Planning a Ladakh trip can be exciting and challenging at the same time. What to do, where to do, how to do? And probably a bunch of questions are added to the mind. So, if you’re going to Ladakh for the first time, make sure to indulge into these fascinating activities and explore the culture and traditions of the place.
1. Hemis Festival – Interesting Interactions
One of the best things to do on a Ladakh trip is seeing the Llamas perform the colorful Chhams. You haven’t felt the spirit and true magnetism of Ladakh if you haven’t seen the dance drama flaunting vibrant clothes and formidable masks. Attend the Hemis Festival of Ladakh Festival to be mesmerized by the colorful dances.
2. Hemis National Park – Spot A Snow Leopard
There is nothing as breathtaking as looking at a Snow Leopard seen in only a few places in the entire world. Spot the beautiful animal on the snow leopard trek in one of the popular Ladakh attractions – the Hemis National Park, home to more than 200 snow leopards which can be seen only in the winters.
3. Hunder – Try Bactrian Camel Safari
A ride on the double-humped Bactrian Camels at the sand dunes of Hunder is number three on our list of things to do in Ladakh for its terrain along the breathtakingly beautiful Shyok and Nubra River. This is an integral part of the caravans that used to travel on the ancient trade route.
4. Khardungla Pass – Visit Highest Cafeteria In The World
One of the unique Ladakh attractions is the Maggi point at the highest cafeteria in the world. You may have eaten this noodle everywhere possible, but you have not truly enjoyed it till you savor the 2-minute noodle overlooking the Himalayan ranges at Khardung La Pass, one of the highest motorable passes in the world.
5. Yak Cheese – Try Yak Cheese Momos
The wish-granting yak gives the nomads milk, butter, and meat for the table, and in absolutely no other part of the country are you going to get the chance to try out cheese made from the milk of Yak. Also called Chhurpi, try it in its local form or as the delicious Yak cheese momos. This definitely has to be on your list of things to do in Ladakh.
6. Buddhist Monks – Hang Out With The Monks
While connecting with the tourists and the locals on your trip is fun, but nothing can beat the magical aura of these Buddhist monks in the valleys of Ladakh who can be seen roaming around and meditate at the monasteries. Hung up on a monk strolling at a monastery and stay set to interact with him on his wise, divine experiences.
7. Hemis Monastery – Peaceful Morning Expeditions
Don’t just visit the popular Ladakh attractions but also make sure to visit the beautiful Buddhist monasteries, instead stay overnight at the one! Enjoy a stay at Hemis monastery overnight which enables you to attend early morning prayers, a moving rejuvenating experience and we strongly recommended it.
8. Adventurous Roads – For Fun Seekers
To all the adrenaline junkies out there, a bike ride on the narrow & rocky terrains has to be on your list of adventurous things to do in Ladakh. Your trip is incomplete until you have driven the lonely but beautiful roads on a motorbike with nothing but the clouds above and the formidable mountains around. And if you are really in the spirit then drive to the Khardung-La pass, which at an altitude of 5,602 m is one of the highest motorable passes in the world.
9. Hot Butter Tea – Local Brew Chang
You might have had chai on every other place in the country, but when in Ladakh you have to try out the local Butter tea, and if you are in for a good time then try out Chang, the local brew made in a cylindrical porcelain pot by fermenting miller. For tea lovers, this is a must thing to taste while in Ladakh.
10. Locals – Interact And Stay
Hotel stays are great but it isn’t a trip to Ladakh if you don’t experience life in the mountains. Get a whiff of the local culture first hand as you stay with a native Ladakhi family. Feast on the Ladakhi cuisine prepared right at home for an unparalleled experience.
