ladakh and cold too. Most of the camps besides the Pangong Tso lake gets packed up and most hotels/restaurant in Leh gets closed.

Hello, sir I want to know about Local bus service around leh Ladakh Local sightseenig is available on nowdays july 2016.plz Reply

No there is no local bus service in Leh for sightseeing purposes. Local tour operators might be running some taxis for the same.

I am planning to travel Srinagar-Leh-Manali with my mom. The trip would be for around 10-12 days and wil include Sonmarg, Dras, Kargil, Lamayuru, Leh, Nubra, Pangong, Sarchu, Rohtang and finally Manali. Which would be the best time to travel July end (around 27 July.) or mid September (around 20 Sep.)? How are the road conditions during the given period? Any suggestions or must visit places are welcomed!

Mid septembers is a good time to travel Ladakh, always. You can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Leh – Ladakh followed by many travellers including me at the link here for 13-14 days: Most Common Itinerary for Leh – Ladakh .

Thanks for the deails.I have planned somewhat similar itinerary. The only difference is we will finishing the tour at Chandigarh. How is the weather during the September end (20-30 September)? Are there any chances of rain or snow fall? Does temperature dip ver much at night or high passes? Can you please mention some advantages of visiting Leh in September over July or any points which are best to visit in September? How much time does it take to reach Chandigarh from Manali as the last flight from Chandigarh is at 7 pm. ? Thank You!

Very little rain or snowfall may happen during that period. Regarding points, please read the article above. Chandigarh – Manali is around 9 Hrs

We have planned to ride Leh in September starting from 16 -Sep to 1st-Oct. We are 6 riders on our own starting from Jammu- srinagar-leh-manali-Chandigarh My main concern is the weather, road conditions & stay in last 2 weeks of September. My question are : 1: Is riding during this time safe( like landslide & rains) ? 2: is this the good time for the road trip ? 3: What about the camp stay in pangong? will that be open ? 4: Can we setup our own tent ? (with proper Sleeping bag n all) 5: Will there be snow ? 6: What about the land slide & rain in last two week of September ? Will we face that ?

Thanks in Advance

Regards. Bharat V

Hello Bharat,

1. YEs, time is good to travel, in fact best time to travel to Ladakh 3. Yes, there will be options available 4. Yes you can setup your own camps where other camps are pitched. DO NOT pitch at banks of the lake as it is not authorized and leagal to camp besides the lake. 5. In case it snows the day you visit. 6. Usually things are stable in September

I’m Bhoomik From Chennai

What are the places would u suggest to visit if i would like to cover Nook and corner of leh ladakh and near by and how many days will it take. Please suggest Me everything.

All depends upon how many days you have in hand and your mode of transport

Can Padum and Zanskar valley be travelled in third week of October??

I will not suggest it because the winter sets in by end of September and Penzi La can close for few days in case of heavy snowfall.

I am planning to travel ladakh in mid of june, and I want to visit Zanskar, I’ll follow your suggested common itinerary for this trip. So is it possible to cover Zansakar in this itinerary and if yes, can u please share me the travel guide to cover the same or any other possibilities.

Thanking you.

Zanskar Valley needs at least 4 days on confortable level ex. Kargil. Do you have 4 more days in hand?

Hello sir, I have planned for visit to Ladakh during 18june to 24 june .Is it the best time to visit .plz Reply

It is good time to visit Ladakh Raj

You are doing an excellent job. I would like to thank you sincerely for it. I have a query that I want to travel with my husband to Leh from 2 sep to 8sep 2016. But I am bit afraid as I have read that weather in leh keeps changing drastically and at that time it would be monsoon so lot of thunderstorm. I was going to follow your iteneary for this short trip of 6 nights stay. Could you please guide me and clear my mind, Is September a good month to travel? I am planning to viist Nubra & Panong Tso and stay 1 night at each place. If we get stuck at somepoint, Is help available? I know probably I am worrying too much but I woul dbe very thankful to you if you can throw some lights on my query. Thanking you

If you are flying in and flying out of Leh, there is no issues at all during that time. Ladakh is a rain shadow region and September is a good time to travel

Thank you Dheeraj for your prompt reply. Any extra precaution to be taken care of during the visit?

Hmm, well, do read 9 Mistakes People Commit on a Ladakh Trip AND Acute Mountain Sickness and Importance of Acclimatization

HI Dheeraj, Me and my wife wish to travel in the second week of August. Do you recommend that time for travel? its her birthday so don’t want to mess it up 🙂

It is monsoon time in general up there in North and at some parts of Manali – Leh Highway (like before Baralacha La) and Srinagar – Leh Highway (like before Kargil) you might need to face monsoon hassles but once you get closer to Ladakh, then Ladakh being rain shadow region is least affected by monsoon rains, though rains does reach Ladakh now but to minimum and mostly it might remains overcast conditions. There is no thumb rule of certainty about weather conditions but above is generally common pictures seen over last few years except ugly 2010 …

Please refer the link in our community: FAQ | Is Monsoon season good time to travel to Ladakh? for more details.

Hi Dheeraj. We are 4 persons all adults of a family two gents and two ladies plan to visit zhanskar valley from Jalandhar. Pl suggest best itenry We have a total of 7-8 days from 11 June We will be going in Pajero sports 4by4

Harish, I always suggest: Zanskar Valley – Most Common Itinerary

I am planning to visit ladakh in September so can we find snow at that time of period

Snow will not be present in the month of September in Ladakh unless it snowfall on that very day when you are there

hi Dheeraj.

Your posts are so so awesome.

I need your advice on our road trip plan. We are a group of 8 friends, 25-35 yrs old males & females, planning for Delhi-Leh-Delhi by our own two cars. I am keen to have your advice on the following:- 1. Are Maruti Swift diesels recommended for this trip? 2. Except me, all other 7 friends are first timers for Ladakh trip but all of them have done lot of self driven road trips in north india, so is it advisable for us to go to ladakh during Jun-July or Aug-Sep?

your valuable insights will be highly helpful for all of us. Thanks.

hello Dheeraj,

I will be travelling to Leh Ladakh during 1st october to 12th october on my Santro. Is it doable on a Santro? i will self drive and travel with my wife and son. Please advice.I will be going via Srinagar.

Thanks for setting up all the information in one place. I have planned trip to LEH during September. Travel plan is for ~22 days, in that I would like to cover kargil/leh/manali/delhi[in and around places ]/Agra and then I would ride back to Bangalore. Here’s what I have planned, please help me to head in right direction and plan better.

TRIP START DATE: SEP 02 2016 [ Friday night ] END DATE: SEP 25 2016 [ Saturday ]

Sep 2nd [ night ]:- I will be getting my bike [ Apache 180 ] from Bangalore via train and reach Delhi on Sunday 04 Sep 04 : Will head to Pathankot . [ THAT’s ALL ] After going through all the places suggested by you for other travelers, I had made a rough plan on where to visit. But then I would like to hear it out from the right person rather than going with one of mine.

Looking forward for advice to plan things even better.

This is from Delhi to Delhi, now depending upon days left in 22 days with you, you can try to spend more time at places example go to Turtuk in Nubra Valley, take three day journey over Manali – leh Highway

U r just amazing!!!

I have planned a family trip to Leh – Ladakh during 10 Oct to 16 Oct 2016. It will be a 12 member group with age ranging from 7 years to 65 years. Will be reaching Leh by flight from Delhi and return on 16 morning by flight. The flight tickets are already booked. I have the the following questions: 1. Will it be appropriate to travel with such age group? (Keeping in view the temperature and terrain) 2. Suggest me the places to visit as I have not yet planned the itinerary. 3. Suggest me suitable hotels/ camps/ homestay for your suggested itinerary. 4. What is the minimum temperature expected during our visit?

Needless to say, it will be quite cold up there in Ladakh especially at places like Pangong Tso. You do not have much time on hand so can follow the first 6-7 days of itinerary in: Leh – Ladakh | Most Common Itinerary by Air

Hi dheeraj I read all your post for leh ladak i was very impress I would like to take three days journey on Srinagar – leh highway I would like to use alternate route which goes Kargil ,Batalik ,Dah,Skurbuchan My back journey is leh to manali iwould like to go to spiti valley too Can you set my iternary and which is the best season to visit and how many days should I keep no time limite I

Hello Sonali,

You can follow th below plan:

Day 1 | Delhi – Jammu / Patnitop — Overnight at Jammu or Patnitop

Day 2 | Jammu / Patnitop – Srinagar — Enjoy walk around Dal lake and may be Shikara ride as well — If you have time then check out, floating market, Shalimar Garden. — Overnight at Srinagar

Day 3 | Srinagar – Zozi La – Drass – Kargil — Enjoy the vistas enroute — Have late drunch meal at Drass is you are a vegetarian as sometimes it gets difficult to find veg. food at Kargil — Overnight at Kargil

Day 4 | Kargil – Lamayuru – Leh — Cover Mulbekh Maitrey, Lamayuru Moanstery, Lunar Landscapes — On the way you can also see Gurudwara Pather Sahib, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Nimmu — Overnight at Leh

Day 5 | Leh Local Sightseeing + Inner Line Permits — To know the about the places to visit check the link: Travel Guide for Local Sightseeing of Leh Town in Ladakh — For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link  here — Overnight at Leh

Day 6 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder — Head for Nubra Valley and stay overnight at Hunder — On the way enjoy a cup of soup at Highest Motorable Pass (as claimed) Khardung La

Day 7 | Hunder – Sumur/Kyagar – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh — Sumur has a famous monastery to check out and Panamik has hot water springs — Overnight at Leh

Day 8 | Rest day at Leh to enjoy local culture and some shopping OR Monastery tour — Monastery tour may include Hemis, Thicksey, Stakna and Shey monasteries. They come on the route of Pangong Tso but as you will be doing day trip, it will be a bit hectic to include them on that day only. — Overnight at Leh

Day 9 | Leh – Hemis Monastery – Pangong Tso Lake — Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on the go towards Pangong Tso — Overnight at Pangong Tso (Spangmik)

Day 10 | Pangong Tso Lake – Shey – Thicksey – Leh — Overnight at Leh

Day 11 | Rest day at Leh to enjoy local culture and some shopping OR Monastery tour OR you can do tour to Sham Valley — Monastery tour may include Hemis, Thicksey, Stakna and Shey monasteries. They come on the route of Pangong Tso but as you will be doing day trip, it will be a bit hectic to include them on that day only. — Sham Valley include Alchi, Likir, Basgo Palace, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Nimmu, , Gurudwara Pather Sahib — Overnight at Leh

Day 12 | Leh – Tso Moriri via Chumathang — Cover Karzok Monastery — Overnight at Karzok or Tso Moriri

Day 13 | Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Debring (Manali – Leh Highway starts) – Moore Plains – Pang / Sarchu — Try to start early in the day so that you reach Sarchu where the accommodation options are better than Pang — Overnight at Sarchu or Pang

Day 14 | Pang / Sarchu – Baralacha La – Jispa — On the way cover Suraj Tal, Deepak Tal which are on the road sides only — Overnight at Jispa

Day 15 | Jispa – Chandratal Day 16 | Chandratal – Kaza on the way (Ki, Kibber, Gette) Day 17 | Kaza/Langza Homestay (Hikkim, Koumik, Langza) Day 18 | Kaza – Pin Valley – Dhankar – Tabo Day 19 | Tabo – Kalpa Day 20 | Kalpa – Narkanda Day 21 | Narkanda – Chail / Shimla – Delhi

Add a day from Kargil to travel to Dah – Hanu villages and next day traveling to Leh from Dah – Hanu or Alchi wherever you take the night halt.

Hi dheeraj,

Your blog is amazing and definately a bible for ppl who want to travel to ladakh..i’m planning for 11 day trip to leh ladakh starting from either 3rd sept to 13sept or 9th sept to 19th sept. Can you please suggest me a gud detailed itinerary and also which dates would be best. Im from chennai and would prefer taking flight from chennai to leh and back..also can u suggest me whr all can i rent bikes.i would wanna drive a bike around for the experience and thrill of it..would like to do some camping as well.. Thanks in advance Regards, Neelam

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the ultimate leh ladakh travel guide (2023)

Leh Ladakh, the mesmerizing land nestled amidst the majestic Himalayas, is a dream destination for many travelers. With its breathtaking landscapes, serene monasteries, and unique cultural heritage, Leh Ladakh offers an unforgettable experience for those seeking adventure, tranquility, and spiritual enlightenment. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will take you on a journey to explore the wonders of Leh Ladakh, including its history, best time to visit, how to get there, top attractions, and much more. So, get ready to embark on an extraordinary adventure and discover the hidden gems of Leh Ladakh.  

Unforgettable Stays: Resorts and Hotels in Leh Ladakh  

History of Leh Ladakh: A Land of Rich Cultural Heritage  

Leh, the erstwhile capital of the Union Territory of Ladakh, has a fascinating history that dates back centuries. Situated in the northernmost part of India, Leh was once an important trading hub along the ancient Silk Road. It served as a crucial link between Tibet and Kashmir, facilitating the exchange of goods, culture, and ideas. The region flourished during the golden period of Ladakh in the 17th century when trade thrived under the reign of King Senge Namgyal. However, in the mid-19th century, the royal family was forced to abandon Leh and relocate to Stok due to the Dogra invasion. Despite the challenges, Leh has managed to preserve its rich cultural heritage, evident in its historic Buddhist monasteries and traditional way of life. Explore the ladakh stay with hotel rooms in ladakh

Location and Accessibility: Reaching the Roof of the World  

Leh is located in the Ladakh region of Jammu and Kashmir, in the northernmost part of India. Nestled at an altitude of 3,505 meters (11,500 feet) above sea level, Leh is surrounded by the world's largest mountain ranges, making it a paradise for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers. Getting to Leh is relatively easy, with regular direct flights operating from major cities in India, including Delhi. Alternatively, you can embark on a road trip to Leh, with the Manali-Leh Highway and the Srinagar-Leh Highway being the two major routes. These roads are open for a few months each year, typically from June to October, when the snow has melted, offering breathtaking views and a chance to acclimatize to the high altitude gradually.  

Best Time to Visit Leh Ladakh: Embrace the Seasons of Beauty  

The best time to visit Leh Ladakh largely depends on your preferences and the experiences you seek. The region experiences extreme weather conditions, with scorching summers and freezing winters. The summer months, from May to September, are considered the peak season for tourism in Leh Ladakh. The weather during this time is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploration. The monsoon season in the rest of India does not affect Leh Ladakh, making it a perfect escape from the rains. This period also coincides with two major festivals in Ladakh, the Hemis Festival in June or July and the Ladakh Festival in September. These festivals offer a glimpse into the vibrant culture and traditions of the region, with colorful masked dances, traditional music, and cultural performances. On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter and more serene experience, the winter months, from November to March, offer a unique charm. The landscapes are transformed into a winter wonderland, with snow-covered mountains and frozen lakes. However, do note that the winter season is extremely cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing point, so be prepared for the chilly weather and limited accessibility to certain areas.  

Top Attractions in Leh Ladakh: Explore the Land of Mystical Beauty  

Leh Palace: A Glimpse into Royal Grandeur  

Perched atop a hill overlooking the city of Leh, the Leh Palace is a magnificent structure that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. Built in the 17th century by King Senge Namgyal, it served as the royal residence of the Namgyal dynasty. The palace is reminiscent of the Potala Palace in Lhasa, Tibet, with its imposing structure and architectural beauty. Although now in ruins, the Leh Palace is a testament to the rich history and grandeur of Ladakh. Unforgettable Stays: Find the Perfect Hotel Rooms in Leh Ladakh

Shanti Stupa: A Symbol of Peace and Tranquility  

Located on a hilltop in Chanspa, the Shanti Stupa is a symbol of peace and harmony. Built by the Japanese Buddhist organization, Nipponzan Myohoji, the stupa was inaugurated by the 14th Dalai Lama in 1985. It offers a panoramic view of Leh and its surroundings, making it a popular spot for meditation and spiritual contemplation. The Shanti Stupa is a place of serenity and tranquility, where visitors can immerse themselves in the peaceful atmosphere and admire the stunning views.  

Hemis Monastery: A Spiritual Haven  

Hemis Monastery is one of the most important and wealthiest monasteries in Ladakh. Known for its annual Hemis Festival, which celebrates the birth of Guru Padmasambhava, the monastery attracts a large number of visitors from around the world. The festival features vibrant masked dances, music performances, and a bustling fair. The monastery itself is a treasure trove of ancient artifacts, thangkas (religious paintings), and statues, providing an insightful glimpse into the rich Buddhist heritage of Ladakh.  

