I see a lot of queries that keep coming up from people directly flying to Leh – Ladakh and have about 7 to 9 days in hand to explore various places in Ladakh. Looking at the requests of many avid readers of the blog and so many like-minded travelers seeking guidance for their Leh Ladakh trip by air, I have sketched below one of the most common and tested itineraries for traveling to Leh Ladakh by flight.
As of 2026, flying to Leh is the quickest and most popular way to reach Ladakh if you are short on time. Round-trip flights from Delhi to Leh typically cost between Rs 8,000 to Rs 20,000 depending on the season and how early you book. Airlines like IndiGo, SpiceJet, Air India, and Vistara operate daily flights from Delhi, and you can also find connecting flights from Mumbai, Bangalore, Chandigarh, and Srinagar. The flight from Delhi is just about 1 hour 20 minutes, landing you directly at Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh at 3,500 meters (about 11,500 Ft).
Let's quickly dive into the details:
Why is Acclimatization So Important When Flying to Leh?
Flying directly to a high altitude place like Leh (3,500+ meters or about 11,500 Ft) can cause serious issues if proper care is not taken to combat Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). When you take a road journey, your body gradually adjusts to the rising altitude over 2 to 3 days. But when you fly, you go from sea level to 11,500 Ft in just 80 minutes, and your body has had zero time to adjust.
Hence, one must always be aware of the importance of Acclimatization and tips to prevent AMS before venturing to further high altitudes within Ladakh. When you fly to Leh, you must give your body a chance to acclimatize for at least 24 to 48 hours before actually getting started with the trip. That is the precise reason why a road journey to Ladakh is more fun because it allows your body to gradually increase the altitude and hence, acclimatize day by day, especially the Srinagar – Leh Highway.
But, let us look at how one can combat most of the AMS issues with very basic tips and can enjoy a Leh – Ladakh journey for about 7 to 9 days by flight 🙂 …
What Are the Key AMS Prevention Tips for Air Travelers?
Since you will be flying directly to 11,500 Ft, AMS prevention is not optional. Here are the most important things to keep in mind before and after you land in Leh.
- Stay hydrated: Drink 3 to 4 liters of water throughout the day. Carry ORS sachets or ORS-L tetra packs from home. DO NOT overhydrate though, as that can cause its own problems.
- Complete rest on Day 1: After landing, check in to your hotel and take 5 to 6 hours of complete rest. Do not climb stairs, do not rush around sightseeing. Your body needs this time.
- Avoid alcohol for the first 48 hours: Alcohol is a respiratory suppressant, which means it slows down your breathing while you sleep. At 11,500 Ft, that is the opposite of what your body needs.
- Carry Diamox (Acetazolamide): Consult your doctor before the trip and start taking Diamox one day before arriving in Leh. It helps the body acclimatize faster. Also carry medicines for headache, cold, and digestion issues.
- Eat light, carb-rich meals: Carbohydrates help your body generate energy efficiently in low-oxygen conditions. Avoid heavy, oily meals on the first day.
- Watch for symptoms: Headache, nausea, dizziness, and breathlessness are common AMS symptoms. If any of these persist or worsen, do not go to a higher altitude. Descend if needed, and seek medical help.
I cannot stress this enough. Please take a sensible call for yourself and your loved ones waiting for your safe return. AMS is real and can turn dangerous if ignored. I have personally seen symptoms in my group ranging from mild headaches and inability to sleep to extreme cases like bleeding nostrils and vomiting. Do not take it lightly, my friend.
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How Should You Plan a 7-9 Days Itinerary for Leh Ladakh by Flight?
This itinerary for flying to Leh Ladakh covers all three major destinations of Ladakh, including Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso Lake, and Tso Moriri Lake. It is designed to give your body enough time to acclimatize while covering the best that Ladakh has to offer in 7 to 9 days.
If you are making a trip to Ladakh in winter, then better refer to the most common itinerary for a winter trip to Ladakh.
Day 1 | Delhi to Leh (By Flight)
Your Ladakh journey begins the moment you step off the plane at Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport. The flight from Delhi takes about 1 hour 20 minutes. Many hotels in Leh provide free airport pick-up and drop, so make sure to confirm this while booking.
