Leh Ladakh In August
Overview
Have you ever had the desire to visit a location where the summer breezes tell you stories of their adventures? If there’s an award to be named the world’s paradise, Ladakh in August wins. The greatest route for adventurous travel is to navigate across high-altitude peaks.
It might not be possible to get needs like network connectivity. Even river water greets you with varying degrees of rapids suitable for rafting. Isn’t it a decision to experience Ladakh’s greatest adventure? Indeed, Ladakh lets you do all the exploring you want to in barren lands. People come here for the local cuisines and rich culture as well.
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We’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help you plan a vacation to Ladakh in August. You can find all the facts you need to plan the perfect August trip to Ladakh in our guide, including details on the weather, activities, sights to see, hotel options, bike rental costs, and much more. To view Ladakh’s winter splendor, keep scrolling.
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Weather In Leh Ladakh In August
Beautiful Leh Ladakh, located in the Indian Himalayas, is well-known for its distinctive culture and breathtaking scenery. With its excellent weather and peak natural beauty, August is one of the greatest months to explore this area.
August is a great time to visit Ladakh for all types of travelers. to be able to take advantage of the pleasant weather, hiking, and adventure everywhere. There are more days and fewer nights. It takes physical toughness to traverse this desolate land throughout the summer.
Leh Ladakh weather in August is the peak of summer, and the typical Ladakh temperature in August is about 18 degrees Celsius in both Leh and Nubra. With an average temperature of 10 degrees Celsius at night, you might feel a touch chilly. In August, there might not be any snowfall at all. August brings mildly warm temperatures and dry winds to Ladakh. Khardung La Pass and Chang La Pass are accessible to all travelers due to their high altitudes.
You should plan your vacation for the summer when access to all of Ladakh’s destinations is possible. When visiting Ladakh in August, the weather is perfect for touring, participating in a range of adventure activities, and seeing as many places as you can.
Places To Visit In Leh Ladakh In August
Leh Palace
The Leh Palace is a regal edifice located in the main city. Leh Palace lies at an elevation of 11,700 feet. The Namgyal Dynasty’s founder established it in 1553. However, Senge Namgyal completed it in the seventeenth century.
It contains nine stories, each with a particular significance in the royal family. It is currently being restored to its former magnificence by the Archaeological Department of India. The palace now houses a museum that provides visitors with an insight into the past. It houses a collection of formal robes, jewelry, and ancient Tibetan thangka paintings. Each of the arts at the museum has a 450-year history, making it one of the best historical places to visit in Ladakh in August.
Thiksey Monastery
This monastery is the biggest of all the monasteries and Buddhist places to visit in Ladakh in August. It is an important location since it resembles Tibet’s Potala Palace. The Maitreya temple is the major feature of this significant monastery. It was placed there to commemorate the Dalai Lama’s 1970 visit to this monastery. The temple has a 15-meter-tall Maitreya Buddha statue.
Currently, the Yellow Hat Sect of Tibetan Buddhists controls and owns this major monastery. People gather here to celebrate the yearly Gustor festival. People travel from all across Ladakh to trade and socialize at Thiskey monastery. Thiksey monastery’s highlights include Maitreya Buddha, Tara Temple, Assembly Hall, and Lamokhang Temple.
Hemis Monastery
Hemis Gompa, known as Ladakh’s richest monastery, welcomes visitors year-round. It is located 45 kilometers from the city center. Hemis Monastery was first constructed 17th century and was rebuilt in 1672. It belongs to the Drukpa lineage of Buddhism. The primary feature of Hemis Monastery is its prayer hall. People are drawn to its two-day celebration, the Hemis Festival, which showcases rich culture.
According to historical records, one of Ladakh’s largest thangkas is exposed to a large throng once every 12 years. This monastery houses a museum with golden sculptures, publications on thangkas, Tibetan history, and stupas. Visitors may explore the Buddhist library on the premises. It is one of the top places to visit in Ladakh in August.
Pangong Lake
Pangong Lake, also known as Pangong Two, is a breathtaking lake at a high elevation in Ladakh. Most people have seen it visually in the Three Idiots film. It is 130.4 kilometers long and 5 kilometers wide in both India and China. You can get to the lake through Chang La Pass after a thrilling journey. People are drawn to its colors, which shift from emerald to blue during the day and night. The sun and minerals in the lake contribute to its attractiveness.
The lake is deep, reaching 328 feet. You may camp around Pangong Lake with locals. Because the lake is located on the border, visitors must obtain permission to fully explore the area. Bicycle rides from Nubra to Pangong Valley are popular in August. The lake is very popular among photographers. You can stay here during your trip for staying and stargazing.
