Hello adventure enthusiast, Anuja here!!
Your travel buddy, I am here to share my travel experience of Ladakh.
Ladakh’s stunning scenery, high altitude passes, and beautiful lakes make it a nature lover’s paradise. The sight of rugged mountains and snowy peaks will leave you in awe. Beyond adventure, Ladakh is also a hub of Buddhist pilgrimage, with its historic stupas and monasteries showcasing remarkable architecture. Explore further to discover its must-visit spots.
How to travel Ladak :
Leh has good connectivity by air and by road. The army operated airport is small and surrounded by incredible looking hills.
Bikers can take the Leh-Manali highway and witness the stunning beauty across the roads.
Places to visit in Leh Ladakh :
- Pangong Lake :
It is a must-visit gem in Ladakh. Nestled between India and China, this stunning saltwater lake spans 160km, surrounded by majestic mountains. Its crystal-clear waters change colors, creating perfect photo opportunities. You can stay near the lake in camps or cottages and enjoy the pleasant weather. Remember to get permits if you’re exploring independently, and choose cottages if you’re sensitive to cold. Pangong starts closing in September, and there’s no accommodation afterward. During January and February, the lake freezes, offering thrilling ice skating adventures. Also, prepare for limited phone connectivity and bring your own entertainment.
- Nubra Valley :
It is a remote village 150km from Leh, is a must-visit in Ladakh. Surrounded by rugged mountains, the journey through Khardungla Pass is unforgettable. It’s a high-security zone, so permits are required for Indians and foreigners.Also, summers bring perfect weather and colorful flowers, adding to the charm. Visit Diskit monastery for panoramic views, then explore Hunder’s sand dunes with double-humped camel safaris. Tips: Visit in September/October for fewer crowds and better deals. Nubra is great for acclimatization, being at a lower altitude than Leh. Don’t miss Turtuk village for apricot tree views.
- Khardung-La Pass :
It is known as the world’s highest motorable road, sits at 5359m above sea level in Ladakh. Also, the journey up is thrilling, with winding roads and breathtaking views. Basic facilities like mobile toilets and cafeterias are provided by the army. Don’t miss a photo by the famous Khardung-La signboard. Tips: It’s open from May to October, but weather gets very cold in September and October. Bring Diamox for altitude sickness and drink plenty of water. Spend minimal time due to low oxygen levels, and avoid drinking and smoking.
- Magnetic Hill :
In Ladakh it is a fascinating spot where cars appear to roll uphill. Despite what it seems, it’s not a magnetic force but an optical illusion caused by the surrounding hills. Tourists flock here to witness this phenomenon, making it a popular attraction in Leh.
- Shanti Stupa :
It is near Leh city, is an iconic monument built by a Japanese Buddhist for peace. Its white dome atop a hill offers stunning panoramic views of the city and surrounding hills. Illuminated at night, it becomes truly magical.
- Tso Moriri Lake :
In Leh’s Changthang area is a stunning high-altitude lake, stretching 28km long and 6-7km wide. Surrounded by lofty mountains, its blue waters and reflections are breathtaking. Camping near the bank is not allowed due to its wetland reserve status. Remember to acclimatize properly due to the high altitude, and carry enough essentials as it’s quite remote. Accommodation is limited, especially after September, and the lake freezes from January to March. Despite fewer tourists compared to Pangong, it’s a must-see destination worthy of many photos and thumbs-ups.
- Diskit Monastery:
On the way to Nubra Valley, a huge gigantic effigy of Lord Buddha settled on a hilltop. It’s Ladakh’s oldest and largest monastery, with a 100 ft tall Maitreya Buddha statue inaugurated by the Dalai Lama. Overlooking Nubra Valley, it offers panoramic views and houses rooms for Tibetan kids and a prayer hall. Despite its rugged surroundings, lush greenery and peaceful ambiance make it a blissful stop. Tip: You can visit Diskit on your way to or from Nubra Valley. Also, leh have featured other scenic monasteries like Shey Palace, Likir Monastery, Spituk Monastery, and Alchi Monastery, worth adding to your itinerary.
- ATV rides :
In Ladakh offer adrenaline-pumping thrills for adventure enthusiasts. Also, these rugged vehicles navigate deserts and snow, providing an unforgettable experience lasting 15 minutes to an hour. No driving experience or licence is needed; just hop on and enjoy the ride. Capture cool pics to share on social media! Tip: Take an ATV ride on the way to Nubra Valley, where the wide expanse allows for couple rides.
Shopping in Ladakh :
It isn’t just about the scenery. The Tibetan market in Leh offers unique jewelry, clothes, and souvenirs, including pashmina shawls and prayer wheels. Also, if you’ve got energy left after exploring Ladakh for 5-6 days, consider a 200 km drive to Kargil for its war memorial.
Seasonal Splendor: When to Wander in Ladakh :
An Ideal time to visit is between April-September. Post September the temperature starts dipping and winter sets in officially. Travellers who can sustain extreme winter temperatures can make the most of the frozen lakes.
Tips for travellers :
1) Get a medical check-up done before planning Leh holiday
2)Likewise, get yourself acclimatised with the high altitude for minimum one full day
3) Also, carry prescribed medicines if any. Inhaling camphor balls will help during high altitude pass
4)Moreover, Leh has network issues. Only postpaid connections work and more so only Airtel and BSNL.
Join me on this extraordinary journey through Ladakh, where every turn reveals a new adventure and every moment is filled with wonder. Stay tuned for more tales and check out https://sowl.in/stories for amazing stories!
