essay on leh ladakh trip

Leh Ladakh Travel Guide (2024) – Explore the Unforgettable Land of High Passes!

By: Author Sophie Pearce

Posted on Last updated: January 1, 2024

Categories INDIA , JAMMU & KASHMIR

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure policy for details.

Julley from Leh! That means Hello in Ladakh and you’ll find that everyone here is itching to say it to you.

Leh is the super friendly mountain city that is waiting for you to visit them.

When you arrive here, either by bus or plane, you’ll be greeted by the most spectacular panoramic views of snow-capped mountains, ancient palaces, and Buddhist stupas.

It’s also a welcome paradise from the busy, dirty cities like Delhi and Rajasthan.

Here’s the ultimate Leh Ladakh travel guide including how to reach Leh, top things to do, where to stay, and what to eat!

The ultimate Leh Ladakh travel guide

Where is leh ladakh in india.

Leh Ladakh has an interesting mix of cultures and food as it’s on the border of China and its history is closely related to Tibet!

You’ll probably question what country you’re in a lot while you’re here and that’s the beauty of Leh.

What is the best time to visit Ladakh?

The best time to visit is actually in the monsoon season between June – September as Ladakh is a dry spot in a country of constant rain!

They also shut the road after mid-September so it’s best to visit before then or fly!

It’s beautifully sunny every single day at this time and everything almost looks saturated as you’re closer to the sun and higher up at 3,500 metres!

It’s also perfect weather for trekking and is what most travellers flock here for.

How to reach Leh Ladakh: flying vs. the road

There are usually two choices for approaching Leh Ladakh.

You can directly fly to Leh Ladakh from Delhi which is what most travellers prefer as you can skip the long bus journeys up through the Indian states of Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir.

But, this means that you cannot acclimatise very easily and you may suffer from altitude sickness and need a few days to adjust.

If you are prone to altitude sickness, you can get tablets to help with it. The other is to take the long bus journey from Manali to Leh.

This is the cheapest option and actually is not as dangerous as people make out.

Yes, the roads are crazy but the views are absolutely jaw-dropping and are worth the time spent alone.

You’ll pass through valleys, mountain passes, and waterfalls. There’s absolutely no sign of life around in many parts and it’s an experience you won’t forget.

For more information, check out my post ‘Travelling from Manali to Leh by road: all you need to know’.

Taking the bus from Manali to Leh

I took the 18-hour bus from Manali to Leh, which was actually 20 and we arrived in the middle of the night.

Our bus driver did a great thing by dropping us off in the backpacker district of Changspa where there are tonnes of guest houses. But, little were we to know that none would be open for business after midnight!

For a little while, we hung out with some other travellers from the bus in a bakery which turned into a bar late at night and just played the same Ed Sheeran song over and over again.

We had chai while deciding the next plan of action, which was basically to try every guesthouse in the area!

After a little while, we couldn’t find anywhere and a bar called KC garden offered for us to stay at their place for the night. It was an, which was used for group get-togethers and parties!

It had no windows, was freezing cold, and let in all the noise of dogs barking. However, it was a place to crash for the night and we had loads of blankets to keep warm.

It was really generous of him as he didn’t have to offer anything at all. He also didn’t charge which was really kind.

We were stranded in Leh Ladakh

The guy who owned the place said we could sleep in until noon, but when the workers came in the next morning at 7 am – they played really loud music so we would get up!

At first, it was just Buddhist chanting music which was actually really nice.

By 9.30 am, they upped the ante with techno music and that’s when everyone groggily got out of their sleeping places.

The next day, we had a chai together, thanked the guys at KC garden, and then went to try and find a room.

Where to stay in Leh Ladakh: Changspa 

We ended up staying at Hotel Asia which turned out to be the cheapest.

It was 500 a night with a shared bathroom, I hardly slept each night due to the light and noise but it did have hot water every single day!

With a view like this of the mountains, you can’t complain about £5 a night! For bookings see here.

The top things to do in Leh Ladakh

Most people use Leh as a base in Ladakh as it’s the main city with good connections to Nubra Valley, Pangong Lake, and Srinagar in Kashmir.

But, there are lots of things to do in Leh Ladakh itself.

It is really gorgeous to explore too with an epic mountain range, historical palaces, and the iconic Shanti Stupa.

You can’t really get bored, even just if you gaze at the scenery around you.

This would probably be a good first point of call to start off your adventure in Leh. The ancient palace looks down on the rest of the city.

This was the home of Ladakh royalty and was modelled on the Tibetan Potala Palace in Lhasa.

Even though it was built in the 17th century and steeped in history, not many of the ancient artifacts of the royal family remain in the palace.

It’s nine floors of empty rooms save the antique pictures which hang on the walls.

The best part of wandering around this palace is actually the viewpoints from the rooftops!

You can get great panoramic views from all over the city. There aren’t really any restrictions on where you can go here so explore away!

Castle Tsemo

Castle Tsemo stands high on the hill above the Leh Palace.

To reach it in Leh Ladakh, you can get a taxi for around 250 rupees or take the steep winding trek uphill!

There are two parts to Castle Tsemo, a Buddhist temple, and the castle and the Namgyal Tsemo Monastery.

When you’ve caught your breath from the walk, take a peek inside at the beautiful golden Buddha which is perfectly preserved inside.

Next is a climb up the monastery, you’ll pay 20 rupees to head on inside.

At first, I thought this was awesome as it was so cheap, but then I realised that you had to head on up the rooftops of the monastery on these ladders from hell!

These weak, feeble ladders were not attached to the wall in any way and so it was a dodgy climb to the top!

Although these ones were low, the others were pretty much vertical!

Although the views were totally worth it, there was one problem – how was I going to get back down?!

I was petrified and my boyfriend literally had to place my feet on each step of the ladder.

When I got to the bottom, I literally couldn’t breathe haha!

I can laugh now, but I genuinely thought I was a goner. It’s totally ridiculous so if you’re afraid of heights, I wouldn’t recommend it.

Shanti Stupa in Leh Ladakh

The Buddhist Shanti Stupa was one of my favourite attractions in Leh Ladakh. It was donated by the Japanese, built-in 1991, and blessed by the Dalai Lama himself.

Although it is a 500 step walk to the top, the views and the stupa are so worth it! We arrived at around 10 am in the morning and there was literally no one around.

The best time to visit the Leh Ladakh Shanti Stupa is at sunset when the temperatures aren’t so hot and the sun creates a beautiful red glow on the mountains surrounding it.

There is also some really beautiful Buddhist chanting music which is broadcast live from the temple nearby.

When the lights go down on Leh Ladakh, the Stupa lights up and you can see the many stars which appear here due to the limited light pollution. It was magic.

When we visited in the evening time a government official was there, so naturally, some of the Kashmiri soldiers were here on guard.

One of them let me hold this! Stranger things have happened…

Before I got to Leh, I had this awful feeling there wouldn’t be anything around.

Most places in Himachal had a mall road, but I wasn’t sure about Leh.. luckily, I was proved very wrong!

There is a massive main market here which has everything you could wish for.

Restaurants, shops, supermarkets, chemists, the lot. So, don’t worry about getting access to the basics.

There were also these great little fruit and veg markets from the local farms here. The mini peaches, locally called aadu , were to die for!

Trekking Leh Ladakh and Day trips from Leh Ladakh

There are endless options for treks from Leh Ladakh that you can get involved with.

Pangong Lake and Nubra Valley were popular trips also which was a 2-day and 1-night stay.

There were 3, 4, 5 days, and even 20-day treks out of Leh. So, it will be down to personal preference if you wanted a guided trek.

There are a lot of treks that you can do self-guided also. Nubra Valley is around a 3-day trek each way which is supposed to be easy.

But bear in mind that there isn’t any phone signal here so you won’t have Google maps to help you!

Best to download a walking trail map beforehand or buy one from the local shops here.

Read more about day trips from Leh here

Multi-day sightseeing tours in Ladakh

There are many interesting multi-day tours  that can be organized from Leh.

The famous tours are the 2-day Indus river tour where you get the chance to visit some of the most impressive monasteries in Ladakh (Alchi, Likir, and Lamayuru among others), the 3-day Nubra valley tour via the famous Khardung La pass (the world’s highest motorable road) and the tours to the stunning high-altitude lakes of Pangong and Tso Moriri.

You will not find many buses in Ladakh that go to these places. One of the options is to hire a car with a driver, but the cost of transport is not cheap in Ladakh…

If you are a solo traveller or travelling in a small group, using a shared taxi is a great way to reduce the cost of the trip as well as its carbon footprint! 

Where to eat in Leh Ladakh: wonderland restaurant and bakery

The wonderland café was where I usually went for breakfast most mornings.

Loads of their breakfast combos come with coffee and apple juice!

It has a really nice relaxed vibe and an amazing bakery downstairs which offers some great doughnuts and pastries.

Also, If you’re a fan of falafel, these guys do the best I have tasted so far in India. It was light, crispy, and delicious!

World Garden Café

Serving up a huge range of international cuisines, the world garden café is an excellent place to eat at any time of day.

The guys here speak excellent English, are really friendly and the food is cheap and tasty.

This was one of my favourite places to eat in Leh, so don’t miss out!

Dust pollution in Leh Ladakh and harsh temperatures

As the terrain and surroundings are in quite harsh conditions (sometimes it looked like how I imagined Mars to be like) you’ll find it to be dry and dusty.

The pollution in Leh Ladakh was quite high around the main town and so if you have anything like asthma, you’re best to come prepared.

Most days I found myself using my scarf to protect my mouth, nose, and eyes from the dust.

As we’re closer to the sun here, you should always make sure you wear suncream.

When I visited in August, it was boiling hot every day and it was definitely summer clothes weather.

A lot of people had tiny dresses and shorts on which is a nice change from covering up but just make sure you don’t get sunburn!

Staying connected and WiFi in Leh Ladakh

As soon as I set off from Manali on the Rohtang pass my UK and Indian SIM phone numbers lost service and data. But, I thought when I got to Leh, it would come back – how silly I was!

There was absolutely no phone service in the whole town. I’m sure you could get a SIM from Leh if you have an unlocked phone, as most phone packages are regional in India.

This would mean you would lock into their own phone service here. But, for a few days, I just didn’t think it was worth it.

The wifi is also pretty bad and almost non-existent. Most cafés and restaurants offer wifi services but this wouldn’t work half of the time. In fact, on the first day we got here – there was no wifi in the whole town!

If I did get wifi, only certain apps would work like WhatsApp, which was perfect to tell my mum I was alive (mum’s always worry).

There are internet cafés which you can use which are 90 rupees an hour. I actually quite liked not having wifi and being contactable. I’m a 90s kid, so I remember a time before the internet!

It just means that you have a few days to truly enjoy where you are. You’re not constantly looking at your phone, but actually appreciating the scenery and meeting people!

Sometimes, we get so caught up in social media that it’s refreshing to sign off. Get a map, read a book, and talk to people. There was a world before wifi, you know!

That’s my complete travel guide to Leh Ladakh, save it for later!

Leh Ladakh would be a place I would highly recommend travelling to if you visit India.

In fact, I would say it’s on my list of ‘must-sees’. It’s a beautiful mix of culture, colour, history, and scenery which will transport you into another world!

Make sure you put it on your list. If you’d like to read more about the beautiful surrounding areas of Ladakh, read my article ‘the absolute best off the beaten track Ladakh’!

Want to read more on the far North of India?

Manali to Leh by road, all you need to know

A guide to Manali, the hippie town in Himachal

Why you need to visit Shimla

Top things to do in Mcleodganj

A complete Bhagsunag waterfall guide

My complete Rishikesh travel guide

Visiting the Beatles Ashram in Rishikesh

Things to do in Amritsar

Mussoorie Hill Station guide

Wednesday 27th of December 2023

Many Indian’s primary wish to travel Ladakh by a road trip on their own bike. Definitely my dream also. Hope I will also achieve it.

Sophie Pearce

Thursday 11th of January 2024

Yess, it's an epic road trip to Ladakh by road. I have to admit I wouldn't do it again though and would fly haha! Sophie x

Tuesday 29th of August 2023

Wow, this destination looks absolutely breathtaking! Adding it to my bucket list for sure.

Wednesday 30th of August 2023

Hi Suman, totally agree! Leh Ladakh is an epic destination :) Sophie x

Neha Shinde

Thursday 11th of May 2023

Fantastic article. I am very pleased to say that your article is fascinating to read.I always find myself wanting to comment on it.You're doing an excellent job.Keep your writing up

Wednesday 28th of June 2023

Thanks Neha for your kind words. Sophie x

Wednesday 7th of December 2022

Ladakh is not a place where you can go without planning. You will have to consider all the do's and don'ts while deciding on the trip. From the right clothes, the right vehicle, comfortable stay, and places to visit, everything should be pre-planned so that one doesn't miss out on the site's vibe.

Thursday 8th of December 2022

Hi Kamalesh, completely agree with you! Sophie x

Esha Sawant

Tuesday 1st of February 2022

"Hello Admin, Intresting Article, you are doing a great job . Keep it up"

Hi Esha, thank you so much! I'm glad you liked the post :) Sophie x

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Delve Deep in the Beauty of Ladakh with a memorable Family Trip to Leh Ladakh

In the modern day, with modernisation, advanced transportation facilities and enchanting   Ladakh tour packages   over the years, the Ladakh family tour  is finally ranked number one among India’s most fascinating family holiday destinations.

Moreover, attractive  Ladakh family tour packages  have caught the attention of almost all adventure geeks worldwide.  Ladakh Family Tour not only covers the itineraries, places to visit, and things to do in Ladakh but also offers a fantastic  family trip to Leh Ladakh with all the information required for planning. Whether it is a family trip, honeymoon, or an adventurous Leh Ladakh bike trip , this region is one of the most cherished options.

Best Time to Visit Leh Ladakh

Summers are from April to August, and all roads are open so people can enjoy all locations during their family trip to Leh Ladakh . So, if you want to sit and admire both the sunny time and the frozen period, the time from May to September-October is most recommended. It is considered the fall season and the onset of winter, where people enjoy perfect sky, scanty rainfall, and blue water.

Also,  Ladakh Family Tour Packages are quite affordable during this period. The temperature in summer ranges from -3°C to 30°C. A Family Trip to Leh Ladakh  during summer is quite enticing. 

Summers celebrate the dazzling sun across the clear, blue sky, rivers flow at an extreme speed, and snowy mountains are found glistening. The warm temperature induces the hibernating species to come out and scoot around while flowers bloom and the towns flourish. 

Thus, if you have planned to cover all the major destinations, this time is ideal for a perfect Family trip to Leh Ladakh . Few tourists are seen in the months of winter due to extreme cold weather conditions. Ladakh temperatures range from -30°C to 15°C from November to February. Heavy snowfall and extremely low temperatures characterise weather conditions in winter.

Almost the entire town is seen shut during this time. The Chadar Trek is best chosen during harsh winters as it provides an intense experience for adventure enthusiasts.

Interestingly, winter is the best time for adventure geeks who are ready to face any challenge.

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How to Get to Leh Ladakh

Travelling via road, manali to leh highway.

And, if you want to reach early in the morning, overnight buses are the best option. If your location is Delhi, you must start early to reach Manali on time. If you want a rented motorcycle, you have to book it in advance. Make sure the hired bike is in good condition. 

You can also choose state transport buses and private jeeps to reach Leh from Manali. Buses take two days to travel to Ladakh and include an overnight stay at one of the camps.

Manali-Leh highway opens from mid-May until the end of October.

Srinagar to Leh Highway

The stretch of Srinagar-Leh is usually covered in two days, involving a halt at Kargil for a night. Visitors can enjoy the serenity of Sonmarg and the bold heights of Photu La. On the way, the most popular Pathar Sahib and Magnetic Hill bring glam to the journey. Srinagar-Leh Highway remains open from April to early November. This stretch gives you the perfect opportunity to travel on some of the highest motorable roads and passes in the world . 

Flights to Leh-Ladakh

• Leh Airport is close to the city centre and takes only 15-20 minutes to drive from the city. 
• Taxi rates range between ₹600-₹1000 for one-way drop. 

Places to Visit During Family Trip to Leh-Ladakh

• Pangong Tso Lake astonishes nature lovers with its vibrant ambience and rhythmic waves. Ladakh Family Packages  include all the famous monasteries, lakes, Shanti Stupa, Leh Palace, hills, fauna, flora, and other exuberant places to make the trip memorable. 
• Furthermore, visitors can visit the Indus and Zanskar Rivers along with Alchi Gompa to see 800-year-old paintings. 

Entry Fee for Diskit Monastery:  ₹30/- per person

On your  Family Trip to Leh-Ladakh,  you can visit tremendous exuberant spots according to the type of family members you have. Young ones and teenagers would love to explore the beauty of Magnetic Hill, Pangong Tso Lake, and the natural flora and fauna of Nubra Valley in Leh-Ladakh.

And, if you have the majority of adults and elderly people, places such as Shanti Stupa and monasteries would bring a peaceful smile to their faces. It is the best place to nurture and rejuvenate your soul.

Moreover, Ladakh also boasts secondary destinations that can bring additional charm and adventure to your trip. The region has the highest motorable passes as compared to all over India. These lofting motorable roads take you to Marsimik La, Photi La and the new Umling La Pass.

Most Exuberant Places to Visit in Leh-Ladakh

Pangong tso lake.

Ladakh travel tips suggest that the reflection of sunrise by the Lake allures the viewers as the shades of blue change constantly. If you are keen to make your trip memorable, you should enjoy the significant highlights of Ladakh’s natural beauty- the Pangong Tso . 

Entry Fee for Pangong Lake : ₹400 (Environment Fee + ₹20 Inner Line Permit)

Nubra Valley

Nubra not only boasts dense deserts, forests, snow-capped mountains, flora, and fauna but also carries a cluster of villages comprising natives depicting the local people’s ancient culture and traditions. Apart from its natural beauty, double-humped native Bactrian Camel and Himalayan Musk Deer attract flocks of visitors all around the year.

If you visit Nubra from Leh, you will get an opportunity to discern the charm of the highest motorable pass, the Khardungla Pass. Camel Safari, Buddhist Monasteries, Sightseeing, Hiking, and Interacting with locals are some of the most moments you can enjoy. 

Entry Fee for Nubra Valley : ₹400 (Environment Fee + ₹20 Inner Line Permit)

Trekking Cost : Starts from ₹16,800 per head.

Cultural outfits, Pashmina shawls, apricot goodies, and traditional artefacts make your visit alarming. Children love to have momos and thukpa while strolling the Leh market. Buddhist Monasteries, Leh Palace, Museums, Shanti Stupa et al., are some of the most prominent spots to visit.

Entry Fee for Leh Palace : ₹15 for Indians and ₹100 for Foreigners. 

Timings: 7:00 am- 4:00 pm (7 days open)

Castle Tsemo

Things to do in leh-ladakh, trekking in ladakh.

Stok Kangri Trek (6150m): Stok Kangri is an ideal trekking destination for incredible sightseeing and leisure if you plan to visit from June to September. It offers an insight into the cultural heritage and alarming views of Mt. Saser’s peak of the Karakoram range.

