Which SIM works?
In Ladakh and the rest of Jammu & Kashmir, prepaid SIMs issued outside J&K usually do not work. Postpaid SIMs from major operators generally do. If you have a prepaid SIM, ask your operator about options, or buy a local SIM. Local SIM rules require ID documents and verification, so allow some time.
Coverage in general
- Leh and Kargil towns: generally good coverage from the main operators, with 4G in many areas.
- Major highways: patchy. There are long stretches with no signal.
- Nubra, Sham, Drass, Sankoo: coverage is available in many villages but may be weak or intermittent.
- Zanskar, Changthang and remote valleys: coverage is limited or absent in many places.
Tips
- Download offline maps and your permits before leaving town.
- Tell your host or family your route and expected return time.
- Wi-Fi at guesthouses can be slow. Do not rely on it for work calls.
- Landlines or satellite phones are sometimes more reliable in remote areas. Ask locally.
- In an emergency, dial 112 where there is a signal.