In the last 15 years of traveling to Ladakh, I have come across numerous myths that I busted for myself on one trip or another. These misconceptions keep coming up in the comments section of Discover with Dheeraj, and I see first-time travelers getting genuinely worried about things that are simply not true.
So I thought, let me create a detailed article busting the most common myths about traveling to Ladakh and replace them with facts from my own experience. Whether you are planning your first Ladakh trip or your fifth, this guide will help you separate reality from fiction and plan with confidence.
In order to complete the picture, I also shared the “Top 9 Mistakes People Commit on a Ladakh Trip” in a follow-up article. I recommend reading that one too after you finish this.
Let's quickly dive into the details:
Practical Info at a Glance
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Best Time to Visit | June to September (road season) |
| Leh Altitude | 11,520 Ft (3,512 m) |
| Permit for Indians | ILP abolished. EDF Rs 400/person + Rs 20/person/day wildlife fee |
| Nearest Airport | Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, Leh (IXL) |
| Acclimatization | Minimum 36-48 hours rest after reaching Leh |
| Private Cars Allowed | Yes, personal vehicles allowed for sightseeing |
| Rented Self-Drive | Banned for local sightseeing in Ladakh |
| Mobile Network | BSNL widest coverage, Jio/Airtel 4G/5G in Leh town |
What Are the Most Common Myths About Traveling to Ladakh?
Here are the most common myths and facts about traveling to Ladakh. These misconceptions have stopped many people from making their dream trip a reality. Let me bust them one by one, based on over a decade of personal experience on these roads.
Download your FREE high-resolution PDF copy of this infographic guide to know these myths and facts about traveling to Ladakh. If you found it helpful, please feel free to share it with your family and friends.
1. Is Ladakh a Good Honeymoon or Leisure Destination?
Ladakh is an adventure tourism destination, not a honeymoon or leisure spot. This is one of the most common queries I get on Discover with Dheeraj. People ask about planning a honeymoon trip to Ladakh or want a relaxing family vacation there.
The Reality: Ladakh comes with altitude sickness risk, unpredictable weather, long drives on rough terrain, and physical exhaustion. Your honeymoon happens once in a lifetime. Sometimes things can go sideways in Ladakh with acute mountain sickness, fatigue, and unexpected physical strain. You do not want to take a chance with your honeymoon, trust me on this. Make sure your partner understands the nature of this trip before committing, otherwise you might hear about it for the rest of your life 🙂
If you are looking for a relaxing honeymoon in the Himalayas, I would suggest picking from these honeymoon destinations in Himachal Pradesh instead. Places like Manali, Shimla, Dalhousie, or Kasol are far better suited for couples looking to unwind.
2. Is Leh the Same as Ladakh?
No, Leh is not Ladakh. This is one of the most repeated misconceptions I come across. People use “Leh Ladakh” as if it is one place, but these are two different things.
The Reality: Ladakh is a Union Territory (since August 2019, separated from J&K) with two districts: Leh and Kargil. Leh is the district headquarters and the main town where most tourists stay. But Ladakh also includes Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri, Hanle, Zanskar, and the entire Kargil district including Drass (the second coldest inhabited place on Earth). Calling it “Leh Ladakh” is like calling Maharashtra “Mumbai Maharashtra.” Keep this in mind when planning your trip.
3. Do You Need a Royal Enfield to Ride to Ladakh?
A powerful bike like a Royal Enfield is preferable but absolutely not required. This myth has stopped so many riders from attempting the trip on their own machines.
The Reality: 100cc-125cc bikes and even scooties have completed the Ladakh circuit almost every season. Yes, they struggle at some places. High mountain passes with thin air mean lower engine output, and deep slush or water crossings can get tricky. You might need to push your bike manually in some spots. But riders on Honda Activas, TVS Jupiters, and Splendors have all done it successfully.
