“When exploring Ladakh, be a traveler, not a tourist,” as someone wisely put it, and we believe that is the best advise anyone can give you. Many people dream of spending their vacation in Ladakh. It is a land with incredible features that create a massive and magnificent home. The majestic Karakoram in the north and the captivating Himalayas in the south surround Ladakh. The wide and uninhabited expanses of valleys and hills are a visual treat. The summer month of June, according to most visitors, is the greatest time to visit Ladakh since the weather is ideal and you may participate in a variety of activities.
Travelers begin their journey in April, but the tourist season begins in June. Early in June, the Manali-Rohtang Pass route opens, making commuting much easier. So, if you’re thinking about visiting Ladakh, keep reading.
Why is Summer the Best Time to visit Ladakh?
You may visit Ladakh in both the summer and the winter, as each season has its own charms. Summer months, on the other hand, are regarded the finest for visiting this destination, which is why renowned tourist attractions may be crowded. The ice lake begins to melt at this time, and the weather is pleasant enough to travel and explore nearby areas. Ladakh attracts travelers from all over the world from April to October.
| Travel Months | Min/Max Temperature | Season |
|---|---|---|
| April to July | 15° C to 30° C | Summer |
| July to Sep | 3° C to 17° C | Monsoon |
| Oct to March | 0° C to 15° C | Winter |
Best Places To Visit In Ladakh In Summer
If you’re considering a vacation to Ladakh, go in June because, honestly, why would you want to miss out on some incredible experiences and lively festivities?!
1. Pangong Lake
This lake, which has a total area of 600 square kilometers and includes sections of China and Tibet, is one of the best spots to visit in Ladakh during the summer. Because the lake remains frozen during the winter, the balmy month of June is the best time to visit. In April, the lake begins to melt, and by June, it is perfect. It’s a salty body of water with very little aquatic life. Inside the lake, a few crustacean species thrive. Thousands of exotic birds flutter around the lake, providing a breathtaking sight. You can even camp alongside the lake for an unforgettable experience. If you travel to the lake in June, you’ll be able to observe some uncommon Brahmin ducks and bar-headed goose.
Where: Leh-Ladakh in the Himalayas
Timings: Anytime (daytime is better)
Entry Fees: Free
2. Magnetic Hill
This area is also known as Gravity Hill since it is said to have magnetic qualities. The magnetic field is strong enough to drag the vehicles uphill. People think that magnetic attractions are caused by natural and supernatural powers, making it one of the unique spots to visit in Ladakh in the summer. The configuration of the surrounding land causes an optical illusion that depicts the downhill slope as an upward slope at an elevation of 14,000 feet above sea level. As a result, even in neutral gear, the vehicles appear to be traveling uphill. This fascinating location should be visited in June since the weather is pleasant and you may explore the surrounding area while quenching your hunger for adventure.
Where: Leh-Kargil-Batalik National Highway
Timings: 8.00AM – 5.00PM
Entry Fees: Free
3. Royal Leh Palace
Lichen Palkhar is the name given to a former palace of the Leh royal family. This 9-story edifice, built in the 17th century, was one of the highest constructions of its period and is one of the must-see sights in Ladakh during the summer. The views of the Ladakh mountain ranges and Stok Kangri from here are extremely breathtaking, hence this palace has become a popular tourist destination. This palace is a significant Buddhist religious and cultural site. The palace has recently deteriorated to the point where it is being restored by the Archaeological Survey of India.
Where: Top of Tsemo Hill
Timings: 07.00AM – 04.00PM everyday
Entry Fees: INR 15/-
4. Thiksey Monastery
This Tibetan Buddhist monastery, also known as the Thikse Gompa, is located at an elevation of 3,600 meters. This majestic 12-story building has numerous Buddhist-inspired elements and is one of the spiritual locations to visit in Ladakh during the summer. It is situated in a location where you can discover calm and learn about the Buddhist ethnicity. There are some interesting primitive scriptures, paintings, statues, and swords to see. This monastery is one of Ladakh’s most visited monasteries, attracting thousands of visitors each year. June is an ideal month for exploring the monastery’s wonderful splendor because the weather is pleasant and you are not exhausted. You can visit the Tara Temple, which is located within the monastery’s complex, and see the 21 images dedicated to goddess Tara, which are pretty beautiful.
Where: On the top of a hill in Thiksey approximately 19 kilometers East of Leh in Ladakh
Timings: 6.00AM – 1.00PM and 1.30AM – 6.00PM
Entry Fees: INR 20/-
5. Indus River
Many interesting adventures await you at the heart of the Indus River. Rafting and kayaking are popular activities, especially during June and August, when the summer season officially begins. This river originates in Pakistan and travels through areas of Northern India, providing some spectacular rapids to add to the thrill of water sports, making it one of the greatest spots to visit in Ladakh during the summer. You will be able to see the stunning vistas along the river’s banks when rafting on this river. Water activities are most enjoyed during the summer months, when the water temperature is just right. As a result, if you’re in Ladakh in June, look for work by the river.
Where: Zanskar region of the state of Ladakh
Timings: Anytime
Entry Fees: Free
6. Tso Moriri
This oligotrophic water body is one of Ladakh’s high altitude lakes and one of the most popular summer tourist destinations. The summer is the best time to see this lake. Because you’ll be able to witness several uncommon bird species such as bar-headed geese and black-necked cranes. The tourist traffic is drawn to the various campers located around the lake. Another pleasant experience you might have when visiting Ladakh is to enjoy the fresh wind throughout the summer months. Near the lake lies a forest with many local wild species such as Himalayan blue sheep, marmots, and Tibetan gazelles. If you take a troll into the deep jungle, you might see a snow leopard or Tibetan wolves.
Where: Changthang (240kms away from the Leh town)
Timings: Anytime
Entry Fees: Free
Reasons to visit Ladakh in Summer
Apart from fulfilling your ambition of visiting this region at the right moment, you may also participate in some of Ladakh’s most well-known events, including as the Hemis Festival, YuruKabgyat, and SakaDawa. These vibrant festivals attract tourists from all around the world and put on spectacular performances that are a sight to behold. So, plan your trip to include these festivals as well.
Things to Remember before you Visit
Because the region does not receive much snow between April and May, the summer season gradually takes over the territory. Visitors to Ladakh during this period can easily find hotels, homestays, and guesthouses on the ground or book them online through a variety of websites. It is, however, recommended that you travel during this particular period by plane, as most of the roads and passes leading to the site are either closed or closed.