leh tourist places information

Leh in Ladakh Travel Guide: Attractions, Festivals, Hotels

Richard I'Anson/Getty Images

Leh is the erstwhile capital of the Union Territory of Ladakh and the most common entry point into the area. It's also one of the highest permanently inhabited towns in the world. Bounded by two of the world's largest mountain ranges and surrounded by alpine desert, Leh's dry barren landscape is dotted with historic Buddhist monasteries making it an incredible sight to behold. This Leh travel guide will help you plan your trip.

Leh primarily functioned as an important trading hub on routes along the Indus Valley, between Tibet to the east and Kashmir  to the west. It became the capital of Ladakh in the early 17th century, during the region's golden period when trade flourished. King Senge Namgyal completed building a royal palace in Leh and relocated the capital there from Shey. Unfortunately, the royal family were forced to abandon the palace and relocate to Stok in the mid 19th century, after the Dogra invasion.

Leh is located in Ladakh, near the Indus Valley, in the furthest far flung corner of northern India. Its altitude is 3,505 meters (11,500 feet) above sea level.

How to Get There

Regular direct flights to Leh operate regularly from Delhi. There are also flights to Leh from many other cities in India. Some of them are non-stop.

Alternatively, the roads to Leh are open for a few months of the year, when the snow has melted. The Manali-Leh Highway is open from around June to October each year, and the Srinagar-Leh Highway is open from June to November. Bus, jeep, and taxi services are all available. The trip takes about two days because of the difficult nature of the terrain. If you have the time and are in good health, do travel by road as the scenery is amazing. Plus, the gradual ascent will help you acclimatize.

The best time to visit Leh is between May and September, when the weather is the warmest. Ladakh doesn't experience rain like elsewhere in India, so the monsoon season is the perfect time to travel to Leh. 

The two-day Hemis Festival takes place in June or July at the Hemis Gompa to commemorate birth of Guru Padmasambhava, who founded Tantric Buddhism in Tibet. There's traditional music, colorful masked dances, and a fair full of beautiful handicrafts.

The Ladakh Festival is held during September. It opens in Leh with a spectacular procession through the streets. Villagers dressed in traditional costumes dance and sing folk songs, backed by an orchestra. The festival also features musical concerts, dances performed by masked lamas from selected monasteries, and mock traditional marriage ceremonies.

• Read more about the best time to visit Ladakh.

What to Do There

Most tourists spend some time exploring Leh's main market area and the ancient old part of town, while acclimatizing and making onward travel plans. Visit the Central Asian Museum on Main Bazaar Road (open daily from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.) to learn about Leh's role in Silk Road trade. Drop into atmospheric Lala's Art Cafe for something to eat while wandering. It's inside an immaculately restored Ladakhi house that was once lived in by a monk. Go on this guided heritage walk so you don't miss anything.

Leh Palace and Shanti Stupa are renowned for their dramatic views over Leh.

The Hall of Fame is an interesting museum dedicated to the soldiers who helped defend India during wars with Pakistan. The museum also provides information about Ladakhi history and culture. It's operated by the Indian Army and has a collection of weapons, exhibits and souvenirs.

Those who love animals will find a visit to the Donkey Sanctuary worthwhile. It's a home for abandoned and injured donkeys.

What to Do Nearby

The Buddhist monuments around Leh are the biggest draw. Spituk is the closest monastery to Leh, and the 800 year-old Kali temple with a fascinating collection of masks is another attraction there. You can stop at a huge prayer wheel on the way. The other monasteries can also be visited on day trips from Leh. These include Hemis (the wealthiest, oldest, and most important monastery in Ladakh) and Thiksey.

• Find out more about must-see Buddhist monasteries in India.

It's possible to have a regal stay at Stok Palace , about 30 minutes south of Leh. The royal family still lives there and part of it has been turned into a private museum of the Ladakhi royal family.

The picturesque confluence of the Indus and Zanskar rivers can be seen from a viewpoint on the Srinagar-Leh Highway not far from Nimmu.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find appealing hiking opportunities in the area. There are also many longer trekking trails to choose from, such as the popular four-day Sham Trek from Likir to Temisgam (for beginners), and Markha Valley from Spituk.

•   Take a look at these 6 best treks to take in Ladakh.

Mountain climbing trips can be booked to peaks such as Stok (20,177 feet), Goleb (19,356 feet), Kangyatse (20,997 feet) and Matho West (19,520) in the Zanskar mountains.

White water rafting is one of the top adventure activities in Ladakh. It takes place in July and August along the Indus and Zanskar rivers, with various grade rapids for all levels. Spash Ladakh is one of the best rafting operators that offers day rafting excursions from Leh.

Dreamland Trek and Tours is an eco-friendly adventure company that organizes a wide range of trips in Ladakh, Zanskar and Changthang. Other reputable companies include Overland Escape , Rimo Expeditions (costly but high quality), and Yama Adventures. It's recommended that you compare many companies to see what's on offer.

TripSavvy / Alicia Erikson

Side Trips from Leh

Most people who visit Leh also visit Pangong Lake, which featured in the Bollywood move The 3 Idiots . It's one of the world's highest saltwater lakes and looks really surreal.

• Use this complete guide to Pangong Lake to plan your trip.

The Nubra Valley is another must-visit destination. Khardung La connects Leh to the Nubra Valley and is one of the world’s highest motorable roads. Camel safaris, on hairy double-humped Bactrian camels, are an iconic thing to do in the Nubra Valley. The Balti village of Turtuk, near the Pakistan border, is fascinating as well.

• Use this complete guide to the Nubra Valley plan your trip.

Permits are not required for local sightseeing around Leh, Zanskar, or the Suru Valley.

Read more about the top things to do in Ladakh.

Where to Stay

If you're looking for inexpensive homestay or guesthouse accommodations, you'll find many a short distance from town in the agricultural and backpacker hamlet of Changspa. Clean and comfortable rooms are available from around 1,000 rupees per night. Popular places include Lhachik Guest House, Raku Guesthouse and Gangba Homestay, and Shaolin Ladakh. In the same area, family run Oriental Hotel is charismatic with both a hotel and cheaper guesthouse on the same premises surrounded by garden. Rooms on the upper floors have stunning views. You’ll also love the home-cooked, organic, freshly prepared food.

Several hostels have recently opened up around Leh to cater to backpackers who like to socialize and meet people. Zostel is the top one, with a wide range of dorms (mixed and female-only) and private rooms. HosteLaVie and GoSTOPS are other great options. In town, Hearth hostel is a restored community space suited to arty travelers.

Padma Guesthouse and Hotel , on Fort Road, has rooms for all budgets and a fabulous rooftop restaurant. Sia-La Guest House is popular on the same road too. The modern rooms at the Spic n Span Hotel on Old Leh Road, close to the market, are priced from 6,7000 rupees per night.  The Hotel City Palace is recommended as well. Rates also start from 5,000 rupees per night for a double.

If your budget extends further, try these luxury camps and hotels in and around Leh.

Homestays with Trekking and Expeditions in Ladakh

An appealing alternative to camping out while trekking around Ladakh is to stay in local homes in remote villages, which you reach along the way. This will give you a fascinating insight into the life of Ladakhi farmers. You'll even be fed traditional home cooked meals, prepared by the farmer families. Local Ladakhi trekking expert Thinlas Chorol organizes such trips, as well as many other custom trekking itineraries to places off the beaten path. She's the founder of the notable Ladakhi Women's Travel Company -- the first female owned and operated travel company in Ladakh, which uses only female guides.

Also, consider the expeditions to remote villages offered by Mountain Homestays . You'll get to stay in people's homes and take part in initiatives that enhance the livelihoods of the villagers. This includes documenting the traditional handcrafting and organic farming techniques of Ladakh.

Travel Tips

Make sure you allow yourself plenty of time to acclimatize after arriving in Leh (ideally three days if you've flown in) because of altitude sickness. Medication called Diamox (acetazolamide) can help speed up acclimatization process. A doctor's prescription is required. Anyone who has a pre-existing condition such as heart or lung disease, or diabetes should also consult a doctor before traveling.

Laptops also don’t appreciate the high altitude and hard drives are known to crash.

Nights still get chilly during the summer so do bring warm clothes to layer.

Leaving Leh by flight can be a lot more challenging than arriving. Demand for flights is high in peak season, so book well in advance. In addition, flights are sometimes canceled because of weather conditions, so it’s advisable not to book the last flight of the day. Hand luggage used to pose a problem but one bag per passenger is now allowed.

The Top 20 Things to Do in Ladakh, India

How to Visit Pangong Lake in Ladakh: The Complete Guide

6 Best Treks to Take in Ladakh for All Fitness Levels

7 Popular India Adventure Travel Destinations and Attractions

Ladakh's Nubra Valley: The Complete Guide

The Best Time to Visit Ladakh

A Summer Exploring the Culture and Sights of Ladakh

12 Major Mountain Ranges in India

15 Top Tourist Places to Visit in North India

13 Exceptional Homestays in India

15 of the Best Offbeat Places to Visit in India

18 Farmstays in India to Get Back to Nature

15 Ways and Places to Experience Rural India

13 Budget Guesthouses and Backpacker Hostels in Old Manali

20 Top Things to Do in Diverse India

16 Best Tourist Destinations in India

• Group Enquiry? NEW
• 30 Places To Visit And Things To Do in Leh

• Jammu And Kashmir

Tourist Places in Leh

Quick navigation.

Places to Visit in Leh

Pangong lake.

Pangong lake is one of the most popular places to visit in Leh and is located just 160 kilometres away from Ladakh. The drive to Pangong lake is an exciting experience offering scenic views. It is a beautiful lake with crystal blue waters blessed with pleasant weather throughout the year. Pangong Tso is also amongst the camping places in Ladakh.

Enjoy the solitude near the placid waters of this magnificent lake in Ladakh and take out your cameras to capture the picturesque view of this wonderful place. Black-necked Siberian can be spotted near the Mahe marshes, the only breeding place for these rare migratory birds and making it one of the most scenic places to visit in Leh Ladakh.

Top Experiences To Do in Pangong Lake

Khardungla Pass

Interested in motoring? Here’s what you should definitely try.

Maintained by the Border Roads Organization, this pass on the Ladakh Range in Leh is claimed to be the world’s highest motorable pass. Reaching to the top of the Khardungla Pass is a challenging journey. One might even face vomiting, tremendous headache and other symptoms along with blurry vision. The lack of oxygen at the top can hamper your brain’s activity. It is advised to drink some black tea before you start.

But once you make it to the top, the mesmerizing view is worth all the obstacles and nothing can stop you from drinking the beauty of this snow kingdom. Other than motoring, Khardungla Pass is also famous for its multi-cuisine serving Indian, Chinese, Tibetan and even Korean and making it one of the most scenic places to visit in Leh Ladakh.

