In the most welcoming change for Ladakh travelers, Inner Line Permits (ILP) are no longer required for domestic tourists to visit anywhere in Ladakh. This includes Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri, Hanle, Umling La Pass, Marsimik La, and even Demchok or Chumur. You only need to pay the Ladakh Environment/Green/Ecology Fee online and carry a receipt of the payment.
Let's quickly dive into the details:
Do You Need Any Permits in Ladakh in 2026?
Indians do not need any separate permits in Ladakh for regular sightseeing in 2026. You just need to pay the Ladakh Environment Fee on the official LAHDC website and carry the receipt. Here is the direct link to pay: https://www.lahdclehpermit.in/register-as-domestic
The current Ladakh Environment/Development Fee (EDF) is broken down as follows:
- Environment/Green Fee = Rs 400 per person (one-time per year)
- Wildlife Fee = Rs 20 per person per day
- Red Cross Fund Fee = Rs 50 per person (one-time per year, optional). You can skip this fee if you choose not to pay it.
Practical Info Box (Updated February 2026)
Official Portal: www.lahdclehpermit.in
Environment Fee: Rs 400/person (one-time) + Rs 20/person/day (wildlife) + Rs 50 Red Cross (optional)
Example 7-day cost: Rs 400 + Rs 140 + Rs 50 = Rs 590 per person
Payment: Online via credit/debit card, net banking, or UPI
ID Required: Aadhaar, Passport, Driving License, or Voter ID
Permit Validity: 3 weeks for Indians, 15 days for foreigners
Children: Below 12 years are exempt (carry valid photo ID)
Agent Discount: 10% discount on total fees when applied through a local registered travel agent
DO NOT confuse the environment fee receipt with the old Ladakh Inner Line Permit. You just need to carry the fee payment receipt, either a hard copy or a soft copy on your phone. This receipt may be checked at some checkposts. Hence, people still confuse it with a permit. But this is simply a verification that you have paid the Ladakh environment fees.
What Is the History Behind Ladakh Inner Line Permits?
The permit system in Ladakh has gone through several changes over the years. Understanding this history helps clear up the confusion that many travelers still have about whether they need permits or just the environment fee.
In June 2017, Ladakh Inner Line Permits were made available online from the official website of the Leh Ladakh administration. It was a piece of very welcoming news for all the people planning their trip to Leh Ladakh. This step helped all those tourists who travel to Ladakh during holidays and found the Leh DC office closed during those days to get the permits to travel to tourist spots.
Tourists could apply for the Leh Ladakh permits online, choose a tour operator to pay the fee, and get their copies of the Ladakh permit online. This step eased the process and eliminated the hassles of procuring these permits in advance. Leh Ladakh Inner Line Permits were available online for both domestic tourists as well as foreigners.
Back in 2014, the concept of Inner Line Permits for domestic Indian tourists was waived. It meant all Indians traveling to the Inner Line region of Ladakh, including Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, and Tso Moriri, were exempted from the need for Inner Line permits. Domestic tourists just required a self-declaration form when visiting these places, and that acted as a permit for them.
However:
The decision was reverted in 2017 to the original requirements of having permits. In April 2017, authorities in Leh Ladakh re-introduced the Environment Fee of Rs 300, the Red Cross Fund fee of Rs 100, and Inner Line Permits for domestic tourists as well. Now all tourists, foreigners, and Indians, visiting the Inner Line region of Leh Ladakh needed these permits to visit Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, and Tso Moriri.
Then in 2021, the ILP requirement was replaced by the Environment/Development Fee (EDF) system. The fee amounts were revised to the current structure of Rs 400 environment fee, Rs 20/day wildlife fee, and Rs 50 optional Red Cross fund. Since then, Indian tourists no longer need a separate “permit” document. They just need the EDF payment receipt.
Foreigners need a Protected Area Permit (PAP) to visit tourist places in Ladakh, which is different from the environment fee paid by domestic tourists. Foreign nationals must apply through a registered travel agent in Leh or through the official LAHDC website. Keep in mind that visitors from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, China, Myanmar, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka need to apply separately through the Ministry of Home Affairs in New Delhi.
How to Pay the Ladakh Environment Fee Online in 2026?
Paying the Ladakh Environment Fee online is straightforward and saves you the hassle of visiting government offices in Leh. This will help you a lot in planning your trip to Ladakh smoothly. I will also discuss the offline process for those who prefer to do it in person at the Leh DC office.
The Ladakh Environment Fee is required for Indian tourists, while foreigners require a Protected Area Permit (PAP). You need the EDF receipt to visit inner line places like Nubra Valley, Khardung La, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri, Dah, Hanu Villages, Man, Merak, Nyoma, Loma Bend, Turtuk, Tyakshi, Chusul, Hanle, Digger La, and Tangyar (for trekking only).
You do not need any permits or EDF receipt to travel on the Manali Leh Highway or Srinagar Leh Highway or to Zanskar Valley.
These permits/fees are not required for residents of Ladakh UT and children below the age of 12 years. They can visit the inner line region by showing a valid Photo ID proof.
Both the Environment Fee (for Indians) and Protected Area Permits (for foreigners) are available online from the official website www.lahdclehpermit.in of the LAHDC Leh administration. All tourists can go through the website to pay the fee or obtain permits.
You need to pay an Environment fee of Rs 400 per person (one-time), Wildlife fee of Rs 20 per person per day, and an optional Red Cross Fund fee of Rs 50 per person. You need to provide a valid photo ID proof to apply. Payment can be made online via credit/debit card, net banking, or UPI.
What Are the Steps to Pay the Ladakh Environment Fee Online?
The entire process takes about 10-15 minutes. Follow these steps carefully to complete your Ladakh Environment Fee payment online before your trip.
- Visit the official LAHDC Leh website at www.lahdclehpermit.in and click on the “Apply for Permits -> Domestic Clients” button on the center bottom of the screen. It will take you to the first step of providing your details.
- On this page, you need to enter your details including Name, State, Gender, ID Type, ID Number, and Home Address.
- Apart from that, you need to choose if you are applying directly or through an agent. I recommend choosing to apply directly because with the agent option, you have to get in touch with the agent to get your permit processed. However, going through a registered local agent gives you a 10% discount on fees.
- Lastly, you need to enter the Arrival Date when you are arriving in Leh and will start exploring inner line areas of Ladakh. Then, click on Submit.
- When you click on submit, it will take you to the screen with two options: “Click here to issue an individual permit” and “Click here to issue group permit.”
- If you are applying alone, click on the Individual permit option. If you are in a group, choose the group option and add details of other members on the next screen.
- Once you choose the respective option (and fill group details if applicable), you will go to the next screen where you need to select the circuits you plan to visit in Ladakh. A reference number will be generated on the page.
- IMPORTANT: Note down the reference number and save it somewhere safe. You will need it to reprint your permit/receipt anytime later.
- Select the required circuits based on your Ladakh itinerary. You cannot reissue permits easily, so choose all the circuits you plan to visit at once. The circuit table below will help you select the right ones.
- Enter the Start Date and End Date of the permit, which determines the total wildlife fee (Rs 20 per person per day).
- Click on Apply for Permits button to go to the confirmation page that shows your selected circuit details with dates.
- Click on the Proceed button to generate your permit/receipt. Print a few copies of this. Download the sample online permit for reference.
- Your receipt shows the total fee that includes Environment Fee (Rs 400 per person, one-time), Red Cross Fund Fee (Rs 50 per person, one-time, optional), and Wildlife Fee (Rs 20 per person per day).
- You can click on the Pay Now option to pay online using a Credit/Debit Card, Net Banking, or UPI. On successful payment, a receipt will be generated with a unique Collection ID. Take printouts of both the Permit Receipt and the Transaction Receipt. SMS and Email confirmations will also be sent.
- You can use the reference number to reprint your permit anytime from the homepage menu options.
Step 1: Register as a Domestic Tourist on LAHDC Portal
Step 2: Choose Individual or Group Permit
Step 3: Select Circuits and Date Range
Step 4: Review and Generate Your Permit
Step 5: Pay the Environment Fee Online
Which Ladakh Permit Circuits Should You Select?
The entire inner line permit area in Ladakh is divided into 8 circuits. You need to select the ones matching your itinerary. Here is the complete list to help you choose:
| # | Circuit Covers | Select If You Plan To Visit |
| 1 | Khalsi, Domkhar, Skurbuchan, Hanu, Baima, Dha in Khalsi Sub-Division | Dah Hanu Villages |
| 2 | Khardong, Khalsar, Trith up to Warsi and Yarma Gonbo, Disket, Hunder, Turtuk, Pachathang, Tyakshi in Nubra Sub-Division | Nubra Valley including Turtuk, Tyakshi |
| 3 | Upshi, TsomoRiRi/Korzok in Nyoma Sub-Division | Tso Moriri |
| 4 | Upshi, Dipling, Puga, TsomoRiRi/Korzok in Nyoma Sub-Division | Tso Moriri and Tso Kar |
| 5 | Kharu, Changla, Durbuk, Tangtse, Lukhung, Spangmik, Man-Merak (Pangong Lake) in Nyoma Sub-Division | Pangong Tso |
| 6 | Upshi, Chumathang, Mahe, Loma Bend in Nyoma Division | Loma |
| 7 | Leh-Kharu-Changla-Durbuk-Tangtse-Lukung-Spangmik-Man Merak (Pangong) up to Chushul and Loma Bend | Chusul and Loma Bend (for Pangong to Tso Moriri direct route) |
| 8 | Tangtse-Kargyam-Sato, Barma, Chushul | Chusul |
Pro Travel Tip: Apply for the Ladakh Environment Fee online only when your travel dates are finalized. The system stores your photo ID card number in the database, and the same ID proof cannot be used again for the next 15 days. So if you change your dates after applying, you will need to use a different ID. Also, select all circuits you plan to visit at once since reissuing permits requires waiting or using a different ID.
How to Apply for the Environment Fee or Permits Offline at Leh DC Office?
If you prefer to pay the environment fee in person or if you need to get special stamps for Hanle and Chusul routes, you can visit the Tourist Information Center (TIC) Office, opposite J&K Bank, Main Market, Leh. You can also apply at the Leh DC Office.
The TIC office is open on all working days (Monday to Saturday) from 09:00 AM to 07:00 PM. The Leh DC office timing is 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but they generally do not accept applications after 3 PM. Hence, you should reach the Leh DC office before 2 PM. Best approach is to reach around 10:15 AM to find the least rush and a hassle-free process.
Is the Leh DC Office Open on Saturday and Sunday?
Leh DC office is closed on Sundays and national holidays. Hence, you should plan your Leh Ladakh trip such that your first sightseeing day does not fall on a Sunday or a holiday. I have heard that the DC office is sometimes open on Sundays for half a day, but I will say do not count on it. If that is the case, the best approach is to pay the Ladakh environment fee online before your trip or get it arranged through a local travel agent.
The offline/in-person application is primarily needed if you want to get special stamps for Hanle or Chusul routes on your receipt. For regular tourist destinations like Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, and Tso Moriri, the online payment receipt is sufficient.
Below are the steps for applying at the DC office in Leh in person:
- You need to fill the permit application form to get the approval. Carry a pen with you if filling the form at the Leh DC office.
- The fee structure is the same as online: Rs 400 for environment fee (one-time), Rs 20 per day per person for the wildlife/permit fee, and Rs 50 one-time towards the Red Cross Fund (optional). There is a special discounted fee for students, which is a one-time Rs 20. Students need to show their institution i-card.
- You need to have photocopies of a valid Photo-ID proof (Passport, Driving License, Aadhaar, Voter ID, PAN Card, etc.) that proves your identity. Although the photocopies were not checked for attestation during my visits, I feel one should not take any chance and get them attested before going to Leh Ladakh.
- You can apply for permits for your entire group, but you need to attach the photocopy of photo-ID cards for each member and fill the details of all group members in the application form.
- Anyone who has your group’s photocopies of valid Photo-IDs can get the permits on your behalf. Usually, hotels in Leh town provide this facility if you are comfortable sharing photocopies of your ID proofs with them via email.
- The permit approval process may take anywhere from 30 minutes to 3 hours. Hence, it is always best to reach the DC office early morning. Sometimes, when there is a rush of tourists, permits are issued in two batches, morning and evening. Try to be in the morning batch so that you have time to start your Leh local sightseeing the same day.
- The application forms are usually available at the photostat shops nearby (one is just behind Leh DC office). You can also download the form from here: Inner Line Permit Form and Application Letter (Page 2).
- Usually, the form remains the same, so filling it at home and completing the documentation beforehand can save a lot of time in Leh.
- In the application form, for each member, you need to mention the name with parent/guardian name, complete permanent address, the places you want to visit, and the specific dates for which you need the permits. In the copy information section, mention the hotel name and address where you are staying in Leh.
- Write Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, and Tso Moriri to cover all three major tourist spots. Writing Nubra Valley covers all places in Nubra including Khardung La and Turtuk.
- Besides the permit application form, you need to write a request application letter addressing the DC of Leh Ladakh district for the approval of your permits.
- In the application letter, express your interest in visiting the desired places along with the dates. Both the application form and the request letter should be in sync for places, names, and dates. Download the unfilled request application from here: Inner Line Permit Form and Application Letter (Page 3).
- Make two to three photocopies of the entire set: Application Form, Approval Request Letter, and Photo IDs of all members.
- Submit the photocopies at the DC office along with the original copies of the form and request application.
- The clerk will ask you to deposit the fees (amount depends on number of days and members) + Red Cross Fund fees (Rs 50 per member, optional) + Environment Fee (Rs 400 per member).
- Once you deposit the fee, the clerk will stamp the permits. In some cases, the clerk may ask you to get a signed approval from the ADC room, or your documents will be placed in the ongoing batch. In the latter case, you may wait 1 to 3 hours for approved permits.
- Once you get the stamped approved permits, go to the photostat shop and make photocopies.
- These photocopies are submitted at every checkpost on the way to your sightseeing destinations, including Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, and Tso Moriri. Hence, make at least ten copies if you are staying long enough in Ladakh.
- The validity of the permits is three weeks for Indians and one week (15 days as of 2026) for foreigners. There is no limit on the number of times you can enter a place during the valid period as long as you have the permit.
- Although not strictly required, carry passport-sized photographs as well. On all your trips, you should carry them because you never know when you may need one. Did you check my comprehensive list of things to carry on a Ladakh trip?
Do You Need a Separate Permit for Hanle in 2026?
Since March 2022, no separate Inner Line Permit is required for Hanle village. Indian tourists can visit Hanle with just the standard Ladakh Environment Fee receipt. You do need to select the appropriate circuits (Circuit 6 for Loma and the Hanle route) when applying online.
However, keep in mind that access to Hanle is always subject to the current border security situation. The army at Loma checkpost has the final say. They can, and sometimes do, turn back tourists based on prevailing conditions. So while you do not need a separate permit document, getting past the Loma checkpost depends on the army’s assessment on that day. If you are visiting the DC office in person, getting an additional Hanle stamp on your receipt can help, though it is not technically mandatory anymore.
