How to Plan a trip to Leh Ladakh really is more of a general question that can be further broken down for a better explanation. In this article, I will divide this question into different categories and provide links to articles where I have detailed the information related to it.
I have been blogging about Ladakh for quite some time; since my first visit there to be honest actually. This website has a long list of articles covering different aspects of visiting Ladakh scattered over numerous pages.
So I thought to add this one front page and keep it sticky more from a navigation point of view. Please take a look at the post below it should answer all your questions about traveling to Ladakh.
If you have any questions, you can contact me on Instagram and I will be happy to answer. You can also consider subscribing to my YouTube channel and asking your question there.
For getting the best hotel rates, motorcycle rentals, and taxi charges, and to organize your trip to Ladakh, you can speak with Kunal @ 9910 402 252. Give him my reference and you will surely get a discounted rate.
When to go to Ladakh
This of course is the first question that comes to mind after you have finally decided to visit here. Ladakh remains closed and cut off from the rest of the country for several months a year.
Most of the tourism here happens between the months of June and September. When should you plan will depend on a lot of factors like how you are traveling; if there is any budget restriction; what exactly do you want to see etc.
Considering all these factors, take a look at the articles below which I am sure will help you finalize the month of your travel.
Quick Navigation
How to Prepare for Ladakh Trip
Once you have decided when to go, next in line comes the question of how to prepare. Ladakh is not really a place where you can just pack your bags and go. You will have to seriously consider every aspect of the trip and pack accordingly.
This will include packing the right kind of clothes, getting your vehicle ready, and carrying every essential item that you will need for the trip. Below is a link to articles where I have provided this information in detail.
- List of things you must carry for a Ladakh Trip
- Clothes for Ladakh Trip: What to Pack
- Important Tips on Dealing with Acute Mountain Sickness in Ladakh
- How to Carry your Laptop to Ladakh
- Things to Carry for Ladakh Winter Trip
- Ladakh by Flight VS Ladakh By Road
- How and Where to Carry Spare Fuel for Ladakh Trip
- How to Transport your Motorcycle for Ladakh Trip
Family trip to Ladakh
Not before long, Ladakh was considered a destination only for the adventurous type or motorcycle enthusiasts. It was awarded the nickname of ‘Bikers Paradise’ because it was one of those areas where nobody went.
A trip to Ladakh in many ways was considered a completely off-roading experience. These were the times when Ladakh was just a name that people read in the books, a name that was not even remotely related to vacations.
The horizon of tourism in Ladakh has much changed in the last few years. The number of people visiting here increases with each passing year and the place is slowly getting developed as a tourist destination.
The fact, however, cannot be denied that it is still a harsh terrain that is also challenging. If you are thinking of visiting Ladakh with family then you would need to really prepare for it; especially if you coming to Leh Ladakh with a kid or your parents.
The two articles below talk in detail how about you can plan a trip to Ladakh with your family. The first one has information on preparations and precautions that you should practice while visiting Leh Ladakh with a child whereas the second one provides information on a trip to Ladakh with your parents or other elders of the family.
- How to Visit Ladakh with Family
- Leh Ladakh with Family – Trip of a Lifetime
- Family Trip to Ladakh – Fun, Adventure, and Much More
- Planning a Trip to Ladakh with Children or Infants
- Traveling to Ladakh With Parents – Senior Citizens
What to Buy in Ladakh
Once you have reached Ladakh, you of course would not want to come back empty-handed. There is plenty to buy in the markets here. The bazaars of Leh will mesmerize you with the superior artistry and sheer range of artifacts on display.
The markets are stocked with fine products all year long, and you will lose track of time as you drift from one store to another, lost in admiration.
Please read Shopping in Ladakh – What to Buy for a list of items that you can consider shopping for; along with names of some recommended stores.
Foods to Try in Ladakh
One of the primary attractions of going to a new place is to have a taste of local food. The same is the case with Ladakh. The local cuisine here is a fusion of Tibetan and Kashmiri dishes that you must get a taste of.
This mountain kingdom has been at the crossroads of trade between Tibet, Nepal, and Kashmir, and the delicacies here clearly reflect the varied cultural influences.
Please read Foods to try in Ladakh – What to Eat for a list of some dishes and beverages that you must taste while in Ladakh.
Cost of Ladakh Trip
The budget for the trip is one of the biggest deciding factors. A lot of people think that a trip to Ladakh is going to cost a fortune which is not entirely true.
While it may cost you a bit more than visiting some other areas, the truth however is that with proper planning and information, you can easily make a trip to Ladakh within budget.
Below is a list of articles that can help you calculate the overall cost you will incur during the trip; and how you can keep it within budget.
- How to Calculate Minimum Budget for Ladakh Trip
- How to Calculate Cost of Motorcycle Trip to Ladakh
- 12 Tips for a Budget Trip to Ladakh
- How to Make a Budget Ladakh Trip by Public Transport
- Taxi Rates in Ladakh
- Motorcycle Rental Rates in Ladakh
- Budget Trip to Zanskar Valley – How to Plan Your Journey?
- Motorcycle Rental Rates in Srinagar
- Motorcycle Rental Rates in Manali
Is Ladakh Safe?
Safety, of course, should always be the first thing considered before you go visit a new place. When it comes to Ladakh, a one-line answer is that yes, it is very safe to travel. But the answer cannot always be that simple because there will be several terms and conditions applied.
I always believe that a person’s safety always is in their own hands and gets driven by judgments they make. Ladakh is a high-altitude desert and getting here would need you to travel on some steep, narrow, and sometimes even dangerous roads.
So to get to Ladakh by road, you would need to have some driving experience and especially in the hills. You do not want Ladakh to be the first time when you were behind the steering wheel for the first time in the mountains.
If you have never driven in the hills before, please visit some other hill station first, get some experience and then drive to Ladakh.
The crime rate in Ladakh is almost next to none. You will be driving through miles of nowhere, all alone, and won’t be bothered by anyone. People here are simple and humble and will mind their own business.
So in short, as long as you drive sensibly, do not take any unnecessary risks, do not get into any altercations, know where you are headed, have proper permits, and do not go wandering around where you shouldn’t then Ladakh is a very safe place to visit.
For further information on the topic broken down by areas, I will recommend reading through the articles below.
- Is Ladakh Safe for Tourists
- How safe is Srinagar Leh Highway for Tourists
- Is Kashmir Safe for Tourists?
Time Required for Leh Ladakh Trip
This will entirely depend on where you were coming from and your mode of travel. But a minimum of 7 to 14 days is what I recommend for a trip to Ladakh. 7 Days if you were flying in and out of Leh City; and 12 to 14 days if you wanted to make it a road trip.
You can, of course, do away with a lesser number of days as well but with the above mentioned period of time, you can be sure that your trip will not be rushed, you will see all that there is to see and will make the best out of your time.
How can you break this time down further and plan your day-by-day itinerary is mentioned in the Itinerary section below.
Itinerary for Ladakh Trip
A well-laid itinerary in my opinion is the most important part of the Ladakh trip. Based on the days you have in hand, you must have a carefully drafted plan on where do you want to be on which day.
A Ladakh trip is not really a frequent affair so while you visit here, you need to make sure that you make the most out of it and visit as many places as you possibly can.
I have written several articles providing examples of different itineraries broken by days; links to which I have provided below. Depending on how long your trip is going to last, you can pick an itinerary from the ones I have listed in these articles.
- 2 Days Itinerary for Ladakh / Weekend Trip to Ladakh
- 3 Days Itinerary for Ladakh
- 4 Days Itinerary for Ladakh
- 5 Days Itinerary for Ladakh
- 6 Days Itinerary for Ladakh
- 7 Days Itinerary for Ladakh
- 8 Days Itinerary for Ladakh
- 9 Days Itinerary for Ladakh
- 10 Days Itinerary for Ladakh
- 11 Days Itinerary for Ladakh
- 12 Days Itinerary for Ladakh
- 13 Days Itinerary for Ladakh
- 14 Days Itinerary for Ladakh
- 15 Days Itinerary for Ladakh
- Itinerary for Zanskar Valley
- Srinagar to Ladakh Itinerary
- Manali to Ladakh Itinerary
- Ladakh Winter Trip Itinerary
- Itinerary if you are flying to Ladakh
- Zanskar Itinerary, Route Details, and Road Map
- Leh to Zanskar Itinerary – How to Plan your Journey?
- Ladakh Itinerary by Flight
- One Week Itinerary for Ladakh
What to See in Ladakh
The next piece of information that you should keep handy is a list of places that you would like to see. You have been told that the entire Ladakh is a tourist destination in itself which is entirely correct.
Every turn of the road here will present you with something new and you will not get tired of clicking your camera for hours. But there must be some places that can be called the prime attraction, correct? You are right.
In the articles below, I have listed every place in Ladakh that is worth a visit. Depending on the time you have for the trip, you can decide which one (or all of them) you want to cover.
The first article provides a list of all the places in Ladakh while the other ones break it down by the region.
- A Complete List of All Tourist Attractions in Ladakh
- Tourist Places in Leh City
- A Detailed Explanation of Festivals of Ladakh
- Ladakh Festivals Dates
- Tourist Attractions on Srinagar Leh Highway
- What to See on Manali Leh Highway
- Tourist Attractions in Nubra Valley
- Primary Attractions of Zanskar Valley
- Sightseeing in Padum
What to do in Ladakh
After what to see, the next question that comes to mind is about things to do in Ladakh. And by that, I mean what else to do apart from visiting all the places I listed above.
Everyone will go and visit all the tourist attractions that they can, depending on the time they have in hand, but what else? What other fun and exciting activities can you be a part of in Ladakh?
If this thought has been on your mind then I recommend that you take a look at the articles below. Out here, I have listed some of the most popular and common tourist activities in Ladakh that you should know of before going there.
Where to Stay in Ladakh
In recent years, Ladakh has seen a great boost in tourism; especially after the release of the movie “3 Idiots”. With that being said, the fact however cannot still be denied that it is still a remote region, one that remains cut off from the rest of the world for several months in a year.
Before going to a faraway land like this, you must have information about what your accommodation choices are. It will be a crucial part of your itinerary to know where you can stay for the night and where can you not.
In the series of articles below, I have provided information related to the staying options in different regions of Ladakh. You will also find the names and phone numbers of some recommended hotels at the links below.
Based on your own choice, you may choose to call and book in advance; or reach the place, find a hotel of your liking and negotiate an on-the-spot deal.
- Hotels at Pangong Lake
- Accommodation on Srinagar Leh Highway
- Hotels on Manali Leh Highway
- Guest Houses and Hotels in Nubra Valley
- Recommended Hotels in Leh City
- Hotels in Zanskar Valley
- Accommodation at Tso Moriri
- Hotels on the routes to Tso Moriri
- How to Book HP PWD Guest House
- List of Good Restaurants in Leh City
- List of Vegetarian Only Restaurants in Ladakh
- Camping in Ladakh
Monasteries in Ladakh that allow Night Stay
A lot of people look forward to staying at a monastery for the night to experience something different and local. This option is not available at all the monasteries.
In Ladakh, there are only 5 monasteries that I know that have this kind of arrangement. Before you decide to stay here though, please know that your stay will be very basic and may feel uncomfortable to you.
A friend of mine decided to do this as well only to tell me the next day that he regretted his decision the entire night. But if you want do want to give it a try, then you can stay at either of the following monasteries for the night.
- Phuktal Monastery, Zanskar Valley (Best place to get this experience. I have stayed here and it was awesome)
- Hemis Monastery, Ladakh
- Thiksey Monastery, Ladakh
- Lamayuru Gompa, Ladakh
- Rangdum Gompa, Zanskar Valley
Availability of basic facilities in Ladakh
The next crucial information that you must make yourself aware of is in terms of the availability of basic facilities in Ladakh. By this, I mean facilities like mobile services, hospitals, gas stations, etc.
This may not be such a big problem in Leh City but can become a concern while traveling to other areas of Ladakh. In the articles below, I have provided more information related to this topic.
- When and How to Rent an Oxygen Cylinder for Ladakh Trip
- ATM, Mechanics, and Petrol Stations on Srinagar Leh Highway
- ATM and Bank Facilities in Leh City
- Mobile Phone Services in Ladakh
Getting your vehicle Ready
A trip to a place like Ladakh is stressful not just for the traveler but also for their vehicles. All the information above was related to getting yourself ready for the tough trip ahead but then what about your vehicle?
Ladakh, as I mentioned, is still a remote region and if your vehicle breaks down on you, it can very well ruin your entire trip. You must get your machine ready, be it a car or a motorcycle. Pay close attention to every part, and every detail, and repair or replace whatever seems dicey.
In the articles below, I have provided information on which vehicle you can bring to Ladakh, which you should not, and then how to get your respective vehicles ready.
- How to Prepare your Motorcycle for Ladakh
- How to Prepare your Car for Ladakh Trip
- Why you should rent a Taxi in Ladakh
- Which is the Best Car for Ladakh Trip
- How to Go to Ladakh on 100CC Motorcycle
- Which is the Best Motorcycle for Ladakh Trip
Renting a Motorcycle for Ladakh Trip
A trip to Ladakh is more fun when you are traveling by your own vehicle but a lot of people also complete the journey on a rented motorcycle. There are several places that you can rent a bike from for the trip like Manali, Srinagar or Leh itself.
However, before you finalize the deal, you must carefully inspect the motorcycle to ensure that it will not give you trouble anywhere.
In the articles below, I have provided information on where you can rent a bike from with some recommended names; and what is it that you should pay heed to before renting a bike.
- Why and When should you rent a motorcycle for Ladakh Trip?
- How to rent a Bike in Srinagar
- How to Rent a Bike in Manali
- Where to Rent a Bike in Srinagar
- Where to Rent a Bike in Manali
- How to Rent a Bike in Leh City
- Leh City Bike Rental Charges
How to Travel to Ladakh
Now since we have all the information we need, let us talk about how to travel to and in Ladakh. In the articles below, I have talked about how to journey on the two roads leading to Ladakh, the Manali – Leh, and Srinagar – Leh route; and then how to go to areas like Nubra Valley and Pangong after you have arrived in Leh.
The first article is a very comprehensive road map of the entire Ladakh region; then the following articles are detailed explanations of the route.
Apart from the direct routes from Leh City, I have also talked about some of the internal roads that you can take to reach from one place to another without going back to Leh. This includes roads like Agham – Shyok, Wari La, and Changthang Valley.
- A Detailed Road Map of Ladakh
- How to Travel to Umling La
- Traveling from Srinagar to Leh
- How to Travel from Manali to Leh
- Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri
- How to Travel to Tso Moriri from Leh
- Leh to Nubra Valley
- How to Travel to Pangong Tso
- Leh to Khardung La
- How to Travel to Hanle
- Sham Valley Travel Guide
- How to Travel to Zanskar Valley
- Nubra Valley to Pangong Tso via Agham Shyok road
- Nubra Valley to Pangong Tso via Wari La
- How to Visit Siachen Glacier
Permits for Ladakh
Ladakh is an area very close to the India-China border and hence, everyone visiting here is required to obtain a permit from the DM office. This permit is not applicable for reaching Leh city but is a mandate for visiting other areas like Nubra Valley, Pangong, and Tso Moriri.
In the articles below, I have explained the entire procedure in detail along with the charges applicable. Another permit you will have to worry about is Rohtang Pass if you are starting from Manali.
This permit is needed to be obtained from Manali. I have also provided links below to the article where I have talked about this permit in detail.
- How to Obtain Inner Line Permit for Ladakh
- Procedure to Obtain Protected Area Permit for Ladakh
- How to Obtain Rohtang Pass Permit
Public Transport Services in Ladakh
Off-late, a lot of people have started to visit Ladakh using public transport services in form of Buses or shared cabs. Some people reach Leh by Air and then catch a bus to other places while others start their journeys by bus from places like Srinagar and Manali.
Public Transport in Ladakh until a few years back was not really that great but has improved greatly in the last few years. If you too are planning a trip here by Public transport, then in the article below you will find information related to bus schedules and shared taxis.
- How I Traveled to Ladakh by Public Transport
- Ladakh Bus Service Schedule
- Leh to Nubra Valley Bus Service
- Pangong Tso Bus Service
- Leh to Tso Moriri Bus Service – Fare & Schedule
- Manali to Leh Bus Service
- Leh to Manali Bus
- Srinagar to Leh Bus Service
- Leh to Srinagar Bus
- Delhi to Leh Bus Service
- Leh to Delhi Bus
- Public Transport Services in Zanskar Valley
- Zanskar Valley Taxi Rates
- Ladakh Bus Schedule
- Bus Service in Leh City
- Zanskar Valley by Public Transport
Solo Trip to Ladakh
A trip to Ladakh without any doubt needs some time which unfortunately not everyone can afford to spare. Sometimes for one reason or another, a lot of us are unable to find someone to accompany us on the trips.