Pangong Lake: A Pristine Paradise  

One of the most iconic attractions in Leh Ladakh, Pangong Lake is a breathtakingly beautiful lake situated at an altitude of 4,350 meters (14,270 feet). The lake stretches across the borders of India and China, with two-thirds of its length falling under Chinese territory. Famous for its crystal-clear blue waters, Pangong Lake offers a surreal and magical experience. The changing hues of the lake, from shades of blue to green, create a mesmerizing spectacle. Visitors can also indulge in camping by the lakeside and witness the starry nights and the serenity of the surroundings.  

Nubra Valley: A Desert Oasis  

Nestled amidst the breathtaking mountains of Ladakh, Nubra Valley is a picturesque destination that offers a unique blend of desert landscapes and lush greenery. The valley is famous for its sand dunes, where visitors can enjoy a thrilling ride on the back of the double-humped Bactrian camels. The Diskit Monastery, with its towering Maitreya Buddha statue, is another major attraction in the Nubra Valley. Exploring the rugged terrain and experiencing the tranquility of the valley is a must-do for any traveler visiting Leh Ladakh.  

Outdoor Adventures: Thrills in the Land of High Altitude  

Leh Ladakh is a haven for adventure enthusiasts, offering a wide range of outdoor activities that cater to all levels of experience. From thrilling mountain treks to heart-pumping river rafting, there is something for everyone. Here are some of the top outdoor adventures you can embark on in Leh Ladakh:  

Trekking: Conquer the Mighty Mountains  

Ladakh is a paradise for trekkers, with its rugged terrains, high mountain passes, and stunning landscapes. The Markha Valley Trek, Stok Kangri Trek, and Chadar Trek are among the popular treks in the region. These treks offer a chance to explore remote villages, interact with locals, and witness the majestic beauty of the Himalayas up close. Whether you are a seasoned trekker or a beginner, Ladakh has a trekking route that suits your preferences and capabilities.  

River Rafting: Ride the Rapids of Zanskar and Indus  

For those seeking an adrenaline rush, river rafting in the mighty Zanskar and Indus rivers is an exhilarating experience. The rivers offer different grades of rapids, ranging from easy to challenging, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced rafters. The rafting season usually starts in July and continues until September, when the water levels are ideal for this adventure activity. As you navigate through the gushing rapids, surrounded by the dramatic landscapes of Ladakh, you will feel a surge of excitement and a sense of accomplishment.  

Mountain Biking: Pedal through the Spectacular Landscapes  

Explore the rugged terrains and scenic landscapes of Ladakh on a thrilling mountain biking adventure. The region offers a variety of biking routes, ranging from easy trails for beginners to challenging routes for seasoned cyclists. The Manali-Leh Highway and the Khardung La Pass are popular routes for mountain biking, offering breathtaking views and thrilling descents. The cool mountain air, pristine surroundings, and the thrill of cycling through the high mountain passes make it a truly unforgettable experience.  

Wildlife Safaris: Discover the Flora and Fauna of Ladakh  

Ladakh is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, with several wildlife sanctuaries and national parks offering a glimpse into the region's rich biodiversity. The Hemis National Park, home to the elusive snow leopard, is a major attraction for wildlife enthusiasts. Other wildlife species that can be spotted in Ladakh include Tibetan wolves, ibex, blue sheep, and various species of migratory birds. Embark on a wildlife safari and immerse yourself in the natural beauty and serenity of Ladakh.  

Cultural Experiences: Delve into the Rich Heritage of Ladakh  

Ladakh is not just a land of breathtaking landscapes; it is also a treasure trove of cultural heritage and traditions. Immerse yourself in the vibrant Ladakhi culture and witness the unique customs and rituals of the region. Here are some cultural experiences you should not miss during your visit to Leh Ladakh:  

Monastery Visits: Discover Spiritual Serenity  

Ladakh is known for its ancient Buddhist monasteries, which are not only religious centers but also architectural wonders. The Thiksey Monastery, Hemis Monastery, and Diskit Monastery are among the must-visit monasteries in the region. Explore the intricately painted murals, observe the monks in their daily rituals, and soak in the peaceful ambiance of these spiritual havens. The monasteries also offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, providing a perfect setting for meditation and self-reflection.  

Local Festivals: Celebrate the Vibrant Ladakhi Culture  

Ladakh is known for its colorful festivals that celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the region. The Hemis Festival, held at the Hemis Monastery, is one of the most important festivals in Ladakh. It commemorates the birth of Guru Padmasambhava, the founder of Tibetan Buddhism. The festival is marked by vibrant masked dances, traditional music performances, and a lively fair. The Ladakh Festival, held in September, is another major event that showcases the cultural diversity of the region. It features traditional music, dance performances, and a grand procession through the streets of Leh. Attending these festivals is a unique opportunity to witness the Ladakhi culture in all its glory and interact with the locals.  

Homestays: Experience the Warmth of Ladakhi Hospitality  

To truly immerse yourself in the local culture and way of life, consider staying in a traditional Ladakhi homestay. These homestays offer an authentic experience, allowing you to live with local families and partake in their daily activities. You will get a chance to savor homemade Ladakhi cuisine, learn about the traditional arts and crafts, and interact with the warm and welcoming locals. This cultural exchange will not only enrich your travel experience but also create lasting memories and friendships.  

Where to Stay in Leh Ladakh: Find Your Oasis of Comfort  

Leh Ladakh offers a variety of accommodation options to suit every traveler's preferences and budget. From luxury resorts to budget guesthouses and homestays, there is something for everyone. Here are some popular places to stay in Leh Ladakh:

• Luxury Resorts: Indulge in lavish comfort and enjoy world-class amenities at luxury resorts such as The Grand Dragon Ladakh , The Zen Ladakh, and The Druk Ladakh.  

Essential Travel Tips for Leh Ladakh: Prepare for an Unforgettable Journey  

As you embark on your journey to Leh Ladakh, here are some essential travel tips to ensure a smooth and memorable experience:  

• Acclimatization: Leh Ladakh is situated at a high altitude, so it is important to acclimatize properly. Take it easy for the first few days, stay hydrated, and avoid strenuous activities to prevent altitude sickness.  
• Packing: Pack warm clothes, especially if you are visiting in the winter months. Layering is key, as temperatures can vary throughout the day. Don't forget to carry sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and a good pair of walking shoes for outdoor activities.  
• Permits: Some areas in Ladakh require permits for entry, especially if you are traveling to restricted areas near the border. Make sure to check the permit requirements and obtain them in advance.  
• Respect Local Customs: Ladakh has a rich cultural heritage, and it is important to respect local customs and traditions. Dress modestly, especially when visiting monasteries, and ask for permission before taking photographs of people.  
• Stay Hydrated: The high altitude and dry climate can cause dehydration. Drink plenty of water and avoid consuming alcohol excessively, as it can worsen the effects of altitude sickness.  
• Responsible Tourism: Be a responsible traveler and follow eco-friendly practices. Respect the environment, dispose of waste properly, and support local businesses and artisans.  

In Conclusion: A Journey of Discovery Awaits in Leh Ladakh

Leh Ladakh is a destination that captivates the hearts and souls of every traveler who ventures into its mystical landscapes. From the majestic mountains to the serene monasteries, the region offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and thrilling adventures. Whether you are seeking solitude, spiritual enlightenment, or adrenaline-pumping experiences, Leh Ladakh has it all. So, pack your bags, embark on this extraordinary journey, and let the enchanting land of Leh Ladakh leave an indelible mark on your soul. Let the mountains whisper their secrets, the monasteries enlighten your spirit, and the warm hospitality of the locals embrace you with open arms. Leh Ladakh awaits your arrival, ready to unveil its wonders and create memories that will last a lifetime.

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Best Time To Visit Leh Ladakh

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What is the best time to visit Leh Ladakh?

The best time to visit Leh Ladakh is from late April to mid-July, when both the Srinagar Leh highway and Leh-Manali highway are open, allowing for easy access to the region. This period also offers the opportunity to witness the breathtaking snow-capped landscapes, especially along the Leh-Manali highway. Another favorable time to visit is from mid-September to October when Ladakh is at its most beautiful, and visitors can enjoy discounts due to fewer tourists. However, it's advisable to avoid traveling to Leh Ladakh during the monsoon season from late July to August due to the risk of landslides. During this time, the roads, particularly the Srinagar Leh highway and Leh Manali highway, are often covered in sludge, making travel hazardous. Peak Season: The peak tourist season in Leh Ladakh is from April to mid-July, attracting a significant number of visitors eager to explore the region's stunning landscapes and cultural heritage. During this time, the weather is favorable, and the roads leading to Ladakh are open, making it an ideal time for adventure enthusiasts and sightseers alike. Shoulder Season : September to October marks the shoulder season in Leh Ladakh when the region is still accessible, and the weather remains pleasant. This period offers a quieter and more serene experience compared to the peak season, with fewer tourists and discounted rates available for accommodations and activities. Off Season: The off-season in Leh Ladakh falls from November to March, as well as July and August. During these months, the region experiences harsh weather conditions, with extreme cold temperatures and the risk of road closures due to snowfall. Additionally, July and August are prone to monsoon rains, leading to landslides and making travel challenging and risky. As a result, visitor numbers decrease significantly during the off-season, and many establishments may close temporarily.

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11th July, 2019

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25th - 28th September 2019

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Best Time To Visit Leh Ladakh in 2023

• Rahul Arora

Exploring Leh-Ladakh the Union Territory is the most cherished dream of all adventurous people and never dying brave hearts, who love challenging the harsh climate, rough weather, tough terrains, and the most spine-chilling moments.

It’s just impossible to beat the allure of trekking adventures in Ladakh .  Its harsh topography, monasteries circuits, and the unbelievable life-surviving experiences are daunting but enthralling too, no matter, whether they are spirituality seekers or adventure lovers.

The scenic surroundings are incredible, and the views are mesmerizing, whether they are of the valleys of Ladakh or the gorgeous frozen lakes or the magnificent, breath-taking snow-clad mountains. Evading the fear and the fury of the nature is not difficult, considering the adventures that keep you enthralling all the way around, whether it’s chilling winters touching -20 degree or lovely summers when the trekking is more of fun, rather than the threatening adventure. 

Encountering, accepting, enduring, and persevering through the deadliest weather and devastating slopes and valleys through the unforgiving atmosphere needs courage, energy, and grit to visit Leh and Ladakh. This Exotic land is the most mysterious and full of promises to give adventure at each step, no matter whether you are there in snow-cladded frozen winters or snow melting summers.

Few enjoy the adventurous trek in the world Chadar Trek while others have more fun in trekking over the solidified Zanskar river. The Ladakh is kind, generous, and has something or other to fulfill everyone’s desire. So, the best time for you to be there is what interests you the most, and as per that you could decide the time of the year that suits you the best. Let’s explore the various options available with you to visit and go through the unique experience of Ladakh .

So, what’s your pick about visiting Ladakh, whether winter enthralls you or the summer entice. You might be wondering what to pick and when to visit Leh and Ladakh. There each weather and month has its charm and allure to get soaked and witness the beauty of nature, which you won’t get anywhere else. Let’s discuss here the period-wise advantages of visiting Ladakh in different months.

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Visiting From April To Mid - May

With the onset of April, starts the beginning of tourist season in Ladakh, when the place becomes agile and active. Restaurants, hotels, motels, and guesthouses start opening and getting ready to receive the pouring tourists, adventurers, trekkers, and vacationers.

It’s the time when the Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri Lake starts welcoming all get ready to enthrall all. By the time it reaches the second week of May, opens the Srinagar-Leh highway making way for the tourists to rock Ladakh.

With the melting of the lakes, by the end of April, begins the time to visit Ladakh. Nature unfurls the fabulous sights, mesmerizing views and make the place live and fresh with a cool breeze flowing around to entice the tourists and spellbind them with its panoramic beauty.

The hotels and guesthouses offer the best discounts during this period as with the onset of the season they try to lure the maximum tourist and provide them with the best of their services. Thus, this time is the best time to be there, though the Khardung La and the Chang LA are still covered with the snow.

Also Read: Kinnaur – ‘The Land Of Gods’

Mid - May To July

By this time the Srinagar-Leh highway get opened, and one could easily visit there to be the few first reaching there. Though, many consider this time as not the right time to be there as other highways are yet to open. Somewhere near early June opens the Manali road along with the Rohtang Pass.

The first 7-10 days are recommended for caution or to take precaution on the way as there is a chance of blockages due to the changing weather conditions. But, visiting Ladakh just before the monsoons, is worth braving the hurdles and obstructions to have the glimpses of nature when it is at its best.

Close to Rohtang you may found roads flanked by high snow walls giving you the incredible views of pervading snow to have fun and excitement all around. But, there’s a piece of caution here as the roads and paths got wet with gushing water making it difficult to cross them.

August To Mid - September

With Monsoons in full swing, the rivers are at their youth with abundant water, fresh energy, and new life to flow at their full might. As the landslides during monsoons get frequent, traveling becomes risky and dangerous to avoid to the extent it could be.

At this time it’s advisable to be in the rain shadow area to enjoy the weather and picturesque views of Ladakh such as the region beyond Zojj La Pass towards Leh from Srinagar. The area from Baralacha Pass towards Leh is also considered as rain shadow area as it too doesn’t receive much rainfall.

However, traveling during monsoons is not recommended unless someone is dying hard to visit Ladakh during this monsoon month.

Also Read: Pin Valley - The Bollywood’s Dream Site

Mid - September To Mid-October

This period is the best time to visit Leh and Ladakh. The whole place is picturesque and imbued with beautiful colors to enchant the tourists and lure them to be there without fail. The Srinagar-Leh, as well as Manali-Leh roads, are at their best as the monsoons are over and the maintenance work is complete.

The all other hurdles and obstructions, which otherwise make visiting Ladakh a challenge no more exists, and let tourists enjoy the serenity and the beauty at their best. The rivers too are at their best as the water has receded and the river flows majestically with their full charm and beauty.

The water bodies are perfect aqua blue, and the breeze is refreshing, calm, and relaxing to welcome all, whomsoever visits there. The weather also gets dry with the onset of chill, and the occasional snowfall further adds to the cold.

It’s the time for Raid-De Himalayas rally to start, which could be a little trouble and disturbing for few. But the environment is so much spellbinding and picturesque that it’s worth there to be at this time and enjoy Ladakh at it’s best.

Mid - October To Mid-November

The tourists and the other visitors start departing from Ladakh as the entire area got engulfed in the cold weather with many areas experiencing sub-zero temperature above 14,000 ft. Most of the hotels, guesthouses, lodges, restaurants and other places get closed by this time. Even the localities too, abandon the area to warm homes because of chill winters.

Though the highway as Srinagar-Leh and Manali-Leh are still open, there’s no wisdom traveling through them. Black-ice formation begins during this period and covers the Ladakh till the winter is over.

Also Read: Spiti - The Land Of Lamas

Mid - November To March

The Ladakh went through the coldest season during this time and got completely cut-off by road from rest of India. Khardung La and Chang Las receive snowfall. Though the temperature is below freezing, making survival and acclimatization difficult, but from Mid-January to Mid-March adventurers start arriving for the famous Chadar trek and Zanskar river walk.

Zanskar river, which is completely frozen by now becomes the next attraction for the visitors during this time. The temperature keeps dipping further making cold further severe by every passing day and completely freezing all lakes of Ladakh, making walking comfortable over them.

Though the weather is harsh, the Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri still attract the visitors for their changing colors from November to Mid-January.

Also Read: The Great Indian Thar Desert - The Jewel Of Deserts

Conclusion  

Thus, Ladakh is the place that remains a point of attraction throughout the year to entice and enchant tourists, visitors, and adventurers besides its harsh climate and unpredictable weather. However, visiting Ladakh during summers or even chilled winters is safe, though the monsoons are risky and dangerous to avoid. 

India travels come out with their special Leh Ladakh packages to suit all budgets, families, groups, ages, and holidays for a limited period. Avail Now! 

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Best Time To Visit Leh Ladakh: A Complete Guide

Last Updated: October 19, 2023

Leh Ladakh, often referred to as ‘The Land of High Passes’, is a mesmerizing destination nestled amidst snow-clad mountain peaks and alluring valleys. When you decide to visit Leh Ladakh, timing is everything. Here, we present a detailed guide to ensure you choose the best time to visit, optimize your trip, and revel in all the beauty and adventure Leh Ladakh has to offer.

The Summer Season (April-June)

The peak season (july-august), the autumn season (september-october), the winter season (november-february), 1 the best time to visit ladakh and leh.

The months from late April to early June mark the beginning of the tourist season in Leh Ladakh. The pleasant Ladakh temperature and blooming valleys provide an idyllic backdrop for travelers. The Srinagar-Leh highway usually opens up by mid-April, closely followed by the Manali-Leh highway in early June.