Markha Valley Trek (3700m): With stunning landscapes, green oasis, willow groves, and a vibrant ambience, Markha valley Trek is another beautiful trek for the nature geeks visiting from June to September. The Tibetan prayer flags swaying in the air bring the sight a distinctive vibe. 

Sham Valley Trek (3750m): Sham Valley Trek is the best option for beginners as it offers an easy-going and adventurous trek. It provides glimpses of dreamy traditional villages with nomadic lifestyles along with the glittering natural beauty of the place. Besides these, there are other popular trekking spots in Ladakh too which offer the same thrill and adventure. 

Trekking Cost : It varies from ₹15000- ₹45000 per person.

River Rafting in Leh Ladakh

Cost:  ₹1500- ₹1800 for grade II+ rafting for 2+ hours

Paragliding in Ladakh

Cost/Entry Fee : ₹3500- ₹5000 per person. 

Are you excited about your  Family Trip to Leh Ladakh?  Searching for a reliable travel company? WanderOn, with its extensive experience in travel and tourism, offers you exclusive  Ladakh Family Packages to Leh Ladakh  that would make your trip memorable! 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)

Q: what tips must be followed during a family trip to leh ladakh, q: what essential things to carry while travelling to leh in ladakh, q: what should i know before going to ladakh, q: what are the do’s and don’ts in ladakh.

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A 7-Day Leh Ladakh Trip Itinerary For First-Time Visitors

We sent Chandrika on a once-in-a-lifetime Ladakh trip. She came back to tell us how everyone can make it happen.

A land many have heard of, but only the ones with adventure in their hearts have dared to venture to. A land of rugged mountains that coexist alongside the mystical chants of Buddhist prayers – the recently declared Indian Union Territory of Ladakh is this and so much more! 

Located in the northern part of the Indian sub-continent bordering Tibet, Ladakh is shrouded in a certain mystery, despite having gained a lot of popularity in the past few years.

Filled with adrenaline-inducing twists and turns, high mountain passes, and some of the most beautiful mountain ranges in India, a trip through Ladakh is the perfect way to get an introduction to the Himalayan region. 

Ladakh is a high-altitude region, meaning, no matter which part of Ladakh you are at, you’ll find yourself at a minimum altitude of 3000 meters (9800 feet) above sea level. This is important to mention here because this is considerably higher than most people are used to and the high altitude affects many aspects of travel in this region.

To help you execute that dream Ladakh trip, this 7-day itinerary designed by India Someday and Unplugged Life will take you through some of the biggest highlights of the region, while giving you a sense of what it means to be traveling in a destination as unique as this.

How to get to Ladakh

Before we dive deep into the specifics of the itinerary, it’s crucial to plan your arrival in Ladakh. The best way to reach Ladakh is to fly in. The biggest town in Ladakh is Leh, which is connected by air with India’s capital city, New Delhi.

Daily direct flights are running between Delhi ’s Indira Gandhi International Airport and Leh’s Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, run by 3 Indian airlines – Air India, SpiceJet, and GoAir. If you are traveling from another country or Indian city, you’ll first have to get to Delhi to catch the 1.5-hour flight to Leh.

Although there are multiple flights available daily, do keep in mind that the weather in Leh largely determines flight schedules. Turbulent weather is pretty common in this region so flights taking off an hour early or an hour late is not unheard of. Having said that, we have to admit that the destination is worth all that trouble!

Leh Ladakh 7-day itinerary

Day 1 – land in leh and rest.

The erstwhile capital of the Himalayan kingdom of Ladakh, Leh is perched at an altitude of 3524 meters (11562 feet) and is home to some of the most popular attractions in the region.

The landscape in Leh is rugged, with a backdrop of barren mountains, while the weather is generally dry and very hot during the day and slightly chilly at night, depending on which month of the year you visit.

Most flights to Leh land sometime in the morning or early afternoon, so you can expect to have more than half a day to spare. But this is a day to take it easy. Remember you’ve just landed at a high altitude destination practically from the sea level (Delhi lies at an altitude of roughly 200m above sea level) and that means your body needs time to acclimatize to this drastic change.

The process of acclimatization can take a while, about 24-48 hours for most people. But no matter how you feel on day 1 (we know you’re excited!), you must take as much rest as you can and keep yourself hydrated. This is a day of barely any physical activity, so go ahead and enjoy the views from your hotel and indulge in the local Ladakhi food to gear up for the next day.

Where to stay in Leh : Gangba Homestay

A picture-postcard-like setting with a traditional Ladakhi-style building, an apple orchard, and a view of snowy peaks in the distance – Gangba Homestay is truly a home away from home.

Run by a local family, they are the warmest, most welcoming hosts you could ask for in Leh! To top that, the food served in the homestay is delicious and homely, while the rooms are very spacious, well-equipped, and comfortable. But what sets Gangba Homestay apart is their hospitality and the staff’s mindset to always go the extra mile to care for their guests.

Day 2 – Leh city tour

Your second day in Ladakh will also be spent in Leh to continue with the acclimatization process. However, on this day you’ll be taking a tour of the beautiful city and its surrounding areas. 

Confluence (Sangam) of the Indus and Zanskar Rivers

Located around 35 Km away from Leh town, the point of confluence of the mighty Indus and Zanskar Rivers is your first stop for the day. The different shades of green of the two rivers’ water are distinctly visible with bare eyes, making it a place worth visiting during your stay in Leh.

You can either choose to drive down to the exact point of confluence, maybe enjoy the view with a cup of steaming hot tea, or you could also get a bird’s eye view of the confluence from a vantage point. Depending on which time of the year you visit, you’ll notice how different both rivers look individually, leading up to their meeting point.

Magnetic Hill

A very popular tourist attraction in Leh, Magnetic Hill is technically a small stretch of road on the Leh-Kargil Highway. It is popularly known to be a spot where gravitational forces can be defied, due to a so-called magnetic pull from the surrounding mountains. Although this spot has maintained its popularity among tourists, there is not much truth to what happens here.

The landscape of the surrounding mountains and slopes is such that, to our eyes, it looks like the road is sloping uphill, but in reality the road slopes downhill making cars roll down even on neutral gear. But having said that, it’s a great spot to stop by for a while and get a good look at the stunning landscape.

Lunch at a local Tibetan restaurant

Ladakh is not only well known for its natural beauty, but for its delicious local cuisine too. With heavy influences from the neighboring Tibetan cuisine, you’d be missing out on an important cultural element if you don’t give Ladakhi food a try.

Head to Tenzin Dickey Tibetan Restaurant , located less than a kilometer from Leh’s main market, for a sumptuous lunch of local dumplings, noodles, soups, and an assortment of drinks. The restaurant is unassuming and cozy and the food makes you feel right at home.

Belonging to the Namgyal dynasty of Ladakh, Leh Palace is the former residential palace of the royal family. Perched on top of a hill, the palace overlooks Leh and has now been converted into a museum for visitors to get a glimpse of Ladakhi royal heritage.

A tour of the 9-storeyed palace takes you through almost 450 years of artifacts belonging to the royal family. Although the palace is still under renovation, it is worth a visit for the incredible bird’s eye view of the city it offers.

Leh main market

Leh’s main bazaar is a colorful, bustling market in the city center and the perfect place to spend a leisurely evening strolling through its narrow alleys. The market is home to shops selling all kinds of local products – from fresh produce to souvenirs and handicraft items.

Pick up Tibetan prayer flags and wheels or silver jewelry, taste local dry fruits like apricots, figs, and walnuts, and end the day with a meal at one of the many cafes lining the street.

Day 3 – Drive to Nubra Valley via Khardung La

On your third day in Ladakh, it’s time to venture out of the city into the mountains!

The curvy roads of Ladakh can be unforgivable so it is important to be accompanied by an experienced local driver. Some stretches of road are steep and bumpy and you need a good car for better comfort. You can hire a private car but keep in mind that the cost of transport is quite high in Ladakh.

A good option for solo travelers and couples is to use shared taxis that are available for all kinds of tours in Ladakh , including the 3-day Nubra-Pangong tour. This helps saving money by sharing the cost of transport with other travelers. Sharing a car also helps to reduce the number of vehicles on the road, and therefore, the pollution.

The drive from Leh to Nubra Valley takes approximately 5-6 hours. But the biggest highlight of the drive is climbing up to the Khardung La (La is the Ladakhi word for a mountain pass) and crossing it to get to the other side of the Ladakh mountain range.

The pass is situated at an altitude of 17,582 feet (5359m) and is considered to be one of the highest motorable passes in the world.

The winding mountain road leading up to Khardung La is spectacular and is a treat in itself. Once at the top of the pass, spend 15-20 minutes exploring the surroundings without exerting your body too much.

It is important to remember that there is very little oxygen available to breathe at such high altitude, so take it easy and enjoy the breathtaking views of the snow-covered mountains.

Once you cross Khardung La and start driving towards Nubra Valley, the landscape changes dramatically. The drive past Shyok River towards the lush green valley of Nubra is worth keeping your eyes peeled for!

By the time you get to your hotel in Nubra Valley after several pit stops on the way, it’ll probably be late afternoon.

Read more: 8 Snowy Destinations in Asia for Mountain and Winter Lovers

Complete your check-in formalities and head to the famous Hundar dunes to catch the sunset, with herds of Bactrian Camels for company. The Bactrian Camels are native to this region and are known for their ability to withstand high altitudes and extreme cold.

To say the least, the landscape here is equally fascinating, with rolling sand dunes as far as the eyes can see, enclosed by towering rocky mountains on all sides.

Where to stay in Nubra Valley – Stone Hedge Ladakh

A gorgeous property located just 10 minutes away from the Hundar sand dunes, Stone Hedge is one of the most luxurious hotels you will come across in Ladakh.

Like a little oasis in the desert, with a natural spring flowing in the backyard, a lush garden whichever direction you look, and warm and cozy interiors, Stone Hedge sets the bar high.

Their rooms are exceptionally well-furnished with perfect mood lighting, elegant wood furniture, a room heater (rarely found elsewhere in Ladakh), and a lovely balcony that opens up to the backyard.

Day 4 – Drive to Pangong Lake

Check out from your hotel in Nubra Valley this morning and head back to the dunes once again if you want to see it in daylight. The difference is stark and worth another visit. Alternatively, you can directly head to Diskit Monastery in Nubra Valley before starting the drive towards Pangong Lake. 

The Diskit Monastery is the oldest and largest monastery in Nubra Valley. The iconic statue of the Maitreya Buddha stands tall here at a height of 32 meters and overlooks the vast plains of the Shyok River flowing nearby. 

After a tour of the monastery, it’s time to get on your way to Pangong Lake. The drive is roughly 6 hours long and takes you through picturesque mountain roads.

Flanked by the Shyok River on one side for most of the journey, this drive takes you from an altitude of about 10,000 feet (3048 meters) to 14,270 feet (4350 meters), where Pangong Lake is located.

Pangong Tso (Tso is the Ladakhi word for lake) is a saline water lake that spreads across India and Tibet. In fact, 60% of the lake lies in Tibet. But given its massive length and width, it would take roughly 3 hours to drive along its coast only on the Indian side.

Popular for its stunning turquoise blue water, Pangong Tso is one of the biggest attractions in all of Ladakh. However, do keep in mind that the appearance of the lake largely depends on which time of the year you visit.

The lake is completely frozen in the winter while the peak summer months from June to August are when it reveals all its colors.

Once you reach Pangong Tso, check into your accommodation for the night. After that, you’ll have the evening free to either take a stroll near the lake or sit at one of the small restaurants, enjoy the view while sipping hot tea.

Do keep in mind that as the sun sets, it tends to get chilly in this part of Ladakh, the extent of which again depends on the season. So get ready to layer up some warm clothes and snuggle in for the night!

Where to stay in Pangong Tso – Native Huts

There are no permanent hotels near Pangong Lake, so be prepared for a night of adventure staying in these wooden huts specially constructed for tourists while the travel season lasts. The huts come with an attached western toilet and have basic amenities like fresh towels, warm blankets, and charging points (operational from 6 pm to 11 pm).

The owners of these huts are very helpful and accommodating so if you want more blankets or hot water, just let them know. They also arrange fresh, hot meals for guests in a separate dining space inside another hut, and that food at the end of a long, cold day truly warms the heart.

Read more: 10 Awesome Treks And Hikes In India

Day 5 – Drive back to Leh via Chang La

This will be the last day of driving through Ladakh, but expect it to be no less exciting than the previous two days!

The journey from Pangong Lake back to Leh takes close to 6 hours and will take you via Chang La, a mountain pass situated at an altitude of 17,590 feet (5360 meters).

The drive to Chang La is relatively bumpier than what you would have experienced while driving to Khardung La, but the experience of getting to the top of the pass is incredible. 

On the way from Chang La to Leh, make another stop at the famous Hemis Monastery. With a long and rich history, the monastery also houses a museum that showcases artifacts from the museum’s heritage.

Considered to be one of the largest monasteries in Ladakh, the highlight of visiting Hemis is the huge statue of Guru Rinpoche and the monastery’s unique architecture.

Day 6 – Explore Leh

Spend your final day in Ladakh seeing more of Leh and wrapping up your visit. This would be a good day to revisit the local market to pick up souvenirs to take home, in addition to visiting the following places.

Thiksey Monastery

Start your day early with a visit to the Thiksey Monastery to witness the morning prayer chanting session. Get there by 7 am so you can get in the prayer hall in time without disturbing the monks. It may seem way too early, but the experience is magical!

As the sun rises and illuminates the surrounding snow-capped peaks, the monks begin their day together by rhythmically chanting Buddhist prayers – an experience not to be missed in Leh.

Shanti Stupa

Constructed as part of a Peace Pagoda Mission, the Shanti Stupa was built jointly by the Buddhist community of Japan and Ladakh. While the iconic white dome sits at the top, the Shanti Stupa houses the relics of the Buddha at its base.

Visited for its religious as well as architectural value, there’s a certain air of calm surrounding the Stupa, as it sits looking over the vast expanse of Leh.

Stok Palace

Located on the western bank of River Indus, the Stok Palace was originally built as the summer home of Ladakh’s royal family. Currently, this is where the royal family resides all year long.

The palace also has several museum rooms that display lots of ancient artifacts belonging to the royal family- from precious jewelry and royal attires to weapons and items of daily use.

A part of the Stok Palace has now been transformed into a heritage hotel and opened up to travelers who want to experience the royal way of living for a few days.

Lunch in the orchard at Chulli Bagh

After a tour of the Stok Palace, head to the nearby Chulli Bagh, which is essentially the royal family’s orchard, with apricot and walnut trees dominating the scene.

Settle down for a luxurious lunch amidst the lush greenery of the meticulously maintained orchard and enjoy a delicious meal accompanied by freshly plucked fruits from the garden.

Ladakhi cultural show

Now that it’s almost time to wrap up your final day in Leh, head back to the hotel to watch a vibrant cultural show displaying the beautiful dance forms and music of Ladakh.

Ladakh has a rich culture comprising beautiful folk dances native to different parts of the region, performed by both men and women, depending on the dance form.

Decked in traditional costumes and jewelry, it’s a real treat to watch the locals match steps while humming Ladakhi songs. 

Day 7 – Depart from Leh

This is a day of no activity since you have to catch a flight out of Leh back to Delhi. Depending on your flight time, you may be able to squeeze in a couple of hours in the morning to visit the local market or the village if you want, for a final glimpse of life in Ladakh!

Ladakh is vast and a one-week trip may not entirely do justice to its beauty. But if this is all the time you have, this itinerary is a good place to start planning your trip.

In case you want a curated, personalized itinerary, connect with India Someday and Unplugged Life for an unparalleled experience of Leh and Ladakh after checking these tips to spice your travel itinerary up !

Read the author’s honest review of both companies .

Contributing members are responsible for the accuracy of content contributed to A World to Travel.

Beyond Wild Places

Your guide to the wilder side of life

A Complete 10-Day Leh Ladakh Itinerary

A trip to Ladakh is undoubtedly on many intrepid travellers bucket lists. The mystical Indian Himalayan region is still one of the most underrated places on earth. Despite it being a very remote corner of the Indian subcontinent, you’ll be surprised that you can see a lot in a short time with this Ladakh itinerary.

Over 10 days, you can visit the famous Pangong Lake, ancient monasteries of Hemis and Lamayuru, the former Silk Road trading route of Nubra Valley, and crumbling palaces with panoramic views over the arid, snow-capped landscape. This itinerary I’ve put together covers the best things to do in Ladakh over 10 days based on my multiple trips to the region.

Whether you fly into Leh for a short trip or incorporate this into a longer North India adventure travelling by road, your time in Ladakh will undoubtedly be something you’ll never forget. Buckle up for some long drives, and you’ll be blown away by the incredible land forms and ancient history awaiting in Ladakh.

Disclaimer:  This post contains affiliate links which means I get a commission if you buy a product through my link at no extra cost to you. By doing so, I can keep this blog going and continue to create helpful guides for you. Read more:  Privacy Policy

When to Visit Ladakh

The best time to visit Ladakh is from mid-May until end of September . This is when the region sees its best weather with warm days and relatively mild nights. The roads and trekking routes are also guaranteed to be clear of snow during these summer months, making places easier to access.

Where to Stay in Leh

Leh is the main town and base for exploring Ladakh. The town has hundreds of accommodation choices, from homestays and hostels to high end hotels. I’d recommend picking somewhere that is comfortable for you and your budget, as you’ll be spending most of the time in this Ladakh itinerary based in Leh. Here are my top picks:

Budget:   Raybo Hostel

Budget:   Peace Guest House

Midrange:   Chandan Guest House

Midrange:   Rock Castle Residency

High-end:  Grand Dragon

Read more:   Best Places to Stay in Leh, Ladakh For All Budgets

How to Get Around Ladakh

Travelling by road is one of the best parts of any Ladakh trip. The scenery from the various road trips in the region offer jaw dropping views that you’ll want to savour every minute (even if some of the drives are long, bumpy and windy).

There are a few ways to get around Ladakh to the various sights and day trips in this itinerary. Which way you choose will depend on your budget and comfort level. However, for this 10 day itinerary, I would recommend a combination of taxis for day trips and a shared group tour for the trip to Pangong Lake and Nubra Valley (unless you want to arrange a private tour).

Here’s more specific information for each transport option:

Public bus: Public transport is a little limited in Ladakh. You’ll need a lot of time and patience if you plan on using local buses to get to all the best places. If you only have 10 days, this is not ideal. But if you have more than 10 days, check out my guide to Leh for more information on the public transport options in the region.

Taxi: This is very ideal for day trips. You can easily organise taxis in Leh to take you to Thiksey, Lamayuru, Hemis, Alchi and more. A popular day trip combining Shey, Thiksey and Hemis costs around 3700 INR (AU$70) for the day as an example. You’ll have to budget more for the drive to Alchi and Lamayuru.

Group tours: Joining group tours to Pangong Lake and Nubra Valley is a popular option. In high season from June until August, you’ll find groups leaving every day in shared taxis for 3-4 days. You can easily organise this upon arrival in Leh.

