8 Best Places To Visit In Ladakh This Season

Looking to escape the heat and humidity caused by India’s tropical weather? Make your way to the high altitude towns of Northern India, set at the foothills of the Himalayas. Ladakh is one such holiday destination and here’s a guide to the best places to visit in Ladakh. Seemingly perfect, as though having set foot into paradise. This cold desert, with some of the highest motorable roads, is known for its white washed mountains and gigantic glaciers. The crystal clear waters, and picturesque blue skies, never fail to leave travellers tongue tied.

Nothing like any other Indian tourist destination, Ladakh is known for its poetic beauty and breathtaking landscapes. The unique cultural practices, evident influence of Buddhism, and fascinating local traditions, add to the charm of this beautiful region. Most Ladakh tour packages are curated for approximately 4 to 7 days and there are countless noteworthy destinations to visit in Ladakh. Naturally, it is impossible for tourists to cover all these spots while adhering to the limited time constraint. Below we have listed our top 8 destinations in Ladakh that you ought to add to your itinerary, irrespective of the time at hand.

Every monument in Ladakh is unique in its own way. This is one of the many reasons it is a popular tourist destination.

1. Drang-Drung Trek

Trekking to the iconic Drang-Drung glacier in Ladakh is an experience of a lifetime. An unforgettable adventure that is definitely worth taking on during your stay in Ladakh. Given that the glacier is part of the Zanskar valley, you can visit the Drang-Drung glacier and the valley on the same day. Walking over the frozen stretch of the Zanskar river is sure to give you goosebumps and an adrenaline high. Besides that, the spectacular view of the glacier and the surrounding snow clad peaks is awe-inspiring. If you’re a photography enthusiast, you’re in for a treat. You can get some extraordinary photographs of the Zanskar Valley from the high altitude peaks surrounding the glacier.

Drang Drung trek, difficult and definitely not for the faint hearted.

2. Nubra Valley

 You won’t be able to forgive yourself if you miss out on visiting the mesmerizing Nubra Valley in Ladakh. This valley is among the prime tourist attractions of Ladakh with vast stretches of white sand beaches. The diversity of the Nubra Valley landscape is a notable factor that will leave you awestruck. You’ll be amazed to see the presence of deserted land and vast lush meadows parallel to one another. Apart from that, another special feature contributing to the beauty of the valley is the confluence of the Shyok river and the Nubra river that you will witness on your way up to the valley. The drive is nothing short of a drive through heaven along one of the highest motorable roads in the world. Once you arrive here, you’ll have the opportunity to visit several monasteries present here and also ride the one of a kind, Bactrian Camel.

The picturesque landscape of the valley is sure to leave you awestruck.

3. Pangong Lake

Besides being the highest lake in India, the beauty of Pangong Tso is also unmatched. The tranquil, clear blue lake is surrounded by high mountain ranges, contrasting landscapes that only add to its charm. The relaxed ambiance at the lake will spark your soul and rejuvenate your mind. Since it is frozen most of the year, the best time to get a clear view is in the months from April – July. In the recent past it has gained immense popularity making it one of the best place to visit in Ladakh. Thus, to preserve the site, the government banned all tourist establishments in the area. The ideal time to get the best view would be at sunrise, when the first rays of the sun reflect off the lake making it appear as though it were shining.

Pangong lake became extremely popular among Indians because of a famous Bollywood movie that was filmed here.

4. Lingshed Monastery 

There’s no experience as fascinating as that of exploring an ancient cave monastery with a deep rooted cultural significance. Lingshed Monastery or Lingshed Gompa is one of the many places to visit in Ladakh especially if you’re a history enthusiast. You can feel an air of timelessness as you walk through the corridors of this mysterious monastery. You also get the chance to communicate with the faculties of the monastery to discover more facts about it. The impeccable structure of the monastery will definitely leave you spellbound and in awe of the architecture. Built over 900 years ago in a village that is supposed to be 1000 years old, the Dalai Lama often pays a visit to this Gompa.

Lingshed – A timesless monastery that is 1000 years old with fascinating features.

5. The Tsemo Gompa

How many gompas have you visited that are home to massive, gold statues of Buddha? Well, that’s the specialty of the Tsemo Gompa. If you’re a trekking enthusiast, you may be tempted to seek the blessings of the hilltop golden Buddha. The massive statue, built using pure gold, is situated on the external side of the Tsemo Gompa. It is the main attraction of the Gompa and the prime reason why tourists trek to this point. The positive vibrations inside the Gompa have a soothing and effect on visitors, a true spiritual experience.

One of the many spectacular monasteries to visit in Leh Ladakh.

6. Hemis National Park 

Snow leopards moving in front of your eyes at Hemis National Park is a surreal experience. This rare species of leopards is only found in a few select National Parks. Besides snow leopards, you will also spot rare animals like the red fox and Tibetan wolves. Children are bound to have one of the most exciting experiences here. So, be sure to include the Hemis National Park as part of your itinerary while planning your trip to Ladakh

A rare view of the majestic snow leopard at Hemis National Park

7. Royal Leh Palace 

Built in the 17th century, Leh Palace is sure to have a lasting impression on you. The unique structure of the grand palace will leave you awestruck. There is also a museum inside the premises where you can see the belongings of the royal family. The priceless wooden sculptures and stonework of the palace make it one of the most frequented tourist attraction in India. Enhance your experience by paying a guide to escort you at the Palace. 

A must visit for architecture and history enthusiasts.

8. Tso Moriri Lake 

The Tso Moriri Lake is another gem on the list of the most beautiful places to visit in Ladakh. Relax and rejuvenate by the lake with a view of the most picturesque landscapes. Despite it’s remote location – 15000 feet above the sea level, it’s worth trekking to this lake to witness its sheer beauty. It appears like a painting come to life with a stretch of greenery along the snow covered surface of the lake. Less popular among tourists, Tso Moriri makes for the ideal picnic spot, quiet and peaceful.

When was the last time you went on a picnic?The lush greenery along the lake makes for the perfect picnic spot.

Undoubtedly, Ladakh is one of the best places to visit if you’re looking to reconnect with nature. The ideal place for those seeking solitude and tranquility. For the perfect holiday, be sure to add these 8 places on your Ladakh itinerary. Each of these places have their own unique charm that add to your vibrant experience. Travelling to Ladakh itself is an experience of a lifetime with a whole lot of exciting adventures, scenic beauty and fascinating experiences.