Ladakh, India: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
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Ready to pack for Ladakh, India? If you're planning to go to Ladakh, below is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Ladakh
- Important essentials for Ladakh
- Activities for Ladakh
- Ladakh in January: weather and what to pack
- Ladakh in February: weather and what to pack
- Ladakh in March: weather and what to pack
- Ladakh in April: weather and what to pack
- Ladakh in May: weather and what to pack
- Ladakh in June: weather and what to pack
- Ladakh in July: weather and what to pack
- Ladakh in August: weather and what to pack
- Ladakh in September: weather and what to pack
- Ladakh in October: weather and what to pack
- Ladakh in November: weather and what to pack
- Ladakh in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Ladakh, India
Based on the climate and weather in Ladakh, India, the best time to go is July. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Ladakh, India
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Ladakh, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Ladakh, India by month
January
If you are traveling to Ladakh in January, you will notice that it can be extremely cold. Daytime temperatures are in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C). There is frost most days.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Fleece for under jacket
Lip balm
Our pick: this
Goggles for eye protection
our pickNight cap
It's suggested to wear a head warmer at night here like this
Heated gloves
Insulated boots
The best value
Thick pajamas
Coveralls
We pick:
Neck warmer/cold weather mask
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are an excellent value:
Insulated water bottle
Our fave:
thisHeated socks.
We've found
these to be the bestTravel shoe storage
Since you will need to change into boots often,
travel shoe storage comes in handy.Thermal undergarments
Our favorites:
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to standard shoes, you should bring snow boots. For visiting Ladakh, a great option is these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is worth investing in for this weather.
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent kit.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly choice.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Room protection door lock
If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Ladakh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Be careful to find the correct kind. A lot of adapters available online are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel neck support pillow
A good option is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
February
Traveling to Ladakh in February, you will notice that it is frosty. Daytime temperatures are in the low 30s F (single digits C). There is frost most days.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Lip balm
The best is: here
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
Fleece for under jacket
Scarf/neck warmer
our favoritePajamas
Extreme cold weather gloves
Thermal undergarments
We love:
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need boots and other footwear,
travel footwear storage is important.Sweaters
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of the best values:
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day shoes, it's important to bring snow boots. For travel to Ladakh, we suggest these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is vital here.
Umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb value.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Ladakh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For additional protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Room protection door lock
If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.
Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Ensure that you get the necessary kind. A lot of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.
Travel pillow
What we like is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
March
March in Ladakh is brisk. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C). There is frost almost every day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Heavy jacket
Heavy socks
Such as:
Lip balm
Our pick is: this one
Travel footwear storage
You will need multiple footwear options, so consider
travel footwear storage.Warm pants or jeans
Insulated water bottle
Our choice:
thisSweaters
Gloves
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular footwear, you should bring snow boots. For visiting Ladakh, we suggest these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is something you need here.
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great value.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly product.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Ladakh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Anti-theft backpack
For added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Room protection door lock
If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Check that you pick the necessary kind. Many adapters currently available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
April
If you are traveling to Ladakh in April, you will notice that it is pretty cool. Daytime temperatures are in the 50s F (low 10s C). There is frost about two thirds of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best is: this one
Light gloves or mittens
Extra socks
Fleece
Warm pants or jeans
Jacket or coat
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular footwear, it's important to bring snow boots. For visiting Ladakh, a great option is these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is essential in this type of weather.
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great option.
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great one.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Room protection door lock
If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Ladakh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Anti-theft backpack
For added peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel pillow
What we like is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Ensure that you choose the necessary kind. Most adapters available are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.
May
If you visit Ladakh during May, you will probably find that it is crisp. Temperatures tend to hover around the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 30s F (single digits C). There is frost about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extra socks
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best is: this
Fleece
Light gloves or mittens
Warm pants or jeans
Jacket or coat
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants are essential in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We like:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good kit.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
Anti-theft backpack
For additional peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Ladakh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Room protection door lock
If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel pillow
A good option is this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Take care to get the necessary kind. A lot of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
June
Traveling to Ladakh in June, you will notice that it is balmy and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (low 20s C). There is frost once in a while.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunscreen lotion
Extra socks
Bug repellent
Breathable footwear or sandals
Short pants or heavy shorts
Sandals
Light skirts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants are a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly choice.
Safety + Security
Room protection door lock
If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Ladakh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
Anti-theft backpack
For some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Make sure to get the correct type. The majority of adapters currently available are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
July
If you vacation in Ladakh during July, you might find that it is warm and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Short pants or heavy shorts
Sandals
Sunscreen lotion
Extra socks
Bug repellent
Breathable footwear or sandals
Light skirts
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be essential in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags remain dry. We like:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great one.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Ladakh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Room protection door lock
If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Be sure to pick the correct type. Many adapters available are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.