Tso Moriri
Tso Moriri, located in Changtang Wildlife Sanctuary, is a tranquil high-altitude lake that rises to 4595 meters above sea level. It is usually 100 feet depth and up to 28 kilometres long.
You cannot pitch a tent there because it is a marshland reserve, but you may camp in one of the campsites surrounding Tso Moriri Lake, which has breathtaking views of the lake. An Inner Line Permit is necessary for entry to Tso Moriri Lake, which may be easily obtained online by contacting the Leh Ladakh Administration. The migratory birds are an especially breathtaking sight of Leh Ladakh while camping at Tsomoriri Lake.
Zanskar Valley
Zanskar valley lies on the corner of Ladakh. This valley is separated from Ladakh by the Zanskar mountain ranges. Once you visit this valley you will fall in love with it. It opens the way to explore blue water streams and the aura of remote areas of Ladakh.
Planning a journey to Zanskar Valley is tough. In winter many people travel here to explore the Zanskar River and Chadar trek. One can travel from Leh Manali Highway to reach Zanskar Valley through the Kargil Padum route.
Reaching the valley in August is an adventure in itself, you will travel through the tough terrains in India. Dirt, mud, and streams in between routes are common in your journey to Zanskar. We recommend you travel to Zanskar Valley during your visit to Ladakh in August for more pleasant weather and clear skies.
Diskit Monastery
The Diskit Monastery, also known as Diskit Gompa, is the largest and most ancient Buddhist monastery in Ladakh. It is situated in Nubra Valley with an elevation of 10,308 feet. Changzem Tserab Zangpo made the first explorations in the 14th century.
He founded the Gelugpa Sect famous one of Tibetan Buddhist culture. Considered a result, the Diksit monastery is regarded as a subgompa of the Thiskey monastery.
It provides an expansive view of the Shyok Valley and the river. The primary attraction is the 106-foot Maitreya Buddha statue at the Monastery’s foundation. The interiors feature old frescoes and paintings. The monastery’s prayer hall features sculptures and murals of Buddhist deities. Visit adjacent settlements such as Turtuk, Hunder, Khalsar, and Panamik.
Nubra Valley
The alpine valley of Ladakh, Nubra Valley is one of the most visited places by tourists, coming from all over the world. Nubra Valley, otherwise known as Orchards of Ladakh is the northernmost region. August is the suitable month to visit the valley as the roads are declared open and you can easily ride your motorcycle here with some precautions.
One of the highest motorable passes of the world, Khardung La Pass is needed to be crossed to reach Nubra Valley. There are many places to visit here especially monasteries like Elsa Monastery, Dikshit Monastery, Samstelling Monastery etc. There are many outdoor activities to experience. Enjoy the ride of double-humped bactrian camels here and visit the sand dunes in the cold deserts of the valley.
Turtuk Village
Turtuk Village is one of the remotely located scenic places in Ladakh. Every itinerary of the Ladakh trip contains sightseeing in Turtuk village. The most soothing part of this village are the long stretched lush fields where going for strolls in morning and evening is an ideal thing to do. There are many waterfalls here where you can bath in the giggling clear waters. With many small trekking trails found in Turtuk, experience the thrill of hiking that will take only a few hours and you will be blessed with ethereal destinations by the end.
It is strategically very important, being the last outpost of India. Only after 1971, it became part of the Indian subcontinent. You get to hear interesting stories from local inhabitants of the Balti tribe, about life on the other side of the border.
Magnetic Hills
A place whose miracles have not been defined even by science are the magnetic hills of Ladakh. The place that is known to defy the universal phenomena of Gravity should be visited by every traveller coming to Ladakh. The most simple way to experience it is by keeping your car in neutral at the yellow spot present there and you will see how the vehicle is pulled towards the hills.
It is also said that in ancient times, it was a gateway to heaven and whoever deemed lucky was pulled and never came back. You can surely come here in August. It is inly 30 kilometres away from the city of Leh.
Hall Of Fame
Visit the Hall of Fame to feel immense pride in the bravery and courage shown by Indian soldiers in the Indo-Pak Wars. The building contains names and letters written by martyrs in the war. There are arms used and other information regarding the same.
The amazing thing about this place is that it is at a distance of only 4 kilometres from the city of Leh and you can walk there. There are cabs and taxis available too. Cover it when you are on your way to the Magnetic Hills. Attend the evening parade here at 7 pm.
From 9 AM in the morning till 7 PM, it is open for public. There is a recess from 1-2pm.