What About the Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri Direct Route via Chusul?
For the direct route from Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri that passes through Chusul village, select Circuit 7 (Pangong to Chushul and Loma Bend) when applying online. This route also falls under the environment fee system now.
Like Hanle, the Chusul route is near the border and army checkposts have the discretion to allow or deny passage based on the security situation. Getting the appropriate circuit stamps at the DC office can provide additional documentation, though the online receipt with the correct circuits selected should work.
Can Tourists Visit Umling La Pass in 2026?
Umling La Pass, at an altitude of 5,883 meters (19,300 feet), is the world’s highest motorable road, built and opened by BRO. It is about 105 km from Hanle Village and about 235 km from Leh. In 2021, Guinness World Records officially recognized it as the highest motorable road in the world.
Indian tourists can visit Umling La Pass with the standard Ladakh Environment Fee receipt. No separate permit is required since March 2022. However, because of its proximity to the China border, army checkposts control access and can restrict civilian movement at any time. Many travelers have been turned back from the Loma checkpost depending on the border situation on that particular day. So while there is no permit barrier, the army’s decision on the ground is final.
What Are the Important Rules for Hanle, Chusul, and Umling La?
To travel to Hanle, Chusul, or Umling La, make sure you select the correct circuits during the online application. When applying online, select circuits covering Man, Merak, Chusul, Tsaga, Loma, Nyoma, and Hanle to cover all routes in inner Changthang. The permits/EDF receipt for inner Changthang and Hanle are issued only to Indian nationals, not for foreign tourists.
Access to Hanle, Chusul, and Umling La is always subject to the current political or border situation. Sometimes, the army does not allow tourists on these routes regardless of having a valid EDF receipt.
Even with the correct circuits selected and a valid receipt, do not consider it a guaranteed pass. Army personnel have turned back many tourists since 2011, even those with valid permits, based on the actual political and border security situation. Unless you pass the Chusul checkpost or Loma checkpost to the other side, there is no guarantee you will not be turned back on these routes.
One more thing: photography equipment is sometimes not allowed beyond Loma towards Hanle. In case you have cameras, pack them in bags and refrain from taking pictures in sensitive border areas.
Here are sample permits issued and stamped by the Tourist Information Center:
What Is the Fastest Way to Get Ladakh Permits?
The fastest and most convenient approach in 2026 is to simply pay the Ladakh Environment Fee online from the comfort of your home, before you even start your trip. This saves you all the hassle of visiting the DC office in Leh.
However, if you also plan to visit Hanle or travel the Chusul route, here is my recommended approach. First, download the application form at home. Fill the form completely and attach photocopies of photo ID proofs for all members of your group.
Write a request application letter addressing the Leh Ladakh DC expressing your intent to visit the desired places and requesting the permits for your travel duration. Staple the entire bundle, including the filled application form, request letter, and photocopies of photo ID proofs.
Once you reach Leh, go to the DC office and submit the bundle along with the required fees. Get the permit stamped. For Hanle and Chusul, make sure you specifically ask for the relevant stamps. Otherwise, you may be sent back by the army from the checkposts.
On the way back, get 8-10 photocopies of the stamped permits. You need to submit these at checkposts while going to Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri, Hanle, etc.
This approach will save a lot of time and energy in Leh. Otherwise, you will keep running to photocopy shops for one thing or another, and that will surely eat into your precious sightseeing time.
The worst-case scenario would be that the DC office changes the format of the application form. Even then, you will just need to fill the new form and attach your documents. The pre-prepared photocopies and request letter will still be useful.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Indians need Inner Line Permits in Ladakh in 2026?
No, Indian tourists do not need a separate Inner Line Permit. Since 2021, the ILP has been replaced by the Ladakh Environment/Development Fee (EDF). You just need to pay Rs 400 (environment fee) + Rs 20/day (wildlife fee) + Rs 50 (Red Cross, optional) online at www.lahdclehpermit.in and carry the receipt.
How much does the Ladakh environment fee cost for a 7-day trip?
For a 7-day trip to Ladakh, the total environment fee per person is approximately Rs 590. This includes Rs 400 one-time environment fee, Rs 140 wildlife fee (Rs 20 x 7 days), and Rs 50 optional Red Cross Fund fee. If you apply through a local travel agent, you get a 10% discount.
Can I pay the Ladakh environment fee online before my trip?
Yes, and this is actually the recommended approach. Visit www.lahdclehpermit.in, click on “Domestic Clients,” fill in your details, select the circuits you plan to visit, and pay via credit/debit card, net banking, or UPI. You can do this from anywhere before reaching Leh.
Do foreigners need permits for Ladakh?
Yes, foreign nationals need a Protected Area Permit (PAP) to visit restricted areas in Ladakh. The PAP must be applied through a registered travel agent in Leh or via the LAHDC official website. Foreigners must travel in a group of two or more. Visitors from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, China, Myanmar, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka must apply through the Ministry of Home Affairs in New Delhi.
Is Hanle open for tourists without special permits?
Since March 2022, Hanle does not require a separate Inner Line Permit. Indian tourists can visit with just the Ladakh EDF receipt. However, access depends on the army’s decision at Loma checkpost, which is based on the current border security situation. Getting a Hanle stamp at the Leh DC office in person can help, but is not mandatory.
Can I visit Umling La Pass in 2026?
Indian tourists can visit Umling La Pass (19,300 ft, the world’s highest motorable road) with the standard Ladakh Environment Fee receipt. No separate permit is needed. However, access is controlled by army checkposts near Loma, and they can restrict civilian movement at any time based on border security conditions.
What is the validity of Ladakh permits?
The Ladakh EDF receipt / Inner Line Permit is valid for up to 3 weeks (21 days) for Indian citizens and 15 days for foreign nationals. During the valid period, you can enter and re-enter any permitted area unlimited times as long as you carry copies of your permit.
Do I need permits for Manali Leh Highway or Srinagar Leh Highway?
No. You do not need any permits or environment fee receipt to travel on the Manali Leh Highway, Srinagar Leh Highway, or to Zanskar Valley. The EDF is only required when you visit inner line areas like Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri, Hanle, and other restricted destinations.
Final Thoughts
I hope this article helps you understand the complete process of paying the Ladakh Environment Fee online and obtaining permits for Leh Ladakh. The system has become much simpler since the shift from Inner Line Permits to the online Environment/Development Fee. For regular tourist destinations like Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, and Tso Moriri, you can complete the entire process online before leaving home.
You no longer need to worry about holidays or odd timings of reaching Leh and then running around for permits. Just pay the fee online, carry the receipt, and focus on enjoying your Ladakh trip.
In case you find this article useful, feel free to share it with your family and friends who are planning a trip to Ladakh. And if you have any further questions about permits, fees, or planning your trip, please post them in the comments section below. You can also ask questions on the Leh District official website for the latest updates.
Again, to download the application form for Leh Ladakh Inner Line Permit, click the following link: Ladakh Inner Line Permit Form and Application Letter
Last Updated: February 2026
1,147 Comments
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Hi Dheeraj,
Sachin here from Mumbai, me and my friends are planning for Leh ladakh tour from 13th June to 23rd June 2014.
We required your expert advice to finalize our plan.
Please find the below itinerary:-
13th June: Chandigarh Airport to Manali (Night Stay)
14th June: Manali Local Sight seeing
15th June: Manali to Sarchu (Night Stay)
16th June: Sarchu to Leh (Night Stay)
17th June: Leh to Nubra Valley and Khardungla Pass to Leh (Night Stay at Leh)
18th June: Leh to Pangong Lake to Leh (Night Stay at Leh)
19th June: Leh to Tso Moriri to Leh (Night Stay at Leh)
20th June: Leh local sight seeing
21st June: Leh to Sarchu (Night stay at Sarchu)
22nd June: Sarchu to Manali (Night Stay at Manali)
23rd June: Manali to Chandigarh Airport.
Request you to reply on some below questions
1) What will be the local taxi fare per day in ladakh region for Nubra Valley, Khardungla and Pangong Lake ?
2) What will be the one way taxi fare from Chandigarh to leh with 2 night haults at Manali and Sarchu?
Please also let us know, if we need to change our above plan.
Sachin you should follow something like below
13th June: Chandigarh Airport to Manali (Night Stay)
14th June: Manali to Jispa (Night Stay)
15th June: Jispa to Leh. You will not be acclimatized to sleep at Sarchu while going from Manali to Leh. Better sleep at Jispa and start 5 AM next morning.
16th June: Leh Rest and Acclimatization
17th June: Leh to Nubra Valley via Khardungla Pass. Rest in Nubra Valley
18th June: Nubra Valley to Leh
19th June: Leh to Pangong Tso to Leh
20th June: Leh – Tso Moriri
21st June: Tso Moriri to Sarchu
22nd June: Sarchu to Manali (Night Stay at Manali)
23rd June: Manali to Chandigarh Airport.
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
HI, DHEERAJ
v R pLANNING TO DELHI- MANALLI – LEH – SHRINAGAR- DELHI
ON 1ST JUNE2014 & WE R PERSON
IS IT IS GOOD TIME TO VISIT & PLAN ACCORDINGLY WE WANT TO RETURNED ON 10TH ON DELHI
Divesh, it is good time to visit but very challenging. Also, 9-10 days are too less for a road trip to Ladakh with 4 days it take reach Leh from Srinagar side and 3 days from Manali side from delhi.
thanks dheeraj,
for reply,
it possible to plan tour
as we reach manali take time for fresh for 2 hrs & start journy toward pangoan lake first.
Divesh, no you first should go to Leh for acclimatization and then plan your travel to other places in Ladakh.
Dear dheeraj
Till date Manali leh highway is closed on official site. It is possible for us to visit on 2nd june.
Please suggest it urgent for making arrangement of ticket for traveling.
Divesh with rains/snow in last two days I have doubts now. Earlier it was scheduled to be open by end of next week but now it has snowed again up there in Lahaul and Baralacha La/Rohtang Pass
Hi Dheeraj,
I’ll be travelling to Ladakh from 24th July to 2nd Aug 2014 with a group of 5 friends who are all foreigners (Canadian, Italian, British x 3).
I have a few questions…
1) Can they all get the PAP (Protected Area Permit) in Leh itself from the DM office? Is it easy to get the PAP or is it a cumbersome process? If not, is there any easier way to get it?
2) We will be traveling from Delhi to Srinagar by air. And then from Srinagar to Leh by road. Do they need any permit to visit Srinagar and all the places en route to Kargil and then to Leh?
Our itinerary is as follows…
24 Jul (Thu) – Delhi to Srinagar (by air) – overnight in Srinagar.
25 Jul (Fri) – Srinagar to Kargil – overnight in Kargil
26 Jul (Sat) – Kargil to Leh – overnight in Leh
27 Jul (Sun) – Leh
28 Jul (Mon) – Leh to Nubra Valley – overnight in Nubra Valley
29 Jul (Tue) – Nubra Valley
30 Jul (Wed) – Nubra Valley to Pangong Lake
31 July (Thu) – Pangong Lake
1 Aug (Fri) – Pangong Lake to Leh – overnight in Leh
2nd Aug (Sat) – Leh to Delhi (by air)
3) The first two days in Leh are going to be Sat and Sun. And we might be arriving late to Leh from Kargil on Sat. And the next day would be Sun (DM is usually closed on Sun). So do you think we should extend the time in Leh by one more day till Mon?
4) Based on our itinerary and number of days we have, do you think we can include Tso Moriri in our trip as well? We would really like to attend the festival there on 30th or 31st Jul. But due to the limited no. of days I am not sure if we can.
5) I read somewhere that the road to Nubra Valley is closed on Mondays. Is that true?
Are there any other such dates/ days we should watch out for?
It would be a great help if you can help us with our queries.
Thanks a ton in advance!
Abhishek
Hi Abhishek,
My replies below:
1) You need to apply PAP through registered Travel Agent in Leh. So, he will take care of the process.
2) No permits required upto Leh. Only inner line areas like Nubra, Khardung La, Dah Hanu, Pangong Tso require permits for foreigners. Indians have been exempted from permits starting this year.
3) Better send Photo IDs to the travel agent or hotel. He will keep it ready for you.
4) You can do something like:
28 Jul (Mon) – Leh to Nubra Valley – overnight in Nubra Valley
29 Jul (Tue) – Nubra Valley – Leh
30 Jul (Wed) – Leh – Pangong Lake – Leh
31 July (Thu) – Leh – Tso moriri
1 Aug (Fri) – Tso moriri to Leh
5) Such rules are applied in winters when it is kind of one way road.
Regards
dheeraj
Hi Dheeraj,
I have heard that there is river rafting in Ladakh. I dont find a mention of it in blogs and websites. Is it impressive compared to white water rafting in Rishikesh and Manali?
Ksihore, there isn’t anything different with what you get near Manali or Rishikesh. It is just another activity over there in Ladakh.
hi,
im planning to go to leh from new delhi on 16.5.14. has a group.
1. what all precautions i should take pls advice.
2. im staying there for 3 nites n back to nd by flight.
so pls recommend d places i should visit.
Ganesh after reach Leh, you need at least 2 days of rest for acclimatization. On last day you can make a day visit to Khardung La and return to Leh or do Sham Valley tour.
Hi Dheeraj,
We are 6 friends and planning to make a bike trip from manali to leh, Most of us are in Jobs due to which we ll be able to get around 10 days of leave. We are planning to gather at manali on 15th of August and start our ride from there and return back to manali on 23rd or 24th Aug. There are a few points Please suggest me about them.
1. Route plan along with night halts according to 9-10 days including up & down(Manali-Leh-Manali). Plz advise about the distance (in km) we should cover per day and the time it wud take with avg speed n halts.
2. Should we carry our own tent, if yes then from where we can avail that? is it available in manali?
3. If we have to book tents for night stay en-route manali-leh, whom to contact and what are the approx charges?
4. Should we rent Gum Boots from Manali for water proofing apart from regular biking/trekking shoes.
Chetan, please find below my replies:
1. will you start your ride on 15th OR 16th from Manali?
2. If you have done camping before then you can carry tents of your own BUT stay options are available mostly everywhere on the way to Ladakh
3. No need to book, just reach and get a good bargain.
4. Even gum boots won’t provide 100% water proofing as water crossings are deep and water gets inside from the top. I believe you need to live up for it.
Regards
Dheeraj
We will reach manali at 14th night. Next day on 15th of August we will be starting our ride from Manali. Hopefully around 8-9 AM. And we plan to get back to manali on 23rd of Aug so that we can take some rest and return back to our origin places by 24th night.
On some other site I ve seen the below Itenary:
Day 1 Manali-Jispa(138Km)
Day 2 Jispa-Pang(161Km)
Day 3 Pang-Leh(174Km)
Return trip wud be likewise.
Please advise.
Also please tell us what lake(s) and other spots do you suggest we shud visit in such limited time.
Dear Dheeraj,
Please suggest a complete itinerary that includes all the sight seeing and visiting nearby places along with the time span we shud spend at each place. I know the days are very less but that’s the maximum time we can get our offs. We all friends are from different cities n have to get back on our jobs/professions back on time. That is the maximum time we cud make.
