• By: RIYANKA
• Feb 05, 2025
• (3) Comments

Traveling to Ladakh in 2026? Here’s a Complete Travel Guide

“There’s no time to be bored in a world as beautiful as this!”

These words kept echoing in my mind as the flight was about to touch down in Leh. For a moment, the view from the window made me forget all the woes of life, filling my heart with immense joy. Ladakh had been on my bucket list for years, and I had planned this trip several times, both solo and with friends.

But things never seemed to work out!

And then, right after COVID, I decided to escape to the mountains for a while, and I couldn’t think of a better plan than living in the gorgeous ‘Land of High Passes.’

Located at an altitude of 3,524 meters (11,562 ft), Ladakh is indeed blessed with an incredible topography comprising hilly terrain, high-altitude peaks, vast stretches of cold desert, pristine lakes, and lush green grasslands.

Here’s all you need to know about travelling to Ladakh

Things to explore in and around Leh

Needless to say, you’d need at least 3 to 4 days to explore all that’s there in and around Leh.

1. Shanti Stupa: Situated on a hilltop in Chanspa, this beautiful dome-shaped Chorten is called Shanti Stupa. What makes this white structure a tourist attraction is the view it offers of the whole of Leh. The walls inside the Chorten have panels depicting the life of Lord Buddha. To add to that, the place’s vibe would make you want to stay a long time.
2. Spituk Gompa: Located about 8 km from Leh, this is one of the most dazzling monasteries in India, housing 100 monks and a giant statue of Kali. That’s why you might find the local cab drivers referring to Spituk Gompa as ‘Kali Mandir.’ It is famous for its collection of Buddhist objects, like ancient masks and numerous Thangka paintings.
3. Shey Palace: Shey Palace was an ancient monastery that once served as the summer capital of Ladakh but is now mostly in ruins. Located on a hillock 9 km from Leh, it offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding village, bordered by snow-clad peaks. If you happen to be at Shey Palace during dusk, you’d be mesmerised to see the gorgeous shades of crimson and scarlet painting the sky!
4. Leh Market: It’s the Mall Road that you’d find in almost every hill station in India. The bustling part of the town, with souvenir stores and Tibetan shops selling antique items, new-age cafes alongside traditional Ladakhi restaurants, Leh Market comes to life at night. It’s the most crowded part of Leh, and no matter whether you like it or hate it, you surely won’t be able to ignore it!
5. Leh Palace: While roaming around the market, you’d spot this 9-storied palace turned into ruins! This 17th-century former royal palace is now converted into a museum. The highlight is the sweeping view of Leh and the surrounding Zanskar mountains from the rooftop.
6. Hall of Fame: Located approximately 4 km from the main city, this glorified museum was built in memory of the brave soldiers who lost their lives fighting for India in the Indo-Pak War.
7. Thiksey Monastery: Resembling the Potala Palace of Lhasa, Tibet, this is one of the most popular monasteries in Ladakh. Located about 20 km from Leh, Thiksey Monastery comprises a 12-story building complex and houses more than 500 monks. Thiksey has a large and precious collection of Buddhist books, journals, statues, scripts, stupas, swords, and Thangka paintings. The main highlight is the Maitreya Temple, which houses a 15-meter-high Maitreya Buddha statue.
8. Hemis Monastery: Located about 45 km from Leh, Hemis Monastery sits on a large rocky hill and houses a spectacular copper statue of Lord Buddha, along with gold- and silver-studded stupas, Thangkas (paintings on cotton or silk depicting Buddhist deities), and murals. This is also the place where the famous Hemis Festival takes place every year, in the months of June/July.
9. Stakna Monastery: Located on the left bank of the Indus River and perched on a hill, Stakna Monastery offers amazing views of the surrounding valley and houses numerous paintings, idols, and Buddhist scriptures. It is one of the oldest monasteries in the region, assumed to be founded during the reign of King Jamyang Namgyal in 1580.
10. Stok Palace: Situated just 15 km away, Stok Palace is famously known as the summer home of the royal family of Ladakh. Established in 1820 by King Tsepal Namgyal, it is a striking example of the royal family’s rich history and way of life. It is also home to Stok Monastery and features beautiful gardens and a huge library. It has now been converted into a heritage hotel for visitors to experience royalty.
11. Magnetic Hill: Located about 30 km from Leh on the way to Kargil, this unique landscape is where vehicles appear to defy gravity and roll uphill when parked at the designated spot.
12. Chemrey Monastery: If you wish to explore a hidden gem, head to this 400-year-old, yet unexplored, Buddhist monastery located approximately 40 km from Leh. It is known for housing a staggering statue of Padmasambhava (almost a storey high) and a collection of ancient scriptures, the texts emboldened in gold letters with titles in silver.

