At 3524m Leh really is at the end of the world.  You'll know if because it is dry and barren not to mention the lack of oxygen may be a real problem for some. If you fly to Leh you are likely to get altitude sickness. The idea is lie still for three days and hopefully you will recover. It is a roll of the dice if you recover in two days or in two weeks or at all. So it is not recommended to fly unless you are a local. It is safer by road, still remember you must spend at least one week acclimatizing from 2000m onward or run the risk of catching AMS and ruining your trip.

The Good: High above India, your in different world! Tibetan culture, Ancient Monasteries, mountain moon capes, steam momo's, yak butter

The Bad: Touristy place, Indians and foreigners flock here in the season to escape the heat. Dry and Dusty.

The Ugly: Altitude sickness is very likely if you rush up there. Many people have had their trips ruined by altitude problems in Ladak.  If you aren't acclimatizing well then you'll have to go down to Kargil and acclimatize there.

OVERALL RATING: 86%

Use the map below and go into Earth to see this live. Use the map below and go into Earth to see this live.

Ways to get to Leh:

1. Via Srinagar, Kargil, then Leh.  This is a good way but the area may have military tensions. Better via Pahalgam as shown on the map. You can fly (NewDelhi-Jammu) (or NewDelhi-Srinagar) or just take the train to Jammu. From there a taxi or shared jeep to Pahalgam.

2. Via Manali, Rothang, Keylong , Sardu, Leh and two day jeep ride, this goes over four 5000m passes, so even worse! Expect to see lots of up chucking on this trip. Road is open approximately May 15- September 30.

3. Via Kaza 3600m first Shimla, - Recong Peo, Tabo, Kaza, Losar, Rothang, Keylong, Sardu, Leh. This is a good way because you acclimatize slowly. Takes longer.

I don't recommend anyone fly to Leh. Flying back from Leh however makes perfect sense.

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