6 Amazing Treks in Ladakh You Should Know Before Visiting
It is fairly said that the best view comes after the hardest climb. Ladakh is best known for its adventurous biking journey and scenic views. But the snow-covered treks in Ladakh attract thousands of visitors from all over the world. Trekking in the laps of the Himalayas gives you beautiful experiences. There are 20+ treks in Ladakh. They vary based on difficulty and duration. Whether you’re traveling with your family and kids or with your friends, Ladakh has treks that match your preferences. You can also join other people on the route for a larger group to trek. We have listed here some of the top treks to do in Ladakh. Snow Leopard Trek Chadar Trek Sham Valley Trek Markha Valley Trek Lamayuru to Chilling Trek Padum-Lamayuru Trek Ladakh is best place to find top adventurous treks in India. 1. Snow Leopard Trek The Hemis National Park is popular as the natural habitat of snow leopards. It is also home to many other animals such as Tibetan Wolves, Blue Sheep, and Ladakh urials. The Snow Leopard Trek is organized in the Hemis National Park every year in the months of February and March. Situated in eastern Ladakh and has an altitude of 3000 m. What excites them most in this track is that if you are lucky enough, you can actually spot a snow leopard! People wait hours for this chance. While some can spot leopards with their binoculars, others capture a picture with their cameras. Good point is that the probability of seeing a leopard is extremely high so you can stay calm and patient. In the end, all the waiting is absolutely worth it for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. This track is suitable for even beginners (with some extra effort) and is very popular, you can also expect many people to accompany you during the trek time. Make new friends, go on wild expeditions, and make beautiful memories on this Snow Leopard Trek. Time: 8 days Level: Moderate Max Altitude: 3955m Cost: Rs. 27000 per person Snow Leopard Trek, a shot by Santanu Misra 2. Chadar Trek Talking about the treks in Ladakh and not including Chadar Trek is next to impossible. People from all over the world come to do this trek. Walking on a frozen river is like a dream come true. There are over a hundred treks in India where you travel through mountains, caves, old forts, and valleys. But Chadar Trek is only one of its kind. Also known as Zanskar Valley Trek or the Frozen River Trek, it covers 105 km of the frozen Zanskar River. It is also one of the important reasons that people love to visit Ladakh during winters as the Chadar trek can be done only in the month of December to February. The extremely low temperatures freeze the river and it shines like a mirror. Walking over the river in as low as -15 to -25 degrees Celsius is really challenging. Not many trekkers are able to pass this test. Do not worry about the ice. It is thick enough to let you walk without cracking and is absolutely safe. So if you are daring enough and want to be the “Master of Trekking“, you must include Chadar Trek in your to-do list. Time: 9 days Level: Difficult Max Altitude: 11,123 m Cost: Rs. 19000 per person Zanskar Valley shot by Arjun Kapoor 3. Sham Valley Trek This is the shortest trek in Ladakh. It is also known as Baby Trek for its nature. It is only a 3 days trek. So even if you have a shortage of time but want to go trekking, you can surely join this. This trek can be done during any time of the year. Located in the Sham region of Ladakh, the Sham Valley trek is a 27 km long trek. But do not let the name misguide you. It can be tiring due to the high altitude. You can stay in local village homestays to experience regional life. You can visit the famous monasteries of Rimzong, Likir, Temisgam, and Alchi. For a beginner, this trek is best to begin. Time: 2-3 days Level: Easy Max Altitude: 3874 m Cost: Rs. 15000 per person (max.) 4. Markha Valley Trek Markha Valley Trek is one of the most popular treks in Ladakh. It runs parallel to the Indus Valley. Since it is located in the Hemis National Park, you can spot some wild animals during the trek as well but it does not hamper the security of either visitors or animals. You will witness breathtaking mountain scenes and some isolated villages en route. You can stay in the homestays in these villages and experience the local life. It is also known as “Tea House Trek”. You will find plenty of options to stay in parachute tents during the journey. It is in proximity to Leh. Anyone arriving in Leh Ladakh via flight, which is connected to metropolitan cities, can directly start their journey at the Markha trek. The trek involves river crossing and crossing the high pass Kongmaru La. The Markha and Hankar villages are a rare sight. While Markha is one of the largest villages on the trek, Hankar is an isolated beauty. The lush green villages in the high-altitude desert attract trekkers to spend a day peacefully in these villages. You can reach me here from Sptiuk or Chilling. However, the route via Spituk is a longer one. It crosses 2 passes, Ganda La and Kongmaru La. If you do not have enough time and want to avoid Ganda La Pass, you can opt for the Chilling route. Go from either of the two but we promise that you will not be comprising on the adventure. Time: 6-8 days Level: Moderate to Difficult Max Altitude: 5260m Cost: Rs. 19000 per person Beautiful
Ladakh Checklist: 6 Must-Know Things Before Visiting Ladakh
