How to Travel to Ladakh

ter, and a stunning bright sky. The beautiful clear blue waters of this lake turn rock solid during the winter season, a great place for ice skaters to have fun. The place gained popularity after a blockbuster movie named 3 idiots’ short scene was shot here.

Things to do around in Pangong Tso:

• Take part in the ice-skating festival held here when the waters are frozen.

• Enjoy a nice picnic/bonfire in this area.

• If you are a nature lover, you will enjoy bird watching from this place.

5. Khardung La Pass

Now, this is the place all the adventure enthusiasts (mainly bikers) fall in love with the most. Khardung La Pass at around 5600 meters above sea level is one of the highest motorable roads in the world. This pass is also known as the Gateway to Nubra and Shyok Valleys. The road winds its way through the mountain summit, allowing us to take in the breathtaking splendor of Leh town and the huge mountains that surround the valley.

Things to do Around in Khardung La Pass

• Enjoy the Tea and refreshments from the Army canteen nearby.

• Enjoy the captivating view and rugged journey on your motorbikes.

6. Thiksey Monastery

Thiksey monastery, the largest Tibetan monastery in Ladakh is one of the top tourist places that you will want to visit. The detailed architecture of the monastery housing stupas, statues, thangkas, wall paintings, and much more and the richness of the Buddhist culture are a treat to the souls of the ones who visit here.

This 12-story monastery, which is located at a height of 3,600 meters, is home to over 500 monks. The highlight of this place is the Maitreya Temple which was built back in 1970 to honor the 4th Dalai Lama.

Things to do Around in Thiksey Monastery:

• You can attend the Gustor Festival in October/November to witness the cultural programs of Ladakh.

• Interact with the locals.

• Enjoy the peace and sanctity of the place.

7. Lamayuru Monastery

Famous for its moon-like terrain, Lamayuru lies between Kargil and Leh. It is the oldest and one of the largest monasteries in the Ladakh region. The Lamayuru Monastery houses some of the most artistic chortens and stupas, as well as colored rocks carved with elaborate prayers. Many bright and vibrant antique paintings of the cardinal kings/rulers may also be found throughout the monastery.

Things to do Around in Lamayuru Monastery:

• Witness the unique moon-like landscapes.

• Explore around the valley.

• If you wish to, you can stay in a homestay for a day.

8. Magnetic Hill

Yes, this hill is known to have magnetic qualities, as the name suggests. This hill's magnetic attraction is so strong that it can even pull a neutral vehicle uphill. Even the planes raise their height to prevent probable interruptions caused by the hill's magnetic characteristics.

Things to do here in Magnetic Hill:

• Definitely witness the power of the hill.

• Explore the places around.

• There’s a Gurudwara nearby maintained by the Indian Army, you may visit that too.

9. Hemis National Park

Hemis National Park is the only national park in northern India that protects the endangered Snow Leopard. In fact, it is called the Snow Leopard Capital of India. You will get the chance to see this beautiful creature as well as go a little deeper into nature.

Things to do here:

• Witness the Snow leopards.

• You can also visit the Rumbak valley which is located near the National Park.

10. Tso Moriri Lake

Tso Moriri is a picture-perfect lake located in the lovely Nubra Valley. It is known as the largest alpine lake in India. It features a desert landscape with mountains and a beautiful sunset. If you don't like crowded tourist attractions, this could be a perfect area for you to relax and enjoy nature. It is a less frequented place because most people avoid it due to the high altitude and difficult route.

Things to do here:

• If you are into camping, there’s a nearby village- Korzok where you can set your camp

• Witness a mesmerizing sunrise.

• Click great pictures as the scenic beauty is already straight out of a photograph.

Top things to do in Leh Ladakh India

Adventurers, nature lovers, knowledge seekers, and those who simply want to get away will find paradise in this promised landmark. Apart from sightseeing and exploring the famous landmarks as mentioned above, you can do various adventures here such as:

• Motor Biking around in Leh Ladakh

Motor Biking Around in Leh Ladakh

It wouldn’t be fair if Motor Biking is not mentioned while talking about the top things to do in Leh Ladakh. Indeed, Leh Ladakh is reckoned as one of the best places for motorbiking journeys in the world.

