12 Things to do in Ladakh

Ladakh is on the bucket list of several travellers thanks to its picturesque vistas, serene monasteries, diverse topography and not to forget the warm and cheerful locals. With several Bollywood movies shot here, it is a sought-after destination for youngsters looking for some thrill and adventure. Here is our list of top 12 things to do while in Ladakh:

Befriend a local by greeting him with ‘Julley’

Whether it is kids with innocent smiles, elderly with wrinkled faces that have a story to tell or monks in their robes- greet them with a ‘Julley’. That’s how the locals greet and acknowledge each other. The mountains have instilled strength and serenity in them, and they are a happy contended lot with whatever it is that life throws at them.

Local Spinning a Prayer Wheel @Rafiq Somani

Go on a camel safari in Hunder Valley

The two-humped Bactrian camels also called Mongolian camels are native to Central Asia including Ladakh. A ride on the Bactrian camels will transport you back in time giving you the feeling that you are part of a caravan on the Ancient Silk Route.

Camel Ride

Meditate at a Monastery

After admiring the brightly hued paintings and statues at the monastery (there are several of them) do spend some quiet time trying to connect with your inner self. A few moments in contemplation and meditation will provide solace and peace.

Watch a sunrise at Pangong Lake

The everchanging colours of Pangong Lake from emerald green to azure blue are a sight to behold. Catching a sunrise here as exotic aquatic birds come for a swim is a treat.

Sunrise at Pangong Lake @Rafiq Somani

Have tea at the Highest Cafeteria in the World

Located on Khardungla pass, the highest motorable road at 5,359 m, is the Rinchen Cafeteria run by the army. Sip on some hot chai and devour a plateful of Maggi which will provide much-needed warmth.

Rinchen Highest Cafeteria in the world @Rafiq Somani

Appreciate the landscape change every few kilometres

Ladakh will bowl you over with its varied landscape. One moment you are on snow clapped mountains, next in a valley with yellow flowers, then a desert with sand dunes. Rivers and confluences, lakes and glaciers Ladakh has them all.

Salute the Martyrs at ‘Hall of Fame’ memorial

It is because of the Martyrs who fought the several Indo-Park wars that we and our children can sleep peacefully and enjoy freedom. Salute these heroes and say a little prayer for their souls.

Tricolour at Hall of Fame @Rafiq Somani

Shop at the local market

Pick souvenirs for loved ones from a vast array of Tibetan jewellery, to singing bowls or woollens and shawls at the markets. Test your bargaining skills but don’t short-change the locals.  

Spin a Prayer Wheel

Chant the Buddhist mantra ‘Om Mani Padme Hum’ and spin a prayer wheel. Be mindful as you collect some positive karma and purify negative energies.

Prayer Wheels @Rafiq Somani

Admire the exotic wildlife

Ladakh is home to several wild animals and migratory birds. Watch the yaks, kiangs (wild asses), Changthangi goats and Himalayan marmots in their natural habitat. Migratory birds like Brahminy Ducks, Black-neck Crane, Bar-headed Goose and several others can be spotted on the lakes.

Seek thrills with adventure sport

If you would like an adrenaline rush with some fun and adventure thrown in then do try some of the daredevil sports like rock climbing, paragliding, river rafting and so on. A bike ride in Ladakh à la Sharukh Khan in Bollywood movie ‘Jab Tak Hain Jaan’ will certainly make you feel like a hero.

Observe the stunning topography of Moon land

Imagine a terrain that resembles the surface of the moon with odd geographic formations. This is Lamayuru often referred to as the Moon Land, which was once a lake, but today a rugged terrain.

Lamayuru Moonscape @Rafiq Somani

Other Ladakh Blogs on ‘So Many Travel Tales’

Ladakh – Exploring in and around Leh
Ladakh – Nubra Valley Gems
Lamayuru – The Moon Land of Ladakh
Ladakh – Camping at Pangong Lake
Monasteries of Ladakh