40 Best Things To Do In Ladakh That You Can’t Miss
by Vagatrip
1. Hemis Festival – Interesting Interactions
On a trip to Ladakh, one of the most enjoyable activities is watching the Llamas perform the lively Chhams dance. If you haven't seen this mesmerizing dance with its vibrant clothes and impressive masks, you haven't fully experienced the spirit and charm of Ladakh. Make sure to attend the Hemis Festival of Ladakh to witness these colorful dances and be captivated by their beauty.
Where: Hemis Monastery
When: 11th July to 12th July
Highlight: the Chham Dance is quite famous; people dance wearing masks and the dance is symbolic of good winning over bad
Time required: 3-4 hours
Average cost: N/A
2.Hemis National Park – Spot A Snow Leopard
Nothing can compare to the awe-inspiring sight of a Snow Leopard, a rare creature found in just a few locations around the world. You can catch a glimpse of this stunning animal during a snow leopard trek at Hemis National Park, one of Ladakh's popular attractions. The park is the winter home of over 200 snow leopards.
Where: Hemis National Park
When: During summer
Highlights: Hemis National Park
Time required: 3-4 hours
Average cost: INR 500
3. Hunder – Try Bactrian Camel Safari
Number three on our list of things to do in Ladakh is taking a ride on the double-humped Bactrian Camels at the sand dunes of Hunder. This place has amazing views of the Shyok and Nubra River, and it used to be an important part of the ancient trade route where caravans would travel.
Where: Hunder
When: during the summer months of June to September
Highlight: the scenic beauty that you’ll witness during your ride from Hunder to Turtuk
Time required: 2-3 hours
Average cost: INR 200
4. Khardungla Pass – Visit Highest Cafeteria In The World
One of the special things about Ladakh is the Maggi point, which is the highest cafeteria in the world. You might have eaten this noodle dish in many places, but you haven't really experienced it until you taste the 2-minute noodles while enjoying the view of the Himalayan mountains at Khardung La Pass. This pass is one of the highest drivable roads in the world.
Where: Khardungla Pass
When: the best time to visit Khardungla Pass is from April to June as well as September to October
Highlight: the fact that Khardungla Pass is the highest motorable road in the world is enough to give you a reason to visit this place
Time required: 5-6 hours
Average cost: INR 500
5. Yak Cheese – Try Yak Cheese Momos
In Ladakh, there is a special yak that grants wishes. It provides nomads with milk, butter, and meat. One unique thing about this place is that you won't find cheese made from yak's milk anywhere else in the country. It's called Chhurpi, and you should definitely try it in its local form or as delicious yak cheese momos. Adding this experience to your list of things to do in Ladakh is a must.
Where: Gesmo restaurant, Opp. Hotel Yak – Tall Fort Road Leh Jammu and Kashmir, 194101
When: Throughout the year
Highlights: Delicious Yak cheese momos
Time required: 2 hours
Average cost: INR 400
6. Buddhist Monks – Hang Out With The Monks
Interacting with tourists and locals during your trip is enjoyable, but there's something truly special about the Buddhist monks in Ladakh's valleys. These monks wander around and meditate at the monasteries, creating a magical atmosphere. Take a moment to observe a monk walking at a monastery and get ready to talk to him about his wise and divine experiences.
Time required: N/A
Average cost: N/A
7. Hemis Monastery – Peaceful Morning Expeditions
Instead of only going to the well-known places in Ladakh, be sure to visit the stunning Buddhist monasteries. You can even spend a night at Hemis monastery! It's a wonderful opportunity to witness the morning prayers and have a meaningful and refreshing experience. We highly recommend it.
Where: Hemis Monastery
When: 8:00 AM
Highlight: Morning prayers will be a mesmerizing sight to see and will prove to be a great experience
Time required: 2 hours
Average cost: N/A
8. Adventurous Roads – For Fun Seekers
If you love excitement and adventure, you must try riding a bike on the narrow and rocky paths in Ladakh. It's a must-do for all thrill-seekers. Your trip won't be complete until you've experienced the beauty of the lonely roads while riding a motorcycle, with only the sky above you and majestic mountains surrounding you. And if you're feeling brave, make sure to drive to the Khardung-La pass, which is one of the highest drivable passes in the world, reaching an altitude of 5,602 meters.