The key is: do not push the bike beyond its limit when stuck. Use your physical strength to get it out. In the end, what matters is the grit and determination of the rider, not the displacement of the engine. Also, with BRO continuously improving the roads, the terrain has become significantly more manageable compared to even 5 years ago.
4. Can You Take a Small Car or Hatchback to Ladakh?
Yes, you can. An SUV is preferable for ground clearance, but a small car or hatchback can absolutely make the journey. I have seen countless Swifts, i20s, and WagonRs complete the Ladakh circuit over the years.
The Reality: You will face some tough challenges with a low ground-clearance car, especially on the Manali-Leh Highway during July-August when water crossings are at their worst. A sedan is the toughest candidate because of the boot hanging behind. Here is what I recommend:
- Take the Srinagar route going in, as the road surface is better and the altitude gain is gradual
- Return via Manali side after you have acclimatized and gained confidence driving in the mountains
- Protect your engine sump at all costs. Know where it is located in your car before you start
- When in doubt at a tricky section, park aside, walk the section on foot, observe how other vehicles cross, and plan your line
- Carry essential things for a self-drive trip including tow rope, basic tools, and extra coolant
5. Are Self-Drive Cars Banned in Ladakh?
This myth gained traction after a few isolated incidents and taxi union protests. The reality is more nuanced than a blanket “ban.”
The Reality (Updated for 2026): Your personal vehicle (white number plate, registered in your name or immediate family) is fully allowed for sightseeing everywhere in Ladakh, including Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri, and Hanle. There is no restriction on personal cars or bikes.
What IS banned is outside rented self-drive vehicles. If you rent a car from Delhi, Chandigarh, or Manali (like a Zoomcar or similar), you can drive it to Leh and exit Leh, but you cannot use it for local sightseeing within Ladakh. The Ladakh Taxi Union enforces this, and while there is no formal law, they do check at checkpoints. In such cases, you would need to hire a local taxi for sightseeing. For more details, read my article on rented self-drive cars banned in Ladakh.
6. Can You Do a Ladakh Trip in Just a Weekend?
No. This is one of the most dangerous misconceptions. Just because Leh is a 90-minute flight from Delhi does not mean you can squeeze a meaningful Ladakh trip into a weekend.
The Reality: Your body needs time to adjust to the altitude. Leh sits at 11,520 feet, and the moment you land, your body starts working harder to cope with reduced oxygen. You MUST rest for at least 36-48 hours after reaching Leh before doing any sightseeing. If you rush to Pangong Tso or Nubra Valley on your first or second day, you are asking for severe altitude sickness.
If you only have 3 days, you can explore Leh town, visit local sightseeing spots like Shanti Stupa, Leh Palace, and Hall of Fame. But to cover Nubra, Pangong, or Tso Moriri, you need a minimum of 6-7 days. Check my 5-day Ladakh itinerary if you are really tight on time, but honestly, I would recommend at least 8-9 days for a proper experience.
7. Is Ladakh Unsafe to Travel?
Ladakh is one of the safest tourist destinations in India. In over 15 years of traveling there, I have never personally experienced or heard of any major safety incident targeting tourists.
The Reality: Ladakh (the Union Territory) is geographically and administratively separate from Kashmir. The security concerns that sometimes affect the Kashmir Valley do not apply to Ladakh. The local Ladakhi people are among the most welcoming and warm hosts you will meet anywhere in India. Solo female travelers, families with children, and elderly couples travel to Ladakh safely every season.
That said, Ladakh IS an adventure destination. The word “adventure” inherently comes with some risk. Road accidents, altitude sickness, sudden weather changes, and landslides are real possibilities. But these are natural hazards you prepare for, not safety threats from people. As long as you drive carefully, acclimatize properly, and carry proper gear, Ladakh is remarkably safe.
8. Is Ladakh Only for Young and Fit Travelers?
Absolutely not. Your age does not determine whether you can visit Ladakh. Your health and your planning do.
