Top 10 Famous Offbeat Places in Ladakh

When the Himalayas call, it is difficult to avoid it. If you want to enjoy the raw beauty of the mountain region, you can always keep Ladakh at the top of your bucket list. This is the place where nature comes to you with its untouched beauty.

There are places that are still unexplored or less visited. If you want to have a secluded trip where you can spend time with yourself or your dear ones, you can always choose the offbeat places of Ladakh.

Natural beauty is abundant here and the experience you can have is unmatched by anything. So, for the next trip, you can choose the remote places in Ladakh to have something new to your book of memories.

Table of Contents

List of the Top 9 Offbeat Places in Ladakh:

Here are some of the exclusive offbeat places in Ladakh you should visit once. Read on to know more-

1. Turtuk

To begin the list of the best offbeat places in Ladakh, you can always choose Turtuk first. The stunning beauty of this place is still unknown and can offer something unique to visitors. It is the last village before Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

From the point of view of the location, this small hamlet is situated at the border of Nubra Valley and Baltistan. With only 4000 dwellers, this village is for those tourists who want to be alone on their trip. The colorful apricot gardens will make you happy while the gleaming Shyok River will blow away all your tiredness.

Why Visit: Turtuk is one of the northernmost villages in India, near the Indo-Pak border. Known for its unique Balti culture, stunning landscapes, and apricot orchards, it offers a serene escape.

Things to Do:

Cultural Experience: Interact with the local Balti community and learn about their customs.
Explore the Village: Walk through the scenic village and visit the local monastery.
Photography: Capture the beautiful vistas and apricot orchards.

How to Reach:

By Air: Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, Leh (205 km away).
By Road: Accessible by road from Leh via Khardung La Pass and Nubra Valley.

Check out the Turtuk Package: Ladakh With Turtuk Village 6 Nights 7 Days Itinerary

2. Uleytokpo

If you are an avid nature lover and want to experience serenity and tranquility in Ladakh, arrange a trip to Uleytokpo. Located on the banks of the Indus River, this place is 60km away from Leh. It is one of the oldest cities of Ladakh where you can experience the culture and tradition of the place.

Besides, the stunning natural beauty will keep you mesmerized and you can visit Ladakh in its purest form. Spend a day or two here and go trekking from Uleytokpo. Camping nights will be an awesome experience over here.

Why Visit: Uleytokpo is a tranquil hamlet located on the banks of the Indus River, offering a peaceful retreat with breathtaking views.

Things to Do:

Camping: Stay in riverside camps and enjoy the natural beauty.
Visit Alchi Monastery: Explore one of the oldest monasteries in Ladakh nearby.
Trekking: Enjoy short treks and nature walks in the surrounding areas.

How to Reach:

By Air: Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, Leh (70 km away).
By Road: Accessible by road from Leh via NH1.

3. Zanskar Valley

This place is a paradise for adventure lovers in Ladakh. Though not that much offbeat, this place is mostly visited by adventurists, so you can expect a lesser crowd over here. To have the maximum adrenaline rush, you can enjoy river rafting in the Zanskar River.

Follow the swift descents, go with the high rapids, and pass through the gorges to make your experience full of thrill and fun. Summer is the best time to visit Zanskar Valley as it becomes colorful and verdant. The barren world between the snowy mountains will give you the experience to be in paradise. Read More: Zanskar Valley, Ladakh: Things to Do, How to Reach, Best Time Visit & Weather.

Why Visit: Zanskar Valley is a remote and rugged area known for its dramatic landscapes, adventure activities, and Buddhist monasteries.

Things to Do:

Trekking: Famous for the Chadar Trek (frozen river trek) in winter.
Visit Monasteries: Explore ancient monasteries like Karsha and Phugtal.
River Rafting: Experience thrilling river rafting in the Zanskar River.

How to Reach:

By Air: Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, Leh (462 km away).
By Road: Accessible by road from Leh, with the best approach via Kargil.

