Things to carry for Leh Ladakh Trip is one of the most searched queries when planning a trip to Leh Ladakh.
Ladakh as a travel destination is very different from the rest of the regions in the country. If a visit here is on your cards, you might want to start by curating a list of things to carry for Leh Ladakh trip. This will ensure that you are completely prepped up for this adventure.
While most of what’s on your list of things to carry for Leh Ladakh trip is available in the Leh town, you should try and carry most of them if possible, just to be on the safer side.
Ladakh is home to rugged terrain and extreme weather conditions. For a hassle-free trip, you need to make sure you pack well and do not forget any of the necessities. A well-packed backpack is paramount when travelling to a place like Ladakh.
Things to carry for Leh Ladakh Trip: An Overview
Ladakh is every traveller’s dream destination and one of the most picturesque regions in India. A trip to this cold dessert is bound to leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.
II have tried to cover all the essential things to carry for Leh Ladakh in the current blog, you can add things that you think you might need. However, before I go into the details of things to carry for Leh Ladakh trip, here is a quick overview of the packing list for Leh-Ladakh.
| Top 5 things to carry for Leh Ladakh trip
1. Documents 2. Suitable Clothing & Footwear 3. Emergency Medication 4. Toiletries 5. First Aid Kit |
| Important Documents
ID Proof Permits – ILP or PAP Vehicle Documents Passport & Visa |
| Mobile connectivity
Only BSNL Postpaid Sims work here |
Essential List of Things to Carry for Leh Ladakh Trip
Leh-Ladakh has its own set of travel requirements. From special permits to medicines to deal with altitude sickness, you need to be careful about all the essential things to pack. Here’s a checklist of things to remember while travelling to Ladakh.
1. Must Carry Documents for Ladakh Trip
The first thing to secure your adventure trip to Leh Ladakh is the essential documents. Make sure you pack all of these first.
PermitsCertain areas in Ladakh region are Protected/Restricted including the famous Pangong Tso Lake. In order to visit these places, you need to secure a Permit. Indian Citizens need to obtain an Inner Line Permit (ILP) while foreign nationals need a Protected Areas Permit (PAP). You can either get the permits beforehand or once you reach Leh Town. Carry multiple photocopies of the Permits as they can be collected at the checkpoints. |
Government Issued Identity CardsYou must carry at least one identity card issued by the government. It may be your Passport, Aadhar Card, Driving License or Voter ID Card. Carry the original and a few photocopies. |
Printed ItineraryKeep a few hard Copies of your Leh Itinerary. This would help you when you’re applying for your Permit and also act as a reference during your journey. If you need a backpacking trip Itinerary, this blog will prove useful. |
Passport Size PhotosCarry a few of your Passport Size pictures |
Flight TicketIf you are travelling to Leh by air, carry some copies of your flight tickets |
Hotel ReservationCarry the hotel reservation slips if you have booked your accommodation in advance. |
Medical InsuranceCarry your medical insurance if you have any. |
Emergency Contact ListOn a piece of paper or a small diary, jot down a list of your emergency contact names and phone numbers. Keep this handy with you in case your Mobile phone’s not working. |
2. Luggage to Choose for Le-Ladakh Trip
While choosing the bag you wish to take on your Leh Ladakh Trip, consider the following things:
Backpack or Luggage BagChoose just one backpack or bag which can accommodate all your primary luggage including clothes, shoes, toiletries, etc. While choosing a luggage bag, avoid strollers or heavy suitcases. |
Smaller backpack or Rucksack or bagYou should also carry a smaller backpack or rucksack for everyday travel. In this bag, you can carry your documents, water bottle, snack items, etc. Choose a bag that is waterproof. |
3. Suitable Clothing & Footwear for Leh-Ladakh
You must remember that the weather in Leh Ladakh can be very unpredictable, so you have to stay ready. Ladakh is a cold desert, with warm summers days and cold nights. Winters get extremely cold, especially during nights.
When in Ladakh, it is important to dress in layers. This is because temperatures change quickly here. So, ensure that you have the flexibility to layer up and layer down as and when needed. A good idea would be to buy some thermals. They help keeping warm.
