Ladakh is a high-altitude cold desert and a separate Union Territory to the east of Kashmir, famous for its stark mountains, deep blue lakes, and centuries-old Buddhist monasteries. Leh, the main town, is the natural base for exploring, with the surreal turquoise expanse of Pangong Lake, the dunes and double-humped camels of Nubra Valley, and the dramatic high pass of Khardung La all within reach. The landscape is vast and elemental, a land of prayer flags, whitewashed gompas, and roads that climb to some of the highest drivable points on earth. Ladakh demands a little acclimatisation, but it rewards you with scenery unlike anywhere else in India.
Best time to visit: Summer, roughly May to September, is the main season, when the high passes are open and the roads are clear. June to August offer the most reliable access to Pangong and Nubra. Winters are extremely cold and many routes close under snow, so plan around the warmer months and allow time to acclimatise.
How to reach: Ladakh is a separate Union Territory reached by air into Leh, which has direct flights from Delhi and other cities, or by the long mountain road journeys over high passes from Srinagar or from Manali in summer. The Srinagar to Leh route crosses Zoji La and is one of the most scenic drives in the country when the passes are open.