4. Basgo

How about enjoying a time travel to the ancient period when Basgo was an affluent village? Yes, once you visit the ruins of this place, you will feel the same. You will find the ravages of 15th-century monasteries and royal palaces.

You will be surprised to visit the Basgo Monastery where you will find the murals on the walls and copper statues of Lord Buddha. Another thing you will find fine here is the hospitality of the local people. It is the warm welcome and the changing color of the mountains around that will make your stay a bit longer in this deserted village.

Why Visit: Basgo is known for its historical and architectural significance, with the Basgo Monastery and ancient ruins offering a glimpse into Ladakh’s past.

Things to Do:

Visit Basgo Monastery: Explore the monastery and its ancient murals.
Historical Ruins: Discover the remnants of the old Basgo fort.
Photography: Capture the picturesque ruins against the dramatic backdrop.

How to Reach:

By Air: Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, Leh (40 km away).
By Road: Easily accessible by road from Leh.

5. Lamayuru

To the tourists who always look for some offbeat places, Lamayuru in Ladakh can be the perfect destination for them. It is a quaint village that is known for its exclusive geographical formation. This place is known as ‘Moonscape’ to travelers and it has one of the oldest monasteries in Ladakh.

The folklore of this place says a scholar used to live in this village around the 11^th Century. Once he prayed to God for all lakes to get dried here. Thus, the water vaporized, and moon-like crates were created. To get introduced to the local culture of Ladakh and have a peaceful time, you can visit this village.

Why Visit: Lamayuru is one of the oldest and largest monasteries in Ladakh, set amidst a surreal lunar landscape known as Moonland.

Things to Do:

Visit Lamayuru Monastery: Explore the monastery and attend the annual festivals.
Moonland: Witness the unique moon-like landscapes.
Trekking: Enjoy trekking routes starting from Lamayuru.

How to Reach:

By Air: Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, Leh (125 km away).
By Road: Accessible by road from Leh via NH1.

Find the Lamayuru Itinerary: 7 Nights 8 Days Leh Lamayuru Kargil Nubra Pangong Package

6. Panamik

When Nubra Valley is ready to amaze you with all its vigor, make some time for this little village near the valley. You won’t be disappointed! There are hot springs with sulphur that make the weather warmer than in surrounding places in Ladakh.

You can take a dip in the hot water to feel refreshed and rejuvenated. For shopaholics, Panamik can be a wonderful destination to buy Tibetan and Kashmiri artifacts.

Why Visit: Panamik is known for its hot springs and scenic views, located in the Nubra Valley close to the Siachen Glacier.

Things to Do:

Hot Springs: Take a dip in the therapeutic hot springs.
Visit Ensa Monastery: Explore the ancient monastery nearby.
Scenic Views: Enjoy the stunning landscapes and mountain views.

How to Reach:

By Air: Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, Leh (140 km away).
By Road: Accessible by road from Leh via Khardung La Pass.

7. Hanle

To name the next offbeat places to visit in Ladakh, Hanle will always be on the list. Located in the Changthang district of Ladakh, this place will make you fall in love at first sight.

Hanle has only 300 people with the beautiful Hanle Monastery. As the village is located on the Tibetan/Chinese border, visitors require special permission to visit this village.

Why Visit: Hanle is a remote village known for the Hanle Monastery and the Indian Astronomical Observatory, one of the world’s highest observatories.

Things to Do:

Visit Hanle Monastery: Explore the monastery and its surroundings.
Stargazing: Experience stargazing at the Indian Astronomical Observatory.
Photography: Capture the clear night skies and breathtaking landscapes.

How to Reach:

By Air: Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, Leh (254 km away).
By Road: Accessible by road from Leh.

8. Rangdum Village

Rangdum is a quaint Buddhist village, located in Suru Valley. The jaw-dropping sceneries of Rangdum will take you to another world. While the snowy mountain soothes your eyes with its vastness, it is the glaciers that satisfy your soul deeply.