Where: Khardung-La pass
When: if you want to experience the best of this pass, then make sure you plan your visit here in the months of April to August and September to October
Highlight: it is considered to be the world’s highest motorable road
Time required: 1-2 hours
Average cost: N/A
9. Hot Butter Tea – Local Brew Chang
If you've had chai everywhere else in the country, don't miss the chance to try Ladakh's special Butter tea when you visit. And if you're up for a great experience, give Chang a try too. It's a local drink made by fermenting miller in a unique porcelain pot. Tea lovers shouldn't miss out on tasting these when they're in Ladakh.
When: Throughout the year
Highlight: The best thing about the two beverages is that they give you a fair idea about the local culture of Ladakh
Time required: 1 hour
Average cost: INR 100
10. Locals – Interact And Stay
Staying in a hotel is nice, but visiting Ladakh wouldn't be complete without living in the mountains. To truly immerse yourself in the local culture, try staying with a Ladakhi family. You'll have the chance to taste authentic Ladakhi food made at home, which will give you an unforgettable experience.
When: NA
Highlight: if you’ll stay with the locals, you’ll get a better idea of their lifestyle and their place will be like a home away from home.
Time required: 2-3 hours
Average cost: N/A
11. Old School Mills – Peep Into The Past
Discover the fascinating process of creating one of the world's most luxurious handlooms, the Pashmina, exclusively woven in traditional mills located in Ladakh. While bargaining for prices may be possible in your city, witnessing the enchanting craftsmanship in action is a unique experience reserved for these mills. And if you're lucky, you might even find a Pashmina goat to pet! You'll surely wish you could bring one home with you.
Highlight: a Pashmina will give you an idea about the history as well as the artistic aspect of Ladakh. It will also throw light on the skills of artisans that live here.
Time required: 3-4 hours
Average cost: N/A
12. Spituk Gompa Trek – Adventurous Expeditions
Spituk Gompa is an amazing old monastery situated on a hill. It's one of the special monasteries in Ladakh and a great place to explore for adventurous people. The location offers a beautiful view of the surrounding mountains.
Where: Leh, Jammu and Kashmir 194104
Highlight: standing here one can enjoy a beautiful view of the entire landscape while enjoying the silence in the air.
Time required: 2-3 hours
Average cost: N/A
13. Zanskar Valley Tour – For Daredevils
This valley is located in a remote area called Ladakh, and it's a very popular destination because of its stunning view. It's considered to be a part of the Tethys Himalayas. Inside the valley, you can find cave monasteries and hiking trails surrounded by a beautiful natural setting. You can even visit this place to enjoy exciting river rafting.
When: The best time to visit Zanskar Valley is considered to be July to September.
Highlight: Come to this valley if you want to undergo an unparalleled sightseeing experience.
Time required: 4-5 hours
Average cost: INR 1,000
14. Tso Moriri – Chill And Rejuvenate
If you want a relaxing place with amazing views, consider having a picnic at Tso Moriri. It's not as well-known as other lakes in the Changtang Wildlife Sanctuary, but it's just as beautiful as the famous Pangong Lake. Tso Moriri is about 100 feet deep and has stunning hills all around it.
When: During the winters, this lake freezes, and therefore the summer months of May, June, July, and August are considered the best for visiting this lake.
Highlight: Apart from the hills, you can witness some unique species of flora and fauna here.
Time required: 2 hours
Average cost: N/A
15. Magnetic Hill – Startling Experience
The Magnetic Hill in Ladakh is known as the anti-gravity hill because vehicles here don't seem to move as they should with gravity. If you park your vehicle, you'll see it moving uphill on its own. This amazing place is located about 30 kilometers from Leh and is definitely worth visiting when exploring the beautiful tourist spots!
