25 Best Things To Do In Ladakh: The Complete Guide

Worry not, because we’ve got you covered, with our complete guide to the things to do in Ladakh. So, so scroll down and check out what to do in the many places to visit in Ladakh.

Top 25 Things To Do In Ladakh

1. Camel Safari In Hunder

Just imagine that you are travelling through the desert on a double humped Bactrian camel, the mountains providing a dramatic backdrop as their snowy peaks shimmer in the soft light of the setting sun. It’s an experience unlike any other, a rare fusion of exhilaration and tranquilly that tops the list of things to see in Ladakh.

Location: Nubra Valley

Average Cost: INR 200 to INR 350

Timings: 7 AM to 6 PM

2. Spotting A Snow Leopard In Hemis National Park

Among the myriad of things to do in Ladakh, spotting a snow leopard in its natural habitat is an unparalleled experience. You hold your breath, your eyes scouring the stark, rocky landscape. And then, a flicker of movement, a flash of grey and white,  the majestic snow leopard in all its glory, a sight that leaves you breathless!

Location: P99Q+ F7Q, Jammu and Kashmir

Timings: 9 AM to 5 PM

3. Travelling On A Khardung La

At 18,380 feet, it is one of the world’s highest motorable roads, a journey that is as much about the destination as it is about the path. A trip over Khardung La is one of the most exhilarating things to do in Ladakh; it’s an adrenaline-fueled dance with the clouds.

Best Time To Visit: April to September

4. Cherish The Hemis Festival

The festival held in the serene atmosphere of the colossal Hemis Monastery, is a riot of colours and sounds that mixes beautifully with the stark Ladakhi landscape. This unique cultural experience is an essential part of the things to see in Ladakh, offering a glimpse into the soul of this mesmerizing land.

Location: Hemis Monastery

Dates: June 16- June-17 2024

5. Relishing Yak Cheese In The Ladakhi Landscape

Relishing authentic cuisine is one of the things that just cannot be missed and they connect you more to the roots of Ladakh, taking your sojourn in Ladakh to the next level.

6. Mountain Biking

Ladakh mountain biking gives you the opportunity to experience things to see in Ladakh in a way that’s uniquely immersive. The wind in your hair, the sun on your back and the thrill of navigating winding trails make this a journey like no other.

Location: Nubra Valley

Average Cost: INR 500-INR 1000

7. Interact With The Locals

Having conversations with the locals is important, but it’s also essential to grasp the essence of Ladakh. Their generosity and tenacity broaden the range of sights visitors can see in Ladakh.

Tips To Keep In Mind: Respect their culture and wear modest clothes

8. Spituk Monastery Trek

The Spituk Monastery trek, one of the best spots for trekking in Ladakh takes you on a different path, one that leads to spiritual awakening, in contrast to mountain biking in Ladakh, which allows you to explore the untamed landscapes.

Timings: Spituk Monastery

Trek Duration: 5-6 Days

Level: Moderate

9. Zanskar Valley Tour

One of the most cherished things to do in Ladakh is to experience homestays in Ladakh. In Zanskar, this becomes a heartwarming journey into the local way of life. Sharing meals, stories and laughter with the warm and welcoming locals gives you a rare and authentic insight into Ladakhi life.

Location: Zanskar Valley

10. Visit To Tso Moriri

Visiting Tso Moriri is one of the most serene things to do in Ladakh. As you sit by the lake, soaking in the tranquility, you realize why it tops the list of things to see in Ladakh.

Whether it’s watching the sunrise paint the sky in shades of gold or spotting migratory birds, Tso Moriri offers unique experiences that enrich your Ladakh journey. Indeed, exploring Tso Moriri is among the most rewarding things to do in Ladakh, adding a touch of serenity to your adventure in this magnificent land.

Location: Tso Moriri

Best Time To Visit: September- October

11. Defying Physics At The Magnetic Hill

Experiencing the magic of Magnetic Hill, where cars seem to roll uphill on their own, is one of the most exciting things to do in Ladakh. It sparks curiosity and joy in both kids and adults alike, making it a perfect family adventure.

As you marvel at this phenomenon and capture these precious moments, you’ll find that the Magnetic Hill adds a dash of mystery to your Ladakh journey. It’s not just one of the things to see in Ladakh, but a memory to cherish from your family trip to Leh Ladakh.

Location: 25 Kilometres From Leh

12. Shopping In Leh Bazaar

It’s a sensory overload walking through the bustling lanes, discovering the rich array of handicrafts, pashmina shawls, and Ladakhi jewellery. It’s more than just a shopping trip; it’s a look at the region’s art and craftsmanship, making it one of the most interesting things to see in Ladakh.

Location: Mall Road

Timings:10 AM to 8 PM

13. Visit The Lamayuru Monastery

Visiting Lamayuru is among the most enlightening things to do in Ladakh. As you explore the monastery’s intricate murals and grand prayer halls, you feel a sense of peace that transcends the ordinary. Attending a prayer session, where the air vibrates with the chants of monks, is another experience that touches your soul.

Location: B.P.O Khaltse

Entry Fees: INR 50

Timings:7 AM to 7 PM

14. Chadar Trek

As your feet crunch on the icy path and your breath forms puffs of white in the crisp air, you become a part of the landscape, a traveller in the realm of ice and snow. This is the Chadar Trek, a place where the river becomes your trail and the sky, your blanket.

Enlisting a reliable Chadar Trek Guide is crucial. They not only ensure your safety but also enrich your journey with stories and insights about the region, making it one of the most enlightening things to see in Ladakh.