Shanti Stupa
The white dome, located in Chanspa, Leh is a beautiful site, made entirely of marbles. It is a recent building, constructed in 1991 by Bhikshu, a Japanese Buddhist. The place is known to have restored the relics of Buddha. It was built to celebrate 2500 years of Lord Buddha and there is a big statue of the highest deity here, The Golden Buddha. The main aim of this monument is to spread peace and prosperity in the world.
The timing of Shanti Stupa is 5 am to 9 pm. Located only 3-4 kilometres from Leh, it is at a walking distance. You can also take a cab or book a taxi to reach here.
Things to do in Ladakh in August
Go on trekking
People often visit Ladakh to experience a number of activities that fill your body with the right amount of dopamine. One such thing to do in Ladakh is trekking. Visit the region just for a trekking expedition once and you will have the time of your life. Whether you are going there in summers or winters, you will always find numerous trekking trails.
The most famous winter trek is the Chadar trek or Frozen lake trek. Apart from being physically challenging, it is time taking as well. Some summer treks to undertake are Markha Valley trek, Stok Kangri Trek and many more. Acclimatisation is crucial, preferably at your basepoint. Carry all the trekking and camping gears
Engage in photography
August presenting some of the scenic sights in front of the travellers is the perfect time to go on a photographic tour to Ladakh.
Starting from the routes that lead you to this state, you will get opportunities to capture stunning shots of those monasteries, pristine lakes and snow-laden mountains nestling the entire region. People often visit just for the sake of getting those postcard perfect pictures because there is no place like this where even raw and natural photos seem like a painting on a canvas.
Carry a high-quality camera and other equipment that you might need like a tripod etc.
Visit monasteries
A trip to Ladakh is incomplete without exploring the older monasteries. Built hundreds of years ago, they are not in their original shape but the remains here still attract many who are into religion and history. Some of the popular ones are Dikshit Monastery, Hemis Monastery, Thiksey Monastery, Elsa Monastery, Lamayuru Monastery, Spituk Monastery etc.
Many festivals are celebrated at these complexes, during different times of the year. People often gather here to offer their prayers and witness the Cham dance performed by Lamas. Add them to your itinerary of Ladakh trip.
Try local cuisine
It is rightly said that if you have visited a place and did not taste the local food, did you really visit? The real way of exploring any place is by having popular dishes that originated from that very region. It is the same for Ladakh as well.
There are many delicacies here you can have in your meals. To start with, there is Thukpa, Skyu, Chutgi, Khambir etc. Momos with varieties of fillings is a popular street food here. Paper apricots are grown in abundance here.Taste the nutritious and tasty apricot jam and take back some jars to your home as well.
Enjoy bike trips
Take an exhilarating trip from Delhi to Ladakh on your bike. This could be your best decision as the roads of Ladakh are properly motorable and an endless number of people do this.
It will take you 15 days approximately. If you have visited Ladakh via flights or train, you still have the option of bike trips here. You can rent a bike, scooty or bullet to visit many tourist destinations. Ride on some of the highest motorable passes of the world like Khardung La pass. Carry the required permit, necessary documentation and most importantly your driving licence. August is one of the best times for bike trips in Ladakh.
Experience river rafting
August can be the perfect time for river rafting in Ladakh. The post-monsoon months of August and September are ideal as the water level in rivers is higher in comparison to other times of the year. If you have been ambitious rafter all your life and want to have some real fun and challenge, Ladakh is the place to go. Some of the popular spots for river rafting are Zanskar River, Shyok River and Indus River.
These places are beginner friendly too, offering different grades of the experience catering to your experience and preference. When going for it, wear comfortable clothes and listen to the briefing of your instructor.
Take a yak safari
Very well adapted to the mostly cold season of Ladakh, Yaks are the largest animal mostly found in cold deserts of Himalayas. As far as Yak Safari is concerned, it is quite a safe and Ladakh-specific experience. People often get worried about its safety, seeing the big physique of the animal but there is nothing to worry about.
They are very friendly. They are generally found at high-altitudes, preferably 3000m+ above the sea level. The complete experience is done in two-three hours. It will cost you around INR 150-500, depending on the booking mode, distance covered and difficulty level involved.
Attend Hemis festival
Hemis Festival is celebrated annually at the Hemis Monastery, in the honour of Padmasambhava, who is regarded quite significant in the Buddhism religion. The entire building of the Hemis Monastery is decorated with flowers and other adornments. It is generally celebrated from June to July but the dates are different every year.
The two-day function creates quite a buzz in nearby villages when locals religiously come to attend the function. The main highlight of the festival is the Cham dance performed by Lamas of the monastery. There are other musical and dance performances that people enjoy.