It wud be an added help for us.
Thanks a Lot in advance buddy.
I really appreciate the work u have done as otherwise there is very limited information is available on Internet for a first time rider to Leh.
Chetan, you have 9 days from Manali to Manali and can follow an itinerary something like:
Day 1 | 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 2 | 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 3 | Leh Local Sightseeing + Acclimatization
— To know the about the places to visit check the link: Travel Guide for Local Sightseeing of Leh Town in Ladakh
— Overnight at Leh
Day 4 | 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 5 | 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 6 | Leh – Pangong Tso Lake – Leh
– Day trip to Pangong Tso
– Overnight at Leh
Day 7 | Leh – Tso Moriri via Chumathang
— Cover Karzok Monastery
— Overnight at Karzok or Tso Moriri
Day 8 | Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Debring (Manali – Leh Highway starts) – Moore Plains – Pang / Sarchu
— Try to start early in the day so that you reach Sarchu where the accommodation options are better than Pang
— Overnight at Sarchu or Pang
Day 9 | Pang / 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
And one more querry,the Tents that are available on the way. Do they have electricity points for charging phone and camera batteries?
Chetan, they do have limited points but electricity is mostly available for limited time at time during dinner time in most of the camps.
Hi Chetan,
I don’t suggest to stay at Pang or Sarchu while going from Manali because your body cannot acclimatize to such high altitude so quickly and chances of falling sick are more through this route. On the way back you can stay at Pang or Sarchu. Pang mostly has dorm tents while Sarchu has better stay options with attached toilets camps. While going from Manali to Leh, one should stay at Jispa and then next morning leave early, say 5 AM, in order to reach Leh. While coming from Leh, you can go to Tso Moriri, from Tso Moriri next day follow the route to Tso Kar lake and then exit to Manali – Leh Highway to reach Sarchu for overnight sleep. From Sarchu, reach Manali next day.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi everyone !!! We are starting on 14 th June 2014 from delhi for leh. Enroute stops are manali – jispa – Tso moriri- then to leh !!! Was curious to know like we planned from jispa to tso moriri !! Is that real tough to do !!! I mean road conditions ???? We are driving Mahindra Scorpio . And also I have been reading comments on hiring a bike from Leh for nubra, pangong….??? Can’t we drive our own vehicle to these places ?
You can drive your own vehicles to these places. However, doing tso Moriri directly while coming from Manali is HIGHLY not recommended as your body will not be acclimatized to sleep at that high altitude.
Hi everyone !!! We are starting on 14 th June 2014 from delhi for leh. Enroute stops are manali – jispa – Tso moriri- then to leh !!! Was curious to know like we planned from jispa to tso moriri !! Is that real tough to do !!! I mean road conditions ????
Sahil, You should not do Tso Moriri while going from Manali to Leh because first the 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, because any help if required will be very hard to find in case you get hit with AMS.
we travelled to Pangong on 2may and permits were not required, they allowed us to travel
Fabulous !! Great to get first hand feedback from the ones getting advantage of this welcome rule in Ladakh 🙂
Thnks a lot dheeraj I had a great trip thanks a lot for all ur advise else it wouldn’t ve been possible ur inputs came very useful n handy. Day 1 as per ur advise we rested, day 2. We got a sharing cab for Lamayuru n sham valley day 3 hired a bike n we did hemis thickset shyer n shanti stupa. day 4 & 5 got a share car for Nubia valley. Day 6 shared a car for pangong n day 7 spent in leh n day 8 bk to Bombay. It was a great trip . Thanks once again
Awesome !! Glad to know that DoW was helpful in making your trip successful 🙂
Hi Dheeraj! I have been watching your advises since March, 14. I am planning a road trip from Delhi-Leh – Srinagar – Delhi in May-14. Request your advise.
Dinesh, roads have just opened from Srinagar – Leh Highway but still the condition is not stable to commute on it. I will suggest that you shift your plans to June when both the roads will be open that is from Manali and Srinagar, and stabilized to some extent too.
Dear Dheeraj,
Thanks. You have been so nice in taking care of queries from all. I will shift it to early June and it will be for around 10-12 days as per your advises.
However, there are 3 points :-
1. AS per site of Leh, there will be Sindhu Darshan Festival on 12th & 13th June, 2014. Will it be a problem during those days regarding hotels, commuting, site seeing etc.?
2. You have mentioned, which we all rely, that the roads have just opened. But as per Leh official site, both Manali-Leh and Srinagar-Leh roads are closed. Kindly guide.
3. I should take it that it is better to takeDelhi-Srinagar -Kargil-Leh-Manali-Delhi rather than thru Delhi -Manali first. regards
Dinesh, please find my replies below:
1. Not really but better you book for couple days I will suggest just to be on safe side. Else, you may need to look out more than usual.
2. Only Srinagar – Leh Highway got opened for last couple of days for light vehicles and then closed again for next few days. Also, conditions are not stable currently. Leh website only updates when highway is stable and opened for buses too. Also, it gets updated only when high opens for season and then when it closes down. In between there are no updates.
3. Yes, for better acclimatization and distribution of distance over Manali – Leh Highway, it is better to do it in that direction.
Dhiraj we are reaching srinagar on 18th May and driving down to kargil. We are reaching leg on 19th. Hope the route will be open. Ad advised by you in your various posts we have got in touch with Kazim for this route
Cool !! Have a good trip. I feel route should open by then, fingers crossed. Zojila Pass has been cleared of snow but BRO is waiting for conditions to stabilize as there are daily 10-12 avalanches / snow slides happening between baltal and Zojila pass. So, they do not want to risk the lives of people. It is expected to open between 10-15 May.
Hi Dhiraj,
I am traveling to leh in the month of june seconed week. But recently I have come to know that we cannot use bikes rented from manali or delhi for side seeing places in and around the Ladakh reason. I have even heard that one cannot use his own bike for that mater. Can you please through some light on that. Because if that’s the case then my budget is going to be blown over and I won’t be able to make my dream trip.
Thanks in advance,
Parth
P.S- Can you suggest any alternatives.
Parth, only rented bikes outside Leh are not allowed for sightseeing inside Ladakh except Tso Moriri and Tso Kar lakes which can be done while going to Manali from Leh. Private bikes are completely allowed. You can use the outside rented bike to reach Leh but then for going to Pangong Tso, nubra Valley, etc.. you need to hire rented bikes from Leh only.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Dhreeraj,
If I rent bike from manali to reach leh, that will mean, if I stay in leh for 8 days I won’t be able to use the same and will need to hire another bike from leh to see places in and around the leh region. That means I’ll be paying rent for two bikes at the same time. This is what worrying me.
One more quarry I had was my friend has a enfild bike of his own,he lives in Delhi, he has agreed to lend me his bike for this trip. Now will that be allowed to be used by me to see places around Leh?
Dheeraj Bhai,
Please help me with my above quarry.
Thanks in advance,
Parth
Done brother.
Hello Parth,
Yes, very much this is the case. You will end up paying rent for two bikes while one will not be in use. Yes, private bikes are allowed in Leh – Ladakh. Make sure you carry all the documents and if confronted, you can explain that this bike belongs to you or your brother genuinely and not hired one.
Regards
Dheeraj
Thanks a lot Dheeraj for the valuable input, will see what can I do to make the trip with a bike. You have been a real help brother, thanks a lot.
Best wishes for the trip brother, enjoyii 🙂
Hi Dheeraj,
One more question came to my mind, that is, does mobile phones work in and around the leh region, or is it only BSNL postpaid phones will work or is it nothing works in that region?
Thanks in advance,
Parth.
Almost all major Post Paid connections works in Leh and surrounding areas of Leh except Vodafone which is kind of seasonal I believe. However, BSNL Postpaid is best among all and works in some of the other parts of Ladakh as well like Nubra Valley and Chumathang near Tso Moriri.
Dhreeraj,
God bless you brother, you are a amazing help to everyone. Just read your epic log on DoW Ladakh Mega Meet 2013. It is spine thrilling stuff. All the more looking forward to the journey.
Regards,
Parth
Glad you liked the log on Mega Meet brother and yes, it was one of the most amazing trips I have ever had. Still unable to complete but this month for sure. Heading to Tirthan Valley in Himachal Pradesh with family as I write this 🙂 …
Join us over Dow Mega Meet 2015 in Zanskar Valley next year if possible for you.
Hello Dheeraj,
You are doing good job for providing the useful information. We are group of six people and we are planning to visit first week of june and we have done some work on itinerary. Could you please look below our itinerary and help us to improve our itinerary?
7 June Rohtak evening—Jammu/patnitop 600 km
Take for small break and start afternoon towards (10 hours drive)
8 June-Jammu/patnitop to Srinagar
Stop for small and start afternoon towards to Srinagar 190 km
– Overnight at Srinagar
9 june-Full day at srinagar
– Enjoy walk around Dal lake and may be Shikara ride as well
– check out, floating market, Shalimar Garden.
– Overnight at Srinagar
10 june-– Srinagar-Sonamarg – Zozi La – Drass – Kargil (150)
– 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
11 june–Kargil – Lamayuru – Leh(267)
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
12 june Leh Local Sightseeing + Inner Line Permits
– Overnight at Leh
13 june 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
14 june 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
15 june 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)
16 june Pangong Tso Lake – Thicksey Monastery – Shey Palace – Leh
– Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on return to Leh
– Overnight at Leh
17 june Leh – Tso-Moiri via Chumathang
– Overnight at tso-moiri
18 june Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Moore Plains (Manali – Leh Highway) – Pang – Sarchu
-Overnight at sarchu
19 June Sarchu – Manali
20 june Manali – Rohtak
Ashish, your itinerary is based upon the most common one referred by DoW and is completely fine to me. You will enjoy the trip. just that, you do not need the permits any further as stated above in the article from this month.
Thanks Dheeraj for the help.
We will not required any further permit so i was thinking to start journey on next day after reaching on 11 june evening. As you advised in past comments do go directly to pass after reaching leh so we can do slightly changes in our itinerary and follow below itinerary:
11 june–Kargil – Lamayuru – Leh(267)
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
12 june 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)
13 june Pangong Tso Lake – Thicksey Monastery – Shey Palace – Leh
– Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on return to Leh
14 june 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
15 june 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
16 june Leh – Tso-Moiri via Chumathang
– Overnight at tso-moiri
17 june Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Moore Plains (Manali – Leh Highway) – Pang – Sarchu
-Overnight at sarchu
18 June Sarchu – Manali
19 june Manali – Rohtak
Could you please advise whether this changes will work?
No brother this is even dangerous as with this you will now be sleeping at much higher altitude and will face issues for sure. Even Chang La is not much different than Khardung La, so with this plan since you are even sleeping at high altitude, your condition will deteriorate. Also, not getting the permits does not mean that you do not need acclimatization 🙂
Thanks Dheeraj for guiding us through just one question that hitting our mind.
Lots of people suggesting us do not go to leh and ladakh on first week of june as per there experience they are suggesting us to plan trip on first week of august. Could you please suggest us whether we can follow above itinerary as planned and we are planning all trip by private taxi cab (xylo)does road condition allow us to do this trip on first week of june?
June first week is indeed tough to travel because Manali – Leh especially opens during that time so conditions are not much stabilized. However, you got to see some fabulous views during that time of the year which you cannot see in August especially over Passes in Ladakh and Manali – Leh Highway. You will fine snow only in June. So, if snow is not the priority, you can shift it to August but then you need to face hassles of monsoons upto Keylong from Manali side and Kargil from Srinagar side.
DEER DHEERAJ,
IT IS VERY DISAPPOINTING KNOWING THE FACT OF SCARCITY OF HOTELS AS THERE IS KAALCHAKRA FESTIVAL IN THE FIRST TWO WEEKS OF JULY.WE WANT TO STAY AT PANGONG TSO ON 12TH JULY,BECAUSE OF FULL-MOON NIGHT.THE NEXT FULL-MOON NIGHT IS 10TH AUG.IF WE GO THERE AT THAT TIME,WILL THERE BE ANY PROBLEM OF GETTING HOTELS/TENT HOUSE ? WHAT WILL BE THE WEATHER AT THAT TIME?
Gautam please use normal casing to post comments, upper case means shouting. Well, if you can book hotels in advance even in July it should be fine else go in august.
Hi Dheeraj,
Is it tough to reach Pangong Tso by bike from Leh in June 1st week. I heard it is not advisable?
Kishore if you do not have prior experience, I will suggest to avoid it as you may find snow on chang La pass where controlling the bike will be a bit tough.
Thanks Dheeraj,
We have experience riding.. is it because of the terrain or is it because of the snow, that we would face problems?
Because of snow on road and that too over Changla Pass. Rest should be very manageable. Just don;t use the front brakes as bike skids using them over those rough roads.
Thank god…as we were planning 3n/4d trip in aug… We thot that we will be missing either of nubra or tso lake cuz of permit. As 1 day we hv already booked for pathar sahib gurudwara n magnetic hill bt I suppose we can cover both lake n valley in rest 2dayz…thnx for the info
Geet, what do you mean by 3n / 4d ?? 😯 😯 Keep in mind YOU HAVE to still ACCLIMATIZE to the altitude of Leh for more than 36 Hrs at least !!
We are reachng leh on 15aug at 10am n leavng leh on 18aug..want to visit pangong lake, nubra valley(same day return) n pathar sahib gurudwara(being a sikh couple we dnt want to miss that) so we want to cvr each in 1day…is it possible?or if u can suggest 3day itenary
We can start as early as 6 in mrng
Geet, 3 days are just too less for Ladakh trip as you need to acclimatize to the high altitude so that you do not suffer with AMS. When flying to Leh, it is strict NO NO for anything on first day than rest. Then second day just light activity around Leh, may be visit to Pather Sahib. Then on 3rd day you start for Nubra Valley for couple of days. then Pangong Tso. In 3 days it will be high risk of mountain sickness trip for you.
Dhiraj u r the god of ladakh. Thank u so much for the info
Thanks brother but I am just a passionate lover of Ladakh and Himalayas 🙂
Till merak we can go without ILP…. but do we have to get ILP for Kakset – Chusul – Tsaga La – Tsaga Village – Lama –Nyoma – Mahe – Sumdo – Tso Moriri….. in order to go from Pamgong Tso lake to Tso Moriri Lake..
Yes, Shivinder, you need permits for that route as soon as you cross Merak checkpost.
but are they allowing indians now in this route now?
It all depends upon the luck on that day. first you need to get permits, once you have permits then you need to rely upon army allowing you to pass through chusul and tsaga. Since, last year they have started returning people from these posts even after having permits.
Then I guess I can reach leh from manali and visit kargil, then back to manali.. since the main highlight of the journey is manali-leh highway, I don’t worry much about missing the other places.. Instead that gives me valid reasons to visit next year (hopefully with an own enfield).. IS This still a better idea ?
