Ladakh – Le pays des hauts cols
To do with us
Genuine travel experiences with a social enterprise
Carte du Ladakh
Get a fair idea of the geography of Ladakh
Travel to Ladakh
How to reach, acclimatization, permits, etc.
When to go ?
Climate of Ladakh, best time to go
Moving in Ladakh
On a tour : by car, on a motorcycle, on foot ?
Staying in Ladakh
While on a tour, during a trek, in a monastery ?
Culture of Ladakh
Festivals, monasteries, spirituality, folklore
Food of Ladakh
Delicious and inspired from Tibetan food
Essential Tips and Insights for Travelers to Ladakh
Ladakh literally means ‘Land of high passes’. However, it is more popularly and affectionately known as ‘Little Tibet in India’. Vast landscapes, spirituality, grandeur, hospitality sums up Ladakh.
In the North, the Vallée de la Nubra lies resplendent, irrigated by the waters from the Karakoram glaciers. The sediments of the largest continental glaciers of the world have formed sand dunes which camels call home.
In East Ladakh, the narrow valleys open up and spread out as mountain lakes turn into flooded plains at over 4500 meters. You will be amazed by the majestic beauty of Lac Pangong, Tso Moriri and Tso Kar.
In the South and the West, the chain of Zanskar, one of the largest mountain chains with peaks reaching above 6000 m, will reveal all the secrets of the Himalayan geology before your eyes and introduce you to many flora and fauna species in the region.
General Information about Ladakh –
Area: Ladakh covers approximately 59,146 square kilometers
Range of Altitude: The altitude in Ladakh varies from about 2,500 meters to over 7,000 meters
Administrative Zones:
Leh District: Includes subdivisions like Leh, Nubra, and Sham.
Kargil District: Includes subdivisions like Kargil, Zanskar, and Drass
Population: Approximately 300,000 people.
Siachen Glacier: The Siachen Glacier, located in the eastern Karakoram range, is one of the largest glaciers outside the polar regions and is often referred to as the “highest battlefield in the world” due to the conflict between Indian and Pakistani armies at an altitude above 5000 m.
Carte du Ladakh
Carte du Ladakh, Inde. Avec des routes principales, des itinéraires de trek et les lieux à visiter
Travelling to Ladakh
How to reach Ladakh ?
Route de Manali à Leh
Entrée dans la région du Ladakh et du Zanskar près de Sarchu.
Ladakh by Road – Best Way to Travel to Ladakh
While many travelers opt to fly to Ladakh, as it takes just under an hour from Delhi, we strongly recommend experiencing the journey by road. There are two main reasons for this:
Firstly, traveling to Ladakh by road involves crossing the entire Himalayan range, starting from the northern plains of India and progressing to the “Little Tibet” of India. This route offers a gradual transition, allowing you to witness an ever-changing landscape and experience diverse cultures along the way. The journey itself becomes an integral part of your Ladakh adventure.
Secondly, traveling by road provides a natural acclimatization process, helping your body adjust to the high altitudes of Ladakh. By the time you reach Leh, you’ll be better prepared to start exploring right away, while those arriving by air typically need at least two days to acclimatize.
Recommended Route
- Day 1 : Manali – You can start your journey from Delhi with a morning train to Chandigarh which would take around 4 hours. Then you continue by road to Manali. The 6 hr road drive will introduce you to the mountain ranges. Spend your first night here to begin acclimatizing.
- Day 2 : Keylong or Jispa – Located just behind the rain shadow boundary, it’s a much shorter trip thanks to the Atal tunnel that takes you to the Lahaul valley in just 10 minutes. The 9.02 km long Atal tunnel is the world’s longest single tube highway tunnel at an altitude above 3,000 m. The drive from Manali to Jispa will take around 3 hrs. On your way you can enjoy the cabbage gardens and the beautiful views of the surrounding snow capped peaks.
- Day 3 : Leh – The drive from Keylong to Leh takes approximately 10 hours. To fully savor the stunning Manali-Leh route, consider spending an additional night at either Sarchu or Pang, both of which are situated above 4,100 meters. Lato is a village we would like to highly recommend for a night stay before you head to Leh. The purple mountain ranges around Lato are absolutely stunning, and, on a clear night the sky is truly mesmerizing
This recommended route not only enhances your travel experience but also ensures a smoother transition to the high altitudes of Ladakh.
