Ladakh, which means land of high mountain passes is not only a mountain land but it’s also a rugged cold desert, high altitude passes and lakes, monastery, double hump camel, marmot and many other things make this place a dream destination for many. So was it for me.
After planning for many years I was fortunate to finally travel to my dream destination in the month of April.
Ladakh in April
I am not a fan of crowded places and Ladakh being one of the most popular places in India is no exception. After careful consideration and analysis, I accompanied my cousin brother to Ladakh in April. Now the question is: How is Ladakh in April?
While Ladakh is a year-round destination, April marks the ending of the harsh winter, as it is Spring.
Here are the few things you can expect in your Ladakh Trip in April.
1. Limited Connectivity
Coming Via Manali
The Manali-Leh Highway remains mostly closed in April. It’s not the best time to plan a road trip via this route because the Border Roads Organization (BRO) starts its snow-clearing operations only in March, especially around Rohtang Pass to Baralacha La.
If snowfall has been mild during winter, the BRO might clear the highway by the end of March, and with some luck, the road could open for a short period in April. But honestly, it’s a gamble because, in most cases, the work stretches well into April or even May. By the time they clear all the snow and declare the route safe for civilian travel, it’s usually late May or early June.
So, if you’re dreaming of a Manali-Leh road trip, April isn’t quite your month.
Coming via Srinagar
The Srinagar-Leh Highway typically opens for travelers either by mid or the end of April. The snow-clearing operation at Zojila Pass starts as early as February, and in some lucky years, the work wraps up by early March. If the weather plays along, the highway might even open by late March—but let’s be honest, that’s a rare jackpot scenario!
Even when the road opens early, don’t get too excited, as Zojila Pass often gets fresh snowfall in April, causing temporary closures. So, while a Leh Ladakh trip in April is possible via this route, it all depends on the whims of the weather gods. If you’re planning to take this road, always keep an eye on the weather updates and be prepared for sudden changes.
Flight Route
The most reliable way to reach Ladakh in April is by hopping on a direct flight to Leh. This is what we did.
It’s the most stress free option. The flights to Leh are open in April and also in the winter. Regular flights are available from Delhi, Chandigarh and Srinagar.
If you’re planning a trip in April and want to avoid last-minute cancellations, this is the way to go!
2. Chilly Yet Manageable Weather:
In April the weather starts getting warmer but its still remain below 10 degree in most of the region and can go upto -15 degree or even more. For example in our stay in Tso Moriri, the temperature went down to -13 degree celsius.
And not to forget, it’s windy. However it is manageable.
In short, the weather in April is still manageable compared to the deep winter months.
3. Fewer Crowds:
Cold weather, and limited connectivity means fewer crowds.
If you want to experience Ladakh without the bustling tourist crowds, April is ideal. You’ll have most tourist spots, like Pangong Tso and Nubra Valley less crowded and off-beat places like Tso Moriri almost empty. As someone who likes to click this is a chance you can’t miss.
4. Snow-capped Peaks:
One of the main reasons I wanted to visit Ladakh was to experience snow. I have never experienced snow before. And April is cooler and you would also find snow in some lower altitude regions. By lower I must say not to expect anything below 3000m.
The contrast between the white snow, the blue skies, and the brown barren land is mesmerizing and offers incredible photographic opportunities.
5. Apricot Blossom Season in Ladakh
Spring in Ladakh comes alive with the stunning apricot blossoms. The apricot typically blooms between April and early May. After a harsh winter, the delicate white and pink flowers brighten up places like Nubra Valley and villages around Leh, creating a beautiful contrast against the barren mountains.
These blossoms aren’t just visually stunning—they’re a significant part of Ladakh’s culture and economy, marking the start of the agricultural season. The flowering period is short, so catching this fleeting beauty feels extra special.
If you’re planning to visit, aim for late April to early May and check with locals for exact timings. This season also aligns with the start of Ladakh’s tourist season, making it perfect for exploring the region’s landscapes and culture.
