Blessed with its dramatic landscapes, crystal clear lakes, age-old monasteries, barren valleys, amazing people, and culture, Ladakh is known to be one of the most stunning tourist places in India. Fondly called the land of the Lamas, Ladakh is a place that invites droolers to seek its concealed secrets, jagged peaks, camouflaging monasteries, and cultures stuffed into the mainstream life of locals. However, there is still so much beauty that is untouched in this wonderland. If you want to have a secluded trip where you can spend time with yourself or your dear ones as part of India tour packages, then check our list of some of the breathtaking offbeat places in Ladakh here.
Turtuk
Without a doubt, the tiny Himalayan hamlet of Turtuk tops the list of stunning offbeat places waiting to be explored in Ladakh. Located on the banks of the Shyok River, Turtuk is circumscribed by Nubra Valley and is the last northernmost village in India. Before becoming a sovereign part of the Indian territory, it was a part of Baltistan and later it was occupied by Pakistan till 1971. This tiny village is truly untouched by most and was opened to tourists only as recently as 2010. The village is known for its colorful apricot plantations that are extremely delicious and are popularly known to be the best apricots in India. One can witness the beautiful views of magnificent mountains, green valleys, and cold desert landscapes while in Turtuk. Besides, one can explore the local culture of Ladakh by visiting this village. The homestays, local food, and friendly locals of the village are sure to delight you and give you a wonderful experience to cherish forever as part of the Ladakh Tour.
Uleytokpo
Situated at an altitude of 3040 m in the Sham Valley of Ladakh, Uleytokpo is a perfect place for those who want to experience serenity and tranquility in Ladakh. This lesser-known attraction lies on the way to Lamayuru fills up with lush greenery in summer and cools down to whites in winter. This is the la la land for adventure lovers as Uleytokpo is a camping base that dips in the charm of the Indus River. It is also one of the oldest sites of Ladakh where one can experience the culture and tradition of the place. Besides its stunning natural beauty, the place is also home to Lamayuru Monastery, Rizdong Monastery, Alchi Monastery, Likir Monastery, and Mangyu Temple. People who are travelling through the Leh-Srinagar highway will mostly stop here to get acclimatized to high altitude and climatic conditions. One can camp here in the readily available tents or cottages for a day or two and enjoy the serene snow-clad mountains and gushing waters of the Indus River.
Rangdum in Suru Valley
Situated ahead of Kargil, the Buddhist village of Rangdum is the last hamlet in the Suru Valley. The village is famous for its 200-year-old Rangdum Monastery which is situated at an altitude of 4031 m and is home to around 45 monks. Built-in the 16th century, the walls of the monastery are adorned with beautiful frescoes and have statues as well that gives a peaceful and soothing vibe. One can enjoy the sight of colorful hills on one side and glaciers on the other side.
Panamik in Nubra Valley
Surrounded by snowcapped mountains, Panamik is a small sleepy village located close to Siachen glacier, the highest battlefield in the world. Situated at an elevation of 3183 m, Panamik is the last destination for tourists travelling across Ladakh before the Siachen base camp (where no civilians are allowed). This tiny hamlet is known for its hot water springs that are enriched with a high amount of Sulphur. In addition, it is also famous for its Bactrian camels and Pashmina goats. Besides, the village is also the base for the trek to Ensa Gompa, a 250-year-old gompa popular for its Buddhist murals and scriptures. If you are a shopaholic, then it is the best place to buy Kashmiri carpets, Pashmina shawls, and woolen socks.
Upshi
Upshi is a small hamlet located on the Leh-Manali Highway. It is among the best offbeat places to visit in Ladakh. The village is home to around 130 people, and all are extremely hospitable, friendly, and warm to all the tourists. It is the place where the fur from the sheep is collected to make the elegant Pashmina Shawls. Besides, one can visit several monasteries in a radius of 50 km from here including Stok, Stakna, Hemis, Thiksey, and Shey.