Ladakh, nicknamed the ‘Land of High Passes’, showcases nature at its very best with high-altitude lakes, remote valleys and snow-capped peaks. This region in the northernmost part of India is a perfect destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers, offering everything from trekking and motorbiking to rafting and paragliding. The unique culture of Ladakh (which is heavily influenced by Tibetan Buddhism) is another big draw, and visiting the many monasteries and temples in the region is a must. Whether you're looking for a thrilling adventure or a peaceful retreat, there’s plenty of memorable things to do in Ladakh to fill your time and camera roll. Read on for some of our top recommendations…
See the Monasteries
First up on our list of the top things to do in Ladakh is touring some of the magnificent monasteries scattered throughout the region with a private local guide. The Hemis Monastery is a good place to start. As one of the largest and most important Buddhist monasteries in the region, this site certainly has the wow factor and is known for its intricate murals and statues, and for hosting the annual Hemis Festival, which is held in June and features traditional dances and music. Another popular site is Thiksey Monastery, located near Leh, which is known for its impressive architecture, ancient artifacts and manuscripts, and panoramic mountain views from the monastery's rooftop. And if its ancient murals and fescoes that take your fancy? The Alchi Monastery, located in a village of the same name, won’t disappoint.
Visit a Traditional Village
Enjoy a glimpse into the daily life of Ladakhis – their customs and traditions, and the unique architecture of their homes and buildings – on a tour with a local resident. See the traditional mud-brick houses, narrow alleys and colourful prayer flags; learn about the lively festivals that take place throughout the year and try a cup of warming butter tea which is traditionally made from tea leaves, yak butter, water and salt (an acquired taste, perhaps). And if you’re passing by the village of Stok, stop in for a visit and you may be lucky enough to catch an archery competition in action.
Find Your Zen
With its peaceful landscapes and laid-back lifestyle, it’s perhaps not surprising that yoga and meditation and included on the list of things to do in Ladakh. The high-altitude, clean air and natural beauty of the region provide the perfect setting for spiritual practices. There are various meditation and yoga centres offering courses and retreats for beginners and advanced practitioners alike, so you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to deciding where to lay down your yoga mat. One of the most popular places for meditation in Ladakh is the Shey Monastery, located near Leh, which is known for its peaceful ambiance and its association with the famous Tibetan Buddhist master, Naropa. If your visit falls during September, you can also attend the annual Naropa Festival, which features traditional dances, music and teachings by spiritual leaders.
Outdoor Thrills
Ladakh offers a full roster of outdoorsy activities for thrill seekers, with hiking a popular pastime thanks to the region’s many walking routes that vary from easy day hikes to challenging multi-day treks. Some hiking hot spots to mark on your map include the Markha Valley, the Lamayuru-Leh trek, and the Chadar trek (a winter trek on frozen rivers). There are many other outdoor things to do in Ladakh besides hiking, too. Motorbiking is a particularly popular activity, with the region’s winding roads and jaw-dropping views. You can rent motorbikes and explore the region on your own or join organised motorbike tours. Paragliding is another recent addition to the menu of adventure activities in Ladakh, offering beautiful bird’s-eye views of the Himalayas and the surrounding areas, and is undoubtedly one of the best ways to see the area, and perhaps one of the more daredevil things to do in Ladakh.