Things to Keep in Mind for Your Ladakh Trip in April
We flew from Kolkata to Delhi and then caught a connecting flight to Leh, the capital of Ladakh.
Our April Ladakh Trip
We went on a Ladakh trip from Kolkata and as said earlier reaching by flight is the only option.
Flying to Ladakh is an adventure in itself. As your plane begins to descend into Leh, you’re greeted by the stark beauty of the Himalayan mountains, their snow-capped peaks peeking out from the clouds. It’s hard not to be in awe of the sheer magnificence of the place.
Things We did Before Ladakh Trip
- Read lots of blogs and Watched lots of Youtube Videos
- Stocked up our Winter accessories
- Jackets to withstand atleast a temperature of -10 degree celsius
- Good shoes, which will help you walk well even on ice.
- Socks and caps
- We did bought few chocolates and protein bars
- Grabbed flask, as it is important to stay hydrated, and normal bottle’s water will get much colder.
- Bought few medicine, including Diamox
- Bought a few SPF 50 Sunscreen as the UV radiation is high along with vaseline to keep the skin moisturized.
- We did contact few local travel agents, finally settling with Active Adventure.
And then we are off
Yes, we did carry our cameras.
Our Ladakh 7 Day Itinerary
Day 1: Reaching Leh
We boarded our flight and chose the right-side seats, knowing the view would be amazing. After about half an hour of flying, we entered the Himalayan region, surrounded by snow-covered mountains, as if we had stepped into a white wonderland. After around 1 hour 15 minutes, we finally landed at our dream destination, Ladakh, at the Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh.
Before heading out of the plane, we quickly put on our padded jackets, scarf and covered ourselves.
The weather outside was cold as expected, but the wind was something we were not prepared for. It was windy, cold winds making the temperature a bit more harsher.
Once outside, as discussed with our agent, our driver cum guide was already waiting for us. This was when we started to feel the difference in altitude; picking up our luggage was no longer as easy as it had been back in Delhi.
At the hotel, we completed the check-in process and headed for a quick lunch. I went for rajma rice, while my brother had chicken rice.
We were too tired then and hence went in for an afternoon nap which lasted more than a few hours, 4 hours to be precise.
I had planned to explore Leh market, but my body was not agreeing with me, not to forget the plan was made before reaching Leh.
Our afternoon nap which got extended to evening nap finally ended with some local music. Yes, we were lucky to get experience at a local traditional show organised by the hotel we were staying at.
Dinner came next, and we kept it light as overeating at high altitudes isn’t a good idea. Plus, I wasn’t ready to test how gravity would work on an overstuffed stomach at this height!
You’re supposed to rest for at least 48 hours in Leh to adjust to the altitude. Before going to bed, we checked with our agent, who confirmed that all the permits were arranged and that we’d be exploring the spots around Leh the next day.
The permits are the environmental (green) fee, Red Cross Fund, and wildlife fee.
As per the Leh permit website, all tourists must acclimatize for at least 48 hours before traveling to higher altitudes. Diamox 250mg should be taken twice a day for at least two days before and two days after arriving in Leh. Avoid physical exertion during the first two days and drink 2-3 liters of water daily. Refrain from alcohol, smoking, and sedatives, and have a light meal on the first day to prevent indigestion. In case of HAPE or HACE symptoms, consult a doctor immediately.
Day 2- Leh Local Sightseeing
On our second day, we set out to explore Leh. After completing our buffet breakfast we were out. Here are some of the places we visited.
1. Indus Valley Viewpoint
We started at the Indus Valley Viewpoint, and the moment we got there, I was blown away not because it was windy but by its beauty.
It felt like I was looking at a picture straight out of a postcard, except this one was real. The vastness of the landscape made me feel tiny, but somehow connected to the land in a way I can’t quite explain.
2. Gurudwara Pathar Sahib
Next up was the Gurudwara Pathar Sahib, tucked away in the mountains. And it has a fascinating story.
