Now and then I keep getting queries on the budget of Ladakh trip. So I believe a post around it will be helpful for many travelers looking forward to preparing the budget for their upcoming Leh Ladakh trip. To be very frank, the budget for any trip including Leh Ladakh depends a lot upon a person to person and the taste + comfort he/she prefers.
Ladakh is such a place where you can get varied stay options, unlike Spiti depending on your choice of comfort, preference, conditions, and circumstances. The variety may range from Rs 125-150 stay at some Dhabha tents to Rs 300 – 800 stay at low-cost hotels/homestays to Rs 1000 – 1500 at medium-cost hotels to Rs 3000 and above for hotels that offer much more comfort & luxury etc.
The same thing applies to food as well and depends on what you want to eat (Pizza or Dal Bhaat or Roti+Dal Fry or Maggie / Veg. Non-Veg. etc.). More importantly, where you want to eat and drink. But, in any case, I would try to sketch a basic average budget analysis for a Leh Ladakh trip based on the choice of accommodation and food by the majority of people.
Let's quickly dive into the details:
What is the budget of Ladakh Trip?
Given below is a basic itinerary for Leh Ladakh tour from Delhi (without any buffer days) covering all major tourist destinations of Leh Ladakh and followed widely by many travelers including me. We will be analyzing or finding the budget or cost for this Ladakh tour as a part of our exercise on what is the cost of Leh Ladakh trip.
You can roughly guess for yourself that for a similar Ladakh trip or based on your point of interest & preferences of stay, what will be the approximate cost or budget for your custom Leh Ladakh trip?
An example itinerary for Leh Ladakh covering almost all basic tourist places –
- Day 1 | Delhi – Jammu/Patnitop
- Day 2 | Jammu/Patnitop – Srinagar
- Day 3 | Srinagar – Kargil
- Day 4 | Kargil – Lamayuru – Leh
- Day 5 | Leh Local Sightseeing + Rest
- Day 6 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit (Nubra Valley) – Hunder – Diskit
- Day 7 | Hunder/Diskit – Pangong Lake via Shyok route
- Day 8 | Pangong Tso – Hemis – Thicksey – Shey Palace – Leh
- Day 9 | Leh Rest Day or Sham Valley Tour around Leh including Magnetic Hills, Gurudwara Pather Sahib, Alchi, Likir, Basgo, Confluence at Nimmu
- Day 10 | Leh – Tso Moriri via Chumathang
- Day 11 | Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Moore Plains (Manali – Leh Highway) – Pang – Sarchu
- Day 12 | Sarchu – Manali
- Day 13 | Manali – Delhi
So, you can see that for our sample Ladakh itinerary, we have taken 13 days (with one rest day in Leh). You can add/remove and modify the days according to your needs. Of course, the budget outcome will depend a bit on that, but I guess that is very much trivial to say.
Also, consider that while traveling alone, the cost of accommodation and transportation is bound to increase. However, while traveling in evenly balanced groups of 3-5 people, the cost of the Ladakh trip will surely decrease. As of now, I will also assume that you guys are two in number so that the budget can be calculated on a twin-sharing basis.
Now, to analyze the budget for the above or any other itinerary, we can categorize the budget into two major parts described below –
Food + Accommodation + Miscellaneous Budget of Ladakh Trip
Let us break down each of these components to understand the breakdown of Ladakh trip cost in detail.
Accommodation Cost
This example trip will need about 12-13 days at the very least, so roughly you will be spending some Rs 12000 – 18000 per person for food, accommodation, and other misc. expenditures.
If you are living in an average budget hotel with decent comfort and are traveling in a group (at least 2 in number) then the average cost per day for food, accommodation, and other misc. things like tolls, permit fees, entry fees to monasteries, etc. come to about Rs 1000-1500 per day.
Again, Rs 1000-1500 figure could be a low budget for someone and a little high for others depending upon the choice of stay and food or other activities you plan to do on your Ladakh trip.
Food Cost
For example, if you dine at a dhaba tent, then the cost of the meal would come out to be around Rs 50-70 only per person, and the same meal if you take at a restaurant at Changspa road in Leh then you might pay Rs 150 – Rs 170 per person or maybe more. Furthermore, in some high-end restaurants, the cost of food will go up much more.
Vegetarian or Non-Vegetarian also matters with respect to food pricing, so take that factor into account as well.
You should always carry your water bottle and refill it as many times as you need water. It will not only keep you hydrated always, but you will also help in saving the Himalayas from plastic garbage. Remember, every tiny step counts and your step in this direction can help save the Himalayas too !! 🙂 🙂
Miscellaneous Cost
The same thing applies to different activities. Here I have considered what is unavoidable such as tolls, permit charges, entry fees, snacks, etc. If you are going paragliding, rafting, shopping, etc.. then that will surely be something additional for you.
Hence, if you are going with a budget hotel or guest house having decent comfort, eating decent quality food, and including only mandatory miscellaneous charges then you may need to shell out Rs 12000 – 18000 per person for your Leh Ladakh itinerary of 12-13 days.
Mode of Transportation Budget of Ladakh Trip
On a trip to Leh Ladakh, the major cost comes out to be for taxis or transportation or fuel depending upon your mode of transport. Using public transport inside Leh – Ladakh is a challenge as the frequency of such vehicles is feeble and based on their schedules you may require 18-20 days to complete the above trip.
So, in Leh Ladakh, travelers mostly commute either by privately hired taxis or shared taxis run by tour operators or by finding travel partners and sharing the cost with them or riding rented bikes or ultimately self-drive on their bikes or cars. All these options will present you with different costs for the trip.
Let’s look at each one of them below to get an idea of the total cost for a Leh Ladakh trip.
Cost of Ladakh trip on Self-Drive Private Vehicle
You will be traveling about 3300-3600 km for the above Ladakh trip. So, if your bike gives a mileage of about 25 KMPL on average in mountains + plains, then you are looking for about Rs 13200 – 14400 for fuel. If it gives less, then adjust accordingly. I have assumed the average cost of petrol as Rs 100 per liter as of January 2023. In plains, it will be less, and in mountains, it will be more.
Similarly, you can calculate if you are driving the car. Just keep in mind that in hills, your car or bike will give much lesser mileage than in plains. So, calculate accordingly and divide them among the people traveling in the car to calculate the per-person cost. It is difficult/uncomfortable to travel to Ladakh with a pillion on a bike, so the cost is calculated singularly above.
Finally, taking food + accommodation into account, traveling to Ladakh by self-drive mode of transport, you are looking at about ((Rs 12000 – 18000) + (Rs 13200 – 14400) = (Rs 25200 – 32400)) as the total cost for the entire Leh Ladakh trip.
Self-Drive But Rented Vehicle
Here, the cost of fuel would be the same as for a self-drive private vehicle calculated above, but you will be adding the cost of bike/car rental as well. Usually, you get a decent bike in good condition at around Rs 1400 – 1500 per day depending on the make and model of the bike you rent.
You can check the updated Leh Ladakh Bike Rental Rates for 2024-25.
So, the cost of bike rent only from Delhi to Delhi Ladakh trip comes out to be around Rs 20,000 – 24,000 considering if you get a discount. Adding the fuel cost as calculated above, the cost here becomes approximately Rs 33,200 – 38,400.
This is a solo Ladakh ride cost. So, if you have a pillion then divide by two here.
Finally, taking food + accommodation into account, traveling to Ladakh by self-drive rented bike mode of transport, you are looking at about ((Rs 33,200 – 38,400) + (Rs 12000 – 18000) = (Rs 45,200 – 56,400)) as the total cost for the entire trip.
Privately Hired Taxi in Leh
The taxis outside Leh are not allowed to roam in Leh – Ladakh, and you are always required to hire a taxi that belongs to Leh only. So, I am considering the case when you will be hiring a private taxi in Leh only and to reach Leh you will be using public transport.
It may be the case that you are coming in a privately hired taxi from outside Leh. Or you may be flying directly to Leh etc. but here I will assume that you have used public transport such as the train to reach Jammu, JKSRTC buses to reach Srinagar, and then to Leh, HPTDC buses to reach Manali from Leh and further to Delhi.
Also, I will assume that on Day 11 you will be going to Leh from Tso Moriri since in public transport you cannot travel directly from Tso Moriri to Manali. Traveling in this way means one extra day being spent in Leh Ladakh, making it a 13-day trip. I am again assuming you are 4 in number.
I will break down the private taxi cost and the other transport costs for the entire trip as below –
- Day 1 – Day 4 (Delhi – Jammu – Srinagar – Kargil – Leh) = Rs 3000 per person
- Day 5 (Leh Local) = Rs 2400 / 4 = Rs 600 per person
- Day 6 – Day 8 (Leh – Khardung La – Nubra – Pangong – Leh) = Rs 22000 / 4 = Rs 5500 per person
- Day 9 – Day 10 (Leh – Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Leh) = Rs 14000 / 4 = Rs 3500 per person
- Day 11 – Day 13 (Leh – Keylong – Manali – Delhi) = Rs 4000 per person
Considering a 10-12% discount on the rates of Leh Taxi Union after bargaining, the total cost comes out approximately to Rs 16,000 – 17,000 per person when traveling two in number.
This cost of a taxi in Ladakh per person will come down if more people are traveling with you to a maximum of 6.
Why only 6? Because one Scorpio taxi can accommodate 6 persons with ease :), anything more than that you need to hire two taxis.
However, I recommend that 5 people in one taxi are the optimum number to share the cost of a taxi.
Finally, taking food + accommodation into account, traveling by privately hired taxi in Leh and reaching Leh in public/shared transport, you are looking at about ((Rs 16000 – 17000) + (Rs 13000 – 19500) = (Rs 29000 – 36500)) as the total cost for the entire trip including 1 day added to travel between Tso Moriri – Leh.
If by any chance you plan to hire a private taxi to travel on Srinagar – Leh Highway and Manali – Leh Highway then the cost will go much higher because charges for Srinagar – Leh, and Manali – Leh in a private taxi are about Rs 20000 and Rs 25000 respectively as per rates in 2023.
If you are less in number, like 2 in this example, it is always suggested to travel by public transport such as shared taxis, JKSRTC buses, HPTDC buses on Srinagar – Leh, and Manali – Leh Highways in Himachal.
Wondering if there is any cheap mode of hiring a private taxi to Leh Ladakh from Manali or Srinagar. I shall say Yes as well as No, as you can find the details in my article on Cheap private taxi to Leh – Ladakh | A Myth or A Reality?
Shared Taxis or Public Transport or Travel Partners (in a group)
Assuming that instead of hiring a private taxi in Leh Ladakh you plan to travel by shared taxis run by tour operators or join with other travel partners to share the cost or you are about 5 in number then you are looking at about Rs 13000 – 14000 approximately.
If you further plan to travel in Ladakh by public buses then this figure as well will go down further considerably. However, at the same time, you may be required to stay for a longer period adjusting to the schedule of these public buses which means an increase in lodging + food costs.
Finally, taking food + accommodation into account, traveling shared taxis (or public transport or along with travel partners) in Leh and reaching Leh in public/shared transport, you are looking at about ((Rs 13000 – 14000) + (Rs 12000 – 18000) = (Rs 25000 – 32000)) as the total cost for the entire trip.
Conclusion
If I look at the above scenarios or examples, then, of course, it may not be the case every time. Sometimes you will be hiring the bike from Delhi only and sometimes partially. There can be cases where you will travel to Leh Ladakh by bus or public transport and then hire a bike in Leh to ride to only a few places.
DO NO forget to check the top 15 tips on Responsible Travel in the Himalayas.
Similarly, you may travel to Manali on public transport and then hire a bike from Manali, etc. There could be similar other cases as well as flying directly to Leh etc. I have tried to cover many general cases here, and we can surely discuss custom cases in the comments section below if you like or have any difficulties.
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.
Otherwise, if you are looking at them individually or day by day then you will be able to calculate the cost estimate of your Leh Ladakh trip for any such custom combination with fair ease.
I will look forward to your queries or doubts in the comments section below and know your perspective/tips of cost or budget analysis for the Ladakh trip as well. Kindly share your valuable thoughts/feedback/inputs etc. here with many other fellow travelers.
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Hi dheeraj, how are you? thanks for your reply .. Is it possible to find and book hotels once after entering leh?
by the way following is the package considering a single individual, you think its a fair price?
01st May / Day 01: Delhi – Leh
Arrival at Leh airport, to be received by our representative and transferred to the Hotel. Check in to the hotel for a complete day of rest wherein welcome tea and coffee will be served by the Hotel. Post lunch visit Leh Market, Leh Palace and Shanti Stupa. O/N Leh.
02nd May / Day 02: Leh – Sham region – Leh 124 Kms / 4-5 hrs
After breakfast drive for full day sight seeing to the Likir, Alchi Monastery, Pathar Sahib Gurudwara, Hall of Fame museum and Sangam (Confluence of Zanskar & Indus River) Back to Leh by evening. O/N Leh.
03rd May / Day 03: Leh to Zingchen to Rumbak 5 hrs Trekking After having the breakfast drive to Zingchen and start walking through Zingchen Gorge. There is a restaurant where one can stop for tea and snacks. As we continue trekking further, the gorge gets narrower and rugged. On the way one might see snow leopard signs along the valley bottom of the side valleys if you are trekking during winter or early spring/fall. As you approach Rumbak fields the valley suddenly opens up with snowcapped mountains in the background. From the fields the path turns left eastwards for the Rumbak village, where Home stay is available.
04th May / Day 04: Rumbak to Stok to Leh 8 hours TrekkingMake an early start for your trek up the Stok la pass(4900mts) for 3 hours. Follow the path on the extreme left along the south facing hillside. After one hour the path gets slower as you start climbing up to the pass. From the pass you can get great views of the Indus valley. Descend all the way down to the village of Stok. Optional visit to Stok Palace museum. Drive to Leh.
05th May / Day 05: Leh – Nubra Valley 120 Kms / 4-5 hrs
After Breakfast drive to Nubra Valley via Khardungla (Highest Motorable road in the World, 18,380 ft) Arrive at Hundur by afternoon. Lunch at Camp, rest of the day one is free to explore Deskit, Hunder Villages and camel Safari in Sand Dunes between Deskit and Hunder Village. O/N Nubra Valley.
06th May / Day 06: Nubra Valley – Leh 120 Kms / 4-5 hrs
After Breakfast visit Deskit Monastery, where you can have a magnificent view of Nubra Valley and drive back to Leh by same Route, crossing Khardungla Pass. O/N Leh.
07th May / Day 07: Leh – Pangong Lake – Leh 280 Kms / 10-11 hrs
After early Breakfast leave for Pangong Lake (14,500 ft) through Changla Pass 17,350 ft, it is the third highest motorable road in the world. Arrive Pangong, it is the highest salt water Lake in the World, shared by two countries India & China. Packed or Hot Lunch will be provided. Enjoy the beauty of the lake on the Banks of pangong while appreciating the changing Colors and fascinating high altitude of the Lake. Drive back to Leh by the same route. O/N Leh.
08th May / Day 08: Leh – Delhi
Early morning transfer to Leh airport to board flight back to destination. Journey ends with Sweet Memories of Ladakh.
Tour End
Tour cost INR 42,710 nett per person (01 paying pax)
Accommodation Used:
05 Night at Leh: Raku Guest House or similar
01 Night at Nubra: Organic Retreat camp or similar
01 Night at Rumbak: Local Home stay
I will suggest that you do this short 2 days trek after coming back from Nubra Valley. Also, I cannot comment on the price as I am not sure if you are the only person in the tour or not. Considering taxi being shared by 5 people and rooms being shared by 2 people, this price looks too much to me.
Hi,
Am planning solo trip starting 2nd Jul 14. As of now plan is to transport my bike to Jammu and start trip from thereon. In return journey I plan to ride back home to Mumbai. Looking for a partner for the trip. If interested please connect with me on sandeepverma.arena@gmail.com.