Are you excited about the Ladakh trip? The trip you have been planning since your school days is finally happening! But a lot of questions come up in our mind about restaurants, atmosphere, necessary things to pack, safety and whatnot. We have tried to answer some of the most commonly asked questions in this blog. In this Ladakh checklist, you will get to know about 6 must-know things before visiting Ladakh, so you do not regret it later, “Wish I knew this before”. Follow the below list of contents for better navigation! What should I pack for the Ladakh trip? What medicines should I carry? Is it safe to go to Ladakh? Can I visit Ladakh with my kids? What documents are required to visit Ladakh? What permits are required to travel to Ladakh? Submerge yourself in the eternal beauty of Ladakh, captured by Darshan Chudasama, credits: Unsplash 01. What should I pack for the Ladakh trip? Clothing: Irrespective of the season you choose to visit Ladakh, it gets always cold there. You should always carry some warm clothes to Ladakh. Comfortable jeans and trousers for hiking/trekking. A wind-proof jacket, thermal inners, gloves, and extra pair of socks. If you are traveling during summer, carry light woolen clothes so you can layer up comfortably. It will help you protect yourself from fluctuating temperatures and keep you warm. If you are planning to visit in winter, carry heavy woolen clothes to sustain the weather conditions. Read out this blog to learn about which season is best for the Ladakh trip. Best Time to Visit Ladakh Always carry a lightweight bag while traveling to the mountains. A 70-80L bag will be suitable for trekking as well. Also carry sunglasses, sunscreen, SPF lip balm, flashlight, candles and matchbox, power bank, a light blanket, tissue rolls, sanitizer, and bag locks. You can carry some nutritious snacks like nuts and dry fruits, fresh juices, or cup noodles. Completely avoid alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs, or else you may suffer from acute mountain sickness. 02. What medicines should I carry? You should always keep some general medicines, for headache, painkillers, or mild fever, handy as you might feel a bit low due to higher altitudes. Keep your first aid kit with you to help in case of any injuries. You can also take glucose drinks to give you energy and keep your body hydrated. It is best to consult a doctor beforehand to get some medicine for acute mountain sickness. Take oxygen tablets with you as you may need some time to adjust to the low level of oxygen in Leh Ladakh. You can prefer any of the following tablets: 1. Diamox, 2. Aspirin/ Disprin, 3. Dexamethasone. We advise you to first consult your doctor before taking any medicines with you. Do tell them about what health issues you have, if any. You can also rent oxygen cylinders which are easily available in Leh Ladakh to avoid any intake of medicines. Valleys of Ladakh captured by Nomad Bikers, credits: Unsplash 03. Is it safe to go to Ladakh? Absolutely YES! Whether you are planning to go with your family, friends, or your soulmate, Ladakh always ranks first in your favorite tourist destinations. Not only does it give you wonderful memories to cherish for your life, but it is also safe to travel to. Here are multiple reasons, and to-do activities for the Ladakh trip with your better half. Top Romantic things to do in Ladakh There have been attacks in Kashmir by Pakistan or China but only limited to the villages situated close to the borders. Leh Ladakh has never been affected by them. There is zero political turmoil in tourist destinations. So, you can be tension-free while traveling to Ladakh. Solo Traveler: As a solo traveler, even for a female solo traveler, Ladakh is one of the safest places to visit. You get an opportunity for exploring the city in your own way. With the easy-to-access facilities and amiable people of Ladakh, it becomes really convenient to go even as a solo traveler. Just be careful of your safety and do not take on unnecessary overnight trips. Find a suitable hotel or tent to stay in and enjoy the trip hassle-free. Solo trip to Ladakh will give you thrill for life, a shot by Vikas Anand Dev, credits: unsplash 04. Can I visit Ladakh with my kids? Even though Ladakh is very enjoyable, the harsh weather conditions may not be very suitable for young kids. As a parent, you need to take special precautions. Consult your pediatrician to know if your child is healthy enough to go on a Ladakh trip. The children need time to acclimatize to the high altitudes and low levels of oxygen. Give them a complete day’s rest while you stay at your hotel to avoid any problems. Do not travel to very high altitudes as not all children are able to adjust themselves. They might feel nauseated or experience diarrhea issues but it is completely normal for a child. Just make sure that you carry their medicines with you all the time. Make a family trip to Ladakh stress free, shot by Kei, credits: Unsplash 05. What documents are required to visit Ladakh? Whenever you are traveling you must carry some essential documents because you never know when they are needed. So it is best to keep a few documents, if not all, to avoid any inconvenience in traveling. If you are an Indian, carry any of the following: PAN Card Aadhar Card Voter Id Card Driving License Any other document issued by the Govt. of India If you belong to any other nationality, carry your Passport and Visa valid for your stay in India during the period in which you want to visit Ladakh. Carry copies of your identity proof as you will have to furnish them and fill