According to local legend, Guru Nanak Ji, during his travels, stopped here to meditate. A demon from the area tried to harm him by rolling a huge stone toward him. But when the stone hit Guru Nanak, it turned soft, like wax, and couldn’t harm him. Angry seeing this the demon tried to kick the stone but his feet got stuck. Realizing his mistake he made and asked for forgiveness.
The stone is still there in the Gurudwara as a symbol of the Guru’s power and peace.
As I stepped inside, the peaceful atmosphere instantly welcomed me.I sat quietly for a while, letting the calmness fill me. After spending around 15 minutes we headed for our next site.
3. Magnetic Hill
We reached Magnetic Hill and got out of our car, excited to see what all the fuss was about. Our driver, with a smile, pointed to the spot and explained how we were about to experience something unique. He parked the car and told us to switch off the engine.
Yes, the rumors are true! It’s that place where your car magically “drives” uphill, but it is not the case, spoiler alert, it’s just an optical illusion.
The way the landscape slopes makes it look like the car is moving against gravity, but it’s all in the way the surrounding terrain messes with your eyes.
Still, it was fun to feel like physics took the day off! We stood there for a few minutes, explored the beautiful landscape and took some photographs.
4. Sangam
Next stop is Sangam, the confluence of the Zanskar and Indus rivers. It’s a beautiful spot for photography.
In April, the rivers at Sangam were calm and gentle, with not much current, which gave the place a soothing and peaceful vibe. However, what makes this location truly special is that it’s home to one of the highest river rafting points in the world, with an altitude of around 11,000 feet above sea level!
Imagine the thrill of rafting through icy-cold waters, surrounded by the raw beauty of Ladakh’s towering barren mountains.
5. Basgo Palace
After driving through the main Kargil-Leh Highway, we took a detour towards Basgo, a historical gem that offers a glimpse into Ladakh’s rich culture and architecture.
Reaching the Basgo Monastery, however, came with its own challenges. We had to climb a set of steep steps to get to the top, and let me tell you, this was the moment I truly felt the altitude. Every step felt like a mini workout, and I was out of breath in no time. Yet, I wasn’t ready to admit defeat—not before my brother, at least! I kept glancing back, secretly hoping he’d give up first so I could have an excuse to stop climbing. But nope, he kept going, and so did I, fueled more by sibling rivalry than energy.
Once at the top, though, the effort was totally worth it. The ancient ruins and the monastery perched against the rugged backdrop of the mountains had an almost magical charm. The view from up there was breathtaking, literally and figuratively, with the wide expanse of the valley spread out below. It felt like stepping into a piece of Ladakh’s history, where every wall and corner seemed to have a story to tell.
Lunch Break at Nimoo
We stopped at Nimoo Village for lunch, a quaint little place that felt like a hidden gem amidst the mountains. Here, we decided to try the local favorite Thukpa.
The steaming bowl of noodles in a hearty broth, packed with veggies and just the right hint of spices, was pure comfort food.
It was the perfect way to refuel after exploring, and let’s be honest, nothing beats the warmth of a hot Thukpa when you’re surrounded by chilly winds and towering peaks. Simple, flavorful, and just what we needed to keep going!
6. Spituk Monastery
Our next stop was Spituk Monastery, sitting beautifully on a hill with an amazing view of Leh and the valley around it, along with Leh airport. The airport side photography is prohibited.
The short climb gave us a chance to enjoy the peaceful surroundings, but let me warn you, it involves stairs, and plenty of them!
Inside, the monastery was calm and quiet, with prayer wheels, old paintings, and the soft sound of monks chanting.
Standing there, looking at the breathtaking view below, I felt a deep sense of peace.
7. Shanti Stupa
Then we headed to visit the Shanti Stupa, a serene white-domed structure perched atop a hill in Leh. Built in 1991 by Japanese Buddhist monk Gyomyo Nakamura and as part of the Peace Pagoda Mission, the stupa symbolises peace and harmony.
It offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the Leh valley, making it a must-visit spot for peace seekers and nature lovers alike.
