Often called the Land of High Passes, Ladakh is one of the dream destinations among all travellers. Known for its beautiful monasteries, fabulous views, crystal clear lakes, and spectacular landscape, it is one of the popular places to visit in India. The topography of Ladakh, dotted with Himalayan mountain peaks, fast-flowing rivers & high passes makes it an ideal destination for adventure tourism. From peak climbing in the Himalayan ranges to river rafting to horse riding, there are many kinds of activities that visitors can try in Ladakh as part of India tour packages. Trying out these adventure activities in Ladakh provides visitors a unique kind of thrill & experience.
Here is the list of some adventure activities to try out in Ladakh.
Mountain Biking
Mountain Biking is one of the best adventure sports for every thrill seeker who likes an adventurous journey through the rocky hills, exotic terrains, and steep roads of Ladakh. Every year, hundreds of motorbikers flock to Ladakh to explore the real beauty of this place. Cutting through the meandering trails, past the lakes, villages & monasteries & along the gushing waters of the Indus & Zanskar, is something that everyone will talk about for a long time. The best places to enjoy mountain biking in Ladakh are Pangong Tso, Leh to Zingchem, Skiu to Chilling, Leh to Sankar Gompa, Stok, Stakna & Thiksey monasteries. June to September is the best time to enjoy mountain biking when all the roads are accessible.
Trekking
A trip to Ladakh is incomplete without trekking in the high passes. Filled with excitement and charm, trekking is one of the best ways to explore the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Himalayas. There are many trekking trails in Ladakh that are dotted with ancient Buddhist monasteries, meadows & quaint villages. Chadar trek is one of the most famous treks in Ladakh which involves walking on the frozen Zanskar River. Some of the other treks that one must try in Ladakh are Nubra valley trek, Indus valley trek, Stok kangri trek, Markha valley trek, Lamayuru to Darcha Trek, Jhunglam Hemis to Padum Trek, etc. The best time to enjoy trekking in Ladakh is from January to September.
White Water Rafting
If you want to enjoy the majestic view of the mountains while gushing through the waters, River Rafting in Ladakh is one of the best options to indulge in. White water rafting is very popular in the Indus and Zanskar River in Ladakh. . best rafting stretches in River Indus is between Spituk and Nimu or Saspol while in the Zanskar between Padum and Nimu.With the rapids that range from Grade I to V, the rafting traverse through the deep waters amidst deep canyons and soaring snow-covered peaks makes you feel close to heaven and is definitely for the strong-hearted. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced, there are several choices for every traveler from short 2-3 hours rafting Adventures to 4-day long excursions that draws a large number of adventure enthusiasts. The best time for river rafting in Ladakh is from July to September.
Jeep Safari
Jeep Safari is another most interesting activity to try in Ladakh as it is one of the best ways to explore the challenging altitude of this picturesque destination. There are several Jeep Safari tours available in Ladakh that covers several places from high passes to age-old monasteries to fairytale lakes, remote villages, spectacular scenery, and more. Tourists from all age groups can experience the jeep safaris in Ladakh. Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley, Manali-Leh Highway, Dah Hanu, Suru valley and Tso Moriri are some of the most famous routes to enjoy this thrilling jeep safari. June to September is the best time to enjoy Jeep Safari in Ladakh.
Camping
Planning your adventure holidays in Ladakh then don’t forget to add camping to your bucket list as it is a great way to declutter your mind by adoring and exploring the nature’s beauty of this stunning destination to its core. Also, spending a quiet night under the blanket of blinking stars is a dream come true. This is also a great way to de-stress from the oppressive weather of the plains. There are two types of camping in Ladakh, leisure & adventure. Leisure camping can be enjoyed at the most famous tourist places in Ladakh like Tso Moriri, Pangong Tso, Hunder Village & areas around Leh. Camp Redstart, Camp Whispering Camps, Nomadic Camp Life, Wonderland Camp, etc. are some of the best campsites in Ladakh which charges around 4500 to 6000 per adult. While Adventure camping can be enjoyed at certain places in Zanskar Valley & among the nomadic tribes which is another great way of interacting with the local people & getting an insight into their way of life.
Paragliding
Paragliding is yet another most enthralling adventurous activities in Ladakh. This activity is gaining popularity in India from the past 10 years. During this activity, one can fly like a bird and get a breathtaking view of the picturesque snowcapped mountains and valleys. Also, don’t forget to carry a camera along that will capture the best moments of your life and the splendid view of the surrounding region. One can enjoy this activity in the Khardung La range in Ladakh when the sky is clear.
Ice Hockey
Ice hockey is another interesting adventurous sport to try in Ladakh. It is also called as Skinny and Pond Hockey in Leh Ladakh. If you are aware of skating and know the rules of hockey, then ice hockey is a best choice for you while in Ladakh. Several campsites in Ladakh offer this activity as the area freezes during the winter. But the best place to try this activity is at the Karzoo Hockey Rink in Leh with other locals and on natural ice and in freezing weather. December and January are the best time to play this sport as it is the time for snowfall in Ladakh that draws large number of adventure enthusiast, especially skating lovers as part of Ladakh Tour Packages.