Ladakh Sightseeing

May 8th, 2019 by OYO Team

An almost unexplored landscape, Ladakh invites tourists from all over the world with its hypnotic beauty and mesmeric terrains. However, the picturesque sceneries of Leh-Ladakh are strongly influenced by the changing seasons of the place. If you are planning a trip to this gorgeous spot, here is a seasonal guide to help you plan your trip.

Best Season to Visit Ladakh

Planning for the best time to visit Leh Ladakh by road? The summer season is the best time to take a trip to Ladakh. The period between March-June in these valleys is quite pleasant, with the sun shining overhead and melting snow on the hill-tops. The summers are known for their spellbinding views of nature when the verdant valleys are in full bloom. The rivers and lakes are also sparkling with a golden hue under the warm rays of the summer sun. The air is fresh and pleasant, serving as the perfect escape from the scorching heat of the planes and offering a splendid camping experience under a starry sky.

If going on an adventurous journey is your type of vacation, then Autumn season is the best time to visit Ladakh. The fall season also marks the commencement of endearing treks and exposes the enthralling beauty of the terrain to everyone. Snowfall begins to cover the majestic peaks and blanket the verdant valleys with its pristine beauty. The lakes and rivers begin to freeze, giving off a diamond-Esque glow that invites tourists from far and wide. Treks start to take place across the various valleys and peaks, offering a feeling of accomplishment to everyone who completes it. The Chadar Trek and the Markha valley trek are famous amongst patrons. The gripping experience of taking your bike through the highest motorable pass in the world at Khardungla Pass is also what can be experienced in this season. The vibrant monasteries are also open to visitors, many of them holding their colorful annual festivals during this time as well.

Though the winter months are extremely cold, visiting Ladakh during this time is an adventure of its own. You can be awed by the blanket of snow that covers the entire land, showcasing the raw beauty of nature and allowing you to have a once-in-a-lifetime experience when you visit here.

Peak Season in Ladakh

April to June

The months of summer in the mesmerising valleys are the best time to visit Ladakh. The month of April showcases the glistening beauty of this valley with snow-covered mountains and icy lakes that you can tread on. Although the climate is still cold, when compared to the tropical regions of the country, the sun shines bright and imparts warmth all around. However, do not underestimate the power of the sun rays and shield yourself with a good few layers of sunscreen.

Summers stay strong till the end of June, transforming into monsoons as the months proceed. These three months form the best season to visit Ladakh, as the Srinagar-Leh highway opens up, along with the Manali-Leh highway, giving you more options to reach the city and explore the lush valleys and the sparkling glow of thawing ice.

Places to Visit During This Time:

Pangong Tso Lake

As the tourist season commences, camps start being set up along the banks of the lake. The ice begins to melt, giving way to azure waters and green pastures. Take your camera with you and capture the unique beauty of this icy landscape.

Tso Moriri Lake

A day at Tso Moriri during these months will make you believe that this is the best time to visit Ladakh for photography. The colors of the valley start popping out, offering a spectacular view with the chirping of migratory birds for company.

Khardung-La Pass

The Khardung-La Pass in blanketed by ice at the start of the summer season, so, you can have your fair share of playing with the snow. The pass is also accessible by bikes, offering a one-of-a-kind experience to adventure junkies, with bare mountains and boulders on both sides.

September and October

The winters start blanketing Leh-Ladakh at the start of September. The air becomes chilly, although, the sun keeps shining. This is the peak season to visit Leh Ladakh for a trek through the serpentine mountain trails or witness the untouched exquisiteness of nature. Tourists and trekking enthusiasts find their way to the ravine-covered valleys, trying their hands at all the adrenaline-inducing treks that it has to offer.

Places to Visit During This Time:

Diskit Monastery

Visit the Diskit Monastery and be part of the Diskit Festival. Be awestruck by the bright celebratory rituals and the vibrant colors that are in full display, while you enjoy the sights of the fair and try Ladakh’s delectable cuisines.

Off-Season in Ladakh

July To August

These months mark the start of the monsoon season, with heavy torrential rain and occasional landslides that can be dangerous. Most of the passes, hotels, and resorts are shut down during this time for safety reasons.

November To February

The winters are in full swing between November and February. The temperatures fall drastically and become unbearable for most people; however, this is the time when some of the most spectacular treks start. This is the best time for having unique experiences that you cannot have anywhere else.

Places to Visit During This Time:

Zanskar Valley

The Zanskar river freezes down, forming a glittering expanse. This is the best time to try the Chadar Trek, walking over the frozen river and treading through meandering terrains for a memorable experience.

Weather and Climate in Ladakh

Although most of Leh Ladakh weather ranges from cold to very cold, with bouts of rains and snowfall, yet the summers imbue a pleasant feeling all around. The summer months from April to June and the months of autumn in September and October form the best seasons to experience the beauty this paradisiac place.

Now that you know what is the best time to visit Ladakh, pack your bags and set out to witness the wondrous landscapes. Try booking an OYO Total Holidays  Ladakh Sightseeing Package for a hassle-free holiday.

About OYO Team

We’re people who love to travel and it’s a pleasure to share our experiences from around the world with you here. You’ll see our favourite destinations, quirky stays and budget stay. Also the best wedding banquet halls and the most lit party destinations. You’ll also find insightful opinions about why we travel in the first place and what it’s really like out there. Enjoy the blog and please tell us what you think - feedback welcome!