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Things to Do in Ladakh

Pangong Lake

The Pangong Lake or the Pangong Tso is one of the highest altitude lakes in the world and is famed for its colour changing water, from blue to red and green. From camping to lakeside bonfire, a wide variety of activities can be enjoyed here. During the winter months, the lake can be seen completely frozen, which is a delightful sight in itself.

Nubra Valley

Nestled in the northern part of Ladakh, Nubra Valley offers a stunning blend of deserts, rivers, and snow-capped mountains. Famous for its Bactrian camels and scenic vistas, the valley is accessible via the thrilling Khardung La Pass. Home to remote villages, ancient monasteries, and the enchanting Shyok River, it offers a serene escape for travelers, Nubra Valley has everything that an explorer seeks and is among the most famous places to visit with our Le Ladakh packages. Being a high-altitude destination, you can immerse yourself in the tranquility of this remote Himalayan region.

Khardung La

Gateway to the Shyok and Nubra Valley, the Khardungla Pass is strategically a very important landmass for the country. Famous for being the highest motorable pass with an elevation of 5359 metres, the pass is a favourite spot among bike riders and adventure lovers. The pass has mighty mountains on both of its sides, which further offer the most dramatic views one can imagine.

Tso Moriri Lake

Located in Changthang Plateau in Ladakh in Northern India, Tso Moriri is also known as the Mountain Lake. The Lake covers an area of 120 KM sq. and is located at an elevation of 4522 metres. Famous for birdwatching and taking in the beauty of nature, the lake is the perfect place to spend some time away from the hustle and bustle of the city and include this famous attraction at its best with our Leh Ladakh tour packages.

Magnetic Hill

The famous Magnetic Hill of Ladakh is a cyclops hill, a place where vehicles seem to have defied the force of gravity and move upwards when parked at a particular marked location here. Located on the Leh-Kargil-Baltic National Highway, this place remains a mystery even today, as many tourists are awestruck to witness the magical experience.

Alchi Monastery

Tucked amidst the breath-taking landscapes of Ladakh is the Alchi Monastery, which is amongst the most sacred places for Buddhists. Dating back to at least 1000 years, the monastery is also the oldest Buddhist Learning Centre in the region. Detailed carvings on the walls, along with the age-old wall paintings are some of the major attractions of Alchi Monastery.

Leh Palace

A nine storey high building that displays the influence of Potala Palace in Lhasa is the famed Royal Leh Palace. It stands with its head high on a cliff top overlooking the ravishing Leh town. Leh Palace has now been converted into a museum which features ancient paintings and relics of Buddha along with cutlery used by the Royal family.

Hemis National Park

Hemis National Park is the largest national park in South Asia, and is located in the eastern section of Ladakh. The park covers 4400 square kilometres and is home to 16 species of mammals, 73 bird species, and around 200 snow leopards. The National Park is famous for the huge population of snow leopards throughout the world and is considered to be the only protected area where these wild cats can be found in such abundance and it must be part of your Ladakh tour packages.

Spituk Monastery

Perched atop a hillock by the Indus River, Spituk Monastery prides itself as one of Ladakh’s most significant monastery complexes to visit with our Leh Ladakh packages. The Gompa is home to Tsongkhapa Order of Tibetan Buddhist monks, housing around 125 resident monks. The monastery complex houses a massive statue of the Hindu deity Kali along with several small shrines, some dating back to 900 years.

Hall Of Fame

The Hall of Fame in Leh is a museum that was constructed by the Indian Army in memory of the brave Indian soldiers who sacrificed their lives trying to protect their motherland in the Indo-Pakistan wars. Located on the Leh-Kargil Road, the museum is a great place to see photos of the soldiers, their training camps, the different war relics, and a lot more on your Leh Ladakh tour.

Chadar Trek

With the word Chadar meaning a blanket, the Chadar Trek depicts a trail over the frozen Zanskar River, on which people travel for several kilometers to reach the final destination. Unlike other trekking expeditions in India, this one does not require you to pass through forests or rock formations, but instead lets you walk over frozen water, which once was a gushing river. 

