Travel Guide
A Complete Guide to Ladakh
By Flyocat Travel Team
Altitude, road passes and permits — what to sort out before you set off for the high desert.
Ladakh is the one destination where the planning matters more than the itinerary. Altitude, permits and a short season shape everything, and getting those right leaves the rest easy.
1. Acclimatise before you move
Give yourself a slow first day or two in Leh before driving higher. Almost every spoiled Ladakh trip starts with a long drive on day one.
2. Flying and driving are different trips
Flying in gains altitude instantly and needs more rest afterwards. Driving in takes days but acclimatises you on the way.
3. Check permits in advance
Several of the areas travellers most want to see need permits arranged before you go. Confirm current requirements rather than relying on an old blog post.
4. The season is short
The roads in and the high passes are seasonal, and the window is narrower than most of the Himalaya. Plan around it rather than hoping.
5. Pack for extremes in one day
Strong sun, thin air and cold nights all happen within a few hours of each other. Layers and sun protection matter more here than anywhere.