Anbu, in case you are only interested in Manali – Leh Highway then yes otherwise, there is lot and lot more to see in Ladakh only even for more than couple of months 🙂
THANKS A LOT FOR ANSWERING TO MY QUESTION. BUT NOW IT IS VERY IMPORTANT TO KNOW THE PRESENT CONDITION OF MANALI-LEH HIGHWAY. WE ARE PLANNING TO GO THERE ON 1ST WEEK OF JULY-14 CROSSING ROHTANG PASS. WILL IT BE OK AT THAT TIME ? WITH REGARDS. GAUTAM
Yes Gautam it should be OK by first week of July. Please keep in mind that in first two weeks of July, there is a Kaalchakra festival in Leh. Expect lakhs of people around there and booking for stay will be very hard to find in these two weeks. Taxis will be more difficult to get in this period.
wow. great. thanks dheeraj. I am following your website since 1 year for planning our tour to Ladakh. I knew nothing about ladakh. your site gave me everything right from route, places to visit,
about availability of deise, About Ams, distance between to villages and sights. hotels, homestays, etc etc.
now we all are fully prepared for our visit. we will leave Allahabad on 24-5-14 and reach Leh on evening of 28-5-14.
without your help it would have been impossible. I repeat Impossible.
Thanks a lots once again. regards . Hats off to you and your team
Thank you so much Farogh !! Glad to know that and thanks for your order of DoW T-Shirt, it has been shipped to you 🙂 … Best wishes for your Ladakh trip !!
Awesome !! Best wishes for your Ladakh trip !!
Hi Dheeraj,
We have planned for Manali Leh trip by 28th of may.. Getting damn scared whether the roads are gonna be opened by then. Unfortunately that is the only time we can be able to commit ourselves to be free… If Leh-Manali highway is not open, or take Srinagar-Leh highway is not open, what is the best thing we can do around Manali for about 8-10 days..? Preferably biking and trekking? We have no idea about the adventurous places there.
Kindly reply
Kishore, high chances that Manali – Leh Highway will be open by end of May and Srinagar – Leh Highway will open by mid of May. In case, Manali – Leh is not open by that time, use Srinagar Leh to enter Leh and I am sure that on your return you will be able to find Manali – Leh Highway open in case it is one of those EXCEPTIONs on an year 🙂
Thanks for the reply Dheeraj,
In the worst case, will Spiti Valley be open by then i.e 29th of May?
Spiti valley from Kinnaur side remains open all round the year. However, if you are planning from Manali side then it generally open by mid of June only.
I am planning to go to Leh in the first week of may. Will the Srinagar-Leh highway be open by that time?
Srinagar – Leh Highway, so far does not look like it will open anytime before mid of May
Hello Dhiraj:
I am wondering if OCI card can be considered as Indian ID..I have US passport but have “Overseas citizen of India” (OCI) issued by indian government.
thank you.
Bella
No Bella, AFAIK, OCI Holders have to go through PAP Process.
We want to roam Ladakh by our own bike. Are there any problems in sightseeing ?
If it is a personal bike then there are no issues Gautan. Do carry all the required papers or documents with you.
Hi Dheeraj,
Does this mean that bikes rented from Manali wont be a problem for roaming in Leh regions in-spite of some problems by motorcycle unions?
No Kishore, that rule has yet to be seen. That circular was past in the last leg of year last year that no bikes rented outside is allowed for sightseeing in Ladakh. But, things are not that clear till date. When season will start then only things will clear out. Manali union is putting alot of pressure to revert that rule.
Thanx Dheeraj, very encouraging, trying to visit in may or june in my INDICA VISTA petrol….
That’s good to hear !! For hatchback/sedan taking on Manali – Leh Highway and Ladakh, please refer the link: FAQ | Can I do Leh – Ladakh trip in Hatchback or Sedan? for more details.
great but i need to get ILP as travelling to hanle, chusul and Tsaga
Yes, all those traveling on non-touristy places in Ladakh will still need permits.
This is great news! Thanks for the update Dheeraj!
Yeah Hatim, I hope so that it remains as is and no confusions in time to come. We only have few weeks and things will be crystal clear then 🙂
Celebration time guys.
Not yet 🙂 … Let it pass through and get implemented smoothly 🙂
Very nice news but does Spiti valley still requires a permit
Sheetraj, Spiti Valley never required any permits for Indians. In spiti Valley permits are only required for foreigners.
A very relaxing news. You are really doing a commendable job, dear Dheeraj!
So I get replies to one of my query through your this post. Thank you very much. I have made some queries on your post Freedom around Kyon Tso 1 & Kyon Tso 2 | Ladakh Mega Meet, so can you please suggest me on those.
Regards
Anupam
I guess I replied to you. Please check or repost any pending queries you have as it is not showing in my missing replies list 🙁
HP registration bikes can go to which places in leh??
Anbu, so far the as per the news from locals I know bikes which are rented outside of Ladakh will not be allowed for sightseeing within Ladakh. Even few bike rental guys in Manali also confirms it.
Right decision by government. Thanks for sharing the news DOW.
Let’s hope it goes through smoothly without any hassles.
Hurrraaayyyyyy !! Awesome news Dheeraj.. Thanks for the info.. expecting update on the outside rental bikes also
Anbu, so far the as per the news from locals I know bikes which are rented outside of Ladakh will not be allowed for sightseeing within Ladakh. Even few bike rental guys in Manali also confirms it.
so Dheeraj , in case the outside rental bikes are not allowed , what are the places I can see? I assume manali-leh travel and kargil will not get affected by this ?
You can only reach Leh either from Manali – Leh Highway OR from Srinagar – Leh Highway. You cannot make any other sightseeing. For roaming in Ladakh that is to Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri etc.. then you need to hire bike from Leh.
Hi Dheeraj,
Very useful and informative article.Thumbs up to you…
I will reach ladakh around 8.30 morning saturday on May 24, 2014. There is a “copy for information & necessary action” field. Since i would be directly going to DC office to get the permit and plan to book the hotel after getting permit, therefore may i leave that blank since i wont be having info regarding hotel stay at that time??? Is it compulsory or optional???
regards
Mahesh
AFAIK, it is compulsory. Also, people at DC Office will come around 10 AM. What will you do reaching there at 8.30 AM?
Hi Dheeraj,
Thanks for the useful information. I will go for hotel booking first then come back to get the permit.
Thanks once again.
regards
Mahesh
Mahesh, 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
Dear Dheeraj,
Do we need to self attest the copies of the photo id proof or a formal attestation is required?
Thanks in advance, Shaheen.
Shaheen, it is better to get them attested BUT not required AFAIK.
Amazing – Thanks to my buddy Nikhil Divan to have found a detailed travelogue ..very helpful..
Thank you.
Naintara
Thank you. Feel free to post any queries on Ladakh trip, you have 🙂
Hi Dheeraj,
Me and my friends are planning to go to Leh this June. Unfortunately we had to cut short our plan by a day, hence have to make changes. Initially our plan was:
Leh-Nubra
Nubra-leh
Leh-Pangong
Pangong-leh
Leh-tso moriri
Tso moriri-leh
Since we had to cut short by one day, I was thinking to take the route directly from Pangong to Tso Moriri so that we can compensate for the lost day and still cover all. So I wanted to know whether the DC is issuing the inner line permits for Pangong to Tso Moriri via Chushul this year. If not, what are the routes that can be taken from Nubra Valley to Pangong instead of coming back to Leh? We really want to cover all so considering all options. Could you please guide us on this?
Abhijit, permit will be issued or not will totally be based upon the situations during your visit. Even if the permit is issued, there is no guarantee that you will be able to pass through as it depends if army will allow you to cross Chusul or not. This might screw up your Tso Moriri plan. Best you can do is that you make a day trip to Pangong Tso. Second best I will suggest that you leave from Hunder or Diskit in Nubra and take the Wari La route to reach Pangong Tso lake the same day instead of coming back to Leh from Nubra. The only issue with Wari La is that it is a desolated route and only few people take it. Hence, in case of any emergency you will be on your own with help in far distance.
Thanks a lot Dheeraj! Seems like the Pangong-Tso Moriri route is a risk considering our time limit. Otherwise it looked like a beautiful route(maybe best left for a longer trip). I guess we’ll have to consider the other two options. Thanks again!
Abhijit, yes and with Ladakh once you are bitten by its beauty you will not wait much long for the second trip to heaven 🙂
Dheeraj Bhai
Kaise hai aap
Again this year planning for Ladakh Once again
any new places you have found kindly notify
Sectors will be covered will are
suru-Zanskar
Nubra
Pangong- tso mori – tso kar
hanle
Sir ekdum baidya… we had this discussion last night !! I will suggest to add Kyon Tso Lakes. I did that last year and that route is fabulous from Hanle to Jyon Ts 1 and Kyon Tso 2 then to Thitzarbo La and further into Nidar – Nyoma route.
Hi Dheeraj,
Wonderful articles and really nice website with great help to traveller.
We are group of 16 and will start from manali in july. we all decided to stay in personal tent in SARCHU and PANGONG LAKE. I heard that people are not permitted to any one with private tent in sarchu. Can you please suggest some idea regading private tent.
Thanks,
Rakesh
Hello Rakesh,
I doubt if that is true. There is no such restriction. Locals to create ruckus sometimes but it is freeland and do not come under any wetland reserve when compared to Pangong Tso Lake or Tso Moriri or Chandratal. Hence, at Sarchu it is fine to pitch the camps. If someone creates issues, try to calm him down with little tip, if required at all. Also, regarding camping at Pangong Tso or Tso Moriri, you are not allowed at the banks but can pitch on the lands of locals which is away from the shores. Ask homestays and tip them to use their land. They will help you with food and safety measures too.
Regards
Dheeraj
Do you have the : Leh – Ladakh Inner Line Permit Application Form for international travellers ? ANd also it will be great to have application letter form for international travellers as well.
Thank you
Giang, it has not been put up here because all foreigners have to go through registered travel agent only to get the Inner Line Permits in Ladakh. So, even if I arrange it and make it available, you will not be able to post it unless there are at least two of you and someone registered travel agent applies for it.
Hi Dheeraj
Thanks for your reply, is it possible to have a travel agent just apply for the permit and then we ( a group of 3 ) do the rest by our own , like just hire a taxi and do homestay instead of going with tour ?
Regards
Yes, yes, completely possible for you. No worries. You can also check with your taxi driver if he can get the process done for you. You do not need to take any other service from them. Just apply the permits through the agent and rest can be managed on your own.
Dear Shri Dheeraj Sharmaji,
Greetings of the day.
Thanks for this wonderful efforts – selfless service.
Me (63) and my wife are planning a Srinagar- Manali road tour starting 6th June 2014. Our itinerary is > Srinagar- Kargil–Leh-Tso Moriri-Sarchu-Keylong-Kaza-Manali- Delhi.At Kaza we plan to stay 2 nights and at all other places one night. (1)We need your general guidance on our plan. (2)Please also suggest us on availability of Taxis, (3)need and procedure for obtaining inner line permit,(4) safe and budget accommodations.
Best regards.
Sunil Kumar
Hello Sunil ji,
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.
After reach Sarchu, you can move to Keylong or Sissu on next day. Then from Sissu you can move to Kaza for two days and stay at Sakya Abode (Tsering runs that and is more than a friend to me, you can refer him my name) and come back to Manali. At Sissu, you can stay at Hotel Triveni.
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 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.
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
I hope this helps.
Regards
Dheeraj
Dheeraj,
Fantastic information. I’ll travelling to Pangong-Chusul-Hanle-Loma-Mahe-Tso Moriri route this month end. Read very confusing stories about passing army checkposts at Loma despite having right permits. Do you think this is possible? I ask since no updates yet on anybody done this in 2014.
Abhishek, I have detailed out the Permit Process and people not letting pass through the Chusul post in the article above. Yeah, since season has not yet started, no one is sure that this year what shall be the status but it should not change much, IMHO. If it is your lucky day, you will be allowed to pass through else you come back the whole way to Leh.
Hello Dheeraj,
We the four people (2 Family ) planning to visit Leh in the mid of June or July. We are planning to come from Nagpur to Delhi to Manali to Leh.
Please guide us about taxi hire charges from Manali to Leh as well as where we can stay during the journey?
Thanks in advance..
Anup, how many days do you have in hand for Ladakh trip over Manali – Leh Highway? Taxi charges are about 18K for Manali to Leh journey. You can check List of Taxi Drivers for Ladakh – Srinagar – Leh – Manali
Dheeraj we are planing for 4-5 day is it sufficient or we have to go for more days.. And another question can we go towards srinagar while return journey??
Anup, You should 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.
Even if you fly, 4-5 day is not sufficient and recommended for a Ladakh trip.
HI Is it possible for you to help me with an affordable and a trustworthy guest house and a guide please
Ankita, you can check Glacier View Guest House OR Paul Guest House. Regarding guide, they should be able to help you too.
Hi Dheeraj,
i am planning to go by bike from delhi to leh. how many days it will take to reach leh? can we reach there by 3 days drive??? ..plz help me
Well, from Manali side it takes 2 days to reach Leh from Delhi and from Srinagar side it will take 4 days to reach Leh from Delhi.
Hi Dheeraj,
I will be in leh by tomorrow. Could you please help me with routes and places which I can visit in next one week. Also please suggest me the routes need to be mentioned in ILP form.
Thanks!!
Kumar
Kumar, you should rest for couple of days in Leh. Then based on your health conditions, make a 2 day visit to Nubra Valley and a day visit to Pangong Tso. In between visit Sham Valley and region around Leh.
Hi Dheeraj
I am travelling with my family (2+2) to leh from 6th apr to 11 apr. could u provide itinery? I am considering stay at panorama & one overnight at numra valley> pls. suggest>
Pankaj, only 5 days? Check something like below:
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
HI Dheeraj,
I am going with th esuggested itinery.
pls. let me know what stuff, medicines, clothes etc. I need to carry?
Pankaj, 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.
I will travel alone this coming April 4-12, does this means I could not get a permit?
Johnny, you will be able to get permits as there will be other people too. Also, you have to go through a registered travel agent anyways, who will help you. Let’s keep discussion under one thread in the community link here
Hi Dheeraj, can i have your contact number. We are travelling in June 2014. Shanti Guest house is charging 1200/per day for double bed room. is it worth paying ? Also want to know how much do local cabs charge for local sight seeing/day for full day from 9am to evening 8pm. also, do i need to book the cabs in advance or can book as we reach there. if advance booking needs to be done, can i get the contact number of local travel agent or cab person
Hi Poonam,
It seems they are overcharging so not really worth. You will get better deal at Panorama which is much better than Shanti. Check the review here: https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/india/ladakh-zanskar-hotels-guest-houses/hotel-panorama-leh-ladakh-review-t454.html
If you are looking for much cheaper options then try going with Glacier View on Upper Tukcha Road or Paul Guest House may be. You can find more of them at: https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/cheap-hotels-or-accommodation-in-leh-ladakh/
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 12-15% 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 Sharma
Hi, I’m Ripan from Bangladesh.
I’d like to know which points/spots are restricted for non-Indians so that we can plan accordingly.
besides that, can you add any more point for we Bangladeshis for visiting these region?