Regards,
Sandeep
DoW has started an initiative under DoW – Himalayan Travel Community for finding Travel Partners or Companions, leave your message in Travel Partners section at the link: Ladakh & Zanskar – Travel Partners Section. There is also a DoW Travel Calendar linked here which can be used to easily and quickly spot a travel partner with similar dates of all the people looking for Travel Partners for their trips. May be you meet someone online going over the same dates.
Thanks Dheeraj !!!
dude thanx for de info ..actually we stay in hyderbad so is it better to travel frm manali to ladakh or frm delhi … and can we complete de whole trip in 25k
Budget seems manageable to me if you stay with budget hotels. I could not understand the second part of the query, how are you reaching Delhi from Hyderabad? You can also reach Jammu and go from Srinagar side and come back from Manali side.
Hi, sir…
Me leh pr jane ki trip ka plan bna rha hu after this eid for 1 month k liye my budget is 10 k he and ar me single jana chhahta hu with my freedom bike its average is 40 kmph so plz tell me… can I go.
Rehan, 10K for 30 day trip is way too less… You should consider at least 20-25K including fuel, stay and food for 30 days.
Thanks for sharing this useful information. As i am also planning to go in June second week by road.
Jaya, roads will be open during that time. Have a nice trip.
Hi Dheeraj,
earlier you have replied to me and that information is quiet informative and I appreciate it.as I have planned my trip from 19th May to 27th May.will the route open between these days ? And approximately in how much time I will get inner line permit ? Like will it take a day or two ? Thanks.
I mean if I go on 17th May , will the road open on that day ? I need information whether the route open in Mid may & I will go leh via Srinagar.
By mid May, Leh to Srinagar Highway will be most likely open.
Dev, there is good news for you and many others who will be going after May 2014: Permits in Ladakh are not required for Indian Tourists from May 2014
So, being Indian you do not need Inner Line Permits for Ladakh after 1st May 2014 if you are following common routes to Pangong Tso, Nubra Valley and Tso Moriri
Fantasti Dheeraj 🙂 indeed.
just wanted to know like I have heard that route for leh only open after may but I have planned from 17th to 27th.so will I be able to go Leh ?
Dev, Srinagar to Leh will open most likely by mid of May if weather conditions holds good.
I had already booked my flight tickets to leh from apr 27th to may 3rd…if anyone had planned a trip on these dates do let me know..and also I want to know that how shall I organize my trip to get the maximum of leh ladakh…plz Dheeraj help me out with this.
I wiil be arriving Leh from Delhi by early morning flight and plan to take the return flight on 5, june.I am trying to plan out my stays covering Leh,pangong lake and nubra valley.
Vincent, how many days?
Hi dheeraj.. am travelling from abu dhabi to leh on may 1 for 7 nights, brother i wanna know if i can plan once i get to leh on trekking or camping at this time. Also can i find a group to do these activities during the same time in a group. The agencies i have called have put a price on package that are really expensive. I am looking for a good group of people or couple of people for backpacking as well..
Ijaz, you are traveling a bit early in the season and there will be less number of people up there so finding travel partners will be a bit difficult. Also, trekking will not be possible at high altitude with just 7 days in hand else you miss on places to visit. Once you land there, acclimatize and rest in Leh for 2 days at least. In these 2 days while roaming in Leh, you can actually find travel agencies who offer shared tourist taxis. Book a seat for 2 day trip to Nubra Valley and 2 day trip to Pangong Tso.
Sonia, I see you have 6 days in hand as you will fly back from May 3rd. You can check the below plan for Ladakh:
Day 1 | Delhi – Leh (By Flight)
— Checkin at Hotel. Many hotels provide free pick and drop from Airport. Ask while you book them.
— Take ample of rest as well as water or anything that keep your body hydrated enough. DO NOT OVER HYDRATE. Take ORS Soluted water or ORS – L tetra packs from home.
— Do not over exert your body at any cost. Avoid too much up-down on stairs or avoid it in entirety, if possible.
— After 5-6 Hrs of rest you can visit Leh Palace, Local Leh market, Shankar Gompa .
— If you feel exerted go back to Hotel, have dinner at Hotel and take rest. Avoid any exertion. Else continue and,
— Follow the sunset by stroll at Changspa road and have a nice dinner on varied cuisines offered in-around Changspa road.
— Go back to hotel for overnight stay at Leh.
Day 2 | Leh Local Sighseeing + Inner Line Permits
— For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here
— Hire a taxi from Leh taxi stand or Hotel whichever suits you.
— Bargain hard with taxi driver. Book that single taxi for entire trip after explaining the complete plan.
— Take his inputs if you feel reasonable and if required modify the plan accordingly but should suits you best.
— Ask him to be with you guys starting first day itself, if required and charged reasonable else do it at your own.
— Again DO NOT over exert and take little steps and slow walks only.
— If feeling OK then do Local sightseeing. To know the about the places to visit check the link: Travel Guide for Local Sightseeing of Leh Town in Ladakh
— Do not use stairs at any of these places just to see them as it will exert your body much more.
— Overnight at Leh
Day 3 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder
— Head for Nubra Valley and stay overnight at Hunder / Diskit
— On the way enjoy a cup of soup at Highest Motorable Pass (as claimed) Khardung La
— Diskit has monasteries with tallest lord Buddha statue and Hunder has sand dunes and bacterian camel safari
Day 4 | Hunder / Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh
— Sumur has a famous monastery to check out and Panamik has hot water springs
— Overnight at Leh
Day 5 | Leh – Pangong Tso – Leh
— Do not plan to stay overnight at Pangong Tso as you will not be acclimatized and may fall sick. So, make a day trip only.
— Overnight at Leh
Day 6 | Rest day at Leh to enjoy local culture and some shopping OR Monastery tour OR Sham Valley tour OR Fly back home
— Overnight at Leh
— Monastery tour may include Hemis, Thicksey 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
Thanks Dheeraj!!
Hi,
I am a single female traveller in my 20’s. Planning to go bag packing to leh for a week may end. Is it safe for female travelers. Can a join a group? Any leads will be very helpful.
Thanks a lot.
Hi Shikha,
You are alone and private taxis are very costly in Leh but you will be able to find the shared taxi without much fuss at all. There are lots of flyers which people put at cafes, dine-ins, restaurants, travel agent desks/shops/whiteboards wanting to share the taxis for different trips within Ladakh. Even travel agent organize such shared taxis trip as well but charge a little higher about Rs 200-300 more than it would ideally cost. So, in worst case you can always go back to them and book a seat for yourself. Gelling up with people in Ladakh is more or less easy because many people travel solo and look forward to meet new people and share cultural thoughts and values over the trip. No where else in the world you will find more smiling and helpful people as Ladakhis are
In general, traveling solo there is quite safe and thousands of people do it every year.
On the other hand you will find trouble finding the same in Spiti as tourist rush is less and people have groups mostly there.
You can always post your request of travel partners and fine some over in the forum of Travel Partners in DwD Community: Ladakh Travel Partners
Also check the travel Calendar in DwD Community which might hint you wiith people going over there in various months and looking for travel partners.
Regards
Dheeraj
Hi there even i am a female & planning for a trip to leh ladakh & would need a girl or 2 to hang out der..please letme kno if sum1 has travel plan next month..
Ishita, you can get connected with Shikha in the DwD Community Travel Partners forum topic: Travel buddies to Leh from Delhi- May end , june first week
In the above link, she has posted all the details.
Hey Ishita,
How are you planning to go? Road/bus. Do you have any dates in mind. Some insight will be great!
Cheers
Hi Sikha,
We are 2 people (1 guy and 1 girl) planning by Road (Rental Car). We need travel partner as we are just 2 people. If you are interested, write me at roysa404@gmail.com
Hi Ishita,
We are 2 people(1 guy and 1 girl) looking for travel partner. if it is ok with u we can joi. write me at roysam404@gmail.com
hi shikha ,
we also going to leh in june first week and we are 10 people in group ,3 couples, one single female, but we are on bikes. if u want u can join us .my id vipkum31@gmail.com
ipin, it is much better to get connected in the community as these replies in comments on the blog do not generate notifications and are mostly not organized. You can get connected with Shikha in the DwD Community Travel Partners forum topic: Travel buddies to Leh from Delhi- May end , june first week
In the above link, she has posted all the details.
Hi Vipin,
Thanks so much. I cant ride a bike.
Good luck for you trip! Have fun.
Cheers
as a pillon option available on sharing basis in group
Any group is going to leh-ladakh trip I m interested. unfortunately no friend of mine interested to go.
Summit, DoW has started an initiative under DoW – Himalayan Travel Community for finding Travel Partners or Companions, leave your message in Travel Partners section at the link: Ladakh & Zanskar – Travel Partners Section. There is also a DoW Travel Calendar linked here which can be used to easily and quickly spot a travel partner with similar dates of all the people looking for Travel Partners for their trips. May be you meet someone online going over the same dates.
Sir,
thanks for your revert.
but sir, Mr mahesh is looking for couple only.
i will try for some other dates. and please update me if possible.
thanks
Hi Dheeraj ,
You have shared very nice & prompt info. I am planning to go Leh in Mid may and we are three adults who will be travelling and will follow the route of Delhi—Jammu–Srinagar—Leh. so can you tell me how much will be the cost of 10 days ?and how much will be the cost of total transportation only in Leh ?
Thanks in advance.
Dev.
Dev, how are you planning to come back from Leh? Are you flying?
Thank you for the response Dheeraj.yes we are flying back from leh to Delhi and from delhi to Pune.so I want to know the overall cost for three adults (age between 26 to 28) including stay,food and sightseeing & we have 10 days in hand.
Hi Dev,
You can follow the itinerary below for 10 days Ladakh trip:
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 – Sonamarg – 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 / Diskit
— On the way enjoy a cup of soup at Highest Motorable Pass (as claimed) Khardung La
— Diskit has monasteries with tallest lord Buddha statue and Hunder has sand dunes and bacterian camel safari
Day 7 | Hunder / Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh
— Sumur has a famous monastery to check out and Panamik has hot water springs
— Overnight at Leh
Day 8 | Leh – Hemis Monastery – Pangong Tso Lake
— Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on the go towards Pangong Tso
— Overnight at Pangong Tso (Spangmik or Lukung)
Day 9 | Pangong Tso Lake – Thicksey Monastery – Shey Palace – Leh
— Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on return to Leh
— Overnight at Leh
Day 10 | Fly back
Cost you can take about 700-1000 per person per day for food and stay depending upon where you stay and what you eat. For the leh – ladakh taxi union rate list 2014 – 15 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.
Regards
Dheeraj
Thanks Dheeraj for all the above very useful information.
I want to talk to you on phone if it’s possible. My no. is 9777443902.
Hi Dheeraj,
Hope you are fine bhai. We are a group of 4 people and want to go to Ladakh through Manali in a hired cab from manali itself. So we would like to know how much it would cost us including all the meals and stay and how will be the weather in May-June?
Rajan, Manali to Leh will cost you around 17-18K. For the leh – ladakh taxi union rate list 2014 – 15 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.
Dear Dheeraj,
You are doing a superb job, by guiding folks like us for better travelling, and making best use of the knowledge that you have. Appreciate that!
I am planning a trip for around 9 days, from Delhi-Jammu-Srinagar-Kargil-Leh-Manali-Delhi, from 6th June to 15th June. We are a bunch of 5-6 young people including females, but what we want to do is a ride journey, with least costing.
We are planning to drop down at Jammu by train on 7th morning, and start our journey. I have read a few suggestions of yours, and have got a pretty much idea, that we can do this journey by our own (I mean not booking any travel planner). You have already guided few other folks on travelling from Jammu to Srinagar, and there to Leh via Kargil. This is relevant to me as well.
What I need to know as of now is would it be possible to get accommodation in leh and then in Nubra valley without prior booking. If not, can you help me with some information on budget hotels, or relevant people for tented accommodation in Nubra Valley.
Also, we would like to return via Leh-Manali route exploring tsomorori. So, would the Leh-manali highway be open by 15th June.
Appreciate if you could take time out to help me.
Thanks, Anshu
Anshu, It will take 3 days to reach Leh from Delhi via Manali side and 4 days to come back to Delhi from Leh via Srinagar side. This makes it 7 days. 1 Day is required in Leh for acclimatization and permits. 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: Manali – Leh – Ladakh – Manali | Itinerary for 9 Days in DoW – Himalayan Travel Community as you have 9 days in hand.
It depends on your choice. If you do not plan to stay at any specific hotel and if you are OK with searching the place a bit after seeing the room conditions once reaching the place, then I guess you could save some good amount of money too on the hotel bookings. Secondly, it provides you with more and more flexibility in terms of dates you reach on a particular place and allow you any last minutes changes. In places like Ladakh where road conditions are uncertain enough to force a change in plan, the flexibility always top the list.
Finding a place is not that difficult in Leh and your taxi will be able to help you through. Keep this list handy with you: A preferred list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh including moderate and cheap budget hotels as well in the series of articles starting on the link here
Dear Dhheeraj,
Many thanks for this extensive series of information. We are a group of 6 people planning to visit Leh in May 2014. As this will be our first-ever Leh trip, we are really excited and want to explore the place fully.
We are thinking of reaching Leh via New Delhi and want to visit the famous places while staying in decent places and having decent food.
Could you please help me out with a proper itinerary of this planning within a moderate budget (including all the fares)?
Awaiting for your favourable reply.
Joyanta, how many days do you have in hand?
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.
For accommodation, check the nice, preferred list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh (Leh, Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri) including moderate and cheap budget hotels as well in the series of articles starting on the link here
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
Regards
Dheeraj
Hi Deeraj,
Thanks for all the information you have provided. We are planning to go in Mid JUne. We are two. Can you please suggest me what should be the be the minimum rate for fuel/km If I hire a car from Srinagar.
Also I want to know a small thing Can i Get Govt bus in the early morning to go Srinagar from Jammu.
Thanks in advance.
Chandrima
Hello Chandrima,
There isn’t per KM rate followed in Ladakh. It is based upon destination only. Srinagar to Leh drop costs about 12-15K with overnight halt at Kargil. For the leh – ladakh taxi union rate list 2014 – 15 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.
Yes, you should get a bus to Jammu from Srinagar for sure.
Regards
Dheeraj
Hey Dheeraj, great work on the website and the information. We are a group of 10 people planning a trip to Leh Ladakh from 26th July to 5th Aug. It will be the usual Srinagar to Leh to Manali route. We were thinking of booking through a tour operator but going thorugh the threads and your post I am now inclined towards an adhoc trip. As we are 10 people do we need to book hotels before or we can get hotels easily at that time? Also, is that time of the year ideal for the trip as I fear rains may ruin the jouney?
Well, I feel you should be OK in booking hotels. Bigger groups always have a challenge of staying together but I don’t see you have that big a group. You will need 5 rooms and I feel you should be OK to get. In worst case, you may go with the booking of camps at Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri if you are worried too much of bookings.
Hello,
We would be present in and around Leh from 9th August (Delhi – Leh Flight) to 15th August 2014. 16th August (Leh -Delhi flight) we will leave Leh. We would be a group of 6 – 8 people including female all age group around 30. How much you think would be the cost of the stay at Leh excluding flight.
You can consider your food and stay at Rs 600-800 per day per person if you book on the spot.
I m planning to go in MAY could you pls tell me some places to stay for three days and which all places I can visit during that time
Avinash, where are you planning to go for 3 days? Ladakh?
Hi Dheeraj,
Nice description about the leh ladhak trip.. We are 5 friends and have a 14 days plan from Delhi to ladhak via bike…
First, I wish to know that can we put our tents for night stay on the way of Manali to Leh or any interruption to do that
Before this we completed 3 trips via bike. Mostly they were in Uttrakhand and main was for Badrinath.