Mulbekh Monastery

Home to a 30-feet-tall statue of the Maitreya Buddha, the Mulbekh Monastery is one of the most popular monasteries in the Ladakh region. Offering stunning views of the Srinagar-Leh Highway, this monastery must be part of your Ladakh tours which boasts of beautiful ancient relics and frescoes, along with a huge prayer wheel, which adds to the serene ambiance of this place.

Tso Kar Lake

Nestled in the Rapshu region of southern Ladakh, the Tso Kar Lake stands out in its beauty. Forming a part of a complex wetland network, Tso Kar is recognized as one of India’s most prominent Ramsar sites to explore on your Ladakh Trip. The lake attracts a lot of birds and small wildlife as well such as the Tibetan Gazelle, the Kiang and the deep-necked crane.

Phuktal Monastery

Stowed away within the folds of the Himalayan mountains, the Phugtal Gompa is among the most secluded monasteries around the world & it must be part of your Le Ladakh tour packages. The monastery is quite literally sprawling among mountain caves with its units spread through them. A complete monastery complex, including prayer halls and shrines, can be found here where a number of festivals are celebrated throughout the year. 

Stakna Monastery

Established in the 16th century, the Stakna Monastery has a long-lasting legacy in Ladakh. The monastery’s position atop a hillock grants it access to some of the best views in the city. Home to a stunning array of paintings, murals, and statues the Gompa is also renowned for its excellent art and architecture. Explore this monastery with Ladakh packages for an unforgettable experience.

Chang La Pass

Chang La Pass, located in Ladakh, India, is one of the highest motorable passes in the world, reaching an altitude of 5,360 meters (17,590 feet). Offering breathtaking vistas of snow-capped peaks and stark landscapes, this pass is a challenging yet rewarding route for adventure seekers and travelers exploring the scenic beauty and rugged terrain of Ladakh, it is one of the famous places to visit on your Leh Ladakh trip .

Chemrey Monastery

Dating back to the 17th century, the Chemrey Monastery, one of the must-visit popular sites to visit with our Ladakh tour packages. It is predominantly known for three things, namely a majestic statue of Guru Padmasambhava, along with a stunning location, and an extensive collection of 29 volumes of sacred scriptures on solver, written entirely in gold. The monastery belongs to the Drugpa sect of Buddhism and was founded by Lama Tagsang Raschena

Shey Monastery

Established in the 17th century, the Shey Monastery, among the most famous monasteries to visit with our leh packages. The Monastery served as the summer residence of the Ladakh royalty. The Monastery is best known to house a statue of Shakyamani Buddha. Owing to its fantastic location and the scenic route that leads the way, it is a popular hiking spot. Shey Monastery also conducts several important Buddhist festivals throughout the year

Kongka La Pass

Amongst the most beautiful and mysterious places in the country, With our Ladakh trip packages, you can explore Kongka La Pass a highly restricted mountain pass that falls in the Chang-Chenmo region and has many UFO theories associated with it. With an altitude of 5171 metres above sea level, the Kongka La Pass in Ladakh is situated in the Line of Control between India and China.

Gurudwara Pathar Sahib

Pay a visit to Gurudwara Pathar Sahib, located a mere 25 kilometres from Leh, dedicated to Guru Nanak Dev. The Patthar Sahib Gurudwara is considered to be of immense religious significance among Sikhs, since it is home to a rock that resembles the back of Guru Nanak. According to the local tales, it is believed that Guru Nanak had defeated a demon here, make sure to include this place on your Ladakh tour.

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Ladakh Things To Do FAQs

Where is Ladakh located?

The second largest district in India, Ladakh covers almost 45,110 sq kilometers. It is significant both geographically and politically for the country. The region of mountain passes, it’s a piece of the moon lying between 320 North Latitude and 800 East Longitude. The region is bifurcated by Leh and Kargil districts. The district is bordered by Pakistan occupied Kashmir in the west, China in the North and north east and the Lahaul-Spiti Valley in the South-East. Geographically, it spans across the Great Himalayan Range and the Karakoram Mountain Range and the Upper Indus Valley Basin. It’s a part of the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir.

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How do we reach Ladakh?

