Welcome to the ultimate travel guide to Leh and Ladakh, a destination that offers breathtaking views of the world’s two mightiest mountain ranges, the Himalayas and the Karakoram. Explore the three highest motorable roads, Chang La, Khardung La, and Tanglang La, along with the mesmerizing desert mountains, stunning night skies, Tibetan monasteries, colorful flowers, serene lakes, rainbow hills, and landscapes that will leave you spellbound.
How to Reach Leh
Getting to Leh is a challenging journey; it requires some planning. You must first reach Delhi, Manali, or Srinagar from any part of India.
Delhi to Leh
If you’re planning a trip to Leh from Delhi, the best way to get there is by taking a flight. Although it may be expensive, it saves you time and is hassle-free. There is also a bus from Delhi to Manali and one from Manali to Leh. Below are more details on these transportation options.
Manali to Leh
As you embark on this thrilling road trip, having a reliable travel guide to Leh and Ladakh is crucial. The journey from Manali to Leh can take 2 to 3 days, depending on the weather and road conditions. Therefore, taking ample breaks and staying hydrated as you traverse the rugged terrain is advisable. Pack some snacks and warm clothes, as the weather can be unpredictable. Most importantly, ensure you have a sturdy vehicle and a skilled driver to navigate the challenging route. With these precautions in mind, you’re ready for an unforgettable adventure on the road to Leh.
Well, here’s the catch. There is only one HRTC bus that runs from Manali to Leh, departing at 4 am sharp. The journey may take you around 14-15 hours, depending on whether the driver chooses to make a stopover for the night or not. You can expect to reach Leh by 6–7 pm on the same day or by 11 am the next day.
If you prefer a more comfortable and faster option, you can also take a traveler’s tempo or shared taxi from Manali to Leh. Although it may be a bit pricey, it’s a convenient way to reach your destination. The journey is a feast for the eyes, and you’ll be mesmerized by the breathtaking scenery. Trust me; the sights are so mesmerizing that you won’t even need to nap!
Srinagar to Leh
You can reach Leh from Srinagar by taking a JKSRTC bus or sharing a taxi/traveler tempo.
If you opt for the bus, it departs at 8 am and stops at Kargil before reaching Leh at around 4 pm. However, it’s important to note that no overnight buses are available on this route, so plan your trip accordingly.
Itinerary for Leh-Ladakh
To fully experience the beauty of the lakes and valleys in Ladakh, allocating a minimum of 12 days for your trip is recommended. However, your body will need time to acclimate to the high altitude, so it’s best to use the first day for local sightseeing. Here’s an ideal itinerary for your Ladakh adventure:
Day 1: Arrive in Leh, acclimatize, explore the local market & try Tibetan food.
Day 2: Start the journey on the left route, visit Shey Palace, Thiksey Monastery, Hemis Monastery, Stok Palace & Shanti Stupa.
Day 3: Take the correct route, and visit Leh Palace, Phyang Monastery, Magnetic Hill & Sangam (confluence of rivers).
Day 4: Head to Nubra Valley via Khardung La and explore Diskit & overnight in Hunder.
Day 5: Visit Turtuk from Hunder & overnight.
Day 6: Travel to Pangong Tso from Turtuk & overnight.
Day 7: Head back to Leh from Pangong Tso & rest.
Day 8: Drive to Tso Moriri & overnight.
Day 9: Visit Hanle village for stargazing and stay overnight.
Day 10: Return to Leh and take some rest.
How to commute
While motorbikes may be the most popular means of transportation for exploring the tourist spots in Leh Ladakh, long and uncomfortable journeys can be challenging, especially for non-hardcore bikers. However, there are alternative ways to travel and explore the beautiful villages of Ladakh. A comprehensive travel guide to Leh Ladakh can provide information on various transportation options, such as taxis, buses, and shared jeeps, that offer more comfort and convenience. With the right travel guide to Leh and Ladakh, you can have a memorable and enjoyable trip to Leh Ladakh, regardless of your preferred mode of transportation.
By Bus
As a budget-conscious solo traveler, I opted for the local JKSRTC bus, which offered affordable fares and a comfortable journey. However, it’s worth noting that the buses follow a unique schedule, so planning is essential. For instance, the bus to Tso Moriri runs only on the 10th, 20th, and 30th of each month. Therefore, checking the bus schedule beforehand is highly recommended.
By Taxi
Shared taxis are a convenient mode of transportation in Ladakh, especially if you don’t want to endure long and tiring road journeys. These taxis can be easily found in Leh and typically carry 4 to 5 people. The fare for a 1N-2D trip ranges between INR 2500 to 3500 per person, with some scope for bargaining.
By Car/Motorbike
If you’re planning to bring your vehicle to Ladakh, knowing all the petrol pumps on your route is crucial beforehand. The roads are long, and petrol stations are few and far between. So if you’re heading to remote areas without petrol pumps, you may need to carry petrol from Leh itself.
