25 Best Things to Do in Ladakh in 2025

Mar 05, 2025

Magnificient Leh is also known as the " Land of Lamas." It is one of the supreme summer tourist destinations, popular for its high passes, incredible picturesque landscapes, trekking to the stunning Marking Valley, and several historic monasteries such as Hemis, Thikse, and Alchi. Despite that, Ladakh is considered the ideal place, especially for those who crave to admire the breathtaking landscapes, alpine lakes, and more in the open skies while stargazing. Significantly, Ladakh has plenty of things to do and places to visit that amaze you with its magnificent views of high-altitude mountains, frozen lakes, and more. There is no doubt it is on the bucket list of wanderlust to take a Bike ride on the Ladakh Highways; if you are visiting Ladakh for the first time, then this comprehensive travel guide will surely be helpful as it contains all the relevant information about the best things to do in Ladakh.

1. Ride a Bike on the Ladakh Highways:

A trip to Ladakh is incomplete without experiencing the most adventurous bike riding on the Ladakh Highways to appreciate the pristine beauty of Ladakh, stunning Himalayan Valleys, and Picturesque landscape. Therefore, travelers can start this marvelous scenic ride from Nubra Valley to the popular saltwater lake Pangong Tso; consequently, it is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. However, the enthusiast can book the bike ride tour with any of the renowned travel companies.

The best time to visit: May to September
Cost per head: INR 1200 to INR 2500 per day for bike rental
Documents required: Valid ID proof, driving license, and permits
Route Highlight: Magnetic Hill, Changla Pass

2. Hemis Festival:

Spectacular Ladakh is well known for its natural picturesque landscape and is the most visited tourist destination for the grand celebrations of local festivals, rich culture, and lifestyle. Therefore, one of the popular festivals of Ladakh is the Hemis Festival, a two-day Buddhist celebration held in the fifth month of the Tibetan Calendar in late June or early July. It is dedicated to the birth of Guru Padmasambhava, also known as Guru Rinpoche, a key figure marked by colorful parades and traditional dances.

The best time to visit: June or July
Cost per head: Free entry for most festivals
Highlights: the Cham dance, in which performers wear masks and show the victory of goodwill.

3. Explore Hemis National Park:

Hemis National Park is a popular wildlife spot where snow leopards and various birds can be found. It is a high-elevation national Park nestled approximately 50km from Leh. Most travelers consider visiting the park to see snow leopards, which are rare in several areas; however, the park is home to nearly 200 snow leopards, primarily visible in winter. To get the most out of it, travelers are advised to fly to Ladakh during peak travel season to quickly explore more high-altitude tourist spots.

The best time to visit: the summer season
Time required: three to four hours
Entry fee: INR 500

4. Enjoy Bactrian Camel Safari in Hunder or Diksit:

Another adventurous thing enthusiasts can do in Ladakh is the double-humped Bactrian camel safari at the Hunder, which is located next to the magnificent Shyok and Nubra rivers. It is one of the most incredible experiences you cannot miss out on, as it is a perfect way to admire Ladakh's stunning landscape while learning new things about the culture and lifestyle of the locals. When it comes to Camel rides, most domestic and international travelers think about the desert safari in Rajasthan, whereas Ladakh has its own sparkling camel ride experience. Therefore, the rides start from Hunder and Diskit, and throughout the journey, you will discover apricot orchards, rugged mountain terrains, frozen desserts, and several multiple villages.

The best time to visit: June to September
Opening time: 8 am to 6 pm
Charges: INR 1000 to INR 1500 for one hour safari
Entry Fee for Valley: Free

See also: Best Hill Stations in India

5. Visit the world's high-altitude cafe at Khardungla Pass:

The Richen Cafeteria, or Maggi Point, is one of the world's high-altitude cafes at 18,360 feet above sea level at the Khardungla Pass, the exclusive tourist spot in Ladakh. Even though you are not a noodle lover, eating noodles at the highest motorable pass while admiring the breathtaking Himalayan range at the Khardungla Pass is no less than tranquil.

