In Leh Ladakh, October is a magical month as autumn gradually gives way to winter. With the leaves falling, the mountains appear golden, and the cool air creates a serene atmosphere. Leh Ladakh in October is comparatively less crowded because tourists begin to depart after September, and this allows them to have more time to take in the breathtaking scenery. The roads are still open, unlike during the peak winter months, and this makes travelling possible. Without a rush, you can see blue lakes, high mountain passes and monasteries. A Leh Ladakh trip in October is like stepping into a serene, spiritual realm. It is the ideal destination if you're looking for a place that brings peace together with beauty. Now, let us explore everything that you need to know about the trip to make it all the more exciting!
Leh Ladakh Weather in October
Leh Ladakh starts getting really cold in October. The temperature in Leh Ladakh in October can drop to -5°C or even lower at night, and the average daytime temperature remains between 5°C and 15°C. The chilly winds make it feel colder, but the skies are still largely clear, providing breathtaking views of the mountains. Although snowfall may begin in higher passes, roads to locations such as Nubra Valley and Pangong Lake are typically open until the end of the month. Travellers need to be well-prepared and wear warm clothing due to the abrupt drop in temperature. Because of the weather, explorers find Leh Ladakh to be both beautiful and challenging in October.
Routes Accessible in Leh Ladakh in October
Leh Ladakh in October is a beautiful time to visit. The colours of autumn shine across the valleys and the roads are usually open till late October. The travellers can thus enjoy a chance to enjoy drives through high passes. Flights also run regularly and this makes travel smooth and comfortable overall.
Manali-Leh Highway: Open in early October; perfect for one last scenic drive before passes close mid-month
Srinagar-Leh Highway: Usually open for most of October; a safer route with lovely mountain views
Local Roads: Roads to Nubra, Pangong and Tso Moriri often stay open; access to top attractions
Air Travel: Flights to Leh run smoothly; flying is the easiest and most reliable option
Border Roads: The BRO works daily to clear snow; important routes are kept open for travellers
Top 10 Places to Visit in Leh Ladakh in October
Leh Ladakh in October shines with golden valleys and snow-dusted peaks- every spot is picture-perfect. From monasteries to high-altitude lakes, the region’s beauty in autumn feels peaceful as well as surreal. Let us now have a look at the places to visit in Leh Ladakh in October.
1. Pangong Lake
Pangong Lake, also known as Pangong Tso, sits at an altitude of about 4,225 meters and stretches across India and Tibet. In October, much of the lake freezes, including the Indian side, creating a stunning icy scene that contrasts with summer's shimmering blue. The elevated land, surrounded by brown and grey mountains, feels peaceful and magical. The snow is quiet, the air is crisp and walking on the frozen Pangong lake feels like stepping into another world.
Location: 160 km from Leh
Timings: Open all day
Entry Fee: Inner Line Permit required
2. Nubra Valley
Nubra Valley, located around 150 km from Leh, features frozen deserts in winter, with crops of mustard and barley peeking through the frost. Diskit Monastery, perched on a hill, looks solemn and striking in the golden light of October, overlooking these icy plains. You might even encounter Bactrian camels resting in the snowy fields. If the roads are open, it’s a joyful, peaceful winter landscape that feels both wild and inviting.
Location: 150 km from Leh via Khardung La
Timings: Open all day
Entry Fee: Inner Line Permit required
3. Magnetic Hill
Magnetic Hill is an intriguing site where cars seem to roll uphill on their own, due to an optical illusion. This “gravity-defying” road sits at around 14,000 feet and fascinates people of all ages. The area is surrounded by mountains and adjacent to the Indus River, creating a dramatic and calm atmosphere. It adds a sense of fun and wonder to October road trips.
Location: 27 km from Leh on Srinagar-Leh road
Timings: Open all day
Entry Fee: Free
4. Shanti Stupa
Shanti Stupa is one of the best places to visit in Leh Ladakh in October. It is a beautiful white dome constructed by Japanese monks as a symbol of peace. In October, it looks enchanting with snow-capped mountains behind it and a golden sunset over Leh town. The cool breeze and tranquil ambiance make it ideal for meditation or photography. From the top, you can enjoy panoramic views of Shanti stupa Leh ladakh and the surrounding Himalayas, which appear especially stunning in autumn light.