Shopping in Leh
Go on a shopping spree to buy the popular Tibetan Handicrafts and other things like dry fruits, walnut jams and many specialities of Ladakh. Some of the popular places to visit are the Main Bazaar where you can purchase souvenirs, woollens and jewelleries. Explore the Cottage Industries Exposition to get carpets, shawls, garments which are locally manufactured.
One of the ancient markets of Leh is the Moti Market famous for selling gems, pearls and precious stones. Markets are a great place to interact with the locals too as they know the best about the region where they have spent their whole life. Always choose to bargain as the stuff there is mostly over priced, especially for tourists.
Explore Wildlife
Apart from sightseeing tours and experiencing a bunch of outdoor activities, you can also go on a wildlife tour to the national parks and wildlife sanctuaries situated here. One such must-visit place is the Hemis National Park. You will see varieties of Himalayan wildlife here in their natural habitat. Some other places of visit include the Changthang Cold Desert Wildlife Sanctuary, Karakoram Wildlife Sanctuary etc.
Hundreds of migratory birds make a visit to Ladakh and you can definitely go bird-watching as well. Get your cameras for some nature-shots. You might have to pay a minimal fees at some places.
Leh Ladakh bike trip in August
For a Leh Ladakh bike trip in August, there are two routes. First one is the Manali-Leh Highway (NH3) and Srinagar-Leh Highway (NH1). They both are declared open and BRO works, giving it their all to clear the road for these road trips. Since it is the monsoon season when rainfall is highly expected, you can also expect landslides, water crossing on the routes. Even the roads get wet and slippery but a biker with some experience can do it. Create a customised itinerary according to the weather and road conditions.
A major role is played by the type of bike you choose. Choose one with good ground clearance, good mileage etc. You should be equipped to solve any trouble related to the bike. Repairing shops are quite sparse in Ladakh. Keep a small puncture-repairing kit.
If you are willing to ride on the Rohtang Pass you must have the permit and other documents to clear the highway inquiries. Pack clothes that suit every weather. Fuel pumps are often scarce, hence carrying some extra petrol can be a good decision.
Pack some snacks and a reusable water bottle. Avoid night rides and take breaks in-between. Practice caution on the rough and uneven mountain roads.
Essential Information For Leh Ladakh In August
How to reach Ladakh in August
By flight: Travelling to Ladakh via a flight from your home city is the best and quickest option available. With lesser chances of cancellation and complete safety, you are in Ladakh within a few hours. Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport is the only airport located in Ladakh. Regular flights are available here at a reasonable price.
By road: Srinagar-Leh Highway is the first route that you can take on a road trip. It is completely open and accessible in August. Another option is Srinagar-Manali highway which is the path less taken. You can choose according to your convenience.
Ladakh from Srinagar: Via a flight, it would take just an hour to reach Ladakh from Srinagar. For a road trip, pick the Srinagar-Leh highway to complete the two-day journey. There are private and government-owned buses available too. They are great for long distances at a reasonable fare.
Ladakh from Gulmarg: if you are in Gulmarg, the first thing to do is to reach Srinagar which will take approximately 2-3 hours and after that you have the same options to reach Ladakh from Gulmarg. Either a flight or road trip. Buses are a quite suitable choice.
Ladakh from Pahalgam: Reach Srinagar via a journey of approx 3 hours. The distance between Srinagar and Pahalgam is approximately 90 kilometres. Options for your next step are already listed above.
Ladakh from Sonamarg: total distance between Srinagar and Sonamarg is about 81 kms and would take less than 3 hours to conclude the journey. From Srinagar, pick either the Srinagar-Leh Highway or take a flight.
Challenges on Ladakh trip in August
High-altitudes: A lot of tourists face this problem of deficiency of oxygen in the high-altitude regions. Those with weak hearts and lungs are often prone to high-altitude sickness. This sometimes comes with symptoms like headaches, vomiting, stomach aches, dizziness etc. carry a first aid box with necessary meds.
Slow traffic: Due to rainfall, there are often cases of landslides and road blockage which leads to slow movement of the traffic on routes. This results in hindrances in your planned itinerary and hours to wait by the highways. The only solution is to be updated about any current road condition.
Crowded spots: August is one of the most-visited months to Ladakh and there are plenty of people seen on different destinations and activity spots. The conclusion leads to not a very peaceful sightseeing and delay in getting your pass on activities.
Limited services: Again because of occasional rainfall in the month of August, some services get unexpectedly interrupted. Activities are not accessible like paragliding etc. This really troubles your actual plans for the day.
Packing tips for Leh Ladakh in August
Clothing: carry suitable clothes for warm days and colder nights.keep some thermals, full sleeves bottoms, windproof jackets etc. Some accessories to take with you are gloves, beanie, warm socks etc.