Visiting Ladakh in these months ensures travelers witness the pristine beauty of the Zanskar Valley, Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley, and Tso Moriri Lake without the challenges posed by heavy snowfall. Moreover, the Hemis Festival, a significant celebration of Tibetan Buddhism, usually falls in June. If you aim to soak in local culture and witness vibrant Ladakhi traditions, visiting Ladakh during the Hemis Festival is recommended.

July to August is the peak tourist season. The Manali route is fully operational, and the Leh-Manali roads, as well as the Srinagar-Leh highway, are buzzing with activity. While the region sees very few tourists during the colder months, the count surges during this time. Ladakh tourism thrives, especially because of adventure lovers seeking thrilling escapades amidst the high mountain passes like Chang La, Khardung La, Baralacha Pass, and Rohtang Pass.

However, it’s worth noting that monsoon season also coincides with this period. While Leh Ladakh remains largely unaffected by the rains, the Manali-Leh and Srinagar-Leh routes can experience occasional blockages.

September and early October offer a golden opportunity for those who prefer fewer tourists and wish to experience the autumnal charm of the Ladakh valley. The region is painted in hues of gold and brown, and the climate remains pleasant. Although it’s the peak season, all major routes, including the Leh Manali highway route and Srinagar-Leh highway, are functional.

Adventure activities remain on the cards, with treks like the Markha Valley trek becoming popular during this time. Moreover, the Dosmoche Festival, a two-day festival in Leh, is celebrated with gusto, presenting another cultural extravaganza.

The coldest months in Leh Ladakh are from mid-January to mid-February. During this period, the temperature can plummet drastically, requiring very warm clothing. Most areas, including Nubra Valley and Pangong Tso, are blanketed in snow.

The famed Chadar Trek, an exhilarating walk on the frozen Zanskar River, is an attraction for adventure enthusiasts during this time. While the Manali-Leh roads and Srinagar-Leh highway remain closed due to heavy snowfall, the Zojila Pass might be navigable till mid-November before the onset of heavy snow.

For those seeking solitude and an unadulterated experience of snow-clad landscapes, this is the best time to visit Leh Ladakh. Ice skating, snowboarding, and other winter sports are also on offer for thrill-seekers.

2 Year-round Attractions

While the best time to visit Leh Ladakh hinges on personal preferences, some attractions are appealing year-round. The Leh Palace, monasteries echoing Tibetan Buddhism, Ladakh Festival, and local markets provide glimpses into the rich heritage and culture of the region irrespective of the season.

3 Tips for a Successful Trip

• Plan Well: Always check the status of the Manali-Leh and Srinagar-Leh highways before planning your trip.
• Stay Acclimatized: Leh is at a high altitude. It’s essential to give your body time to adjust to prevent altitude sickness.
• Dress Appropriately: Layers are your best friend in this region. Ensure you carry warm clothing, especially if visiting during the winter season.

4 Wrapping Up

In conclusion, the best season to visit Leh is subjective and largely depends on what you seek. Whether it’s the bustling peak tourist season or the tranquillity of the winter months, Leh Ladakh promises a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Whatever time you choose to visit, the enchanting landscapes, rich cultural tapestry, and the allure of adventure await in this mesmerizing Himalayan haven. Safe travels!

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• Nov 7, 2023

Best Time to Visit Leh Ladakh

Leh Ladakh, located in the northernmost part of India, is a region blessed with breathtaking landscapes and a rich cultural heritage. To fully appreciate the best time to visit Leh Ladakh, it's essential to understand its unique geography and climate.

Geography of Leh Ladakh

Leh Ladakh is nestled amidst the mighty Himalayan and Karakoram mountain ranges. This region is characterized by its rugged terrain, high-altitude desert, and picturesque valleys. The Indus River flows through Leh Ladakh, adding to its natural beauty. The famous town of Leh serves as the gateway to this mesmerizing region, welcoming travelers from all over the world.

Climate of Leh Ladakh

Leh Ladakh experiences an arid and cold desert climate due to its high altitude. The weather here is influenced by the Trans-Himalayan region, resulting in extreme temperature variations throughout the year. It is important to note that Leh Ladakh is a high-altitude destination, with most areas situated above 3,000 meters (9,800 feet) above sea level. This elevation has a significant impact on the weather conditions experienced in the region.

During the summer months, from April to June, Leh Ladakh enjoys a pleasant and mild climate, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). The monsoon season, from July to September, brings occasional rainfall but is not as heavy as in other parts of India. Winter, from October to March, brings freezing temperatures, with temperatures dropping below freezing point, often reaching as low as -30°C (-22°F).

Understanding the geography and climate of Leh Ladakh is vital for planning your trip. It allows you to choose the best time to visit based on your preferences, outdoor activities, and the experiences you seek. Whether you enjoy mild summers, the charm of monsoon, or the winter wonderland, Leh Ladakh has something to offer in every season.

Now that we have a clear overview of Leh Ladakh's geography and climate, let's dive into the specific seasons and explore the best time to visit this captivating destination.

Visiting Leh Ladakh in Summer (April to June)

The summer season, from April to June, is considered one of the best times to visit Leh Ladakh. During this period, the region experiences pleasant weather conditions, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploration. Let's delve into the various aspects of visiting Leh Ladakh in summer.

Weather Conditions

In summer, Leh Ladakh enjoys comfortable temperatures during the day, ranging from 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). The nights, however, can be cooler, with temperatures dropping to around 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F). The clear skies and ample sunshine create a pleasant atmosphere for travelers to indulge in various outdoor adventures .

Key Attractions

Pangong Tso Lake : One of the most iconic and beautiful lakes in Leh Ladakh, Pangong Tso is a must-visit destination. Its crystal-clear blue waters against the backdrop of majestic mountains leave visitors in awe. You can take a leisurely stroll along the lakeshore, indulge in photography, or even camp overnight to witness the mesmerizing sunrise and sunset.

Nubra Valley : Known as the "Valley of Flowers," Nubra Valley is a picturesque destination with vibrant blooms during summer. The valley offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, sand dunes, and the enchanting Diskit Monastery. Don't miss the unique experience of riding a double-humped Bactrian camel in the sand dunes of Hunder.

Leh Palace : Located in the heart of Leh, the Leh Palace is a historic masterpiece that offers a glimpse into the region's rich cultural heritage. Explore its intricately designed architecture, visit the museum showcasing royal artifacts, and enjoy panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes from its rooftop.

Shanti Stupa : Perched on a hilltop overlooking Leh, the Shanti Stupa is a Buddhist white-domed monument . It offers a tranquil ambiance and provides stunning panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains. Witness the mesmerizing sunset from this vantage point and soak in the spiritual aura of this serene place.

Festivals and Events

Summer in Leh Ladakh is also the time when several vibrant festivals and events take place. Some notable ones include:

Hemis Festival : Celebrated in June, the Hemis Festival is one of the most significant religious festivals in Leh Ladakh. It showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region through colorful masked dances, cultural performances, and traditional music.

Sindhu Darshan Festival : Held in June, this festival celebrates the Indus River and its significance in the region. It brings together locals and tourists to participate in cultural programs, riverbank rituals, and various adventure activities.

Visiting Leh Ladakh in summer allows you to explore its stunning landscapes, engage in thrilling activities, and immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture. The comfortable weather conditions make it an ideal time to embark on adventurous treks, bike rides, and camping expeditions. Pack your bags and get ready to experience the magic of Leh Ladakh in the summer season!

Visiting Leh Ladakh in Monsoon (July to September)

Visiting Leh Ladakh in the monsoon season, from July to September, offers a unique experience as the region transforms with occasional rainfall and a different kind of charm. Although Leh Ladakh is not known for heavy monsoon showers like other parts of India, it's essential to be aware of the weather conditions and challenges during this time. Let's delve into what you can expect when visiting Leh Ladakh in the monsoon season.

During the monsoon season, Leh Ladakh experiences occasional rainfall, which brings a refreshing change to the arid landscapes. The temperatures during this time range from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F) during the day, making the weather relatively mild. However, it's important to note that the higher altitudes may witness colder temperatures, so be prepared with appropriate clothing.

Zanskar Valley : The Zanskar Valley, also known as the "Land of High Passes," is a mesmerizing destination that comes alive during the monsoon season. The lush green valleys, gushing rivers, and cascading waterfalls create a stunning contrast against the barren mountains. The famous Zanskar River offers thrilling rafting opportunities for adventure enthusiasts.

Tso Moriri Lake : Another breathtaking lake in Leh Ladakh, Tso Moriri, is a must-visit during the monsoon season. The shimmering blue waters surrounded by snow-capped peaks and lush green meadows create a picturesque setting. Birdwatchers will be delighted to spot various migratory bird species that visit the lake during this time.

Alchi Monastery : Located on the banks of the Indus River, Alchi Monastery is a renowned Buddhist monastery known for its ancient murals and artwork. The monastic complex dates back to the 11th century and is a significant cultural and religious site in Leh Ladakh. Take a leisurely stroll through its halls and admire the intricate details of the wall paintings.

Challenges during Monsoon

While Leh Ladakh experiences moderate rainfall during the monsoon season, it's important to be aware of the challenges that may arise. The unpredictable weather can lead to roadblocks or landslides, affecting travel plans. It's advisable to stay updated on weather conditions and road closures and be prepared for potential delays or changes in itineraries. Additionally, certain remote areas or high-altitude passes may not be accessible during this time.

Despite the challenges, visiting Leh Ladakh in the monsoon season offers a unique perspective and a chance to witness the region's natural beauty in a different light. The lush green landscapes, vibrant water bodies, and the absence of large crowds add to the allure of this season.

Before planning your trip, make sure to check weather updates, road conditions, and plan your itinerary accordingly. With proper preparation and flexibility, you can make the most of your visit to Leh Ladakh during the monsoon season and create unforgettable memories in this captivating destination.

Visiting Leh Ladakh in Winter (October to March)

Visiting Leh Ladakh in winter, from October to March, is an extraordinary experience that takes you into a winter wonderland. This season offers a unique charm with snow-covered landscapes, frozen lakes, and a serene ambiance. Let's explore what you can expect when visiting Leh Ladakh in the winter season.

Winter in Leh Ladakh brings extremely cold temperatures, and most parts of the region are covered in snow. During this time, the temperatures can drop below freezing point, with daytime temperatures ranging from -5°C to 10°C (23°F to 50°F) and nighttime temperatures plummeting to -20°C to -30°C (-4°F to -22°F). It's crucial to be well-prepared with warm clothing and suitable gear to withstand the cold.

Frozen Pangong Tso Lake : Pangong Tso Lake, known for its mesmerizing beauty, transforms into a frozen wonderland during winter. The lake's calm waters freeze, creating a vast expanse of ice that stretches as far as the eye can see. The stark white landscape against the backdrop of snow-covered mountains is a sight to behold.

Chadar Trek : The winter season offers a unique opportunity to embark on the famous Chadar Trek. This trek takes you along the frozen Zanskar River, providing an exhilarating experience of walking on a thick sheet of ice. The trek is known for its stunning icy landscapes, frozen waterfalls, and the chance to witness the local culture of the Zanskar region.

Hemis National Park : Winter is the best time to spot the elusive snow leopards in Hemis National Park. This high-altitude national park is home to a significant population of snow leopards, and the winter months offer the best chances to catch a glimpse of these magnificent creatures. It's a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.

Winter Festivals

Winter in Leh Ladakh is also marked by vibrant festivals that showcase the region's rich cultural heritage. Some notable winter festivals include:

Losar Festival : Celebrated in January or February, Losar marks the Tibetan New Year. The festival is filled with colorful rituals, traditional performances, and vibrant cultural displays. It's a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the local traditions and festivities.

Galdan Namchot : Celebrated in December, Galdan Namchot marks the birthday of the revered Tibetan spiritual leader, Je Tsongkhapa. The festival is celebrated with illuminations, cultural performances, and prayers, creating a joyous atmosphere.

Visiting Leh Ladakh in winter requires careful planning and preparation due to the extreme weather conditions. It's essential to choose appropriate winter clothing, carry essential supplies, and be aware of the potential challenges, such as road closures or limited accessibility to certain areas. However, the unique experiences and the raw beauty of Leh Ladakh in winter make it a truly unforgettable adventure.

Embrace the winter magic, witness the frozen landscapes, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural festivities during your visit to Leh Ladakh in the winter season.

Tips for Planning Your Trip to Leh Ladakh

Planning a trip to Leh Ladakh requires careful consideration and preparation to ensure a smooth and memorable experience. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind when planning your visit to this enchanting region.

Choosing the Right Time Based on Your Preferences

Consider your preferences and the activities you wish to engage in when deciding the best time to visit Leh Ladakh. If you enjoy pleasant weather and vibrant festivals, summer (April to June) might be the ideal time. For a unique monsoon experience and lush landscapes, consider visiting during the monsoon season (July to September). If you're up for a winter adventure and want to witness the frozen beauty of the region, plan your trip between October and March.

Packing Essentials for Leh Ladakh

Pack appropriate clothing and essentials based on the season you're visiting. Regardless of the time of year, it's crucial to bring warm clothing, including thermals, jackets, gloves, hats, and sturdy boots. Don't forget to pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and lip balm to protect yourself from the strong sun at high altitudes. Additionally, carry a good supply of water, medications, and basic first aid supplies.

Travel Precautions

Leh Ladakh's high altitude requires acclimatization to avoid altitude sickness. Take it slow upon arrival, stay hydrated, and give yourself time to adjust before engaging in strenuous activities. It's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional regarding any pre-existing medical conditions and altitude-related concerns.

Ensure you have the necessary permits for restricted areas, such as Nubra Valley and Pangong Tso Lake. These permits can be obtained from the local authorities or through registered travel agencies.

Transportation and Accommodation

When it comes to transportation, consider whether you'd like to fly into Leh or opt for a road trip through the scenic Manali-Leh Highway or Srinagar-Leh Highway. Book your flights or arrange for reliable transportation well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Leh Ladakh offers a range of accommodation options, from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts. It's advisable to make your accommodation arrangements in advance, especially during the peak season, to secure the best options that suit your preferences and budget.

Respect Local Culture and Environment

Leh Ladakh is home to a rich and diverse cultural heritage. Respect the local customs, traditions, and religious sites. Ensure you dress modestly, especially when visiting monasteries or religious places. Practice responsible tourism by leaving no trace, disposing of waste properly, and supporting local businesses and artisans.

With these tips in mind, you can plan a well-prepared and unforgettable trip to Leh Ladakh. Embrace the beauty of the region, immerse yourself in its culture, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Safe travels!

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Best Time To Visit Leh

Leh, the capital of Ladakh in northern India, is a destination that captivates travelers with its surreal landscapes, pristine beauty, and rich cultural heritage. Situated at a high altitude in the Himalayan region, Leh experiences extreme weather conditions throughout the year. Choosing the right time to visit Leh is crucial for a memorable and safe experience. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the best times to visit Leh, discussing the weather, temperature, and the unique attractions each season has to offer.

Table of Contents

Spring (March to May)

Spring in Leh is a time of transformation as the region shakes off its winter slumber. The temperatures start to rise, and the days become longer. However, it’s still quite cold, especially in March, with daytime temperatures ranging from 6°C to 15°C. As spring progresses, the weather becomes more pleasant, with temperatures between 15°C to 20°C in May.

• The melting snow creates a lush landscape with blooming flowers, making it an ideal time for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
• The weather is relatively mild, making it perfect for outdoor activities like trekking and biking.
• It’s a less crowded season compared to summer, so you can enjoy a more peaceful experience.
• High mountain passes and some attractions may still be closed due to lingering snow.
• The nights can be chilly, so warm clothing is essential.

Key Attractions

• Shey Palace and Monastery
• Thiksey Monastery
• Stok Palace
• The famous Shanti Stupa
• Outdoor activities like trekking, mountain biking, and river rafting.

Summer (June to August)

Summer is the peak tourist season in Leh. The temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C during the day, making it the warmest time to visit. The nights are pleasantly cool, with temperatures dropping to around 10°C. June is the best time to visit if you prefer cooler weather, while August can be warmer.

• Most of the high mountain passes and trekking trails are open during this time.
• Leh experiences longer daylight hours, allowing for more activities and exploration.
• The region is at its most vibrant, with lush greenery and vibrant landscapes.
• It can get crowded, especially in July and August, so plan your accommodations and activities in advance.
• The summer months also coincide with the monsoon season, so occasional rain showers may disrupt outdoor plans.
• Nubra Valley
• Pangong Lake
• Tso Moriri Lake
• Hemis Monastery
• Monastery festivals (Hemis Festival in June)

Monsoon (September to October)

The monsoon season in Leh is relatively short, beginning in September and tapering off in October. During this time, the daytime temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C, and the nights start to become colder. While Leh is generally dry, occasional rainfall can occur during the monsoon season.