Thanks in advance
Dear Dheeraj,
It is quite informative going through your website. I thank you for providing guidance to so many travelers. I too would like to seek your advice on the following.
I am planning my trip to Leh Laddakh in 3rd week of June, 2014. I will be starting my journey from Kullu. I will be reaching Kullu by 9.00am. I have 6-7 days with me and the plan is to cover journey on bike from Kullu.
Can you please guide me on the itinerary. What all places I should go to and where I should plan my ni8 stay. Further what other preparation is needed (eg inner line permit, etc).
What will be the bike rentals and Deposit requirement in kullu?
Thank you Somesh. 6-7 day for a road trip to Ladakh will be tad low. It will take 2 days to reach Leh and 2 days to come back to Manali. Then, you will be left with just 2-3 days out of which 1 day is required for acclimatization and permits. So, you have just 1-2 days and I don’t see it that worth. Can you add more days?
Thank you Dheeraj for your prompt reply. I can think of extending number of days. It will be grateful of you if you can give me an itinerary covering leh, khardung la, nubra valley, pangong lake, magnetic hill and other places as you would like to suggest. Thanks once again.
Please also let me know about the availability of Bikes, Rental and deposit requirement.
Hi Somesh,
If possible, 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.
You can pick the part which you want. Else, in case you interested just in Manali – Leh, please let me know and I will suggest that itinerary accordingly.
Regards
Dheeraj
Hey Dheeraj Thanks a ton for your reply. I have given a thought to the routes suggested by you and it will be really amazing following that itinerary as I can manage 13-15days.
The difficulty that I am facing is that I will be hiring bike for the trip. So now if I start from Srinagar then I will hire bike from Srinagar and I will have to end my journey at Srinagar to return the bike.
I wish to cover Lumayuru(Magnetic Hill)-Lumayuru (Lunar Landscapes)-Leh-Nubra Valley-Khardung La-Diskit-Hunder-Panamik-Tso Pangong-Tso Moriri and anything more if possible in 13-15days. I request you to suggest an itinerary which can cover the places mentioned above(or something less,if thts the only way out)and even address my limitation of returning bike.
Please also provide a total cost estimate including bike rentals for the itinerary that you would like to propose.
I thank you once again for being a great help.
Hello Somesh,
There are no bike rentals available in Srinagar. Better taxi shared taxis or taxis and then go to Leh and hire bike from there. Then complete the journey, pay for one way rental of bike and drop bike at Manali. You will be able to cover all mentioned places in suggested itinerary.
Regards
Dheeraj
Hi Dheeraj,
First of all let me thank you for the amazing work that you are doing here. It’s really fascinating to read through our blogs. It’s so much helpful for people like us.
Me and around 4-5 of my friends are planning to visit LAdakh during last week of May. Due to time constraints we cannot spare more than 12 days. But we also wish to cover as much as we can. So I used your suggested itinerary for 14 days, and did some edits on that. Would you kindly check if this looks feasible to you.
May24 (Sat) – Flight to Srinagar from Delhi -> Drive to Kargil via Sonamarg, Zozi La, Drass -> Overnite stay at Kargil
May25 (Sun) – Kargil ->Lamayuru -> Leh -> Overnite stay at Leh
May26(Mon) – Leh local sightseeing+Inner Line permit -> Overnite stay at Leh
May27 (Tue) – Leh to Nubra Valley via Khardung La, Diskit, Hunder -> Overnite stay at Hunder/Diskit
May28 (Wed) – Nubra valley to Pangong Tso via Wari La – Shakti – Chang La – Tangste – Lukung – Spangmik route. Overnite stay at Pangong.
May29(Thu) – Pangong to Leh via either Thicksey monastery or Shey palace -> Overnite stay at Leh
May30(Fri) – Rest day at Leh -> Overnite stay at Leh
May31(Sat) – Leh to Tso Moriri via Chumathang covering Karzok Monastery -> Overnite stay at Tso Moriri
Jun1(Sun) – Tso Moriri -> Tso Kar -> Debring (Manali-Leh Highway starts) -> Moore Plains -> Pang -> Sarchu -> Overnite stay at Sarchu
Jun2(Mon) – Sarchu -> Baralacha La -> Keylong -> Rohtang Pass -> Manali -> Overnite stay at Manali
Jun3(Tue) – Manali to Delhi -> Reach Delhi on Wednesday morning
My questions are:
1) Is it possible to reach Kargil on the day we reach Srinagar, if we take an early morning flight?
2) Do you think it’s feasible to reach Pangong from Nubra valley only instead of coming back to Leh? (this will save us a day)
3)How do you think the road condition will be in end May? I followed your advice to start from Srinagar and exit from Manali. But do you think the Srinagar-Leh highway will be open in last week of May? Also, what about the Manali route? Any ideas on generally what time the road opens?
Thanks a lot in advance for your time.
Hello Arko,
Thanks alot. Please find my replies below:
1) If you take the early morning flight to Srinagar, then you can start towards Kargil the same day. It takes about 8 Hrs, so better you leave by 9-10 AM from Srinagar.
2) Better not use the direct route to Pangong Tso from Nubra Valley that early in the season as snow presence might not open Wari La by that time and Syok route is too much risky to take on. It is better to come back to Leh and start for Pangong Tso the next day and use the rest day to come back from Pangong Tso.
3) Road conditions will be rough and muddy-slushy at passes especially due to the presence of snow. Rest manageable. Srinagar – Leh highway will highly likely open by that time of the year and Manali – Leh Highway might just open at that time when you plan to exit by light vehicles and you will see tons of snow around there.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Many thanks for the prompt reply.
Do you happen to know the exact dates the roads were opened for the tourists in the last few years?
And also, what do you exactly mean by ‘light vehicle’? We were thinking our private car like xylo or innova. Does that count among the light vehicle?
Arko, there are no exact dates. Srinagar – Leh Highway for the last two years has opened by third week of April and Manali Leh Highway by last week of May. It all depends upon the snow stock up there. Light vehicles means taxis. No Buses and Truck. Xylo does come in taxi.
I PLAN TO VISIT LEH LADHAK IN THE MONTH OF JUNE, 2014. PLS HELP ME WITH THE DETAILS
Hello Mohit,
How many days you have in hand? What is your starting point?
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
I AM PLANNING FOR 9 – 10 DAYS TO START WITH. PLS PROVIDE ME AN ITINARY. I ONLY WISH TO SEE THE PANGONG LAKE , KHARDUNGLA PASS AND WISH TO TRAVEL FROM SRINAGAR SIDE. PLS BE MY GUIDE
Hello Mohit,
You have 9-10 days in hand and you are planning to travel from Srinagar to Leh and then flying out of Leh. You can follow the following itinerary in that case:
Day 1 | Delhi – 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 2 | 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 3 | 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 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 – 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 8 | Pangong Tso Lake – Thicksey Monastery – Shey Palace – Leh
— Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on return to Leh
— Overnight at Leh
Day 9 | Rest day at Leh to enjoy local culture and some shopping OR Monastery tour OR you can do tour to Sham Valley
— Monastery tour may include Hemis, Thicksey, Stakna 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
— Overnight at Leh
Day 10 | Fly out of Leh
Regards
dheeraj Sharma
I AM TAKING DELIVERY OF MY SUV IN THE MONTH OF JANUARY, 2014 PURELY WITH THE PURPOSE OF VISITING LEH – LADKHAK IN THE MONTH OF JUNE. PLS HELP WITH THE DETAILS.
HI. DHEERAJ,
I READ ALL UR BLOG & SUGGESTION & FINALLY I BBOKED AIRTICKET FOR LADAKH FROM 9JUNE14 TO 18 JUNE 14…….THANX FOR UR ARTICLES, SUGGESTIONS, REVIEWS…ITS HIGHLY APPRECIATING. .. .
DR.VIVEK
98261-73698
Have a great trip Dr. Vivek. Thanks for the appreciations, such words, specially the time taken out to write them, really adds fuel many a times. I hope you have downloaded the updated permit forms and application letter from the above link. Feel free to post any queries in DwD Community or here in the blog as comments for your ladakh trip 🙂
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
I HAVE DOWNLOAD ALL FORM. THANKS
Great Sandeep, I hope it gets useful in time to come. Also, looking forward to meet you over up-coming DoW Mini Meet 🙂
Hi Dheeraj,
Thanks a lot for providing such an informative blog. I am planning to travel from Mumbai-Srinagar-Leh-Manali-Delhi-Mumbai sometime in June 2014. I want to explore both Srinagar-Leh and Leh-Manali routes. I am travelling with my son of 7 years old. Guess he can cope up and the time i had chosen is ok. I can spent upto 14 days. Pls suggest an iterinery for me. I had visited Srinagar twice so not interested in Srinagar.
regards
Supreed
Hello Supreed,
Good that you have chosen to go via Srinagar. 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
Please let me know in case you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
Thanks a lot for your prompt response. Really appreciate you in this regard, spending your valuable in helping others. Thanks a lot once again.
I got few more queries…
1) Is it OK to take my 7 year old son in this trip.(He had travelled with me to Kashmir , North East etc before)
2) I am planning the trip some time in June. Is it OK?
3) Are taxis available at Kargil , as you mentioned I can take Ladakh registered vehicle from Kargil and visit few places on the way. Or Ladakh registered vehicles available at Srinagar.
4) How much do the taxi charge from Leh to Manali?
regards
Supreed
Hello Supreed,
Thanks dear !!
1. It is fine to take the children of such age group because AMS do not matter with respect to age. It can happen to anyone of any age. The issue with children is that they tend to exert the body considering it the same kind of place they belong to and this elevates the chances of getting struck with AMS. Secondly, they are not much expressive about their uneasy feelings, so it is parents who need to watch out and take care that the child is not suffering from uneasy feelings, headache or nausea and is behaving properly. With 5+ year child, I think he/she would be able to convey the uneasiness with little efforts. If you notice any such feeling or he/she tells you about such a feeling then please do not ascend anywhere, either descend to lower altitude or stay at the same place to watch things overnight and if symptom increase then start descending immediately. Same is applicable for any adult as well. And yes, do keep the body adequately hydrated!!
2. Yes, June is pretty much fine. Please do check: Best Time to Travel Ladakh & Zanskar Valley
3. Yes, it is very much feasible that you get the Ladakh taxi in Srinagar itself. Get in touch with the drivers recommended in the DwD Community at the link: List of Taxi Drivers for Ladakh – Srinagar – Leh – Manali
4. 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.
Please let me know in case you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Dear Deeraj,
Thanks again…I am just preparing my iterinery, and its like opening the pandora box of doubts, so decided to trouble you with few more questions 🙂
1) Is it OK to travel from Nubra Valley to Pangong Lake stay there. The next day go to Tso Moriri stay there and the next day travel to Manali.
My Iternery is as given below pls comment.
Day -1 Saturday 6.00 AM Mumbai 11 AM Srinagar
Day -1 Saturday 1 PM Srinagar 4 PM Sonmarg (Stay)
Day -2 Sunday 7.00 AM Sonmarg 3 PM Kargil (Stay)
Day -3 Monday 7.00 AM Kargil 3 PM Alchi (Stay)
Day -4 Tuesday 7.00 AM Alchi 11 AM Leh (Stay)
Day -5 Wednesday 7.00 AM Local/ Permit etc 3 PM Leh (Stay)
Day -6 Local Leh (Stay)
Day -7 Friday 7.00 AM Leh 1 PM Nubra Valley (Stay-Diksit)
Day -8 7 AM Nubra Valley to Pangong Lake (Stay)
Day -10 7.00 AM Pangong Lake 5 PM Tso Moriri (Stay)
Day -11 7.00 AM Tso Moriri Manali (Stay- Sarchu)
Day -12 7.00 AM Sarchu 5 PM Manali (Stay- Sarchu)
Day -13 7.00 AM Manali 5 PM Delhi (Stay- Sarchu)
Day -14 Delhi Mumbai
I had put three days local in Leh, Is it too much since I am already planning to stay at Alchi for a day?
People are talking of Zanskar valley. Is it worth visiting and is it possible to include that in these given number of days?
Thank you
regards
Supreed
Hello Supreed,
You can follow the below itinerary to keep it more relaxed as well as enjoy to the core rather running around the places.
Day -1 Saturday 6.00 AM Mumbai 11 AM Srinagar
Day -1 Saturday 1 PM Srinagar 4 PM Sonamarg (Stay)
Day -2 Sonamarg – Kargil
Day -3 Kargil – Leh
Day -4 Leh Local + Permits & Rest for the day to acclimatize
Day -5 Leh – Khardung La – Nubra Valley
Day -6 Nubra Valley – Leh
Day -7 Leh – Chang La – Pangong Tso
Day -8 Pangong Tso – Leh
Day -10 Leh – Tso Moriri
Day -11 Tso Moriri – Sarchu
Day -12 Sarchu – Manali
Day -13 Manali – Delhi
Day -14 Delhi Mumbai
I will suggest you that you leave out Zanskar Valley, I know it is quite beautiful BUT need at least 4-5 days to make an enjoyable journey.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Dear Dheeraj,
Thanks a lot…I will follow the same.
regards
Supreed
Great best wishes, feel free to ask any other queries you have 🙂
Hi Dheeraj,
Firstly, thanks for all this information. This website has been very helpful. We are planning to head to Ladakh this Wednesday. We are planning on going to Nubra and then back to Leh. Then to Pangong Tso and from Pangong to Tso Moriri and then to Pang. You mentioned that for Pangong to Tso Moriri, we’ll need to mention: (Man – Merak – Chusul – Tsaga – Loma – Nyoma). Could you please let me know what towns / places we’ll need to mention for Nubra and to Pangong Tso? And also, are there any towns that we need to mention for Tso Moriri to Pang? Thanks a ton!
-Vikram
Vikram, just mention Nubra Valley and Pangong Tso in that case. Rest as above. You do not need any permits for Tso Moriri to Pang.
Hi Dhiraj,
I chanced upon this page and many thanks to you for writing it! While we will reach the office late, at least now we will have all the required docs and forms with us!
Thanks a lot Ritu!! just removed that line you suggested so and also updated the comment from you, so that all is cleaned up in this matter 🙂 … Thanks for bringing up to my notice. VERY VALID point 🙂
Hello Dhiraj,
Your blog was extremely useful for my recent trip to Leh and nearby places. Specially this article of getting permits. Thanks for attaching the form and sample letter. All were really helpful. Thanks a lot for everything.
Thanks Prashant for posting the feedback and glad to know that DoW proved useful for your Ladakh 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…
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hello Dheeraj,
Surely i will post it. Thanks.
Hello Dhiraj,
Your blog was extremely useful for our recent trip to Leh and nearby places. Specially this one of getting of permits. The documents attached helped me get the permits quickly and saved a lot of our time there. Thanks a lot for everything!!
Thanks Prashant for posting the feedback and glad to know that DoW proved useful for your Ladakh 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…
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hello Dheeraj,
Your blog was extremely helpful for our recent trip to Leh. The procedure and the documents attached for the permit were all helpful.And they saved a lot of our valuable time there. Thanks a lot for everythig.
thnx for the info, actually we are planning to reach there by 1st or 2nd week of sep2013 via manali on bikes, is that ideal time to go there????
