Ladakh Tour Packages

1. About Ladakh
2. Tidbits
3. Essential Tips To Know Before Travelling To Ladakh
4. Our Best Budget Ladakh Tour Packages
5. Ladakh At A Glance
6. Top Reasons To Visit Ladakh
7. Best Time To Visit Ladakh
8. Top Things To Do In Ladakh
9. Places To Visit In Ladakh
10. Shopping In Ladakh
11. Dos and Don’ts While Visiting Ladakh
12. Foods To Try Out In Ladakh
13. Art And Culture In Ladakh

The earliest inhabitants of Ladakh are believed to be nomads who travelled with their yaks during the Neolithic era. During the 1st and 2nd centuries, Buddhism began to gain more importance in Ladakh as a part of the Kushan Empire. For centuries, the city of Leh served as a crucial connecting point on the Indus Valley trade routes connecting Tibet, Kashmir, and India with China. The primary goods that were transported through these routes included pashm, salt, silk yarn, indigo, and cannabis resin. Numerous castles and towns in Ladakh were founded by Nyima Gon, and he was also responsible for building the main structures in the Shey village. The Dogra Regiment of Jammu and Kashmir, led by General Zorawar Singh, invaded Ladakh in the 19th century. Ladakh was officially separated from the rest of Jammu and Kashmir in October 2019, when it was declared a union territory.

The economy of Ladakh relies heavily on herding and small farms, with livestock being a vital part of the region’s economy. Yak, for example, are utilised to produce milk, footwear, baskets, and much more. The pashmina shawls, alluring souvenirs of Ladakh, come from Changpa goats native to the region. Crops such as wheat, barley, lentils, and peas are grown in Ladakh. Tourism has become one of the major contributors to Ladakh’s economy, with a significant part of the population engaged in this field through hospitality, transportation, and other related activities. Over 60% of Ladakh’s total revenue is derived from tourism.

• Ladakh has the Major Atmospheric Cherenkov Experiment (MACE) Observatory, which is Asia’s largest imaging Cherenkov telescope.
• The Magnetic Hill in Ladakh, also known as Gravity Hill, has the ability to create an optical illusion where vehicles appear to roll uphill even when they are actually rolling downhill.
• The Bailey Bridge in Ladakh is considered to be the world’s highest bridge in terms of altitude.
• Ladakh is home to Bactrian camels, which are native to the Gobi Desert and Central Asia.
• Ladak is home to India’s first natural ice hockey arena, built to international standards, known as the Nawang Dorjay Stobdan Sports Complex ice rink.
• Ladakh is usually considered to be the highest settlement in India due to its high-altitude plateau.
• Ladakh has Pangong Lake, which is the highest saltwater lake in the world.
• The number of festivals hosted in Ladakh is higher than in most of the other places in India.
• Ladakhi people mainly follow the Tibetan lunar calendar instead of the Gregorian calendar.
• The Chadar Trek in Ladakh is known to be one of the toughest treks in India.

• The high altitude of Ladakh can lead to altitude sickness; therefore, make sure to carry the appropriate medication and stay hydrated throughout the trip.
• To protect yourself from unpredictable weather conditions, remember to carry layers of warm clothes and sturdy footwear.
• Avoid smoking and also stay away from alcohol.
• Ensure you have all the necessary permits and documents to access specific tourist attractions.
• Carry your ID proof in case you need to show it at military checkpoints or other locations.
• Power outages and fluctuations can occur in some regions of Ladakh; therefore, carrying a power bank is essential.
• Get a local SIM card for better connectivity in Ladakh’s remote areas.
• The areas outside of Leh don’t have enough ATMS, so remember to carry sufficient cash.
• Dispose of waste only in garbage bins to protect Ladakh’s cleanliness and environment.
• The go-to transportation options in Ladakh include motorbike rentals, buses, shared taxis, and taxis.

If you think that the natural wonders of Ladakh are the only reason to visit the place, then think again. Here are some of the many reasons why you should book GT Holidays’ Ladakh tour packages immediately:

The scenic landscapes of Ladakh are undoubtedly the best reason to visit Ladakh. From lakes and glaciers to mountain ranges and valleys, the natural beauty of Ladakh is indeed spellbinding. There is the Pangong Lake, which is known for its vibrant blue waters, and its colours change depending on the time of the day, weather, and the sunlight angle. It’s also the backdrop for one of the scenes in the Bollywood movie 3 Idiots. Experience the gravity-defying ability of Magnetic Hill and breathe in the magnificent views of Nubra Valley, known for its snow-capped mountains and sand dunes.

