Ladakh, also known as “The Land of High Passes,” is a region in the Indian-administered state of Jammu and Kashmir. Famous for the natural beauty, lovely monasteries, and historical sites, today Ladakh has emerged as a tourists’ paradise, particularly for the trekkers and adventure lovers. This guide will consist of all the information one will require for a Leh Ladakh tour, covering how to reach Leh, distance & time, attractions, and many more tips.
How to Reach Ladakh
By Air
The fastest means of transport to Leh, the district headquarter of the Leh district of the Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir, is by air. Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport at Leh is in good connectivity from the major cities in India, such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Srinagar.
- From Delhi: Direct flights are available, and the flight duration is approximately 1 hour 30 minutes.
- From Mumbai: Direct flights are available with a flight duration of around 2 hours 30 minutes.
- From Srinagar: Direct flights take about 1 hour.
By Road
Road transportation to Ladakh is always preferred by the tourists who are interested in adventure tourism. There are two main routes to reach Ladakh by road:There are two main routes to reach Ladakh by road:
- Manali to Leh
- Distance: approximately 473 km
- Travel Time: 2 days (with an overnight halt)
- Route: Manali – Rohtang Pass – Keylong – Jispa – Sarchu – Pang – Leh
- Best Time to Travel: Mid-June to September (when the passes are open)
- Srinagar to Leh
- Distance: approximately 434 km
- Travel Time: 2 days (with an overnight halt)
- Route: Srinagar – Sonamarg – Zoji La – Drass – Kargil – Lamayuru – Leh
- Best Time to Travel: May to October
By Train
As for now and in the near future, there is no direct train transport in Ladakh. The nearest railhead is Jammu Tawi, and it is a hub railway station connected to many important cities in India. From Jammu Tawi, one can either avail a taxi or take a bus to Leh, which is around 700 kilometers away.
Key Attractions in Ladakh
1. Pangong Lake
- Description: A high-altitude lake known for its changing colors and stunning beauty.
- Distance from Leh: 160 km
- Travel Time: 5-6 hours
2. Nubra Valley
- Description: Famous for its sand dunes, Bactrian camels, and picturesque villages.
- Distance from Leh: 150 km
- Travel Time: 4-5 hours
3. Thiksey Monastery
- Description: A beautiful monastery offering panoramic views of the Indus Valley.
- Distance from Leh: 20 km
- Travel Time: 30 minutes
4. Hemis Monastery
- Description: The largest and wealthiest monastery in Ladakh, known for its annual Hemis Festival.
- Distance from Leh: 45 km
- Travel Time: 1 hour
5. Magnetic Hill
- Description: A gravity hill with an optical illusion of vehicles moving uphill on their own.
- Distance from Leh: 30 km
- Travel Time: 30 minutes
Travel Tips for the Leh Ladakh Tour
- Acclimatization: Ladakh’s high altitude can cause altitude sickness. It is advisable to rest for a day or two upon arrival in Leh to acclimatize.
- Clothing: Pack in layers. Even in summer, temperatures can drop significantly at night. Carry warm clothes, including a good jacket, gloves, and a hat.
- Health: Stay hydrated and avoid strenuous activities for the first couple of days. Carry a basic medical kit, including medicines for altitude sickness.
- Permits: Certain areas in Ladakh require permits, such as Nubra Valley, Pangong Lake, and Tso Moriri. Obtain these permits in Leh.
- Fuel and ATMs: Fuel stations are scarce, so fill up your tank whenever possible. ATMs are available in Leh, but it is advisable to carry enough cash as card payments may not be accepted in remote areas.
- Connectivity: Mobile network coverage is limited, with BSNL and Airtel providing the best connectivity. However, expect no network in remote regions.
Sample Itinerary for the Leh Ladakh Tour
Day 1: Arrival in Leh
- Acclimatize and explore the local market.
- Visit Shanti Stupa and Leh Palace.
Day 2: Leh to Sham Valley
- Visit Magnetic Hill, Gurudwara Pathar Sahib, and Hall of Fame.
- Return to Leh for an overnight stay.
Day 3: Leh to Nubra Valley
- Cross Khardung La Pass.
- Visit Diskit Monastery and Hunder Sand Dunes.
- Overnight stay in Nubra Valley.
Day 4: Nubra Valley to Pangong Lake
- Drive via the Shyok route.
- Overnight stay at Pangong Lake.
Day 5: Pangong Lake to Leh
- Early morning drive back to Leh.
- Visit Hemis and Thiksey Monasteries en route.
Day 6: Departure from Leh
- Transfer to the airport for your onward journey.
Conclusion
Ladakh is really an enchanting place, and traveling to this wonderful place is one of the most vivid experiences one could have. In whichever category you choose to put Ladakh, whether it is the adventurous one, the secluded one, or the religious one, you are bound to find it there. This means that one has to plan his trip well, follow all necessary acclimatization procedures to the bitter end, and simply allow oneself to be captivated by the gorgeous terrain and the genuinely warm and welcoming people of Ladakh.
If you’re planning a Leh Ladakh tour, then you are right on track, and here is wishing you a tour to remember. Safe travels!