• The landscape is incredibly green and lush, offering a unique and picturesque backdrop for your journey.
• Fewer tourists visit during this period, so you can enjoy the serene beauty of the region in relative peace.
• The monsoon season can bring unpredictable weather, including occasional rainfall and cloudy skies.
• Some remote areas may still be inaccessible due to road closures caused by landslides.
• Alchi Monastery
• Basgo Monastery
• Exploring the vibrant, green landscapes of the region
• Trekking and camping in the Zanskar Valley

Autumn (November to December)

Autumn is when Leh experiences a drastic drop in temperature, with daytime highs ranging from 0°C to 15°C and nighttime temperatures plummeting below freezing. The landscape starts to lose its greenery and take on a more barren appearance.

• Leh becomes less crowded, offering a more intimate and peaceful experience.
• The clear skies provide excellent visibility for stargazing and photography.
• This is the best time for those seeking a unique winter adventure and experiencing the region’s true wilderness.
• Many accommodations and restaurants start to close for the winter season.
• Some of the higher-altitude passes and trekking routes may close due to snowfall, limiting outdoor activities.
• Diskit Monastery
• Winter festivals in Leh (if visiting in December)
• Enjoying the serene, snow-covered landscapes
• Visiting local markets for unique winter crafts and souvenirs

Winter (January to February)

Leh in winter is an extreme and challenging destination. Daytime temperatures rarely rise above freezing, and nights are bitterly cold, often dipping below -10°C. The region remains covered in snow, and many places are inaccessible due to road closures.

• It’s a unique opportunity to experience Leh in its most extreme and pristine state.
• The sparse tourist presence allows for a truly authentic experience of Ladakhi culture.
• Extreme cold, heavy snowfall, and road closures can limit your movement and activities.
• Many hotels and guesthouses close during this period, and availability is limited.
• Chadar Trek (frozen Zanskar River trek)
• Experiencing local festivals and celebrations, especially Losar (Ladakhi New Year)
• Photographing the stunning winter landscapes

Leh, with its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage, is a year-round destination that offers a unique experience in every season. The best time to visit depends on your preferences and the kind of experience you seek. Whether you choose the vibrant summer, the colorful autumn, or the extreme beauty of winter, Leh will leave you with memories that last a lifetime. Be sure to plan your trip carefully, considering the weather, temperature, and seasonal attractions, to make the most of your visit to this Himalayan wonderland.

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• What is the best time/season to visit Leh Ladakh?
• Ladakh Tourism Guide
• January 22, 2023 May 29, 2023

What is the best time to visit Leh Ladakh? This is the question that every traveller wants to ask before planning his visit to Ladakh. Ladakh can be visited in all four seasons, 12 months a year, but depending upon the choice and fitness of traveller, one can plan tour based on the seasons.

Seasons in Ladakh

• June to September: Summer season (Peak tourist season/Best time to visit Ladakh with family, children and elderly) (Day temperature: 20 to 25 degrees C, Night temperature: 5 to 10 degrees C)
• October to November: Light cold (Lean tourist season) (Day temperature: 5 to 20 degrees C, Night Temperature: 5 degrees C to -5 degrees C)
• December to March: Extreme cold (Leanest season/tourists visit only to experience cold/photography/adventure) (Day temperature: -5 degrees C to 5 degrees C, Night Temperature: -10 degrees C to -30 degrees C (Temperature at some places dip even below minus 30 degrees Celsius. Drass region of Ladakh is the coldest inhabited place in India and second coldest in world after Siberia)
• April to May: Light cold and sometime warm days but cold nights (Tourists start visiting Ladakh. Temperature starts rising to pleasant after mid-April) (Day temperature: 5 to 15 degrees C, Night temperature: -5 to 10 degrees C)

The best time to visit Ladakh depends on your preferences and the activities you plan to engage in. Ladakh is known for its rugged landscapes, high-altitude passes, and unique cultural experiences. However, due to its high altitude and extreme weather conditions, the accessibility and climate vary throughout the year. Here’s an overview of the different seasons in Ladakh:

• Summer (June to September): This is the peak tourist season in Ladakh when the weather is most favorable. The temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F) during the day, and the region experiences clear skies and sunshine. Most roads, including the famous Manali-Leh Highway and Srinagar-Leh Highway, are open during this time, allowing easy access to Ladakh. This season is ideal for outdoor activities, such as trekking, camping, and visiting high-altitude lakes like Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri .
• Autumn (September to October): Autumn in Ladakh is characterized by pleasant daytime temperatures and colder nights. The landscapes are adorned with golden hues as the vegetation starts to change. The tourist crowd decreases compared to summer, making it a good time to visit if you prefer fewer tourists.
• Winter (November to February): Ladakh experiences extremely cold weather during winter, with temperatures dropping below freezing point. Many high-altitude passes and roads, including the Manali-Leh Highway and Srinagar-Leh Highway, are closed due to heavy snowfall, making it inaccessible by road. However, if you are an adventure enthusiast and well-prepared for the harsh conditions, you can witness the mesmerizing frozen landscapes and enjoy activities like ice skating, winter trekking, and the famous Chadar Trek on the frozen Zanskar River.
• Spring (March to May): Spring is another good time to visit Ladakh, as the region starts to come alive after the winter. The temperatures gradually rise, and the snow starts melting, resulting in lush green valleys and blooming flowers. The roads to Ladakh gradually open up, but some remote areas may still be inaccessible. Spring is suitable for photography enthusiasts and those interested in witnessing the cultural festivals that take place during this time, such as the Hemis Festival.

It’s important to note that Ladakh’s high altitude requires acclimatization, regardless of the season you visit. Adequate rest, hydration, and gradual ascent are essential to prevent altitude-related health issues. Consulting a medical professional before your trip is advisable.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Ladakh depends on your preferences, interests, and the experiences you seek.

Also read: Top places to visit in Ladakh

Hotels, Guest Houses and Camps

Most of the hotels and guest houses (99%) remain shut during winter season in Ladakh as very few tourists visit this valley during this time period. Also, maintenance of hotels is very difficult in winters. Keeping things functioning, especially water (drinking/toilet) becomes impossible as everything gets freeze in extreme cold. Keeping the rooms warm is another challenge.

Hotels remain closed between October and April. While hotels start opening in mid-April when temperature starts rising, the camps (tents) in Nubra valley too start accommodating guests at the same time but Pangong and Tso Moriri (Korzok) being colder than Leh and Nubra invite guests to its tents in May or afterwards. However, depending on the weather conditions (temperature), sometime tents at Pangong Tso are pitched after April 20.

For general/family sightseeing:

April 25 to September 30: Late April is the time of onset of summer season in Ladakh valley. This is the perfect time to visit Ladakh for general sightseeing and enjoy both weather and landscapes. This is the time when about 90% of the total tourists visits the valley. If you cannot bear the extreme cold of Ladakh, then this is the best time to plan your holiday tour. However, if you want to enjoy the light cold, year can come in early April also. Most hotels of Ladakh will remain shut in first half of the April month.

For winter photography/snowfall/winter life

If you want to see snowfall and capture some beautiful snow-clad valley views in your camera and also want to experience the winter life, then December to March is the best time to visit Ladakh. During this period under the extreme cold conditions you can see entirely frozen Pangong Lake, Tsomoriri Lake, Zanskar River and all water sources. This is the best time for expeditions, Chadar Trek (walking on Frozen Zanskar River), photography, snowfall sighting, snow leopard tours, some skiing and trekking.

Also Read: Things to do in Ladakh in winters

Visiting Ladakh by Flight/Air/Airplane

One can land in Ladakh by airplane throughout the year. Air service remains open even during extreme winter season i.e. December to March. When both road links (Srinagar-Leh and Manali-Leh) are blocked following winter snowfall, flight service is the only mode of transport for both local occupants and tourists to reach Leh, the main city of Ladakh.

Visiting Ladakh by road

Travelling via road to Ladakh has its own charm and adventure. A large number of travellers prefer road journey over flight due to beautiful landscapes enroute. If you are opting for Delhi-Manali-Leh route, you can visit Manali, Rohtang pass, Keylong, Jispa, Darcha, Baralacha, Sarchu , Morre Plains, Taglang la and many more attractions including five high mountain passes. The highway opens anytime in May month (sometime even in early June). If you are booking Manali-Leh Ladakh jeep safari (road trip by SUV) in advance, then booking it after 31 May is safe. Similarly one can visit Sonamarg, Zojila pass, Drass, Kargil, Lamayuru and more attractions if Srinagar-Leh route is chosen. Srinagar-Leh road generally opens in April month. If making a round trip (Delhi-Manali-Leh-Srinagar or in reverse direction) then June to mid October is the best time. As airfare to Ladakh is very expensive during peak season, some adventure enthusiasts (or families) prefer jeep safari over the flight.

Current Weather, Temperature and Snowfall Status in Ladakh

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Best Time to Visit Leh Ladakh: Ideal Seasons for Your Journey

Planning a trip to Leh Ladakh but not sure when to go? The timing

Planning a trip to Leh Ladakh but not sure when to go? The timing of your journey to this picturesque destination can greatly influence your experience. Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast, a nature lover, or a cultural explorer, Ladakh offers something special in every season. Let’s dive into the best time to visit Leh Ladakh and explore why each season is worth considering for your adventure.

Spring: March to May

As winter bids adieu, Ladakh awakens to the gentle embrace of spring. This season, spanning from March to May best season to visit Leh Ladakh offers a perfect blend of pleasant weather and blooming landscapes. The melting snow rejuvenates the valleys, painting them in vibrant hues. Spring is an excellent time to witness the breathtaking beauty of Ladakh’s flora and fauna. Here are some reasons why you should consider visiting Leh Ladakh in spring:

Pristine Landscapes: Experience Ladakh draped in colorful blossoms as the apricot, almond, and cherry trees come to life.

Moderate Weather: Enjoy comfortable temperatures ranging from 7°C to 26°C, making outdoor activities like trekking and sightseeing delightful.

Festive Vibes: Immerse yourself in the vibrant Ladakhi culture by participating in local festivals like Losar, celebrating the Ladakhi New Year.

Read Also:-  Why You Should Go on Expeditions?

Why visit now

Summer is considered to be one of the best seasons since it allows you to fully experience and take in the vibrant surroundings of the location. This time of year, the snow appears to have softened, creating breathtakingly beautiful scenery. There are some great developments as of late April. At this point, the Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri lakes start to rapidly melt, revealing the breathtaking scenery and color of the area. Right now, there are clear skies due to lovely weather conditions. You should now think about going to monasteries like Thiksey Monastery, Likir Monastery, Shey Monastery, and Stongdey Monastery.

Know before you visit

There isn’t any significant snowfall from April to mid-May, at which point the summer season gradually takes over. When planning a trip to Ladakh, travelers can look through a variety of web directories to find homestays, hotels, locations, and guesthouses. All passes and highways leading to the location are typically closed or restricted during this time, so if you intend to come, you need absolutely book a flight. Despite the fact that it is summer, the weather in Ladakh is not very warm or bright right now.

Since most of the routes are closed during the first seven to ten days of June, it is not recommended to travel to Ladakh at this time. Right now, flying is the best option if you want to visit Ladakh, thus if you want to travel, you must use this mode of transportation. The Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport is the main airport in the region for summer travel to this area. Additionally, travelers should be sure to visit the roadway that connects Srinagar and Leh in the middle of this period. At this time of year, this is the highway that is still accessible.

Read Also :-  Let’s Plan A Trip To Ladakh- Ladakh tour packages

The sun can be extremely severe here because to the thin atmosphere, therefore wear sunscreen and take other protective measures to avoid direct sunlight. Even in the beginning of the season, you should bring thick clothing because the evenings can turn quite chilly

Summer: June to August

Summer in Ladakh, from June to August, is synonymous with adventure and exploration. This season beckons travelers with its extended daylight hours and accessibility to remote regions. While temperatures might soar during the day, the crisp mountain air provides respite, making it an ideal time for outdoor adventures. Here’s why summer is the best season to go to Ladakh:

High Altitude Treks: Embark on thrilling treks to iconic destinations like Pangong Tso and Nubra Valley, which are accessible only during this time.

Cultural Immersion: Engage with local communities and gain insights into their unique way of life during village homestays and cultural tours.

Fascinating Wildlife: Spot rare species like the snow leopard and Tibetan wild ass in their natural habitat, adding a touch of wilderness to your journey.

Read Also:- Ladakh Food: Exploring Local Flavors and Culinary Traditions

Leh Ladakh temperature

Leh Ladakh experiences extreme temperatures due to its high-altitude desert climate. During winter, temperatures can plummet to as low as -30°C, while in summer, they can soar to around 25°C during the day. The temperature variation between day and night can be significant, so visitors should be prepared for chilly nights even during the summer months.

Leh Temperature Today

The weather in Leh, Ladakh is currently cold, with temperatures hovering around freezing point. Moderate snowfall is occurring, contributing to the chilly conditions. Travel to Leh during winter is restricted to flights, as roads and passes are closed off due to heavy snowfall

Autumn: September to November

As summer bids farewell, autumn paints Ladakh in a mesmerizing palette of gold and crimson. From September to November, the landscape undergoes a spectacular transformation, making it one of the best times to visit Ladakh. The clear skies, pleasant temperatures, and lesser crowds offer a tranquil setting for exploration. Here’s why autumn is the best time to visit Ladakh:

Spectacular Landscapes: Marvel at the surreal beauty of Ladakh’s landscape as the golden hues of autumn cast a spell on the rugged terrain.

Photography Paradise: Capture postcard-perfect moments against the backdrop of azure skies, barren mountains, and golden meadows.

Cultural Experiences: Engage in authentic cultural experiences like witnessing traditional Ladakhi dance performances and exploring ancient monasteries.

Winter: December to February

While winter blankets the rest of India, Ladakh transforms into a winter wonderland, offering a unique experience for intrepid travelers. From December to February, the region is enveloped in a serene silence, making it an offbeat yet enchanting time to visit. Here’s why winter is the best season to visit Leh Ladakh:

Frozen Landscapes: Witness the surreal beauty of frozen rivers, lakes, and waterfalls as Ladakh transforms into a pristine white paradise.

Chadar Trek: Embark on the ultimate adventure of traversing the frozen Zanskar River on the legendary Chadar Trek, a bucket-list experience for thrill-seekers.

Cultural Encounters: Experience the warmth of Ladakhi hospitality during winter festivals like Losar, celebrated with traditional rituals and festivities.

Know Before You Visit

Altitude: Ladakh’s high altitude can cause altitude sickness. It’s crucial to acclimatize gradually and stay hydrated to avoid health complications.

Permit Requirements: Certain areas in Ladakh, especially border regions, require permits for entry. Make sure to obtain the necessary permits in advance.

Environmental Responsibility: Respect Ladakh’s fragile ecosystem by minimizing plastic usage, preserving natural habitats, and practicing responsible tourism.

Read Also:- Understanding High Altitude Sickness in Leh Ladakh

Plan your journey wisely, and get ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Leh Ladakh!

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

A: Ladakh is accessible by road from June to September. However, during winter, certain remote areas might be inaccessible due to heavy snowfall.

A: It’s essential to pack warm clothing, sturdy trekking gear, sunscreen, sunglasses, and plenty of water, regardless of the season you’re traveling in.

A: Yes, it’s advisable to acclimatize properly, stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, and consult a healthcare professional for altitude sickness medication before your trip.

Regardless of the season you choose, Leh Ladakh promises an unforgettable adventure filled with awe-inspiring landscapes, rich culture, and thrilling experiences. Whether you’re chasing snowflakes in winter or basking in the warmth of summer, each season unfolds a unique charm that will leave you spellbound. So pack your bags, embark on an epic journey, and let the mystique of Ladakh captivate your soul.

For curated tours and personalized experiences in Leh Ladakh, visit Adventour .

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Posted On 23-Feb-2023

Best Time To Travel To Leh Ladakh In India

Among the many tour packages in India, Leh Ladakh Tour Packages stands at the top of the popularity charts. Wonder, why?

 The following two quotes by unknown people that best sums up the incredible beauty of Leh Ladakh, tells you why it is so.

 Heaven is a myth; Leh-Ladakh is real.

When you leave Leh-Ladakh, you carry it with you wherever you go.

Popularly called as ‘Little Tibet’, Ladakh, separated from the Kashmir Valley and Himachal Pradesh by the southern flank of the Great Himalayan Mountains, is set amidst the epic Himalayas.

Comprising of the regions of Leh and Kargil, Ladakh is a beautiful travel destination that still retains its natural beauty, relatively untouched by the glamour and trappings of modern life. Rustic and charming with breathtaking mountain slopes, stunning valleys, and winding roads that zig-zags through the place at amazing angles, Ladakh offers a lively cultural life that reflects the charm and exuberance of the region.  