8. Leh Market
Our final destination for the day was the Leh market. After reaching our hotel around 5 PM and freshening up, I headed out to explore the lively streets of the market.
The vibrant Leh market is a treasure trove for souvenirs, woolen clothes, and unique local crafts. It also offers a variety of restaurants serving Ladakhi, Chinese, South Indian, and even pizza, catering to diverse tastes.
After enjoying the market’s charm, I returned to the hotel for dinner, as we had an exciting journey planned to Nubra Valley the next day.
Day 3: Leh to Nubra Valley via Khardung La
9:00 AM – Early Start and Preparations
We woke up around 9 AM, feeling a mix of laziness and excitement. After a quick argument over who gets to freshen up first, we finally got ready for the day. Breakfast was a buffet, and let me tell you, we didn’t hold back—it was the kind of meal that sets you up perfectly for a day of adventure.
Once we were done eating, we packed our bags carefully, making sure nothing important was left behind.
Hot water bottles? Check. Sunscreen? Applied generously. Cameras? Charged and ready for action.
With everything sorted, we stepped out into the crisp mountain air, ready to explore, capture memories, and see what the day had in store for us.
Morning Drive Through Snowy Mountains
A few miles into our drive, as we moved out of the city of Leh, the landscape transformed dramatically. The dusty mountain was changed to snow-covered mountains.
It was my first encounter with real snow—not just the cold touch from a refrigerator, but the crisp, untouched flakes that blanketed the world in white. The sight was mesmerizing, each snowflake sparkling under the sunlight, creating a serene and almost magical atmosphere.
North Pulu – Majestic Views and Quick Stops
As we approached North Pulu, the majestic views unfolded before our eyes. We decided to pause, soaking in the grandeur of the mountains and capturing the moment with some memorable photographs. The beauty of the landscape was unparalleled, making every snapshot a cherished memory.
Reaching Khardung La
A few minutes later, we arrived at Khardung La, one of the highest motorable roads in the world. The excitement was palpable as we rushed to capture videos and photos, so much so that we forgot to wear our gloves! The surroundings were nothing short of magnificent—snow blanketed the area, creating a pristine and breathtaking panorama. We managed to grab some quick snaps and even attempted a visit to Khardung Gompa, adding a spiritual touch to our adventure.
Attempting to photograph the famous Khardung La signboard proved challenging due to the crowd, but our perseverance paid off when we discovered a smaller, less crowded signboard, perfect for our pictures.
A Cozy Break at the Café
After about five minutes of exploration, hunger set in. We entered one of the highest cafes in the world and grabbed a bowl of maggi along with a comforting cup of Kawa.
Journey to Nubra Valley
Refueled and ready, we resumed our journey towards Nubra Valley. About an hour’s drive took us to South Pulu, where we decided to take a short break, stretching our legs and enjoying the tranquil surroundings before continuing onward to Diskit.
ATV Bike Point at Khalsar
On our way, we made a halt at the ATV bike point in Khalsar, famously known for the shooting of Bhaag Milkha Bhaag. We took a moment to appreciate the blend of nature and cinematic history before moving forward.
Diskit Gompa
As we reached Diskit, I began to feel a bit unwell, possibly due to altitude sickness or the rugged mountain roads. Despite feeling under the weather, the beauty of the place was undeniable.
We visited the impressive 33-meter statue of Maitreya Buddha, a towering presence that dominates the landscape. The glimpse of the Diskit Monastery nestled a short distance away, offered a peaceful contrast to the vastness of the valley.
Hunder’s Charm
Continuing our journey, we entered the desert area of Nubra Valley. The sandy winds greeted us, carrying a different kind of serenity.
By around 3 PM, we arrived at our stay in Hunder. The absence of electricity was noticeable, but we were assured it would return by evening, giving us time to charge our gadgets.