- Check in at your hotel. Take ample rest as well as water or anything that keeps your body hydrated enough. DO NOT OVERHYDRATE. Take ORS-L tetra packs from home.
- Do not overexert your body at any cost. Avoid too much up-down on stairs or avoid it entirely, if possible.
- After 5 to 6 hours of rest, if you feel OK, you can visit Leh Palace, the local Leh market, and Shankar Gompa.
- If you feel exerted, go back to the hotel, have dinner, and take rest. Avoid any exertion.
- Else, follow the sunset by a stroll at Changspa Road and have a nice dinner with the varied cuisines offered around Changspa and the main market road.
- Overnight at Leh.
Day 2 | Leh Local Sightseeing (Acclimatization Day)
This day is crucial for acclimatization. Keep it light and do not push yourself. As of 2026, domestic tourists do not need Inner Line Permits to travel anywhere in Ladakh, including the Umling La pass. You only need to pay the environment/green/ecology fee of Rs 400 per person online at the Leh District Tourists Management System portal and carry the receipt of payment.
- Hire a taxi from the Leh taxi stand or through your hotel, whichever suits you. Check the Leh – Ladakh taxi union rate list including the contacts of some reliable taxi drivers within Leh – Ladakh. You can get about a 10 to 12% discount by directly getting in touch with drivers. Also check the more comprehensive list of taxi drivers for Ladakh – Srinagar – Leh – Manali with recommendations and reviews from DwD community members.
- Take the taxi driver’s input if you feel it is reasonable and modify the plan accordingly, but it should suit you best.
- Again, DO NOT overexert and take little steps and slow walks only.
- If feeling OK, then do local sightseeing. To know about the places you can check my 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 to Khardung La to Diskit to Hunder (Nubra Valley)
After two days of acclimatization in Leh, your body should be ready for higher altitudes. Head for Nubra Valley today. The drive from Leh to Hunder/Diskit takes about 5 to 6 hours depending on the breaks you take.
- Head for Nubra Valley and stay overnight at Hunder or Diskit.
- On the way, enjoy a cup of soup or Maggi at Khardung La pass (17,982 Ft). DO NOT stay more than 10 to 12 minutes at the top. The altitude is extreme and can hit you quickly.
- Diskit has the famous Diskit Monastery with the tallest Maitreya Buddha statue (106 Ft) and Hunder has sand dunes and a Bactrian (double-humped) camel safari.
- About 5 to 6 hours drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between and at Khardung La.
- Overnight at Hunder or Diskit. Budget accommodation in Nubra Valley ranges from Rs 800 to Rs 2,500 per night.
Day 4 | Hunder/Diskit to Sumur to Panamik to Leh
Explore the northern parts of Nubra Valley today before heading back to Leh over Khardung La. This is a long day of about 7 to 8 hours of driving.
- Sumur has a famous Samstanling Monastery, and Panamik has hot water springs worth a quick stop.
- If you have time, you can also add Turtuk village to Day 3 or Day 4. Turtuk is about 90 km from Diskit and is one of the last Indian villages near the LoC. It is a beautiful Balti village with a very different culture from the rest of Ladakh.
- About 7 to 8 hours drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between.
- Overnight at Leh.
Day 5 | Leh to Hemis Monastery to Pangong Tso Lake
Today you head towards the famous Pangong Tso Lake via Chang La pass (17,688 Ft). The drive from Leh to Pangong takes about 5 to 6 hours.
- Cover either of Hemis Monastery, Thiksey Monastery, or Shey Palace on the go toward Pangong Tso. I suggest covering Hemis on the way to Pangong and Thiksey/Shey on the return, so you do not miss any of them.
- Overnight at Pangong Tso (Spangmik or Lukung). Accommodation near Pangong ranges from Rs 1,000 to Rs 3,000 per night for basic tents and cottages.
- About 5 to 6 hours drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between.