Ladakh is one of the most popular destinations among adventure tourists, riders, photographers, and all kinds of outdoor enthusiasts. It can be reached by rail road and train networks. However, be prepared for a lot of off roading to reach your destination. There are a couple of routes you can take to reach the valley:

Srinagar to Leh: This road will take you to Ladakh via the Kashmir Valley ad Kargil and it would be about 434 kilometers of journey. The route is opened between early June and mid November. You will need to cross the Zoji-La Pass at about 11,500 feet to reach Ladakh.

Manali to Leh:
Another popular route to enter Ladakh is the Manali – Leh route. More than 473 kilometers, this route opens up from mid June and till early October. You will need to cross the Rupsho Plateau at 3,600 meters above sea level.
There are several high passes including Taglang La – the second highest motorable road in the world.

By road:
Himachal Pradesh Tourism and J & K State Road Transport Corporation regularly runs deluxe and ordinary buses in both the routes and the journey takes about two days including the several stops it makes. However, many hire jeeps and gypsy taxis to be free from the timing of the bus routes. Another popular and recommended way to reach Ladakh, regardless of the route your take is to hire your own bike. Ladakh is particularly famous among riders and people hire two wheelers from Delhi to make the journey. If you are travelling by road, it is recommended that you use the services of a registered travel agency to make the transports and camping arrangements. Driving your own vehicle is fun but at the same time it can be quite tasking and risky.

By Air:
The nearest airport to Ladakh is the Leh Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport that connects flights from Delhi, Jammu and Srinagar. Popular air carriers for this route include Jet Airways, Air India and GoAir. While the schedules of these flights are fixed, there could be changes depending on the weather conditions for the day. It is thus advised that you have a flexible itinerary if you are taking a flight.

By Train:
There is no train connectivity to Ladakh. The nearest you can get is Jammu Tawi station and from then you might wait to hire a vehicle or take the bus route to reach Ladakh.

Suggested Read: Road Trip to Leh Ladakh

Which route is best to visit Ladakh?

While there are several routes to visit Ladakh, one of the most highly recommended one is the Srinagar – Kargil – Leh route. However, you can take the Leh – Manali route for your return trip from Ladakh. This ensures that you won’t have to deal with a lot of altitude sickness in the return. Be ready for a highly mountainous journey.

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Which is the best time to visit Ladakh and why?

The most popular time to visit Ladakh is during the summer months between May and August. It is important to know that most of the highways leading to and around Ladakh open up in April or May. June would be the month when all the action would start. Though its summer, the breeze here will still carry a comforting chill and you won’t be able to do without a blanket at nighttime.
The summer months are the season when most local festivals and events happen. However, trekkers also make it to Ladakh during the extreme cold of the winters. This however would be the time when most of the roads and passes are closed due to snow and gaining a permit to places too can be a problem.

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What is the ideal duration for a holiday if I want to visit various places in Ladakh?

While riding through Ladakh is awesome, it is also one of the most difficult terrains to ride through. You would be crossing some of the highest passes in the globe, making way through particularly slippery terrains, use your legs along with the accelerator for go ahead through rubbles, cross streams, push your vehicle in some roads and the same. You won’t be able to go beyond 100-150 kilometer a day.
With sundown, it would be no more show. Consequently, an ideal holiday in Ladakh should stretch beyond a week. The more you stay the easier it is. This is a terrain where you just can’t afford to push yourself. So, get those leave you have pending and put everything into your Ladakh trip!

Recommended Read: Leh Ladakh Trip Guide

What kind of accommodations can I find in Ladakh?

A range of hotels and accommodations are offered in Ladakh. If you have been looking for a decent, clean and pocket friendly accommodation, there would be several economical options that comprise of guest houses and hotels. Most of these places even allow for long term stays, even months. However, the amenities are quite basic. On the other hand, if you are looking forward to exceptional room service, internet, satellite TVs, and high quality linen, you will have to shell out more. Budget hotels in Ladakh start from INR400 per day and depending on the amenities, the price can go up to INR 1000.

You might be able to find cheap hotels in Farka, Changspa Road, Karzoo, Malpak, Old Leh Road and Shanti Stupa Road. Among them, Farka is the most sought-after point to find cheap accommodation. If you are traveling with a family have more sophisticated needs, you might want to check out pricier accommodations that start at around INR2000 per night and can go up to INR 8000 per night.

