is it safe to visit ladakh in october

10 Things You Must Know Before Visiting Ladakh in October

You might be wondering whether a trip to Ladakh in October is such a good idea.

Yes, it’s true it isn’t the busiest time of the year for Ladakh. The summer months are well and truly gone with most tourists along with it. But why should that be a bad thing?

What to Know Before Visiting Ladakh in October

Ladakh in October is arguably the most beautiful time of the year. With 360 degree views of snow capped mountains and gorgeous autumn trees, who wouldn’t like that?!

But there are a few things that you should know before heading to this Himalayan paradise. If you bare these things in mind the biggest thing you’ll have to worry about is having enough storage for all the photos!

1. Anticipate Snow

Ladakh is filled with amazing mountain views, alpine lakes and fantastic treks only made more beautiful by the snow. 

There’s usually only a light dusting of snow in the lower regions of Ladakh in October. However, in the higher regions you should anticipate lots, and I mean LOTS.

Basically the higher up you go, the more snow you’ll find. The best way to see this is on the Khardung La Road. 

Once home to the highest pass in the world, the Khardung La road ascends up to over 18,000ft (around 5,359m). You’ll find hardly any snow at the bottom but gradually you’ll start to see more and you definitely won’t be disappointed when you reach the Khardung La Pass , way up at the top! It’s the perfect place in Ladakh to make a snowman that’s for sure.

If you’re planning a trip to Ladakh in October, it’d be a good idea to brush up on your snow photography skills , as you’ll want to be able to properly capture the stunning beauty of the Himalayas.

2. Be Careful on the Roads

As fun as the snow is, it can make things problematic if you don’t plan ahead.

The roads lower down in Ladakh are completely fine in October so no need to worry. Apart from the pot holes anyway. Oh and the cows. Be careful of the cows, they’re all over the roads.

The roads higher up in the Ladakh mountain ranges however are particularly prone to closure. The Leh to Manali Highway is especially a NO-GO in October. Most of the highway is unpredictable even during the summer months so it’s really not worth risking it at this time of the year. Unless you want to be rescued by helicopter anyway…

For those of you planning on driving to Ladakh from other Indian states make sure you check the status of the roads . Most will be fine but it’s always best to check.

Flying into Ladakh is a less risky mode of transport. There are pretty frequent flights into Leh throughout October. The altitude of the airport isn’t too high so snow is less of a worry, but later on in the year flights may get delayed or even cancelled in November/December time.

3. Prepare for the Altitude

This is a bit of an obvious one. But it’s hands down the most important thing to consider about Ladakh, no matter what season it is. They don’t call it the ‘land of the high passes’ for nothing.

Unless you acclimatise then it’s going to be a pretty miserable trip.

The air is so thin at that altitude that even going up a few stairs is a struggle. There are anti-sickness tablets that you can buy to prevent the sickness and headaches but make sure you’re stocked up on Paracetamol just in case. 

If you’re staying in Leh then I’d recommend staying around town for the first few days to let your body adjust. It’s a beautiful town with lots of small walks and monasteries to explore. Take advantage of those before heading off on an intense trek!

4. Be a Smart Packer

Ladakh in October can get pretty cold, especially in the mornings and evenings. Make sure you’re a smart traveller and pack appropriately. Hats, scarfs and gloves are definitely needed in the evenings or if venturing up into the mountains.

Mid-day temperatures are still quite warm, around 19-23 degrees towards the start of October and a slightly cooler 12-16 degrees towards the end.

However, since the majority of the hotels in Leh lack central heating, definitely think about packing the winter PJ’s! Luckily most of the hotels provide thick blankets.

We hadn’t even thought about this, but the hotel provided us with a hot water bottle each which we were extremely thankful for (as most nights were below 0 degrees)! You can pick up small ones which are easy to squeeze into the suitcase if you have room. You’ll thank me for this one, trust me!

Make sure you have plenty of long sleeved T-shirts and thin jumpers to wear which you can easily roll up and chuck in your rucksack during the day. And of course, pack a comfortable pair of trainers or walking boots because you’ll be doing a LOT of walking.

5. Expect Power Cuts

You can expect power cuts in Leh every single night like clockwork. The restaurants luckily stay open but say goodbye to the Wi-Fi (which is temperamental at the best of times).

Make sure you have a torch with you. Without the street lights visibility is low, especially with pollution from some of the cars too. If like us, you like to walk to places as much as you can, then torches are a necessity. The roads aren’t the best even in broad daylight so to avoid falling down pot holes or bumping into the cows take a torch!

Bare in mind this also means that your accommodation won’t have power either. Most places have back-up generators but sometimes they don’t work either so keep that in mind too especially for charging your phones, cameras etc.

6. Working the Cash Machines

Ah, Indian cash machines. Prepare to get frustrated every time you use them. This is a more general thing for the whole of India but it applies for Ladakh in October too!

Even if you’ve read this article before heading to Ladakh and mastered your Indian ATM technique I can’t guarantee you will have 100% success. Half the time the cash machines don’t have any cash in them anyway!

If I can give you one piece of advice that you take away from this article, it’s make sure you get as much cash out as you can when the ATM is working.

The opening times for the ATM’s definitely aren’t consistent. Plus some of them don’t accept foreign cards and occasionally not travel cards either.

Nowhere in Ladakh accepts card so try to have as much cash on you or even foreign currency to exchange in case you can’t access cash whilst you’re here.

At the ATM, make sure that after you select ‘cash withdrawal’ always select from the ‘credit card’ option. It’s the only option that works.

Also, at the end of every transaction, even if it was successful, always press cancel or clear on the keypad to stop the next person withdrawing from your account!

7. Phone Service is Non-Existent 

Even though there are telephone lines all throughout Ladakh, phone service is non-existent.

It’s definitely worth buying an Indian SIM card because you can load it with a very small amount of money and it will last you the whole trip. Data is extremely cheap in India so make the most of it. We were grateful for google maps on the trip that’s for sure. Especially since no one seems to know where anywhere is in India!

The locals phones all seemed to work fine but it was patchy at best for our phones. 

Your best bet is to find a cafe which has good Wi-Fi when you arrive. We found the internet was best in Leh, in the Barista Cafe and Leh Cafe, plus both places do a fantastic coffee!

8. Be Polite

This is obviously a given, but the locals respond well to tourists that make an effort to say hello to them. 

Even just knowing the word for hello (Juley – pronounced “joo-ley”) and thank you (Tu-Chi Che) will go a long way.

You’ll find the locals are some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet. The buddhists and children especially are very smiley and happy to help with directions or queries.

9. Tourist Information

The tourist information is in the centre of Leh. The ladies behind the desk are really helpful and can provide lots of advice so definitely pay them a visit!

They’re also really helpful in telling you the best places to go for tours and for buying bus tickets as there are so many in the centre it’s impossible finding the right one.

You can ask them how much you should pay for certain tours and taxi’s too so you can avoid being ripped off!

10. Enjoy the Local Food

Last but not least, enjoy the delicious selection of local food! 

Ladakh is largely made up of people with Indian, Tibetan and Chinese origin so you can get food from all three delicacies.

The dumplings and hot and spicy soups are particularly delicious and extremely comforting after a cold trek through the Ladakhi mountains.

So there you have it! That just about covers all the things you need to know before heading to Ladakh in October. It’s a stunning part of the world that you will no doubt love and treasure the memories forever!

Samantha Walker

One of the founders of People of the Planet. Psychology graduate, digital marketer, and lover of travel and exploring new places!

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Best Time to Travel Ladakh & Zanskar Valley

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

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

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

But, still, the question is :

Let's quickly dive into the details:

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

Leh ladakh in april to mid-may.

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

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

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

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

Leh Ladakh in May – June – July

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

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

Dheeraj Sharma

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

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

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

Leh Ladakh in August

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

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

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

Leh Ladakh in September – October

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

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

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

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

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

Leh Ladakh in November

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

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

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

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

Leh Ladakh in December – January – February – March

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

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

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

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

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

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

Still confused??

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

It will answer all your questions 🙂

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

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

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

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

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

Hi Dheeraj,

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

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

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

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

Hello Dheeraj

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

Regards ANimesh

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

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

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

I would also welcome any feedback from fellow members here!

Thanks and Regards, Abhishek

Looking for a suggestion.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

It is surely a good idea to connect while travelling.

Cheers! Abhishek

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

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

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

Plz reply soon. Thanks

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

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

Thanks again.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

I am still waiting for your suggestion.

Hello Mahesh,

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you so much Dheeraj 🙂

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Replied on the other thread.

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

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

Will you be flying to Leh or making road trip?

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

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

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

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

Are you making a road trip?

Hi Dheeraj, Thanks for the wonderful blog!!

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

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

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

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

please clarify my doubts. Thanks in advance….

Give me your contact mail id……

Thank you Siraj.

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

Thanks a lot Dheeraj for clarifying my queries.

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

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

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

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

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

Thanks Dheeraj!!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thanks In Advance Srinivas

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Regards, Akshay Mayekar

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

hey dheeraj,

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

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

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

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

Dear Dheeraj,

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

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

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

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

lol same here

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

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

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

Thank you Dorjay

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

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

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

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

Look forward to hearing from you soon.

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

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

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

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

I am going to suggest following plan:

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

Sending you thousand of kisses! Thank you Dheeraj.

Thank you 🙂

This is an amazing website.

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

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

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

Please reply as its becoming very confusing for me.

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

Great to connect Sachendra.

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

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

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

Best Regards Gopinath

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

Hello Dheeraj,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hello Simone,

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

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

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

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

Warm Regards,

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

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

In which place shall I stay in Leh?

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

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

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

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

Apart from that you can suggest me better plan.

Awaiting for your prompt reply.

Hello Ashish,

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

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

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

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

Hi Swapnil,

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

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

September will be a better time to do so.

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

Let me know what you think of this.

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

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

Thanks Ashwini

Hi Ashwini,

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

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

No, ladakh sightseeing you need local ladakh tempo travller

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

Or we need to take the tempo from srinagar itself.

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

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

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

Regards, Karen Sandhu

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thanks in advance. Rahul

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thanks in Advance

Regards. Bharat V

Hello Bharat,

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

I’m Bhoomik From Chennai

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

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

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

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

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

Thanking you.

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

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

It is good time to visit Ladakh Raj

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

hi Dheeraj.

Your posts are so so awesome.

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

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

hello Dheeraj,

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

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

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

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

Looking forward for advice to plan things even better.

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

U r just amazing!!!

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

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

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

Hello Sonali,

You can follow th below plan:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hi dheeraj,

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

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• Leh Ladakh in October
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Leh in October

Quick navigation, how to reach ladakh in october, manali leh highway in october.

Srinagar Leh Highway in October

Leh Ladakh trip in October by Flight

Essential Info About Ladakh in October

Weather and temperature.

Things to Carry Leh Ladakh in October

Travel Tips For Leh Ladakh in October

Snow in Ladakh in October

Routes conditions

Leh to pangong route in october:.

Leh to Nubra valley in October

Leh to Tso Moiri in October

Nubra Valley to Pangong Lake Direct Route

Places to visit and things to do in Ladakh in October

Nubra valley.

Pangong Lake

Hemis monastery:

Shanti Stupa

Thiksey Monastery

Enjoy local food

Go shopping

Hall of Fame

Deskit Gompa

Festivals to celebrated in Ladakh in October

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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.

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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Leh Ladakh in October – How to Plan a Trip & What to See

Can we visit Leh Ladakh in October? The answer to this question is definitely yes. A lot of people travel to Ladakh in October and you can as well. But you must also know that October is not really the tourist season in Ladakh and there will be a few challenges that you must be prepared for.

If you were thinking that you will be the only one in Ladakh in October then you are wrong. There will be quite a handful of people around. I know I said that it is not the tourist season but it is not the off-season as well.

Hotels, restaurants, roads, and pretty much everything will still be open. In fact, visiting Ladakh in October has quite a few perks of its own that you will not get in the earlier months.

In this article, I will discuss a few tips on how you can plan to visit Ladakh in October followed by some details on how you can lay out your itinerary. If you have any questions, you can  contact me on Instagram  and I will be happy to answer.

You can also consider  subscribing to my YouTube channel  and asking a question there. To organize your trip to Ladakh, book a taxi, rent a bike, or get the best hotel rates, you can contact  Kunal @ 9910402252 .

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How to reach Ladakh in October

First things first. What is the best way to reach Ladakh in October? This will entirely depend on the dates of your travel. Of the two roads leading to Leh, the one from Manali gets closed for the year in October and Ladakh becomes accessible by road only via Srinagar.

Manali Leh Highway in October

If you are planning to travel from Manali to Leh in October, the safest time to do so is the first week of the month. The highway remains open until mid and sometimes even late October but it is not considered safe for tourists.

The high-altitude passes on the way start receiving snow in September itself and by October, it can be enough to block the road entirely.

If you could not travel in early October, then it is of utmost importance that you reach Ladakh via Srinagar and return the same way.

Baralacha La is usually the first high-altitude pass to receive snow on the Manali route. After Baralacha, there are 3 more passes you will need to cross before you make it to Leh. If the road ahead closes, you will get stuck in between.

There have been instances when tourists were stranded on the highway or were turned back because the road was snowed out. Even if it does not get blocked entirely, the threat of Black Ice will always remain. Accommodation at places like Jispa, Sarchu, and Pang will be difficult to find as well.

If the dates of your travel are after 10th October, it would be best to keep the Manali Leh highway out. If you still want to take a chance then ensure you get complete information about the weather and road conditions first. Take a look at this thread Manali Leh Highway Status where I keep updating the most recent status of the road.

Srinagar Leh Highway in October

The road from Srinagar to Leh remains open in October and can be traveled without much trouble. The only place that you would have to be careful about is the high-altitude pass of Zoji La. It would definitely have received snow in October.

Due to bad road conditions, crossing the pass can become challenging if there was snow on the ground. Before you cross Sonamarg, just ask around how the road at Zojila was. Travel slowly and carefully and you will be OK.

Like all other tourist-related activities, the availability of public transport gets scarce in Ladakh in October. Either there will be no transport available at all or it may not be on schedule due to extreme weather or a possible roadblock.

The chances of this happening are more towards the end of October. If you were planning to use public transport, it would be best to cancel the trip for now and plan it for next year.

The Leh to Manali Bus operated by HPTDC gets withdrawn towards mid of September so that will definitely not be available in October.

Your only option would be the bus service provided by HRTC but chances are that this bus as well will not be available after September. Just assume that after 30th September, there will be no bus available from Leh to Manali or vice versa.

However, if you went via Srinagar, the JKSRTC bus from Srinagar to Leh will still remain available. It operates throughout the month of October except for rare occasions when snowfall can block the road at Zojila.

The flights to Leh remain available for all 12 months. If your flight remained on schedule, you can reach Leh by Air in October and rent a local cab for sightseeing. The only challenge in reaching by flight will be of  AMS in Ladakh  which I have covered further in the article.

Local Commute in Ladakh in October

All the internal roads in Ladakh will remain in October and public transport will remain available as well. For your local commute, you can either board a bus or a private taxi. If you were traveling by your own vehicle, you can drive to any part of Ladakh as long as you have a permit for it.

Where to Stay in Ladakh in October

As you probably would already have guessed by now, you will have no trouble finding a hotel anywhere in Ladakh in October. The place where you may struggle a bit is Manali Leh Highway.

Chadar tents and campsites on this route start wrapping up in October so you may not find so many places to stay. But the rest of the Ladakh will not be a problem.

Whether or not to book in advance is entirely your choice. I will recommend booking your stay in Leh City. But for the rest of the places, you can negotiate an on-the-spot deal.

Places to visit in Ladakh in October

This then brings us to the next question. What to see in Leh Ladakh in October? The answer is everything. The entire region remains open in October and you will be able to cover all the places on your itinerary. Let us take a look at them one by one.

Nubra Valley in October

Nubra Valley remains open for tourists in the month of October. You will be able to reach here easily via Khardung La and explore the valley completely.

You can visit all the local villages like Diskit , Hunder, Sumur, and Panamik, and travel as far as Turtuk or Siachen Base Camp . Hotels too will be all up and running in all the villages.

The only catch is that there could be a snowfall at Khardung La blocking the road for a few hours or a day. But other than that, there will be no other hitch in your plans.

You can either travel by your own vehicle or book a private taxi. If traveling on a budget, you can either board a Bus or shared cab from  Leh Bus stand , both of which will be easily available in October. For more details, please read How to Plan a Trip to Nubra Valley in Ladakh .

Pangong Lake in October

Yes, you will be able to travel from Leh to Pangong Lake in October easily. There could be a snowfall blocking the road at Chang La but only temporarily. The bus service to Pangong from Leh remains operational throughout October. Shared cabs too can be boarded from the Leh Bus stand.

The campsites at Pangong start to wrap up for the season in October and are mostly all gone by early November. You will however have no problem finding a place to stay in October.

If you wish to stay at a cemented hotel, you can look for accommodation in the villages of Spangmik , Man, or Merak.  You can find a place to stay here in January or February as well as a matter of fact. For more details, please take a look at How to Plan a Trip to Pangong Tso Lake .

Nubra Valley to Pangong Lake Direct Route

There are three ways that you can travel from Nubra Valley to Pangong Lake or Vice Versa. The first way is that you go back to Leh and then travel from there to Pangong Lake via Chang La the next day. This route will be open in October as we just discussed.

The second road is Wari La Pass which is the toughest of all three routes. It is a very remote road that only a few tourists or locals travel on.

Wari La also starts receiving snow in October and there is a high chance that it may not get cleared immediately. It would be wise to ask around in Nuba Valley before attempting Wari La in October.

The third way is the Shyok road which is the shortest and now also the easiest. By this route, you can make it to Pangong from Nubra in just about 6 hours. In October, this road will remain open and safe to travel as well.

There is no public transport available on Wari La and Shyok road though. For more details, please read  How to Travel Directly from Nubra Valley to Pangong Lake .

Tso Moriri in October

Like Pangong and Nubra Valley, Tso Moriri will also remain open in October. You can arrive here either directly from Leh via Chumathang or directly from Pangong Lake via Chushul.

There are plenty of guesthouses and homestays at Tso Moriri (Karzok) where you can stay for the night. In fact, accommodation choices at Tso Moriri are better than even Pangong. For more details, please read  How to Plan a Trip to Tso Moriri .

Tso Kar Lake will be open in October as well. If you were coming from the Manali side, you can visit Tso Kar while coming to Leh by taking a short diversion from Debring. The other way, if you reached Leh by flight or via Srinagar, is to take the road across Tanglang La and visit Tso Kar via Debring.

The third way is to reach here from Tso Moriri via Sumdo and Polo Kongka La and then continue to either Leh or Manali. For a visual presentation of the routes I explained above, please see  The Most Comprehensive Road Map of Entire Leh Ladakh .

Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri Direct Route

This is the road that you take to travel directly from Pangong Lake to Tso Moriri via Chsuhul, Loma, Nyoma, Mahe, and Sumdo. On the way, if you had an additional day, you can also cover the small yet beautiful village of Hanle. For more details, please read  How to Travel directly from Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri .

This entire route will remain open for tourists in October. Accommodation on this stretch is available at Man, Merak, and Hanle.

You can look for a homestay at Loma, Nyoma, and Mahe. Mostly, however, it is Hanle that people break their journey for the night. From Pangong, you reach Hanle on Day 1, stay there for the night, and move on to Tso Moriri the next day.

Umling La Pass, which is located near Hanle, will also be accessible in October. But before you go there, ask around in Hanle about the road conditions or if there was a recent snowfall at the pass.

Leh to Kargil Route / Sham Valley

Now we are referring to the highway between Leh and Kargil which the locals usually refer to as Sham Valley tour. The places that you visit on this stretch are Gurudwara Patthar Sahib, Magnetic Hill, Indus Zanskar Confluence, Lamayuru Monastery, Maitreya Buddha, Moonland, Mulbekh, Alchi, Likir, and several others.

For a complete list, please take a look at Places to Visit on Leh to Kargil Route . All these places remain open for tourists for all 12 months and they will be in the month of October as well.

Zanskar Valley in October

Zanskar Valley gets a little tricky in October. It may or may not be open and you will have to find out about it in advance before including it in your itinerary.  Chances however are that it will be open at least in early October.

The only time it could be inaccessible by road is if there was early snow and you were traveling toward the end of October. For more details, please take a look at Zanskar Valley Travel Guide .

Leh Local Sightseeing

A common notion is that Leh remains buried under snow during the winter season which is not actually right. There are frequent snowfalls but it does not completely turn white. Most of the year, it remains dry. In October, the weather will be cold and there could be snow in the city but it will remain open for tourists.

All the local sightseeing places like Leh Palace, Shey Palace, Shanti Stupa, Hemis Monastery, Thiksey Monastery, and the local market will be open and can be visited. For a complete list, please take a look at Places to Visit in Leh City .

Snow in Ladakh in October

If the idea of a live snowfall is on your mind then chances are that you may catch one here in October. It starts to snow at the high altitude passes by mid-September and you may witness a light spell of snow while traveling to Ladakh in October. If not a live snowfall then you will at least get to see plenty of snow around at the top of the passes.

Festivals in Ladakh in October

Diskit Gustor Festival is celebrated in the Diskit Monastery of Nubra Valley in the month of October. It is a grand festival that thousands of people attend.

For more information on festivals in Ladakh and their dates, please read Festivals of Ladakh: A Colorful Celebration of Life . To know the exact dates of the festival, you can take a look at  Ladakh Festival Dates .

Camping,  Rafting & Trekking

Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri are the two best places to go camping in Ladakh. There are a few campsites in Nubra Valley as well where you can stay. All these options remain available in October.

Some other places where you can find camps are Pang and Sarchu on the Manali Leh route, Sham Valley, and Srinagar Leh highway.

If you were camping in your own tents, the entire Ladakh is a vast camping ground for you. Just make sure you bring in the best quality sleeping bag to keep you warm in 0 degrees temperatures.

You can also rent camping gear and sleeping bags in Leh City as well. For some more tips on camping in Ladakh, please take a look at How and Where to Camp in Ladakh .

I know there are a couple of tour companies in Leh that can arrange rafting for you if you were up to brace the cold waters of the Zanskar River in October. Just ask around in Leh and you will easily find a rating agency. I will personally not recommend going rafting in October.

Ladakh is home to several trails leading deep into the Himalayas. Stok Kangri Trek is probably the most famous one but there are several others as well. Sham Valley Trek and Markha Valley Trek are the two other well-known ones.

An easy one would be from Lamayuru to Alchi. In Zanskar, the trek to Phuktal Monastery is another relatively easy one that can be done in 2-3 days. For an even longer duration and exploring deep into the Himalayas, you can go on a snow leopard expedition.

Weather of Leh Ladakh in October

The weather in Ladakh will be terribly cold throughout the month. Sun may remain gone for an entire day and there will be a chance of snowfall even in Leh City. Days will be dry and cloudy and nights will be freezing. It will be slightly better towards the beginning of the month but will then keep getting colder with each passing day.

October is the month of the autumn season and in places like Nubra Valley, Sham Valley, and Suru Valley, you will see plenty of golden orange, giving a magical touch to the landscape.

The average temperature in Leh City in October ranges between a maximum of max 14°C and a minimum of -1°C. At places like Pangong and Tso Moriri, this will be even lower by several degrees. At the top of the passes, even during the day, the temperature will remain close to 5°C.