The best times to visit: April to June and September to October
Time required: Five to six hours
Average cost: INR 500

6. Appreciate Gravity-defying Magnetic Hill:

Magnetic Hill in Leh is one of the prominent tourist spots. It is well known for its bizarre potential to pull vehicles uphill, apparently rebelling against the force of gravity. Consequently, the configuration of the surrounding terrain creates the optical illusion of a hill, and it always fascinates travelers.

The best time to visit: July to September
Charges per head: Free
Timings: Open 24 hours
Highlight: Ensure to park the car at the marked spot to view the illusion.

7. Trekk towards the Spituk Gompa:

The ancient monastery also recognized as the Spituk Gompa, is a Buddhist monastery located in the Leh district, nearly 8km from Ladakh. It is believed that the Arhat Nyimagung blesses the monastery founded by the Od-de in the 11th century, who was the eldest brother of Lha Lamba ChangChub Od. Therefore, the Spituk Gompa is a remarkable monastery, as the crooked mountains surround it, making it one of the peaceful spots.

Highlights: You can witness the incredible landscape in the mountain's surroundings.
Required time: Two to three hours
Entry Fee: INR 20 per head

8. Witness the picturesque Shey Palace and Monastery:

The mesmerizing Shey Palace, also known as the Summer capital of Leh Ladakh, is the most visited tourist spot due to its 12-meter tall Golden Buddha Statue adjacent to the monastery. The palace is located on the Hillock in Shey, approximately 15km south of Leh. Travelers will be amazed by the panoramic views of the vast Indus Valley. The surrounding fields are filled with enormous barely and mountain drops, adding more spark to this natural landscape.

The best time to visit: May to September
Cost per head: 30 per person
Opening Time: 9 am to 5 pm
Tip: Best place to view the mesmerizing Sunset

9. Morning views at Hemis Monastery:

Hemis Monastery is dedicated to the Drukpa Lineage of Buddhism. It was first established in the 11th century and again re-established in the 17th century by the Ladakh king Sengge Namgyal. It is one of Ladakh's most popular tourist attractions, also known as the grand celebration of the two-day religious Hemis Festival.

Opening Time: 8 am
Highlights: Witnessing the sunrise and experiencing the Morning prayers are incredibly serene experiences.
Time required: Two hours

10. Camping at the Tso Moriri:

Tso Morisi is a surreal place located 219 km from Leh's central city in the Changthang Plateau. The area of ' Lake Moriri' is protected by the Tso Moriri Wetland Conservation Reserve. This is one of the hidden gems when you search for the best places to picnic in Ladakh compared to other spots; therefore, it also resembles the most popular Pangong Lake. It is an ideal place for a picnic and is approximately 100 feet deep.

The best time to visit: May, June, July, and August
Highlight: The area is home to rare kinds of plants and animals
Time required: Two hours needed

11. Stargazing in Lamayuru:

Summer and winter are perfect seasons for stargazing in Lamayuru, with clear skies and no pollution. Therefore, it is the ideal place to tick off your bucket list for stargazing in Ladakh, where you can appreciate the fantastic view of the Milky Way, Planets, and constellations.

Time required: Two hours
Charges: Not available

12. Chadar Trek:

It is a six-day trek over a frozen river in Ladakh. Although the trek is challenging, you will see breathtaking scenic views simultaneously. Beginners are also welcome to this trek, but taking essential precautions before performing it is crucial. The unique Chadar trek is considered one of the best fun adventure activities for wanderlust to elevate the traveling experience. The most critical precaution is to take the proper acclimatization.

Best time for trek: Throughout the December
Average cost: INR 1000 per head

13. Travel over Nubra Valley:

The historical region of Ladakh is popular for several reasons, including centuries-old Gompas, hot Sulphur Springs, High-altitude dunes, Double humped Bactrian Camel rides, stunning mountain peaks, lakes, and desert views. Besides that, the Nubra Valley is home to numerous ancient Monasteries.