Day 6 | Pangong Tso Lake to Thiksey Monastery to Shey Palace to Leh
Enjoy the sunrise at Pangong (it is absolutely worth waking up early for) and then head back to Leh.
- Cover Thiksey and Shey on the return to Leh (if you covered Hemis on Day 5).
- Overnight at Leh.
- About 5 to 6 hours drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between.
Day 7 | Leh to Hemis to Tso Moriri via Chumathang
Tso Moriri is less crowded and more serene than Pangong, and I would highly recommend including it in your itinerary if you have the days. The drive from Leh to Tso Moriri via Chumathang takes about 7 to 8 hours.
- If you have not covered Hemis Monastery, Thiksey, or Shey yet, cover them on the way toward Tso Moriri.
- Cover Korzok Monastery near Tso Moriri.
- Overnight at Korzok or near the banks of Tso Moriri. Accommodation options here are limited, so book in advance or be prepared for basic homestays and tented camps (Rs 1,500 to Rs 3,000 per night).
- About 7 to 8 hours drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between.
Day 8 | Tso Moriri to Tso Kar to Taglang La to Upshi to Leh
This is the longest driving day in the itinerary, about 9 to 10 hours. You will pass through some stunning high-altitude landscapes including Tso Kar (White Salt Lake) and join the Manali – Leh Highway at Debring before passing over Taglang La (17,480 Ft) on the way back to Leh.
- Come back via Tso Kar and Manali – Leh Highway to Leh.
- Cover any remaining monasteries (Hemis, Thiksey, Shey) on the way towards Leh, if not done already.
- Overnight at Leh.
- About 9 to 10 hours drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between.
Day 9 | Rest Day OR Sham Valley Tour
If you have one more day before your flight back, you have two good options.
- Option A: Rest day at Leh to enjoy local culture, shop for pashmina shawls and Ladakhi souvenirs, and relax before your flight.
- Option B: Sham Valley tour covering Alchi Monastery, Likir Monastery, Basgo Palace, Magnetic Hill, Confluence of Indus and Zanskar rivers at Nimmu, and Gurudwara Pather Sahib. This is a relatively relaxed day of about 5 to 6 hours of driving.
- Overnight at Leh.
How Can You Save a Day on This Ladakh Itinerary?
If you only have 7 days instead of 9, you can save a day by making a direct trip from Nubra Valley to Pangong Tso instead of coming back to Leh first. Here is how that works.
Day 4 (Modified) | Hunder/Diskit to Shyok Village/Wari La to Pangong Tso
- Take the direct route from Nubra Valley to Pangong Tso either via Shyok village or Wari La pass, whichever is open.
- Since 2019, the direct route between Nubra Valley – Shyok Village – Pangong Tso has stabilized a lot. It is not as desolate in the season anymore as it used to be a few years back. A lot of people do this route nowadays, so it should be fine for you as well. Just enquire at Agham village on the safer side or wait for a couple of cars to tag along on the route.
- Overnight at Pangong Tso.
- About 6 to 8 hours drive, depending upon the route you take between Shyok and Wari La and the breaks in between.
Day 5 (Modified) | Pangong Tso to Thiksey Monastery to Shey Palace to Leh
- Cover either of Hemis, Thiksey, and Shey on return to Leh.
- Overnight at Leh.
- About 6 to 7 hours drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between.
Alternatively, you can also make a day trip to Pangong Tso (if Shyok village and Wari La pass routes are closed) as below, but that makes it a bit hectic.
Day 5 (Alternative) | Leh to Chang La to Pangong Tso to Chang La to Leh
- Make a day trip to Pangong Tso via Chang La pass.
- Overnight at Leh.
- About 10 to 12 hours drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between. This is a long and tiring day, so keep that in mind.
What Will a Ladakh Trip by Flight Cost in 2026?