How to Reach Ladakh? (By Road, Air, Bus & Train)
Ladakh gives you the best memorable vacation ever! It is as pleasing as always during any time of the year. It is famous among motorbikers for the rock-carved mountain roads that give you a chill down your spine. The longing valleys and the eternally hypnotizing beauty of Ladakh will entice you for life! You can choose the best suitable mode of transportation. But depending upon the time to visit, the transportation availability varies. You can also read this blog to know about the Best Time to visit Ladakh. So it is preferred that you book in advance to avoid any inconvenience during traveling. Find below some best available travel options to Ladakh. By Road By Air By Bus By Train By Road The best way to enjoy scenic beauty during your trip is by traveling by road. It lets you stop wherever you want to great some awe-striking photographs. From May to October, most roads are open and in prime conditions, so you can drive hassle-free. There are two route options available, Delhi-Manali-Leh or Delhi-Srinagar-Leh. Delhi-Manali-Leh The best way to explore is to not only drive but take a halt and go discover the places en route. There are many amazing sites on this route. You can begin by visiting Rock Garden in Chandigarh. It is made up of waste materials and trash which is remarkable. Next, you can visit the local village, Jispa, while going to Leh from Manali. It still showcases the primitive lifestyle and mud houses. Close to nature, you can get refreshed here and have a campfire. Go adventurous and drive across the high altitudes of Ladakh, picture by Arpit Bansal, credits: Unsplash As you travel further, you will witness truly epic landscapes. And, we believe you are taking this road journey to enjoy the scenic view. So halt wherever you want to, find your comfortable hotels or tents, and dance with the clouds around you. It is a 1000 km long route from Delhi. The route is best traveled from April to July as the weather is favorable. During winters, it becomes nonfunctional on most days due to heavy snowfall. It takes 24 hours to complete the journey and thus needs 2-3 days to cover the route. So plan your trip accordingly. Delhi-Srinagar-Ladakh If you feel motion sickness or are looking for a more convenient option to travel to mountains and not miss out on landscapes, then this will be the best option. The altitude raise is gradual so you can comfortably adjust to the higher altitudes. It is approximately a 1230 km route and thus needs frequent halts and more time to cover. This route is famous among bikers for its jaw-dropping views. It is loved by adventurous people and you will be hypnotized by the beauty around you. The road is functional on most days, however, you should avoid traveling in the rainy season. The best time to go is from June to October. You can enjoy the famous Patnitop. It is said to be the first point in Kashmir where snowfall starts. It is even famous even amongst the tourists and devotees who visit Jammu. As you go further to Srinagar, the roads are a bit congested as they are open to both public and army supply trucks. But after Titanic Point, they become smooth for traveling. You can click pictures here which are with the efforts! Enjoy and relax in the beautiful valleys of Srinagar on your way to Ladakh, shot by Yaser Nabi Mir, credits: Unsplash On your way to Kargil from Srinagar, you can visit Sonmarg, Gumri War Memorial, and Kargil War Memorial and cherish the charisma of nature. But beware of your clothing as shorts are not allowed in Kargil War Memorial. You can spend some time in peace at Mulbekh Monastery, Lamayuru Monastery, Fotu La Top, and Alchi Monastery. You also get to witness the serene confluence of the Indus and Zanskar Rivers and anti-defying Magnetic Hills. By Air Flights are always the most convenient option for traveling. If you want to save your energy for the exploration of Ladakh, do not think twice. Go and book a flight right now! It is around 618 km the journey and can be completed in 1 hour and 15 minutes. So you can save your traveling time and savor the aesthetics in Ladakh during your entire vacation. There are 11 flights daily from Delhi to Ladakh, out of which one is a connecting flight. It costs Rs. 3000 to 3500 (approximately) per person. You can book a flight via any website like Air India, SpiceJet, Vistara, or IndiGo. The nearest airport to Ladakh is Kushok Bakula Rimpochee in Leh. You can book a taxi from Leh to reach Ladakh which is an 8 km journey, and the taxi will be available easily. Enjoy the top view of snow-capped mountain peaks as you fly along with the clouds. By Bus Do you want to avoid the hectic task of preparing your car? Do you hate driving for longer hours but really want to go to Ladakh? But the fare of the flight disappoints you? Then, the bus is just the right option for you! You can catch a bus from ISBT Delhi at 2.30 p.m. (approx). It is 1100 km long and needs 40 hours to complete. It costs around Rs. 1400. This route is one of the longest and highest bus routes in the world. It goes via Chandigarh, Kullu, and Manali and finally reaches the splendid view of Leh. Since the bus passes through some of the highest mountain passes and to ensure safety, there is an overnight halt at Keylong. The bus then the next day proceeds towards Leh. Tickets can be bought from the ticket counter at ISBT Delhi and extended to Leh at Keylong. Enjoy a bus ride to Ladakh, shot by Sahaj Patel,
Must visit for Foodies in Ladakh!