There is so much to see when you’re on a Leh-Ladakh trip. From the iconic Magnetic Hill to historical monasteries, and the turquoise colored Pangong Lake where two mystical rivers are said to converge, Ladakh offers a bewildering collection of memorable tourist spots. Then for those who love to engage in adventurous sports, there are several trekking routes that will challenge their instincts and invigorate their spirits. If there is a yearning for better challenges, there are several mountain passes that beckons the adventure loving spirits and also lure those who are ardent admirers of Buddhism.

If this inspires you, then book the best of Leh-Ladakh Packages and pack your travel essentials to embark on a Leh-Ladakh trip. It is a decision that you will never ever regret for you will bring back with you after the Leh-Ladakh trip, memorable memories of a little slice of heaven on Earth called Leh-Ladakh. 

But the question is – which is the best time to travel to Leh-Ladakh in 2023?

Best Time To Travel

Known for its extreme low temperatures for most part of the year, a Leh-Ladakh trip is best embarked during the summer season that runs from the month of March through to the month of July. The temperatures during this period will be relatively mild and pleasant, ranging from 15 Degrees Celsius to 30 Degree Celsius.

During these months, Leh-Ladakh blooms at its beautiful best. The winter chill will ebb away while the winter snow will soften and calm down. This will bring alive the spectacular beauty of the place and the whole region will buzz with activities. 

Late April will witness the meltdown of Lake Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri. This will open-up the real face of the lake in all its hues. The weather will be beautiful that will be best showcased in a clear blue sky. It will be the best time to visit the many fabled monasteries from Stongdey to Likir, Thiksey, Shey, and more.

June Month will allow you to relish the charm of local festivals from Hernis to SakaDawa, Yurukabgyat, and more.  Among the festivals, the Hermis Festival is not to be missed as it celebrates the glory of the founder of Tibetan Buddhism, Guru Padmasambhava; and you will get to see the best of bright costumes in many hues; mesmerizing masked performances; and soul-stirring music. 

Outdoor activities can be enjoyed during this period. Adventure lovers can select from a range of adventure sports from camping to mountain biking, rafting, camel safari, and more; while those who love photography will find the period the best time to photograph breathtaking landscapes, sights, and spots that make Leh-Ladakh such a heavenly delight on Earth. 

The months of March to July will see the only roads (two) connecting Ladakh to Leh-Manali Highway, and Leh-Srinagar Highway opened-up for traffic.  

Note:  The sun will shine bright with clear blue, beautiful skies during this period. This will keep the day temperatures warm. At the same time, the sun can have the intensity to trouble the skin. Hence, it’s advisable to wear a few layers of strong sunscreen with a 50 + SPF; AND also, don warm clothes as the nights can be still bitter cold. 

July To September

The period from the month of July through to the month of September is the Monsoon Months. The temperature during this period will hover consistently between 3° Celsius to 16° Celsius with the weather turning cool; and the region can experience cloud bursts and landslides.

Monsoon period will be a good time to visit Ladakh as the temperature will continue to stay pleasant hovering between 5°C and 20°C. Since Ladakh falls in the rain shadow zone of the Himalayas, it will see low rainfall. This makes it an ideal time to visit it, especially for adventure lovers who will find the weather ideal for indulging in adventure sports activities. 

During early June, Manali-Leh Highway opens-up along with Rohtang Pass. They will be cleared of heavy snow; and once that’s done, people begin to travel through the highway 

Two famous rivers of the region, Indus and Zanskar, will come out of their placid appearances and begin to swell with monsoon rain. They meander through the valleys often at a furious pace that will make them a sight to behold. This will also open-up perfect avenues for those who love rafting adventure sport. The rivers offer rafting level III at several points along the routes in Zanskar. Additionally, there is an opportunity to engage in trekking at Kang Yatse, Markha, and Spituk Valleys.  

Monsoon season brings to fore festivals’ like Korzok Gustor, Karsha Gustor, Phyang Tsedup, etc. 

Aside from the above, the period is also the best time to leverage the best deals offered by the hotels, as the tourist influx during this period will be sparse.

Note: : Heavy rains in the hilly regions can result in road and rail blockades. Aside from this, tourism activities can also shut down at some places due to landslides. Despite all these obstacles the region will be bathed with a different sort of beauty that is shimmering and unique. It is only those tourists in four-wheel vehicles with the capability to weather the rough obstacles and brave through the region’s unpredictability, can undertake the Leh-Ladakh trip during the monsoon months. 

October To February

The months of September to October will usher in the early stages of chill throughout the region. However, the sun will still keep shining through the two months. This will make it a great time to engage in trekking activities. Locals in Ladakh tell that the months of September and October are also the best time to visit the place. People will be dressed in their best attire, showcasing varied hues shimmering at their vibrant best. The period is also the best time to engage in aero-sports.

From the month of November through to the month of February, the weather can get extremely cold and be unbearable at times. Still the period will offer opportunities to those who can brave the vagaries of the cold and battle their way through it.

Good time to trek and explore the region on foot between the months of September to November. There will be occasional snowfall that will give the region a lustrous white glow. Additionally, the water bodies too will sparkle at their best with alluring shades of blue.

Good time to engage in trekking activities. However, with the exception of Liker to Kohlitsey (SHAM) trekking route, all other trekking routes will be closed down after the month of November due to the influx of heavy snowfall.

Good time to undertake a snow leopard safari. Not only will you get to enjoy riotous snow activities but may also get the rare chance, if lucky, to see the elusive snow leopard.

Popular Chadar Trekking route is best visited from the months of January through to Mid-March. It’s considered to be one of the most adventurous trekking routes in the world that attracts visitors from across the globe. Aside from trekking, the route is also famous for ice hockey and skiing activities.  

Winter season ushers in the onset of festivals like Padum and Thiksey which are celebrated during the month of November. Those who soak in the festival spirit during the month will get to relish delicious local food and enjoy local customs. 

With temperatures going down to a minimum of -30° Celsius and the maximum temperature hovering at 15° Celsius, the entire region will turn snowy white shimmering with a stunning mesh of frozen beauty, and icy glow. Some places in Ladakh that are above 14,000 ft experience sub-zero temperatures, shifting between -22° C to -7°C, making them inaccessible. 

Only a handful of tourists visit during this time which means a good opportunity for those wanting to undertake a Leh-Ladakh trip and willing to brave the extremes of the cold weather. The only way one can reach Leh-Ladakh route during the winter months is via air route. There is a direct flight between Delhi and Leh with indirect flights from other major cities of India.

Popular Leh Ladakh Tourist Places

Make sure to select the best of Leh-Ladakh Packages that will allow you to see the following places.

Pangong Lake

Also called as Pangong Tso, it is a high altitude lake located about 14,250 ft above sea level. Best known for its breathtaking blue water which the locals say changes colors from dawn to dusk, three to four times in a day. This is attributed by the locals to the backdrop of golden mountains and the effect of sun rays. About 150 kms from Leh, it can be accessed after undergoing a five hour drive that traverses through the 17,590 ft high Changla Pass. 

Khardungla Pass

Also called as KhardonglaPass, it is about 38 kms north of Leh City. To reach it, you need to take a tricky road that has high gradients and several hairpin bends. Located above 18,380 ft from mean sea level, it is recognized as one of the few highest roads in the world. 

Nubra Valley

Located to the north of Leh, it can be reached through a road that traverses through 18,380 ft high on Khardungla Pass. The road is said to be the highest motorable road in India and one of the highest in the world. When in Nubra Valley, don’t miss out on the scenic slopes of Karakoram range; and the confluence of Shyak and Siachen rivers. 

Diskit Monastery

Known as the HQ of Nubra Valley in LEH district, it is about 120 kms from Leh. Its location by the bank of Shyok River, is amplified by the presence of Diskit Monastery, considered to be the oldest and largest gompa of Nubra Valley.

Shanti Stupa

Called the ‘Temple of Peace’, it is located in the upper reaches of LEH at Changspa (CHANSPA). It is only in recent years that it has emerged as among the best Leh-Ladakh tourist places. Built on a hilltop in 1991 by the Japanese and Ladakhi Buddhists, it possesses the relics of Buddha at its base, enshrined by the 14th Dalai Lama. It also offers a trekking route for those who love to trek. They can climb up the steep stairs to reach the Stupa.

The stunning nine-storey LEH Palace overlooking the Leh Town, was built in the 17th century by King Sengge Namgyal. What makes it a stunning sight is its design which is similar to the Potala Palace of LHASA in Tibet. The construction of the palace was said to have begun in 1553 by the founder of the Namgyal Dynasty, Tsewang Namgyal, and completed a few years later by his nephew, Sengge Namgyal. While the upper storey’s of the palace is said to be occupied by the royal family, the lower storey’s is used as stables and storerooms. 

Hall Of Fame

A well-known military war museum, the Hall of Fame is located close to Leh Airport on Leh-Spituk Gompa Road. Maintained by the Indian Army, the museum showcases the arms, clothing, and pictorial histories of several wars fought by India in the last many decades. What makes it among the best Leh-Ladakh tourist places to visit is one will get to see at close quarters how Indian soldiers fought the varied tough wars. There are several mementoes of brave soldiers who lost their lives during the India-Pakistan wars. Aside from the pictures of past histories there is also a souvenir store and artifacts and weapons of several wars.

Markha Valley

If you’re fond of camping, there is no better place to camp among the many Leh Ladakh tourist places than Markha Valley. When at Markha Valley, you need to trek to Markha, Hankar, and Skiu; and once you reach the summit, you can unwind your camping gear items and set-up a camp with a bonfire to make you feel warm and comfortable.

Tso Moriri Lake

Want to nestle amidst rugged surroundings? If so, then head to Tso Moriri Lake. Situated above 15000 ft above sea level, its high altitude makes it a challenging sightseeing spot to traverse to and stay. But still some people visit it purely to savor its untainted natural settings and undisturbed ambiance.

Hemis National Park

Want to see the elusive Snow Leopards? If so, then head to Hemis National Park in Ladakh, said to be the snow leopard capital of India. Aside from the delightful opportunity of seeing snow leopards at close, the rare opportunity to visit a park that is the only one of its kind in the northern regions of the Himalayas, makes the park worth visiting many a time. 

Chadar Trek

A popular trekking route, it attracts trekking lovers from across the world. What makes it a delight is you can walk up the frozen Zanskar Lake while the ruggedness of the vast Himalayan range will envelop your spirits. To soak in the beauty of the place, unwind your camping gear and set-up a camp at Nerak. This will give you a breathtaking sight of the place and also soothe your heart.

Beach Tours In India At Leh-Ladakh

Not many known that Leh Ladakh also offers some picturesque beaches. They are the perfect option for you to get away from the rigorous pace of modern life. There are several beaches in Leh Ladakh that offer a splendid view of turquoise blue waters flapping over the passive beach shores. 

Don’t forget to make beach tours in India at Leh Ladakh as a part of your Leh Ladakh tour packages. This will give you the chance to not only soak in the unique charm of the beaches but also witness the breathtaking sight of the sun setting below the horizon. It is a sight that will not only take your breath away but will also take the rigors of your stress away.

Several Leh Ladakh Tour Packages offer attractive beach tours in India at Leh Ladakh, with some of the best deals. Just book what is best for your vacation and revel in the natural and un-spoilt charm of the beaches.

Read More:   India's Top Beach Destinations For Beach Lovers

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A Travel Guide to Leh Ladakh: Places, Best Time | India Tourism 2023 Yatrigann

Ladakh is one of the greatest locations to visit in the world, majestic in scale and fascinating in the variety of its experiences. The region is characterised by high passes, towering cliffs, magnificent lakes that shimmer, long deserted roads that beckon invitingly, and an aura of serenity and purity that pervades the air.

There are a number of beautiful places to visit in Ladakh , places that are so stunning that they leave you wondering about their divine formation into existence. Ladakh’s scenery is rich with both natural and man-made marvels, making your journey a great adventure that you remember forever.

There are many things to do in Ladakh as it offers a diverse range of activities. The list is endless, from visiting the various monasteries to going on nature hikes, trekking, camping, and so on. Ladakh is still relatively unexplored because of its rugged terrain and high altitude, so it is full of surprises that will linger in your mind long after you return.

The best time to visit Ladakh is during summers when all the tourist places will be open. Because of its high altitude, Ladakh experiences long winters, but truth be told, the region is absolutely magnificent in all seasons.

Related: 8 Must Visit Places in Kashmir in 2022: Switzerland of India | Yatrigann

Table of Contents

Top Things To Do In Ladakh 2022 | Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Ladakh can be exciting and challenging at the same time. Let Yatrigann help you on this journey and take you through the list of sights you can see and activities you can indulge in while you’re visiting this beautiful union territory of Ladakh.

1. Explore the Local Markets and Old Town of Leh

It is critical to acclimate to the high altitude of Ladakh before embarking on your adventure. While you’re at it, spend a few days walking about Leh’s main market area to familiarise yourself with the city, its culture, and its environment. Explore Leh’s vibrant market centre, where rows of Ladakhi women sell fresh local products on the streets, and stores sell everything from souvenirs to trekking gear. Take a look at the local jewellery shops and thangka painting exhibits, and then go around behind the market area to see the remarkably well-preserved maze of tiny alleyways and centuries-old mud brick homes that is Leh’s Old Town. Go on a guided heritage walk around Old Town so as to not miss anything.

2. Go Sightseeing At All Tourist Attractions of Leh Ladakh

Start your exploration of Leh’s Old Town with Ladakh’s biggest and most beautiful Mosque, Jama Masjid. It is a major historical mosque located in the heart of Leh and one of the top attractions of Leh . Next, you can make your way to the Leh Palace, formerly known as Lachen Palkar Palace. This former royal palace with outstanding Tibetan architecture can be reached by walking uphill from town or by road. The Palace Museum has regal memorabilia for you to check out; however, the superb views over town are arguably the biggest draw.

If you’re all about nature and beauty and are looking for another standout view, then visit the white-domed Shanti Stupa near Leh for a gorgeous view of the sunset. One of the must-visit places in Ladakh is Pangong Lake, the famed lake where the final scenes of 3 Idiots were shot. At 4,350 meters above sea level, this surreal salt water lake is among the highest in the world. It’s disputed territory, so permits are required to visit the area. Stargazing is sensational at night!

There are loads of other tourist attractions in Ladakh worth seeing, such as the Magnetic Hill, Stok Palace, Nubra Valley, Khardungla Pass, Hemis National Park, and Donkey Sanctuary among others. All these places are highly recommended and we urge you to not miss experiencing them while you’re there.

3. Try the Local Ladakhi Cuisine

Ladakh is known for its multi-cuisine food, serving Indian, Tibetan, Chinese, and even Korean. The food here exhibits tints of foreign influences. To obtain the best flavours of Ladakh, you must try Thukpa, Tsampa, Dumplings, Skyu, and Khambir among other various delicious dishes. Don’t miss out on Butter Tea! The best dishes of Leh Ladakh are a treat for the foodies, for sure.

Related: Food of Ladakh: Best Ladakhi Recipes You Should Try!

4. Indulge in Adventure Activities

All the adrenaline seekers out there must be in awe at the incredible things that may be done in Ladakh. The small roads and rugged terrains provide for an exciting bike ride, while the trekking routes along the Zanskar Valley are surrounded by awe-inspiring natural scenery. If you want to walk on frozen sheets of ice, try the Chadar Trek, which is the most difficult of all. The experience is memorable, and the sights are breathtaking!

River rafting is another popular sport in Ladakh that adrenaline junkies enjoy. However, if you’re seeking for some peace and quiet in the woods, Ladakh has a multitude of tent settings spread across the region. You can select the finest place to sleep beneath the stars while admiring nature ‘s splendour.

5. Visit the Buddhist Monasteries

Ladakh has some of the best and greatest Buddhist monasteries in India , where you can spend time with the monks to get a deeper look at the spiritual side of the region. Educate yourself on their way of life, beliefs, and habits in order to revitalise in the most natural manner possible. Take quiet morning walks, contemplate, and converse with the monks. Nothing beats the wonderful ambience of these Buddhist monks in Ladakh’s valleys, we tell you. The most incredible (and most inaccessible) monastery in Ladakh is Phugtal, halfway between Padum and Darcha in the Zanskar region. You’ll have to hike or ride a pony to get there because it’s not accessible by road.

6. Partake in Ladakh’s Harvest Festival

This is an annual event that continues for two weeks and usually falls in September. The event for this festival of Ladakh features a colourful parade that begins in Leh and ends at the Polo Ground. It’s a large-scale event with ceremonial garb, music, and cultural acts. Llamas perform, weddings take place, there are archery and polo contests… it’s truly a celebration of immense scale. You’ll come away with the memory of a lifetime.

Ladakh also has other fascinating and worth-attending festivals such as Hemis Festival, Losar Festival, Sindhu Darshan, Phyang Tsedup Festival, Dosmoche Festival, Saka Dawa Festival, Tak Tok Festival, Matho Nagrang Festival and many more.