When: the best time to visit this place is considered to be between the months of July and September
Highlight: there are some mythical stories attached to this hill which makes it all the more worthy to explore
Time required: 3 hours
Average cost: N/A
16. Namgyal Tsemo Monastery – Cultural Insight
If you want to explore the spiritual side of Ladakh, you must visit this monastery. It's a unique experience that you'll treasure. On the way, you'll see breathtaking mountains, making the journey even more captivating. Many people visit this monastery to learn about Buddhism.
Where: Leh district, Ladakh
Highlight: the vibes at this monastery are quite amazing, making it one of the best places to visit
Time required: 2-3 hours
Average cost: N/A
17. Lamayuru – Perfect For Stargazing
If you enjoy watching stars twinkling in the night sky while surrounded by beautiful mountains, then this is the perfect place for you. Known as the Moonland of Ladakh, Lumayuru is a small village located 100 kilometers away from Leh on the Srinagar to Leh highway. The main attraction of this place is the Tibetan Buddhist Monastery, which is well-known and visited by people from various regions. It's a place where you can experience nature at its finest. Additionally, there are some excellent resorts in the nearby area where you can stay and enjoy your time in Ladakh.
When: You can visit this village in the summer as well as monsoon months. However, it is suggested that you must stay careful during the monsoons as the chance of landslides is quite high.
Highlight: Stargazing at this point would be a delight and an experience that you’ll never forget.
Time required: 2-3 hours
Average cost: N/A
18. Chadar Trek – Trekker’s Delight
Would you like to walk on frozen sheets of ice? If you do, then you should try the Frozen River trek when you visit Ladakh. It's one of the most popular things to do there, and the trek is truly amazing. While walking, you'll see breathtaking views of frozen valleys, and the peaceful atmosphere will make you adore this place. It's definitely one of the top activities in Ladakh.
Where: Chadar
When: In the month of December
Highlight: Frozen river and serene ambiance
Time required: 6-8 hours
Average cost: Cost of supplies for the trek: INR 1,000
19. Local Food – Grab The Scrumptious Delights
This place is famous for serving a variety of food from different countries like India, Tibet, Korea, and China. You should definitely try Thukpa, Tsampa, and Skyu here to experience the delicious flavors of Tibetan cuisine. Besides the tasty food, don't forget to try Chang, a local alcoholic drink, before you leave Ladakh!
Where: Leh
When: Throughout the year
Highlight: Must try Thukpa, Tsampa, Skyu, and Chang
Time required: 2-3 hours
Average cost: INR 800
20. Nubra Valley – Glance At The Beauty
Another exciting activity you can do here is visit Nubra Valley. It's about 140 kilometers away from Leh and is famous for its beautiful landscapes and thrilling adventures. To reach the valley, you'll cross the lively Shyok and Nubra rivers. You'll also find many stunning monasteries there. Since the valley is close to the Siachen Base camp, it's under military supervision. Additionally, you can enjoy interesting rides on Bactrian camels.
Where: Nubra Valley
When: Between June to September
Highlight: Scenic beauty, Bactrian camel rides, and treks
Time required: 3-4 hours
Average cost: N/A
21. Donkey Sanctuary – Take A Stroll
Isn't it amazing to visit the Donkey Sanctuary during your vacation? It might seem funny, but there are plenty of interesting reasons to explore this place. The sanctuary takes care of old and sick donkeys in the area and provides them with the right conditions for a healthy life.
Where: Chemrey
When: Between June to October
Highlights: Statue of Padmasambhava and ancient scriptures
Time required: 2-3 hours
Average cost: N/A
22. Drang Drung Glacier – For Thrill-Seekers
One more fantastic activity to enjoy in Ladakh is going on a trek to the Drang Drung Glacier, which is situated in Suru Valley. The glacier stretches from Kargil to Panzella and is known for its rich fertility in the Ladakh area. Make sure you visit Panikhar and Parachik while heading towards the Drang Drung Glacier for an unforgettable experience. This is considered one of the most thrilling things to do in Ladakh.