A solo trip to Ladakh however is no less adventurous than with a few friends. If you too were planning to visit Ladakh solo, then below is a list of articles that can help you plan your trip better.
- How to Plan a Solo Trip to Ladakh
- Safety Tips for a Solo Trip to Ladakh
- How I traveled to Ladakh by Public Transport Alone
- Memoirs of my Solo trip to Ladakh
Interesting Reads
Links below are articles that I call an “interesting read” for the Ladakh trip. This is some intriguing and good to know information related to some places here; like the unexplained phenomenon of Magnetic hill and some other places that are known to be haunted. Take a look.
- The Beasts of Changthang Valley
- The Ghost of Gata Loops
- The Magnetic Hill of Ladakh
- The Heroes of Rezang La
Other Tips
Last but not the least, below are some articles where I have shared some quick tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. Most of these tips are based on my own personal experience of Ladakh after being there several times. Read through and I am sure this information can be of help to you.
- Things that you must NOT do in Ladakh
- Driving Tips for Ladakh
- Riding to Ladakh with a Pillion
- Visiting Ladakh on Scooter
When is Ladakh open for Tourists?
If this question was asked about 10 or 15 years ago, the answer would have been the months from June till September. These were in fact the only 5 months when Ladakh use to see any tourist footfall. But much has changed now. You may in fact find it a bit hard to believe but Ladakh is now open for tourists throughout the year.
It is true that you may not be able to reach here by road in the months of November till April, but regular flights still remain available. Now tourists arrive in Ladakh not just to enjoy the summer but a freezing winter as well.
There was a time not too long ago when you would have to definitely book your stay in advance if visiting in winter. But now, you can land in Ladakh at any time of the year and will easily find a place to stay.
With that being said, the harsh cold of Ladakh is not everyone’s cup of tea. Only the adventurous type visit during these months; or people who have already been to Ladakh once before and now came a second time to see it covered in snow.
So when is Ladakh open for tourists? If we talk about tourists in general including all types, then people start to visit here sometime by Mid April.
By May, most of the hotels are up and running and tourist season is in full swing by May end. People from all over the world continue to flock here till September and then the number starts to go down again by October.
Months to visit Ladakh
So in order for an easier and better understanding, below are links to articles where I have explained Ladakh with respect to that particular month only.
Information in these articles is on how to reach, where to stay, what to eat, what to expect, itinerary to follow, and how to prepare. Depending on which month you were planning to go in, take a look at that particular post and you will find all the relevant information.
- Ladakh in January
- Ladakh in February
- Visiting Ladakh in March
- Ladakh in April
- Ladakh in May
- How to Plan Ladakh in June
- Ladakh in July
- Ladakh in August
- Trip to Ladakh in September
- Ladakh in October
- Ladakh in November
- Winter Trip to Ladakh in December
Zanskar Valley
If Ladakh can be called a remote place in India, then Zanskar Valley is actually a remote region in Ladakh itself. Over the last few years, Tourism in Ladakh has seen a great boost.
Almost everyone is planning to go to Ladakh and during peak tourist season, it can get a bit crowded as well. Zanskar Valley on the other hand is a place that is not yet affected by this tourist mania.
Due to its location, not many people visit here and that is what makes it perfect for people who want to be away from the crowd. Zanskar in fact has a few aces up its sleeve, things that not even Ladakh can offer.
Parkachik Glacier, Shafat Glacier, Nun Kun Massif, and Drang Drang Glacier are three of the star attractions of Zanskar. Nowhere in our country can you see a glacier so up close and so easily reachable.
It is true that visiting Zanskar will definitely add a bit of a cost and days to your itinerary; but if you can afford it, I highly recommend making Zanskar a part of your Ladakh trip.
Below is a list of articles that pertain to visiting Zanskar Valley. Go through the posts below and you will know all there is about visiting Zanskar.
- Zanskar Valley – A Complete Travel Guide & Itinerary
- Kargil to Padum Route Guide
- Phugtal Monastery – A Complete Travel Guide
- Budget Trip to Zanskar Valley – How to Plan Your Journey?
- Zanskar Itinerary, Route Details, and Road Map
- Leh to Zanskar Itinerary – How to Plan your Journey?
- Mobile Phone Connectivity in Zanskar Valley
- Sightseeing in Padum
- Public Transport Services in Zanskar Valley
- Zanskar Valley Taxi Rates
- Zanskar Valley by Public Transport
- Hotels in Zanskar Valley
Is Ladakh Dangerous?
One line answer to this question would be that no, Ladakh is not dangerous. But much of this would depend on you yourself. A person’s safety is always in their own hands and it gets decided by the decisions they make and actions they take.
People in Ladakh are simple and humble but this does not excuse you from behaving irresponsibly. Do not get into any unnecessary altercations, do not try to offend them in any way, do not try to drive around in a vehicle rented outside Ladakh and you will be OK.
If you are asking the question in terms of the terrain then yes, the roads here are a bit risky and challenging. But as long as you have some experience of driving, especially in the hills, then it is nothing that you cannot handle.
Just get your vehicle well serviced, plan carefully, keep an eye on the weather and you got nothing to worry about.
Is Ladakh Worth Visiting?
And finally the question of whether or not you should make this trip. If you are unsure of whether you should go or not then take my word for it. Ladakh is worth every minute and penny you spend here.
This will be a trip of a lifetime irrespective of how you are traveling. Just put all doubts aside and embark upon a journey that you will cherish memories of for life.
Why one should visit Ladakh?
You should visit Ladakh if you want to go on a trip that you will remember for life. It is truly one of a kind experience that I must urge you to have. Ladakh is a place like no other and it has a little something for everyone.
It does not matter if you were an adventure enthusiast, biker, photographer, family person, or just someone looking to spend some time in peace, you can rest assured that Ladakh will not disappoint you.
Conclusion
I hope the information above on how to plan a trip to Leh Ladakh was of help. If you have any questions, please feel free to ask in the comments section below. You can also follow me on Instagram and chat with me live there or subscribe to my YouTube channel and ask a question there.
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Great guide! Planning a trip to Leh Ladakh requires careful preparation due to its remote location and high altitude. It’s essential to acclimatize to avoid altitude sickness, pack warm clothes even in summer, and choose the best time to visit (June to September). Don’t forget to arrange permits for certain areas and plan your itinerary with enough rest days. Leh Ladakh offers stunning landscapes and rich culture, so a little planning goes a long way to ensure an unforgettable experience!
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Hi Vargis,
Your travel blog is very impressive and informative. We are a group of Canadian nationals planning a 15-day trip to the Indian Himalayas. Are there any areas that are restricted to foreign nationals? We are hikers and backpackers and plan to do some hiking and camping activities as part of the trip.
I was trying to get hold of road and hiking maps. Would you be able to advise where I can buy road maps, hiking trail maps, any maps that you would recommend for our drive from Srinagar to Leh, and local maps within Ladakh?
Many thanks for considering my request.
Best
Hemraj S
Hi vargis. Im gurjeet. Im starting ladakh from chandigarhvia darcha shinkula padum lamayuru route. I have gypsy 4×4. Guide me the adventurous route for umlingla pass from leh. And im going back home through killar kishatwer road. Tell me either killar or kishtwer having most dangerous roads?? Which one u suggest me to go killar road or kishatwer road? I go back home by that route. Please guide me
Planning a trip to Leh Ladakh involves meticulous attention to factors like weather conditions, altitude sickness prevention, and transportation options. This guide offers practical tips and insights to help travelers create a well-rounded itinerary, ensuring a smooth and unforgettable journey through the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture of this Himalayan region. Ideal for anyone seeking to embark on a memorable adventure in Leh Ladakh.
Thank you so much for the classified information, it will be helpful for me because I am planning to road trip from Noida to Ladakh by bike. it will be my first ride in my life. I am excited
Please also share your experience with me about the bike trip I want to go
Thank you so much buddy
You have provided one of the best guide on Ladakh, just loved it
Thank you !!!
You have provided a well-informative blog. I have gone through many blogs of yours and you write it so well.
This is so Insightful guide Vargis, I loved this alot
Thank you Ankita
Planning a trip to Leh Ladakh requires careful consideration due to its remote location and challenging terrain. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you plan your journey:
Research and Itinerary:
Research the best time to visit Leh Ladakh. The region is accessible from May to September when the roads are open.
Decide on the duration of your trip and create a rough itinerary. Popular destinations include Leh, Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley, and Tso Moriri Lake.
Acclimatization:
Leh Ladakh is at high altitude, and acclimatization is crucial to avoid altitude sickness. Plan to spend a couple of days in Leh before venturing into higher-altitude areas.
Stay hydrated, avoid heavy physical activity initially, and consider carrying medications for altitude sickness.
Permits:
Check if you need any permits to visit specific areas. Permits are required for places like Nubra Valley, Pangong Lake, and Tso Moriri Lake.
Obtain the necessary permits from the District Commissioner’s Office in Leh.
Transportation:
Decide on your mode of transportation. You can either hire a cab, rent a motorcycle, or drive your own vehicle.
If you plan to drive, ensure your vehicle is in good condition, and carry spare parts, tools, and a first aid kit.
Accommodation:
Book accommodations in advance, especially during peak season. Leh has a variety of options, including guesthouses, hotels, and homestays.
In more remote areas, accommodation options may be limited
Hi Vargis tried to connect u on instagram but it says u hv disable messages , i have few questions to ask you, though you have mentioned everything in your article but was wondering if things changed now.
1. Am travelling with my mother so avoiding directly landing to leh and instead thinking to arrive from road via srinagar or manali. which one u recommend ?
2. Are self driven cars from outside (srinagar, chandigarh) allowed in leh ?
Hi Rishabh,
1. Srinagar route will be better Bhai to reach Leh
2. No. Outside taxis can only be used to reach Leh. You cannot use them for sightseeing and will have to leave it parked at the hotel
Hi Vargis
Can you please advise whether Ladakh trip is feasible between 1st Oct to 15th Oct. I intend to drive from Kolkata with my wife and 10 year old daughter in our Bolero Neo. I picked this time primarily to avoid the summer heat of the plains through which I would have to travel if I plan for May – June.
Can I take the Manali Leh Highway during this time of Oct?
Can I do a day trip for Pangong lake from Leh?
Do I need to carry snow chains for the wheels?
Which areas can I visit during this time without the risk of getting stranded?
Request pls advise for me to plan accordingly.
You can Sid but hard to tell right now. It will all depend on how the weather next year is. If it started to snow early, it won’t be a good idea. Best to wait until Sep next year before finalizing. My advice is that you plan between Sep 15 to 30th to be on the safer side. It won’t either be hot at that time, nor crowded
Can it be planned between 24th September to 8th October.
Yes it can be
Sir,
We, a group of 6 friends (age from 53 to 63) planed to travel Leh-Ladakh. We have a plan to reach Srinagar from Jammu Tawai by bus(night journey) on 23rd September ’24 and then, on 24th morning, from Srinagar to Kargil by bus/shared Jeep. We decided to stay at Kargil for 2 nights (24/09/24 & 25/09/24).
We have a plan of return by Leh-Manali Road, starting from Leh on 5th Oct.’24.
Please let me know your comments whether is it safe to travel from Jammu on 23rd Sep & also from Srinagar to Kargil on 24th Sep.’24 as assembly election on Srinagar will be on 25th September.
Please let me know, is there any chance of non availability of bus/ shared Jeep in those days because of voting. Eagerly waiting for your advice.
Hi vargis, I am planning a trip to Leh with my mother , tentative date of my coming is 16th August 2023, planning to cover nearby places on 17th August then a 3 day trip to Nubra-Pangong from 18 to 20th August, 2023, then will leave for Delhi on 21 August 2023. Do i need to book hotels for leh/nubra/pangong in advance? and what about getting shared taxis for the said trip…. pls guide.
Hi Supriyo – You can find accommodation on the spot as well but shared taxis could be a problem. It will be better to book a private cab if you have your mother with you.
Actually, hiring a reserved cab will be out of budget for me.. so was searching for shared cab.
Hi Vargis tried to connect u on instagram but it says u hv disable messages , i have few questions to ask you, though you have mentioned everything in your article but was wondering if things changed now.
1. Am travelling with my mother so avoiding directly landing to leh and instead thinking to arrive from road via srinagar or manali. which one u recommend ?
2. Are self driven cars from outside (srinagar, chandigarh) allowed in leh ?
Hi Rishabh,
1. Srinagar route will be better Bhai to reach Leh
2. No. Outside taxis can only be used to reach Leh. You cannot use them for sightseeing and will have to leave it parked at the hotel
Hello Vargis,
Hope you are doing well.
I have been one of the silent followers of your amazing blog for a while and it has helped me many times to build my itinerary for any Himalayan trips in the past.
This month, 4 of us are planning on visiting Leh-Ladakh by road from Chandigarh Airport in a cab, preferably Innova. We have made this itinerary. I would want to know your views regarding the same.
Day 1 : 24th June, Sat
– Road Trip:
– Chandigarh Airport (Start at 7:30 AM)
– Atal Tunnel (Rohtang)
– Sissu
– Stay:
– Sissu Zostel
Day 2 : 25th June, Sun
– Road Trip:
– Sissu
– Keylong
– Suraj Tal
– Baralacha pass
– Leh
– Stay:
– Leh Zostel
Day 3 : 26th June, Mon
– Local Sightseeing
– Leh Palace
– Stok Palace and Museum
– Hemis Monastery
– Thiksey Monastery
– Leh Market – Evening
– Stay:
– Leh Zostel
Day 4 : 27th June, Tue
– Road Trip:
– Leh
– KhardungLa Pass
– Panamik
– Sasoma Check Point
– Siachen Base Camp
– OP Baba Shrine
– Nubra Valley (NOTE: Local sightseeing on the next day)
– Stay:
– Nubra Valley
Day 5 : 28th June, Wed
– Road Trip:
– Nubra Valley – Local Sightseeing
– Diskit Monastery
– Hunder
– Tyakshi
– Turtuk (NOTE: Local sightseeing on the next day)
– Stay:
– Turtuk
Day 6 : 29th June, Thur
– Road Trip:
– Turtuk – Local Sightseeing
– Pangong Lake View Point
– Merak Village
– Kakstet Village
– Man Village
– Stay:
– Man Village, Pangong Lake
Day 7 : 30th June, Fri
– Road Trip:
– Pangong Tso – Local Sightseeing, (if any more required)
– Kyagar Tso
– Karzok, Tso Moriri (NOTE: Local sightseeing on the next day)
– Stay:
– Karzok, Tso Moriri
Day 8 : 1st July, Sat
– Road Trip:
– Tso Moriri – Local Sightseeing
– Leh
– Stay:
– Leh Zostel
Day 9 : 2nd July, Sun
– Road Trip:
– Leh
– Phyang Gompa
– Magnetic Hill
– Sangam view point
– Kargil War Memorial, Dras
– Dras
– Stay:
– Dras
Day 10 : 3rd July, Mon
– Road Trip:
– Dras
– Kargil – Local Sightseeing
– Mulbekh – Local Sightseeing (Monastery)
– Leh
– Stay:
– Leh Zostel
Day 11 : 4th July, Tue
– Road Trip:
– Leh
– Manali
– Stay:
– Manali Zostel (Vashisth)
Day 12 : 5th July, Wed
– Road Trip:
– Manali
– Chandigarh (Reach by 5:00 PM MAX)
Eagerly waiting for your inputs.
Regards,
Sourav
Hi Sourav,
Day 4 – You cannot cover Siachen Base Camp on this …. You will only reach Nubra Valley from Leh
Day 10 – Go all the way to Kargil … Do not stay in Dras
Just remember that you taxi from Chandigarh will not be allowed for sightseeing in Ladakh. You will have to rent another cab there
Hi Vargis
Somewhere on this site I read that there are no hatchback cars /cabs available . But getmecab.com provides hatchback cabs. Do u know if it’s a genuine cab service site?
You cannot use an outside rental for sightseeing in Ladakh. You will have to rent a local cab in Leh and they usually do not have hatchbacks, mostly SUVs.
I’m sorry, I missed to mention that getmecab.com claims to provide a hatchback to go from Kargil to Srinagar.
Yes, you will get it between Kargil and Srinagar
Thanks, that’s great relief. 🙂
Me & my group had a great time in Ladakh (May 26 to June 2). Thanks to this site of yours, I had good info about everything. :). We experienced almost everything….snowfall, landslide, heavy rains in sand dunes, traffic jams , temperatures upto -5 degree celsius (at Pengong Lake), good food, rough & tough road travel, scenic beauty, taste of real mountain fresh water ..etc etc. 🙂
A thing I must mention for others — Only carry the Postpaid SIM of Airtel, BSNL or MTNL. The Jio works only in 30-40% of the area. Vodafone doesn’t work at all.