August
August in Ladakh is warm and very dry with almost no rain. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 50s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light skirts
Bug repellent
Extra socks
Sunscreen lotion
Sandals
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Short pants or heavy shorts
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Breathable footwear or sandals
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
Rain pants
These will be vital in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We like:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly product.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent option.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For additional peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Ladakh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
Room protection door lock
If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.
Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. It's important that you get the necessary kind. A lot of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.
Travel neck support pillow
A good option is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
September
Traveling to Ladakh in September, you will notice that it is mild and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (low 20s C). There is frost a bit less than half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light jacket or fleece
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Dresses
You can find some great options here
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Pants or jeans
Extra socks
Light and heavy skirts
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants are a lifesaver in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We suggest:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly product.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good one.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Ladakh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Room protection door lock
If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.
Anti-theft backpack
For additional protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Check that you pick the right type. Most adapters available are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most places.
October
October can be chilly. Temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day. There is frost about two thirds of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Warm pants or jeans
Jacket or coat
Fleece
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best option: this one
Extra socks
Light gloves or mittens
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to standard footwear, it's important to bring snow boots. For travel to Ladakh, we suggest these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is essential here.
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent option.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Ladakh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Anti-theft backpack
For some more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Room protection door lock
If going to a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Ensure that you pick the right type. A lot of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck pillow
What we like is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
November
November in Ladakh can be very chilly. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C). There is frost almost every day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sweaters
Gloves
Lip balm
Our choice: this one
Heavy socks
Such as:
Travel footwear storage
You will need multiple footwear options, so consider
travel footwear storage.Warm pants or jeans
Insulated water bottle
Our pick:
thisHeavy jacket
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to standard footwear, you should bring snow boots. For travel to Ladakh, a great option is these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is vital here.
Umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb option.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Ladakh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Anti-theft backpack
For additional peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
Room protection door lock
If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.
Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Make sure to choose the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck support pillow
A great choice is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
December
December in Ladakh is frigid. Temperatures average in the 30s F (single digits C) during the day. There is frost most days.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Pajamas
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need boots and other footwear,
travel footwear storage is important.Extreme cold weather gloves
Scarf/neck warmer
our favoriteExtreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of our favorites:
Lip balm
The best is: this
Fleece for under jacket
Thermal undergarments
We like:
Sweaters
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular shoes, you should bring snow boots. For travel to Ladakh, we suggest these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is essential in this type of weather.
Umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb value.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly product.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
Anti-theft backpack
For some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Room protection door lock
If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Ladakh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Be careful to get the correct kind. Many adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.
Travel pillow
A good option is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
What to do in Ladakh, India
Ladakh is one of the most spectacular regions located in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. This region is known for its unique culture, beautiful landscapes, and ancient monasteries. It is oftentimes referred to as the 'Land of High Passes', and with the stunning snow-capped mountains, stunning lakes and valleys, and historic landmarks it is easy to see why. If you are planning a trip to Ladakh, here are a few top tourist attractions you do not want to miss.
1. Pangong Lake
Located at an altitude of 4,225 meters above sea level, Pangong Lake is arguably one of the most beautiful destinations in Ladakh. The lake is surrounded by the mighty Himalayas and features clear blue water that stretches for over 134 kilometers. Many visitors to Pangong Lake come to admire its incredible beauty and take a boat ride around the lake.
2. Nubra Valley
Nubra Valley is a picturesque valley situated in the north of Leh, Ladakh. This valley features scenic landscapes, towering mountains, and arid deserts. One of the most iconic attractions in Nubra Valley is the ancient Diskit Monastery, which features a 32-meter-tall Buddha statue that is a must-see for visitors coming to this place.
3. Leh Palace
Leh Palace is a historic landmark situated in the heart of Leh town. This palace was built in the 17th century and features an impressive nine-story structure with over 130 rooms. Visitors to Leh Palace can explore the various rooms, see the ancient artifacts and antiques, and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.
4. Hemis Monastery
Hemis Monastery is an iconic Buddhist monastery located on the bank of the Indus River. This monastery is known for its rich cultural heritage and ancient architecture. Visitors to Hemis Monastery can explore the various temples, shrines, and ancient relics such as thangkas, old books, and statues.
5. Zanskar Valley
Zanskar Valley is a remote valley that is situated deep in the Himalayas, making it one of the most scenic and challenging places to visit in Ladakh. This valley is known for its rugged landscapes, snowcapped mountains, and deep gorges. Visitors can enjoy trekking or hiking through the various trails, explore the traditional cultural villages, or enjoy white-water rafting in the Zanskar River.
In conclusion, Ladakh is a natural wonderland filled with breathtaking landscapes, historical landmarks, and ancient monasteries. The destinations highlighted above are just a few of the top tourist attractions, which are testament to the region's beauty and unique culture. If you're planning to visit India, Ladakh is definitely a must-visit destination.

About your travel guide
Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.
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