Clothes to Pack for Ladakh in October

Thermals and woolens at this time are a must. Carry your clothes in a way that you can wear them in layers. For example, wear thermals/warmers first and put on regular cotton clothes above them. Then wear a woolen sweater followed by a thick windproof jacket on the top.

This way, you can put on the clothes as you feel cold and remove them in layers when you start to feel warm. Gloves, woolen socks, and a woolen cap that can cover both your head and ears are a must. Please take a look at Clothes for Ladakh Trip: What to Pack for more details.

In terms of shoes, your normal sports shoes will do just fine but make sure you are carrying woolens socks as well to keep your feet warm.

Your packing will also vary if you were traveling to  Ladakh with family . If you had kids in the group, please make sure that you plan on keeping them completely covered at all times.

Some other things to carry will be a pair of sunglasses, some basic medicines, a sunblock lotion, cold cream, lip balm, moisturizer, a pain relief spray or balm, and other toiletries based on your needs.

Mobile Network & Connectivity

BSNL has the largest network in Ladakh and works even in places like Nubra Valley and Pangong Lake. The voice clarity however is questionable with BSNL connections.

The best networks of Leh and Nubra Valley are Jip and Airtel. You can actually get 4G speed with these networks. At Pangong, only BSNL works intermittently. None of the networks work at Tso Moriri. Between Leh and Kargil, Airtel is the best.

The most important thing to remember however is that only postpaid phones work in Ladakh. If you had a prepaid phone, it will be as good as a paperweight the moment you land in Leh. For more details, please take a look at  Mobile Network in Ladakh & Data Connectivity .

Acute Mountain Sickness

Altitude sickness in Ladakh is both a risk and a threat. Several tourists have lost their lives because of AMS. The chances increase even more when you are catching a flight to Leh.

To ensure that you do not suffer from AMS, take plenty of rest and spend at least the first two days in Leh City only. This way, if your condition started to get worse, you can go see a doctor and even get hospitalized if needed. Since there are no hospitals elsewhere, traveling to any other place on Day 1 or 2 will be a risk.

For a very detailed version of the information on AMS and tips on how can you tackle it better, please read  How to Handle Acute Mountain Sickness in Ladakh .

Medical Assistance

The hospitals in Leh City remain open for all 12 months. So yes, in case of an emergency, you can visit and consult a doctor in any of the hospitals.

There is no hospital in Nubra Valley, or at Pangong or Tso Moriri. But in case of a medical emergency, you can approach the nearest Indian Army post for assistance. For a visit in October, I will highly recommend that you carry some basic medicines for cold, flu, and fever along.

Itinerary for Leh Ladakh in October

Mentioned below are a few examples of itineraries that you can follow for your trip to Leh Ladakh in October. I will suggest a few different examples of itineraries depending on the mode of your mode of travel and the places you wanted to cover.

I am suggesting a travel plan that will cover all of the tourist attractions in Ladakh. You can however add or remove places based on your preference and time in hand.

If reaching Ladakh by Air, below is an example of an itinerary that you can follow.

• Arrive in Leh. Rest and arrange Permits – Day 1
• Leh to Lamayuru to Leh – Day 2
• Leh to Diskit – Day 3
• Diskit to Leh – Day 4
• Leh to Pangong – Day 5
• Pangong to Leh – Day 6
• Leh to Tso Moriri – Day 7
• Tso Moriri to Leh – Day 8
• Fly Out – Day 9

The above plan was suitable for someone traveling by Bus or shared cab. If you were going to rent a private taxi or motorcycle, you can modify it to a plan like below.

If you were renting a motorcycle or booking a private cab, then you can modify the plan to something like below.

• Diskit to Pangong Tso – Day 4
• Pangong Tso to Hanle – Day 5
• Hanle to Karzok (Tso Moriri) – Day 6
• Karzok to Leh via Tso Kar – Day 7
• Fly Out – Day 8

If you wanted to travel from Manali to Leh then the plan can be like below.

• Delhi to Manali – Day 1
• Manali to Jispa – Day 2
• Jispa to Pang – Day 3
• Pang to Leh – Day 4
• Leh – Day 5
• Leh to Diskit – Day 6
• Diskit to Pangong – Day 7
• Pangong to Hanle – Day 8
• Hanle to Karzok – Day 9
• Karzok to Leh via Chumathang or Tso Kar – Day 10
• Leh to Kargil – Day 11
• Kargil to Srinagar – Day 12
• Srinagar to Jammu – Day 13
• Jammu to Delhi – Day 14

If you wanted to start from Srinagar, the itinerary can be like the one mentioned below.

• Delhi to Jammu – Day 1
• Jammu to Srinagar – Day 2
• Srinagar to Kargil – Day 3
• Kargil to Leh – Day 4
• Karzok to Pang via Tso Kar – Day 10
• Pang to Jispa – Day 11
• Jispa to Manali – Day 12 (Skip this day if you were short on time and go straight to Manali from Pang)
• Manali to Delhi – Day 13

Please note that for all of the places I mentioned above, you will need to obtain an inner line permit. The procedure to procure the permit is all online now and is very easy. You should be able to get your permit within minutes. For more details and step-by-step directions, please take a look at  How to Get an Inner Line Permit for Ladakh .

Keep Buffer Days in Your Itinerary

This is very important. Do not bind yourself to strict timelines and keep at least 2 days as a buffer. It will definitely snow at the high-altitude passes in Ladakh and you got several to cross.

It is a possibility that you were visiting Nubra Valley and cannot return because the road across Khardung La was blocked due to recent snowfall. Or maybe you were at Pangong while it snowed at Chang La.

You must keep a couple of days in hand for situations like this. If all went well and according to the plan, you can use these days in hand to either rest in Leh or explore some other areas. Or you can come back home and rest a while after you returned from the trip.

Leh Ladakh Bike Trip in October

Is a bike trip to Ladakh possible in October? Yes, it is. But you will have to go via the Srinagar Leh route and return the same way. The only way to include Manali in the trip is if you were traveling early in the month and the weather gods really favored you.

If you were catching a flight to Ladakh, you can still rent a bike in Leh and then use it for local sightseeing. The rent usually is between Rs. 1000 to Rs. 2000 depending on the type of bike you chose.

Even scooters like Activa are available for rent if you want to use those for your local commute in Leh City. You can use it for visiting the local market, Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, etc.

Leh Ladakh in October – Conclusion

I believe that covers most of what you should know about visiting Ladakh in October. If you have any questions, you can contact me on Instagram  and I will be happy to answer. You can also consider  subscribing to my YouTube channel  and asking a question there.

Please go to the Instagram Feed settings page to create a feed.

Vargis.Khan

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

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How to plan a trip to leh ladakh, srinagar leh highway status 2024 – 2025, zojila pass road status and condition 2024 –..., 139 comments.

I am planning to visit Leh ladakh on 1st Oct 2023, whether roads to Umlingla Pass will be open at that time? can i visit with my car that is not 4*4 ?

It depends on the weather but the road usually remains open in October. Which car do you have?

Tata tigor , wheelBase – 2450 , ground clearance – 165. Route – Hanle -> Photila Pass -> Umling la Pass

Is it possible to take my car?

Ground clearance could be a problem on the way but you are taking the Photila route anyway. It is doable. Do not go via Nurbula

Thanks for your reply Vargis.

You are welcome !!!

Hi Vargis, hope this message finds you in good health. Need some guidance from you.

My team is planning to visit Ladakh in the month of October, this year.

This is my itinerary: 15th: flight to Srinagar, stay at Srinagar (5200 ft) 16th: Srinagar to Kargil via Drass, stay at Kargil (8780 ft) 17th: Kargil to Leh via Lamayuru, stay at Leh (11482 ft) 18th: DC office, Leh sightseeing, stay at Leh 19th: Leh to Nubra via Khardungla, stay at Nubra (10000 ft) 20th: Nubra to Turtuk and back, stay at Nubra 21st: Nubra to Pangong Tso, stay at Pangong (13862 ft) 22nd: Pangong to Leh, stay at Leh 23rd: buffer day + shopping, sightseeing stay at leh 24th: Flight from Leh

Is it a feasible plan? Please suggest any modification.

Hi Kaustav – This plan is doable bhai. No change needed

Hi Vargis ,

Hope you are doing well.. We are planning srinagar Kargill leh ladakh Pangong manali trip from Bangalore.. and we are taking car from Delhi on 15th oct 2022 and we are planning to retuen Delhi on 29th oct 2022. I request you to advise whether our scheduled time is safe and cover all these regions?

It is a little late in the season. You will have to keep the Manali Leh route out of your plans and there is a very high chance that there could be snow at the top of the passes en route. Secondly, if you are renting a car from Delhi, it will not be allowed for sightseeing in Ladakh

Hi Vargis, info that you table are very nice and clear. Missed to thank you when we made my first bike trip ( delhi – chandigarh – manali – leh – kargil – srinagar and all the way back to Kanyakumari ) in July 2018. Missed to thank you, then. ‘m planning for a trip this winter . Would be looking for your inputs. God Bless.

Hello Vargis, I have been following yout blog since I started planning for the Leh-Ladakh trip. It’s really a gem. I have planned the below itinerary tentatively. The main challenge is here my aged in laws, who will be going with us. 10th oct – reach Leh in the early morning, After rest, sight-seeing nearby, night stay at Leh 11th oct – Sham valley tour incl Lamayuru, night stay at Leh 12th oct – Go to Nubra valley 13th oct – hunder/turtuk visit, else go to pangong 14th oct – Visit pangong, night stay at Spanghmik/others 15th oct – Visit Tso moriri 16th oct – return to leh 17th oct – fly out from leh —— Is this itinerary holds good as we are travelling with senior citizen? We will have private car with us and will carry oxygen cylinder with us. Also as we are already acclimatizing in Leh and Nubra and then going to Pangong/Tso Moriri, is the night stay at the later places still not advisable?

Hi Vargis … ur information is so helpful n so easy to understand…. As a couple we r planning a trip on 30th Sept 2021 arriving frm Mumbai early morning n plan to stay in Leh for a day n then next day taking a bike trip to Diskit n would stay there for 4 nights n travel frm there to do the sights of neighboring places … do u think it’s ok or shd I just stay for a night n stay as we travel to other places… after my 4th night in Diskit I will be back in Leh for a night n hv my flt bk to Mumbai on 6th Oct…. pls advice

Hi Vargis… thanks for your information regarding the trip to Ladakh in the month of October…We from Guwahati are planning a trip to Ladakh in October…We are 14 people….We will be flying to Leh on 11th of October… Will stay there on 12th too and 13th we will be going to Nubra followed by Pangong…Just tell me do we need to carry portable oxygen cylinders with us?

I am doing a road trip from Bangalore to Leh on 23rd Oct. I read your post and i have ruled out Manali route and would be taking the Srinagar. I want to cover Kahrdungla ( Not sure if that would be open during that time) Pangong Lake Thiksey Monastery . Whats the best route that i can do

Hey Vargis,

You advise helped me during my Spiti trip on RE. Now, Im planning to do Leh again in 3rd and 4th of October by car. Let me know if it possible for non 4×4 car to do high passes in snow ? I will be driving Tata Nexon (FWD)and planning to use Nylon ropes on tyres as a precaution in Snow. Other details would help me to plan. Btw, I would take Srinagar Leh highway for to & fro… places to visit: Khardungla, Nubra, Tso Morriri , Hanle

Hi Vargis – Is a road trip by Manali to Leh in October end possible? I understand it all depends on the weather but what are the chances historically?

Hi Shoyab, It is usually closed by October end. Even if it is open, it is definitely not safe to travel on.

Very good information….thanks…. we are senior citizens couple above 65 years…..would you advise us to travel on both of us to ladakh for about 15days from last few days of September end from Shrinagar where we expect to reach by 26th September 2021 from chandigarh…of course, we live in Mumbai but will be reachingchandigarhfrom Manali…..yourwriteup.on spiti valley is also very informative & useful …thanks…Kishor Karia thanks

How are you traveling after you reach Chandigarh Sir? Private taxi?

What kind of clothes should we bring to Ladakh?

Please see this

https://vargiskhan.com/log/clothes-for-ladakh-trip-pack/

Dear please advise for family trip to leh-ladakh in September end is good or October 1st week?? 10-12days plan

Hello Naveen – Please try in September. October will be a little too cold for a family trip.

The Agham Shyok road remains open in October as well?

Yes it does

On an overall basis, would you call October a good month to go or a bad one?

Only early part of the month can be called a good time.

Hi Vargis. Me and my wife are planning to visit Leh on around 20th October. Leh to Nubhra to Pangong is on our mind. Considering the steep taxi rates (24k for this) I’m much more inclined towards renting a bike (BTW I’m a biking enthisiast but never did any long journeys much). I understand it’ll be difficult considering the snow, winds and bad weather. Can you draw some points on how to narrow down on one. And if yes what should be of prime importance if planning by bike.

Hi did you travelled LEH on the month of October end. If you did can you share some of your experiences.

hello to all, i am planing my leh trip by flight from delhi to leh on 5th of oct with my wife then from leh to all local destination by rented bike if any couple want to join us by rental car or bike so we both can hire one car and one bike in sharing fare so we can enjoy both in our journy bike and car..let me know 971566659890.thanx

Hello Vargis, I hope your doing well. I am planning a bike trip from Hyderabad to Ladakh. My trip will start from Oct. 11 and I have planned to reach the ladakh by 15th Oct. or 16th Oct. via Srinagar route. I am also planning to visit Khardung la, Pangong lake and want to return from Manali highway to Haridwar. Can you please tell me is this a good plan and how many days should I take for this route plan? If this is not a good plan, can you please suggest me some better option, so I can cover all these destinations. Awaiting your response! Thanks!

Hi we planned to arrive ladakh by October 3rd morning and return on 7th of October by flight from Hyderabad . Please help us the best places to visit and we can make the trip as a good trip.

Hi Vargis, I am Planning to go to leh Ladakh, with family , just after Diwali this year , reaching there end of Oct and coming back in beginning Nov.. do you think this is an ideal time for visit, I understand it will be cold but is it going to be sunny. I am a nature photographer and that’s one of attraction to visit leh / Ladakh .. your advise would be of great help .. I read in many websites that its going to be very cold and many hotels close down, however many hotels remain open ( those who have heating ) and many tourists also travel .. so is my confusion .. Thanks & regards Avijit

Dear Vargis Very useful information. We are planning to drive from Delhi to ladhak 4 friends in October. We will be coming from different parts assembling in delhi. Your suggestions for any rental agency to hire cars More importantly what type or car would u recommend ? Petrol / Duesel / four wheel / Bolero or is a sedan good enough … looking forward to hear from you Tarun

Asslamwalekum , bhai we are planning for 29 step to 6 October is it safe to travel by car , we will only take two breaks like first stop is Delhi to mankind then direct leg ,is it good

Walaikum As-Salam. Manali to Leh direct will be a very long journey, you will have to break the journey in between.

hello sir, How can I get reached in leh and back to delhi, since one option is to take flight from Delhi to Leh. The fare for delhi to leh fly is affordable fare is around 2500 rupees, but the return flight from leh to delhi requires around 3 times the fare of delhi to leh fly that is around 6 to 7 thousand. Why is that so? Is there any other options possible? Please help us. We are planning the trip in October.

Hi Sidharth – You can try reaching Ladakh via Srinagar by Bus, or come back by Bus

Dear vargis All your blogs are very helpful for me in planning my trip. As I m doing it solo need info on my planned itinerary Date :-sep28 to Oct 12 29-sep Chandigarh to kasol- 30 sep kasol- to Manali 1 Oct Manali and kulu (Tuesday rhotang pass closed) 2 Oct Manali to pang (Gandhi jeyanthi will rhotang pass be opened) 3rd oct pang to pangong tso 4th oct pangong to nubra to tutuk 5th Oct nubra to leh 6th Oct leh 7th Oct leh to drass 8th Oct drass to gulmarg to Srinagar 9th Oct Srinagar to Katra 10th Oct Katra to golden temple 11th Oct amristar to Chandigarh

Please let me know if this works Email [email protected] Mobile :-+919944506111

How are you traveling Aswin?

Hello vargis… Thank you for your quick reply. Renting a bike at Chandigarh And also can you please let me know 1 )if I the get the permits done through online for rhotang and leh inner circle do I have to visit the respective office to get stamped or something?

2) can I travel to pangong tso from pang without going to leh because I don’t most people prefer the route

3) I am skipping tso moriri because I need to visit golden temple on my return so in order to get 2 days

Thanks in advance for the same

1. Please see these two posts

https://vargiskhan.com/log/rohtang-permit-2019/

https://vargiskhan.com/log/how-to-get-ladakh-permit/

2. No you cannot go there without geting your permits stamped at Leh first.

Thank you for the information vargis… I went through both your blogs… Clear that without going to leh and get my online permit stamped I cannot move to nubra valley… Thanks again

That is correct Aswin. You are welcome !!!

Thank you for the timely reply… As I m a solo Traveller sorry to ask you again I got info from another lead that I can travel to pangong tso from pang without going to leh … Getting permits done through online and stamped in some tourist center… Can you please suggest me on that alone… And also as I m renting bike from Chandigarh will I be allowed to travel inside leh nubra and pangong… Please provide me leads… Will be very helpful

That is not correct. Only way around this is if someone can get the permits stamped on your behalf and courier them to you. Secondly, your Chandigarh rented bike will not be allowed to go to Pangong so you will have to go to Leh first to rent another bike from there.

Dear Varghis, first of all, thank you for creating such an amazing, super-informative blog. You have been a great source of help for many of my trips to the Himalayas! 😀

We are a group of four friends and planning to visit Ladakh in first week of October this year. We will hire a 4×4 SUV with good ground clearance for the entire duration of our trip. Our itinerary is as follows:

Day 1 (2nd Oct) – arrival in Leh; acclimatization; getting all the permits done Day 2 (3rd Oct) – Leh to Diskit; night stay in Diskit Day 3 (4th Oct) – Diskit to Pangong Tso via Agham-Shyok road; night stay near Pangong Day 4 (5th Oct) – Pangong to Hanle; night stay in Hanle Day 5 (6th Oct) – Hanle to Tso Moriri; night stay in Karzok Day 6 (7th Oct) – Tso Moriri to Leh Day 7 (8th Oct) – Back to Delhi

Wanted to know your thoughts on the feasibility of this plan. If it’s doable (considering the weather in October) or too hectic? Unfortunately, we don’t have time for spare days so will it make more sense to skip some destination?

Look forward to hearing from you.

Regards, Sagun

Hi Sagun – Plan is doable. There won’t be any problem completing it at all.

Hi Vargis, thanks a lot for your feedback! Just a quick follow-up question: If we do the itinerary in reverse (i.e. go to Tso Moriri first), do you think there is a greater risk of AMS in that case? Or the first day rest in Leh and gradual ascent on Day 2 should be fine?

Hi Sagun – Yes, there is a greater risk of AMS if you went to Moriri first. Better to do it the way you planned it.

Just wanted to let you know that we got back from a wonderful trip to Ladakh earlier this week. We managed to do Pangong to Tso Moriri in one day (took us about 8-8.5 hours with plenty of stops though) and thus got ourselves an extra day in Leh for R&R. The drive along Pangong was truly mesmerizing with some incredibly beautiful villages (especially Merak) along the way. Glad we took that route while going to Tso Moriri.

Thanks once again for all your suggestions and advice.

Cheers, Sagun

Hi Sagun – That is good to hear. I am glad that your trip was fun. Thank you so much for taking the time to drop a note and let me know.

Hi Everyone,

Good Day!!!

We are planning ladakh trip on 5th october. We are travelling from south to delhi by air then in car by road. Since this this our first experience and the unconditional climate, we are looking for a team where we can travel together from delhi to ladakh. If any one who is interested please let me know.

me too leaving on 5th of oct with my wife from delhi please what app me:971566659890 thanx.

We (Husband-Wife) too are planning to visit Leh during 1st week of Oct. If your sharing plan is still open, please mail your itinerary to [email protected] or sms your number at 9830023731.so that we can take this to next level…. – Harish

Dear Vargis Bhai, I am planning to visit Leh from 1st October to 7th October 2019 as my son’s examination will be get over on 30th September..I along with my wife & two kids (11yrs+4yrs)…Is this the right time to visit Ladakh or I have to wait for june’2020?????? Need your valuable suggestions. Please reply soon….

Ibrar Bhai yes you can go but it will be very cold in October so please prepare accordingly.

Hi, my husband, I along with our 3.5 yr old son want to travel to ladhak between 25 Sept to 4 Oct 2019. Is it OK for kids to travel at this time. I have not read any experiences along with toddlers so confused as not sure if kids face altitude sickness.

Please see this post. Should answer your questions.

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

Hi vargis i just seeing your feed back for all traveler, it is so valuer for them. i have also a almost same question but little difference, We are 3 couple age group 50-56, have some bP problems. We have planed the tour between 18oct to 24 oct. We are from delhi. Here is any risk for us from the weather or oxygen problem. we have a plan to to nubra and stay there, is it fine or not. kindly give my valubale feed back. thanks dear vargis

Hello Mr. Mohan – I would strongly advise consulting a Dr. first and take recommended precautions. A friend of mine died yesterday in Ladakh due to acute mountain sicknes so please practice caution. See the post below.

https://vargiskhan.com/log/rest-in-peace-my-friend/

Hi VARGIS We are planning to fly Leh on 24 of Oct 2019 and return on 31 of Oct please Guide

We are flying to leh on 28 Sept,2019 and will be back by 6th October.

So we have planned like below –

Day 1 – Leh Day 2 – Leh to Nubra via Kharding La Day 3 – Nubra to Turtuk and Back to Hundar Day 4 – Hundar to Pangong Day 5 – Pangong to Tsomoriri Day 6 – Tsomoriri to Leh Day 7 – Rafting at Zanskar River Day 8 – Leh Local sight seeing Day 9 – Fly Out.

Q1.Hundar to Pangong, road will be opened during that time? Q2.Pangong to Tsomoriri , road will opened? or do we need to back to leh and then from leh to Tsomoriri? Q3.Is it possible to do the rafting during that time in Zanskar River?and the strating point is how much from leh?

please let me know if you have any suggestions on this?

1. Yes 2. Yes it will be open 3. Yes it is possible. Starting point is Nimmu near Leh

Is it safe to visit Chusul area ( upto Mirpal Tso) in last week of October ? Regards .

You can go towards Chushul but I doubt they will allow you to go towards Mirpal Tso

Hello Mr.Vargis Khan – I am a solo traveller and will be flying into Leh on the 27th morning. I will have time until the 31st afternoon for sightseeing. After that starting from the 11th of November, I can take a few more days to stay there. I have a few questions. It would be very helpful if you could give me some information on this.

1. How much time should I allocate for the Thiksey Gustor festival and when is the right time to go there? 2. Will it be possible to rent a bike and go to the Nubra Valley and come back to Leh within two days, for e.g., on the 29th and 30th? 3. Will it be possible to go to Pangong Tso on the 11th or 12th of November? Once again, I am thinking of renting a bike. 4. Any possibility of buses operating to Manali post 11th of November?

Your response will be much appreciated. Thanks in advance.

I am planning Leh (14-20th Oct) with wife and 9 year old son is that comfort or it’s tough for child

We will not cover many location stay in hotel and want to relax

It should be OK but make sure you pack well though. It has started to snow at Khardung La and gotten very cold in Ladakh.