The Reality: I have seen 65-year-old uncles riding motorcycles to Ladakh and 70-year-old aunties enjoying the trip via the Srinagar route. Using our most common itinerary for Ladakh, which is well-balanced for gradual acclimatization, many senior travelers make memorable trips every year. I have also helped families with young kids and even infants travel to Ladakh successfully.
The key factors are: good general health, no uncontrolled blood pressure or heart conditions, proper acclimatization schedule, and a sensible itinerary that does not cram too many places into too few days. If you have pre-existing health conditions, consult your doctor before the trip. According to the CDC altitude advisory, people with controlled hypertension, mild asthma, or diabetes can travel to high altitude with proper precautions.
9. Is Ladakh Too Cold to Visit?
During the tourist season (June to September), Ladakh is mostly pleasant during the day. Winters are brutal, yes, but you are probably not planning a winter trip for your first visit.
The Reality: During peak summer months, daytime temperatures in Leh town range from 20-30 degrees Celsius. It feels warm and sunny. The cold hits at night and early morning (dropping to 5-10 degrees in Leh, lower at higher altitudes). At places like Pangong Tso (14,270 ft) or Sarchu (14,070 ft), nights can drop below zero even in July.
The important thing is to carry proper clothes for your Ladakh trip. At minimum, pack one windcheater to cut the wind chill and one heavy jacket for cold mornings and evenings. Weather in the trans-Himalayas can change in a matter of hours. Sunny morning, hailstorm by afternoon. Go prepared and do not try to be heroic by skipping the woolens 🙂
10. Will I Fall Sick and Die Because of the Altitude?
Altitude sickness is real, but it is manageable with proper preparation. You will not “fall sick and die” if you follow basic acclimatization principles.
The Reality: Leh sits at 11,520 feet. Khardung La is at 17,582 feet (not 18,380 as often claimed). Chang La is at 17,585 feet. These are high altitudes where the oxygen level is about 40-50% lower than at sea level. Your body needs time to adjust, and that adjustment period is called acclimatization.
If you follow the principles of acclimatization, drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol for the first 2 days, do not exert yourself on day one, and gradually increase your altitude exposure, the vast majority of people do perfectly fine. Mild headaches and breathlessness are normal on day one and usually go away by day two. Serious AMS cases happen primarily when people ignore the rest period and rush to high-altitude destinations immediately after landing.
11. Is the Journey to Ladakh Too Long and Painful?
The journey is long, yes. Painful, only if you plan it poorly. With the right number of days and a balanced itinerary, the journey to Ladakh is actually the best part of the trip.
The Reality: From Delhi via the Manali-Leh Highway, it takes 2 days of driving to reach Leh (with a night halt at Jispa or Sarchu). Via the Srinagar-Leh Highway, it is also a 2-day drive with a stop at Kargil. The Atal Tunnel (opened October 2020) has made the Manali side easier by bypassing Rohtang Pass entirely.
The problem comes when people try to cram the Ladakh trip into fewer days than it deserves. If you rush, your body pays the price and you feel miserable. But if you plan with enough days in hand (I recommend 10-12 for a complete experience), the journey through Manali-Leh or Srinagar-Leh is genuinely among the most spectacular road trips in the world. As I always say, the details lie in the journey and not the destination. Take it slow, enjoy every pass, every valley, and every chai stop along the way. It is a trip you will want to do “life mein baar baar” 🙂
12. Will I Keep Vomiting if I Fly to Leh?
Flying to Leh does not automatically mean you will be sick. The problem is not the flight. The problem is what people do after landing.
The Reality: Many travel agents (who have never been to Ladakh themselves) sell itineraries where you fly into Leh and head to Pangong Tso the very next day. That is a recipe for disaster. You go from sea level to 11,520 feet in 90 minutes, and then drive to 14,270 feet the next morning. Your body has had zero time to adjust.
