Explore Ladakh, India, with a scenic Leh-Ladakh trip to Nubra Valley and Pangong Tso, where mountains, lakes, and cold deserts await.
Whenever I saw images of Ladakh, they conjured up a land of stark mountain ranges, serene high-altitude lakes, and blue skies contrasting with cold desert landscapes. When I finally made my bucket list trip in May 2016, I found that my imagination was not far from the truth.
However, I realized that spontaneity and doing it yourself are not the right approaches for all vacations. I had no desire to land up in Ladakh alone with my child, with no bookings and having to search out tour operators for excursions.
When traveling with family, especially children, in such a remote place, I find booking a Leh-Ladakh trip with a reliable tour operator is better.
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Getting Acclimatized To The Altitude
Leh, the capital of Ladakh is at an altitude of 3,524 meters (11,562 ft), so you need to acclimatize after coming into the city, before traveling further within Ladakh. We spent a day resting and getting acclimatized to the place. Consult an experienced doctor if you need an anti-altitude pill.
We boarded our flight from Pune to Delhi and flew on from there to the tiny Leh airport. Upon arrival, our travel guide met us at the airport and transferred us by car to the Grand Willow Hotel in Leh.
After checking in at the hotel, we took their advice and rested for the day, having all our meals in the hotel dining room. The food was simple and not bad for a budget trip.
I was worried about my child getting altitude sickness because of a history of asthma. Instead, I turned out to be the one who had trouble acclimatizing to the low oxygen levels, while my kid was absolutely fine.
Luckily I had no debilitating symptoms, except for mild breathlessness when walking uphill on Leh’s undulating city roads.
Sightseeing Around Leh
On the second day, we had our breakfast and went on a tour of some of the attractions near Leh.
First, we went to the Spituk Gompa (monastery), just outside Leh. I got breathless climbing the monastery stairs, so I opted to stay lower, while my child climbed to the top of the monastery. But even from where I stood, the sight of the Leh valley below us was spectacular.
After we visited the Gompa, we were taken to the Magnetic Hill outside Leh. Depending on whom you ask, the “gravity-defying phenomenon” that this spot is famous for has either to do with magnetism or an optical illusion.
Unfortunately, on our visit there, I saw no sign of either phenomenon. So the Magnetic Hill turned out to be a bit of a dud.
After that, we drove about 35 kilometers outside Leh city and 6 kilometers from Nimo village on the Kargil – Leh highway, to the Sangam or the Confluence of the Zanskar and Indus Rivers.
The views at this point were quite breathtaking. Tall, sandy mountains almost devoid of vegetation, sloped down on either side of the river to meet at a Y-shaped curve called the confluence, where the two rivers meet.
A little one-story cabin near the road offers rafting and kayaking gear for the more adventurous traveler. This is a fantastic place to enjoy water sports, or just stand and skip pebbles over the waters.
On our way back, we stopped to visit the Gurdwara Pathar Sahib, a Sikh temple managed by the Indian army, where we enjoyed the Langar – free food served to visitors at the community kitchen in Gurudwaras.
After returning to our hotel, I had a hankering for some authentic Ladakhi food. So, my child and I walked to a restaurant near our hotel, where I had the Tibetan Thukpa (noodle soup), which was quite delicious. The portions were a bit too large for me, though.
Leh to Nubra Valley Via Khardung-la Pass
The next morning, we woke up early and had a quick breakfast before our 140 km drive to Nubra Valley, about 5 to 6 hours away.
On the way, we passed by the Khardung-la Pass – incorrectly cited as the highest vehicle-accessible pass in the world – at an altitude of 5,359 meters (17,582 ft) above sea level.
Maintained by the Border Roads Organisation, the pass is strategically important to India as it is used to carry supplies to the Siachen Glacier, the highest and coldest battlefield in the world, at an average altitude of 20,000 feet.
As we entered Nubra Valley, I was stunned at how much it reminded me of the description of the fictional Shangri-La from James Hilton’s novel, Lost Horizon.
Rivers and rivulets run through the Nubra Valley carrying fertile alluvial soil, making the valley an oasis of green in the desert landscape of Ladakh.
After our long drive, in the company of a family of four, we checked into our tent camp in Hunder in the Nubra Valley. I took a nap while my child had fun playing with the family accompanying us.
Sightseeing In Nubra Valley
The next morning, we set out to do some sightseeing in Nubra Valley, starting with a visit to the White Sand Dunes at Hunder.
My child enjoyed an ATV ride on the sand dunes, while I took photos and took in the scenery.
After that, we visited the Diskit Gompa, the oldest and largest Buddhist monastery in the Nubra Valley.