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What are the essentials things to carry to Ladakh?

Irrespective of your mode of transportation or the place you choose to stop over, Ladakh requires a special packing. While there is certainly no exhaustive way to define a packing list for this place, here is a list that we think would be essential to your survival!
  • Water – You cannot risk dehydration. Sipping water every once in a while will be the only thing that will keep you sane! 
  • Medicines – The most important one is Diamox. It will be essential if your heath deteriorates too much and the risk of it happening is pretty good. 
  • Sunscreen – In high altitude places like Ladakh, the UV from Sunrays can be disastrous. A sunscreen is must to protect your skin. 
  • UV sunglasses – Again, to see through the continuous UV around! 
  • Lip Balm – If you don’t want to get chapped and bleeding lips. 
  • Mustard Oil – will keep your skin moisturized. Mustard oil can also be helpful in lubricating your scalp and nostrils. 
  • Glucose – You will need all the energy you can!
  • Chocolates / biscuits / nuts – Anything that is light but is rich with energy
  • Personal hygiene essentials 
  • Clothes – Go for hoodies, jackets and full sleeve 
  • Documents and ID – you will need them to pass through several stops 
  • Spare batteries – Need no explanation! 
  • Torch – Carry something that will show you the way. 
  • Money – There aren’t many ATMs along the way. Carry some hard cash and keep it safe. 
  • A BSNL SIM – The BSNL postpaid connection is the best connectivity you can get around Ladakh

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What kind of activities one can do in Ladakh?

Apart from a lot of photography, self-preservation and thinking, you can participate in:
  • A jeep safari to Leh through the passes 
  • Camel safari in Nubra Valley 
  • Mountain  biking 
  • A visit to the Magnetic Hill. It’s out worldly! 
  • Trekking in Ripchar Valley 
  • River Rafting at Zanskar 
  • A bike ride to Tso Moriri Lake 
  • Paragliding in Leh 
  • Ice Hockey in Ladakh Skiing / Heli skiing 
  • Chasing the snow leopards 
  • Spending some time in prayers at Hemis Monastery

    Click Here to Book: Manali Leh Srinagar Motorbike Tour

What are some famous tourist attractions I must visit in Ladakh?

Leh is all about the majestic Himalayas. The blue lakes, perfectly lush landscape, snow laden peaks, deep gorges and brown/red rocks can put you into a spell. Some of the must see places include:
  • Pangong Lake 
  • Magnetic Hill 
  • Nubra Valley 
  • Tso Moriri Lake 
  • Diskit Gompa 
  • Lamayuru Monastery 
  • Santi Stupa 
  • Shey Monastery 
  • Kargil 
  • Royal Leh Palace 
  • Alchi Monastery 
  • Sangam Point 
  • Tso Kar Lake 
  • Hemis Monastery 
  • Khardung La Pass Drass Valley

    Recommended Read: Mumbai to Ladakh Complete Travel Guide

Where is Pangong Lake located? How can I reach there?

Pangong Tso is a disputed territory. One third part of the Lake is inside the Indian boundary while the rest lies in Tibet. A section of the lake is actually just 20 kilometers east of the Line of Control, India shares with China. A delicate border area, but nevertheless, Pangong Tso is still one of the most visited destinations in Ladakh. Located in the Changthang Region of Ladakh, Pangong Tso is mesmerizing.
 
To reach the lake from Leh, follow this route: Leh – Karu – Sakti – Chang La – Durbuk – Tangste – Lukung – Spangmik (Total journey of 171 kilometers).

To reach Pangong from Nubra Valley, proceed via: Diskit – Khalsar – Agham – Tangyar – Wari La – Takthok – Sakti – Chang La – Durbuk – Tangste – Lukung – Spangmik (Total distance of 243 kilometers)

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Where is Nubra Valley located? How can I reach there?

The Nubra Valley lies 150 kilometers north of Leh, at the meeting point of rivers Siachen and Shyok, forming a large valley. Nubra separates Ladakh from the humongous Karakoram Range and is also the entry point to the famous Siachen Glacier. The best way to reach Nubra is to organize a group trip or hire a travel agent in Leh. The tourist season will run between mid June and let September, peaking around mid July.

