Ladakh is one of the dream destinations for many and while visiting the place we should be cautious of the harsh terrains. Below is the list of few things which should be top on the list while packing:
1.Inner thermals
Ladakh is a cold desert and even in summers this region is chilling hence thermal becomes a must. 2 uppers and atleast 1 bottom is recommended.
2.Medicines/First aid kit
Something for fever(Paracetamol), acidity(Eno,Rantec), stomach infection(whatever suits you), painkiller, anti-allergic(Cetirizine), headache(disprine), cuts/wounds(Betadine, band aid, cotton, antiseptic solution). As it is a high altitude place Diamox(medicine for AMS) and for precaution an oxygen can(optional). Although there are military bases all around the places which can provide help in any situation, its better to have the basis medication along. Disclaimer: Please seek medical advise before preparing for the above. Mentioned medicines are generic and may not suit you.
3.Clothes
This is totally subjective and would differ from person to person. Although 2 pair of bottoms(denims/chinos/cargos or anything which you prefer) and 3-4 pairs of uppers t-shirt/shirt/sweatshirt or anything which you prefer). In Ladakh, the winds are chilly and dry so it is advisable to wear clothes in layers as the weather in mountain changes suddenly and it will help you to increase or decrease the layers accordingly. A woolen cap and some extra pairs of socks. Don’t carry similar type of multiple clothes.
4.Wind cheater
As mentioned already, this is a windy region due to the altitude. This is a must on the list. For bikers, the rain cover can be of help and in fact rain cover is very important for everyone.
5.Sunscreen and sunglasses
Due to the altitude and thin atmosphere, in Ladakh, the UV radiation is really harsh for the skin. Prefer something over SPF 50 in sunscreen and sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sunlight and UV.
6.Quilted Jacket
Light weight and compact quilted jack is must as the nights here are really cold and due to the high altitude the days are nothing less. For bikers, if your jackets are thermally insulated you can skip this one.
7.Cash
As Ladakh is a remote place with very poor network connectivity, you might not be able to complete UPI or card payments. It is highly advisable to carry enough cash to last atleast 4 days every time. Click here to check the network connectivity and best network in the region.
8.Mustard oil
I am repeating that again, here the wind are really dry and cold hence it makes your nostrils really dry and it is really painful. Mustard oil helps in lubricating the nostrils. A container 10-30 ml would suffice for your entire trip.
9.Toiletries
Small container of body lotion, body wash, face wash with whatever else you’d like to prefer for your skin care should be considered.
10.High calorie eatables
You should carry some chocolates(snickers) along with some nuts(dry fruits) to munch whenever you are exhausted as you might not get anything for hours. Civilization here is highly sparse. The terrain in Ladakh is challenging and exhausting. You tend to get tired easily also due to low oxygen.
11.Insulated water bottle(steel refillable bottle)
As a tourist, its own responsibility to reduce the carbon prints in serene and beautiful place like Ladakh. This bottle will help you to refill and use water instead of buying new bottle every time you need water. Also, insulated bottle can help you store warm/hot water through your journey. Tip: Keep your self well hydrated to avoid of getting hit by AMS. Here is a an small article to help you understand what is AMS.
12.Spare parts for your bike/car
Extra bulbs(Headlights), some extra chain links(bikes), clutch and brake cables(bikes), puncture kit, extra tube(bikes), tyre inflator(small), engine oil(for cars) and ofcourse the basic tool kit.
13.Camping Tools/equipment
A swiss knife and a small portable torch is really important. Apart from this you can carry some camping equipment along like tent, sleeping bag and all. This is totally optional and if it is possible for you then you can consider this. Although camping in Ladakh have a whole different experience and is safe in Ladakh as well. Here is a list of things to do when camping in Ladakh.
14.Mobile power bank and connectivity arrangements
Due to the nomadic and rustic vibe of the place, the infrastructure in this region is not that great. Electricity can be sometimes a major issue. Power bank to back up your phone battery is must. Also, the prepaid networks outside of J&K doesn’t work here. Here is a list of networks active in Ladakh and regions which have connectivity.
15.Important and emergency contact and Government ID
You should write down list of emergency and important contact information on a paper and keep it along throughout the trip as the batteries of your phone or power bank can exhaust at any point given the extreme weather conditions and it might also help in other emergency situations. Also, as this is a security sensitive region, one should always carry a original photo government ID along with all the relevant documents for your vehicle(PUC, Driver’s License, RC, insurance). Most of the places also require ILP in Ladakh. Know if your itinerary include anything which requires ILP(Inner Line Permit) here.
The above are few things which you should carry on your trip but there are can be multiple other things which can be more useful for you, prioritize accordingly. Ladakh is a place which is full of adventures, but one should be careful and be safe in all circumstances. Here is a list of things you must know before you plan your trip to Ladakh.