Le Ladakh par les airs
Daily flights from Delhi to Leh offer a quick and convenient way to reach Ladakh, with a flight time of approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. Airlines such as Air India, Indigo, and SpiceJet provide regular morning services on this route, departing from Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) and arriving at Leh’s Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (IXL).
However, flying directly into Leh is not ideal for acclimatization. Upon arrival, you’ll need to rest for a minimum of two days at your hotel or homestay to adjust to the high altitude.
For a more immersive experience, we recommend traveling to Ladakh by road and returning by air. This approach not only enhances your journey but also ensures a more comfortable acclimatization process.
Voulez-vous vous rendre à Leh par la route de la manière la meilleure et la plus sûre ? Renseignez-vous maintenant !
Acclimatization to the high altitude of Ladakh
Here’s a guide on how to acclimatize effectively to the high altitudes of Ladakh
1. Plan your Itinerary for Gradual Ascent
- Stay in Leh for the First Few Days: Upon arrival in Leh (3,500 meters/11,500 feet), spend at least 2-nights acclimatizing before heading to higher altitudes. Use this time to rest, hydrate, and explore nearby attractions at a relaxed pace.
- Gradual Increase in Altitude: If you plan to visit or trek in higher regions, ensure that your itinerary allows for a slow and steady ascent.
2. Stay Hydrated
- Drink Plenty of Water: Staying hydrated is key to acclimatization. Aim to drink at least 3-4 liters of water per day.
- Avoid Alcohol and Caffeine: Both can contribute to dehydration, so it’s best to limit or avoid them during the acclimatization period.
3. Eat Light and Nutritious Meals
- Consume Easily Digestible Foods: Opt for light, nutritious meals rich in carbohydrates, which provide energy and are easier on your stomach.
- Eat Small, Frequent Meals: Instead of large meals, eat smaller portions more frequently to maintain energy levels and aid digestion. Half plate of momos in local restaurant is an ideal meal.
4. Rest and Avoid Strenuous Activity
- Take It Easy: Give your body time to adjust to the altitude by resting and avoiding strenuous physical activities during the first few days. Short, gentle walks in Leh are fine, but save any intense exertion for later in your trip.
- Sleep Well: Ensure you get plenty of rest. Your body needs extra energy to adapt to the lower oxygen levels.
5. Consider Acclimatization Aids
- Acetazolamide (Diamox): Some travelers use medication like acetazolamide to help speed up the acclimatization process. Consult with a healthcare professional before your trip to see if this is appropriate for you.
- Portable Oxygen: For emergencies or in extreme cases, having a portable oxygen supply can be helpful. This is particularly relevant if you’re traveling to very high altitudes or trekking. Oxygen is available in most of the pharmacy of Ladakh for a few hundred rupees.
6. Monitor Your Health
- Be Aware of Altitude Sickness Symptoms: Common symptoms include headaches, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath. If you experience any of these, rest, hydrate, and avoid ascending further until symptoms subside.
- Descend if Necessary: If symptoms persist or worsen, descend to a lower altitude immediately. Altitude sickness can escalate quickly, so it’s important not to ignore the signs.
7. Acclimatization Exercises
- Deep Breathing: Practicing deep, slow breathing exercises can help your body take in more oxygen and reduce the effects of altitude.
- Mild Physical Activity: Light exercise like short walks can improve your body’s ability to use oxygen, but always listen to your body and avoid overexertion.
8. Listen to Your Body
- Don’t Rush: The key to successful acclimatization is patience. Everyone adapts at different rates, so it’s important to listen to your body and proceed at a pace that feels comfortable.
Travel Permits for Ladakh: What You Need to Know
Traveling to Ladakh is a breathtaking experience, but navigating the permit requirements is crucial for a smooth journey. Here’s what you need to know:
Permits for Foreign Nationals
While no permit is needed to enter Ladakh itself, foreign nationals must obtain an Inner Line Permit (ILP) to visit certain areas. This includes popular destinations such as:
- Vallée de la Nubra
- Lac Pangong Tso
- Lac Tso Moriri
- Plateau du Changthang
Indian citizens are exempt from needing an ILP for these regions.
How to Obtain an Inner Line Permit (ILP)
1. Application Process
- Location: The ILP can be obtained from the District Commissioner (DC) office in Leh.