We are planning to fly Leh and then by road to nubra and pangong , then come back. And fly back from Leh itself.i read your article which gave us an idea. Thanks for that. Any other suggestions sir ?

We are planning from 10th to 15th of October , sorry , forget to quote that

No, pretty much the same as to what I mentioned in the article. Weather has gotten very cold so please pack accordingly.

hey vargis IS IS SAFE to take direct route from nubra to pangong via shyok during mid october?

Yes it is Avish

Need your advice on below :

1. Are there decent hotels to stay in October first week in nubra and pangong ?

2. Do we get shared taxies while traveling from/to leh to nubra and pangong ?

3. Is it advisable to travel directly from nubra to pangong .

M landing in leh on 29 Sept and flying out on 3 oct. Really looking forward to your response.

1. Yes 2. Yes 3. Yes but there are no shared cabs on the direct routes.

Hey Vargis. We 2 people planning to go Leh by air on 29th september. There we want to take bike on rent and visit all the place by bike. Or return flight is on 4th October. We are having several queries 1. We eagerly want to drive bike there and want to visit all places by bike from there. Kindly comment on this. 2. Can u give us the plan accordingly.

1. Yes you can ride around on bikes but it will be very cold as well so prepare accordingly. 2. You can travel like this

29 – Leh. Arrange permits and bikes 30 – Leh to Lamayuru to Leh 1 – Leh to Diskit 2 – Diskit to Turtuk to Panamik 3 – Panamik to Pangong to Leh 4 – Return

We have planned trio to ladakh And we’ll reach leh by flight on 2nd oct and retuen flight is on 8th oct. Pls suggest us itienry as this one is our first time. We r 4 around age group of 25 to 30. Is it good time to rent bike and roam around leh or taxi would be preferable.?? Thanx in advance

Hi Savan – Private taxi will be better but will also be costlier. You can travel like this.

2nd – Leh. Rest, arrange permits and taxi 3rd – Leh to Kargil via Lamayuru 4th – Kargil to Leh via Batalik 5th – Leh to Diskit 6th – Diskit to Turtuk to Panamik 7th – Panamik to Pangong to Leh 8th – Fly Out

Or Like this

2nd – Leh. Rest, arrange permits and taxi 3rd – Leh to Lamayuru to Leh 4th – Leh to Diskit 5th – Diskit to Pangong to Leh 6th – Leh to Tso Moriri 7th – Tso Moriri to Leh 8th – Fly Out

Sirji what about nubra velly…??is it not on the route??

Hii vargis ! Your blogs are really helpful for All the travellers. I have some queries. Actually me n my husband are planning Leh road trip in October 1st week. Can we complete the full circuit starting From Delhi-manali -Leh-Srinagar-delhi. Wil the manali route be open in October first week? If yes how many days are required to complete this circuit n if no then any other route if you can suggest. Thanks in advance

As long as your trip is within first 10 days of October then yes, you should be able to complete the entire circuit. About 12-14 days is a safe number to assume for the trip.

Ok thank you so much for replying.. So happy yeyeye. We can complete the circuit.. thanks again. N keep doing this great work and keep travelling!!!!

You are welcome !!! 🙂 Do let me know how your trip went after your return

Yes. Surely

Hlo sir me and my friends planning to visit leh from 4 oct to 7oct .so i just want to ask that 3 days is enough .

3 days is not really enough but if that is all the time you can afford, then read through the post below.

https://vargiskhan.com/log/ladakh-in-3-days-plan-trip/

Hi Reetika, I’m also visit leh from 4th October to 6th October with my wife. If you want you can join with us.

Superb blog with parent like guide …thanks for your valuable inputs …it will be really helpful for adventure lovers …i just want to know one thing …chance of getting share cab to & from Ley towards other destinations ?

Thanks a lot for your wonderful advice, could you help suggest if there any high latitude issue i m planning to travel from [boarding from Delhi] 27th sept to 2nd OCt 2018 along with my 2.5years kid

Kindly help to answer followings:

1) are we good with our itinerary along with timing we choose? 2) is it safe to travel with my kid 3) Also during this week ,will Manali-Leh highway be opened? 4) we have not yet booked return ticket from Leh- to Delhi, what if we choose road trip to Leh-Srinagar and thereafter Srinagar to Delhi by Air.

Please help to reply at the earliest.

Thanks a Ton!

Hi Ajay Bhai,

1. Timing is OK but it will be very cold so prepare acccordingly. 2. Unless there is any medical history, you should be OK. I will still strongly recommend a visit to the doctor to get a professional opinion and some other tips. 3. Yes 4. Yes you could do that as well. Sounds like a good plan.

Hello sir, We are planning the leh trip by flight on oct 16 from delhi. We have to visit the places like Nubra valley, Khardung La, pangong Tso,Hemis national park and Kargil. We’ll be there on Oct 16’th morning. And planning to visit the leh palace,Hemis national park on the same day itself by means of public transport. And on the next day we would like to go for a bike trip to Pangong TSO , can we back to leh on the same day itself? And the same way on oct18’th another bike trip to Nubra valley and Khardung La and back to leh on the same day. On oct 19’th plannig to visit the Kargil by car. And on 19th morning we will be back to Delhi. Will the plan work for us? If so how can we get the cars and bikes on rent? If any permission needed to visit any of the mentioned places how could we get those? If the above mentioned plan ain’t a better idea can you suggest us a better plan? thank you.

hello sir, please give us your suggestion.

Hello Sidharth,

1. Leh to Pangong and back on same day – Yes you can do it. 2. Nubra and Leh same day – Yes you can do it. 3. How to get Permits – Please see this link. https://vargiskhan.com/log/obtaining-ilp-for-ladakh/ 4. There are several places you can rent bikes from in Leh. Just take a walk around in the city and you will come across several rental agencies and mechanics.

Hi vargis Khan , this is tarun sharma .we are planing to visit leh in the first week of Oct 2018 . it that ok traveling with 8 years old kid?

Hi Tarun – Yes it is. Just be prepared for the cold though, specially with the child traveling. Do take a look at this post as well.

Hi, I am planning to visit Leh from 19th Oct-23rd october this year 2018 . Please reply to my queries below . As stated, i have read your whole page and got some valuable inputs but would like you to address below queries:

1. September third week is best to visit Leh and ladakh? 2. Should we book room once reach leh or prior booking should be done? 3. One or two jackets are enough to cover the trip ? 4. Which are the best places to enjoy without no rush

Please reply.

1. Yes it is a good time 2. Book in advance wherever you can 3. Yes but carry some light woolens or Thermals as well 4. Spend a day at Nubra, Pangong and Moriri each and that should cover majority of the must visit places.

Thanks for the reply Vargis.

You are welcome Lalit !!!

Quite helpful. However I have a few things to ask. Plz look into my itinerary : 2nd oct – Delhi To leh (Flight) 3rd oct – Leh to Pangong then Pangong to Nubra 4th oct – Nubra to Tso moriri 5th oct – Tso moriri to Leh 6th oct – Leh to Lamayuru and back 7th oct – Back to Delhi ‘Is Pangong to Nubra possible on 2nd oct via the Shyok rd you mentioned?’ Is this plan gonna work? Please suggest.

Hello – You can visit Nubra and Pangong in Oct 2nd week but your itinerary seems a bit off. Take a look at this article please. I have suggested a few itineraries here to cover Ladakh in 5 days. On 6th day, you can fly out.

https://vargiskhan.com/log/visit-leh-ladakh-in-5-days/

Hi, planning to fly leh in first week of oct for 6 days…any suggestions ?? what and how to cover places

How are you planning to travel locally in Ladakh Lokesh? Also, take a look at this post please.

https://vargiskhan.com/log/leh-ladakh-in-6-days/

Sir we r planning explore Delhi to ladakh and back to Manali by Royal Enfield Byk in the month of October 15th this year So kindly advice some valuable tips

Hi Subrata – My advice would be the same that I mentioned in the article above.

my programme to leh-ladakh tour from 20th Oct to 24 Oct’2018 with family. please advise weather condition, location we can visit… Any risk about oxigen problem ?

It depends on how many days you have in hand but the following posts should be of help. Please take a look.

https://vargiskhan.com/log/rent-oxygen-cylinder-for-ladakh-trip/

https://vargiskhan.com/log/tourist-attractions-in-ladakh/

Hello Vargis … thx for putting this together. This is really helpful. Just wanted some advice as we 6 people all around 40.. plan to travel to Leh around 3rd wee of October through Manali . Understand that it might be risKy but really wanted to explore that route as we have not been through that n the past. We have been to Djojila pass etc through Srinagar. Do advice…. we loo fwd. Thx

Hello Jyoti,

Giving an exact reply would be a bit tought right now because it all depends on how the weather trends in October. Historically, the road remains open until late October so you should be able to travel in 3rd week but best would be to wait until late September before finalizing your plan.

Hi Thanks so much for compiling this info. We are a group of 20 ppl with teenage kids and want to travel to leh on 15 oct 2018. For a week. We will be flying from Delhi to Leh . Would it be a good time to come to come there

If you are flying then yes it is a good time to go but do not delay it any further.

Can i get you number…I’m very upset…i have already book flight on 13 october

It was very helpful…but can we go to nubra valley and stay over night there and nubra to pangong stay over there…is it possible on 13 oct ?

Yes you can go to Nubra and Pangong and stay there for the night on 13th. As a matter of fact, you can stay at these places even in peak winter, in December and January as well.

Thank you very much…but we going with family…is it safe to pass from khardungla top and changla pass on octuber 14 to 15??

Please help me out

Yes it is safe. There are plenty of tourists in Ladakh in October so you really have nothing to worry about.

Hello; I’m going to Leh in November so can you recommend me some hotels there that are not too expensive? Thank you!

Please take a look at this post.

https://vargiskhan.com/log/good-budget-hotels-in-leh-with-tariff/

Really very useful! thank you!

Dear Vargis

Thanks for this article, we have bought the flight ticket for first and second week of October 2018

and would need your advise if tour agent is needed at this critical period, instead of using public transport

It’s our first to North India

Thanks Yong Malaysia

Hello Yong – No need to hire a tour agent, you will just end up paying more. If not the bus then you will still be able to find shared taxi to other parts of Ladakh in October.

Then how we can go to nubra valley and pangong lake…without agent? We r 7person (family) member women also.

HI vargas bhai, have got a great deal of respect in my minmind for ur work and experience and the enthusiasm to share it with the world and help.. I would be very thankful to you if u help me decide upon the best out of two months, start of October or may to see the best of beauty in ladakh as a whole and pangong.. the reason for the question is that we are planning our couple shoot there and because of our tight schedules, sadly now we are left with just these two time options.. we were to go in third week sept but circumstance made us cancel the trip. So when would be the best time according to ur experience.. to see the best of beauty of ladakh as a whole and beautiful colors of pangong.. please help

Hello Dhara Bhai – Thank you so much for your appreciate words. I am glad that the information posted was of help. Coming to your question, if possible at all, please make the trip in October itself. November will get colder, chances of snowfall and passes getting blocked will be way higher. Between Oct and Nov, you should plan within this month.

Hello vargis, thank’s for the response. However, I was not asking between Oct and Nov. I just have two options in my bucket, month of may and October. So can u consider my concerns mentioned earlier and suggest me better of these two months. Thanx

Hello Dhara – Month of May would be much better as compared to October.

Hey thanx a lot vargis, u are doin a great work. I might need u further, for suggestion, if so, it would be great if u email me with your number so that i have ur email id and number for indepth discussion related to this.. thanx again 🙂

Hi Dhara – Please email me your number and I will give you a call. You can send me an email using the contact me button in the menu

I’m traveling to Leh on Sunday with a foreign citizen and am really tensed about a few things. Would it be possible for you to share your number and get on a quick call. Would really help calm my nerves down.

Thanks in advance Sahil

Sahil – I replied on your email with my number.

Thanks for your useful information, I have plans to go to Leh and stay there in the winter from early November until the end of 1/2018. What difficulties do I need to know? Does the airport in Leh operate in winter? Really thank you if I could know the difficulties I will encounter on my trip. You have great articles and useful.

Please take a look at the articles below. Let me know if you have any further questions.

https://vargiskhan.com/log/ladakh-in-winter-necessary-preparations-precautions/

https://vargiskhan.com/log/ladakh-winter-travel-guide-ideal-itinerary/

https://vargiskhan.com/log/ladakh-winter-trip-essentials-items-carry/

Thank you, it was very helpful to me!

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Reasons why you should visit Ladakh in October

There is nothing like travelling to Ladakh in winters, snow-capped mountains, frozen rivers and frosty weather makes a journey of a lifetime.

If you are planning a trip to Ladakh then October is the month, when you can experience the true essence of nature and mesmerize the beauty, which you will get nowhere else.

During September winters start to settle in and by October first-week winter's magic spreads its spell throughout, that’s when you experience mind-numbing cold, which is nothing more than spiritual.  

Moreover, these days Ladakh has become one of the favorite winter destinations for adventure seekers and nature admirers, ious biking expeditions and treks also starts during this time.

So pack your woolens and earmuffs, and you are good to go for your trip.

Here is more on why you should visit Ladakh in October

1. No crowd

There will be no crowd during October month as tourist season gets over and you get the chance to cherish each and every sight all by yourself.

This is just the time for you to enjoy steer clear views without any rush and noise.

Much to your advantage, not all the cafes and restaurants get shut during the winter season, so indulging in your daily coffee routine won’t be a problem.

2. You save money

Ladakh in October is considered to be the most cost-effective time to travel as flights and hotels get cheaper. The same goes for the taxis where you get good discounts and can have an amazing round trip exploring the alluring beauty of Ladakh.

Most of the hotels get shut down by end of the October, though there are no scarcity of home-stays and traditional ladakhi houses options you can vouch for.

3. Frozen Pangong Lake

Pangong Tso or Pangong Lake is one of the most beautiful and world’s highest saltwater lake in the world, situated at a height of almost 4,350m, while sparkling-blue in summers, its winter avatar will make you fall in love with it.

It freezes solid during winters and you can walk over the lake or skate without any problem. Also, the barren landscape surrounding it, get covered with layers of snow creating a genuine winter paradise.

4. No traffic jams

If you have been to Ladakh in Summers then you know about the traffic jams hurdles. Come October and you can say good-byes to all the jams and can have a smooth ride to Kahrdung-La pass, Chang-La pass, Pangong or Tso Moriri.

For motorbikes, aficionados are the perfect time to plan a bike trip, as nothing like riding in the serene peaceful weather.  

5. Photographer’s heaven

Fewer selfie-clicking tourists and no-crowd, winter is the best time for photography in Ladakh. Ethereal landscapes, blue skies and frozen lakes make it a heaven for photographers.

Also, if you can bear the cold at night then star trail time-lapse videos are dreamlike creation.

6. Rare Ladhaki wildlife sightings

As winter sets in, the most Himalayan animals tend to come down to a lower altitude, and this makes it easier to spot them.

The most popularly known as the ghost of the mountains, snow-leopard though not that easy to spot but you can look for many other mountain faunae such as wild hares, magpies which are easy to spot.

7. Walk and skate on Zanskar river- Chadar Trek

Zanskar river, which gets frozen in the winters is most popularly known for Chadar Trek, which is one of the most glamorous treks in the world. Though the walk is simple but the trek has its own set of difficulties. So don’t miss the chance and get an experience of all thrills, while enjoying skating or taking a walk on the trek during winter time.

Book your Ladakh tour packages at best price with HelloTravel.com & get exciting deals on Ladakh vacation.

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This wonderful mountainous valley is spotted with enormous monasteries which makes the destination attractive. The monasteries of Leh are rich in collections of Buddhist remnants such as, murals, sculptures, thankas, and scriptures. Many of the monasteries are situated in isolated places and above the hills, which make these monasteries calm, cool and serene. Buddhist gompas are centre to the cultural and architectural delight. Call 08048736040 to Enquire

Ladakh is the home to some of the best picturesque views in India. But that?s not the end. Its surrounding areas have number of other beautiful destinations to make your holiday tour memorable. Pangong Lake in Ladakh is one of them. It is located about 160km away from Leh. The picturesque view of this lake is breath taking. You will be surely experiencing a wonderful drive to the lake. Your journey starts at Thiksey village. The vicinity is well known for its gigantic Buddhist monasteries, which cover up an entire mountain range. Earlier, Pangong Tso used to open to the Shyok River. But later the source was closed off for some natural damming. Presently, from the Indian side two different streams nourish the lake. As a result of this marshes and wetlands are formed at the edges of the lake. A chain of war memorials can be found in Tangste Valley which are built to commemorate the life sacrifice of the soldiers during the Indo-Chinese war of 1962. Army bunkers and trenches used during those days are present here till today. Sometimes you can see the sheepherders roaming around with their large herds of Pashima sheep. Apart from this you can spot some yaks with long tail. Call 08048736040 to Enquire

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Leh Ladakh in October – A Guide to Plan a Trip to Ladakh in October

Summer is now over, and winter is building up in Ladakh in October. Cold winds make life very difficult, and some areas of Ladakh start to receive snowfall. It would not be the best choice to visit Ladakh during this month. It is due to the inconveniences that are associated with the shallow temperatures of the winter.

The transition from warm weather to freezing one brings with it a lot of problems. After the first half of October, some areas witness snowfall that causes road blockages. The highway from Manali to Leh gets closed for tourists. It remains full of snow, and only necessary vehicles are allowed to move. However, you can still have access to Leh in the first half of the month. You can visit Ladakh by road via Srinagar. The journey is not the safest, but it is undoubtedly adventurous.

If you have intentions of visiting Ladakh in October, you need to be very careful and devise a plan for your trip. In this guide, we will help you prepare a program that will include all the stuff you need and a suggested itinerary for you. With this guide, we will try to help you make the most out of your trip to Ladakh and make it a memorable one.

Some routes may remain closed, but tourism in Leh and other parts of Ladakh remains open. The safest choice for you to make would be to travel by air. The airport in Leh remains functional even in the harshest of weather conditions. With the right plan, you can visit as many locations as possible without any hassle. Ladakh is an iconic place with the most magnificent mountain scenery. In Ladakh, adventure activities like rafting, hiking, and motor-biking are the options you can enjoy.

Some Pre-requisites to Plan a Trip to Ladakh in October:

Avoid the road if you are a first-timer.

If you have never been to Ladakh before, do not plan a trip in October. Make sure that you have already visited the place at least once before going on a road trip in October. If there is rain or snow, the roads may face blockages, and there are chances of landslides and other obstacles. During October, air travel will be the best option as it is the safest and remains functional throughout the year.

Suggested Read: Things to do in Ladakh in October

Get Acclimatized Beforehand

If you are not comfortable at higher altitudes, make it a point before you start your trip to Ladakh in October. Try to spend the first few days of your journey in the lower altitudes and then move up towards the higher elevations. If you are taking the air route, it will not be a problem, but when traveling by road, try to keep that in mind.

Try to Stay Fit

If you are planning a road trip to Ladakh, prepare yourself physically. If you have lived in a lower elevation for most of your life, you will find it very difficult to adapt to the atmospheric conditions in Ladakh. As you go up towards higher elevations, it is a possibility that you might suffer from Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Being physically fit and adaptive to the regional conditions is a pre-requisite to sustain mountain sickness.

Keep Your Documents and Permits Safe

You will require inner-line permits if you want to visit remote places. These places are not very comfortable to visit and therefore, the authorities allow only the people with permits to go there. You can avail of the licenses from the District Magistrate’s office in Leh. Carry your Identity card and provide a medical fitness certificate to get these permissions. Once you have them, make photocopies of the permits you get. You will have to show them at check-posts.

Take the Necessary Precautions

If you are heading on a road trip to Ladakh, make sure to provide the details of your itinerary to your family members or friends. The roads in Ladakh are not too safe for amateurs, and you might face a lot of problems. Therefore, your family should know about your whereabouts so that, in any case, they can be in contact with you.

Tips to Visit Ladakh in October:

Prepare for cold.

Be psychologically and physically be prepared for the cold weather in Ladakh in October . It is because temperatures may fall to unexpected levels. The snowstorms may begin during this month in many regions. Take heavy warm clothes along with you. Consider wearing woollen sweaters in layers with a heavy and thick windproof jacket on top with a woollen cap and gloves to prevent your ears and hands from getting cold. Try to avoid an early morning ride on your trips. The temperatures during the morning and night are severe, and avoiding these times for traveling is necessary. Consider doing outdoor activities during the day.

Keep Your Expectations Low

Having too many expectations in an October visit to Ladakh may hurt you. It is because the conditions may not allow for full enjoyment in this place. Though you will be able to visit the main tourist destination s, you may have to limit yourself to covering Leh, Nubra Valley , Pangong and Tso Moriri only. The other interior and remote parts may remain inaccessible due to snowfall that blocks the roads for days. Though the authorities clear the snow as soon as possible. But if you get stranded between two road blockages, it may not be an excellent experience for you.

Include Buffer Days in Your Itinerary

With so much discussion on weather conditions in Ladakh during October, it becomes easy to figure out the nature of the place during this season. When you are traveling by road, you are more susceptible to delays and therefore need buffer days much more than those traveling by air. Though the snowfall is not very intense, and conditions are manageable with proper planning, experiencing delays may be much familiar in your journey due to the climatic change that makes the whole experience unpredictable. Therefore, include at least two buffer days in your itinerary with the budget to be on the safer side while touring Ladakh.

Keep Your Itinerary Simple

As earlier said, do not over schedule your itinerary as a lot of limiting factors will be there in accessing most of the tourist sites. If possible, just keep your plan limited to Leh, Nubra Valley, Pangong Lake, and Tso Moriri. Including a lot of activities in your itinerary may result in crushed expectations that can hurt. Keep it simple and be comfortable. Stay satisfied with your plan and cover only essential destinations. If possible, keep your journey limited to the first ten days of the month. Towards the end of October, winter starts taking its full shape, with temperatures falling too low.

Public Transport

Public transport is generally not available in October in Leh Ladakh; this is because of most of the travel companies, wind-up early in October. It may be impossible for you to find public transport by road. However, Srinagar route remains functional in October and cars with proper clearance will comfortably take you to Leh.

Reasons to Visit Leh Ladakh in October:

Scenic beauty all around.

Visiting meadows filled with layers of snow is a pleasant experience. In October, Ladakh experiences some snow during the month. You can also experience snowfall in some of the low-lying areas of Ladakh. The mountains peaks have sheets of snow on them. If you are lucky enough to spot snowfall, the trip will be an enjoyable one for you.

Less Crowd Across Tourist Sites

October is the end of the tourist season, and the number of tourists dramatically reduces because of the inconvenience caused by the cold environment. Therefore, making an October visit to Ladakh will give you enough access to the tourist sites with less crowd. It may be among the reasons some tourists choose October over other months to have some peaceful time to themselves with less traffic.

Availability of Utilities

Reduced number of tourists translates into less competition for utilities in accommodation centres and other areas. These few numbers give chances for better negotiation of prices with the service providers; the remaining operational centres rely plainly on the small number of tourists as clients to their services. However, it is not always right about Ladakh, and things may differ according to the conditions.

The Natural Beauty and A Place for Adventure

Ice on Ladakh’s roads in October, together with the blocked sections of the routes, will be enough to give you an adventurous experience from your journey. Skiing and winter treks are also daring and adventurous activities that are available during October in some regions.

Things to Consider While Planning a Trip to Ladakh in October:

Most of the interior parts of Leh Ladakh remain inaccessible and therefore limit your chances of getting to the remote places with hidden beauty. It may be a turn off for some people who seek adventure.

