Enhance Your Vacation With These Things To Do In Ladakh

A picture of a beautiful valley with cattle grazing grass and snowy mountains in the background
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Ladakh is widely known as the ‘Land Of High Passes.’ This place is as beautiful as it seems and is an ideal choice for those who want to admire the natural beauty of the region. The place also offers multiple activities to perform amidst the hilly area. There are several exciting things to do in Ladakh which promise an unforgettable time. From visiting the valleys to trying out several adventurous activities, Ladakh pledges to keep your adrenaline rush high. Ladakh is a top-tier choice for a romantic escape and a chosen destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

15 Exciting Things To Do In Ladakh

Below are listed some of the top things to do in Ladakh for a memorable time. These things to do range from exploring the ancient monasteries to admiring the beauty of the lush green valleys of the region.

1. Chadar Trek On The Frozen River

Trekking the frozen Chadar trek is one of the most thrilling things to do in Ladakh.

Photo: Atulbhats / Wikimedia Commons

Chadar Trek is one of the most iconic experiences when it comes to Ladakh trekking, as it takes you across the frozen Zanskar River. This is one of the most unique trekking experiences in the entire India. Chadar Trek lets the trekkers witness the breathtaking views of the Zanskar Valley with snow-covered mountains. Along the trek, trekkers shall also explore the traditional villages and the local lives of the residents. As the region is remote, trekkers gain valid insight into people’s lives. The adventure while trekking on the frozen river meets unexpected levels.

Best Time To Visit: Late December To Early February
Highlights: Frozen River, Breathtaking Views, Traditional Villages

Suggested Read: Things To Do In Leh To Seek Adventure And Beauty Amidst The Mountains

2. Motor Biking In Ladakh

An aerial picture of people riding motorcycles on a road in Ladakh with scenic mountains in the background

Photo: Ville Hyvönen / Wikimedia Commons

Motorbiking in Ladakh is one of the most thrilling things to do. This allows all visitors to explore the region’s stunning landscapes and remote areas including the traditional villages. Ladakh is a biker’s paradise as it takes them through some of the highest motorable passes in the world such as Umling La and Khardung La. Each route offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The roads range from smooth tarmacked ones to rugged ones. Each offers a diverse experience and excitement to the bikers. One of the most visited places from Ladakh via bike ride is Pangong Lake.

Best Time To Visit: June To September
Highlights: Stunning Landscapes, Mountains, Traditional Villages

3. Indus River Rafting In Ladakh

A picture of a river in Ladakh with multiple mountains visible in the background and people rafting in the river

Photo: CA ANAND V KAKU / Wikimedia Commons

River rafting in Ladakh has gained prominence amongst the visitors. The Indus River flows through the deserted region of Ladakh. While rafting visitors come across fascinating views of the surrounding landscapes. The rafting takes through the gorges between the mountains in Ladakh and where the confluence of the Zanskar River and the Indus River happens. There are different regions where the difficulty varies. River rafting in Ladakh indeed gives an adrenaline rush to its experiencers. There are different grades of rafting at different spots in the river. Rafting is one of the best things to do in Ladakh.

Best Time To Visit: May To September
Highlights: Confluence Of Zanskar And Indus River, Gorges, Landscape Views

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Leh For A Refreshing Retreat In Nature’s Lap

4. Experience Camel Safari

A picture of a Camel being taken for a desert safari experience in a cold desert

Photo: catsfromspace / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only

Camel Safari in the cold desert of Ladakh is extremely unique. Camels take you through the stunning landscape of the region. The sandy terrain looks as beautiful as it seems. Views of the surrounding mountains and rugged terrain add to this amazing experience. There are guided camel safaris available in the region to gain insights about the place and dive into the cultural past as well. A majority of the camel safaris happen in Nubra Valley. This place is home to a small herd of Bactrian Camels. The camel safaris also happen in the Diskit and Hunder regions of Ladakh.