Location: Zanskar River

When To Do It: December- January

15. Relish Authentic Ladakh Cuisine

From piping hot Thukpa to sumptuous momos, and the comforting warmth of butter tea, the food here is a testament to the region’s cultural mosaic. Exploring the myriad of restaurants in Leh Ladakh is an experience that shouldn’t be missed. It adds a delicious layer to the palette of things to see in Ladakh.

Enjoying regional food allows you to taste the tradition and love that have gone into each dish, in addition to satisfying your hunger. This makes it among the most rewarding activities in Ladakh. So come and let the flavours of Ladakh tickle your taste buds and leave you with memories that will linger long after your trip is over.

16. Visit The Nubra Valley

Embarking on a journey to Nubra Valley, with the assistance of a knowledgeable Nubra Valley Guide is one of the most rewarding things to do in Ladakh. As you explore the quaint villages, interact with the locals and marvel at the distinctive Bactrian camels you get a glimpse into the diversity that defines Ladakh.

Location: Leh District

Things To Do At Nubra Valley: ATV Rides, Camel Safari

17. Trek To Drang Drung Glacier

The sight of the majestic glacier, with its azure ice and surrounding snow-capped peaks, leaves you in awe as you travel the difficult trails. One of the sights to see in Ladakh that really captures the magnificence of the Himalayas is this.

The journey is a voyage of discovery as well as a physical challenge. A deeply moving experience is produced when the mountains’ silence, the glacier’s size and the sheer happiness of arriving at your destination come together.

Location: Starts From Pensi La

Duration: 1 Day trek 

18. Visiting The Chemrey Monastery

Visiting Chemrey Monastery is one of the most fulfilling things to do in Ladakh. Walking through the ancient halls adorned with vibrant murals and intricate Thangkas, you can feel the spiritual energy that permeates the air.

Engaging in a quiet meditation session or attending the enchanting prayer rituals, you connect with a deeper sense of self. This makes your visit to Chemrey Monastery not just one of the things to see in Ladakh but a soul-enriching experience.

Location: Chemrey

Entry Fees: INR 30

19. Seek The Divine Blessings At The Pathar Sahib Gurudwara

One of the attractions in Ladakh that is a must-see is the Gurudwara, which is steeped in legend and history. Whatever your religion or place of origin, you will receive a warm welcome here, which genuinely embodies Sikhism’s core principles.

Location: NH1, Phey

Timings: 4:15 AM to 8:30 PM

20. Embracing Culture In Stok Palace Museum

One of the most insightful things to do in Ladakh is to explore the museum. Each display has a narrative that includes kings and queens, war and peace, tradition and advancement. It combines history, art, culture and heritage in an original way.

Taking a guided tour where you get to hear fascinating stories and insights about the exhibits adds depth to your visit. It’s not just one of the things to do in Ladakh; it’s a cultural immersion that brings you closer to the soul of this land.

Location: Stok

Timings: 10 AM to 5 PM

21. Pay Respects At The Hall Of Fame Museum

Whether it’s learning about the Kargil War or paying tribute at the war memorial, each experience here makes you appreciate the courage and dedication of the Indian Armed Forces. So, as you chart out the things to do in Ladakh 2023, don’t miss the Hall of Fame Museum. It’s an experience that will fill you with respect and pride.

Location: Leh

Entry Fees: INR 125

Timings: 9 AM to 7 PM

22. Visit The Majestic Zorawar Fort

The moment one enters the fort, they will be struck by the fort’s robust and rustic architecture. The fort’s intriguing architecture is a blend of Indian and Tibetan designs. The fort also is an abode to a museum which has an assortment of artefacts and everything you need to get an insight into the rich history of Ladakh.

Moreover, the climb to the top of the fort makes it one of the best things to do in Ladakh, as the views that one is surprised by at the top are just out of this world. So when planning a trip to Ladakh, don’t forget to add the Zorawar Fort in your itinerary. 

Location: Skara Road

Timings: 8 AM to 6 PM

23. River Rafting

The Zanskar and Indus rivers are two of the most popular sites for river rafting in Ladakh. Ladakh has jaw dropping landscapes and serene monasteries and river rafting is one of the best ways to witness those sites. 

River rafting in Ladakh is more than just an adventure sport. It’s a chance to witness the unspoiled beauty of this region from a fresh perspective. Amid the adrenaline rush, don’t forget to soak in the splendid views of the surrounding landscape dotted with monasteries and small hamlets.

24. Camping Under The Stars

The best camping spots in Ladakh are where you can truly feel the essence of this high-altitude desert. Be it the serene shores of Pangong Tso or the verdant landscapes of Nubra Valley, these locations offer a unique blend of tranquility and raw natural beauty. Imagine waking up to the sight of sun-kissed peaks or sleeping under a blanket of stars – it’s pure magic!

Camping in Ladakh is not just about embracing the outdoors; it’s also about cultural immersion. The chance to interact with locals, taste traditional Ladakhi cuisine, and delve into their folklore around a campfire is genuinely enriching.

As we look at the things to do in Ladakh 2024, camping stands out as an unmissable experience. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a novice, camping in Ladakh offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and explore the region’s soul in the most authentic way possible.

25. Skiing Adventure

The serene surroundings, punctuated by vibrant monasteries and quaint villages, add to the charm. Skiing in Ladakh is more than a winter sport; it’s an immersive experience that showcases Ladakh’s ethereal beauty in its most pristine form.

Well, with this we wrap up this journey through the remarkable realm of Ladakh, remember that it’s not merely a destination; it’s a vibrant tapestry of experiences, waiting to be unravelled. Whether it’s the rush of river rafting, the tranquillity of camping under a starlit sky, or the thrill of skiing down pristine slopes, Ladakh is a cornucopia of adventures.