The varying temperatures may be hard for some people to put up with and, therefore, make the experience a bitter one during a tour to Leh Ladakh in October.

Simplified Itinerary to Visit Ladakh In October

We suggest you keep your October visit short, and here is a sample itinerary that you can follow. For any unwanted circumstances, make sure to keep buffer days in your course.

Day 01 – Arrive in Leh and rest till the time you are comfortable.

Day 02 – Day tour to Lamayuru; drive back to Leh for your overnight stay.

Day 03 – Day tour to Diskit; overnight stay in Diskit.

Day 04 – Return from Diskit to Leh.

Day 05 – Tour to Pangong Tso followed by overnight stay near Pangong Lake.

Day 06 – Drive back to Leh; overnight stay in Leh hotel.

Day 07 – Full-day trip to Tso Moriri; overnight stay near the lake.

Day 08 – Drive back to Leh; overnight stay at the Leh hotel.

Day 09 – Departure from Leh; end of tour.

Conclusion:

October does not remain a very favourable month to visit Leh Ladakh. If by any means, you have the option to visit during other months, it will be better that you postpone your trip. However, if you have to make an October trip to Leh Ladakh, then ensure that you put up with the recommendations in this article to remain safe all through your touring experience.

Ensure that you have enough warmers in your bag pack and buffer days (two to three extra days) during your trip. Remember that even via air travel, you will need to have some buffer days for any emergency or delay either in the roads or flight cancellations due to a lack of enough bookings. These are crucial factors to consider when making an October trip to Leh Ladakh.

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Best time to visit.

Best Time to Visit Leh Ladakh – Best Season to Visit Leh

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The best time to visit Ladakh

The mesmerising landscapes of Ladakh have something to offer in every season, and when you plan your trip can make all the difference to your experience. Whether you’re looking to explore Leh, spot the snow leopard, trek through lush valleys or catch spring blossoms, a trip to Ladakh will require a fair bit of planning. Here are all the details you need on the best time to visit Ladakh.

Jump to: Best time to visit Ladakh Temperature in Ladakh When does it snow in Ladakh? Best time to spot snow leopards in Ladakh Cheapest time to visit Ladakh Busiest time to visit Ladakh How many days are enough for a Ladakh trip?

When is the best time to visit Ladakh?

The best time to visit Ladakh is in the summer. From April to mid-September temperatures are warmer and this is the peak season in Ladakh. The snow typically clears up by early April, and the Srinagar-Leh highway opens up for visitors. However, if you’re visiting between April and June, it’s best to fly in, as not all roads are fully functional during this time.

Summer is the best time to visit Leh, the Nubra Valley and high-altitude lakes like Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri, as temperatures are pleasant and roads are open. This is also the best time to visit Ladakh for treks like the Sham Valley trek and Markha trek. April is the apricot blossom season in Ladakh, and this is also a good time for birding and spotting wildflowers.

June to September is the best time to visit Ladakh for a road trip. The Manali road along Rohtang Pass opens up in June, and all the roads and passes in the region clear up by this time, making it the best time for bike trips in the region. Come winter , the lakes in Ladakh freeze over and are covered with a sheet of ice. The region receives heavy snowfall and the only way to reach is by air.

Temperatures through the year in Ladakh:

• Summer (April to July): 3°C-25°C
• Monsoon (July to September): 3°C-17°C
• Winter (October to March): -11°C-15°C

Ladakh lies in a rain shadow region and does not experience a heavy monsoon. While rainfall peaks in August, anticipate irregular showers even in the summer and winter.

When does it snow in Ladakh?

Snowfall in Ladakh typically begins in October, as temperatures drop and winter sets in, and can continue until late March. High-altitude passes like Khardung La can receive intermittent snow throughout the year. If you’re looking to visit for snow, it’s best to keep a watch on the weather forecast in the region for accurate updates.

When is the best time to spot snow leopards in Ladakh?

While winter in Ladakh is harsh, with minimum temperatures touching -11°C, it is also the best time to spot the elusive snow leopard. While November to April are best for snow leopard tours, Naturalist and guide Payal Mehta, who often leads snow leopard tours in Hemis National Park, advises against visiting during the bitter cold months from mid-December to late January. Winter tours are focussed on snow leopards, but Mehta also recommends looking out for smaller animals like the Himalayan wolf, red fox, bharal and urial, woolly hare, pika and more. Find a full guide to Hemis National Park here .

What is the cheapest time to visit Ladakh?

The harsh winter months make up the off season in Ladakh , which means hotel and flight prices are lowest during this time. It is not advisable to travel to Ladakh in peak winter (December to February). Heavy snowfall and extreme temperatures mean that several roads and passes are blocked or closed. While Leh Airport is operational throughout the year, flight diversions and cancellations are likely during this time.

When is the busiest time to visit Ladakh?

April to September is the peak tourist season in Ladakh, though road traffic tends to be at its highest between June and September when tourists opt to drive or bike to the region. If you’re looking to avoid the crowds, visit between October and November or March to May.

How many days are enough for a Ladakh trip?

About 7-10 days are ideal for a trip to Ladakh, given the travel time and acclimatisation. Irrespective of when you visit, account for 2-3 days to acclimatise to the high altitude at your accommodation. Ladakh is at an altitude of 3,000m and skipping this step can lead to altitude sickness. If you plan a 7-10 day trip, you can have five or more days to explore the region once you have acclimated. Most treks in the region last 5-10 days, except the beginner-friendly Sham Valley Trek that lasts three days. Beyond wildlife and treks, there’s a lot the region has to offer, including beautiful homestays and luxury tents , a dark sky reserve for stargazing and delicious local food .

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Best Time to Visit Leh Ladakh

Every year, hundreds of people plan to visit Ladakh and this is the reason why; knowing the best time to visit Ladakh is important. Not only does this help in getting a better understanding of the terrain but also helps in planning better. And this question will surely come in front of you while planning to visit this exotic land. So, like many others, if you too are going to visit here, then ensure knowing about all the elements of Ladakh including the best time to visit.

Traveling to Leh-Ladakh is one of the most cherished thoughts for many. Enjoy the sights of the vast and desolate expanse of hills and valleys. This along with the thrilling experience of enduring the harsh climate is one of its kind adventure. While some people suggest summers to be the best time to visit Ladakh, others love traversing during the harsh winters. Where summers are exciting and comfortable, winters are harsh but thrilling too. From multiple festivals to amazing landscapes, one can enjoy various things as per the time you visit.

Best Time to Visit Ladakh

The best time to visit Ladakh is during summers when the temperature remains comfortable and you get a chance to comfortably explore all the areas. The temperature between these months remains between 7°C and 26°C.

Ladakh in Summer Season (March to June)

April marks the beginning of summer and this is the tourist season in Ladakh. From this month Ladakh starts to become alive with tourist activities. The temperature throughout the season remains between 7°C and 26°C. The summer months of Ladakh start from March and last till June. Throughout these months, the sun shines bright making the temperature and weather of the entire UT quite comfortable for visitors.

Why should you visit Ladakh during summers

Apart from better weather, summers are the best time to visit Ladakh because every attraction of the UT reopens from this time. Visiting all the lakes, passes, villages, and other important destinations becomes easy and comforting.

During this season, the nights are also comfortable and the temperature doesn’t drop much. The sky remains clear and you can enjoy the view of the distant mountains too. Photography and videography become easier and more comfortable during summers too.

As both the highways remain clear and snow melts away, adventure seekers and bikers also find it amazing to visit here.

Festivals in Ladakh during the summer season

During the summer season, you can also enjoy being a part of the various festivals at different places. Some of the best festivals to become a part of are  Hemis Festival s, YuruKabgyat, and Saka Dawa. To know more,  click here !

Hotel availability during the summer season

Summer sees the peak of tourism in Ladakh and the hotel availability remains a bit of an issue. Although the accommodations function in full swing, finding a good one can still become a task because of the rush. It is advised that one should get their hotel room booked before arriving in Ladakh.To know more,  Click here !

Ladakh in Monsoon Season (July to September)

During Mid-May, only the Srinagar-Leh highway opens up. But during early June, Manali-Leh road opens up along with Rohtang Pass. And from June people start traversing through this highway because before this the highway experiences blockages due to heavy snow. Meanwhile, just before the monsoons, it is really cool and suitable to travel to Ladakh due to the amazing weather. But rest assured that monsoon season is also considered an ideal time to visit Ladakh because the temperature here remains between 5°C and 20°C.

Why should you visit Ladakh during the monsoon season

Ladakh falls in the rain shadow zone of the Himalayas and that’s the reason why it experiences low rainfall throughout the year. But it is still refreshing and perfect for some adventure activities.

The monsoon season is also an ideal time for adventure junkies because the rivers offer rafting level III at many points in Zanskar and an amusing trek experience at Kang Yatse, Spituk, and Markha Valley. Nevertheless, even the climate of this rain-shadow area keeps on changing from time to time. Previously, there have been rains in Ladakh too, or intermittent overcast conditions. But nothing drastic has happened till now.

Festivals in Ladakh during monsoon season

Apart from the adventure that’s in store for the visitors, Ladakh in the monsoon is also a great time to be a part of several festivals. There are festivals like Karsha Gustor, Phyang Tsedup, and Korzok Gustor to name some.

Hotel availability during monsoon season

The accommodations in Ladakh during the monsoon season will not be a problem. At every attraction, there are going to be a lot of options available for you. The hotels or camps are going to be there in full swing but the crowd comparatively thins down. This allows the visitors to enjoy selecting through the options. You do not necessarily have to pre-book your stay at any place because it is highly unusual that the hotels at any place are full.

Ladakh in Winter Season (October to February)

By this time the winds start getting colder and many places start receiving snow. The place experiences sub-zero temperatures at all locations above 14,000 ft. The temperature shuttles between -22°C to -7°C throughout Ladakh. Almost all the tourists leave the place with only a few remaining to brave the chill. Srinagar-Leh and Manali-Leh highways remain open for the first week of October and that too highly depends on the weather condition.

Apart from this week of October, Ladakh remains inaccessible for the rest of the months of winter. The only way to reach Ladakh during the winter season is via airways. You can take a direct flight from Delhi to Leh. There are indirect flights from other cities of India to reach here.

Why should you visit Ladakh during Winter Season

The coldest months of the winter season are December and January. And people visit here during these months to enjoy snow activities, snow leopard safari, and the popular Chadar Trek in Zanskar Valley. Although accessing Ladakh is only possible by flights, the internal circuits of the UT remain open throughout the year. But yes, because of heavy snowfall, you might have to face roadblocks too often.

Note: If you are planning to visit here for Chadar Trek, it is recommended to keep an eye on the weather. Knowing about the Chadar formation on the river is of utmost importance.

Festivals in Ladakh during the winter season

Thiksey and Padum Festival are celebrated during November month and tourists can get a chance to enjoy the celebration and savor the delicious local delicacies. If you are planning on visiting here during the winter months, try to become a part of these festivals.

Hotel availability during the winter season

Most of the hotels, guesthouses, restaurants get closed and even locals move back, vacating the place till next summer. And finding accommodation will not be difficult but highly limited. It is advised to get your stay booked before visiting here. The cold would have already settled in by this time and there is frequent snowfall which makes survival and acclimatization difficult.

The temperature continues to dip further with each passing day. One of the major highlights of your visit is that you get to witness the changing colors of Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri which happens from November to December/mid-January. After this, the Lakes of Ladakh get completely frozen with solid ice and one can even easily walk on them.

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Packages by Theme

Q: Which is The Best Time to Visit Ladakh By Bike?

Ans:  Summer and monsoon season which is between the months of mid-May and early- October is considered the best time to visit Leh Ladakh by bike. Howver, you need to check the weather conditions during the trip for any calamity changes.

Also, be informed that the Srinagar Leh Highway reopens around mid-May. While the Manali-Leh Highway reopens in around early/mid-June. Both of these highways remain open till September or October, depending on the snow.

Q: Which is The Best Time to Visit Ladakh By Car?

Ans:  Summer and Monsoon are the best time to visit Ladakh by car just as above! mid-May and early- October is considered the best time to visit Ladakh by road. Again it is worth mentioning that the two highways that connect Ladakh, Srinagar-Leh, and Manali-Leh reopen between early/mid-may and early/mid-June, respectively.

It is also advised that you must plan accordingly after reviewing the weather and climate conditions of Ladakh at your time of visit.

Q: Which is The Best Time to Visit Ladakh By Air?

Ans:  If you want to visit Ladakh by air then the best time is throughout the year! If you want cheap flight tickets, visit Ladakh between June, July, August, November, December, January, and February. Months like April, May, September, and October are when airfares to and from Ladakh become expensive.

Q: What Is The Best Time to Visit Zanskar Valley in Ladakh?

Ans:  The roads to Zanskar are not operational during winters from December to February due to excessive snowfall. Zanskar Valley beacons tourists to come from mid-June – September (summers and monsoon). Zanskar Valley falls in the rain shadow area since its elevation is a staggering 9,000 ft – 25,000 ft (approx.) which is why it doesn’t receive much rain. The elevation also makes sure that you do not suffer the blistering heat! In these 4 months, you will have no trouble reaching Zanskar Valley and enjoy sightseeing as the roads to reach Zanskar from Leh remain open.

People also plan on visiting here during the winter season. The only way to reach Zanskar Valley in winters is via walking on the thick sheet of ice (also called Chadar of Ice) which develops on the Zanskar River due to the freezing of water.

Q: What Is The Best Time to do the Chadar Trek in Ladakh?

Ans:  Around 15 December to the end of January is the best time to do the Chadar Trek in Ladakh. During this time, a thick sheet of ice is formed on the Zanskar River. Expect to climb icy rocks and boulders during 90 kilometers (approx.) one-way trek! Chadar Trek is only possible in winters.

Note: It is advised to keep an eye on the weather to make sure that the river is frozen. With increasing global warming, the chadar is not being formed and the trek is not happening due to the thin sheet.

Q: Which Month is The Best to Visit Ladakh For Budget Travelers?

Ans:  Budget travelers will find good deals on accommodation and airfares when the highways to reach Ladakh get closed! Tourism dips during winters and that’s the time when budget travelers get the best deal. There are two routes to reach and return from Ladakh; Srinagar-Leh and Manali-Leh highway. Both of these remain closed from October till May.

This is the reason why you will get good discounts on accommodation and airfares between October and April. Apart from this, if you book your Ladakh air tickets in advance, chances of getting better deals are high.

Q: Which is the Best Time to Go Ladakh With Family?

Ans:  The best time go Ladakh with family is from June to September, either via road or air. This is the time when Ladakh tourism is at its peak and the weather remains comfortable throughout the day and night. Finding accommodation and venturing within the Leh region won’t be a problem. Stumbling across roadblocks will also reduce significantly. But if you look from a leisure perspective, transportation mode will play a crucial role. Because air travel is the most suggested, safe, and comfortable way to reach Ladakh with family.

Q: Which is The Best Time to Visit Ladakh For couples?

Ans:  Although Ladakh is not a couple of destinations, the young and adventurous Indians prefer visiting here too often. But if considering this part for couples, winters will probably be the best time to visit Ladakh for a honeymoon or couple getaway. The winter season in Ladakh starts in October and lasts till March. The accommodation price fluctuates a little. Even summers in Ladakh (from May to July) are pleasing temperature-wise, and there are places where you would require woolen clothes during the night in high-altitude regions.

So the best time to visit Ladakh for a honeymoon will depend on your travel taste and holiday preferences. If you would like to see snowfall on your honeymoon in Ladakh, come in winter. If you want to enjoy camping, rafting, and other adventure activities, come in the summers.

Q: Best Time to visit Leh Ladakh for Snowfall?

Ans:  The best time to visit Leh Ladakh for snowfall is between November and February. Though snowfall can be seen throughout the year at certain high-altitude places. But the winter months are the best and if you are looking for a good amount of snowfall then fly to Leh in January.

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Everything to know about traveling to Ladakh in October-Including What to see and things to do!

Natural beauty in its full swing is what Ladakh has to offer the visitors. It has been identified as a Union Territory by the Indian Government that lies ahead of Jammu and Kashmir. Tourism in Ladakh has always witnessed tremendous growth as people head to the place to experience blissful vacations as a part of the Ladakh holiday package . Right from rugged terrains to picturesque valleys, stunning lakes, and cultural activities, Ladakh has everything for everyone. Though it remains closed from November to April because of heavy snowfall, people can plan a trip in October (winter season) as it is the best time to visit Ladakh .

Ladakh is stated as the land of high mountains passing with exceptional beauty scattered everywhere. It lies at the height of 3500 meters above sea level and has been referred to as India’s little Tibet. The reason behind this is its proximity to Tibet and strong links as well. So, if you have booked the Leh Ladakh tour package for October month; then, you will get a chance to witness a great amount of snowfall. Be ready with your heavy woolens and ensure safety on the high altitudes. Besides this, you should acclimatize yourself by drinking plenty of liquids like juice, soup, or tea for better energy. The majestic hills of Ladakh are such that anyone would fall in love with the place without a doubt.

Reaching Leh-Ladakh in October:

If you have taken a Leh Ladakh package for October; then, it is necessary to understand that the weather would be very cold. In this season, you can either access Ladakh from Srinagar Route or Manali Route. Depending on your need, it is advisable to make a booking before-hand as many areas, and tourism businesses are on the verge of wrapping-up because of harsh approaching winters. This does not mean that you will not be able to enjoy Ladakh at all. Rather, there are many options available in October month too. Generally, Ladakh starts receiving snowfall in September itself. So, in October, you will be witnessing plenty of fresh snow around.

The traveling time taken from Srinagar to Ladakh is about 10 hours, which will enable you to pass through Ganderbal, Chapper Gund, Kangan, Sonmarg, Baltal, Dras, Kaksar, Kargil, Khangral, Takmachik, Saspul, Nimmo, and Leh districts. You can book private taxis well in advance with travel agents in Srinagar. The taxi fare is approximately 20000 Indian rupees; though, the fare may differ as per the taxi hired.

On the other hand, Ladakh is accessible from Manali too. In fact, you should travel from here in the first week of October as the roads are safer. Beyond the second week, excessive snow and high-altitude drives can create issues in traveling easily. You can book private taxis from Manali to Ladakh that will pass through Barwa, Sissu, Tandi, Keylong, Jispa, Darcha, Baralacha Pass, Killing Sarai, Sarchu, Pang, Rumtse, Upsi, Karu, Thiksey, Shey Palace, and Leh. The total traveling time taken is around 12 hours.

Named Kushok Bakula Rimpochee, Leh’s airport is accessible from Srinagar, Delhi, Mumbai, and major parts of the country. From Delhi, the flight takes about 1 and a half hours. While, from Srinagar to Leh, it takes about four hours because the place stops at Jammu for a while. On the other hand, the flight distance from Mumbai to Leh is around 2 and a half hours.

Leh-Ladakh is accessible from Srinagar by bus as well. The journey by bus will take around two days to reach. Initially, the bus starts from Srinagar and halts overnight in Kargil. Further, the driver starts early in the next morning and reaches Leh around the afternoon. Its fare per person is 925 rupees for a semi-deluxe bus and 1320 rupees for a deluxe bus. The Leh-Ladakh government has made a rule that you have to hire a taxi or other accessible transport from Leh to reach Ladakh. This decision was made for the benefit of local tourism operators.

You can also take the bus from Manali to Leh-Ladakh. The bus will halt overnight at Keylong and start for Leh again the next morning. Of course, the meal and accommodation are included in the bus fare, which is charged 2900 Indian rupees for a single person. You can drive on your own as well. But, make sure to keep the fuel tanks full from wherever possible as the route has very few petrol stations on the way.

Places to Visit in Leh-Ladakh in October:

In October, the tourists coming to Leh-Ladakh as a part of the Leh Ladakh tour package have various options to enjoy their vacation. Besides playing in the snow and experiencing the sheer white beauty of the place, you can visit Nubra Valley, Tso Moriri, Kargil, and Zanskar Valley.

Nubra Valley:

Certainly, Nubra Valley remains open for tourists in October that can be accessed by Khardungla Pass. The journey will be an experience of traveling to Nubra via road can be extremely enjoyable with snow present everywhere. Of course, you will come across thick walls of snow. Touch the snow and feel the chill on route to Nubra Valley. You can also visit some local villages like Diskit, Sumur, Hunder, and Panamik to see the cultural values in the Leh area.

Pangong Lake:

The majestic Pangong Lake is easily accessible by road; though, you may face temporary blockage because of snowfall at Chag La. The authorities are quick to clear the snow, and you can resume the journey to Pangong Lake. The best part of traveling to Pangong Lake in October is that the camps start to wrap-up, and you will find very few tourists. It is because of this that accommodation at the campsites is much cheaper.

Tso Moriri:

Definitely, Tso Moriri is accessible by tourists in October via Chumathang. On the way, you will experience the majestic views of snow everywhere. An overnight staying option is available at Tso Moriri for tourists. You can check in at various guesthouses and homestays in the area.

The region of Kargil is the one that has witnessed a lot of war situations between India and Pakistan. Still, this place is safe for tourists to travel in October. You can visit Gurudwara Patthar Sahib, Magnetic Hills, Lamayuru Monastery, Mulbekh, and Kargil War Memorial.

Zanskar Valley:

There are chances that Zanskar Valley might be accessible in October; but, only in the first week of October as it gets tricky to travel. The reason behind this has been extensive snowfall and resulting road blockages.

The Famous Leh-Ladakh Bike Trip:

Yes, most certainly, the famous bike trip can be taken from Srinagar to Leh-Ladakh in October. In this matter, you should take care of returning from the same way and not the Manali route. It is because of heavy snowfall, there are chances that you may face road blockages and slippery turns. This may turn out to be risky for you. Another thing to check out is that you should wear heavy woolens, a leather jacket, gloves, and woolen caps to stay safe from harsh winter winds blowing on the way to Leh and Ladakh.

Festivals in October Month:

The Ladakh holiday package for October unveils that you can enjoy a spectacular and colorful celebration of life in the form of the Diskit Gustor Festival. It takes place in the Diskit Monastery of Nubra Valley. This festival is attended by thousands of people who enjoy the exotic cultural magnificence of Leh and Ladakh’s people. You can experience the vivacity resting in the enthralling valleys of Leh and Ladakh for sure.

Adventure Activities around Leh-Ladakh in October:

Though October brings chilly cold weather with snow all around, the adventurous souls can still get some of the most thrilling experiences in Leh-Ladakh’s adventure activities. You can enjoy river rafting in the cold waters of the Zanskar River. But, it is necessary to make the bookings well in advance. Apart from rafting, Ladakh is considered to be the home to various trekking options. This includes Sham Valley Trek, Markha Valley Trek, Lamayuru Trek, Phuktal Monastery Trek. Depending on your needs, you can access the respective places’ trekking associations and make bookings to measure the heights.

What to Carry on Your Leh-Ladakh Trip in October:

As you know, October month witnesses heavy snowfall in Leh-Ladakh; it is important to carry heavy woolens. Besides this, it is necessary to carry medicines related to high altitude sickness. This one is necessary for people who experience nausea and vomiting at the time of travel. The Ladakh tour package also includes information about the reduced oxygen levels in higher areas. So, the people suffering from Asthma and other breathing problems should avoid traveling to high regions in Leh-Ladakh. Not to forget that you must carry high boots or comfortable shoes to enjoy walking over the rugged terrains.

