In recent times Ladakh has become a major tourist hotspot, and every year thousands of tourist visit Ladakh to enjoy the scenic beauty by the lakes and breathtaking views of long stretched landscapes.
The city of Leh.
The city of Leh is situated at 11,500 feet above sea level and traveling around Ladakh will take travelers further above 15,000 feet every time they get over some pass. Furthermore Ladakh experiences considerable fluctuations in day and night temperatures even during summer months from (June to September) which further adds to the unfavorable living conditions.
An aerial view from an aircraft flying above the snow white peaks of Ladakh.
So if you are planning to fly into Leh, it is very important for you to understand the precautions you must take while visiting places on high altitudes and take AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) seriously.
Understanding AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) and Acclimatization.
High altitudes can be classified into the following:
High Altitude – Between 8,000 feet to 12,000 feet.
Very High Altitude – Between 12,000 feet to 18, 000 feet.
Extremely High Altitude – 18,000 feet and above.
An average person can easily travel up to 8,000 feet without any problems of mountain sickness, but as the altitude of the traveler increases the barometric pressure starts to decrease resulting in reduced oxygen intake per breath. Now in order to balance the oxygen intake your body needs to increase your breathing rate. However, even after increased breathing rate and increased oxygen level in blood, there is no increase in oxygen level that is actually required to maintain balance.
A group of Trekkers taking a break and acclimatizing to the high altitude.
Hence by spending sometime (few hours) at high altitudes the traveler’s body begins to adapt to the changes in the oxygen levels and this process is called as Acclimatization. Acclimatizing to high altitudes differs from person to person and each person copes at a different level.
A traveler showing symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness.
Understanding level, symptoms and cure of AMS
AMS Level : Mild. Symptoms of AMS : Headache, dizziness, fatigue, shortness of breath, loss of appetite, nausea, disturbed sleep, and a general feeling of uneasiness. Possible Treatment : Medication or Descend.
AMS Level : Moderate. Symptoms of AMS : Decreased coordination (ataxia), Severe headache (not relieved by medicine), other mild level symptoms with increased affect. Possible Treatment : Advanced Medication or immediate descend of about 1000 to 2000 feet.
AMS Level : Severe. Symptoms of AMS : Inability to walk, decreasing mental status, and fluid build-up in the lungs. Possible Treatment : Immediate Descend of about 2000 to 4000 feet.
Precautions before flying into Leh
In case any traveler suffers from any kind of blood, lung or heart related problems they should consult their doctor before visiting Ladakh as a visit may cause serious additional problems.
Experienced travelers and trekkers suggest one Diamox tablet per day should be taken for 2 days prior to your departure for Leh by air, and continue it within Ladakh for a day or two if required, to overcome the effect of high altitude. However, travelers MUST consult their family doctor before using medicines like Diamox. Please note: Diamox does not ‘mask’ AMS symptoms; it actually tricks your body into breathing a little faster, and thus helps you in acclimatizing faster.
Carry all other essential medicines, including those prescribed by personal physicians.
A couple of weeks before leaving for Leh, indulge in an Iron rich diet i.e. dark green leafy vegetables, meat and drink vegetable and fruit juices instead of milk or tea, as it will help your body in maintaining high energy levels and will be helpful during your visit to Ladakh.
A family spends time relaxing in a hotel garden after their arrival to Leh
Precautions after reaching Leh by air
On arrival devote two days to just resting and letting your body get used to the high altitude and climate of Leh.
Apart from rest, drink ample of water or any liquid that can keep your body hydrated. Beware ‘DO NOT OVER HYDRATE’.
Do not set off for high energy activities such as trekking, instead after 5 – 6 hours of rest make leisurely visits to nearby markets and monasteries of Leh.
Avoid smoking or consuming alcohol until you are fully acclimatized.
In case you do experience shortness of breath, disturbed sleep, lethargy, loss of appetite, constant coughing or nausea seek medical assistance at the local hospital ‘Sonam Norboo Memorial Hospital’, which is well equipped to handle acute mountain sickness and other ailments.
Travelers can purchase portable oxygen cylinders, which are available at chemist shops which provide temporary relief, in case you or other family members start feeling uneasy.
Be flexible with your travel plans while touring Ladakh, do not over-stress or push yourself at the cost of your own health and well being.
Keep yourself warm at all times by wearing woolens and make sure your clothes are always dry.
Eat a high carbohydrate diet while you are traveling or staying at high altitudes.
Avoid overeating and eat light with frequent small meals during the day.
Follow the trekkers mantra, ‘Climb high and sleep low’ i.e. even though you might travel across high altitudes and passes during the day, you should try and sleep at places at the lower altitudes.
There is a famous saying in Ladakh “The land is so barren and the passes are so high that only our fiercest enemies or our best friends would want to visit us”
If you are planning to visit Ladakh and are confused on how you should reach, we at TripPlatform have prepared a complete travel guide along with other important information which will be useful and will eliminate all confusions going through your mind.
As you begin reading this article, you first have to decide on the number of days you will spend in exploring Ladakh region and the budget at your disposal and then opt from the best possible option for your travel.
