The beautiful “Land of High Passes” is something everyone should at least visit once in their lifetime. Ladakh is the largest union territory in India with its second least population. The entire region has an incredible energy that will welcome you with warmth. The scenic beauty of Ladakh has been on the bucket list of every travel enthusiast. From the majestic lakes, rugged Himalayan mountains, and soothing monasteries to a rich culture, everyone wants to have a glimpse of it. If you are planning to visit Ladakh then read this article, here we have mentioned some of the things that you should know along with the best time to visit Ladakh by road.
Every year, people worldwide flock here and take home some of the best memories that last for a lifetime. If you are planning to visit Ladakh sometime soon, you must read the following facts:
Interesting Facts about Ladakh
- Bailey bridge, located between Dras and Suru rivers, is the world’s highest bridge.
- The largest telescope in Asia is located in Ladakh’s Hanle village at the height of 4500m.
- You will find rare two-humped Bactrian camels near Nubra valley in the Gobi desert.
- The world’s highest natural ice hockey rink is located here, known as the Karzoo Ice Hockey Rink.
- Ladakh is the home to more than 225 birds, including finches, hoopoes, redstarts, and robins.
The place has a lot more to offer as you go ahead and explore. It is a prime destination for people who love to take a road trip. Of late, it is also recognized as one of the most visited places in India.
The best time for a road trip in Ladakh will be determined by what you want to do and experience there. The area is beautiful year through, but there are some things that you can experience based on when you want to get there. But before we get ahead of ourselves, here is a list of things to see.
Best Things to See in Ladakh
There are many places to see in Ladakh. Every part of this land is a treat for your eyes. However, just some of the areas that you should try and spend time in are the following:
1. Pangong Tso Lake
This lake is a beauty just as it is, and has also been made famous by an Amir Khan film. You just have to go there and think about camping for a bit or just having a picnic. Whatever you do, ensure that you absorb the beauty of the place.
2. Khardung-la Pass
If you are fortunate enough to go to Ladakh, the Khardung-la Pass is undoubtedly a place to visit. You will be traveling through one of the most elevated motorable terrains in the world. Do travel through it and marvel at the view while ensuring you keep your eyes on the road.
3. Markha Valley
If you love to camp, you almost need to look no further. Markha Valley is one of the most beautiful sights where you can trek, have bonfires, watch sunsets and sunrise that are nothing short of breathtaking. There is a lot to see and register in this beautiful place.
4. Nubra Valley
A marvelous place to see, it is all about the wonders of the white sands. Also, if you think that is not wondrous enough, you can witness the double-humped camels. This valley’s scenic beauty is beyond words and showcases the beautiful ranges and rivers alike.
5. Tso Moriri Lake
A beautiful lake approximately about 15000 ft above sea level is often not very accessible because of its height. However, a lot of the water is filled up by the mountains around it as the snow melts. It is one of the largest lakes at the altitude it is on.
6.Hemis National Park
The highest national park in India is the home to snow leopards. It is a place of beauty and a national park that is a must-see when you travel to Ladakh. If you want to trek to the site, you certainly need to go there between June and October to witness the beauty.
7. Magnetic Hill
If you believe in Magic, it does not get better than this. It is a place that provides a more incredible experience as you drive through these magnetic fields and feel like your vehicles are behaving differently. This hill certainly has magnetic properties that work with your machines differently.
Different Ways to Reach Ladakh
There are many ways to reach Ladakh. You can pick to get there by air, or by rail to Jammu Railway Station, or by road. However, the road option is to bike across the place, go by car, or make friends as you share cabs with strangers. All of these are legitimate ways to reach Ladakh and enjoy the travel as you see the wonders of our country.
If you are trying to take a bike ride to Ladakh, there are many ways to do it. This is certainly a time, but to pack right. On the other hand, plan and take a car ride through the place, ensure you find an experienced driver. You must be well prepared while traveling to the area because it will be an experience like none other.
Best Time for Road Trip in Ladakh
You can visit Ladakh any time of the year, but keep the different climates in mind, so you pack your luggage accordingly. Also, different seasons will give you different and unique experiences. The place is snow-covered in winters, which transforms into a vibrant blooming paradise during summer and is amazing during monsoon. So, every season is a chance for you to explore something different, unique, and awesome in Ladakh.
Here is the break up for different seasons in Ladakh and it’s the charm.
Summer (April, May, June)
Summers could easily be the best season to visit Ladakh. The weather is not very cold, and the area has a vibrant buzz because the snow melts, and the flora and fauna of the place are out and waiting to be seen. The sun shines bright during these times and indeed ensures that enthusiastic travelers flock to Ladakh. You can go trekking, camping, and do all the fun stuff after getting acclimated to the altitude. The beautiful roads, the cozy homestays, just the experience of the altitude will take your breath away. June-July is also the season of festivals. The colorful Hemis Festival mostly happens during this time.
Monsoon (July, August, September)
Yes, enjoy the rains of Ladakh. This is an experience like none other. The temperature during this season varies between 3-degree Celsius to 16-degree celsius. It is the best time to get a sight of the Indus and Zanskar rivers as they beautifully swell up to a new height. Enjoy the little spurts of rain when there is everything beautiful about Ladakh. It does get chilly and rainy, but that makes the place come to life and be beautiful. You can go to different places, sit indoors and watch the beautiful rains come down as you sip your favorite hot beverage.
Winter (October, November, December, January, February, March)
If you are a lover of snow-covered places, then the winters are the best for you. Ladakh’s lakes freeze over. You can take cold treks and do many interesting things when you reach the peaks in winter. There are many adventurous winter sports that you can enjoy when in Ladakh in the winter. White snow caps and trekking are just some of the things. This said, do ensure that you take all the measures to deal with the cold conditions. Stay warm, and do not forget to enjoy the local cuisine that helps the locals keep warm.
The best time for a road trip in Ladakh will undoubtedly be the summers. The snow has melted over the valley, and the climate is pleasant. It is the ideal time to move around on those stunning roads. However, you can still visit Ladakh at different times and have fun. So, no matter what season you choose, be rest assured you will have an unforgettable experience.
Author’s Bio
Gulshan Bafna is a travel enthusiast with over a decade of experience exploring beautiful places worldwide. He has an excellent knack for photography and videography, inspiring many budding travel bloggers. People across the country read his travel tips and guides. You will be amazed to read his copies of his adventures travels; check them out!
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