Not many travellers visiting India know about Ladakh. Tourists usually stick to big cities like Mumbai and Delhi, as well as iconic destinations like Goa and Kerala. But once you know about the northernmost gem of India, Ladakh, you will be stunned by how little it is known among tourists. After learning about the best things to do in Ladakh, you will surely not want to wait any longer to plan a trip to this mesmerising Indian region.
From the majestic Himalayan mountains to ancient Buddhist traditions, everything about this glorious Indian region is equally charming. Promising a true blend of mountain adventure and spiritual depth, Ladakh is a dream come true for many travellers. Many UK travellers have also been intrigued by this “Land of High Passes” recently. If you are among them and you have also started looking for flights to India, we are here with some of the best things that you can do in this magical land.
Just 15 minutes from the bustle of Waikiki, Manoa Falls is one of the island’s most visited and beloved waterfall hikes. The 1.6-mile round-trip trail climbs gently through a Jurassic Park-worthy rainforest (and literally so! Scenes from the movie were filmed here).
The trail can get slippery after rain, but the reward is a majestic 150-foot waterfall that plunges into a shallow pool, framed by moss-covered cliffs. While swimming isn’t recommended due to bacteria in the water, the atmosphere is serene and worth every step.
Local Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds and experience the sounds of the forest at their most peaceful. And don’t forget mosquito repellent, the bugs can be relentless.
Not many people know this, but there are many ancient Buddhist monasteries in Ladakh. And these monasteries are not only stunning; the landscape surrounding them also makes them a must-visit. These monasteries are perched on majestic hilltops and surrounded by serene natural beauty. From the Hemis Monastery and the Thiksey Monastery to the Diskit Monastery, every monastery has a vibrant personality and tells you a story about the region’s history and spiritual traditions.
Khardung La Pass is the highest motorable road in the world. A drive through is an adventure in itself. And it is not limited to adventure only. You witness breathtaking scenery, with snow-covered peaks and deep valleys, as you drive along this road. And once you reach the top, you will be equally thrilled and humbled by the mesmerising scenery. This makes a drive across the Khardung La Pass one of the best things to do in Ladakh.
Have you ever imagined a place where snow-capped mountains surround a desert? This type of landscape combination does not come to mind easily, and many people mistakenly believe it is impossible to see both deserts and mountains in a single view. If you were a believer of this misconception, a trip to Nubra Valley will change your mind. There is so much beauty in Nubra Valley, from double-humped Bactrian camels and lush green oasis to the stunning views where the Shyok and Nubra Rivers meet.
As we mentioned earlier, there are many ancient Buddhist monasteries in Ladakh. Every morning, these monasteries hold prayers marked by a low hum of chanting, the aroma of incense, and the rhythmic drumming. You will feel the calm and the spirit of reflection as you witness this morning prayer. Even if you are non-religious, you will still have a memorable time in this spiritual atmosphere.
If you are a trekking enthusiast, you will get a chance to immerse yourself in endless adventure during your time in Ladakh. You can explore popular routes like the Markha Valley Trek and the Sham Valley Trek. These treks will take you around river crossings, remote villages, and high mountain passes. You will have the perfect adrenaline rush while exploring these treks. But this experience is not limited only to adventure. You also get a chance to get a glimpse of the traditional lifestyle of Ladakh’s mountain communities.
While you are in Ladakh, make sure not to miss out on the point where the Indus and the Zanskar Rivers meet. You will get a chance to witness the most mesmerising and dramatic display of contrasting colours. Emerald green and muddy brown waters flow here side-by-side. Travellers driving between Leh and Kargil should stop by this stunning natural phenomenon. This confluence of the Indus and the Zanskar Rivers is truly a fascinating sight that you will not want to miss out on.
Ladakh is known for minimal pollution. This means that the skies are clear here, perfect for some of the most memorable stargazing adventures. Therefore, many travellers love to camp during their time in Ladakh. Some of the famous camping spots in the region include areas near Tso Moriri and Pangong Lake. You will see beautiful views of the Milky Way spread across the vast skies. Get ready for some of the most unforgettable camping and stargazing adventures in Ladakh.
There is no better way to get a glimpse of the local culture and traditions than by wandering through the region’s markets. Therefore, if you plan to visit Ladakh soon, make sure to add a visit to Leh’s local markets to your itinerary. Here you will find beautiful Pashmina shawls, handmade jewellery, Tibetan artefacts, and prayer flags, among other things. There are also many local cafes in these markets where you can treat yourself to delicious butter tea and warm momos after a day of exploration.
It is impossible to visit a new destination without exploring its cuisine. Eating delicious local food is a part of travelling and a good holiday. Some traditional Ladakhi dishes include thukpa (noodle soup), skyur (a fermented dish), and momos, an Indian version of the dumpling. All these dishes have hearty flavours. They warm you up in the cold climate of Ladakh. Therefore, make sure to try all the authentic Ladakh cuisine while you are in this beautiful Indian region.
If all the above best things to do in Ladakh have convinced you to plan your trip to this Indian region, it is time to learn about the best time to visit it. The best time to visit the area can vary by person, as the weather doesn’t remain the same year-round.
Ladakh has a varied climate throughout the year, which also influences the experiences the region offers at that time. Therefore, let’s discuss what the area offers in various months to help you decide the perfect time for your trip.
This is the best time to visit Ladakh for various reasons. The weather is mostly pleasant during this time, and the snow on the trekking routes has melted. You can go on road trips, take sightseeing adventures, and trek during these months. There are also many vibrant cultural festivals, such as the Hemis Festival in July and August.
These are the months when the region gets much quieter, with minimal tourist crowds. But this also means that the weather conditions are not ideal. Temperatures are dropping dramatically, making many routes inaccessible.
This marks the start of winter in Ladakh. As you might already know, Ladakh is a high-altitude region, which means that it turns into a winter wonderland during this season. Everything gets covered in thick blankets of snow. It is the perfect time for adventurers.
Ladakh is a promising destination. You get a lot of fascinating experiences and memorable activities in this beautiful Indian region. If you have been curious about this side of India, it is time to start planning your holiday. Emenac Travels can help you plan the most adventurous retreat of your life in this glorious mountainous destination. Stop overthinking and contact us now, let’s make all your travel dreams come true together!