Any suggestion would be highly appreciated
Arun, You can pitch your own tents anywhere but I will suggest you pitch them at a place where there are some dhabha tents put up by locals or where other camping guy pitch theirs or somewhere near some house in village or in their garden/lawn. All you will need is to gently ask them (villagers/dhabha guys/camping guys) for permissions. Most likely they will allow, other wise negotiate for small little tip or move on to some other such place nearby. This will give you sense of security too.
But, keep in mind that camping at the lakes both Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri is not allowed as they are under Ramsar site. Hence, you need to pitch these camps away from the lakes where either other camps are there or at near by village.
dear deeraj,
we are planning to srinagar -ladakh -manali 10 day trip. total 6 persons. we like to hire pvt taxi for full trip. Kindly reply to me about average cost for taxi chagres for full trip, ie srinagar to manali 10 days.
For the leh – ladakh taxi union rate list 2014 – 15 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.
Hey Dheeraj,
We three people are going to start a bike trip as above 14 days plan mentioned. We all three don’t have any experience of Bike trip.
Is 150 CC bike sufficient for the trip ? Kindly suggest in detail.
Plz suggest dos and don’ts as we are beginners.
Avnish, 150cc will be able to do the Ladakh trip. You can check some tips mentioned in the articles below:
Bike Ride Tips for Ladakh | Part 1 and Bike Ride Tips for Ladakh | Part 2
Hi Dheeraj,
I am planning a solo trip to Leh from 1st August to 18th August. I’ll be a female traveling alone and on a budget. Keeping safety and budget in mind can you please help me plan an itinerary and tell me what my approximate travel cost would be (ex Srinagar / Delhi)? I will take a flight from Mumbai to Srinagar on 1st Aug and from Delhi to Mumbai on 18th Aug. I want to get to Leh via Srinagar and return via Manali. I am totaly ok with taking public transport wherever feasible 🙂
Looking forward to your resonse.
Cheers,
Shaheen.
Hi Shaheen,
You are alone and private taxis are very costly in Leh but you will be able to find the shared taxi without much fuss at all. There are lots of flyers which people put at cafes, dine-ins, restaurants, travel agent desks/shops/whiteboards wanting to share the taxis for different trips within Ladakh. Even travel agent organize such shared taxis trip as well but charge a little higher about Rs 200-300 more than it would ideally cost. So, in worst case you can always go back to them and book a seat for yourself. Gelling up with people in Ladakh is more or less easy because many people travel solo and look forward to meet new people and share cultural thoughts and values over the trip. No where else in the world you will find more smiling and helpful people as Ladakhis are 🙂
I will suggest that you take it on day basis after you reach Leh because alot will depend upon the travel partners for sharing taxi cost you will get. It will be 2 day trip from Srinagar to Leh with overnight stay at Kargil. Then rest in Leh for couple of days and fix your departures in the order of Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri as 2 day each trip. Then based on groups you get, either you can directly go to Manali from Tso Moriri with overnight halt at Sarchu OR, you can take HPTDC Bus from Leh to Manali.
Regards
Dheeraj sharma
Dear Dheeraj,
Thanks so much for your response. It will be great if you can help me with few more questions:
1. I plan to take the JKSRTC bus to Leh as I am on a budget trip. Will it be ok to book the tickets one day prior? I land in Srinagar on a Friday and want to depart on Saturday morning for Kargil.
2. In August, will it be easy to get accomodation Srinagar and at Kargil if I have not booked in advance? I understand he Amarnath Yatra will be on during this time (I will reach Srinagar on 1st Aug)
3. Since I am a single female traveling alone, is it safe to stay at Kargil? Would a pre booked accomodation be better?
4. Can I book an acco at Kargil from Srinagar?
5. Can you help me with the timings of the buses from Srinagar to Leh? Do they operate on all days?
Thanks once again and may I say what a brilliant job you are doing! 🙂
Cheers, Shaheen.
Hello Shaheen,
Dear Dheeraj,
Thanks so much for your response. It will be great if you can help me with few more questions:
1. Yes, this is fine. Go to JKSRTC Bus Stand and get the tickets done.
2. Yes, it should be fine to get accommodation unless you plan to stay in some specific property. With little efforts of search, you should be good to go.
3. No on the spot booking should be fine.
4. Go with on the spot booking.
Regards
Dheeraj
hi shaheen we are also going to ladahk and females also in our group. if u want u can join us
Dear Vipin,
We can connect up once in Leh, if you can inbox me closer to date on shaheen125@gmail.com, I’ll share my itinerary with you.
Cheers, Shaheen.
DoW has started an initiative under DoW – Himalayan Travel Community for finding Travel Partners or Companions, leave your message in Travel Partners section at the link: Ladakh & Zanskar – Travel Partners Section. There is also a DoW Travel Calendar linked here which can be used to easily and quickly spot a travel partner with similar dates of all the people looking for Travel Partners for their trips. May be you meet someone online going over the same dates.
Hi i m also planning to go in 2nd week of May…..I will be going on Bullet…
Hi Shashi,
I’m going in August not May 🙂 You have a good trip!
Here I am one more solo traveller guys, Lets make it together.. None of my friends available to come with me 🙁 I will be coming from Canada just for this dream trip, There are a few other solo guys below I have replied to them as well. I am planning my trip the same way as you guys like taking public transport and on the spot bookings, but still having three or four together will allow us an option of hiring cab or taxi whereever needed. I am planning my vacations from Aug 15th, but haven’t booked the tickets so can make it sooner ot later, but I would suggest August last to sept first week would be the best time as per Dheeraj. Let me know if interested. I am looking forward to make it happen with some unknown potential friends.. Can reach me on nick.garg@gmail.com or watsapp me on 1-587-707-8478 Thank you. 🙂
Nikhil, DoW has started an initiative under DoW – Himalayan Travel Community for finding Travel Partners or Companions, leave your message in Travel Partners section at the link: Ladakh & Zanskar – Travel Partners Section.
There is also a DoW Travel Calendar linked here which can be used to easily and quickly spot a travel partner with similar dates of all the people looking for Travel Partners for their trips. May be you meet someone online going over the same dates.
Hi we are a group of 8 person from Pune planning to leh Ladakh including Hanley village tour on bike . Our date is fix . we will fly from Pune on 30th August 2014 & back on 16th September 2014. In case anybody wants to join us pl contact me
Ranjit, DoW has started an initiative under DoW – Himalayan Travel Community for finding Travel Partners or Companions, leave your message in Travel Partners section at the link: Ladakh & Zanskar – Travel Partners Section. There is also a DoW Travel Calendar linked here which can be used to easily and quickly spot a travel partner with similar dates of all the people looking for Travel Partners for their trips. May be you meet someone online going over the same dates.
Hi Dheeraj, Please email me your contact number. We’re planning a trip in early August and would love your insight into making the final preparations.
Hi Dheeraj,
I am planning for a bike trip to Manali-Leh-Ladakh. Can you please draw a route map for me covering 10 days. I have a rough plan in mind to ride from Chandigarh-Manali-Leh-Ladakh-Manali-Chandigarh. will it be advisible to cover this distance on bike if i plan to ride from CHandigarh. I am from Bangalore, planning to take a flight to Bangalore to nearest place to Manali and then bike ride. please suggest.
Rohan, since you have 10 days in hand, you can do something like below over Manali – Leh Highway:
Day 1 | Chandigarh – Manali/Solang Valley
— Better stay at Solang Valley and avoid Manali as sleeping at Solang Valley does help in acclimatization
— If going by own car, get the permit made in advance to drive on Manali – Rohtang Pass road through hotel/travel agent in Manali
— Overnight at Manali/Solang Valley
Day 2 | Manali/Solang Valley – Keylong/Jispa
— It is always better to stay either at Keylong/Jispa so that you do not feel sick or hit by AMS.
— Avoid sleeping at Sarchu at any cost while going to Leh from Manali because your body will not be acclimatized by the time you reach there.
— I prefer staying at Jispa more because Keylong gives the feeling of a town while Jispa is more closer to nature having Bhaga river running just aside the Manali – Leh Highway at Jispa.
— Overnight at Keylong/Jispa
Day 3 | Keylong/Jispa – Leh
— Leave Keylong/Jispa early next morning, say by 4/5 AM types, so that you reach Leh in the evening.
— Overnight at Leh
Day 4 | 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 5 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder
— Head for Nubra Valley and stay overnight at Hunder / Diskit
— On the way enjoy a cup of soup at Highest Motorable Pass (as claimed) Khardung La
— Diskit has monasteries with tallest lord Buddha statue and Hunder has sand dunes and bacterian camel safari
Day 6 | Hunder / Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh
— Sumur has a famous monastery to check out and Panamik has hot water springs
— Overnight at Leh
Day 7 | Leh – Pangong Tso Lake – Leh
— Day trip to Pangong Tso
— Overnight at Leh
Day 8 | Leh – Taglang La – Moore Plains – Pang – Sarchu
— Stay overnight at Sarchu
Day 9 | Sarchu – Baralacha La – Keylong – Rohtang Pass – Manali
— On the way cover Suraj Tal, Deepak Tal which are on the road sides only
— Overnight at Manali
Day 10 | Manali – Chandigarh
— Return home
Day 11 | Buffer day to be kept incase of road closure due to landslides or snowfall or perhaps you want to enjoy more.
Hi we are a group of 6 ppl planning to leh Ladakh trip in bike may be in first week of August or sep . In case anybody wants to join us from bangalore pl contact.
We can form a team and plan from bangalore
@chandru can you please contact me on navyashreejogi@gmail.com i am interested
Chandru, DoW has started an initiative under DoW – Himalayan Travel Community for finding Travel Partners or Companions, leave your message in Travel Partners section at the link: Ladakh & Zanskar – Travel Partners Section. There is also a DoW Travel Calendar linked here which can be used to easily and quickly spot a travel partner with similar dates of all the people looking for Travel Partners for their trips. May be you meet someone online going over the same dates.
Sir,
We(2 family – 4 adults and 4 children) are planning for Leh during 3rd week (6-8 days) of May14. please suggest the itinerary for Leh and nearby places.we will reach Leh by flight from Delhi and vice-versa.
whether we have to book rooms for all the proposed days in Leh or may be in other places.
please suggest us so that we can finalise our tour.
Thanks in anticipation
Rajesh Kr. Swyambhu
Hi Rajesh,
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 8 days: Leh – Ladakh | Most Common Itinerary by Air.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
thank you sir
this will surly help us to formulate our trip to LEH and nearby.
With regards
Rajesh Kr. Swyambhu
sir, can you please give me your contact no.? We are planing for leh in july 1st week 2014. i want some information.
Use the EMail Me link on the sidebar to mail, I will revert with contact info.
already email you, waiting for your reply
sent you the mail.
Hi Dheeraj,
We are planning our Leh bike trip from Srinagar. We have chalked out this plan based on your article stating Srinagar-Kargil-Leh-Manali as better route. While inquiring we found that bikes arent available from Srinagar on rent. Can you plz provide us some pointers to bike rentals in Srinagar or Jammu.
Thanks in advance.
Abhas
Hi Abhas,
There are no bike rentals in Srinagar. You need to travel either via Manali side and return bike to Manali else better travel by taxi or bus to Leh from Srinagar, hire bikes in Leh and if your pocket allows, drop them at Manali.
Regards
Dheeraj
Howz climate in apirl is the there problem of oxyegen as we are of 26 age in leh and ladak ??
Rani, well, there isn;t any problem specific to age for oxygen rather anyone can suffer from it as it is same for everyone. In April, climate if very cold in Leh and especially at night. Hence, unless you are OK with very cold conditions, it is better to make a Ladakh trip from June to September
hey thr..am planing a trip in spetember 2nd week. Except for flight bookings, do i need to do hotel and car bookings before arrival. I will be travelling from mumbai. So planning to go to Delhi and either flight to Leh or Drive by hiring a taxi or renting a car. Which would you suggest. We are a group fo 6 till now. Also after reaching leh few of my rider friends would like to hire a bike but rest would like to rent a car. Ur suggestion here would be helpful. Am planning a 10 day trip. Please add if u feel i may have missed out on somthing. Thanks in advance
I really don’t think you need any bookings but no harm in getting in touch with drivers of taxi in Ladakh mentioned at the link: List of Taxi Drivers for Ladakh – Srinagar – Leh – Manali
Hello Dhiraj,
Well we r planning to go to Ladakh on bike in first week of Sept 2014. Please tell me that is this a perfect time for bike expedition? We r starting from Jammu -Srinagar-Leh-Nubra-Pangong-Hanle-Moriri-Upshi-Sarchu-Manali-Chandigarh route from 30th August 2014 to 16th Sept.2014. Is this right & sufficient time for Ladakh? What about rain problem?
Ranjit, September is always good time to travel Ladakh. You have about 16-17 days which are more than sufficient for the trip. Regarding rains, well there won’t be much trouble, may be just till Kargil to some extent. However, now a days no one can predict weather with 100% surety.
Hi
If you can plan it from 15th August and from Chandigarh then I can also join in.
Call – 9873269872
Hi Dheeraj,
we have plan to visit leh-ladakh on 31 May to 8 June, group of 7 people.
Our Itinerary is:-
Day 01 : SRINAGAR –SONAMARG – KARGIL
Day 02 : KARGIL – FOTU-LA – LAMAYURU – ALCHI – LEH
Day 03 : FULL DAY SIGHTSEEING TOUR SHEY -THIKSEY – HEMIS-LEH PALACE – SHANTI STUPA – SANGKAR
Day 04 : LEH – CHANGLA PASS (5360 m) – PANGONG LAKE – LEH
Day 05 : LEH – NUBRA VALLEY (3165m) – LEH
Day 06: LEH – SARCHU
Day 07: SARCHU – MANALI
Please tell me your opinion about this tour and what modification required, if any.
Can we travel without the help of any tour company?
Hi Amit,
The itinerary is like being on road all days for almost 8+ Hours every day. I would suggest that you add couple of days. Otherwise, looks OK. Do Pangong Tso after Nubra Valley as it helps in acclimatization. Also, Rest on Day 3 at least if you cannot add more days.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
MY ROUTE IS AS FOLLOWS
Day 1 – Srinagar – Sonamarg – Zozi La – Drass
Day 2 – drass – kargil – Lamayuru
Day 3 – Lamayuru – leh (site seeing at leh)
Day 4 – River Rafting at leh
Day 5 – Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder or turkut
Day 6 – Hunder or turkut– leh
Day 7 – Leh Site seeing
Day 8 – Leh – Hemis Monastery – Pangong Tso Lake
Day 9 – Pangong Tso Lake – tsomoriri via Changthang (Merak – Chusul – Nyoma – hanle)
Day 10 – Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Debring- Sarchu/Jispa
Day 11 – Jispa/sarchu – Baralacha La – Keylong – Rohtang Pass – Manali
For this route the driver is charging me Rs.60000/- , is this rate fine or do I need to bargain
You can also help with the route if I need to adjust anything 🙂
Also, do you have any idea about paragliding in leh
I feel the rate is fine. Some tweaks that can be done are:
Day 5 – Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder – Turtuk
Day 6 – Turtuk – Hunder – Diskit
Day 7 – Diskit – Leh
Also, add one day as buffer due to 50:50 chances of making from Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri directly. Regarding Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri route or Pangong Tso to Hanle, the permits to Man – Merak – Chusul – Tsaga or remote Changthang routes are being given by DC office in Leh at ON and OFF basis, so keep your fingers crossed and hope for the best if they start issuing the permits by the time you visit or issue you on your lucky day. Also, even if the permits are given then as well there is no guarantee that you will be allowed to cross Chusul Post or not because last year several such incidents happened and people with permits also had to return via same route. All this will mean that you will have to risk it for at least a day getting wasted if you are not allowed because there will be no guarantee until you cross Chusul and Tsaga post. Otherwise, you have to take the traditional routes only via Leh.
thank you dheeraj, I will modify the changes you suggested and also I have kept 2 buffer days.