The best time to visit is June to September
Highlights: Trekking, Bactrian Camel rides, and Scenic views

14. For peace, visit Shanti Stupa:

The popular Tibetan building Shanti Stupa attracts thousands of travelers with its exquisite architecture and natural beauty. It is located on the hilltop of Chanspa and was built in 1991 by the well-known Japanese Buddhist Bhikshu Gyomyo Nakamura. Its incredible white dome structure offers expansive views of the area.

Best time to visit: Throughout the year
Highlights: Peaceful surroundings and Captivating white dome structure.

15. The Pathar Sahib Gurudwara:

The Pathar Sahib Gurudwara of Ladakh was constructed in 1517 and founded by the renowned Guru of the Sikh Community. You should not miss out on visiting the prosperous place and also taste the delectable langer cuisine. Even Tibetan pilgrims visit this spiritual place to worship Guru Gompa Maharaj.

Best time to visit: May till September unless the road is closed
Time required: One hour

16. Witness the breathtaking Sunrise at Tso Pangong:

Tso Pangong is nestled at 14 270 feet above sea level. It is one of the supreme tourist destinations of Ladakh for several reasons, like its marvelous crystal blue color, its high elevation location, which gives a stunning view, and the ultimate phenomenon of color changing with the change in weather. This is the best spot to see a breathtaking Sunrise with calm vibes.

The best time to visit is early in the day
Highlights: Turquoise blue water, Sunrise Point, the highest salt lake, encircled by nature.

17. Celebrate Harvest Festival in Ladakh:

The most popular Harvest Festival in Ladakh is celebrated for two weeks, either in September or October. It is a vibrant, colorful festival that depicts Leh's rich cultural heritage, traditions, and agrarian practices through ethnic performances, music, and ceremonial attire.

When it is celebrated: September or October
Highlights: Folk dances, Musical Performance

18. Matho Nagrang Festival:

Matho Nagrang is another magnificent festival of Ladakh. It is celebrated for two days on the 14th and 15th days of the first month of the Tibetan Calendar. Significantly, it is also known as the feast of the oracles. Thus, to experience the authentic spirit of Buddhism, one should consider joining the festival in February.

When to celebrate: February
Time required: Three hours

19. Museum of Stock Palace:

Stock Palace is a prime attraction for travelers curious about Ladakh's history and culture. It is located at the Choglamsar Bridge, approximately 15km from the central city. The museum exhibits a unique collection of Tibetan arts, crafts, and treasures, including ancient coins, Royal Lavish seats, Costumes, precious jewels, and paintings.

Highlights: Collection of ancient jewels, art, and crafts
Entry Fee: INR 100

20. Hall of Fame:

Ladakh's Hall of Fame is a museum dedicated to Indo-Pak Hostilities. Although some visitors are not interested in history, you should add this magnificent place to your list of things to do in Ladakh to learn about the history and the soldiers who died in wars.

When to visit: Throughout the year
Average cost: INR 500

See also: First class vs Business class

21. Visit Zorawar Fort:

To get a breathtaking view of Ladakh city, plan to visit the Zorawar Fort, which was constructed in 1836 for Wazir Zorawar Singh Kahluria, the military general of Dogra Rajput. The fort has a museum that preserves treasures and postage stamps of the rulers.

Time required: Two hours
Average Cost: INR 500

22. Adventure Seekers enjoy Rafting in Ladakh:

The best spots to experience water adventure sports, such as rafting in Ladakh, are the Zanskar and Indus Rivers. Enthusiasts can satisfy their cravings by taking the Phey to Nimmo ride. It will surely blow your mind with the fantastic landscapes of western Ladakh, Monasteries, villages, hikes, and several surreal places.

The best time: August and June
Average cost: INR 1000

23. Praise Leh Palace:

Undoubtedly, Leh Palace is one of the magnificent tourist spots in Ladakh. It was constructed in the 17th century and is also recognized as the Lachen Palkar Palace, built by Sengge Namgyal. It was the former royal palace; however, the royal family lived atop this nine-story building.

The best time to visit: 7 am to 4 pm
Highlights: The palace museum, Royal garments, and other valuables

24. Camping at the most incredible destination:

If you are also one of those who loves to experience camping at diverse places, Ladakh camping is one of the marvelous experiences. The most popular places where visitors are allowed to camp are Pangong Retreat Camp, 100 Sky Camp, Double Humped Camp Hunder, and Nomadic Life.