What can be more interesting than a place with a picturesque landscape and food that reaches your soul? The food served by the loving people of Ladakh is filled with warmth and love to melt your heart. The local cuisine of Ladakh is a lip-smacking blend of different regions and cultures. The restaurants mentioned below serve the best food in Leh Ladakh. You can try out the best of the restaurants within the main market of Leh Ladakh. Find out some amazing restaurants below to include in your trip! The Tibetan Kitchen Sorriso Pizza Bon Appetit Lamayuru Restaurant Biryani Queen Lehvanda Cafe 1. The Tibetan Kitchen The Tibetan Kitchen ranks 1st in the list of top restaurants. It is so popular among visitors that you will always witness a crowd here. The best part of the restaurant is the outdoor seating arrangements. It has a calm ambiance despite all the hustle-bustle of people visiting here. It offers the best local cuisine ranging from Tibetan, Chinese, Indian to Thai and Continental cuisines. Enjoy the Tibetan cuisines here. Book your table in advance and order food a day before preferably to allow them to prepare your dishes in the best authentic way. Best: Gyako (Tibetan hotpot), Chicken Thukpa, Chicken Sabagleb, Hello to Queen (desert), Chicken Momos, Trout Grilled Fish. Where: Fort Road, Near J&K Bank, Leh, Ladakh, 194101 Zomato Rating: 4.1 Cost: Rs. 400 for two people, exclusive of tax 2. Sorriso Pizza There are pizza lovers all around the world. But its recipe and flavors change as we move from city to city. If you are having a pizza craving and want to try out the authentic Ladakh-styled pizza, Sorriso Pizza is just the place for you! The Sorriso Pizza & Meal Mastiyan offers a variety of delicious dishes. The people of India are known for their sweetness and Meal Mastiyan is known for sweet dishes. While Sorriso Pizza has some of the best Italian cuisines, the Meal Mastiyan serves you the best sweet dishes and the tastiest ever Indian Meal. If you want to try out North Indian food or feel homely while you eat, run and book a table right way to enjoy amazing food here. Best: Chicken Tikka Double Burst Pizza, Kit Kat Shake, Grilled Chicken Burger, Kadai Paneer Where: Near Balkhang Chowk, Main Bazar, Leh, Ladakh Zomato Rating: 4.3 Cost: Rs. 500 for two people, tax exclusive 3. Bon Appetit The perfect ambiance for a relaxing and romantic dinner night is the specialty of Bon Appetit. The traditional architecture, greenery, and snow-capped mountain peaks offer the best setting for dinner. It is situated away from the busy city and lets you enjoy the food and satisfy your appetite. They serve luscious continental food and are also specialized in Tandoori meals. The menu keeps on changing to provide a variety of tastes to the customers. The best part is that they never compromise with the quality and always use farm fresh products only. Best: Candle Light Dinner, Wine, and Pizzas Where: Raku Complex, Fort Road, Main Bazaar, Leh Zomato Rating: 3.7 Cost: Rs. 350 for two people, exclusive of tax 4. Lamayuru Restaurant There comes many options to explore restaurants if you are a non-vegetarian. But as a vegetarian traveler, it becomes difficult to try out the food at unknown points during the journey. But worry no more because we are always here to help you with any traveling queries. The Lamayuru Restaurant in Leh is the BEST place for vegetarian food. It serves Indian, Chinese, Israeli, and Thai dishes. Whether you are a foreign tourist or Indian, the tempting aroma of Indian food entices everyone. Enjoy food all to yourself or with friends and family. The savory dishes at this best veg restaurant in Leh will leave you satisfied. Best: Veg Sizzler, Paneer Masala, Chole Kulcha, Chilly Momo, Egg Thenthuk Where: Near Hitel Yaktail, Fort Road, Main Bazar, Leh Zomato Rating: 3.9 Cost: Rs. 500 for two people, exclusive of tax 5. Biryani Queen As the name hints, Biryani Queen is the best place for Biryani lovers all around the world. The spices of India, the flavor of jeera, tamarind, chicken, or the mouth-watering curry, everything is special about Indian food. Every tourist from around the globe loves to try Indian food at least once and with the growing popularity of Biryani, this place becomes apt as an eatery. Biryani Queen, other than the exciting flavors of Biryani, serves tempting Continental cuisine. They cook food with the local ingredients to give you an authentic blend of Indian or Continental food along with the hot spices from Ladakh. You must take out time to visit the Biryani Queen for finger-licking food. Best: Biryani, Butter Chicken, Cashew Veggies, Tandoori Chicken Where: 2nd Floor, Mengon Complex, Main Bazar, Leh Zomato Rating: 3.8 Cost: Rs. 500 for two people, exclusive of tax 6. Lehvenda Cafe Unlike the other loud or crowded cafes, Lehvanda Cafe is just a perfect heartwarming place to go, especially with your partner. It has a beautiful blend of a great ambiance, good music, and great food. It has a partially covered sitting area, so you can enjoy outdoors or indoors as you like. It offers the best meal within a budget-friendly option range. Other than coffee, you can have tea, momos, noodles, or pizza. This place will give you the most aesthetic Pinterest pictures. The mouth-watering dishes served here will make you want more and more. Best: Mochas, Coffee, Momos. Where: Near Jama Masjid Mosque, Leh Zomato Rating: 3.9 Cost: Rs. 300 for two people, exclusive of tax Restaurants are the most important part of any trip. The restaurants listed here will fulfill your appetite while leaving your heart wanting more. Some of the other restaurants that you can try are Lala’s Art Cafe, Alchi Kitchen, Sky Work Restaurant, Namza Cafe, Penguin
Unexplored things to do in Kashmir!
