The best time to visit Padum, the administrative center of Zanskar in Ladakh, India, is during the summer months, from June to September. This period offers the most favorable weather conditions for travelers seeking to explore the high-altitude desert landscape. The region becomes accessible only when the snow melts, which often happens in late May or early June. During these months, temperatures range from 15°C to 20°C during the day, providing a pleasant climate for trekking and sightseeing, although nights can still be quite cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing.
Specifically, July and August are considered the peak season due to the warmer weather and the blooming of flowers which add a splash of color to the stark landscape. These months also coincide with various local festivals, like the Karsha Gustor Festival, giving visitors a unique insight into the vibrant culture of Zanskar. However, be aware that these are also the months when the region receives its annual rainfall, but showers are usually brief and not heavy enough to disrupt travel plans significantly. It is important to note that access to Padum during the winter is extremely challenging due to heavy snowfall, which makes the roads impassable, thus travel during the winter months is not recommended.