The food of Ladakh will not only satiate your tummy but also satisfy your soul. The reflection of Tibetan culture is vivid in the cuisine of Ladakh. Whether it’s the succulent momos or the wholesome bowls of thukpas, the unique butter tea or pieces of chhurpi, the food of Ladakh will leave you craving more.

Have you always wanted to go trekking while being surrounded by snow-covered mountains? You can do that and so much more with our Ladakh tour packages. This region offers tourists some of the most adrenaline-filled activities, including mountain biking, trekking, paragliding, and camel safaris.

The influence of Tibetan culture is very prominent in Ladakh, and the culture of the region is also reflected in its food, monasteries, and local handicrafts. The unique and rich cultural heritage of Ladakh can be seen through the multiple festivals that are held in the region throughout the year, including the Hemis Tsechu Festival, Dosmoche Festival, and Losar Festival.

Ladakh houses some rare wildlife species. The region is home to about 225 species of birds, including the Tibetan partridge, Tibetan snowcock, Eurasian eagle-owl, golden eagle, and black-necked cranes. The animals you will come across in Ladakh include the Tibetan wild ass, Ladakh Urial, Tibetan antelope, and Himalayan blue sheep.

Ladakh experiences cold and dry weather because of its extremely high altitude. The average annual precipitation in the region is about 80 mm. Since it’s located in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, it receives very little rainfall. Owing to climate change, Ladakh has been experiencing unexpected rainfall and a sudden rise in temperature between May and September for the last few years. However, when planned properly, you can enjoy a fun holiday in the region with GT Holidays’ Ladakh tour packages. Let’s take a look at what each season in Ladakh is like so you can decide when to book your vacation:

During the summer season, the temperature in Ladakh ranges from 20 degrees Celsius to 30 degrees Celsius. While the days are usually sunny with blue skies, the nights are colder with crisper air. There is no heavy snowfall from April to mid-May. If you’re planning to visit during this time, be sure to book our Ladakh tour packages in advance, as the roads and passes to the region are often blocked or not fully open. Also, be sure to pack some warm clothes, as the nights can get chilly, and don’t forget to bring sunscreen. The festivals you could experience at this time include Yuru Kabgyat, the Hemis Festival, and Saka Dawa.

The temperature range during the monsoon season in Ladakh typically ranges from 10 degrees Celsius to 20 degrees Celsius. The rains in Ladakh are short-lived, and you can expect brief but heavy showers. This is not a safe or ideal time to visit the region, as the rainfall can make it hazardous to walk or drive on the roads. There is also the risk of landslides and frequent road blockages, which could disrupt your treks or trip altogether. Remember to carry sunscreen, umbrellas, raincoats, waterproof shoes, and lightweight, quick-drying clothes. The festivals that take place in Ladakh during this season include the Phyang Tsedup Festival, Karsha Gustor Festival, and Korzok Gustor Festival.

As Ladakh welcomes the winter season, the temperature ranges from 5 degrees Celsius to sub-zero temperatures. Ladakh has recorded temperatures as low as -21 degrees Celsius and -23 degrees Celsius as well during this period. The earlier part of the winter season in Ladakh is comfortably chilly, with cold winds in the evenings. The latter part of the winter season, though, are really harsh since the temperatures drip really low. Due to the heavy snowfall in the region at this time, there aren’t many tourists. However, this is the ideal time for trekking in Ladakh. If you plan your holiday during this period, remember that you could experience headaches or dizziness due to the high altitude. Tourists could also suffer from cough and cold due to the extremely low temperatures. Do pack multiple layers of warm clothes. The festivals hosted in Ladakh during this season include the Spituk Gustor Festival, Dosmoche, Stok Guru Tsechu, and Matho Nagrang.

Filled with natural beauty and thrilling outdoor adventures, there is much to accomplish with GT Holidays’ Ladakh tour packages. Here are the places to visit and the activities to indulge in during your Ladakh trip:

The Pangong Lake in Ladakh is known to be one of the world’s highest brackish water lakes. Situated 14,270 ft above sea level, it’s a vital breeding ground for various bird species, especially during the summer season. Some of the birds commonly spotted at the lake include the Brahminy ducks, black-necked cranes, and bar-headed geese. While one-third of the lake lies in India, the other two-thirds lies in China. A unique feature of Pangong Lake is that it changes colour at different points of the day and under varied weather conditions, reflecting hues such as blue, grey-green, and red. Despite being a saline lake, it completely freezes during the winter season.