7. Pay Your Respects to Kargil War Heroes

Kargil is considered to be the gateway to Ladakh. Being a site of some horrific border clashes with Pakistan (the worst being the Kargil War ) the Indian Army has built a Kargil War Memorial at the war zone—about an hour from Kargil towards Srinagar—to honour the hundreds of soldiers who lost their lives defending India from invasion. Visit this memorial for a moving, thought-provoking experience and learn a bit about India’s history.

Wrapping Up

So hurry up and plan a trip to Ladakh . Explore the greatest views, experience the most thrilling activities, and immerse yourself in the lively culture of Ladakh. The people are welcoming and the roads beckon you. What are you waiting for?

Calls us to book a trip to Ladakh for a comfortable journey.

Related: Top 9 Hill Stations in Jammu and Kashmir for a Perfect Vacation

What is the capital of Ladakh?

The capital of Ladakh is Leh.

Is alcohol available in Leh?

There are Very Fewer Options for Wine, when is Leh, And we are providing the list of English wine shops in Leh. There is a liquor shop so-called theka near the Leh petrol pump which is next to the roundabout.

• Indus Wine Shop

Which SIM will work in Leh Ladakh?

Prepaid mobile phone connections outside Leh Ladakh do not work in Ladakh. As a state, J&K does not allow outside-state prepaid phone connections to work. The postpaid connections from BSNL / MTNL, Airtel and Reliance Jio do work in Leh Ladakh. For Best Connectivity Experience Choose JIO Postpaid

Which is the famous dish of Ladakh?

Skyu is one of the famous dishes of Ladakh. To find out more about Ladakhi food , visit Yatrigann.

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The Best Time to Visit Ladakh

Climate, Festivals and Other Things to Do

David Bathgate/Getty Images

High-altitude Ladakh, in the far northern Indian Himalayas , has an extreme climate with a long and brutal winter. Hence, the best time to visit Ladakh is during the region's summer when the snow on the high passes melts—that is, unless you're heading there for adventure travel!

Read more about the top things to do in Ladakh .

The Weather in Ladakh

The climate in Ladakh is divided into only two seasons: four months of summer (from June until September) and eight months of winter (from October until May). Summer temperatures are pleasant and range from 59 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit (15 to 25 degrees Celsius), whereas winters are extremely cold. Temperatures in the region can drop as low as -40 degrees!

Peak Season in Ladakh

If you want to beat the tourist rush and get discounted accommodations, visit Ladakh in late April or May when the weather is starting to warm up and businesses are beginning to re-open. If you want to see plenty of snow but experience warmer weather, and don't mind the crowds, visit Ladakh during June or July. August is peak monsoon time and it does rain (either a lot or a little), so you may want to avoid traveling there then or go towards the end of the month. The bursts of colorful leaves on trees make mid-September until mid-October picturesque. Temperatures start dropping and the tourist season is over, so it's much quieter.

Getting to Ladakh

Flights to Leh, the erstwhile royal capital of Ladakh, operate year-round. Roads within Ladakh are also open throughout the year. However, the passes leading into Ladakh are buried under snow during the colder months. Therefore, if you wish to drive (the scenery is spectacular and it helps with acclimatization, although the two-day journey is long and grueling), the time of year will be an important consideration.

There are two roads to Ladakh:

• Manali-Leh Highway is the most popular route. It cuts through five high mountain passes including Rohtang Pass in the Pir Panjal range, and three passes in the Zanskar range (Baralacha Pass, Lachulung Pass, and Taglang Pass at 17,480 feet above sea level). This route does have a steep ascent, which may cause altitude sickness. It's open from around mid-June until early October. However, travel becomes risky from mid-September onward due to the chance of snow, and reduced options for accommodations and transport (many buses and taxis stop running).
• The Srinagar-Leh Highway (NH 1D) is the most reliable and least challenging route. It runs alongside the Indus River and via Zoji Pass, Drass ( the second coldest inhabited place on Earth ), Kargil, and Fotu Pass (the highest pass on the route at an altitude of 13,478 feet above sea level). It's usually open from mid-May or early June until the end of October or mid-November. However, July and August are best avoided, as you'll have to contend with both monsoon rain and the bulk of pilgrims going on the Amarnath Yatra. In addition, some people may wish to avoid Srinagar and Kashmir due to the ongoing civil unrest plaguing the area.

When to Visit Ladakh for Trekking Season

The main trekking season extends from June to September in Ladakh. However, the Chadar Trek is a renowned winter trek in the region. From mid-January until the end of February, the Zanskar River forms a slab of ice so thick that it's possible for humans to walk across it. It's the only way in and out of the snow-bound Zanskar region. The Chadar Trek, ranging from seven to 21 days in duration, moves from cave to cave along this icy "road." Read more about the best treks to take in Ladakh for all fitness levels .

Hemis National Park is open year-round but the best time to visit to spot the elusive snow leopard is between December and February when it comes down to the valleys.

Spring is one of the most beautiful and scenic times to visit Ladakh. Trees are blooming, yet the mountains are still snow-capped, creating amazing landscapes.

Events to check out:

• The annual Nagrang Festival typically takes place in March at Matho Monastery. It marks the appearance of trance oracles that perform stunning acts and give predictions.

Summer is popular with trekkers and visitors of all kind. Temperatures are warm, but rarely exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit (32 degrees Celsius), and days are long and sunny. Both of the roads to Ladakh are easy to drive at this time of year as well, an important consideration for some travelers.

• The  Sindhu Darshan Festival (June)  is a performing arts and culture festival on the banks of the Sindhu River.
• The  Hemis Festival (June or July) is celebrated with two days of traditional music, colorful masked dances, and a fair full of striking handicrafts at Hemis Monastery.

Fall is not quite as busy as summer but still offers fantastic weather. While some campsites will have shut down for the season, hotel room rates are less than summer's peak.

• The  Ladakh Marathon (September)  hosts various running races in and around Leh, for Indian and international competitors.
• The tourist season winds up in Leh with Ladakh Festival (September), the biggest festival of the region. It features a captivating street procession, polo matches, archery shows, cultural performances, and handicraft exhibitions.
• September's Nubra Festival brings folk dances and music to different villages.
• The annual two-day  gustor  ritual is part of November's Thiksey Festival at Thiksey Monastery.

Winter in Ladakh is quite harsh, and thus, many travelers choose not to visit during this season. Those who do make the trek will be rewarded with solitude and a seemingly never-ending stretch of mountain ranges, valleys, and monasteries. Temperatures can be brutally cold. 

• Losar is a 15-day festival that marks the beginning of the New Year in Ladakh. The main celebrations happen on the first three days.
• Spituk Festival, held in January or February, marks the annual two-day  gustor  ritual at Spituk Monastery.
• Dosmoche, held in February, is part of a grand two-day celebration of good over evil, originally started by Ladakh royalty, at Leh Palace, and Diskit and Likir monasteries.

Known for its brutal winters, the best time to visit is during the summer when the snow on the high pass has melted.

Ladakh's busiest months are June and July, so if you want to avoid the crowds consider visiting in late April and May.

Monsoon season in Ladakh begins in July and ends in September, however August tends to be the peak month for heavy rain.

Britannica. "Ladakh." Retrieved March 8, 2021.

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Best time to visit Ladakh

Temperature, climate & weather, temperature and precipitation in leh-ladakh, what is the coldest month in leh-ladakh.

The coldest month is January, with an average temperature of -3°C (27°F) during the day and an average temperature of -15°C (5°F) during the night. As the weather is always dry and sunny, it does not feel as cold as one would expect and travelling in Ladakh at this time of the year is a wonderful experience.

How many days per year does it rain in Leh-Ladakh?

Ladakh is a high-altitude desert, there are only 13 rainfall days per year and 106 mm (4.2 in) of accumulated precipitation. This is the reason why water is a very precious resource and saving water when travelling in Ladakh is important.

What is the driest month in Leh-Ladakh?

The driest months are June and October, with less than half day of rainfall per month and 4 mm (0.2 in) of precipitation.

What is the warmest month in Leh-Ladakh?

The warmest month is July, with an average temperature of 25°C (77°F) during the day and an average temperature of 10°C (50°F) during the night. Average temperatures in August are just 1°C (2°F) lower.

What is the wettest month in Leh-Ladakh?

7-day weather forecast for leh-ladakh, best season to visit leh-ladakh, winter in ladakh (january, february, march).

Spring in Ladakh (April, May, June)

Summer in ladakh (july, august, september), autumn in ladakh (october, november, december), private taxi, shared taxi, map of ladakh, hotels in ladakh, sightseeing tours, tour packages, travel itineraries, practical info, ladakh travel guides, client reviews.

Best Time to Visit Ladakh – A Complete Travel Guide

If you asked when is the best time to visit Ladakh, my answer would be that it depends on you. Let me explain. The best time to visit any place is different for every person. I am basing this on assumption on the fact that not everyone is looking for the same thing. Other factors like budget, mode of travel, etc also come into the picture.

With that being said, there is a certain time of the year when every tourist destination receives the majority of its visitors. In the case of Ladakh, it is the months from June to September that are considered as the best time to visit. But will that suit you as well? If yes, then which month is the best? Read on to find out.

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When is the Best Time to Visit Ladakh

Ladakh presents a different color in every season. Every month brings its own set of surprises and its own set of delights. It has a little bit for everyone; from adventure seekers to photographers, to people looking for a bit of solitude to even families looking for a fun vacation.

It is that forbidden mysterious land that opens its doors for visitors only for a few months and then shies away under a thick white sheet of snow. Deciding on the best time to visit Ladakh can be a little confusing so let me break it down month by month.

Please note that in this article, I will only talk about the best time to visit Ladakh. For other details like how to reach, what to see, where to stay, and public transport services, please take a look at How to Plan a Trip to Leh Ladakh – Complete Travel Guide .

The temperature that I am mentioning below is the historical average in Leh City. Depending on the time of day, it will be different. High altitude areas like Pangong Lake and passes en route will be way colder than this. Please remember that during the night, the temperature here can go down to as low as 40 °c.

Ladakh in January to March

Until the month of March, winter in Ladakh remains at its peak. The temperature at night can drop to as far as minus 20 degrees Celsius.

January and February is the best time if you want to plan a trip to visit Ladakh in winter. All the lakes including Pangong and Moriri are completely frozen at this time. The famous Chadar trek also happens around this time only.

You cannot camp at Pangong Lake in winter though. There will be no campsites available and you will have to look for a guest house in either Durbuk, Tangtse, Spangmik, Man, or Merak. If you did not find accommodation, you will have to return to Leh after making a day trip to the lake.

Since all hotels are not operational at this time, you will have to call ahead and inquire. A few hotels remain open in winters as well but you will have to make your bookings in advance.

Running water may not be available everywhere as the water in taps freezes. Hot water will be presented to you but in buckets. Please check with your hotel about this before booking your stay.

Electricity too is limited to only a few hours of the day. It is not an ideal time to go unless you are capable of handling the extremely cold weather.

• Average Temperature in Leh City: -10 °c Minimum and 15 °c Maximum
• Clothes Needed: Heavy woolens, caps, windproof jacket, warm socks, thermals

Ladakh in April

Come April and everyone who is planning a trip to Ladakh that year starts to get anxious, waiting for the highways to open. Snowfall stops and summer starts to step in.

BRO continues to work clearing the snow and both the roads remain closed for most of the month of April. It is towards the end of April that Srinagar Leh highway is declared open but that depends on the weather and is not always the case. Sometimes the date can even get pushed up to early May.

Hotels and guest houses start to open up preparing for the tourist season. The only way to reach Ladakh in April is either by flight or by Srinagar Leh road towards the end of the month.

April is not really an ideal time to go, though. You do not get to see any snow and the weather will be freezing cold. You may have trouble finding accommodation and will miss traveling on Manali Leh or Srinagar Leh highway.

By Late April, all the lakes including Pangong and Moriri would have completely melted to their natural blue. The roads towards Nubra and Pangong are open this month. However, the route may get closed temporarily if it snows at Khardung La or Chang La.

• Average Temperature in Leh City: 5 °c Minimum and 25 °c Maximum
• Clothes Needed: Woolens, caps, windproof jacket, thermals

Ladakh in May

The month of May marks the beginning of the Tourist season in Ladakh. Srinagar Leh highway is declared open either by late April or early May. The opening of the Manali Leh route depends on how fast BRO is able to clear the snow but it is usually towards the end of the month.

Hotels and guesthouses would have become operational completely. There would still be a lot of snow around, especially towards the top of the peaks.

The roads at this time are usually in a bad situation as BRO starts the restoration work. Visiting Ladakh this time would mean that you either go there by Air or take the Srinagar Leh Highway in traveling early in the month.

If you want to include the Manali route as well, plan towards the end. Before doing so, make sure the road is open for tourists. You can check this post, Manali Leh Highway & Road Conditions where I post updates regularly.

• Average Temperature in Leh City: 13 °c Minimum and 28 °c Maximum
• Clothes Needed: Regular summer clothes, light woolens, caps, windproof jacket

Ladakh in June

The tourist season by this time is at its full peak. All the hotels and guest houses would be completely functional. This is the time to go if you also want to catch some snow at the passes on Manali Leh highway.

The roads however are still not completely restored and you may encounter a lot of rough patches on your way. You also will encounter a lot of water streams on the way as the snow starts to melt. By end of June, the region around Srinagar and Manali also starts getting pre-monsoon showers.

• Average Temperature in Leh City: 17 °c Minimum and 30 °c Maximum

Ladakh in July

This is one of the perfect months for the Ladakh trip if you can make it in the first half before Monsoon hits the Himalayan region. Roads are in near perfect condition and all of Ladakh is open for visitors including some of the internal roads like the Wari La Pass route.

Ladakh at this time is filled with tourists and the valleys will present you with grand vistas all around. If visiting in the latter part of the month, be ready to handle rains on the way.

• Average Temperature in Leh City: 16 °c Minimum and 35 °c Maximum

Ladakh in August

If greenery is on your mind, then this is the time to go. You may encounter rain but it is mostly limited to areas around Kullu, Manali, Srinagar, and Sonamarg.

Ladakh is in a rain shadow area and experiences very little rain. With all the global warming though, things have started to change and it can rain even in Ladakh sometimes. The unfortunate cloud burst incident of 2010 is an example of that.

Once you cross Baralacha La on the Manali Leh route and Zoji La on the Srinagar Leh highway, you ideally enter a rain shadow area where there is either very little or no rain at all.

If you are prepared and do not mind the rain, traveling at this time will present you with lush green valleys. You should also be for a lot of slush, landslides, and puddles. If the weather turned worst, the roads can also be blocked temporarily until they are cleared.

For a road trip by bike at this time, make sure you waterproof everything.

• Average Temperature in Leh City: 18 °c Minimum and 35 °c Maximum

Ladakh in September

The month of September is a perfect time for a Ladakh visit.  Monsoon would be gone but would have left plenty of greenery behind in Kashmir and Himachal. Ladakh will be blossoming with colors everywhere.

Hotels and guesthouses will be all functional and roads in near perfect condition. The entire Ladakh brims with astonishing beauty at this time. If you were lucky and traveling after 15th September, you may also catch a snowfall at the top of any of the passes en route.

Ladakh in October

October marks the beginning of the winter season. Cold starts to settle everywhere. High altitude regions already start experiencing zero degree temperatures at night and there is a high chance that it may snow anytime.

Hotels and guest houses mostly would have closed already by late October. The top of almost high altitude passes would have received snowfall.

Srinagar Leh route remains open for most of October. Manali Leh Highway however closes around the 10th of the month. If planning a road trip this month, make sure you plan your itinerary in a way that you cross the Manali route maximum before the 10th.

• Average Temperature in Leh City: 0 °c Minimum and 20 °c Maximum

Ladakh in November & December

Come November, the Srinagar Leh road closes and Ladakh gets totally cut off by road. A trip at this time can only be planned by flight. Srinagar Leh route may remain open in November sometimes but it is not advised at all to travel on.

The month of December is mostly the same as November. Both these months are probably the worst time to go. The weather will be very cold, vistas will be dull and you will not get to enjoy the trip.

Winter trip means snow all around which is not the case in November and December. Leh City in fact will be deprived of snow at this time.

• Average Temperature in Leh City: -7 °c Minimum and 10 °c Maximum

So depending on what I described above, below is a summary of the best time to visit Ladakh.

Best Time to Visit Ladakh by Road

The best time to visit Ladakh by road is the months of June, early July, and September.

Srinagar Leh highway opens sometime in April and closes by mid-November. Manali to Ladakh opens by late May and will close by Mid October.

The first few weeks of this time will present you with highly damaged roads that may even get temporarily closed. Later few weeks towards closing will always pose a risk of snowfall at top of the passes which may close the roads again. July and August will pose the problem of monsoon.

