Quick Answer
What to pack for Ladakh: layers for cold mornings and strong sun, a down jacket for the passes, sun protection, medicines for altitude, documents and cash, by season.
Ladakh is a high desert. In summer, the midday sun is intense while passes like Khardung La and Chang La can be near freezing, and nights at Pangong drop below zero. Packing in layers is the key.
Quick answer
Pack thermal layers, a fleece, a warm down or padded jacket, a windproof outer layer, a warm cap and gloves, sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen and lip balm, a refillable water bottle, any prescription medicines, ID, cash, and a power bank. In winter add heavy insulated layers and boots.
Clothing by season
| Season | Days | Nights and passes | Pack |
|---|---|---|---|
| June to August | Warm, strong sun | Cold at the passes and lakes | Light layers, fleece, padded jacket, cap and gloves |
| September | Mild, clear | Near or below freezing at lakes | Add a warmer jacket and thermals |
| October | Cool | Well below freezing | Down jacket, thermals, warm boots |
| November to March | Cold | Far below freezing | Full winter layers, insulated boots, heavy gloves |
Essentials
- Sunglasses with UV protection, SPF 50 sunscreen and lip balm
- Refillable water bottle; drink often
- Prescription medicines plus a basic kit; ask your doctor about altitude medicine
- Government ID, and copies for permits and checkpoints
- Cash: ATMs are limited outside Leh
- Power bank: power may be limited at lakes and camps
- Postpaid mobile connection: prepaid SIMs from other states do not work in Ladakh
For specific trips
Trekkers need broken-in boots and a sleeping bag; the Chadar trek needs full winter gear. Riders need protective gear; see the bike trip guide.
Leh sits at about 3,500 m. Spend your first 36 to 48 hours resting in Leh before going higher, drink plenty of water, and avoid alcohol. Anyone with a heart or lung condition should ask their doctor before travelling.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I wear in Ladakh in summer?
Light layers for the day, plus a fleece and padded jacket for the passes and evenings, a cap and sunglasses.
Do I need a down jacket for Ladakh in summer?
A warm padded or down jacket is useful for Khardung La, Chang La and nights at Pangong, even in July.
Does my prepaid SIM work in Ladakh?
Prepaid SIMs from outside Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh generally do not work there. Use a postpaid connection.
Written by Via Kashmir Editorial Team
Last checked 2026
Via Kashmir is a Srinagar-based travel company built around one goal: giving travellers the best possible Kashmir experience. Our team puts together the best-priced hotels, cabs, Kashmir tour packages, and adventure packages with real sports activities, drawing on daily, on-the-ground knowledge of Kashmir's roads, weather, and seasons. Every guide on this site is written and checked by our local Srinagar team.