Arun, yes, it is one of the best time to go and vist Trans Himalayas including Ladakh. Go ahead and you will enjoy the most beautiful colors. For details, you may read: Best Time to Travel Ladakh & Zanskar Valley
hey dheeraj,thnx for sharing info and want to know that we r planning a trip to heaven(ladakh) via manali on bikes in 1st or 2nd week of sep 2013, is that the time acc to u ideal for the trip?
Guys,
Go up directly to the DC office for the ILP. I got a 12 days permit instead of the regular 7. One of the man on the counter said for Indian they ca give you 2 weeks.
Dear Dheeraj Ji,
Thanks a ton friend……….
your information is very very useful.
thanks a lot again
Pleasure, best wishes for you trip 🙂
Hi,
Thanks for you valuable information Dheeraj regarding ILP for Leh.
I have 2 questions about our trip which we have planned from 18th to 23rd October,2013.
Q1. Is it possible to travel in a 14 seater Traveller to Pangong and other places , our group consits of 13 adults and 2 children?
Q2.Is there any problem if we visit Ladakh and Manali from there in the last week of October as it is end of the season..?
Hi Sudipta,
Please find my replies below:
1. Yes, quite possible to travel traditional routes. But, 14 not sure but doubt if possible in Tempo Traveller, may they are 16 seater. Else you need to carry 1 taxi with you.
2. Please avoid Manali – Leh Highway at that time of the year. STRONG NO for it.
Regards
Dheeraj
Thanks Dheeraj,
Is ther any other route to reach Manali ? If , yes what is that ? Pls provide some detail on that.
Pls find the tour plan below and need ur advice please;
18/10/13- Jammu to Leh by Flight. 10.00am. Sight seing and permission for Pangong & Tso Moriri etc.
19/10/13- Lah to Pangong 245km then stay at Korjok.
20/10/13- korjok to Tso Moriri then night stay at Keylong.
21/10/13- Keylong to Rothang then night stay at Manali.
22/10/13 – Manali Sight seing.
23/10/13 – Manali to Amritsar and night halt at Golden Temple.
24/10/13 – Amritsar to Wagha.
25/10/13 – Borading train for Kolkata.
This is not happening friend!! The above itinerary is a killer and will land you up in a big mess. Please read more about Ladakh to make it a worth trip. You have just 8 day, 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.
hello ,
your blog is really very helpful. i am going to leh on a bike and most probably i will follow the same itinerary as u mentioned. i want to ask is it necessary to carry the original documents of the bike, i am leaving fro rajasthan,
plzz reply asap
Mehul, I do not think it is mandatory BUT atleast carry attested documents by some gazetted officer.
thanks ur quick reply ……i shuould mention here u and ur blog both are very helpful..
Hi Dheeraj,
I am traveling with my tent and stuff toward Ladakh, been camping across North East India. Just want to know if there are any issues pitching Private camps across Ladakh. You know they chase away private campers in Goa and Kannyakumari 🙂 hope its different in Ladakh.
Thanks,
Chinglen
Chinglen, 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.
Thanks for clearing this up for me and the sound advice. Being local friendly is the best thing. Got some nice experience in Nongriat Village in Cherrapunjee, they have a guest house run by the village and didn’t allow campers to pitch tent. I paid off 100 bucks to use and washroom for 2 days and order lunch n diner from the GH. Suddenly the whole village came to see my tent and they all became friends. Believe it will be the same in Ladakh. Good to know that Ladakh authorities are not against private camping. Thanks again Dheeraj!
Best wishes for the trip!! Yes, you will love the stay in Ladakh and among Ladakhis … 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…
Ladakh turn out another awesome one and anther paradise for Campers. Camp in Pangong and Tso Moriri with no issue at all. Very few campers and real paradise who love the solitude. espc. Tso moriri
Thanks for sharing your experience with us. How about sharing some pictures as Photo Tale or may be detailed experience in DoW – Himalayan Travel Community
how was experience camping in ladakh, i am traveling in from 14th – 23rd Sept. Please share some trips for 1st time campers, will it be safe.
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.
Regards
Dheeraj
Hello Dheeraj,
Greetings! This is going to be long comment 🙂 !
We had a fantastic trip to Leh-Ladakh in last 2 weeks of June and many many thanks to you! All the information on your blog was so helpful in planning entire trip for us. Without your information, it would have been a lot more difficult. Rather, your blog proved such a wonderful tour guide that such a tough trip also seemed very easy.
I must say that all the pointers and even small tips given by you are very much precise. You have mentioned to go by Kargil road than Manali road, else there could be difficulties due to sudden change in height. That was true, yet we chose that route because on Kargil route, there could be political and safety issues. You had told not to stay at Sarchu or Pang at any cost, but rather stay at Keylong. This information was so valuable that in Leh we met few people who had stayed at Sarchu and had faced lot of trouble like headache, dizziness etc. Also, on the way to Khardung-La we met people who had been to Pangong lake first and they also faced some oxygen problem. They shouldn’t have done Pangong immediately after arriving at Leh. You had suggested rightly to keep it in the end so that we acclimatize well to that height. Your tips had helped us a lot.
We started our journey to Leh from Manali. We went to taxi stand to look for Qualis or similar vehicle and to enquire about rates. There we met a person named “Kana” who gave all details and said he would charge Rs 20000 for Qualis. We had reached Manali very late in the night and we were discussing with him at about 11 pm. So, we didn’t have much time and choice to bargain. We settled at 20K. But I must mention that the driver [Kanha] was very very nice. He was very descent, excellent and safe in driving, and honest. So, we decided to book him for our return journey too. For return, he said he would charge 15 K since he was Manali driver. We agreed. We paid him 2000 in advance, no receipt, no record. But somehow we felt that he was trustworthy. And as expected, he reached Leh one day before, when our phones were not working in Leh, he came to the hotel, told Hotel manager to inform us that he had reached in Leh and would call us in the evening at the hotel. He did so. He proved his commitment. Also, when we returned Manali, we and he both forgot about advance payment we had given and we paid him full amount. When I remembered about this, I called him back on the same day. He told us not to worry and he would come and return the money. He did so! I must say that we rarely find this kind of trust, politeness in big cities like Mumbai-Delhi. So, I think you can add his number to the list of good drivers: Kanha, 91-94594-07400, 91-98166-28588. We also asked him to arrange for 1 day Manali sight-seeing we did in our buffer day.
While going to Leh from Manali, Kana had told us to leave from Manali as early as possible- 3 am! We were very tired due to continuous journey, so we agreed for 4 am. This was so that we go ahead of Rohtang pass (as you had mentioned, leave Rohtang as early as possible) and avoid traffic jam! We were also fortunate to have left early because we came to know that on that same day, later on there was heavy snowfall and landslide in Rohtang pass and people were rescued with helicopters leaving behind their vehicles! The road was also blocked. On that same day, there had been unfortunate cloudburst in Uttarakhand, so it had some impact here as well. It rained whole night in Keylong. The other day while leaving only, Kana was suspicious whether road would be open at Baralacha-La. And so it happened. Due to thick cloud cover, there had been a heavy snowfall of 5+ feet height and road was totally blocked. We also heard that there were many vehicles trapped on the way because there was a snowfall on both sides of the road.
We stayed one more day in Keylong and left the next day. Ah, what a scene it was when we were going to Leh from Keylong!!! Simply road to heaven!!! Fortunately there was complete sunshine on the next day. All the mountains were covered with thick blanket of snow and road was just cleared by cutting snow so that one vehicle could pass properly. On both sides of road, there were huge 3+ feet walls of snow. Kana also told that he had never seen snow in June on that road before for a long time! He also could not resist himself from taking snaps and videos all around! It was just awesome!! But soon we found that there was a traffic jam at the Baralacha-La top. And on the top there it took about 1.5 hours to cross the pass. Some members of our group actually felt uneasiness due to less oxygen over there. Even our driver felt so and I too. I felt it for about 1-2 minutes only, but it was really terrifying. I was praying to cross that pass as soon as possible and come to lower height. There was nothing on the top except for snow. No trees. We had camphor and inhaler with us which helped at that time. But once we reached Leh, we bought couple of oxygen cylinders. So, I would suggest that you add in your blog to have one or two oxygen cylinders which may be helpful on the way in case of emergency.
We stayed at Shanti guest house in Leh. It is quite descent, Dorje family is very good and offers great hospitality. Our sightseeing at Leh and other areas was as per plan except that at Lamayuru, we could not stay because we lost one day during travel to Leh, so did that in one day. In Nubra valley, we stayed at Goba guest house in Hunder which was booked by Mr Dorje. It was very nice and descent and cost us only Rs 1300/- per double room including dinner and breakfast. Here is the contact number of Goba guest house: Landline: 01980-221083, 01980-200021; mobile: 09469534590. We stayed in a home-stay just near Pangong lakeside and had a wonderful lake-view. They charged very less – only Rs 200/- per person. It was amazing stay there as well. None of us had any oxygen problem or AMS later on, probably because we did acclimatize well.
I won’t add about places we visited because that you have already covered nicely in your blog. About Pangong lake, I can say that the view is just mesmerizing in the noon between 12-5pm. All the magic of colors is because of sunshine. So, after sunset, water looks normal and also early in the morning after sunrise, it didn’t show those magical colors which we saw in the afternoon. Still, stay at Pangong is definitely worth and a memorable experience. So, I would suggest that reach Pangong early at around 12 pm, stay there and while returning, leave very early in the morning and then visit places en-route such as Thiksey, Hemis etc. I also appeal all to keep that area very clean. We saw plastic bottles and bags thrown in the water and some people throwing stones at those beautiful birds near the lake and arguing with us when told not to do so. I just pity them.
Again, hats off to the Indian Army. It’s only because of them the roads are maintained so nicely and also snow gets cleared almost instantaneously and we are not blocked much. Also, hats off to them for protecting the country by staying at such heights all over the year.
Regarding phone connectivity, I took BSNL postpaid card as only BSNL postpaid works over there. But that card didn’t have roaming enabled! So, it was useless. But I think that won’t be an issue there. Usually drivers have mobile phones, so we can use them in case of emergency. At the hotel, Mr. Dorje used to give his mobile on which my relatives would call on giving a missed call to them. So we didn’t have any problem because of no mobile-connectivity in Leh.
Special note about BSNL postpaid for all: I think BSNL is still in the stone-age! One has to specifically give another application to enable roaming and STD. Even worse, in my case I called them and the call center guy told me that those services were activated for me! But in fact, it didn’t work at all. The worse was yet to come. When I went to BSNL office to close the card, they told me to pay the bill first. They charged me Rs 294 for a period of less than one month when my plan was just Rs 99 giving different reasons such as activation charges, advance bill etc. When I paid that, in the end that lady told me that your initial deposit of Rs 500 will be refunded sometime after 2-3 months (she didn’t even bother to tell me exact time!) plus interim bill might be deducted! How mean and pathetic!! In all I’m not having much hopes for Rs 500 as well, so I would say, BSNL has looted Rs 800 from me when I didn’t make a single call! So, I would suggest to think twice before taking such a crappy service. If you can manage it from someone who is already using it, fine, else there is no need of a mobile phone in Leh-Ladakh. Even though it’s remote area, people there are very very helpful and nice. So, I think one can easily go without a mobile phone there.
That said, once again thanks to you! Without your help, we could not have such a well-planned and most memorable trip of lifetime. I wish you continue to maintain your blog so that more and more people will be benefited out of it and have a wonderful trip to the heaven on earth-Ladakh. All the best!
Regards,
Ashwin.
Hi Ashwin,
Thank you so very much for this lovely, detailed info on the blog. I will surely add the information or contact about Kanha driver in the list too. Can you please re-post the same, may be copy paste the same in DoW – Himalayan Travel Community & Forums as Travel Tale!! at the link: https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/india/ladakh-zanskar-travel-tales/
You can even add some pictures there. That ways the whole trip report would be more than helpful for many other people as well as it will be easy for me to share as well on other DoW social media platforms. In comments such useful information gets lost 🙁
I am glad that you followed the advices on the blog and it proved quite useful for you to make it a memorable trip to Ladakh. Above all, thanks again for posting it back here.
Regards
Dheeraj
Hi Dheeraj,
Sure, I’ll post it there as well and share photos too! One more point to add, we had total 12 GB of cards and still fell short of that! In all we had 2500+ snaps, so yes, I’ll share the most amazing amongst them!!
Thanks alot brother !! Would be a great help. Once you will copy the content in a post at community I will delete it from here to remove redundancy 🙂 … Thanks again!1 And 2500+ pics…. whoa… Eagerly looking forward to it and in case you have covered some road signs tooo of BRO then there is an on going thread where you can append them too 🙂
Hi Dheeraj,
Very thorough and useful information. A question on the minimum size, can they issue an ILP for just one person? I am a US citizen.
Thanks,
Rishi
Rishi, if you are US Citizen then at least two people are reuqired and you need to go through a registered travel agent in that case. Also, there is a separate form that is available for foreigners or NRIs or OCI holder which is called Protected Area Permit, PAP. That will be applicable for you. However, this is very trivial process and you can get in touch with any registered travel agents in Leh to get it processed for you. Here is: Ladakh Travel Agent List
Hi, Dheersaj, it is indeed an awesom blog, and many many thanks to u. This is Pradeep from Bengalooru. we are planning to go for Leh-Ladhak trip. and we want to start our journey from Srinar on 11th Aug 2013 and wants to back to Chandigad on 18th(sunday) morning. I got totally lost in our planning after reading all the quest and ur reply. Pls sugest us on how better we can ploan within given tight schedule
Pradeep, 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 OR vice-versa. This makes it 7 days. 1 Day is required in Leh for acclimatization and permits. You have about 8 days. Given, yo reach directly to Srinagar and then rest there for the day, it gives you an additional extra day. So, effectively you have 1 day in Leh which you can use for either Day trip to Pangong Tso or Nubra Valley.
Hello Dheeraj,
1) what is the procedure for Bangladeshi tourists who are private service holder? It will be very helpful if u let me know.
It is a bit complicated. Permit for Bangladeshis are issued from Ministry of Home Affairs in Delhi. As per my conversations from last two readers, they were unsuccessful despite trying everywhere. I can pass along the info. from them I received over email if you like. If by chance you get though with the permits, it will be great savior for them, so please share it there too.
thanks Dheeraj for such quick response. PLease do share the mails/info.My email is farah.haidr@gmail.com
Hello Farah, when you planning to go leh. me and my friends also planning to go this Sept. do you have any update info about the inner line permit.
What updated info do you need Tajbir?
Hi Dheeraj,
Just wanted to Give a Big THANKS to U. U r doing a GREAT job.
I have gone through complete article and through each and every comment. U have answered each and every question and I do not have any query to ask U at this point of time.
We, a group of 4 friends have planed to start our journey on bikes from Pune to Leh on 28th Sept 2013 (eagerly waiting for this date).