For a comfortable stay check out this list of hotels in Ladakh and chose the one that will give you the utmost luxury. Checkout & Book:   Leh Ladakh Group Tour Packages

Magnetic Hill

Top Experiences To Do in Magnetic Hill

Nubra Valley

Trekking on the rocky, colossal trails of this valley is a truly exciting experience as it is situated near the banks of the pure Nubra river. Nubra Valley is also famous for its camp around, get lost in the majestic beauty of Nubra valley and it is one of the best places to see in Leh Ladakh. The valley is named as “the valley of flowers” and it has some of the most beautiful, vibrant and colourful flowers set amidst lush green landscape. This place is popular because of its serene and tranquil ambience. You can Also Checkout:  Ladakh Family Tour Packages

Top Experiences To Do in Nubra Valley

Tso Moriri Lake

Lamayuru Monastery

Famous as Tharpa Ling, the Lamayuru monastery is not only the oldest but one of the largest monasteries in Leh. The monastery is located at an altitude of 3,510 m and is amongst the most serene and tranquil Leh tourist places. Home to over 50 monks, it is a famous ancient Buddhist shrine and belongs to the Red-Hat Sect of Buddhism. Decorated with beautiful wall paintings, thangkas, ancient murals, scriptures and sculptures of Buddha and other deities, this place amuses the visitors with its beautiful architecture and spiritual charisma. A cave named Naropa’s Cave is also located nearby, which is another centre of attraction. Its annual festival "Yuru Kabgyat", "Mask Dance" and many rituals like "Burning of Effigies", also attract tourists from across the world.   Location: B.P.O Khaltse, Ladakh, Leh, Jammu and Kashmir 194106 Timings: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm Best Time to Visit: Between May and September Click here to Book:   Leh Ladakh Bike Trip

Diskit Gompa

Shanti Stupa

In this world, much in need of peace, the white, beautiful and serene Shanti Stupa on a hilltop in Chanspa, Leh district, Ladakh, in the north Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir provides a fabulous, unobstructed view. This white beauty amidst the snow lets you experience a moment of breathlessness and it is one of the beautiful places to see in Leh Ladakh. Situated at a height of 4267 metres, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, the Stupa is at a distance of about 5 km from the Leh City. 

It was built by the Japanese monks to promote world peace and also to celebrate the 2500 years of Buddhism. Therefore if you wish to experience peace amidst all the noise, among the places to visit in Leh, there’s no one better than Shanti Stupa. It is a combo of serenity, peacefulness and exotic views.

We have the guide of Manali to Leh road trip . Don't forget to check it out before you make a plan. Also Checkout:   Ladakh Tour Packages From Delhi

Shey Monastery

Are you interested in the historical know-how of the Kargil War, then Kargil falls among the most suitable places to visit in Leh Ladakh.

Famous for the very known Kargil War, Kargil is a city situated near the Line of Control (LOC) between Pakistan and India. It is the second largest town in Ladakh after Leh. With an elevation of 2676 metres, it is situated along the banks of Indus River. The sonder feeling that one gets after making a visit to the city of Kargil is beyond expression. 

It is an avoidable adventure that lets you pray for the families who lost their loved ones during the war and compels you to bow down to the war heroes.

Places to stay: Check out the best hotels in Kargil and book one before you arrive.

Kargil Travel Guides: 1.  Srinagar to Kargil Travel Guide                                       2. Kargil to Leh Travel Guide

Royal Leh Palace

Marking its place in one of the most striking places to visit in Leh Ladakh, The Royal Leh Palace showcases the grandeur of the era gone by. The scenic location of the structure adds up to its beauty. It stands, overlooking the Ladakhi town, Leh and was built back in the 16th century. The Palace is as high as a nine-storey building and the upper floors are occupied by the royal families while the lower ones were the storerooms and had stables for the animals. While on the top, you can enjoy the panoramic views of the rustic Zanskar valley which contrasts with the clear blue skies. Such views are a feast for the eyes, mind, and soul and rejuvenate as well. If history attracts you then this is the perfect place for you as here you can witness the Chinese paintings which are approximately 450 years old and more such beauties of the previous days. Don't forget to check out the  list of best hotels in Leh  that will make your stay wonderful.

Alchi Monastery

One of the renowned places to see in Leh Ladakh, i f you are touring Leh then you will be surprised to know that this place is dotted with a number of monasteries, and the Alchi monastery is also one of them. Famed as the Alchi Gompa this is one of the oldest parts of the monastic complex and is administered by the Likir Monastery. This place is a treasure for the ones seeking a tranquil setting as the aura is forever magnetizing and intricate carvings are a plus. The monastery comprises of three shrines in total one of the  Dukhang, the Sum Tsek and the Temple of Manjushri and each one of them has a story to tell. When here, you can see the monks perform several ceremonies and worship in the complex itself.  Also, this is one of the most lesser known places to visit in Leh. This  guide of Delhi to Leh  will help you understand the journey better and will make you fall in love with the beauty of the region.

Gurudwara Pathar Sahib

Home to plenty of beautiful and ancient monasteries, Leh also boasts of a Sikh holy shrine, the Gurudwara Pathar Sahib dating back to the 15th century. One of the most sacred Leh tourist places, it is believed to be built at the same place where Guru Nanak Singh Ji rested, meditated, and defeated a demon while returning from his Nepal trip.  When a boulder was found in the shape of Guru Nanak during excavation in 1970, this place became a divine place for Sikhs. A gurudwara was constructed here to pay homage to the almighty and seek blessings. Nestled amidst majestic Himalayan peaks, this Gurudwara is one of the highest located Sikh shrines. The shrine is managed by the Indian Army who also prepares Langar for all the visitors and makes sure to provide them with all essential facilities.   Location:  NH1, Phey, Leh, Jammu and Kashmir 194101 Timings: 4:30 am to 8:00 pm Best Time to Visit:  May to October Planning a honeymoon trip, Checkout:  Ladakh Honeymoon Packages from Delhi

Sangam Point

Scanning for amazing places to visit in Leh? You’ll be delighted to know that places like Sangam point do exist. With the literal meaning fusion, this is the locale where the two rivers of Leh, Zanskar and Indus combine. Each one of them has variable texture while the Indus exhibits textures of green Zanskar is more of browns. When the two fuses into one another the view are truly majestic and is a feast for the eyes. Snuggled on the National Highway 1 this place falls on the route to Leh and you need not to take different roads to reach here. Enjoy rafting in Ladakh  with the fast and high rapids of the Zanskar river.

Tso Kar Lake

Unravel the paradisiacal virtue of nature or just lie down along the Tso Kar Lake which has several scenic bounties in its abode. Holding a place in of the most refreshing things to do in Leh, this lake is toured by flocks of visitors all around the year. The lake is scattered over an area of 9 km and has a rustic reflection. While the contrast of the sand with the muddy water camouflage is common. The views which you’ll be witnessing here will definitely make you fall in love the place and will make you visit again and again. You can also spot the nomadic along the lake and each one of them has an interesting tale to tell about their life. If you wish to know about the region then they are the best people to ask. You can check out the  best trekking experiences in Ladakh  to make your Ladakh trip more adventurous.

Namgyal Monastery

There is another monastery which is a must visit for you in  your Ladakh Sightseeing Tour ,  Extending the unparalleled combination of tranquility and beauty Namgyal Monastery is one of the most scenic places to visit in Leh. Locals call it the temple of Dalai Lama and peace is interwoven the aura of the place. While one segment contains the Namgyal Tantric College where the tantric practices are common the other segment contains the Buddha statue. This private monastery of Dalai Lama is named after the female lifelong deity and is one of the best spiritual centers of the region. Checkout  Leh Ladakh Bike Trip from Delhi for a adventure trip to Leh Ladakh.

Hall of Fame

You might have definitely heard about this place while on your  Leh Ladakh road trip .  Keeping alive the soldiers in the heart is one of the best things to show gratitude towards them, and staying intact to this “Hall of Fame” was built. Holding a wide array of weapons of the Indo-Pak war this place is all devoted to showcase the grandeur of the soldiers. The museum is majorly segmented into two parts the upper part consists of the variants of weapons and arms while the other part holds the apparels which were worn by the soldiers at the time of war. On the lower floor, you can spot several paintings and scenes of the Kargil war which set an exemplary of their never give up attitude. Also, there is a wall named the “Lest we forget” which has the photographs of the soldiers who gave their lives to save the country. Checkout & Book:   Premium 6 Days Leh Ladakh Sightseeing Trip

Thiksey Monastery

Explore the corners of the Thiksey Monastery which is indeed one of the best things to do in Leh. Located on the top of the hill, this Tibetian style monastery is approximately 19 km from Leh. The architecture of this monastery is similar to that of the Potala Palace of Lhasa and is also one of the largest gompas in the central Ladakh. Something which makes this place unique is its location, as it is settled at an altitude of almost 11,800 ft along the Indus valley. If you wish to take a closer look at the culture of Buddhism then place holds multitudes of stupas, artworks and more such beautiful things of the religion. Another point of interest at this place is the temple in its complex which was built to commemorate the Dalai Lama. The environs of the place are exceptional and, is one of the best places to visit in Leh if you are on a vacation with your family. Have a look at this  weather guide of Ladakh  and prepare yourself for the chilling yet soothing atmosphere.

Hemis Monastery

Love the unexplored regions? Unravel the calmness of the Hemis Monastery and add unique experience in your Leh trip. Build in the era of Dhukpas this gompa is elegantly crafted and showcases exceptional art. The key element of this place is the proximity of Leh which is it is located just 45 km away from the center of the town. This Himalayan Buddhist Monastery will undeniably win your hearts as the environs are fresh as it is established on the banks of the Indus river. If you wish to pay homage to Buddha then this is your place to be and if art attracts you then this place is a true paradise for you as it owns several variants of it. Also witnessing this serene beauty is one of the best things to do in Leh and is not victualed by masses. This guide of Mumbai to Ladakh  will help you understand the journey better and will make you fall in love with the beauty of the region.

Drass Valley

Get sunk in the wilderness, have an exhilarating experience trying to grasp a breath in Drass Valley. Popularly known as the “Gateway to Ladakh”, it tops in the list of places to visit in Leh where you cannot click a bad pic. The coldest inhabited place in the country provides you with an experience of intensely beautiful, challenging, numbing and freezing winters. 

The stark and raw beauty of the barren brown mountains leaves you overwhelmed. The craggy landscape compels you to stand a little longer and gaze at the amazing sight on the banks of Drass River. Enjoy the hot water springs, and be a part of this scenic beauty dancing upon you.

Book a homestay in Ladakh that will make you fall in love with Ladakh more.

Things to Do in Leh

Go on a jeep safari.

Motor Biking

Attend Festivals of Leh

Shopping at Leh

Visiting the local market of Leh is an excellent way of interacting with the locals and learning about their tradition and customs. Besides, a visit to the local market allows you to purchase unique items such as semi precious stones, pearls, tribal jewellery, organic products and local handicrafts and it is one of the best things to do in Leh.

1) Pashmina Shawls

Every woman would love to add the graceful, beautiful and fine pashmina shawl to her wardrobe. It is made up of cashmere wool which comes from pashmina or changthangi goat. The pashmina goat can be spotted in the high altitudes of Himalayan ranges.

2) Prayer Wheels

It is a spiritual item which consists of a cylindrical wheel mounted on a spindle made up of coarse cotton, Leather, stone, wood and metal.