Cool, best wishes for the trip and if by chance you happen to be happy to spread smiles, please support the initiatives of DoW Causes in order to help the local community up there in remote Himalayas. You can check more details about them at: DoW – Causes | A Step Towards Responsible Travel and can execute them on your own.
Hi Dheeraj,
I have already started planning to do some kind of help over there.
Can you also help me with one thing, as you know my route which I have posted above, I just want to know whether Mahindra Xylo or tempo traveller is better to travel on above route as we will be 10-12 people travelling.
I will say to go with Tempo Traveller in that case as all of you can travel together and it will save some decent money too.
Hi deeraj,
Great piece of information. We are planning a visit on 21st June on motorbike. How convinent is it to travel solo. wether a pillion rider is must. What about health precaution one should take.
Regards,
Rajesh
Rajesh, you can ride there to Ladakh without much issues as thousands of people do visit / ride solo Ladakh every year. You will find many such groups on the move and you can join them, I am sure. Regarding health issues and to know about AMS and acclimatization including the tips to combat AMS, please DO READ: Acute Mountain Sickness and Importance of Acclimatization
Hello..i want to know about bicycles,,,are they available on rent .,.so that i can hire and do the manali leh on bicycle..if so..
Sumankit, you will be able to find bicycles on rent in Leh for sure and I guess even in Manali too at some places.
Hi dheeraj, is there a way to go to tsomoriri from pangong directly without going back to leh…?
Hi Jayshree,
To get an idea of the routes in Ladakh along with distances, you can refer: DoW – Maps of Ladakh | Nubra Valley & Changthang. Keep in mind that, the remote routes are isolated and completely off track with almost no roads. Better stick to traditional routes in case it is the first trip to Ladakh.
Regarding Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri route, the permits to Man – Merak – Chusul or remote Changthang routes are being given by DC office in Leh at ON and OFF basis, so keep your fingers crossed and hope for the best if they start issuing the permits by the time you visit or issue you on your lucky day. Also, even if the permits are given then as well there is no guarantee that you will be allowed to cross Chusul Post or not because last year several such incidents happened and people with permits also had to return via same route. All this will mean that you will have to risk it for at least a day getting wasted if you are not allowed because there will be no guarantee untill you cross Chusul and Tsaga post. Otherwise, you have to take the traditional routes only via Leh.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dhruv
i read above comments, in that u mentioned that july is best time to visit leh-ladak, but in July is Rain will be more right?
Patel, till July 15th rains usually doesn’t come up so it is generally good time to visit Ladakh. It is when late July and August the rains starts to pour heavily in North India. Even then the problem is upto Kargil from Srinagar side and till sarchu from Manali side as beyond these two places, it is rain shadow region and rains have very least affect.
Hii..am a solo traveler and planning a trip in Aug ‘ 14. The pvt tour operators charge around 30 -40k for 8 days trip. Looking at that would you suggest a solo travel with these pvt tours?
Hi Nhiren,
You are alone and private taxis are very costly in Leh but you will be able to find the shared taxi without much fuss at all. There are lots of flyers which people put at cafes, dine-ins, restaurants, travel agent desks/shops/whiteboards wanting to share the taxis for different trips within Ladakh. Even travel agent organize such shared taxis trip as well but charge a little higher about Rs 200-300 more than it would ideally cost. So, in worst case you can always go back to them and book a seat for yourself. Gelling up with people in Ladakh is more or less easy because many people travel solo and look forward to meet new people and share cultural thoughts and values over the trip. No where else in the world you will find more smiling and helpful people as Ladakhis are 🙂
So, with little efforts and flexible schedule you will be able to do your trip within 60% of the cost of the trip. Take buses on Srinagar – Leh and Manali – Leh if you are traveling by road.
Regards
Dheeraj
Hi nhiren myself amit from kolkata i am also a solo traveler and programing to ladakh.If you have no prb then we can travl together so our cost will also be share..My no is 09231156333 u can contac with me if you want
Hi Dheeraj.
I would like to travel to Leh from Chandigarh on my bike Bullet.I just need to ask you about the season or month best suitable for travel as well as problems faced by a biker and the things to avoid.Could you also help me in forming itinerary from Chandigarh to Leh?
Jasan, please refer: Best Time to Travel Ladakh & Zanskar Valley
This will help you know and make right call based on your needs. Regarding itinerary, how many days do you have in hand?
Days are not the problem.I need to know, how i can enjoy the trip fully including all sight seeings. So what will be the best itinerary for the trip?
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.
Jasan, myself vipin & me also from chandigarh and preparing for leh trip this july 2014.you can accompany me we will discuss about it . my email id vipkum31@gmail.com
Hi
I am also planning a road trip from 15th August. I am also from chandigarh, Lets discuss it over phone and make it happen
9873269872
Hi dheeraj,
I want to travel the above mentioned path may be in june. I will be travelling with my frend. I just want to know being stranger to all these places, can we manage it smoothly or any hassels are there. And also how safe it is for girls. It will be good if you can guide us… 🙂
Navya, Ladakh is usually very safe to travel and thousands of solo travelers including girls visit this place every year. Ladakhis are very helpful and smiling people too. Just take general care which you take while traveling in general. You are just two and private taxis are very costly in Leh but you will be able to find the shared taxi without much fuss at all. There are lots of flyers which people put at cafes, dine-ins, restaurants, travel agent desks/shops/whiteboards wanting to share the taxis for different trips within Ladakh. Even travel agent organize such shared taxis trip as well but charge a little higher about Rs 200-300 more than it would ideally cost. So, in worst case you can always go back to them and book a seat for yourself. Gelling up with people in Ladakh is more or less easy because many people travel solo and look forward to meet new people and share cultural thoughts and values over the trip. No where else in the world you will find more smiling and helpful people as Ladakhis are 🙂
wow, that helps a lot to my confidence.. hats off .. to you… ll get in touch if i need any help… 🙂
Hi Navya,
This is sainath from Bangalore. We are 3 couples going to manali-Leh trip in may last week. If you have any plans to join, then we will get an additional company. Let me know ifinterested.
Regards
Sainath
sainath,
Glad to hear from you. Please drop me and get in touch with me on my email ID navyashreejogi@gmail.com.
Hello Dheeraj,
I planning for the above mentioned iternary in the month of june this year along with one of my frend from bangalore. So i just want to know is it safe to travel without knowing any of these places?? and also is it safe to travel being a girl? and what are the necessary prior things we need like any permissions or visa related things etc.
It will be great if you help me.
If you are an Indian, you do not need any visa 🙂 … In order to visit inner line areas of Ladakh, you will need inner line permits. For details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here
Navya, I’m also from Bangalore and planning a trip to Kashmir – Leh – Manali. My plan is to ship my bike across till Jammu and then ride till Leh, I’m going with a friend from Germany and 3 Indian friends from Bangalore. Do let me know if you’d like to travel with us. Take care!
Hi navya
m also planning to go with my friend, plz let me know if we can also join you, or we can may join a group…. As we are also strangers & don’t know any thing abt tht place..
Wow, thanks for this helpful blog post, I needed this. But I could not read all thread. I hope I could get a useful advice for my short vacation this coming April 4 to 12. Yes, only 8 days off from work and I’m travelling in budget. First time in India. I usually travel backpacking alone. I’m planning to book a flight from Dubai on April 3, 2014 to Delhi then book a flight back to Dubai by April 12. I don’t want to rush my days on the best destinations in Leh. I just want to relax and see the mountain ranges of Himalayas, visit the Leh Palace and Stupa and Pagong lake. I’m not sure if I can afford to go trekking with my short time in Leh but that is not very essential for me. Can you please advice best itinerary for me and how to get there from Delhi (by train? I love the view) and where to stay in a comfortable place but no luxury. I don’t mind tent as long as it is safe and will wake up in the morning with the view of the glorious mountains. I’m such a sucker with nature. (opps.. but I need a proper toilet and bath and hot shower). Again my budget is limited. I’m a 28 yo guy, Filipino working in Dubai who has passion with travel and discovering Buddhism. How much cash should I bring with me except from the air fare?
Robert, the time you are planning then the roads will remain closed to Ladakh from Manali as well as Srinagar. Hence, you need to fly into Leh from Delhi. Then you rest there for 2-3 days in Leh, get your permits done. This will help you remain relaxed as well as acclimatized. Then from there try to get onto some shared taxis to Nubra Valley and Pangong Tso lake. Finally return back to Leh and Delhi. In the first 3 days you can check out people looking out for partnering to share taxi costs or any pre-scheduled shared taxis available there or not. You can find flyers, notification in Main Market as Changspa will be closed most likely.
That is very ideal. I decided to fly from Delhi to Leh and follow your advice. How many hours it takes to travel Leh going to Numbra Valley then going to Pangong Tso lake? I am suposed to stay overnight on each destination? or they are just a day trip?
Let’s keep discussion under one thread in the community link here
You need to reach Nubra and then come back to leh first. From Leh again you have to start for Pangong Tso. Most shared taxis run in that directions only.
Hi, Is going solo a great option to ladakh? like i’m thinking to start from Delhi to Manali , then Manali to Ladakh. Are there any buses from Manali to Ladakh?? And all in all how much time would it take for all of this & what would be the budget? Please let me know.
Venky, there are many people whom I know who travel Solo to Ladakh every year. So, no issues at all. There are many buses connecting both Srinagar as well as Manali from Leh. In season time even HPTDC run their semi deluxe bus between Manali and Leh. There are many shared taxis that also run over Srinagar – Leh as well as Manali – Leh Highways. Private taxis in Ladakh are quite costly but you need to gel up with people up there in Leh to get shared tourist taxis. You can find lots of flyers over there in Leh in Main Market OR Changspa road asking for people to join in over shared taxis. If you talk about all common tourist destinations in Ladakh in general, it will take about 15-16 considering you on public transport.
Hi, If I reach Jammu Tawi about 3pm, then would I be able to reach Srinagar the same day or will I have to stay that night in Jammu itself?
Raj, it is better that you stay at Jammu only or probably move at MAX to Patnitop. Then start the journey to Srinagar next morning.
Hi Dheeraj,
Gr8 job for thz much informative write-ups. I m planning for d same trip of Srinagar-Leh-Manali trip in the month of September. I pefer to opt bike for d trip fully. So would like to know that whether i get bike for rent from Srinagar & if so then can it be returned at Manali ??
JiJiN, there are no bike rentals in Srinagar. Either you have to hire from Manali and then drive there to Srinagar. Or some Manali bike rentals can get the bike for you to Srinagar, but that is a costly affair not worth it. Better go via road from Srinagar and then hire/rent bike in Leh. There are loads of bike rentals in Leh at fort road.
well what if i start from Manali….like Manali-Leh-Srinagar?? Then will i b able to return bike @ Srinagar??
No, you will not be able to return the bike at Srinagar as is. But, you will have to pay quite a decent amount to the rental operator so that he can pick up from Srinagar, expect more than 5000 just for pick up from Srinagar.
Hi Dheeraj,
Really great work.Can u do me a favor.I just want to know approx budget to our following tour plan
day 1:
jammu to kargil
day 2 :
kargil to leh
day 3:
leh to pagong
day 4:
pagong to leh
day 5:
leh to nubra
day 6:
nubra to leh
day 7 :
leh – alchi – leh
day 8:
leh to srinagar
day 9:
srinagar to jammu
day 10:
leave towards mumbai
We want to have budget tour. Railway bookings will be managed by us. What will be approximate cost for this tour. And is it possible to directly go there n book hotels or tents on the spot
will it be feasible.
We are total 7 person n it is our first trip to leh
please reply asap
Dnyanesh, you will not be able to do Jammu to Kargil in one day, you have to break at Srinagar. Then, do Nubra Valley first to better acclimatize and then do Pangong Tso. For doubts related to budget for Leh – Ladakh trip, I am sure the link below will help you alot for getting an idea of overall budget:
How to calculate cost or budget for Leh – Ladakh trip
Also, check the article: 5 Tips for a Budget Trip to Ladakh
Hi Dheeraj,
This is a great work and really helpful for the first time and even the experienced visitors.
We are planning to visit Leh-Ladkah in the month of June 2014 (16th June 2014 to 25th June 2014). I’ve planned below itinerary after going through many of your blogs. It would be a great help if you can validate this and give your suggestions.
Leh – Ladakh trip Itinerary
16th June 2014
Land at Leh airport by 7:30am and then proceed to the hotel. Take rest entire day.
Do local sightseeing if interested in the evening (post 5pm) for 2-3 hours.
17th June 2014
Proceed to Kargil via Hau-Dha route, also explore Drass.
Stay in KARGIL
18th June 2014
Explore Suru Valley up to Panikher then return to Kargil – Leh via Fotu La route.
Stay in LEH
19th June 2014
Proceed to village Turtuk located in Nubra Valley.
Stay in TURTUK
20th June 2014
We would be exploring the other side of the nubra valley today till Panamik or if allowed till Sasoma.
Stay in HUNDER
21st June 2014
Today we are travelling to the Pangong via WariLa Pass
Stay in PANGONG
22nd June 2014
Hanle Visit via Pangong – Chushul – Mahe – Nyoma – Loma – Hanle via Kakasang La route
Stay in HANLE
23rd June 2014
Tso Moriri via Kyun Tso – Nidar – Mahe – Sumdo – Tso Kiagar – Tso Moriri
Stay in TSO MORIRI / KORZOK
24th June 2014
Today we would be on the last leg of our journey and returning to Leh via Tso Moriri – Sumdo – Tso Kar – Debring – Upshi – Leh route.
Stay in Leh
25th June 2014
Fly out early morning.
Thanks in advance for your help.
Hello Dheeraj,
Would appreciate your expert opinion on this
Prashant, Sorry, I missed it in between. Firstly Kargil to Suru and then back to Leh is a bit tedious thing. Needs to be worked out there. Then unless you have good army contacts you will not be allowed on Kakasang La route to Mahe from Chusul and the other route from Tsaga La will also be dependent upon the situation during that time. Even if you get permits, there is no surity that you will be allowed to pass through. Tso Moriri via Nidar – Kyon Tso will be again very tedious, you will like to halt at Chumathang or better make it Tso Moriri from Salsal La route.
Thanks Dheeraj for the inputs. If the permits are going to be an issue then the problem I would face is that there is no other way to reach Hanle from Pangong Tso. Is there any specific reason the army does not allow to travel on Kakasang La route?
Also from hanle to Tso Moriri even though tedious, can we cover it in a day if we leave early morning? (I did not find the other route you suggested on google map).
Other than these two points rest looking good?
Thanks in advance.
Prashant, army does not allow because the route beyond Merak from Pangong Tso, is not allowed to traverse by Civilians outside Ladakh. And that Kaksang La route is something no one traverse and only 2 accounts I have known who have done that route with all troubles. In case, there is some landslide OR there is some mechanical failure… You are gone there as nothing would come for rescue. All this if at all you are allowed to pass through after getting the permits.
To get an idea of the routes in Ladakh along with distances, you can refer: DoW – Maps of Ladakh | Nubra Valley & Changthang. Keep in mind that, the remote routes are isolated and completely off track with almost no roads. Better stick to traditional routes in case it is the first trip to Ladakh.
Hello sir,
i would require a favour from your end.
We are two couples and planning for a week to ley -manali and any other good place around there. Would like to know which other place could be covered. Also how much would be a budget for 5 days for the 3 places
Yash, you just have 5 days bro, you cannot make a trip to Leh in these 5 days. Better enjoy Manali – Kasol only in these 5 days.
Hi Dheeraj,
We are group of 8 people and want to complete entire journey from Mumbai to leh in 9 days. I mean 2 days for “to and fro” from mumbai-delhi & delhi-mumbai. we are gonna do trip from manali to leh on bike. but i dont know budget and travelling days from manali to leh. It is highly appreciated if you would provide details of accomodation(baudget dhaba, home stay) cost of bike, cost for mechanic & cost for all premission.