Private tours: If you want to organise all your Ladakh trip in advance, then I suggest arranging a 10 day tour through a local company in Leh. They can help arrange taxis for day trips, and a private car for Pangong Lake and Nubra Valley. I highly recommend Gonbo of Lungta Travel . He’s also the owner of Rock Castle Residency Guesthouse in Leh and can help with arranging all of this for you.

For more detailed information on these options: Comprehensive Travel Guide to Ladakh

Overview of this 10-Day Ladakh Itinerary

Day 1: Fly from Delhi to Leh

Day 2: Acclimatise in Leh

Day 3: acclimatise and explore leh town.

Day 4: Day trip to Thiksey, Hemis and Shey

Day 5: Day trip to Lamayuru and Alchi

Day 6: road trip to nubra valley via khardung la, day 7: drive to pangong lake and stay the night, day 8: return to leh, day 9: relax in leh (optional visit to stok village), day 10: fly back to delhi.

Detailed 10 Day Ladakh Itinerary

Here’s how I would spend 10 days in Ladakh, if you’re prepared to take some long driving days and want to see as much as you can in a short time.

Day 1: Delhi to Leh

If you’re opting for a quick 10-day trip to Ladakh, then it’s likely you’ll be flying into Leh from Delhi. There are frequent flights every day from Delhi to Leh, mostly in the morning hours. It’s widely considered one of the most beautiful flights in the world.

Flights are run by Air India, Vistara, SpiceJet, and IndiGo. The flight time is around 1.5 hours and can cost anywhere from 3000INR (AU$60) to 9000INR (AU$180) one way.

If you prefer to travel to Leh, Ladakh by public transport , then you can also come via Manali or Srinagar, depending on how much time you have and your trip plans. Read my guide on getting to Leh by public transport for more information.

Once you arrive in Leh, you’ll want to head straight to your accommodation and rest for the remainder of the day. The altitude will likely hit you after about 2-3 hours of being in Leh, so it’s best to relax and stay hydrated for the afternoon to adjust slowly.

Read more: 20 Best Things to Do in Delhi

Your first full day in Leh should also be considered an acclimatisation day. You may wake up on this day with a headache, shortness of breath, and fatigue, which are common symptoms when arriving in Ladakh from Delhi.

The best way to avoid getting sick and easing into the altitude is to rest as much as possible , stay hydrated, and eat regular, small meals to maintain energy.

Try not to do too much on this day, unless you’re coming from somewhere else that is around 2000m or higher. You could walk somewhere into town for dinner, if you’re feeling up to it.

You’ll still be acclimatising for at least 48 hours after arriving, so on day three you shouldn’t try to overexert yourself too much. But, you’re probably keen to get out and start exploring this beautiful mountain town. Here’s how I recommend you spend your day:

Morning: Breakfast at your guesthouse or a cafe in the main market area (my top picks include Bodhi Terrace, Bon Appetit, or Asian Corner Restaurant)

Mid-morning: Explore the Central Asian Museum and then wander around the main market

Lunch: Taste the local Tibetan food at Tibetan Kitchen

Afternoon: Explore Leh Palace and Tsemo Maitreya Temple

Dinner: Chopsticks or Wanderers Terrace

Read more: 25 Best Things to Do in Ladakh

Day 4: Day trip to Thiksey and Hemis Monasteries (plus Shey Palace if you have time)

Get ready for a day trip out to the east of town to some of the most impressive monasteries and villages of the Ladakh area. If you have patience you could get to Thiksey Monastery and Shey Palace by bus, or take a taxi for the day and visit all three places including Shey Palace.

Hemis Monastery is one of the most important in the region. It was originally established in the 17th century and is tucked into a gorge in Hemis National Park. The most impressive part of the complex is the museum, holding the most important Buddhist relics and artefacts of India.

Thiksey Monastery is an imposing monastery built in a similar style to the Potala Palace in Lhasa. The temples at the top of the gompa hold some beautiful Buddhist statues and monuments, plus the view over the valley is incredible.

Another day trip, this one longer than the day before, the drive to Lamayuru is one of the most beautiful in the region. You’ll wind through incredible moonscapes and small villages, with dramatic mountain peaks and raging rivers on either side. After about three hours, you’ll arrive in Lamayuru , the oldest monastery in Ladakh.

Built over several levels across the rocky landscape, it’s easily one of the most impressive sights. Plus, if you time your visit for the midday puja, you can sit with the monks and listen to their their chanting prayers.

On the way back to Leh, stop in at Alchi to visit the unique 1,000 year old Buddhist murals and shrines hidden off the main highway. There’s also some delicious local restaurants there, the standout being Alchi Kitchen, if you time it for a lunchtime meal.

Another few days of long drives ahead, but the scenery makes it all worthwhile. Either join a group tour or hire a private driver to take you to two of the most famous sights in Ladakh: Nubra Valley and Pangong Lake.

On this day, you’ll leave Leh and drive first up to Khardung La pass . Connecting Leh with Nubra Valley, Khardung La sits at 5,360m and was once the highest motorable road in the world (now overtaken by another road in India). It’s an essential photo op, before descending down towards Nubra Valley, the Shyok River and the Karakoram Mountains.

Once part of the old Silk Road trading route across Asia and connecting Pakistan with Tibet, Nubra Valley is a stunning place. Visit Diskit Monastery and it’s Maitreya Buddha statue, sitting high above the valley floor, with panoramic views across the eastern Karakoram Mountains.

Then, head to the village of Hunder to take a look at the double humped camels or Bactrian camels roaming the mountain backed sand dunes.

Stay overnight in either Hunder or Diskit.

Where to stay in Diskit?  Ama Guesthouse or  Himalayan Regal House Where to stay in Hunder?   Hunder Stay and Camp  or  Hunder Haven

From Diskit or Hunder drive back through the valley, and towards Pangong Lake. While the drive is quite long and arduous in some parts, keep soaking up the incredible mountain views out the window.

Pangong Lake is one of the world’s highest saltwater lakes sitting at 4,250m. It’s a sacred site for Buddhists, with almost 2/3 of the lake actually lying across the border in Tibet. It’s bright blue colour shimmering against the arid, desert-like mountains makes it an otherworldy sight that draws many visitors each year.

Stay the night on the shores of the lake. The most popular place is  Spangmik , a cluster of glamping style tents and small hotels. However, the overcommercialisation of this village has led many people to continue further to  Man  or even further to  Merak . You’ll find more laidback tents and homestays in the latter villages.

Where to stay?   Nirvana Resort  in Spangmik or Pangong Travel Camp in Man

The final long day of driving, as you head back to Leh via Changla Pass at 5,360m. You’ll likely need to relax in the afternoon in Leh after all that driving or head to one of the cafes in Leh to eat good food.

On your final day in Leh, you may not feel like driving anywhere! You can hang around the town of Leh and do some shopping in the main market area instead.

If you want to do some extra sightseeing, head to Stok village , just a half an hour drive from Leh. At the base of Stok Kangri, Stok was home to the royal family of Ladakh, the Namgyals, after they fled during the invasion of the Dogras. Check out the 71-foot Gautama Buddha statue and monastery above the village, or arrange to have lunch at Gyab-thago Heritage Homestay, where you can try a traditional Ladakhi meal in a family home.

I highly recommend heading out to Shanti Stupa for sunset, as the perfect ending to this Ladakh itinerary. Shanti Stupa is the white peace pagoda you can see north-west of the Leh bazaar on a small hilltop. It was built in 1991 with funds from the Japanese, and it offers an impressive panoramic view of town.

Flights back to Delhi from Leh tend to leave early in the morning.

Want to Go Trekking in Ladakh?

You’ll need to allow a minimum of two weeks in Leh if you want to add a trek to this itinerary. Otherwise, you could skip the day trips to Lamayuru and Hemis if you were really short on time.

The Sham Valley Trek is a three day moderate trek that could be easily added onto this itinerary. The highest point of the trail is just under 4000m, so it’s doable for those with limited time.

If you preferred something longer and more challenging, the Markha Valley Trek is a five day trek that goes over 5000m. I’d recommend undertaking this trail after spending a week in Ladakh or longer, to ensure you’re properly acclimatised.

More Essential Reading for Ladakh

• Comprehensive Travel Guide to Ladakh
• Ultimate North India Itinerary: 1 Month in Kashmir, Ladakh and Himachal Pradesh
• Best Places to Stay in Leh, Ladakh For All Budgets
• 25 Best Things to Do in Ladakh
• How to Get to Leh, Ladakh By Public Transport ‘

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Leh Ladakh 7 Days Itinerary

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7 Days Itinerary for Leh Ladakh Trip

Day 1: arrival in ladakh.

1. Most flights usually reach the Kushok Bakula Rimpochee airport around early noon. 

2. Therefore, after landing at your dream destination, you will get more than half of a day to get yourself adjusted to such a high altitude climate. 

3. As soon as you reach the city of Leh get yourself accommodated in the best quality hotel where you can enjoy mouthwatering lunch and dinner buffets. 

4. No matter how much excited you are, you have to take a rest for a while to boost your energy to enjoy your Leh Ladakh 7 days itinerary to the fullest. 

5. Later, in the evening head yourself over to nearby attractions such as Leh market , Shanti stupa and spend the night at your hotel to gear up maximum energy for the next day.

Distance: 2.4 km ( Kushok Bakula Rimpochee airport to Leh) Highlights: Visiting nearby attractions like Leh market, Shanti stupa.

Planning a Trip To Ladakh, Checkout:   Ladakh Trip Packages

Day 2: Leh to Sham Valley

1. Begin the second day of your 7 days Leh Ladakh itinerary with an adventurous drive to Sham Valley. 2. The distance of the whole journey covers a wide area of Ladakh’s prominent tourist spots. Therefore, the confluence of Zanskar valley - Indus valley will be your very first halt. 3. To add some spice of adventure on your 7 day trip to Leh Ladakh, you can experience the thrilling sport of river rafting here. 4. Don’t get tired easily! Now you have to head out to witness the glory of the Indo-Pak war via the Hall of fame and get a chance to pay tribute to the martyrs. 5. On your way to Leh-Kargil highway, you will get to experience the anti-gravitational force of Magnetic hill rolling your car uphill. 6. During this exciting voyage if you feel hungry, stop at Gurudwara Pathar Sahib and enjoy their mouthwatering Langer. 7. After enjoying the hearty meal, pay a visit to the famous SECMOL school featured in the Bollywood movie 3 idiots and get back to your hotel to relax. Distance: 75 Km (Leh to Sham Valley) Highlights: Visiting Confluence of Zanskar – Indus valley, Magnetic hill , Hall of fame , SECMOL school, lunch at Gurudwara Pathar Sahib , River rafting on Zanskar river.

If You are Planning Bike Trip in Ladakh, Checkout:  Manali to Leh Bike Trip Package from Delhi

Read Also:   Manali to Leh Ladakh Highway Guide

Day 3: Leh to Nubra Valley Via Khardung-La pass

1. Rise early to start your day 3 of  Leh Ladakh itinerary of 7 days as it will take about 6 hours to reach Nubra via the world’s highest motorable roadway, Khardung-la pass. 

2. While making your way towards the Valley of Nubra, witness the unparalleled beauty of barren mountains and natural Himalayan landscapes covering the highway. 

3. The long journey can make you hungry enough. To please your appetite, try tasting delicious Maggie noodles at Khardung-la café. 

4. After setting your foot on the beautiful white sand dunes of Nubra valley, enjoy the ride of the Bactrian camel while pleasing your eyes with the spectacular view of the white mountain desert. 

5. After a whole day of the journey, spend the night in the mesmerizing atmosphere of Nubra Valley while camping under the beautiful starlit sky of Ladakh. Distance: 160 km (Leh-Nubra valley), 40km (Leh to Khardung-la) Highlights: Visiting the world’s highest motorable roadway Khardung-la pass, Camel Safari at Nubra Valley, Camping and bonfire in Nubra.

If You are Planning to Rent a Bike in Ladakh, Checkout:  Leh Ladakh Bike Rentals

Click Here To Book: Manali To Leh Cycling Tour

Day 4: Nubra Valley to Pangong Lake

1. Start the 4th day of your Leh Ladakh 7 days itinerary by waking up amidst the splendid beauty of Nubra Valley. 2. After having a lip-smacking breakfast, get ready to leave for reliving the famous moments of Bollywood movies in Pangong lake. 3. The deep blue is Lake of pangong i known to be the largest bluish lake existing in the whole Asian region.

4. Here, enjoy the scenic view of the brown mountain-covered valley and click some insta-worthy pictures. 5. If you get lucky, you will be able to spot some migratory birds of unique species resting in the soothing atmosphere of the valley. 6. After enjoying the full day with the mesmerizing view of Ladakh’s most beautiful lake, spend the night at the camp near the lakeshore and enjoy a bonfire under the starlit sky. Distance: 274 km (Nubra Valley – Pangong lake) Highlights: Visit the most beautiful tourist attraction of Ladakh, Pangong Lake, camping at Pangong lake.

Planning a Trip to Ladakh, Checkout: Leh Ladakh on Bike

Must Read:  Delhi to Leh Ladakh by Road Guide

Day 5: Pangong Lake to Tso Moriri

1. This day, prepare yourself early to witness the beauty of Tso Moriri lake from Pangong Lake. 

2. Start your journey towards the barren land of Ladakh. The journey will be quite beautiful as on your way, you can pause driving at Chushul to enjoy some breathtaking mountain views. 

3. Head out to Tso Moriri which is located around 4511m above sea level. 

4. After reaching Tso Moriri, enjoy the scenic view of mountains shadowing the crystal clear Lake and witness some migratory birds chirping beside the lakeshore. 

5. Later, in the evening, give your taste bud a twist of Tibetan traditional cuisine and spend the night taking rest in a nearby cottage. 

6. Now that the 5th day of your 7 days Leh Ladakh itinerary comes to an end, hold your excitement for the final day of your Ladakh trip. Distance: 365 km (Pangong Lake to Tso Moriri via Tsaka La road) Highlights: Visit Tso Moriri    and enjoy sightseeing.

Click Here To Book: Leh Ladakh Packages For Couple

Explore More:   Mumbai to Ladakh - A Detailed Travel Guide

Day 6: Tso Moiri to Leh

1. After having your breakfast, leave early to drive towards Leh. 2. Take the road of Leh – Manali highway to pause at some of the prominent monasteries of Ladakh. 3. None can complete the whole trip of  Leh Ladakh in 7 days without visiting these beautiful monasteries of Ladakh.  4. Start with one of the most beautiful Gompa in Leh, Thiksey monastery. 5. Then, continue with Hemis and Shey and experience the peaceful environment of Tibetan culture and religious significance of Leh Ladakh here. 6. Later, drive straight to Leh and stay in a hotel. 7. Keeping all of these beautiful memories with you, have a peaceful sleep at night. Distance: 220 Km ( Tso Moriri to Leh via NH3) Highlights: Visit prominent monasteries such as Thiksey monastery , Hemis monastery , Shey Palace .

You Can Also Book: Leh Ladakh Sightseeing Tour                                       Ladakh Tour Packages From Kolkata

Day 7: Departure

1. After gathering beautiful memories and a bunch of amazing pictures, it’s time for a happy ending to your 7 day Leh Ladakh itinerary. 2. After having your breakfast, head out to the airport to catch the flight at the right time. 3. Fly out of Leh and wave a goodbye to this dream destination. Highlights: Fly out to your destination city.

You Can Also Book:  Ladakh Honeymoon Package from Delh i                                     Leh Ladakh Tour Package From Mumbai

Essential Information about 7 days Leh Ladakh Itinerary

Ladakh weather and temperature.

Ladakh is the land of whimsical climate. Therefore, before heading out for your 7 day trip to Leh Ladakh, make sure you are choosing the best season to enjoy the tour to the fullest. From April to July the temperature of Ladakh stays around an average of 10°C which is the best time to plan your Leh Ladakh 7 days itinerary. However, if you are one of those who love to enjoy traveling during winter, consider September to December as your month of visit. During this time the average temperature stays around -15°C

Planning a Bike Trip in Ladakh, Checkout:  Delhi to Ladakh By Bike

Read Also:  Delhi to Leh Ladakh Guide Must Checkout:  Leh Ladakh Family Trip Packages

How to Reach Ladakh?

Surrounded by unique and beautiful brown mountains, Ladakh always tops anyone’s bucket list. However, to reach this land of barren mountains, you can take any transportation mode. 1. By Air: Taking a flight is considered to be the best and most relaxing way to reach Ladakh.  There are numerous flights available all the season including peak and off-season. However, during winter changes can be noticed in the flights due to fogginess. The closest airport near Leh is Kushok Bakula Rimpochee airport which connects all the major international and national cities. 2. By Road: There are mainly two roads possible to reach Leh Ladakh. One is from Srinagar to Leh highway, and another is from Leh to Manali highway. You can take any of these either. 3. By Train: There’s no direct train route available that connects Ladakh. The only nearest station Jammu Jammu Tawi is also 700 km away from the city of Leh. You can easily get a cab or bus from the railway station to reach Leh. 

Click Here To Book:  Leh Ladakh Tour Package from Delhi                                     Leh Ladakh Tour Package from Bangalore

Travel Tips for Ladakh

1. After landing on Leh, rest at least for 12 hours to acclimate yourself to such a high altitude climate. 2. Being located near the border area, some spots might need a special permit to visit. Hence, make sure you have arranged all of those before heading on your trip to Leh Ladakh in just 7 days. 3. Be careful while packing your clothes because even during summer, Ladakh’s temperature can be as low as -5°c. 4. Mountain sickness is a very common disease found in most travelers. So, carrying all the necessary medications will save you from such situations. 5. Ladakh is still on the verge of development. Hence, power cuts are a common problem you might find there. Carry devices like a power bank and torch to avoid getting hurt in darkness. 6. Before leaving for bike riding, check properly if your vehicle is well serviced or not. It’s necessary to avoid any kind of accidental possibilities. 7. Avoid drinking alcohol if driving in Ladakh. 8. Carry a water bottle to keep your body hydrated during your 7 day Leh Ladakh itinerary. 9. Remember these important tips and enjoy your Leh Ladakh 7 days itinerary to the fullest.

Click Here To Book: Manali Leh Manali Jeep Safari                                     Group Trip To Ladakh

Best of Leh

What to Pack for the Ladakh trip?

1. Clothes: Besides filling your bag with woolen clothes and jackets, make some space for cotton and thermal clothes. 2. Accessories: Important accessories such as sunglasses, muffler, Sunscreen, Lip balm, and moisturizer should be a part of your packaging. 3. Medicines: To avoid getting sick in between mountain voyages, pack all the necessary medicines for your Leh Ladakh itinerary of 7 days. 4. Hiking shoes: Whenever you are traveling to a hill station, it’s always recommended to carry hiking shoes. 5. Photography instruments (optional): Of course, you want to click the beautiful scenic view of this mountain land and capture all the memories. Therefore, photography instruments like a tripod, camera, and lenses should be a part of your backpack.