Will come to U with lots of queries…
Till then Thanks in advance 🙂
Regards
Rajesh Salunke
Thanks Rajesh, will request instead of putting up the comments below, please start an itinerary advice thread in the forums so that it can be replied in more structured manner as well as more people can get benefit from the replies by reading existing threads. Here is the link: DoW – Himalayan Travel Community | Ladakh Itinerary Advice
hi
Is the permit being given for Pangong Tso – Man – Merak – Chusul – Tsaga – Loma – Nyoma – Tso Moriri route and will it be open during june end travelling in a scorpio??
Thanks
Benoy, permits are not being issued for this route as of now.
HiDheerajji
Thanks for your prompt reply
Regards
Hello Dheeraj,
This is a wonderful site with so much useful info.Thanks for that.
Regards the permits, below are my queries:-
1.We are travelling as a couple from 20-26June 2013.We arrive by flight in Leh on 20th,so do we apply for permits on 21st June?Or ask Hotel(Jigmet Guest House) to submit on our behalf oh 20th itself.This is in context of taking full rest on first day :).
Would it be a problem to get the permits for just the two of us?Do we need to find more people and apply as a group?
2.For attestation of documents,is self attestation ok?or do we need to get it from authorised personnel?
Hi Ashwini,
1. You can apply the permits on 20th as well but better rest and apply on 21st. You can ask hotel as well or your driver too. You will not find any trouble as it is foreigners who need to be in a group of 4 to get permits. Domestic tourist can apply in any number.
2. Though attestation is not required but better get them to be on the safest side if you can else no need for it, AFAIK.
Regards
Dheeraj
Great article 🙂 Really informative.
I have a small query. We will be reaching Leh on sunday morning 🙁 and we are on a tight schedule so we cannot spend a day simply without permit. How do you suggest we obtain permit in advance?
Is it possible through an agent or in any other way?
We just have 8 days for Leh-Ladakh.
Maybe you have answered this already but 453 comments is a lot of comments to go through in detail 🙂
Swati, it is there in the article too 🙂 … “Anyone who has yours or your group’s photocopies of valid nationality proof’s Photo-IDs, he / she can get these permits for you as well. Usually, the travel agents and hotels in the Leh town does provide this facility if you are OK with sharing the photocopies of your nationality proof’s Photo-IDs with them either via email or fax.”
Thanks a lot for your reply Dheeraj.:) I read that in the article. But no one right now in Leh has photo copies of my national ID proof. And I do not know any agents from Leh.
Can you recommend someone reliable if you happen to know anyone?
Or can it be done online?
Hi Dheeraj,
We need to do either Nubra or Pangong in one day. We will go to Nubra on rented bike and Pangong on rented taxi. So , which place you suggest to make in one day ?
If only one has to be done, so that you do no regret, go to Pangong Tso as day trip.
Hi Swati,
You can check the approved list of agent at the pdf linked here.
It cannot be done online, but you can send/fax/email the copies to them and they will arrange it for you.
Regards
Dheeraj
Thanks Dheeraj 🙂
hi dheeraj,
Thanks for such a helpful forum.
We are group of 3 and have a plan to visit Leh on our delhi registration bikes (June 30 to July 14). We will be following your “Most common itinerary”. We will be using Srinagar – Leh – Manali – Delhi route.
1) Do we need to apply for any permit for our bikes? if yes where should we apply for permit?
2) using your recommended Itinerary we will visiting following places. So for which all place do we need to apply for permit and what place name to put in forms?
——-
1)Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder
2)Hunder / Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh
3)Leh – Hemis Monastery – Pangong Tso Lake
4)Pangong Tso Lake – Thicksey Monastery – Shey Palace – Leh
5)Leh – Tso Moriri via Chumathang
6)Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Debring – Moore Plains – Pang / Sarchu
Pang / Sarchu – Baralacha La – Keylong – Rohtang Pass – Manali
——–
Thanks a lot
Hi Gaurav,
1. You do not need permits anywhere if you are going in that direction that is from Srinagar to Manali. You will need Inner line permits for yourself once you reach Ladakh as described in the article above.
2. Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri. just write these three places only.
Regards
Dheeraj
Hi Dheeraj,
I had a query about ATMs. Do ATM cards of different banks operate there in Leh? Also, are there sufficient ATMs available in Leh?
Thanks & Regards,
Ashwin.
Ashwin, there are ATMs only in Leh, about 4 ATMs are present in Leh viz. 2 of J&K Bank, 1 of Axis bank and 1 of HDFC Bank AFAI remember.
Hi Dheeraj,
On 18th June, From Srinagar we planning travel by JKRTC bus with overnight at Kargil and reaching Leh on 19th June,
Do you know what time it reaches Leh?
Since we are planning to leave for Nubra on 20th by booking a cab if permits are on the same day of arrival at Leh.
Thanks in advance
hi dheeraj
i m manish frm delhi plan 2 leh laddakh on 10 june 2013 so plsss tel me whole procedure of permission to pangong to tsomoriri to tso kar n dn manali via pang so plss tel me d whole procedure n villages name n post name so plsss guide me plss thankuuuu as sson as possible my no 9212512881
Manish, please read the article above and all your doubts will be cleared.
Awaiting response sir.
thank you
I think the bus that halts at Kargil start in the morning only will make you reach by evening in Leh. So, next morning only you will be able to go to apply permits.
hi dheeraj,
We will be reaching leh on 8th june. could you please advice us a 3 day itinerary from leh to pangong,tso moriri and nubra valley from leh..we will be going back from manali leh highway.we will leave leh on 11th or 12th june max.
thanks,
mandeep singh
Mandeep, you are already a member of DoW – Himalayan Travel Community, so if you don’t mind can we have your post, I am sure you will love to be at below link for your itinerary advice in more structured way 🙂 DoW – Himalayan Travel Community | Ladakh Itinerary Advice
Mandeep thanks alot for taking a step ahead and moving it to the DoW – Himalayan Travel Community | Ladakh Itinerary Advice section.
hi dheeraj let me know the temperature in the month of january restaurents will be open is it poss to make pangong trip
Anand, temperatures in Ladakh around January hovers somewhere between -4 to -8 types on an average I think, though not correctly sure. But it is assumed to be the coldest of all the seasons. Pangong Tso route will be open but there will be no accommodation present there. Restaurants, only few might be open may be Lamayuru and Gesmo but rest I assume will be closed.
Hi!
I have found your articles interesting and very helpful indeed.
I have already done Srinagar – Zojila Pass – Kargil – Leh – Khardungla. This time my family and self intend to do Delhi – Manali – Pangong Tso this year.
I have the following querries,
1. I have a Haryana Registration Scorpio, would I need a permit to go to Rohtang and beyond? If so, whats the process and time required to get the same and where would it be available from ?
2. Where do I procure a permit to go to Pangong Tso if I am not going to Leh?
3. Where is the last Diesel station before I reach Pangong Tso?
4. What is a good enroute overnight halt between Manali and Pangong Tso? My family consists of me and my wife, out 2 teenaged children and 1 child of 5 years of age.
5. When is the Manali – Pangong route likely to open? We are looking at leaving Delhi around 1st week of June.
Await your revert.
Thanks
Vikrant
Hi Vikrant,
1. Yes, you will need the permits to travel Manali to Rohtang Pass and beyond. Refer the article: Non – HP Vehicles Need Permit on Manali – Rohtang Pass Road
2. You should not do Tso Moriri or Pangong Tso while going from Manali to Leh because even if you arrange these permits in advance through travel agents who can fax it to you 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.
3. You need to top-up from Karu ahead of Upshi.
4. Will never suggest you do it. You should surely go to Leh to get yourself acclimatized properly. With family A BIG NO
5. High chances that by first week it shall open, in fact in next 8-10 days it might open because snow has already been cleared from all the passes.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj, I have heard from someone that the ILP fee is Rs 200+20+10 per person per day. for Environment tax+Wildlife protection tax +charity to red cross. whereas on your blog it is mentioned only rs 20/- per person per day
can you pl elaborate on this
It is rs 20 per day per person and rs 10 one time for red cross fund per person, rs 200 for environmental fee one time per person
dear all,
do you know any reliable fair price driver who can pick us from srinagar-full leh tour and then srinagar drop.
i talked to one driver..he is charging 25000 for srinagra leh pick and drop and 20000 for leh sight seeing for 5 days(including nubra, pangyong, local sight and river rafting point). i guess that is too much..?
plz help….
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 10-15% of discount by directly getting in touch with drivers and of course, talking in person rather on phone always help in bargaining more.
Hello Dheeraj,
This is Ashwin again. I’ve gone through your articles in the series. All the details you have provided are very much helpful indeed. Thanks a ton for the same! Also, thanks a lot for answering queries of so many people with patience
Here is my plan (We modified it slightly and decided to go via Manali-Leh road as against Srinagar-Kargil-Leh as suggested by you):
We are a family of 6 persons planning to start our journey on 16th June from Chandigarh. Also, we are planning to arrange for inner line permits through some local agent at Leh in advance.
Day 1: Chandigarh-Manali by bus. Stay at Manali.
Day 2: Manali-Keylong by HPTDC bus, stay at Keylong.
Day 3: Keylong-Leh by HPTDC bus. Stay at Leh.
Day 4: Leh local sightseeing – Shanti stupa, Zoravarsingh fort, Mud(Leh) palace.
Day 5: Leh-Spituk-Lamayuru-UleyTokpo-Ringzong gompa-UleyTokpo. Stay at Uley-Tokpo.
Day 6: UleyTokpo-Alchi-Likir-Nimoo-Basgo-Leh. Stay at Leh.
Day 7: Leh-Khardung La-Khalsar-Diskit-Hunder-Diskit (stay at Hunder or Diskit)
Day 8: Diskit-Tirith-Sumur-Panamik-Khalsar-Khardung La-Leh (Stay at Leh).
Day 9: Leh- Stok Palace-Hemis monastery-Pangong Tso lake. (Stay at Pangong Tso lake).
Day 10: Pangong Tso-Thiksey Monastery- Shey palace-Choglamasar – Leh (Stay at Leh).
Day 11: Leh-Keylong by HPTDC bus. (Stay at Keylong)
Day 12: Keylong-Manali by HPTDC bus (Stay at Manali)
Day 13: Buffer day at Manali.
Day 14: Manali-Chandigarh by bus.
Does this plan look okay to you?
In addition, I had few queries:
1. How can we avoid traffic jam at Rohtang pass during our journey?
2. Does any journey in this plan look too hectic or infeasible to you?
3. I’ve gone through your list of hotels, but didn’t find a list for stay at or near Lamayuru/UleyTokpo. What sort of accommodation would be available at Lamayuru/Uley Tokpo? Is there any moderate accommodation?
4. Do we require advanced booking for our stay in Leh, Nubra valley, Pangong lake, Uley Tokpo etc during this period (16th June – 30th June)?
5. Which all places should we put on permit form considering this plan? Does Lamayuru/UleyTokpo (Spituk-Lamayuru-UleyTokpo-Ringzong gompa-UleyTokpo- Alchi-Likir-Nimoo-Basgo route) also require a permit?
6. How will be the weather during this time? Will it be too cold?
7. Can you please share your email id and contact number by mail (if you are ok with it)?
8. Any suggestions for family safety?
Hi Ashwin,
Glad you found the info. present on the blog useful enough. Regarding your queries:
1. Not in your control brother as you are traveling by HPTDC vehicle. Also, there might not be too much mess this time because of timings of vehciles and one way traffic at Rohtang Pass from Manali and back.
2. Not really, you should be able to do it.
3. Uley will have mostly costly camps, at Lamayuru you will be able to find decent guest houses.
4. If you are OK with searching abit here and there and do not have some speicifc property to stay with in mind then you can walk in and search, look and book hotels otherwise book from here.
5. None of them required permits. In your itinerary, you only need to mention Nubra Valley and Pangong Tso.
6. Yes, night shall be cold. Days if sun out will be pleasant, may be a bit cold at Pangong Tso.
7. You will get an email as soon as I reply to this comment. Or use the Email Us Icon on the side bar to mail me.
8. I think you are doing it in a fine way. Should not be a problem. Just do not exert much in initial days.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
Thanks a lot for prompt response! I came to know that HPTDC bus (Manali-Leh) starts from July 1st. Is that true? In that case we’ll need to go Manali-Keylong and Keylong-Leh by HRTC buses. How is the frequency of Keylong-Leh buses? Do they commute daily? Can we book them online (because I didn’t find Keylong in the list of HRTC online reservation site) or we need to do booking once we reach Manali?
Ashwin, better go with taxi. HRTC for such long journey will be not that comfortable. May be take some seats in shared taxis or min buses run by local Manali Travel agents for Manali – Leh journey if you are on a budget. But, make sure they are having overnight stop at Keylong or ask for it.
Hi Dheeraj
I have planned a tour to leh from 25april to 29 april, we have already booked hotel namgyal palace, we are a group of 23 pax.Please inform about road conditions for visit to khardungla pass, pangong tso. And cost of taxi for visiting these places.Any good place for north indian food vegetarian food.
regards
om
Roads would be full of snow but most likely open unless there is heavy snowfall on that very day.
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
For the leh – ladakh taxi union rate list 2012-13 including the contacts of some reliable taxi drivers within Leh – Ladakh, check the link here. You can get about 10-15% of discount by directly getting in touch with drivers and of course, talking in person rather on phone always help in bargaining more.
Hi Dheeraj
Thanks for the reply.Information provided by u is very helpful for the first time visitor specially ILP details.
It will be safe to visit pangong lake at this time or not.
regards
om
Thanks alot. Yes, OM it is OK to travel to Pangong Tso.
Hi dheeraj
About taking the Batalik route from kargil to leh, i would require ILP right? Can tat b obained the morning i am leaving kargil? Though if theres a delay am planning on coming back to Lamayuru. How does the plan look??
I read somewhere that such permits can be obtained from the ministry of home affairs New delhi, Khan Market office. Is that so?
Hi Piyush,
Yes, you will need the permit for Batalik route. They can be obtained from Kargil DC office. Plan looks good to go I feel, you might want to stay at Alchi or Lamayuru in case you wish to stay prolonged on some places to cover. Yes, MHA does issue permits but I think they are more meant for foreigners rather domestic tourists. Not sure if they issue permits for domestic tourists
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
Your Blog regarding the Permit details is quit brilliant, I appreciate your effort to serve 🙂
Actually,I have planned for LEH in month of May. We have a team of 8 Pals who would be riding from DELHI-MANALI-LEH-JAMMU-DELHI for a period of 14 days from May 24th to June 06th 2013, I would require a few suggestions from you and Can you please suggest best itinerary according to your experience.
Warm Regards,
Manju
Hello Manjunath,
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
Hey Buddy.
Thanks for this very useful thread here.
Can i acquire all the permits i need in Leh itself?
I’m gonna be going via Jammu – Srinagar – Kargil – Leh. Do i ned to pick up any permits along this route as well?
Ty in advance
Elijah, yes you can get the permits from Leh. No, Srinagar – Leh Highway does not require you to have permit if you go via Kargil – Lamayuru.
Hi Dheeraj,
Thanks a lot for this detailed info about inner line permits! Great article!