It features a 32-meter statue of Maitreya Buddha.
After we toured the monastery, our guide took us across a small rivulet to see a herd of Bactrian camels. Since I do not believe in riding or any form of exploitation of animals, I sat out the camel ride with my child.
Instead, I busied myself taking photos of these two-humped animals that have a tremendous tolerance for cold, drought, and high altitudes.
The domesticated Bactrian camel has enabled caravan travel on the Silk Road and has been used to travel in inner Asia since ancient times.
After we visited the camel camp, we returned to our camp in Hunder for dinner and rested until our journey back to the hotel in Leh. I skipped the shopping tour in Leh, although my child accompanied the Gujarati family on their excursion.
I had purchased a jacket in a tiny market in Nubra Valley, but on reaching Leh, realized that the zipper was of poor quality, so I gave it to a mochi (cobbler) in the main square near our hotel for repairs.
We were to go on an excursion to the Pangong Tso (Lake) the next day. The distance from Pangong Lake to Leh is a round trip of 280 kilometers. It’s a 5-hour drive from Leh, most of it on rough and winding mountain roads. It exhausted me just to think about it.
Now, I love mountain lakes and Pangong Tso was very much a bucket list trip for me. So I asked our tour operator if my child and I could extend our stay at Pangong for a night and return the next day.
In this, they did not disappoint. They were very flexible with our itinerary and arranged for our Pangong Lake stay in a tented camp overnight. It cost extra, of course, but it was well worth it.
Excursion to Pangong Lake
This brackish-water lake is situated at an elevation of 4,350 meters (14,270 feet). It is 134 kilometers (83 miles) long and extends from India to China. About 60% of the length of the lake lies in China.
During winter the lake freezes completely, despite being saline water. The closer you get to Pangong Tso, the more likely you are to see marshes and wetlands formed by the streams that feed the lake from the Indian side.
Pangong Tso is sacred to the locals, so swimming or water sports are not allowed here. For security reasons, India does not permit boating on the lake. As the lake lies on the Sino-Indian Line of Actual Control, an Inner Line Permit is required to visit the lake.
While Indian nationals can obtain individual permits, others must have group permits (with a minimum of 3 persons) accompanied by an accredited guide. The tourist office in Leh issues the permits for a small fee.
To get to Pangong Lake, you have to pass through the Chang-La Pass, claimed to be the second-highest motorable road in the world at an altitude of 5,360 meters (17,590 feet).
Craggy rock formations dot the landscape on the way. The climb is very steep and requires a careful drive.
The stretch of 10 to 15 kilometers of road on either side from Chang-la is loose dirt and slush and dangerous for bikers, especially in the summer months.
I have great respect for the Border Roads Organisation and Himank, who build and maintain these high-altitude roads.
My first glimpse of the blue waters of Pangong Tso through the mountains was heavenly. It was every bit as mesmerizing as I’d imagined it to be.
It was May, so it was still very cold, especially at night, when we had to leave the relative warmth of our tent to walk to the dining tent, a few feet away. We reached there just as dinner was getting over and only managed to grab a few handfuls of rice and dal and a papad or two.
My kid was not happy about us spending the night because of the freezing cold. But I loved watching the sunrise, which was surreal.
For some reason, being at that altitude made it seem all the more sacred and spiritual. It made me understand why rishis (seers) and holy men seem to prefer high-altitude living. It’s not just the isolation, it’s also the sense of grandeur that such a place inspires.
Because we were traveling back to Leh on our own, we were able to stop at a spot near the lake called 3 Idiots Point – made famous by the Aamir Khan movie, 3 Idiots, which was partly filmed at Pangong Tso.
We met a local who owned a pair of yak. He consented to allow me to click his photos for INR 20. I paid him 100 rupees in a moment of generosity.
I also got the chance to see the crystal-clear waters of the lake up close and spend some time at the lakeshore. Had we settled for the day excursion, we would have missed out on so much.
Pangong Tso was the highlight of my visit to Ladakh. Given a chance, I would love to go back and see Tso Moriri, and a few more high-altitude lakes in Ladakh.
Leh-Ladakh Travel Tour Tips
A Leh-Ladakh trip offers breathtaking landscapes, high-altitude adventures, and a glimpse into the unique culture of Ladakh, India.
However, the region’s remote location and challenging terrain require careful planning. Here are essential travel tips to ensure a smooth and memorable journey.
1. Be prepared for high altitude conditions
Ladakh’s high elevation means travelers must be cautious of altitude sickness or acute mountain sickness (AMS) due to low oxygen levels. Common symptoms include headaches, dizziness, nausea, and trouble sleeping.