Planning a Trip To Ladakh, Checkout:  Manali Leh Srinagar Bike Trip

Things to Carry for a Ladakh Trip

1. Proper clothing: It’s difficult to survive in such a whimsical high altitude climate without carrying the necessary clothes. Besides taking heavy winter wear, include light woolen clothes, jackets, and cotton t-shirts in your bag for a 7 days Leh Ladakh itinerary. 2. Important documents: whether you are visiting Ladakh or any other places in the world, you should carry important documents such as I’d proofs, prescription, Passport, life insurance documents (if you have any). 3. Essential electronic devices: Power cuts and internet connection problems are a constant matter of concern here for decades. Hence, try to use a Post-Paid sim card and carry a torch, power bank always with you. 4. Toiletries: You can not find a grocery store there just by walking for 2 minutes. So, it’s better to pack your comb, brush, toothpaste, shampoo everything before leaving for the trip. 5. Enough cash: You will barely find an ATM there, so carry enough cash to explore Leh Ladakh in 7 days. 6. Eatables: Driving for a long journey can make you super hungry. Hence, carry some dry fruit while heading out for an adventurous expedition. Besides, you don’t want to feel sick while exploring the fascinating beauty of mountains. So, keep your medicines always with you while traveling to Ladakh.

If You are Planning Bike Trip In Ladakh, Checkout:  Manali to Leh Ladakh Bike Trip from Delhi

Where to Stay in Leh Ladakh

1. Grand Dragon Hotel: Grand Dragon is one of the most luxurious hotels existing in Ladakh. From every kind of modern amenities to the best quality food, the restaurant offers necessary comforts to the travelers. 2. Hotel Yak Tail: If you want to enjoy the whole panoramic view of Ladakh city from your balcony and experience the traditional ladakhi culture, Hotel Yak Tail has all the arrangements for you. 3. Hotel Singge Palace: want to experience the luxury of modern amenities with traditional ladakhi interior decoration? Hotel Singge palace can be the best destination for you. Located near the area of Leh market, the hotel offers world-class services with a breathtaking view of the mountain valley. 4. The Zen Ladakh: Situated just 2 miles away from Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, the Zen Ladakh is one of the best spots to stay in Ladakh. From free Wi-Fi to indoor heated swimming pool, the restaurant is the first choice for travelers visiting Ladakh.

Planning a Trip To Ladakh, Checkout:  Leh Ladakh Bike Trip Packages

Inner Line Permits

Your 7 days Leh Ladakh itinerary will be a total waste if you don’t get access to necessary inner line permits. Some restricted areas such as Khardung-La pass, Nubra Valley, Tso Moriri, and Pangong lake located in Indo-China and Indo-Pak borders require special permission to visit. However, you can get inner line permits easily from the official website of Leh Ladakh administration or you can get them from the permit office by providing all the necessary documents and Id proof.

If You are Planning Road Trip in Ladakh, Checkout:  Manali to Leh Ladakh Road Trip Packages

People Also Ask About Ladakh

How to visit leh ladakh in 7 days.

A 7 day trip to Leh Ladakh is the most common timeline that people choose for visiting this beautiful land of Himalayan valleys. You can start your journey by making a suitable plan for the 7 day Leh Ladakh itinerary. Day 1: Arrive in Leh and take rest Day 2: Drive from Leh to Sham Valley Day 3: Drive from Leh to Nubra Valley via Khardung-la pass. Day 4: Nubra Valley to pangong lake Day 5: Drive to Tso Moriri from Pangong Lake Day 6: Drive back to Leh from Tso Moriri. Day 7: Departure

How to plan a 7 day Ladakh itinerary for a bike trip from Manali to Leh?

If your urge to seek adventure in every tour asks for a long bike trip, you should plan a Leh Ladakh 7 days itinerary for a bike trip from Manali to Leh highway. Day 1: Arrive in Manali and take rest Day 2: Drive from Manali to Sarchu and explore the nearby areas Day 3: Continue driving from Sarchu to Leh and enjoy the scenery on the way. Day 4: Arrive in Leh and take rest or choose to explore nearby locations Day 5: Drive from Leh to Nubra Valley and catch some dramatic scenery Day 6: Drive from Nubra Valley to Pangong lake for camping overnight Day 7: Drive back to Leh from Pangong Lake and enjoy local food

How many days are enough for Leh Ladakh?

How much does it cost for a ladakh trip, what is the best time to visit leh ladakh, what are the best ladakh trip packages that we can book from thrilophilia.

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Sightseeing in ladakh.

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Ladakh Top Attractions

Heaven, Peace, Silence, and Tranquility at one place? Come and spend a few hours at Pangong Lake in Ladakh! A pristine place in Ladakh marked by subtle to high peaks around, crystal blue waters and the vast expansion catches the eye so much, so long as if a magic is happening right in front of the eyes. Let our Ladakh holiday packages transport you to this mesmerizing destination, where nature's grandeur unfolds in every corner.Pangong Lake, also known as Pangong Tso, lies calmly at a breathtaking elevation of 14,270 feet. Interestingly, the lake is 12 km long and marks itself between the laps of India and China. Rather, 60% of the portion is stretching in the neighboring nation and this excites every traveler to be here.The surreal clean blue waters are actually brackish or salty in nature and this feature doesn’t let any aquatic life survive in the same. Moreover, the temperature range between -30 to -10 degrees make even this salty lake freeze with thick ice sheets, which is quite opposite in case of salt ridden water bodies.This picturesque landscape location enhances its beauty with the arrival of migrating birds every year and attracts many travelers in search of adventure, photographs, bird-watching and chilling experience. Pangong has another unique and catchy feature; when it acts like a chameleon and changes its color from blue to green to even grey at times. The brackish water of Pangong attracts the migratory birds every year during winters in Ladakh.There is not a single reason to say No to this beauty once in a lifetime. And if you wish to repeat it again, it’s a blessing! 

One of the most beautiful parts of the moonscapes of Ladakh, Nubra Valley is a deep-cut gorge created by the combined effects of Shyok and Nubra (Siachen) rivers. A high altitude cold desert, Nubra Valley is actually an extension of the Tibetan Plateau (Qing-Zang Plateau) that starts in China and extends up to Ladakh. This valley in the plateau separates the Ladakh Range from the Karakoram Range. But more than anything, Nubra Valley is the most beautiful region in all of Ladakh. Home to wonders like the Diskit Monastery,Hunder Sand Dunes, Samstanling Gompa, Yarab Tso Lake, and the villages of Turtuk and Panamik.Located about 160 km from Leh, the capital of Ladakh, Nubra Valley is a great attraction to all those who come here. The gateway to the upper reaches of the country, especially Siachen, Nubra Valley has an oasis of a town in the heart, Diskit, making a great place to stop you and reflect at the beauty around. And while you are at it, take a short detour to the famous white sand dunes of Hunder. The shapes and forms that these dunes take during different times of the year mesmerize every visitor who comes here. To make it further interesting, there are the double-humped Bactrian Camels, offering rides through the dunes.And when it turns dusky, head to the Diskit Monastery and visit the towering statue of Maitreya Buddha which looks over the entire valley and blesses it for another day to come.Planning a Trip to Ladakh, Experience of Chadar Trek - The Frozen River Trek

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• 7 Bullets Narrating Our Tales Of Ladakh

The first few minutes of the halt and the silences were violated by strange noises. We tried to ignore them until they grew increasingly violent.  While we still held our grounds, a loud shriek echoed through the valley. It was Aditya — struck by an intense stomach ache with his tongue and eyes turning red. Cold shivers ran down our spine. Senses were numbed. Time, stopped.

It was just a random discussion which had made us college buddies realize that the Mecca of all road trips was yet to be lived — trip to the mighty Himalayas. What made the idea more challenging was the fact that the trip was about to be self-funded. A bold step for college-going guys, but with the internships and other part time jobs in the background, the idea which had now become more of a dream, was all set to be fulfilled. The journey was kicked off from the heat of Delhi to the cool of our next stop Manali, which made us curl in warm blankets in the month of August!  As the morning took over, the seven of us finally began the expedition on our Royal Enfields to the highest roads in the world.

A start in the twilight, light drizzle and the sound of our bullets — we couldn’t have asked for better. Neither could we, in our wildest dreams have imagined, what the future had in store for us. Blissfully ignorant, we rode alongside the most thrilling panoramas and reached Rohtang pass , only to find the roads washed away due to the preceding incessant rains, leaving behind a rough pile of rocks. Yet the high altitude passes along the way were a constant refreshment and a perfect food for amazing clicks. Tempted by the reigning beauty of the landscapes, we halted at all but one — the Baralacha pass. The reason you ask? We didn’t believe it until we experienced it.

Initially,we thought of challenging the influence of the pass’ creepy reputation and prior warnings, but as we were running a little behind schedule we consented to the idea of skipping the pass. On arriving at the camping site, we unexpectedly ran into three other groups heading towards Leh, who joined us in the night’s revelries – the music, the dance and the bonfire. People unknown until last night were now travel buddies and with the never ending roads and enchanting views, the trip was far exceeding expectations.

Braving the crossing rains and the fear of cloudbursts, we were making our way to Leh. Since our gang had grown considerably, we hired 3 more bikes and post 25 kms rocky ride, through the Hilltop that said, “highest motorable road in the world” — we reached Khardung La Pass . We had never realised the hype about the place until we experienced it first-hand. Lost in the fantastical views, our 2 hours stay at the place got immortalized by photography sessions and the maggi serving shack (read : café). We were now starting to rejoice the fact that we had exploited this opportunity to the fullest, conquering everything, until the Baralacha Pass came up in a discussion. In order to quench this adventure fetish, we decided to face Baralacha, on our way back. Everything, was yet to be conquered.

The oxygen levels were low and the weather was opposing our speed. Yet, we managed to continue our journey without a stop in spite of the danger of a sandstorm lurking on one side and possibility of cloudburst on the other but only until Baralacha pass.

So here we were again — the forlorn beauty that we had skipped earlier because of its reputation. Donning a brave face, we were determined on overcoming the hesitation. It were Aditya’s shrieks that shook us into action. We took off immediately, deciding not to stop before the next army base. On reaching the base, our friend in pain was not only given instant medical attention but was offered a ride on an army truck on its way to Manali , since he was in no condition to travel on a bike. With zero vision while crossing Rohtang Pass and rain in full flow, we were driving at around 20-25 kmph eager to reunite with Aditya. At Manali, we found him all fit and fine — bereft of any trace of the phantasmic experience.

As we continued our retreat journey, violent rains were setting into the quaint of serene roads. Heights were flaunting their victory over vicious depths. We were quiet and strangely satisfied, as though we had surpassed the greatest heights or the deepest lows. It was the murmur of our bikes, narrating our story.

Frequently Questions Asked About Road Trip To Ladakh

Can we go to Ladakh by car?

Yes, you can visit Ladakh in your own car. The roads are well-maintained and you can easily drive and reach Ladakh. You can plan your road trip between June to September as the roads are closed in other months.

Which are the best hotels in Ladakh?

The most popular hotels in Leh Ladakh where you can stay are The Grand Dragon, The Zen, Gomang Boutique Hotel, Hotel Lasermo, and Hotel City Palace.

Which is the best month to go Ladakh?

To make the most of your Ladakh trip, you must plan your vacation between September to October. To witness the ravishing beauty of Ladakh these months are perfect but if you are planning a road trip then you should plan it in September as the roads are closed in October.

Are private cars allowed in Leh?

Yes, private cars are allowed in Leh. From the markets to the major attractions, you can take your private car anywhere. Taxis from other states are not allowed for sightseeing purposes and you will have to hire a local taxi while exploring the region.

What are the documents required if I take my own vehicle to Leh and Ladakh?

The documents that you must have on your Ladakh road trip are Driving License, Vehicle registration papers, Pollution Under Control proof, Vehicle insurance papers, Aadhar card, and PAN card. You may need a passport size photo and passport as well.

Which are the best restaurants in Ladakh?

To savor the local food, you must dine at the remarkable restaurants in Ladakh. Some of the best restaurants are The Tibetan Kitchen, Gesmo Restaurant, Chopsticks Noodle Bar, Bon Appetit, and Little Italy.

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An Epic Road Trip to Ladakh from Delhi | Ladakh Road Trip planning, routes & tips

One of the most common questions that I get as a traveler is – Which is the best road trip you have done – especially in India? My answer is a constant – it is the Delhi to Ladakh road trip done over 12 days. In fact, it is one circuit that is almost always included in the best road trips in India. The sheer diversity of the landscapes, steep climbs, off-road experiences, and interesting pit-stops on the Ladakh trip by road is what makes it so memorable and unique. Truly speaking, this is why, even in my Leh Ladakh guide , I have highly recommended a road trip to Ladakh.

While the Ladakh road trip sounds ethereal, it is not a very straightforward one. Its tough terrestrial conditions do require a fair bit of preparation – which ranges from health precautions to getting the right vehicle and pre-booked stays to spend your evenings. You will need to head out at the crack of dawn on most days to cover long distances on this Ladakh trip by road. However, trust me when I say it is going to be all worth it. Those 12 days of my own Delhi to Ladakh road trip were so memorable that given a chance – I would do it all over again. Maybe though this time – it would be a Bangalore to Ladakh road trip. 🙂

This guide to an epic road trip to Ladakh is a memoir of sorts – I will be sharing my own day-wise itinerary of the road trip to Ladakh, the misadventures that I ran into ( and they were fun! ), and lessons learned from my own experience. The Ladakh road trip guide will also, include all the possible routes that you can take from Delhi to Leh, their pros and cons and the best time to do this trip. In short, it will help you will all that you need to plan a road trip to Ladakh. So, let’s begin with a quick introduction to our main destination Ladakh.

• 1 About Ladakh
• 2 Essential tips for a Ladakh trip by road
• 3.1.1 The Pros of a road trip from Srinagar to Leh
• 3.1.2 The Cons of the Srinagar to Leh road trip
• 3.2.1 The Pros of a road trip from Manali to Leh
• 3.2.2 The Cons of the Srinagar to Leh road trip
• 4.1 Day 1 of the Ladakh Road Trip – Delhi to Jammu
• 4.2 Day 2 of the road trip to Ladakh – From Jammu to Sonamarg
• 4.3 Day 3 – Zipping through Sonamarg to Kargil
• 4.4 Day 4 of the Delhi Ladakh road trip – the first feel of Ladakh
• 4.5 Day 5- A rest day in Leh
• 4.6 Day 6 on the Delhi to Ladakh road trip – Heading to Nubra Valley
• 4.7.1 Nubra Valley to Pangong Via Leh & Chang La Pass.
• 4.7.2 Nubra Valley to Pangong Via Shyok
• 4.8 Day 8 of Ladakh trip by road – All about Changthang Valley & Tso Moriri
• 4.9 Day 9 of the Leh Ladakh road trip from Delhi – A touchdown at Keylong
• 4.10 Day 10 on the Ladakh trip by car – Keylong to Manali
• 4.11 Day 11 – Return to Delhi from Manali
• 5 Common FAQs for the Road Trip to Ladakh
• 6 Can we go to Ladakh by car?
• 7 Which car is the best for a Ladakh trip?
• 8 Can we take sedan to Ladakh?
• 9 How many days is Leh Ladakh road trip?
• 10 Is a road trip to Ladakh safe?
• 11 Booking Resources

About Ladakh

Simply put, Ladakh is like the crown of India. Next to the Union territory of Jammu & Kashmir , this is a region that is bound by different mountain ranges on all sides. Naturally, it has a name that befits Ladakh –  Land of High Passes . The entire region is quite remote and you will find a lot of Tibetan settlements here. While traversing through the region. you will need to be careful as you are treading along the borders of our neighboring countries. The largest city here is Leh followed by Kargil. The entire region is at a high altitude and visiting here is bound to give you a very different perspective of India. I can promise you that this is one unexplored and stunning part of India.

READ THIS ESSENTIAL LADAKH TRAVEL GUIDE

Road trip or not, if you are traveling to Ladakh, you will need this ultimate guide to Leh Ladakh. It captures everything – from what to see, where to stay, best time to visit and more.

Essential tips for a Ladakh trip by road

Before you get deeper into the details of this road trip to Ladakh, I urge you to first read my detailed travel guide to Ladakh . This has a lot of information on a basic visit to Ladakh including a packing list, the best time to visit Ladakh, the Inner-Line Permits etc. The Ladakh travel guide will help you better prepare for your entire trip. However, in addition to those tips, do make a note of these specific ones pertaining to a Ladakh trip by road.

• Choice of Vehicles – The best car for a Ladakh trip would be a 4×4 drive like a Scorpio, Jeep, Thar etc. In the case of bikes, I have heard that the best ones to enjoy a Delhi Ladakh road trip would be sturdy bikes like Bullets or Royal Enfields. Given the high altitudes, steep roads and in some cases, no roads at all, you need a vehicle with high pick-up capacity and an ability to handle off-roading.
• Expert Driver – Remember these are not straightforward roads. You will encounter narrow ghats, pin curves, tunnels, and slippery mountainous stretches – all through the trip. You need to be an expert driver or at least hire one who can take you around safely.
• Pre-trip servicing of the vehicles – Irrespective of whichever vehicle you choose, ensure that you have serviced it well before you start from Delhi. The large lonely stretches on this road trip to Ladakh are devoid of garages and sometimes, even fuel stations. You really do not want to get stuck owing to some vehicle issue.
• Tool Kits – Ensure you have your puncture repair kits , neon signals and other essential tools required for a smooth car experience packed and ready.
• Snacks for the road – a definite must. Once you leave Jammu or Manali ( depending on the route you take for your Ladakh trip ), you will not have many restaurants or cafes on the road. Keep a lot of water with you, especially to help you with acclimatization.
• Battery packs & chargers – Cannot stress enough about these. You will need this for your mobiles, which do tend to drain faster when you have your GPS on and also, owing to the cold weather.

These road trip tips are quite important for this Ladakh trip. There are, of course, the general tips that I have listed here which are also, applicable. Consider using t his post as your final checklist for this road trip.

Planning the best routes for your Delhi to Ladakh road trip

There are two main routes that you can take to get to Ladakh from Delhi – the Srinagar to Leh route and the Manali to Ladakh route. If you are doing a Delhi Ladakh round trip, then you can actually use both the routes – one while going and the other while returning from Ladakh. This is how I had done 12 days of my Ladakh road trip.

Many people also prefer a one-way road trip to Leh Ladakh while taking the flight as an option to either get to Leh or return back from it. Given that scenario, let me give you a gist of the pros and cons of the two routes so that you can make a wise choice. I have also, clearly recommend which of these routes are better suited for your onward or return journey from Delhi.

Road trip to Ladakh from Delhi via Srinagar

The total distance from Delhi to Ladakh via Srinagar is around 1035 km and it takes around 22 hours to get to Leh. The route goes through Haryana, Punjab, Jammu, Srinagar, Sonmarg and Kargil – allowing you to see the best of Kashmir valleys with its snow-capped Himalayas, verdant valleys and the pretty glaciers melting into gushing rivers. This is definitely a better route to take, especially if you are on your way to Leh from Delhi and you will soon see why.