Leh will be the nearest airport to reach Nubra Valley. From there, you can hire a taxi or board a public bus to reach Nubra. If you are traveling by train, Jammu would be the rail head. Again, a bus or private taxi would take you to Nubra. 150 kilometers from Leh, Nubra can be reached via a pretty adventurous road that also passes through Khardung La.

You will need a permit and it is best to get yours from the Leh district commissioner.

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Where is Khardung La located? What is special about it?

Sitting at an elevation of 5,359 meters, Khardung La is the highest motorable road in the world. Though the credibility is questioned, you certainly can’t ride higher than this! It’s a mountain pass in the Ladakh district inside the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. Just 39 kilometers from Leh, it is a pivotal tourist point and seekers of outdoor adventures. The narrow dirt road to reach Khardung La was laid back in 1976 and it has been recently paved for saver travels.

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Which monasteries are famous in Ladakh?

While there are several monasteries spread across Ladakh, the ones you should pay a visit to include:
  • Hemis Monastery 
  • Thiksey Monastery 
  • Diskit Monastery 
  • Likir Monastery 
  • Spituk Monastery 
  • Stakna Monastery 
  • Alchi Monastery 
  • Phyang Monastery 
  • Takthok Monastery 
  • Sumda Chun Monastery

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Where is Lamayuru Monastery located? Should I visit it?

Lamayuru is located in the western edge of Ladakh, amidst mountain badlands and is a popular stopover in the Kargil – Leh route. The Lamayuru Monastery is about 127 kilometers from the town of Leh and is a must visit place. Even if you aren’t too keen on history, the Lamayuru Monastery would be an 11th century AD structure and the seat of Red-Hat sect of Buddhism.

The monastery is also a perfect shopping destination if you are trying to bring back something from Ladakh. The monks hand make wall paintings, statues, thangas, artifacts, carpets and much more. One of the most precious buys however is the 11 headed and 1000 eyed Chenzing. To reach the monastery, you can also take the bypass from Leh near the Srinagar-Leh road or the trail to the Prikiti La Pass – your gateway to the Zanskar River.

Recommended Read: Manali to Leh Road Tour

Where is Shey Monastery located? How to reach there?

The Shey monastery and palace is located just 15 kilometers from the town of Leh. Also called the Shey Gompa, it is a sixteenth century AD construction and enshrines a 10 meter high copper statue of Lord Buddha. To reach Shey Gompa, you will need to start from Leh and just about 15 kilometers; you will see the signs to a solitary hillock hosting an elaborate monastery!

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Which all places are suitable for Trekking in Ladakh? Is it safe to do trekking in Ladakh?

The most famous trek in Ladakh is the Chadar Trek, wherein you get to trek across the frozen Zanskar River. Temperature goes as low as minus 35 degree Celsius but it is one of the most beautiful experiences you would ever have. Other important treks across Ladakh include:
  • Lamayuru to Alchi Trek 
  • Ripchar Valley Trek 
  • Padum to Darcha Trek 
  • Lamayuru to Darcha Trek 
  • Markha Valley Trek 
  • Lamayuru to Stok Kangri
  • Jhunglam Hemis to Padum Trek 
  • Kang Yatse and Dzo Jongo Trek .
The only concern you might have when trekking across Ladakh is the climate. The days can be drastic and the elements quite fickle. It is also safe to ask around about the weather conditions and road conditions on your trek route on the day of your journey. Most hotels would be able to advise you suitably.

Book Now: Leh Ladakh Trip

What all things must be kept in mind before doing Trekking in Ladakh?

Depending on the trek you choose, it will be advisable to: ? Be accompanied by a guide. Treks like Markha Valley are pretty straightforward and won’t need a guide but if you are going for something complicated like Chadar Trek, a guide will be essential for your survival.
  • Chalk out a detailed map and carry one too 
  • Have an inner line permit for treks across Nubra Valley or Tso Moriri 
  • Similarly, get a permit from Indian Mountaineering Foundation (IMF) if you want to trek Stok Kagri 
  • 2 days of acclimatization 
  • Go for baby treks before embarking on the bigger one 
  • Carry equipments necessary – walking stick, water bottle, tent, food, etc 
  • Check the climate

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Can I go to Ladakh by Bike? Is it safe to do so?