Location: Changspa, Leh
Timings: 5:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free
5. Tso Moriri
Tso Moriri, at an altitude of 4,522 m, is quieter than Pangong and is encircled by arid mountains that become golden brown in October. Migratory birds usually visit this place until early winter and the frosted rim of the lake is a picture to behold. The peaceful water mirrors the snow-clad peaks, rendering it one of the most serene spots to be enjoyed by tourists in Leh Ladakh in October. It is quite cold at nights here during October but the night sky is simply stunning.
Location: 220 km from Leh (Changthang Plateau)
Timings: Open all day
Entry Fee: Inner Line Permit required
6. Khardung La
Khardung La, one of the highest motorable passes in the world at 5,359 meters, remains open in Leh Ladakh in October and you might see fresh snow here. Crossing this pass is an adventure, surrounded by endless peaks and winding roads that provide thrilling views of the valleys below. The crisp air, fluttering prayer flags and sudden snow showers enhance the experience. It also serves as the gateway to Nubra Valley, allowing travelers to enjoy both the journey and the destination.
Location: 40 km from Leh
Timings: Open during daylight hours
Entry Fee: Inner Line Permit required
7. Hemis Monastery
Hemis Monastery, the largest in Ladakh, sits beautifully in Hemis village against a backdrop of rugged mountains. In October, the monastery offers a peaceful vibe, with fewer tourists and clear blue skies. It features grand courtyards, colorful murals and ancient relics, including a statue of Padmasambhava. The calm setting, where you can often see monks chanting or meditating, adds a spiritual charm to the visit.
Location: 40 km from Leh
Timings: 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM, 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: ₹50
8. Zanskar Valley
Zanskar Valley in October combines golden landscapes with icy rivers. The valley's villages glow with the colors of autumn, while the mighty Zanskar River starts to freeze along its edges. The surrounding mountains shine under soft sunlight, making it ideal for trekking and photography. Although the popular Chadar Trek begins later in winter, October reveals early signs of icing on the river, offering a magical preview.
Location: 463 km from Leh
Timings: Open all day
Entry Fee: Free
9. Alchi Monastery
Alchi Monastery, built in the 11th century, is one of the oldest Buddhist sites that tourists must visit in Leh Ladakh in October. Unlike many monasteries on hills, Alchi is located on flat land near the Indus River, which makes it unique. In October, its ancient wall paintings and wooden carvings stand out even more in the soft autumn light. The quiet atmosphere and colorful prayer wheels create a sense of lasting calm, ideal for travelers seeking history and peace.
Location: 70 km from Leh (Alchi village)
Timings: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: ₹25
10. Leh Palace
Leh Palace, built in the 17th century, is a nine-story building overlooking the entire town. In October, the palace stands against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks and is thus a great spot for photographers. The palace museum showcases old paintings, jewelry and royal artifacts, providing insights into Ladakh’s history. From the upper floors, visitors can enjoy sweeping views of Leh and the Indus Valley, particularly beautiful under clear autumn skies.
Location: Namgyal Hill, Leh
Timings: 7:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Entry Fee: ₹20 (Indians), ₹100 (Foreigners)
Things to Do in Leh Ladakh in October
Leh Ladakh in October is a time to enjoy crisp air, clear skies and special adventures that feel even better in autumn. Here are some of the best things to do in Leh Ladakh during October!
1. Enjoy Autumn Photography
One of the best activities in Leh Ladakh in October is photography. The valleys turn golden, rivers sparkle in the autumn sun and snow-capped mountains serve as breathtaking backdrops. The October skies are clearer than ever, providing perfect lighting conditions for photographers. Villages surrounded by colorful poplar and willow trees add charm to every shot. Whether it’s landscapes, monasteries or wildlife, this season showcases Ladakh at its most dramatic and camera-friendly.
