Leh in March

June through September is your only real window, and even then it's a gamble. June means some high passes might still be snow-blocked, but you'll have fewer crowds and blooming apricot trees. July and August bring peak tourist chaos but guaranteed access to places like Khardung La and Nubra Valley. September offers the sweet spot - clear skies, manageable crowds, and all roads open, but nights get seriously cold. The rest of the year? Forget it. Winter temperatures drop to -20°C and most hotels shut down. Even during peak season, pack layers - it can be 25°C in the sun and 5°C in the shade. And always, always spend at least two days acclimatizing before attempting any high-altitude adventures.