It is believed that these relics that are original parts of lord Buddha’s body still exist which includes the much talked about sacred relic of his tooth.

Manali to Leh road trip : Don't forget to check it out before you make a plan.

Go on a Camel Safari

If you want to feel the essence of lush green vegetation, talk to the locals, feel the clean blue sky and tan yourself in the scorching heat then a Camel Safari or Caravan is the best thing to do in Ladakh . Hopping on for a ride on the camels and exploring the sand dunes is another must do in Ladakh. 

Not just a one-humped camel, but gush over by having a ride on the camel with two humps, popularly known as the Bactrian Camel. From kids to youngsters, a Camel Safari is something that every age group is excited about. The famous Camel Safaris in Ladakh  are Angling to Stok and the  Silk Route Caravan.

Best Ladakh Tour Packages

6 days ladakh backpacking tour.

About the destination :

A journey to the top of the world, Leh-Ladakh features most of the world’s highest motorable passes with the spectacular beauty of snow-capped mountains. Admired for its unparalleled scenic views, pristine icy lakes, and swirling roads, Ladakh is becoming the most Instagrammable place in India and is on everyone’s bucket list. It offers you a stay amidst the beautiful valley of mountains and a starlit sky in the night. The unique thing about the Ladakh terrain is that it has mountains, forests, deserts, lakes, rivers, waterfalls in one beautiful and dynamic geography.

Quick info:

Route: Leh - Sham Valley - Khardungla- Nubra Valley - Pangong - Chang-la - Leh.

Duration: 6 days & 5 nights 

Start point:  Leh Airport

Endpoint: Leh Airport

Passes covered: Khardung-la (18,000 ft) and Chang-la (17,688 ft)

Manali to Ladakh Bike Trip from Delhi | Book Now & Get 3000 Cashback

Quick Facts:

Temperature:  Day: 8°C to 15°C and Night: -5°C to 3°C

Maximum Altitude:  5,328 m (17,480 ft) at the Taglang La mountain pass.

Difficulty Level: Moderate 

Railway Station: Nearest is the Jammu Tawi Railway Station (700 km)

Airport: Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, Leh

ATM: On a bike tour to Leh Ladakh through the Manali to Leh route, you will find only one ATM at Keylong, but later there are several ATMs at Leh. Stay during your Manali to Leh Bike Trip Accommodation on double (for couples) and triple (for others) sharing basis in Guesthouse/hotel/Camp Meals during your Manali to Leh Bike Trip: Day 2: Dinner Day 3- Day 11: Breakfast Mode of transport during your Manali to Leh Bike Trip: AC Semi sleeper tickets from Delhi to Manali and return (depending on the variant selected) The bikes are provided with fuel from day 2 to day 11  350cc Royal Enfield motorbike for Single riders  500cc Royal Enfield for Double riders

Variants of the package

Cost without Bike & Fuel: INR 35300/- per person Double Rider RE 500cc with Fuel & Helmets: INR 42300/- per person  Single Rider RE 500cc with Fuel & Helmets: INR 48900/- per person

Leh Ladakh Group Tour Package with Camping I Flat 17% off

12 Days Leh Ladakh | Fuel Included

Quick Info:

Route: Delhi - Manali - Jispa - Sarchu - Leh - Nubra via Khardung La Pass - Pangong Lake - Leh - Lamayuru - Kargil - Zojila Pass - Sonamarg - Srinagar.

Duration: 12 Days & 11 Night 

Start point: Delhi

Endpoint: Srinagar

Passes covered: Khardung-la (18,000 ft), Chang-la (17,688 ft), Rohtang Pass (16,051 ft), Lachung La(16,600 ft), and Baralacha la ( 16,000 ft)

About 12 Days Manali Leh Srinagar Sightseeing Tour :  

With this incredible trip, you get the chance to visit Kashmir, Ladakh, and Himachal Pradesh—the three most stunning regions—all at once. The route includes some of the highest motorable crossings in the world, stunning lakes, snow-capped mountains, incredible camping opportunities, and much more! Ladakh, which is on everyone's bucket list and is fast becoming India's most Instagrammable location, is admired for its unmatched picturesque views, pure frozen lakes, and winding roads.

Manali Leh Srinagar Bike Adventure

About the Tour :  

Get ready to make your dream of riding in Ladakh come true in the action-packed bike trip where one would be experiencing the fusion of thrill, serene beauty and culture of the "Land of High Passes", as the entire tour is exclusively elected by Thrillophilia's outdoor experts. This circuit features some of the world’s highest motorable passes with the spectacular beauty of snow-capped mountains, Lakes, rivers on their side while covering these breathtaking destinations, Solang valley, Gata Loops, Zojila pass, Kargil, Magnetic hill, Confluence of Indus, And Zanskar river, Dal lake and much more waiting on the way!

Start Point: Delhi

Passes Covered: Khardung-la (18,000 ft), Chang-la (17,688 ft), Rohtang Pass (16,051 ft), Lachung La(16,600 ft), and Baralacha la ( 16,000 ft)

Women Only Sightseeing Group Tour of Ladakh

Call our destination expert to book: 8619833383 

About the Destination:

The crown of India is beautified by Ladakh, the land of high passes, situated in the picturesque state of Jammu and Kashmir. Regarded as an exotic tourist destination, it is a land filled with breath-taking natural beauty and mystique.

From majestic mountain passes and tranquil monasteries to magical lakes, Ladakh trip is sure to take your breath away. During summer, this beautiful region is adorned with a plethora of vibrant colors, but come winter time it is transformed into a snowy white wonderland, often cut off from the rest of the world.

As a destination, Ladakh is replete with every sight imaginable; from sapphire blue lakes to jade green meadows and even dry and arid grasslands serve to make this land of extremes a must-go destination on every traveler's bucket list, and that is the very reason that no one should ever miss the chance of visiting this Paradise. That is why this Ladakh tour package is here to bring everyone on an equal pedestal by bringing together women of a different metal and organizing a women-only trip to Ladakh.

About the Activity:

Treat yourself to 6 nights 7 days of mystery with the women-only tour to Ladakh. Start your trip from the charming town of Leh, which will woo you with its quaint markets and charming palaces. Visit the beautiful Sham valley and the ancient monasteries.

Take a trip down to enchanting Nubra valley and visit the famous Diskit Monastery and the Hall of Fame, to experience local culture at its best.

With this one of the unique Ladakh tour packages of ours, lose yourself in the hypnotizing beauty of the colorful Pangong Tso and enjoy a memorable sunrise and sunset by the lake. A thrilling camel safari and drive through the highest motorable road in the world, seems just too good to be true!

Departure Dates:  May (19,25,31), June (6,12,18,24,30), July (6,12,18,24,30),  Aug (5, 11,17,23,29),  Sept (4,10,16,22)

Best of Ladakh

Leh Ladakh Group Adventure | With Turtuk Village

About the Tour :

Situated right on the border on the northwest edge of Ladakh is Turtuk which was once a part of Pakistan till the 1971 Indo-Pak war to be specific. With this 7 days tour to Ladakh, enjoy a journey to the top of the world featuring most of the world’s highest motorable passes with the spectacular beauty of snow-capped mountains. Admired for its unparalleled scenic views, pristine icy lakes, and swirling roads, Ladakh is becoming the most Instagrammable place in India and is on everyone’s bucket list.

Quick Info :

Route:  Leh - Sham Valley - Khardungla - Nubra Valley - Turtuk - Pangong - Chang-la - Leh

Duration: 7 days & 6 nights 

Passes Covered: Khardung-la (18,000 ft) | Chang-la (17,688 ft)

Manali To Leh Cycling Tour

Ladakh is the emergent favorite of travelers, not just from India, but from the entire world. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains on all sides, the beauty of this place is unparalleled, and you will agree to that as soon as you set foot here. And despite being so far off and on the rain shadow side of the Himalayas, Ladakh is very well connected, especially the capital city of Leh. Apart from the main airport in the capital, you can arrive in Ladakh via road too, with highways coming in from Srinagar and from Manali, the latter being one of the most beautiful highways in the country.

And this is another reason why Ladakh is a favorite of adventure junkies. You can ride a bike till here, or can even cycle up to this beautiful land of Leh, some 11,400ft above sea level.

Quick info about Manali To Leh Cycling Tour :

Route: Manali - Marhi - Sissu - Jispa - Patseo - Sarchu - Pang - Tsokar - Rumptse - Leh - Khardung-La - Leh

Duration: 13 Days & 12 Night 

Start point: Manali

Endpoint: Leh

Passes Covered: Rohtang La (3879m), Baralacha La (4892 m), Nakli La (4800m), Lachalung La (5100m), Tanglang La (5350 m), and Khardung La (5602 m)

Manali to Leh Jeep Expedition with Tso Moriri Lake

Fixed departure dates:  Multiple dates open to Join a Group departure in June, July, August and September and can be customized on request for separate group also.

About the Activity: 

• From the pleasantly hospitable town of Manali, the Manali to Leh Jeep expedition takes you on a roller coaster drive through distinct geographies portraying diverse geographies. From hill town to high altitude arid desert, this safari is one mega experience.
• The Manali to Leh by road traverses over five high altitude Himalayan passes such as Rohtang (3,978m), Keylong (3,350m), and Tanglang La (17,585ft) showcasing an ever changing dynamic landscape that alters from barren lands to lush green pastures. With our Ladakh tour packages, you can head out for an amazing vacation with your gang.
• Tsomoriri Lake is the one attraction that demands all your attention during this jeep ride which is now Tso Moriri Wetland Conservation Reserve. It is the largest of the high altitude lakes entirely within India at an altitude of 4522 meters.
• Interact with the amazing landscapes beautified by the natural formations throughout the journey. You will come across the undeniable beauties of Khardung La Pass, Pangong Lake, Deskit, Hundar, the confluence of Zanskar and Indus Rivers, Nubra Valley etc. which all are covered in this Ladakh tour packages.
• These places have been occupied by multitudinous mountains, valleys, small streams, rock formations, monasteries, gompas and what not.
• By the end of the journey multi-hued prayer flags, Tibetian chortens, and friendly locals would be etched in your memories for a very long time to come.
• Number of PAX       Standard               Deluxe                 Super Deluxe
• Min 02 pax               Rs. 37470            Rs. 38090                Rs. 39660
• Min 03 Pax               Rs. 28530            Rs. 29260                Rs. 30620
• Min 04 pax               Rs. 24950             Rs. 25280                Rs. 27140
• Min 05 Pax               Rs. 22090             Rs. 22780                Rs. 24220
• Min 06 Pax               Rs. 20780              Rs. 21400                Rs. 22970
• Min 07 Pax               Rs. 22540             Rs. 23220                 Rs. 24700
• Min 08 Pax                Rs. 21500            Rs. 22130                  Rs. 23700
• Min 09 Pax                Rs. 20300            Rs. 20960                  Rs. 22460
• Min 10 Pax                Rs. 19690             Rs. 20320                  Rs. 21880
• Min 11 Pax                 Rs. 18870             Rs. 19520                 Rs. 21040
• Min 12 Pax                  Rs. 18480            Rs. 19100                 Rs. 20670
• Extra Bed Child            Rs. 8800             Rs. 9800                    Rs. 10700

People Also Ask About Leh

What is famous in leh ladakh, what are the famous things to do in leh, which are the famous places to visit in leh, is ladakh worth visiting, how many days are enough for leh ladakh, what is the best time to visit leh ladakh, what should i carry for the ladakh trip, which are the best ladakh tour packages that we can book from thrillophilia.

