If you are one of those travelers who loves traveling but doesn’t like crowds, Ladakh has much more to offer than Pangong Lake and Nubra Valley. There are many places in this beautiful Himalayan region where you can still feel peace, tranquility and nature in its purest form. High mountains, open skies and fewer people make Ladakh special for travelers looking to stay away from crowds. If you also want to experience the beauty of Ladakh peacefully, then definitely include these places in your travel list.

Situated in the western part of Leh, Sham Valley is perfect for those who seek peace. This area is also known as ‘Apricot Belt’. Small villages, lush green fields, quiet roads and traditional Ladakhi houses give an absolutely unique experience to the tourists. Villages like Alchi, Skurbuchan and Tingmosgang don’t have many hotels or crowds of tourists, making the atmosphere incredibly tranquil. Strolling along the river bank and experiencing the simplicity of village life is its biggest specialty.

Another great way to avoid the crowds is to visit the monasteries of Ladakh at the right time. Early in the morning or in the evening, when there are no tour groups, monasteries like Thiksey, Chemre and Hemis offer a unique sense of peace. At this time, the sound of prayers, the fragrance of incense sticks and the silence of the mountains touch the soul deeply. This experience is rarely available during a crowded day.

If you are fond of open sky and starry world, then you must visit Hanle village. The area is sparsely populated and there is almost no light pollution. The view of scattered stars and Milky Way at night are the biggest attractions here. Compared to popular places like Pangong, Hanle still feels serene and untouched, where nature tells its own story. Some of the remote villages of Ladakh, such as Turtuk, Shakti and Sumada Chun, offer an authentic experience away from the crowds. Life here is incredibly simple, and people still follow their traditional lifestyle. While roaming in these villages, you will not find any noise or traffic, but only fresh mountain air and warm smiles of the local people. This is what makes these places so special. It is also very important to choose the right time to visit to avoid crowds.

The month of late May, early June or September is considered to be the best time to visit Ladakh. The weather is pleasant during these months, and there are less tourists. Additionally, choosing a homestay instead of a hotel or campsite will give you a more private and peaceful experience.