Leh Ladakh Clothing
| Carry Light
The most important thing to remember is to pack light. Make sure you carry the essential things only. You can always mix and match. |
| Carry Layers of Clothing
The trick to staying warm in cold Leh weather is to wear your clothes in layers i.e. one over the other. Not only does it keep you warm, but it also gives you the flexibility of removing layers if you are feeling warm. |
| Comfortable clothes
Don’t pack clothes that are too tight or too heavy. Make sure the clothes you carry are comfortable. |
| Outdoor Activities
If you want to indulge in outdoor activities like trekking, hiking, etc. make sure you pack extra warm stuff like Warm Socks |
| Clothes to Pack for Leh: Checklist
Regular Full Sleeve Cotton T-shirts or Sweatshirts Jeans Comfortable Lowers or Track Pants 3-4 Pairs of Socks 2-3 thermals Light Woolen cardigans/Pullovers/Sweatshirts in summers Heavy Woolens in Winters Light Jacket in summers Heavy jacket in winters Mufflers, Warm Socks, Caps and Gloves in Winters Night Wear- Warm Pajamas or Lowers |
Suitable Shoes
The choice of shoes for Leh Ladakh trip depends on the activities you want to engage in. Here are a few pointers:
| Sneakers or Sports Shoes
Carry comfortable walking shoes like sneakers or sports shoes. Also, try to carry an extra pair of shoes. |
| Winter Shoes
Carry Furry or Insulated Boots in Winters |
| GumBoots
If you are riding a bike, you must carry gumboots or any waterproof boots as there are many streams to cross. |
| Slippers
You can use slippers at the end of the day when you reach your accommodation |
Sturdy shoes are a must for terrain like Ladakh. Invest in your shoes. You’ll soon realise that it was worth spending every penny on them. If you’re going in the winters, make sure especially that your shoes are waterproof. You do not want the snow to seep in.
4. Emergency Medication You Must Carry on your Leh-Ladakh Trip
Since most places in Leh are located at a height of over 10000ft, altitude sickness is a real problem. Therefore, you might need to take some precautionary medicines to prevent altitude sickness.
In case you have some allergy or are suffering from some health condition, please visit a doctor before taking the pills.
| Diamox
It is the most commonly used medicine for dealing with altitude sickness in Leh. Take the medicine a day before you visit a high altitude location, and continue the dose twice a day for a couple of days more. |
| Disprin and Aspirin
Carry medicines like aspirin or disprin to manage the symptoms of AMS, in case you are hit by it. |
| Mild Analgesics
Carry some mild painkillers just in case |
| Other common medicines
Cold and Flu and stomach ache medicines |
| Oxygen Cylinder
You can also carry small oxygen cylinders if you planning to hike or stay at high altitudes. These are light and are easily available at chemist shops and even online. |
5. Toiletries to Pack for the Trip
Even if you do not wish to carry all the toiletries, you’ll be fine. You can find the common things in Leh town itself. But, I personally suggest that you carry most of them with you.
If you are travelling to Leh in winters, carry all your toiletries with you. It is almost impossible to find even the basic things at this time.
| Toothbrush & toothpaste |
| Soap & face wash |
| Hand sanitisers |
| Towel |
| Tissues |
| Shampoo & hair oils |
| Cold cream & moisturizer lotion |
| Vaseline or any other petroleum jelly |
| Lip balm |
| Sunscreen lotion (SPF UV50+) |
| Sanitary napkins or tampons |
| Small looking glass |
| Comb |
| Shaving kit |
6. First Aid Kit You Must Prepare for Leh-Ladakh
A small first aid kit is the most important thing in any traveller luggage. When travelling to Leh, make sure you carry a small first aid kit with basic prescription medicines.
| Antiseptic liquid – Dettol or savlon |
| Cotton |
| Band-aids |
| Bandages and gauze |
| Antiseptic ointment |
| Anti-allergy eye drops |
| Pain relievers-Moov or volini |
| Electrolyte sachets |
| Glucose-Gluon D |
| Iodine-based water purification tablets |
7. Cash Is A Must – Carry
This is one of the most important things to carry for Leh Ladakh Trip. ATMs are very hard to come by in Leh. ATM card machines of SBI, J&K and PNB are available at three places in the Leh market.