Ladakh is made for bikers and is the most preferable way to get around this part of the Himalayas. Ladakh on a bike is a completely different kind of challenge. However, the road trip also demands that you are a responsible rider, don’t get excited too easily and are looking for fun instead of speed. It is always recommended that you ride in a group since the road is quite long can be very tasking and you never know when you would need help. However, there are many who also bike to Ladakh alone.

A bike trip to Ladakh offers the flexibility of your own itinerary and you will always be free to head on to the unbeaten paths while taking the roads that have been less traveled. It’s a life altering experience altogether. You would be making new friends on the way – friends that share the same passion and approach towards live and travel it! However, if it is your first time or you aren’t in full confidence of making a trip alone, it is best to go for a package or group tour that offers you the same kind of flexibility but with added safety.

Also Checkout: Ladakh Packages From Mumbai

What all things I must take care of if I want to travel by bike?

In the past few years, tourism across Ladakh has peaked and several visitors prefer to take their own vehicle or go on a packaged road trip. The road conditions are one of the most crucial things to understand before planning a bike trip. The road conditions in this valley keep on changing and it is a highly rocky terrain out there. Further, you need to carry a lot of safety gear as the mountains can be unforgiving. Here are the things you need to carry:

Vehicle accessories:
  • OEM toolkit
  • Spare vehicle key
  • Sparkplug
  • Chain Link
  • Extra clutch and accelerator wires
  • Tubeless puncture repair kit
  • Spare tube
  • Tire irons and valve key
  • Tire repair can / electric pump / foot pump
  • Engine oil
  • Electrical tape

Riding Essentials:
 
  • Medical kit
  • Sunscreen lotion
  • Lip balm
  • Mustard oil (for moisturizing)
  • Glucose
  • Water bottles
  • Chocolates/biscuits/nuts

Riding gear:
 
  • Full face helmet with clear vision
  • UV sunglasses
  • Gloves  
  • Riding jacket
  • Riding pants Shoes

What sorts of Jeep safaris are available in Ladakh?

If you are going with your family and/or elders, a jeep safari would be a great way to cover Ladakh. You will get several options in jeep safaris that extend from 2 person trips (tailored for couples) to 12 person safaris (catered to group tourists). Jeep safaris should be booked online prior to your visit.

Must Checkout: Ladakh Packages From Delhi

How can I arrange for a jeep/bike on rent in Ladakh?

Traveling across Ladakh in a jeep/bike is safe as long as you stick to being a responsible driver. It is always recommended that you go in a group or pick up a packaged tour, if you are travelling alone. Being around people helps in this part of the world as the problems you can face can be multi-faceted. Before renting a bike, it is also essential that you understand the permits and regulations attached to the same. If you are renting a bike from Manali, you might not be able to take your bike beyond Leh.

For the number of days that your bike had been parked, most rental agencies will charge about 50% of the bill. You will however need to rent another local vehicle at Leh to go around. The most economical way to bike through Ladakh is to rent your vehicle at Leh itself. Since no outside vehicles are allowed in Leh, this makes sense. There are several rental service providers in the fort Road.

Also Checkout: Ladakh Tour From Pune

Can I do bicycle tour in Ladakh? How much it will cost me?

Riding a bicycle through Ladakh is an overwhelming feat and requires a lot of physical and mental stamina. You won’t be able to go more than 50 kilometers a day (even that is the best you can put into the pedals). Though the cost of riding will be less (no need of fuel), you will have to look for more halts and consequently frequent accommodations. The best thing you can do is reach a point and put your luggage to cover all neighboring area in the 25 kilometer radius. Again, you will need to think if you will be able to gear up for the challenge. For a 1 week bicycle trip across Ladakh the cost will come down to around INR 10,000 (inclusive of cheap budget hotels and food).

You May Also Book: Ladakh Tour From Ahmedabad

What sort of fitness I must have in order to do bicycle tour?

