Nestled high in the Indian Himalayas, Ladakh is not just a destination—it is an experience of out of the World. Stark landscapes, snow-capped peaks, azure lakes, and ancient monasteries offer more than just Instagram-worthy views; they offer peace, adventure, and a glimpse into a culture untouched by modern chaos. Whether you are riding a Royal Enfield across mountain passes or sipping butter tea with monks, Ladakh has a way of sticking to your soul like cold wind on your face. If you are planning summer trip to Ladakh particularly in June and July, buckle up. Here is everything you should know before taking on this high-altitude wonderland.
Overview of Leh-Ladakh
Leh is the capital of the Union Territory of Ladakh and is the main base for tourists exploring the region. The city situated at around 11,500 feet above sea level, Leh is a mix of rugged beauty and spiritual calm. The town itself is relatively small, walkable, and filled with local markets, rooftop cafes, and Buddhist monasteries.
Ladakh spans from the Zanskar Valley in the southwest to the Nubra Valley in the northeast, and is often referred to as the “Land of High Passes.” The region is dotted with monasteries (called gompas), tranquil villages, and some of the highest motorable roads in the world. Basically, it is the kind of place that makes your soul want to take deep breaths—even if your lungs are gasping for oxygen.
Best Season to Visit Leh-Ladakh
For those allergic to frostbite, summer is the ideal time to visit. The region is open to tourists from late May to early September, with July being the sweet spot. By then, most roads—including the majestic Manali-Leh and Srinagar-Leh highways—are cleared of snow and safe to travel.
During daytime, temperature in Ladakh ranges between 15°C and 25°C, which makes it perfect for various adventure activities such as trekking, river rafting, or mountain biking. Nights are chilly, so must carry essential clothing.
Pro tip: Avoid monsoon-heavy weeks (yes, Ladakh gets some rain now, thanks climate change) and check road conditions before travelling.
Searching for Best Destinations for Summer Vacation? Read this Kashmir Travel Guide for best family trip
Festivals to Celebrate in Ladakh in Summer
1. Hemis Festival (June/July)
Where: Hemis Monastery
What’s Happening:
This is the Beyoncé of Ladakhi festivals. Celebrated in honour of Guru Padmasambhava. This two-day extravaganza features dramatic mask dances, colorful costumes, and booming Buddhist music. It’s like Broadway, but with monks and actual spiritual depth.
Why Go:
Because you haven’t truly “done” Ladakh until you’ve stood shoulder to shoulder with locals and tourists watching a giant thangka (religious painting) being unveiled like a sacred NFT.
2. Yuru Kabgyat Festival (June)
Where: Lamayuru Monastery
What’s Happening:
Monks perform cham (mask) dances, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. Offerings are made, and there’s a sacred ritual dismantling of a sacrificial sculpture—yes, it’s as intense as it sounds.
Why Go:
It’s smaller than Hemis, which means fewer crowds and a more intimate experience. Also, Lamayuru looks like a Martian village built by introverts—completely surreal.
3. Sindhu Darshan Festival (June)
Where: Banks of the Indus River near Leh
What’s Happening:
A three-day cultural celebration that honors the Indus River and promotes national integration. Expect folk dances, music, and a mini cultural Olympics from states across India.
Why Go:
Because it’s one of the few festivals where Ladakhis, Punjabis, Tamils, and everyone in between are waving flags together in mountain air, which is oddly heartwarming.
4. Ladakh Polo Festival (July)
Where: Shagaran Ground, Chushot Gongma (Leh)
What’s Happening:
Horse polo, the traditional kind—less Ralph Lauren, more warrior-on-a-horse vibe. It includes archery, folk music, and a whole lot of cultural pride.
5. Matho Nagrang Festival (March but stretching into spring/summer mindset)
Okay, this one’s usually in early spring, but if you are early in your summer trip, it might just count.
Where: Matho Monastery
What’s Happening:
Two oracles are chosen, possessed by spirits (voluntarily—no exorcism needed), and they predict the future. Also, more masked dances.
6. Tak Tok Festival (July/August)
Where: Takthok Monastery, Sakti village
What’s Happening:
More cham dances (we love a theme), more color, more chants. Tak Tok literally means “rock roof,” because the monastery is built into a cave. Yes, a literal cave.
How to Reach Ladakh
You have three options: plane, road or train. According to recent developments, first two options are most feasbile.