The amusing moments from the Manali Trip in Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani, the king of romance Shah Rukh Khan dancing on Jiya Re in Jab Tak Hai Jaan, the best friends trio reuniting in 3 Idiots, or Siddharth Malhotra and Alia Bhatt shooting Ishq Wala Love in SOTY. All of these epic scenes are shot in none other than the beautiful valleys of Kashmir. Kashmir is popularly known as the “Heaven on Earth” for its jaw-dropping scenery. Every year thousands of tourists are enticed by the beauty of Kashmir. To live in Kashmir is truly a heavenly experience. Read out this blog to find out about some of the unique experiences in Ladakh. Pari Mahal, Kashmir beautifully captured by Yaser Nabi Mir, credits: Unsplash 1. A night in Houseboat You may have experienced boating in the lake, but what about spending a night in a lake with serenity? The Dal Lake is famous not only for its mesmerizing beauty but the houseboat experience. Whether you are going with your family, friends, or soulmate, you will absolutely love this experience. You can rent a houseboat on the spot but preferably book them in advance as it gets really busy during peak time. They come with a variety of options including facilities like WiFi, meals, location, etc. You can enjoy the view of Dal Lake from the comfort of your bedroom. Cost: Rs. 3500-4500, for 2 adults, including meal Facilities: WiFi, meals, tours, common room areas. Spend a night in houseboats in Kashmir. Picture by Raisa Nastukova, credits: Unsplash 2. Mountain view from the Top While traveling by road you can surely experience the amazing view. But the beauty of Kashmir gets magnified when you view it from the top. You can enjoy the snow-capped peaks at the end of May, when the summer season reaches an end, making the climate suit best for your vacation. The cable cars and chair lifts in Kashmir are loved by people of all ages. They are even comfortable for sightseeing. Cable car ride for best experiences, credits: Pixabay They come with the following options: Route1: Gulmarg to Kongdoori – Cable Car Route 2: Kongdoori to Apharwat Peak – Cable Car Route 3: Kongdoori to Mary Shoulder – Chair Lift Timings: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Cost: Rs. 600 to 800 for Cable Car, Rs. 300 for Chair Lift 3. Fly High as a Bird If you are an adventure lover, then paragliding is just for you! The majestic valley beneath offers jaw-dropping views. Fly like a free bird in this “Heaven on Earth.” Paragliding in Harwan is most easily accessible as it is on the route of the Mughal Garden. To experience this adrenaline rush, you must visit Kashmir! Where: Sonamarg, Gulmarg, Bhaderwah, Sanasar, Harwan (Srinagar). Cost: Rs. 4500 for a flight of 10 minutes (approx.) Enjoy best scenic views by paragliding in Kashmir, credits: Unsplash 4. Shikara Ride The best part of planning a vacation in Kashmir is the serene environment. Shikara is a light rowing boat, decked in local traditions. It is a symbol of local culture. Shikara Ride always ranks 1st in top-to-do things in Kashmir. Away from the hustle-bustle of the city, you can enjoy the calm beauty and relax here. It also offers sightseeing with no chaos. You can visit Nishat and Shalimar Gardens, Char Chinar, Hazratbal Mosque, and Nehru Park. Where: Dal Lake (Srinagar) and Manashal Lake (Sonamarg) Timings: 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. Cost: Rs. 200 to 250 per person Scenic view of Shikara ride in serene Dal lake, shot by Eshani Mathur credits: Unsplash 5. Ride on a Pony You can travel by car and bike in the city but in Kashmir, you can have fun in Pony Ride. Pony is used as a local transportation form in Kashmir. High in the valleys, where engine vehicles can not be used, Pony is the only medium to travel. You can go to Baisaran in Pahalgam. It is known as the “Mini Switzerland” for its scenic beauty. You can take a pony ride to enjoy the life of Kashmir and get some Insta-worthy pictures. Where: Pahalgam, Sonamarg, Yusmarg, Gulmarg Cost: Rs. 1000 to 1600 per person Enjoy Pony ride in Kashmir with your loved ones. Credits: Pixabay 6. Walkthrough Heritage The best way to explore a new city is by roaming around in the streets, interacting with people, and knowing about the folklores. Take a trip down to the local streets. Each and every corner of Kashmir holds unique tales depicting its culture. The Kashmiri people are amiable and you can always learn about their traditions from them. You will get to witness a blended mix of three different religions as you visit monasteries, mosques, and temples. Be it some of the famous Buddhist monasteries like Hemis Monastery or the Jama Masjid, you will see the transformation of architecture over the centuries. The calm environment and deeply enrooted tales will surely leave you with some mindboggling facts about Kashmir. Exquisite Tulip Garden in Kashmir, shot by Arif Khan, credits: Unsplash Here we have summarised some of the must-to-do unique activities in Kashmir. Also, you can enjoy adventure sports such as river rafting, hot air ballooning, trekking, skiing, snowboarding, golfing, camel safari, camping, and much more. And, who does not love shopping or eating? Make sure to visit the local markets to try out the best cuisine and buy Kashmiri articles as a memoir of your trip. From Bollywood to international tourists, Kashmir can always entice people with its beauty. Be ready to get hypnotized by the picturesque view of Kashmir and make your trip the best one!