Where: Suru Basin, Leh Ladakh
When: During summers
Highlight: Scenic beauty, adventurous expeditions
Time required: 5-6 hours
Average cost: N/A
23. Chemrey Monastery – Visit The Illuminating Spot
Chemrey Monastery in Ladakh is a remarkable Buddhist monastery that was built almost 400 years ago. It's situated about 40 kilometers away from Leh. The main attractions of this monastery are a huge statue of Padmasambhava and old scriptures adorned with golden and silver letters. Lama Tagsand Raschen established it, and it's famous for its peaceful atmosphere.
Where: Chemrey
When: Between June to October
Highlights: Statue of Padmasambhava and ancient scriptures
Time required: 2-3 hours
Average cost: N/A
24. Shanti Stupa – Religious Visit
The Shanti Stupa in Leh is one of the most famous Tibetan buildings known for its beautiful design. Its stunning white dome is captivating, and you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding area from this spot. It's a perfect place to relax and find inner peace in the calm atmosphere of the stupa. This stupa was built in 1991 by a well-known Japanese Buddhist named Bhikshu Gyomyo Nakamura.
Where: Shanti Stupa Rd, Leh
When: Throughout the year
Highlights: White-dome structure and serene ambiance
Time required: 2 hours
Average cost: N/A
25. Gurudwara Pathhar Sahib – For Some Peace
On your journey from Leh to Sham Valley, you'll pass by Gurudwara Pathhar Sahib. If you're fortunate and have enough time, you can enjoy the tasty food served at the langar. This place holds great significance as it was built to honor Guru Nanak Dev Ji's visit to Ladakh. It is a sacred site and its architecture is truly magnificent. Additionally, Tibetans also visit this place because they revere the main deity of Guru Gompa Maharaj.
Where: NH 1D, Phey, Jammu and Kashmir 194101
When: May to September (make sure the roads aren’t closed)
Highlight: Sometimes, the Indian army personnel get to serve delicious meals. You’d be lucky if you witness that.
Time required: 1 hour
Average cost: N/A
26. Main Bazaar – Shop For Souvenirs
Not sure what to do in Ladakh? Well, you can go shopping at the Main Bazaar in Leh! It's a big market where you can find all sorts of things like clothes, accessories, Tibetan jewelry, and more. Both locals and tourists love to visit this place. There are lots of shops, and you can haggle for better prices.
Where: Main Bazaar Road, Leh
When: Evening and Night
Highlight: High end items at a pretty moderate budget
Time required: 3 hours
Average cost: INR 1,000
27. Pangong Tso – Truly Breathtaking Sunrise
One of the most amazing things to experience in Ladakh is watching the sunrise at Pangong Tso or Pangong Lake. It's a truly beautiful sight located high up at 14,270 feet above the sea. The lake is incredibly deep, around 300 feet, and a large part of it is in the Tibetan Autonomous Region. It's a breathtaking view and a perfect example of nature's beauty. You'll see a stunning blue sky that's calm and chilly. This is definitely one of the most incredible lakes you can find in Ladakh.
Where: Leh-Ladakh
When: Early Morning
Highlight: The turquoise blue waters and sights make it an awe-inspiring spectacle. No particular place to stay here except surrounded by Mother Nature.
Time required: 4 hours
Average cost: N/A
28. Ladakh Harvest Festival – A Cultural Triumph
Every year in September, there is a special event that lasts for two weeks. It's called the festival, and it's really exciting! The festival starts in Leh and goes all the way to the Polo ground. There's a big parade with colorful costumes, music, and traditional performances. The monks from the sacred monasteries also perform dances wearing masks, which is really cool to see. You can also join in different competitions like weddings, archery, and polo. Celebrating at this festival is definitely one of the best things to do in Ladakh.
Where: Leh
When: September
Highlight: Catch the color of Asian, Tibetan and North Indian traditions that capture its customs through theater shows, folk dances, and music.