The Pros of a road trip from Srinagar to Leh

• The driving distances are fairly balanced, allowing you to reach the bigger cities well in time for your night halts.
• The rise in altitude is gradual, allowing you to better acclimatize and avoid AMS .
• The roads are not so deserted and have quite a few petrol bunks as well as small towns along the way.

The Cons of the Srinagar to Leh road trip

• The slightly volatile situation in Srinagar can sometimes create a hassle. However, one can always choose to skip Srinagar and drive past it to Sonmarg.
• Slightly less adventurous in terms of the drive as compared to the Leh-Manali route.

Road trip to Ladakh from Manali

If you actually look at the distance of a Ladakh trip from Delhi via Manali, it will definitely seem lesser. With around 770 km, you might assume that you will reach Leh faster. However, this isn’t the case. Owing to the steeper climb, you are likely to take as long as the Srinagar stretch to get to Leh. No doubt that the new Atal Tunnel has made this stretch easier but you definitely will be missing out on some of the most stunning views of Rohtang pass if you take the tunnel. After all, the whole point of the road trip is to enjoy the passing vistas.

This route is best suited for your journey from Leh to Delhi.

The Pros of a road trip from Manali to Leh

• The driving distance though shorter tends to be a little more strenuous. For one, the climb is steeper and two, there are longer stretches to cover before a night halt – especially the Keylong to Leh stretch.
• One can save around 3.5 hours if they take the newly constructed Atal tunnel from Manali to Keylong instead of Rohtang pass.
• The rise in altitude is steep, even without Rohtang pass. One has to be extremely careful when traveling toward Leh.
• The roads can be quite isolated with just army camps and a few Maggi tents along the way.
• There are a lot of ghats and loops on this route. One needs to be very careful while driving.

A day-wise Leh Ladakh road trip itinerary

With Delhi as your start point, you can pretty much follow the same Ladakh road trip itinerary that I did. Keep aside 12 days for this end-to-end journey – one that I promise will be one of the best road trips that you can do. Going forward, I am going to detail the entire road trip to Ladakh from Delhi in a day-wise manner, giving you enough details on what to see along the way and where to book your night halts. As mentioned in the above section, I used both routes to do this trip. For my onward journey from Delhi to Leh, I used the Srinagar route. The Manali route is what I used for my return trip.

So fasten your seat belts and embark on this stunning Delhi to Ladakh road trip.

Day 1 of the Ladakh Road Trip – Delhi to Jammu

The first day of any road trip is always filled with energy and excitement. Frankly, that is enough for you to get up early and leave the city by 5 am. You can hit the NH44 as early as possible and reach Murthal by around 7 am. Grab your breakfast here – there are tons of Dhabbas and food courts on the highway serving your piping hot parathas with dollops of butter. Continue towards Ludhiana on the same NH 44. You are most likely going to be driving for 4 hours.

I highly recommend you take your lunch break here before proceeding to Pathankot. Again, avoid going into the city and stick to the food courts on the way. Pathankot is around 3 hours on the same NH 44 highway. Fuel up here if you need to or just stretch your legs with a cup of hot tea. Continue on the same highway for another 3 hours and you will reach your first night halt at Jammu Tavi.

This stretch of a road trip from Delhi to Leh has a lot of big towns and less scenery. For me, the high spirits on the first day of an epic road trip to Ladakh were enough to make up for this. Plus, a raucous bunch of fellow travelers singing raunchy songs from the 80s and 90s kept the whole journey so lively that before I knew it, I was in Jammu. I stayed at one of the many Oyo hotels in Jammu Tavi – which was comfortable for the night halt. You can look through this link to find one that best suits you.

Day 2 of the road trip to Ladakh – From Jammu to Sonamarg

Now begins the dreamy part of the Ladakh trip by car. While your total drive time is just around 8 hours, I still recommend an early start on Day two – primarily so that you get some time for sightseeing in Srinagar. Also, the early start will help you make up for any other unforeseen delays owing to the army movement on this route.

Hit the NH 44 again towards Udhampur. This stretch takes around 1.5 hours. I don’t recommend a stop here and suggest you continue on towards the famous Chenani- Nashri Tunnel – one of the longest tunnels in India. This tunnel is also known as the Patnitop tunnel while its official name is Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee tunnel. The tunnel reduces your distance on the Jammu -Srinagar stretch by 30 km and the travel time by almost 2 hours. The smooth connection is around 9 km long and quite exciting to drive through.

Past the tunnel, continue on towards Ramban town where you can grab a bite at one of the many hotels along the Chenab river. The total drive time from Udhampur to Ramban is around 2.5 hours. The tunnel is exactly midway between these two towns. Ensure you take your biobreak here for the next leg of the journey will take you over 3 hours to Srinagar. By now, you would have begun seeing the mighty Himalayas. As you proceed further, the brown hill tops will slowly change to mesmerizing green valleys bordered by snowcapped mountains. This is when you need to take those frequent photo stops to admire the various viewpoints.

However, be careful while stopping along the highway as there are numerous restrictions. You might find a lot of army patrols along the way, stopping you and asking you for your identification. Keep your personal IDs handy as well as the car papers sorted ( insurance, permits, registrations and licenses ). Once you reach Srinagar and assume things are quiet there, spend some time by Dal lake or take a tour of the Shalimar gardens.

The last leg of this Ladakh trip by road on Day two is the most scenic of the lot. As you leave Srinagar towards Sonamarg, you will see the actual reason why Kashmir is termed as Paradise on earth . I just could not have enough of those stunning glaciers that melt into streams right before your eyes. In fact, it was on this stretch that we made the maximum photostops – all in an attempt to capture the verdant vista.

We chose Sonamarg as our final stop for Day Two as Srinagar had a little turmoil happening. Ideally, it would have been great if I had managed to follow the plan I outlined above to the T. However, to our bad luck, we faced a major roadblock owing to a landslide – just after Ramban. This forced us to make an unscheduled night halt in this tiny town. With the loss in time, we had to zip past the scenic stretch to Srinagar – where I wish we had time to stop and click. Driving from Ramban to Srinagar made me feel as if I were traveling through the meadows of Switzerland. The scenes here were absolutely breathtaking and a true testament to the phrase “ Paradise on Earth ”

If you have gone as per the original plan, you can check into a hotel in Sonamarg – many of them are listed on this link .

Day 3 – Zipping through Sonamarg to Kargil

Sigh! Well, I had to do a quick tour of Sonamarg as we reached there a day later than planned – thanks to the landslide. I do hope you have better luck than me and wake up to those enchanting clouds in the meadows of Sonamarg. You can actually start at leisure and spend the morning sightseeing in and around Sonamarg. Leave after a good lunch and head out on NH1 towards the mighty Zojila Pass . This pass marks your entrance to the Union Territory of Ladakh.

The Zoji La Pass is a very significant pass – not just because it connects Kashmir to Ladakh but also, for the fact that it is considered to be one of the most dangerous mountain passes. It is at an altitude of 11,575ft above sea level and is around 25.8 km long. The zigzag road is so narrow that sometimes it allows only one vehicle to pass through – which is why you have to be extremely careful when you drive on it. The pass is closed during winters owing to heavy snowfall. Sometimes, even during spring or summer, it might be temporarily blocked. One should check at army checkpoints of Sonamarg or Baltal before proceeding on the pass. Also, remember the pass closes by 5 pm

Despite the dangerous stretch, one cannot help but gasp at the bewitching valley below – sometimes packed with the colorful tents of people heading for the famous Amarnath yatra . There are one or two vantage points along the pass, where you can stop for a minute or so and enjoy the stunning backdrop of the Himalayas. Once you are past the Zojila Pass, stop at the famous Zero point. This is one stretch that is cold throughout the year. In fact, it is called so because no vegetation is able to survive the extreme temperature.

This is where we chose to stretch our feet. A few photos to remember the crazy adventure and we were soon on our way to Drass – the coldest place in India and the 2nd coldest one to be inhabited on earth. This is where you need to make time for the Kargil War Memorial . This is located right on the highway and is a must-visit destination. Warning though – it is extremely melancholic and it is hard to hold back tears when you listen to the story of the Kargil war, right in front of the very hill it happened.

After the memorial, just take a short break at Drass to refuel yourself and head straight to Kargil. Once in Kargil, you can check into a hotel and relax for the day. Kargil is a lovely city by itself and I highly recommend walking around the river area and the marketplace.

The one thing that you must be cognizant of on this stretch is that your ascent is gradually increasing. Keep drinking a lot of water and avoid strenuous activity to ensure you are not hit by AMS. It is best to avoid smoking and alcohol for the day.

Day 4 of the Delhi Ladakh road trip – the first feel of Ladakh

Though your drive time is just 4 hours, it is best to get an early start from Kargil. The key reason for this is that there are numerous attractions on this stretch of the road trip to Ladakh and a few of them will require time. Again, remember to keep drinking water as you will still be ascending towards Leh.

Fuel up at Kargil and head straight to Mulbekh monastery. In around 45 minutes, you will see a large stone carving of Lord Buddha and that is the Mulbekh monastery. From here, head straight to the Fotu La Pass. A swarm of prayer flags will greet you and invite you to step out and take the surrounding view of the Zanskar range of Himalayas. This is the highest point of the Srinagar – Leh highway and a perfect place to admire how the Ladakh landscape is a huge contrast to the green valleys of Kashmir.

Follow the zigzag roads till you reach the village of Lamayuru. Plan to take a break here for lunch and explore the oldest monastery of Ladakh. The monastery will take around 45 minutes or so and thus, it is better to order your meal at the restaurants near L amayuru monastery before embarking on the tour. Post lunch, stop at the base of the monastery to take in the view of Moonland ( called so owing to the texture of the mountains ).

The next leg of the journey will take around 1.5 hours to the outskirts of Leh. I, however, felt as if it were just 30 minutes – thanks to the stunning and everchanging colors of the landscape. Before I knew it, I was at Nimmoo, taking in the distinct colors of the Zanskar-Indus confluence . After a quick photo-op, you can continue on and experience the Magnetic hill on the way to Leh. Just after the Magnetic hill, remember to stop at the Pathar Sahib Gurudwara. You can enjoy a little refreshment before heading straight to Leh and checking into your hotel. The Gurudwara serves food for free and is maintained by the Indian army.

Leh has a lot of hotels to choose from. You can check this link and book directly using the same.

Day 5- A rest day in Leh

Day 5 in Leh is all about acclimatization to the high altitude. It is best to take it easy and enjoy the city at a slow pace. You can explore the Leh market, visit the famous Leh Royal Palace and the Shanti Stupa or even the Hall of Fame museum in Leh. However, try to keep an even pace and not tire yourself.

While in Leh, apply for your I nner Line Permits either directly or through your hotel. You will need to get permits for your visits to Nubra Valley, Tso Moriri and Pangong Lake. Refer to this link to know more about the Inner line permits.

Day 6 on the Delhi to Ladakh road trip – Heading to Nubra Valley

Do not go by the drive time on this stretch as you are bound to make many many photo stops. The journey to Nubra Valley is filled with surreal beauty. Start early from Leh and head straight to one of the highest motorable mountain passes in the world – Khardung La. You can stop for a few minutes here to capture your moment but be extremely wary of the altitude. Avoid staying for more than 10 minutes. After Khardung La, you will actually be making a descent, and might find the ride extremely enjoyable.

You can take a refreshment break at Khalsar before heading to Diskit. The drive from Khalsar to Diskit is very scenic with the Shyok river flowing and the beginning of the cold sand dunes. In fact, I would call it ethereal – especially since the landscape changed from green valleys to red sand mountains to finally white deserts. Here and there you will be able to spot calm lakes with those perfect reflections and if you are lucky like me, then you will even see wild horses around. At Diskit, follow the path to the large Maitreyi Buddha statue – one that you will be able to spot from far away.

Spend an hour or so exploring Diskit monastery before making your way to Hunder. Check into your Nubra valley stay (you can book on here) and relax for the rest of the day amid the white sand dunes surrounded by gorgeous mountains in the company of the famous double-hump Bactrian camels – ones that are usually found here.

A must-mention event that took place during my Ladakh trip by road on this stretch was the Highest Bloggers meet – a feat that has got recorded in the India Book of Records. 20 of us – fellow bloggers were invited for a meeting at the Khardung La Pass by Oyo rooms and ScoutMyTrip. It was quite a gathering when we unfurled our banner at the top of 2nd highest Motorable Pass in the world. Definitely a memory that has been imprinted for life!

READ THROUGH THIS GUIDE ON NUBRA VALLEY

Nubra valley is a destination by itself. This guide to Nubra Valley Ladakh tells you all that you need to know about it – from places to see to tips on where to stay.

Day 7- Nubra to Pangong Lake

2 different routes and the same drive time? Well, do not go by the theoretical drive time and distance. The two routes differ widely in terms of challenges and Ladakh attractions that you can see along the way . The original plan during my own road trip to Ladakh was to take route two – via Shyok but as luck be, the road was not well done and there was tremendous flooding of the river making this particular stretch undrivable. Therefore, I travelled to Pangong via Chang La Pass. In your case, you can make the decision based on your own preference after you read through the two routes below.

Nubra Valley to Pangong Via Leh & Chang La Pass.

If you plan to take this route, leave as early as you can after breakfast. You will be driving all the way through Khardung La to Leh. Grab an early lunch at Leh and head towards Kharoo. On the way, plan to stop at my personal favorite – Thicksey Monastery. It is hard to resist this picturesque place and trust me when I say, exploring it from within is so worth it. However, be aware that if you do decide to do Thiksey monastery, you will have to skip the other attraction – Hemis Monastery , which is also, on the way. You can do either one of them else, you will be pressed for time.

Past Kharoo, you will begin your ascent to the highest motorable pass – Chang La. You can stop for a few minutes on the top and then continue on towards Durbuk and Tangste to finally reach Pangong Lake. The ascent and descent of this Pass is fairly smooth with good roads but it does slow you down in terms of driving. Also, if there is flooding on the way, then you will have a fair bit of off-roading that you might have to do to cross a few streams – like I had to. True that it has its own thrill but it definitely slows you down.

Also, do stop by to see the friendly marmots, who keep popping up along the way.

Nubra Valley to Pangong Via Shyok

For those of you who want to avoid the high altitude ascent and descent at Khardung La and Chang La, this route via Shyok is a good option. I believe now the roads are fairly well done, making this a far easier drive. For this, you can leave a little later from Nubra and travel up to Khalsar. At this point, there is a bifurcation that takes you away from Khardung La towards Shyok Village. From the village you can directly hit Durbuk and then Tangste – all the way to Pangong Lake.

On this route, you will have Shyok river keeping you company all the way to the village. There are no major attractions to stop as such but you will find enough of picturesque spots for a quick photo shoot.

Your night halt in Pangong will most likely be in Tangste or by the tents around the Lake. Remember to bundle up well as the temperatures even in summer tend to go to single digits. You can find your accommodation through this link .

A GUIDE TO PANGONG LAKE

This detailed guide on Pangong Lake – aka 3 idiots lake has all the necessary information you will need for your visit here. From what to pack to where to stay and what to expect.

Day 8 of Ladakh trip by road – All about Changthang Valley & Tso Moriri

Be prepared for a day of completely raw and rugged beauty. Catch the morning sunrise at Pangong lake where within minutes, you will see the sun kissed lake changing colors from an orange-streaked gray to a beautiful bright blue. Fill yourself with a good breakfast and carry some for the road too for going forward, you will find no restaurant or town. The entire day is all about driving through lands that you might have only seen on television – or possibly in your dreams.

From Pangong Tso, head towards Merak and then Chushul. At Chushul , you can stop at the Rezang La War Memorial ( also, called Chushul War Memorial ) – erected in honor of the soldiers who lost their lives during the 1962 Indo-China war. You can take the break to freshen up before turning towards the Leh – Manali highway. This entire area is very close to the China border and hence, stick to the main roads only.

The drive from Chushul to Nyoma is absolutely stunning – with sometimes no road and only dirt tracks. This is where you will see wide desolate patches surrounded by mountains and the only inhabitants in sight are Wild horses and marmots and maybe, a few mountain goats. From Nyoma, head towards Sumdo and finally the only road to Karzok – aka Tso Moriri. You will be traveling along the road with Indus river flowing beside you.

If you found Pangong Lake cold, Tso Moriri will be freezing. It is after all the highest altitude lake. Be prepared with warm clothing. There are only tented accommodation here – which you will have to pre-book in Leh.

Day 9 of the Leh Ladakh road trip from Delhi – A touchdown at Keylong

Be prepared for a long long drive. However, enjoy it as much as you can for this is the last of Ladakh that you will see before you head back to Delhi via the Leh- Manali route. The road back is fairly good and smooth, with very little off-roading. You will pass by Tso Kar – another high-altitude salt water lake and then hit More Plains. One of my biggest highs on my Delhi to Ladakh road trip was driving through More Plains. The stretch is an absolute bliss for bikers.

You can choose to take a night halt at Pang, if you do not want to drive more but I recommend clearing Pang and doing the famous Gata loops to Sarchu. You can always stay in Sarchu if you are tired, else continue on to Keylong. We personally stayed in Keylong and started a bit late the next day. The little break in the morning did do wonders to us.

The few sights that you must look out for include the very Petra like landforms from More Plains to Pang, the 21 hair-pin bends of Gata loops, the ghost temple of Gata Loops at the 19th bend and the Suraj Tal lake before you hit Keylong. While the sights might be self-explanatory, a little lore about the Ghost temple of Gata Loops. The temple is identified by the mounds of plastic bottles at the 19th loop. They say that a truck driver died in the cold long back and even now his soul walks around asking for water. So, as a mark of good luck, drivers on the loop leave behind water or cigarettes at the mound. 😉

There are plenty of restaurants that you will find at Pang, Sarchu and Keylong. You can also, use these places to freshen up on the journey.

Day 10 on the Ladakh trip by car – Keylong to Manali

To be honest, when I did my Delhi Ladakh road trip, I did not have the option of Atal tunnel. The tunnel was completed in the subsequent years, and thus, the only route that I could take was via the lovely Rohtang pass. To be honest, I would still want to do this – purely for the pristine views which include fabulous waterfalls, green valleys and snow capped mountains. However, it is a steep climb.

If you take the Atal tunnel route, you can completely by pass the Rohtang pass and the climb, as well as cut short your distance by a good 2 hours. Of course, the choice is completely up to you. In case you are driving from Pang or Sarchu, the Atal tunnel would definitely ease your drive time.

Given the shorter drive, you can spend some time doing sightseeing in Manali. While there are several hotels in Manali that take you to the center of the town, I would recommend staying a little away, closer to the highway. I stayed in this lovely property by the Beas river. You can find that as well as other Manali hotels through this link

Day 11 – Return to Delhi from Manali

To be honest, this is just a long drive home where you reflect on the lovely memories of those mountains that you have seen over the last 10 days. In some ways, it was pretty depressing to know that I was at the end of my epic Ladakh trip. I wished that we could have spent a little more time, delayed our departure a little bit but then I know there was no end to it.

The Manali to Delhi stretch can be done in half a day, as the roads are very smooth and include toll highways. However, if you still want to cut it down, you can do a night halt at Chandigarh. Keep your PUC certificate handy when in Chandigarh as they are very strict about it and you might be hauled over for a check.