Exploring the Hunder Sand Dunes
Still feeling a bit unwell, the day took an unexpected turn when a light drizzle began to fall. The cool rain helped me regain some energy, and as soon as it ceased, we set out to explore the mesmerizing Hunder Sand Dunes.
The cold and windy April weather added a dramatic flair to our photography sessions, capturing the dunes in their full glory.
Camel Safari and Evening Relaxation
After some photography, we queued up to ride the iconic double-humped Bactrian camels. The safari was an exhilarating experience, offering a unique perspective of the desert landscape.
As the sun began to set, we too started our journey back to our hotel.
9:00 PM – Buffet Dinner
The day concluded with a delightful buffet dinner around 9 PM. Despite the chilly temperatures, the warmth of the meal and the shared stories of the day created a cozy and memorable evening.
With the camera fully charged, it was time to go to sleep.
Day 4: Journey to Pangong Tso
Sunrise at Hunder
We started our journey to Pangong Tso at around 9:30 AM, after a filling breakfast. The resort looked stunning in the morning light, with apricot flowers blooming beautifully in the garden—a perfect start to the day.
Enjoying ATV Ride
Our first stop was the ATV ride point at Khalsar. We hopped on the ATVs, had a thrilling ride, and, of course, squeezed in a quick photo session to capture the fun.
As we continued toward Pangong, the road became bumpy, but the breathtaking scenery more than made up for it. The Shyok River was our constant companion, flowing gracefully alongside us until we reached Shyok village. We made a few stops along the way to take in the river’s beauty and feel the refreshing mountain breeze.
Lunch at Durbuk
By the time we reached Durbuk, it was lunch hour. We indulged in some simple but delicious rajma chawal, which gave us the energy boost we needed for the rest of the drive.
Soon after, we started catching glimpses of Pangong Lake, and excitement bubbled up. Some spots along the way were where scenes from Jab Tak Hai Jaan were shot, adding a touch of Bollywood magic to the journey.
Reaching Pangong Tso
Finally, at around 3 PM, we arrived at the magnificent Pangong Tso. After checking into our tent accommodation, we braved the strong winds, geared up, and made our way to the lake.
The view was mesmerizing—a semi-frozen lake, with parts still covered in ice while the rest shimmered under the sunlight. It felt like stepping into a painting. Despite the freezing winds making it hard to stay out for too long, we spent about an hour soaking in the beauty of the lake before heading back to the tent.
The rest of the evening was quiet. After a refreshing nap, we went to the tent’s restaurant for the dinner buffet, wrapped up the day with a hearty meal, and settled into a cozy sleep, ready for the next adventure.
Day 5: Heading to Tso Moriri
Snowy Morning
I woke up to find my cousin wasn’t feeling well. So, I went for breakfast alone. Just as I was about to leave the tent, I noticed that the water in the washroom pipes had frozen. As I stepped outside, I was greeted by a white carpet of snow and a bright sunrise. It looked like there had been some snowfall overnight.
Late Start to Tso Moriri
After breakfast, I went back to the tent. We weren’t sure if we’d be able to go to Tso Moriri or head back to Leh, but my cousin found some strength, and we decided to continue toward Tso Moriri.
We took the road along Pangong Tso, and honestly, it was the most beautiful sight I had ever seen. (Here’s a glimpse of the lake in the photo below.)
We took a small detour and got lost for a bit, but eventually reached Chusul. From there, we went off the beaten path, passing through Mahe and Sumodo villages before finally arriving at Tso Moriri.
Journey is Prettier than Destination
The journey was one of the most beautiful parts of the trip. We were greeted with snowfall, yaks grazing along the road, and the frozen lakes of Mirpal Tso and Kyagar Tso. It was amazing, and thanks to BRO, the roads were surprisingly clean, even after the snowfall.
As we neared Tso Moriri, we realized we had a flat tire. Thankfully, we made it to our homestay. After unpacking, our driver suggested we walk to the lake.
Walking to Tso Moriri
Let me tell you, that 1 km walk was one of the hardest I’ve ever done. The strong sun and chilly wind made it nearly unbearable. But we pushed through and reached the lake. We spent about 15 minutes there, then headed back to the homestay.
