Miles and miles of snow-covered barren terrain, pristine blue skies, Jagged Mountains interspersed with picturesque quaint villages, and monasteries large and small are signature settings of Ladakh. The journey and climate can prove punishing yet the visual rewards easily outscore all the challenges faced en-route.  If you don’t have enough time to plan your visit, Ladakh Tour packages could offer readymade solutions to travel your needs.

Tips for Traveling to Leh Ladakh


These travel tips help get aware and prepare for the trip

  1. The climate in Ladakh is quite pleasant during the summer months, but winters are harsh with temperatures likely to hit -30 to-60 degrees Celsius depending on the altitude of the location. Travelers who are not used to extreme temperatures better plan their visits when temperatures are moderate; sometime between June and August would suit just fine.
  2. Access Permits and clearance is needed when traveling to sensitive, restricted spots along the international border of the country such as Dhahanu, Nubra Valley, Tsomoriri, and Pangong. Foreign tourists traveling via roads are required to register their entry and exit from Ladakh. So make sure to carry an ID card (few copies as well) and a driver’s license for hassle-free access.
  3. Clothing must necessarily include thermals, sweaters, and shawls, even if you plan your visit in summer because temperature tends to fluctuate at such high altitudes. However, you can comfortably rely on a single layer of clothing to get through during the daytime. Heavy woolens, jackets, and multi-layered outfits are a must for winter travel, apart from suitable footwear to protect the feet and negotiate the terrain.
  4. Handling currency could be cumbersome and need attention. Most of the shops, restaurants, and other establishments in Ladakh accept only cash (Indian currency). Cards, if at all accepted are slapped with service charges of 2%.  Leh has several ATMs from reputed banks to cater to your cash requirements during your stay.
  5. Communications are best handled via smartphones (post-paid). Connectivity in remote areas may not be reliable. Internet access is available in Leh. Public telephone booths in Leh are active during the daytime and shut down by evening.
  6. Trekking is a special part of several Ladakh Tour Packages. It is important to be fully prepared for such trips - clothing, gear, energy bars, emergency medications plus adequate stock of drinking water. Moisturizers, bug repellents, sunscreens, protective eyewear, and suitable footwear are all mandatory. Packing in a raincoat protects from unexpected rains along the path.
  7. Monasteries have an eternal appeal in this barren terrain. They serve not only as a visual break but also offer much-needed rest on long trips. Attending a prayer session often proves to be soothing. Footwear must be left outside the monastery. Photography may not be permitted in select monasteries, while in a few others, flashlights are taboo as they may damage the paintings and wall inscriptions or disturb the calm setting.
  8. Eco-friendliness is one key demand of this land. Make sure not to mar this pristine environment or the sensitive ecology in any way. Do not disturb the wildlife or peaceful settings. Avoid littering and refrain from speaking too loudly or playing loud music. Discard disposables responsibly.
  9. Ladakh is a zero plastic zone, where the use of plastic is officially banned. Settle for paper or cloth bags should you need one.
  10. Acclimatization is a must when visiting Ladakh, especially during treks. It is important for tourists to get used to the high-altitude, fresh mountain air, and the chill weather before they begin to actively explore the surroundings or proceed to other locations set at higher levels.
  11. Stocking up on potable water and medications is a must, irrespective of trekking or simply sightseeing. It is quite easy for one to get dehydrated on outdoor trips and it is not really safe to rely on local water sources. While there are medical shops at select locations, a handy first-aid kit with essential medications often proves useful.
  12. Local commutes in Ladakh are easy and comfortable. Leh has an excellent tourist transport infrastructure comprising minibusses and taxis most suited to negotiate the local terrain and decent chauffeurs who are familiar with the tourist spots.
  13. The picture-postcard views are a treat for professional photographers and avid travelers hoping to capture the scenic landscape on their cameras. Photography may not be permitted within some monasteries and also at restricted sensitive zones. Watch out for warnings or request permission before you shoot a picture. Stock up spare memory cards in case you carry a digital camera; you may run out of space faster than you expected.
  14. The best time to travel to Ladakh is during summer, for the climate is pleasant and temperatures cold but not punishing. April heralds the tourist season here. Monsoons during August – September makes it hard and dangerous to explore the terrain, and winters are strictly for adventure seekers who can brave the treacherous cold.
  15. Given a steady stream of visitors eager to tour Ladakh, there’s always a demand for flight tickets, accommodations, tourist vehicles, and tour guides. Finding reliable tour operators and choosing suitable Ladakh Tour packages takes time. It is important to plan well ahead of the trip to beat the crowds for the best deals.

Though one of the most stunning tourist destinations, Ladakh is off-limits for those with high blood pressure and cardiac complaints, as traveling at high altitudes can pose severe risks to their health condition.