2. Experience Stargazing
Stargazing is one of the most magical experiences in Leh Ladakh in October. The night skies are crystal clear, free of pollution and humidity, providing dazzling views of constellations and the Milky Way. The cold, calm nights make the stars appear brighter, creating great conditions for astrophotography. Many travelers camp outdoors or visit remote areas around Hanle or Pangong to enjoy uninterrupted night skies. This month is perfect for anyone who loves exploring the mysteries of the universe.
3. Try Local Cuisine
Exploring local food is another delightful option in Leh Ladakh during October. The chilly evenings are perfect for warming up with hot bowls of thukpa, plates of momos or traditional dishes like skyu and tingmo. Butter tea, with its salty, creamy flavor, becomes especially comforting as temperatures drop. Local cafes and homestays serve authentic meals that feel homey and nourishing. Travelers also enjoy bonding with locals over shared meals, making dining about more than just taste—it’s also about culture.
4. Go Trekking
For those who love adventure, trekking is one of the most rewarding activities in Leh Ladakh in October. While longer trails may close by late October due to snow, shorter treks around Sham Valley, Lamayuru and Markha Valley remain open in the first half of the month. The trails bloom with golden autumn hues, creating unforgettable landscapes. With fewer tourists, the paths are peaceful, offering a rare opportunity to enjoy the untouched beauty of Ladakh almost entirely to yourself
5. Attend Local Festivals
Joining monastery festivals is a cultural highlight and one of the most unique experiences in Leh Ladakh in October. Monasteries like Thiksey and Spituk host colorful events where monks perform masked dances, locals wear traditional attire and rituals honor ancient Buddhist customs. These festivals offer travelers insights into Ladakhi spirituality and lifestyle. The calmer tourist flow in October allows you to enjoy the celebrations up close, interact with monks and capture amazing moments without the rush of large crowds.
6. Try Mountain Biking
Adventure enthusiasts find mountain biking in Ladakh to be one of the most exciting activities in Leh Ladakh in October. The roads are open in early October, allowing bikers to ride through breathtaking landscapes, winding passes and valleys aglow with autumn colors. Routes like Leh to Khardung La are particularly popular, with spectacular views around every turn. The cool weather and reduced crowds make biking in October both enjoyable and adventurous. For many travelers, cycling in this region becomes a once-in-a-lifetime experience worth every effort
7. Go Camping
Camping in Leh ladakh beneath skies is another unforgettable activity in October. The month offers stable weather before winter fully arrives, making it perfect for setting up tents near Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley or Tso Moriri. Nights can be cold but manageable with the right gear, rewarding campers with starry skies and stunning morning views. October camping is quieter as tourist numbers decrease, allowing for deep solitude and a stronger connection with the region’s natural beauty.
Travel Tips for Leh Ladakh in October
October is a beautiful time to explore Leh Ladakh. However, if you're travelling in the mountains, you need good planning. The weather shifts quickly in Leh Ladakh in October and you need to be ready for high-altitude conditions. Listed below are a few travel tips that will help you enjoy a safe and memorable trip.
Pack warm jackets, thermals, gloves and mufflers as clothes to wear in Leh Ladakh in October should keep you comfortable in temperatures that can drop below freezing
Always carry medicines for altitude sickness, motion sickness and cold
Keep cash in hand since ATMs are few and may not always work
Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and adjust better to the altitude
Keep buffer days in your itinerary as weather may delay travel
Carry power banks and extra batteries since cold drains them quickly
Stick to a light and balanced diet to avoid digestion problems at high altitude
Hire local drivers who know the roads well and can handle sudden weather changes
Avoid alcohol and smoking in the first couple of days to acclimatise better
Respect local traditions and be mindful when visiting monasteries or villages
Conclusion
With snow-capped peaks, clean mountain air and fewer tourists than during the busiest time of year, visiting Leh Ladakh in October is the greatest choice one can ever make. October provides the ideal mix of tranquility and beauty- be it through the exploration of monasteries and glistening lakes or engaging in exhilarating sports like biking and trekking. October is your opportunity to cross Ladakh off your bucket list. Begin organizing your trip to Leh Ladakh this October right away and allow the allure of the mountains to leave you with lifelong memories.