If you fly to Leh, you MUST take complete rest for at least 36-48 hours. No sightseeing, no running around, no excitement. Just rest, hydrate, eat light meals, and let your body acclimatize. After that, you can start with local Leh sightseeing and then gradually move to higher altitude destinations. Thousands of people fly to Leh every season and have wonderful trips. The ones who suffer are the ones who skip the rest period.
What About Permits for Ladakh in 2026?
This is a bonus myth that deserves its own section because permit confusion stops so many people from planning their trip.
The Reality: The Inner Line Permit (ILP) for Indian nationals was abolished in August 2021. You no longer need an ILP to visit Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri, Hanle, or any other tourist destination in Ladakh. Instead, there is an Environmental Development Fee (EDF) that every tourist pays:
- EDF: Rs 400 per person (one-time)
- Wildlife Fee: Rs 20 per person per day
- Red Cross: Rs 10 per person per day
You can apply online at the Leh District Permit Portal or get it done through your hotel/taxi driver in Leh. The process takes about 30 minutes. For a detailed walkthrough, read my complete guide to Ladakh permits.
Foreign nationals still need a Protected Area Permit (PAP) for certain restricted zones. This requires applying through a registered travel agent in Leh. For details, check my guide on Protected Area Permits for foreigners.
What About Mobile Network and Internet in Ladakh?
Another common concern that has changed dramatically in recent years. People worry they will be completely cut off from the world during their Ladakh trip.
The Reality (2026): Mobile connectivity in Ladakh has improved significantly. BSNL postpaid has the widest coverage, working at most tourist spots including Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, and along the highways. Jio and Airtel now offer 4G/5G in Leh town and have expanded to several zones along the main routes. However, only postpaid SIMs from outside the state work in Ladakh. Prepaid SIMs do not work.
At remote locations like Hanle, Tso Moriri, and some stretches of the Manali-Leh Highway, you may lose signal entirely. Keep in mind that this is part of the Ladakh experience. Disconnect, enjoy the landscape, and check your messages when you get back to town.
How Much Does a Ladakh Trip Actually Cost?
People often think Ladakh is extremely expensive, which is another misconception worth addressing.
The Reality: A budget Ladakh trip by road can be done for Rs 1,500-2,500 per person per day if you are on a bike or in a group sharing fuel and accommodation costs. Mid-range travelers (private car, decent hotels, restaurant meals) should budget Rs 3,000-5,000 per person per day. For a detailed breakdown, check my complete Ladakh trip budget calculator.
The biggest cost variable is whether you drive your own vehicle or hire a local taxi. Taxi rates in Ladakh start at around Rs 3,500-4,500 per day for a small car and go up depending on the route and vehicle type.
Related Reading
- Most Common Itinerary for Leh Ladakh
- Best Time to Visit Ladakh and Zanskar Valley
- What Clothes to Carry for a Ladakh Trip
- 7 Useful Tips for Self-Driving to Ladakh
- Ladakh FAQs: Preparing for Your Trip
Conclusion
I hope busting these myths has helped clear the confusion and given you more confidence to plan your Ladakh trip. The bottom line is this: Ladakh is not as scary, expensive, or inaccessible as many people make it sound. With proper planning, sensible acclimatization, and the right gear, anyone can make a safe and memorable trip to Ladakh, regardless of their age, vehicle type, or budget.
Do you know any other common myth about traveling to Ladakh that I missed? Feel free to share it in the comments section below. And if you found this article helpful, share it with your friends or family members who are hesitating about their first Ladakh trip. You might just be the push they need to finally make their dream trip happen.
If you have any questions or need help planning your trip, feel free to ask in the comments or join the Discover with Dheeraj community. We are always happy to help fellow travelers 🙂
Last Updated: March 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ladakh safe for solo female travelers?
Yes, Ladakh is one of the safest destinations in India for solo female travelers. The local Ladakhi people are warm, respectful, and helpful. Many women travel solo to Ladakh every season, both on bikes and by public transport. The main precautions are the same as anywhere: inform someone about your itinerary, carry proper gear for altitude, and stick to established routes and accommodations.