For those seeking adventure through our Ladakh tour packages, witnessing the Khardung La Pass is a must. Regarded as one of the highest motorable passes in the world, it’s located at a height of 5,359 metres. Constructed in 1976, the pass was opened to the public in 1988. The Border Roads Organisation maintains the Khardung La, which is of strategic importance as it helps carry supplies to the Siachen Glacier.

Nubra Valley is often called ‘the orchard of Ladakh’ due to the several plantations that thrive in the area, particularly those of apricots and willows. The valley was originally called ‘Ldumra’, which translates to “the valley of flowers.” Located at a height of about 10,000 feet, the valley is accessible via the Khardung La Pass. It’s home to numerous quaint villages, such as Hunder, Diskit, and Sumur, where visitors can get a glimpse of the culture and way of life of the local Ladakhi people.

The Leh Palace in Ladakh, which is also known as Lhachen Palkhar, was built in the 17th century by King Sengge Namgyal, who was fondly called ‘the lion king’. Standing nine storeys tall, this palace served as the regal residence of the Namgyal dynasty till the mid-19th century. The structure was influenced by the Potala Palace in Tibet. Currently, the place is home to a prayer room and museum and provides a marvellous panoramic view of Leh.

The Shanti Stupa was established back in 1991. Built by Gyomyo Nakamura, a Japanese Buddhist Bhikshu, it was developed as a part of the Peace Pagoda mission. The aim of the structure was to promote prosperity and world peace and also celebrate 2500 years of Buddhism. Perched at a height of 4,267 metres, it’s accessible through a 5-km driveable road from Leh City. Home to sacred relics of Buddha, the stupa was enshrined by the 14th Dalai Lama.

The Magnetic Hill in Ladakh, also called Gravity Hill, has a mysterious phenomenon surrounding it. As per the phenomenon, the hill appears to pull the vehicles uphill, almost as if defying the force of gravity, even though it’s a downhill slope. Legend says that Magnetic Hill was once a ‘stairway to heaven’. The lore suggests that those who were ‘worthy’ were attracted directly towards it, whereas the ‘undeserving’ ones couldn’t make the ascent. The hill is located at a height of 14,000 feet above sea level.

The Thiksey Monastery, known to be similar to the Potala Palace in Tibet, is the largest monastery in central Ladakh. Founded in 1433, the monastery has a rich collection of Buddhist art, including statues, stupas, thangkas, and ancient manuscripts. One of the primary features of the monastery is the Maitreya Temple, which houses a 15-metre-tall statue of Maitreya Buddha, covering two storeys of the structure. The temple was built to commemorate the visit of the 14th Dalai Lama in 1970.

• Trekking in Nubra Valley, Stok Kangri, Indus Valley
• River rafting in the Indus River and Zanskar River
• Mountain biking on the Zanskar and Karakoram Mountain ranges
• Camel safari in the villages of Hunder and Diskit
• Jeep safari at Nubra Valley and Zanskar Valley

Must-see attractions: Shanti Stupa, Leh Palace, Hall of Fame, Magnetic Hill

Leh is one of the world’s highest permanently inhabited towns. Situated at a height of 11,550 feet, it’s one of the joint capitals of Ladakh and also its largest city. Leh has some of the most mesmerising sights to offer to tourists worldwide. There is the Leh Palace, which stands as a proud symbol of Leh’s cultural heritage. The palace is renowned for its medieval Tibetan architecture and presents a panoramic view of the surrounding region. While you’re in Leh, discover the mysterious magic of Magnetic Hill and ride camels in Nubra Valley. You can also embark on the Chadar Trek where you get to walk on the frozen Zanskar River.

Must-see attractions: Kargil War Memorial, Munshi Aziz Bhat Museum, Mulbekh Monastery, Suru Valley

Kargil is one of the two districts that make up the region of Ladakh. It’s the union territory’s second-largest town and serves as the administrative headquarters of the Kargil district. Along with Leh, Kargil is the joint capital of Ladakh. While Kargil might be popular for the Kargil War of 1999, there is so much more to discover here, right from its ancient monasteries to the awe-inspiring natural wonders. Visit the Kargil War Memorial, which was built in honour of the brave soldiers who died fighting for the country during the Kargil War. You can indulge in a variety of adventurous activities in Kargil, such as trekking, camping, and river rafting.

Must-see attractions: Hemis National Park, Hemis Monastery, Stakna Gompa

Hemis is a village in Ladakh located 40 km southeast of Leh. It can be found along the Leh-Manali Highway. Make sure to visit the Hemis National Park, which is a high-altitude national park. Covering an area of more than 4,400 sq km, the park houses 16 species of mammals and 73 species of birds. Another popular tourist attraction to visit here is the Hemis Monastery, which was re-established by King Sengge Namgyal in 1672. Several popular treks have their starting point in Hemis, including the Hemis Markha Valley trek and Stok Kangri trek.