By Air
A flight trip to Leh gives travelers a spectacular panoramic view of the snow – capped mountain ranges and the thrill of identifying popular valleys and landmarks below throughout their travel.
An aerial view of the mountain ranges of Ladakh
Ladakh’s capital Leh is well connected by flight services from New Delhi, Jammu and Srinagar and there are a number of airlines that operate regular scheduled flights.
Leh Airport.
Travelers must note that the weather conditions can be erratic in Leh and flights can get cancelled at a short notice. So travelers should check before traveling and book well in advance, since the flights are usually full during the summer months(June – September).
Merits of Air Travel :
Save on time.
Get a bird’s eye view of the Himalayan ranges and beautiful valleys.
Travel comfortably.
Demerits of Air Travel :
Air Travel is Costly.
Travelers could face health issues on reaching Leh due to a sudden change in altitude.
Reaching Leh is more about the road traveled and is less of a destination.
Lack of adventure as compared to a road journey.
Recommended months of Travel by Air : April to November is the best. But flights operate all round the year for Leh.
By Train
Jammu Tawi Railway Station
There are no direct trains to Leh (Ladakh); the nearest railway station is Jammu Tawi in Jammu which is about 700 km from Leh city. Jammu Tawi railhead is well connected with all major cities and towns of India.
By Road
Driving to Ladakh by road is one of the most exhilarating road adventures in India, as it involves driving through some of the world’s highest motor-able mountain passes, travel through vast semi-arid planes, barren mountains, sweeping valleys and stunning panoramas all around, while getting the glimpse of the nomads and tribes living in small hamlets all along the way.
Needless to say, the pictures you will post on the social media about your road trip will be an instant hit and for the rest of your life you will have something worthwhile to brag about.
There are two roads that bikers and drivers take to reach Leh town. One is the Srinagar – Leh Highway and the other is the Manali – Leh Highway.
Road from Srinagar to Leh
Distance : 434 km.
Approximate time : 10 hours (Travel time may differ depending on your mode of transport, halts taken en-route, weather & traffic conditions on the highway).
Best time to travel through this highway : June to November. (This route is closed from November onwards to May due to heavy snowfall).
2) Srinagar – Sonmarg – Drass – Kargil – Batalik – Dah – Skurbuchan – Leh. ( via Batalik & Dah an Inner-line permit is required from the DEC office in Kargil or Leh).
The Srinagar – Leh Highway is known as NH-1D and has been the lifeline for Ladakh region as it connects it to other parts of India via Kashmir Valley. As you travel along this Highway you will get a glimpse of the Indus River flowing along and you will also come across a number of passes, the major ones being the Zozi La Pass @ 11,500 feet, Fotu La Pass @ 13,000 feet and Namki La Pass @ 12,500 feet above sea level.
Travel modes on Srinagar – Leh Highway.
Privately Owned Vehicles – Self Driven (Cars and Bikes).
It is a dream for most drivers (car) and bikers to drive on this highway as it is an experience of a lifetime, tourist can opt for rented cars or bikes that are easily available. An SUV/MUV or En-field bikes are ideal vehicles on this route, but it is advisable for travelers to know about the maintenance of the vehicle they are driving in case of any trouble with the vehicle which may occur during the journey.
Engage a Private Taxi
Tourist can book their taxis at Srinagar from tour operators and reach Leh comfortably.
Srinagar – Leh Bus Service
Bus plying between Srinagar and Leh.
Tourist can board the JKSRTC buses from Srinagar Bus Stand (i.e. near Lal Chowk), this is one of the cheapest mode of transport for reaching Leh. Semi-Deluxe and Private Buses can be booked from Private bus operators in Srinagar. Buses generally leave early in the mornings with halts at Sonmarg and Kargil.
Shared Taxi Services
Tourist can also opt for shared taxi services which start from Srinagar and is ideal for single or budget travelers. These shared taxis ferry about 6 people along with the driver. Shared taxis generally start their journey at midnight and reach Leh the next day.
Other Important Information on Srinagar – Leh Highway
The Srinagar- Kargil – Leh route is highly recommended as it has a gentle ascent (climb) towards Leh which allows tourist to get acclimatized to the high altitude more easily while traveling as compared to Manali – Leh route which has a sudden steep ascent (climb) towards Leh which can cause AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness).
Sightseeing & Attractions on the Srinagar – Leh Highway :
This Highway has a number of sightseeing and attractions, i.e. a few of them on the way, while others can be slightly off-route. Tourist can plan their visit according to their interest.
Confluence at Nimmu Village(Indus and Zanskar Rivers) En-route to Leh
Maitrey at Mulbek
Spituk Monastery
Lunar Landscape
Redzong Monastery
Alchi Monastery
Likir Monastery
Basgo Palace
Confluence at Nimmu Village(Indus and Zanskar Rivers)
Srinagar, Ganderbal, Drass, Kargil, Sasapol, Leh.
It is advisable to carry sufficient cash during the journey.
Road from Manali to Leh
Distance: 473 km.