I know this is one of the first questions everyone has, so let me give you a quick breakdown. The exact cost depends on your travel style, group size, and season, but here are the approximate numbers for a 7 to 9 day trip as of 2026.
| Expense | Budget (per person) | Mid-Range (per person) |
|---|---|---|
| Return Flights (Delhi-Leh-Delhi) | Rs 8,000 – Rs 12,000 | Rs 12,000 – Rs 20,000 |
| Accommodation (7-9 nights) | Rs 5,600 – Rs 10,000 | Rs 14,000 – Rs 25,000 |
| Taxi (full trip, shared 4 pax) | Rs 5,000 – Rs 7,000 | Rs 8,000 – Rs 12,000 |
| Food (7-9 days) | Rs 3,500 – Rs 5,000 | Rs 5,000 – Rs 9,000 |
| Environment Fee | Rs 400 | Rs 400 |
| Miscellaneous | Rs 2,000 – Rs 3,000 | Rs 3,000 – Rs 5,000 |
| Total (approx.) | Rs 24,500 – Rs 37,000 | Rs 42,400 – Rs 71,400 |
Keep in mind: 4 is the magical number for Ladakh trips. If you go with 3 more friends and share taxi costs, your per-person expenses drop significantly. Taxi rates in Leh Ladakh are set by the taxi union, and for a 7 to 9 day circuit covering Nubra, Pangong, and Tso Moriri, expect to pay between Rs 20,000 to Rs 45,000 for the vehicle depending on the type (Innova, Scorpio, Xylo). Divide that by 4 and it becomes very reasonable. For the latest rates, check the Leh Ladakh taxi rates article.
For a detailed cost calculation, check this complete guide on how to calculate cost or budget for a Leh – Ladakh trip.
What Should You Pack for a Ladakh Trip by Flight?
Packing smart is important since you have luggage weight limits on flights. Here is a quick checklist of the essentials.
- Clothing: Layering is key. Carry thermals, fleece jackets, a waterproof windcheater, cotton t-shirts for daytime, warm socks, and a good pair of trekking shoes. Even in summer, nights in Ladakh can drop to 2 to 5 degrees Celsius.
- Medicines: Diamox (after consulting doctor), Disprin or Crocin for headache, cold and cough medicine, Digene for acidity, ORS sachets, and any personal medicines. Keep these in your cabin baggage, not checked-in luggage.
- Sun protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, UV-protection sunglasses, a hat or cap. The UV rays at 11,500 Ft are intense even when it does not feel hot.
- Electronics: Power bank (mobile charging points are scarce in Nubra, Pangong, and Tso Moriri), camera with extra batteries (cold drains batteries faster).
- Documents: Printed copy of flight tickets, hotel bookings, environment fee receipt, Aadhaar card or passport. Carry a passport-size photograph as well.
- Snacks: Chocolates, dry fruits, biscuits, and energy bars. These are lifesavers on long driving days when you may not find a dhaba for hours.
What About Mobile Network Coverage in Ladakh?
This is something many first-time travelers overlook. As of 2026, Jio and Airtel work well in Leh town and on major routes. However, once you head towards Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, and especially Tso Moriri, network coverage becomes patchy to non-existent. BSNL postpaid SIM cards have the widest coverage in Ladakh, including some remote areas. I would suggest getting a BSNL postpaid SIM before your trip if you absolutely need connectivity throughout. For more details, check my article on mobile phone connectivity in Leh Ladakh.
What is the Best Time to Visit Ladakh by Flight?
The best time to visit Ladakh by flight is from May to September. Here is a quick breakdown.
- May to June: Weather is pleasant (10 to 20 degrees Celsius during the day). Some high-altitude passes may still have snow, so the Nubra to Pangong direct route via Shyok may not be open yet. Check road conditions before planning.
- July to August: Peak season. All passes and routes are open. Weather is the warmest. However, this is also the monsoon period, and occasional rain can cause landslides on roads. Flights can get delayed or cancelled due to bad weather.
- September: Excellent time to visit. Crowds thin out, weather is still pleasant, and all routes are open. My personal recommendation for the best experience.
- October to April: Winter months. Flights still operate, but most roads within Ladakh (to Nubra, Pangong, Tso Moriri) are closed due to snow. Winter trips are limited to Leh town and nearby areas. If you are interested, check the winter Ladakh itinerary.
