Ladakh in December

Traveling to Ladakh in December is often thought to be an off-limit thing. It can’t be accessed through any roads, but once you reach Leh, the internal routes will be cleared. Army people keep clearing the snow from the road daily. But still, there are a few things you wouldn’t be able to do, like enjoying a road trip; you will have to be prepared for extreme winter conditions, you cannot go unplanned, and you will have to be very careful while creating your Ladakh itinerary. There is always an uncertainty during the trip. However, if you plan your trip with Leh Ladakh India, you can enjoy a hassle-free experience. They offer customizable tours, with experts caring for all the facilities, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey.

Like any other traveler, your journey to Ladakh in December begins with a flight to Leh at Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport. Ladakh in December is a paradise for adventure enthusiasts, offering a plethora of heart-pounding activities. From trekking to the Chang La pass to the exhilarating Frozen River Trek or Chadar Trek, Ladakh in December is an adventure waiting to be experienced. This guide covers all the significant aspects you should be concerned about and should cover, ensuring you're fully prepared for the unique and thrilling experiences that await.

Note: Summers are Ladakh's peak tourism season, and during that time, you might face problems finding eateries and accommodation in certain areas. Therefore, this Leh-Ladakh travel guide will help you plan your trip during December. 

We have answered your every question regarding traveling to Ladakh in December. Scroll On!

Is Ladakh safe to travel in December?

This is the first thing that pops up in a traveler’s head when considering traveling to Ladakh in December. But if you are worried about the same, the answer is “yes.” Ladakh is safe to travel anytime in the year. However, you must keep a few things in mind, like clothes, AMS, and pre-planning the trip, as the Ladakh temperature in December falls between -13°C and -15°C.

Read this guide to Ladakh travel in December to learn more about planning a comfortable winter trip.

How to reach Ladakh in December?

Indeed, the two major roads that connect Leh Ladakh with other cities of India remain closed during the winter seasons. From October to mid-November (depending on the weather), the Leh-Manali Highway and the Srinagar-Leh Highway remain closed until May. But that shouldn’t be disheartening because Leh Airport remains functional throughout the year.  The temperature in Leh Ladakh in December ranges from 5°C to - 15°C. Adventure-seeking honeymoon couples and solo travelers constantly visit Leh Ladakh in winter via airways. 

Ladakh By Flight in December

Regular flights are the only way to reach Ladakh in December. After that, all the major internal routes connecting Pangong, Zanskar, Tso Moriri, Nubra, and other attractions remain open throughout the year.

How will the transportation be in Ladakh in December? 

This is the first thing that concerns you while ideating the entire Ladakh trip. However, the internal circuits are open throughout the year, and snowfall can occur. Although the Indian Army works hard to clear the roads, one should always be prepared for uncertainty. But when you plan your journey with Leh Ladakh India, you don’t have to fret over the transportation. Our experts will handle all the chaos of local transportation, ensuring you a smooth Ladakh holiday. 

Note: Travelers should keep a few days of buffer during their trip.

Travel to Leh Ladakh in December by bike or bus

There are a few bike renting shops that you might find open even in December. Apart from this, you will have to visit the Leh bus station to learn about the buses' availability, routes, and times. This needs to be done as a priority when you reach Leh. Traveling to the top attractions in Leh Ladakh via buses is a budget-friendly option. Although it is not advised to travel on a bike because of the harsh climate, you will still find several avid bikers commuting on bikes.

If you want to enjoy sightseeing and click pictures without the hassle of riding or driving, you can easily hire a cab (SUV) from the taxi corner in Leh. It is one of the best ways to travel in Leh-Ladakh during winter. Moreover, when you hire a cab, you can stop by any place you wish for some photography sessions. Additionally, there are a lot of cab drivers who help travelers get decent accommodations at the attractions where they want to stay.

Tip: When traveling to Ladakh in December, keep in mind that the days fall earlier. Arranging accommodation and food should also be done during the day. Nights are going to be colder.

What are the places that can be visited in Ladakh in December?

The next important thing in your plans should be to know the places to visit in Ladakh in December. This will help you understand the open areas to create an extensive Ladakh tour in December. 

Although we have already discussed that the inner circuit of Leh-Ladakh remains open throughout the year, it is still essential to know the list. So, here are the places you can visit on your trip to Ladakh in December.

• Nubra Valley
• Pangong Tso
• Tso Moriri
• Indus Valley
• Sham Valley
• Lamayuru
• Kargil

Note: Please note that when you plan to visit any of these attractions, the roads might be closed for a few days due to heavy snowfall. So, having buffer days before embarking on your Ladakh expedition is better.

Khardung La and Chang La are two high-altitude passes where heavy snowfall for days is average during winters. To visit the other side of Leh, you need to cross these passes, and that’s why buffer days are essential.

Changthang, Hanle, and Chushul are a few places that are ‘out of bounds’ during winters because the temperature can drop to -40 degrees.

If you wish to drive or ride on your own, ensure with the locals about the road conditions and the weather. More or less, the entire trip to Ladakh in December is going to be chilly and daunting.

What will be the accommodation options in Ladakh in December?

Another concern for travelers is finding accommodation at various places. This can be tricky, but it can be easily managed while planning your trip with Leh Ladakh India. Our packages include comfortable stays, delicious meals, and swift transfers, ensuring you're well-prepared and at ease during your trip. 

