Solo Trip to Ladakh (Late May) – Route Options, Trek/Cycling Possibilities & Return routes

Hi everyone,

I’m planning a solo trip to Ladakh at the end of May 2026 and would really appreciate some advice from people who have done something similar.

My rough plan:

• Fly into Leh and spend one day acclimatizing.
• Travel towards Tso Moriri and stay there for a while.
• Experience night sky / astrophotography around the lake.
• Attempt a small summit, beginner-friendly peak in the area from where I can get a birds eye of the lake; Sunrise or Sunset etc (if required I will go for a guide).

Questions I have:

1. Is there any 1-2 day trekking route to or around Tso Moriri that is practical?
   • I’m also curious if cycling part of the route is possible or commonly done; as I want to save a time instead of full trek.
2. If I travel from Leh → Tso Moriri, what are the best return options?
   • Return to Leh via the same route?
   • Or are there alternate routes that people recommend?
3. Is it possible to continue from Tso Moriri towards Manali instead of returning to Leh?
   • If yes, what route is usually taken?
4. Are there transport options or would it require self-arranged vehicle?
5. Any tips about weather, permissions, road conditions, or altitude concerns in late May for this region?

I’m comfortable with basic trekking.

Also, I plan to use this same thread for a while as I continue planning the trip, since I may have additional questions as things become clearer. Hope that’s okay, and thanks in advance for bearing with me.

Any suggestions, travel guide, route ideas, or personal experiences would be very helpful.

Thanks in advance!