Have your ever in recent years hired an innova at leh for Nubra n Pangong without using any influence?
I never had to hire a cab in Leh actually
Someone recently called you about leh and when he discussed the taxi fare which I guess was around rs 8000 for Nubra n Turtuk, you replied u can hire a flight with that amount. So was curious to ask u the charges
It will depend on how many days you are hiring the taxi for. If you just want a cab for 3 days from Leh for Nubra and Turtuk, it will cost you between Rs 10000 to Rs. 15000, depending on the time of your travel
Means 8000 are genuine charges for a 3 day trip to Nubra n Turtuk.
By saying u can hire a flight with amount doesn’t justify your last comment.
We all learn from you, we all respect you and we all xpct healthy answers from you
Bhai I do not know which comment you are referring to. It is possible that there were flights available to Leh for Rs. 8000 at the time when I made that comment. I did fly in and out of Leh in 2021 for Rs. 9500 just because the flight rates were low at that time and I was lucky to get a return ticket for that amount.
I did book a Vistara flight from Mumbai to Leh for rs. 85000. 🙂 I’m flying later this week.
All the best for your trip. Have fun.
It was a type of Rs. 85000 for my flight ticket. Please read it as Rs. 8500/- 🙂
Haha …. for a minute I thought, “Wow, he REALLY wants to go to Ladakh”
All the best for your trip Bhai
Nice Blog…. This is really amazing. Great information about Leh Ladakh.
do we get wifi in leh?
Yes, wi-fi is available in Leh
Due to your complete guide on leh, we successfully conducted our self planned tour of Ladakh in June-23.
Thanks a lot.
Thank you Rajesh
Your guidance help us to enjoy Ladah last month.
Thank you Rajesh
It is urgent …as leh has made 2 days stay compulosry to stay in leh ..after landing can i travel to kargil for 1 days and return next day and stay next day in leh…
Can this be done as per goverment rules and my stay for 2days will be done..
Yes you can
Hi Vargis,
I came across your blog today while planning my trip to Ladakh, and thought of writing to you. I’m travelling to Ladakh with my parents from 13-24 June. Was planning to visit Leh, Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri and Kargil. We’ll be taking flights on the Delhi-Leh route for both onward and return journeys. Could you please help us in deciding on an itinerary for this trip? I’d also dropped you a message on Instagram, but wasn’t sure if you’d check it.
Your blog’s been super helpful in planning the trip so far, so even if you can’t reply to this, just wanted to thank you for all the content you’ve put up 🙂
Thank you, Prateek. I believe I have answered all your questions on Instagram. Let me know if you need any other help.
Hello Vargis,
I have gone through your many blogs and based on that kind of finalised below itinerary.
I am planning to visit Leh in mid May 2022 along with parents ( ~70 years age), tentative itinerary:
Day1 – Bangalore to Srinagar –> Stay at Srinagar
Day2 – Srinagar to Kargil ( on the way Sonmarg, Baltal & Drass) –> Stay at Kargil
Day3 – kargil to Leh ( On the way Alchi, magnetic hill ) –> Stay at Leh
Day4 – Leh local sight seeing & permits for other places –> Stay at Leh
Day5: Activities at Leh –> Stay at Leh
Day6 – Leh to Nubra Valley via Khardungla pass –> Stay at Nubra valley (Hunder)
Day7 – Nubra valley to Pangong Tso –> stay at Pangong Tso tents
Day8 – Pangong Tso to Leh via Chang la–> Stay at Leh
Day9- Leh to Tso moiri –> stay at Korzok village
Day10 – Tso Moiri to Sarchu –> Stay to Sarchu
Day11 – Sarchu to Manali –> Stay at Manali
Day12 – Manali to Chandigarh –> Stay at Chandigarh
Day13 – Chandigarh to Bangalore
Could you please suggest if Day7 and Day9 can be done with parents due to AMS..
for Day9, is there a suggestion to come down yo low altitude place? additionally due to AMS , shall we skip Say9?
Any kind of advise will be helpful .. This itinerary is made after going through your blogs ..
Best Regards,
Nusrat
Hello Vargis,
I am planning to visit Leh in mid May 2022 along with parents ( ~70 years age), tentative itinerary:
Day1 – Bangalore to Srinagar –> Stay at Srinagar
Day2 – Srinagar to Kargil ( on the way Sonmarg, Baltal & Drass) –> Stay at Kargil
Day3 – kargil to Leh ( On the way Alchi, magnetic hill ) –> Stay at Leh
Day4 – Leh local sight seeing & permits for other places –> Stay at Leh
Day5: Activities at Leh –> Stay at Leh
Day6 – Leh to Nubra Valley via Khardungla pass –> Stay at Nubra valley (Hunder)
Day7 – Nubra valley to Pangong Tso –> stay at Pangong Tso tents
Day8 – Pangong Tso to Leh via Chang la–> Stay at Leh
Day9- Leh to Tso moiri –> stay at Korzok village
Day10 – Tso Moiri to Sarchu –> Stay to Sarchu
Day11 – Sarchu to Manali –> Stay at Manali
Day12 – Manali to Chandigarh –> Stay at Chandigarh
Day13 – Chandigarh to Bangalore
Could you please suggest if Day7 and Day9 can be done with parents due to AMS..
for Day9, is there a suggestion to come down yo low altitude place? additionally due to AMS , shall we skip Say9?
Any kind of advise will be helpful .. This itinerary is made after going through your blogs ..
Best Regards,
Nusrat
Hello Vargis,
I am planning to visit Leh in May 2022 along with parents ( ~70 years age), tentative itinerary:
Day1 – Bangalore to Srinagar –> Stay at Srinagar
Day2 – Srinagar to Kargil ( on the way Sonmarg, Baltal & Drass) –> Stay at Kargil
Day3 – kargil to Leh ( On the way Alchi, magnetic hill ) –> Stay at Leh
Day4 – Leh local sight seeing & permits for other places –> Stay at Leh
Day5: Activities at Leh –> Stay at Leh
Day6 – Leh to Nubra Valley via Khardungla pass –> Stay at Nubra valley (Hunder)
Day7 – Nubra valley to Pangong Tso –> stay at Pangong Tso tents
Day8 – Pangong Tso to Leh via Chang la–> Stay at Leh
Day9- Leh to Tso moiri –> stay at Korzok village
Day10 – Tso Moiri to Sarchu –> Stay to Sarchu
Day11 – Sarchu to Manali –> Stay at Manali
Day12 – Manali to Chandigarh –> Stay at Chandigarh
Day13 – Chandigarh to Bangalore
Could you please suggest if Day7 and Day9 can be done with parents due to AMS..
for Day9, is there a suggestion to come down yo low altitude place?
Any kind of advise will be helpful .. This itinerary is made after going through your blogs ..
Best Regards,
Nusrat
Very informative article people who want to visit Ladakh valley, thanks for sharing this information.
Hi Vargis,
We are planning for a road trip to Ladakh in first week Sept 2021. Between 7th Sept to 16th we are in or around Leh. Would be interested to participate if any Monastery having any festival during this time so that we can have glimpse of it. Please let me know
Hi Alok – Ladakh festival is held in Leh in September but I am not sure if it will happen this year due to COVID. Take a look at this post please
https://vargiskhan.com/log/festivals-of-ladakh/
I really enjoyed reading your post. This is a very nice article for traveling and It was an amazing blog I really like it, all pics are very beautiful. Thanks for sharing this article. search “bobadventures” to visit us
Great blog post. Nicely written.. really enjoyed it a lot. You have covered almost every thing one need to know before visiting ladakh. And wonderfully described all the famous tourist places of ladakh. Thanks ladakh.club
Asalam alikum vargis bhai
Mujhe yeh maloom karna hai .agar hum Rt pcr report le kar aye delhi se.
Kya phir bh humara corana test hoga leh ya ladakh me.
Ple Please guide kar dejye app
Walaikum Salam Saad Bhai – Nahi agar aap RTPCR saath leke aate ho toh test nahi hoga
I want to go to Manali to ladakh in Jan 2023 after 3 months from now, and as roads are closed i will have to book a flight to get in and out of ladakh so can I know the nearest airport from which i should book my flight so that it becomes cheap for me.. please help
There is an airport in Leh itself if that is what you meant to ask. You can book a direct flight from Delhi to Leh
Hello. I am from kolKolkata. I want to visit ladakh next year . recently I heard that Siachen base camp is open for tourists from October ’19. So please inform me from where I can get my permit to go there ?
Hello Vargis, will it be possible to cover entire Ladakh circuit stretching from turtuk to hanle to the lakes and entire Spiti circuit from Mumbai within 30 days including buffer days?
Hi this is Sarojit Dutta from Kolkata. First of all I am sending you our vijaya greetings. Inspired by your writing we are planning to visit Leh and surroundings in the last week of May 23. We are 18 people altogether junior most is 8 years and senior most is 75 years old. We are planning to follow your Srinagar to Srinagar 12 days itinerary. Our question is if it possible to make it a 9 or 10 days itinerary? And what kind of vehicles are available there for 18 people? We hope to get your advice on this matter. Whether we will have change the itinerary or not.? Please help and oblige. Thanks.
Our plan is to go Kargil,Leh,Turtuk,Panamik,Pangon lake,Hanle,Tso Morri Batalik and back to Srinagar.
Thanks for your reply. Actually we are following your Srinagar to Leh trip. On day 1 Srinagar to Kargil. Day2 Kargil to Leh. Day 3 Leh. Day 4 Leh to Turtuk. Day 5 Turtuk to Panamik. Day 6 Panamik to Pangon lake. Day 7 Pangon to Hanle. Day 8 Hanle to Tso Morri. Day 9 Tso Morri to Leh. Day 10 Leh to Batalik. Day 11 Batalik to Srinagar. After going through your article we made this itinerary. Our question is whether we can make this little shorter or it’s perfect? Again I make it a point that we are a group of seniors and junior members. Please advise us about the itinerary and about vehicles availability there. Thanks again
Hi Sarojit – 9 to 10 days from where? Kolkata? I am guessing you will be flying to Srinagar?
[…] Also Read: How to Plan a Trip to Leh Ladakh – A Complete Travel Guide […]
[…] Also Read: How to Plan a Trip to Leh Ladakh – A Complete Travel Guide […]
Thanks vargis for sharing such valuable content. You are doing great job .Pictures are spectacular. Also visit my site to related to travel and other stuff . Thanks
Hello. I am from kolKolkata. I want to visit ladakh next year . recently I heard that Siachen base camp is open for tourists from October ’19. So please inform me from where I can get my permit to go there ?
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Hello Bro, Very fast hearty thank you for so detail blog. I am planning to go leh with my gf on bike trip and want to do self camping. Can you please suggest what are the precision need to take and is it safe do self camp with a Girl ?
Dear VargisKhan,
I was planning to go on a Road Trip via Bike this year 2020 to Ladakh from Delhi to Kargil via Leh, since the COVID-19 situation is not yet back to normal condition, I would like you to suggest me with appropriate solutions/suggestions.
As I am a solo traveller, so please suggest.
1. Would it be safe to travel to Ladakh during year 2020
2. If yes which month would be more likely to travel.
3. Weather we would be able to avail Inner line permits.
4. If yes, how many locations we can cover.
5. What would the better suggestion on the stay and food.
Since I have been planning this trip since last 3 years and finally I plan to execute in this year, and unfortunately due to COVID-19, I’m bit confused.
Could be please suggest me.
Regards,
Harish Kumar
Hi Vargis,
This blog is amazing. It provides me all the information about traveling to Leh Ladakh. I was looking for a guide like this for a very long time. Now, I can plan my trip to Leh Ladakh without worrying and forgetting anything. Thank you very much for this amazing blog.
Hello Vargis,
My brother and me are planning 5-6 days trip to leh- ladakh in July month. We are planning Leh ( 2D and stay), Nubra Valley ( 1 stay) , Pangong lake (1 Stay).
it is costing about 20k – 25k per person if we plan with tourist agencies.
If we plan by own, as we are only 2 of us, renting taxi or cab can not be affordable for us. We are planning to cover nearby spots (Magnetic Hill, Gurudwara etc) on bike and nubra valley and pangong lake by public transport. But as you mention in your blog that public transport is very rare and tedious.
So can you please suggest if we go with travel agencies is feasible or planned by own and how can we plan?
Hi Amit – If you are going in peak tourist season, public transport will not be hard to find. Shared cabs will be easy to get actually. When are you going?
SALAMWALEKUM BHAI
FIRST OF ALL THANKS FOR PROVIDING SUCH A DETAILED INFORMATION
I AM PLANNING TO LEH FIRST TIME THIS YEAR, EVEN I BOOKED MY TICKETS FOR RAIPUR TO DELHI ON 9TH JUNE AND RETURN ON 27TH JUNE
FIRST I WANT TO KNOW THAT THIS YEAR I GET TO HEARED DAT ROADS MIGHT OPEN IN MID JUNE, IS DAT TRUE? IS I HAVE TO RESHEDULE MY TICKETS?
Walaikum As Salam Bhai – Nahi it will be all open by May end. You will not need to reschedule.
Hello.. have been going through your blog for quite a while and you have done a great job here.
we are planning a trip to leh from Delhi in the last week of April starting from 25th April Saturday early morning and return by 3rd of may sundy evening. We have XUV500 manual front wheel drive, total 5 members and 9 days with use so
is this trip possible??
what should be the best route??
where should we talk halts in this route??
what would be the total cost??
thank you
You cannot do it in April Harry unless you are ready to throw it at least 3-4 days more.
Ok.. thank you for the info virgis.
you are welcome brother !!!
Hi,
I plan a bike trip from Srinagar to Leh Ladakh on June 2020. So could you please suggest which tour agency will be best for the same. I want to join a group and hire bike too.
I am sorry but I have never worked with any tour agencies.
Hi,
I am planning to visit Leh in 29 dec 2019.
Kindly advice if its ok I travel in flight
As long as you do not have a medical condition and allow time for your body to acclimatize when you reach there, yes.
Hi,
I am planning to visit Leh in 2nd week of June 2020.
Kindly advice if its ok I travel in Hyundai i20.
Srinagar – Leh – Numbra Valley – Pangong – Pang – Kaza – Sarahan – Shimla – Delhi
2 adults and 1 child of 10 years
Is this circuit doable in Hyundai i20 petrol.
Yes you can. Just be a bit careful. I have done Ladakh in a Maruti Swift which has the same ground clearance as i20
Hi,
I am planning to visit Leh in 2nd week of June.
Kindly advice if its ok I travel in Hyundai i20.
Srinagar – Leh – Numbra Valley – Pangong – Pang – Kaza – Sarahan – Shimla – Delhi
2 adults and 1 child of 10 years
Is this circuit doable in Hyundai i20 petrol.
Yes you can. Just be a bit careful. I have done Ladakh in a Maruti Swift which has the same ground clearance as i20
[…] Also Read: How to Plan a Trip to Ladakh […]
Will u apart of it . i m planning on *New* *Year* *2020*
Hey.
I ‘m Rohan. basically from Delhi based adventurer who were very much enthusiasm in various adventurious activities such as biking trekking and exploring .
Since, last year I had done many stunning activities in ownself such as …
1. Solo Camping in kodai jungle
2. Continuous Single-day Riding from Delhi to Badrinath in a peak Monsoon
3. Winter Riding in Lahul & Spiti on Adhoc Conditions
4. Also had cover Various trek like valley of flower & Hemkund Yatra or much more….
while uncertainly I had meet up with an accident on May month as when way up to leh ladakh with bike.
this “ll not come to end my adventurous activity. Now after 5 month of recovery – I ‘m again starting from beginning
..
so as of now, These coming winter *** I *am* going to start an expedition of *stok* *kangri* trekkable mountain in _ladakh_ on winter seasion and this is going to be really adventurous.
Although all trip planning are yet to complete and still gathering the essentials for these expedition .
Probably, Stok kangri unofficially closed while on winter’s so beginning *January* would be the perfect i guess for trekking.
Hence if someone interested to be apart of these *journey* or become *member* and want to give any *suggestion* .
Please do contact – *8376072108* (** _what’s_ _app_ **)
All the best Rohan !!!
Thanks.. vargis khan 🙂
Do u have any suggestion for me ***on stok kangri expedition..?
These would be mine 1st winter solo expedition if someone not joins me.
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Hi Sir,
Your information is very helpful. Sir, I am planning to go ladakh in July by next year. My itinerary is given below:
Day 01: ARRIVAL LEH.
Day 02: LEH LOCAL TRIP
After breakfast drive for local trip (Hemis, Thiksey, Shey palace, Shanti stupa Leh palace, Hall of fame & Sptiuk)
Day 03: LEH TO LAMAYURU AND BACK
After breakfast drive for Lamayuru, On the way visit Sptiuk, Hall of fame, Magnetic hill, Confluence and Moon land.