Rakesh, it takes 2 days to reach Leh from Manali and then 2 days to come back. One day is required for rest. Then you need 1 day to travel to Manali from Delhi and 1 day to come back to Delhi from Manali. So, that makes it 7 days and then 4 days for Delhi to Mumbai as well. Hence, you need 11 days just to do Manali – Leh Highway and see nothing in Ladakh.
hi, dheeraj i want to know that what budget should we keep in mind for our trip as v r planning our trip from manali-leh by bikes so can u let us know a tentitive amount we should keep in mind while planing as of 2014 june.
it would be grt to get some useful info from your side.
awaiting ur reply
THANK YOU!!
Ankit, please read the section “Self-Drive But Rented Vehicle” in the article above to get an idea of tentative budget for Ladakh trip for the mode you are traveling.
End of may is ideal for trip to Leh Ladakh? c an you make an itinerary for me please. me , wife and daughter would like to visit. Accomodation in hotels and food can be done at dhabas. please assist.
Prashant, how many days you have, how do you commute, what is your starting point will some of my initial questions to help you with Ladkah trip 🙂
Dear Dheeraj,
I am planning to go to ladakh by bike from Surat, Gujarat. i need ur guidance. plz mail me ur mobile no on jcdesai.8887@gmail.com
Thanks, Jaydeep
Dear Dheeraj sir….Thanks a lot for ur suggestion.. You are right sir Hut refers to Camps.. How to Buy camps or how to arrange for staying in camps during night stay..camps are Not for the whole 15 days but may be 5-6 days… and also if we are staying in camps how to arrange the food facilities….
Anthony, you will get commercial camps at some of places like PAngong Tso, Tso Moriri, Sarchu, Jispa, Pang, Nubra Valley and they are run just as hotels only. You go pay them for one room. Else you need to carry your own tents, preferable would be to buy them at the link from Flipkart at good discounted price: Quechua T2 Tent – For 2 Persons 🙂
Then you will need to have sleeping bag too and then mattresses finally. So, over all if you are long into adventure buy out else just take the commercial ones when you reach there for one night basis. You need to arrange food on your own in this case.
And also during our trip some days we want to stay during night by arranging huts ourselfs, it it possible sir, if YES where do we get the materials for the prepation oh Huts..PLZ help us.. thank you sir….
I am not sure what do you mean by huts? Are you referring to camps? Will you be buying camps?
Dear Dheeraj sir…Thank you so much for the valuble article this will help us lot… sir I am planning Leh-ladakh trip in september 1st week , we are 4 members friends.. almost all my doubts are cleared after reading all the Above ur Guidance.. only thing is we are starting from Mysore Karnataka, we have our own 350cc Bullets, we want to use it during our trip there.. please suggest us how to plan.. we will be reaching Delhi by train, our trip is for 15 days excluding reaching leh & return from leh to mysore… is it possible to bring our Bikes over there, I am struck up in this point.. Please hepl us.. awaiting for ur reply sir.. Thank you so much sir….
Anthony, yes, you can bring your bikes till Jammu and from there carry on with your road trip to Ladakh. 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.
Dheeraj I am planning a bike trip to ladhak from delhi. Can I have your contact no. please…
Dheeraj, can I have your contact no. as I wanted to talk to you wrt planning my trip to ladhak from delhi.
I will email you my contact number.
hey dheeraj,
our plans is from 13th march till 18 march and we are planning to go by train, so how we can reach there from delhi and please suggest me some cheap and budget hotels….actually we are two friends and we are planning to visit leh since 2009…..how much money is enough for two of them for 5 days……i would be highly grateful if you provide me such information
Adil, you have just 5 days and you cannot visit Leh by road in just 5 days. Also, in March Srinagar – Leh Highway as well as Manali – Leh Highway remain closed. So, flight is the only option to Travel to Leh – Ladakh in March.
Hi Dheeraj,
Our Plan is from april 29th. We are flying directly to leh. Will all the places in Ladhak be accessible during the first week of may?
Yes, all places will be accessible but there will not be any accommodation options available at Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri apart from Homestays if any. Most hotels in Leh as well will either be closed or start to get open during that time. Lakes will be partially frozen too, may be.
Thanks Dheeraj for the reply. Hotel bookings are open online for those dates in Leh. Have to check either homestays or hotels in both pangong tso and tso moriri..
May be for Leh but I highly doubt for Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri because only by second week of May, camps get usually setup there.
Hmm what do you suggest we do? can a one day journey be possible to pangong tso and tso moriri (to and fro from leh) ?
Prashanth, only day trip to Pangong Tso can be possible BUT you cannot have day trip to Tso Moriri.
Hey Dheeraj,
Hope you are doing well. I had chatted with you some while ago. I have some change in plans. Had to go with a group, but due to leave problem, we wont be able to go for more than 5 days to Leh. My hubby and I wanted to go for 5 days leh trip. Have heard that manali road to leh is very beautiful. COnsidering this and other main points to be seen, can you suggest what all should be cover and how should we book it. I thought whilst going to Leh we can go to Delhi – Manali – Leh and whilst coming directly flight from Leh. PLease sugges us how to utilise 5 days in maximum way. I anyhow wanna go ther, so please help in 5 days how to cover must see places. THanks for your guidance.
Khyati, not really sure when you are planning this trip. Are you planning just Manali – Leh Highway journey? If yes, you can simple do:
Day 1 | Delhi – Manali – Solang Valley
Day 2 | Solang Valley – Rohtang Pass – Keylong
Day 3 | Keylong – Sarchu – Pang – Taglang La Pass – Leh
Day 4 | Leh Rest Day + acclimatize + permits
Day 5 | Leh – Khardung La – Leh OR Leh – Pangong Tso – Leh
Day 6 | fly out of Leh by early morning flight.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Bro, I haven’t got a reply yet….
Hi Dhiraj,
We wish to go Leh via Manali(yes, despite your warning bcoz we have no option) on 7th July 2014 following your itinerary.for 15 days.I have some questions. 1. The Inova driver demands 40k for entire Leh,Pangang,Tso moriri etc. Is it OK?
2.Can we cover Shyam valley & Lamayuru in one day?
3.We need 2 travel partners.Anybody interested? My e-mail arindambhattacharyya1966@gmail.com
Arindam, sure, call is finally of the traveler 🙂 … Regarding your queries,
1. Can you please tell me the exact plan for which you have been quoted 40K
2. It will be very hectic but you can do so.
3. DoW has started an initiative under DoW – Himalayan Travel Community for finding Travel Partners or Companions, leave your message in Travel Partners section at the link: Ladakh & Zanskar – Travel Partners Section. There is also a DoW Travel Calendar linked here which can be used to easily and quickly spot a travel partner with similar dates of all the people looking for Travel Partners for their trips. May be you meet someone online going over the same dates.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj, We are planning road trip from Mumbai to Ladakh 1st week of July and only 2 of us travelling in my SUV. Planning to have a bigger group, what will be expenditure as per your earlier detail costing?
San, this July you need to go pre-booked hotels as 33rd Kalachakra is being held there in Ladakh in first two weeks of July. This means there will be lacs of people around that time, hence, no option to stay. Good that you are carrying your own vehicle because taxis will not be available at that time. For costing it depends on the itinerary being followed, you can go through the article above reffering the Self Drive section and you will get an idea of the cost.
Hi, Dheeraj really liked your article,Thumbs Up for the great work. I must say that I really appreciate your deep knowledge and kindness to help fellow backpackers …
Bro, I am planning to visit Leh-Ladakh in very first week of July.. we are group of around 18 people, so here are my Questions regarding the Trip….
1)I just saw in the article u declaring September as hit month to go, but as we are doing this trip followed by Shree Amarnath yatra we dont have the option of changing the month.. So i just want to know if we will be disappointed if we visit Leh in July..
2)What about carrying permits to visit a particular place?
3)Do you have any ideas of Paragliding and River Rafting in Ladakh.. ie : Rates, Places where to start..
4)We will be hiring a Tempo Traveler 407, can we go to every place using that vehicle or we have to hire a Taxi to visit a particular place….
Will really appreciate if you reply.. Thanking You, Aniket…
|| BOOM SHIVA ||
Hello Aniket,
1. This time it is Kalachakra in July first half. So, keep all hotels pre-booked. Most of the famous ones will already be booked. There will be trouble finding the taxis, may be you will not find one. So, you need to arrange either in advance or take your own vehicle. Apart from that you will enjoy in July too brother. It is just September is best but does not mean other months are bad to visit 🙂 … In fact every month in Leh – Ladakh has its own beauty.
Check more details of Kalachakra in the community thread: https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/india/plan-ladakh-zanskar-trip/kalachakra-july-2014-t603.html
2. For details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here
3. There is no Paragliding in Ladakh. It is Rafting that takes place near Nimmu and prices generally starts from Rs 800-900 depending upon which section you prefer to do.
4. No tempo traveller should be good but the problem is with your dates. If it is Kalachakra, I highly doubt you will get any commute.
Regards
dheeraj Sharma
Thank you so much for the details Bro.. I am little confused with the 4th answer of yours. I am planning to hire a Tempo Traveller from Jammu Station itself. Will we be facing any problems if we go by a Tempo Traveller?
Aniket, Taxis outside Ladakh are not allowed to do any sightseeing within Leh – Ladakh. You can use them for only for drop-in and take-away modes only. So, the taxi you are hiring locally or from Jammu/Srinagar must have private number plate otherwise you will have to again hire a taxi within Ladakh and pay for your other taxi without using it to return back.
Hi Dheeraj, I really liked your article.
I am planning a bike trip to Leh-Ladakh in June this year. Most of my questions are already answered above, seeking a few more suggestions since this is my dream trip. Is June the best time to visit there and Is there any specific requirement that the bike should meet? I don’t have a bullet but will be arranging a 350 CC, what other bikes would you recommend ? I am from Canada and need to get my flight tickets booked in advance. Thank you..:)
Hello Nikhil,
June will be good time to visit in case you are looking for snow out there. I have seen people doing Ladakh trip on even scooters, so no problems with the machine you are taking, it is the determination and grit of doing it is all that matters most here. Get something which you are comfortable riding with and can maneuver with ease. In case you looking out actually beauty but not snow then you will see burning colors of Ladakh in late September types when autumn colors are showering all magic around.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks Dheeraj, really appreciated. I never heard before about those colors in September end. I have to plan all over again in that case because I do not want snow at all. Thank you very much. 🙂
Nikhil, just browse through the travel tales section and you will mostly find such colors only because I travel mostly in that season when colors are most vivid and burning all around Ladakh, Zanskar and Spiti
Hi Dheeraj, I will be planning in the end of Sept or probably first week of Oct. seeking a quick suggestion from you that where should I rent the bike from Delhi or Jammu or Srinagar ? and If you can suggest any specific place to rent it from with reasonable cost. Thanks man, really like your posts, You are the man I was looking for. very helpful posts.
In Srinagar or Jammu, you will not find any option of renting bike. So, if it is bike rental either hire from Delhi or after reaching Leh (much preferable). Glad that DoW helped you in planning your Ladakh trip 🙂
Dheeraj, How are you doing man.. okay so I am planning in the mid of Sept and it looks almost decided now. We are two guys coming from Delhi by train to Jammu and that is all our planning. want to enjoy the last minute excitement of everything there. No planning nothing booked all on ourselves. Will be using public transport untill Leh and then renting the bike from there. Only one thing that bugging me is that I want to come back via Manali, however since I am renting bike from Leh I gotta go back there, So Is there a way that I can drop off the bike in Manali or so. May be something like same guys running business there on both ends u know. Any suggestions please ? Thanks 🙂
Nikhil, there are such operators or renters in Leh which work in this way where you can drop their bikes in Manali. But they charge premium amount for one way drop and pick. Hence, will suggest you take this call after getting the deal up there in Leh based on the prices they quote. Fort road is full of bike rental services and I am sure you will find one.
Dear Dheeraj pl can u mak a schedule with budget expenditure in the month of Sep 2014 we are 07 aduults and 01 minor planned to visit leh lasdakh with total surroundings and our trip starts from srinagar kargil kargil sight seeing and then entry at leh return from manali so please help me by guiding in a proper budget way inclusive all expenditure only the thing attached bath is fillted with comot faciolity, the only basic critertia
hi Samir,
A similar itinerary is suggested/assumed in the article above for calculating the budget. Based on the mode of transport you can follow the above itinerary and get to know the budget cost of the trip.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hey Dheeraj we have planned for a road trip in August, we are 5-6 in our group and we own a bullet, I need the clarification of our budget, we kind of thinking to have min of 15K per head for a 12days of road trip and to start our road trip from either Delhi or Chandigarh, plz suggest the best for us
Rakesh, you can refer the different sections of the article above to calculate the budget for yourself. If still you have any queries, feel free to post.
Hi Rakesh,
Even we are planning for the Roadtrip Delhi-Srinagar-Leh-Manali-Delhi. Ours was a group of 3 or 4. We planned it for 16/18 days. Starting from August 15th.
Hi Dheeraj,
First of all congratulations for such a wonderful job! you are just great!
I wanted know the approx. price of renting an Innova or any other SUV from Delhi for Leh ladhak trip. Planning the trip from June 1st onwards. Please help.
Thank you Vaibhav. Brother, Taxis outside Ladakh are not allowed to do any sightseeing within Leh – Ladakh. You can use them for drop-in and take-away modes only. So, the taxi you are hiring locally must have private number plate otherwise you will have to again hire a taxi within Ladakh and pay for your local taxi without using it.
i am totally amaged to see your knowledge or intention to help others.
And now i would like to seek help on following
1. what way whold be better from delhi to manali or delhi to jammu by for leh – ladakh trip.
2. i wish to know each and every place in leh – ladakh which should watch ,no one should ask after trip that you missesd that place opss. what ever ILP required or not.
3. days required to expolor all places.
please revert…..
once more time ,thanks
Hello Maddy,
Thank you so much. Please find my responses inline.
1. 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
2 + 3. You can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Leh – Ladakh followed by many travellers including me at the link here for 14-15 days: Most Common Itinerary for Leh – Ladakh.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
We are planning to be in Leh in dec 1st week for 5N/6D.We will be ok with cold.Please guide me about the weather condition and cost for the trip.we are 3 couples and we booked our flights from delhi-leh-delhi.
Eti, are you talking of next December 2014? Well, if you have booked your flights are there any options? 🙂
Hi,
we are planning to visit leh-ladakh in Mid July. we will start our journey from Jammu. pls advise on the itinerary for it as well as the taxis we need to hire to reach leh.
we are thinking of hiring a private innova or something of that sort from Jammu which will bring us all the way back but i read that private taxis are not allowed in your blog so pls help on how we can do that.
we would like to go for water rafting as well as sight seeing.
the timelines which we are planning is 15th June to 28th June.
Hi Abhishek, I see your queries have got answered in the DwD Community thread: Leh Ladakh Trip in Mid June 14
I am looking to spend a week in Leh-Laddak in mid of Mrch, can you help me with the itenerary and the costing please
Chitra, March will be very very cold for Leh – Ladakh and all lakes will be frozen at that time of the year. Are you sure you want to do Ladakh trip in March?
Hi. First I appreciate your avidness in helping people out in this blog/forum and keep the thread alive since 2011. I’m planning for a 10-11 day trip to ladakh in July 2014. I have read through lot of blogs and I want to travel this way. Hire a KTM from Manali along with tents. Travel to spiti and kibber for 2 days. Then start towards Leh. Enroute I wish to see Tso Kar, Tso morri pangong Tso and reach Leh(~5 days). Is this feasible as I see that I could not find petrol pumps this way. Food is not a problem as I can get from Tso Morri, or villages on the way. I also want to camp in these 5 days on the way in some beautiful places(suggestions?). On reaching Leh we will relax and visit monastries, Nubra for 2 days. Then set out to zanskar(optional if we can spend quality time from mali to leh). Then I fly from Leh to Bangalore. Please alter my plan so that I can enjoy the most out of the trip.