• Leh Ladakh Tour Packages From Pune
• Ladakh Tour Packages From Ahmedabad
• Ladakh Tour Packages From Bangalore
• Ladakh Tour Packages From Chennai
• Leh Ladakh Tour Packages From Nagpur
• Ladakh Tour Packages From Hyderabad
• Ladakh Tour Packages From Surat
• Leh Ladakh Tour Packages from Chandigarh

Trending in Leh

Jeep safari in leh.

Cycling in Leh

Biking in Leh

Leh Top Attractions

Chumathang Hot Spring is a natural wonder located in the Leh district of Ladakh, India. Situated at an altitude of approximately 4,000 meters (13,123 feet), it is one of the most well-known hot springs in the region. The site is renowned for its therapeutic and healing properties, attracting visitors seeking relaxation and relief from various ailments.The hot spring's mineral-rich waters are believed to have medicinal benefits, especially for joint and skin conditions. Many travelers make the journey to Chumathang to take a rejuvenating dip in the warm waters and experience its therapeutic effects amidst the stunning Himalayan landscape.Apart from its healing properties, Chumathang Hot Spring offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains and the tranquil Indus River flowing nearby. The surrounding region is also rich in biodiversity, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers.Chumathang Hot Spring is a unique attraction that not only provides a calming escape but also offers an opportunity to connect with nature's soothing elements in the high-altitude beauty of Ladakh.

Tsaga La Pass is a breathtaking mountain pass located in Leh district of Ladakh, India. Situated at an elevation of around 15,000 feet above sea level, it is a significant route that connects the Indus Valley with the Nubra Valley. The journey to Tsaga La Pass is a thrilling adventure, offering travelers mesmerizing vistas of the surrounding landscapes on the Leh Ladakh tour.The drive to the pass is an exhilarating experience, taking you through rugged terrains, barren mountains, and occasional streams. The rugged beauty of the region, with snow-capped peaks contrasting against the clear blue skies, leaves a lasting impression on visitors. Tsaga La Pass also holds historical importance as it was once a part of the ancient Silk Route.Travelers often make stops at vantage points along the pass to capture the stunning scenery with their cameras. The pass is accessible from Leh, and the journey typically takes a few hours, but it is advisable to check road conditions before embarking on this adventurous trip. Tsaga La Pass is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and those looking to immerse themselves in the awe-inspiring beauty of Ladakh.

More Leh Attractions

Leh travel guides.

Leh Reviews

Popular Nearby Places Around Leh

More things to do in leh, more on leh tourism, popular related destinations.

Best Domestic Packages

Best international packages, domestic honeymoon packages, international honeymoon packages, places to visit in india, international places to visit, things to do in india, international things to do, popular on thrillophilia.

• We assure the privacy of your contact data.
• This data will only be used by our team to contact you and no other purposes.

Your enquiry has been received successfully. Our destination expert will reach out to you soon!

Leh Ladakh Travel Guide (2024) – Explore the Unforgettable Land of High Passes!

By: Author Sophie Pearce

Posted on Last updated: January 1, 2024

Categories INDIA , JAMMU & KASHMIR

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure policy for details.

Julley from Leh! That means Hello in Ladakh and you’ll find that everyone here is itching to say it to you.

Leh is the super friendly mountain city that is waiting for you to visit them.

When you arrive here, either by bus or plane, you’ll be greeted by the most spectacular panoramic views of snow-capped mountains, ancient palaces, and Buddhist stupas.

It’s also a welcome paradise from the busy, dirty cities like Delhi and Rajasthan.

Here’s the ultimate Leh Ladakh travel guide including how to reach Leh, top things to do, where to stay, and what to eat!

The ultimate Leh Ladakh travel guide

Where is leh ladakh in india.

Leh Ladakh has an interesting mix of cultures and food as it’s on the border of China and its history is closely related to Tibet!

You’ll probably question what country you’re in a lot while you’re here and that’s the beauty of Leh.

What is the best time to visit Ladakh?

The best time to visit is actually in the monsoon season between June – September as Ladakh is a dry spot in a country of constant rain!

They also shut the road after mid-September so it’s best to visit before then or fly!

It’s beautifully sunny every single day at this time and everything almost looks saturated as you’re closer to the sun and higher up at 3,500 metres!

It’s also perfect weather for trekking and is what most travellers flock here for.

How to reach Leh Ladakh: flying vs. the road

There are usually two choices for approaching Leh Ladakh.

You can directly fly to Leh Ladakh from Delhi which is what most travellers prefer as you can skip the long bus journeys up through the Indian states of Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir.

But, this means that you cannot acclimatise very easily and you may suffer from altitude sickness and need a few days to adjust.

If you are prone to altitude sickness, you can get tablets to help with it. The other is to take the long bus journey from Manali to Leh.

This is the cheapest option and actually is not as dangerous as people make out.

Yes, the roads are crazy but the views are absolutely jaw-dropping and are worth the time spent alone.

You’ll pass through valleys, mountain passes, and waterfalls. There’s absolutely no sign of life around in many parts and it’s an experience you won’t forget.

For more information, check out my post ‘Travelling from Manali to Leh by road: all you need to know’.

Taking the bus from Manali to Leh

I took the 18-hour bus from Manali to Leh, which was actually 20 and we arrived in the middle of the night.

Our bus driver did a great thing by dropping us off in the backpacker district of Changspa where there are tonnes of guest houses. But, little were we to know that none would be open for business after midnight!

For a little while, we hung out with some other travellers from the bus in a bakery which turned into a bar late at night and just played the same Ed Sheeran song over and over again.

We had chai while deciding the next plan of action, which was basically to try every guesthouse in the area!

After a little while, we couldn’t find anywhere and a bar called KC garden offered for us to stay at their place for the night. It was an, which was used for group get-togethers and parties!

It had no windows, was freezing cold, and let in all the noise of dogs barking. However, it was a place to crash for the night and we had loads of blankets to keep warm.

It was really generous of him as he didn’t have to offer anything at all. He also didn’t charge which was really kind.

We were stranded in Leh Ladakh

The guy who owned the place said we could sleep in until noon, but when the workers came in the next morning at 7 am – they played really loud music so we would get up!

At first, it was just Buddhist chanting music which was actually really nice.

By 9.30 am, they upped the ante with techno music and that’s when everyone groggily got out of their sleeping places.

The next day, we had a chai together, thanked the guys at KC garden, and then went to try and find a room.

Where to stay in Leh Ladakh: Changspa 

We ended up staying at Hotel Asia which turned out to be the cheapest.

It was 500 a night with a shared bathroom, I hardly slept each night due to the light and noise but it did have hot water every single day!

With a view like this of the mountains, you can’t complain about £5 a night! For bookings see here.

The top things to do in Leh Ladakh

Most people use Leh as a base in Ladakh as it’s the main city with good connections to Nubra Valley, Pangong Lake, and Srinagar in Kashmir.

But, there are lots of things to do in Leh Ladakh itself.

It is really gorgeous to explore too with an epic mountain range, historical palaces, and the iconic Shanti Stupa.

You can’t really get bored, even just if you gaze at the scenery around you.

This would probably be a good first point of call to start off your adventure in Leh. The ancient palace looks down on the rest of the city.

This was the home of Ladakh royalty and was modelled on the Tibetan Potala Palace in Lhasa.

Even though it was built in the 17th century and steeped in history, not many of the ancient artifacts of the royal family remain in the palace.

It’s nine floors of empty rooms save the antique pictures which hang on the walls.

The best part of wandering around this palace is actually the viewpoints from the rooftops!

You can get great panoramic views from all over the city. There aren’t really any restrictions on where you can go here so explore away!

Castle Tsemo

Castle Tsemo stands high on the hill above the Leh Palace.

To reach it in Leh Ladakh, you can get a taxi for around 250 rupees or take the steep winding trek uphill!

There are two parts to Castle Tsemo, a Buddhist temple, and the castle and the Namgyal Tsemo Monastery.

When you’ve caught your breath from the walk, take a peek inside at the beautiful golden Buddha which is perfectly preserved inside.

Next is a climb up the monastery, you’ll pay 20 rupees to head on inside.

At first, I thought this was awesome as it was so cheap, but then I realised that you had to head on up the rooftops of the monastery on these ladders from hell!

These weak, feeble ladders were not attached to the wall in any way and so it was a dodgy climb to the top!

Although these ones were low, the others were pretty much vertical!

Although the views were totally worth it, there was one problem – how was I going to get back down?!

I was petrified and my boyfriend literally had to place my feet on each step of the ladder.

When I got to the bottom, I literally couldn’t breathe haha!

I can laugh now, but I genuinely thought I was a goner. It’s totally ridiculous so if you’re afraid of heights, I wouldn’t recommend it.

Shanti Stupa in Leh Ladakh

The Buddhist Shanti Stupa was one of my favourite attractions in Leh Ladakh. It was donated by the Japanese, built-in 1991, and blessed by the Dalai Lama himself.

Although it is a 500 step walk to the top, the views and the stupa are so worth it! We arrived at around 10 am in the morning and there was literally no one around.

The best time to visit the Leh Ladakh Shanti Stupa is at sunset when the temperatures aren’t so hot and the sun creates a beautiful red glow on the mountains surrounding it.

There is also some really beautiful Buddhist chanting music which is broadcast live from the temple nearby.

When the lights go down on Leh Ladakh, the Stupa lights up and you can see the many stars which appear here due to the limited light pollution. It was magic.

When we visited in the evening time a government official was there, so naturally, some of the Kashmiri soldiers were here on guard.

One of them let me hold this! Stranger things have happened…

Before I got to Leh, I had this awful feeling there wouldn’t be anything around.

Most places in Himachal had a mall road, but I wasn’t sure about Leh.. luckily, I was proved very wrong!

There is a massive main market here which has everything you could wish for.

Restaurants, shops, supermarkets, chemists, the lot. So, don’t worry about getting access to the basics.

There were also these great little fruit and veg markets from the local farms here. The mini peaches, locally called aadu , were to die for!

Trekking Leh Ladakh and Day trips from Leh Ladakh

There are endless options for treks from Leh Ladakh that you can get involved with.

Pangong Lake and Nubra Valley were popular trips also which was a 2-day and 1-night stay.

There were 3, 4, 5 days, and even 20-day treks out of Leh. So, it will be down to personal preference if you wanted a guided trek.

There are a lot of treks that you can do self-guided also. Nubra Valley is around a 3-day trek each way which is supposed to be easy.

But bear in mind that there isn’t any phone signal here so you won’t have Google maps to help you!

Best to download a walking trail map beforehand or buy one from the local shops here.