Day 04: LEH – TURTUK
After breakfast drive to Nubra Valley via Khardungla (highest motor able road in the world, 18,380ft). Night stay at Turtuk village.
Day 05: TURTUK – HUNDAR
After breakfast drive to Hundar village, visit Diskit Gompa on the way.
Day 06: HUNDAR – PANGONG LAKE via Shyok Road.
After breakfast drive to Pangong Lake through Shyok river.
Day 07: PANGONG-TSOMORIRI.
After breakfast drive to Tsomoriri via Chusal and Nyuma.
Day 08: TSOMORIRI TO KEYLONG.
After breakfast drive to Keylong via Tso-kar on the way visit Tso-kar and Pang.
Day 09: KEYLONG TO MANALI.
In the morning leave drive to Manali. In the evening enjoy Manali Mall.
Day 10: MANALI DEPARTURE
Sir, now my questions are:
1. Is this itinerary is good to do in July next year?
2. Is this route good or I should go by road from manali and return by flight?
3. Is it ok to be there in July with 2 years child?
4. How will be the weather there in July?
Thanks in advance Sir.
Hi Kaushik,
1. Yes
2. Either way is good. Same thing.
3. Please see this post.
https://vargiskhan.com/log/traveling-to-ladakh-with-children/
4. Pleasant during day, moderately cold during night.
Hello sir, we are 5 person planning to ladakh in june 2020
DAY 1- departure from Vadodara at 1:35pm overnight train journey
DAY 2-arrival at pathankot junction at 12:40 pm departure for manali Solang valley reached at 11:00pm
DAY 3-solang valley manali to jispa ( 6 hours drive)
DAY 4-Jispa to leh(10 to 11 hours journey)
DAY 5-Leh (half day rest/ilp and half day leh local sight seeing
DAY 6-leh to nubra valley via khardugla pass(6 to 7 hours drive)
DAY 7-nubra valley to pangong lake vai agham shyok river route(6 to 8 hours)
DAY 8- Pangong lake via pang village(7 to 8 hours)
DAY 9-pang village to manali(9 to 10 hours drive)
DAY 10-Manali to Chandigarh(10 hours)
DAY 11-chandigarh to Vadodara (overnight train journey)
DAY 12-arrival at Vadodara
My questions are
1)what are approximate price of taxi for this manali to return manali whole journey
2)can is it double pangong lake to pang/sarchu in one day?
3)is this itinerary is good?
4)advise if any
Thank you in advance sir
Please reply sir
Hi Hiren,
Are you planning to hire taxis for the entire trip because you will have to rent multiple. Your Manali taxi will not be allowed in Leh.
Hey Vargis, Thanks for the detailed guide! Planning a road trip to Ladakh with my friends and this will surely help me. Keep Blogging
Thanks Jatin Bhai for taking the time to drop a note.
thanks for sharing useful travel details for leh ladakh, but can you please suggest any of best travel agency in leh, we need local transport to visit. please help me
Please contact Rohit @ 9999622213 or 9910722252
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Hi Vargis,
I am Planning to go to Ladakh in the third week of September. My Itinerary is
Day 1. Amritsar – Leh Flight (Via Delhi) – Only local sightseeing on day 1
Day 2. Leh – Diskit- Hunder
Day 3. Hunder – Turtuk
Day 4. Turtuk – Pangong Tso
Day 5. Pangong Tso – Hanle
Day 6. Hanle – Tso Morriri – Leh
Day 7. Leh – Kargil
Day 8. Kargil – Srinagar, Srinagar – Amritsar Flight
1. Would like to know if this is doable especially Day 6.
2. Please suggest if any other changes are required
3. Do I need to pre-book all the hotels or can it be done on the spot.
4. Will I get a shared taxi for the entire trip?
Regards
My travelling plan 1 sep to 7 sep 19. Is it safe as all state facing heavy rains & recently landslide in manali.
& also advise Nubra to Pangong(Via Shyok river) it will be safe or not ?
Hard to predict, it is not safe right now to go via Manali. Nubra and Pangong will be OK.
hello vargis,
Earlier we had planned a vacation to visit leh via Srinagar from Delhi on 30 august 2019.we have leaves for aroumd 19 days.
Now we are re-planning the route to LEH via Manali on our own motorcycles and return from leh via spiti valley to Shimla and then Delhi.
In the current scenario is it safe to travel to leh via manali.???
keep up the good job you are doing and praying for return of peace for the beautiful people of Kashmir.
regards
sourav nath
Hi Sourav, Ladakh and Manali route are safe, no worries there.
Thank you for the update
You are welcome !!!
Hello Vargis! Due to the current situation, the treks are cancelled. And thus, I’m left with to and fro flight tickets from Srinagar (on 22nd August and 30th August). Please do suggest me the best option to avail them as I’ll not get any thing if I cancel them from my side. Is it safe to visit Leh in those days? Will there be any transport facility? If so could you suggest me the itinerary. Thanks in advance.
Hi Srini – You should cancel your tickets for now, its curfew there. I am cancelling my tickets too for 30th Aug.
It seems cancellation penalty would be levied by the Airlines. If the Govt says no to tourists then why do these airlines don’t follow the guidelines. Really confused. Will you wait till the last minute or cancel the tickets?
They are giving a full refund only till 16th of August as of now so I haven’t cancelled yet. Will call the airline again in next couple of days to find out if the date has been extended. There is no point in going right now really. Nothing has happened because of the increased security but the real outcome will only be be visible after the curfew is relaxed. It is a security risk.
Hi, I’m planning to visit Leh-Ladakh on 17th August. (Delhi to leh via flight) . What is the latest situation there? Is it safe now? (I’m coming from Sri Lanka)
Ladakh is completely safe.
Hey Vargis…our journey is well planned(Confirm train tickets,Confirmed hotel bookings)but again the situation arised in Kashmir… Worried so much…
Called our hotel yesterday, they told me that it is better if you ignore kashmir route.But we are supposed to go by Srinagar to leh bus.Our journey is on October12 from Kolkata.
What to do now plss help.
Too early to say anything right now Sayak. Only the coming weeks will tell if Srinagar will be safer in October or not. My own trip is at stake. All we can do right now is wait and observe.
Yes Vargis same situation going on our mind…just to wait and observe..
Patience…Patience…Patience…
Hope everything goes well.
True !!!
Hello Vargis, because I am italian I dont know how is the real situation in India so I want to ask you how is safe to visit Ladakh in august with the current sitation in kashmir-
Thanks a lot.
Pietro
Hard to say anything as of now Pietro. Only time will tell how the people react and the situation develops. Give it a few more days, a week at least and then decide whether to continue or cancel
What do you think of current situation in Jammu Kashmir?
I have booked a flight from Srinagar- Mumbai on 17th August?
I am flying in to Leh on 7th August.
Should we cancel our plan or should we avoid Srinagar and return via Manali to Mumbai.
Please advise, Very confused what to do
Can you please give your contact number on my email address?
Wait for next few days and see how the situation develops before you decide on what to do. If the situation in Kashmir remains tense then you should return via Manali.
Hi Deepali , were you able to return from leh to srinagar and as a result take the flight from srinagar? please let me know as i am planning to book tickets from srinagar to mumbai for 1st week of october
I am planning with my family. I want stay Package. Is it very difficult?
No it is not
Hi, we have booked nature nest camp in pangong for stay on 14th August with family. Will it be too cold at night ? Are there any good wooden or cemented structures where you can stay close to pangong lake where it will not be too cold ? Thanks
Yes it will be a bit cold but only if you step outside. The camps are all very warm inside. There are a few cottages as well but the inside environment will be the same as camps.
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The information is helpful, I also like to know if I take bike on rent from Delhi whether original rc is required. Because from Delhi they are not providing original RC BUT photocopy they will give
You will need the RC of course.
Hi Vargis, I have already booked the flight tickets to Leh and back. I am now looking for accommodation and local transportation. Spoke to a few hotels for complete tour package. It’s costing approx 70K minimum for 3 people. Is this a reasonably good rate? Hotels are cheaper if we book through online apps but in that case, how do we book transportation? Is it possible to find private taxis once we land in Leh? What would be the cost for 6/7day private taxi? Please suggest.
70k sounds a little much for accommodation for 3 people. Book it on your own Balaji. Shared taxis are easily available from Leh Bus stand itself. Fare depends on the destination and not duration really
Hi Vargis,
I have two extra days as a solo traveler before joining a group (first week of September). Is it advisable to go to Tso Moriri on Day 2 and Day 3 from Leh, (after rest on Day 1), as the group tour is not covering Tso Moriri? First time to Ladakh (flying in to Leh). Would one day rest in Leh be enough to acclimatize to Tso Moriri altitude?
Thanks,
Paritosh.
Hi Paritosh,
Yes that would be a good idea but make that call once you are there in Leh. Rest on Day 1 and if you feel better, go to Moriri on Day 2. If you felt symptoms of AMS on Day 2 as well in the morning, best would be to rest in Leh as well because going to Moriri will just make the situation worse.
Very good post!!
It’s looking nice and containing good information. Thanks for sharing this post.
Thanks for taking the time to drop a note Varun
Dear Vargis,
do I need to book from here the guesthouses in Ladakh in the second half of August?
Thanks a lot from Rome
Pietro
Hi Pietro – No you will find accommodation on the spot as well
Hi Vargis. We are Roadwanderers_wanderislife. We are couple riders. have planned a trip to leh in July next month from Delhi to Leh via srinagar following the route you recommended above. Due to Time constraint we are flying back to Delhi on 28th July, Sunday. What are the possible options of shipping the bikes from Leh to Delhi?
There are a few travel agencies in Leh that can do it for you. Based on a friend’s experience from last year,
1. It will be a costly affair
2. He got his bike back almost after a month and a half
3. There were damages to the bike
Hi vargis,
Your blog is extremely useful.
I will be visiting leh for 8 days and 9 nights which includes leh, nubra, pangong and tsomoriri.
Is there anyway I can include either chanthang national park or hemis national park.
Also is it worth it ?
Hi dear Vargis, I am an italian man and I am planning to go to Ladakh next august. Thanks a lot for your precious information. I want to ask you how many ways I have to come back to manali from Leh by road (I think to go to Leh by plane and comingback by car). Can I take a shared taxi or a shared jeep?
Thanks.
You are great
Hi Pietri,
Thank you for your kind words. You can come from Leh to Manali by Bus, private taxi, shared taxi or rented motorcycle.
Thanks for your preciuos anwer. My last question: because of I will go alone, do you think it is possible/easy to find a seat in a private taxi going back to Manali? I mean is it easy and common to share a private taxi with other tourists?
Thanks a lot
Pietro
Yes, you will easily find a seat.
Hi Vargis,
I would say….if one day in this summer the road to Manali will be opened because of I ve just read your last article….snow in June!!!
🙂
thanks a lot.
cheers.
Pietro
Hi Petro – As of now the estimate is that it will open by June 10th 🙂
Hi, we are planning to go to Leh by September by flight and will reach by 10 am. Can we plan for Nubra valley on Day 2 after taking rest on day 1?
Yes you can but you will have to arrange permits before it.
That we will try to arrange. Thanks bro.
Sorry Vargis for my questions but I am planning my solo trip and I have to take advantage of your wisdom about travelling in Ladakh. I have a doubt….because of I have the flight back to Italy the day 3 of september and the second half of august is monsoon time in India: do you suggest to come back from Leh to Manali – Delhi by plane or by car? Do you think is safer by plane? I only dont want to regret not to make that fantastic road….Any suggestion?
Thanks a lot
Pietro
Hey Guys.
I want to share my one concern with all of u.
Actually Me & Mine 3 friends had being preparing for Ladakh circuit on 7th of June, 2019 (Night) with 2 Bikes, since from one month ago.
But, Uncertainty one of our friend had some unconditional circumstances at home so he won’t join us for trip.
All of us had earlier done Lahul & Spiti on early October winter altogether & gather mesmerising experience.
We also had done lots of Biking & Trekking trails last year –
Badrinath Riding (single day)
Solo Camping at kodai jungle &
Valley of Flower Trekking & Also Explore the Corbett National park trails and many more….
But, Today when there is only 1 week left for 7th June, 2019 .. We have no choice left because 3 people with 1 bike make no worth.
Hence, still as a hope i have posted my query to this page that if someone planning or wants to go in Ladakh on 7th June, 2019 . Please join us & take our one friends with him so that Dreams won’t die of our third friend.
My Name is Rohan Nahar from Delhi wish to complete the Ladakh circuit on 7th June,2019 via Srinagar to Leh to Manali within 10-12 days.
Do Make Call or what’s app on this Number – 8376072108 to join.
Mail – [email protected]
Jai Hind . Keep Safe . Make Enjoy!
Hi Vargis,
We are planning a Road trip to Ladakh.
Can you please suggest a way to visit Sasoma and / or Murgo?
Thanks in advance!!!
Cheers!
Hi Vargis,
Our plan to Chandigarh -jammu-srinagar-kargil-leh from 25th May to 05 June.
Now news is Srinagar National Highway Closed Due to Landslide. please suggest :
1. Any alternate route
2. should be cancel or delay the trip
3. Is this clear by tomorrow, any update.
Thanks in advance,
Amit Thakur
Hi Vargis,
First of all, hats off to your painstaking efforts to make all this knowledge available to the public!
I plan to visit Ladakh in the first week of September (flying in to Leh, and have 7 full days excluding the travel days). Solo traveler, but don’t want to be too adventurous. So how feasible is to tie up with some travel agency or hotel in Leh, so that they can add me to an existing group after I arrive in Leh? Or should I try to arrange everything beforehand?
I don’t want to go running around for accommodation or transport options everywhere but I don’t want to book a full package from Delhi/Mumbai. I am ok with a little above budget travel, but not too exorbitant. My itinerary is flexible (you can assume the usual places for first timers–Leh, Nubra valley, Pangong, maybe Tso Moriri).
Any tips would be helpful.
Thanks,
Paritosh.
Hi Paritosh – It all depends on how you are planning to move around in Leh. Planning on your own will cost you less than joining some tour group.
But getting shared rides and accommodation on my own would be easy? I mean ok not to plan it all ahead months in advance? I don’t want to reach Leh and then find out that the only option I have is to hire a private taxi all for myself 🙂
Dear Paritosh. I stayed in a Hostel named Zostel (Shaheen Guest House) Very reasonabley priced and u can share taxi ride pillion with other guests staying there. There is a notice board where u can requeast for a trip or offer shared trips. Works well in good season.
Hi Vargis
The articles you have written are extremely helpful for all the travelers out there who wish to visit Leh, this almost looks like Wikipedia. 🙂
I am looking for some inputs from your end for my Manali-> Leh–> Srinagar adventure and its going to be a solo. Any tips from you on this is highly appreciated.
Below is my plan.
28th June : Bangalore to Delhi via flight and board evening bus to Manali.
29th June : Explore Manali
30th June : Manali to leh via Keylong
1st July : Reach Leh and explore Leh
2nd July : Leh to Nubra Valley
3rd July : Nubra to Leh
4th July : Leh to Pangong Tso
5th July : Pangong Tso to Leh
6th July : Explore Leh
7th July : Leh to Sriningar
8th July : Reach Srinagar in the morning and take flight in the afternoon to Bangalore.
Note : I am on a budget trip and mostly want to utilize only public bus and choose shared taxi only in worst case. I often go on high altitude mountain treks so not much issue on mountain sickness.
Thanks in advance.
Vinutha
Hi Vinutha – Thank you for your kind words. Your itinerary looks good and doable.
Hello sir
Kindly help me about m visiting to ladhak with my wife
9th July – reaching Leh
10night – nubra
11- pangong
12 – Leh ( or I should visit some other place and from there can move to Kargil )
13- Kargil
14- Srinagar hotel drop ( Srinagar hotel not needed in package )
6 days 5 nights
Couple
Is it ok , should I go to somewhere else rather then coming back to Leh on 12 th. From there I can move to Kargil . Do u have something to say about Srinagar boat houses to stay over night
Kindly reply my khan
Bro.. I going to ladhak leh via jammu Srinagar Kargil leh manali chandigarh. In btw August 24th to sep3.. Is it a good time to visit
Yes this is a good time to go Sandeep. But make the final call in August only after checking how the Monsoon trends this year.
Bhai ji namaskar,
Hum 3log(family) 12june ko lucknow se nikalenge via jammu,srinagar. Hum leh ladakh aur spiti ek sath karna chahte hai
Humne jo circuit socha hai wo aapko day by day bata du.(ambala,patnitop,sonmarg,leh,siachin base camp,dikshit,meerak,hanley,tsomoriri,upshi,keylong,kaza,chandigarh,delhi,lucknow.)