Technically, you are done with the trip in 11 days . The extra day on the Ladakh road trip is required only as a buffer – should you have any landslides, break-downs or similar situations. As you can see, the terrain is tough and it always better do add that extra day.

Well, that is it from me in terms of the Ladakh road trip itinerary. A quick hop over to the FAQs section and then, just remember to pin this ultimate guide to a road trip to Ladakh.

Common FAQs for the Road Trip to Ladakh

Can we go to ladakh by car.

Yes, you can. In fact, I highly recommend a Ladakh trip by car to enjoy the beautiful terrain. Though it might be a difficult drive in parts, with the right precautions and planning, the road trip by car will be very enjoyable.

Which car is the best for a Ladakh trip?

I would highly recommend a sturdy SUV like Tata Hexa or Scorpio for a Ladakh trip. A 4×4 wheel drive is what will help you steer through the tough terrain where sometimes you only have a rocky stretch. You need a powerful engine to climb up the steep slopes as well as a good fuel capacity – mostly because there are large stretches without any fuel bunks in sight.

Can we take sedan to Ladakh?

Yes, one can drive a sedan to Ladakh. However, it will take an extra effort and care to drive through those steep slopes and rugged roads.

How many days is Leh Ladakh road trip?

Keep aside at least 12 days for a Leh Ladakh road trip from Delhi. If all goes well, you can complete the circuit from Delhi to Leh and back in 11 days but it is always good to keep a day extra for any detours or unforseen circumstances

Is a road trip to Ladakh safe?

A Ladakh road trip is quite safe, despite the tough terrain. You just have to ensure that you have planned your route properly and taken all the right precautions – not just for your car but also, for your health.

Before you go, Pin this

Booking Resources

• Booking.com has a lot of options for your stay in Leh Ladakh. You can use this link to browse through the various listings across Leh, Kargil, Hunder, Pangong and more.
• Another good resource for your hotels in Leh Ladakh is Agoda.com . This link allows you to book your chosen hotel directly
• Viator.com has quite a few listings of tours from Leh – including car rentals, bike tours etc. So, if you are not looking to drive all the way, you can consider booking some of these online through this link .
• If you are looking to buy any of your home or travel requirements from Amazon , do consider clicking through my affiliate link and getting there. Remember it will not cost you anything additional but will keep my website going.

Popularly referred to as a Restless Ball of Energy. My Mom refuses to entertain my complaints about my equally restless daughter & assures my husband that I was born with a travel bug.

I am a Post-Graduate in Marketing by qualification and a travel blogger by passion. Besides travel, I enjoy photography and if you don’t find me at my desk, I would be out playing badminton or swimming or just running. I believe in planning for every long weekend through the year. And when I cannot travel physically, I travel virtually through this travel blog. My travel stories have also, got published on various websites and magazines including BBC Travel, Lonely Planet India and Jetwings. I have recently published my first book – When Places Come Alive – a collection of stories that are based on legends, landscapes, art and culture of a place which is available in both ebook and paperback format.

118 thoughts on “An Epic Road Trip to Ladakh from Delhi | Ladakh Road Trip planning, routes & tips”

This is probably the only road trip I have been on, where not a single song from my actual playlist got played. You all heard the #compliment version of the playlist, but it didn’t seem to matter too much. The company on the trip, and songs everyone sang more than made up for that. I also didn’t sit behind the wheel even once and that did not matter too strangely. When I look back on this trip, the only thing that I really remember are the precious moments we all had with each other. We really got to know one another, and put up with each one’s idiosyncrasies. We went as 20 individuals but came back as one group. That is the first reason for me to call this trip a success.

The trip to Tso Moriri, the only thing crossing our minds was to see you guys in piece. The Chushul sector is not known to be too friendly. That was the only reason for us to make a run; and we were prepared enough to camp out in the night in case we did not make it to the Korzok village. That would have been an experience too! But it’s usually just Deepak and I who get caught in those situations.

One thing about the trip we could do better next time around is probably have some more maggi.

All I can say Vineet is that you guys just knew how to get us to have fun and create memories for life. Have always and will always look forward to going #AageSeRight with you guys. I know there will always be adventures along those lanes.

Never been but thanks for adding to my intrigue! Beautiful pictures. Can’t wait to come back to it later when i’m headed that way!

Thanks Anna and you most definitely should keep aside time for Ladakh when in India.

लद्दाख मेरा देखा हुआ है लेकिन लेकिन उसके बाद भी जब किसी और के ब्लॉग या फोटो देखने का या यात्रा सुनने का मौका लगता है तो अपनी यात्रा याद आती है और ऐसा लगता है कि हम दुबारा उसी लोक में पहुंच गए हैं और यात्रा का आनंद उठा रहे हैं,

I know the feeling. I also, want to go back again. Thanks Sandeep for stopping by

ladakh is now on the bucketlist!!! thanks for the awesome share. photos are fantastic!!! great work 🙂

Thank you Lloyd. Rightfully in your list.

Loved reading yours and the teams exploits as the action continues in part-2. Indeed an amazing journey with experiences to cherish for a lifetime. I loved the picture of the horse near the Indus river, he looks so free and without a care in the world against the wilderness.

There are so many natural scens that I am still awaiting to share. It was one hell of a place. Thanks for stopping by Sandy and Vyjay

This is a very comprehensive itinerary of a road trip to Ladakh. Many people fly directly there. But in my opinion, the road trip has a charm of it’s own which nothing else can beat. By the way, couldn’t help staring for long at your beautiful snaps. Very well captured!!

Thank you Neha. Glad you liked the account. I still have loads to share. Will do so in bits and pieces.

Yet another beautifully written blog from you Ami ! Ladakh’s uniqueness can’t really be covered in a single trip or even two. Every time you visit you will learn something new. Our role here was to try and get as much info about the places we visited to all of you. Hope we succeeded to an extent while making sure all of you were safe. But hats off to the entire bunch ! Most hardened travellers have had difficulty in travelling on such terrain for days on end. But this team just did not complain. It was a fun fest for all of us ! Let’s do this again.

Thank you Deepak for initiating this and making it fun for all of us. Vineet and Your impeccable planning and crisis management really went a long way in making this trip a huge success. As always, I shall be ready to go #AageSeRight again with you guys. Till then, shall keep writing my memoirs down 🙂

Good post, good photos. Keep it up, Ami. You have a flair for words. Finally, you have been Lehed.

LOL…Thanks Swayam

Awesome post. Loved reading about your experience. And stunning pictures 🙂

Thank you Purba. Glad you liked it

What an incredible road trip. I love off-the-beaten-track roadies and this one certainly tops any I have done. The photography is beautiful, too.

Thanks Mike and since you like the off the beaten track ones, this is perfect for you. Must try it in India.

Thank you for sharing this epic journey with us, Ami. The road to Ladakh looks like quite the adventure!

It definitely was Doreen and I can so do it all over again!

What fun trip and great anecdotes ! You really make memories that last you a long time when you take road trips. Lovely captures too !

Don’t we know that better Swati. Another of my favorite trips is our Great Rajasthan tour. Can never forget those trips. Ladakh was spectacular nonetheless.

ha ha, true !

Ladakh has always been on my bucket list. These photographs are just breathtaking. It just bumped Ladakh up the list. Thanks a lot for sharing.

Trust me, you ain’t see nothing. These pictures are just the tip and the real thing is even more amazing. You gotta go Lakshmi

awesome post and beautifully captured every moment

Thank you Mayuri

I miss my trip to Himachal too. I can’t just forget the views just like the ones you have taken during a road trip to Ladakh. I remember how our last day was sombre just like how you felt. We just didn’t want the trip to end. Scout my trip was very well organised and they knew exactly what to do.

Mountains do have a hold on you as I discovered. I sure can understand your feelings. Sigh! ScoutMyTrip was really well prepared and that is what made the whole trip such a success! Thanks for stopping by Soumya

What a very long and memorable road trip you had. Such an aamzing adventure and I enjoyed the photographs in this post. The scenes are all picturesque and wonderful. It’s a long journey wherein your eyes are filled with beautiful panorama, breathtaking landscape and have inner peace. What an amazing journey you had, I hope I’ll experience this kind of road trip too.

Thank you Blaine. It sure was an epic trip and yes, I do wish one for you too. It does leave you with so many lifetime memories.

Whoa! 11 days of solid fun and excitement! The scenic beauty all around is mesmerizing and the pictures are so full of enjoyment. I too could have been a part of this if I could spare this stretch of time.

It was fantastic Indrani. You would have had a lovely time. But yes, I understand your constraints on this one. Hopefully we will have another rocking trip soon!

Wow the trip to Ladakh looks quite an adventure. Wait….didI read it right? ” A CLOSE ENCOUNTER WITH CHINESE SNIPERS”?

Thanks Kenneth. Looks like the Effect worked…..;-) They say that the mountains along the Chinese borders did have snipers looking down at us. Who knows though!

Stunning pics. And can I just admit I am jealous! I did this road trip in 2003, too many years ago. Time to go back to Ladakh with hubby and kiddo.

Even though I did this like a fortnight back, I am already planning a return 🙂

Your landscape pics are so dramatic! Hope you get over your travel hangover soon!

Trust me, the real landscape is so mesmerizing. No wonder it holds me down. Sigh!

The views look absolutely amazing during the whole trip! This must of been a quit adventure. And the photo of the sunrise is stunning! I would be so scared of getting the mountain sickness but I would probably still go, how could I say no to this.

The ScoutMyTrip team took adequate care of ensuring we acclimatize well. Am sure you too would have been fine. The road trip was just amazing!

Reading this post brought back my own travel memories in beautiful Ladakh. The brush with chinese snipers sounded crazy, that path runs really close to China no doubt! I loved reading about the group fun you guys had in Ladakh!

Thanks Tania. It is amazing how close we were to the border. And in some ways, so ignorant of it. However, it was fun nonetheless.

Your words were enough to tempt me but your photos convinced me Ladakh is somewhere I HAVE to experience. What a gorgeous landscape and a beautiful adventure!

Trust me Aisha, the real thing is even more amazing. I hope you plan a trip here.

What a cool blogger trip! I have been wanting to travel to Tibet (or nearby) for many years but have yet to make it. The scenery looks intriguing and the monastery is something I’d be particularly interested in, as well as the off-roading in 4 wheel drive vehicles through the desert (I’ve only done that in Egypt or California!) 🙂

Every bit of this trip was exciting. The monasteries for sure as well as the off roading and the adventures along the way. Am sure you too, will have fun with it.

What amazing landscapes and such an adventure! Lucky lucky!!

Thank you. It sure was a fascinating trip.

I think I have missed the part 1 of your amazing trip but considering that I really liked this post, I have to read the previous one. This place looks beautiful especially because it’s surrounded by nature!! The photos show it very well 🙂

Thank you so much. Each day of this 12 day trip was epic. Glad you liked reading about it.

Have been dreaming of Ladakh for such a long time–infact, for a decade. it genuinely is on my top 3 dream destinations list. need to figure out a way to Mae it happen!

Good luck with that. It sure is one place I would urge you to visit. Thanks for stopping by

Oh my goodness – I can’t believe how incredible the scenery is! The Changla and Rohtang passes are stunning, and it looks like you and your fellow bloggers had an amazing trip. I hope to see it with my own eyes one day.

I do hope you plan a trip here. It is just amazing to see nature like this. Thanks for stopping by Flo.

The place does not look real Ami. Wow! How stunning. From your image placement, and the resolution. I do feel like I am there, in Ladakh. Well done and as always, thanks much for sharing.

Thank you Ryan. It is so hard to believe but this place is real and amazing.

Wow, what an adventure! The scenery is absolutely stunning. I would be depressed if I had to leave there too.

Thanks Sara. I still am in a trance from this trip. 🙂 So you can imagine.

Your Ladakh road trip posts are truly a weblog – an online journal or diary (the kinds I used to keep offline as a teenager). The account faithfully captures the happenings along the way. Enjoyed reliving the trip through this account!

Thanks Ajay. It sure was a lovely trip and it was good finally to catch up with you.

Fabulousness galore. No one could put it as comprehensively as you do Ami. I cannot get over the pics!! Too beautiful esp the one with the prayer stones and also the Pangong lake one. You made me travel with you all through 🙂 Loved the videos and the background story of all those moves 😉 wonderful read. truly one of the most memorable trips any blogger could go on! 🙂

Thanks a ton Divsi. That really feels good to read. I cannot and will not be able to forget this trip for a long long time. And I know I will be returning to Ladakh once again, but this one will always remain special.

Beautiful nature!! And nice pics. never been there but I am quite curious after your article. I hope to read something similar again from your blog 🙂

Thanks Novarino. I think you will find plenty of other articles now on Ladakh here. Take a look.

Incredible scenery to be blessed to witness. The monastery looks incredible. It really is amazing that they could construct something that incredible back then. As I keep reading the scenery gets better and better. SNIPERS! OMG! That trip really is a memory you will never forget.

Thanks a ton guys. And you are so right about that – this is one trip that I am never ever going to forget!

Ladakh is magical .. Reminds me of our road trip in winter. Looks like you guys had an amazing time and the dancing of Avinabh was awesome 😉 Road trip in summer is definitely on our bucket list 🙂

It sure was fun and memorable and you must do one in summer. Thanks for stopping by Swati and Sam.

Ladakh is my favorite place for travel any time. i like your tips and travel information day wise. i like your colorful photos which is calling me for visit ladakh again.

Thank you. It is my favorite place too and I really want to go back.

Hey, This is really amazing post I have seen. Nice writing with beautiful pics.

The landscapes are not at all how I imagine India to be but it sure is beautiful. I definitely want to visit Leh on a future trip

It is a Surreal place and one unexplored one. You most definitely should go.

Ladakh is in my bucket list from many years and I am sure this year I will make it actually planning for during summer time :)…Your post will be helpful for me to make the itinerary. Thanks :).. BTW pics are really great 🙂

Thank you Sumti. This place is one epic destination and am sure you will enjoy it

This is such an amazing road trip! I think the best road trips have adventures and unexpected twists like yours. That view from Rohtang Pass is absolutely incredible. I can see why everyone was depressed at the end.

Thanks Marissa. Everytime we think about the trip, we are so nostalgic. One of my best trips

I love your writing, your sense of humor comes through. The Thiksey Monastery looks amazing. It is cool you got into the India book of records and had so much fun doing it. The things that went bad, turned into great memories because of your attitude. Good work!

Thanks Chris for the lovely comment. The so called bad things led to the best memories. I would not have it any other way.

I’d never really heard of Ladakh, but I can see how utterly spellbinding it is! So beautiful and you’ve captured some excellent photos. I’m so sorry you had a flat on your trip, but those experiences tend to shape us I think!

Thanks Samantha. The flat frankly was an amazing part of the adventure.. Allowed us time to take in the beautiful place.

What a gorgeous view! OMG, I thought I was the only one who leans out the car window to get a photo! Great shot of the Thiksey Monastery, the architecture looks amazing. Looks like such a fantastic trip!

I was looking forward to reading part 2 — Wow, your photos once again are spectacular. This is the reality of India it is a very big country and with mountains and rivers like this, it takes 4 hours to go 115kms! I hope to get to this part of India someday — I think I will need more rest stops like the one you did in Manali!

This region is quite raw and decent roads plus elevation makes the drive longer. However, you wouldn’t mind it with those views. Hope you plan a trip here

It sounds like such an epic trip! I hate that day 11 brought a bit of sadness. Most road trips have at least one day like that. For me it is typically the last one because I’m sad it’s over. It’s crazy how long it takes to go a fairly short distance! Sounds like a seriously epic road trip

The end of the trip is always so melancholic. But well, you have those amazing memories that somehow keep you going. This one did have longer time for shorter distance owing to the terrain but who is complaining… We had some amazing views

Your entire road trip has been quite an adventure! The people you are traveling with sound like a fun bunch of travellers, too! I’ve really enoyed seeing your photos, and hearing your stories — you’ll have wonderful memories for a lifetime.

You bet, those memories are here for a long long time. Thanks for stopping by Tami.

A road trip to ladakh is quite adventure that everyone like the trip very much. This an amazing journey to cheer up the people with the beautiful snaps.

Thank you. Glad you find it interesting

Crazy Road trip Ever! Glad that i found this article on a road trip to Ladakh. Informative article thanks for sharing!

It sure was but I loved it and it is one of my favorites

I did exactly the other way… Chandigarh Mandi Manali Jispa Leh Sonmarg Srinagar Chandigarh….

Many people do that too. Not a bad option but one just needs to exercise some precaution owing to the altitude.

What is best time to complete this visit

I would recommend visiting between May to September. The details of why and what you can expect are as mentioned in the Ladakh guide here – https://thrillingtravel.in/leh-ladakh-travel-guide.html

Wow, some of those road areas really look very scary including that one pass that just is incredible to capture in photographs and drive through. But, I can see how the landscape really inspires you to go the this remote region and gorgeous scenic areas to explore, it really seems harsh and remote, I can’t even picture living there year round.

True that – living here would be quite an extreme adventure. Nonetheless, the place is totally worth one long drive at least.

What a comprehensive guide to road tripping to Ladakh! You’ve covered every question I had and provided some helpful planning tips I wouldn’t have thought of, even though I’ve taken many road trips. The route looks lovely, and I especially like the look of Dal Lake in Srinagar and the entrance to the Royal Leh Palace, and of course, the mountains! What a touching gesture to leave water bottles for the unfortunate truck driver’s ghost.

This is such an epic route – so many stories, so many adventures. Totally worth once in a life time. Thanks for stopping by Jackie.

I have done many road trips in my time, but none through India, and this looks like a great one. The wide-open landscape interspersed with the whitewashed villages looks wonderful. I am glad you explained the reason for the plastic build-up on the mountainside as I am sure if visitors weren’t aware of this tradition it might just look like someone had dumped rubbish there!

To be honest, even I thought so till I got to know the reason behind the plastic waste

This is an incredible road trip Ami! I can’t remember all of the place names as I was too in awe of the photos. India has some beautiful and remote landscapes, I’d like to see it for myself one day. Leh and the temples look incredible there, but I’m not sure I could get used to the altitude.

The altitude needs just a little discipline and you will be fine there. Do plan a visit to Leh Ladakh whenever you get to India

I can see why this would be your favourite road trip of all time. You’re right, the diverse landscape would be a highlight. I love how you described Ladakh as the crown of India. To be surrounded by different mountain ranges on all sides would make this a stunning destination. But a difficult one to visit knowing the meaning behind its name – Land of High Passes – and that it’s so remote.

I suppose in some ways because it is so remote, it is beautiful. Hope you plan a trip here and see it for yourself

I still repent the fact that we never traveled to Ladakh when we visited Kashmir couple of years back. Am just fascinated by the destination and the more I see the photos posted by travelers the more is my desire to be there. Hopefully next year as this year is already packed with plans. But now I would rather do a road trip like you from Delhi. Thank you for all the tips which would make our journey exciting. Would love to follow your detailed plan.