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The Best Time to Visit Ladakh

Climate, Festivals and Other Things to Do

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

Read more about the top things to do in Ladakh .

The Weather in Ladakh

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

Peak Season in Ladakh

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

Getting to Ladakh

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

There are two roads to Ladakh:

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

When to Visit Ladakh for Trekking Season

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

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

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

Events to check out:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Best Time To Visit Ladakh

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What is the best time to visit Ladakh?

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

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11th July, 2019

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25th - 28th September 2019

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Beyond Wild Places

Your guide to the wilder side of life

Comprehensive Travel Guide to Ladakh in North India

Ladakh is the most beautiful place I’ve ever seen. Located in the far northern corner of the Indian Himalayas, the rugged and remote region is surrounded by snow-capped peaks of the Zanskar, Ladakh and Karakoram ranges. While hilltops are dotted with crumbling ancient monasteries and valley floors are decorated by irrigated green crops and tiny villages.

It’s a region that promises a great adventure, sitting at a lofty 3,500m+. From high altitude lakes, to trekking between remote villages, there’s so many memorable and otherworldly experiences and places to explore in this corner of the world.

I’ve now visited Ladakh twice; spending nearly six weeks each time based in Leh. Based on my own experience, I’ve decided to put together this comprehensive travel guide to Ladakh, with absolutely everything you need to know about travelling to Leh and beyond.

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

Overview of Ladakh

Ladakh covers the far northern extent of the Indian subcontinent and is bordered by Pakistan to the west and China and Tibet to the north and east. Technically, the broader Ladakh region is also partly in Pakistan, which is known as Gilgit-Baltistan. Together, Ladakh and Gilgit-Baltistan are culturally, ethnically and historically very similar.

Ladakh was part of the former Tibetan Kingdom and is still home to a predominantly Buddhist population today. This means that the culture, language, food, atmosphere and architecture of the region are completely different to what you might find elsewhere in India.

Ladakh was also considered part of Jammu and Kashmir state in India, but since 2019, Ladakh is now a Union Territory.

Leh is the capital and transport hub of the Ladakh region. This is where you’ll want to base yourself when exploring Ladakh. While some people confuse Leh and Ladakh as being the same thing, Leh is the town while Ladakh is the name of the broader region.

When is the Best Time to Travel to Ladakh

High season runs from  June to August  in Ladakh. This is when the region sees its best weather with warm days and relatively mild nights. The roads are also almost guaranteed to be clear of snow during these summer months, making places easier to access.

If you want to join any tours or treks from Leh, then this is the perfect season to meet other travellers and join groups. Outside of these months it can be hard to find regular departures for tours. 

The roads connecting Leh with Manali and Srinagar are usually open from April or May until September or October, depending on conditions. The Leh-Manali Road tends to open later and close earlier due to its higher elevation.

If you’re interested in trekking in the region, try to visit from August up to mid-September. This is when the weather is warm and the trails are cleared of excess snow and ice. High passes and peaks are usually much safer to cross during these months.

How to Get to Leh, Ladakh

Now, this is where the adventure really begins. You can reach Leh, Ladakh by road or by air. Flying is the only option available all year round, while travel by road is possible usually from May until October. There are shared and public transport options by road from either Kashmir or Himachal Pradesh.

If you’re short on time or aren’t up for many days spent doing long drives on some pretty rough roads, then flying is the better option. There are frequent flights throughout the year from Delhi to Leh. In winter, this is the only way into the region.

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

Undoubtedly, the road trip to get to Leh is one of the best in the world. It’s not for the faint-hearted though as the roads are rough, with steep drops down one side. However, improvements are made each year with large parts of the drive now sealed.

To reach Leh by road, you can come from two directions: Srinagar in Kashmir to the west or Manali in Himachal Pradesh to the south-east. There are public buses, government tourism buses and shared taxis plying these routes during the summer months.

For most travellers, coming from Manali is most convenient and the more popular option, although the road is far more arduous. The Srinagar-Leh road is less travelled but is a great option if you plan to explore Kashmir or think you might have problems with sudden changes in altitude.

The highest point on the Srinagar-Leh route is Fotu La at 4,100m, having a more gradual altitude change up to Leh at 3,500m. Whereas the Manali-Leh road runs at an average height of 4,000m, including three passes over 5,000m, the highest being Tanglang La at 5,320m.

For a detailed look at all these transport options running between Srinagar and Leh and Manali and Leh, read this: How to Get to Leh, Ladakh by Public Transport

Is it Safe to Visit Ladakh?

The politics of the region can be confusing and can flare up at any time. However, Leh town has remained peaceful for many years now. The border regions close to Pakistan and close to Tibet occasionally have tensions flare up, so keep your eye on local news if you plan on heading up to Ladakh, but in general this occurs far from Leh.

However, I would say Ladakh feels very safe when travelling there. There’s a huge military presence everywhere you look, so border clashes rarely spillover anywhere close to Leh.

Ladakh also has one of the lowest crime rates in India. The people are extremely lovely and welcoming; it’s definitely one of the most relaxing places to experience in India.

Read next: Ultimate North India Itinerary: Kashmir, Ladakh and Himachal Pradesh

Where to Stay in Leh

There are so many accommodation options in Leh, from backpacker hostels to 5 star high end hotels. The best option in my opinion is one of the many local guesthouses. These are usually family owned and a great way to get to know the Ladakhi culture. I’ve stayed at many different places in Leh, so I can recommend a few at different price points.

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

Where to Eat in Leh

The food is one of the highlights of Leh for me. The town is packed full of great cafes and restaurants, serving local Tibetan and Ladakhi food , as well as a range of cuisines from Thai to Italian. Some of my favourites include:

• Bodhi Terrace
• Tibetan Kitchen
• Wanderers Terrace
• Asian Corner

Read more: 10 Best Cafes in Leh, Ladakh

How to Get Around Ladakh

Once you find yourself in Leh town, getting around Ladakh is relatively easy with a variety of options. Whether you hire your own transport or opt to go with public transport, travelling by road in Ladakh is one of the best experiences in the region.

I opted for a combination of public transport and organised group tours to get around to most places. I found this the perfect balance as a budget traveller. Although taxis come in handy too, especially to more obscure places.

Here are your options:

Public Transport

Once in Leh, public transport is a little limited. You’ll need a lot of time and patience if you plan on using local buses to get to all the best places.

Heading east of Leh, if you want to explore Shey Palace, Thiksey Monastery, and Stakna Monastery , you can start by taking one of the local buses leaving from Leh main gate to Choglamsar. From there, you can take another local bus which runs along the main road past Shey and Thiksey. Tickets cost as less than 50 INR and these buses run regularly throughout the day when full. Getting back to Leh can be difficult, as you’ll have to wait on the highway and flag down a passing bus. Hitchhiking is an option.

It is also possible to get to other popular destination further afield by bus. There are usually weekly buses to Diskit in Nubra Valley, Pangong Lake, and Tso Moriri . But you’ll have to check at the main bus station in Leh for the latest timetable.

For other places out west, there are daily buses to Lamayuru . Usually a few buses per week to Likir (for the Sham Valley trek) and Chilling (for the Markha Valley Trek). But again, check at the station for the latest timetable. Photos above are the current schedule as of 2023.

Note: The local bus timetable tends to change each year and throughout the season depending on demand. Heading down to the station to ask in person is usually the only way you’ll find out the latest information. Unfortunately, the buses aren’t overly reliable in Ladakh.

Shared Taxis and Group Tours

By far the most convenient way of getting to the main attractions is by joining a group tour. While I don’t usually do this while travelling, in Ladakh it makes a lot of sense for budget travellers.

Agencies in Leh organise group tours to Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley and Turtuk . These are generally four days, three nights, or three days, two nights if you omit Turtuk.

Prices start from 24,000 INR (AU$450) for a whole vehicle and driver for three days to Pangong Lake and Nubra Valley. More if you add Turtuk. You can then divide this amongst 6-7 people to share the cost.

Accommodation is then up to you to organise and pay for yourself. You can either wait until you arrive and find something that the driver’s recommend, or you’ll find many options for Pangong Lake and Diskit or Hunder (Nubra Valley) online.

Prices will be much the same across all agencies as the drivers work as part of a union with set pricing structures. You can simply walk around Leh and just find an agency that has a group leaving on the your preferred date. They often have signs on their doors displaying the next departures.

Private Taxis

For closer day trips around Leh, getting a taxi can be a convenient and relatively inexpensive way to go. As mentioned above, the taxis are part of a union, so they all carry a booklet and price list inside their cab. You can simply ask to check the price, with no room for bargaining.

Popular day trips include combining Shey, Thiksey and Hemis together, which can cost around 3700 INR (AU$70) for the day.

Otherwise, taxis are also convenient if you want to get dropped at the trailhead of a trek for example, like to Likir (2000 INR or AU$40) or Chilling (3600 INR or AU$70).

Hiring a Motorbike

Hiring a motorbike is a popular choice for Indians who love to explore the Ladakh roads on two wheels. There’s plenty of places in Leh to hire a Royal Enfield , with prices starting relatively low per day.

However, the roads are not for inexperienced riders and I would suggest making sure that you’re competent and have a motorbike license before thinking about hiring a bike in Ladakh.

I noticed a lot more scooter rentals around Leh on my last visit. This would be a good alternative to get around if you’re not confident on a motorbike.

How Long to Spend in Ladakh

You’re asking the wrong person! I’ve spent 12 weeks in total over two trips to the Ladakh region, so I will likely encourage you to spend as long as possible. But if I’m being practical, I would say 10 days minimum if you want to do some sightseeing outside of Leh. Two weeks if you want to also add on a short trek like Sham Valley or Markha Valley.

You can spend much longer than that as well, if you want to add on lesser visited places like Zanskar Valley or Tso Moriri.

Read next: A Detailed 10 Day Leh Ladakh Itinerary

Sightseeing Permits for Indians and Foreigners

While you generally only need your passport to travel to Leh, you will also need a permit to reach some places considered sensitive. Both Indians and Foreign Nationals require permits to visit some places. For Indians, this is called an Inner Line Permit and for foreigners, it’s called a Protected Area Permit .

The following places require this permit:

Pangong Lake

Nubra valley.

• Tso Moriri Lake
• Dha-Hanu Valley

You can either do all the work yourself at the Permit Office (Deputy Commissioner Office) in Leh or if you book a tour with an agency like to Pangong Lake etc., they will do the permits for you. It takes just a few hours to get a permit usually, although it depends how busy the office is.

The cost of the permit is 400 INR environment fee, 100 INR Red Cross donation, and 20 INR per day for wildlife protection fee. So, for a three day trip to Pangong Lake and Nubra Valley, expect the permit to cost 560 INR (AU$11).

For other places like Thiskey, Hemis, and Lamayuru, you just need to cary your passport on you for ID. A permit is not required for these places.

Best Things to Do and See in Ladakh

There are plenty of things to do and see in Ladakh such as remote valleys, rural villages, hilltop monasteries and high altitude lakes. Here are the essential places to visit during your time in Ladakh:

The main hub and tourist centre of Leh is the market. The main thoroughfare is Leh Bazaar Road, which is a wide pedestrian market and shopping street. Filled with souvenir shops, book shops, general stores, trekking gear stores, tour agencies, cafes and banks, you can get whatever you need around the market area.

At the northern end of the Main Bazaar Road is Jama Masjid (main mosque), and you’ll also find the main Leh Buddhist Temple on the western arm of the bazaar road. Decorated with prayer flags and with the towering Leh Palace above the old town, it’s undoubtedly the most vibrant place to be in Leh.

Shanti Stupa

Offering one of the best views in all of Leh town, Shanti Stupa is the white peace pagoda you can see north-west of the bazaar on a small hilltop. It was built in 1991 with funds from the Japanese, similar to the one in Pokhara, Nepal.

The platform around the stupa offers a panoramic view of the town and surrounding valley. It’s undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Leh at sunset time, when the last light of the setting sun streams through the valley creating some beautiful shadows on the ridgelines of the mountains.

You can take a taxi up to the stupa and temple complex or walk up the 500 stairs from the end of Changsha Road. A taxi from Leh market up to the stupa and back, including waiting time costs about 400 INR (AU$8) per car.

Entry fee is 50INR (AU$1).

The most imposing landmark of Leh town, the old palace has undergone plenty of renovations over the last few years and has been opened to the public as a museum and incredible vantage point.

It was originally built in the 17th century by the royal family, Namgyal, as they ruled over the Himalayan Kingdom of Ladakh, in Western Tibet. It was then abandoned in the mid-19th century when the Dogra forces invaded Ladakh and the royal family was forced to flee to Stok.

Today, you can explore the nine levels of the palace, although it’s mostly empty with not much remaining from its time as a palace. There has been a lot of effort to turn some rooms into a museum, which makes it a really interesting place to visit. Plus, the view from the ninth floor is outstanding, looking right across the town below.

You can drive up to the palace, but it’s much quicker to walk up from the bazaar and old town area with stairs leading up from the bottom.

Entry fee is 100 INR (AU$2)

Tsemo Maitreya Temple

The beautiful monastery that sits perched above Leh Palace is my favourite place to be at sunset time. This incredible ruined fort complex and Buddhist temple is one of the highest points in town to enjoy the view of the valley as the sun sets.

You can drive up to the temple, or hike up to it from two different directions. The walk up from Chubi is done on a paved trail with stairs. It starts beside the Chubi HP Petrol Station on Sankar Road. But, most people hike up from Leh Palace, with a dirt trail cut into the mountain. It’s a bit of a workout if you’re not yet acclimatised to the altitude.

Entry fee is 30 INR (AU$0.60)

Khardung La Road Pass

Ladakh is known as the Land of High Passes for a reason. There are several high passes you can drive or hike over in the region, but none are as famous as Khardung La. Once the highest motorable road in the world (now overtaken by another road in India), Khardung La sits at 5,360m.

It connects Leh with Nubra Valley and is the most used pass for tourists heading over to Hunder, Diskit and Pangong Lake. However, some also just drive up to the pass as a day trip and drive back to Leh, but the real adventure is continuing onto Nubra Valley.

The road is generally in decent condition and mostly sealed, but it can close suddenly due to landslides or snow fall, so check ahead of time. It’s generally only open from June until September for tourists.

The most popular excursion from Leh is to Nubra Valley. This fabled valley carved out by the Shyok River and bordered by the Karakoram Mountains was once part of the old Silk Road trading route across Asia. Connecting Pakistan with Tibet, it is one of the most remote parts of India that has only been open to tourism for a couple of decades.

To reach the valley, you must cross the Khardung La pass from Leh and then head to Diskit, the main town in Nubra. Diskit is home to an old monastery built into the side of the rocky cliffs. There is also a large 100 ft Maitreya Buddha statue with incredible views down both sides of the valley.

Heading west of Diskit is Hunder, where you’ll find sand dunes backed by snow-capped mountains. If the landscape was enough to blow you away, there are also double humped camels or Bactrian camels roaming the dunes as well.

Entry fee for Diskit Monastery is 40 INR (AU$0.80)

As one of the world’s highest saltwater lakes, Pangong Tso is also one of Ladakh’s most famous attractions. Located at 4,250m, it’s a long drive to reach the lake from Leh over at least one high pass. Most people include a trip to Pangong with Nubra Valley, but you can also simply head to Pangong Lake from Leh, crossing the Changla Pass at 5,360m.

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 against the arid, desert-like mountains makes it an otherworldy sight that draws thousands each year.

Due to the long drive, most people spend a night at 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 . Here, you’ll find more laidback tents and homestays.

If you can allow an extra couple of days, I highly recommend heading to Turtuk from Nubra Valley. This is the northernmost accessible village in India and is home to ethnic Balti people, who now mostly reside in Baltistan across the border in Pakistan.

The remote village is a beautiful spot to explore, with friendly people who are very welcoming and happy to show you their traditional lifestyle. Because of the long drive, you must stay the night in the village, which only adds to the experience.

You’ll find plenty of homestays who provide beds and meals to travellers fro about 1000INR (AU$20) per night.

Thiksey Monastery

A short drive from Leh along the Keylong-Leh Road, you’ll find several outstanding monasteries to visit. However, arguably the most beautiful is Thiksey Monastery. It’s known to have a distinct resemblance to Lhasa’s Potala, the former seat of the Dalai Lamas in Tibet.

Built cascading over a small hill with the grandest temples sitting at the top, you can either walk up to the top through the alleyways passing monk residences on the way. Or you can drive closer to the top, and simply walk to the temples.

Entry fee is 50 INR (AU$1)

Hemis Monastery

Arguably the most important monastery to visit during your time in Ladakh, Hemis Monastery is the largest in the region. While it was officially established in the 17th century, many believed that it’s meditation caves go as far back as the 11th century.

The monastery is hidden, tucked into a gorge in Hemis National Park about an hour’s drive from Leh. There is a large courtyard in the middle of the complex, from where you can visit the main temples and the museum.

The museum is fascinating, holding some of the most important Buddhist monuments, artwork, relics and artefacts. It also provides an interesting insight into the local culture and history of Buddhism in Ladakh.

Hidden away off the main highway connecting Srinagar to Leh, Alchi Monastery has remained untouched throughout centuries of invasions and attacks. This is not a typical monastery that you see in Ladakh, but a complex filled with sacred shrines and important Buddhist art.

Some of the nearly 1,000 year old murals are considered to be some of the best preserved in the world. Even if you think you’ve seen enough monasteries in Ladakh, this is an important one you’ll want to make time for.

Lamayuru Monastery

Lamayuru is the oldest monastery in Ladakh. Back in the 11th century, it is said that Mahassidha Naropa came to meditate in a cave there. A temple was built around the cave (which can still be visited today) and then the remainder of the complex was built in the 16th century by King Namgyal. 

Built over several levels across the rocky landscape, the Srinagar-Leh Highway passes right through the village and monastery. It’s easily one of the most impressive sights, with the towering peaks surrounding it and the incredible geological area known as moonland running through the valley.

It’s a long but beautiful drive along a sealed highway from Leh to Lamayuru, it takes around 3 hours one way. There are restaurants and homestays around Lamayuru village if you want to stay the night.

Enty fee is 50 INR (AU$1)

Want more? Read next: 25 Best Things to Do in Ladakh

Trekking in Ladakh

Trekking in the Indian Himalayas is completely different to trekking in Nepal. The ranges around Leh are rugged, wild and far less trafficked. Plus, it’s one of the best ways to get to know Ladakhi culture and spend time in rural villages.

Homestay Treks

If you’re interested in trekking in Ladakh, there are two main trekking routes that are popular for independent hikers (without a guide) which utilise homestays as nightly accommodation:

Sham Valley Trek: Known as the “Baby Trek”, although that’s a bit deceiving. This three day trek is a great introduction to the region. With relatively short distances to cover each day and beautiful villages to stop and spend the night in homestays, it’s easy to organise with minimal planning. The maximum elevation is just under 4000m, so it doesn’t ascend too much higher than Leh itself, making it a nice one to do for those short on time and not yet acclimatised to the region. Read my guide to the Sham Valley Trek .

Markha Valley Trek: The more popular option and one I highly recommend to keen hikers. The Markha Valley Trek is a 4-5 day one way trek through the Markha Valley just south of Leh. It also utilises a homestay system across all the villages along the valley floor, making it a convenient trek with minimal planning involved as well. It’s highest point is Kongmaru Pass on the final day at 5,250m, which means you’ll want to at least have spent a few days in Leh acclimatising before attempting this trek. Read my guide to the Markha Valley Trek .

Camping Treks

If you prefer to get off the beaten track and explore the landscapes beyond the villages, then you’ll have to opt for a camping trek. This means you’ll have a guide and a team of mules to help carry all the necessary gear and food. These require a bit more organising, but any of the agencies in Leh will be able to help.

Kibber to Tso Moriri (Parang La Trek): Certainly one of the most spectacular and challenging of the longer treks in Ladakh, the hike from Spiti Valley to Tso Moriri follows an old trading route between Ladakh and Spiti. Almost all of the 10 day trek is above 4000m, with the highest point being Parang La at 5,580m, meaning it’s quite a difficult one and is for experienced and keen hikers only.

Rumtse to Tso Moriri: Another stunning trek across rugged and remote country, this 8 day trek links Rumtse near Hemis National Park to the high altitude lake Tso Moriri, passing Tsokar lake and Changpa nomads along the way. Most of this trek is well over 4000m, with the highest point being at 5,400m, making this a very difficult trek as well.

Zanskar Valley (Padum) to Darcha: This used to be a popular long trek in the Zanskar region, but with road construction between Padum and Darcha, there is no real need to trek the route anymore. However, the 10 day trek will still be a regular offering at least for another couple of years until traffic really builds on the new road. It takes you from the remote Zanskar Valley down to Lahaul Valley, mostly sitting between 3,500 and 4,000, with one pass over 5,000m, Shingo La.

Trekking Agencies

For those longer camping treks, you’ll need the help of a local trekking agency. While there are plenty of them in Leh, you can simply go around and talk to multiple agencies about cost, inclusions, and the general quality of gear.

However, it’s important to go with a decent company for these kinds of expeditions. Quality of gear, guide experience and reliability are extremely vital on high altitude treks. If you’re wondering what trekking agency to trust, I have two recommendations:

• Ladakhi Women’s Travel Company: the first and only female owned and operated trekking agency in Ladakh, they only employ local women as guides and support local communities. Check their website .
• Lungta Tours and Travel (based at Rock Castle Residency): for bigger expeditions and longer treks, I highly recommend Gonbo. He can organise a range of treks with over 20 years of experience in adventure tourism. Email: [email protected]

More Important Info for Exploring Ladakh

• Water: The local water is not safe to drink straight from the tap, but take a LifeStraw bottle or other filtered water bottle and you won’t have to purchase single use plastic water bottles that end up in landfill.
• SIM: A regular Indian SIM card will not work in Ladakh and Kashmir. You’ll have to purchase a new local SIM in Leh. The Airtel shop is tucked down a side alley at the southern end of the Leh Market. It’s listed as Airtel Store on Google Maps.
• Money: There are a couple of SBI ATMs in the main Leh Market street. There is almost always a queue and they occasionally run out of cash, but generally fixed pretty quickly.
• Alcohol: Drinking is not part of the culture in Ladakh and you won’t find it offered much at restaurants or cafes. However, there are a couple of wine and beer shops with limited hours.
• Language: The local language is Ladakhi, but you’ll also hear other languages like Tibetan, Hindi and Kashmiri. English is pretty widely spoken, although some of the taxi drivers only speak basic English.
• Festivals: There are many festivals and events on throughout the year in Ladakh and timing your visit with one is ideal. Each of the monasteries have their own festival, including a masked dance of the monks. Your guesthouse owner will be able to tell you if there is one going on during your stay. The Dalai Lama also visits Ladakh most years during the summer and conducts live teachings. Check his schedule online to see if you can time your visit for that as well.
• Clockwise: Remember to walk clockwise around any stupa or prayer wheel you pass in Ladakh. For Buddhists, this purifies negative karma and is a sign of respect.

Altitude Sickness and How to Avoid

No guide to Ladakh would be complete without mentioning the altitude. Leh sits at an elevation of 3,500m making it one of the highest places in India. Almost everyone who arrives in Leh will feel the sudden change in altitude within a few hours and it will likely continue for a couple of days until you acclimatise.