Must-see attractions: Diskit Gompa, Hunder Sand Dunes, Yarab Tso Lake, Maitreya Buddha Statue

The village of Diskit in Ladakh is the administrative centre of the Nubra Valley. Nestled in the Diskit village is the renowned Diskit Monastery, which forms a part of the Nubra Valley, and is the oldest and largest Buddhist monastery in the valley. The statue of the Maitreya Buddha is visible throughout the village of Diskit.

If you’re looking for destinations in Ladakh that are a little offbeat and haven’t yet caught the eye of tourists everywhere, then you can check out these quaint villages:

Tar: Located in a remote area of Ladakh is a village named Tar, a destination that passes through a striking valley and can only be reached by walking. The isolated village is home to about 80 people and 13 families. Tourists often visit Tar during early autumn and the short summer season and stay with the locals so as to experience the traditional Ladakhi way of living. The residents have created a system wherein each family benefits during the tourist season. This means dividing the accommodation of guests among each household so that everyone gets to earn through the earning of homestays.

Turtuk: Turtuk is one of the northernmost villages in the country. Perched between the Karakoram Range and the Himalayas, it lies close to the Line of Control (LOC) between India and Pakistan. It’s one of the few villages in India that houses the Balti people in the country. The region remained inaccessible to tourists till 2010, and is now home to over 4,000 residents. Visit the Balti Heritage House and Museum, which is a 140-year-old museum that offers an insight into the history and culture of the Balti people. The other spots to visit in Turtuk are the Turtuk Monastery and Brokpa Fort.

Likir: Likir is a village in Ladakh which is an eponymous subdivision in the district of Leh. Pay a visit to the Likir Monastery or Likir Gompa, a monastery belonging to the Gelugpa sect of Tibetan Buddhism. Situated approximately 50 km west of Leh, it sits at a height of 3,700 metres. The monastery was founded in 1065 by Lama Duwang Chosje, as commanded by Lhachen Gyalpo, the fifth king of Ladakh. The monastery is also called ‘Lu Khyil’, which translates to ‘water spirits’. The name is a reference to the bodies of the serpent spirits or Naga Rajas, Nanda and Takshaka.

Shopping in Ladakh is akin to exploring the culture of the land, which is something you can do with our Ladakh tour packages. Listed below are some of the most fascinating souvenirs to buy from Ladakh:

Thangkas are traditional Tibetan Buddhist paintings that are popular souvenirs to buy from Ladakh. These are usually made created on silk or cotton, and feature mandalas, spiritual motifs, deities, and scenes from Buddhist teachings. Known for their detailed designs and vibrant hues, these will be a great addition to the beauty of your home.

If you’re on the lookout for something fashionable, authentic, and delightfully unique, then you must buy the pashmina items available in Ladakh. The pashmina shawls and scarves available in the region are made from Changra goats, which is a breed native to Ladakh. These warm and soft pieces of clothing are designed with intricate patterns and are truly luxurious items to have in your wardrobe.

The silver jewellery available in Ladakh is among the most beloved souvenirs for tourists to buy. These intricately designed, heavy pieces are often adorned with stones such as turquoise, amber, and coral. The motifs on these jewellery pieces reflect the Tibetan influence on Ladakhi culture. You can explore earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and rings in the markets of Ladakh.

Apart from Thangka paintings, there are also other Tibetan artefacts to buy in Ladakh. This includes Buddha statues in numerous sizes and poses, Tibetan masks, beads, and prayer wheels. You can also look for bamboo baskets and carved wooden tables (also known as ‘choktses’).

• Main Bazaar: For jewellery, pashmina shawls, handicrafts, thangka paintings.
• Dalai Lama Charitable Trust Handicraft Emporium: For shawls, handicrafts, paintings, woollen items.
• Cottage Industries Exposition: For shawls, carpets, woollen garments.

• Bargaining is common in the markets of Ladakh. However, be respectful to the shopkeepers even as you haggle. You can start by quoting around 70% or 80% of the price being asked and meet the shopkeeper halfway.
• Take a close look at the craftsmanship and specific hallmarks when shopping for souvenirs to ensure their authenticity.
• Many markets and stores may not accept debit or credit cards. Therefore, it’s best to carry sufficient cash when you’re shopping.
• Be mindful of your shopping choices, which means avoiding products made from endangered animals.