For those who are drawn to offbeat landscapes and rich cultural experiences, a thoughtfully curated Leh Ladakh tour package offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Himalayas. From dramatic mountain passes and crystal-clear lakes to peaceful monasteries perched high above the valleys, every moment here feels both humbling and magical.

Overnight trips from Leh that you can choose while travelling to Ladakh

While the above-mentioned places are closer to the town, one can easily make day trips to all of them. However, there are other unmissable areas in Ladakh, which require overnight trips.

1. Nubra Valley – Diskit – Turtuk – Pangong Lake (3 nights 4 days)

Crossing the Khardung La (one of the highest motorable roads in India at an elevation of 5602 metres), and driving along the winding mountain roads would lead you to Nubra Valley on the banks of the Shyok River, which is known to be a cold desert and home to the Bactrian Camels.

Drive further to Diskit, where you can explore the enchanting monastery built during the 14th century. Near the Diskit monastery, stands a 32-meter-tall statue of Maitreya Buddha facing towards the Shyok River, and it’s one of the most popular sites that one just can’t miss!

Travel to Turtuk, known to be the last village on the Indo-Pak border, and gaze at the stunning views of the mountains and valleys. Continue with your epic adventure and visit the Pangong Lake (popularised by the movie ‘3 Idiots’). Words would fall short of describing this gorgeous lake that starts in India and ends in China. A unique feature of the lake is that it does not remain blue throughout the year or even the day, it changes colours from azure to light blue to green and grey too!

Cost – It’ll cost you around 20,000 INR + Permit Charges to cover this entire circuit from Leh.

2. Tso Moriri – Tso Kiagar – Tso Kar (2 nights 3 days)

This is a lesser-known circuit, yet no less beautiful! And since not many tourists flock to these hidden gems of Ladakh, you’d probably enjoy the serenity of these places even more. Tso Moriri is the largest high-altitude lake in India, at an altitude of 4,595m, and takes about 7 hours to reach from Leh.

On the way to Tso Moriri, you can stop by Tso Kiagar, situated in the Rupshu valley and surrounded by the Changpa settlements. Tso Moriri (meaning ‘Mountain Lake’) is less popular than Pangong Lake, and it’s a perfect place of peace and tranquillity flanked by mighty mountains. Spend your nights gazing at the star-studded sky, and you’ll definitely get to spot Orion and the Milky Way.

Several birds can be spotted at Tso Moriri, like the bare-headed goose, the great-crested grebe, the Brahmin duck, and the brown-headed gull – and thus, it’s a paradise for bird watchers! On the way from Tso Moriri to Leh, you can stop by another high-altitude saltwater lake, known as Tso Kar.

Cost – It’ll cost you around 16,000 INR + Permit Charges to cover this entire circuit from Leh.

3. Lamayuru & Alchi (1 night 2 days)

Known as ‘Moonland’, Lamayuru lies on the Leh-Kargil Highway and is famous for its unique landscape that resembles the moon! It is immensely popular for housing the Lamayuru Monastery, the oldest and largest monastery in Ladakh. Once you’ve explored this alluring village, drive on to Alchi, home to an ancient Buddhist monastery dating back 900 years.

The monastery proudly displays 11th–12th-century Indo-Tibetan paintings in bright green, gold, ochre, and azure shades. Spend a night at Alchi to discover the real Ladakhi village life and soak in the serenity of this place.

