Ladakh is a high-altitude desert, and its travel season is shaped by snow on the passes rather than by rain. For most visitors, the window is roughly May to September.
May and June: the season opens
Flights into Leh run year-round, but the big road routes from Manali and Srinagar usually open between May and June, depending on snow clearance. Early in the season you may still see snow on the passes and partially frozen edges at Pangong Lake. Hotels open up and days are pleasant, though nights are cold.
July and August: peak summer
Days are warm, all main routes are normally open and every camp is operating. This is peak season. Unlike the rest of India, Ladakh gets very little monsoon rain, but occasional cloudbursts and landslides on approach roads can cause delays, especially on the Manali route. The Hemis festival, with masked dances, usually falls in June or July.
September: the sweet spot
Crowds thin, skies are very clear and the light turns golden. Nights are colder and some camps start closing by the end of the month, but it is an excellent time for photography and for road trips over Khardung La to the Nubra Valley.
October to April: winter Ladakh
Winter is for experienced travellers. Temperatures fall well below freezing, many hotels close and road access is limited to flights into Leh. In return you get frozen landscapes and festivals in a much quieter Ladakh. The famous Chadar trek on the frozen Zanskar river and snow leopard expeditions happen in winter but need specialist operators.
Acclimatisation matters more than the month
Whenever you go, spend at least 36 to 48 hours resting in Leh before going higher. Altitude sickness can affect anyone regardless of fitness. Avoid alcohol and exertion on the first day, drink water and tell your doctor about your plans if you have heart or lung conditions.
Permits
Inner Line Permits are needed for Nubra, Pangong and other border areas. We arrange them as part of your trip; carry several printed copies.
For ready-made routes, see our Adventure holidays and Road trips pages.
When to go
When to go
When to go
When to go