- Documents Required: You will need to provide a copy of your passport and visa, along with a passport-sized photograph.
2. Time Frame
- It’s recommended to apply for the ILP at least one day before your planned visit to the restricted areas to ensure processing time.
For more information on travel permits and assistance with your trip, feel free to reach out to us.
When to go to Ladakh ?
Météo Ladakh
Ladakh, located on the Tibetan Plateau, experiences a continental climate characterized by stark temperature extremes. The region is situated in a rain shadow area, making it a high-altitude desert with very little precipitation. The lack of vegetation further intensifies the climate, contributing to the extreme conditions.
Winters in Ladakh are exceptionally cold, with temperatures around Leh often dropping below minus 30°C at night. In contrast, summer days, particularly in July and August, can be surprisingly warm, with temperatures exceeding 30°C.
Although the monsoon doesn’t reach Ladakh, it does have some influence on the region’s summer weather. During this season, the skies can become cloudy, light rains may occur, and thunderstorms are possible. If you’re aiming for the best chance of clear skies, consider traveling before or after the monsoon season.
Spring and autumn are relatively short but can offer more moderate temperatures, making them good seasons for travel. However, the weather can still be unpredictable, so it’s essential to be prepared for a range of conditions.
The beautiful blue sky on a clear day
Summer is the best time to travel to Ladakh. But if you want a cloud free weather, you better come in June or in September.
Best Times to Visit Ladakh
For most travelers, summertime is the ideal season to visit Ladakh. While the days can be warm, the evenings, nights, and mornings are pleasantly cool. July and August are particularly popular, as many visitors flock to Ladakh to escape the monsoon rains elsewhere in India.
If you prefer to avoid the crowds, consider visiting Ladakh from May to June or September to October. Traveling during these months offers a double advantage: fewer tourists and delightful weather with pleasant temperatures and clear, deep blue skies. However, be prepared for colder nights.
For those planning to reach Ladakh by road, the window for travel is from May to October, as the high mountain passes that provide access to Ladakh are closed due to snow outside this period.
Winter brings a different allure to Ladakh, attracting adventurers for the Chadar trek or those hoping to spot the elusive Snow Leopard. If you visit during this time, you’ll need to fly into Leh and be well-prepared for the extreme cold that defines Ladakh in winter.
Best time to go for bike trip to Ladakh
For biking enthusiasts, the ideal time to travel is from May to October. Be cautious of early or late-season snowfalls, and regularly check weather updates.
Is winter a good time to go to Ladakh ?
Winter (January-February) is perfect for the Chadar trek and snow leopard spotting. Despite the cold, Ladakh’s roads are well-maintained, and Khardung La pass remains open for military and civilian use, even during heavy snowfall.
Ladakh temperature chart
JAN
TRÈS FROID
Éviter
FÉV
TRÈS FROID
Éviter
MAR
TRÈS FROID
Éviter
AVR
TEMPÉRÉ
Possible
MAI
AGRÉABLE
Possible
JUIN
AGRÉABLE
Meilleur moment
JUILLET
AGRÉABLE
Meilleur moment
AOÛT
AGRÉABLE
Meilleur moment
SEP
AGRÉABLE
Meilleur moment
OCTOBRE
FROID
Possible
NOV
FROID
Éviter
DÉC
TRÈS FROID
Éviter
Moving in Ladakh
Transport pendant le voyage au Ladakh
Essential Transportation Options for Your Ladakh Adventure
Due to its vast expanse and challenging road conditions, having the right vehicle is crucial for a successful trip. Himalayan Ecotourism provides two exceptional transportation choices to suit your travel preferences:
1. Travel in a Private Vehicle
- Comfort and Safety: Opt for a private vehicle with Ladakhi drivers who are well-versed in navigating Ladakh’s rugged terrain and ensuring your safety on the road.
- Local Expertise: Enjoy the added advantage of having a knowledgeable guide accompany you in the vehicle.
- Ideal For: Travelers seeking a comfortable, safe, and informative journey through Ladakh.
2. Explore Ladakh on a Motorcycle
- Adventure on Two Wheels: Experience the thrill of exploring Ladakh on a Royal Enfield motorcycle.
- Support Team: Travel with our dedicated team, which includes a backup jeep equipped with a driver, a guide, and a mechanic.
