Packing for Leh Ladakh requires more thought than most Indian trips. The altitude (3,500m–5,400m), cold nights even in summer, UV radiation, and remoteness from medical facilities mean you need specific items that are useless on beach holidays. This packing list is based on what we actually carry and what our guests have learned the hard way.
Leh Ladakh Packing List — Master Checklist
| Category | Items |
|---|---|
| Clothing | 3–4 base layer t-shirts, 2 thermal sets, 1 fleece jacket, 1 down/puffer jacket, 1 windproof outer jacket, 2 trekking trousers, 1 warm sleeping pyjama, 4–5 pairs woollen socks, warm gloves, wool beanie, sun hat, neck gaiter |
| Footwear | Ankle-support trekking shoes (mandatory), flip-flops for guesthouses |
| Medical | Diamox (acetazolamide) 250mg — ask your doctor, Dolo 650 / paracetamol, ORS sachets, Avomine (motion sickness), antiseptic cream, bandages, pulse oximeter, personal prescription medicines + extra supply |
| Documents | Original Aadhaar/passport (not photocopies — checkpoints require originals), 6 photocopies of ID, printed ILP (if pre-applied online), travel insurance documents, emergency contact card |
| Electronics | Power bank (20,000mAh minimum), universal travel adapter, headtorch, camera + extra batteries (cold drains batteries fast) |
| Toiletries | SPF 50+ sunscreen (reapply every 2 hrs at altitude), SPF lip balm, moisturiser (skin dries severely at altitude), basic toiletries |
| Gear | Day backpack (20–25L), refillable water bottle, trekking pole (optional but useful), sleeping bag liner if camping |
Clothing for Leh Ladakh in Summer
The Ladakh temperature swings are extreme. In July, Leh can hit 27°C at noon and drop to 8°C at midnight. At Pangong Lake (4,350m), nights can go below 3°C even in August. Layer your clothing: base layer for moisture management, mid-layer fleece for warmth, outer windproof layer for the passes. Do not underestimate the cold at Khardung La and Tanglang La — even in July, it can be -5°C with wind.
What NOT to Bring
- Heavy suitcase: Most roads are rough and vehicles have limited boot space. A 50–65L backpack or duffel bag is ideal.
- Expensive jewellery or excessive cash: ATMs are limited beyond Leh town and internet banking can be unreliable.
- City clothes: Heels, formal wear, and thin fabrics are useless in Ladakh.
- Hair dryer or heavy appliances: Power supply is unreliable in remote areas.
Medicines — The Most Important Section
Buy Diamox before you go — it is available in Delhi pharmacies without prescription (250mg tablets). Start 24 hours before you land in Leh if flying. Take half a tablet (125mg) twice daily for the first two days. Common side effects include tingling in fingers and toes and increased urination — both are normal. Read our complete altitude sickness guide for dosage and when to descend.