Day 1, Delhi to Udhampur covering 650 Kms in hot 45 degrees summer of June.
Then day 2, Udhampur to Srinagar covering 200 Kms with several motorcycle issues.
On day 3, Srinagar to Sonmarg, covering just 70Kms with failed motorcycle parts and camping in chilling close to 0 degrees temperature.
Reaching Sonmarg to Leh on day 4 at 01:00 hours mid-night was definetely very tough and challenging.
All these challenges were nothing compared to the stunning beauty of the landscapes offered by Srinagar, Sonmarg, Zozila, Dras, Kargil, Lamayuru and finally Leh.
Specially, the road from Lamayuru to Leh is mesmerising, a once in a lifetime experience. Something everybody should do before they die.
Prioritize rest on your first day in Leh to acclimatize. The air at this altitude is much thinner and holds less oxygen than in lower regions.
However, this was not the situation with us as we were travelling over our motorcycles and the distance and time slowly acclimatize our bodies.
WHY RELAX ?
This recommendation is usually for people travelling via flight. I always advise travelers to rest on their first day to ensure proper acclimatization. So that the body should get acclimatize to the thin air and low oxygen available on the higher grounds.
Leh city is located at an altitude of 3,524 m (11,562 ft). Which is very high when compared to people travelling from Delhi, or Mumbai. Usually the flight time is between 1-2 hours from Delhi to Leh and Mumbai to Leh respectively.
A person gaining so much altitude in a span of just 1-2 hours is certainly going to struggle breathing specially those young and old. At such higher altitude the level of oxygen is very low and the air is also thin. Leh’s high altitude means your body requires more oxygen during activity; therefore, I recommend resting upon arrival and avoiding physically demanding tasks for the first 24 hours.
HOW TO FASTER ACCLIMATIZE ?
Although everybody is different and their bodies also react differently. It all comes to your level of fitness.Your acclimatization speed depends on your health. Fit travelers usually adjust quickly, while those with underlying heart conditions should expect a slower transition.
Drinking more water, and fluids would certainly help you. Relaxing does not mean you can’t do anything, take a slow walk to the market. Travel to near by sights. Avoid pushing yourself too much is the key.
Should you experience any breathing difficulties despite taking precautions, seek medical assistance immediately to receive professional oxygen support.
Generally, it starts with a headache or light headedness, do not ignore it, if you experience any such symptoms, best is to relax and take rest, drink plenty of water. If your symptoms do not improve, seek medical attention at a hospital or doctor’s clinic immediately.
Consult a doctor before taking over-the-counter Diamox to ensure it is safe for you.
LOCAL SIGHTS IN and AROUND LEH
Majestic mountains surround Leh, creating a spectacular view from every angle. However, there are certain places which one can visit on day 1. While Leh offers many attractions, I recommend the following sites, which you can easily visit in a single day. For some places you can either hire a taxi, rent a bike or car, which is easily available in Leh.
Recommended places in and around Leh
- Leh Main Market – I recommend exploring this beautiful market on foot during the evening. The market has a lot to offer from eating cafes to local shopping. It will surely bring a smile on your face. You can buy Ladakh souvenirs from tibet market in Leh.
- Shanti Stupa – Because this site sits high on a mountain, I do not recommend walking there. This is one place from where you can witness the complete Leh city. The sight itself is so peaceful and give a chance to make a connection with the local buddist culture.
- Leh Palace – This is on the opposite side of Shanti Stupa and is clearly visible from the top.
- Hall of fame – Built by Indian army, this place will certainly bring your patriosm back in your veins.
- Magnetic Hill– At this unique spot, locals claim that vehicles roll uphill on their own, even without engine power. If you are short on time then I recommend to skip this and spent more time at other places.
- Gurdwara Pathar Sahib– A must visit, this is the holy gurudwara of Guru Nanak Dev Ji and the story associated with it is very inspiring for you to know. TThe Indian Army maintains and manages this Gurudwara, ensuring it remains a serene stop for travelers.
- Monasteries– Known as the land of monasteries, Ladakh offers several notable sites right in Leh that you should definitely visit. Hemis and Thiksey are the 2 which you can plan. However, I suggest you plan to visit them with extra day in your plan. They are worth exploring.
- Druk Public school- The production team filmed the Bollywood hit 3 Idiots at this school. Although the site welcomes tourists outside, visitors cannot enter the school itself, ensuring a quiet environment for the students and staff.