Best Summers in Ladakh!
OMG! It gets so hot in Delhi. The scorching bright sun and temperature hitting the maximum annoy me. But what do I even do? What about a Shimla trip? ..Seriously yaar? It is such a crowded area. I want peace! … Do you also feel this? Then this blog is just for you! We all know about the overrated Shimla and Manali trips, but this summer plan the best ever trip, a trip to Ladakh! The snow-covered mountain peaks and lesser crowd are amazing to get relaxed while you enjoy your vacations in Ladakh. Captivating Leh Ladakh, credits: WiX How to reach? 1. By Air It is located at an approximate distance of 615kms via air. The frequency of flights is high and needs only 1.5hour to reach Leh. Viewing snow-covered mountains from high above will surely allure you. This is the shortest and most convenient way to reach Ladakh. 2. By Road The most important reason to visit Ladakh in summer. You can take on a road trip to savor the picturesque landscape. It is famous among youngsters for the adventurous biking journey with the best experiences. It is 1000 km from Delhi if you travel Delhi-Manali-Leh. But if you want to enjoy some time in Srinagar en route, it will be a slightly longer route of around 1230 km. It can help you avoid motion sickness as the altitude rises at a gradual pace, unlike the Leh route. But the journey via road can not be completed in a day and usually needs 2 to 3 days to travel from Delhi. 3. By Road and Air Srinagar-Kargil-Leh route This is the best route to save time and not miss out on adventures. You can enjoy a bike trip to Leh Ladakh. First, reach Srinagar by flight and then drive to Leh. This journey is a heavenly experience. Good internet connectivity and electricity are available throughout the route. It also has ATMs and stay and eat options at various points. You can kick start your journey from Dal Lake in Srinagar itself. Experience the cozy time at the famous boathouse here, the “Paradise on Earth”. Even before you reach Ladakh, you can surely visit these awe-inspiring places. Drive to Sonamarg, the “Meadow of Gold” which is the most visited place in Kashmir. The route is followed by Zoji La pass, famous for its jaw-dropping views. You can visit the Kargil War Memorial and a beautiful rock-carved statue of Lord Buddha in Mulbekh. Do not forget to stop at Fotu La, the highest point on this route, and Lamayuru, the largest gompa in Ladakh. You will travel via gravity-defying Magnetic Hills and Pathar Sahib Gurudwara to finally reach Leh. Attractions: Wondering about why Ladakh? Read below and fall in love with Ladakh, even before you have visited. 1. Moonland Lamayuru is best known for its beautiful landscapes. It is famous for being one of the oldest and largest monasteries. It is believed that Mahasiddhacharya Naropa, the founding Lama, dried up the lake to establish the village. The truth is not known but the carved-out carter-like shapes definitely give Lamayuru the moon-like feeling. That is why it is popular as Moonland. You can pitch your own camps in the village or even after hiking to moon-like carters. You spend some time here while practicing yoga for a refreshing vibe. Also, you get an opportunity to learn with the foremost disciple of Rinpoche. Lamayuru aka Moonland, a shot by Rutpratheep Nilpechr, credits: Unsplash 2. Fun Festivals Traveling experience is best when you can interact with the local people and learn about their culture. The amicable people of Ladakh are always there to bombard your brain with interesting folklore. You get to witness the pompous celebration of festivals with a blend of local culture. The endless festivals make Ladakh more lively. The monastery festival Yuru Kabygyat in Lamayuru; Saka Dawa festival, the biggest festival in Ladakh; Hemis Tsechu are some of the most popular fests in Ladakh. This is the most unique experience in Ladakh. You get to meet local people, know about their daily lives and struggles and enjoy as a part of society. You can see their regional dresses and doll up like one if you wish to 😉 3. Pangong Lake Pangong Lake is the highest saline water lake in the world. It is said to be changing colors throughout the day. This amazing phenomenon allures the visitors. In India, only one-third of the lake is situated and the rest two-thirds is in China. This lake is beautifully located between the mountains and gives an awe-striking view. The reflection of the Himalayas in this highest saline lake makes every moment Gram worthy! The beautiful Pangong Lake captured by Ken S, credits: Unsplash 4. Adventure Do you ever think of why Ladakh is so popular among the youngsters? Is it only the picturesque landscape or the less crowd that attracts visitors from around the globe? Let us help you quench your search. Bike Trip! Ladakh is not only a famous tourist destination but a perfect place for a daring biking journey. The turns and trails of the curvy mountains here make you halt and click jaw-dropping pictures that you miss otherwise if traveling via train or flight. If you are a youngster, an enthusiast, or want to re-live your youth cheerfulness, this biking trip is best for you! Make sure you stop by roadside stalls and try out Thupka. Go adventurous on a biking journey, clicked by Avinash Patel, credits: Pexels 5. Peddle your way through the Valleys If you want a refreshing experience, then go cycling. Khardung La Pass is popular for its rock-carved mountains. It is the highest motorable pass in the world. Cycling at such a height will definitely give you an adrenaline rush. It begins from Leh and covers around 40 km. The last 14 km surely needs some serious effort
Best time to visit Ladakh!!
