Travelling in Ladakh during off season? Read this first!

Have you always wondered what it would be like to travel in Ladakh, that too in winters? That just adds the cherry on top of the cake doesn’t it!

Travelling in Ladakh is on the bucket list of many trekkers, backpackers and travellers out there. The ‘ideal’ time to visit Ladakh is usually between April to September, when the temperatures are bearable. You may come across Instagram posts all summer long with people travelling to places like Spiti and Ladakh during the months of June, July and August. Nonetheless, travelling during off season in Ladakh is also quite possible! Here is a comprehensive guide on how to travel in Ladakh, in winters.

Catch a flight

The journey to Ladakh has two routes. One that starts from Manali via the Baralachala and Tangangla via Lahaul valley. The other route starts from Srinagar and ends at Leh via Zojila. These passes close by end October and mid November thereby cutting off the Ladakh valley from the rest of the country. The snowfall at these passes is massive making it difficult for the authorities to clear the route. Avalanches also become common making the journey even more dreadful. Fret not! You can still visit Ladakh in December by catching a flight. Flights are usually operational during winters, except on days that expect heavy snowfall.

Pros of travelling during off season in Ladakh

1. Less number of tourists

Ladakh during season becomes like circus with travellers and tourists hoarding the valley in thousands of numbers. During off season you can enjoy the beauty of the place a little bit more. You can get that perfect picture without having to photoshop any one from the frame. You get more time, more tranquility and no noise.

2. Budget friendly

Besides the flight tickets, you will not have to spend any major amount of cash on your accommodation including homestays. Prices fall during off season making the trip a a little more budget friendly. Most of the hotels close down during off season which means there are more chances of staying at a local’s house; this ultimately makes your trip more magical.

3. Spend more time with the locals

When you travel during off season, you end up getting more time interacting with locals because they are the only people around. Even the locals have more time as leisure. You can spend your time with locals, exploring the true culture of Ladakh.

4. Unrealistic views

Always wondered how the snow carpets the entire valley. Well, travelling in Ladakh in winters will provide you with magical views that only the lucky ones can stumble upon. Barren mountains covered with snow, sun shinning bright behind the lathered peaks and the frozen Indus and Zanskar; words are not enough to describe the magic of Ladakh in winters. There are some treks which are only possible during the winters. Most famous of them being Chadar trek that runs along Zanskar.

Cons of travelling during off season in Ladakh

1. Extreme temperature

Chilly winds that cut your face and freezes your hands are quite common during the months of December and January in Ladakh. Travelling across the valley thus may not always be an experience for the temperature might become a problem. It is advisable to be properly stocked on winter gear before heading into the valley.

2. Unlikely rescue mission

If your car/bike breaks down amidst nowhere, getting help is a serious concern. During off season, even the locals do not venture on the roads a lot. They hoard their necessities prior to commencement of harsh conditions prevailing from extreme weather. Getting help may not be possible on some routes and therefore it is essential to be fully prepared before the disaster and for the consequences.

3. Avalanches, rolling stones and snowfall

Snowfall- something that defines the beauty of Ladakh in winters also has a dark side. Avalanches are not common, yet a chance should not be taken for the disaster to hit. Similarly, rolling stones that fall from the barren mountains may also prove to be fatal; again with no one around to help. Sudden heavy snowfall on the route may affect your trip as well.

4. Not possible to explore everything

When you travel during season, it is much easier to visit all the off beat places like the Aryan valley. However, during off season it is on the contrary. Some places may be completely cut off even within the valley. Travelling to distant locations like Hanle and Tso Moriri lake may become quite difficulty, and sometimes impossible.

Keeping all this in mind, you can design your own Ladakh winter package which includes all the essential destinations!