Ladakh, India
Ladakh: How to Do the High Passes Right
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Ladakh is India at its most cinematic — moonscapes, monasteries and lakes the colour of stained glass. It sits high, though, so the golden rule is acclimatise.
The rhythm
Rest on arrival in Leh (3,500m). Then monasteries — Thiksey, Hemis — before crossing Khardung La to Nubra, and finally the electric blue of Pangong.
Stay safe & prepared
Take it slow the first 48 hours, skip alcohol, carry your permits and plenty of cash — cards rarely work up here. June to September is the season.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1 — Leh
Acclimatise in town
- Leh Palace
- Shanti Stupa
- Leh market
- Boutique Guesthouse, Leh
- Delhi (DEL) → Leh (IXL)
💡 Day one is for rest — altitude is real at 3,500m. Drink water, walk slow, skip alcohol.
Day 2 — Leh
Monasteries
- Thiksey Monastery
- हेमिस गोम्पा
- Shey Palace
- Boutique Guesthouse, Leh
Day 3 — Nubra
Over Khardung La
- Khardung La
- Diskit Monastery
- Nubra Valley Sand Dunes
Day 4 — Pangong
The blue lake
- Pangong Tso
- Chang La Pass
High-altitude kit
- • Diamox (ask your doctor)
- • Down jacket & thermals
- • Lip balm & heavy sunscreen
- • Permits for Nubra/Pangong
- • Cash — cards rarely work
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