Ladakh Ladakh!! Here we come. Who might not have dreamt about reliving the alluring scenes from 3 Idiots and Jab Tak hai Jaan which was shot from the mesmerizing Khapa-Chan(Snow land) of India? Ladakh being the merry land of the Himalayas is considered the nirvana by everyone who loves to travel about and who look forward to adventure and peace. And Ladakh is always that Indian destination which everyone has on their bucket list and dreams of going to with friends and most everyone will be having that cancelled Ladakh trip in their list when they don’t somehow manage to convince their peer. So, talking about the best season to visit Ladakh!! We would be thinking about the best season to visit Ladakh by road or the best time to visit Ladakh by bike or the best time to visit Ladakh for snowfall or the best time to visit Ladakh for honeymoon. Ladakh is a place with hell lot of unexplored places about which you can read about in our blog The Hidden Gems of Ladakh. These days we are pretty much aware that each one of us are so done being at home and working all day after this pandemic and thinking about workcations where we can schedule our work with a vacay going along. So why not a workcation in Ladakh?? Ladakh workcations are going to refresh anyone like anything. Pack your bags and work from Ladakh!! So are you thinking about a Ladakh trip ?? and just had a vague look on the Ladakh map?? And confused over the Leh Ladakh trip plan and thinking to make your Ladakh trip by bike and searching for a Leh Ladakh bike trip itinerary?? Then continue reading for the best time visit Ladakh!! Best time to visit: 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. Ladakh in winter season Explore Ladakh Due to its high altitude, Ladakh is always freezing cold and dry for most of the year. The air is so thin that you can feel the sun’s heat intensely. In summers, the temperature during the day is just above zero degrees and the night temperature is much below -30°C. In winters the temperature remains as low as -40°C most of the time. The rainfall in this region is as low as 10 cm annually. This is because it lies in the rain shadow of the Himalayas. The area experiences freezing winds and burning sunlight. Therefore, if you sit in the sun with your hand in the shade; you will experience sunstroke as well as frostbite at the same time. Summers in Ladakh (June- September) are truly beautiful with moderate temperatures and a hospitable environment for the tourists. During the remaining part of the year, the Manali-Leh highway which is the only means to reach Ladakh remains non-functional. Although there is another route, that can be used to reach the place, the Srinagar-Leh highway, it can get affected by landslides as well. Moreover, it is during summers that you can enjoy the entire setup of the place in totality. Said to be a dream destination for most people, Ladakh comes across to be a worth visiting place for travellers. Be it the splendid set-up showcasing snow-covered mountains well blended with alluring valleys and lakes, Ladakh is sure to touch your chord at its best. Beautifully displaying the sights of the splendid field of valleys and slopes adjoined with the relishing knowledge of perseverance via the spectacularly beautiful neighbourhood, this place calls to endure you with the best experience. However, the land of Ladakh has its own charm in the winters as well. This is the reason why many people, especially the truly adventurous ones, seek to visit the place when it is blanketed in snow. The Frozen river trek which is also one of the most famous and unique treks is also carried out in winter, upping the excitement quotient in the travellers to visit Ladakh during this harsh but glorious period. Between April to mid-May there is no heavy snowfall and the summer season slowly and steadily takes over the place completely. The travellers who aim to visit Ladakh during this time can search for homestays, hotels, places, and guesthouses on many online sites. If you plan on visiting during this span of time then you must definitely opt for flight booking as all the passes and the roads to the place is generally blocked or are not open. The beginning of the seven to ten days in the month of June isn’t meant for travelling purpose to Ladakh as most of the roads at this time is blocked. At this time, if you wish to travel to Ladakh, you must definitely choose a flight as this is the best option if you wish to travel. The major airport in the area to visit this area during the summer season is the KushokBakulaRimpochee Airport. Also, in the mid of this time, the
Best Time to Visit Ladakh:
