Winter Wonderland: A 6-Day Adventure in Leh Ladakh

1

Day 1: Arrival and Acclimatization in the High Himalayas

Thursday, January 8, 2026
+1
Activities
5

Flight to Leh (Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport)

Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (IXL), Leh
Book a window seat on the left side for the best mountain views when flying from Delhi. The temperature drop will be immediate and significant. Have your warmest jacket handy.

Check-in and Rest

Leh
Recommended Hotels: The Grand Dragon Ladakh, The Zen Ladakh, Dolkhar. Ensure your booking confirms central heating and hot water availability, as these are essential in winter.

Light Lunch at the Hotel

In-house Hotel Restaurant
Hydration is key. Drink water, herbal tea, or garlic soup, which is a local remedy for altitude sickness.

Gentle Evening Stroll in Leh Market

Leh Main Bazaar
Do not exert yourself. This is a gentle walk to help your body adjust. Wear multiple layers, a warm hat, gloves, and a scarf.

Dinner at The Tibetan Kitchen

The Tibetan Kitchen, Fort Road, Leh
Book a table in advance as it can get busy even in the off-season. It's a great place to warm up and enjoy authentic food.
2

Day 2: Leh's Royal & Spiritual Heritage

Friday, January 9, 2026
+1
Activities
5

Visit Shanti Stupa

Shanti Stupa, Leh
The steps can be slippery with ice. It's better to take a taxi all the way to the top. The air is thin, so walk slowly.

Explore Leh Palace

Leh Palace, Leh
The palace is largely unrestored, which adds to its rustic charm. Be careful on the uneven stairs. It can be very cold inside.

Lunch at a Local Cafe

Leh Main Bazaar
Ask your driver for recommendations on which cafes are open and serving fresh food, as availability can change in winter.

Hall of Fame Museum

Hall of Fame, Leh-Srinagar Highway
A very informative and moving place. There's a section dedicated to the Siachen Glacier, which is particularly interesting.

Dinner and Relaxation

Hotel Restaurant
Pack your daypack for tomorrow with extra layers, snacks, a thermos of hot water, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
3

Day 3: Frozen Rivers and Magnetic Mysteries

Saturday, January 10, 2026
+1
Activities
5

Drive to Sangam

Sangam, Nimmu
This day trip will be in a pre-booked 4x4 taxi. The cost is for the full day's hire. The landscape is starkly beautiful in winter.

Experience Magnetic Hill

Magnetic Hill, Leh-Kargil Highway
The effect is an optical illusion, but it's still a must-do experience. The surrounding landscape is barren and beautiful.

Visit Alchi Monastery

Alchi Village
Photography is strictly prohibited inside the ancient prayer halls to preserve the delicate murals. You will need to leave your camera and phone outside.

Lunch at a Local Restaurant in Alchi

Alchi
Options are very limited in winter. It's a good idea to carry some snacks and a thermos with a hot beverage from Leh.

Return to Leh via Likir Monastery

Likir Monastery
The road to Likir is usually accessible. The monastery is an active center for Buddhist learning.
4

Day 4: The High Pass Challenge (Weather Permitting)

Sunday, January 11, 2026
Activities
4

Drive to Khardung La Pass

Khardung La Pass
This trip is 100% dependent on weather and road conditions. The pass is often closed after heavy snowfall. Your driver will have the latest information. Do not spend more than 15-20 minutes at the top due to the extreme altitude.

Maggi and Tea at a High-Altitude Cafe

South Pullu or Khardung La Top
A warm beverage at this altitude feels incredibly comforting. This is a simple, no-frills stop.

Backup Plan: Indus Valley Monasteries

Thiksey, Hemis, Shey
This is an excellent and culturally rich alternative. The monasteries are very peaceful in winter. Check winter visiting hours in advance.

Dinner at Bon Appétit

Bon Appétit, Changspa Road, Leh
Confirm if they are open for the season. Their pizzas and tandoori dishes are highly recommended.
5

Day 5: Glimpse of the Chadar & Local Life

Monday, January 12, 2026
+1
Activities
5

Excursion towards Chilling

Chilling, Ladakh
The road is rough and requires a skilled driver and a 4x4 vehicle. The landscape is dramatic and desolate. It's a true winter adventure.

Walk on the Frozen River (If Safe)

Near Chilling
Safety is paramount. Only step on the ice if your local guide or driver confirms it is thick and safe. Do not venture out on your own.

Packed Lunch with a View

Zanskar Valley
Also, carry a thermos with a hot beverage like tea or coffee. It will be a welcome respite from the biting cold.

Optional: Visit a Ladakhi Family Home

A local village near Leh
This is a fantastic cultural experience. It's a great way to understand the local way of life during the harsh winter months. Book this in advance.

Farewell Dinner

Leh
Reflect on the incredible winter landscapes and unique experiences of your Ladakhi adventure.
6

Day 6: Departure from the Land of High Passes

Tuesday, January 13, 2026
Activities
2

Last Minute Souvenir Shopping

Leh Main Bazaar
Many shops will be closed, but you can still find some government emporiums or larger stores open.

Transfer to Airport for Departure

Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (IXL)
Flights out of Leh are usually in the morning. Be at the airport at least 2 hours before your flight. Flights can be delayed due to weather, so keep your schedule flexible.
Travel FAQs

Q.Why visit Ladakh in January?

January is for the truly adventurous. It offers a unique experience of Ladakh without the summer crowds. You can witness...

Q.How to deal with the extreme cold?

Layering is key. You'll need thermal wear (top and bottom), fleece jackets, a heavy down jacket, waterproof outer pants,...

Q.What are the risks of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)?

AMS is a serious risk in Leh (11,500 ft). The first day must be for complete rest and acclimatization. Drink 4-5 liters ...

Q.What will be open in January?

Many hotels, guesthouses, and restaurants close for winter. However, a good number of hotels with central heating and so...

Q.What kind of transport is available?

You must pre-book a 4x4 vehicle (like a Scorpio or Innova) with an experienced local driver. Public transport is scarce,...

Q.What should I pack for a January trip to Ladakh?

Essential packing list: 1. Clothing: Multiple thermal layers, fleece jackets, a heavy down jacket (-20°C rating), waterp...

Q.Will my phone and internet work?

Only postpaid SIM cards from other states work in Ladakh. BSNL and Airtel have the best connectivity in and around Leh. ...

Q.What are some local customs to be aware of?

Ladakhis are warm and friendly. Always greet people with 'Julley!' (hello/goodbye/thank you). Dress modestly, especially...