Read more about day trips from Leh here

Multi-day sightseeing tours in Ladakh

There are many interesting multi-day tours  that can be organized from Leh.

The famous tours are the 2-day Indus river tour where you get the chance to visit some of the most impressive monasteries in Ladakh (Alchi, Likir, and Lamayuru among others), the 3-day Nubra valley tour via the famous Khardung La pass (the world’s highest motorable road) and the tours to the stunning high-altitude lakes of Pangong and Tso Moriri.

You will not find many buses in Ladakh that go to these places. One of the options is to hire a car with a driver, but the cost of transport is not cheap in Ladakh…

If you are a solo traveller or travelling in a small group, using a shared taxi is a great way to reduce the cost of the trip as well as its carbon footprint! 

Where to eat in Leh Ladakh: wonderland restaurant and bakery

The wonderland café was where I usually went for breakfast most mornings.

Loads of their breakfast combos come with coffee and apple juice!

It has a really nice relaxed vibe and an amazing bakery downstairs which offers some great doughnuts and pastries.

Also, If you’re a fan of falafel, these guys do the best I have tasted so far in India. It was light, crispy, and delicious!

World Garden Café

Serving up a huge range of international cuisines, the world garden café is an excellent place to eat at any time of day.

The guys here speak excellent English, are really friendly and the food is cheap and tasty.

This was one of my favourite places to eat in Leh, so don’t miss out!

Dust pollution in Leh Ladakh and harsh temperatures

As the terrain and surroundings are in quite harsh conditions (sometimes it looked like how I imagined Mars to be like) you’ll find it to be dry and dusty.

The pollution in Leh Ladakh was quite high around the main town and so if you have anything like asthma, you’re best to come prepared.

Most days I found myself using my scarf to protect my mouth, nose, and eyes from the dust.

As we’re closer to the sun here, you should always make sure you wear suncream.

When I visited in August, it was boiling hot every day and it was definitely summer clothes weather.

A lot of people had tiny dresses and shorts on which is a nice change from covering up but just make sure you don’t get sunburn!

Staying connected and WiFi in Leh Ladakh

As soon as I set off from Manali on the Rohtang pass my UK and Indian SIM phone numbers lost service and data. But, I thought when I got to Leh, it would come back – how silly I was!

There was absolutely no phone service in the whole town. I’m sure you could get a SIM from Leh if you have an unlocked phone, as most phone packages are regional in India.

This would mean you would lock into their own phone service here. But, for a few days, I just didn’t think it was worth it.

The wifi is also pretty bad and almost non-existent. Most cafés and restaurants offer wifi services but this wouldn’t work half of the time. In fact, on the first day we got here – there was no wifi in the whole town!

If I did get wifi, only certain apps would work like WhatsApp, which was perfect to tell my mum I was alive (mum’s always worry).

There are internet cafés which you can use which are 90 rupees an hour. I actually quite liked not having wifi and being contactable. I’m a 90s kid, so I remember a time before the internet!

It just means that you have a few days to truly enjoy where you are. You’re not constantly looking at your phone, but actually appreciating the scenery and meeting people!

Sometimes, we get so caught up in social media that it’s refreshing to sign off. Get a map, read a book, and talk to people. There was a world before wifi, you know!

That’s my complete travel guide to Leh Ladakh, save it for later!

Leh Ladakh would be a place I would highly recommend travelling to if you visit India.

In fact, I would say it’s on my list of ‘must-sees’. It’s a beautiful mix of culture, colour, history, and scenery which will transport you into another world!

Make sure you put it on your list. If you’d like to read more about the beautiful surrounding areas of Ladakh, read my article ‘the absolute best off the beaten track Ladakh’!

Want to read more on the far North of India?

Manali to Leh by road, all you need to know

A guide to Manali, the hippie town in Himachal

Why you need to visit Shimla

Top things to do in Mcleodganj

A complete Bhagsunag waterfall guide

My complete Rishikesh travel guide

Visiting the Beatles Ashram in Rishikesh

Things to do in Amritsar

Mussoorie Hill Station guide

Wednesday 27th of December 2023

Many Indian’s primary wish to travel Ladakh by a road trip on their own bike. Definitely my dream also. Hope I will also achieve it.

Sophie Pearce

Thursday 11th of January 2024

Yess, it's an epic road trip to Ladakh by road. I have to admit I wouldn't do it again though and would fly haha! Sophie x

Tuesday 29th of August 2023

Wow, this destination looks absolutely breathtaking! Adding it to my bucket list for sure.

Wednesday 30th of August 2023

Hi Suman, totally agree! Leh Ladakh is an epic destination :) Sophie x

Neha Shinde

Thursday 11th of May 2023

Fantastic article. I am very pleased to say that your article is fascinating to read.I always find myself wanting to comment on it.You're doing an excellent job.Keep your writing up

Wednesday 28th of June 2023

Thanks Neha for your kind words. Sophie x

Wednesday 7th of December 2022

Ladakh is not a place where you can go without planning. You will have to consider all the do's and don'ts while deciding on the trip. From the right clothes, the right vehicle, comfortable stay, and places to visit, everything should be pre-planned so that one doesn't miss out on the site's vibe.

Thursday 8th of December 2022

Hi Kamalesh, completely agree with you! Sophie x

Esha Sawant

Tuesday 1st of February 2022

"Hello Admin, Intresting Article, you are doing a great job . Keep it up"

Hi Esha, thank you so much! I'm glad you liked the post :) Sophie x

Explore Leh

Plan Your Trip to Leh: Best of Leh Tourism

Essential leh.

Trending in the forums

Rent a Home for Your Next Escape

Popular homes in leh.

Leh Is Great For

Cultural tours.

Historical Tours

Nature and Wildlife Tours

Getty Images/iStockphoto

Few places in India are at once so traveler friendly and enchanting as mountain-framed Leh. Dotted with stupas and whitewashed houses, the Old Town is dominated by a dagger of steep rocky ridge topped by an imposing Tibetan-style palace and fort. Beneath, the bustling bazaar area is draped in a thick veneer of tour agencies, souvenir shops and tandoori-pizza restaurants, but a web of lanes quickly fans out into a green suburban patchwork of irrigated barley fields. Here, gushing streams and narrow footpaths link traditionally styled Ladakhi garden homes that double as charming, inexpensive guesthouses. Leh’s a place that’s all too easy to fall in love with – but take things very easy on arrival as the altitude requires a few days' acclimatization before you can safely start enjoying the area's gamut of adventure activities.

Leave the planning to a local expert

Experience the real Leh. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Bearing a passing similarity to the Potala Palace in Lhasa (Tibet), this nine-storey dun-coloured edifice is Leh's dominant structure and architectural…

Leh Old Town

Behind Leh’s central Jamia Masjid, winding alleys and stairways burrow between and beneath a series of old mud-brick Ladakhi houses and eroded chortens…

Spituk Gompa

Founded in the late 14th century as See-Thub (Exemplary) Monastery, impressive Spituk Gompa surveys the Sengye Tsangpo (Indus) Valley, with surreal views…

Shanti Stupa

Dominating Leh from a high, rocky ridge, this gigantic white spired pudding of a stupa was built between 1983 and 1991 by Japanese monks to promote world…

This arts-media trust occupies an adjoining pair of 17th-century Ladakhi mansions, one of which was the home of the munshi (king's secretary) and thus one…

Visible from virtually everywhere in Leh, 16th-century Tsemo (Victory) Fort is a defining landmark that crowns the top of Palace Ridge, though there's…

Central Asian Museum

One of Leh's most remarkable buildings, this tapered four-storey stone tower is a modern construction based on a historic Lhasa mansion and built on the…

For a charming wander, follow canal streams in the captivating yet relatively accessible area around little Sankar Gompa and the one-room geological…

Plan with a local

Experience the real India

Let a local expert craft your dream trip.

Latest stories from Leh

Feb 6, 2014 • 9 min read

Ladakh - the ‘Land of the High Passes’ - is among the most stunning parts of the Indian Himalayas. Wedged between Pakistan, Tibet and Xinjiang Province …

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Leh

Purchase our award-winning guidebooks.

Get to the heart of Leh with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.

• Destinations
• Hotels & Homestays
• Food & Drink
• People & Culture
• Mindful Travel
• Readers' Travel Awards
• Escape to Rajasthan
• READERS TRAVEL AWARDS
• #LOVEGREATBRITAIN
• TAJ SAFARIS
• BOUTIQUE HOTELS
• CNT TOP RESTAURANT AWARDS
• DESTINATION WEDDING GUIDE
• DON’T TRAVEL WITHOUT IT
• #UNDISCOVERAUSTRALIA
• ESSENTIALLY RAJASTHAN

A first-timer’s guide to Leh

By Rashmi Shankar

If Ladakh is paradise, Leh is your stairway to heaven. Plan a trip to the land of bluer-than-blue lakes and stark grey mountains with this quick guide:

Getting to Leh

You can fly to Leh from major Indian cities via Delhi (there's also a 4am direct flight from Mumbai), but much of the time you save will be spent acclimatising to the altitude. Your other option is to drive, and there are two ways of getting there:

From Srinagar (415km): The Srinagar–Leh road is open from the first week of May till December, depending on snowfall. The roads are well maintained, the ascent is gradual—chances of mountain sickness considerably reduce—and there are beautiful villages on the way. Perfect for families with elder members and children. You can stop overnight at either Dras or Kargil, which are 140km and 200km from Srinagar respectively.

From Manali (482km): This high-altitude road is snowed under for most part of the year. It opens around the first week of June and remains motorable till October. The climb here is steep, the roads crumbly, and landslides are a real threat. Try this if you're looking for adventure. Travellers usually halt overnight at Jispa, about 140km from Manali .

It is also possible to drive from Srinagar to Leh in a day. But you will need a very early start, an experienced driver and plenty of energy to sit through the drive. Certainly not the best way to arrive in Leh. The most recommended way to travel: drive in, fly out.

Local transport

Taxis can be booked through the hotel or a travel agent, and they charge as per the destination. The Leh main market also has a taxi stand—solo travellers can opt for shared taxis, which are cheaper and can be paid for on a per-person basis. Vehicles for overnight trips cost about 20% more than day trips. For reference, a day trip from Leh to Thiksey, Shey and Hemis monasteries and the Druk Padma Karpo School—of 3 Idiots fame—will cover a distance of approximately 100km and cost Rs2,500 for a Mahindra Xylo and Rs2,800 for a Toyota Innova. Most people don't, but in case you want air conditioning, it costs Rs7/km in addition to the aforementioned prices. [Tip: Contact Ahmad Tullah, local taxi driver at +91-9797522908 or +91-9419340582 for help with taxis, accommodation and packages.]

The Grand Dragon Ladakh offers mountain-view rooms.