Even if you find one, you might be greeted by long lines outside, no cash or non-functioning machines. Most of the shops and small traders will not accept cards or other online payment methods. So, make sure you carry enough cash.
To ensure safety you can keep them tucked away in different places.
8. Gadgets & Electronics Must be a part of your Packing List
A trip to Leh is incomplete without the pictures. Don’t forget to carry your camera or mobile phone because you will be clicking a lot of pictures.
Carry fully-charged devices when you are going out because, at high altitudes, the batteries drain out very quickly
| Phone Charger
Make sure you pack your phone charger. |
| Power Bank
Power Bank, in case you use GPS a lot or click pictures with your phone. |
| 3 socket Belkin Surge Protector
A 3 socket Belkin Surge Protector has 3 sockets, and you can charge multiple gadgets simultaneously. It also protects your devices against power surges. |
| Camera Accessories to carry for Photography in Ladakh
Bag Lenses Battery Charger Spare Battery Extra Memory Cards Tripod Stand |
9. Other Accessories That Need to be in Your Backpack for Ladakh Trip
Other than those mentioned above, here’s a list of other miscellaneous things to carry for Leh Ladakh trip.
UV sunglassesAt high altitudes, UV rays of the sun can be very damaging to the eyes. Buy decent quality sunglasses that are UV protected. You need these both in summers and winters. In winters it is even more important. When the sun shines on the snow-covered mountains, the sun feels all the harsher. Please don’t buy the cheap ones that sell at Rs. 100. You can buy some good ones online at low prices as I did. |
CamphorDealing with AMS in Ladakh can be an issue if you are visiting for the first time. On my trip, some travellers suggested that Camphor is very helpful for dealing with AMS. |
Lavender OilLavender Oil massage helps in dealing with symptoms of altitude sickness. Find out other ways of dealing with AMS in Leh Ladakh. |
SnacksAlways carry some snacks such as biscuits, chocolates and dry fruits for snacking along the way. |
Pen and DiaryCarry a small diary and pen to jot down important contact numbers and addresses. |
TorchCarry a small LED torchlight especially if you are planning to visit far-off places or camping. In some of the famous places like Pangong, there is no power after 10 pm. A torchlight comes handy. |
Plastic zip lock bagsZiplock Bags are really useful to pack up the used clothes. You can also keep your important documents in the bag to keep them safe. |
Safety pinsComes in handy in case of windy conditions. |
ScarvesTo protect you from the harsh sun. |
Multi-tool knife/Swiss knifeA multitool knife is useful, especially during trekking and hiking. |
Water BottleCarry a big water bottle with a capacity of over 1 litre. Remember that plastic bottles are banned in Leh. So, carry a steel or aluminum bottle. Most of the guesthouses in Leh provide you with filtered water. You can fill up your here. Avoid buying plastic mineral water bottles. You can also fill up your water bottles at the Dzomsa Laundry for a small fee. Alternatively, you can use some iodine-based (they work better than chlorine-based tablets) water purification tablets or a good water filter. |
At higher altitudes, risks from UV rays are really high. This is because there is less atmosphere to absorb the rays. Furthermore, snow can make it worse because of reflections. So, make sure you carry a pair of good quality sunglasses, and wear them.
10. SIm Card You Need for Proper Mobile Connectivity in Ladakh
One of the most important things to remember while travelling to Ladakh is that Only post-paid mobile phone connections work here. While you may find airtel connectivity at certain places, BSNL does work in places beyond Leh town.
So, get a BSNL/MTNL post-paid connection
What to Carry for Ladakh Trip in Winters?
While most people visit Leh Ladakh during summers, winters is also an amazing time to be in Ladakh. Ladakh is fast becoming the favourite destination for adventure seekers. The temperatures can dip below minus 20°C, which is not everyone’s cup of tea. However, you get to see some of the most splendid views – the frozen Pangong and Tso Moriri, Frozen treks like Chadar, and the snow-clad mountains.