Approximate time: 15 hours (Travel time may differ depending on your mode of transport, halts taken en-route, weather & traffic conditions on the highway).
Best time to travel through this highway: Mid June to Early October.( This route is closed from November onwards to May due to heavy snowfall).
A view of the Manali Leh Highway
Route from Manali to Leh :
Manali – Rohtang Pass – Keylong – Jispa – Bara Lachha Pass – Sarchu – Zanskar Range – Lachulung La Pass – Tanglang La Pass – Upshi – Leh.
The Manali – Leh highway serves as the second route to reach Ladakh and is a perfect route for adventure enthusiasts. The route is full of scenic beauty and is about 470 km long, out of which 350 km is without any civilization or any human settlements; hence it is important to plan well before traveling on this highway especially if you are driving yourself.
Tourist enjoying the view at the Rohtang Pass
The first major pass in this road is the Rohtang pass @ 13,000 ft which is crossed soon after leaving Manali, it cuts through the Pir Panjal range of the Himalayas. Then after reaching Keylong which is an important town in this region, the road follows the Bhaga River up to its source, passing a few villages and hamlets till the territory of Ladakh is entered.
A lone biker driving through the Baralacha – La Pass.
From here on its full of hairpin bends up to the Baralacha La Pass @ 16,050 feet, which is a tri-junction. After this lies the Zanskar Range and is crossed through two more passes, the Lachulung – La Pass @ 16,600 feet and the Taglang – La Pass @ 17,500 feet. Between both these two passes there is nothing but rock and sand, broad plains and rolling hills.
A view of the rugged Zanskar mountain ranges.
Once you cross the Tanglang La pass, the descent begins to the Indus Valley, and soon you will pass by the first village, Rumtse. The road then leads to the Gya River down to the Indus at Upshi, from where it is plain sailing to Leh, past the Indus valley villages of Karu, Thikse, Stakna, Shey and finally the Tibetan village at Choglamsar, before you enter the town of Leh.
Travel modes on Manali – Leh Highway.
Privately Owned Vehicles – Self Driven (Cars and Bikes).
Non – Himachal Pradesh vehicles on Manali – Rohtang pass have been banned by the government of Himachal Pradesh since the 27th June 2011.So, if you want to travel by your own vehicles you have to take permits from the SDM office in Manali, however there are no restrictions on motor-cycles. Tourist can travel in their own vehicles or rent a Car and self drive, again it is important that travelers should be experts in driving since the terrain is rugged and at the same time they should know about the maintenance of their own vehicles in case of any trouble which may occur during the journey.
Engage a Private Taxi
Tourist can book their taxis at Manali from tour operators or at Manali Taxi stand and reach Leh comfortably. The local drivers here are experts and can negotiate difficult routes of this region with ease.
Manali – Leh Bus Service
(H.P.T.D.C.) runs regular bus service on Leh – Manali – Leh route during tourist season every year.
If you are a budget traveler or a solo traveler this is the ideal way to travel. HPTDC runs several bus services for Leh, both ordinary and semi-luxury buses are available on this route. Tickets can be booked online, so make sure you book your tickets in advance and confirm your bus schedule.
Shared Taxi Services
Tourist can also opt for shared taxi services which start from Manali and is ideal for single or budget travelers. These shared taxis ferry about 6 people along with the driver. Shared taxis generally start their journey at midnight and reach Leh the next day.
Other Important Information on Manali – Leh Highway
The Leh – Manali route is better to travel on as compared to than the Manali – Leh route, since in the former tourist will be moving downwards from high altitudes hence tourist will be more comfortable and can enjoy the scenic beauty and will not suffer from AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) which is caused by steep climbs.
Scenic view of the Leh – Manali Highway.
Petrol Pumps on the highway :
At Tandi(107 km from Manali) & Karu (36 from Leh)
ATM on the highway :
Only at Keylong (It is advisable to carry sufficient cash during the journey)
Sightseeing & Attractions on the Manali – Leh Highway :
A view of the Tanglang La Pass.
This Highway has a number of sightseeing options i.e. a few of them on the way, while others can be slightly off – route. Tourist can plan their visit according to their interest.
Solang Valley
Rohtang Valley
Tandi Confluence
Sissu waterfalls
Deepak Taal
Suraj Taal
Baralacha La Pass
Tanglang La pass
Gata loops
Getting around Ladakh
In Ladakh there are regular public bus services that run between the 2 major towns of Leh and Kargil on fixed routes and according to a fixed time schedule, other smaller villages and hamlets are connected to each other by mini buses, this is the cheapest way to travel in this region.
However, the most comfortable and convenient way though expensive mode of travel is by bike, taxis, cars and jeeps which are available for hire on fixed point-to-Point tariff.
For trips to the newly opened areas of Nubra and Dhahanu valley, Pangong, Tso Moriri and Tso Kar Lakes it is mandatory to engage the services of a registered travel agency for making all the requisite arrangements including internal transport. Travelers can obtain detailed information about bus schedules, taxi tariffs, travel agencies from the Tourist Office of Jammu and Kashmir.
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