Though there won’t be extensive options during summers, you will still find a decent number of operational homestays and hotels. For Leh, it is advised to make the bookings before embarking on the journey. Most hotels and homestays close during the winter months.

Tip: The best place to stay in Leh is in the hotels near Fort Road.

Accommodation options in Leh in December

If you struggle to find accommodation in Leh during your winter trip, here are a few options. These hotels have all the facilities, including toiletries.

• Hotel Tso Kar
• Padma Hotel
• Shanti Hotel
• Oriental Guesthouse

Check out: A Complete list of Popular Hotels in Leh for a cozy stay.

Accommodation options around Pangong Tso in December

Finding a place to stay in the camp colony is very unlikely. The best way to stay near the lake is to book a room at the Merak, Spangmik, and Man homestays. These are the nearest staying options around Pangong Lake in December. You will find a few families staying here, and they will gladly give travelers a room or two. They will charge a small fee and also provide you with the meals. If the temperature becomes unbearable for you at these places, you can go to Tangtse. It would be a better place for you in such situations.  

Accommodation options around Tso Moriri in December

Tso Moriri is another top-notch attraction in Ladakh that many travelers visit annually. Even the adverse climate conditions haven’t stopped them from visiting here. Finding travelers during December is also a usual sight now. So, if you plan to visit Ladakh in December and stay around Tso Moriri, the best place is to stay at Korzok. Several homestays are available here because the villagers live here around the year.

An alternative for you is Chumathang, where you can comfortably get a place to sleep. This place is also known as the hot spring town, and you can find a centrally heated resort there. To learn more about the hotels near Tso Moriri, visit here!

Accommodation options in Nubra Valley in December

A prime destination that travelers love to visit is the Nubra Valley. This valley is at a lower altitude than Leh. Therefore, the temperature is generous here. If you travel to Ladakh in December, Nubra Valley is ideal. You would find extensive options (most in numbers in winter.) Apart from Diskit, you can also find homestays at Turtuk and Hunder. To learn more about the hotels in Nubra Valley, visit here!

Accommodation options around the Indus Valley Region in December

Finding accommodation in the Indus Valley is relatively easy, even in winter. Villagers offer a number of guesthouses and homestays in Domkhar, Khaltse, and Garkone. Also, finding a place at Alchi, Kargil, Likir, and Lamayuru will not be at all difficult.

Accommodation options around Sham Valley in December

Those travelers planning to stay at Sham Valley can look for accommodation at Hemis Skupachan, Yanthang, and Timisgam. Few homestays at these places are open for tourists throughout the year. Villagers do live here, and you can ask them for help. They will charge you a small amount and also provide meals.

Major attractions to visit in Ladakh in December

Although the significant inner circuit of Ladakh is open even in December, you still need to choose the attractions properly. Here are some top places where you can enjoy during your trip.

• Shanti Stupa
• old Jama Masjid
• Leh Palace
• Tsemo Fort
• Alchi
• Likir
• Spituk
• Kargil
• Basgo Fort
• Gurudwara Pathar Sahib
• Nimmo
• Magnetic Hill
• Hemis Monastery
• Thikse Monastery
• Shey Monastery
• Stok Monastery
• Matho Monastery
• Chemrey Monastery

What should be packed when visiting Ladakh in December

Dressing is an essential factor that cannot be compromised or neglected at any cost. You might have heard about layered dressing in Ladakh. That’s going to be vital in winter. The Leh Ladakh temperature in December can drastically change, which is why layered dressing is essential and the key to a comfortable trip. Apart from this, there are other important things that you should not forget while packing your bags.

Jackets

Having a down jacket in your backpack before leaving for Ladakh will be a lifesaver. It is ideally made to withstand a temperature of -20 degrees. It will keep you in your comfort zone for most of your trip.

Lower

While most people focus on covering the upper body, you do not have to neglect the same for your lower body. Wearing a lower that will keep you warm and insulated from cold is of utmost importance.

Trekking shoes

You don’t necessarily have to buy snow trekking shoes because your regular trekking shoes can also work fine. Just an extra pair of socks. Wearing two layers of woolen socks is ideally recommended.

Gloves and caps

Covering your palms and head is essential to ensure warm gloves and caps. This is crucial because it reduces the loss of warmth from your body.

Sunglasses and moisturizer

In Ladakh, winter can dry out skin, so carrying a moisturizer is also essential. Protecting your eyes from sunlight is also vital, so wearing sunglasses (polaroids) can help.

Also Read: Things to Carry for Your Ladakh Winter Trip 2022: A Complete Guide

Chadar Trek in December

The majority of adventure enthusiasts who travel to Ladakh in December have one thing in mind, and that’s enjoying the Chadar Trek. The biggest attraction of Ladakh in Zanskar Valley is this trekking in December, which attracts a lot of adventure enthusiasts from around the world. People walk on the frozen river and enjoy the thrill of this December trekking.

General tips you need to keep in mind while traveling in December

• Preplan everything so that you know what to do next. Being clueless can be dangerous, unlike during the summer season.
• AMS is also important, so ensure you acclimate well before leaving for other attractions.
• Keep yourself hydrated throughout the trip so that you enjoy it thoroughly.
• Keep some snacks in your bag to eat small portions now and then.
• You will be going to a higher altitude, so keeping a dark chocolate bar in your pocket will also be helpful.
• The networks will also be a problem throughout the territory. BSNL and Airtel have some connectivity.