Do I need a special permit to visit Ladakh in 2026?
Indian nationals no longer need an Inner Line Permit (ILP) for Ladakh. The ILP was abolished in August 2021. You need to pay the Environmental Development Fee (EDF) of Rs 400 per person plus Rs 20 per person per day (wildlife fee) and Rs 10 per person per day (Red Cross). Apply online at lahdclehpermit.in or through your hotel in Leh. Foreign nationals need a Protected Area Permit for restricted zones.
Can I take an automatic car to Ladakh?
Yes, automatic cars can and do complete the Ladakh circuit every season. The roads have improved significantly, especially after the Atal Tunnel opened in 2020 bypassing Rohtang Pass. The Srinagar-Leh Highway is mostly well-tarred. The main challenge is water crossings on the Manali-Leh side during July-August. Drive carefully, protect your underbelly, and you should be fine.
How many days do I need for a Ladakh trip?
A minimum of 7 days is recommended if flying to Leh (including 2 days of acclimatization). For a road trip via Manali or Srinagar, plan at least 10-12 days. This gives you enough time for the drive, proper acclimatization, and covering major attractions like Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, and local Leh sightseeing without rushing.
Is the Manali-Leh Highway safe to drive?
The Manali-Leh Highway is safe to drive during the tourist season (June to September) when it is officially open. BRO maintains the road and clears landslides promptly. The Atal Tunnel has eliminated the Rohtang Pass challenge. The trickiest sections are between Tandi and Pang, where water crossings and rough patches exist. Drive during daylight, carry essential spares, and stay updated on road conditions.
What is the best time to visit Ladakh?
The best time to visit Ladakh is June to September. July and August see the most tourists, with all roads and passes open. June and September are shoulder months with fewer crowds but equally good weather. If you want to fly, Leh airport operates year-round. For a month-by-month breakdown, read my detailed guide on the best time to visit Ladakh.
Can senior citizens travel to Ladakh?
Yes, senior citizens can travel to Ladakh provided they are in reasonable health. The key is to fly into Leh (avoiding the strenuous road journey), take at least 2-3 days for acclimatization, and follow a relaxed itinerary. Consult your doctor before the trip, especially if you have heart conditions, uncontrolled blood pressure, or respiratory issues. Many travelers above 60 visit Ladakh successfully every year.
40 Comments
Comments section gets closed in 90 days. To ask your travel questions, you can follow my YouTube Channel for a faster reply or for a much slower reply follow me on Instagram. :)
Dear Dheeraj,
First of all I would like to thank you for sharing the information regarding the Ladakh.
I would like to start my journey from Kanyakumari (Southern Tip of India) to Kashmir with my RE bike. And as per the plan i will reach Delhi in the first week of October.
So can you please give me the plan from Delhi to Kashmir. I dont have any time limit for stay in Kashmir.
Please advice the required permits and precaution for my trip.
Thanks in Advance.
Naresh
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.
You can check the nice, preferred list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh (Leh, Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri) including moderate (cheap budget hotels as well) in the series of articles starting on the link here. Alternatively, if you are one of those who want to get the whole package done through a single point of contact, you can also fill the form below and get in touch with one of our hand picked Destination Specialists to book your hotels, bikes or taxis at the special discounted prices for DwD Community members: Ladakh Hotels & Camps Booking Form.
Hi Dheeraj,
we are planning to trip ladakh Srinagar to Leh highway by rant a motorcycle from Srinagar…Can You Please Suggest Tour….we are reaching Srinagar on 18 June.
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.
Better rent from Leh as outside rented bikes are not allowed in Ladakh.
Hi Dheeraj… I just read ur bolgs on Leh.. we are palnning a trip in Oct 1 week… is it possible to cover following in two days.. Leh- Pangong- Tsu Morri- Leh?
We are in Leh for 7 nights.. 8 day early morning leaving back. It will be great if you let me know how can we utilize these 7 days fully…?