Best Time To Visit: May To September
Highlights: Landscape Views, Guided Camel Safaris, Nubra Valley

5. Try Yak Safari

A picture of a Yak taken on the tall mountains of Ladakh getting ready for a safari, one of the best things to do in Ladakh

Photo: Shiv’s fotografia / Wikimedia Commons

Yak Safari in Ladakh promises a memorable experience. The safari route takes you through the deserted land of the region and the lush green valleys. Yaks are said to be the natural-born animals of the region and can withstand extreme cold. Ladakh tourism indeed promotes yak safaris as a part of their tourism department. Yak Safaris mostly happen in the region of Pangong Lake, Tsomoriri Lake and Nubra Valley. The safari route also takes visitors through glaciers, meadows, lakes and rugged terrains. There are various costs for Yak Safari ranging from INR 200 TO INR 400 per hour.

Best Time To Visit: May To September
Highlights: Landscape Views, Guided Yak Safaris, Nubra Valley

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Ladakh

6. Explore Leh Market

A picture of the main market street of Leh with bustling shops and a tall mountain visible in the background

Photo: Ingo Mehling / Wikimedia Commons

Leh is one of the vibrant towns in Ladakh. There is a very vibrant market in Leh which showcases the best of the handicraft items. There are various colourful trinkets displayed on the walls of the shops. The market is open year-round but the best time to visit is during the months of June to September when the weather is mild, pleasant and ideal for exploration. The market sells everything from clothes to jewellery and local street food dishes. It is recommended to try the traditional Thukpa at this place which is a part of the local cuisine of the region.

Best Time To Visit: June To September/ December To February
Highlights: Traditional Clothes, Jewelleries, Local Cuisine

7. Skiing In Ladakh

A picture of tourists enjoying skiing, one of the most popular things to do in Ladakh

Photo: Coldstreamer20 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Skiing is an activity which is performed mostly during the winter when the snowfall occurs. Skiing allows experiencers to perform the activity on snowy slopes and enjoy the winter wonderland of Ladakh. Tourists shall climb down the snowy hills and enjoy the cool temperatures. The price of skiing starts from INR 2500. Skiing mostly happens in the snowy region and terrains of Khardung La Range. As one of the popular adventure sports in Ladakh, skiing attracts enthusiasts from across the country, especially during competitions held when the region is covered in a blanket of snow.

Best Time To Visit: December To February
Highlights: Adrenaline Rush, Winter Wonderland

Suggested Read: Places To Visit Near Leh Ladakh That Will Drop Your Jaw

8. Visit Pangong Lake

A picture of a beautiful lake with a reflection of the mountains behind it falling on the surface.

Photo: Neek-Theri / Wikimedia Commons

Pangong Lake is located in Ladakh amidst the picturesque setting. This place is also known as Pangong Tso and is one of the highest-altitude lakes in the world. This lake is famous as the water seems to change colour from blue, green to red. Scientifically the phenomenon happens because of the angle of sunlight striking the water and changing weather conditions of the region. During winters, the lake gets completely frozen and the site is worth witnessing. It is undoubtedly one of the most stunning places to visit in Ladakh for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Best Time To Visit: June To February
Highlights: Changing Water Colour, Highest Altitude Lake

9. Explore The Ancient Monasteries

A picture of a traditional monastery in Ladakh with worshippers moving towards the entrance

Photo: Dr Prateek Porwal / Wikimedia Commons

Ladakh is a place which features various monasteries, a few of them being the oldest and the largest ones. Each monastery has a storied past and is rich in culture and heritage. These monasteries are not only places of worship of the Buddhist Sect but also places where teaching and learning happen. Some of the monasteries in Ladakh are Diskit Monastery, Shey Monastery, Alchi Monastery and Phyang Monastery. These monasteries follow Tibetan Buddhism and are the heart of Ladakh.