Here is a list of additional things to remember while travelling to Ladakh during winters.
Heavy JacketA LIGHT JACKET WON’T DO! Get the warmest one available in the market. Make sure it is warm but not tight. You should be able to wear a couple of pullovers inside it. Also, ensure the jacket is a little long (hip length at least) and covers your neck too. |
Heavy WoollensYou also need to carry some heavy pullovers to wear inside the jacket. You can buy it in the market or online. |
Woollen Caps and MufflersCarry a warm cap to cover your head and ears. You should also carry a warm muffler to cover your nose and your mouth. |
BalaclavaA warm thermal fleece balaclava will help you keep your face, ears and mouth protected from the cold Himalayan winds. |
Gloves and warm SocksVery important to keep your hands and feet warm. Buy gloves similar to these. They have warm fur on the inside and waterproof material on the outside. Also, carry at least 2-3 pairs of warm woollen socks. To keep your feet warm, apply some mustard oil and then wear socks. |
ShoesBuy a good pair of hiking or trekking shoes. They should be comfortable with a good base. Buy shoes that are insulated. |
ThermalsCarry at least 2 pairs of thermal inner-wear. |
Walking TrousersBuy some good quality, waterproof walking trousers or pants suitable for hiking. |
CashCarry enough cash. There are no ATMs other than in main towns like Leh, and Kargil. As I mentioned above, even if you do find an ATM, the availability of cash is very bleak. |
EatablesIn winters it is very difficult, rather next to impossible to find eating joints. So, carry enough eatables with you. |
Body lotionDo carry a good body lotion suitable for winters. The air can get very dry, so it’s important to keep your skin moisturized. |
VaselineUse Vaseline on your hands, feet or other parts of the body if they feel dry. |
Toilet Tissue RollsCarry a few of these. You will need them. |
SunglassesAs I said earlier, the sun reflecting from the snow is pretty harsh, so carry a good pair of sunglasses. |
While most people visit Leh Ladakh during summers, winters is also an amazing time to be in Ladakh. Ladakh is fast becoming the favourite destination for adventure seekers. If you’re one of them, spend lots of time preparing yourself and your bag for it.
What to Carry for Leh Ladakh Trip in Summers?
Other than the items I have already covered earlier on in the blog, here’s a month-wise list of things to carry for Leh Ladakh trip:
Things to carry in JuneJune is a pretty pleasant time in Leh- Ladakh. The temperature during the day can soar up to 30°C. Do not forget to carry these: Full sleeve Cotton T-shirts for use during the days Light woollen pullovers for night time A light jacket |
Things to carry in JulyIn the last week of July, monsoons hit the Ladakh region. In addition to other things, carry: A raincoat A light jacket An extra pair of shoes, in case a pair gets wet |
Things to carry in AugustRainy season in its full form during the month of August in Ladakh. During the rainy season, you might have to face mild to heavy rainfall. Add these to your checklist for Leh-Ladakh: A raincoat A light jacket An extra pair of shoes, in case a pair gets wet |
Things to carry in SeptemberThe rainy season in Leh-Ladakh continues up to last week of September. It also starts getting slightly chillier as winters start to approach. Add the following to your bag A Raincoat 1-2 Heavy Woollens A warm jacket A hat to protect yourself from harsh sun rays |
Important Things to Carry for Leh Ladakh For Road Trip
You can choose to travel within Leh-Ladakh in your own car or motorcycle. However, driving in the mountainous can be very challenging. So, make sure you add all the things mentioned below in your list of things to carry for Leh Ladakh trip.
Checklist for Leh-Ladakh Bike Trip
Riding a motorbike in Leh is very different from riding in other regions including the mountainous ones. The treacherous roads can pose quite a task for even the most skilled of riders. If you are planning a Ladakh bike trip, make sure you carry some essential tools and spare parts to prepare for the tough ride ahead. This is in addition to all the things that I have already mentioned above.
