Planning a trip to Ladakh? This high-altitude Himalayan desert is unlike any other destination in India. With its awe-inspiring landscapes, dramatic mountain passes, sacred monasteries, and unique culture, Ladakh demands both your respect and preparation. Whether you’re flying in for a short trip or driving through the legendary Manali-Leh or Srinagar-Leh highways, this guide will equip you with all the vital travel planning information. From permits and packing lists to mobile networks and oxygen availability—this is your essential travel toolkit for Ladakh.
By Air:
Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, Leh (IXL): Daily flights from Delhi, Srinagar, Chandigarh.
Carriers: Air India, Go First, Vistara, IndiGo.
Tip: Morning flights offer stunning Himalayan views.
By Road:
| Route | Distance | Accessibility (Months) | Road Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Srinagar-Leh | 420 km | May to Nov | Moderate (NH1, Zoji La Pass) |
| Manali-Leh | 474 km | June to Oct | Tough terrain, Rohtang & Baralacha Pass |
Key Stops:
Manali Route: Keylong, Jispa, Sarchu
Srinagar Route: Kargil, Drass
Bus & Taxi Services:
HPTDC & JKSRTC: Regular buses from Manali & Srinagar (June to Sept)
Shared Taxis: Available from Leh to Pangong, Nubra, Tso Moriri (from Polo Ground)
Private Cabs: ₹3,000–₹8,000 per trip (as per route and season)
Fuel Stations:
Main Fuel Points: Leh, Karu, Diskit, Tandi (Manali-Leh route)
Carry extra fuel for remote trips like Tso Moriri and Hanle.
Permits & Inner Line Access:
Includes Nubra, Pangong, Tso Moriri, Hanle, etc.
Validity: 15 days; Cost: ₹560-₹800 depending on zone.
For More Details on Permits, Please Click Here
| Month | Temp (°C) | Accessibility | Crowd | Photography |
 Jan-Feb |  -20 to -5 |  Air Only |  Low |  Snow landscapes |
| Mar-Apr | -10 to 8 | Limited | Low-Mod | Monasteries, clear skies |
May-Jun | 5 to 15 | Road opens | High | Blooming valleys |
| Jul-Aug | 10 to 20 | Full Access | Peak | Lakes, festivals |
| Sep-Oct | 3 to 15 | Stable | Moderate | Autumn colors |
| Nov-Dec | -15 to 5 | Limited | Low | Stark winter |
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Best Season: May–Sept
Avoid: Jan–Feb unless for Chadar Trek or winter festivals
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General Essentials (Year-round):
Layered clothing
Sunscreen SPF 50+
Lip balm, sunglasses
Water bottle, ORS
Documents (ILP, ID)
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Summer (May–Aug):
UV protection jacket
Light woolens
Trekking shoes
Festival wear for Hemis, Yuru
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Autumn (Sept–Oct):
Warm thermals
Fleece and windcheaters
Gloves, beanie
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Winter (Nov–Feb):
Heavy down jacket
Snow boots
Heat pads, woolen socks
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Trek-Specific:
Hiking pole, gaiters
Waterproof rucksack
Headlamp, multi-tool
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For AMS (Altitude Mountain Sickness):
Diamox (after doctor consult)
Portable oxygen cans
Avoid alcohol and smoking
Acclimatization Rule: 1 day rest in Leh before higher altitudes.
Hydrate + Light Meals
Diamox: Start 1 day before ascent (under medical advice)
Oxygen Refills:
Leh District Hospital
Chemists: Snow View Medical (Leh Bazaar)
Hotels & taxis also stock portable cans (₹500–₹800)
| Network | Works in Leh | Works in Remote Areas | 4G/3G |
| Jio | Yes | Nubra, Pangong, partial in Hanle | 4G |
| Airtel | Yes | Patchy outside Leh | 4G |
| BSNL | Weak | Limited | 2G-3G |
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Only postpaid SIMs work beyond Leh.
Buy Local SIMs: Available at Leh market with ID proof.
Internet Cafes: Leh Main Market, Fort Road
WiFi: Found in hotels, cafes in Leh; unreliable beyond.
Planning Ladakh isn’t just about booking tickets—it’s understanding its altitude, unpredictability, and raw remoteness. This guide ensures you travel prepared, not surprised. Save this page, pack smart, and breathe easy. Ladakh isn’t just a destination, it’s a journey into stillness, strength, and soul.