Thanks
For more info we are 4-5 people from Bangalore. How about the mobile signal and maps for our guidance throughout the journey. Also we would like to stay in some 3-4 days in some hotels where we can refresh in our journey apart from camping. Are there some camping sites where they provide bath/food facilities? How about temperature in the journey. Any preferences on the gear/clothes? Trip is from july 3-july 14 2014. About camping do can we pitch near tsokar/tso morri/pangong Tso?
To get an idea of the routes in Ladakh along with distances, you can refer: DoW – Maps of Ladakh | Nubra Valley & Changthang. Keep in mind that, the remote routes are isolated and completely off track with almost no roads. Better stick to traditional routes in case it is the first trip to Ladakh.
Also, you can check the thread: Clothes and accessories for manali – leh bike expedition in DwD Community to get more idea of clothing for bike trip.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hello Gilliam,
AMS is the biggest concern here, leave apart anything else. If you are hit with AMS, all your planning, leaves, vacation will go in vain. I will suggest to keep it easy and relaxed without being over-ambitious. You might come out well of this kind of plan too but there is “might” … Personally will not suggest it.
Also, You should not do Tso Moriri while going from Manali to Leh because one need permits to visit Tso Moriri and these permits are issued at DC office in Leh. Even if you arrange these permits in advance somehow from Travel Agent in Leh then fuel will be your biggest issue as there are no petrol pumps available and you will have to rely on black fuel. Even if you manage that then you will not be acclimatized to sleep at such high altitude so early in the trip and may cause some ugly AMS issues for you. Highly not recommended.
You have just 11 days, so Zanskar also goes out of picture because ex. Kargil you need at least 4 days if not recommended 5. Then 2 days for to-for to Kargil from Leh. Also, is the bike rented from Manali? If yes, how will you return it? There are heavy payment that is charged for one way hire.
Regards
dheeraj Sharma
Thanks! So as per your view, leh to manali is preferable.Do you have any rough estimate per day charge for one way bike rental from leh to manali? how About camping do can we pitch near tsokar/tso morri/pangong Tso?
Hello Gillian,
Sorry I was on a snow trek to Parashar Lake so could not reply. The bike rentals range from model to model and condition of the bike. They are in range of 700-1500 types. For one way charge you need to pay separate amount as much as 5000-6000 types or may be sometimes more.
For information on pitching your own camps in Leh – Ladakh, please refer our FAQ in the community: FAQ | Can I pitch my own tents or camps anywhere in Ladakh?
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj, can you suggest some forum where I can get some travel buddy’s as I’m looking for someone to join. Also can you suggest any organised trip where they provide pulsar/FZ. Because wherever I check they operate only with Enfields.
Gilliam, DoW has started an initiative under DoW – Himalayan Travel Community for finding Travel Partners or Companions, leave your message in Travel Partners section at the link: Ladakh & Zanskar – Travel Partners Section. There is also a DoW Travel Calendar linked here which can be used to easily and quickly spot a travel partner with similar dates of all the people looking for Travel Partners for their trips. May be you meet someone online going over the same dates.
Thanks. this is what I was looking for. But the link https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/india/ladakh-zanskar-travel-partners/ does not exist or has no activity.
Oops, sorry my bad. Please use the link: https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/india/himalayan-travel-partners/
Wonderful! Very precise. I went to Leh via Manali in Jun/Jul 2011. I must say, your estimations are very much up to the mart. Wonderfully done.
Hello Anubhav,
Thank you so very much. If possible, try and share your Himalayan experience with us at DoW – Himalayan Travel Community as Photo Tale or Travel Tale Or your reviews of the hotels/guest houses where you stayed or dhabhas/restaurants you ate food on your trip… All this might help others planning the similar trip too 🙂 🙂
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
I see the article for how to budget for Ladakh based on starting point manali, srinagar etc. Can some one tell me who can provide most economic Rental Car in Leh and est. cost for an itinerary (10 days incl. arrival and departure from Leh), any contact (phone & e-mail) for such person/agency?
thanks.
Sharad
Just replied it here
Dear Dheeraj:
Thank you very much this excellent guidance.
Sharad
Pleasure, best wishes for your trip 🙂
Hi
I am planning to go LADAKH on May 20th via Srinagar.Is it possible to go there in that time? We are total 8 includind 2 children (6 adult + 2). Can it be allowed to travel in a single Car like travera/ Sumo?
Hi Brijesh,
Yes, at that time of the year at lest Srinagar – Leh highway will get open, so you will be able to make to Leh. Manali – Leh not surety. Also, 8 people will be too much for single car. How many days are you planning?
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thank you Dheeraj fom your valuable advice.We are planning to stay there for 8 days (inclusive arrival and departure day).One is 5 years and another is 10 years children.We are going from kolkata west bengal. So please make a plan which will be suitable for us.Thanking you once again.
Hi Brijesh,
Are you planning to travel via Srinagar – Leh Highway both time? It takes 2 days to reach Leh from Srinagar by road and then in that case you will only be left with 3 days in Ladakh considering you need to be there in Srinagar on Day 7 to take flight back home on Day 8.
Out of three days, one day will be needed for rest and permits for Ladakh and then for next two days you can visit Khardung La on one day and Pangong Tso day trip.
I hope this helps. Please let me know in case you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
thank u dheeraj for ur advice i ll be taking the june option gud coz i ll get more time to prepair ll be bugging u again for more information
My pleasure Abhishek. Better go with June then. Yes, do prepare well enough and there is loads of articles in the Ladakh section of the blog along with detailed maps, altitude/distance graphs, detailed info. on accommodation, places, etc.. within Ladakh and on the routes which you can go through. Feel free to post your queries either in the blog or to get advice from other experts as well post them into DwD Community 🙂
dheeraj thanks for the information can u plz tell me which ll be the best time to make this trip and also what all formalities i need to do for this trip
Well if you are looking out for too much adventure with snow and all then make it happen in the month of June. Otherwise, better see the vivid colors in September. Regarding formalities there is nothing but Inner Line Permits for Ladakh. For details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here
dheeraj i m planing to go to ladakh in march from delhi by bicycle it ll be a month journey any advice or suggestions are welcome
Abhishek, the roads will be closed by that time of the year. Both Manali – Leh highway as well as Srinagar – Leh Highway will be closed.
Hi Dheeraj,
I’m planning to go on Leh-Ladakh trip in April, 2014. In total, we are around 8-10 people. So, we are planning to meet in Delhi, and from there, we’ll take bikes on rent. We’ll be having 10 days in total for the trip. So can you please suggest is it worth to have a bike ride from Delhi to Ladakh, or is there any better idea?
Also, can you please suggest the popular places to visit, in Leh-Ladakh, as well as places on the way from Delhi to Ladakh?
Also, can you tell us that approximately how much will cost per person for the entire trip. Please note that we are not looking for very luxurious accomodations/food.
Hi Avinash,
Roads to Ladakh which are Manali – Leh Highway and Srinagar – Leh Highway most likely open in June and May respectively. So, in April most likely the roads will remains closed to Ladakh
Regards
Dheeraj
Hi Dheeraj,
Thanks for your suggestion.
As you said,roads to Ladakh will be closed in April,so what is the most appropriate time that you suggest for the trip??
Also,I was going through the “Most Common Itinerary for Ladakh” https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/most-common-itinerary-for-leh-ladakh/ ,
can you specify those places that can be skipped, as we won’t be able to go on a 15-16 days trip (our maximum duration is 10 days)??
Hello Avinash,
10 Days is quite tight in terms of road trip to Ladakh where it takes 4 days to reach Leh from Delhi via Srinagar and 3 days to come back from Manali side. You are left with just 3 days in which one day rest and arranging for permits. Then, in rest two days you can make a visit to Khardung La and then day trip to Pangong Tso.
I will suggest that you make the journey anytime starting 1st week of June till September to make sure that both Manali – Leh as well as Srinagar – Leh Highways are open.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Avinash,
My name is deepak and i am searching for group tour toleh on bike. I have My own Bike
Hi Deepak,
DoW has started an initiative under DoW – Himalayan Travel Community for finding Travel Partners or Companions, leave your message in Travel Partners section at the link: Ladakh & Zanskar – Travel Partners Section. There is also a DoW Travel Calendar linked here which can be used to easily and quickly spot a travel partner with similar dates of all the people looking for Travel Partners for their trips. May be you meet someone online going over the same dates.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
i am a plan to go leh ladakh tour on next year end of may or 1st june,2014.we are 6adaults and 1 child (06yr). i read your article that is very useful. we will go from howrah(West Bengal).we will be 15days tour. now please give me a good tour plan for leh ladakh that will be cover total leh ladakh. we will be travel by train both side.
1.give me the budget hotel(rs 500-rs 800) name and ph no where we can stay. 2.in the last of may or 1st june which side will be more scenic beauty 3.what will be daily meal charges at leh ladakh.. 4. give me the transport costing from fast to last . 5. where we stay at Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri and Nubra Valley and what will be cost.
thanks
avijit
Hello Avijit,
You can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Leh – Ladakh followed by many travelers including me at the link here for 14-15 days: Most Common Itinerary for Leh – Ladakh.
For accommodation, check the nice, preferred list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh (Leh, Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri) including moderate and cheap budget hotels as well in the series of articles starting on the link here
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Dheerajji, thank you for your respond.i want to know that on 1st june,2014 manali route will be possible to go leh or which route will be most scenic beauty.and give me a good tour plan for 14days howrah to howrah.
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 travelers including me at the link here for 14-15 days: Most Common Itinerary for Leh – Ladakh.
By the time you reach Manali Leh Highway using above plan, the roads will most likely be open. If you cn shift the journey by a week or two, it will be more safer bet in terms of Manali – Leh Highway being open.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
We are planning to visit Leh in July 2014. We are 12-13 persons in group. We need some help from you Sir-ji.
1. Can we get hired 13-14 seater vehicle from Kargil?
2. Can we get Ladakh registered vehicle at Kargil?
3. Can you provide some contact no who provides this type of vehicle?
4. Can we directly travel to Tso moriri from Pangong Tso?
5. Is it possible to reach Pangong Tso in 1 day from Diskit?
6. Is it necessary to book hotels in advance in July at Lamayuru, Leh, Diskit, Pangong Tso & Tso Moriri?
Please help us to find out the solutions.
Thanks in advance
Hello Bappa,
1. Hmm, you can but but better get it from Srinagar or Leh. Winger/Tempo Traveller are charged 35% more of the taxi so you save about 65% there.
2. Most likely yes, but for Tempo Traveler or Winger chances are less. However, you can arrange from Leh who can come come and pick you from Kargil.
3. In the article compiled list of Ladakh drivers in DwD Community, I guess there is one guy who has it. Please check with him.
4. It is questionable and subject to your luck now a days, please read the section “Updates on Permits for Chusul & Hanle or Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri” in the article Ladakh Inner Line Permit Updates on Process & Download Form
5. Yes, you can take the Wari La route but keep in mind that it is much desolated, tiring and treacherous in comparison to traditional route to Pangong Tso from Leh.
6. Since, you have a big group, it might be better to book in advance else be ready to search and split too since it is season time.
For accommodation, check the nice, preferred list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh (Leh, Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri) including moderate and cheap budget hotels as well in the series of articles starting on the link here
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi DHEERAJ
I am planning to go Leh in June 2014 from ODISSA with family for normal tour after being Vaishnoo Devi so kindly suggest most convenient way
Hi Alok,
You can travel the route from Srinagar – Leh Highway and reach there in Ladakh. You can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Leh – Ladakh followed by many travelers including me at the link here for 13-14 days: Most Common Itinerary for Leh – Ladakh.
You can follow it ex. Jammu as it is.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi,
The write-up is just great and of immense help. However, can u suggest me TOTAL TOUR COST for package covering Delhi – Leh – Alchi – Lamayuru – Chang La – Pangong Tso – Khardung La – Nubra Valley – Leh – Delhi in June/July or end of September/early October for a group of 8-9 people including 3 children? Your input is of extreme importance and is highly appreciated……Thanks and Regards
Hello Kaushik,
Thank you so much. It all depends how many days you have in hand and if you planning the trip yourself or going with some travel agent.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Sir, thanks for the mail, the itinerary will be for 5N/6D…..Thanks and Regards
Are you flying directly to Leh and flying out of Leh? Because only by flight you can do it in such short period. You can follow the below itinerary for 5-6 days trip to Ladakh. Based on the article above considering the below itinerary it should cost you about 10000-12000 per person.
Day 1 | Delhi – Leh (By Flight)
— Checkin at Hotel. Many hotels provide free pick and drop from Airport. Ask while you book them.
— Take ample of rest as well as water or anything that keep your body hydrated enough. DO NOT OVER HYDRATE. Take ORS Soluted water or ORS – L tetra packs from home.
— Do not over exert your body at any cost. Avoid too much up-down on stairs or avoid it in entirety, if possible.
— After 5-6 Hrs of rest you can visit Leh Palace, Local Leh market, Shankar Gompa .
— If you feel exerted go back to Hotel, have dinner at Hotel and take rest. Avoid any exertion. Else continue and,
— Follow the sunset by stroll at Changspa road and have a nice dinner on varied cuisines offered in-around Changspa road.
— Go back to hotel for overnight stay at Leh.
Day 2 | Leh Local Sighseeing + Inner Line Permits
— For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here
— Hire a taxi from Leh taxi stand or Hotel whichever suits you.
— Bargain hard with taxi driver. Book that single taxi for entire trip after explaining the complete plan.
— Take his inputs if you feel reasonable and if required modify the plan accordingly but should suits you best.
— Ask him to be with you guys starting first day itself, if required and charged reasonable else do it at your own.
— Again DO NOT over exert and take little steps and slow walks only.
— If feeling OK then do Local sightseeing. To know the about the places to visit check the link: Travel Guide for Local Sightseeing of Leh Town in Ladakh
— Do not use stairs at any of these places just to see them as it will exert your body much more.
— Overnight at Leh
Day 3 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder
— Head for Nubra Valley and stay overnight at Hunder / Diskit
— On the way enjoy a cup of soup at Highest Motorable Pass (as claimed) Khardung La
— Diskit has monasteries with tallest lord Buddha statue and Hunder has sand dunes and bacterian camel safari
Day 4 | Hunder / Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh
— Sumur has a famous monastery to check out and Panamik has hot water springs
— Overnight at Leh
Day 5 | Leh – Pangong Tso – Leh
— Do not plan to stay overnight at Pangong Tso as you will not be acclimatized and may fall sick. So, make a day trip only.
— Overnight at Leh
Day 6 | Rest day at Leh to enjoy local culture and some shopping OR Monastery tour OR Sham Valley tour OR Fly back home
— Overnight at Leh
— Monastery tour may include Hemis, Thicksey 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
Double carry on bike is possible on delhi – leh road?
Hello Dhruba,
Firstly, wishing you a very Happy Diwali !!
Regarding your itinerary, you should not do Tso Moriri while going from Manali to Leh because one need permits to visit Tso Moriri and these permits are issued at DC office in Leh. Even if you arrange these permits in advance somehow from Travel Agent in Leh then taxi from Manali will not be allowed to visit Tso Moriri. Even if you manage Leh taxi or going on your own, then you will not be acclimatized to sleep at such high altitude so early in the trip and may cause some ugly AMS issues for you. Highly not recommended.
Avoid sleeping at Sarchu or Pang at any cost while going to Leh from Manali because your body will not be acclimatized by the time you reach there. It is always better to stay either at Keylong/Jispa so that you minimize the chances for falling sick or hit by AMS while going to Leh from Manali. And, then next day carry on the rest of the journey to Leh without sleeping in between anywhere by leaving early in the morning say, by 4-5 AM types. I prefer staying at Jispa more because Keylong gives the feeling of a town while Jispa is more closer to nature having Bhaga river running just aside the Manali – Leh Highway at Jispa. If you are coming back via Manali – Leh, then it should be OK to stay at Sarchu as your body will be acclimatized by that time.