Pick a Ladakh tour package that includes rest days for acclimatization. Avoid rushing through your itinerary — spending at least two days in Leh before heading to higher regions can help prevent AMS.
If you experience severe discomfort, descend to a lower altitude immediately. Hydration, acclimatization, and avoiding alcohol in the first few days can help prevent AMS.
#2. Plan your itinerary wisely
A Leh-Ladakh trip is an adventure, but overpacking your schedule can lead to exhaustion. The high altitude of Ladakh makes physical exertion more challenging, so take it slow.
Rest when needed, especially if adjusting to Ladakh’s weather, which can vary significantly between day and night. Selecting the right Ladakh tour package can make all the difference.
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Guided Group Tours: Ideal for first-time visitors looking for a hassle-free experience with accommodations, transport, and permits arranged.
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Custom Private Tours: Perfect for travelers who want flexibility in their itinerary and a more personalized experience.
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Adventure Packages: Designed for thrill-seekers, these include trekking, river rafting, and challenging Ladakh bike trips through high-altitude passes.
#3. Travel with a guide for safety
Ladakh, India, is a remote destination, with some areas near the Indian and Chinese borders. Traveling solo or without a knowledgeable guide increases the risk of straying into disputed territories.
Hiring a local expert ensures safe navigation and cultural insights, especially on a Leh-Ladakh bike trip or trekking adventure.
#4. Best time to visit Leh-Ladakh
The best time to visit Leh-Ladakh is between May and September, when roads are accessible, and the weather in Ladakh is more favorable.
If you’re booking a Leh-Ladakh bike tour package, check road conditions beforehand, as some routes remain closed due to snow. The winter months bring heavy snowfall, cutting off routes to Nubra Valley and Pangong Tso.
#5. Choose the right bike
For those opting for a Leh-Ladakh bike trip, selecting the right motorcycle is crucial. The Royal Enfield 350cc or 500cc is a popular choice due to its durability on rugged terrain.
Loose dirt and snowmelt can make the roads dangerous for bikers. Ensure your tour package includes backup vehicles, fuel, and a mechanic for emergencies.
#6. Use a map for navigation
Ladakh’s rugged terrain makes digital maps unreliable in some regions. A physical map of Ladakh can help navigate the remote areas where network coverage is limited.
#7. Carry passports and permits
Even for Indian citizens, some regions in Leh-Ladakh require special permits. Always keep your passport or official ID on hand, as authorities may request it before granting access to restricted zones.
#8. Respect Ladakh’s people and culture
The Ladakhi people are warm and welcoming, with a rich Tibetan Buddhist heritage. Dress modestly, be mindful of local customs, and avoid disrupting religious sites or monasteries.
A well-planned Ladakh trip ensures you enjoy the breathtaking landscapes and unique culture without unnecessary stress.
Whether you’re planning a Leh-Ladakh bike trip or a scenic journey through the mountains, keeping these travel tips in mind will ensure a safe and unforgettable experience in Ladakh, India.
Watch the video of our trip to Ladakh here
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What an amazing place. I’m dying to visit Ladakh one day. I have been to Himachal Pradesh once and I love the North of India. Congrats for the posts and thanks for the tips 😉
It’s a wonderful place, Patti. If you’re more adventurous, try staying in a homestay to experience the local culture. That’s one thing I missed out on with my package tour.
Believe me Priya, I have Ladakh on my radar for so long. I am currently testing familiar waters with my girl’s squad but would soon try to head out to the ever beautiful Leh – Ladak. Fingers crossed! Thanks for sharing this informative post with us thus inspiring us more!
It’s really worth it, Anwesha. Try to spend as much time as you can and take in the local culture if you can. My trip was too short to do that.
Your post has inspired me to go to Leh Ladakh with my kid. She too has asthma problems, but otherwise sturdy. Maybe next summer. Thanks for the detailed post.
I don’t think asthma has anything to do with altitude sickness, after seeing how well my kid managed in Ladakh. I was the one affected, so it probably has more to do with overall fitness levels.
I love mountains and this region looks so appealing! India has been in my plans for a long time but I wouldn’t go for less than a month and that makes it tricky.
Great work with the camera by the way.
Thanks, Chris. These photos were taken with a simple point-and-shoot. My pre-Canon days. The landscape is so photogenic, you can’t help but get great photos. And yes, you should spend at least 2 months in India to do it justice.
Oh I would love to take the mountain hike. Never tried to go to very high attitudes though. Have been mostly around Norway. This place looks tempting to try though..
Adventure tourism is big in Ladakh. You just have to find a good travel agency to help you get around.
Great photography and post. Looks so wonderful!
Thanks. It’s a very photogenic place. Photographers would love it here.
