Ladakh promotes winter tourism with festivals, monastic events, and snow leopard tracking

The region's Tourism Department is pushing Ladakh as a year-round destination, highlighting winter activities like the Chadar Trek and Pangong Frozen Lake Marathon in 2027.

Edited by Sandeep Gupta, Editor · SafarSamachar Desk✔ Approved by Sandeep Gupta16 Nov 2026, 12:51 am IST

Illustration

Illustration: SafarSamachar Pix Desk, created with AI assistance. Not a photograph of the event.

Key facts at a glance

1Ladakh's Tourism Department aims to promote the region as a 365-day destination
2The Chadar Trek runs along the frozen Zanskar River but is not guaranteed every winter
3Travel to Pangong Tso may require crossing Chang La, which can close temporarily after snowfall

Ladakh's Tourism Department is promoting the region as a year-round destination, with winter tourism focusing on wildlife, winter sports, astro-tourism, and cultural experiences. Activities include the Chadar Trek along the frozen Zanskar River, snow leopard tracking, monastic festivals, and the Pangong Frozen Lake Marathon in February 2027.

The Chadar Trek is not guaranteed to operate every winter due to unstable ice conditions. Local guides are essential for this trek, and community-led wildlife expeditions are recommended for snow leopard tracking. Travellers heading to Pangong Tso may need to cross Chang La, a high mountain pass that can close temporarily after heavy snowfall.

Winter in Ladakh also brings the chance to witness monastic festivals and enjoy stargazing in Hanle. The region is home to an estimated 477 snow leopards, making wildlife observation a key attraction. However, due to extreme temperatures, winter travel requires careful planning and proper equipment.

What this means for Indian travellers

If you're planning a winter trip to Ladakh, check the status of the Chadar Trek and Pangong Tso routes well in advance. Consider booking community-led snow leopard expeditions and ensure you have appropriate gear for cold weather.

Sources

OOutlook Traveller

This brief was written with AI assistance from the reports listed above and read and approved for publication by Sandeep Gupta on 16 Nov 2026; the figures come from the reports listed above. Read our editorial policy.Rules and schedules change - confirm with the airline or embassy before you travel. Spotted an error? Tell us.