By Air:
The easiest and most popular option. Flights to Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (Leh) are available from Delhi, Mumbai, Chandigarh, and Srinagar. The views during landing are absolutely nuts—like flying into a snow globe that’s also a moonscape.
By Road:
If you are looking for an adventure trip (and by adventure, we mean 12-18 hours of winding roads and a sore butt), you can drive your car or hire a tempo traveller on rent with driver to reach Ladakh via bets route. You can customize your trip according to your destination in Delhi NCR.
- Manali-Leh Highway (Remains open from June to October): Famous for enroute places like Rohtang and Baralacha passes.
- Srinagar-Leh Highway (open May to November): Slightly easier, more scenic.
Note: AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) is a real villain, especially if you fly in. Keep a day or two for acclimatization.
A Sketch Itinerary to visit Ladakh in Summers
Following is a sample itinerary for a road trip from Manali to Leh. It is for an 10-day tour of Ladakh from Delhi NCR.
Day 1: Delhi to Manali (Overnoght Journey)
Day 2: Explore Manali and rest overnight
Day 3: Manali to Leh via Sarchu and Jispa
Day 4: Stay at Leh and visit Local Monasteries
Day 5: Ride to Pangong lake
Day 6: Trip to Khardung La Pass
Day 7: Visit to Tso Moriri and nearby places
Day 8: Drive to Kargil and Srinagar
Day 9: Srinagar- Jammu
Day 10: Jammu- New Delhi
Food in Ladakh
Ladakhi food is simple, hearty, and designed to warm your soul (and belly) in extreme cold. Here are some dishes that you will find on most menus:
- Thukpa: A noodle soup that feels like a warm hug.
- Momos: Steamed or fried dumplings filled with veggies or meat. They’re everywhere and addictive.
- Skyu: A traditional pasta dish cooked with vegetables and local spices.
- Butter Tea (Gur Gur Chai): Salty, buttery, and possibly an acquired taste, but you’ll drink it anyway because you are cold and curious.
- Chang: Local barley beer. Try it if you are into fermentation and/or bravery.
Vegetarian options are widely available, and most cafes in Leh offer Indian, Tibetan, Israeli, and even Italian dishes. But please don’t go to Ladakh and ask for a McSpicy Paneer. Don’t do that to yourself—or to Ladakh.
Points to Keep in Mind While Travelling to Ladakh in July
- Acclimatize: Spend at least 48 hours in Leh before heading to places like Nubra or Pangong. AMS isn’t just a buzzword—it can knock you out cold. Literally.
- Hydration: Drink loads of water. Your body hates you at altitude, and water is the only truce it accepts.
- Sun Protection: The sun is aggressive at high-altitude and can cause sunburn. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and lip balm are essential to keep your skin protected and covered.
- Connectivity: Mobile network is very severe in Leh. BSNL and Jio are your best bets, but expect digital detox whether you like it or not.
- ATMs and Cash: Carry enough cash as card payments are unreliable. There are a few ATMs in Leh and subject to availability of cash unlike cities.
- Plastic Ban: Ladakh is plastic-free. Bring reusable water bottles and bags to avoid a scolding from eco-conscious locals.
- Permits: Indian tourists need an Inner Line Permit (ILP) for Nubra, Pangong, and Tso Moriri. Foreigners need Protected Area Permits (PAP). Apply online or via a travel agent in Leh.
- Travel Light, But Right: Jackets, thermals, gloves, and a good pair of trekking shoes are a must—even in summer.
- Choose the Best Route and Travel Plan: If you are on a long vacation and love to explore beautiful mountain passes for best experience, take the Manali route and plan a break journey. Explore Manali with friends in Summer before heading to Ladakh. Get best rates of Tempo traveller for Manali and enjoy the trip without any inconvenience.
Other Tips and Odd Realities
- Oxygen Levels: Carry portable oxygen cans if you are traveling with people with 50+ age or have respiratory issues.
- Respect the Culture: Don’t click photos, touch sacred objects in monasteries without permission. And for the love of prayer flags, don’t blast music at Pangong Lake.
- Eco-tourism Matters: Stick to marked trails, do not litter and build your own campsite just because you saw a travel reel with a tent.
In Conclusion: Ladakh is Worth It
A summer trip to Ladakh is not your average vacation. So, if you are planning to go Ladakh this Summer—pack light, follow the travel tips and keep buffer days in given itinerary. June and July months in Summer are best months to plan Ladakh Vacation.