So you need to re-work the itinerary.
Better proposition will be to hire a taxi.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj
same to you, happy diwali, & also thanks for the respond. BTW I have one more ques. we are not comfortable on Royal Enfield, so
which types of bike you suggest on this condition
Yes, you can surely make the trip to Ladakh on other bikes as well. Pulsar 180-200 will also do just fine 🙂
Hi Dheeraj,
thank u so much….
Hi Dheeraj
I also send you our proposed journey plan.
DAY 1 | Delhi – Chandigarh ( 285 kms approx.)
DAY 2 | Chandigarh – Manali (270 kms approx.)
DAY 3 | Manali –Sarchu (225 kms)
DAY 4| Sarchu – Pang – Moore Plains (Manali – Leh Highway) – Tso Kar – Tso Morir
DAY 5 | Tso Moriri via Chumathang – Leh
Day 6 | Leh Rest Day or Sham Valley Tour around Leh including – Magnetic Hills (50 km approx.), Alchi (100 Kms approx.) Santi Stuph, Leh Palace/ [ Gurudwara Pather Sahib, Likir, Basgo, Confluence at Nimmu,]
Day 7| Leh – Hemis – Pangong Tso (160 Kms approx.)
Day 8 | Pangong Tso – Thicksey – Shey Palace – Leh (160 Kms approx.)
Day 9| Leh – Khardung La – Diskit (Nubra Valley) – Hunder – Diskit (140 Kms approx.)
Day 10 | Hunder/Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh (170 Kms approx.)
if possible than same day return in Rumtse. Leh town – Rumtse (78 kms approx)
Day 11 | Rumtse – Sarchu – (173 Kms approx)
Day 12 | Sarchu – Manali – (225 Kms approx)
according to you is it fine?
hi Dheeraj
I am from Darjeeling.Me & my friends were planning for a trip Delhi to leh around june,2014. Basically we are 5 people among them 3 are riders thats why we wanted to hire 3 bikes. So we wanted to that is it a healthy trip or not? & also we are not comfortable on Royal Enfield, so which types of bike you suggest on this condition. Please guide us
thanking you..
hi dheeraj…we r planning for a trip delhi to leh on july’2014..
basically we are 5 people but among them 3 are riders..so we are planning hire 3 bikes.so is it a healthy trip or not? and and also prefer us some bike for this condition. Pls assist us..thanking you
Hello Prabir,
Well, I feel you can certainly make a trip since alot of people do every year with a pillion. So, I do not see any issues. You can rent bikes in Leh and Fort Road in Leh is full of such shops that rent bikes. Depending upon the condition, model, make and tourist rush you can get bikes starting from Rs 800 to Rs 1300. Rather than booking over phone, it is much better to visit the Fort road, check 4-5 shops over there and get a good deal after checking the bike conditions. I will suggest you read this for sure to understand few tips on hiring bikes from Manali or Leh: How to Hire or Rent a Bike or Motorcycle in Manali
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
we are planning for trip delhi-leh around july 2014.Pls tell us the weather condition &
also provide us some bike rental services in delhi…thanking you…
Though I have replied to your other comment, but I will suggest that if you guys are not that much into riding in hills so it is better and safe bet to get rented bikes in Leg and reduce the overall risk.
dear sir,i m planning to leh ladakh in september 2014 we are 5-6 guys with more than 10 year bike experience on road as well off road coz i live in uttrakhand in haridwar so i am familiar with mountains riding,we all have royal enfield classic 500cc and couple of guys having classic 350,so my question is that we are planning to start our journey from saharanpur(u.p.)and we can all stay in basic accommodations and eat dal roti and rice we are planning for 15-20 days trip,what are the basic things,accessories,safety stuffs,reserve fuel,do we need in our trip and what should be our route and when and where we should stay overnight although our budget is rs 25000-28000 per person,our if you suggest us the route plan for the trip,one more thing i want to mention here that i have a back problem but not that serious i can ride bike for 200 km per day as i have tested my self,
what do you suggest?
Hello Deepak,
There are too many questions in one go, I will try to answer some and we can continue the dialog as you understand and have more queries.
Budget wise things seem to be fine. You will do it well under that budget.
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 travelers including me at the link here for 14-15 days: Most Common Itinerary for Leh – Ladakh.
For accommodation, check the nice, preferred list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh (Leh, Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri) including moderate and cheap budget hotels as well in the series of articles starting on the link here
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.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
thanks very much to respond,
that mean first we will have to reach srinagar by bikes or we can take our bike in transport vehicle up to srinagar(plz suggest),i have been srinagar,manali,rohtang pass before but that was in a haired taxi.
2nd are you sure can we travel entire tour with bikes,all members are from 23to32 year old and all fit,
Deepak, a lot of people in that age group does this route every year in almost all months around, so no worries on that front as long as yo have open mind for adventure and difficulties associated to it. Do not consider it an easy ball game, at least Manali – Leh Highway. You have to go through Water Crossings, Slush stretches, very bad roads, etc.. So, be open to it.
You can ship your bikes to Jammu by train and then you need to start you ride from Jammu first to Srinagar and there on.
Regards
Dheeraj
thanks for your valuable advice,but i have 1 more question right now came into my mind if we start our journey from jammu-srinagar-drass/kargil-leh so where it should be end,if we are travelling in mid of september,and if we do not want to go through manali,
Deepak, why you do not want to go through Manali? Manali – Leh Highway is the soul of any Ladakh journey and without that journey, Ladakh experience is not complete? You can perhaps enter Spiti Valley from Kunzum Pass as well but that is a longish route to reach Ambala or Chandigarh.
actually i was planning my route from ambala-ludhiana-jammu-patnitop-srinagar-kargil/drass-leh,after reaching leh i got confuse where should i end my journey,actually manali-leh route is tough rather than srinagar-leh route,and yes if i take leh-manali route then it will be very long to reach ambala.so after reaching leh which route shoul i take to end my juorney,plz suggest.
If you want to end journey in Leh then you need to fly out of Leh. Otherwise either yo have to back track the same route from Leh to Srinagar to Ambala via Jammu OR the shorter route from Leh to Manali to Ambala. Leh – Manali – Ambala will take you 3 days while Leh – Srinagar – Ambala might take 4 days.
yeh i research a lot about leh-manali route,you were right with the route map,but i found something that near rohtang pass goverment has made some rule to get rid off traffic jam and have make some timing regarding on going to leh by rohtang pass and incoming from this way to manali,well i am not sure what is the right timing for both traffic,if you have any information regarding this please share.
Hi Deepak,
To know more about these two aspects, feel free to read the articles below on DoW 🙂
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
i forget 1 more thing to ask you,which gps navigator(bluetooth enable) do you recommend for bike for touring like leh.plz suggest.
Deepak, there are fully laid paths and single roads in entire tourist circuit of Ladakh. There is actually no need to spend that money and put on some navigator as you won’t need that at least on your first trip to Ladakh where you will be covering the basic circuit only. What you can do is carry some print out of our DoW – Maps of Ladakh which will help you with every other turn you need to take and approximate distance on them 🙂 … This will suffice your needs and of course you save on that navigation device, try and contribute to the DoW ideas of Responsible Travel supporting: DoW – Causes | A Step Towards Responsible Travel while you travel to Ladakh :D.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
I am planning for a Leh-Laddhaq trip for 5 days on 18th Oct with my wife. Is it open there? I understand it’s cold there now but do you suggest it is still a good time to go there?
Deepak, you understand the cold. Secondly, you are going there for a very short period and you need atleast two days to acclimatize. Then you can make a two day trip to Nubra Valley and finally a day trip to Pangong Tso. Most of the restaurants started getting close and even hotels too.
If you can really adjust to cold, OK with basic food & stays then I feel you can make the trip to Ladakh at this time of the year.
I have planned for Leh trip for 5N/6D from 20th Oct for 3 people. I have been quoted 40K for all meals, inner line permits, 4N stay in Leh and 1N stay in Hunder, Trip to Pangong and 1/2 day local sightseeing. Is it a good deal?? Hotel is providing with Central Heating and WIFI at reception area.
Jyoti guess it is for all three of you?? You will end up paying around 12-14K for the taxi for 2 day tour to Nubra + 1 Day Trip to Pangong. Rest your tickets and at max take it 1000-1200 Rs per person per day for food + acco. + misc. even if you stay with good hotels in Ladakh.
Hi Dheeraj,
actually, i m planing for honeymoon trip in December. Can you suggest me for this honeymoon trip in laddakh for 5-7 days approximately?? my budget is 25-30k for both
Moin, Ladakh is not a place for honeymoon friend and in December a big NO NO !! It will be damn cold up there and struggle for first 2-3 days.
Hi Dheeraj
Thanks for the wonderful information and i have a question that me and my friends, we are planning go to ladakh by mahindra thar and we stay in mumbai so we are planning to load thar in train so is it possible cause we are going for 25 days in month of aug 2014 so we have many plans so could you suggest me some medicines to carry or some fitness tips cause i am a chain smoker so if you can give me some fitness tips before going ladakh so that i can prepare for it.
can you please suggest us what are the places that we can cover in this 25 days and how we can manage this 25 days?
Neeraj, I am traveling Ladakh for next 14 odd days, please spare me for delayed replies. Guess, you have time you can start the thread in DwD Community and someone someone soon can start sharing the answers there and we can keep the things in organized manner. Here is the link: https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/india/plan-ladakh-zanskar-trip/
Happy journey and enjoy your trip Dheeraj and well plese let me know once you will come back so what are the exercise that i can do to maintain ma fitness and prepare for this trip and yes one important thing i am gonna purchase the books and crayons and pencils and some more stuff for the children of ladakh. thanks for your advice and its a great idea.
Thank you so much Neeraj !! We had a wonderful trip and DoW Causes was indeed the highlight of the trip where we distributed loads of stationary in small schools, medicines in dispensaries of Himalayan villages. It was indeed a pleasure of an experience.
PS: Sorry for delayed reply as I was traveling Ladakh for last couple of weeks.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi,
I am planning to stay in Ladhak for a month…cost between 15-20k and alone…mostly in a place where i get homestay and internet connection proper.
Looking forward to your reply
Sunny when are you planning this one month long stay?
Hi,
I am planning by this month maybe if you can give me some advice,mostly by end of Sept.
Sunny it will be damn cold in this month. Most guest houses closes down and you will need to survive over basic home stays only.
I am traveling Ladakh for next 14 odd days, please spare me for delayed replies.
sir,
me 15-20 days k liye kahi bahar acchi jagah ghumna chahti hu guide k through….. esi jagah jaha me jaa k delhi ko 15 days k liye bhul jana chahti hu…. aur meri limit sirf 15k hi hai to plz koi acchi si jagah , jaha me kuch new logo k sath 15 days enjoy kr saku… vo bata dijiye….. like manali… jesi ho to awesome hogi par aap muje accha bata sa bata dijiye. ya website bata dijiye jaha se me kuch decide kr sku next month k liye.
thnku sir….
Barish, you can go to Kinnaur Valley with Ropa valley and spend time there with locals. May be Spiti can also be included but you need to be aware of the cold conditions up there in Spiti now. So, if you OK with cold then head to Spiti else do it just Kinnaur + Ropa Valley and lower hills for 15 days.
Hey Dheeraj,
I am pleasantly surprised that you have been religious guiding all the visitors on site. Really nice!!!
Though I am planning a trip next year, we 4 couples are planning to go to Leh Ladakh for at least 8 days. Couples are from Delhi, Bangalore and Mumbai. Also, we want an adventurous trip like staying in tent, a little bit of trekking. As I have taken initiative to do bookings for all, I started looking at various sites and came across your site. Can you please guide, considering the above facts how do I start?
Khyati, thanks a lot. To begin with, 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 8 days: Leh – Ladakh | Most Common Itinerary by Air.
Once you get to know the little things we can discuss further queries and doubts. If possible, you can start a thread at below link for your itinerary advice and complete planning of Ladakh trip in more structured way and this way more people will get benefit from the replies by reading existing topics/queries. Here is the link: 🙂 DoW – Himalayan Travel Community | Ladakh Itinerary Advice
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
You are really doing a great work here.. 🙂
We are a group of 5, will be flying for leh on 13 Sep 2013 @06:30am from New Delhi and the Departure is scheduled on 18 Sep 2013 11:10 am from Leh. (5 days trip)
We have contacted a travel agent and he has proposed the below schedule for our trip:
Package Includes:
*3 night’s accommodation at Leh
*1 night accommodation at Pangong lake Camp
*1 night accommodation at Nubra Valley Camp
*Meals – Daily buffet Breakfast & Dinner.
*Airport-Hotel-Airport Transportation
The Package Cost quoted is around INR 11000 Per Person. (Is it fine..?)
We will be visiting these places during our trip:
SEP 13: LEH ARRIVAL
SEP 14: LEH TO PANGONG LAKE
SEP 15: PANGONG LAKE – LEH
SEP 16: LEH TO NUBRA VALLEY
SEP 17: NUBRA VALLEY TO LEH
SEP 18: DEPARTURE
Can you please suggest if we can cover some more places or if we can follow a different schedule to make this trip better.
I am still confused that apart from Nubra valley and Pangong lake, what are the other local places to visit (which we can cover in this trip..!!)
Also wanted to know about the mobile communication network and internet service there. How good is this.? Do we need to carry some particular telecom sim cards and is how good is mobile internet there?
Though we have not made this booking final. Please suggest if its a fair deal or we can have a better budget trip than this.
It also says that:
*GST extra: 3.09%
*Rafting & Camel Safari Charges.
*Inner line Permit- (what’s this and how much it costs)
*rates are twin sharing basis.
Thank you. 🙂
I have also posted this somewhere else on this website, please ignore the other one.!
Hi Ankush,
I will strongly suggest some changes here as going all the over to Pangong Tso is like a killer of a thing on the second day itself 😯 … 11K seems a little higher to me even considering the value of services for the operator. You are 5 and definitely there will be extra bed for the second room.
Day 1 | Delhi – Leh (By Flight)
— Checkin at Hotel. Many hotels provide free pick and drop from Airport. Ask while you book them.
— Take ample of rest as well as water or anything that keep your body hydrated enough. DO NOT OVER HYDRATE. Take ORS Soluted water or ORS – L tetra packs from home.
— Do not over exert your body at any cost. Avoid too much up-down on stairs or avoid it in entirety, if possible.
— After 5-6 Hrs of rest you can visit Leh Palace, Local Leh market, Shankar Gompa .
— If you feel exerted go back to Hotel, have dinner at Hotel and take rest. Avoid any exertion. Else continue and,
— Follow the sunset by stroll at Changspa road and have a nice dinner on varied cuisines offered in-around Changspa road.
— Go back to hotel for overnight stay at Leh.
Day 2 | Leh Local Sighseeing + Inner Line Permits
— For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here
— Hire a taxi from Leh taxi stand or Hotel whichever suits you.
— Bargain hard with taxi driver. Book that single taxi for entire trip after explaining the complete plan.
— Take his inputs if you feel reasonable and if required modify the plan accordingly but should suits you best.
— Ask him to be with you guys starting first day itself, if required and charged reasonable else do it at your own.
— Again DO NOT over exert and take little steps and slow walks only.
— If feeling OK then do Local sightseeing. To know the about the places to visit check the link: Travel Guide for Local Sightseeing of Leh Town in Ladakh
— Do not use stairs at any of these places just to see them as it will exert your body much more.