Flying in from Delhi obviously leaves you more susceptible to altitude sickness because your body will have no time to adjust. Those who come from Kashmir or Himachal Pradesh will have had more time to slowly acclimatise on the way.

The common symptoms are headache, nausea, shortness of breath and tiredness. These are completely normal and will likely go away after a couple of days. More serious symptoms include, vomiting, difficulty walking and dizziness, persistent coughing, chest tightness, confusion or coordination problems.

Tips to Avoid Altitude Sickness in Ladakh

• Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! Drink plenty of water starting from before you arrive in Leh. This is the best way to help your body acclimatise.
• Rest. Prioritise rest in the first 2-3 days of arriving in Leh. This means minimal walking and activities for at least 48 hours. Try to eat in at your guesthouse and only go for a short walk of less than a kilometre at a time.
• Eat small, regular meals. Nausea is a common initial symptom, so eat small, simple meals for the first couple of days regularly. Energy is important.
• Diamox or other altitude medication. Some people like to take diamox or other medication to help prevent altitude sickness. However, they can have serious side effects, so talk to your doctor first.
• Don’t ascend any higher for a few days. Plan your trip so you’re spending the first few days of your visit around Leh without going any higher. Try to allow at least 3-4 days in Leh before heading off on any trek or over Khardungla to Nubra Valley.

How Much Does a Ladakh Trip Cost?

If you’re on a budget, then here’s what you can expect to pay for things in Ladakh (if you want to spend more, you definitely can):

• Accommodation: 450INR (AU$9) for dorm bed or 800INR (AU$16) for private room at a guesthouse
• Meals: 150INR (AU$3) at a local restaurant or 350INR (AU$6) at a more tourist-oriented place
• Entrance fees: Most monasteries charge around 50INR (AU$1) for entry
• SIM card: They charge around 500INR (AU$10) for registration, setup and a 28 day package at AIRTEL in Leh
• Three day tour to Pangong Lake and Nubra Valley: 4,000INR (AU$80) for a seat in a shared group tour
• Permit: 560INR (AU$11) for three days to Pangong lake and Nubra Valley

Looking for More North India Travel Guides?

• How to Explore Zanskar Valley in North India
• A Travel Guide to Spiti Valley
• A Travel Guide to Aru Valley in Kashmir
• 10 Best Things to Do in Srinagar
• Ultimate North India Itinerary for 1 Month

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[…] Tibet and is characterised by awe-inspiring landscapes that seem almost unbelievable. Similar to Ladakh, you’ll travel through a dry, desert environment flanked by rugged snow-capped mountains to […]

[…] 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 […]

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[…] Valley is separated from Ladakh by the rugged Zanskar Range in North India. Part of the Greater Himalayan region, it’s a high […]

This comprehensive travel guide to Ladakh in North India offers invaluable insights into exploring this breathtaking region known for its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and adventurous opportunities. From navigating the rugged terrain of the Himalayas to immersing oneself in the vibrant local traditions, this guide serves as an indispensable companion for travelers seeking an unforgettable journey through Ladakh.

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Is it safe to travel to Ladakh alone?⛰️Summer or winter- Which is the best time to visit Ladakh!

Is it safe to travel to Ladakh alone? While Ladakh is relatively safe for solo travelers, it’s essential to exercise caution, especially when trekking in remote areas or driving on mountain roads. It’s advisable to inform someone about your itinerary and carry emergency essentials.

The best time to visit Ladakh is during the summer months from May to September when the weather is pleasant, and most of the region’s attractions are accessible.

Everyone who visits Ladakh, frequently referred to as heaven on earth, is charmed. Memorable landscapes are created by the spectacular Himalayan terrain, calm streams, and towering mountains against a clear blue sky.

Ladakh attracts an immense number of tourists every year because of its exceptional beauty. While some people like the summer because of its comfortable temps for exploring, others prefer the hard winters because of their desire for adventure and the challenging weather.

• 🌦️ Understanding Ladakh's Climate

☀️ Summer Season (March to June):

⛈️ monsoon season (july to september):, ⛄ winter season (october to february):, q. is ladakh accessible during the winter months, q. are there any festivals celebrated in ladakh, q. what should i pack for a trip to ladakh, q. can i visit ladakh during the monsoon season, 😇 conclusion, 🗨️ share your thoughts in the comments: what do you think is the best time to visit ladakh, 🌦️ understanding ladakh’s climate.

Ladakh’s climate is characterized by its extreme temperature variations and low precipitation levels. The region experiences two distinct seasons: summer and winter.

🕒 Unveiling the Best Time to Visit Ladakh

Planning a trip to Ladakh requires careful consideration of the timing, as this remote region experiences extreme weather conditions throughout the year.

• Ideal for exploration, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 25°C.
• All tourist attractions are open, offering breathtaking views of mountains, passes, lakes, and villages.
• Glaciers melt, creating colorful landscapes and vibrant hues of nature.
• Experience local festivals like YuruKabgyat, Saka Dawa, and Hemis Festivals.
• Roads are less rugged, perfect for road trips.
• Rainfall is short-lived but may enhance adventure activities like river rafting.
• The temperature remains pleasant, ranging from 5°C to 20°C.
• Perfect for experiencing Ladakh’s rainfall and snowfall amidst comfortable temperatures.
• Ladakh receives heavy snowfall, with temperatures dropping significantly.
• Ideal for trekking enthusiasts, especially for the Chadar Trek at Zanskar Valley.
• Accessible primarily by flights, offering unique experiences like Snow Leopard Safari.
• Adventurous activities abound, though roadblocks due to snowfall may occur.

The best time to visit Ladakh depends on personal preferences and interests. Some cherish the tranquility of summer, while others seek the thrill of winter adventures.

🙋🏻‍♀️ FAQs About Travelling To Ladakh

There are a lot of questions that come to our mind while planning to travel to Ladakh, some of the commonly asked questions are answered below.

A. Yes, Ladakh is accessible during the winter months, but travel may be challenging due to heavy snowfall and sub-zero temperatures. However, winter sports enthusiasts can enjoy activities like ice skating and snow trekking.

A. Yes, Ladakh is known for its vibrant festivals, including the Hemis Festival, Ladakh Festival, and Losar, which offer unique insights into the region’s culture and traditions.

A. It’s essential to pack warm clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, and adequate hydration supplies, especially if you’re traveling during the summer months. Additionally, carry any necessary medications and consult your doctor regarding altitude sickness prevention.

A. While Ladakh experiences minimal rainfall, the monsoon season from July to August may lead to road closures and landslides, affecting travel plans. It’s advisable to check weather forecasts and road conditions before planning your trip.

In conclusion, Ladakh beckons adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike with its unparalleled beauty and rich cultural heritage. By understanding Ladakh’s climate, festivals, and attractions, you can plan your visit to coincide with the best time to experience everything this enchanting region has to offer.

And, don’t forget to plan your dream vacation with Fiery Trippers for a personalized and romantic getaway.

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Rahul Siddharth

He is a dedicated travel writer with a wealth of 10 Years + experience that enriches his narratives. He holds a degree in Hospitality and Hotel Administration from IHM Dehradun, which he couples with hands-on expertise in the field. Drawing from his diverse experiences, Rahul's writings offer readers a captivating glimpse into the world of travel. Embark on a journey of exploration and inspiration with Rahul as your guide. Read More

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How to plan for a trip to Ladakh: Ultimate Guide

Ladakh, located in the Himalayas, is one of the most beautiful places in India. Ladakh has very diverse landscapes with snowy mountains and vast deserts to explore. The trekking trails of Ladakh range from short walks to multi-day treks which include camping along the way! You can even trek across the frozen Zanskar River ! Ladakh makes an ideal destination for nature lovers who want to spend some time away from the noise and pollution of the cities. Trekking in Ladakh will also give you an insight into the lives of locals, who live in remote areas away from all basic amenities. This guide on how to plan for a trip to Ladakh will walk you through everything you need to know about this popular trek, from choosing your company and guides to packing and more. By following our advice in this guide, you’ll be ready for the adventure of a lifetime!

Preparation

The Himalayas are beautiful and majestic, but they’re also unforgiving. When planning your trip , be sure you have enough money saved up in case anything goes wrong; basic travel health insurance is highly recommended. The most dangerous part of your journey will likely be flying into Leh Airport, which sits at 13,500 feet above sea level. You need special permits to take flights into or out of Leh Airport. Those wanting to fly in or out need approval from local police and aviation authorities, who require detailed information about members of your party as well as emergency contact information—basically, it needs to be clear that you won’t go rogue on your way back home.

Train yourself for walking

Start by walking every day, maybe right after you wake up or before you go to bed. If possible, walk outside. Try not to take your phone with you—leave it at home and give yourself time for reflection. This will help you make sense of what is happening around you, which in turn will make it easier for you when it comes time for your trek. You can start small; instead of trying to cover 10 miles in one day, aim for 5 and work your way up from there as necessary. Start out slow if you have done little or no physical activity—it’s important that you feel good about walking before doing something more challenging like hiking up mountains.

Packing List

The checklist is critical—you do not want to end up on your trip only to realize you have forgotten something important. For clothing, pack more than you think you need. It’s helpful to keep in mind that if you get anything soiled, you can send it home and buy more when you arrive at your destination. Be aware of regional cultural standards as well. In some places, there may be different dress requirements for men and women or other norms that differ from what travelers are used to backing home; checking with someone who has already been there will help avoid any unfortunate surprises along these lines. Please check our trekking gear checklist for the Himalayas for more information.

Hiring a Guide

Perhaps you have attempted some smaller treks, but now it’s time to take on a larger challenge. As one of India’s most popular destinations, there are countless companies offering tours in and around Leh. If you have your heart set on exploring its hills and valleys but don’t want to go it alone, hiring a guide is certainly recommended. It will ensure that your trip goes smoothly and you see as much as possible while away from home. Guides can help with everything from local etiquette and language skills to identifying animal tracks along trails; they even make sure that you’re keeping up with group hiking times.

Trekking Through Leh

With mountains surrounding it, Leh has many beautiful treks and hikes. The higher altitudes mean that oxygen is more sparse, making these trips quite challenging. Despite that, Ladakh has an extremely strong trekking community which makes sure that even novice hikers have an incredible experience in a safe environment. For people who don’t live in Leh and are only planning on visiting for two or three days, however, it can be difficult to find good trekking guides and set up reliable transportation.

The best time to visit Ladakh

The best treks in Ladakh can be planned at any time of year, and are particularly popular during May-June and September-October. Some treks are best done in winter when there is less snow and freezing cold temperatures; winters have on average 35 days of bright sunshine and fresh icy landscapes. If you prefer to avoid traveling with large crowds, June maybe your ideal month. Fall months tend to be rainy so if you want clearer skies, avoid September through November. During these months, travel might be difficult due to heavy rains in some regions but it does make for gorgeous scenery as well as more solitude at certain monasteries along your route.

The Last Leg of the Journey

Make sure you do your homework and research where you’re going. Of course, we have no way of knowing what sort of treks will be available in the future, but here are some general considerations: During winter months (November-March), expect snow and frigid temperatures—something to keep in mind if you’re planning on hiking higher altitudes. While there is the accommodation on site, many hotels operate as teahouses with limited amenities—think bunk beds and thin blankets. If you can swing it, consider staying at one of Ladakh’s resorts or guesthouses from late March through early November; they offer much more comfortable accommodations at slightly higher prices than teahouses.

Suggested Itinerary

The trip of a lifetime will take you up and over some 20,000-foot peaks. That means there are no shortcuts; you’ll have to acclimatize slowly and carefully. Make sure that your itinerary includes rest days—and plenty of them. You can never spend too much time in Manali, Leh, or Srinagar, so be sure not to race through these towns. If your budget allows, make reservations at one of these gorgeous hotels in India’s highest city! From rest days, it’s on to Kargil: While popular with Indian tourists, foreigners often skip Kargil on their way from Delhi to Leh—but don’t!

Daily Schedules

Planning and preparing in advance is vital when it comes to any significant trip. It doesn’t have to be hard, though: A basic daily schedule goes a long way toward ensuring that you don’t forget something critical. When making your schedule, think about what time of day you are at your best level physically, mentally, and emotionally.

If possible, give yourself an hour or two between each daily activity so that you can feel refreshed and energized before moving on to something else. With adequate rest—and some luck—you will find that you are more capable of handling unexpected situations like blisters or lost keys than if you were exhausted after every physical task is completed. Try not to underestimate how much energy it takes just being in a different environment with different people!

Should I Trek Alone?

Consider that solo travel can be both thrilling and terrifying, liberating and frustrating. Some may argue that it’s more dangerous because you’re less likely to be noticed in an emergency—and that you won’t have anyone around who can help you. In reality, there are pros and cons regardless of your choice.

What matters is whether or not you feel comfortable traveling alone. This is not only about the solo trek, if you are a female hiker, HikePackers will not recommend trek alone in India due to sexual assault and rape rates in India being quite high. Here is the report from Statista .

Safety Precautions While Trekking in Ladakh

If you are planning on going on a hike, then take precautions like carrying sufficient first aid kits, torchlight, and extra clothes. Make sure that your trekking guide knows all about first aid and can handle any emergency situations if you fall sick or get injured during your trip. The altitude sickness can be life-threatening; it is important that you carry oxygen cylinders if you have medical conditions such as heart or lung diseases. Avoid traveling alone, especially in off-season periods; bring along people who are known to each other at least 4 days prior to the start of your trip. Choose smaller hiking trails rather than longer routes so that accidents don’t occur during a long journey back home.

Ladakh is one of India’s most beautiful tourist destinations, with high altitude valleys surrounded by snow-capped mountains and terraced fields that spread out beneath. This makes it a fantastic place for hiking or trekking, and there are many companies that offer trips around some of its key sights. However, before embarking on your trip make sure you have taken all precautions.

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Leh Tourism

Best place to visit, best time to visit, things to do, how to reach, experience the magic of leh ladakh in october: a journey to remember.

Leh Ladakh is a region in the northernmost part of India, located in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. It is a popular tourist destination and is known for its unique landscapes, rugged terrain, and stunning natural beauty. October is considered a good time to visit Leh Ladakh as the weather is pleasant with clear skies and comfortable temperatures during the day. However, it can get quite cold at night, so it’s important to pack warm clothing. Visitors can explore monasteries, go trekking, and enjoy various adventure activities such as river rafting and mountain biking during their trip Packages.

Weather & Temperature In Leh Ladakh In October

Leh Ladakh is a stunning Himalayan region in northern India. The weather and temperature in Leh Ladakh in October can be extremely frigid, as it heralds the start of winter in the region. However, it is still a terrific time to visit and see the area’s gorgeous scenery, old monasteries, and vibrant culture. So, if you’re considering a vacation to Leh Ladakh in October, you should be prepared for the weather and pack accordingly.

Which Clothes to Pack for October Trip to Leh Ladakh

Now that you know it gets really cold in Ladakh in October, here are some essentials for your Leh Ladakh tour: thermals and woollens.

• Windproof gloves, woollen socks, and a woollen cap
• A good pair of athletic shoes

Other things you should bring with you to Ladakh.

• Sunglasses and sunscreen lotion
• Lip balm, cold cream, and moisturizer
• Basic medications
• Spray or balm for pain alleviation
• Additional toiletries

Which route is best for a trip to Ladakh in October?

The best route to take for a trip to Ladakh in October will depend on several factors such as your starting point, the number of days you have for the trip, and your mode of transportation. However, the most popular routes are

• Srinagar to Leh via the Srinagar-Leh highway
• Manali to Leh via the Manali-Leh Highway

Leh Ladakh Inner Line Permit In October

To visit Leh Ladakh in October, you must obtain an Inner Line Permit (ILP). The permit is mandatory for all non-residents of Ladakh. You can obtain the permit online through the official website of the Ladakh administration or in person from the DC office in Leh. The permit is usually issued for 15 days and can be extended for another 15 days. It is advisable to apply for the permit a few days in advance to avoid any last-minute hassle. Make sure to carry the permit with you at all times during your stay in Ladakh as it might be checked at various checkpoints.

Is it possible to see snow in Leh, Ladakh in October

Yes, it is possible to see snowfall in Leh, Ladakh in October. The region experiences extreme weather conditions throughout the year, with temperatures dropping significantly during the winter months. While snowfall is more common during the peak winter months of December and January, it is not uncommon to witness early snowfall in October as well. It is advisable to check the weather forecast before planning a trip to Leh, Ladakh during this time of the year and to come prepared with proper winter clothing and gear.

Top 5 Activities In Leh Ladakh

1. paragliding.

In Ladakh, soar like a bird and realize all of your aviation fantasies. Seems intriguing? For those who aspire to soar and see Ladakh from above, the phrase “paragliding” evokes strong feelings. Over the past ten years, paragliding has become increasingly popular in India, making it one of the best adventure sports. Activities in Leh All you have to do to parachute over Ladakh if you’re interested in doing so is go to the location or get in touch with the company arranging the activity.

2. Rafting the River

In Leh-Ladakh, stream boating offers breathtaking scenery. Experiencing the breathtaking scenery while traversing through deep waterways and removing snow-covered peaks is an experience that each person would be delighted to enjoy. Leh Ladakh offers a wide variety of options for river boating. The two most basic ones are rafting on the Zanskar Waterway and boating on the Indus Stream. Rafting has many opportunities in the Indus Waterway and its tributaries for river boating. The section of Stream Indus between Spituk and Nimu, or Saspol, is one of its most breathtaking sections. However, those who are unfamiliar with the game should choose the easiest section upstream from Spituk to Karu.

Zanskar Stream Waterway Boating offers some challenging but exhilarating sections. There’s a section between Padum and Nimu across a deep gorge in the Zanskar Mountains that can be the most exhilarating of all the sections. In Leh-Ladakh, river boating is a delightful way to experience the energy of the Himalayas. Indian Vacation gives you the option to reserve Leh-Ladakh Waterway Boating trips well in advance.

3. Mountain Biking

Ladakh is the place to go if you enjoy taking on adventurous activities and are looking for thrills. Nestled between the Himalayan ranges of Zanskar and Karakoram, Ladakh is renowned for its abundance of adventure activities in addition to its rich cultural heritage. One of the best adventurous things to do in Leh Ladakh is mountain riding. Along with traversing the tallest mountain passes, you will be treated to breathtaking views of the Himalayas covered in snow. You will pass by several monasteries and other places of worship. Riding a mountain bike is an exciting and enjoyable experience.

4. Jeep Safari

Jeep Safaris are becoming incredibly popular with Ladakh travellers who want to explore the splendour of this Trans-Himalayan region of India, breaking the tradition of trekking and hiking in Ladakh. For these travellers, nothing is more pleasant and promising than a jeep safari. Ladakh has several incredible locations that are quite difficult to get to. Locals as well as a few happy hikers and knowledgeable tourists can explore these locations. The harsh terrain of Ladakh is not meant for the average traveller. People are curious to learn more about the valley’s different facets, though.

One must take one of the many Jeep safari trips offered in Ladakh if one wants to explore the landscapes and wildlife of the region in the safest possible way while getting a feeling of adventure. These scheduled jeep safari excursions aim to explore unique landscapes such as the Nubra Valley, Zanskar Valley, Pangong Lake, Tsomoriri Lake, and so on. Among the fascinating adventurous activities in Leh Ladakh is this one.

5. Trekking

Trekking allows you to discover the local culture and legacy in addition to conquering mountains, high passes, and other physical challenges. Various trekking routes in Leh and Ladakh offer breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Additionally, trekking in Ladakh will force you to discover every inch of the area. There are numerous hiking routes in Ladakh, including the Nubra Valley Trek, the Indus Valley Trek, the Stok Kangri Trek, the Markha Valley Trek, and the most well-known trek of them all, the Chadar Trek.

Itinerary for Visiting Ladakh in October

If you are planning to visit Ladakh in October, keep in mind that it is already the end of the tourist season, and the weather may become unpredictable. Nevertheless, it can be a great time to visit as the crowds are gone, and the landscape is turning into a beautiful autumnal hue. Here is a suggested itinerary for your trip:

Day 1: Arrive in Leh and spend the day resting to acclimatize to the high altitude.

Day 2: Visit the Shey Palace, Thiksey Monastery, and Hemis Monastery.

Day 3: Visit the Alchi Monastery, Likir Monastery, and the Basgo Palace.

Day 4: Drive to Nubra Valley over the Khardung La Pass, one of the highest motorable roads in the world. Visit the Diskit Monastery and Hunder Sand Dunes.

Day 5: Return to Leh and explore the local market.

Day 6: Visit the Phyang Monastery and the Spituk Monastery.

Day 7: Drive to Pangong Tso Lake, the famous ‘3 Idiots’ movie location. Spend the day enjoying the scenic beauty of the lake.

Day 8: Return to Leh and spend the day at leisure.

Day 9: Depart from Leh.

Visiting Leh Ladakh in October? Follow these Travel Tips

 I see that you are interested in visiting Leh Ladakh in October. As an AI-powered assistant, I don’t have personal experience, but I can provide you with some general travel tips that might come in handy.

Firstly, October is considered the end of the tourist season in Leh Ladakh, so you might find it less crowded. However, the weather can be quite chilly, so be sure to pack warm clothes.

Secondly, due to the extreme weather conditions, it is advisable to carry some essential items like a first aid kit, necessary medicines, and sunscreen.

Thirdly, it is essential to stay hydrated, so keep a water bottle with you at all times. You should also avoid alcohol and smoking to prevent altitude sickness.

Lastly, it is always a good idea to carry some cash with you as there are limited ATMs and network connectivity in Leh Ladakh.

I hope these travel tips help you plan your trip to Leh Ladakh in October. Have a safe and enjoyable journey!

If you’re planning a trip to Leh Ladakh in October, it’s important to keep in mind that the weather can be quite unpredictable during this time of year. While the days can still be warm and pleasant, the nights can get quite chilly, so be sure to pack warm clothing. Additionally, some of the higher altitude passes and roads may be closed due to snow, so it’s a good idea to check road conditions before setting out on your journey. Despite these potential challenges, October can still be a beautiful time to visit Leh Ladakh, with clear blue skies and stunning fall foliage in the valleys.

Here you can check our Leh Ladakh Tour Packages

People also ask about Leh Ladakh In October

1. is the leh-ladakh highway open in october.

The road is still open in October. Local transportation, including autos and buses, was readily available in Ladakh during the time. If you are considering a trip to Ladakh in October, take the 434-kilometer Srinagar-Ladakh highway through Kargil. The temperature will drop dramatically toward the end of the month, and the valley will begin to receive snowfall. 

2. In October, how is the weather in Ladakh?

The month of October is the coolest in Leh Ladakh. The temperature hovers between 14 degrees Celsius and -2 degrees Celsius. Because the weather will be cold, it is recommended that you bring warm clothing with you. Ladakh is one of those destinations that cannot be visited all year but can be visited in October.

3. Is it a good time to visit Leh in October?

The month of October is excellent for visiting Ladakh. It is the end of the tourist season, so there are fewer guests to enjoy tranquil moments and the serenity of the locations. Temperatures in October are colder than in July but still extremely comfortable, hovering around 15°C during the day.

4. Is it safe to visit Leh-Ladakh in October?

In October, Leh Ladakh is safe for any type of tourist. This month will be trouble-free; October is a great time to visit Ladakh and enjoy your vacation. In addition to sightseeing in numerous prominent locations, you may participate in Ladakh festivities and outdoor activities. 

5. Is Khardung La accessible in October?

The best months to visit the Khardung La pass are April to June and September to October. The Khardung La pass is open from 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.

