Leh–Ladakh · Ladakh
Leh–Ladakh 2026: Lakes, Passes & Monasteries
High-altitude desert of blue lakes and monasteries. Best Jun–Sep; Inner Line Permits needed for Pangong, Nubra & more.
Guide by MRIGAN
LEH–LADAKH 2026 🏔️
Best time to visit
• Jun–Sep: roads open, clear skies. Sep is quieter with the best views.
• The Srinagar–Leh and Manali–Leh highways stay closed Nov–Apr/early May.
Permits
• Indian travellers need an Inner Line Permit (ILP) for Pangong, Nubra,
Tso Moriri and Hanle — apply online (LAHDC portal) or at the DC office, Leh.
A 6–7 day plan
Day 1–2 – Leh: acclimatise 24–48 hrs. Leh market, Shanti Stupa, Thiksey & Hemis monasteries, Magnetic Hill.
Day 3 – Nubra Valley: over Khardung La to Hunder’s sand dunes & Bactrian camels.
Day 4 – Nubra → Pangong: the turquoise-to-blue Pangong Tso (14,270 ft).
Day 5 – Pangong → Leh via Chang La.
Day 6–7 – Optional: Tso Moriri / Hanle (dark-sky stargazing).
Budget (per person, excluding flights/road travel to Leh)
Stays: ₹800–2,500/night (guesthouses & camps).
Transport: shared cabs, or a bike rental ₹1,200–2,000/day + fuel.
Food: ₹500–900/day.
✅ A 6–7 day trip typically runs ₹18,000–₹35,000 per person.
Travel tips
- Acclimatise 24–48 hrs in Leh before Pangong or Khardung La — altitude sickness is real.
- Carry multiple passport-size photos + ID copies for permits; keep printouts, network is patchy.
- Pack warm layers even in summer — nights and high passes are freezing.
- Stay hydrated, skip alcohol the first day, and keep Diamox handy (ask your doctor).