Many of Ladakh's top attractions are a day trip away from Leh, which is why it makes sense to camp here. Predictably, the town gets swamped in peak season and places are sold out months in advance. These are the ones to book:

The Grand Dragon Ladakh is centrally heated and has solar-powered rooms with views of the Stok Kangri mountains. (Doubles from Rs11,600)

The 45-room Hotel Shangrila is minutes away from the airport and has a Tibetan-inspired restaurant that serves Ladakhi food. (Doubles from Rs6,500)

A short walk from Leh town, Mahey Retreat has rooms overlooking sprawling gardens that grow most of the produce used by the restaurant. (Doubles from Rs4,600)

The family-run Mogol Hotel has friendly staff and 19 spacious rooms with views of the mountains. (Doubles from Rs4,500)

Backpackers and solo travellers can opt for Shaolin Guest House on Sankar road (starting Rs800 per person) and Zik Zik Guest House on Karzoo lane (+91-94191 79357; doubles from Rs1,000), which are homely, comfortable and easy on the pocket.

Muskaan Chandrapota

Arundhati Ail

Most restaurants are open throughout the tourist season and are great for people-watching or meeting locals. Settle down with a hot cup of cappuccino at Jeevan Café (+91-9419129157), which also has a small library on the first floor—ask for their pizza and lasagne. Lunch at the value-for-money Summer Harvest restaurant in Changspa and try their hearty thukpa (noodle soup), or walk up to the tavern-like Bon Appetit for a meal with a view—they make great chocolate momos. For a taste of Tibetan cuisine, try Tibetan Kitchen on Fort Road (tip: get a table outside) or the quaint Amdo Café in the main market, which serves steaming momos and thenthuk (noodle soup). Stop by Pumpernickel German Bakery on Zangsti road for fresh bread, cakes and cookies. Don't forget to visit the charming Lala's Café, which is housed in a restored Ladakhi house and serves butter tea. Lamayuru Restaurant on Fort Road is great for vegetarians and is the place to go when you're craving Indian food. Check out our complete list of Leh's best eats here .

Taxi it to the unearthly Pangong Lake. Photo: Shutterstock.com

Art/history: Visit the Shanti Stupa, Leh Palace and the old town in Leh. See local art at the Ladakh Arts and Media Organisation in the old town, which also conducts workshops on subjects such as textiles, design and writing. You could also time your visit to see the colourful Hemis Festival, a two-day celebration in June/July, held at the 17th-century Hemis monastery, about 40km from Leh. Join in for prayers at the Thiksey and Lamayuru monasteries, which are both day trips away from Leh.

Shopping: The Leh main market is home to Tibetan antiques, jewellery and curios. You can also buy handcrafted carpets, rugs and pashmina shawls. Visit the Ladag Apricot store in Zangsti for organic food and jams made with locally sourced apricots.

Voluntourism: If you plan on staying longer, volunteer with the 17000 ft Foundation , which works with schools in villages in and around Leh and offers 10-, 16- and 30-day programmes that involve teaching and infrastructure building, among other things.

Adventure: Adventure junkies can time their visit to watch the Ladakh Marathon . (If you want to participate, here's what you need to know .) For treks and monastery tours, Ladakh Ecological Footprint is your best bet. They also offer river rafting expeditions for beginners and experienced enthusiasts. Frozen Himalayas conducts biking trips to and from Leh and also snow leopard treks in winters.

Overnight trips: Taxi it to the unearthly Nubra Valley and Pangong and Tso Moriri lakes. While the journeys can be made in a day, Kshitij Thube, who biked from Manali to Leh last summer, recommends otherwise. "There are comfortable camps everywhere and stunning views—you can share a camp right on Pangong Lake. There's no point visiting if you can't watch the sun rise and set beyond the lake."

Apart from jackets and warmers, here's what you need to survive:

Waterproof sports shoes

Rainwear (rainproof pants + a poncho + raincoat)

Sunscreen (or else, as Kshitij says, your skin will "peel off your face in two days")

Hats and sunglasses (for sun protection)

Backpack/duffel bag to carry everything you need for smaller trips around Leh

Medicine kit (with Diamox and regular medicines)

(If you're driving) Toolkit with a set of basic tools for the vehicle

Mountain sickness is a real danger and can be fatal

Symptoms of acute mountain sickness (AMS) include headache, light-headedness, breathlessness and nausea. Sujata Sahu, founder of the 17,000 ft Foundation, explains, "Hospitals in Leh are filled with tourists who think the weather is great and take acclimatisation lightly." If you think something's wrong, stop or descend to the lowest possible point immediately.

Medicines such as Diamox may be prescribed by general physicians prior to the trip and help reduce the chances of AMS—in case of any discomfort, this should be your first go-to. Having said that, the body is also fully capable of adjusting to the altitude on its own, if given time. Chewing something (especially garlic and chocolates) helps keep symptoms away. Most local vehicles and campsites are equipped with oxygen cylinders; don't hesitate to use them if/when necessary.

Good to know

Carry government-issued photo-identity proof—driving licence, Aadhaar card, PAN card, etc., which come handy at checkpoints and in case permits are required.

Plastic bags are banned in Ladakh, so make sure you carry biodegradable/paper bags.

The weather is unpredictable: it's usually windy and can go from pleasant to chilly very quickly. Wear layers instead of bulky warmers to stay comfortable at all times.

Keep in mind that most establishments in Ladakh are shut during the off season i.e. the time when roads are closed.

Carry waterproof luggage; this will ensure that the contents of your bag remain dry in case it rains unexpectedly or you need to drive through water.

Remember to take spare batteries for your camera, as the altitude and cold will drain them out quicker.

When travelling around Leh, it's best to avoid alcohol; drink water instead. Breathing in dry air drains the moisture from the lungs, so make sure you consume at least 4–5 litres to stay hydrated.

If you're the one at the wheel, it's important to know that driving here is different from driving anywhere else. It's a constant mental and physical test, and covering more than 50km a day is a challenge for anybody who's not a seasoned driver. Don't push yourself more than you need to. Kshitij adds, "If something goes wrong, you'll fall 1,000ft into the valley." Take it slow and easy, and enjoy the scenery.

Prepaid SIM cards don't work well in Leh, but postpaid do (Airtel, Aircel and BSNL are your best options). The main market in Leh city also has multiple STD booths.

Most importantly, don't try to do too much in too little time. Ladakh is not a place that you see in a hurry.

Next: Watch Condé Nast Traveller reader Veda Hrudya Nadendla travel to Ladakh for her Journey of a Lifetime:

You will be redirected to your dashboard shortly. We will also call you back in 24 hrs .

• 51 Places To Visit In Leh Ladakh For A Spell Binding Vacation In The Year 2024

23 Mar 2023

Ladakh is a place like no other. The beauty of the place can’t be expressed in words. Visiting Leh Ladakh can be a great experience as these places have a bounty of natural beauty. There is a bundle of attractions in Leh Ladakh, that are filled with extreme pristine beauty. Ladakh, with a unique characteristic that is a blend of Indian, Tibetan as well as Buddhism linings, is a place that is worth paying a visit to. So, scroll down to know what all awaits you while you choose from the best places to visit in Leh Ladakh .

Top 51 Places To Visit In Leh Ladakh

Going on a holiday to a charming land like Ladakh is surely an experience of a lifetime. So, why would you want to miss out on anything best there? Monasteries, rivers, valleys, lakes, villages and museums – this place is a confluence of so many popular and awesome things. Here’s a list of the top places to visit in Leh Ladakh  for a fantastic vacation.

1. Zanskar Valley

Image Source

Without a doubt, Zanskar valley is one of the best places to visit in Leh Ladakh and the best Ladakh tourist places. It is amongst the most desolate places in the Himalayan range. The steep terrains covered with snow reflect the heavenly skies. The tributaries of the Zanskar River is one of the most famous places for river rafting in India . 

Best Time to Visit: Zanskar is best visited between June to September when the road is clear of the snow and the Leh temperature is at moderate. It’s closed for a significant time due to extreme snowfall and winter. Location: Leh-Ladakh

  40 Best Things To Do In Ladakh That You Can’t Afford To Miss

Looking To Book A Holiday Package?

Spellbinding Cochin Family Tour 2D/1N Package @ Rs 2,750

Plan your trip today!

Himachal Family Tour Package 4D/3N @ Rs 8,750

Get quotes from multiple travel experts.

Exciting Andaman Family Trip 5D/4N @ Rs 10,250

Compare & customize quotes before booking.

Gangtok & Darjeeling Tour Package 5D/4N @ Rs 13,000

Have Questions? Talk to our travel experts today.

Wonderful Goa Family Package 3D/2N @ Rs 6,500

Best prices guaranteed.

Riveting Rajasthan Vacation 3D/2N Package @ Rs 6,499

EMI option available.

Enchanting Uttarakhand Tour 4D/3N Package @ Rs 7,199

Explore best destinations with our experts.

Delightful South Weekend Tour 3D/2N Package @ Rs 4,999

Thrilling weekend full of fun.

Marvelous Gujarat Tour 3D/2N Package @ Rs 4,999

Talk to our experts today.

See more at TRAVELTRIANGLE.COM

2. Pangong Tso Lake

Remember the breathtakingly beautiful lake from 3 Idiots where Kareena Kapoor confessed her love? It’s Pangong Tso, a lake among the popular tourist attractions in Leh Ladakh situated on the Changtang plateau in the eastern Ladakh region. The lake offers an awesome site for camping and is the current hotspot for all people making it one of the best Ladakh tourist places. To avoid the crowd, you can visit this place during the off-season. The lake totally freezes during the winter, making it one of the best places to visit in Leh in January.

Best Time to Visit: June to September is the best time to travel to Pangong Tso Lake Location: Leh district, Ladakh, India

A trip to Leh Ladakh is incomplete without a visit to Kargil which is one of the prime tourist places in Ladakh. This is the second largest town in Ladakh, situated on the banks of the Indus River. It is a transit hub with roads leading to Leh, Padum (Zanskar) and Srinagar. Also, it is a haven for adventure enthusiasts as they can enjoy sports such as trekking and mountaineering. Make sure you pack sufficiently to enjoy these activities at one of the most visited tourist places in Leh Ladakh!

Best Time to visit: The summer season between May to July is the best time to visit Kargil as the temperature is cool with frigid nights. Location: Ladakh, India

Camping In Leh: Sleep Under The Stars & Wake To The View Of Himalayas!

4. Khardung-la Pass

Khardungla Pass is a gateway which leads to the Nubra and Shyok valley and is one of the best tourist places in Ladakh. While this might not be a typical tourist attraction in Leh Ladakh, it is definitely among the must-visit places to visit in and around Leh Ladakh for adventure junkies. Managed by the Border Roads Organization, Kardung-la Pass is the gateway to the north and one of the most difficult yet thrilling passes to ride on.

Best time to visit: The best time to visit Khardung-La pass is during the summer season, between May to September. Location: Ladakh, India

5. Nubra Valley

Certainly one of the best places to see in Ladakh, it was featured as one of the top 5 places to visit in Ladakh , Nubra valley , a tri-armed valley towards the northeast. The sand dunes of the Nubra Valley offer tourists Arabian Nights experience. Nubra valley is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Leh Ladakh for its two-humped camels.

So, be sure to check out this one while you’re out and about in the scenic land of Leh! One of the famous places here is the Samstanling Monastery, which should definitely be on your list. Panamik village which is famous for hot sulphur springs is another attraction in Nubra Valley.