Best Time To Visit: June To February
Highlights: Insights Into Buddhism, Cultural Heritage Of Ladakh

Suggested Read: Top Places To Visit In Kargil To Explore History And Unveil Adventure

10. Visit Hemis National Park

A picture of a snow leopard resting behind a rock at a national park in Ladakh

Photo: T. R. Shankar Raman / Wikimedia Commons

Hemis National Park is located at a high altitude in Leh, Ladakh. This park is globally famous for the snow leopards which reside in the national park. This national park spans over 4000 square kilometres and is now the largest national park in India. The park ranges from the area in Hemis to the north of Zanskar. It has been recorded that there are more than 200 snow leopards in the national park. Other animal species include wild sheep, goats and yaks. It also includes the Great Tibetan Sheep, making it a great inclusion among things to do in Ladakh with kids, especially for wildlife-loving families.

Best Time To Visit: June To February
Highlights: High Altitude National Park, Snow Leopards, Wild Sheep

11. Visit The Nubra Valley

Exploring the scenic Nubra Valley is one of the most breathtaking things to do in Ladakh.

Photo: vaidyanathan / Wikimedia Commons

Visiting the Nubra Valley is one of the most romantic things to do in Ladakh with couples. Known for its stunning dunes, lush greenery, and serene monasteries, Nubra Valley offers a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility. Couples can enjoy camel rides on the famous double-humped Bactrian camels, explore the scenic Diskit Monastery, and soak in the breathtaking views of the Shyok River. The peaceful atmosphere and beautiful landscapes make it an ideal getaway for couples seeking both excitement and relaxation in Ladakh.

Location: Nubra Valley, Leh District, Ladakh
Highlights: Sand Dunes, Bactrian Camel Rides, Diskit Monastery, Shyok River Views

Suggested Read: Famous Lakes In Leh Ladakh

12. Explore The Tso Moriri Lake

A high-altitude blue lake surrounded by mountains under a clear sky.

Photo: Raghavan37 / Wikimedia Commons

Tso Moriri Lake, nestled in the Changthang region of Ladakh, is a breathtaking high-altitude lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains and serene landscapes. Its crystal-clear blue waters and tranquil environment makes its one of the best things to do in Ladakh with family seeking peace and natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, photography, and short treks around the lake. While in Ladakh with family, explore Pangong Lake, visit Thiksey Monastery, try river rafting in the Zanskar River, and experience local culture at Leh Market.

Location: Changthang Plateau, Leh District, Ladakh
Highlights: High-Altitude Lake, Birdwatching, Photography, Serene Landscapes

13. Stargaze At The Hanle Observatory

Stargazing at Hanle Observatory is one of the most peaceful things to do in Ladakh.

Photo: Thirdman / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

If you are looking for what to do in Ladakh, stargazing at Hanle Observatory should be on your list. Known for its crystal-clear skies and high altitude, Hanle offers one of the best stargazing experiences in India. You can witness the Milky Way, constellations, and distant galaxies with unmatched clarity. The Indian Astronomical Observatory here adds to the charm, making it a perfect spot for astronomy lovers and families to enjoy a peaceful night under a sky full of stars.

Location: Hanle Village, Changthang Region, Leh District, Ladakh
Highlights: Clear Skies, Milky Way Views, Indian Astronomical Observatory

Suggested Read: Thiksey Monastery

14. Visit The Thiksey Monastery

A scenic hilltop monastery with traditional Tibetan architecture in Ladakh.

Photo: Caesardeka / Wikimedia Commons

Visiting Thiksey Monastery is among the most enriching experiences in Ladakh. Located on a hilltop overlooking the Indus Valley, this 12-story monastery resembles the famous Potala Palace of Tibet. It houses a magnificent Maitreya Buddha statue, intricate wall paintings, and ancient Buddhist scriptures. The peaceful chants and morning prayers add to its spiritual charm. As one of the top things to see in Ladakh, Thiksey Monastery offers breathtaking valley views and a glimpse into the region’s deep-rooted Buddhist culture.

