Ladakh, India
Ladakh Travel Guide
High passes, Pangong blues, and monasteries - plan altitude, roads, and the best window for Leh and beyond.
Ladakh, India
Ladakh Travel Guide
Live weather
Leh
14°C
Clear sky
Humidity 58%Wind 1 km/h
Typical climate
Cold desert at altitude. Days can be sunny and mild in summer; nights drop sharply. Winters are harsh with heavy snow on passes; most routes close outside the main season.
Map
Leh
Best time to visit
- May–Sep: roads open, warmest days, ideal for Pangong, Nubra, and monasteries.
- Oct: crisp skies and fewer crowds; nights turn cold fast.
- Jan–Feb: frozen Pangong and Chadar trek-only for experienced winter travellers.
Temperature ranges
Jun–Aug
8–28°C
Peak season; strong sun.
Sep–Oct
0–20°C
Clear views; pack layers.
Dec–Feb
-15–5°C
Extreme cold; limited access.
Clothing suggestions
- Thermal base layers, fleece, and windproof jacket year-round.
- Sun hat, sunglasses, and SPF-UV is intense at altitude.
- Sturdy shoes for monastery steps and lakeside walks.
- Wool cap and gloves even in summer for early starts and passes.
Packing essentials
- Diamox or consult doctor for altitude -acclimatize 24–48 hrs in Leh.
- Reusable water bottle; stay hydrated to reduce AMS risk.
- Power bank; cold drains batteries on long day trips.
- Copies of ID and inner-line permits for restricted areas.
Top attractions
- Leh: Shanti Stupa, Leh Palace, old town markets.
- Pangong Lake: colour-shifting waters (permit required).
- Nubra Valley: Hunder sand dunes and double-humped camels.
- Khardung La / Chang La: iconic high passes (seasonal).
- Thiksey and Hemis monasteries for culture and views.