6. In October, how cold is Leh?

In October, the average temperature in Leh ranged from a high of 39°F (4°C) to a low of 19°F (-7°C). Some could characterize it as really cold and useful.

The ultimate travel guide to Ladakh

By Joan Torres 10 Comments Last updated on August 25, 2023

Ladakh is a remote place belonging to a northern Indian state, which for some reason doesn’t receive as many tourists as the rest of the country.

I was wondering: Why is that i wonder? This region is a bit remote and of difficult access. Normally, people don’t know about it or haven’t even heard of it. Why? Maybe it’s because Hindu culture can’t be enjoyed here, which is one of the mains reasons for going to India.

So what can you do and find in there? Ladakh is basically a Himalayan region where authentic Tibetan people live in. It’s often called the little Tibet, and for the Indians themselves, this is the best spot where to spend their vacations in India. Why? In India chaos rules, it’s overpopulated and there’s traffic everywhere.

Ladakh is a different place which differs from all these stereotypes. Here you find peace and silence, which combined with the stunning Himalayan landscape and the  Tibetan culture visible in every corner, sometimes you may even forget that you are actually in India.

That being said,  the following Travel guide to Ladakh aims to provide you with detailed travel tips such as prices, accommodation, and transportation, as well as an overview of the main things to do and see, so you know what to expect upon your arrival in Ladakh.

If you are seeking more in-depth and detailed information, I recommend you to find inspiration on any of the following posts:

Markha Valley Trek, the ultimate budget guide Tibetan culture in Ladakh: Buddhism and gompas A guide to Tibetan food in Ladakh Khardung La: Driving over the highest road the world on a scooter

Ladakh is a region that belongs to the Indian state Jammu and Kashmir, which extends from the Kunlun mountain range to the Great Himlayas .

The whole area of Ladakh is located at a very high altitude. Its capital, Leh, is at 3,500 meters above sea level, and has a large number of peaks reaching over 6,000 meters

Here you find:

Top things to do in Ladakh The people Travel Insurance for Ladakh Language Religion Food Alcohol How much does it cost Trekking Transportation Altitude sickness Safety Visa When to go Get in Money Internet

Top things to do in Ladakh

Ladakh might be a small region within India, but it’s actually double the size of Switzerland. Nevertheless, the unpopulated mountains occupy most part of it. In my opinion, the  top things to do and see in Ladakh are:

If you arrive by plane, the capital is going to be your first destination. Leh is a fantastic place to explore. Leh palace, the most iconic building of the city, is definitely worth a visit. You can also watch the sunset from Shanti stupa, visit Tibetan refugee markets or simply wander around its narrow alleys and streets.

In Leh, you will get a first glimpse of what Tibetan culture   is like.

Nubra Valley

A vast sea of sand dunes in the Himalaya itself. Can you believe it? Nubra Valley is a desert similar to those of Arabia but located at 4,000 meters above sea level and surrounded by the Himalayan range. Here you also find two-humped hairy camels.

Tibetans claim that the origin of this desert comes from Tethys , a sea from the depths from which the Himalayas are supposed to have risen.

Khardung La

This is nothing less than the highest motorable road in the world . It connects Leh with Nubra Valley and its highest point passes over 5,600 meters.

Pangong Tso Lake

A lake located at 4,350m above sea level which extends across India and China. People go to this lake to see the stunning landscape and for hiking.

Chemrey gompa

In my opinion, the most beautiful gompa out there in Ladakh, having been built and perfectly shaped on the top of a steep hill. Looking at it is merely impressive.

Tso Moriri Lake

The highest lake in Ladakh (4,522m) and one of the most beautiful ones owing to its surroundings, green pastures and white peaks

Thiksey gompa

Though the most touristic gompa , this fortification is almost like a small town. It has shops, restaurants, a hotel and a huge monk community living there.

Learning Tibetan culture

Ladakh is the place in the world where Tibetan culture is more accessible. Whereas foreigners have always had restrictions when going to Tibet, in Ladakh you can talk freely, walk around and go wherever you want. If you want to know more about it, I suggest you read this post about Tibetan culture in Ladakh .

Hemis gompa

If you travel to Ladakh during July, Hemis monastery is a must to visit since it’s where the Hemis Festival takes place, a popular festival famous for its masked parade. It’s one of the most sacred rituals in Ladakh.

Hiking around the unique Himalayan range of Ladakh is one of the biggest highlights of the trip. There are an endless number of treks adapted for any kind of traveler. For more information, check on the Trekking section of this guide .

Keep reading: Kashmir Travel Guide

Getting off the beaten track

Ladakh region is already off the path, but during high season (July & August), some spots may get busy. Places like Leh, popular gompas , Khardung La pass and Nubra Valley are probably among the most crowded ones.

If you want to avoid the crowds, Pangong Tso Lake and  Tso Moriri Lake are the perfect options. Trekking is also a good way to get off the beaten track, even in popular treks like Markha Valley .

Last, if you are renting a vehicle,  driving the empty roads of Ladakh is an awesome experience and there are endless unexplored villages where you can randomly stop and look around. I suggest you drive to Chemrey and explore the surrounding area.

By the way, if you decide to visit popular gompas like Thiksey or Hemis, it’s better to go in the afternoon or early evening to avoid the crowds.

The people: the Ladakhis

Ladakhis are both ethnically and linguistically close to Tibetans. During the 8th century, a royal Tibetan annexed the region to himself and as a consequence, a huge number of Tibetans came and established roots there.

In addition, in the past decades, after the invasion of China, thousands of Tibetans have been seeking refuge in Ladakh. Ladakhis are kind people always willing to help or establish a conversation.

Ladakhis neither look like Indians nor feel like Indians. I turned out that i was in Ladakh during Indian Independence Day. In India, this day is quite a big deal, but in Ladakh, it was just a normal day like any other one. Yes, there were a few flags hanged from a few balconies, but that’s it. They told me they don’t feel Indian. Nevertheless, don’t get confused and think that they don’t get along with the rest of the country. In fact, they are really happy with the Indian government because it gives them a significant level of autonomy and freedom.

Travel Insurance for Ladakh

Like any trekking destination, traveling with proper travel insurance is a must.

In the mountains, you can get injured very easily and, if you got seriously injured, you may have to be rescued.

Therefore, I always recommend World Nomads , as it is the only company that provides with unlimited medical coverage plus it covers a big bunch of adventure activities. For example, the basic plan already covers for trekking up to 6,000 meters.

Get your free quote here

Ladakhi is the most common language used across the region and it’s merely a Tibetan dialect . Additionally, Hindi and Urdu are widely used among educated people.

Some useful Tibetan words are:

Hello:  Jullay How are you?:  Khamzang ina-le? Thank you: Jullay – Same as ”Hello”. Literal translation would be ”Greetings” You’re welcome:  O’-Jullay I am sorry:   Gongspa salazad Excuse me:  Gongspa salazad – Getting attention

English in Ladakh

I think Ladakh is one of the places in Asia where English is more widely spoken. In cities and larger towns, almost everybody speaks a fairly comprehensible English. But the surprising thing came on the day when, while driving with my scooter, I randomly stopped to take a picture of an old peasant lady who was collecting wheat. I approached her and kindly asked her if I could take a picture. Then she told me in  English: ”Can I see it?”. I was shocked. We started to talk and she even gave me her address so I could send her the picture.

OK, her English was not great, but if you guys have ever traveled around Asia you will understand what am I talking about. It was the first time ever I could establish a conversation with a random peasant in Asia.

Since most of the population is Tibetan, Tibetan Buddhism is the predominant religion in Ladakh and it plays a key role Ladakhi everyday life. According to a monk I met, families turn at least one of their sons in to Buddhism. Strong Buddhist faith can be felt across all Ladakh, in every village and in every monastery, and that is definitely one of the highlights when traveling to Ladakh.

Nevertheless, a large  Muslim population also lives in this region, especially in the area bordering Kashmir Valley.

Tibetan Food

Food in Ladakh is sort of unique and that’s why I thought it should deserve an extensive separate post. Click here to read about what Tibetan cuisine is like in Ladakh .

Alcohol in Ladakh

Sadly, alcohol in Ladakh is sort of a sensitive topic and it’s not widely available. Apparently, there’s been some issues with alcohol and nowadays it’s quite regulated. You can find it, but only in a few places.

Bars and restaurants have to pay huge fees and mostly can’t afford them. Nevertheless, please don’t start crying yet. There are loads of restaurants who serve it illegally (or unofficially, like they like to call it). They bring it inside paper bags and instead of a glass you get a coffee cup.

Typically they just serve beer and two brands are available: King Fisher , a 5.5% beer brewed in Bangalore which I personally don’t like it because it doesn’t have much gas and God Father , which is the Kashmir state local beer. The label claims to have 8% alcohol but it’s not true. It’s a very light beer but then I realized that the label actually says: maximum 8%. Strange, right?

Note: Remember that Ladakh is a high altitude region and therefore you get drunk way quicker. It can be fun, I know. But if you are having a headache or you are not sure about your acclimatization, you had better stay away from it.

How much will cost you traveling to Ladakh?

While Ladakh is a cheap destination, according to Indians it’s the most expensive place within India. Let me tell you what’s the cost of the most typical things:

Accommodation

I have never in my life seen as many guesthouses as in Leh. There’s a guest house on absolutely every street and corner. That’s the way locals make a living. Please note that these prices refer to high season (summer).

Budget option: You can find very basic rooms for as cheap as 500-800 rupees per night. Normally, these guest houses won’t have internet, and other than a thin mattress and a toilet you won’t get anything else. Nevertheless, most of them have a beautiful garden where you can read, relax or have breakfast. A lot of budget guest houses may be found in Karza road, just 5 minutes away from the city center. I don’t think so you need to book in advance. I found one very quickly during the busiest season in August.

More comfortable option: If you are looking for a slightly better option with a comfortable mattress and wifi, you can find rooms for 1,600 rupees. I stayed one night in Shaolin guest house . Mattresses were superb and they had quite a nice common area with pillows. The staff is a lovely and kind Tibetan family. They speak perfect English. They have a garden as well. It’s a bit far from the busy city center, which means that there’s complete silence.

In restaurants where locals eat, meals typically cost between 60 and 100 rupees. In more touristy (and hygienic) restaurants, meals start at 180 rupees, depending on what you order. Water costs 30 rupees per liter and coffee 50 rupees.

For a half liter beer, you will pay an average price of 170 rupees.

Transportation

Private taxis within Leh: Short taxi rides cost around 200 rupees.

Private taxis to other places in Ladakh: Prices vary depending on where you go. Round trip to Nubra Valley costs 6,800 rupees. Khardung La costs 2,600 rupees and Pnagon Lake, 9,500 rupees. Prices are standard and set by the Ladakh government. They shouldn’t charge you more. Please note that all agencies have shared taxi service and they help you out finding other people to share the car with.

Shared local taxis: Using the local transportation is the cheapest way to move around. For example, going from Leh to Thiksey (20km) costs as cheap as 100 rupees.  For more information, check on the How to move around  section of this guide .

Scooter rental:  Price per day for renting a scooter is 800 rupees. By the way, gas costs 70 rupees per liter.

Motorbike rental: Big bikes cost 1,300 rupees per day. If you are planning to rent it for a long term, I met a guy who managed to pay only 800 a day for a full month rental.

Entrance fees

Entrance fees to gompas cost either 0 or 50 rupees. The only expensive fee I ever paid was when I went to Leh Palace (300 rupees).

Do you need to tip?

You are not forced to tip, but people involved in tourism might expect a tip from you. According to locals, both guide and porters may expect a $1-$2 tip per day. But again, tipping is not mandatory.

Minimum average price per day

Accommodation: Budget single room: 700 rupees

Food: Local breakfast + Lunch in a local restaurant + Dinner in a touristy restaurant: 60 + 80 + 220 = 360 rupees

Beer: 2 beers: 340 rupees

Transportation: Scooter rental + 2 liters of gas: 800 + 140 = 940 rupees

Miscellaneous:  Water + snacks + personal care products =  300 rupees

Total price = 700 + 360 + 340 + 940 + 300 = 2,640 rupees = 40$ a day

Trekking in Ladakh

Hiking the deserted and remote mountains of Ladakh is one of the best trekking experiences you will ever have, and this is not only my opinion but experienced trekkers who said that the Himalayan range of Ladakh is the wildest, most stunning and dramatic you can ever encounter.

Which trek should I choose?

This is a very good question. First, you need to ask yourself: How many days do I want to be trekking? Do I want to sleep in homestays or in a tent? Do I want to go independently or with a guide? Do I want to see people and experience Tibetan culture or just landscape?

There are a lot of different treks which can be adapted to any kind of need. Once you are in Leh, you should go to each and every agency and ask for all options and details. Nevertheless, here’s a quick overview of some of the most popular hikes in Ladakh:

Markha Valley (4 to 9 days): This is the most flexible and adaptable one. It has both culture and amazing landscape. Some sections are pretty challenging. The highest point is 5,200 meters. You can complete the trek in just 4-5 days depending on from where you start. Markha Valley may be one of the most popular treks in Ladakh but still, it is way more authentic than most of the treks offered in Nepal.

Nubra Valley trek (2 to 6 days):  One of the least frequented treks. There are no home-stays and you need to bring your own camping equipment.

Rumtse to Tsomoriri Trek (8 Days Trek) : Local guides claim that this is their favorite trek. It’s characterized by arid plain mountains, nomads and amazing high altitude lakes, the most famous being  Tsokar & Tso Moriri.

Spituk to Matho (3-4 days) : One of the shortest treks and just perfect for those seeking something moderate. This trek goes through Hemis National Park, a place where snow leopards have been spotted.

Lamayuru to Darcha Trek (18 days) : This is one of the longest treks, yet one of the richest in terms of culture. It passes by a big number of Tibetan villages and monasteries, the most famous being Phuktal, a gompa located literally in a waterfall.

Do you need a guide or agency?

First of all, I just want to tell you that there’s no need for booking a trekking tour in advance from your home country . Booking a tour in Leh is significantly cheaper and there are literally dozens of trekking agencies looking desperately for trekking groups. Don’t worry, you won’t miss your trek.

Second of all, you might be wondering… Do I actually need a guide? Or can I do it on my own? That mainly depends on your level of expertise. Me for example, I am not a beginner but I am also not an expert. If I had to go on a 10 days trek on my own, having to bring my own camping equipment and cooking my own food, I would probably starve to death. I don’t know about coordinates or how to use a compass. On the other hand, if a trek has plenty of homestays and a clear route to follow (like Markha Valley for example), then I would feel comfortable to do it on my own.

My suggestion? Trekking agencies are very helpful and they don’t hesitate in providing you with all the information you need. You can ask them whether it’s feasible or not to do it on your own. They will give you the itinerary and all details and then you just make your own judgment.

How to choose the right agency in 4 easy steps

Step 1: Go to 10 trekking agencies and ask for all trekking options and details

Step 2: Once you have decided which trekking are you going to do, ask for prices and choose the 3 cheapest agencies

Step 3: Ask these 3 agencies if the guide who will you trek with is actually a local from Ladakh. When summer comes, some Indians from other regions come to Ladakh to work as guides. Dismiss agencies without a Ladakhi guide. An actual local guide will be a richer experience.

Step 4: Say that you would like to meet the guide in person. Choose the agency with the guide you get best along with.

If you want to know more in depth about prices, accommodation, itinerary, etc., I have written a very detailed guide containing all you need to know to complete the Markha Valley trek .

How to move around: Transportation

Public transportation as such doesn’t exist in Ladakh. Main ways to move around are:

Private taxi

Within Leh , taxi is the only way to move around. Please note that Leh is built on a hill and distances are not short. If you got into Leh by plane, first you need to acclimatize to the high altitude before starting to ascend Leh streets. If your guest house is close to the city center then that’s fine. But if not, on the first day, I strongly recommend you take a cab every time you go back to your guest house. Trust me, I know it by experience. On my first day, I started walking up and down and got a strong headache by the end of the day. For more information, check out High altitude sickness section

For traveling  outside of Leh , any guest house or trekking agency can arrange a taxi for you. Prices are standard, therefore there’s no place for negotiation. Moreover, all trekking agencies offer shared taxi service with other tourists. They just find them for you. The downside of it is that finding someone else might take a while. I suggest you ask as many agencies as possible until you find a full taxi.

Local shared taxi

Local transportation in Ladakh consists of small vans where people go all squeezed up inside. It’s the cheapest way to move around and can be found pretty much everywhere. In Leh, there’s one station right at the city entrance. They are quite effective if you are planning to go to other villages or gompas . The bad side of it, is that they usually don’t go to remote touristic places like Nubra Valley or Khardung La.

Renting a vehicle

All sorts of vehicles are available for rental at many agencies in Leh. I traveled around the region by scooter, but if you really want to enjoy the roads of Ladakh and want to drive further, you should definitely get one of the big bikes that can be found everywhere.

High altitude sickness

Getting sick due to high altitude is such a common issue among most travelers that come to Ladakh, especially those who come by plane. Leh is already located at 3,500m above sea level. If you come by plane, the altitude change is too drastic and your body doesn’t have time to acclimatize. Almost everybody I met, suffered a headache at least during the first couple of days. The first day you arrive in Leh, just rest and don’t make any efforts or you’ll get sick.

While trekking, high altitude sickness may be an important issue. Here’s a detailed article on medical advice .

Is it safe to travel to Ladakh?

Yes, Ladakh is a safe place to travel to. Kashmir state has been a turbulent region since India acquired its independence in 1947. Why? Because it has been heavily disputed with Pakistan and there have been multiple insurgencies and protests that involved numerous deaths.

However, Ladakh has always stayed away from all this. There has never been any signs of terrorism or violent protests. Tension has fundamentally taken place in the Kashmir Valley, located in the western part of the state, bordering Pakistan.

How do you get a visa?

A regular Indian visa is required to travel to Ladakh. You can get a 30 days tourist visa by filling the application form in this link .

For most nationalities, visa fee is $45. After payment, it takes less than a day to receive the visa.

When to go: the weather

Summer (June to mid-September):  Summer is high season in Ladakh. During the day the sun is very harsh and it gets pretty hot. At night, temperatures drop and the weather is pleasant. Snow has completely melted except on the highest peaks. This is the best season for trekking.

Spring (April to May) and autumn (mid-September to November):  Snow starts melting and days become pleasant. Nights are still cold, though. Restaurants start opening (or start closing in autumn) and some mountains are already feasible to hike. The best of it is that you won’t see many tourists around.

Winter (November to March:  Ladakh is completely covered by snow and temperatures are always below 0. Roads to Ladakh are closed, which means the only way to get in is by plane. Restaurants and guest houses are practically all closed. There are a few trekkings which go over a frozen lake, but other than that, hiking during this season is not advisable, as weather is highly unpredictable.

How to get in

The are daily flights from both Delhi or Mumbai to Leh. Landing in Leh is one of the most memorable landings I’ve ever experienced, as you basically fly over the Himalayan range, and then you approach through the Indo Valley.

Getting into Ladakh by land is only possible between June and mid-October . During the rest of the year, roads remain closed. There are two main places  to come from:

Srinagar: Located 434km from Leh, this journey is a trip in itself because it goes through three high mountains passes: Zozi La (3528m), Namki La (3815m) and Fotu La (4108m). Everybody says that this is an unforgettable experience, as you get to see some of the most dreamy views ever. However, the trip may take up to 24 hours, but normally the bus stops halfway between both destinations so to spend the night.

Manali: This is the second route, and instead of coming from the west, you come in from the south. Manali is located 479km from Leh. This road goes through Tang La pass, which is above 5,300 meters.

Ladakh belongs to India and therefore Indian rupees  are the official currency used.

1 US Dollar = 66 Indian Rupees

Cash, credit cards and ATM

In case you are wondering, in Leh at least I counted 5 different ATMs but I wouldn’t rely on them too much. Bring extra cash just in case. You can pay with credit card only in expensive hotels. By the way, outside of Leh doesn’t even dream to find a connection.

Currency exchanging

In Leh, there are plenty of exchange offices and are open until 10pm at least. Exchange rates are good, around 62-63. Outside of Leh it is unlikely to be able to exchange.

Internet signal is really bad in Ladakh. Even in expensive cafes or hotels in Leh, signal is unstable. You won’t be able to connect every day.

10 comments

Hey Joan, Really useful information.The details about People, Language, Religion, Food, Trekking, and Transportation of Ladakh.Thanks for sharing valuable information with us.

Thanks, enjoy Ladakh!

Very Nice information. We got just 7 days. Best option would be flying into Leh than moving around by scooter?

Hi Tiago, yes, that is what I did!

Many thanks Joan, great article. I have a question for you: I’m torn between the Ripchar Valley trek and the Markha Valley trek – I love the idea of remoteness, so a bit worried about how popular Markha is and how busy. On the other hand, I’m not sure how beautiful Ripchar Valley is vs Markha. Any insights? Cheers

Hi Edu, I have never been to Ripchar Valley, so I can’t tell

I’m so amazed by the detail of your page here. It really is an ultimate guide to Ladakh! I just did my first research and more to come! Thank you!

Hey Joan, Thanks for sharing all of that information! Although, I do need to mention that your description of the wifi in Leh is very inaccurate. The telecom provider Airtel now offers fiber optic wifi in Leh. I just ran a speed test while using the network at my guest house and got a download speed of 159 mbps, an upload speed of 95 mbps, a latency value of 13 and a jitter value of 3. Those are great network performance metrics even by first world standards.

Hi Joan, I’m sure it always changes, however as a current update, I came from Srinigar to Leh by local bus mid July. We left Srinagar at 7am and arrived Leh at 9pm. No overnight stop in Kargil, just two 30mins meal breaks along the way. Same driver the whole way who seemed to remain perky. Thanks for your detailed guides as always. It’s nice to have honest info for the lesser traveled paths. So many of us get lost in clickbait travel sites these days. Cheers.

Hi Joan, We are planning to go there July 2024. Do you see any political tensions or protests going on there for its statehood? Just want to check the safety before planning anything. THanks a lot

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October-like chill coming to California, other parts of western US

A dramatic cooldown coming later this week may be a shock to millions of people in the western United States following relentless hot weather this summer.

By Alex Sosnowski , AccuWeather senior meteorologist

Published Aug 19, 2024 12:21 PM PDT | Updated Aug 19, 2024 12:40 PM PDT

The man known as “Dr. Lightning” shares little-known facts and top tips for staying safe.

A big break from the summer heat is coming to a large part of the western United States later this week that will feel like autumn, with some people reaching for long sleeves and jackets, AccuWeather meteorologists say.

The chill will follow a storm that brought some cool air, clouds, showers and thunderstorms to part of the Northwest this past weekend.

"A more notable storm with a dip in the jet stream will barrel into Washington, Oregon and northern California from late week into the upcoming weekend," AccuWeather Meteorologist Alyssa Glenny said.

This new storm will usher in unseasonably cool conditions from Thursday to Saturday in much of California, Oregon, Nevada, and parts of Idaho, Utah and Washington. Temperatures will be more on par with October, running 10-20 degrees below the historical average for late August.

“For example, Redding, California, will experience high temperatures that trend downward from the 90s F early this week to the 70s by Friday," Glenny said. "By Friday morning, temperatures may dip to within a few degrees of their record low of 55, last reached 30 years ago on the date in 1995. The record low for Saturday morning in the mid-50s may also be challenged."

