10 Tips for Your First Leh Ladakh Road Trip

By Vikram Singh
  • Ladakh
  • Adventure
  • Travel Tips
10 Tips for Your First Leh Ladakh Road Trip

Acclimatize smart, plan permits, and stay safe at altitude — the essentials every first-time Ladakh traveller should know.


A great Leh Ladakh trip starts long before the first pass — with careful acclimatization and a little planning.

Give yourself at least two days in Leh to adjust to the altitude before attempting Khardung La or Pangong Lake. Rushing the first 48 hours is the most common mistake.

Carry your Inner Line Permits and several photocopies — you'll need them at multiple checkpoints across Nubra, Pangong and beyond. Our team arranges these for you in advance.

Finally, pack layers, sunscreen, lip balm and a reusable water bottle, keep cash handy as ATMs are scarce, and travel with an experienced high-altitude driver. It makes all the difference between a hard day and a happy one.