• Don’t harm or disturb the flora and fauna of the region during your trip, especially while trekking.
• Remember to dress modestly, especially while visiting religious and sacred locations.
• Plastic is officially banned in Ladakh, so avoid carrying plastic bags or bottles, and refrain from using any products made of plastic.
• Try to carry biodegradable toiletries, such as biodegradable shampoos and soaps, to prevent polluting the water sources in Ladakh.
• Pack some sturdy tote bags to avoid using plastic bags.
• To avoid disturbing the wildlife, it’s best to observe them from a distance.
• Stay away from flash photography and making loud noises, especially when you’re out in nature.

Ladakh was once a vital stop on the ancient Silk Road, and the traders not only left goods behind but also influenced Ladakh’s culinary traditions. The Tibetan influence, in particular, is very prominent in the region’s food. Although the landscape of Ladakh is rugged and barren, the region’s cuisine is nutritious, rich, flavorful, and filled with colour. The homemade meals of Ladakh, although simpler, are brimming with unique and strong flavours. The cold and arid climate and harsh environmental conditions surely pose challenges, and yet the agricultural system of Ladakh is remarkably resilient. Locally available ingredients such as barley and wheat are staples in Ladakhi cuisine, and you will also find spices such as cardamom and cinnamon. Pulses, potatoes, and apricots are grown in the region as well. Traditional Ladakhi food also incorporates dry fruits such as walnuts, almonds, and raisins. To be able to admire the snow-capped mountains while consuming a hot bowl of thukpa or munching on soft and juicy momos is truly among the top reasons to book our Ladakh tour packages. Let’s explore the lip-smacking dishes that are a must-try during your trip to Ladakh:

One simply cannot fulfil their culinary journey in Ladakh without enjoying a steaming, delicious plate of momos. Commonly referred to as mokmok in the region, both vegetarian and non-vegetarian versions can be found throughout Ladakh. There are also cheese momos if you’d like to try something different. These bite-sized dumplings are served with a spicy red chutney that enhances the flavour of the dish.

Thukpa is a Tibetan noodle soup which is extremely popular in Ladakh. The components that go into making Ladakhi thukpa is determined by the season and the available ingredients. The noodles are usually made using wheat or barley flour. Consisting of clear soup, the broth almost feels healing to the soul and is perfect for the cold, wintery days in Ladakh. Made up of fresh vegetables and meat such as chicken or mutton, some of the other ingredients that go into thukpa are ginger, garlic, and aromatic spices.

Skyu is a traditional Ladakhi soup-based dish. Made using hand-kneaded wheat dough, these are shaped into bite-sized, pasta-like pieces. It’s simmered in a pot with meat and root vegetables like carrots, turnips, and potatoes. This hearty and filling dish is particularly enjoyable in a high altitude setting such as Ladakh.

Tingmo is a bun-shaped Tibetan bread. These fluffy and soft buns are made with wheat flour and have no filling inside. It can be served for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and is usually accompanied by meat, vegetables, and dal.

Butter tea, which is also known as gur-gur chai, is a traditional Ladakhi drink. The people of the region consume it throughout the day because not only does it help in keeping them warm, but it also provides the hydration needed for such high-altitude ambience. Made using butter, salt, and milk, this tea is prepared by adding salt and yak butter to boiling water which is infused with tea leaves.

Chhurpe, also spelled as chhurpi, is a traditional Himalayan cheese that is available in both hard and soft varieties. Made using yak or cow’s milk, it’s an essential part of the Ladakhi diet as it’s rich in proteins and vitamins. It is often eaten as a snack and is also added to curries and soups.

The folk dances of Ladakh usually begin by paying respects to ‘the three jewels’, namely the Buddha, Dhamma, and Sangha. There is kathok chenmo, a traditional dance form for Ladakh’s nobility, meant to celebrate Ladakh’s dynasty and glory. The Ladakhi dance, known as kompa tsum-tsag, is named after the way the dancers tap their feet. Tsum-tasg translates to ‘three steps’ referring to the three consecutive steps used by the performers in the dance routine. Other traditional Ladakhi dances include spao dance, mentok stanmo, and jabro dance.

The spirit and culture of Ladakh come alive through the vibrant festivals that are celebrated in the region throughout the year. The Hemis Festival is known to be the most vital festival in the region. It’s a two-day festival that’s celebrated at Ladakh’s Hemis Monastery and is meant to honour the birth anniversary of Guru Padmasambhava. The Dosmoche Festival, also known as the ‘festival of the scapegoat’, is a two-day Buddhist festival usually held in February each year. Some of the other festivals you could experience in Ladakh are the losar festival, Diskit gustor festival, and Sindhu Darshan festival.