— Overnight at Leh
Day 3 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder
— Head for Nubra Valley and stay overnight at Hunder / Diskit
— On the way enjoy a cup of soup at Highest Motorable Pass (as claimed) Khardung La
— Diskit has monasteries with tallest lord Buddha statue and Hunder has sand dunes and bacterian camel safari
Day 4 | Hunder / Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh
— Sumur has a famous monastery to check out and Panamik has hot water springs
— Overnight at Leh
Day 5 | Leh – Pangong Tso – Leh
— Do not plan to stay overnight at Pangong Tso as you will not be acclimatized and may fall sick. So, make a day trip only.
— Overnight at Leh
Day 6 | fly back
Lastly, if you want to go with packaged tour only, better get intouch with info@offbeatescapes.com and give reference of DoW with your own itinerary as suggested above else you can plan your tour on your own and all the required info. is available over DoW Blog and Community.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks Dheeraj for your valuable suggestions. sorry I got bit late to reply, but we will surely going to change the schedule as suggested. Also emailed info@offbeatescapes.com. Lets see..
Thanks..!!
Best wishes for the trip brother, If possible, try and share your Himalayan experience with us at DoW – Himalayan Travel Community as Photo Tale or Travel Tale Or your reviews of the property where you stayed or dhabhas/restaurants you ate food on your trip…
thanku dheeraj for ur valuable information but i have to know more that is we are 7 persons have to visit leh ladakh along with manali,gulmarg patnitop etcwe have own car but limitation of days we have only seven days.so u plz let me know the proper way and destinations where we should go.
Akash, better drop Ladakh out of the picture and just do Kashmir. Even that will be hectic in 7 days.
Hi Dheeraj,
Your post is very informatve. Me and my friend are planning a trip to Ladakh in the 2nd week of September 2013. We are looking at 7D and 6N trip. We also want Delhi-Leh-Delhi airfare to be included in the itinerary. The travel agency told us that the trip will amount to approximately 41,000 INR per person. I feel it’s way too steep. On the other hand, we are interested only in package deals. Can you suggest a solution to our problem?
Ranita, if you want to go with packaged tour only, better get in touch with info@offbeatescapes.com being very reasonable in prices and give reference of DoW for better rates along with your own itinerary, may be, else you can plan your tour on your own and all the required info. is available over DoW Blog and Community.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Dear Dheeraj. 6 senior citizen couples by air Arr Leh 27 Sep 10AM; Return from Leh 01 Oct 08 AM. Would like to see lake, kardongla Pass, few monasteries, magic hill, local sight seeing.Can you suggest decent deluxe hotel and car rates 2 scorpios/equivalent and travel plans
Hello Mr K Sekar,
Better not make a journey for such a short period I will suggest. You need atleast 2 days of complete rest for acclimatization and then you will be lest with just 1 day, may be day visit to Khardung La and back.
Regards
Dheeraj
Hey Dheeraj,
First of all, Nice and very informative blog.
Me and my 5 friends are planning a trip (Delhi to leh-Ladakh) in mid September. We all are working and we have only 1 week (7days). Could you please help us in making a plan for these 7 days.
We also want to experience bike riding, so please suggest us from where we can take bikes on rent and enjoy our journey.
Nitin, it will take 3 days to reach Leh from Delhi via Manali side and 4 days to come back to Delhi from Leh via Srinagar side. This makes it 7 days. 1 Day is required in Leh for acclimatization and permits. You have 7 days. I will say add 2 more days and opt to go via Manali – Leh Highway and I will suggest that you refer the thread: Manali – Leh – Ladakh – Manali | Itinerary for 9 Days in DoW – Himalayan Travel Community.
In case you are flying in and out of Leh. 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 8 days: Leh – Ladakh | Most Common Itinerary by Air.
Regards
Dheeraj
Hi Dheeraj,
Firstly, your blog regarding the Leh-Ladakh trip is very informative. Thanks for sharing your experience.
We are a group of 6 friends from Kolkata and we are planning to visit Leh-Ladakh in this October.
We are planning to reach Delhi from Kolkata and then complete the tour in 10 days. We intend to do this on hired bikes. Our main intension is to see Leh and Ladakh. We can drop Manali as we have already visited the place.
Thanks in advance!
Regards,
Pritam
So can you please suggest the best itinerary for 10 days and the approximate cost. We are not interested in any lavish food or accommodation. The minimum will do.
Hi Pritam,
It will take 3 days to reach Leh from Delhi via Manali side and 4 days to come back to Delhi from Leh via Srinagar side. This makes it 7 days. 1 Day is required in Leh for acclimatization and permits. 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: Manali – Leh – Ladakh – Manali | Itinerary for 9 Days in DoW – Himalayan Travel Community as you have 9 days in hand. In this case, you will be able to have one more day in Ladakh that can be used as two day trip to Nubra Valley.
Regards
Dheeraj
Hi Dheeraj S,
We as a group of 6 friends are planning for a trip to Leh & Ladakh boarding from Pune (by Rail) & will get down at Jammu, planned for total 16 days. need your assistance from Jammu how we should go ahead with our journey. planning to hire a car frm Jammu kindly guide us according to our budged from Jammu to Leh & Ladakh RETURN TRIP with hotels & halts (per head INR 25,000 to 28,000) with minimum cost hotels.
Hello Prashant,
You can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Leh – Ladakh followed by many travelers including me at the link here for 14-15 days: Most Common Itinerary for Leh – Ladakh.
For accommodation, check the nice, preferred list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh (Leh, Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri) including moderate and cheap budget hotels as well in the series of articles starting on the link here
For the leh – ladakh taxi union rate list 2013-14 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.
Taxis outside Ladakh are not allowed to do any sightseeing within Leh – Ladakh. You can use them for drop-in and take-away modes only. So, the taxi you are hiring locally must have private number plate otherwise you will have to again hire a taxi within Ladakh and pay for your local taxi without using it.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks a ton Dheeraj for a proper guidance.
Best wishes for the trip 🙂
Hi Dheeraj, i myself along wid my family of 3 are planning to come to Leh on 16th sept by delhi leh early morning flight…. My stay wud b till 20th morning as we wud be flying back. I have 4 days in my hand and i want to explore almost all the major parts of Leh…. If you could help me out what shud i do n how can i plan….Also i wanted to kno that if we book a bike from Leh so is it possible to ride them n explore nubra valley and Pangong so….if yes then will it take a lot of time in riding them or is it same as a time taken by a normal car….also let me kno if we go to explore nubra and pangong so is it necessary to keep the hotels booked in Leh for d entire days stay so that d bigger bags could be kept in leh itself when we leave for nubra and pangong exploring on bikes…..also m not understanding the meaning Of inner line permits that are concuming the 1st day of every traveller…one last question is are there self driven cars available on rent, if yes then from where can i get them…
Raahil, if you have not booked the tickets, then better not visit Ladakh for just 4 days!!! Well, you need at least first two days to acclimatize your body and almost resting in the hotel room at least for very first day. Second day, you can barely walk around, just that. Finally, you will be left with 2 days, one day you can make day trip to Khardung La and on other day you can make day trip to Pangong Tso.
For details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here
Hello we are planning a trip to leh ladakh we are from goa its a 10 to 12 day trip we are flying down to delhi and we have our bikes which will be transported there by train…i wanted to have a clear picture as to what all can be covered in this period of time and we are adventure and nature loving people and will september bea good time to plan the trip sept 8th or 10th is what we are looking at and what is the best things to see out there covering most of it if not everything…and which route would be appropriate and per day what all can be covered we have our own tents and sleeping bags so stay anywhere is not a problem we want to cover maximum…even cooking equipment we have little so places with no ffod we can survive…please reply thanks in advance
Hi Rahul,
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 travelers including me at the link here for 14-15 days: Most Common Itinerary for Leh – Ladakh.
For accommodation, check the nice, preferred list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh (Leh, Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri) including moderate and cheap budget hotels as well in the series of articles starting on the link here
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.
For details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
We are planning to visit Leh-Ladakh during March end-April Beginning 2014. We will travelling from Howrah with family of 6-7 members maximum. We will have a total of 9 days including the journey days. Can you please suggest an itinerary for the trip and the estimated cost. Please consider the fact that we do not want to go into luxury but rather we will go the cheaper yet comfrtable options. Please suggest.
Rahul
Rahul, do you know that it is off season and that too towards late end of winters in Ladakh. Hence, there is scarcity of fresh veggies or perhaps everything available will be from stocks stored in November end when the roads closes. And it will be extremely cold in Ladakh. You will not be able to stay overnight at Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri and both these lakes will be completely frozen.
Regards
dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
Can you tell me which will be the best time to plan my visit? We dont want to visit the place when it will be heavily crowded as in most times it becomes more expensive during pick season time.We want to enjoy the tranquility.
On further research I found that the season starts from April End itself. Please suggest the time and itinerary considering that we have a total of 9 days in hand.
Rahul, have a read at: Best Time to Travel Ladakh & Zanskar Valley
Hi Dheeraj,
we are planning to visit leh this september.
We will be moving from jammu to leh via our bikes.Can you please guide us the tour as we are planning between 8th sept to 21st september.
HI friend..we are going in the same time!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! if you wnt u cn join us!
hey..sorry….the time is same! bt we are planning through manali side!
Hi Suvankar,
Can you please tell me your dates and plan from Manali side, if that will be feasible then we can also join.
Rahul, You can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Leh – Ladakh followed by many travelers including me at the link here for 13-14 days: Most Common Itinerary for Leh – Ladakh.
Hi dheeraj,
We are 6 frnds who are visiting Ladakh on 10th-17th Aug 13 ..but I am little confused now.. we are hiring a cab from delhi to ladakh to and fro..can you be please more clear with your statement that outside ladakh cabs are not allowed in ladakh?
And if this time is good to visit ladakh?
Thanks,
Akanksha
Hi Akanksha,
Taxis outside Ladakh are not allowed to do any sightseeing within Leh – Ladakh. You can use them for drop-in and take-away modes only. So, the taxi you are hiring locally must have private number plate otherwise you will have to again hire a taxi within Ladakh and pay for your local taxi without using it.
Also, just 7 days in hand for the road trip to Ladakh is very less. It takes three days to reach and three days to come back and one day for rest plus acclimatization. Then people start exploring Ladakh for next 3-4 days at the very least.
Regards
dheeraj
sir i hav avnger 220.i want to go to ladakh…m frm delhi.ur blog is very helpful.i wil go in august.is it the right time
Amar, since you are going in monsoon time, please refer the link: FAQ | Is Monsoon season good time to travel to Ladakh? for more details.
Dear Dheeraj,
Thanks for your support buddy..anyhow its my repeat post as some how u have missed my post in this topic some days ago..even I’m not able to find it! 🙁 SO here is the tour plan:
07-09-2013 HWH: Train
08-09-2013 Delhi-Manali
09-09-2013 Manali >> Rent bikes
10-09-2013 Manali–Palchhan-Koth–Marhi–Rohtang–Gramphoo–Koksar–Sissu–Gondla–Tandi–Keylong-Jipsa
11-09-2013 Jipsa-Keylong-Gemur–Jispa–Darcha–Baralacha La–Sarchu/Pang
12-09-2013 Sarchu–Rumtse–Leh
13-09-2013 Leh (permits & all)-Khardung la-Leh
14-09-2013 Rest Day
15-09-2013 Leh–Shey–Thicksey-Upshi-Tangtse-Pangong Tso
16-09-2013 Pangong Tso–Hemis– Upshi/Karu
17-09-2013 Upshi/Karu–chumathang–Mahe–Tso Moriri
18-09-2013 Tso Moriri–Tso Kar–Morrey Plains–Pang–Sarchu
19-09-2013 Sarchu–Baralacha La–Jispa–Keylong
20-09-2013 Keylong–Rohtang Pass–Manali
21-09-2013 Manali-Delhi
22-09-2013 HWH: Train
Is it ok?? as you are aware this is on bike..so please consider this fact while suggesting the route..IS there accommodation available at Karu or Upshi or pang? please let us know..We cnt make this tour plan without ur support..Thanking u once again!! God bless!! 🙂
Hi Suvankar,
Really sorry if I missed on the previous one. Switching between blog/community/mails/fb/tweets sometimes takes a toll on me 😉 … Here are few observations or suggestions on your overall well laid out plan 🙂
1. Do not stay at Pang as it does not have much options for camps.
2. While coming from Pangong Tso, staying at Upshi or Karu will not make much of a difference, hardly 40-50 minutes at the very max. Better stay at Leh which has varied options for stay and then may be start 40-50 minutes early, afresh.
3. From Leh – Tso Moriri – Sarchu, you need to somehow carry fuel for about 550+ KMs.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks buddy…its really nice to hear from you..every time I have gone through ur posts and commnts I get astonished..I REALLY NEVER EVER SEEN SUCH A INFORMATIVE blog..Well wish that we will meet one day somewhere in Ladakh! 🙂 Have a nyc tym ahead friend! keep smiling!!
Pleasure, have a great trip!! If possible, try and share your Himalayan experience with us at DoW – Himalayan Travel Community as Photo Tale or Travel Tale Or your reviews of the property where you stayed or dhabhas/restaurants you ate food on your trip…
You can get tents on hire at leh, and its worth every moment every penny spending a night at pangang tso
Hi Dheeraj,
Your Blogs are brilliant!! I want to run my travel plan with you in case you have some alterations to suggest to it. Let me give you a bit of background first. We are 2 people traveling to Leh.. Want to make it a complete budget trip and would love to use public transport..
26 Jul – Delhi – Leh (by air)
plan on relaxing the entire day, visiting the market and local sights, if feasible.
27 Jul – Rafting in Chilling (is this the right time??)
27 Jul night – We would like to stay in Hemis Monastery (any information on this?)
28 Jul – Come back to Leh and move to Diskit/Hunder – Stay the night here
29 Jul – Look around Nubra and head back to Leh – night in Leh
30 Jul – Head to Pangong Tso – stay the night in Spagmik/Thanksey
31 Jul – Enjoy Pangong and head back to Leh
31 Jul night – 02 Aug : Travel time from Leh to Srinagar via Kargil. We plan on taking JKTC buses.
03 Aug – Look around Srinagar
04 Aug – Srinagar – Bangalore (thats home! )
Hi Janhvi,
Please stay away from rafting in the initial days may be if time permits at any day later in the trip, while coming after Pangong, then give it a try. Rafting will exert your body too much and you will not be acclimatized to undertake it. Results could be AMS and spoiling the whole plan. Take rest on the second day as well. Hemis might have some monastery guest house or may be home stays around, I am sure you will get one there but will be basic stay.
Rest of the plan looks fine. You will have to opt for shared taxis on these routes to share cost.
Regards
Dheeraj
Hi Dheeraj, If someone wants to travel alone for the Leh trip, what will be your suggestion ?
Is it achievable ?
Please let me know the mode of transport also & the best suitable time.
Joheb, You are alone and private taxis are very costly in Leh but you will be able to find the shared taxi without much fuss at all. There are lots of flyers which people put at cafes, dine-ins, restaurants, travel agent desks/shops/whiteboards wanting to share the taxis for different trips within Ladakh. Even travel agent organize such shared taxis trip as well but charge a little higher about Rs 200-300 more than it would ideally cost. So, in worst case you can always go back to them and book a seat for yourself. Gelling up with people in Ladakh is more or less easy because many people travel solo and look forward to meet new people and share cultural thoughts and values over the trip. No where else in the world you will find more smiling and helpful people as Ladakhis are 🙂
Regards
Dheeraj
Thanks for the reply.
Actually i also don’t wana travel alone but, we need around 2 weeks for the trip, & its bit difficult to coincide the leaves with friends.
Well i am hoping to get some or will hop in with some other guys
Best wishes Joheb for the trip, feel free to shoot any queries you have for it. If possible, once you are back, try and share your Himalayan experience with us at DoW – Himalayan Travel Community as Photo Tale or Travel Tale or some hotel reviews or some dhabhas/restaurant you ate at… It will be helpful for others too.
Hey Joheb, we are a group of 3 bikers planning a trip from 15th to 30th August. You are welcome to join in. Contact me if interested: itismohit@gmail.com (9738653763)