Leh Ladakh in Early or Late May – What’s the 6 Difference?
Leh Ladakh, with its surreal landscapes, high-altitude passes, and pristine monasteries, is a dream destination for many travelers. Leh Ladakh in Early or Late May is an exciting time to visit as the region transitions from winter to summer, with roads reopening and the snow-capped mountains offering breathtaking views. However, visiting Leh Ladakh in early May is quite different from visiting in late May. Understanding these differences can help you plan a better trip and ensure a smooth travel experience.
In this blog, we’ll compare early May and late May in Leh Ladakh in terms of weather, road conditions, accessibility, tourist crowds, activities, and accommodation options.
Leh Ladakh in Early or Late May
1. Weather: Chilly Early May vs. Pleasant Late May
Early May (1st – 15th May)
Temperature:
Leh: -2°C to 10°C
High passes (Khardung La, Chang La): -10°C to -5°C
Pangong Lake/Tso Moriri: -5°C to 5°C
Conditions:
The region is still quite cold, especially in the mornings and nights.
Snowfall is still possible at high-altitude passes.
Frozen lakes begin to thaw, creating beautiful half-frozen landscapes.
Late May (16th – 31st May)
Temperature:
Leh: 5°C to 15°C
High passes: 0°C to -5°C
Lakes: 0°C to 10°C
Conditions:
The days become warmer and more comfortable.
Snow starts melting, revealing barren yet stunning landscapes.
Nights are still chilly but more manageable.
Verdict: If you enjoy winter-like conditions with fewer crowds, early May is better. If you prefer slightly warmer weather with more open routes, late May is ideal. Leh Ladakh in Early or Late May
2. Road Conditions & Accessibility: Limited Early May vs. Fully Open Late May
Early May
Manali-Leh Highway: Closed. Usually opens by late May or early June.
Srinagar-Leh Highway: Partially open. Officially opens around early to mid-May, but early travelers may face roadblocks due to snow clearing. Leh Ladakh in Early or Late May
Internal Roads: Roads to Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley, and Tso Moriri may be open but with snow patches and possible closures after fresh snowfall. Leh Ladakh in Early or Late May
Late May
Manali-Leh Highway: Likely to open towards the end of May, but travel is risky in the first few days due to unstable road conditions.
Srinagar-Leh Highway: Fully open, making it the best route to reach Leh.
Internal Roads: Most roads are fully accessible, though high passes might still have some residual snow.
Verdict: If you want easier access and smoother road conditions, late May is the better choice. If you’re okay with flying in and exploring limited areas, early May can still be an option. Leh Ladakh in Early or Late May
3. Lakes & Landscapes: Frozen vs. Thawed Beauty
Early May
Pangong Lake & Tso Moriri:
Partially frozen, offering a unique half-frozen, half-liquid view.
The lakes have an incredible turquoise-blue and icy-white contrast.
Snow Cover:
Plenty of snow at high passes, making them picture-perfect.
White landscapes with minimal greenery.
Late May
Pangong Lake & Tso Moriri:
Fully thawed, showcasing their deep blue hues.
The beauty of the reflection of the mountains becomes more evident.
Snow Cover:
Snow starts melting at lower altitudes.
Greenery starts appearing in Nubra Valley and other lower regions.
Verdict: If you want to witness frozen lakes and snowy landscapes, early May is better. If you prefer clear lakes and more varied landscapes, late May is ideal. Leh Ladakh in Early or Late May
4. Tourism & Crowds: Solitude vs. Growing Traffic
Early May
Fewer tourists, making it perfect for those who enjoy peaceful travel.
Lower accommodation prices and better availability.
Less traffic on roads, making it easier to take photos and enjoy solitude.
Late May
More tourists, as roads open and adventure seekers arrive.
Accommodation prices start rising due to increased demand.
Tourist attractions get busier, but it’s not as crowded as peak June-July season.
Verdict: If you prefer solitude, early May is ideal. If you enjoy some company but not excessive crowds, late May is a good balance. Leh Ladakh in Early or Late May
5. Accommodation & Food: Limited Early May vs. More Options Late May
Early May
Limited accommodation options, as many guesthouses and camps remain closed due to extreme cold.
Basic food availability, with fewer restaurants operational in remote areas.
Heating is necessary, so rooms with heating facilities are preferable.
Late May
More hotels and homestays open, offering a variety of options.
Food availability improves, with cafes and dhabas reopening.
More campsites at Pangong Lake and Tso Moriri become operational.
Verdict: Late May offers more accommodation and dining choices. Early May is better if you’re okay with fewer but more peaceful options. Leh Ladakh in Early or Late May
6. Activities & Sightseeing: Limited Early May vs. Thriving Late May
Early May
Restricted adventure activities like trekking, as many trails are still snow-covered.
Limited bike rentals, as roads may not be open for long-distance biking.
Photography paradise, especially for those who love snow-covered landscapes.
Late May
Trekking routes start opening, especially lower-altitude ones.
Best time for bike trips, as roads are clearer.
Wildlife spotting increases as animals become more active in Nubra and Changthang.
Verdict: If you’re more into sightseeing and photography, early May is great. If you want adventure activities, late May is better. Leh Ladakh in Early or Late May
Final Verdict: Which One to Choose?
Choose Early May If:
✅ You want to experience snow-covered landscapes and frozen lakes.
✅ You prefer solitude with fewer tourists.
✅ You don’t mind colder temperatures and limited accommodation options.
Choose Late May If:
✅ You want smoother road access and comfortable weather.
✅ You’re planning a road trip from Manali or Srinagar.
✅ You want to do biking, trekking, and more activities.
Both early and late May have their own charm, and the best time depends on your personal preferences. Whether you visit Leh Ladakh in Early or Late May for its winter-like beauty or in late May for its accessibility and adventure options, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable experience!