Best time to visit: As per the climatic conditions, the best time to visit Nubra valley is during the autumn season which is between the month of July to September. Location: Ladakh, India

Planning your holiday but confused about where to go? These travel stories help you find your best trip ever!

Nikhil Recites A Tale Of 11 Friends Who Went From Bengaluru To Ladakh

Bengaluru - Delhi - Leh - Ladakh - Leh - Delhi - Amristsar - Chandigarh - Bengaluru

Pranav Took A Solo Trip To Andaman & It Was Truly Wonderful

A backpacker's guide to the predominant Honeymoon destination!

Shivani Talks Of Her Trip To Mcleodganj & Dalhousie With Her Husband And Friends

Sunset views. Monasteries. Bhagsunath falls. And amazing street food.

Kanika Proves That Traveling With An Infant To Kerala Is Totally Safe & Wonderful

Beaches, Backwaters, Spas, & More. Take me there now, please!

Here's Why Aakanksha's Trip To Manali Changed Her Idea About Group Tours

Ideal long weekend getaway from Delhi! Isn't it?

Isha Elaborates On How She Went Solo To Kasol & Returned With Lots Of Friends

And tales of her exciting Kheerganga & Chalal trek...

Prasham's Account Of A Goa Tour Proves That Goa Is More Than A Party Destination

Adventure, sightseeing, laid-back beach tours, and it doesn't stop there!

Bhavya Gives An Extensive Account Of His Jaisalmer Trip With Friends

Desert safari, haunted Kuldhara village, & Gadisar Lake. There's more...

Ashish Tells Why Kashmir Turned Out To Be A Winter Wonderland For His Family

For Gondolas, Shikaras, and plenty of snow!

Arunav Can't Stop Praising His Adventurous Trip To Sikkim & Darjeeling With Friends

For adventure in Air, on Land, and in Water!

Avneet Describes Her Trip To Spiti With A Group Of Strangers That Became Friends

Sightseeing. Monasteries. Trekking. And beauty all along

6. Magnetic Hill

One of the best places to visit in Leh Ladakh is Magnetic Hill . The science behind the phenomenon is unknown but it has been observed that if you leave your vehicle at the base of the hill with the brakes unlocked, it will start moving uphill slowly on its own. Magic? Definitely not. It’s simply the superpowers you get when you reach this place. This makes it really important to be included in your list of places in Leh Ladakh !

Best Time To Visit: May to September Location: Ladakh, India

7. Spituk Gompa

Ladakh is known as the land of the monks and monasteries. Spituk is one of the many tourist places to visit in Ladakh and one of the best places to see in Ladakh. This is famous for its beautifully carved location at the top of a hill. The winds at the night, however, may chill you to the bones. Make sure you pack a few extra warm clothes to be comfortably cosy to visit one of the most serene places to go in Leh Ladakh .

Best Time To Visit: May to September Location: Leh, Jammu, and Kashmir

  60 Best Hill Stations In India That You Must Explore At Least Once In Your Life!

8. Hemis National Park

If you want to get the best of Ladakh sightseeing, visit the Hemis National Park has the distinction of being the largest national park in South Asia. The park is a protected home for endangered mammals like leopards, Asiatic ibex, Tibetan wolf, the Eurasian brown bear, and the red fox.

For nature lovers and bird watchers, this has to be on your list of places to see in Ladakh. A pollution-free environment and noise-free surroundings make bird watching a joyful experience. So, if you are looking for places to visit in Leh Ladakh in May, should be definitely on your itinerary.

Best time to visit: Between May to September Location:  Jammu, and Kashmir

9. Shanti Stupa

What better place to invoke some thoughts from within than this? Located on a hill in Chanspa, Leh, the Shanti Stupa is one of the most magnificent and peaceful Buddhist monuments you could possibly see in the extreme north of India for the best of Ladakh sightseeing. Take the steep slights to reach the Stupa which offers beautiful sunrise and sunset views. Also, the panoramic views of the landscape around it make the Shanti Stupa one of the best tourist places in Ladakh.

Best time to visit: Between May to September Location: Shanti Stupa Rd, Leh, Jammu and Kashmir

  18 Places You Need To Visit For The Best Wildlife Experience In India

10. Hemis Monastery

One of the most famous Buddhist monasteries in India , Hemis Monastery is known for its annual mask festival. This is a two-day spiritual celebration taking place on Tse Chu, the tenth month in the Tibetan calendar. The festival is celebrated in the memory of Guru Padmasambhava, who is believed to be the Gautam Buddha’s reincarnation.

Best time to visit: This is one of the best places to visit in Ladakh in summer i.e April to August Location: Leh, Jammu, and Kashmir

11. Royal Leh Palace

Resembling the essence of the Potala Palace in Lhasa, the Royal Leh Palace is situated on a cliff overlooking the charming town of Leh. A prominent symbol of the royal family’s glory living in this town in the old days, this place cannot be missed by any explorer out there! The stunning statue of Buddha at the back of this palace adds more to the charm of this place.

Best Time To Visit: It is best to visit this palace in the month of August Entry Fee: INR 20 for Indians and INR 100 for foreigners Timings: 07:00 AM to 04:00 PM everyday Location: Leh, Jammu, and Kashmir

  Ladakh In April: When Your Adventurous Heart Yearns For The Himalayas!

12. Moonland

Its close resemblance to Moon is the main reason why this beautiful naturally occurring land is one of the best places to visit in Ladakh is hard to miss on your way to Lamayuru. If you wish to visit one of the most stunning unseen places in Leh, this is the place to be. It is best to travel to this place during the time of a full moon since it is believed to be a unique experience altogether with the moonlight reflecting on this kind of surface. Moonland is one of those unique places to visit in Leh Ladakh in April.

Best Time To Visit: The best time to visit this place would be around April to May Location: Village Lamayuru, Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir

13. Tso Moriri Lake

A twin to the popular Pangong Tso Lake, Tso Moriri Lake is a lesser-known lake located in the Changtang Wildlife Sanctuary. Its location contributes to the scenic beauty of this lake. Barren hills with snow-capped mountains in the backdrop make the sight simply breathtaking.

The attribute of being a “lesser-known” makes this place less crowded so you can be sure of having a place to yourself at the lake. The open sky at Tso Moriri Lake makes it a perfect place for star gazing at night. Moriri Tso, also known as a ‘Mountain Lake’ was declared as a wetland reserve.

Various kinds of species including the Brahmin duck, bare-headed goose, the brown-headed gull, and the great-crested grebe are found here, along with Himalayan Hares that are present in large numbers. The peaks that surround this lake are so high that they shut off this place from the outer world.

Best Time To Visit: May to August Location: Ladakh

  10 Homestays In Ladakh: The Finest Gems Of Ladakhi Hospitality And Traditions

14. Chadar Trek

How about walking on a frozen lake? Chadar Trek is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Ladakh such an unbelievable and exciting experience. ‘Chadar’ refers to a blanket, because in winter the popular Zanskar River in Leh Ladakh freezes into a blanket of ice. Come to witness the transformation of colours of this frozen river while you trek on it.

The mild blue colour changes to light yellow when the sun shines directly on it for a few hours in the day. It looks milky white on a moonlit night. The Chadar Trek journey is said to be one of the most adventurous and toughest trek journeys.

Best Time To Visit: January and February Location: Ladakh

Alchi is a busy village located in the Himalayan region of Ladakh, in the valley of the Indus River. The model town of Alchi is home to an ancient Buddhist monastery that dates back to 900 years. The monastery proudly bears the 11th – 12th-century Indo-Tibetan paintings done in bright green, gold, ochre and azure shades.

The painted statue of Bodhisattva Maitreya is a major highlight of the monastery. You are suggested to spend a night at Alchi to discover the real Ladakhi village life. You can also enjoy river rafting at the Alchi Nyemo.

Best Time To Visit: June to September Location: Ladakh

11 Adventure Sports In Ladakh For A Thrill Vacay In The Hills!

16. Thiksey Gompa

Resembling the Potala Palace in Lhasa, Tibet, Thiksey is one of the beautiful Buddhist monasteries in Ladakh. Snuggled at an altitude of 11,800 feet, this monastery is looked after by the people of the Yellow Hat (Gelugpa) sect. It comprises a 12-story building complex and houses more than 500 monks. Thiksey has a large and precious collection of Buddhist books, journals, statues, scripts, stupas, swords, and Thangka paintings.

Best Time to Visit: October to November Location: Leh Manali Hwy, Thiksey, Jammu and Kashmir

17. Diskit Monastery

Located in the beautiful Nubra Valley, Diskit Monastery is one of the most beautiful and the oldest Buddhist monasteries in Ladakh, founded in the 14th century by Changzem Tsera Zangpo. It belongs to the Gelugpa sect (Yellow Hat) of Tibetan Buddhism and has various Buddha statues, images of other guardian gods, and a huge drum.

Owing to the breathtaking location, this one of the famous monasteries in Ladakh offers solemn serenity and inner peace. Situated close to it is Maitreya Buddha, another famous attraction here.

Best Time to Visit: July to September Location: Jammu and Kashmir

  10 Ladakh Resorts That Are Ideal For A Splendidly Comfortable Experience

18. Stakna Monastery

Stakna, locally known as Tiger’s Nose, is a small and serene monastery. It was founded during the reign of King Jamyang Namgyal in 1580. It houses numerous paintings, idols, and Buddhist scriptures, and has many sister monasteries like in Zanskar-Bardan, Stakrimo, and Sani. Located on the left bank of Indus River and perched on a hill, the Stakna monastery in Leh Ladakh offers amazing views of the Indus valley.

19. Phyang Gompa

Phyang Gompa belongs to the red hat sect of Buddhism and is perhaps the most impressive monastery in Leh Ladakh. It is located on a hilltop and thus offers stunning views of the surrounding. This white and ochre-coloured structure is one of the must-visit monasteries in Ladakh and is an important hub of Digung teachings. The wall paintings at Phyang Gompa depict Buddhist culture and heritage. Make sure to stop by here on a day tour to Ladakh.

Best Time to Visit: May to October Location: Jammu and Kashmir

Ladakh Travel Tips To Bear In Mind While Traveling To The Himalayan Desert

20. Likir Monastery

Likir Monastery is located 53 km west of Leh in the Likir village in the Indus Valley. Along with taxis, many buses travel between Leh and Likir from 5 in the morning to 3 in the afternoon. Popularly known as Likir Gompa, it was founded by Lama Duwang Chosje in the 14th century. According to Buddhist mythology, this is the first construction by the Tibetan monks. The museum located inside the monastery showcases a wide array of Tibetan artefacts and relics.

21. Phugtal Monastery

Phugtal Monastery is constructed around and inside a hollow cave. Its mysterious location and structure make it one of the most fascinating sites for visitors. It is located in the southeast part of the Zanskar region in Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir.

It is an isolated monastery and remains tucked far away from the city. One of the unique features is that the water of the cave remains flowing at the same pace irrespective of the water running outside. The water is also believed to have medicinal powers.