Preparing for a biking trip to Ladakh is a completely different ballgame. Not only do you have to take care of your clothing and your backpack, but also the technical know-how of repairing a bike in crisis situations. However, it is most certainly worth it!
Below is a list of things to take on a bike trip to Ladakh, which I have compiled based on my personal experience.
Feel free to add other things that you feel are important, and tell us in the comments section too.
DocumentsYour Driving License PUC or Pollution Check Certificate |
Clothing and Footwear2-3 Pairs of Thermals |
AccessoriesBalaclava to protect your head and face Sunglasses An extra pair of shoes/gumboots in case you wet your shows at river crossings |
Bike EssentialsA good helmet with unscratched visor Protective Gear
|
Spare Parts and ToolsA basic understanding of your bike and fixing minor issues comes handy when travelling across places like Leh. It is very difficult to find a mechanic in Leh in case something goes wrong. Even if you find someone, they might not have the parts for your Model. So, ask your nearest mechanic at home to suggest the parts you should carry. Nonetheless, here is a list of things for Leh-Ladakh Bike trip: Nylon Rope Clutch and Accelerator wire Chain Locks Extra Sparkplug Puncture Repair Kit Chain Locks Engine Oil Fuse Electrical Tape and M Seal Funnel to pour fuel Brake and Clutch Lever Swiss Knife |
Extra FuelThere are not many petrol Pumps in Ladakh, so it is advisable to carry some extra fuel with you. |
Eatables and WaterPlenty of Drinking Water and Snacks/Dry Fruits |
What to Carry for Leh Ladakh Trip by Car?
If you are planning to take your car, the first thing you need to make sure is that it is suitable for Ladakh. You can’t choose a luxury vehicle over an SUV for terrains like these. Take note of the following things when driving in Ladakh.
| Type of Car
The key to choosing the right vehicle is to look out for these attributes 1. Good ground clearance 2. Comfort 3. A Powerful Engine 4. Smaller length |
| Documents
Your Driving License PUC or Pollution Check Certificate |
| Tool Kit and Spare Parts
On your Ladakh trip, you will be travelling in very remote and inaccessible areas, where help might not be available. Make sure that you know fix at least the basic problems in your car like – puncture repair, battery problems Jack and Spanner Air Compressor Foot pump Puncture Repair Kit Spare Tyre Spare Tube Stepney Hydraulic Jack Jump Start Cables Spare Headlight Bulbs Coolant & Engine Oil Spare Clutch Cable and Accelerator Cable Spare Fuses |
| Other Vehicle Essentials
Fuel Pipe Funnel to transfer Fuel Cloth or filter to remove any impurities in Fuel Electrical Tape, Fevi Quick and MSeal Windshield Cleaner Cloth/ Newspaper to clean the windshield Swiss Knife – Very helpful in all situations Some Nuts and Bolts Fire Extinguisher |
| Extra Car Keys
Keep them in your pocket, in case you get locked out |
| Extra Fuel
There are not many petrol Pumps in Ladakh, so it is advisable to carry some extra fuel with you. |
| Eatables and Water
Plenty of Drinking Water and Snacks/Dry Fruits |
A luxury car will not be able to survive the terrains of Ladakh. If you’re planning to drive yourself, make sure you do so in an SUV of the sort. In addition to rough roads, you’ll also have to deal with lots of snow, muck, and water. An SUV is best suited for it.
Key Things to Carry for Leh Ladakh Sightseeing
When out exploring Ladakh, you should carry some important items in your rucksack. Here’s a list of the important things to carry for Leh Ladakh sightseeing:
| Cap or Hat
The sun can be very harsh during the day in Leh. So, make sure you cover your head with a broad brim hat. In winters, use a warm cap to prevent loss of warmth. |
| Water Bottles
Always carry a bottle of water. This will help prevent any dehydration. You can also carry some water purification tablets in case you need to refill your bottle somewhere. |
| Snacks
Exploring Leh involves visiting remote locations. There are hardly any shops in between especially during winters. Therefore, it is a good idea to carry some snacking items like dry fruits, chocolates, biscuits, etc. |
| Sunscreen and Moisturizer
Carry some sunscreen and moisturizer in your bag. You can reapply it when needed. |
| Power Bank
If you are clicking pictures using your mobile phone, carry a power bank |
| Camera
Carry extra battery, lenses and memory cards in your camera bag |
| Cash
The only ATMs you will find are in Leh. So, carry enough cash |
Ladakh offers some of the best trekking and camping experience. Camping amongst the rugged mountains, staring at the night sky are some things no trekker should miss.
