7 Days Ladakh, India Itinerary
This 7-day itinerary explores the best of Ladakh, including Leh, Nubra Valley, and Pangong Lake. It balances cultural immersion with thrilling adventure activities, ensuring an unforgettable experience in the 'Land of High Passes'. This itinerary requires a moderate level of fitness.
Duration
7 days
Budget
$700-1400
Best Time
The best time to visit Ladakh is from May to September when the weather is pleasant, and all major roads and passes are open
Activities
28
Daily Avg
$150/day
Cities
Ladakh (2d), Nubra Valley via Khardung La (1d), Nubra Valley Exploration (1d), Journey to Pangong Tso (3d)
Pace
Moderate
Ladakh offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes, Tibetan Buddhist culture, and thrilling adventure activities. From high-altitude lakes to rugged mountains, it's a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The unique cultural immersion adds an unforgettable layer to the experience.
Your itinerary covers 6 of 10 must-have experiences
Ancient Monasteries & Gompas
Day 2: Visit Thiksey Monastery
Iconic High Altitude Lakes
Day 5: Drive to Pangong Tso via Shyok or Wari La (check road conditions)
Majestic Mountain Passes & Viewpoints
e.g., Khardung La Pass, Chang La Pass
Historic Palaces & Forts
Day 1: Visit Leh Palace
Local Ladakhi Cuisine & Cafes
Day 1: Lunch at Gesmo Restaurant
Adventure & River Rafting
e.g., Indus River Rafting (Nimmu to Basgo), Zanskar River Rafting (Padum to Nimmu)
Traditional Village Immersion & Homestays
Day 3: Lunch in Khardung Village
Stargazing & Night Photography
e.g., Hanle Observatory (Indian Astronomical Observatory), Pangong Tso Lakeside
Local Markets & Souvenirs
Day 2: Lunch at a Local Eatery in Thiksey
High Altitude Wildlife Spotting
e.g., Hemis National Park (Snow Leopard), Tso Moriri Wetland Conservation Reserve (Black-necked Cranes)
Ladakhi cuisine is hearty and flavorful, influenced by Tibetan and Indian flavors. Expect simple, nourishing dishes perfect for the high-altitude environment. The food focuses on using locally available ingredients like barley, wheat, and dairy products.
Must-Try Dishes
A hearty noodle soup with vegetables, meat (usually mutton or chicken), and spices. A perfect way to warm up in the cold climate.
đ Almost any restaurant or roadside eatery in Leh and Nubra Valley
Steamed dumplings filled with vegetables, meat (mutton or chicken), or cheese. Served with a spicy dipping sauce.
đ Street food stalls, restaurants, and cafes throughout Ladakh
A traditional Ladakhi stew made with wheat or barley flour, root vegetables (potatoes, turnips), and meat (mutton or yak).
đ Local restaurants in Leh and homestays in remote villages
Hand-pulled noodle soup with vegetables and meat (mutton or yak). Similar to Thukpa but with a different type of noodle.
đ Restaurants and cafes in Leh and other towns
Food Neighborhoods
Variety of restaurants, cafes, and street food stalls.
Known for its restaurants catering to tourists, offering both local and international cuisines.
Several restaurants offering a mix of Ladakhi, Tibetan, and Indian dishes.
Homestays offer traditional Ladakhi meals.
Vegetarian options are widely available, especially momos, thukpa, and vegetable curries. Vegan options are more limited but can be found with some searching or by requesting modifications. Halal meat is available in Leh. Inform your server of any allergies.
It's polite to accept food and drinks offered to you, even if you only take a small portion. Use your right hand when accepting food. Avoid wasting food.
Diwali
DeepavaliFestival of Lights celebrating the victory of light over darkness with oil lamps, fireworks, and sweets.
Note: Book 1+ month ahead for popular cities
Holi
Festival of Colors celebrating spring with colored powder, water fights, and music.
Note: Book 3-4 weeks ahead
Ganesh Chaturthi
Festival honoring elephant-headed god Ganesha with grand processions.
Note: Book 1 month ahead for Mumbai
Pushkar Camel Fair
Pushkar MelaWorld's largest camel fair with trading, competitions, and cultural events.