By the time we got back, we were exhausted. We fell asleep around 7 PM, and the homestay served dinner in our room. I had planned to do some stargazing, but… well, I was too tired to even think about it.
Day 6 Heading Back to Leh
The next day, we woke up early and decided to skip breakfast so we could reach Leh sooner. As we drove, we noticed that the lakes were even more frozen, with some water bodies now completely covered in ice. Our first stop was the Puga Hot Springs.
Exploring Puga Hot Spring
Puga was a serene, peaceful spot, surrounded by golden grass swaying gently in the breeze. We saw horses grazing nearby, adding to the calm atmosphere. The area was quite scenic, with the steam rising from the hot springs contrasting with the icy cold surroundings. It felt like we had stepped into a winter wonderland.
Leh Manali Highway
After enjoying the beauty of Puga, we continued our journey toward Tso Kar and after exploring the lake finally reached the Leh-Manali Highway.
On the way, we encountered a bridge issue that caused a slight delay, but it also meant there were fewer people around, making the journey feel even more tranquil. As we approached Tanglang La, the region became almost completely snowy, making it look like a scene from a winter postcard.
Lunch at Upshi
Then we continued our journey and reached Upshi, where we stopped for lunch. I enjoyed a simple yet delicious plate of rajma chawal.
Upshi holds significance as the point where, if you’re traveling from Manali to Leh, you encounter the majestic Indus River for the first time.
We continued our journey to Leh, passing through Karu, a crucial junction where the road from Leh to Pangong Lake converges. This makes it an important waypoint for travelers heading towards the serene Pangong Lake or returning to Leh.
Thiksey Monastery
Our next stop was Thiksey Monastery. It is a beautiful monastery built on a hill, with white buildings arranged in steps. Inside, it has a large statue of Buddha and peaceful prayer halls. The view of the valley from the monastery is amazing.
Shey Palace
We passed by the Druk Padma Karpo School, also known as the “Rancho School” from the movie 3 Idiots, and soon reached our next stop, Shey Palace.
The palace, built on a hilltop, is an impressive structure made of stone and mud bricks, with prayer flags fluttering in the breeze. It features a large golden Buddha statue inside the monastery and offers stunning views of the surrounding fields and mountains.
The multi-leveled architecture and ancient murals reflect the rich history and cultural significance of the place.
Reached Leh
After a tiring journey, we reached Leh around 4 PM, and it was time to take some rest as we had a morning flight the next day.
However, before calling it a day, I made sure to pick up a few souvenirs from the town. These included some sweaters from the Tibetan Refugee Market, a few handicrafts from the local shops, and a magnet as a keepsake.
Day 7: A Memorable Farewell to Leh
After six days of unforgettable experiences, it was time to bid farewell to this beautiful place. Our hearts were full of memories, and our bags a little heavier with extra winter clothes. As we headed back to Delhi, we reflected on the journey that had enriched us with so much. We arrived on time, and the checkout process was smooth, bringing an end to a trip that would stay with us forever.
Ladakh in April: A Journey Through the Majestic Land
Our trip to Ladakh in April was an amazing adventure. From the moment we arrived, we were in awe of the beautiful landscapes, peaceful monasteries, and unique experiences this place offers.
Our itinerary was well-planned, allowing us to explore everything at a comfortable pace without feeling rushed. However it will be better to stay 1 more day in Leh before starting for Khardung la or other places, particularly when you are coming by flight.
The weather in April was cold but refreshing, and the calmness of the place made every moment special. From the high mountain passes to the peaceful atmosphere, Ladakh’s beauty never stopped amazing me.
This trip to Ladakh was more than just a holiday; it was an unforgettable experience filled with memories. I know, we did miss a lot of places and yes Ladakh trip do take time as Ladakh has lots of places to be explored.
If you’re looking for a destination that offers both adventure and peace, Ladakh in April is the perfect place.