Footwear: comfortable yet sturdy footwear is a must-thing to wear for hiking and trekking on rugged plains.
Waterproof gears: try to keep everything in a waterproof and spacious backpack. Have a full-body rain-coat too in case it starts raining and you are out on a city tour.
Other essentials: bring sunscreen, reusable water bottle, energy bars, moisturiser, power bank, portable charger etc.
Documents: ID-proofs along with your driving licence are crucial to carry. Carry your permits to visit different attractions and places.
First-aid kit: always bring some basic medicines like for headaches, stomachaches and other personal ones if any. In the box, have pain-killers, bandages, antiseptic creams too.
Payment options and connectivity in Ladakh in August
As far as payment options are concerned, the best advice would be to carry enough cash as ATMs are not seen sometimes for even hundreds of kilometres. In towns like Leh and Kargil, PayTM or UPI payments can be made. Even Nubra Valley has hotels and restaurants where the service of online payment is available.
Now, network connections are very limited in Ladakh, with only postpaid sims working in the region. BSNL works pretty great here with the widest coverage. Other sims to consider include Reliance Jio, Airtel etc. The services work decently in Leh town and other lower valley areas. When you go up in the region, it gets very limited or maybe non-existent. Carry a GPS or satellite phone to be connected.
Accommodation options in Ladakh in August
Hotels: There are a number of hotels, from 1 star to 5 stars, that you can find in Leh and Kargil town. The services here are supreme with cosy and comfortable bedrooms. Some even provide you meals, included in the stay. They are in the main city and hence can cost a pretty much amount of mount. People with no money-restraints can choose this accommodation option.
Homestays: Another excellent option for a safe stay is living with a local family for a couple of days. They are very warm and welcoming and under a budget, you get a place to reside and home-cooked meals to relish.
Government guesthouses: Tourism has flourished a lot in recent times in Ladakh and the Government is doing every bit of effort to improve it. There are many government guesthouses and lodges where tourists often stay. They might have limited service but there is no compromise on your comfort and safety.
Camping: To have an adventurous time in the Region, you can opt for camping as your mode of accommodation. Lying under a star-studded sky is a whole other experience, nowhere to be found in any hotel or guesthouse. Carry all the camping gears like Tents, sleeping bags, sleeping mats etc.
Road conditions of Ladakh in August
The two highways leading to Ladakh, Manali-Leh Highway and Kashmir-Leh Highway, are open and accessible in August but they do face temporary closure due to landslides and roadblocks. The roads get muddy and slippery, causing inconvenience to the riders and drivers. When travelling on such roads, you must be ready to expect many water crossings where water flows right beside your car or taxi. It is that high-flowing. Routes get crowded and congested due to slow traffic, especially on the Srinagar-Leh Highway.
As far as public mode of transportation like buses and taxis, they are available and you can book or rent them to explore in and around Ladakh. They might operate slowly but you will get to your destination of choice. Hire a skilled and experienced driver of the local region.
When going on drives, either via a car or bike, be very careful and be updated about the weather and road conditions of that particular area.
Transport Options To Explore Ladakh In August
There are many taxis and cabs available that you can either book online or on the spot. They can be taken for airport transfers, sightseeing tours, outstation transfers etc. Private vehicles of latest models can be rented too where you can self drive keeping the journey at your own pace.
If you are in Ladakh as a solo traveller or your partner is along with you, motorbikes like sports bikes, scooty or bullet are the ideal roads. The motorable roads of Ladakh are so exciting and fun to ride on.
If you are on a budget-friendly trip to Ladakh, sharing a taxi with other tourists is a convenient option to save some money. Buses too are cheaper and perfect to cover longer distances.
Tips To Visit Ladakh In August
Acclimatisation: Ladakh is itself a high-altitude situated state and there are a number of alpine passes, lakes and meadows. It is highly suggested that you acclimate well before going up. Leh, the capital city is a perfect place for it.
Peak season: June to August is regarded as the peak season in Ladakh with people coming here from across the world. The most important thing to remember here is that you should book everything in advance like your flight tickets, train tickets, hotels, transport etc. This saves time and money.
Permits: Since some of the tourist attractions are in proximity to Line of Actual Control (LOC), you need Inner Line Permit to visit there. Nubra Valley, Pangong Lake, and Tso Moriri Lake are a few of them.
Condition of roads: Due to monsoon season, occasional rainfall makes the roads slippery and you need prior experience in driving on mountainous roads. In case of any doubt, hire a taxi or cab with a skilled driver to have a safe road trip.
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