I am a total sucker for anywher ewhere there are plently of lakes, mountains and I would love to check out this hike. I love going as high as I can as I feel I can touch the sky. Hope to get to this area one day as I love hiking.
Yes, I’m sure you can go hiking, but it’s better to travel with a good tour guide in these remote areas.
Looks like an amazing place, I would like to visit it. And I would also like to try hiking so maybe it’s a perfect match! What do you think? 🙂
I’m sure it’s wonderful for hiking, but do it with a guide, not alone.
I have a fascination with mountain destinations and Ladakh looks like somewhere I need to visit. The power and natural beauty of the snowcapped mountain scenery is quite moving. I’ve always thought of Ladakh as a hiking destination so it’s good to know there are lots of other things to see there too.
Ladakh is a haven for both adventure tourists and families. Since it’s a very remote area and close to the Indian border, I do not recommend going it alone. Always better to have a guide with you in such places.
No matter how many times you go to Ladakh or the pictures you see, you are transferred to a different world. I feel every traveler must visit Ladakh or its counterpart Hunza valley in Pakistan atleast once in their life. Stunning photos 🙂
Thank you, Ketki. Ladakh is indeed a photographer’s dream 🙂
Wild and remote! What more can you ask for? I can understand why it would be best to go with a guide.
I agree, Nancie. It’s also a place of strategic importance for the Indian military, so best not to get lost there.
This is a very remote place but have a unique beauty. Thanks for sharing this wonder of Ladakh. It is amazing!
Yes, it is very beautiful indeed.
I think we would fall in love here. Look at all those mountains, canyons, and valleys! One of our long-term adventure plans is to hike along the Lower Himalayas. Ladakh will be in our itinerary. 🙂
Definitely the perfect place for a romantic trip if you love adventure travel.
I have never been and can’t wait to go Ladak one day soon. Stunning images, keep sharing please
Thanks, Anna. Glad you like the photos.
How cute are those camels! It’s lovely that you got some free food at the Sikh temple on the way back too, the treck certainly gave you some good views!
The free food (langar) is a tradition practised by the Sikh community. I loved the camels, but don’t like to see animals being exploited.
What wonderful photos of a magical landscape! I know nothing about Ladakh, or the Nubra Valley, so I enjoyed this post a lot. The Tibetan noodle soup sounds interesting and I’d like to see the old Tibetan monastery too.
If you love monasteries, Ladakh is the place for you. There are so many to see, it’s hard to cover all in a short trip.
Ladakh’s landscape looks so incredible. I’d love to go back to India and explore more than just Mumbai and Goa
…and this is right up my alleyway. Also, good on you for boycotting the camel rides, the animal exploitation needs to stop.
Thanks, Kristen. I really hope you can make it to Ladakh soon.
I love mountains, but I’m never brave enough to try something like this, I would like to try it definitely, maybe it’s a good start. Thanks for being my inspiration! 😀
It’s actually very easy if you’re travelling with a good agency. Hope you can visit Ladakh sometime.
Ladakh is heaven and it is one of the prettiest places I’ve ever been to in India. It’s good advice from Makemytrip to give yourself a day to get acclimatized before venturing out. Good that your kid didn’t have any issues despite the history with asthma, several people tend to take some time getting used to the lower oxygen levels. Such dramatic landscapes, I love your pictures!
Yes, it really is spectacular, Medha. I think getting acclimatized has more to do with overall fitness levels. Then again mountaineers who are very fit also get altitude sickness. Glad you liked the pictures.
Ladakh is a beautiful tourist destination in India. I never Visit Ladakh, and your pictures make me crazy and Now m planning to go to Ladakh. Thanks for sharing with us this post.
Glad you liked the photos.
Awesome guide,I loved the information,I love Ladakh so much . Ladakh pictures are very nice.Your blog information help me a lot,it’s give such a great information which is very helpful.thanks for sharing such a grate ideas.
WOW. Just WOW! What an incredible set of pictures. Now, I’m itching to visit Ladakh ASAP 🙂
I hope you do, Remo. You won’t be disappointed.
What a great guide and how to get there. I like how you also made us aware of all the sightseeing spots. I have never been but i am certainly inspired to go just for the amazing scenery. Thanks for sharing!
The nature looks beautiful. Definitely my kind of adventure. I love the outdoors
Ladakh is all about the outdoors, Eli
I loved the pics…I haven’t explored so much in India, wish to do it soon. I also agree with the acclimitizing. I got sick at an altitude of 8000ft.
Altitude sickness is a real danger in Ladakh. You can take some medication prescribed by a doctor or go to a lower altitude if you experience symptoms.
I love the way you write. You give valuable information to the audience about Ladakh