Ladakh literally translates to "the country of high passes," and many ardent riders include there on their bucket lists. There's something to be said for overcoming Ladakh's hostile dramatic scenery on two wheels, with nothing between you, the agonizing road, and the hostile yet magnetic landscape. Negotiating the winding roads surrounded by towering massifs one minute and huge expanses of verdant plateaus the next is an unforgettable experience that you will remember for the rest of your life.

• Trekking around in Ladakh

Ladakh is also known for its wonderful trekking trails. It's a pleasant experience to walk around Ladakh's hot spots and take in the gorgeous vistas of this beautiful area. Moving through tight passes, through deep valleys, traversing rope bridges, and enjoying the gleaming snow-capped summits makes it simple to feel at one with nature.

In the distant settlements that haven't lost any of their unique charms, the ancient way of living in symbiosis with nature is still maintained. Interacting with the warm and welcoming folks reaches deep into one's spirit and leaves lifelong memories. Overall, walking on the virgin natural route while taking in the tranquil magnificent vistas is a pleasant experience.

• Take part in a Festival in Ladakh

People in Ladakh are celebrating their local festival

Being a witness to a monastic celebration is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that is well worth planning your trip around. Buddhist festivals are vivid and colorful gatherings that focus on the celebration of life as well as ceremonies to ward off evil spirits. Each festival is also commemorated in honor of the monks who founded the monastery.

Hemis Tsechu's masked celebration, Matho Nagrang's oracle festival, the ubiquitous Dosmochey festival held at Likir, Diksit, and Leh monasteries, and the popular Chemrey Angchok, which culminates in a boisterous masked parade moving through Leh's main market, are just a few events to consider.

• Rafting in Ladakh

Rafting on Indus River Ladakh

Although river rafting may not be the first thing that springs to mind when thinking of Ladakh, it is an activity that you should definitely try. Ladakh's white water rafting offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountain peaks, quiet monasteries, and hillside pleasant settlements. River rafting is available on two outstanding rivers: the Indus River and the Zanskar River. It's an experience that many people may enjoy, with rapids ranging primarily from grades I to III.

Things to know before traveling to Leh Ladakh

Traveling to Leh Ladakh requires Permits

Once isolated from the outsiders, a rising number of places in Ladakh are now open to both domestic and international visitors which require some specific permits to enter. Permission is not required to enter Leh city, but it is required to visit other regions such as the Nubra Valley, Pangong, Tso Moriri Lake, Khardung La Pass, Turtuk, Tyakshi, Digger La, Tangyar, Chang La Pass, and a few more.

Indian nationals: Indian nationals must first get an Inner Line Permit. It is good for three weeks and allows the possessor to enter several times.

Foreign nationals: The Protected Area Permit is the Inner Line Permit required for foreigners, and it is valid for 7 days from the date of issuing.
Note: If you're beginning the journey from Manali, you'll also need to obtain the Rohtang Pass permit.

How to apply: Permits can be obtained online or at the Deputy Commissioner's office in Leh, which is less convenient. Enlisting the assistance of a nice hotel receptionist or a travel agency to minimize additional stress and delays is an appealing choice.

Mobile Network Connectivity in Leh Ladakh

A BSNL/ MTNL/Airtel postpaid mobile connection is recommended while you are in Leh Ladakh because prepaid connections do not work here. Therefore, make sure to get yourself a SIM card that works, to retain connectivity, beforehand or as soon as you land there.

Take Time to Acclimatize in Leh Ladakh

Acclimatization is a vital element of planning your Ladakh trip. The first two days after arriving in Leh should be used to acclimate to the high altitude. Do not expect to arrive and then immediately depart for Nubra or Pangong. You could develop AMS, which can cause severe headaches, nausea, restlessness, difficulty walking or thinking, and even ataxia, all of which would completely destroy your holiday. AMS can affect even the healthiest individuals. So, don't rush it. Give your body time to acclimatize to the low air pressure.

Carry Basic Medications

Ladakh is known to be one of the world's remotest regions. Medical supplies can be difficult to come by in some parts, so it's better to come prepared. Carrying a first-aid kit as well as any medications you take on a regular basis is highly recommended. Carrying Diamox (medicine for AMS) could come in handy when needed.

Note that before setting off on this trip make sure to visit your regular physician and ask them to prescribe you some medicines for possible issues you might face.

This was an overview/guide to help you plan your next trip to Leh Ladakh. We tried our best to cover all the information so that you can plan and enjoy your trip the best way. We hope these guidelines will help you and that you have a great experience on your trip. Happy Traveling!