I hope you have bookmarked it for your trip – whenever that happens. I am sure you will find yourself making lasting memories on this

I love road trips over direct flights, too. Thanks for the great stories. Also the awesome photos esp. Of that horse near the Indus River!

Glad you liked it Carol.

Very informative and also provide us details about the journey. Pictures are awesome. Kindly also inform whether you booked the hotels instantly or it’s were prior booking.

Thanks Tarun. For this road trip in Ladakh, we had done a prior booking of all our stays. We had also, sought the help of a local travel operator in Leh to help us with the Tso Moriri and Pangong stays

Found your post interesting to read. Good Luck for the upcoming update.This article is really very interesting.

Thanks so much. Do share it around

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Home » Categories » Mountains » 7 Day Itinerary for a Leh Ladakh Trip

7 Day Itinerary for a Leh Ladakh Trip

Leh, the main town in the district of Ladakh, which is now a Union Territory of India is without a doubt one of the most beautiful places in India. Set at a high altitude, the access remains restricted throughout the year, with roads being blocked for as long as six months. The roads usually open up in from May onwards and remain accessible until October.

When it comes to June, July, and August, they’re considered the best time to visit Ladakh. It is considered to be the peak tourist season and an outflow of travelers is seen in the region. In recent years, especially due to pop culture influence and the fact that Ladakh has been featured in many Bollywood movies like 3 Idiots, Jab Tak hai Jaan, and Bhaag Milka Bhaag, the tourism has increased tenfold.

With the Leh – Ladakh season just around the corner, we created a simple 7-day Itinerary that covers almost all the major attractions of Ladakh and can be used as a reference for anyone planning a trip to Leh Ladakh.

Table of Contents

Start your journey to Leh – Ladakh by landing at Leh Airport during the morning hours. Without spending too much time, head out to your hotel, make yourself comfortable and stay put for the day in your room.

This acclimatization is critical for your body and for you to enjoy the rest of your trip. You may be tempted to step out and explore the city, but all you have to do is control your excitement for the day and relax in the room.

After a hearty breakfast head out to Sanchi Stupa to enjoy a panoramic view of Leh. Your next destination should be Tsemo Fort, which is practically visible from all over Leh.

Built-in the 16 th  century is  Tsemo (Victory) Fort, which is just a 15-minute climb opposite Chenrezi Lakhang with its ruins. This structure is visible everywhere in Leh. This fort seems like a crown on the head of the Palace ridge.

This small but ruined palace contains several worship flags. Directly underneath it is Tsemo gompa that is a Tsemo monastery that consists of two temple buildings built in the 15 th  century, an eight-meter tall gold-faced statue of Maitreya Buddha.

Enjoy a good serving of typical Ladakhi food at one of the popular restaurants in the market, before heading out to Leh Palace , which is a replica of Lhasa’s Potala Palace . A nine-story structure in dun color, the Leh Palace rises against the backdrop of the lofty Himalayas, looking more like a painter’s muse. Built mostly of mud, rocks, and wood, it is grand in its simplicity.

The palace also houses a rich collection of traditional dresses and crowns, thangka paintings, and some impressive traditional ornaments. The best part about Leh Palace is its terrace for you can pore over Leh, Stok Kangri, and the Zanskar range from it.

Spend the later part of the day at the Hall of Fame , which is a museum constructed and maintained by the Indian Army in the memories of the soldiers who lost their lives during the Indo – Pak wars. One of the most interesting sections is the one dedicated to a soldier’s life in Siachen Glacier.

Do some city shopping if time permits and your body doesn’t give in to the tiredness/fatigue. This covers your Leh sightseeing on Day 2 of the Leh Ladakh Itinerary.

One of the major highlights of any trip to Leh – Ladakh is crossing the Khardung La Pass, the highest motorable pass built by the brave men of the 201 Engineer Regiment, Indian Army. The road was opened to vehicular traffic on 27 August 1973. At an altitude of 18,380 feet, Khardung La Pass is the gateway to Shyok and Nubra Valleys.

Khardung La is 39 km by road from Leh. The first 24 km, as far as the South Pullu checkpoint, are paved. From there to the North Pullu checkpoint about 15 km beyond the pass the roadway is primarily loose rock, dirt, and occasional rivulets of snowmelt.

From North Pullu into the Nubra Valley, the road is very well maintained (except in a few places where washouts or falling rock occur).

While at Khardung La, don’t forget to have a cup of hot tea and a plate of hot Maggi at the Highest Cafeteria in the World. It is recommended that the maximum stopping time at the top should not be more than 30 minutes, so once you are done clicking pictures and having some food, head out to the souvenir shop.

The shop also maintained by the Indian Army sells all kinds of souvenirs like coffee mugs, beer mugs, decorative plates, tee shirts, caps, etc. I have all of them with me.

Cross Khardung La Pass and make your way towards Nubra Valley, Diskit Monastery, and Panamik . Panamik is famous for its hot water springs, and it’s also the last place up to which civilians are allowed on the road towards Siachen. Everyone has seen a camel at some point in time, but you should be privileged if you get to see a double-humped camel.

Head out to the Hunder dunes and catch a sight of the Double Humped Camels , which are an endangered species, and the only place in India to see them is here at Hunder dunes . This will remain a highlight of your 7-day trip to Leh Ladakh.

Stay for the night at Hunder/Nubra valley.

Start your return trip to Leh – Ladakh after a hearty breakfast, cross Khardung La top, enter Leh and head out to Thiksey Monastery, after having a good Tibetan lunch. The USP of this monastery is the 15 m high statue of Maitreya or Tara Devi . Covering almost two stories, this is the largest such statue in Ladakh.

Just a couple of minutes away from Thiksey Monastery is a quaint little spot named Indus Viewpoint or Sindhu Darshan . Go there to enjoy the calm atmosphere and feel the fresh breeze kiss your face. A charming place like that demands some time where you only feel the breeze and hear the sound of water gushing by.

Get some rest after the tiring yet fruitful day, only to wake up to a fresh new adventure the next day.

After having an early breakfast, head out of Leh – Ladakh, towards Chang La Pass. When you are at the top of the third highest pass, make sure to click some pictures and have a hot cup of tea and some Maggi. Trust me, the tea and Maggi might not have tasted that heavenly ever before.

Cross Chang La Pass and head out towards Pangong Tso Lake which is 140 Km from Leh. Situated at a height of 4350 m and almost 130 Km long, Pangong Tso is one-third in India and the remaining in Tibet. The first glimpse of the tranquil, azure blue waters, and shaky lakeshore remains etched in the memory of tourists.

On a bright sunny day, one can see as many as five different shades of blue along the length of the lake as you drive on the side of it.

Stay for the night either at one of the camps or one of the homestay options in the nearby villages of Spangmik and TangTse.

Start early and take your return trip to Leh Ladakh , and on your way back, stop by at the Hemis Monastery. Hemis Monastery or Hemis Gompa is one of the richest monasteries as it was protected by foreign invasions because of its remote location and hard-to-access route.

On your way back from Hemis, get your adrenaline rush at an all-time high by trying out White Water Rafting on the mighty Indus or Zanskar.

Head out to Pathar Sahib Gurudwara and attend the lunar prepared by the Sikh soldiers of the Indian Army. Do try to help them in whatever way you can and then head to the point where you can witness the confluence of Indus and Zanskar .

One can easily differentiate between both of the rivers, as one is muddy and the other one is a bit of a bluish-green tinge. While you are in the area, don’t forget to get amused by the weird happenings at Magnetic Hill where, your car goes uphill on its own, when put into neutral gear.

With loads of memories amidst mesmerizing landscapes, it’s time to say goodbye to Leh and fly back to your respective places, bringing your Ideal 7-day Itinerary to Leh Ladakh , to a great end.

Recommendations

• Leh is full of tourists all over the globe, so make sure to try out different cuisines like Ladakhi, Israeli, Tibetan, Russian, etc.
• Tibetan Inspired Crockery
• Souvenirs from Khardung La and Pangong Tso Lake.
• Home Decorative items ( Tankha, paintings, giant fans)
• Miniature prayer wheel
• Tibetan prayer flags.
• Leh – Ladakh Souvenir T-Shirts.
• Sea Buckthorn Juice ( A kind of berry grown in Leh – Ladakh )

Those who want to extend their trip to enjoy the beauty of Leh Ladakh for a few more days can try out various trekking options in the Zanskar valley. There are plenty of tour operators offering competitive prices for these short and long treks.

For biking enthusiasts, the option of renting a bike and riding to Khardung La and beyond is always open. Due to the huge demand, you will be able to find a lot of garages offering Royal Enfield’s on a rental basis.

You can also check our blog about 5 Things to do in Ladakh , to find out more about the things that can be added to the 7-day itinerary.

Day 1 – Arrive in Leh and rest for the day.

Day 2 – In and around Leh city, cover Sanchi Stupa, Tsemo Fort, Leh Palace, and Hall of Fame.

Day 3 – Cross Khardung La Pass and head out to Nubra Valley, visit Diskit Monastery and witness Double Humped Camels at Hunder. Hot springs at Panamik.

Day 4 – Return to Leh, and head out to Thicksey Monastery and Sindhu Darshan.

Day 5 – Chang La Pass and be spellbound when you get a glance of Pangong Tso Lake.

Day 6 – Leh via Hemis Monastery. Optional River Rafting near Karu

Day 7 – Magnetic Hill, Pathar Sahib Gurudwara, and Indus – Zanskar Confluence.

Day 8 – With loads of happy memories, say bye-bye to Leh and board your flight.

Ideal Trip to Leh Ladakh Ends.

You can check this link for more customized packages that can be opted for Ladakh ( Leh Ladakh Packages)

You can also Read :

• 12 Reasons for Leh Ladakh Road Trip
• Common mistakes to Avoid – Leh Ladakh Road Trip
• Unique Experience Tours to Bhutan

Contributed By: Arnav Mathur

For travel related queries, group tours, road trips, trekking tours, outstation cab booking, bike rentals, or Hotel reservations; Kindly contact us at https://www.justwravel.com/contact or call +91- 92057 25727

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A Memorable Trip to Ladakh

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Last updated: Feb 3, 2023

Author Recommends

Biking to Khardungla? Plan a longer trip with an overnight stay at Nubra Valley Visit the three most beautiful lakes - Pangong, Tso Moriri, and Tso Kar Go white water kayaking on the Zanskar River

Prayer flags, prayer wheels and Buddha statuettes from the Leh Market Turquoise jewellery from the refugee market in Leh

Come March and April, and you can actually walk on the frozen Pangong Tso Lake

Hello: Ta-shi-de-Leh/Juley How are you?: Khe-rahng ku-su de-bo yin-peh Thank you: Thu-chi che

The Aamir Khan starrer "3 Idiots" was shot at various locations in and around Leh-Ladakh Frozen, starring Danny Denzongpa was also shot in Ladakh

My trip to Ladakh was a long awaited one. And Bollywood movies only added fuel to the fire (enchanting scenes from 3 Idiots and Jab Tak Hai Jaan ). So in the first week of May, I finally got the opportunity to travel to Ladakh – a trip that has given me memories worth a lifetime, a trip that has permanently inscribed startling sights of this enchanting place in my mind!

Book Your Leh Ladakh Tourism Packages Now

Ladakh Here We Come

I must say that even the road leading to Ladakh has its own appeal. When you’re about to reach Ladakh, the very first glimpse of this snow laden heaven brings a twinkle to your eyes! Just imagine looking down on a silent, placid, greenish blue lake – beautiful, isn’t it?  Or imagine the sight of magnificent mountains greeting you – that was a welcome I can never forget. There's nothing more enchanting than nature's handiwork in Ladakh... And then as you enter Leh, the characteristic mountains (yes, the ones which our televisions have made very popularJ) greet you with their silent white faces.

Listen to Logic

I would advise fellow travellers to Ladakh to spend the first day in Ladakh acclimatizing with the climatic conditions. For me, two things had an epic showdown. Logic and reason demanded that I should rest. But my incorrigible curiosity kept nagging me to explore this place some more. Thankfully, food came to the rescue (by the way, my friends who ventured out without having rested ended up feeling rather unwell and queasy). The wonderful thukpa and tsampa served by the hotel not only delighted the taste buds, but also convinced me that exploring can wait; a lazy nap cannot!

The Rustic Charm

The days where the itinerary was covered presented Ladakh in its true shining colors. It's a world of rugged valleys, snow-covered mountains, endless hills, barren lands, clean and curvy roads and the mystical Lamas where centuries old monasteries have still maintained their charm. The confluence of the Indus and the Zanskar rivers is a rare sight. One can clearly differentiate between the two waters from a distance. The rare phenomenon of Magnetic Hill leaves everyone astonished. For the uninitiated, the hill possesses magnetic properties that can pull cars uphill and compel passing aircrafts to increase altitude in order to escape the magnetic interference. And if you’re tired covering a few places on this route, you can halt at Gurudwara Pathar Saheb.  Here you will be served with hot tea. Trust me, this one cup of tea is sufficient to rejuvenate your senses for the hilly ride. The most talked about (and not without reason!) attraction of Ladakh is the Pangong Lake which undoubtedly is one of the most peaceful (and obviously beautiful) places on this planet. Can the sound of a duck moving on water ever be distinctly audible? Yes, only at the Pangong Lake ! Here you can stand knowing that across the turquoise waters lie the mountains of an even more isolated  and gorgeous land – Tibet.

There is much to see, much to cherish and much to bring back from a trip to Ladakh . I got memories unlimited and so will you.

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Abhishek | on 20 August 2018

Well written, useful blog. Leh-Ladakh is very beautiful, full of thrill. Please get a glimpse of our journey with Sringar-Leh-Manali-Amritsar roads at

karan soni | on 13 July 2018

Leh Ladakh is such a wonderful place where you spent your summer vacation. But I specifically go to Leh Ladakh in summer vacation. because of this time of the atmosphere is really pretty. so go to Leh Ladakh in summer vacation. Also, read more Leh Ladakh blog on ://www.travelcity.website/complete-travel-guide-leh-ladakh-road-trip/

Travelcity.website | on 09 April 2018

I googled where to travel on summer vacation and I reached on your post and Realized Leh Ladakh is nice adventure place. so I plan a trip for Leh Ladakh. Thanks for sharing

Nikhil Nair | on 02 April 2018

A well-written and informative article. Kudos :) Also, visit www.wheelstreet.com to rent all your favorite bikes at the most affordable prices in the country and begin your adventure to conquer all the roads that lead to Ladakh!

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• Road Trip to Ladakh – A Complete Travel Guide
• Ladakh Tourism Guide
• June 1, 2023 June 1, 2023
• 10 Comments

Traveling to Ladakh by road is an exciting and adventurous journey that offers breathtaking landscapes and a chance to experience the unique culture of the region. Here’s a travel guide to help you plan your road trip to Ladakh:

• Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Ladakh by road is from May to September when the weather is pleasant and the roads are open. However, note that the region experiences extreme temperatures, so pack accordingly. The road, however, sometimes remain open in October as well.

a. Manali-Leh Highway: This route starts from Manali in Himachal Pradesh and goes through the Atal tunnel, Keylong, and the Baralacha Pass. It is around 428 kilometers long and offers stunning views of the Himalayas.

b. Srinagar-Leh Highway: This route begins in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, and passes through Sonamarg, Drass, and the Zoji La Pass. It is approximately 434 kilometers long and showcases the scenic beauty of both Kashmir Valley and Ladakh.

• Permits: To travel to Ladakh, both Indian and foreign nationals do not require permits. However, permits are required to visit the sightseeing places of Ladakh including Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri, Khardungla pass, Nubra Valley, Dah Hanu Batalik region and Turtuk etc. You can obtain the Inner Line Permit (ILP) from the District Magistrate’s Office or through online portals. Foreign nationals need to obtain the Protected Area Permit (PAP) or Restricted Area Permit (RAP) from the Leh District Magistrate’s Office.
• Acclimatization: Ladakh is located at high altitudes, so it’s essential to acclimatize to avoid altitude sickness. Take a day or two to rest in Leh before exploring further. Stay hydrated, avoid strenuous activities initially, and consider taking medication for altitude sickness after consulting with a doctor.
• Accommodation: There are various accommodation options available in Leh and along both Leh-Srinagar and Leh-Manali highway, ranging from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels. It is advisable to make advance bookings, especially during the peak tourist season.
• Fuel and Supplies: Fuel stations are limited along the Manali-Leh highway and S rinagar-Leh highway besides Ladakh, so ensure your vehicle is adequately fueled before embarking on your journey. Carry extra fuel in jerry cans if necessary. Stock up on essential supplies, including food, water, and medicines, as facilities may be scarce in remote areas.
• Vehicle and Road Conditions: It is recommended to travel in a sturdy and reliable vehicle, preferably a SUV, to tackle the challenging terrain. The roads in Ladakh are mostly well-maintained, but certain sections may be rough, narrow, or unpaved. Be prepared for occasional landslides, water crossings, and treacherous mountain passes besides unseasonal snowfall.
• Persevere Road Safety: Drive cautiously and follow traffic rules. Keep an eye out for other vehicles, livestock, and unexpected obstacles on the road. Maintain a steady pace, especially while ascending or descending mountain passes. Avoid rash overtaking and be prepared for oncoming traffic on narrow stretches.
• Altitude Highlights: While in Ladakh, explore popular attractions like Pangong Tso Lake , Nubra Valley, Magnetic Hill, Khardung La Pass (one of the highest motorable passes), Lamayuru Monastery , and Hemis Monastery. Take time to immerse yourself in the local culture and interact with the friendly Ladakhi people.
• Safety Precautions: Ladakh is a remote region, so it’s crucial to take certain safety precautions. Inform someone about your itinerary and expected return time. Carry a first aid kit, spare tires, tools, and emergency supplies. Check weather conditions and road closures before setting off.

Remember, road trip to Ladakh requires proper planning and preparation. Ensure you have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and vehicle breakdowns. Respect the local customs, preserve the environment, and enjoy the mesmerizing beauty of the region.

Check Out Our Jeep Safari Tour Packages to Ladakh

In Details:

A road trip to Ladakh through daunting and winding roads is a lifetime experience. Ladakh is reachable by two roads — Manali-Leh road and Srinagar-Leh road. Both the roads have distinctive features but Manali-Leh road is more challenging, passing through high altitude, crossing many rivers, mountain passes and having over a hundred hairpin bends.

Travelling through Manali-Leh and Srinagar-Leh highways is a dream of all the adventure and nature lovers. While Manali-Leh highway, too, has three options (branches) to reach Leh, the Srinagar-Leh highway also has three different routes. While Srinagar-Leh highway generally remains open from late March to November, the Manali-Leh highway remains open from May to October. After building of the Atal tunnel, the road is expected to remain open for longer time as the tunnel bypasses mighty Rohtang pass.

When travelling Ladakh by road comes into mind, tourists usually think about their safety, challenges and road condition. They are also curious to know about permissions, passes, petrol pumps, repair shops, midway hotels/camps, chances of snow and chances of watching snow etc. In this post, we shall talk about everything to guide the tourists properly and with true information as Discover Leh Ladakh has been organising road trips to Ladakh for over a decade now and no one else has the better knowledge of the routes and challenges.