Additional Points to Keep in Mind
- You can add one more day or use the saved day to visit Turtuk village in Nubra Valley. It is one of the hidden gems of Ladakh and absolutely worth a visit.
- For accommodation, check the preferred list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh (Leh, Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri) including moderate and budget hotels.
- For fuel availability and petrol pump locations in Ladakh (relevant if you are renting a bike or self-driving), check the fuel availability in Leh Ladakh guide.
- If you are considering self-driving instead of hiring a taxi, refer to the 7 useful tips for a self-drive to Leh Ladakh.
- For the road journey itinerary (if you prefer driving over flying), check the most common itinerary for Leh Ladakh by road.
- Permits and environment fee details are covered comprehensively in how to pay Leh Ladakh environment fee online.
Conclusion
I hope this plan or itinerary for Leh – Ladakh when traveling by air will be useful to travelers planning their journey, at least for the first time. The key takeaway is simple: give your body time to acclimatize on Days 1 and 2, and the rest of the trip will be smooth and enjoyable.
I look forward to any queries, doubts, or valuable suggestions and inputs you have and would love to discuss your custom plan as well in the comments section. If you have traveled to Ladakh by flight and have tips to share, please feel free to share them with me so that they can help other fellow travelers planning their upcoming trip 🙂 …
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Last Updated: February 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days are enough for a Ladakh trip by flight?
A minimum of 7 days is recommended to cover Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, and Tso Moriri comfortably. This includes 2 days for acclimatization in Leh. If you have 8 to 9 days, you can add Sham Valley sightseeing and a visit to Turtuk village without rushing.
Is it safe to fly directly to Leh without acclimatization?
Flying to Leh is safe, but you must take proper precautions. Leh is at 11,500 Ft and your body needs 24 to 48 hours to adjust. Stay hydrated, rest completely on Day 1, avoid alcohol, and carry Diamox. Do not plan any high-altitude excursions for the first two days after landing.
Do I need permits for Ladakh in 2026?
As of 2026, Indian domestic tourists do not need Inner Line Permits for Ladakh. You only need to pay the environment/green fee of Rs 400 per person online at the Leh District Tourists Management System portal. Foreign nationals still need a Protected Area Permit (PAP). For full details, check the Ladakh permits guide.
How much does a Ladakh trip by flight cost for 7 days?
For a budget traveler in a group of 4, a 7-day Ladakh trip by flight costs approximately Rs 24,500 to Rs 37,000 per person including flights, accommodation, taxi, food, and the environment fee. Mid-range travelers can expect Rs 42,000 to Rs 70,000 per person. The biggest savings come from sharing taxi costs with 3 or more people.
Can I do a direct route from Nubra Valley to Pangong Tso?
Yes. Since 2019, the direct route from Nubra Valley to Pangong Tso via Shyok village has stabilized significantly. However, it depends on the season and road conditions. During early season (May), this route may not be open yet. Check locally at Agham village or with your taxi driver before taking this route. For more details, check the Nubra to Pangong direct route guide.
What is the best time to fly to Ladakh?
The best time is May to September, with September being my personal recommendation for fewer crowds and pleasant weather. Flights operate year-round, but from October to April, most internal roads within Ladakh are closed due to snow, limiting your itinerary to Leh town only.
Which airline has the cheapest flights to Leh?
As of 2026, IndiGo and SpiceJet generally offer the most affordable fares on the Delhi to Leh route, with round-trip tickets starting around Rs 8,000 to Rs 10,000 if booked 2 to 3 months in advance. During peak season (July to August), prices can go up to Rs 20,000 or more. Air India and Vistara also operate this route but tend to be slightly more expensive.
Is self-driving possible in Ladakh if I fly to Leh?
Yes, you can rent a bike or car in Leh after flying in. Royal Enfield rentals in Leh typically cost between Rs 1,200 to Rs 2,500 per day depending on the model and season. Car rentals with a driver are also available. However, keep in mind that self-driving in Ladakh requires experience with mountain roads and high-altitude conditions. For tips, check the self-drive tips for Ladakh article.
