Nestled in the Himalayas, Ladakh is a surreally beautiful place that’s equal parts nature, adventure and culture. Little wonder it’s what you’ve chosen as your next holiday destination! Whether you’re a hiker, bird watcher, foodie or sightseeing enthusiast, to enjoy the best that Ladakh tourism has to offer, you must be packed and prepared for the unique environment, altitude and climate you’re about to experience. 

That’s why we’ve put together this handy guide to get you all set for this bucket-list worthy escapade. It’s got all the information building up to your date of travel and the journey itself. That way, you can simply read through and check off each item, saving all your excitement for this spectacular getaway. 

Two Weeks Prior

To get started, here are some of the questions that may have crossed your mind about travelling to Ladakh. 

What Are The Important Documents Required For This Journey?

Since this isn’t an international journey, you do not need a passport or visa documentation for Indian na-tionals. 

But you will still need

1. Photo ID/address proof like driver’s license or Adhaar Card for airport entry and hotel check-in

2. Tickets in print and soft-copy 

What Should You Pack? 

• Warm or woollen clothes
• Reading material
• Sunblock and UV protected sunglasses
• Body lotion and lip balm
• Personal essentials 
• Electronic necessities
• Torch

What Is The Maximum Luggage Allowed By Airlines? 

For domestic flights, your luggage should generally weigh not more than:

• 7 kgs for hand luggage 
• 15 kgs for check-in bags

However, various carriers could have different baggage allowance rules so it’s best you check on their website to be sure.

Two To Three Days Before The Trip

Foreign Currency

You do not need any foreign exchange as the Indian Rupee is the local currency.

Power Banks And Adapters

Most plugs should work in the available sockets around Ladakh, but it is always better to carry an adapter just in case. Power banks are essential here as you will often be in remote locations or on the road with no power outlets handy.

Toiletries

• Toothbrush & toothpaste, preferably your own for hygiene purposes
• Sunscreen & moisturiser for skin protection from the harsh sun
• Shampoo & conditioner that suit your hair type
• Your personal hair comb or brush 
• Face and body wash that suit your skin
• Hand sanitiser

Clothes

• Inner thermals and woollen socks
• Good quality woollen or fleece jacket
• Warm insulated shoes or trekking boots
• Monkey cap and gloves (if needed)
• Long sleeve shirts and long pants
• Active wear 

Medicines

Create your own travel first-aid kit with the following items:

• Altitude sickness medication
• Pain killers
• Antiseptic cream
• Safety pins
• Crepe bandage
• Skin cream
• Cough & cold medicines
• Allergy medication 
• Portable oxygen cylinder

The Day Of Travel

Food

You need not carry any ready-to-eat food on your journey as it won’t take you more than a few hours, but you can if needed.

Important Documents

• Valid photo ID/address proof to enter the airport and check into the hotel
• A printed copy of your tickets
• Photocopies of all important documents including travel, sightseeing arrangements, bookings etc.
• Scanned soft-copies of all the above documents that are always accessible

Insurance

Travel insurance is an important asset when it comes to protecting yourself while holidaying, like in the case of unwanted circumstances interrupting or cutting short your trip once the bookings have been made. It allows you to recover some of your money as well as provides medical assistance and cover during the journey. Choose any of the top travel insurance companies or ask SOTC for assistance. 

Important Numbers

While travelling around Ladakh, it is wise to have the local emergency and police numbers for added safety.

Hotel Bookings

Confirm your hotel bookings and insist on a receipt before you leave for your destination. Check if your hotel provides pick-up and drop-off services or ask SOTC to organise it as part of your package.

Cash/Card

Credit and debit cards are accepted at larger enterprises and the main towns do have ATMs. It is advisable to withdraw some cash for daily use, just in case.

During The Trip

The language of Ladakh is primarily Tibetan and Ladakhi, although most locals know enough English and Hindi. You shouldn’t have a problem getting around or communicating in general.

Tips For Travelling In Ladakh

Ladakh is such a wonderfully different destination and these handy pieces of advice are just what you need to explore it with ease, comfort and the joys of travel.

Getting Around:

• Leh is very well connected by public transport buses to both Manali and Srinagar.
• Local transport includes buses that take you to different parts but frequency is not that great and you may have to wait for hours.
• Local and tourist shared taxis or jeeps ply between many places within Ladakh or you can also hire a private taxi.

Food Culture:

• You’ll find food of many influences including Tibet, North India and global fanfare, all around Ladakh.
• The most famous traditional dishes that you simply must try are thukpa, khambir, teemo, momos and yak cheese.
• Try visiting some of these well-known restaurants while you’re there — The Tibetan Kitchen, Gesmo, World Garden Café, Alchi Kitchen.
• Average food costs for two, per day, are around 800-1000 INR, although you can find meals for every budget. 

Lodging Options:

• Ladakh has luxury stays, boutique hotels, budget accommodation, guest houses, home-stays and more as accommodation options
• For the adventurous who will be camping, tent accommodation is provided by local operators 
• Ladakh is not a very expensive destination and you can easily get a premium stay for about 700-1000 INR a night

Social Etiquette:

• Ladakh is a warm and friendly place that welcomes tourists from all parts of the world, which must be reciprocated with respect for local tradition and customs
• Since Buddhism is predominant, visiting monasteries is a must. Do remember to follow all the rules of entering, including those of photography and clothing 
• Do not litter anywhere in Ladakh as it is a pristine and delicate ecology 

When To Visit:

• Ladakh is a high-altitude desert as it falls under the rain shadow of the grand Himalayas. 
• The beginning of summer is in April and even with temperatures rising, the weather is still cold and many of the sites remain inaccessible. This changes as the summer progresses. 
• By June, Ladakh is open to exploration, with great outdoor weather and lovely blue skies. There could be the occasional shower, so have a jacket. 
• By November, winter starts to set in and the temperatures drop. The region still has active tourism for those who seek cold climate adventures like frozen river treks. 
• The best time to visit depends on the itinerary and season preference, but there are always some exciting adventures to be had no matter when you go.

Unmissable Experiences:

There are plenty of unbelievable experiences to be had in Ladakh, no matter your interest.

• For thrill seekers, there are treks, trails, mountain biking, lakeside camping, star gazing, motorbike riding, river rafting and a whole lot more
• Nature lovers can rejoice in the pristine beauty of Hemis National Park, the azure lakes of Pangong and Tso Moriri, Nubra Valley, Spituk and more. 
• Culture enthusiasts can wander about towns and villages, sightseeing all the noteworthy places like Shanti Stupa, Stok Palace, Lamayuru.

Ladakh In The Arts:

You have seen many glimpses of Ladakh across an array of Bollywood movies, including blockbuster hits such as 3 Idiots, Dil Se, Jab Tak Hain Jaan, Lakshya and Bhaag Milka Bhaag.