Bike/Car Rentals
Renting a bike or car in Ladakh is an option worth considering. The rental charges for a motorcycle can start from as low as INR 650, depending on the duration of the rental and the type of bike you choose. For longer journeys, such as Leh to Tso Moriri or Leh to Pangong Tso, it is advisable to opt for a sturdy bike like the RE Himalayan or RE 500 CC. While these bikes may be slightly more expensive to rent, their comfort during a long journey is well worth the cost.
It is advisable to opt for a taxi instead of car rentals, as it can be tricky. However, if you still want car rentals, you can gather information from the local market.
Things to do in Leh-Ladakh
Pangong Tso
Pangong Lake greeted me with three rainbows in just three hours. Although it’s a popular tourist destination, you can find a secluded spot by walking far enough, away from the crowds, and soaking in the stunning view. The lake spans an impressive 106 km and stretches to China!
Nubra Valley
Nubra Valley is famous for its double-humped camels and desert dunes surrounded by mountains. The landscape, with its beautiful shades of brown, grey, white, and golden, is exceptionally breathtaking during sunsets.
Hunder & Diskit
Hunder and Diskit are two small, picturesque villages in Nubra Valley. They resemble the scenery we used to draw as kids: nestled amidst mountains, with small streams flowing along the streets and houses of brick and stone scattered around, separated by needle-like, dry violet stems of old trees.
Turtuk
Located 80 km further from Hunder, Turtuk is often considered the prettiest village in India. It’s situated near the northern border and is a true delight to the senses. The Shyok River and mountains surround the village, home to abundant cherries, blueberries, and apricots.
Tso Moriri
Tso Moriri is one of the lesser-known lakes but is a true gem of beauty and tranquility. The name translates to “Mountain Lake,” and that’s precisely what you’ll find there in abundance. Even if you’re not interested in the lake, the journey there is worth it for the stunning views alone.
The Hemis Monastery & The Hemis Festival
Every year, Hemis Gompa (Monastery) hosts the Hemis Festival, which draws in numerous tourists from around the globe. It is a two-day festival celebrated on the 10th day of the Tibetan lunar month, typically in early June. During the festival, the monks dress in traditional attire and colorful masks and perform ceremonial dances in front of a massive audience surrounded by majestic mountains. It is a popular event for photographers, attracting visitors from all over the world.
Best Food Places in Leh
Leh offers an array of culinary experiences that will tantalize your taste buds. Take advantage of indulging in Tibetan cuisine during your visit. The Tibetan Kitchen and Lamayuru Restaurant are excellent choices for traditional dishes such as Thukpa, Shabakley, Momos, and more. Additionally, be sure to try the Yak Cheese, a local delicacy that is both rare and delicious. There are many options available for those looking for a change of taste. For instance, Chopsticks offers delicious Chinese cuisine, Neha Snacks serves North Indian dishes and sweets, and Gesmos is an excellent choice for pizza or burgers. For those craving Italian food, La Piazzetta offers decent options. Remember that dining options in Leh are limited due to the remote location, so appreciate the variety of choices available.
Special Mention- Reaching Leh to Srinagar
If you’re a backpacker traveling from Manali to Leh, I recommend taking the route toward Srinagar for some added adventure. To make the journey, consider taking the only JKSRTC bus from Leh to Srinagar, which departs in the afternoon and arrives in Srinagar early the following day. Book your seat in advance to secure the one you want. Remember that the journey can be long and tiring, so prepare accordingly.
About Zostel Leh
Zostel Leh, situated on Karzu Road, is a backpacking hostel offering comfortable accommodation only 1 km from Leh’s primary market. Its rooftop restaurant serves delicious food while its rooms provide breathtaking views of the Himalayan landscape surrounding Leh. Additionally, with ample space to socialize with fellow travelers, Zostel Leh is among the top backpacking hostels in the Leh-Ladakh region.
Accommodation in Leh is readily available as it is a touristy town. However, if you plan to travel to remote places from the city, you may have to explore other options for lodging.
If you’re on a budget, homestays are a great option. Almost every village in Ladakh offers homestays that are comfortable and affordable and provide an opportunity to experience the local culture, food, and traditions. The benefit of staying with locals is that you can interact with them and gain a deeper understanding of the place and its people than you would by reading a hotel brochure. It is common for hosts to be amiable and welcoming and happy to share their knowledge about the region with guests.
About Zostel
Zostel is the largest chain of backpacking hostels in Asia, with locations throughout India and Nepal. We offer a unique travel experience for backpackers and solo travelers, featuring a variety of excursions, events, in-house activities, and more. Learn more about our offerings by visiting our website.
In conclusion, this travel guide to Leh and Ladakh will help you plan your trip efficiently and enjoy the various attractions of this picturesque region, including the monasteries, deserts, lakes, and mountains. With the stunning natural beauty that awaits you, the journey to Leh may be challenging, but it will be worth it. Whether you travel by bike, bus, or taxi, you’re sure to have an unforgettable adventure in Leh Ladakh, making it a must-visit destination for any avid traveler looking to explore the natural wonders of India.