To be able to ride a bicycle through one of the highest mountain ranges on planet earth requires a very high level of fitness. It is necessary that you have practiced for long to prepare for this trip. There would be all elements against you. The lack of oxygen, constant dehydration, high altitude, low pressure will take a toll.

You Can Also Book: Leh Ladakh Tour From Bangalore

Can I do river rafting in Ladakh? Where can I do it?

There are a lot of opportunities for river rafting in Ladakh but these are also one of the most dangerous rapids to put yourself into. However, with risk comes the fun! Here, we have rapids ranging from Grade 1 to Grade 4. For river rafting, there are mainly two rivers – the Indus flowing southeast and then into Pakistan and the Zanskar River, the north flowing tributary of the Indus. Adding to the swift flowing rapids is the undulating terrain, criss crosses by ancient monasteries, beautiful valleys and remote villages.

The most prominent river rafting location is from Phey to Nimmo in Ladakh. If you are a beginner, the ideal stretch would be between Phey and Saspol and again between Kharu and Spituk. If you are looking for a more adventurous day, go for the stretch between Chilling and Nimmo on the Zanskar River! Be prepared to combat Grade 4 rapids!

Which all places are best for shopping in Ladakh?

The important stops for shopping in Ladakh include:
  • Ladakh Art Palace 
  • Second Hand Clothing Bazar 
  • Main Bazar, Ladakh 
  • Moti Market 
  • De Pashmina Emporium 
  • Shar Market, Bazar Road 
  • Buddhist Thangka House 
  • Tibetan Handicraft Community Showroom, Choglamsar

What things I should buy if I go to Ladakh? What Ladakh is famous for?

While your trip in Ladakh is a memory of a lifetime, it also sounds delightful to be able to bring some kind of souvenir from the country of passes. Well, Ladakh is famous for it’s:
  • Pashmina Shawls 
  • Chokste (Tibetan Tables) 
  • Prayer Wheels 
  • Thangka Paintings (silk) 
  • Tibetan silver jewelry 
  • Hand woven carpets Dragon motif textiles

What kind of Flora and Fauna can I experience in Ladakh?

The flora and fauna of Ladakh is unique in itself. Depending on the time of the year you are visiting the mountains, you will be able to witness: Birds: Finches, Robins, Redstarts, Brown headed gull, Brahminy Duck, Ruddy Shelldrake, Bar Headed Goose, Black Necked Crane, Raven, Red Bellied Chough, Tibetan Snowcock, Chukar, Golden Eagle, Lemmergeier and more Mammals: Ibex, Bharal (Blue Sheep), Tibetan Urial Sheep, Tibetan Argali Sheep, Tibetan Gazelle, Tibetan Antelope (very rare), Tibetan Wild Ass, Snow Leopard, Palla’s Cat, Brown Bear, Red Fox, Marmots, Pika, Voles, Tibetan Sand Fox and more. The flora will mostly be alpine species.

Where can I spot a Snow Leopard in Ladakh?

To be able to spot a snow leopard, you will have to go on the snow leopard trek across the Hemis National Park. It is a must if you are trying to see and click the highly elusive snow leopard cat. The trek stretches across the entire Markha and Rumbak Valley at an elevation of more than 4100 meters. The snow leopard trek is organized in the winter month, between January and March.

Can I visit the Donkey Sanctuary?

The unique Donkey Sanctuary in Ladakh is located close to the town of Leh and is a must visit if you are willing to take some time off the road trips. You will have to take the road leading to the Khardung La Pass. The animals here are mainly those that aren’t able to work anymore, are injured or have been rendered out of human use. Inspite of leaving the animals to their state, the locals, headed by Stany Wagchuk cares for them. This is would be a very inspirational stop on your journey – an example of caring and affection.

What kind of food is available in Ladakh? Which ethnic food is a must eat in Ladakh?

If you are traveling to Ladakh, there are some traditional dishes that you must try out. They will include:
  • Chhupri (cheese from Yak milk) 
  • Tigmo (steamed bread served with stew) 
  • Butter Tea 
  • Momos 
  • Thukpa (Tibetan Soup) 
  • Thenktuk 
  • Mokthuk 
  • Qahwa 
  • Kulcha 
  • Langar

Which place is best for star gazing in Ladakh?