Time required: 6-8 hours
Average cost: N/A
29. Matho Nagrang Festival – Witness Buddhist Celebrations
Ladakh has a well-known festival called the Matho Nagrang Festival, which allows you to experience the essence of Buddhism. This festival, also known as the festival of the oracles, takes place on the 15th day of the first month in the Tibetan calendar. During the festival, monks wear masks and vibrant silk robes portraying different Gods while performing traditional dances. The oracles at the festival make predictions about the future for both the locals and tourists. Watching this festival is considered one of the best things to do in Ladakh.
When: February
Where: Matho Monastery
Highlights: Two oracles, who after a full month of meditation and isolation make an appearance in the main courtyard with masked dancers.
Time required: 3 hours
Average cost: N/A
30. Stok Palace Museum – For Culture Lovers
Explore the valley's history and culture at this museum. It is located in the residential area of the royal family and is quite large. However, only a small part of it is open to tourists. Inside, you'll find valuable artifacts and relics that history enthusiasts will adore. The museum also showcases royal seals, jewelry, photographs, and traditional clothing. Additionally, there is a separate section dedicated to war memorials, featuring bows, swords, shields, and arrows. Visiting this museum is one of the top activities to do in Ladakh. Interestingly, it's conveniently close to the famous Stok Kangri Trek, a popular hiking route.
When: Throughout the year
Where: Stok, Jammu and Kashmir 194101
Highlights: An intriguing collection of the region’s history built in a huge palace
Time required: 1 hour
Average cost: INR 100
31. Hall Of Fame – Pay Tribute For A Soldier’s Sacrifice
When you visit this beautiful area, make sure to include a visit to the war museum. Even though the region has experienced conflicts between India and Pakistan, the museum, called the Hall of Fame, is a place worth exploring. It was built by the Indian Army to honor the brave soldiers who lost their lives in various Indo-Pak wars. The museum is divided into two sections: one displays weapons and ammunition used during the wars, while the other showcases the uniforms and equipment used by the army.
When: Throughout the year
Where: Leh, Jammu and Kashmir 194101
Highlights: The displays give you chills and make you realize the sacrifices of the soldiers for the country.
Time required:1 Hour
Average cost: INR 500
32. Zorawar Fort – Visit The Majestic Fort
When you go to Leh, make sure to visit Zorawar Fort. From there, you can see the whole city and it looks amazing! The fort was built in the 1830s by the Dogras and Sikhs when they took over the valley. They recently renovated it and added a museum for people to explore. The fort is really special to the region and it's made of clay, bricks, stones, and wood.
When: Throughout the year
Where: Skara Rd, Leh, 194101
Highlights: Witness the struggles that the fort went through during its conflicts with the Chinese
Time required: 2 hours
Average cost: INR 500
33. River Rafting – Satiate The Inner Thrill-Seeker
Prepare to tap into your adventurous spirit and engage in one of the most exciting activities in Ladakh. River rafting is a popular and thrilling experience that will truly satisfy your soul. Ladakh offers incredible trails, like the one from Phey to Nimmo, which will leave you in awe. As you navigate through this region, you'll encounter charming villages and breathtaking monasteries that have made Ladakh renowned worldwide. Remember to follow your guide's instructions and prioritize safety while enjoying this thrilling adventure on the water.
When: June and August
Where: Phey to Nimmo
Highlights: The monasteries and villages that you will cross are the highlights of your journey.
Time required: 3 hours
Average cost: INR 1,000
34. Leh Palace – Witness The Royal Life
Leh Palace, built by King Sengge Namgyal in the 17th century, is a popular tourist spot in India. If you're curious about how the royals lived, make sure to visit Leh Palace. It has nine floors, with the topmost floor serving as the living quarters for the royal family, while the other floors were used for storage and stables. Inside the palace, there's a museum displaying royal treasures like jewelry, ornaments, and ceremonial clothing.