So by road, you should choose a time when the roads are stable and you can cover both the highways. Start from either Manali or Srinagar and end the trip at the other place, completing the Ladakh circuit.

Also read: Srinagar Leh Highway Route Guide and Road Map

Best Time to Visit Ladakh for Photography

The best time to visit Ladakh by photography is the months of July, August, and September. But it actually depends on what you are interested in shooting. If greenery is on your mind then your best bet would be August and September. During the monsoon, the valleys of Manali, Kashmir, and Lahaul are at full blossom and a delight to shoot.

If you do not want to risk the rain, the best time to visit Ladakh for Photography would be September. Monsoon would have just left the valley but you will still find plenty of green around Manali and Kashmir.

Go to Suru Valley and Zanskar and you will have grass and leaves changing colors from green to orange and even red as the fall season progresses. The same is the case with Nubra valley as you proceed towards Turtuk Village .

If you want to shoot a white Ladakh, then you should plan in late January or early February. On an overall basis, September is the best time to visit Ladakh for photography. Ladakh in September means multiple colors all around under a deep blue sky and you will just love what you shoot at this time.

Best Time to Visit Ladakh by Bike

Late June, early July, and September is the best time to visit Ladakh by Bike. Any earlier than this will see you struggle on bad broken roads.

August will have you getting drenched in rain as the Monsoon at this time is at its full swing which also means more furious water crossings. Any later than September will be too cold to be riding on motorcycles to Ladakh with a risk of snow and black ice.

Also read: Manali Leh Highway Route Guide and Road Map

Best Time to Visit Ladakh by Car

The best time to visit Ladakh by Car is from June to September. But it depends on what do you exactly mean by Car and what would you rather prefer.

If your car is a Sedan or Hatchback, you should only plan in early June and September. By this time, there are no chances of any rain or landslides, water crossings are not that furious or deep, and road conditions are a little better.

If you are in a 4X4 or SUV, then you can go anytime between June and September. If you want to go offloading and want to drive on broken roads, do it in May after Srinagar Leh highway opens or early June as soon as the Manali Leh highway is declared open.

Best Time to Visit Ladakh with Family

The best time to visit Ladakh with family is from July to early September. If you are traveling by Air and hiring a taxi in Ladakh with family, then any month between July and September is an ideal time to go.

If you are however planning to drive on your own, then do it in early June or September. You of course do not really want their hearts pounding as you take the car across a running water stream, or through slush on a narrow road, or getting stuck somewhere after the road is closed due to a recent landslide.

The weather after September 15th gets a little cold to be enjoying with your kids and elders. For more details, please take a look at How to Plan a Trip to Ladakh with Family .

Best Time to Visit Ladakh by Flight

The best time to visit Ladakh by flight is from May to September. But this is open for discussion as well. Going by air will pretty much come down to what you are looking for and when can you go.

Ladakh is accessible by Air throughout the year. You always have the option of hiring a cab there for local sightseeing. If snow is what you want, visit in January or February. Otherwise, any time from May to September will be ideal to be in Ladakh.

Best Time to Visit Leh Ladakh for Honeymoon

The best time to visit Ladakh for a honeymoon is in April, September, or early October. The weather at this time will be just perfect for a honeymooning couple.

Other than this, you can actually go anytime between April to Mid-October if you are catching a flight. The only problem is that the sun in June, July, and August is a little too harsh for a honeymoon.

For a road trip, September is a good time if you want a trip with very less adventure, or anytime from July to September if your spouse is as adventurous as you are.

Best Time to visit Ladakh for Snow

The best time to visit Ladakh to see snow is in late January, February, or early March for a winter trip and May, early June, late September, and early October for a summer trip.

January to early March is when the region is buried under a thick sheet of snow. The lakes of Pangong and Tso Moriri will be completely frozen at this time.

If you only want to see a little bit of snow and do not want to plan a winter trip, you should plan in May or early June. This is when you will definitely find some snow at the top of the passes. You can also plan in late September or early October and may even catch a snowfall at this time.

Best Time to Visit Ladakh by Public Transport

If you are planning to travel by Public transport, you should visit Ladakh in July, August, or early September. The buses from Manali and Srinagar to Leh and other internal areas of Ladakh remain available during this period only.

This is also the time when the entire valley is filled with tourists. If not a bus, you have the highest chance of boarding a shared taxi within your budget in these months.

There will be very little waiting time anywhere. Even if you cannot find a bus or taxi, you will still have the option of hitchhiking.

Also read: Complete List of All Tourist Attractions in Ladakh

Best Time to Visit Leh Ladakh via Manali

Manali Leh highway opens in early June. So anytime between 15 th June till 15 th July and September would be best to travel on this road.

The first two weeks of June will put you on bad roads with a possibility of a temporary shutdown due to restoration work. August will see you getting drenched in rain and may even come across a landslide. October onwards will have you encounter extreme cold with a high chance of snowfall at Baralacha La.

Best Time to Visit Leh Ladakh via Srinagar

The best time to visit Leh Ladakh via Srinagar is in May, June, early July, and September. It is pretty much the same deal as the Manali Leh highway. The only difference is that this road opens a month earlier and closes a month later.

An ideal time from Srinagar would be between Mid May to early July and September.; for the same reasons that I mentioned for Manali Leh road. Rains can play havoc around Zoji La so late July and August are best avoided.

Also read: Is Srinagar Leh Highway Safe for Tourists?

 Best Time to Visit Ladakh on a Budget

If planning a budget trip to Ladakh, the best time to go would be anywhere between July and September. All hotels are open during this time and you have a higher possibility of finding accommodation within your price range.

Public transport services too will be all operational and you can easily find a Bus or shared taxi towards any desired destination. Go any earlier or later than this and you may struggle to find budget accommodation and transport.

Best Season to Visit Ladakh

The season of summer and fall are the best to visit Ladakh. The weather in summer is suitable for all kinds of tourists and will make the journey pleasurable.

Go there in September during the fall season and you will witness the natural beauty at its best. You will see beautiful colors within the shades of grey of a cold desert under a deep blue sky. It is not just the trees, leaves, and flowers that you will find colors in, but also in the mountains.

Also read: How to Plan a Trip to Ladakh by Public Transport

Best Month to Visit Ladakh

June and September are the best months for a trip to Ladakh.

Best Time to Visit Ladakh in Winter

Late January, February, and early March are the best time to visit Ladakh in winter.

I think I have covered the topic of the best time to visit Ladakh from every aspect here, and I hope this information was of help. If you have any further questions, please feel free to ask in the comments section below, or at our Community Forum , and I will be happy to answer.

Vargis.Khan

Not much to write about me really except for that I love to travel around whenever I can and to wherever I can. This blog is just a small attempt to share my travel experiences with the world. Hope you like it !!!

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Thank you for sharing this info. I am planning a trip to Ladakh next month. Hope my trip will be successful.

Have a safe trip bhai !!!

I have decided to visit Ladakh via Srtinagar and back via Manali in between last week of July and first week of August with my family. What is your opinion please?

Bhai if possible push it by a few weeks. You know how monsoon has been so far in the year. Heavy rains everywhere

Hi Vargis Bhai, I have planned for Ladakh tour via Srinagar and willing to back via Manali from last week of July to first week of August with my family. Will it be suitable?

hi khan bhai, i am solo starting from Jammu to ladakh and then via Manali to chdigarth. apoox 13 days travel. should i start from Jammu on 1st September or last week of September. i am asking as my train is weekly once from Mumbai.

Hi Sanju Bhai – September 1st week will be a better choice

hi khan bhai, i am solo starting from jammu to ladakh and then via manali to chdigarth. apoox 13 days travel. should i start from jammu on 1st september or last week of setember. i am asking as my train is weely once from mumbai.

Hi Sanju Bhai – September 1st week will be a better choice

Hi Vargis, I’m planning a car trip to Ladakh in Aug 1st week with family. It’s a duster 2 wheel drive. I plan to go from the Manali side, and come back from the same route as I don’t intend to go to Zojila and Srinagar. Will it be raining too heavily? Or is it just mild rains which is manageable to drive. While I’ve a lot of driving experience, but I’ve driven only a bit in mountains. Regards, Amit

Hi Amit – Hard to say right now to be honest, will depend on the weather. There could be heavy rains on Manali Leh stretch, especially between Manali and Sarchu.

Thank you so much for writing such exceptional vlogs. Please help me in one thing: may I visit Ladakh from Manali side in early October with sedan car with my wife and 11 years old child?

Thank you, Sujit. Visiting in early October is doable. Which car do you have?

Dear Vagiskhan ji, your way of explaining the touring is amazing. You covered all the points of all sections of people. Your article is like a data set about Ladakh tourism . Thank you so much ji. We four people planning to be there in September last week by public transport or by rental car from Delhi. We are little bit confused in between the two. Our motto of journey is to enjoy the Himalayas inch by inch…. In that way rental taxi seems to be the best I believe… Kindly give your opinion Ji …

Me and My friend are planning trip to Leh ladhak between May last week and June First Week, we have heard that its very cloudy in this period of time, So whats your suggestion ?

No, it’s not. I am myself planning a trip at this time

Excellent blog Vargis bhai .. just happened to stumble upon it and am enjoying reading the details you have provided. I am planning to visit Ladakh this year and finding it difficult to choose between late May (kids vacations so can easily leave them with parents) and late September (best time scenery wise). Just hoping I won’t miss much if I travel in May

Thanks, Nilesh Bhai. May end will be a better option with kids.

Excellent detailed travelogue

Thank you !!!

Hi Vargis, I am planning a bike trip to Leh Ladakh via Srinagar at 1st week of August with my wife. Is this a good time to visit Ladakh or should I wait till September.

Hi Robin – It will be best to wait until September

Hi – we are planning a trip around this Diwali. While I understand the cold part, not sure why you say November is the worst part to visit. Can you pls elobrtare?

Is it safe to travel Leh in a hatchback with a family of three?we are planning the first time.is the road from nubra to pangong good?is the month of September good for budget travelling

[…] You can travel in early October as well but can be a little risky. Nakee La starts receiving snow towards the end of September and so do the other 4 passes. Traveling in October means that there will be a high chance of the road getting blocked by snow, leaving you will be stranded. For more details, please take a look at When is the Best time to visit Ladakh. […]

I have gone through your writings. Excellent! We are planning to to Ladakh next year. We are senior citizens from Kerala trying to drive down

Hi, I have been following your blog on Leh Manali highway. As the clearing work by BRO has started. Will it be accessible by 20th of May. I am planning to take Srinagar Leh for Leh and return from Leh to Manali

Yes it will be

Hi, You have wealth of information, feeling lucky. As you have said in earlier blogs that Manali leh route is inaccessible in May and opens in first week of June. Will it be different this year as it will be accessible by 20th May.

Thanks for your reply.

Hi Vineet – Chances are that yes it will be all open by 20th this year

Thanks a lot

Hi Vargis, We are planning for a bike trip 2 guys and one girl from manali to leh by bike on 13th june to 23rd june. Are the roads open or blocked ??Is it good time to go by bike. please let us know . And we are not going in any package groups so are there frequent garage shops on the way if anything happens to the bike ??

We are 9 pax. 4 couples and a single ladie. Ages between 45 and 70 years old. We want to travel to Ladack during Ladack Festival, in September. Please suggest us an itinerary from Delhi to Ladack, including Daramsala also. We want go by car and train and back Delhi by flight. Thanks Anabela Marinho

Hello Sir, Actually, we are (Couple) planning to visit Leh in Last week of March. Could you please guide for same.

Please read this Deepak.

https://vargiskhan.com/log/leh-ladakh-in-march/

Hi, Your travel blogs are very detailed and informative, useful for me as a solo traveler. Pls inform how long does it take to get necessary permits for specific tourist spots in Leh Ladakh

Thanks Thyagrajan. Only a couple of hours at most. Or you can just tell the hotel to arrange it for you.

Hi vargis, I will be thankful if you help me out here, four of us planning to visit Leh after 15th oct , will reach Srinagar by flight and then will head out to Leh and the other places like Pangong Nubra etc, then returning to Delhi from Leh by flight …. is it possible at that Time…..?????

Hi Vargis, I am awed reading your blog containing such a detailed info on Leh. A group of 4 of us are planning to visit Leh in the Last week of October. You said the best time to go for biking is till September. So is not OK if we try to bike in October last week? Cant we get a budget home stay and bike rent facilities at that time?

Hi Mukund – A trip in October will be great as well but since you are on bike, you would have to be prepared for cold weather. If you were planning after October 15th, you may also have to keep Manali Leh route out of your plans.

jammu tawi to srinagar road is full time open or not..i am planning to go by bus………i will come from delhi to jammu tawi by train,…then i want ti take public transport bus…srinagar to leh bus available??

Yes it is available

Hi Varis Bhai, Nubra to Pangong route via shyok in last week of July.. is it commutable? I heard Shyok river water is too high…

Hi Arindam Bhai – Sorry for replying late. Yes it is possible in July, shouldn’t be a problem.

Dear khan, you hv suggested in stead of booking travel co, hired car are available after landing. Can you suggest for staying arrangement in diff places

Hi Varghis bhai,

I am planning a Leh trip from 13 July to 25 July on motorbike. IS t his best time to visit Leh…considering there will be no rain?

There can be some rain around Kashmir Valley and Manali Deepu Bhai so please pack and prepare accordingly.

Hi Bhai, I am From Pune. me n my 3 friends planning for Leh trip in August (20-29) or October (10-18) by flight from delhi to Leh.. Which is most preferable dates?

And more are roads are open if we go from Manali or Srinagar?

Srinagar Leh road will be but Manali to Leh may get closed.

Hi Pranita – October 10-18 will be preferable. It will be a bit cold but number of tourists would definitely be less

Thanks for reply. But we are not getting tours on October. They are saying it’s not preferable and we don’t arrange in October. What to do ?

Why do you want to go with a tour company? Just fly into Leh and rent a taxi there. That will cost you much less.

Hi Vargis Bhai.. I am from Kerala Planning for a Solo bike ride from Chandigarh to Ladakh in the Month of September (Say from 8 to 17). I have R15 V3. Please advice if it is Ok with R 15? Can you please help me finalizing an itinerary for me for this schedule? Thanking you in advance. Manoj Daya

Remove the lower faring from the bike Manoj Bhai, rest should be fine. Please take a look at the following post about itinerary.

https://vargiskhan.com/log/ladakh-travel-guide/

Hello Vargis bhai,

I’m very grateful for your blogs and info as it helped me a lot last year when i did Manali-Leh-Srinagar. Thanks a ton.

I’m planning for another ride this year and i have mentioned itinerary below. Kindly review once and let me know if you find any challenges or have any alternate suggestions. Your approval will be my ‘Final-Go’ 😛

Sept 22nd : Chandigarh – Narkanda 23rd : Narkanda – Chitkul 24th : Chitkul – Nako 25th : Nako – Kaza (via Geu mummy temple) 26th : Villages around Kaza 27th : Kaza – Chandartaal 28th : Chandartaal – Jispa 29th : Jispa – Leh 30th : Leh (get the ILP and all) 1st Oct : Leh – Tso Moriri 2nd : Tso Moriri – Hanle 3rd : Hanle – Umling La – Hanle 4th : Hanle to Leh 5th : Leh – Sonmarg 6th : Sonmarg to Gulmarg 7th : Gulmarg (Local) 8th : Gulmarg – Sheshnag (via Srinagar and Pahalgam) 9th : Sheshnag – Jammu/Udhampur 10th : Jammu/Udhampur – Chandigarh.

Please let me on the closure of any routes mentioned above if you think the dates doesnt go with the climate. Also if you find that Oct 1st or 2nd week is too late to ride on those roads due to snowfall or closing the road for usual traffic (Keeping in mind that roads can be closed anytime due to climate but still)

P.S : I have Royal enfield Himalayan with me to ride, just so that it can help you to analyse the status.

Please reply back with your opinion.

Thank you for all the assistance, Sagar

Hi Sagar Bhai,

1. Umling La in all probability won’t be allowed. 2. Leh to Sonamarg will be too long, you may have to break at Drass. 3. Add a day in Pahalgam. Gulmarg to Pahalgam and then trek to the lake will be tough. And it would be a shame to come to Pahalgam and not stay there a day.

Wow, Thank you so much for opening up my mind Vargis bhai 😛 So you mean to say – Umling la is not possible at all ? 🙁 Its not open for civilians yet thats what you meant ? – As i will be travelling to leh via Kaza and not Rohtang, then ILP is not necessary right ? But what if they ask me for ILP in Koksar and Sarchu check post ? Will they leave me without ILP ? – So you would suggest a day ride from Gulmarg straight to Sheshnag and next day stay at Pahalgam then leave towards chandigarh ?