Mere paas nexon petrol hai aur main har baat ke liye prepare rehna chahta hu kyuki mere alawa meri family me dono ladies hai(age-36&38).
So agar aap humari trip plan karne me humari help kare to aapke aabhari rahenge.
Budget hotels,medication,reserve fuel,aur jo kuch bhi hume sath carry karna chahiye jo hume nahi pata hota aur bure waqt me jarurat pad sakti ho.
Is pure circuit ko kaise plan kare.? Kab kaha ruke aur kis route ko follow kare.?
Jaise hum leh se khardungla ho ke siachin base camp ja ke dikshit ya huntar rukna chahte hai aur next day agham shyok ho ke panggong jana chahte hai. Meerak isliye rukna socha kyuki pata chala waha budget stay mil jayega jabki aur jagah per kaafi mehnga hai.
Hum night stay under 800-1000 me karna chahte hai.
Aur jo aapse advice ho jaye wo us hisaab se taiyari kar lenge.
Ye trip humari family ka sapna hai bhaiji aur aapse behtar guide hume nahi mil sakta so please humari is trip ko achchi yaado wali trip banane me humari help kare.
Hume aapke guidence ka intzaar rahega
Dhanywad
Kitne din ke liye trip plan kar rahe ho aap?
15-18din ke liye
Bhaiji i am still waiting
Bhaiji namaskar,
Aaj permit apply kar raha tha so confuse ho gaya kyuki usme agham shyok ho ke pangong jane ka koi route permit nahi show ho raha hai
Ek option me khardungla warshi tkyashi and 2nd option me karu changla durbuk meerak hai
So kaise kya kiya jayega.?
Namaskar Pushkar Bhai – Shyok road ka alag se koi permit nahi hota. Aapko Nubra Valley aur Pangong ke hi permits hain. Shyok road ke liye bhi vahi chal jaayenge. Vaise online permit na hi ho. Vahan jakar on the spot hi le lena kyunki stamp karane ke liye office toh aapko jana hi padega.
Thanks bhai
You are welcome !!!
Bhai what about urination facility in arround leh and ladakh? Actually bhai jis tarah hume paani pite rehna hai to jahir hai ki washroom jana hi padega and hum logo ko to utni problem nahi hai but ladies ke liye to ye problem hi hai raaste me travel karte time.? So tell me on route facelities.(example – leh khardungla to nubra.
Koi intezaam nahi hai as such … beech beech mein chhote dhaabe vagerah aate rehte hain, vahan dekh sakte ho
Namaskar,
Bhai humne aapse kaha tha ki 9ko nikalenge so according to that 13ko leh me honge aur fir nubra(warshi,turtuk) aur pangong(via agham syok) ke baad hum leh se keylong aur waha se kaza jayenge.
Bhai ab tak koi road status (open or close) nahi pata chala hai aapke paas koi update hai to please hume bataiye ya hum kaha se pata kar sakte hai.?
1. Leh-keylong
2. Keylong-kaza
Pushar Bhai 10 tareekh tak khulne ki ummeed hai is waqt baaki aage toh sab BRO par depend kar sakta hai. Pakki confirmed date koi hai hi nahi.
Thanks bhai
Bhai main akela hi meri nexon drive karne wala hu pura circuit me koi suggetions.?
Aur bhai Maine tyre puncture kit , towing rope, oxygen can, tyre inflator, pressure gauge, nylon rope (in case skid anywhere so make snow chain), camphor, chocolates, glucose, electrol, dryfruits, diamox, medical kit with ibrufen ye prepare kar liya hai so anything else which i forgot.?
Bhai any suggetions.?
Nahi Bhai .. kaafi hai. Jerry Cans bhi rakh lo ek do 5 ya 10 liters wali spare fuel carry karne ke liye.
Gaadi mein heater use mat karna drive karte hue. Band gaadi mein heater chalega toh vahan mountain sickness ho sakti hai. Sheesha halka khula rakh kar hi chalana.
Vargis Bhai Thanks alot for the information. Hoping to meet you somewhere amidst beautiful mountains of ladakh.
Will be eagerly waitng to share my enthralling experience with you.
Have a gud life ahead.
You are welcome Pushkar Bhai. It will be a pleasure to meet you sometime. I was actually going to ask you that myself, that do let me know how your trip went after you return.
Hi mr. Vargis,
kindly let me know how and from where can I get permit for UMLING LA.
Hi Vatsal – Umling La is still off limits for tourists
Thanks a lot Mr. Vargis
You are welcome !!!
Hi, Vargis. Is it true that solo foreigners are barred from taking public transportation e.g. public bus, shared taxi, etc.? Aside from permit, bike rental and sensitive zone, is there any other restriction for foreigners to travel solo in this region?
No such restriction at all. The only restriction is accessibility to some close to border areas deemed as unsafe for foreign nationals
Hi All, There are enough accomm available in and around Pangong Lake. Some camps have been demolished but not all. I stayed in one yesterday and there were other biker groups. Roughly 100 pax can stay frm what i noticed. This is right nxt to lake. And more accomm available in Spangmik.
Thanks Premjit for sharing that information
Superb article Vargisji. We are travelling to Leh via Srinagar on 20th May. Considering the extended winter season. Will the road to Leh be opened till then.
Also, we will be halting first day at sonamarg. Second at kargil. Third and fourth at leh. Then one night halt at nubra and one at pangong. And then back to Leh. Is the schedule.
Hopefully we will be able to get over the AMS.
Also was curious to know if we get any shops / villages or hotels in between the road trips. Or is it hours of journey before you see any faces.
Hello Rajesh Ji, Thank you for your appreciating words.
1. Road – Yes it will be open by 20th May
2. Schedule – Yes it is OK and I am assuming that you are traveling by your own vehicle?
3. Yes, since you are traveling at a relaxed pace, you will be able to get over AMS
4. There are plenty of shops in between
Great.. thanks Vargisji.. thanks for the reply. Keep posting about this beautiful place.
Yes we will have a hired SUV for the entire journey. Any idea when the sunrise and sunset takes place around in May 20. Heard that it rises early and the trip would be better if we start early and end early in the evening.
What actually we can eat /drink to cope up with high altitude and the cold weather. We are Jains so have restrictions in food eating.
You are welcome !!!
Yes, starting early in the day is always the best thing to ensure that you are reaching your destination well in time. For AMS, please take a look at the post below. Nothing specific that yuo need to eat really.
https://vargiskhan.com/log/dealing-acute-mountain-sickness-ladakh/
Any updates on Srinagar leh highway opening date?
Also, camping at pangong as per your blog is banned. So where can we stay in case we need to spend a night nearby the river..
Also, any idea about the temperature difference likely in next one month. Currently they are hovering in the single digit.. can they touch double digit in next one month or so..
Srinagar Leh highway – May 1st
Camping at Pangong – It was banned earlier but as per the latest update, it will probably get allowed again at some distance from the lake
Temperature – Days will be pleasantly warm but nights will be very cold
Updates on Camping in Pangong please Vargis ji.. Also how is the route from Nubra to Pangong.. is it open and safe?
There are still a few camp sites operating at a little distance from the lake Rajesh Ji.
Camping at Pangong lake has been stopped by the Leh administration.
There are camps operating in Pangong now. At a distance from Lake. Not in the lake.
Thanks Premjit
I must thank you Vargis I had completed my trip between 23rd April and 1st May. Road conditions throughout is as expected. Leh – Fotu La good roads except broken stretches on Lamayuru – Fotu La. Snow on stretches reaching and leaving Khardung La. Generally good roads around Nubra. Diskit to Pangong has some broken stretches. 2 or 3 stream crossings. All manageable. Changla Pass was the toughest part. Lot of snow and traffic jams caused by inexperienced drivers/riders (me included) 🙂 Roads are bad descending Chang La towards Karu. Becomes really good nearing Karu till Ladakh.
An extraordinary article for the general population who need to head out to Ladakh… Making a trip to Ladakh has dependably been in my container list… This will unquestionably help as a kind of perspective
Thank you for the appreciating note !!!
Hi I am planning for a Leh trip in June second week. Reaching Leh by Delhi Manali Leh bus.Next day to visit Pangong Tso and return Leh by shared taxi. We 8 people are coming. So if we hire one taxi what would be estimate? and any other places can be covered on the way tovisit on the same day?
Similarly direct bus to Srinagar will be available from Leh that time? Details please
Hi Vargis, planning first visit to Leh with my wife. Please can you help in listing down the must visit places nearby. Plan is for 6-7 days. Will plan an itinerary based on your inputs.
The trip is planned in mid of May from Bangalore. And budget is 20k per person. Is it best to have a package trip or plan our own itinerary?
These are the places in my mind(may be not in order)
1. leh
2. kargil
3. khardungla
4. nubra valley – same as visit to diskit?
5. pangong
6. tso moriri
Also needed to know the camping options in the visited places to further places if it saves time.
Also, please let me know the cheapest and fastest way to Leh from Bangalore.
5night 6 days
Per Person Rs 18000 (excluding GST)
Inclutions
Taxi for 5 days 6th day drop at Airport or bus stand
Accommodation at 3* hotel reenam or similar
Lunch and dinner
Local sightseeing
Note : Camping has been stopped by Leh administration. Although visit is possible
Day-1 : Leh local Sightseeing
Stay at hotel reenam: 2 night
Visit to Spituk Monastery, Magnetic hill, Sangam of Zangakar & Indus river,
military Hall of Fame. Afternoon visit to Shanti Stupa (Japanes monastery), Leh
royal Palace.
Evening at Leh market for shopping Overnight at Leh.
Day-3: Leh to Nubra Valley
Stay at nubra organic retreat: 2 night
Morning drive to Nubra Valley 125km crossing Khardongla Pass 18360 ft, the
world highest motorable pass. At the top of Khardongla enjoy the nature beauty
of snowcapped Himalayan mountains and feel the closeness to Siachen Glacier.
Afternoon visit to Diskit and Hunder Monasteries and the white sand dunes.
Take a Camel Safari on the double humped camels. Overnight at Nubra valley
Day-5: Nubra Valley to Tsomoriri Lake
Stay at Tsomoriri lake view hotel or Tromoriri camp : 1 night
Hi Vargis, this blog is really informative. Great effort.
i am planning for a trip in 1st part of this July along with another friend. Looking forward to start & end our trip of Leh-Ladakh from Amritsar.
Wanted to know about renting bikes from there. Will it be good idea? As u had said few issues such as at Leh where we won’t be able to use other city rented bikes thr.
Hi Jijin – If you rent motorcycle from anywhere outside of Leh City, it can only be used to reach Leh. For visiting any other areas in Ladakh, you will have to rent another set of bikes from Leh and leave your Amritsar bikes parked at the hotel.
Thanks for the reply Vargis.
Apart from that any other issues in renting bike from Amritsar? Do we get many options for of d bikes & rental companies there? Any suggestions from your end?
No, that is the only issue. I am sorry but I do not have any rental contacts in Amritsar..
Hey Vargis
wanted to understand on the rental of bikes at Leh.
To go to Nubra Valley, Pangang Tso, Tso Moriri, etc we have to hire the bike locally from Leh?? Or if we can connect these places together (without coming to Leh) and continue on our bike which we will rent from Amritsar.
That is correct. You cannot rent a bike and take it to anywhere in Ladakh. For sightseeing, you will have to rent a local bike in Leh
Hello dear.. Can you please suggest whether the bike tour packages offered for leh trip is worthy or not.. If yes that what should be the best price.. I and my husband are planning to do a Srinagar to leh to Manali trip on bike this summer.. Your valuable opinion would be most appreciated
Hello Sneha – It all depends on what the tour package includes but yes they can be a good choice if you do not want to ride solo. Hard to predict a price because it will depend on the package.
Thank you Vargis for such prompt reply
You are welcome Sneha !!!
Hii Vargis,
I’m from Gujarat, booked the flights for Chandigarh round trip 1st june to 9th june. And I want to plan a tour to Leh. It would be so nice of you to help me plan out the itinerary for the same. I wish to visit Manali, Jispa, Leh, Nubra and Pangong. Thanks a lot.
I have prepared a rough layout. Please help me out with it. Thanks.
1st June – Arrive in Chandigarh Airport at 11:45 a.m. , Reach Manali by night. Night stay in manali
2nd June – Manali to Jispa
3rd June – Jispa to Leh
4th June – Sightseeing around Leh
5th June – Leh to Nubra (where should we slend overnight in Nubra?)
6th June – Nubra to Pangong (which route should we take?)
7th June – ???
8th June – ??? to Manali, Departure from Manali to Chandigarh
9th June – Reach Chandigarh Airport before 1:30 pm
I’m confused what to do on 7th june? Please help!
Hi Rutul – First of all, how are you planning to travel after you have landed in Chandigarh and throughout the duration of your trip.
Thanks for replying Vargis.
Actually We are a group of 7. From Chandigarh we will take a volvo bus till Manali. And then share taxi cab till Leh. Then we are planning to rent motorbikes around Leh. If we rent motorbikes from Leh to travel to Nubra and Pangong we will have to come back to Leh to return the bikes but I guess we do not have enough time to return back Leh. So if you can suggest any ideas!
Your itinerary looks Ok till Pangong. From Nubra to Pangong, you will reach via Shyok route. However, if you come back to Manali on Leh registered bike and left those there, you will have to pay about 10-15k more per bike over and above the rental. There is really no way around it. Either take it back to Leh or pay the money.
Yeah I am aware of that! So I guess we will have to opt for a car instead of bikes! But I want to know is that where should we plan to be on the 7th and 8th of june. I mean is there any place where we can have a hault(or spend a night) when traveling from Pangong to Manali?
And will the roads be open in may end-june beginning?
Yes the roads will be all open by then.
Yes you could opt for a taxi as well but know that it will cost you way more. Take an estimate of about 40k for Leh – Nubra – Pangong – Manali journey; could even be more. If you are OK with the price then it would be a good choice. From Pangong, come back to either Pang or Sarchu and stay there for the night. Next day, do Pang/Sarchu to Manali.
If taxi is not within budget, then you would to add a day to your plan, go back to Leh from Pangong, drop the bikes and then either catch a bus for Manali; or board a shared taxi.
Since you explored ladakh area many times, I want to ask Can I go from Jispa – Zanskar Sumdo – Purne- Anmo – Padum on Motorcycle (specifically from Purne to Anmo ) What about road conditions, i want to go in summers. Waiting your reply Vargis Bhai….
Rohit Bhai the road connecting Jispa and Padum is not yet complete so no, you cannot take this road right now.
Thanks for replying
You are welcome !!!
Hi, I have plan to ride Cgarh – Kargil – Ladakh and return via same route or via Rohtang between April 22 – May 1. Do u think it is doable wrt weather conditions?
Srinagar Leh route yes but not via Manali. That will not open at least until Mid May
Thank you. If i plan one side via Killar – Kistwar is it better doing onward journey or while returning? Or it doesnt matter 🙂
You mean take Killar Kishtwar route to exit on Manali Leh highway? Even that will not be possible before late May. Sach Pass opens sometimes in early June to be exact.
No instead of taking pathankot was thinking of doing via dalhousie – killar – kistwar – srinagar one way.
Same thing. From Dalhousie you will have to take the Sach Pass route via Bairagarh which won’t be open till late May or early June
I understand now. So if i want to experience the “cliffhanger” only option is to ride back and forth on the way back if time permits. Thank you for the clarification. Will update the road condition and details as i start the trip. Cheers.
Hi vargis, My trip is planned like hiring bike from Chandigarh and the rout is like Chandigarh – Jammu – Srinagar- kargil- leh- Pangong- manali – Chandigarh. Would spend some time to gulmarg and other places as well. I appanning to go by mid of May month and it’s 2 weeks trip. Will the routs are open and climate is ok for bike ride on that time ? Please give me your suggestions if there any changes to be made . Thanks
Hi Ajmal – Yes the route via Srinagar will be all open by Mid-May but it really depends on the weather.
Hello Vargis,
We are planning to visit Leh on 19th oct 2018 by flight and will be right back by 26th oct. and we are planning to rent a bike tell me is it possible in a week.
We r three people
Hi Shaifali – Sorry about the delayed response. Yes it is possible but do pack and prepare for cold weather since you are planning on riding around a bike.
Need urgent help..We stuck in leh due to rain.we have to go to nubra today but roads closed.our driver said to shift plan further by one day but we have to come back at same day we were coming because permit can’t be extended..We will miss turtuk and hot water springs.. Please guide.
Hi Mandeep – Sorry about the delayed reply. I missed your question until now.
Hello Vargis, I was eonderwon if you knew whether it is possible for tourists to visit Hanle on the PAP noe, or whether it is still of limits. We would love to visit the Observatory there!
Thank you, laura
Hi Lauradelee – Sorry to tell you but Hanle is completely off limits for foreign nationals due to security reasons. With a PAP, you can travel no further than Pangong Tso.