There are many more more places in and around Leh. But most of them are far for the time available on day 1. Therefore, it is better to explore local Leh markets specially the tibetien market which generally people miss.
Ladakh is not only about it’s high passes but also known for it’s culture. One must explore that while travelling to local places and meeting locals.
Evening in Leh
One might under estimate the culture of Leh, Ladakh by just assuming that it is an ancient Buddhist cold desert land. The people of Leh seamlessly blend ancient Buddhist traditions with a surprisingly modern and advanced outlook. It is a beautiful balance of ancient and modern culture.
You will easily find many modern cafes and restaurants in Leh market where can enjoy all types of cuisine with perfect quality. Yes, they are on the expensive side but, they are actually value of money for the quantity and quality they have on offer. Few such examples are the Brazil Cafe, Coffee Culture, Bob’s cafe, MyCafe, The Tibetan Kitchen, Lamayuru, Tsas by Dolkhar and so on.
“The high number of foreign tourists visiting this region every year has shaped this Western culture..
Although, I would recommend to also enjoy some local restaurants with local food. After all, a traveller must explore about the several cultures and travel is not only about sight seeing.
Where to stay in leh ?
Finding the right place to stay in Leh is just as important as your acclimatization schedule. Since you’ll likely spend your first 24–48 hours resting to adjust to the altitude, your choice of accommodation can make or break your trip.
1. Near Main Bazaar: The Heart of the Action
If you want to be within walking distance of cafes, souvenir shops, and local culture, stay near the Main Bazaar or Fort Road. This area is perfect for those who want to explore the town on foot in the evenings.
- Luxury: The Grand Dragon Ladakh. Known as the “original” luxury hotel in Leh, it offers incredible mountain views and top-tier hospitality.
- Boutique: Gomang Boutique Hotel. Located slightly away from the noise but within a 15-minute walk of the market.
- Budget-Friendly: Sia-La Guest House or Mentokling Guest House. These offer a cozy, traditional Ladakhi feel without breaking the bank.
2. Changspa Village: The Backpacker’s Retreat
Located just north of the city center, Changspa is famous for its vibrant, “hippie” vibe. It is quieter than the Main Bazaar and sits right under the Shanti Stupa.
- Best For: Solo travelers and those looking for garden cafes and a more relaxed, younger crowd.
- Top Picks: The Bodhi Tree for a more upscale stay, or Zostel Leh if you are looking to meet fellow travelers.
3. Tukcha & Karzu: Peaceful & Residential
If you prefer a quieter environment away from the commercial hustle, these residential areas offer many family-run guesthouses.
- Mid-Range: Hotel Nalanda Ladakh. Highly rated for first-timers because the staff is exceptionally helpful with altitude advice.
- Homestays: Look for Mandarava Homestay for an authentic local experience.
4. Offbeat Luxury (Outside Leh Town)
For those who want complete silence and a “royal” experience, consider staying in the villages surrounding Leh.
Chuchot/Saboo: The Indus Valley or Ladakh Sarai Resort. These are perfect if you want to wake up to the sound of the Indus River or view the Stok Kangri range without any city noise.
Stok Village: Stok Palace Heritage Hotel. You can actually stay in a wing of the royal palace, about 15 km from Leh.
Pro-Tips for Your Stay:
- Book Early for June/July: This is peak season. Hotels fill up months in advance.
- Check for Oxygen: Ensure your hotel has oxygen cylinders on standby—most reputable hotels in Leh do.
- Heating Matters: If you are visiting in the “shoulder season” (May or October), confirm that your room has proper heating or electric blankets, as nights get very cold.
End of Day 1
We visited Shanti Stupa, Leh Palace, Leh Market and Hemis Monastery. Our hotel was located near market so, we visited market in the evening for a walk.
After exploring all the places, monestaries, restaurants and cafes. We walked through the Leh market with some memories in form of pictures. Although you can walk till late market closed some where around 9:30 PM with some exceptions of restaurants and cafes, which usually closes around 11PM.
We returned to our hotel with some maginficent memories, I had been to Leh many times and saw it grow from a small town to a big city. Not only in terms of landscape but, also in terms of economy and culture, Leh and it’s people are growing.
We end our day 1 relaxing, however it wasn’t a relaxing day.This fun-filled journey has etched itself into my memory, carrying with it my promise to visit again. I will return soon.
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