1. As of last year and as of now Umling La is out of bound for tourists. We should know more once tourist season starts. 2. ILP is something u get for Ladakh in Leh. If you are asking Rohtang Permit, then you do not need it as you will come from Kaza. 3. No. Reach Pahalgam, check in to a hotel and plan the trek the next day. Keep a day in Pahalgam for sightseeing purpose.

Im from Malaysia and Leh has been in my bucket-list. I find your articles helpful and based on that I have outlined the below itinerary: Day 1- Fly fr Delhi to Leh. Walk around Leh in the evening. Day2- Leh & surrounding- Shanti Stuppa, Leh Palace & Thiksey Monastery Day 3- Leh- Nubra Valley- Khardungla Pass, Maitreya Buddha Statue, Hundur Sand dunes Day4: Nubra-Panggong Tso Day 5: Panggong Tso to Leh via Changla Pass Day 6: Leh- Basgo- Hall of Fame, Basgo Monastery, Magnetic Hill Day 7: Back to Delhi.

Intially planned end of May but flight cost was very high. Thinking of 20th April/ Aug 9th/ 9 Sept.

My question: Hows the itinerary and what would be the best time to go among the dates. Its for 2adults and 1 child (9yo).

Sorry long post. TQ

Hi Shamini – Yes the itinerary is perfect but only if you are going to rent a private taxi for entire trip. There is no public transport available on Nubra to Pangong direct route.

Hello. I am planning to visit Ladakh & Nubra valley in first week of March 2019. 1. Could you let me know what temperature will I get at that time? 2. Will I get running water in tap, electricity, and basic other necessities at that time? 3. Will I be able to stay at Nubra Valley at that time?

See this post please.

Hello bro… We r planning to visit ladhak on 30 dec to 2 jan is it a right time to visit there with family even i have one kid and he is 8 year old.. We r planning to come there by air from delhi…

Kindly give me a right feedback

Waiting for your kind reply??

Kunal Bhai it is not the best time but you can go if it is snow what you are after. Weather is very cold so please pack accordingly and take care of your little one. Keep him well covered and protected. Don’t let him run around and exhaust himself.

Hi friend, myself Aravind from Bangalore. We are planning to visit leh on first week of November. Is this the good time to visit considering climate and hotel availability?

November is not the best of the times to visit Ladakh but you can definitely plan a trip still. Just make sure that you pack well because it is really very cold over there right now.

We are 4 adults planning to go to Leh ladakh via Manali 1st week of October. I know this is not the right time to ask but it will be helpful if you could just suggest about the roads & things to carry.

Roads are all open and will be by first week of October. For things to carry, please see the following post.

https://vargiskhan.com/log/ladakh-checklist-things-to-carry-for-ladakh-trip/

Hi Vargis, we are 6 people planing to visit leh ladakh by next march end april first week. is it good time to visit there in march april.

Hi Sapan – You will have to take a flight as both the roads will still be blocked. It is a good time though since there won’t be many tourists around

Vargis bhai, which mobile network will work straight from jammu – leh – manali? i’ve reached jammu jammu today. pls suggest!!

Shubham Bhai only BSNL / MTNL will work at majority of the places. Rest all will be limited to only a few places.

Hello Vargis,

We are 5 adults planning to go for a trip to Leh ladakh from 11th aug- 18th august or 28th july – 4th august.

1.Could you just suggest if it the right time to visit all the sites in Leh enjoy the sight seeing. 2. Will it be raining heavily during this period? And will this spoil our sight seeing? 3. We are traveling by flight on both the dates.

Kindly give your suggestions.

Thank you, Shrddha

Hi Shrddha – If you are reaching Leh by flight and coming back the same way then you do not have to worry about rain. Ladakh is in rain shadow and it either rains very less there or not at all. Risk of rain is on the Manali – Leh and Srinagar – Leh route but you won’t be on those roads anyways.

Thank you for your reply. Yes we will be travelling by Flight. So as per your suggestion its a good time to go in mid August without worrying much about the rains and impact on the sight seeing , Right ?

Regards, Shrddha

And also since our tour is restricted to 6 days we are not visiting the Sham Valley and Shey village. Do you suggest we do these places or is it fine to drop them.

No, if you only have 6 days then drop these places.

Hi Shrddha – No one can really predict mother nature for sure. It is not supposed to be raining in Ladakh at all but then a cloudburst did happen in 2010. Historically though and with the exception of that one year, it doesn’t rain in Ladakh so much that it would disrupt your plan. If it does then there could be a temporary roadblock at top of the passes but that is usually for a few hours, at worst a day.

I m planning a trip to ley ladakh with my family via car. I wanted to see snow on both sides of the road, wanted to enjoy snow and wanted the journey to be safe. Roads should be clear and not broken as well. Plz recommend the month for the trip for both the routes( via manali and srinagar)?

If you want to see that much of snow that either go in April end or May first week as soon as Srinagar Leh highway opens. Or go in May end or June first week as soon as the Manali Leh highway opens. You will however only find this kind of snow either at Zojila top, or Rohtang Top or Baralacha La top, nowhere else.

You are welcome

Hello vargis bhai….thanks for this valuable information…I am planning my trip around 14th june via manali to leh road by hrtc bus….plz tell me whether hrtc bus service will be available at that time and will it be safe to travel manali leh highway around mid june ??

Hi Harry, It depends on how soon the road opens but in all probability, yes the HRTC bus will be available.

Thanks bhai

You are welcome Bhai

I would like to thank you for your blogs as they help a lot. After reviewing your blogs we planned for Saach Pass last year and now planning for Leh.

We are a family of 4, 2 kids age 8+ and 3+and planning to travel by safari in end of May via Srinagar Leh Highway.

Last year in Saach kids didn’t experienced any severe problem so we are daring this trip although we have bought oxi meter and cylinders for this trip

We would like to plan the trip for 10 days and would appreciate your advise

Regards Vani

Hi Sachin, Pleast take a look at the post below for some tips while traveling to Ladakh with kids. Please let me know if you need any other help.

https://vargiskhan.com/log/traveling-to-ladakh-with-children/

Hi Mr Vargis,

We are planning to visit Kashmir this coming September from 10 -19 and there will be 5 of us. FYI, we will arrive New Delhi on Sept 9 at 10.00 pm and will overnite in airport before we can catch early flight on the next morning.

Since this will be our first time travelling India/Kashmir, would like to seek your advise/opinion where should we drop first : i) Ladakh – then take bus from Ladakh to Srinagar and flight from Srinagar back to New Delhi or ii) Srinagar – then take bus to Leh (Ladakh) and fly back to New Delhi

– Is it enough time (10 days) to cover both Srinagar (Gulmarg, Sonamarg, Pahalgam & Yusmarg) and Ladakh (Pangong Tso Lake, Tso Mariri, Khardungla Pass, Nubra Valley, Turtuk & visit old town city)? – Which route/way will be easier and cheaper? – Is there any place (above listed) is not suggested to visit in September? – is it possible for you to draft out rough itinerary for us for this trip?

Our flight from New Delhi to Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) will be on 19 Sep at 11.10pm.

Hello Reita,

1. Landing in Sriangar, taking a bus to Ladakh and then flying out of Leh will be better. 2. 10 days is not at all sufficient to cover all the places. You must add more days to your travel plan. 3. Sriangar to Ladakh will be easier. 4. All can be visited in September. All areas are open. 5. 19 days as I suggested will not be enough. You will have to add more places. You will also have to hire a local taxi in Sriangar to cover Gulmarg, Yusmarg, Pahalgam etc. It will be hard to cover these by local buses.

Hi Vargis ji,

I am Sushruth from Mysore . My friends and I are planning to visit leh and Ladakh from 18th of June to 30th , we are more inclined towards hiring a self driven car ( may be zoom car) from Delhi and travel towards Leh. Is it advisable to self drive or do we need to accompany driver along with us , we are finding it difficult to decide on this factor since quite a few people have expressed that it is very difficult to drive on this highway . What do you advise ?

Hello Sushruth Ji – As long as you have decent enough driving experience including plains and hills both then it is Ok to drive on your own to Ladakh. Do keep in mind though that self drive rentals are only allowed till Leh. You will not be able to use it for sightseeing in Ladakh and will have to rent a loca taxi for that purpose.

Thank you. Aren’t the self driven cars allowed in nubra valley , khardung la and pangang so ?

You are welcome and no they are not.

hi, i am from haridwar, we (three families) are planing our trip in August (9th to 15th). is this a good time to travel leh ladakh and if you can please guide me about the iternary, places to visit n stay

August is the time of Monsoon but yes you can go. How are you traveling and for how many days?

Hello Vargis Bhai,

Thanks for the detail info. I am planning my trip based on your blog.

I am from Bangladesh and planning for a Bike trip from Manali to Leh with couple of my friends. We have two choices for the trip. 14th June to 24th June and 20th August to 30th August.

Which time will be perfect for us?? We are semi professional riders 😛 😛

Hello Islam Bhai, June will be better as August is the time for monsoon and that may create some problem.

Hi Vargis Bhai, happened to read about ‘black ice’. Is thia a real threat for riders? Have you personally experienced it? Am going on 1st week of september. Will you be around there that time?

Hello Dennis Bhai – I have experienced it but not while going to Ladakh. It was during a different trip in Himachal. Don’t worry, you won’t find any of it in September. Threat of black ice is usually early in the morning, after the sun comes up it melts away.

Sir, myself from Kerala. I am planning to visit Leh , by the the first of October. Bolero is my vehicle. I am planning around a15 days trip. I covered all your articles. Great help you are offering through this. Is that a good option, that start by 1st October or start by last week September like 25th .. ???

Thanks in advance

Hello Sarath – Timing is OK. I would recommend that you start by last week of September, take the Manali Leh highway to reach Ladakh and come back via Srinagar.

Thanks a lot, friend. I guess tyre sealants are not a practical option…

Hi Vargis, how are the possibilities of getting a puncture along ladakh route? 9Since enfield isnt tubeless) Is SLIME sealant a good option? getting conflicting opinions..curious to know what you say about slime/ any other sealant for tubed tyres. Thanks

Possibiity is high DJ Bhai. During my last trip to Ladakh, I had 9 flat tyres total in 12 days, almost one every day. Best way out is to carry 2-3 spare tubes, a foot pump and tools to replace the tubes. Go to any mechanic or puncture repair shop and learn how to replace the tube. Once you know how to do that, you are good to go. If you get a flat tire, replace the tube, pump the air in and be on your way. Get the puncture tube fixed at the next repair shop you come across.

Hi Vargis, Do you have any updates on latest weather status in leh, Nubra and Pangong. I am planning to do these 3 places from 10th to 18th July on bike. Should I expect lot of rains?

Hi Bhushan – No rain around Leh, Nubra and Pangong. All routes are open.

Hi, thanks for so vivid details.we have planned a trip of 11 days from 29th August to 8 September 2017 covering the full moon on 6 September.includes srinagar 1 day,kargil 1 day,leh 4 days,nubra 2 days,pangong 1 day,tsomoriri 1day. Is this period or planning good for visit leh.

Hi Sougata, Timing is good. Let me know how how you have prepared your itinerary, how and where you are traveling from and I can suggest if the planning is good as well.

Our journey starts by night stay at srinagar (29th August) then to kargil(30th August) and leh (31st August& 1st sep ),nubra ( 2 nd & 3rd sep), back to leh (4th sep),pangong (5th sep), pangong to tsomoriri (6th sep),back to leh (7th sep), morning flight to Delhi(8th sep).we don’t want to cover leh manali route so it ends at leh.

Adjust one day from somewhere in the itinerary between Pangong and Tso Moriri. It is actually a 2 days journey. Which route do you intend on taking?

drive to Tomoriri via Tsagala.Leave in the morning and drive to Chumathang stop at Upshi for passport checking. On the way visit Sumdah village and then to Tso-moriri.

I am a bit confused here. Do you want to go to Moriri from Pangong via Changthang or from Leh via Chumathang?

Hi ! We, a family of 5 adults and 2 children, will not start from Manali for Leh before 30th September this year. Can we get any Govt transport that time? Please advise.

You may be able to board the HRTC bus, provided that it has not already snowed anywhere on the highway. HPTDC bus service gets withdrawn by Sep 15th.

Hi, is there local bus transport available from Leh to khardungla?

yes you can take any bus going towards Nubra valley. Read the article below for more details.

https://vargiskhan.com/log/leh-bus-service-buses-ladakh/

Hi, is there JKRTC bus service available from Leh to Khardungla?

Thanks for this truly well written article!

Thank you for taking the time to drop a note Dennis.

Hi, I am from Kerala, planing for a solo Enfield Ladakh ride in Sept. Any riders like to join? [email protected]

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• Best Time to Visit Ladakh

1. April to Mid-May Ladakh is the warmest between April and mid-May, so the place is full of tourists. The temperatures reach 16°C during the day and drop to 3°C in the night. The hotels, restaurants, and adventure sports rates reach their peak. It is a great time to visit Ladakh if you want to camp out in the open. Two of the best campsites in the region are Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri Lake. While Ladakh is covered in snow all year round, the snow starts to melt during late April, which brightens up the place with red, orange, and green flora at the beginning of May. 

If you want to pass through the iconic Chang La and Khardung La passes, you won’t be able to do because they are still covered in snow. 

2. Mid-May to July If you are interested in capturing the Ladakhi culture at its best, mid-May to July is the perfect season for you. In July, the Phyang monastery hosts their annual festival, which is called Phyang Tsedup, the Lamayuru monastery hosts Yuru Kabgyat, and the Hemis monastery hosts the Hemis Tsechu festival. The biggest attraction during this season is the Sindhu Darshan, which is a three-day festival hosted on the banks of river Sindhu in Shey Manla, Leh. best road trip in summer wonder of ladakh  It starts on June 12 and ends on June 14. During this time, senior lamas offer Buddhist prayers for the good health of Indian soldiers who have protected us bravely at the border for all these years. It is also the time when the Srinagar-Leh highway, Manali road via Rohtang Pass, and Baralacha Pass open for around seven to 10 days. The snow around these areas isn’t entirely molten and you get to see a beautiful mix of greenery and snow in the cold desert. 

3. August to Mid-September During this time, the rivers are gushing with water as Ladakh welcomes the monsoon season. While it is risky to visit Ladakh between August and mid-September because the chances are landslide are high, you can visit the rainshadow areas that begin after crossing the Zoji La Pass and Baralacha Pass that lead to Srinagar and Manali respectively. You must take all necessary precautions because these are two of the most difficult passes to travel through in Ladakh.  Overcast conditions prevail all over Ladakh, so you won’t get to see a clear sunrise and sunset. It is a nice time to visit if you want to relax, take long walks, and eat tasty thukpa, momos, kulcha, and yak butter tea. 

4. Mid-September to Mid-October Ladakh is full of mesmerizing colors between mid-September and mid-October as you will see the  Srinagar-Leh highway and Manali-Leh highway in its complete glory. A lot of adventure seekers and youngsters visit during this time and the cold winds are just starting to make their presence feel. If you visit during this time, you will get to experience the Ladakh Festival , which is hosted all across the region between September 1 - 15 every year.

All lakes melt and the water turns into a lovely shade of blue. You can participate in Raid-De Himalayas Rally and also camp near water bodies of Ladakh. 

5. Mid October to Mid-November You will barely see any tourists visit during this time as the temperatures reach sub-zero levels in places that located at a height of 14,000 feet and above. Many hotels and restaurants are closed down because of the extreme cold. They return only after the winter season is over. However, if you are the adventurous kind and want to experience the chilly weather, you can visit Ladakh. 

The Manali-Leh and Srinagar-Leh highways are still open but it is difficult to ride a motorcycle in the cold. Also, the roads get slippery because of black ice, which increases the chances of an accident. If you are planning to visit during this time, it is best to hire a four-wheeler and not travel much. You can choose one location and spend all your days there. 

6. Mid-November to March Ladakh is the coldest between mid-November and March as the temperatures drop to 2°C in the day, which further decreases to -20°C in the night.  Even though the roads are closed, you can travel there via an airplane and take on one of the famous treks of Ladakh. The Nubra Valley Trek is the prettiest of all and is filled with lakes, purple mountains, and white sand dunes that make the perfect backgrounds for clicking Instagram-worthy photos. 

Also known as the teahouse trek, the Markha Valley Trek dips slightly into the Hemis National Park, where you stay for a couple days to spot snow leopards, Himalayan bears, and wolves. The Chadar Frozen River Trek is the biggest attraction as you get to trek on the frozen Zanskar river and visit nearby villages where you get to taste local delicacies and interact with the residents. 

The trek is not for the weak-hearted because the daytime temperature can drop below -10°C. It is also during this period that Tso Moriri and Pangong Tso Lake change colors daily from blue to green to white. On your trek, you will see different small lakes that freeze in December, allowing you to walk on them freely. 

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