Ladakh operates on different rules than most Indian destinations — both practically and culturally. Most first-time visitors learn these the hard way. This list is compiled from a decade of guiding travellers through the region.

Altitude — The Non-Negotiables

  • DO rest for 24–48 hours on arrival in Leh, regardless of how fit you are. Altitude affects everyone.
  • DO drink 3–4 litres of water daily. Dehydration accelerates altitude sickness.
  • DO carry Diamox (acetazolamide) — consult your doctor before the trip.
  • DON'T drink alcohol for the first 48 hours in Leh. It dilates blood vessels and worsens altitude effects.
  • DON'T do strenuous exercise on day 1–2. Even a short uphill walk can trigger a headache.
  • DON'T ignore severe symptoms (confusion, loss of coordination, breathlessness at rest). These are signs of HACE/HAPE — descend immediately.

Monastery and Cultural Etiquette

  • DO remove shoes before entering monastery prayer halls.
  • DO walk clockwise around stupas, prayer wheels, and mani walls (the standard Buddhist circumambulation direction).
  • DO dress modestly at monasteries — covered shoulders and knees. Carry a scarf/shawl.
  • DON'T photograph monks or interiors without asking permission. Many monasteries have photography fees.
  • DON'T touch or pick up prayer flags or mani stones.

Environment — Ladakh is Fragile

  • DON'T litter at Pangong Lake, Nubra, or on any mountain pass. Take your waste back to Leh.
  • DON'T use single-use plastic bottles — refill stations exist in Leh. Carry your own water bottle.
  • DON'T disturb wildlife — snow leopards, Tibetan wolves, and bharal (blue sheep) share the landscape.
  • DO use designated campfire spots. Open fires on grasslands are strictly prohibited.

Road and Permit Rules

  • DO carry original photo ID (Aadhaar or passport) at all times. Photocopies are NOT accepted at military checkpoints.
  • DO carry your printed ILP at every checkpoint — digital copies are not always accepted.
  • DON'T drive after dark on mountain passes. Roads are unmarked, unlit, and extremely dangerous at night.
  • DON'T stop vehicles on narrow one-way sections of mountain roads. Follow the lead vehicle.

General Practical Rules

  • Carry cash — ATMs are limited outside Leh town and often out of service.
  • BSNL SIM has the best coverage outside Leh — other networks disappear on mountain roads.
  • Petrol stations are sparse between Manali and Leh — fill the tank at every opportunity.
  • Shops in smaller towns close early (by 9pm) — stock up on medicines and snacks in Leh.