The best time for camping: May till October
Highlights: The sky is full of stars, and camp owners have planned several fun entertainment options
Average cost: INR 1500 to INR 3000 on average

See also: Things to do in Delhi

25. Enjoy the magnificent view of Hanle in Changthang:

The Hanle is nearly 260km from Leh town, a larger historic village and home to the Indian Astronomical Observatory; however, it is a less popular tourist spot. One should consider visiting the spectacular remote town, which is ideal for stargazing. However, the village has several other spots, including the spectacular 17th-century monastery.

The best time to visit: June to September
Entry charges: Free

FAQs

Q. What are the best places to visit in Leh?

Leh is equipped with plenty of tourist attractions that attract tourists from around the Globe; the top attractions in Leh are Shanti Stupa, Leh Palace, Hall of Fame, Thiksey Monastery, Diskit Gompa, and more.

Q. What are the most popular things to do in Ladakh with children?

The most popular things to do in Ladakh with children are visiting the numerous captivating attractions, including Thiksey Monastery, Leh Palace, Nubra Valley, Zanskar Valley, Shanti Stupa, and Indus River, and enjoying popular festival celebrations like the Harvest Festival, Matho Nagrang, Hemis Monastery, and more.

Q. What are the best things to buy in Ladakh?

While in Ladakh, visitors can shop for multiple souvenirs for themselves or their loved ones. Some captivating souvenirs you can consider when shopping in Ladakh are handicrafts, antique jewelry, and pashminas. Handicrafts, including woven rugs, wooden carvings, stone sculptures, and Ladakh and traditional jewelry, are also important.

Q. What is Ladakh known for?

Ladakh is a famous tourist destination, especially in the summer, as it is located at a high altitude; however, the Union Territory is popular due to its ancient monasteries, Turquoise Blue pristine lakes, valleys, and other attractions.

Q. Which is the best time to visit Ladakh?

The Himalayan range encircles the Union Territory, which is extremely cold during winter. Even if the roads are blocked due to heavy snowfall, the best time to explore the magnificent landscape of Ladakh is during Summer, between June and September.

Q. Why do people love visiting Ladakh?

Ladakh attracts tourists mainly because of its natural picturesque landscape, multiple adventure opportunities, and rich culture.

Q. What are the famous foods in Ladakh?

Ladakh is also popular for its delectable cuisine. Some famous food items are Thukpa, Mokthuk, Gur Chai, Khambir, Tigmo, Momos, Phirni, and Ladakhi Pulao.

Q. What adventure activities can I try in Ladakh?

Visitors can experience Numerous adventure activities in Ladakh to make the trip unforgettable, such as the Chadar trek, Rafting, ATV riding, bike rides on the highways, Camel Safari, and Jeep Safari.

Q. Can I go river rafting in Ladakh? Which rivers are the best?

Yes, travelers can enjoy rafting in Ladakh significantly. The best time for rafting is from June to October. The best rivers for rafting are the Indus and the Zanskar.

Q. Is Ladakh good for trekking? What are the popular treks?

Ladakh is a well-known trekking destination. Some famous treks are Chadar Trek, Markha Valley Trek, and Stok Kangri Trek.

Q. What is the best time to visit Ladakh for outdoor activities?

The ideal time to visit Ladakh for outdoor activities is between May to September.

Q. Where are the best spots for taking photos in Ladakh?

Ladakh is a spectacular tourist destination well-recognized for its beautiful landscapes. It is also the best place to do photography in Ladakh to capture the marvelous views of the Markha Valley Trek, Chadar Trek, Sham Valley Trek, Tso Moriri Lake, Lamayuru, and more.

Q. What are the best ways to travel around Ladakh?

The most convenient way to travel around Ladakh is by hiring a local taxi, renting a car, or taking a bike ride. These modes of transportation allow you to witness the mesmerizing scenic view of mountain passes and visit spots like Leh Palace, Pangong Lake, and more.