Are you tired of everyone posting their Ladakh trips on Instagram but you? Do you also want to show the world how travelholic you are? What about a crazy biking journey with your friends? Do I hear a yes? Marvelous! The Ladakh trip you planned for so long is finally happening! But wait, when are you planning to visit? What if it is too snowy or raining heavily? No worries. We are here to guide you on when to plan a trip and enjoy it the most. Beauty captured by Sandeep Kr Yadav, credits: Unsplash Summer Season: April to June The summer season starts in April and continues till June. The temperature during the summer season ranges between 5degrees to 25 degrees celsius. Throughout the year, the temperature in Ladakh is quite low and roads get blocked. So you can visit Ladakh during the summer season to enjoy a moderate climate. The hospitable environment and snowy peaks in this season are absolutely the spectacular beauty of Ladakh. The Srinagar-Leh highway is open during this time so you can enjoy an adventurous bike trip! Temperature: 5 to 10 degrees celsius Attraction Points: Local cultural fests, bike trip via Srinagar-Leh Highway The ‘summer glow’ shot of Ladakh, by: WiX Monsoon Season: July-September The rainy season in Ladakh onset in July and ends in September. The temperature is 10 to 25 degrees Celsius. It receives a little rainfall and the sky is clear on most days. The fresh breeze with pleasant weather allows you to sightsee the best of places and enjoy your trip. However, Ladakh, on rare occasions, receives short bursts of heavy downpour. This causes obstructions and it becomes difficult to travel. This is not the safest time to travel. The chances of landslide and snowslide increases during monsoon. Reaching out to other places for traveling in Ladakh becomes tough but the train comes to the rescue at this point! You can always have an option to go via train. Temperature: 20 to 25 degrees celsius Attraction Points: Nubra Valley, Zanskar, Kargil, Drass Mesmerizing Ladakh in the romantic season of Ladakh captured by Sheik Abdul Basit, credit: Pexels Winter Season: November-February The winter is super cold but the picturesque landscape warms your heart! Ladakh experiences harsh weather climates during December and January. Drass (in Ladakh) becomes one of the coldest in the world. It receives heavy, continuous snowfall. This time is best suited if you want to have fun in the snowy landscapes. The Chadar Trek, aka Frozen River Trek, in Ladakh, is the most popular among visitors. This glamorous trek is best explored in the winters and gives you an adrenaline rush as you cross this trail. With temperatures ranging from -15 degrees to 10 degrees celsius, Ladakh is freezing cold during the nights. Also, the Srinagar-Leh gets blocked due to heavy snowfall and thus remains closed most of the time during winters. So you can take the Manali-Leh route to reach this exotic location. Endless festivals are organized during winters such as Stok Monastery, Matho Monastery, Domsoche, Ladakhi Losar., SpitukGustor. During winters you will get the benefit of less crowd and you can have fun at the fests with local people and know more about their culture. And do not miss out on bonfire in snow! Temperature: -15 to 10 degrees Celsius Attraction Points: Zanskar Valley Trek (Chadar Trek), local cultural festivals, Serene white beauty of Ladakh. Shot by Glance India, credit: Unsplash Visit with Friends: If you are an adventurous person who loves trekking, then winter is the best time for you! Visit Ladakh in January and go for the Chadar Trek. The trek includes walking on a river! The river gets frozen during the winters as the temperature drops to -20 degrees. That is why this Unicorn of Snow trek is popularly known as Frozen River Trek. But if you are looking forward to a biking trip, summer is best for you! The crazy biking journey that you have been planning since your school days. Your dream of riding Royal Enfield in the treacherous mountain lanes with your friends now comes true. June is best to go for a biking trip to Ladakh with your friends. Visit with Family: If you are planning to visit with your family but are unsure of the time, then here is the answer. SUMMER! It is the best time to travel as you will get to experience the beauty of Ladakh in a moderate climate. If visiting with kids, June is undoubtedly the best month. It is usually a holiday period for children. The pleasant temperature in Ladakh will save you from the scorching heat of June. But since it does not get too low, the children can travel safely with no worries of catching a cold. You can go sightseeing as all the attraction points will be open during June. Enjoy water sports and cultural festivals here with the amicable people of Ladakh. Or go for a Bactrian Camel Ride with your family and create wonderful memories you will cherish for life! Ladakh is absolutely best for vacation! By Debrup Travel Film, credit: unsplash Ladakh is spectacular with its own beauty. Each month here comes with a blended flavor of the recreational and picturesque environment. But we believe Summer is just the time! Come and enjoy during May to July for the best experiences. Also, it is the best month to travel to Leh Ladakh on a bike. It is slightly crowded during this time but you get to visit each and every corner of Ladakh with no hurdles. While it is a bit too snowy in winter or receiving heavy downpours in the rainy season, the Ladakh is all set to make your journey memorable in spite of any season. The choice is entirely yours but for us, the winner is Summertime!