Hi Vargis,
Thanks for the elaborate & wonderful travel guide. I am planning to travel to Leh on 21st Sep and return on 02 nd Oct from Srinagar.
Day 1 – Arrive at Leh
Day 2 – Leh – Enroute Khardungla – Nubra Valley
Day 3 – Nubra – Turtuk – Nubra
Day 4 – Nubra – Leh
Day 5 – Leh – Pangong
Day 6 – Pangong to Tsomoriri
Day 7 – Tso Moriri – Leh
Day 8 – Head to Kargil
Day 9 – Kargil to Srinagar
Day 10 – Srinagar
Day 11 – Day trip of Gulmarg
Day 12 – Flight
Will book a car with a driver.
This is my itinerary, please could you let me know if I am need to add any more places in ladakh
Many Thanks
Sourav
Hi Sourav,
You do not have to come back to Leh from Nubra. You can go directly to Pangong from there. Plan it like this.
Day 1 – Arrive at Leh
Day 2 – Leh – Enroute Khardungla – Nubra Valley
Day 3 – Nubra – Turtuk – Nubra
Day 4 – Nubra – Pangong via Shyok road
Day 5 – Pangong – Hanle via Chushul
Day 6 – Hanle to Tsomoriri
Day 7 – Tso Moriri – Leh
Day 8 – Head to Kargil
Day 9 – Kargil to Srinagar
Day 10 – Srinagar
Day 11 – Day trip of Gulmarg
Day 12 – Flight
Please can you tell me the approximate cost if I book a personal cab for my entire trip. Your prompt response will be really nice 🙂 Planning to book everything by this weekend. Need to plan my expenses accordingly.
We are group of 4 ppl.
Talk to Nasir in Leh @ 9906229203. He runs his own taxi there and can give you the cost estimate.
Much Thanks for the prompt response. Any other place should I incorporate in my itinerary. In Nubhra, I am going to Hunder and turtuk.
In pangong I am planning to book royal camp, Apple Nubhra cottage in Nubhra and Tso moriri inn in karzok, Any idea or inputs, how are this place ?
Many Thanks
Sourav
Hi Vargis,
How is the situtation now in leh after cloudbusrt?
Hi Siddharth – Situation is fine and under control. It was just one village that was affected.
First of all I want to than you Mr. Vargis. I traveled to leh ladakh from 23rd June to 7th July. Your blog help me lot. Many places I have seen which other Traveller don’t know the name .
I’m traveling again in Sept end. I want to ask you about one rout.
Instead of going diskit via khardung la if we take this rout than how?
Leh- thiksey- kari- chemrey- sakti- khalsar
Kindly reply
Thank you Vatsal. I think you are asking about the Wari La route. Take a look at this post please.
https://vargiskhan.com/log/nubra-valley-to-pangong-tso-via-wari-la/
Hi Vargis,
Thank you very much for providing such extensive information on your site. It has become my bible for Ladakh trip planning.
I will be traveling there from 3rd Aug to 19th Aug 2018 and I wanted to check with you couple of things –
1. Delhi-Srinagar-Kargil-Leh-Manali-Delhi Route: how rainy will that route be, is that area prone to landslides as well? Is it safe security wise to go during that time especially since it is around Independence day (yesterday also there were couple of shootings in Srinagar)?
2. Manali Leh Manali route: I am expecting that I won’t find much rains after crossing Rohtang pass but since it has been raining very heavily that side in past few days, will it be safe to travel due to landslides,cloud bursts,strong flowing streams etc?
Hi Rishabh – It can rain anywhere anytime these days brother, there is no telling. Ladakh is in a rain shadow area and it is not supposed to be raining there at all but these days, it rains even in Ladakh too. Fried of mine just came back yesterday and they encountered rain at Pangong – Hanle route. So the only thing to do is to prepare well for the rain and travel carefully.
Hi Vargis, thank you for providing such fantastic information – it has been an immense help in planning our trip!!
I was wondering if you could advise what electricuty sockets we’re likely to find throughout Manali, Leh, Nubra, Pangong region. I’ve read both 2 pin and 3 pins but I was wondering if one of more common.
I appreciate electricity might be scarce or limited in some areas, but I would at least like to have the best adapters!
Hi Lauradelee – There is really no definite telling, entirely depends on the choice of the hotel owner. But yes, 2 pins are more common than 3 pins.
Hello Vargis , Actually m going 2 Ladakh 1st tym , so i don’t have any Idea about routes , but i want 2 cover d below places
Leh
Khardungla Pass
Magnetic hill
Pangong Lake
Rohtang Pass
Spiti valley
Killar valley (complete cliffhanger route)
Sach pass
So can i cover all these in circuit & how many days it will take to travell all these places & btw my 1st priority is Killar valley & Sach Pass , specially High Passes & is Umlingla accessable now or not or any other High passes with in these places route
If you want to cover Ladakh, Spiti and Pangi all n the same trip then you need at least 3 weeks to do it. Umling La is off limits for tourists so you cannot go that way; at least not this year.
Thanx 4d reply & ya i can spent 3 weeks 4 it , but can u plz suggest the route
You are welcome. How are you traveling and from where?
M travelling 4rm bike , 4rm Lucknow (UP)
Hi Mr. Khan,
I am an avid admirer of your blog. It has some fantastic information about Spiti Valley & Leh-Ladakh.
The reason I am writing this is I am planning a road trip to Leh-Ladakh in May-June next year. We shall be travelling in group of 6 people of 28-35 age in a single SUV.
Following is the itinerary I customised for this trip. The trip has to be complete within 10 days due to time constraint.
Please look into it if it shall be possible & it would be very helpful if you can tell me how much the approximate trip cost shall be incurred per person (no breakup needed) as I shall have to pitch it to my fellow travellers.
Day 1 Delhi-Patnitop
Day 2 Patnitop-Sonamarg
Day 3 Sonamarg-Leh (Lamayuru Monastery, Likir Monastery)
Day 4 Leh Local sightseeing (Leh Palace, Santi Stupa, Get Inner Line Permit)
Day 5 Leh-Nubra Valley (Khardung La Pass, Diskit Monastery)
Day 6 Nubra Valley-Pangong Lake (Shey Palace, Thicksey Monastery, Hemis Monastery)
Day 7 Pangong Lake-Hanle-Chumathang (Chusul, Hanle Observatory, Hanle Monastery) Return to Chumathang for night stay
Day 8 Chumathang-Tso Moriri-Sarchu (Tso Moriri Lake, Tso Kar Lake)
Day 9 Sarchu-Manali (Keylong & Khardung La Pass)
Day 10 Manali-Delhi
Hello Mr. Das,
Giving a cost estimate will really be tough because it will actually depend on lot of factors, fuel cost being the highest, accommodation next. The route above will have you drive about 3500 kilometers so depending on your car’s mileage, you can do the math. At an average, keep a minimum budget of Rs. 2000 per room for accommodation, Rs 1000 per person. Rest of the expenses will really depend on you. Take a look at the article below.
https://vargiskhan.com/log/calculate-minimum-budget-for-ladakh-trip/
Your itinerary too would have to be changed a bit. Sonamarg to Leh will be a very long journey. so you must start early, by first light of the day. You cannot cover Hanle on Day 7 and then reach Chumathang, that is just not possible. You will have to give up Hanle and head straight to Karzok on this day. Do Karzok to Sarchu on Day 8 and then to Manali and Delhi.
Hi Mr. Khan,
Thanks a lot for your response. Actually I forgot to mention that we shall be going to Leh-Ladakh trip in hired car as we are from Kolkata & hence it shall not be possible for us to self drive. Also we prefer budget accommodation. I just wanted to know how much shall be our gross cost of the trip.
Thanks again for your input.
A great article for the people who want to travel to Ladakh… Traveling to Ladakh has always been in my bucket list… This will surely help as a reference
Thank you for appreciating !!!
Hi Vargis,
We are planning a trip to Leh in Mid October. I have heard from people that its not advisable to stay overnight at Pangong in that season as it will be very chilly. But bloggers and travelers have strongly recommended an overnight stay in Pangong to completely absorb its beauty. Would you recommend staying overnight at Pangong in mid October 2018. Also, would you recommend Alpine Huts for that stay. I am really planning to book one of them.
Thanks in advance
Mansi
Hi Mansi – Yes, if you are going to Pangong then a night stay there is highly recommended. Without it, you will barely touch the lake and start on your way back to Leh. Huts are a great choice for stay, better than some of the camp sites actually.
Thanks for the prompt reply. Would bug you again in case of any questions 🙂
You are welcome !!! 🙂
Hi Vargis, this is Swati here from Doha. I plan to visit leh by flight from Delhi. I will be travelling alone. Kindly assist me in simple safe itinerary with best hotels and not sure what is the best camp in pangong(as I heard there are no hotels there) I prefer a short trip of 5-7days max as I will be leaving behind my 4 year old son with my husband and in laws, so I need to get back asap as this will be my first-time leaving my son behind, so I might be very anxious. Is the idea of going to leh and nearby places alone crazy or I should not think so much and go for it? How do i commute to all these places? Money is not a problem so pls suggest me the best hotels and transportation. Your blog is amazing. No amount of thanks is enough.planning to travel on 24th July till 31st July.thanks.
Hello Vargis,
We will be visiting from the UK in September. Can you tell me if it possible to obtain 2 consecutive protected area permits, so that we will have access for 14 days?
I know it is not always possible to extend a permit, so I wondered if this option is possible, as we will have 2 weeks to enjoy your beautiful country and we would like to spread out our visits to each place.
Many thanks
Laura
Hi Lauradelee – As far as I know, you would not get 2 consecutive permits but the best person to answer that would be a travel agent. These guys have contacts and he may be able to manage you a permit for 14 days.
Hi, Vargis ..
We are planning a trip from to Leh.
We plan as follow:
Day 1-Arrive in leh
Day 2-Leh to Nubra
Day 3-Nubra to Pangong
Day 4-Pangong to Leh
Day 5-Leh to tso moriri
Day 6-Tso moriri to leh
Day 7- Leh to Manali
Is this itinerary possible ??
can he hire cab/ taxi from leh for day 7 and drop it in manali and what will be the approximate cost involved .
Please guide
Hi PS,
Yes the itinerary is doable. For taxi in Ladakh, please contact Nasir @ 9906229203. He runs his own taxi in Ladakh and will be able to give you a cost estimate.
Hi Vargis Sir,, give me your email please, i will write up my experience of my travel to ladakh.
Things are much changed as compared to previous years
eg: if you are on a tight schedule, then it will be hard to get a sharing taxi during peak season (cabs are less & tourist are more), you will have to go to a agency and ask and make a deal as those agencies put sharing crowd in tempo travelers. but this happens rarely now
I’l give you details
Hi Jack Bhai,
My email is [email protected]
I will be very glad to publish your post on the blog. Definitely share some tips please that can be of help to others.
Sent you details 🙂
Got it brother. Just one more thing. Can you also write a few lines about yourself and send it? I would like to add a “About Jack Dcosta” box at the bottom of the article.
Thanks, emailed you!
Got it. Thanks brother.
Hi Vargis, did you upload my post?, if yes, share the link… thnkx in advance
Hi Jack – Posted at the links below.
https://vargiskhan.com/log/ladakh-travelogue/
http://roadragas.com/index.php?threads/ladakh-diaries-a-trip-to-remember.4012/
Sahi yaar. thnkx 🙂
My next trip is shimla manali, so i would be going through again on all your posts for rohtang pass, spiti valley, & chandratel lake…
Thanks again
That is awesome. When are you planning Spiti?
next year june..Spiti or chandratel, this time with my mum
You should do Spiti and Chandratal both. These days I actually like Spiti better than Ladakh. Way less crowded.
Correct, Ladakh is become very crowded with lot traffic these days.
Do you have any contact for this Spiti & Chandratal taxi package or have to search by own for taxi or agency in Manali
Sorry bro, don’t have any contacts for taxi or agencies.
Acha no worries..
Hello Vargis,
Please check if some modifications required in the itinerary we have planned for our trip
Please confirm if there will be issues in going directly from Nubra to Pangong and Pangong to Tso moriri (though the travel agent confirmed its feasible)
Also will there be issue of AMS because we will be staying overnight at Pangong at Moriri which are relatively at higher altitudes.
waiting for your suggestions.
Thanks you in advance
Itinarary
18th August:
Land at Srinagar airport and rents car for and directly move towards sonamarg and stay overnight
19th August:
Move from sonamarg towards kargill and stay overnight at kargill
20th August:
Move from kargill towards Leh covering magnetic hill, gurudwara, hall of fame, lamayuru and confluence of Indus and zanskar
Spend evening in leh
21st August:
Local day in leh visiting shey, thiskey and stock palace
Overnight at hotel
22nd August:
Guided Drive to nubra valley Stay overnight
23rd August
Do atv activity and camel ride on sand dunes
drive towards pangong lake
Over night stay at pangong
24th August
After breakfast leave for tso mori lake and stay overnight tso mori
25th August
After breakfast leave for leh
26th August
Leave by morning flights
Your itinerary is fine Chandan but how are you planning to go from Pangong to Moriri? The permits for Chushul route are not being issued this year so you will have to come back from Pangong to Leh and then go to Moririri.
Hi Vargis, the agent confirmed there is no issue of permits currently. :/
Thanks Chandan. I too heard back that permits are now being issued for Chushul route.
I am not sure abt the trip from Pangong to tso moriri, our local hired driver in leh told us that this year, no permits will be issued on this route, and the route will be closed for tourists.
Some issue happened last year regarding a tourist rider who went on this route and lost his way and passed the checkpost without checking in – out and some mismatch became regarding entry and exit of vehicles along that way… so just keep in mind
Regarding AMS.. the key point is dont do any activity in haste manner, just walk slow 7 dont exhaust yourself
if you feel you are going out of breath, just sit down, have good amount of water and relax for few mins
Thanks Jack. And yes, You are right. They were not issuing permits for Chushul route and Hanle earlier this year but have started now.
Sir, we are planning to start our journey from 8th june to 17th .Following are the iternery
1. Chandigarh to solang Valley. will stay one night. 8th jun
2. Solang to Jispa.will stay for one night
3. Jispa to Upsi. we r avoiding sarchu due to ams.but What about accomodation?
4. Upsi to leh.
Actually we have 10 days only.so we have doubt should we go to Ladhak or not?
Can u tell us best possible iternery. we r only 2 on a single bike.Actually we r more concerned abt Ams.
Also I have migraine prblm. Should I worry reaching leh?
Hi Vipul – Why do you want to stay at Upshi? There is nothing there and it is hardly 1 hour away from Leh. Why not go directly to Leh?
Hello sir,
Actually we have doubt whether we will be able to make it to leh or not from Jispa or not.
Also tell us should we carry fuel or not. We have avenger 220
Yes you can make it to Leh from Jispa but just make sure that you start by first light of the day. Regarding fuel, please take a look at the post below.
https://vargiskhan.com/log/fuel-availability-in-leh-ladakh-manage/
Vargis Bhai, Hats off to your efforts to provide info. and guidance for Ladakh travellers like us.
We are leaving on 1st June morning from Chandigarh in 2010 model Maruti SX Zxi ( 2 couples – 4 person in total ) . Hoping for no issue with the vehicle. . Will reach Jammu ( 1st) , Srinagar (2nd) , Kargil(3rd) & Leh (4th June). Return via manali starting from Leh on 11th June . No hotel booking done so far.
Kindly advice on hotel availability and road conditions and availability of Petrol in Nubra and Leh Manali highway cos I don’t want to carry petrol can in my car due to safety hazards. Thanks & Regards. – Pradeep
Pradeep Bhai – Sorry about delayed response. I guess you are already on your way by now.
Hi vargis bhai,
Loved your article for planning a trip to ladakh.
I am planning a trip to ladakh next july with my cousins
I know its too early to ask,but if you could help me out with the itinerary for around 7-10 days.
And which route will be best as i am really adventure junkie for to and fro travel.
And lastly is it advisable to do self camping while on the trip maybe near leh or any place in between any recognisable nearby stop or village.
Thanks
Vikram Bhai – Thank you for your kind words. Where are you traveling from and how are you traveling? You can definitely camp on your own but not everywhere. There are several dhabas en route and it would be wise to camp close to a dhaba rather than in the middle of nowhere.
Hi Varghis bhai,
Thanks for your response.
Day1-I will be travelling from mumbai by flight and will meet my cousins in jammu who stay there.
Day 2- From Jammu we are planning to go srinagar and maybe halt there for sighseeting that day.
Day 3- Leave for Leh.
Currently we have i20 vehicle for journey and we are 5 people.
But we are trying to arrange for an SUV as it is more comfortable and safe and maybe couple of more guys may join us after that.