Cost – It’ll cost you around 8,500 INR + Permit Charges to cover this entire circuit from Leh.

Where to stay in Leh?

You’ll find all sorts of accommodation options in Leh, from affordable dorms in hostels to cosy guesthouses, pocket-friendly hotels, and luxurious properties.

• Hostels in Leh: Zostel Leh is definitely one of the best options, where you can find a bed in a dorm for just ₹499/night. Other options include Himalayan Bunker and goStops Hostel.
• Guesthouses/Homestays: If you’re looking for privacy and want to escape the hustle and bustle, you can opt for a guesthouse or homestay with a local family. This would cost around ₹1,000/night, and you’d get to experience the Ladakhi lifestyle.
• Hotels & Resorts: If you have a higher budget, you can unwind in one of the high-end properties in Leh. The cost would be around ₹3,000–4,500/night.

Where to eat in Leh?

If you’re a foodie like me, you’ll be spoiled for choice in Leh! From freshly baked pizzas to mutton momos, and authentic Kashmiri Wazwan to Thenthuk & Shyapta—you’ll find it all here.

Some of the best eateries in Leh:

Chimath Tibetan Restaurant – You’d find the best Mothuk (Momo-Thukpa) and Mutton soup at this hole-in-the-wall restaurant, located in the main Leh market.

Naas Cafe – An Insta-worthy cafe with a diverse menu, this newly opened place serves mouthwatering burgers, noodles, and chilli chicken along with freshly brewed coffee and a variety of smoothies and shakes.

Kashmiri Wazwan – If you’re craving some Yakhni Mutton, Gushtaba, or Rogan Josh along with Kashmiri Pulao or Keema Naan, then this is the place for you!

Lamayuru Restaurant – Serving the best Yak cheese pizza, this has become one of the most popular restaurants amongst tourists and locals. You’d also find Israeli cuisine here, along with Chinese, North Indian, and Tibetan delicacies.

Lehvenda Café – Lehvenda Café has everything that you look for in a café: a great ambience, good music, mouth-watering food, and coffee. Offering a perfect view of the Leh market, this is a place where you can sit for hours!

The Tibetan Kitchen – Situated in the heart of Leh town, The Tibetan Kitchen is one of the best restaurants to try local cuisines. The ambience and outdoor seating enhance the dining experience. The restaurant offers Tibetan, Chinese, Thai, Continental, and Indian cuisine. While all the food on the menu is scrumptious, opt for Tibetan dishes, and you’ll surely be craving more!

Plan a workation in Leh while travelling to Ladakh

All hostels/hotels/guesthouses offer moderate to high-speed internet, so you can keep working pretty smoothly. Needless to say, you’d get to work with amazing views surrounding you.

There are several cafes in the market, like Brazil Cafe, Coffee Cave, Naas Cafe, and Lehvenda, where you’d find high-speed internet. Get yourself a cup of freshly brewed coffee (or maybe an aromatic cup of Kahwa) and get going with your work!

Postpaid connections work perfectly in the town, but you’d surely struggle to find connectivity while travelling around.

If you are fine to embrace slow and responsible travel in Ladakh, and wish to stay longer in Leh, you can easily work on the weekdays (step out to explore nearby places in the evenings) and plan your trips over the weekend. Leh is a good option to consider for a workation.

How to reach Ladakh?

By air: Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh is well-connected to all major cities in India, and you can take a flight to reach it. Currently, not many direct flights are available, but you can easily get a connecting flight, with a halt in Delhi or Srinagar.

By road: You can fly to Srinagar and drive to Leh via Zozila La, Drass & Kargil. Alternatively, you can opt for a ‘road trip of a lifetime’ and drive to Leh from Manali via Rohtang Pass, Keylong, and Sarchu. It’s known to be one of the most scenic routes in the country. For adventure lovers, a Ladakh bike trip via this route would be a journey of a lifetime!

If you’ve been planning to travel to Leh or have any questions/doubts about travelling to Ladakh, drop a comment below. And in case you’ve already visited this gorgeous land, please do share your experience with me 🙂