Note: Book 2 months ahead
đŖī¸Interesting Detours & Side Trips
- đļArrive at Leh Airport & Transfer to Hotel: Pre-booked taxi or hotel transfer.$10
9:00 AM - Arrive at Leh Airport & Transfer to Hotel
Take a pre-booked taxi to your hotel in Leh. It's crucial to rest upon arrival to acclimatize to the high altitude (11,000 ft). Avoid strenuous activity.
- đļLunch at Gesmo Restaurant: Short walk or taxi from the hotel.$5
1:00 PM - Lunch at Gesmo Restaurant
Enjoy a light lunch at Gesmo Restaurant, known for its Tibetan and Indian cuisine. Start with smaller portions to avoid digestive issues.
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- đļVisit Leh Palace: Taxi or auto-rickshaw from Gesmo Restaurant.$2
3:00 PM - Visit Leh Palace
Explore the ruins of Leh Palace, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. Take it slow and avoid overexertion.
Book on Klook - đļSunset View from Shanti Stupa: Taxi or walk from Leh Palace (uphill).FREE
6:00 PM - Sunset View from Shanti Stupa
Climb (slowly!) to Shanti Stupa for stunning sunset views over Leh. Take breaks as needed. Hydrate well.
Book on Klook
Changspa
Changspa is a quieter area with guesthouses and cafes, ideal for acclimatization.
đ Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Ladakh is from May to September when the weather is pleasant, and all major roads and passes are open. June to August is peak season, offering warm days but attracting larger crowds and higher prices. May and September offer fewer crowds, moderate weather, and stunning landscapes. Winter (October to April) sees extremely cold temperatures and most roads closed, making it suitable only for specific adventures like the Chadar Trek.
During peak season, Ladakh experiences sunny days and clear skies. Temperatures are generally warm during the day but can drop significantly at night, especially at higher altitudes. It's essential to pack layers to adjust to the changing temperatures.
The peak season in Ladakh is from June to August. The weather is warm and pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the region. However, it also attracts the largest crowds and higher prices.
Check for local holidays and festivals as they can affect opening hours and availability of services.
Getting Around
Diverse options from auto-rickshaws to metro systems in major cities
Metro cards available per city
Use Uber/Ola for hassle-free rides. Book trains via IRCTC app well in advance.
Travel
$200-400 (flights, internal transport)Accommodation
$200-400 (guesthouses, camps)Food
$150-300Activities
$150-300 (permits, tours, entrance fees)Stay in guesthouses or homestays which are often significantly cheaper and offer a more authentic experience than hotels, especially outside Leh town.
Opt for shared taxis or local buses for popular routes (e.g., Leh to Nubra Valley or Pangong Tso) instead of hiring a private taxi, which can drastically cut down transportation costs.
Consider a guided multi-day trek through remote valleys. While an initial expense, it offers unparalleled access to nature, culture, and ensures safety with experienced local guides.
A night or two at a comfortable tented camp at Pangong Lake or Nubra Valley, especially one with good amenities, can be a memorable and worthwhile experience despite the higher cost.
Bargain respectfully at local markets (Leh Main Market, Tibetan Market) for souvenirs and goods. It's part of the local culture, but always be polite and fair.
Support local eateries (dhabas and small restaurants) for delicious and affordable Ladakhi and Indian cuisine. Not only do you save money, but you also experience authentic local flavors.
- Acclimatize to the high altitude: Spend at least 1-2 full days resting in Leh upon arrival before venturing to higher altitudes to avoid Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).
- Obtain Inner Line Permits (ILP): These are mandatory for visiting restricted areas like Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, and Tso Moriri. Apply online in advance or through local tour operators in Leh.
- Respect local culture and customs: Ladakh is predominantly Buddhist. Dress modestly, especially when visiting monasteries, and remove your shoes before entering prayer halls. A warm 'Julley' (hello/thank you/goodbye) is always appreciated.
- Carry sufficient cash: While Leh has ATMs, they can be unreliable or run out of cash. Outside Leh, ATMs are virtually non-existent. Many small shops, homestays, and eateries only accept cash.
- Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun: Drink plenty of water to combat dehydration at high altitudes. The sun's UV rays are intense; use high-SPF sunscreen, wear a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses.
- Be prepared for varying road conditions: Roads in Ladakh can be rough, unpaved, and prone to landslides. Travel during daylight hours and expect potential delays. Shared taxis are a popular mode of transport for tourists.