So pls advise for remaining itinerary
Including at what places to stay during journey.
I am travelling for the first time to ladakh and want places like pangong lake, Nubra Valley etc to be covered.and other must see places.as well.
We are planning 7 days for Ladakh places only
So kindly suggest places as per 7 days
And then while returning planning to come by Manali route.
And as before pls suggest places for stay during there as well.
Lastly, pls sugget cost of petrol per person if we go by I20 or if we plan to go by Suv for Jammu- Srinagar- Leh- Manali route
Thanks
Vikram
7 days will be a bit of rushed journey but you can travel in the following manner.
1. Srinagar to Kargil
2. Kargil to Leh
3. Leh (Arrange permits)
4. Leh to Nubra Valley (Diskit)
5. Diskit to Pangong via Shyok road
6. Pangong to Pang / Sarchu
7. Pang Sarchu to Manali
For cost estimate, please take a look at this article.
https://vargiskhan.com/log/calculate-minimum-budget-for-ladakh-trip/
Hello vargisji
Can u suggest me an itinerary for my parents for leh, nubra, pangong and tsomoriri and whatever sightseeing they can do while travelling through that way.
They will be reaching on 16th Aug and will need to catch return flight on 24th Aug.
And if any time is left they would like to visit zanskar and kargil.
Kindly suggest
Hello Vivek Ji – They are reaching there by flight and then hiring a local taxi, right? Or are they reaching there by road?
They will be reaching there by flight and then will hire a local taxi for the trip
kindly suggest the itinerary
Hello Vivek Ji,
They can follow the itinerary below.
16th – Leh – Rest and arrange permits
17th – Leh to Kargil
18th – Kargil to Leh
19th – Leh to Nubra Valley (Diskit)
20th – Nubra valley to Pangong via Shyok road
21st – Pangong to Leh
22nd – Leh to Tso Moriri
23rd – Moriri to Leh
24th – Fly Out
Dear vargisji
Thanks for the reply.
Is there anything to see or visit in Kargil. As my tour operator is saying that one should visit Kargil only if one visit Zanskar as there is nothing to see In Kargil. So need ur help
There is not much to see in Kargil but since it is your parents, it will be better for them to not rush through the journey and rest in Kargiil before coming back. For coming back to Leh, they can travel via Batalik as well.
Hai.. vargis
We are 6 in member , we are planning the trip for leh on sep,2018 can u jst suggest me what should be the better way to reach lah and visit all the places of leg. Our trip is for 7- 10 days at max
Hi Jyotishree, How are you traveling and from where?
Jyotishree Madam, My best half and I will be visiting Leh Ladakh during Sep 2018 for 10 days max. I have prepared the itinerary and sending to vargis khan for suggestions. once the itinerary is finalised i will post it in the road raga forum and you can decide upon that.
We are in 40s age from Chennai and pure veg, preferring Home Stays and Tourist Shared SUVs for our Trip via Srinagar route. Regards Sundar
Hello Mr. Chennai – Please let me know what your itinerary is and I will be happy to advise.
Vargis Bhai
We have arrived leh and planning for pangong tso tomorrow, we have kids age 3 and 8 should we make plan to stay in pangong overnight or should go and come back same day bearing in mind small kids
What sort of stay we may get in pangong I mean comfort and cozy. We have came via Srinagar by road
Thanks in advance
Sachin Bhai there are several camp sites at Pangong and they are quite warm and comfortable. I hope you are not planning to go to Pangong first. Please cover Nubra valley and then go to Pangong, thus giving more time for acclimatization. Nubra is actually at an even lower altitude than Leh so that will be helpful.
Hi Vargis.
I would be on Package Tour by Make My Trip, travelling from 21st May 2018 to 28th May 2018 ((7 Nights / 8 Days). We are group of 4. (Aged between 18 -45). Any thing to be arranged of my own or MMT will arrange every thing, which they are claiming to do. Any extra precaution to be taken by us, specially medication. What would be temperature during my stay period. What type of woolens to carry. Please advice
Hi Vinit – I am not sure about Makemytip or what arrangements they will make. Just carry some light woolens with a heavy warm and windproof jacket. Temperature will be warm enough during day but nights will get cold.
Ok so the revised itinerary is
Day 1 : Manali to Jispa night stay at jispa
Day 2 : Jispa-Sarchu-leh night stay at Leh
Day 3: leh local sightseen
Day 4: Leh to Nubra Valley night stay at Nubra valley
Day 5 : Nubra valley to Pangong lake
Day 6: Pangong to leh
Day 7: leh to Tso moriri via Chumatang
Day 8: Tso moriri to Sarchu via Tso kar
Day 9: Sarchu to Manali
I think this should be fine or any suggestions from your side.
Hello Vargis, First of all i would like to thankyou for such detailed information. We are planning to explore Leh in first-second week of July by our own vehicle. I would like to share my itinerary. Please go throughit and suggest some changes based upon your vast experience.
Day 1 : Manali to Jispa night stay at jispa
Day 2 : Jispa-Sarchu-leh night stay at Leh
Day 3: leh local sightseen
Day 4: Leh to Nubra Valley night stay at Nubra valley
Day 5 : Nubra valley to Pangong lake
Day 6: Pangong to Tso Kar/Tso moriri
Day 7: Tso kar/Tso moriri to Jispa
Day 8: Jispa to Manali
Hi Amit,
You cannot go directly from Pangong to Tso Moriri via Chushul. Permits for that are not being issued this year. You will have to return to Leh and then go to Moriri the next day so please add that day in between here.
From Tso Moriri, Jispa will be way too long. Do Moriri to Pang / Sarchu and then to Manali the next day.
Thanks for your support. Whether we can go to Tso Kar from Pangog on Day 6 and on Day 7 Tso Kar to Sarchu and on Day 8 Sarchu to Manali.
No Amit. You cannot do Pangong to Moriri right now. You will have to ,
Pangong to Leh
Leh to Moriri via Chumathang
Moriri to Sarchu via Tso Kar
Sarchu to Manali
amit bhai last year we went through this route. at the border of leh and sarchu we changed our car like we got into the j&k registered car and straight went to tsomoriri. from there next day we went to pangong lake and the day after we went to nubra. and last we went to leh. u can even do that if your travel agent of j&k arranges the car as i said
Hello sir, I’ll be reaching leh by 19th of this month. I’m planning to visit three places nubra pangong and tsomoriri. I do not know how to drive a geared bike but I have been driving scooter for past 3years. I’ll be renting scooter from leh probably access 125cc. Will it be in good condition? I have read ur article pertaining to scooter ride to leh but my concern are the scooters available there serviced properly? What things should I pay attention too before renting a scooter? Any other tips for scooter ride for this year?
There are a lot of people offering bikes and Scooters on rent. Some of them are good and some bad. You will have to test ride a few to find a good one.
Hello
We 5 people are planning to go Leh from delhi via Srinagar on 11th may by car. All Boys
Please plan our itinary’thanks in Advance
Hi – How many days do you have for the trip?
never seen such a lucid explanation capturing each and every nuance of the itinerary..great job bhai
Thanks Shakti Bhai for your kind words.
Hi Vargis,
I’m planning to do a complete circuit of spiti and leh and i’ll be travelling on my own vehicle (car) in june first week. I have prepared an itinerary for 14 days to cover both the places ( 4-5 days for Spiti valley and 7 days for Leh, nubra valley and pangong tso and tso moriri). However, wanted to be sure which route would be better to avoid AMS — (delhi -shimla -narkanda -chitkul -tabo -kaza -chandratal -keylong -leh) or (delhi -srinagar -leh – nubra valley -pangong tso -tso moriri – keylong -chandratal -tabo -kaza- chitkul -shimla -delhi) . Please advise as i would be travelling with my wife and friends. Also, please share any itinerary for the the complete trip (leh +Spiti).
Your suggestion will be great help for us…
Thanks,
Hi Abhi – Do Delhi, Shimla, Leh, Srinagar. It will be better this way. Let me know what your itinerary is and I can suggest any changes if required.
Hi Vargis
Thanks for your help. I have prepared the below itinerary for this trip which is completely based on google maps and few itineraries from your older posts. Please review and let me know if any changes are required.
Day 1 | Delhi – Shimla / Narkanda – SATURDAY (400 km/9-10 hrs)
Day 2 | Narkanda -Sangla / Chitkul (Kinnaur Valley) – SUNDAY (185km/6 hrs)
Day 3 | Chitkul – Pooh -Nako – Nako Lake – Geyu Mummy – Tabo – MONDAY ( 250km/ 5-6 hrs)
Day 4 | Tabo – Dhankar – Dhankar Lake – kaza – Losar -kunzum la – Chandratal – TUESDAY ( 150km/ 5-6 hrs)
Day 5 | Chandratal – battal – chatru – gramphu – rohtang pass – keylong – jispa – WEDNESSDAY ( 203km/ 4-5 hrs)
Day 6 | Jispa – sarchu – pang – leh – THURSDAY (355km/8-9hrs)
Day 7 | Leh Sight seeing + ILP – Friday
Day 8 | Leh – khardung la – kardungla village – diskit – hunder – diskit – SATURDAY (140km/5hrs)
Day 9 | Nubra valley to pangong tso (spangmik) via agham shyok – SUNDAY (190km/6-7hrs)
Day 10 | Spangmik – Merak – Chushul – karzok (Tso Moriri) – MONDAY (210km/ 7-8 hrs)
Day 11 | Karzok to Leh via shey, thiksey, stakna – TUSEDAY ( 211km /5-6 hrs)
Day 12 | Leh – Kargil -Dras – WEDNESSDAY (280km/6-7 hrs)
Day 13 | Dras – sonamarg – srinagar – patnitop – udhampur – THURSDAY (381km/ 11-12 hrs)
Day 14 | Udhampur – pathankot – jalandhar – ludhiana – ambala – Delhi ( 624km/ 11-12hrs)
Hi Abhi,
Please see my comments below.
Day 1 | OK
Day 2 | Will be a very long drive so start as early as you can from Narkanda. Can even take 8 hours.
Day 3 | Very long drive again. 8-9 hours
Day 4 | Long drive, almost 8-9 hours
Day 5 | 8-9 Hours
Day 6 | 9-10 hours
Day 7 | OK
Day 8 | OK
Day 9 | OK. But there is a chance that Shyok road may even remain closed.
Day 10 | Cannot get permits for Chushul route this year, at least not for now.
Day 11 | OK
Day 12 | OK
Day 13 | Extremely long drive
Day 14 | Extremely Long drive
Abhi bhai, can I join you in your trip
Hi Sateesh, I would be travelling with my family & friend (couple) so completely booked. However, we can definitely join together on the trip if you too want to follow the same itinerary.
Regards,
Abhi
I googled where to travel on summer vacation and I reached on your post and Realized Leh Ladakh is nice adventure place. so I plan a trip for Leh Ladakh.
Thanks for sharing
Thank you for taking the time to drop a note Karan. I appreciate it.
Wow, awesome and very detailed blog. You have been very actively and genuinely answering to every query.
Thanks Mukesh Bhai
Hi vargis Khan,
How will be August end to visit ladakh. Is this season good to visit and how will be the road conditions. Are there good chances of rain during this time..also the roads to nubra valley and pangong lake are open during this time. Also can you suggest itinerary for 7d during August end.
Thanks in advance
Hi Ravin Take a look at the article below below. Should answer most of your questions above visiting Ladakh in August.
https://vargiskhan.com/log/ladakh-in-monsoon-safe-trip/
Roads will remain all unless a recent landslide blocks any section of the road. Unless it is a massive landslide, BRO usually clears the road in a few hours.
Itinerary from where and how will you be traveling?
Hi vargish Khan,
Thanks for the information.. Then mid September can be planned? What about the rain in leh and also on leh to Manali. We will be to travel from leh to Manali through road during this time. Another point is we want to travel tso moriri lake. So how will be roads condition on this area during this time.
Yes September is actually the best time to travel to Ladakh and I will recommend it if you can change your plan to Sep. There will be rain at this time. Road conditions will be good too. You can go to Moriri but will first have to go to Leh to get the permits.
Vargish Bhai,
Sept 15-23 how will be weather . My point is we will face snowfall n all. N what about cold? Will it be more chilly in mid of Sept or normal temperature to visit. Thanks a lot in advance.
Ravin Bhai it usually starts to snow at Khardung La and Chang La top by mid Sep so yes, you may find snow there but there will not be a snowfall in the lower areas (towns). Weather will be about OK, pleasant days but cold nights.
Thanks vargis Bhai..but roads to nubra, pangong and tso moriri will be open during snow in mid September. Snowfall will be very heavy or it will be normal and visit these places with less blockage
Bhai Roads are all open in September, do not worry about that part at all. In September roads are in their best condition actually.
Hi Vargis Bhai,
Please let me know if below plan is doable around 2nd week of June. We will be visiting local and on the ways places also.
Day 1–Delhi–Patnitop
Day 2–Patnitop–Srinagar
Day 3–Srinagar–Sonmarg
Day 4–Sonmarg–Lamayuru
Day 5–Lamayuru–Leh
Day 6–Leh–Leh
Day 7–Leh–Nubra
Day 8–Nubra–Nubra
Day 9–Nubra–Spangmik
Day 10–Spangmik–TSO Moriri
Day 11–TSO Morir–Sarchu
Day 12–Sarchu–Manali
Day 13–Manali–Delhi
Thanks
Amit
Amit Bhai, how are you traveling? Riding your own bike I guess?
Just one change in the entire itinerary. Add one more day between Spangmik and Moriri. Plan it like this.
Day 9–Nubra to Spangmik
Day 10–Spangmik to Hanle
Day 11 – Hanle to Tso Moriri
Day 12–Tso Moriri to Pang / Sarchu
Vargis Bhai, I’m travelling in a car. If i have choose from Hanle and TSO moriri, which one is must visit, extending a day will be difficult as i have my return tickets booked from Delhi on 14th day.
Amit Bhai you are talking about traveling from pangong to moriri via chushul, correct? If days are limited then do not extend but make sure that you start from Pangong by first light of the day. This is extremely important. Distance is not that great but the bad condition of the road will keep your speed strictly limited.
Thanks Vargis Bhai
You are welcome !!!
Hello Vargis!
Amazing amount of information on this site. I had submitted an inquiry using the form on this site however, haven’t heard since. It might be the busy schedule that you juggle.
Nevertheless, if you can help us (got married recently) plan a honeymoon outing between June 8th & June 22nd, it would be greatly appreciated!
Regards,
Kiran
Bangalore
Hi Kiran – Sorry about the email. Gets a bit hard to keep a track and reply on all, sorry that I missed responding on yours.
Congratulations on your marriage. I wish you both the best. God Bless you !!!
You will have to get me a little more details though. You want to cover Ladakh between June 8th to 22nd? From where? You are catching a flight from Bangalore to Srinagar? How do you intend to travel locally then? Hire a taxi for the entire trip since it is your honeymoon?
Thanks for the reply, Vargis! Couldn’t reply sooner due to my own travel too.
Well, I was hoping to discuss the details via an email or Whats’app nevertheless, here is an overview of our plan. Since the last message, the plan has changed to probably drop Kashmir off and concentrate only on Leh-Ladakh region:
Day 1
Reach Leh by flight and relax
Day 2
Visit Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa and Leh Market
Day 3
Travel to Sangam from Leh (48 Km (Indus River & Zanskar river meet), Magnetic Hills(27 km), Gurudwara pattar sahib, Alchi (flood plains),Spituk Gompa Monastery & Hall of Fame
Back to Leh for night stay
Day 4 (BIKE RIDE)
Travel to Diskit – Nubra Valley via Khardunga La,Diskit (118 KM) Diskit Monastery,Shyok river(on the way), Hunder sand dunes (127.5KM)
Night stay at Diskit
Day 5 (BIKE RIDE)
Travel to Sumur (33KM)(1 hour), Panamik Hot springs, Khalsar(lunch)(23 Km)
Return to Diskit for night stay
Day 6 (BIKE RIDE)
Travel to Turtuk (92KM) 2-4 hours
Return to Diskit for night stay
Day 7 (BIKE RIDE)
Travel back to Leh Lunch at Khalsar (23 KM) and return to hotel
Day 8
Travel to Pangong Tso Lake, Shea Palace, Changla Pass, Spangmik Village
Night stay at Pangong
Day 9
Visit Hemis Monastery, Karu(may be for lunch),Thikey on the way back to Leh
Night stay at Leh
Day 10
Travel to Tsomoriri lake view point
Night stay at Tsomoriri
Day 11
Travel back to Leh
Night stay at Leh
————————————————————————————————————————————————-
As can be seen, a bike ride has been planned between Days 4-7. Please confirm if this is feasible to cover all the places/locations included. Do also feel free to include any other interesting/must see places we may have missed.
