Leh, India: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Leh, India? If you're planning to go to Leh, I have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Leh, India

Based on the climate and weather in Leh, India, the best time to go is July. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Leh, India

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Leh, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Leh, India by month

January

January in Leh is frosty. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the single digits F (10+ below zero C). There is frost almost every day of the month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • 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 Leh. 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 a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Check that you pick the correct type. Most adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you plan go to a monastery, like The Hemis Monastery, take the following:

If you go to Khardung-La, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

February

February for Leh is freezing. Temperatures average in the low 30s F (single digits C) during the day. There is frost nearly every day this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Leh. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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 support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Ensure that you get the right kind. Most adapters available are simply 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 sufficient for most areas.

If you plan go to a monastery, like The Hemis Monastery, take the following:

If you go to Khardung-La, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

March

March is cold. Temperatures average in the 40s F (single digits C) during the day. There is frost nearly every day this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Leh. 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 airports always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

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 voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Be sure to find the right type. Most adapters available are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you plan go to a monastery, like The Hemis Monastery, take the following:

If you go to Khardung-La, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

April

April here can be brisk. Temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C) during the day. There is frost about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Leh. 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 constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Check that you pick the right kind. Many adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money 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

If you plan go to a monastery, like The Hemis Monastery, take the following:

If you go to Khardung-La, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

May

May in Leh can be chilly. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 30s F (single digits C). There is frost about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Leh. 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Be sure to find the right kind. Many adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.

  • 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

If you plan go to a monastery, like The Hemis Monastery, take the following:

If you go to Khardung-La, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

June

If you vacation in Leh during June, you may find that it is mild and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 40s F (single digits C). There is frost occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Leh. 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 a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage nowadays, 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. It's important that you find the right kind. Many adapters available are simply plug changers and expect your devices 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

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you plan go to a monastery, like The Hemis Monastery, take the following:

If you go to Khardung-La, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

July

July in Leh 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
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Leh. 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 airports frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Be careful to pick the correct type. 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 destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you plan go to a monastery, like The Hemis Monastery, take the following:

If you go to Khardung-La, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

August

August in this region is warm and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Leh. 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 a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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. It's important that you get the correct type. Many adapters on sale are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like 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

If you plan go to a monastery, like The Hemis Monastery, take the following:

If you go to Khardung-La, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

September

September in Leh is balmy and very dry with almost no rain. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 40s F (single digits C), with a few days below 32 F (single digits C). There is frost 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Leh. 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 a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Be sure to pick the right kind. A lot of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you plan go to a monastery, like The Hemis Monastery, take the following:

If you go to Khardung-La, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

October

If you are traveling to Leh in October, you will notice that it is crisp. Daytime temperatures are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C). There is frost about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Leh. 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 a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. It's important that you choose the right kind. Many adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

If you plan go to a monastery, like The Hemis Monastery, take the following:

If you go to Khardung-La, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

November

November in Leh is pretty cool. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C). There is frost nearly every day this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Leh. 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Be careful to choose the right kind. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • 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 neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you plan go to a monastery, like The Hemis Monastery, take the following:

If you go to Khardung-La, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

December

December can be extremely cold. Temperatures average in the 30s F (single digits C) during the day. There is frost almost every day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Leh. 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 bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Be careful to pick the right kind. The majority of adapters available are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck support 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

If you plan go to a monastery, like The Hemis Monastery, take the following:

If you go to Khardung-La, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

What to do in Leh, India

Leh, the capital city of the union territory of Ladakh in India, is a popular tourist destination that attracts thousands of tourists every year from all over the world. Known for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, magnificent monasteries, and adventurous activities, Leh offers a unique travel experience to its visitors. In this article, we will discuss the top tourist attractions that you must visit while exploring Leh.

1. Pangong Tso Lake

Pangong Tso Lake, one of the most popular tourist attractions in Leh and the country, is a breathtakingly beautiful blue lake situated at an altitude of around 4,350 meters on the Indo-China border. The lake is about 134 km long and stretches from India to China, and offers a panoramic view of the surrounding snow-capped mountains, giving visitors an unforgettable experience.

2. Shanti Stupa

Shanti Stupa is a white-domed Buddhist stupa situated on a hilltop in Leh town, built in 1991 to mark the 2,500 years of Buddhism. It is one of the most visited places in Leh and offers a stunning view of the sunset and sunrise over the mountain ranges. It is a must-visit destination for peace lovers and religious tourists alike.

3. Leh Palace

The Leh Palace is an iconic palace located in the heart of the town, which was built by King Sengge Namgyal back in the 17th century. The palace offers a glimpse into the lifestyle and architectural style of the former rulers of Ladakh. It also houses a museum displaying a vast collection of ancient paintings, jewelry, ornaments, and historic artifacts that narrate the story of the region.

4. Magnetic Hill

Magnetic Hill is another popular destination to be included in your itinerary while visiting Leh-Ladakh. This unique phenomenon can make a car move up on its own, without any fuel or support. Visitors can enjoy some fun activities here like clicking pictures, going for walks and taking jeep rides.

5. Hemis National Park

Located in the eastern part of Ladakh, Hemis National Park is one of the few national parks in India that provides shelter for rare and endangered animals like snow leopards, Tibetan wolves, and the Himalayan brown bear. Visitors can participate in guided safari tours that take you through the stunning landscapes of the park.

6. Spituk Monastery

The Spituk Monastery is an ancient monastery built in the 15th century, located off the Leh-Srinagar highway. It is renowned for its beautiful Buddhist artwork and intricate designs that can be seen on its chortens and walls. The annual Spituk Gustor festival, which takes place in the month of January, is a significant festival in the region and attracts visitors from all over the world.

Leh has so much to offer; these are just a few of the top tourist attractions that should not be missed. From breathtaking natural landscapes to unique cultural experiences, this beautiful city has something for everyone. So pack your bags and book your tickets now to explore Leh, India!

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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