- Embrace sustainable tourism: Avoid single-use plastics, carry your waste back, and support local businesses to minimize your environmental footprint in this fragile ecosystem.
- 1Warm layered clothing (thermal underwear, fleece, down jacket) for varying temperatures
- 2Sturdy waterproof hiking boots or comfortable walking shoes with good ankle support
- 3High-SPF sunscreen, lip balm with SPF, and a moisturizer due to dry, high-altitude air
- 4Wide-brimmed hat and good quality UV-protective sunglasses
- 5Basic first-aid kit including pain relievers, band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and any personal medications (consult doctor for altitude sickness medication like Diamox)
- 6Reusable water bottle and water purification tablets/filter to minimize plastic waste
- 7Power bank/portable charger for electronics, as electricity can be intermittent in remote areas
- 8Headlamp or torch with extra batteries for power outages or navigating in the dark
- 9Comfortable and modest clothing for visiting monasteries and local villages
- 10Small backpack for day trips to carry water, snacks, and extra layers
Flights to Leh (Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport)
Book well in advance, especially for peak season (June-August), as flights fill up quickly and prices rise. Direct flights are available from major Indian cities.
Accommodation in Leh
Secure your stay for at least the first 2-3 nights (for acclimatization) well ahead of your travel dates, particularly during peak tourist season.
Inner Line Permits (ILP)
Apply online through the official Ladakh administration website or arrange through your tour operator. This is mandatory for visiting restricted areas like Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, and Tso Moriri.
Travel Insurance
Ensure your policy covers high-altitude trekking, medical emergencies, and evacuation, as access to advanced medical facilities is limited.
Altitude Sickness Medication
Consult your doctor about preventive medication like Diamox and carry it with you. Do not self-medicate without professional advice.
Local Transport/Tour Operator
If not bringing your own vehicle, pre-book taxis, bikes, or tour packages for visits to Nubra, Pangong, etc., especially if traveling solo or on a tight schedule.
Note: Travel conditions, regulations, and local customs may change. We recommend verifying essential details â such as visa requirements, emergency contacts, and payment options â closer to your travel date.
SIM & Connectivity
SIM Options
đ Airtel stores at Leh Airport or in Leh Main Market. Requires ID and passport photos.
đ Jio stores at Leh Airport or in Leh Main Market. Requires ID and passport photos.
đ Purchase and activate online through the Airalo app or website before arrival.
đ Search online for 'Pocket WiFi rental Leh' before arriving. Pick up from their Leh office.
WiFi is available in most hotels and guesthouses in Leh. Cafes in Leh also offer free WiFi, but speeds can be slow and unreliable, especially during peak season. Outside of Leh, WiFi is scarce.
Useful Apps
Purchase a local SIM card upon arrival for reliable connectivity, especially if you plan to travel outside of Leh. Airtel and Jio usually offer the best coverage. Download offline maps and translation packs before your trip. Be prepared for intermittent connectivity and limited bandwidth in many areas. Inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid card blocks.
Electric Socket Guide
Socket Types
Two round pins (Europlug)
Three large round pins in triangle
Three large round pins in triangle
230V
50Hz
Tipping Etiquette
10% if no service charge; round up at casual spots
Round up to nearest âš10â50
âš50â100 per bag for porters; âš200â500/day for housekeeping
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Small tips go a long way.
Safety & Travel Advisories
Altitude sickness is a major concern in Ladakh. Take it easy on arrival, stay hydrated, and avoid strenuous activities. Road conditions can be unpredictable, especially on mountain passes.
Check official government advisories for the latest safety information, entry requirements, and travel warnings before your trip.
Emergency Numbers
100
102 or 108
101
Available in major tourist cities
Call 112 for unified emergency services
Payments
Cash is widely used, especially for street vendors and auto-rickshaws
Accepted at malls, restaurants, and hotels in cities
UPI (Google Pay, PhonePe, Paytm) is ubiquitous in urban India
UPI QR codes are everywhere. Carry small cash denominations for tips and small vendors.
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Trip Summary
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The best time to visit Ladakh is from May to September when the weather is pleasant, and all major roads are open. June to August is peak season, offering warm days but attracting larger crowds. May and September offer fewer crowds and moderate weather.
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