No Ashish, best is that you do one of these lakes in two days. Below is the plan I will suggest:
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 + Acclimatization
— Hire a taxi from Leh taxi stand or Hotel whichever suits you.
— Bargain with taxi driver and you can refer the thread for a comprehensive list of drivers: List of Taxi Drivers for Ladakh – Srinagar – Leh – Manali
— 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
— Make a Day trip to Pangong Tso
— Overnight at Leh
Day 6 | Leh – Tso Moriri via Chumathang
— Cover Karzok Monastery
— Overnight at Karzok or Tso Moriri
Day 7 | Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Debring (Manali – Leh Highway starts) – Taglang La – Upshi – Leh
— Come back via Tso Kar and Manali – Leh Highway to Leh
— Overnight at Leh
Day 8 | Fly out
Thanks a lot for th quick response Dheeraj… we are reaching on Sep 30 and will fly out on Oct 7. How will be weather that time… I know its starting of winter… will it be too cold or manageable?
It will be manageable Ashish. But do carry heavy woollen jacket for sure.
Hi I wanted to mail you my plan scheduled form June 9 to 21.
Hi Dheeraj,
Great work. Very useful & informative.
Dheeraj, We are planning a trip to Leh in May end. Del-Leh-Del by air. We are two, me & my wife. We will reach Leh on 27-May morning & will be returning on 1st-june morning. Request you to suggest some suitable itinerary for this short trip, including the must see places.
Also advise on following concerns:
1. We have not booked any hotel room yet. Will it be OK to book the same on reaching Leh after having a look? Also suggest the same about Nubra Valley overnightstay.
2. Will it be OK to do the sightseeing in around Leh on rented bike or should we book some land only package with some reputed Tours & Travel firm (like mmt, DP, sotc etc.) or should we contact some local tour & travel agents there?
Thanks.
You have just 4 days in hand Saurabh, that is too less a day for a Leh trip 🙁 all I can suggest is 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 Sightseeing + Acclimatization
— 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 | Day trip to Khardung La
Day 4 | Day trip to Pangong Tso if feeling well.
1. It is OK to search on the spot in Leh, you cant stay overnigth anywhere except Leh
2. You can do the around Leh on your own. In anycase you have to complete rest for first two days.
Dear Dheeraj,
Wonderful practical piece of information.
I need your suggestions as well, as I am planning to travel from Ghaziabad on 3rd Sep. 2016 and would like to cover Sach Paas, Leh, and Kargil. I have 9 days in total (+1 buffer day). We will be driving in Fortuner. We would be mostly concern to look for natural beauty, and less of religious places.
Could you pls. advise:
1. Can we cover these 3 places in 9 days/ I mean is it a good idea or even possible?
2. If yes, what route to be followed for best utilization of time, and cover nature sight seeing?
3. Is there any of your blog which mentions places to visit at these locations ?
4. Any checklist of items to carry.
5. Any other important info.
Thanks,
Sid
Hi Sid,
It will take 4 days to reach Leh from Srinagar side starting from Delhi and 3 days to come back from Leh from Manali side to Delhi. This makes it 7 days. 1 Day is required in Leh for acclimatization. If you have about 10 days then 1 Day can be used as Day trip to Pangong Tso and other day can be used as day trip to Nubra Valley or just Khardung La pass.
Sach Pass cannot be fit in as you see.
Very useful. I am planning a trip to Ladhak in end Jun 2016 in my Maruti Swift (Diesel) via Srinagar to Dras and then on wards returning from Leh via tso Moriri to Manali and back to Chandigarh
For hatchback/sedan taking on Manali – Leh Highway Or Spiti Valley via Manali Or Ladakh, please refer the link: FAQ | Can I do Leh – Ladakh / Spiti / Manali – Leh trip in Hatchback or Sedan? for more details.
Thanks Dheeraj,
I am planning my honeymoon to Ladakh in first week of May. This is a short trip as we are not covering every Place. Please have a look at my Itinerary and let me know if this is okay.