- Safety Note: Due to challenging road conditions and high passes, motorcycle travel requires careful driving and previous biking experience.
- Ideal For: Experienced bikers looking for an adventurous and immersive way to explore Ladakh.
Staying in Ladakh
Where to stay in Ladakh?
Accommodation Options in Ladakh: What You Need to Know
Understanding your accommodation options is crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Here’s a comprehensive guide to staying in Ladakh:
Seasonal Availability
Most properties in Ladakh are operational from June to September. To ensure your stay is confirmed, we offer comprehensive booking services and have established strong relationships with local accommodations.
Accommodation Types
1. Homestays
Authentic Experience: For an immersive and authentic Ladakhi experience, consider staying in a local homestay. These accommodations offer a unique insight into Ladakhi culture and hospitality.
Availability: Homestays are often open year-round, even when other properties are closed. However, they may not be listed online, making it essential to book through a trusted local partner like us.
2. Staying in a monastery in Ladakh
Staying in a Buddhist monastery in Ladakh offers a unique opportunity for those seeking a profound spiritual experience in the highest reaches of the Himalayas. The tranquil environment, combined with the presence of Buddhist monks, creates an atmosphere conducive to introspection and meditation, ideal for self-contemplation.
While some monasteries do provide dormitory accommodations for visitors, the comfort level is typically very basic. For a more balanced experience, Himalayan Ecotourism recommends staying in a nearby homestay. Your local hosts will ensure your comfort and well-being, while still allowing you to immerse yourself in the monastic life. You can easily participate in the morning prayers and other spiritual activities by spending your days at the monastery.
To enhance your experience, we also suggest engaging one of our spiritual guides, often English-speaking Buddhist monks, who can help you navigate the rituals and communicate with other monks in the monastery.
3. Camping
Wilderness Adventure: For those seeking adventure, we offer camping experiences in the Ladakhi wilderness. Our team of experts will set up comfortable and safe camps with high-quality equipment.
Trekking Camps: During treks, you may have the option to choose between homestays or camping. Our team ensures that camping gear is of the best quality and carried by mules for your convenience.
4. Village Stays
Rustic Charm: Experience the simplicity of village life with stays that include basic facilities such as dry toilets. This option provides a more rustic, yet culturally rich experience. You will have to compromise slightly on your comfort when travelling to remote villages in Ladakh
For tailored accommodation options and to secure your stay, contact us today.
Lorsque vous partez en randonnée, vous aurez la possibilité de séjourner chez l'habitant ou de camper. Le matériel de camping est transporté par des mulets.
Let’s know your preferences, we will make it for you.
Une maison d'hôtes traditionnelle au Ladakh
Certaines maisons d'hôtes sont le meilleur choix en termes de confort et d'expérience.
Culture of Ladakh
Understanding Ladakhi Culture: Essential Tips for Travelers
When visiting Ladakh, embracing local customs enhances your experience and shows respect for the region’s unique cultural heritage. Here are key cultural insights to consider:
- Dress Modestly: Ladakh’s traditional attire reflects its rugged environment and spiritual values. It’s respectful to dress modestly, especially when visiting monasteries and local homes. Layered clothing is practical due to the region’s variable temperatures.
- Remove Shoes: Always remove your shoes before entering Ladakhi homes and monasteries. This practice is rooted in cleanliness and respect. You’ll often find designated areas for shoe storage at the entrance.
- Greetings: The common greeting in Ladakh is “Julley,” which can mean hello, goodbye, or thank you. Use this term to greet locals and show your appreciation. You can address males elder than you as ACHO and for elder females you may use ACHE
- Respect Elders: Addressing elderly individuals with respect is important in Ladakhi culture. Using polite language and gestures, such as offering a seat or standing when they enter, is a sign of respect.
- Respect Traditions: Observe local customs and participate respectfully in cultural activities. Understanding and following these practices contribute to a positive interaction with Ladakh’s rich cultural tapestry.
Autres pages sur le Ladakh
Tour à moto au Ladakh
Profitez des hauts cols lors d'un tour en moto
Voyage spirituel au Ladakh
Apprenez-en davantage sur le bouddhisme tibétain et plongez dans la sagesse ancienne
Voyage Expérience
Voyagez avec une entreprise sociale qui vous offre la meilleure expérience du Ladakh