Location: Thiksey Village, Leh District, Ladakh
Highlights: Maitreya Buddha Statue, Hilltop Views, Ancient Scriptures, Buddhist Chants

15. Rangdum Camping in Suru Valley

Enjoy peaceful Rangdum camping in Suru Valley, one of the best things to do in Ladakh.

Photo: Vikash Singh / Pexels

Rangdum Camping in Suru Valley offers a serene escape into Ladakh’s untouched wilderness. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and lush meadows, it is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Camping here lets you enjoy peaceful nights under starry skies, breathtaking sunrises, and the calming sound of nature. The area also provides opportunities for short treks and interactions with local villagers. For an unforgettable experience of camping in Ladakh, Rangdum in Suru Valley perfectly blends tranquility, adventure, and scenic beauty.

Location: Rangdum, Suru Valley, Kargil District, Ladakh
Highlights: Starry Nights, Himalayan Views, Short Treks, Local Village Culture

Suggested Read: Sites For Camping In Ladakh To Soak In The Beauty Of Nature

Ladakh is indeed a chosen place to visit as it provides ample experience. The place caters to every individual’s preference and interest. Whether tourists are trekking through the lush green valleys or biking through the rugged terrains of the region, every activity which is to be performed comes with an unforgettable experience. Book a trip to Ladakh with TripXL and come across these exciting things to do. The place is a chosen destination for both those wanting peace and those wanting to keep their adrenaline rush high.

Cover Photo: Narender9 / Wikimedia Common

Frequently Asked Questions

Ladakh is the only cold desert in India. The place also borders the world’s highest saltwater lake, Lake Pangong. It also has the highest motorable road in the country.
To explore all ancient monasteries, traditional villages, ancient temples and motorable roads, approximately 5-6 days are enough to spend in Ladakh. Each place has a unique charm and offers a diverse experience.
Ladakh is mostly visited during the months from June to September as the climate is mild and visitors shall make the most of their trip. Whereas, some visitors shall also prefer visiting Ladakh during winter to experience trekking amidst the cold temperatures.
Traditionally, Thukpa is one of the local dishes which is served as a part of the local cuisine of the region. The dish is a staple food of the residents and is served as a noodle soup with vegetables of choice.
The oldest and the largest monastery in Ladakh is Diskit Monastery. This monastery is located in Diskit which is a small village and a part of Nubra Valley.
Flying into Leh is quickest, especially during winters. For more scenic and adventurous journeys, road trips like Srinagar‑Leh Highway or Manali‑Leh Highway are popular in warmer months.
Some public shared taxis and local buses run, especially between Leh and nearby towns. But for remote spots or offbeat locations (like Hanle, remote valleys), it's much more reliable to hire private vehicles / arrange transport via tour operators.
Lodging ranges from basic guesthouses and homestays to luxury camps. In remote areas, facilities can be very simple — shared bathrooms, limited heating. Book in advance in peak season (June‑September). Ensure camps/homestays are reputable.
Harshit Bhatia

Harshit Bhatia

Passionate about music and songwriting, Harshit Bhatia is a writer who found his muse in the mountains. Having travelled across the hills of Uttarakhand, Himachal, and Kashmir, he transforms the landscapes into compelling blogs and personifies their allure. When away from his job, you can find Harshit tuning into some hip-hop or working on an about-to-be hit melody.

Harshit’s Top Travel Highlights
For Harshit, travelling has two extremes. Either a cosy staycation in a quiet hillside village, or a rigorous trek where you don’t have time to breathe properly. There’s no in between.

First Snowfall Experience
Went on an abrupt Shimla trip with friends in February 2022, and none of them checked the weather forecast. Outcome? They were hit by a beautiful yet scary snowstorm an hour before reaching Shimla. They never reached Shimla. Failed twice in two days. Instead, went on to explore the town of Solan.

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