Ladakh Travel Diary: There’s a reason Ladakh is on every traveller’s bucket list — snow-capped peaks, crystal-clear lakes, Buddhist monasteries, and otherworldly landscapes that leave you breathless. In this Ladakh travel diary, I’ll walk you through a day-by-day itinerary based on my recent 7-day journey to this high-altitude paradise. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or just looking for tips on what to see, where to stay, and how to plan, this guide will help you experience the magic of Ladakh the right way.
Introduction
Ladakh travel diary — these three words spark a sense of adventure, spirituality, and natural wonder. Nestled in the northernmost part of India, Ladakh is not just a destination — it’s a life-changing journey. Whether you’re a solo traveler seeking peace or a family wanting to witness Himalayan beauty, this Ladakh itinerary will guide you day-by-day through high mountain passes, surreal lakes, ancient monasteries, and starlit nights.
In this travel diary, we bring you a practical 7-day itinerary for first-time visitors, along with tips, routes, weather, food, and local experiences.
Day 1: Arrival in Leh – Acclimatize & Explore Local Culture
Your Ladakh journey begins as you land at Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh. It’s one of the world’s highest airports, and the first thing to do is — rest and acclimatize. Ladakh’s altitude (~11,500 ft) can cause AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness), so keep hydration and rest a priority.
Things to Do:
Sip butter tea and enjoy local snacks at your hotel.
By evening, explore Leh Market and Shanti Stupa for sunset views.
Visit Leh Palace to get a glimpse of Ladakhi royalty.
Pro tip: Avoid alcohol and heavy food on your first day.
Day 2: Leh Local Sightseeing – Monasteries & Military History
Now that you’re better acclimatized, it’s time to dive into Ladakh’s cultural and historical roots.
Top Places to Visit:
Hemis Monastery – the wealthiest and largest monastery in Ladakh.
Thiksey Monastery – resembles Potala Palace in Tibet.
Shey Palace – an ancient capital of Ladakh.
Hall of Fame – an Indian Army-run museum dedicated to war heroes.
Keyword Tip: This is the perfect point in your Ladakh travel diary to understand local life and Buddhism.
Day 3: Leh to Nubra Valley via Khardung La (5-6 hrs drive)
Brace yourself for one of the world’s highest motorable roads — Khardung La Pass (17,582 ft). The route offers dramatic landscapes and snow peaks.
What to Expect:
Stop for photos at Khardung La top.
Drive down to Diskit and explore the giant Maitreya Buddha statue.
Optional camel ride at Hunder Sand Dunes — yes, Ladakh has a desert too!
Stay overnight in Nubra. Many camps offer stargazing experiences.
Day 4: Nubra to Pangong Lake (via Shyok) – A Visual Masterpiece
This day is the most scenic part of your Ladakh travel diary. The road from Nubra to Pangong via Shyok River is raw, less commercial, and full of cinematic views.
Highlights:
Arrive at Pangong Lake by afternoon.
The lake shifts from turquoise to blue to green — perfect for photos.
Stay in lakeside camps and experience the iconic “3 Idiots” movie spot.
Tip: Nights are cold (even in summer), so carry warm clothing.
Day 5: Pangong to Leh via Chang La Pass
Wake up early to witness a sunrise over Pangong. It’s magical.
Drive back to Leh via Chang La Pass (17,586 ft), the third-highest motorable road in the world.
Places to Stop:
Tso Ltak (Frozen Lake) en route.
Druk White Lotus School, also featured in Bollywood movies.
Reach Leh by evening. Rest, shop for souvenirs, or enjoy a Tibetan dinner.
🧘 Day 6: Rest Day in Leh – Markets, Cafes & Local Culture
After back-to-back travel days, it’s wise to take it slow.
Things to Do:
Visit Tibetan Refugee Market for souvenirs like prayer flags, pashminas, and singing bowls.
Enjoy cafes like Open Hand Café or Gesmo Restaurant.
Meditate or attend a prayer session in Spituk Monastery.
Internal Link Suggestion: Check our Handpicked India Tour Packages for more Himalayan escapes.
Day 7: Departure – Memories for a Lifetime
It’s time to fly back with your heart full of memories and your phone full of photos. Your 7-day Ladakh travel diary ends, but the spiritual energy of the mountains stays with you forever.
Essential Travel Tips for Ladakh
Best time to visit: May to September.
Connectivity: BSNL works in remote areas, but carry offline maps.
Documents: Keep Aadhar & passport handy for permits.
Health: Carry Diamox, sunscreen, and stay hydrated.
Best Food to Try in Ladakh
Thukpa (noodle soup)
Momos (dumplings)
Skyu (Ladakhi pasta stew)
Butter tea and barley-based tsampa
Where to Stay in Ladakh
Location | Accommodation Type | Recommended Stays |
|---|---|---|
Leh | Hotel/Guesthouse | The Grand Dragon, Hotel Omasila |
Nubra Valley | Camps & Homestays | Desert Himalaya Resort, Apple Cottage |
Pangong Lake | Luxury tents | Pangong Retreat Camp, Camp Whispering Waves |
Outbound References
Ladakh Tourism Official Website : https://ladakh.gov.in/tourism/
Weather Forecast – AccuWeather Ladakh https://www.accuweather.com/en/in/leh/