Necessary Things to Carry for Leh Ladakh Trekking
| Camping essentials |
| Trekking essentials
Proper Trekking/ Hiking Shoes Raincoat in case it rains |
| Food and water
If you are camping in an offbeat place, make sure you carry all the food items with you. Also, make sure you carry with an adequate amount of drinking water. Dehydration at high altitudes is a serious problem, so make sure you prevent it by regularly drinking water. You can also carry Water Purification – filter, tablets or drops. You can also carry some electrolyte solution or Glucose D to add to your water bottle. |
| Miscellaneous things to carry for Leh Ladakh trekking
Power Bank Lighter or Matchbox Extra warm socks for the night First aid box Toilet paper Hand Sanitizers Soap |
| Oxygen Cylinder for Ladakh Trip
In case you are planning to hike to a very high altitude, you can always carry an oxygen cylinder. These are small in size and very helpful. |
| Cash
The only ATMs you will find are in Leh. So, carry enough cash |
Packing for Ladakh might seem like a mammoth task but know that it’s going to be worth it. If it is for views like these, I would go through the tedious process over and over again. After all, hard work is always rewarded by amazing things.
Crucial Things to Carry for Ladakh Trip: For Special Categories
In case you are travelling to Leh Ladakh with children, elderly or people with mild health conditions, there are certain extra things you need to take care of. These are in addition to the things I have already listed at the beginning of the blog.
Before planning a visit with them, make sure you have consulted your doctor.
What to carry for Leh Ladakh Trip with the Elderly?
| Medicines
Make sure you carry basic medicines and any other medicines prescribed by the doctor. |
| Snacks and water
Carry some snacks and adequate water while travelling within Leh. This will help to keep up the energy levels. You can also add some electrolyte or Glucose D to the drinking water. |
| Proper Clothing
Make sure you are carrying adequate warm clothes for the elderly as they can be sensitive to temperature changes. |
What to carry for Leh Ladakh Trip with Kids?
When travelling to Leh Ladakh with kids, make sure you carry these things:
MedicinesMake sure that you carry any prescription medicines and any other medicines prescribed by the paediatrician |
Snacks and waterCarry some snacks and adequate water while travelling within Leh. This will help to keep up the energy levels You can also add some electrolyte or Glucose D to the drinking water. |
Proper ClothingMake sure you are carrying adequate warm clothes for the elderly as they can be sensitive to temperature changes |
What to carry for Leh Ladakh Trip with people with a mild heart or Lung Condition?
The first thing to remember when travelling with some condition is to check with the doctor. Once you get a go from the doctor, make sure you carry the following things
| Medicines
Make sure that you carry any prescription medicines and any other medicines prescribed by the doctor |
| Oxygen Cylinder
You can carry an extra oxygen cylinder as a safety measure |
Some Handy Packing Tips for Leh-Ladakh Trip
Here are a few packing tips that might come in handy.
| Keep documents’ copies in separate places |
| Carry a light backpack which you can stuff with snacks, water and other small things for day trips. |
| Always keep your spare car or bike key in your pocket. |
| Carry a few Ziplock bags. You can put your dirty laundry in that. You can also keep your documents on in these bags to protect them from rain and water. |
| Instead of Denim, you can pack some comfortable and warm track pants/ lower. Not only are they light but also extremely comfortable and warm. |
| Carry an easy dry small hand towel along with your bathing towel. |
| Instead of carrying big shampoo and conditioner bottles, try and carry sachets |
I have tried to cover most of the things to carry for Leh Ladakh trip. Do let me know in the comments if something has been left out.
And as they say, ” Take only Pictures (Memories), leave only footprints.”
Happy Wayfaring 🙂