We’re planning a trip to Leh for about 10 days. I had a few queries regarding this:
1. Will we need any NOC or similar letter from local police station near our residence which we would need to carry with us?
2. I searched for different travel agents online and found this one better amongst them:
Do you have any idea about this agent?
Also, can you provide contact info of the reliable local agents there who can provide tour package including accommodation, vehicle for sight seeing and other required services?
Hello Ashwin,
1. No, not required. Why do you think so?
2. Check with info@offbeatescapes.com (guys name is Gaurav) if you looking forward to economical prices or good deals. If required, you can refer my name or blog’s name too. I do not know about other travel agents else you can always plan a journey through this blog itself.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
>> 1. No, not required. Why do you think so?
I thought so because it’s a border state and may require the same from security point of view.
Also, I saw your other blogs too. You have given very detailed info that we can plan journey ourselves. Thanks for sharing the same!
I had few more queries regarding this:
1. I read somewhere that we can do rafting at Phey in Indus river. Is it available for all? Will anybody who can’t swim be able to do that? Also, how far is Phey from Leh? Can we do it in one day?
2. Would we require to buy one or two oxygen cylinders with us (just as a precaution in case of emergency)? Where will they be available? In Manali?
3. In your sample schedule given in https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/how-to-calculate-cost-or-budget-for-leh-ladakh-trip/
you have mentioned a stay at Pangong Tso. How is the accommodation available there?
Hello Ashwin,
This is the process of Inner Line Permits and you are not required to submit any kind of police verification document as per the requirements of Inner Line Permits. Regarding other queries,
1. Yes, you can do rafting from Phey to Nimmu in Indus River. This can be covered in one day very easily, Phey is about 12 KMs from Leh and Nimmu is about 37 KMs from Leh.
2. I am not sure on this one because somewhere I read that small cylinders are not of that use. May be, search for Vistet blog for more on this one regarding AMS.
3. You will be able to find luxury as well as standard tents at Pangong Tso. 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..i want to visit leh-ladakh on late of june,2013.But we are only two fellows(me and my wife)a newly married couple.kindly suggest me is it safe for journey at leh.one more thing please suggest me about some vehicle in which we can travel either from manali or from jammu.
Thanking you.
Sanjoy, it is completely safe to travel and a lot of people even do it alone. Try to take HPTDC Semi Deluxe bus from Manali or towards it which also include accommodation and would prove economical too. Also, from Srinagar side, you may tag along with other tourists or take some shared taxi because a dedicated taxi will be costly. Again, 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 Sharma
Thanks frnd for your suggession. Kindly give me the itinenary with as minimum as possible (5 to 7 days)for covering almost all places from Srinagar and Manali.I am starting my journey from Kolkata by Train.
Regards
Sanjoy Ram
Sanjoy, 7 days is too less a period to explore Leh – Ladakh by road. You need a bare minimum 12 days to explore Leh – Ladakh with Srinagar – Leh Highway and Manali – Leh Highway.
So Frnd kindly gave me the 12days details itinenary according to you.
Thanking you.
Sanjoy Ram.
Hello Sanjoy,
In that case, you can follow the below itinerary.
Day 1 | Delhi – 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 2 | 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 3 | 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 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 – 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 8 | Pangong Tso Lake – Thicksey Monastery – Shey Palace – Leh
— Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on return to Leh
— Overnight at Leh
Day 9 | Rest day at Leh to enjoy local culture and some shopping OR Monastery tour OR you can do tour to Sham Valley
— Monastery tour may include Hemis, Thicksey, Stakna 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
— Overnight at Leh
Day 10 | Leh – Taglang La – Moore Plains – Pang – Sarchu
— Stay overnight at Sarchu
Day 11 | 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 12 | Manali – Delhi
Day 13 + 14 | Buffer days to be kept incase of road closure due to landslides or snowfall or perhaps you want to enjoy more.
I hope this helps. Please let me know in case you have any doubts or queries.
regards
Dheeraj sharma
Hi again. Some where earlier you have mentioned ‘Bargain hard with taxi driver’ . I thought that taxi rates are charged as prescribed by the Leh authorities. please clarify. Best wishes, Kishore
Rates are very much fixed but if you bargain then some drivers does give discounts on their own, I believe mostly when the taxi is owned by them.
Dear Dheeraj
Can you suggest some operators who will arrange for ILP, good guest house and taxi for our 9 days in Leh Ladakh from 20th June to 28th June 2013? Since we are two to three families and we are total strangers from Mumbai, a reliable tour facilitator will be of a great help.
Best wishes
Kishore
Kishore, I know some people out there who would be able to help you out. But, do you want to have it as complete package tour? How many of you are there (size does talk about pricing too, more you are more better deal you will get) and much will rely on your itinerary too. Is it finalized? Also, do you want the taxi yourself or as a part of it only?
Hi Dheeraj
The tentative programme follows your recommendation!!! We are ten of us (6 parents and 4 teens). Please put me across to some one reliable. Higher end Guest house stay will be preferable..
15-Jun Mumbai
17-Jun Jammu to Srinagar
18-Jun Srinagar – Srinagar local sigh seeing
19-Jun 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
About 8 Hrs drive, depend upon the traffic movement at Zozila and breaks you take in between
20-Jun 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
About 9-10 Hrs drive, , depending upon the breaks you take in between
21-Jun Day 5 | Leh Local Sighseeing + Inner Line Permits
To know the about the places to visit in/around Leh, 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
22-Jun 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
About 5-6 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between and at Khardung La
23-Jun 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
About 7-9 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between
24-Jun 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)
About 5-6 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between
25-Jun Day 9 | Pangong Tso Lake – Thicksey Monastery – Shey Palace – Leh
Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on return to Leh
Overnight at Leh
About 5-6 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between
25-Jun Day 10 | Rest day at Leh to enjoy local culture and some shopping or you can do tour to Sham Valley
Sham Valley include Alchi, Likir, Basgo Palace, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Nimmu, Gurudwara Pather Sahib
Overnight at Leh
26-Jun Day 11 | Leh – Tso Moriri via Chumathang
Cover Karzok Monastery
Overnight at Karzok or Tso Moriri
About 7-8 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between
27-Jun Day 12 | Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Debring (Manali – Leh Highway starts) – Moore Plains – Pang / Sarchu
Try to start early in the day so that you reach Sarchu where the accommodation options are better than Pang
Overnight at Sarchu or Pang
About 11-12 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between
28-Jun keylong
29-Jun Manali
30-Jun Manali – sight seeing
1-Jul Manali to Chandigarh
2-Jul Chandigarh sight seeing
3-Jul Train to Mumbai
Hi!!
First of all, I would really like to thank you for your efforts.
I am writing to see what is the best time of the year to travel to Leh-Laddakh. I am planning to spend about 10-12 days and want to stay in tents, travel everywhere possible.
I have not booked flights yet. So first need help in deciding the best time because I am sure its going to be like the trip of a lifetime.
Could you suggest. Once I have the time and tickets booked, will request more specific itinerary.
Thanks again
Minakshi
Hello Minakshi,
Thanks alot 🙂
It is always nice to plan your journey in last 10 days of June or first 2-3 weeks of July when you can find ample of snow on roads and roads will be open by that time from both Srinagar as well as Manali side to Leh – Ladakh. However, please keep in mind that road conditions hardly improve on Manali – Leh road and remains almost quite challenging + adventurous all throughout the season. It improves slightly towards the end of season that is September or October first week but by that time snow is all gone and risk of road closure increases. So, you need to be prepared for all the adventure that Manali – Leh Highway offers a traveller in the month of June – July and situation worsens when monsoon comes in late July, August and early September now a days. So IMHO, overall whatever best window you will get so that you avoid monsoons, see ample of snow and roads are open for you will be like 15th June – 20th July window.
If you want to see beautiful colours of Ladakh then second half/late of September is THE best time to visit Leh – Ladakh when these colours are oozing and burning out vividly and of course, the road conditions does get better in late September type when rains reside the region completely. It is my favorite time to visit Leh – Ladakh region and yeah, tourists head count all dips a bit in late in the season.
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
Is Aadhar card accepted as identity proof for Inner Line Permit? Please advise
Kishore, it should be accepted but I am not sure 🙁
Is there ant facility of getting the Leh Innerline permit online?
through website or applying online?
Nopes, no online facility as of now.
I forgot to inform that we r taking innova as a self driven taxi all the way, will it be allowed everywhere or we have to take permit of vehicle also
Hi dheeraj,plz reply and guide for the same, thanks, rajiv
Replied, please check and let me know if you have any further queries or doubts.
Hi dheeraj , car dealer Avis provides self drive cars with black number plate and yellow fonts and that car is allowed to roam inside leh , could you plz guide what the funda is and can we take some other self drive suv the same way,
Thanks , rajiv
As far as I last heard they both Avis and Carzonerent have stopped giving SUVs on rent for Ladakh trip, I am not sure about present situation though. Have you checked with them?
thanks for replying, ya avis and two others are giving there self hired suv for ladakh,but the only confusion is that it would be allowed inside ladakh or not ,
if possible gather some information from your side,
thanks,
rajiv
Wow, that’s surprise. Yes, if it has black colored number plate then it will be allowed. Also, if possible do share with us the procedure of hiring the self drive SUV with all of us here too. It will help many others. Thanks!!
Rajiv, permits are required only for people in Ladakh not for vehicles. If the innova has a private number then only you will be allowed to roam inside Ladakh otherwise you can use it to reach Leh and then move out of Leh to Manali but not within Ladakh.
For details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi dheeraj,
Very well detailed information on ur blog, thanks for that. I have a query.
I am leaving from Delhi by a self driven taxi for leh on 27th may via srinagar route and will spend 12 days returning via manali route. Could u plz suggest the best places to visit as I think I have sufficient time, and also will I be able to take the Delhi taxi all the way, waiting for ur response , thanks , regards , rajiv shah, 09425412347
Hello Rajiv,
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.
To get an idea of the places to see on the route, 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
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks dheeraj,
It’s a great help and advice, will be back If I have some more query,
Thanks ,
Rajiv Shah
Hi Dheeraj,
Very much impressed with your Blog..explained very neatly in detail
Need your suggestion abt my trip plan..v r group of 9 ppl and would like to start from chandigarh on 20june2013 to leh via srinagar and come back via manali by 29th june night..v r planning to hire a taxi (Tempo traveller) from chandigarh so could please advise wht al permits requiered for both individual and taxi (looking fro detailed explanation on this) and also would like to knw d road tax for entering each state…thanks in advance
Hello Mansoor,
Your Tempo Traveller will not be permited for sightseeing in Leh – Ladakh. You will have to hire a separate Ladakh registered vehicle again. You do not need any permits for vehicle but for people traveling with you. For details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
I am little confused here…If we are hiring a Tempo Tempo Traveller from Chandigarh…cant we pass through Leh from Srinagar to Manali road…It would be great if you can suggest the best possible idea for hiring d vehicle..As I said before we would like to start from Chandigarh to Leh via Srinagar and come back via Manali (I thnk booking the taxi for one way would be little expensive)
Mansoor, you can take the Chandigarh vehicle to Ladakh and come back from there in it but once you will reach Ladakh then you will not be allowed to do sightseeing with in Leh – Ladakh to places like Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri, Nubra Valley. For that you will need to hire a taxi with Ladakh number on it. So, once you reach Leh hire another taxi for sightseeing and park your vehicle at taxi stand or at hotel.
For the leh – ladakh taxi union rate list 2012-13 including the contacts of some reliable taxi drivers within Leh – Ladakh, check the link here. You can get about 10-15% of discount by directly getting in touch with drivers and of course, talking in person rather on phone always help in bargaining more.
Hi Mansoor,
I had a similar question on hired cab from delhi to travel via jammu,srinagar,kargil,leh,manali and back to delhi.
what are all permits and road tax for entering each state.
Could you please share the answer if you know ?
Hi Anil,
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.
It is better to reach Srinagar by Air to save time and some energy. Then, hire a taxi to Kargil from Srinagar and fix a taxi of Ladakh number in Kargil (get help from drivers in the article of taxi rates linked below) which will allow you to do sightseeing on Srinagar – Leh Highway as well (Srinagar taxi will not be allowed) and keep that Ladakh number taxi with you for rest of the trip.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
Thanks for reply. Your answer is not complete , I am sorry.
We will hire a separate taxi for ladakh sight seeing in Leh.
What I want to know is if we hire a cab from delhi to delhi for our whole trip , what are state tax rates we need to pay for all the states we pass through if we go in the route DELHI-JAMMU-SRINAGAR-KARGIL-LEH-MANALI-DELHI
Sorry, Anil. I do not have updated tax rates as there are loads of them on NH-1 itself, mind you they are just tolls. The state tax would also be there but no idea on that front.
Thanks much Dheersj.
I will find out.
Anil, please share the details with us too 🙂
Dear Dheeraj,
I plan to visit Leh via Srinagar and return via Manali with 3 of my friends in our car.Can you propose a good itinerary for 10 days going via srinagar and return via Manali. Look forward to your vaulable support.
Our travel dates are June 15th to June 24, 2013> Let us know if we need to add another day, which we will do if there is a great need as this is a life time dream coming true. I dont wnt to visit too many monestries but rather visit more beatiful spots and spend time in nature and enjoy my best friends company.
Best Regards
Abhishek
Hello Abhishek,
For 10 days you can follow the below itinerary, if you can add 2 more days then you can use one day for Nubra Valley to make it at ease and visit Sumur and Panamik as well. The other day can be used to visit Tso Moriri lake and exit from Tso Moriri towards Manali – Leh / sarchu.
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 – Leh
– Head for Nubra Valley very early in the day and come back by late evening after visiting Deskit. If you have time go little further and see Hunder sand dunes too
– 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 | Leh – Pangong Tso Lake – Leh
– Day trip to Pangong Tso
– Overnight at Leh
Day 8 | Leh – Taglang La – Pang – Sarchu
— Try to start early in the day so that you reach Sarchu where the accommodation options are better than Pang
— Overnight at Sarchu or Pang
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 – Delhi
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
some great posts on inner line permits. Can you confirm that permits are only available in Leh? I had been planning to travel Manali-Tso Kar – Tso Moriri-Leh but if permits not available in Manali I guess this is not possible?
Anyone got any comments?
Thanks
Chris
Hello Chris,
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 only. Even if you arrange these permits in advance (like mentioned below) somehow 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.
You can get the permits in advance by contacting any local travel agent in Leh or your hotel. They will ask you to fax or email your photo IDs and the required fees they would be charging (Charge about Rs 200 to Rs 250 per person). Once done, they email/fax back your permit which you can make further copies and keep it with you.
Regards
Dheeraj
Hi Dheeraj,
It’s Chinmoy again. I found out that the web page ‘travel-guide-local-sightseeing-leh-ladakh’ is not opening. Can you please check.
Thanks,
Chinmoy.
Chinmoy, thanks for the update brother. But, can you please re-check because it is working for me. May be some intermittent error. Here is the link:
https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/travel-guide-local-sightseeing-leh-ladakh/