29th April Pune to Leh Via Flight
30th April Rest and Marketing
1st May Shey Palace, Thiksey, Hemis (Stakna) on a local rented bike
2nd May : Visit Lamayuru on a rented bike
3rd May : Rafting(Choklamsar to Phay)( According to my search this is easiest and smallest rafting route)
4th May : Leave for Nubra on rented taxi
5th May : Return from Nubra
6th May : Flight to Jammu
7th May : Vaishno devi
8th May : return to Pune
Hi Abhimanyu,
Well, I will suggest that you make a two day trip to Lamayuru in case you want to enjoy the ride at ease else it will be 250 KMs in a day which can be tiring just to visit Lamayuru. So, you can club 1st and 2nd May together. 3rd, 4th May you can visit Nubra Valley which will give you a buffer day just in case Khardung La is closed due to snow or snowfall. In the buffer day you can do rafting. Also, in case you do not wish to make a trip to Lamayuru, you can do a day trip to Pangong Tso lake
Another great article! Thank you.
T.S.
USA
Thank you Ted,glad you loved it.
Would you happen to know which travel company should we book for the trip? we are going on a family vacation to Leh Ladak.
you can connect with info@offbeatescapes.com as most of the readers in the past three years have had very good feedback about them and especially their transparent policies along with being there with you all the time in need. So, we trust them the most (please note that DoW except reliable reference has nothing to do with them)… You can refer my name or DoW to Gaurav, the guy who runs it. He knows us very well and should be able to offer some special rates being a DoW Member. You can just refer him the DwD Community Member Username in such a case or screenshot of this reply here.
Dheeraj,
your posts are highly informative and written with a lot of insight and care.
We have been planning a family vacation to Ladakh. Options being looked at are a) End of April b) End of May to early June, to be able to see the festivals. What would be your advice?
Thank you
Soumitra Mukhopadhyay
Mumbai
I will suggest to plan a trip in end of May and early June to Ladakh.
Awesome, please keep writing such useful guides!
Thank you, glad you liked the article and was useful for you.
Wonderfull Insight, been to Ladakh in 2015 from Bengaluru and want to ride once again. And this is penned with actual experiences. Thank for sharing and given us a chance to share it to other aspirants.
Thank you so much, I am glad it is that useful.
Hello Bhiman Gowda, did you rode from Bangalore to Ladhak or local hired vehicle?.. I am asking because I too planning a ride to leh ladhak on RE. Thanks in advance,
Great information …
Thank you Vipin, glad you liked it.
One more to add
While traveling on bike you need to carry 10 liters of petrol, petrol pumps are not frequently seen:
Fact: If you have a bike with 15L plus fuel capacity then you don’t need to carry additional fuel. Make sure you fill petrol when it is available and you should be fine.
Thank you so much Amit, glad you shared this one. Should be quite helpful. All that matters is when you want to do LEh to Tso Moriri to Manali directly then it makes 550 KMs, if your bike can do 550 KMs in mountains then you need not carry but else you will have to carry it because I See even with 35 KMPL you will not clock 550 KM with 15 Ltr tank or will live on the edge. Rest of the Ladakh if not done the straight exit from Tso Moriri can surely be done as and when you see and fill the fuel in your bike. I will add it.
Brilliantly explained all the details and anyone who is planning Leh must go through this post. very Helpful. Sharing it further.
Thank you so much VJ, I am glad you loved it and thanks for sharing too 🙂
Great post..
Thank you 🙂
Very nicely written…..we too have been to ladakh by road twice….and all the 12 myths are busted. We travelled along with 2 kids. We were careful and prepared.so it was memorable trip.we also met old couples at tsomoriri above 70 yrs of age….hail and hearty…
Thank you so much, glad you had a great journey and were able to bust these myths for you.
Hey dheeraj can I get your contact number I have lot of queries we are planing a trip in mid june from manali to leh
Sumit, feel free to post any many queries as possible here. It helps others too.