Leh

"Plan a minimum of 24 to 48 hours of rest in Leh before any onward travel to higher areas like Pangong or Nubra. Leh sits at roughly 3,500 m, and flying in from sea level means a very abrupt altitude gain. On your first day, avoid exertion, alcohol and smoking, drink water steadily, and keep activity light. Reputable itineraries build this in — one that doesn't is cutting a dangerous corner."

"Leh Palace and Shanti Stupa are the two central landmarks, both offering wide views over the town. Magnetic Hill, the Hall of Fame museum, Gurudwara Pathar Sahib and the Sangam (Indus–Zanskar confluence) form the standard half-day circuit west of town. Leh Bazaar is worth an evening walk once you've acclimatised."

"May to September is the main season, when both the Srinagar–Leh and Manali–Leh highways are typically open and high-altitude areas are accessible. July and August are warmest and busiest. Winter (November to March) is starkly beautiful but very cold, with road access limited and flights the only reliable way in and out."

"Flying into Leh (IXL) is fastest but gives your body no time to adjust, which makes proper acclimatisation on arrival essential. Driving in via Srinagar or Manali takes two days but lets you gain altitude gradually, which many travellers find far more comfortable. If your schedule allows, drive in and fly out."

"Leh town and the immediate circuit need no special permit for Indian nationals. Inner Line Permits are required for protected areas including Pangong, Nubra, Turtuk, Hanle and Tso Moriri. Foreign nationals need a Protected Area Permit for the same regions. Requirements are revised periodically, so confirm current rules before travelling - we arrange permits as part of our Ladakh packages."