The temperature swing will be dramatic, especially in areas where extreme heat has been the rule for much of the summer. Redding has been experiencing temperatures of 5 degrees above the historical average for the period since June 1. The city also set its all-time record high of 119 on July 6.

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Las Vegas is forecast to have its first sub-100-degree high since mid-June later this week. Should highs be in the 90s for three or more days in a row, it would be the first time since May. The Nevada desert city has experienced a scorching summer with temperatures of 6.5 degrees above the historical average, including an all-time record high of 120 degrees set on July 7.

Along the immediate Pacific coast and portions of the Interstate 5 corridor, the cooldown will be less pronounced but still noticeable, as temperatures will briefly spike ahead of the drop, with many people from Seattle and Portland, Oregon, to San Francisco and Los Angeles noticing the cooling trend later this week.

As cool as the air gets near the ground, it will get even chillier at the level of the atmosphere where jets fly. That setup may allow an eruption of clouds, showers and thunderstorms. Some of the storms could be locally heavy to severe. Where little rain falls, lightning strikes could ignite new wildfires, even with the cool conditions and higher humidity levels.

The cooler and more humid air should help ease the quick spread of wildfires and may assist in firefighting efforts, although gusty winds ahead of the cool storm may help fan the flames beforehand.

"Along with the chilly air will come the risk of frost in the normally colder locations," AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Brett Anderson said, "That would tend to be in the mountains and particularly the mountain valleys or high-elevation plateaus later this week."

Temperatures are forecast to dip to near the freezing mark at Tahoe Valley, California, Friday night and Saturday night.

As a storm system pushes farther to the east, temperatures over the western third of the nation will trend upward once again later this weekend and next week.

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• Ladakh Travel Tips To Bear In Mind While Traveling To The Himalayan Desert In 2024

There is one Indian destination that everyone dreams of going to with friends and has thousands of cancelled plans for and if they somehow manage to convince the gods (read their parents and friends) they would have actually had a happening Ladakh trip! Sounds relatable, eh? It does to us too. Ladakh is the high-altitude Himalayan Mountain Region of India. Majestic Himalayas, rivers, plateau, mountain peaks, snow, and high altitude glaciers are just some of the factors. The road to Ladakh will give you the complete vistas of the snowy Himalayas and that is just another add on. It is a tourist-friendly place in India. Its coordinates are 34.2996° North and 78.2932° East. Naturally when a place is at such a height and is so charming, it will have its cons. Here, we have listed important Ladakh travel tips for first-time travelers to save you the trouble.

Travel Tips For Ladakh

Here are the top 10 Ladakh travel tips, which will be useful to adventure seekers, nature lovers, and Himalayan tour takers. Just take a quick glance at these and plan your trip accordingly.

1. Ladakh Climate

Image Source Ladakh occupies a greater part of the high-altitude mountain ranges of the Himalayas in India. Cold desert type climate prevails throughout the year. One of the important Leh Ladakh travel tips to bear in mind is that there is cold wind throughout the day and night in this region. People who are unable to withstand the cold weather even with warm clothing must avoid the Ladakh trip during the winter of November to March. The weather will be extreme as it reaches below freezing point. You must carry sweaters and warm jackets in all seasons here. It is advisable to visit during the dry season, which is from April to June. You can feel some sunshine and heat during the day. The summer season is the best time to travel here by all ages of people. You can go exploring the glaciers, Indus River, trekking in its mountain pass and valleys. You can also take a scenic drive route to Ladakh through a bike or SUV.

Must Read: 11 Adventure Sports In Ladakh For A Thrill Vacay In The Hills!

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2. Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) Medications

Image Source This is one of the most important Ladakh travel tips. It is advisable to consult your doctor before traveling to Ladakh. This is because you will be on the high-altitude mountain ranges with an altitude ranging from 10,000-ft to 23,000-ft above mean sea level. It is advisable to carry AMS medication as prescribed by your doctor. This is because; AMS can cause breathlessness, severe headache, vomiting, and lack of appetite. Without AMS medication, there are chances to get bubbles formation in the lungs. This is a medical emergency if not treated can lead to coma or death. It is advisable to carry a personal thermometer, sphygmomanometer, and first aid kit. It is advisable to check your BP and temperature whenever you are feeling dizziness in high-altitude ranges in Ladakh. This is because; you have to reach Leh for any medical emergency. Traveling by road is the only option available here.

Suggested Read: How To Welcome The New Year In Ladakh For A Unique And Joyful Start

3. Mountain Bike Rental

Image Source High-altitude mountain biking is one of the most important adventure activities and you must try it in Ladakh. Traveling on the road to Ladakh, you are also traveling on the highest motorable road in the world. This will be one of the most memorable rides in your life. You will never forget the enchanting beauty of the Himalayas that you will witness while mountain biking. You can hire a bike on rental from Leh or Manali. They are in-between 350-cc to 490-cc. A few places on the road are rigid. Therefore, you must have some experience during a bike on mountain terrain. This is an affordable way to take the road not taken in Ladakh. It is advisable to bring your helmet, jerkins, boots, and hand gloves. You can also bring a knee, elbow and kidney guard for additional safety. This road is safe to drive and that is one of your Leh Ladakh travel tips right there. You can only find a few military and goods trucks on the way. Other SUVs are of tourists.

Suggested Read: 12 Festivals Of Ladakh That Celebrate The Life In The Valley

4. Ladakh Road Safari Car Rentals

Image Source Travel tips for Leh Ladakh includes telling you how road is the best choice for those who are not willing to take mountain biking. There are many car rental service providers in Leh. They will allow a maximum of 6-person to travel. You can self-drive or hire a driver if you are not able to drive on the high-altitude mountain road. This is a much more cost-effective way to explore the world’s highest road in Ladakh. It is advisable to plan in advance during the peak season from March to May. Yet, the tourist does take road safari on other seasons to see the white beauty of the Himalayas. They do provide drivers. Exploring by road is the utmost way to see the Majestic Himalayas at the fullest. You can browse online for car rental for Leh to Ladakh road safari. This is a scenic mountain road drive on the Himalayas.

Suggested Read: 50 Places To Visit In Leh Ladakh For A Spell Binding Vacation In The Year

5. Tourist Accommodation In Ladakh

Image Source This Leh Ladakh travel tips on accommodation will help you to find the right place to stay in various tourist seasons. March to June is the peak tourist season. It will be difficult to find accommodation if you come here and search. This is because it has very few lodging facilities. Most budget-friendly hotels are in Leh. It will be better to plan in advance during the peak season. The non peak seasons are snowy. Yet, there are many tourists, who wish to see the snow beauty of the Himalayas during winter. You cannot find luxury stay in Ladakh. You can expect standard accommodation with an HVAC system, a TV, and hot bath facilities. The night temperature will drop below the minus degree Celsius. If did not get accommodation, you will be in trouble to stay in your SUV with warm clothing or with a bonfire. It will be good to get a room with mountain views from the balcony or through the windows.

Suggested Read: Our Ladakh Itinerary For 7 Days Will Help You Plan Your Trip Like A Pro

6. Clothing For Ladakh Trip

IMAGE COURTESY- offbeathimalaya The clothing travel tips for Ladakh tells you that there is no other choice than warm clothing. The day temperature during the summer will remain from below 25-degrees Celsius. During the night, it may drop to 15-degrees Celsius. Wearing jeans shirt and pants are the best for men and women tourists during the day. During the winter, the day temperature will be below 15-degree Celsius. During the night, it will fall below zero degrees Celsius. It is advisable to bring warm jackets, furry socks and glows, mufflers, sweaters, and pair of boots above ankle level. If your warm clothing does not give much protection from the cold, it will be better to buy from Leh. They are handmade natural fur. It will give immediate worthiness soon after you wear them. They are affordable too.

Suggested Read: Ladakh Itinerary Of 9 Days: This Amazing Trip Took Us To The Best Of Leh Ladakh

7. Backpacking For Ladakh

Image Source Packing in a large size backpack is the best way to carry many materials and that is one of your primarily important Leh Ladakh travel tips. This is because; you need to carry woolen blankets and woolen cloths, which occupy most of your luggage space. You must also carry two pairs of boots, jerkins, and woolen accessories to keep you warm. It is advisable to carry emergency lights, torch, and a portable gas stove. These are essential items during your night travel for the light source and drink hot water. You must keep your photo and video camera as this is the finest place to capture the beauty of the Himalayas inch by inch. You must also not forget to keep a first aid kit. If you take any medicines daily, you must stock them for your travel too. You must also pack your GPS devices if any. Bathroom kit is a necessary one, as you cannot find any shops on the way to Ladakh from Leh.

Suggested Read: Our Honeymoon For 5 Days In Ladakh Was A Perfect Blend Of Bliss & Adventure

8. Currency

Image Source This Leh Ladakh travel guide will be most helpful to international tourists. They have to convert their currency from New Delhi itself. This is because; Indian Rupees or INR is valid in Ladakh. Here, you cannot find a shop with POS and accepting other modes of electronic payments. This is due to a lack of internet connectivity. Moreover, there are a few money exchange service providers in Leh. If you are not coming through Leh, it will be a problem. You need INR for transport, food, and stay. This is because; this place has no ticketed entry places. You need cash to buy authentic crafts. There are a few ATMs in Leh. Most of the time, they are without cash. The banks with currency exchange are also very less in Leh. It is advisable to convert your nation’s currency into INR and visit Ladakh to enjoy your tour.

Suggested Read: Losar Festival Ladakh: A Cultural Sojourn In The Land Of Mystic Lamas!

9. Food In Ladakh

Image Source This Ladakh Travel tips deals with the food in Ladakh. The people of Ladakh follow the Tibetan culture. Therefore, it is the finest place to taste Tibetan food without going to Tibet. Most of the food available here is of non-vegetarian foods. It is advisable to eat or pack your food from wherever you find a shop open. You cannot find food vendors on the road to Ladakh. When you are looking for places to stay at, it is advisable to see they serve food or not. If not, you have to travel some distance for food alone. It is advisable to stock some tinned food to fill your appetite. You cannot expect a multi-cuisine restaurant in Ladakh. It will be better to inquire about what they serve before giving the food orders. The vegetarians must find a hotel, which serves vegetarian food only. Leh has such restaurants.

Suggested Read: Our Amazing Trip To Ladakh In June Will Make You Pack Your Bags Right Away!

10. Commutation In Ladakh

Image Source This Ladakh travel guide will not be complete without mentioning how you can commute to Ladakh. You can reach Leh through a flight from Delhi. The Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport is the only passenger or commercial airport in Ladakh. Locally, you must hire a private travel agent’s vehicle to commute and explore Ladakh attractions. There are no mountain rail services in the Ladakh region. There are no lifts too. All you have to depend on is on-road transportation only. Bike and car rentals are available from Leh. You can do self-driving and hire them with a driver too. Camel safari is available in some attractions of Ladakh. This is a vast mountain cold desert region. It is not advisable to commute through walking and hiking. You may get tired soon due to altitude sickness. Altogether, transportation costs will be high due to long-distance travel in Ladakh. It is advisable to come under any of the all-inclusive Ladakh tour packages. This will include your local transportation facility too.

Further Read: Leh Ladakh With Kid: A Journey We’ll Cherish For A Lifetime

Ladakh is the best place to check out Tibetan culture in India. It’s quite evident when you witness the Buddhist Monasteries present here. Apart from the cultural heritage, it is the land for mountain biking, national parks, trekking through scenic mountain passes and valleys and much more. A journey to Ladakh is like a road to heaven on the Himalayas and we hope these Ladakh travel tips help you when you undertake the journey and travel that road. You can find a varied mountain topography every 10 kilometers. So, plan your trip to Ladakh soon enough and have the time of your life.

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Question About Ladakh Travel Tips

Is Ladakh safe for backpackers?

Yes, the Ladakh is the largest mountain desert region in India on the Himalayas. It is a safe place for backpackers to travel via tandem and Solo Mountain biking during the summer season.

What is the altitude of Ladakh?

Ladakh altitude ranges from 9,800-ft to 20,000-ft above the mean sea level. Ladakh comes under the high-altitude mountain ranges of the Himalayas in India.

Are there any terrorist threats in Ladakh?

No, Ladakh is a high-altitude tourist destination in north India. This place is free from any terror attacks.

Is Leh to Ladakh safe for mountain Bikers?

Yes, the Leh to Ladakh is a highway. It is in good condition for mountain bikers. There are many bike rental services providers in Leh. You can hire them and enjoy the vistas of the Majestic Himalayas.

Is Ladakh having the highest road in this world?

Yes, Ladakh is having the world’s highest road. Its highest altitude range is 19,300-ft above the mean sea level. This is a motorable road in India. The Border Road Department of India maintains this road.

Is Ladakh having the highest plateau in India?

Yes, the Ladakh plateau is 9,800-ft above the mean sea level on the Himalayas. This high-altitude location of this place makes them the highest one in India. It is a tourist attraction too in Ladakh.

When to visit Ladakh to see snow?

The Ladakh region which is above 15,000-ft above the mean sea level has snow throughout the year. The snowfall happens during the winter season November to February. The mountain snow remains without smelting until the end of April.

Does Indus River flows through Ladakh?

Yes, you can see the Indus River flowing throughout the Ladakh region on your Ladakh journey via road and air travel.

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Seema Gurnani

Exploring new places and trying out new food cuisines are two things that bring Seema all the happiness. Travel freak and a die-hard foodie are the synonyms that define her the best. Popular on social media by the name of ‘PandaReviewz’, lazing around the beaches, exploiting the sunset points, visiting the farthermost villages, exploring the renowned cities, trying out new food cuisines, and blogging about them are few things that keep Seema occupied, and happy!

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The Best Places to Travel in October, From Cape Town to the Hudson Valley

As much as we love lounging on the beach in summer and exploring snowy wonderlands in winter, the best places to travel in October tap into something special—and we’re not just talking about the fewer tourists and lower prices that come along with shoulder season. There’s a fresh crispness in the air this time of year, adding an invigorating pep to places like New England , Colorado, and the Bavarian Alps. On the flip side, some of our beachy faves are beckoning travelers to an extended-summer experience with fresh resorts and long-anticipated cultural openings.

Whether you choose to embrace the chill or chase the tailwinds of summer across the Indian Ocean or the Caribbean, the middle month of autumn all but guarantees a memorable vacation. From Asheville to Athens , here are the 12 best places to travel in October.

This article has been updated since its original publish date.

We dubbed Yorkshire one of the Best Places to Go in 2024 for several reasons, from seductive, sweeping landscapes to new restaurants helmed by Michelin-starred chefs. But October might be the time to venture up north: North York Moors National Park’s annual Dark Skies Fringe Festival kicks off on October 25 (through November 3), and the explosion of stars over the moors proves that the Brontës’ romanticism lasts well past sunset.

Be sure to book a stay at The Abbey Inn , the latest outpost of chef Tommy Banks (of the Black Swan fame) located just below the North York Moors. Not only will you get to sample some of Banks’ famously delicious fare, but the farmhouse-meets-Gothic bedrooms with abbey views are all too appropriate for these surroundings.

Another entry on our list of Best Places to Go in 2024 , Mauritius—sitting pretty off the coast of Madagascar in the Indian Ocean—is more than worth the journey. The island nation’s cultural offerings have recently stepped into the limelight thanks to the much-anticipated Intercontinental Slavery Museum , which opened in September 2023 to mark the country’s first step in recognizing and making amends for its colonial past. Art lovers have also been paying attention to the cutting-edge, contemporary art installations at the recently opened House of Digital Art (HODA).

Meanwhile, a recent revamp of seaside resorts has reignited the jet-set luxury of Mauritius’s heyday in the ’80s. Island classics Lux Belle Mare and Paradis Beachcomber unveiled massive restorations at the end of last year, while the all-inclusive, adults-only Hotel Riu Palace Mauritius just emerged from its own facelift in May. If you’re hoping to get even further off the grid, head to the outlying island of Rodrigues (about a 1.5-hour flight east of Mauritius) to enjoy secret beaches and even more historic hotels, like Play Mourouk and Cotton Bay Resort & Spa .

Salem, Massachusetts

October is synonymous with Halloween, so where better to book a trip than America’s unofficial witching capital? Snag a room at The Hotel Salem or The Merchant (they’re both owned by Lark Hotels, a company famed for its funky makeovers of countless New England inns) and then make your way into town. Salem celebrates its connection to the occult all month with a program of events, including horror film festivals, séances, and a fair with psychics on hand to read your future. (Check out the complete calendar of events for itinerary inspiration.)

During the festivities, it’s worth pausing to consider the history of Salem’s witch trials at the 1692 Salem Witch Museum. The museum recreates the trials using actual documents as the basis for its life-size stage sets, and hosts an exploration of witchcraft in all its forms through the ages.

Asheville, North Carolina

Don’t discount the South when it comes to fall foliage, especially the Blue Ridge Parkway and Carolina mountains. Make Asheville your home base for exploring the parkway in both directions: to the south, drive to Pisgah National Forest, filled with waterfalls and fall foliage–covered hills on view from Looking Glass Rock, and to the north, the curving Linn Cove Viaduct hugs Grandfather Mountain, offering some of the parkway’s most iconic views.

Get a dose of the funky lifestyle in downtown Asheville: Sample the African-meets-Appalachian food at Benne on Eagle , browse fem theory and queer lit at Malaprop’s Bookstore and Cafe , and drink a Strawberry Milkshake IPA at Highland Brewing Company . Stay at Asheville’s best boutique property, The Foundry Hotel , for comfortable rooms with exposed brick walls, a chic lobby bar, and a restaurant serving up modern spins on comfort food.

Albuquerque, New Mexico

Known as “the most photographed event in the world,” the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta (October 5–13) does not disappoint, offering families and travelers the chance to get up close with hundreds of seven-story balloons ranging from cute animals to Darth Vader. You'll want to wake up before dawn to get a prime viewing spot for the Mass Ascension, when all the balloons rise together to the tune of “The Star Spangled Banner.”

You can crash later that night at Hotel Chaco , a sleek, contemporary property with Native American–inspired art and architecture located in the heart of Old Town. That ideal location and perfect October weather means you can explore all the museums and markets downtown without breaking a sweat.

Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town is one of the best places to travel in October, as the month signals the height of springtime in the southern hemisphere. That means you can plan on tons of outdoor activities, from walking among spring blooms in Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden to touring vineyards in Franschhoek . You could also spend an entire trip hopping between Cape Town’s best beaches. Camps Bay Beach is worth visiting for the views of Lion's Head and the Twelve Apostles alone, as is Windmill Beach (a 10-minute walk from Boulders Beach) for its warm water and boulders you can jump off.

Stay at a darling of the Readers’ Choice Awards : Cape Cadogan Boutique Hotel , a 15-room Georgian-era townhouse tucked away in a residential street in Gardens (a fashionable neighborhood known for its restaurants, bars, and interior shops). The street-level luxury suites come with their own spacious sun terraces and private pools, making you feel like you’re in an incredibly beautiful private home.

Loreto, Mexico

We’re big fans of the Baja California Sur peninsula in Mexico, with its beautiful scenery and luxury resorts. While most tourists flock to Los Cabos , set your sights on the underrated city of Loreto. Located about 230 miles north of Cabo, the town is best known for its secluded, unspoiled setting on the Loreto Bay National Marine Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

For stress-free planning, book a stay at Villa del Palmar Beach Resort & Spa at the Islands of Loreto , where guests can enjoy scuba diving tours, cultural city tours, whale watching excursions, kayaking, surfing, and ATV desert tours. After a day spent adventuring, head back and unwind at the 39,000-square-foot Sabila Spa or one of the resort’s five swimming pools.

Visiting world-renowned ruins in Athens is like taking a step back in time to ancient Greece, where stonework dates back to 400 BC, temples are held up by centuries-old columns, and sculptures of deities are a common sighting. This October, you can get a hefty dose of history and modern pop culture thanks to two key events: Oxi Day and the Athens International Film Festival. Oxi Day, celebrated on October 28, is a national public holiday that commemorates Greek Prime Minister Ioannis Metaxas’s refusal to allow Benito Mussolini’s troops into Greece in 1940. Thousands of people participate in the Oxi Day Parade every year—it’s an energetic display of patriotism, and it also happens to march past some of the city’s most iconic sights, including the Hellenic Parliament at Syntagma Square.

Founded in 1995 by the Athens Film Society, the Athens International Film Festival (October 2–14) attracts some 60,000 cinephiles every year with a lineup of independent films. It’s a fun way to catch some buzzy movies before the winter awards season kicks off, as well as view indie films from around the world that you might otherwise miss.

Aspen, Colorado

Aspen may seem like a bit of an obvious choice (hello, leaf peeping), but obvious isn’t always a bad thing. Hotel Jerome is a great place to set up camp, with a huge array of activities on tap for guests looking for an outdoor adventure—think horseback riding in the Rockies, riding a Jeep through alpine backcountry, and stand-up paddleboarding along the Colorado River. The hotel can also arrange day trips to the Maroon Bells, a pair of mountains that is one of the most photographed spots in the entire state. In fact, professionals are known to flock to the shores of Maroon Lake well before sunrise to nab that stunning fall shot.

The Bavarian Alps, Germany

An autumn trip to southern Germany is about so much more than Oktoberfest. Fall may be the best season to visit the Bavarian Alps , when the weather is perfectly cool and the mountains transform into a technicolor dreamscape. The season is prime for outdoor enthusiasts as well, with areas like Berchtesgaden and Lake Tegernsee lending themselves to some epic scenic hikes. Shutterbugs are never disappointed by the Disney-esque Neuschwanstein Castle, whose white turrets look best against a backdrop of deep reds and oranges.

Spend at least a couple of days tucked away in Hotel Bachmair Weissach , a modern alpine property located in the lake town of Tegernsee. With walls adorned with antlers, a cloistered courtyard, plaid carpets, and scalloped wood balconies off each of its 141 rooms, it will fulfill every romantic Bavarian fantasy you can think of.

Barbados is one of our favorite Caribbean islands , with some of the best hotels and beaches (all of which are public) in the entire region. And then there’s the rum. Though it’s now ubiquitous across the Caribbean, the spirit was formally first distilled at the Mount Gay Rum headquarters in 1703. Head to its visitor center and you’ll be able to learn more of that history, as well as sample a range of great dark and white blends.

Head to Bathsheba Beach—one of those aforementioned Caribbean-wide bests—and spend a day surfing and wading through shallow pools carved by the shoreside coral reef. Then rest up at Sandy Lane , one of the most glamorous hotels on the island, complete with three golf courses and family-friendly activities galore.

Hudson Valley, New York

If you're looking to totally lean into the cider-sipping, sweater-wearing, pumpkin-picking vibe of fall, look no further than the Hudson Valley. Aside from offering primo leaf peeping opportunities, October is the best time to go apple picking or sample some hard cider made from local produce at Angry Orchard. Alternatively, take in a movie at the Four Brothers Drive-In Theater or celebrate Halloween with the Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze on the grounds of Van Cortlandt Manor ( advance reservations required). More than 7,000 pumpkins are displayed there each night, including a 25-foot-tall Statue of Liberty, all of which are carved onsite by a team of 1,000 volunteers.

Look to Warren Street in the heart of town for accommodations: either at the retro Rivertown Lodge , complete with wood fire burners and bicycles to borrow, or the relatively new Maker Hotel , filled with one-of-a-kind pieces of furniture and a restaurant serving up ingredients sourced from local farms.

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