Besides those, you should also visit the Rangdum Monastery which is 200 years old. When your soul is too troubled and you need to find your inner peace, Rangdum is the place that can help you rejuvenation.

Why Visit: Rangdum is a remote village in the Suru Valley, known for its stunning landscapes and the Rangdum Monastery.

Things to Do:

Visit Rangdum Monastery: Explore the 18th-century monastery.
Trekking: Enjoy trekking routes in the surrounding areas.
Photography: Capture the dramatic landscapes and serene environment.

How to Reach:

By Air: Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, Leh (350 km away).
By Road: Accessible by road from Kargil, which is the nearest major town.

9. Sumur

If you love hiking, this is an out-of-the-box place to enjoy your trip. Located on the banks of the Nubra River, Sumur is a small village that can make your trip happen. You will find numerous trails here to lead you to other villages at high altitudes.

If you have rigorous training in mountaineering, you can visit the place. Don’t forget to visit Samastangling Gompa which is newer than the other monasteries in Ladakh which are dated back 16^th and 17^th Centuries.

Why Visit: Sumur is a picturesque village in the Nubra Valley, offering tranquility and beautiful views of the Shyok River.

Things to Do:

Visit Samstanling Monastery: Explore the monastery and its tranquil surroundings.
Sand Dunes: Visit the nearby sand dunes at Hunder.
Village Walks: Enjoy peaceful walks through the village and along the river.

How to Reach:

By Air: Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, Leh (120 km away).
By Road: Accessible by road from Leh via Khardung La Pass.

These are some of the places you can visit in Ladakh when you want something different. Research thoroughly and then make your plan for a Ladakh trip. Be prepared with the basic things you need to carry during the trip.

Check more about the Ladakh:

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What are some hidden gems in Ladakh?

Some hidden gems in Ladakh include Uleytokpo, Turtuk, and Hanle.

2. Can you name some hidden places to visit in Leh Ladakh?

Hidden places to visit in Leh Ladakh include the villages of Sumur, Panamik, and the Zanskar Valley.

3. What are some offbeat places in Ladakh?

Offbeat places in Ladakh include the remote areas of Hemis, Uleytokpo, and Dah Hanu.

4. Which offbeat places can be explored in Leh?

In Leh, you can explore places like the Hemis Monastery, Alchi Monastery, and the village of Sakti.

5. What is an offbeat Ladakh itinerary?

An offbeat Ladakh itinerary might include visiting Uleytokpo, Turtuk, Sumur, and the Zanskar Valley, avoiding the more touristy spots.

6. What are some unexplored places in Ladakh?

Unexplored places in Ladakh include Changthang, Dha-Hanu, and the hidden lakes of Tso Kar.

7. What is unique about Uleytokpo Ladakh?

Uleytokpo is known for its serene environment, beautiful landscapes, and opportunities for nature walks and meditation.

8. What can I do in Uley Ladakh?

In Uley, you can enjoy activities like trekking, bird watching, and visiting ancient monasteries.

9. Are there any offbeat places near Leh?

Yes, offbeat places near Leh include the village of Basgo, and the monasteries of Likir and Rizong.

10. What offbeat things can I do in Leh?

Offbeat things to do in Leh include visiting the Magnetic Hill, exploring the less-known monasteries, and taking a walk through the local markets.

11. Is Hanle in Ladakh worth visiting?

Yes, Hanle is worth visiting for its stunning night skies, observatory, and the remote Hanle Monastery.

12. How can I reach offbeat places in Ladakh?

Most offbeat places can be reached by road from Leh using private taxis or rented bikes. Some remote areas may require special permits.

13. Are there any cultural experiences in offbeat Ladakh?

Yes, you can experience the unique cultures of the Brokpa community in Dha-Hanu and the traditional lifestyle in Turtuk.

14. What are the benefits of visiting offbeat places in Leh Ladakh?

Visiting offbeat places offers a more peaceful experience, a chance to see untouched nature, and an opportunity to understand the local culture better.

Best Offbeat Places in Ladakh to Make Your Trip Memorable