Both Srinagar to Leh and Manali to Leh (via Atal tunnel) is 14-15 hours journey and tourists are advised to cover the distance in two days for two reasons – they can enjoy sightseeing of some major mid-way attractions in the day time by spending enough time and they will get enough time to acclimatize to avoid altitude sickness.

Srinagar to Leh: 430 KM

Manali to Leh: 428 KM via Atal tunnel and 474 KM via Rohtang pass

Bus service to Leh Ladakh

If you are planning a road trip to Ladakh by bus, there are a limited bus services on Manali -Leh and Srinagar-Leh highways. Himachal Roads Transport Corporation (HRTC) and Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Council (HPTDC) run seasonal buses between Manali and Leh. While HPTDC runs a semi deluxe 2X2 bus service on alternate day on this route, HRTC runs daily ordinary bus service. Generally both bus services are available from June or July to mid September. HPTDC bus fare includes transfer and one night stay at Keylong but HRTC bus generally go non-stop. JKTDC runs deluxe and semi deluxe buses between Shrinagar and Leh. Some private operators also run bus service on this route but the buses do not stop for sightseeing.

Hotels on Srinagar – Leh highway

Kargil is the most preferred midway night halt destination while travelling between Srinagar and Leh. However, tourists can stay at multiple locations like Sonmarg, Drass, Lamayuru, Ule etc. Kargil has a large number of hotels, resorts and guesthouses and restaurants. Tourists will get to eat meal/snacks and drink tea at multiple locations on Leh-Srinagar highway.

Hotels and Camps on Manali-Leh highway

On Manali-Leh highway , tourists stay at Keylong, Jispa or Sarchu. While Keylong and Jispa has hotels, guesthouses, homestays and tent options, Sarchu has only camping option. After opening of Atal tunnel, Sarchu will become most preferred midway halt destination as Keylong and Jispa can be reached from Manali within a few hours. However, while travelling from Leh to Manali, Jispa and Keylong can be convenient places as tourists can easily catch bus to Delhi from Manali on the next day. Besides these preferred locations, stays are available at Sissu, Khangsar, Billing, Gemur, Darcha, Pang and many other locations. Tourists can get tea/meal at Tandi, Keylong, Darcha, Bharatpur, Sarchu, Pang, Debring, Upshi, Karu etc.

Delhi – Manali – Leh Ladakh – Srinagar Jeep Safari (Road Trip)

Different road routes between Manali and Leh

• Manali-Atal tunnel-Sarchu – Leh
• Manali – Rohtang pass – Sarchu – Leh
• Manali – Atal tunnel/Rohtang pass – Darcha – Shinku-la pass – Padum – Pensila pass – Kargil – Leh
• Manali – Atal tunnel/Rohtang pass – Darcha – Shinku-la pass – Padum – Lingshed – Wanla – Nimmu – Leh

Different road routes between Srinagar and Leh

• Srinagar – Sonmarg – Zojila pass – Kargil – Lamayuru – Leh
• Srinagar – Sonmarg – Zojila pass – Kargil – Batalik – Dah Hanu – Khaltsi – Leh
• Srinagar – Sonmarg – Zojila pass – Kargil – Batalik – Dah Hanu – Chitkan – Lamayuru –Khaltsi – Leh
• Srinagar – Sonmarg – Zojila pass – Kargil – Suru – Pensi-la pass – Padum – Lingshed – Wanla – Nimmu – Leh

Check-out Manali-Leh and Srinagar-Leh Road Trip Packages

Major sightseeing places on Manali-Leh highway

• Atal tunnel (or Rohtang pass)
• Tandi (confluence of Chandra and Bhaga rivers which give birth to Chenab river)
• Baralacha pass
• Moore plains
• Taglangla pass

Major sightseeing places on Srinagar-Leh highway

• Zojila pass
• Lamayuru monastery
• Basgo ruins
• Sangam (confluence of Indus and Zanskar rivers)
• Magnetic Hill
• Pathar Sahib Gurudwara

Srinagar Ladakh Manali Delhi Jeep Safari (10 Nights 11 Days)

Mountain passes on manali – leh highway.

• Rohtang pass (3,980 m)
• Baralacha pass (5,030 m)
• Nakila pass (4,739 m)
• Lachulung-la (pass) (5,065 m)
• Taglang-la (pass) (5,328 m)

Mountain passes on Srinagar-Leh highway

• Zojila (pass) (3,528 m)
• Namik-la (pass) (3,700 m)
• Fotu-la (pass) (4,108 m)

Best time for road trips to Ladakh

April to mid-November (or late October) is the best time to travel on Srinagar-Leh highway while late April (or early May) to mid-October is the best time to travel on Manali-Leh highway. Both the highways remain closed for traffic following snowfall in winter season.

Petrol pumps on Manali-Leh highway

There is only one fuel pump at Tandi (Lahaul valley) on Manali-Leh highway. After Manali town, there is one petrol pump at Kanchanikoot (2km from Manali) and at Bahang (5km from Manali), then you will get petrol/diesel at Karu, just before Leh town. There are no petrol pumps (gas stations) between Manali and Leh. So, all the taxis (and other vehicles) prefer carrying extra fuel for emergency.

Petrol pumps on Srinagar-Leh highway

You will get a large number of petrol pumps on Srinagar-Leh highway, so you need not to carry extra fuel with you. Sonmarg, Drass, Kargil, Khalsi and Leh have the petrol pumps.

Is it safe to travel to Ladakh by road?

Yes, travelling by road to Ladakh is as safe as in other roads of the country. Moreover, there are many benefits of travelling to Leh Ladakh by road as you gain altitude slowly, giving your body enough time to acclimate which helps avoid altitude sickness. Secondly, you get to see different geographical transformations and beautiful peaks, glaciers, valleys, rivers, mountain passes, villages, cultures, flora and fauna. The road trip to Ladakh is adventurous because of all these variations and geographies with hundreds of hairpin bends and high passes. Remember, the road journey to Ladakh can prove fatal if you drive drunk, consume any drug, driving day and night without taking proper sleep or fail to concentrate on the road. A small mistake can result in your vehicle falling in deep gorge. Follow traffic rules, drive at your side, don’t overtake until its safe, don’t drive in snowy conditions to avoid slipping of the vehicle and restrict speed to 5kmph in case of dense fog. Both Manali-Leh and Srinagar-Leh roads have mostly black-topped and double-laned. So it’s a fun. If you don’t have driving experience on steep hills, you can hire local taxis.

Can we see snow on Manali-Leh highway?

There are chances of watching snow at Baralacha pass, Rohtang pass and Taglangla pass till late June and sometimes even till mid-July. But availability of snowfall totally depends on quantity of snowfall in winter season and temperature. Snowfall is possible 12 months a year on high mountain passes.

Can we see snow on Srinagar-Leh highway?

Generally Ladakh receives too less snow. Ladakh is known for its extreme cold. However, high mountain passes receive very heavy snowfall here. Tourists can see snow at Zojila pass in April and sometimes in May month also.

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As 9.02km-long Atal tunnel, Rohtang, is ready for inauguration, the Ministry of Defence is concentrating on building more tunnels on Manali-Leh and Darcha-Padum axis to make both the highways all-weather. Building tunnels below 16,600ft high Shinkula pass and 16,050ft high Baralacha pass are on priority.

According to sources, Defence Ministry has asked to make a detailed project report (DPR) of the tunnel beneath Shinkula pass. The primary survey of the tunnel was already conducted by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO). The Darcha-Shinkula-Padum highway which connects with Manali-Leh highway at Darcha, 98km from here through Atal tunnel, will further meet with Leh-Kargil highway at Nimmu. While many more tunnels are required to make existing Manali-Leh highway an all-weather road, only one tunnel beneath Shinkula pass will ensure year-round connectivity of Ladakh from the mainland.

“National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd can be given responsibility to prepare the DPR for tunnel below Shinkula pass. Work to dig the tunnel is expected to start soon. Three tunnels at Baralacha, Lachulung-la and Taglangla pass on Manali-Leh axis are also on the priority of Defence Ministry. Primary survey of proposed tunnel beneath Baralacha pass has already been done,” a source with the BRO said.

At present all the traffic including military convoy use 474km long Manali-Leh highway to travel between Himachal and Ladakh. The other highway through Shinkula pass is still under construction but local residents are using it since September last year. The 40km stretch between Darcha and Shinkula is being widened and blacktopped. Shinkula is the state boundary between Himachal and UT of Ladakh. Nearly 20km stretch between Shinkula and Kurgiah, the first village of Zanskar valley of Ladakh, is in poor condition.

Shinkula receives heavy snow in winter months. The plan is to dig a tunnel from near Chhika-Rarik villages of Lahaul towards Lakhang, the base of Shinkula in Zanskar. The tunnel is expected to reduce distance between Darcha and Padum by about 30km but will save a travel time of nearly two hours. Padum is currently connected with Leh-Kargil highway with a link road via Lingshed. The main double-lane highway is being built by the bank of Zanskar river and will connect Padum with Nimmu, about 35km from Leh.  Major portion of the highway has been built.

On other side, after Atal tunnel which is decreasing the distance between Manali and Leh by 46km, three more tunnels on Manali-Leh axis will reduce this distance by about 74km. So, the present distance of 474km will reduce to just 354km. The 11.25km-long tunnel below Baralacha pass will reduce distance by nearly 19km, 14.78km-long tunnel below Lachulung-la will decrease distance by about 31km and 7.32km-long tunnel below Taglangla pass will shorten distance by about 24km.

According to a source, earlier building a tunnel below Baralacha was the priority but now priority is to dig tunnel below Shinkula pass which will make alternate route to Ladakh safe and easily accessible. “Just Atal tunnel cannot make Manali-Leh highway all-weather. For example, Baralacha pass receives more snow than Rohtang and blocks highway for six months. In an effort to strengthen our border road infrastructure and to strengthen Indian Army, the highway through Shinkula pass will play a crucial role in coming days as it will be the shortest and safest route,” he said.

Ladakh to get all-weather connectivity with two roads from Manali soon

While a 14.15km long tunnel beneath Zoji La will provide all-weather road connectivity on Srinagar-Leh highway soon in next few years, Ladakh will get year-round connectivity by two roads from Manali very soon.

Additional Director General Border Roads (ADGBR) Anil Kumar while his visit to review the work on Atal tunnel, Rohtang, said besides making Manali-Sarchu-Leh highway an all-weather road, Border Roads Organisation (BRO) is working on making Manali-Shinkula-Nimu highway double-lane and all-weather. He said DPR of Baralacha pass tunnel is ready and DPR of three other tunnels is being prepared.

“Atal tunnel is complete and ready for inauguration. After this, three more tunnels are proposed to build on the Manali-Sarchu-Leh highway to provide year-round connectivity. While DPR of tunnel under Baralacha pass has been prepared, DPRs for tunnels below Lachulung-la pass and Taglang-la pass will be made soon. Besides this, DPR of Shinkula tunnel to make Darcha-Shinkula-Padum-Nimu road all-weather is being prepared,” he said.

He added that development of road network in border areas of Himachal, Ladakh, J&K and Uttarakhand and all the north-west regions is an important aspect. He said an alternate route Darcha-Padum-Nimu is being built to connect Himachal with Ladakh besides existing Manali-Sarchu-Leh road.

“Total length of this road will be about 297km where only 35km road is to be constructed. This road will be made a double-lane road and nearly 90km of the length has already been made double-lane. The tunnel at Shinkula pass is also proposed which will make this road an all-weather highway,” he added.

Darcha is now just 100km from Manali via Atal tunnel. The Manali-Darcha-Padum-Nimu road will be about 397km in length. This length will further reduce after Shinkula tunnel. Nimu to Leh is just 35km while Nimu to Kargil is about 185km. The main advantage of this new road will be its location which is completely inside from international border with both China and Pakistan and has no mountain pass other than Shinkula. The travel time on this highway to reach strategic points of Ladakh will be much less than other two roads.

The growing tension at India-China border has forced Ministry of Defence to strengthen the border road network. The Indian Army these days is sending essential supplies to Ladakh to store it for winter months when there will be no connectivity. The Army will be totally dependent on air connectivity. Not just Srinagar-Leh and Manali-Leh highway is busy with military convoy these days but even the skies are roaring with military transport aircrafts day and night as Army does not want to leave any stone unturned in preparations for possibility of war.

Army will need not to store essentials in such a large quantity in coming days as surface transportation through multiple roads will be possible 12 months a year. In case of any emergency, the Army will have option to move troops and other supplies through any of the three roads.

An 11.25km-long tunnel will be the next major project of BRO after Atal tunnel. This tunnel will reduce distance between Manali and Leh by nearly 19km. DPR for 14.78km-long tunnel below Lachulung-la and 7.32km-long tunnel below Taglang-la pass are being prepared. These tunnels will reduce distance by about 31km and 24km respectively.

Another long-span bridge on Manali-Leh highway to make road trip to Ladakh smooth

Sept 4, 2020: While a 360m-long Darcha bridge, longest on Manali-Leh highway, can be dedicated to the nation along with Atal tunnel this month, another long-span bridge will come up at Bharatpur where a “pagal” nullah has troubled Border Roads Organisation (BRO) for years.

BRO has improved condition of the Manali-Leh highway over the years due to its strategic importance, but a damaged stretch of the highway at Bharatpur remains to be a nightmare for the travellers for many years now. Manali-Leh highway has many pagal (insane) nullahs which have got this identity because they can experience flood in rain, sunny day, monsoon or in any season without prior warning. Bharatpur nullah is one of them.

Bharatpur nullah goes out of control in summer and monsoon season when it comes in spate and brings tonnes of debris so often. Vehicles are required to cross the gushing nullah and nearly 200m stretch covered with huge boulders. The Manali-Leh highway was once fit only for four-wheel drive vehicles with high ground clearance but it has now become safe for light cars as well. However, negotiating the Bharatpur section is an ordeal for the motorists.

Local residents suggest travellers to leave Keylong for Sarchu or Leh early in the morning as crossing this section after noon become very difficult when water level rises abnormally. The nullah swells every day when rise in temperature melts down snow on the peaks. Heavy rain also results in its flooding. The small vehicles hit the boulders on the road here. If crossed this section, travellers know that nothing can stop them from reaching Leh.

Manali-Leh highway is under heavy load these days due to military convoy and goods trucks plying on this road. The highway, which otherwise has become so smooth for driving, will become smoother after opening of Atal tunnel by end of this month. The Bharatpur section was in want of attention.

BRO had made many failed attempts to remove fear from the hearts of the travellers by maintaining this road. Every time BRO maintains road, the devastating nullah damages it. The main challenge here is a flat valley and nullah flowing on the level of the highway. The debris is spread across the valley. BRO had put a small bridge here but nullah is flowing over the bridge. Now BRO has planned something else for Bharatpur.

A BRO official said, “We shall build a long-span bridge here. This is the only viable option to protect the road and offer smooth ride to the travellers. This way water and debris will pass underneath the bridge. The work will start next year.”

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TREKKING IN LADAKH

Winter treks, mountaineering in ladakh, cultural tours in ladakh, adventures in ladakh, fixed departure treks - join a group, ladakh information, mountaineering, cultural tours, join a group, getting there, acclimatization.

Uncover the Magical Route: Delhi-Mumbai-Kolkata-Bangalore To Leh Ladakh Revealed

Leh calling how to conquer this adventurous road trip.

Leh, nestled among the rough heights of the Himalayas, is a land known for its awesome scenery, monasteries, and thrilling activities. Whether coming from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata or Bangalore, getting to Leh is an adventure because of its remote location and difficult terrain. This article will be looking at different modes of transport available from these major Indian cities to Leh.

1.From Delhi to Leh:

The most rapid and convenient way for Delhi-Leh travel is by air. In Delhi Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) offers many flights to Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (IXL) in Leh. On daily basis several airlines have flights that take about 1.5-2 hours flight duration.

However if you are one of those who love adventure then there can be nothing more fascinating than road travel from Delhi leading right up to Ladakh's capital city. It covers approximately 1100 kilometers and passes through beautiful landscapes like snow clad Himalayan range and picturesque valleys etc. Some towns on this route include Manali as well as Keylong with a total journey time taking between 24-30 hours depending upon road conditions as well as weather.

2.From Mumbai to Leh:

Traveling by air remains the best option when it comes to traveling from Mumbai to Leh in terms of convenience . There are direct flights available which are offered by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM) in Mumbai towards Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (IXL) in Leh; duration about 3-4 hours including layover years by various carriers.

Although there are no direct highways all the way from Mumbai heading into Ladakh region it offers an amazing driving experience for adventurous travelers willing to reach Leh via either Srinagar or New Delhi. It takes about 24-30 hours to drive from Delhi to Leh and 18-20 hours for Srinagar.

3.From Kolkata to Leh:

Travelers can reach Leh from Kolkata through a layover in Delhi or other major cities by taking connecting flights from Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU) in Kolkata to Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (IXL) in Leh. The total flying duration typically ranges between 5 and 8 hours, depending on the airline and layover.

Like Mumbai, there are no direct road routes connecting Kolkata with Ladakh's capital city; however one can choose driving via either Srinagar or New Delhi. The journey takes approximately 24-30 hours when beginning at New Delhi while it could be completed within an average of 18-20 hours if coming from Srinagar.

4.From Bangalore to Leh:

For those traveling by air with a stopover in Delhi or any other major city, this means connecting flight services are operated between Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) and Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (IXL) located in Leh. Based on the carrier as well as number of stops along the way, it may take anything from five upto eight hours inclusive of all waiting time during those intermediate stopovers.

Like Mumbai and Kolkata, there is no direct road link between Bangalore and Leh but adventurous travelers can drive down either through Srinagar or New Delhi. The journey by road from Delhi would last for about 24-30 hours whereas that from Srinagar would cover roughly 18-20 hrs.

Conclusion:

To get Leh from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata or Bangalore, you need to plan in advance because it is far away and the road is tough. Whether you choose the air route as a matter of convenience or the road trip route as a matter of adventure and fun; getting to Leh is always a memorable experience with the beautiful landscapes of Himalayas. Ensure that you have made a good itinerary in advance and are prepared for heights and rough conditions ahead so that by all means you can enjoy your holiday there safely.

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Zoji La is now open for vehicular movement; to ease travel from J&K to Ladakh

Times of India TIMESOFINDIA.COM / TRAVEL NEWS , LADAKH / Created : Mar 30, 2024, 10:00 IST

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Located at an altitude of 11,540 ft, approximately 100 km from Srinagar, Zoji La used to remain closed for about 160-180 days during winter seasons in previous years. However, due to the government's focus on enhancing border conn … Read more

Located at an altitude of 11,540 ft, approximately 100 km from Srinagar, Zoji La used to remain closed for about 160-180 days during winter seasons in previous years. However, due to the government's focus on enhancing border connectivity and the deployment of advanced machinery, the duration of closure has reduced in recent years. Read less

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Located at an altitude of 11,540 ft, approximately 100 km from Srinagar, Zoji La used to remain closed for about 160-180 days during winter seasons in previous years. However, due to the government's ...