There are a few places to stargaze in Ladakh but even so, the terrain offers the most suitable conditions on summer nights without any clouds. To see the Milky Way, stop for a night at:
  • Nubra Valley 
  • Pangong Tso 
  • Santi Stupa, Leh

Is Ladakh a good option for honeymoon?

Ladakh is a pretty good option as a honeymoon destination if your partner too enjoys the outdoors. However, it won’t be a place where you can get cozy. The temperature and the elevation can be quite tasking physically, leaving little time for romance! However, if you are looking to just have each other’s company and the best of nature, Ladakh is THE place to be!

Can I take my children's to Ladakh?

Kids can be taken to Ladakh, but there would be several essentials that you need to carry. Also, it is recommended not to take small kids to high pass regions like Khardung La.

Can I find ATMs easily in Ladakh?

There will be several ATM stops on your Srinagar to Leh route and important stops include Ganderbal, Kargil and Drass. Next to this, you will find an ATM at Keylong and the next one at Leh. Finding an ATM after that is hard.

What modes of payment are available in Ladakh?

The basic mode of payment across Ladakh is hard cash. There would be certain hotels and restaurants that would accept card payments.

What is AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness)? How to overcome it?

AMS or Acute Mountain Sickness is a common problem tourist’s face in Ladakh. It happens when the amount of oxygen available falls below the normal standard. In high altitude areas like Ladakh, AMS is accompanied by light headedness, headache, nausea, and a general lack of energy. The main cause of AMS is dehydration. It is advisable that you keep on drinking a lot of water and other fluids. Here are the recommended ways to beat AMS:
  • Drink lot of glucose water 
  • Go slow. Even a small run can make you feel spent 
  • Don’t push too hard 
  • Whenever you feel uneasy, stop to take rest Carry Diamox medicine. It starts working in about an hour.

What are the best selling Ladakh tours that I can book via Thrillophilia?

Newly Added Ladakh Experiences

Ladakh Things To Do Reviews

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Viresh Kumar
Reviewed: 29 Jun 2023
5.0/5
Excellent experience, good support from specially from Ruchika ji.She called us and know about any issue with us.It seems that she was with us .Special thanks to her along with team Thrillophilia
Viresh Kumar
Viresh Kumar
Viresh Kumar
Viresh Kumar
Viresh Kumar
Viresh Kumar
(10+)View All
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Chetan
Reviewed: 30 Jun 2022
5.0/5
Everything went smoothly and according to the itinerary. Returning customer for sure. Keep Up 👍
Chetan .
Chetan .
Chetan .
Chetan .
Chetan .
Chetan .
(9+)View All
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Mr Ranjan Kumar Choudhury
Reviewed: 15 Jun 2023
5.0/5
Hi Team, We had  a wonderful trip to Ladakh. The complete process was transparent. Had very good interaction with Sales rep. Tejash and operation rep. Karthik. They were friendly, reachable and answered all our queries. The local POC was also good. He met us personally in Leh and briefed us about th... Read More
Mr. Ranjan Kumar  Choudhury
Mr. Ranjan Kumar  Choudhury
Mr. Ranjan Kumar  Choudhury
Mr. Ranjan Kumar  Choudhury
Mr. Ranjan Kumar  Choudhury
Mr. Ranjan Kumar  Choudhury
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Rana Sarkar
Reviewed: 10 Jul 2022
4.0/5
Well planned, nice food, nice driver cum guide.
Rana Sarkar
Rana Sarkar
Rana Sarkar
Rana Sarkar
Rana Sarkar
Rana Sarkar
(3+)View All
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Sneha Sneha
Reviewed: 26 Jul 2022
5.0/5
Pangong lake and Thiksey Monastery are wonderful... extraordinary landscapes all over the way. Nubra can be avoided.
Sneha Sneha
Sneha Sneha
Sneha Sneha
Sneha Sneha
Sneha Sneha
Sneha Sneha
(1+)View All
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Sankha Rudra
Reviewed: 08 May 2023
5.0/5
Thrillophilia gifted us with a thrilling and comfortable experience at Ladakh, just the way we had imagined this dream trip to be!
Sankha Rudra
Sankha Rudra

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