Kindly also let us know if the planned days/activities have sufficient buffer time to not make it very strenuous. We can stretch the entire trip by another 2 days as well.
Would be great if you can suggest recommendations for the night stays throughout the trip. We have split the itinerary by making 2 base-camps (one in Diskit & another in Leh), to facilitate covering as many locations/places around these places; as they are in different directions.
Thanks in advance again for the response anticipated shortly.
Regards,
Kiran
Hi Kiran, Below is my recommendation on your travel plan. I am also considering that you are able to extend another 2 days.
Day 1 – Looks good
Day 2 – Looks good
Day 3 – Go all the way till Kargil and stay there for the night.
Day 4 – Return to Leh
Day 5 – Leh to Diskit – Stay for the night
Day 6 – Diskit to Turtuk – Stay at Turuk for the nights
Day 7 – Turtuk to Diskit to Khalsar to Panamik – Stay at Panamik for the night
Day 8 – Return to Leh
Day 9 – Leh to Pangong
Day 10 – Pangong to Leh
Day 11 – Leh to Moriri via Chumathang
Day 12 – Moriri to Leh via Tso kar and Tanglang La
It will be better to travel this way in Nubra rather than returning to Diskit everytime. Turtuk and Panamik too have some good stay options.
Thanks again for the quick response, Vargis. So, I will consider that all interesting places are covered?
Can you provide recommendations for the stays at each place and if comingb them in advance is a most/necessity – given that the season would have just opened?
You are welcome KIran and yes, all major tourist places are covered. For recommended places to stay, take a look at the articles I listed above under Where to Say heading.
No need for advance booking. Just reach your destination, find a hotel per your liking and check in.
Will check! It’s all getting exciting by the minute. Will keep you posted about progress! 🙂
It will definitely continue to get even more exciting by each passing day.
Hi Vargis Sir..
Always you helped me regarding the trip details and all about leh.Thnkx alot 🙂
I forgot the imp thing which is Drinking water (Purified ones)
Any info on this as to where it will be available, because i plan not to buy those small plastic bottles everyday as it will be too much cost and plastics 😛
Are there those big water bottles or any refill areas for drinking water?
Hi Jack, Thank you for your kind words. Drinking water pretty much will work the same way as it does in our cities. 1 liter or 2 liter bottles will be the only choice. Any bigger than that and your biggest concern will be on how to carry it around. Hotels and Restaurants mostly have water purifiers installed so that is one place where you may check for refill.
Oh ok Thnkx ..
You are welcome !!!
Hi vargis ji
I have booked flight tickets to reach leh on 6th july morn and return fliight on 17 july from leh
My iteneary for road trip
Plan 1
6 july Leh rest
7 july Leh to nubra
8 july nubra to pangong via shylok
9 july pangong to leh via changla pass
10 july Leh to Hanle (refuel the tank and move on)
11 july Hanle – Unmigla – Hanle
12 july Hanle – Karzok
13 july Karzok to Leh
14 july Leh to kargil
15 july Kargil to Leh
16 july rest
17 july morn flight to delhi
plan 2
or
6 july Leh rest
7 july Leh to nubra
8 july nubra to pangong via shylok
9 july pangong to hanle ( to continue beyond i may need petrol? is it available in hanle)
10 july Hanle – Unmigla – Hanle
11 july Hanle – Karzok
12 july Karzok to Leh via “Debring”
13 july rest
14 july Leh to kargil
15 july kargil to leh
16 july rest
17 july morn flight to delhi
My questions are
1.I made plan 1 considering the availability of fuel? if fuel available in Hanle i will go with plan 2
2. Can i add any other place in the trip as i want to cover Leh fully ( have i missed any place???)
3.On 16 july can i travel on Leh manali highway till some distance ???
4. Is it possible to visit manali and come back???? ( in same Leh rented bike)
( instead of two days rest and kargil visit)
13 july Leh to sarchu
14 july sarchu to manali
15 july manali to sarchu
16 july sarchu to leh
17 july morn flight to delhi
If not allowed to return from manali on Leh rented bike ? till what distance i can travel in Leh bike on Leh manali route?
Sorry for long post
Thanks in advance.
Hello Srinivasan Bhai,
Your second itinerary is much better and ideal. Go with that plan please.
1. You can get fuel at Pangong Tso in black, approximately Rs. 100 per liter. You can also get it at Karzok for this price. Hanle I am not sure but it may be available this year because of Umling La.
2.Do not go to Manali as it may become a problem. Since you have time, you can either cover Zanskar Valley from Kargil, or cover the Batalik route and Sham valley. Something like this.
Leh to Kargil
Kargil tO Padum
Padum to Kargil
Kargil to Leh
Or
Leh to Kargil
Kargil to Batalik (will have to get permit for this)
Batalik to Hemis Shukpachan
Hemis to Leh
I will recommend covering Zanskar valley though.
Thanks a lot. I will discuss Zanskar valley idea with my friends and will plan accordingly.
The problem is fuel ????
As u mentioned If i can get in Pangong Tso and Karzok then for sure I will start
Leh – nubra ;
nubra – pangong (fill tank again & carry 15 litre backup) ;
Pangong – hanle;
Hanle – unmigla – hanle;
hanle – karzok (fill tank again & carry 15 litre backup )
hanle – Leh
Total 6 Days
Then will give a try
Leh to Kargil
Kargil tO Padum
Padum to Kargil
Kargil to Leh
Thank a lot for answering all my queries.
Between I am a Vlogger
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOROckvpeBSwvYosQ9W2l4A?view_as=subscriber
In all my leh videos I have to give credit to u for helping me plan better
Did we talk last year as well? That Zojila Pass video looked familiar? This is not your first Ladakh trip then? How are you planning to carry around fuel?
Ya last year was my first trip via srinagar with my family members.
This year I planned to cover the leh region alone with friends.
2 jeery cans on each side of bike ( 10 liters each). I have a pillion too. But our luggage is very minimum.
2 Jerry Cans should suffice really, more than enough. To be on a safer side, before you start towards Hanle, get a tank full done at Chadar tents at Pangong. You will find fuel there. One tank full and 20 liters of spare fuel will be more than enough for Pangong to Hanle to Karzok to Tandi (next petrol pump). I have done this with just one tank full, and some spare fuel in 2 liters Pepsi bottles flung over my back in bag. I kept emptying them one by one after every 40-50 kilometers or so. Are you planning Umling La as well?
Yes buddy If i get permit and BRo allows then Umling-la is on the cards.
Leh nubra ; nubra – pangong ; (300km ) (15 litre)
Pangong – hanle; Hanle – unmigla -Hanle; (162+210 = 375 km) (19 litre)
Hanle – Karzok; Karzok – sarchu; sarchu -leh (619 km ) (31 litre)
total petrol = 15+19+31 = 65 around 70
I will try in pangong Tso Hanle and Karzok
I assumed 20 Km/litre ????
Planning a thunderbird 350 its fuel tank is 20 litre whereas RE classic is 13.5 litre
My itinerary fully depends on fuel availability at Pangong Hanle and karzok
20-25 kilometers is a safe number to assume. Tank full at Leh and it will see you easily till Pangong. Then Tank full at Pangong again and you will comfortable make it to Hanle. So your 20 liters will still be saved. As I suggested, arrange for 2 liters Pepsi or Coke Bottles as kind of safe reserve. Not hard to carry as well and will easily fit in with your luggage.You can carry about another 6-8 liters this way.
I have an Electra and completed the Leh-Diskit-Pangongp-Hanle-Karzok-Pang-Sarcu-Tandi only with Pepsi bottles, nothing else so you really have nothing to worry about.
For Umling La, take a look at this post where I explained the entire route in details.
https://vargiskhan.com/log/umling-la/
Sure vargis ji, I will carry extra fuel and according to availability will refuel in stops u mentioned.
Umling la post is very useful.
And This year people want to give it a try and this post of yours on Umling la is very much needed one.
Thanks a lot
Thanks Srinivasan Bhai. Do let me know how your trip went after your return
Sure will let you know how the trip went.
And i may ask more doubts before leaving on July 5th…
Hope u wont mind
Thanks a lot .
No problem brother. Happy to help.
Srinivasan Bhai – Take a look at this article. You should have no problem with fuel.
https://vargiskhan.com/log/fuel-availability-leh-ladakh-manage/
This article is based on situation as of last year September so most recent.
Hi,
We are planning a bike trip from Manali to Leh -Srinagar and than back to Manali.
We plan as follow:
Day 1-Manali to Jispa-
Day 2-Jispa to Sarchu-
Day 3-Sarchu to Leh- and local sight seeing on that day-
Day 4-Leh to Nubra-
Day 5-Nubra to Pangong-
Day 6-Pangong to Tso Moriri Lake-
Day 7-Tso-Moriri to kargil-
Day 8-Kargil to Srinagar and than back to Manali
Is this itenary possible ??
Can i just rent a bike from Manali and leave it at Srinagar ?
I also plan to do river rafting at Nemu? Will it take extra day ?
I m planning to go on 31 st May ? So should i book the hotels or should bargain at the hotels there ?
Can you please tell me the time (hours ) for the above itenary?
Or should i start my journey from Srinagar ? However, I heard that one incures transportation cost if i take a bike from srinagar and leave it at manali ?
Please guide
Hello Namrata,
1. You will have to add a day in Leh after arriving here, in order to arrange for permits.
2. Pangong to Tso Moriri is way too long or a single day. This is ideally a 2 day journey.
3. You cannot do Moriri to Kargil in a day. This too is a 2 days jorney at the least.
4. Yes you can rent a bike from Manali and leave at Srinagar but that will incur additional cost of around 10-15,000 apart from your daily rental
5. Yes, rafting at Nimmoo will by an additional day
6. No need to book in advance.
7. You must add more days to the trip. 8 day is way too less to cover the route you want to cover.
Hi Vargis,
Thanks for your reply.
I m planning to hire a car from Delhi for the whole trip. They claim that such leased car is allowed in Leh. Is it true ?..
Hi Namrara – The leased car from Delhi will only be allowed till Leh. To visit other areas in Ladakh like Nubra and Pangong, you will have to rent a local cab from there. The Delhi cab will not be allowed to ply on these routes.
Good Evening Vargis
Please suggest wheather this plan is ok to visit leh or u want to change .
17 june 2018. Night at sonamarg
18 june 2018. Night at kargil
19 june 2018. Night at leh
20 june 2018. Night at leh
21 june 2018. Night at nubra valley
22 june 2018. Night at leh
23 june 2018. Night at Pangong
24 june 2018. Night at leh
25 june 2018. Night at leh
26 june 2018. Night at sarchu
27 june 2018. Night at manali
28 june 2018. Home
Regards
Khawinder Sharma
Punjab
Kaise ho Khawinder Bhai?
Your plan looks great. Just one minor change I will suggest. Rather than coming from Nubra to Leh, go directly to Pangong via Shyok road. Ask while you are in Nubra valley and if the road is open, then you do not have to come back to Leh again. This way you will save a day in between.
The day you saved above, use it while traveling to Manali. Add a night stay at Jispa at the camp site or wooden cottages. Very scenic place and a good experience. I will highly recommend it.
Thanks for giving valuable sugestion..
You are welcome
Dear Vargis Ji, Good Evening, I am planning to come to Leh on 5th April 18 from Delhi & will be back on 11th April 2018. Going there with my 2 friends. Can u help me in making a suitable itinerary for 5 days. I want to go to Nubra Valley, visit Changthang wild life sanctuary or Hemis National Park, Pangong lake/ Tso Moriri lake & local sight seeing.
Thanks & Regards, Harish aggarwal
Hello Harish Ji – I am guessing that you will be renting a private taxi for traveling locally, is that correct? Visiting Changthang as well in 5 days would be a bit tough so I will recommend that you keep that out and only travel towards Nubra and Pangong. Please take a look at the article below for a few recommended itineraries. Let me know if you have any other questions.
Dear Vargis Ji, Thanks for replying, We will have Mahindra Xylo there for moving around. I have read all your options of 6 days itinerary. Your last 2 options are the ones, which cover the most. Only catch is, we will there on 5th April by Morning flight & coming back on 11th April, the weather will permit the way from Nubra to pangong or not? Can u put some light on it? Regards,
Harish Aggarwal
You are welcome Harish Bhai. Yes, you will be able to cover Nubra and Pangong at that time. Roads will remain open. Please take a look at the post below where I have provided more information on this.
https://vargiskhan.com/log/ladakh-roads-in-winter/
Hello Mr khan
Your blogs have been of immense help in planning our upcoming trip to Ladakh in the 1st week of june2018. Wanted to know about the latest condition of Agham Shyok road as I have found in some blogs that this Nubra to Pangong route has seen vast improvement of late. I will be travelling with my wife & son , & will it be safe to take this route as it saves a day which is really crucial considering our packed itinerary?
Hello Mr. Mukherjee – It is correct. There has been a lot of work on Shyok road last year and it is now in a much better and safer condition to travel on. See below of a picture of the road from last year.
https://vargiskhan.com/log/agham-shyok-road/
Thanks a lot Mr khan for sharing this valuable information. Please suggest whether the innova or the xuv should be the preferred taxi for the entire Ladakh trip.
You are welcome Mr. Mukherjee. Please go for an XUV as it has better ground clearance at 200MM as commpared to Innova at 176MM.
Many thanks
You are welcome
Hi Vargis Sir…As i will be going with my dad to Ladakh, we plan to take private cab from srinagar to Leh via Drass so that for 1-2 hrs we can spend at Drass Memorial and then direct to leh
As my dad is 63, is it safe to take him in those areas for a period of 10 days total (We plan to visit our family doctor in advance for safety tips & medication)
There wont be any major health issues as such, right?
Thanks in advance for the response
Hello Jack – 63 is not that old to be honest, he is still a young man. Do not worry, lot of people go there with their parents but yes, do consult your doctor.
Hi, vargis. This is chetan from Mumbai.
Your blogs are helping many out there.
I just need a piece of advice from you.
We are planing a 16 day trip to ladakh.
We’ll enter leh from srinagar and exit from manali.
We have our friend whose uncle stays in jalandhar and has a tavera which is his personal car having white number plate whose registration done in himachal pradesh itself.
The uncle claims that he’ll help showing us ladakh.
He’ll pick us from jamu tawi and will drop us back in chandigarh.
What do you advice, we go with him or take a tourist yellow plate car?
Taking uncles car will save us a hell lot of money and the same car can enter everywhere being white number plate
Suggestions required!
-waiting for your reply.
Hi Chetan– If the vehicle is registered in your uncle’s name and he is driving it himself, by all means please go with him. If you taake a yellow number plate taxi, you will again have to rent a local taxi in Ladakh which will shoot your total expense of the trip very high.
Sry for same comments .It was due to some misunderstanding.We are friends from the same group prasad and me.
No worries brother
Hi, Vargis. This is Prasad from Mumbai.
Your blogs are helping many out there.
I just need a piece of advice from you.
We are planing a 16 day trip to ladakh.
We’ll enter leh from srinagar and exit from manali.
We have our friend whose uncle stays in jalandhar and has a tavera which is his personal car having white number plate whose registration done in himachal pradesh itself.
The uncle claims that he’ll help showing us ladakh.
He’ll pick us from jamu tawi and will drop us back in chandigarh.
What do you advice, we go with him or take a tourist yellow plate car?
Taking uncles car will save us a hell lot of money and the same car can enter everywhere being white number plate
Suggestions required!
-waiting for your reply.
Hi Prasad – If the vehicle is registered in your uncle’s name and he is driving it himself, by all means please go with him. If you taake a yellow number plate taxi, you will again have to rent a local taxi in Ladakh which will shoot your total expense of the trip very high.
Ty for ur info n suggestion.
N u have good sense of humour bro 😉
Thanks Prasad
We are going leh on 12 June 2017 from Srinagar leh highway.
1)Will the surgical strike effect our trip to leh?
2) We are a total 8 person plus one driver in my personal innova(white numer plate).Is there a problem with this?Will our car be restricted anywhere considering the total number of commuters in our car?
No such restriction on Srinagar Leh highway. You will be able to complete the journey without any problem.
Is it safe going Leh by flight??
Yes it is
But which one is more adventure. Traveling by flight or bike to Ladakh?
Ladakh by Bike is definitely more adventurous as compared to flight.
Hi vargis, our plan to visit spiti, ladakh, sachpass in 25th June to 15 July with our bikes, our plan is
Shimla to kalpa
Kalpa to kaza
Kaza to kaylong
Kaylong to leh
Leh to nubra
Nubra to pangong
Pangog to hanle or tso moriri depends on permit
Hale or tso moriri to leh
Leh to sonmarg or Srinagar
Srinagar to kistwar
Kistwar to sachpass to killar
Killar to Manali
Is this plan ok for June to July15 ?
And my bike is activa5g 109cc,