When: 7 AM – 4 PM
Where: Namgyal Hill, Leh, Jammu and Kashmir
Highlights: The museum inside the palace that has all the royal jewelry and dresses.
Time required: 3 hours
Average cost: INR 500
35. Camping – A Stay Under The Starry Sky
If you enjoy camping instead of staying in hotels when you travel, then one of the great things to do in Ladakh is to stay in a camp. Ladakh has many camp options, so all you have to do is pick the right place and make a reservation. Pangong Retreat Camp is a popular choice because it provides a beautiful view of peaceful Pangong Lake. There are also other camps you can stay at like Double Humped Camp Hunder, 100 Sky Camp, and Nomadic Life Camp.
When: May to October
Where: There are different locations like Pangong Lake and other lakes.
Highlights: The fun activities arranged by the camp owners and the sky full of stars.
Time required: Overnight
Average cost: INR 1500 – 3000
36. Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary – Travel In A Jeep
Located on the Ladakhi Changthang plateau, the Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary is famous for its diverse plants and animals. If you're planning a visit, consider traveling in a jeep to make your journey exciting and enjoy breathtaking views. You'll have the chance to see incredible creatures like the snow leopard, wild yak, Tibetan wolf, and brown bear. This sanctuary covers an area of 1,600 square kilometers and is home to 200 species of wild plants worth exploring. Make your trip even more memorable by hiring a jeep to reach this monastery!
When: May and December
Where: Ladakh, Jammu, and Kashmir
Highlights: Snow Leopard
Time required: 3 hours
Average cost: INR 500
37. Lehchen – A Peek Into The Nightlife
Ladakh doesn't have many bars and clubs for dancing and partying. However, there is a special lounge and bar called Lehchen where you can relax and enjoy a couple of delicious cocktails. While you're there, make sure to try the tandoori momos, which are mouthwatering, and choose a cocktail that matches your taste. The best part is the breathtaking view that Lehchen offers. You can hang out with the locals, have a chat, and learn about their culture and traditions. Experiencing the nightlife in Leh is definitely one of the top things to do. Don't forget to try the fantastic lamb strips and yak cheese served at this amazing lounge and restaurant!
When: 8 am – 10:30 pm
Where: Zangsti Rd, Leh, Jammu, and Kashmir
Highlights: Cocktails and Tandoori Momos
Time required: 1 hour
Average cost: INR 1000
38. Destination Wedding – Get Hitched
The most exciting thing you can do in Ladakh is to have a destination wedding there. It's a beautiful place that will make your wedding day truly unforgettable. You can be the trendsetter in your family by either doing a pre-wedding shoot or getting married in the stunning valleys of Ladakh. It may not be the traditional way, but the experience will be fantastic. Make sure to book a luxurious hotel in Ladakh at least 6 months in advance for your stay.
When: September – October
Where: Zangsti Rd, Leh, Jammu, and Kashmir
Highlights: Cocktails and Tandoori Momos
Time required: N/A
Average cost: Variable
39. Landscape Photography: For Your Instagram
When you're in a place like Ladakh, it's good to take a break from the online world. But don't worry, it's okay to bring your camera or phone sometimes to capture the beautiful landscapes you'll see there. Ladakh is a paradise for photographers, and even if you're just a hobbyist, you can get some incredible photos to share with your loved ones.
When: 24 hours
Where: Everywhere in Ladakh
Highlights: Instagrammable travel photography
Time required: 6-8 hours
Average cost: N/A
40. Cycling: For The Thrillseekers
Not only is it a favorite way to visit Ladakh, but it's also highly preferred by adventure enthusiasts who are ready to trade the convenience of being driven for a more thrilling experience. To get a closer look at this beautiful place, you can either rent a bike from a local shop or bring your own and ride on the main roads or easily accessible trails. This way, you can also take breaks and explore lesser-known spots along your journey.
When: All year round
Where: Everywhere in Ladakh
Highlights: The chance to explore on the go
Time required: 3 hours
Average cost: INR 1,000 (If renting the bike)