The little paradise on the picturesque valley of Kashmir, Ladakh, is a dream destination for nature lovers, romantic souls, adventure enthusiasts and photo freaks. Dotted with colorful array of monasteries, tiny hamlets and mountain ranges, Ladakh’s beauty and grace has reached every corner of the world today. If you are willing to plan your dream vacation in this beautiful retreat, then here are some tips that will help you spend the most enjoyable holiday ever.
The best time to visit Ladakh: though Ladakh remains open for tourists throughout the year, the best time to go for a leisure trip or trekking adventure is between June and October. As most of the trekking routes get closed after November due to heavy snowfall in the region, an excursion here becomes a bit difficult. But those who want to go for a frozen river trek at Zanskar, for them the best time to visit is between January and mid March. Temperature falls down drastically and the river gets completely blanketed with snow, giving a look of a white frozen landscape.
Be aware of Ladakh’s climatic conditions: the months between June and September remains absolutely pleasant, making it an ideal place to enjoy summer holidays. If you are planning to visit Ladakh during winter, then be careful of its freezing weather. Mercury dips to a chilling -20 degree centigrade between December and January and you get to enjoy extreme winter weather conditions. Chill wind blows in the air and a blanket of white snow envelops the entire valley.
Essentials in the travel kit: traveling to high altitude requires special preparations, especially if the travel is during winters. As Ladakh is a beautiful trekking destination, your travel kit must contain basic trekking essentials along with adventure gears and adequate clothes. Shorts and light t- shirts are fine for daytime, but a jacket, sweater or pullover is a must for the night. Full sleeves shirt and light woolen pants keep you warm during the night. If you are traveling during winter, do not forget to carry a pair of gloves, woolen socks, heavy jackets, caps and shawls. If you are going for trekking, good waterproof shoes and a warm sleeping bag are required. Most importantly carry some vital medicines for common ailments like cough, fever, vomiting etc.
Important precautions to be taken beforehand: anyone can be a victim of acute mountain sickness when you reach to an altitude of 10,000 feet above sea level. The most common symptoms are headache, nausea, loss of appetite, irregular breathing, coughing and breathlessness. As Leh is situated almost 11,000 feet above sea level, it is essential to get your body used to lower oxygen levels. Therefore, on arrival at Leh take complete rest for 1 to 2 days and then start on with your expedition. It is also good to consult a doctor especially if you suffer from height sickness.
Once all the tips are taken care of, I am sure you will be able to enjoy a much awaited exotic dream vacation.
