Are you planning a road trip to Ladakh? If yes, then you must be curious about the cost involved in the journey.
Ladakh, situated in the northernmost part of India, is known for its serene beauty and adventurous routes. However, before embarking on the journey, it’s essential to know how much it’s going to cost so that you can plan your budget accordingly.
Factors Affecting the Cost of Road Trip to Ladakh:
The cost of a road trip to Ladakh depends on several factors such as mode of transportation, accommodation, food, permits, and other miscellaneous expenses. Here is a breakdown of each element:
Transportation:
The first factor that affects the cost is transportation. There are two ways to reach Ladakh- by flight or by road.
If you choose to travel by air, then it will be expensive compared to traveling by road. However, traveling by flight saves time and provides comfort.
On the other hand, if you choose to travel by road, then there are two options- self-drive or hire a cab. If you opt for self-drive, then it will be cheaper than hiring a cab. However, self-drive requires experience in driving on rough terrains and knowledge about mechanics.
Accommodation:
The second factor that affects the cost is accommodation. The price of accommodation varies from place to place in Ladakh.
You can find budget-friendly guesthouses or luxury hotels depending on your preference. The cost also depends on whether you choose to stay in popular tourist destinations like Leh or remote locations.
Food:
The third factor that affects the cost is food. The price of food in Ladakh is reasonable compared to other tourist destinations in India. You can find local cuisine at affordable rates or opt for international cuisine at high-end restaurants.
Permits:
The fourth factor that affects the cost is permits. To enter Ladakh, you need Inner Line Permit and Protected Area Permit. The price of the permit varies depending on the duration of your stay and the places you want to visit.
Miscellaneous Expenses:
The fifth factor that affects the cost is miscellaneous expenses. This includes expenses like fuel, tolls, parking fees, and other expenses that may arise during the journey.
Approximate Cost of a Road Trip to Ladakh:
Now that we have discussed all the factors that affect the cost let’s calculate an approximate cost for a road trip to Ladakh. The below table shows an estimated cost for a ten-day trip to Ladakh for two people:
- Transportation (self-drive): INR 20,000
- Accommodation: INR 15,000
- Food: INR 10,000
- Permits: INR 6,000
- Miscellaneous Expenses: INR 5,000
Total Cost: INR 56,000
Note: The above-mentioned cost is just an estimate and can vary depending on various factors such as season, type of accommodation chosen, mode of transportation selected and so on.
Tips to Reduce Cost:
If you are traveling on a budget and want to reduce your expenses during a road trip to Ladakh, then here are some tips:
- Select self-drive over hiring a cab.
- Choose budget-friendly accommodation options such as guesthouses or homestays.
- Eat local cuisine rather than international cuisine at high-end restaurants.
- Travel during offseason when prices are lower.
The Bottom Line:
A road trip to Ladakh can be a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but it’s essential to plan your budget accordingly. The cost of a road trip to Ladakh depends on various factors such as mode of transportation, accommodation, food, permits, and other miscellaneous expenses. By following the tips mentioned above, you can reduce your expenses and enjoy a budget-friendly journey to Ladakh.