Ladakh Trip in Monsoon

Ladakh is a place which has to offer different things through all seasons. So there are multiple advantages when you are planning your trip in Monsoon. The sky is full of clouds and adds a whole lot contrast to the pictures(from photography perspective). The limited greenery is very vibrant during this time and it is almost close to unreal. Although, there are multiple challenges which comes with the advantages. Below are few details which you should be aware about if you are planning your trip in monsoon

1. As both the routes (Srinagar to Leh and Manali to Leh) are opened and also during this time of the year there are lots of holidays and hence you should expect lots of tourists. In short, it will be crowded.
2. PLease keep a close track on the metrological warnings through your entire trip as this is a high altitude region which amplifies the harshness of the weather.
3. Although Ladakh is a rain shadow region as it is surrounded by high mountains from all sides, keep in mind that you’ll be going to the place through a downhill. Also, the global warming have impacted the climate of this region as well and weather becomes highly unpredictable.
4. Expect landslides enroute, lots of water crossings and river crossings. The rains are at its peak during this time of the season and there is mud/slush everywhere. The road conditions are to its worst during this time and rivers starts to flood and water crossing to its full intensity. Landslide is major challenge and is very dangerous which adds up to the harsh conditions.
5. Keep buffer time of atleast 2-3 days in your itinerary when planning during this time of the year as the roads end up being blocked by landslides which sometime takes more than 2 days as well to get cleared.
6. When travelling from Srinagar side, you’ll be facing monsoon challenges until you cross Zozila and from Manali side it will be until Bara-lachala. The roads are at its worst with mud, slush and water everywhere. You need to be cautious while driving.

Well, the above pointers were not to scare you. These are few facts which you cannot turn your back to. We at Desttrail believe being positive all the time is not helpful, infact you should consider worst of the worst situations and plan accordingly and then being positive helps. So, below are few tips in order to plan efficiently.

1. You have to be mentally strong and prepared for all the challenges which you’ll be going through. Be prepared for lots and lots of rains due to the high altitude. Packing your electronics in water proof baggage is a wise decision.
2. Take your time before you are at a water crossing. The currents are strong and cold as f*ck. Observe others and gauge the route before proceeding to avoid being stuck in middle of the crossing. There might be some big rocks in the water which might be a hindrance for your vehicle. Also, during this time the water crossings are majorly muddy which will not let you gauge the depth of water or stones which might be an impact to your tires as well. Hence, take your time and then cross.
   Tip: Get down of your vehicle and plan your route through the stream.
3. Always be alert for landslides and shooting stones. This is especially until Zozi-la and Baralacha-la as it rains a lot until this point and results in lots of landslides and loose rocks. Also, in Nubra valley, the wind currents are strong and the soil is loose which leads to lots of high speed shooting stones.
   Tip for bikers: It is highly advisable to wear helmet all the times, but in this trip please make sure you never get rid of those life savers. Yes, for pillion riders as well.
4. As its monsoon, don’t forget your rain wears. Yes, even if you are travelling by car. Protecting yourself from getting under the weather is really important in order to enjoy your trip.

Tip for bikers: Consider taking gum boots along. It is not too heavy on your pocket as well, if you do not have proper waterproof riding shoes.
General tip: Carry an umbrella. I know, thank me later.

5. Whenever in mountains, sleep early and leave early is something which we can never stop putting emphasis on. This helps in lot of ways like you have more of “light” duration of the day which will ultimately help you to travel more and you’ll be not in a rush to make it some destination as per your plan. It also avoids risk of not driving in dark. During early part of the day, you don’t get strong currents in the water streams and water crossings. The wind current also becomes unpredictable post noon.
6. For people who are traveling by car, please carry a pair of extra wiper blades as those are your biggest weapon during rains and if they stop working(don’t even want you to imagine). For our beloved bikers, carry some tarpaulin to cover your bags(even if it is waterproof – thank us later).

Happy planning!