Planning a trip to Ladakh 19 Sep 2018 – Posted in: Blogs

Offering both beauty and adventure, Ladakh is a well loved travel destination. The land has a lot to offer, from snow-capped mountains and adrenaline racing activities to beautiful monasteries and lakes. But one must keep in mind that the fact that Ladakh is an isolated area, with barren terrain and most of the areas remain inaccessible for months when it snows. Timing is everything and it is the same when you are planning a trip, a getaway from the mundane routine of daily life.

Ladakh has something to offer in every new season and depending on your goal for visiting Ladakh – be it adventure, photography, exploring the culture or just wanting to enjoy a bit of solitude, we have you covered! Mid-June to Mid-July are considered the best months to be in Ladakh. September is a great time to visit too. If you want to beat the crowd and enjoy your Ladakh experience it is best to plan a trip while keeping in mind the climate and the accessibility of roads.

Here is a list of the best times to visit Ladakh so that you can plan your trip accordingly and have an idea about what to expect.

Taking a road trip to Ladakh.
When: Mid-June to Mid-September
Why: While the Srinagar-Leh Highway is open in early May, the Manali-Ladakh route opens by early June. It is advisable to not visit by road during the first few weeks as the roads may be damaged and be temporarily closed. There is also a risk of snowfall that may cause the roads to be cut off. Planning a trip somewhere between in Mid-June to Mid-September will ensure that the roads are functional and that you can enjoy your trip without additional hassle.

Planning a photography tour to Ladakh.
What you plan to capture plays a big role in determining when you should visit Ladakh.
When: August/September
It is impossible to not have a masterpiece shot when you come to Ladakh because the place itself is no less than heaven on earth. Ladakh is blessed with rugged mountains, picture perfect super-blue lakes, undulating glaciers and magnificent monasteries. Its Pangong Lake, Tso Moriri lake, Tso Kar Lake are all major birding spots for bird photography. In this exquisite place, anything you capture that comes on your way will definitely make a great portrait . 

Planning a bike trip to Ladakh.
When: June to  Early  September
Why: Taking to the road before June might mean closed roads or roads that are in less than optimum condition. Ladakh being in the rain shadow region is least affected by monsoon rains though you may witness a shower here and there. Avoid going after September as the weather may get too cold for you to be riding.

Planning a trip to Ladakh for family time.
When: July to September/ September
Why: If travelling to Ladakh by air and hiring a car is the plan then it is best to go anytime between July to September. If you plan to drive then September is the best time.

Planning a budget trip to Ladakh
When: July to September
Why:  Almost all the hotels are open and this gives you a better chance to find accommodation that suits your price range. Public transportation services will also be available and this will make it easier for you to find a bus. You can also opt to take a shared taxi to any destination. Even if you do not find a taxi or bus, the option of hitchhiking is also a great and available.

Basic essentials to pack.
Keep in mind that the high altitude and the extreme climate changes that you will experience while in Ladakh. Here is a handy checklist of things you should carry with you.

  • Proper documents- ID proof, driving license, permit and if you are travelling by bike, bike insurance papers.
  • 1 jacket
  • 1 pullover
  • Track pants – 1
  • Woollen hand gloves and cap
  • 1 scarf and muffler. It is important to cover your neck and ears.
  • Thermal inners
  • Good, warm socks
  • Handkerchiefs
  • Dry fruits & Nuts, dry snacks
  • Glucose Biscuits – 2
  • Water bottles and/or Hydration Pack
  • Torches and extra batteries
  • A first aid kit
  • Soap and towels
  • Chappals/ Quick dry Floaters – 1 pair
  • Good quality waterproof shoes. Essential especially if you plan on biking or trekking.
  • Consult your doctor for medicines for Acute Mountain Sickness and bring some with you.
  • Most hotels and shops might not take credit cards. So be sure to take a sufficient amount of cash. You can use your debits cards at ATMs which are available in the towns but while travelling to remote areas it is best to carry sufficient cash.
  • Carry cloth bags. Plastic bags are banned in Ladakh.

If you are planning to take a bike trip to Ladakh, also take a look at our post, “Top 10 travel essentials for a long ride trip”
https://tripnme.com/10-travel-essentials-for-a-long-ride-trip/

We hope that this helps you plan your dream trip.More information about Ladakh and a detailed checklist about the things to carry is on its way.

Stay tuned…

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