Best Time To Visit: mid-May to July. Location: Jammu and Kashmir

  Stok Kangri Trek: A Remarkable Yet Difficult Trekking Experience In Ladakh

22. Namgyal Tsemo Gompa

If you love to come across rugged and steep mountains replete with peaceful and spiritual folds, you must visit Namgyal Tsemo Gompa. The monastery is famous for its Buddhist principles and teachings. Travellers from all over the world come here to experience divinity. Experience the distinct mystique that surrounds the place on your visit here.

Best Time To Visit: April to September Location: Jammu and Kashmir

23. Stok Palace

Situated at a distance of only 15 km, Stok Palace is found in the Stok Village. It is famously known as the summer home to the royal family of Ladakh. Established in the year 1820 by King Tsepal Namgyal. It is a glaring example of the rich history and lifestyle of the royal family. It is also home to Stok Monastery and is equipped with beautiful gardens and a huge library. It has now been converted into a heritage hotel for visitors to come to experience the royalty here.

Best Time To Visit: June to September Location: Stok Village, Jammu and Kashmir

45 Most Romantic Places In And Around Bangalore To Explore With Your Soulmate

24. Chemrey Monastery

The 400-year old undiscovered Buddhist Monastery, Chemrey Monastery is located 40 km away, in the east of Leh. One of the most remarkable features of the Monastery is the high statue of Padmasambhava. On your visit, do check out the wide collections of ancient scriptures. These scriptures are emboldened in gold and silver. Capture stunning views of the surrounding areas while you are here.

Best Time To Visit: June to October Location: Jammu and Kashmir

25. Tso Kar

The oscillating salt lake in Ladakh valley, Tso Kar is one of the most popular destinations in Ladakh. It is more often known as the white lake, and the Tso Kar Lake is a serene retreat for many travellers. Surrounding areas of the lake include a couple of nomadic families, a few yak sheds, and a monastery. It is suggested to camp overnight in Tso Kar for a completely different experience. It is also an amazing place for birdwatching.

Best Time To Visit: June and July. Location: Jammu and Kashmir

9 Pristine Ladakh Lakes You Ought To Visit For A Tranquil Vacation

26. Lamayuru Town

During your trip to Leh, take out a day to travel to Lamayuru. The small town is famous for its Lamayuru Monastery. It is believed that a stretch of land is borrowed from the moon. Take a look at the aesthetic fresco paintings which are also found in the houses of the locals.

Best Time To Visit: May to September Location: Jammu and Kashmir

27. Sankar Gompa

Sankar Gompa (Sankar Monastery) is located 6 km from Leh. It is a beautiful monastery located in the main city of Ladakh. It is believed to be a branch of the traditional Spituk Monastery. The presiding head or Lama is the same while there are 20 other monks who reside here to learn the culture of Buddhism. The Sankar Gompa is also the residence of the Abbot of Spituk, adding to its religious importance. Visit Sankar Gompa to get a view of Namgyal Tsemo Hills from the monastery.

Best Time To Visit: March to October. Location: Jammu and Kashmir

  Visit These 19 Monasteries In Ladakh For A Purifying Experience

28. Dha Hanu

Dha Hanu is otherwise the name of two villages – Dha and Hanu. They are a few among those villages which are home to the people of the Drokpa tribe. If you are really keen to discover the cultural life of the tribe here, it is a wonderful place to visit. The Drokpa tribes are known for using distinct head gears and ornaments in their attire.

Best Time To Visit: The best time to visit is between June to October. Location: Jammu and Kashmir

A quaint town, Nyoma is located in the district of Leh, 370 km from Srinagar. The most striking attribute of Nyoma is that it is located on the Indus banks. If you have a permit for the inner line, you can also visit the small Buddhist monastery in the town which is known as Gompa.

Best Time To Visit: September to May. Location: Jammu and Kashmir

8 Tourist Circuits Of Ladakh To Cover The Best

30. Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary

Located at a height of about 4000-9000 feet, Changtang wildlife sanctuary is an isolated wildlife sanctuary that offers impressive views from the top. There is a wide range of flowers, plants and animals here. It also constitutes of the highest lakes – Tso Moriri, Pangong Tso, and Tso Kar. The Korzok Monastery is also another main feature here.

31. Hall Of Fame – Salute The Martyrs

Hall of Fame is a museum dedicated to all those soldiers who fought in the Indo-Pakistan war and sacrificed their lives for the country. The brave act has been inculcated in the photo frames that are hanging on the walls of the museum and will tell you the story of their bravery. Apart from that, there are arms and amenities used by the soldiers. It is one of the best places to visit in Ladakh .

Entry Fee : INR 10 Timings: 9 am – 1 pm, 3 pm – 7 pm Location: Leh, Jammu and Kashmir 194101 Best Time To Visit: May to September

Leh Ladakh Bike Trip: Everything You Need To Know From The Scratch

32. Rohtang Pass

Rohtang Pass is one of the most famous avalanches in Ladakh that is often visited by tourists to catch mind-blowing views and comes at the top of the Ladakh travel tips list and go through narrow roads under severe climatic conditions. Adventure seekers often travel through this route to experience the chills and for thrill-seeking adventures. It acts as a link between Kullu Valley and Lahaul and Spiti Valley.

Location : The pass is located about 51 km away from Manali and you can reach the pass if you take Leh- Manali Highway. Best Time To Visit: May to September

33. Lachulung La

Image source

Lachulung La is a pass that is situated at an elevation of 5059 m above sea level. It is considered to be extremely dangerous with that much height and is on the border of Himachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir. It also separates the valleys of Tsarap Chu and Tozay.

Location : Take the Leh-Manali highway, from Sarchu 54 km and from Pang, 24 km Best Time To Visit: May to September

12 Astounding Spots For Trekking In Ladakh That Need To Be On Every Hiker’s Bucket List

34. Tanglang La – For Thrill-Seeking Adventure

Again, it’s a high mountain pass that is a favourite haunt for many tourists who come to visit for the breathtaking views and the thrill-seeking adventure. It is situated 5328 m above sea level and poses as a thrill-seeking adventure for those who are interested in making the climb.

Location : The pass is close to Leh-Manali highway and can be reached via 21 Gata loops Best Time To Visit: May to September

35. Mulbekh Monastery

If you are considering the post covid travel guide to Ladakh , you must not miss the chance to visit this place. Consisting of two gompas, it is located at a pristine location which is about 260 km from Leh town. The two gompas, namely, Drukpa and one Gelugpa Buddhist monastery are architectural marvels.

Location : Thang, Kargil, Jammu and Kashmir 194103 Best Time To Visit: May to September

9 Places To Visit In Nubra Valley For A Surreal Holiday In Ladakh!

36. Gol Market

Gol Market is a market in Ladakh where one can buy woollen clothes and other general items required for camping. It is one of the best places to visit in Ladakh for buying souvenirs too as one can find embroidered Ladakhi work and antiques here.

Location : Jammu and Kashmir Best Time To Visit: May to September

37. Central Asian Museum

Disclaimer: The image is for representation purposes only.

The Central Asian Museum is one of the top places to visit in Ladakh . It is a tapered four-storey stone tower inspired by the Lhasa architecture and located close to the Main Bazaar. The museum showcases trade done using the  Silk route – Ladakh, Yarkand, Turkestan, Baltistan, Tibet and China. The museum is located in a courtyard along with a traditional Ladakhi show kitchen and the oldest mosque, Masjid Sharif in Leh. The complex is also famous for the 500-year old sacred tree also known as the Datun Sahib.

Location : Main Bazaar Road, Leh, Jammu and Kashmir 194101 Entry fee : INR 50 Best Time To Visit: May to September

  Dodda Ayur: An Answer For All Those Cancelled Plans To Ladakh!

38. Leh Donkey Sanctuary

Image Credits: Wikimedia

We agree, that it is not one of the best places to visit in Ladakh. , however, the sanctuary supports a huge population of stray donkeys. As the population rose, houses were built in Ladakh, and animals such as donkeys became strays on a regular basis. In 2007, the sanctuary was started with the idea of not leaving a single donkey astray and taking care of food, medicines and a proper habitat for donkeys. It might not be every tourist’s ideal attraction but one of the best Ladakh tourist places for animal lovers and researchers.

Location : Korean Temple Road, Khakshal, Leh-Ladakh  194101 Entry fee : INR 10 for Indians, INR 50 for foreigners Best Time To Visit: May to September

39. Panamik Village

Where the grasses are green, the mountains are white and the waters are clear, is a heavenly place, also called the Panamik village, one of the most beautiful places to visit in Ladakh. Set by the side of the Nubra river, Panamik is most popular for its therapeutic hot springs. The village also acts as a base for the trek to Ensa Gompa, which is almost a 250-year-old trek. 

Location : Leh-Ladakh Best time to visit : June to September

  Dodda Ayur: An Answer For All Those Cancelled Plans To Ladakh

40. Zorawar Fort

The Zorawar Fort marks the victory for General Zorawar Singh, who conquered Ladakh. To commemorate his victory, he built this fort in 1930 overlooking the hills and the mountain city of Leh. If you want to explore amazing architecture, then the Zorawar fort is one of the best places to visit in Ladakh. The fort’s  structure is made from local clay, some sun-dried bricks, stones and wooden frames hinged around the edges. 

Location: Leh-Ladakh  Best time to visit : March to September

41. Tiger Hill

Tiger Hill is one of the highest places to see in Ladakh located in the Kargil sector. The hill holds immense importance to the Indo-Pak war of 1999. The sight from the top of the hill is just magnificent with a view of the valley, the colossal mountain and marks a cold climate throughout the year. This place is perfect for enjoying some of the most popular adventure sports in Ladakh . 

Location : Leh-Ladakh Best time to visit : March to September

  Mountaineering In Ladakh: A Handy Guide To Satiate The Adrenaline Rush!

42. Lachung Templet

Image Credit: Hynek Moravec for Wikimedia

Lachung Temple is one of the most visited places in Ladakh situated in Nubra Valley. You will get to view exclusive colourful and narrative paintings. If you are an art lover then this place will surely captivate you as this is one of the oldest holy sites in Ladakh.

Best time to visit: October to June Location: Nubra Valley, Ladakh

43. Ladakh Market

Image Credit: Raggio5 for Wikimedia

If you love shopping then you must explore the markets in Ladakh which sells exclusive souvenirs, beautiful Tibetan jewellery, woollen clothes, and decorated items like carpets and motifs. You can buy all the stuff for yourself as well as for your friends and family for beautiful memories. It is also one of the best places to visit during a Leh Ladakh bike trip with your family and friends.

Best time to visit: April to June Location: Ladakh

  Honeymoon Highs: 11 Romantic Experiences For Honeymoon In Ladakh

44. Markha Valley Trek

Image Credit: SlartibErtfass for Wikimedia

For all the adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers, trekking in Leh and Ladakh is one of the most thrilling experiences that you must surely witness. Some of the famous trekking routes are Markha Valley trekking, Ladakh Zanskar, Nubra Valley Trek and trek from Spiti to Ladakh. It is also one of the best Ladakh tourist places to visit with your friends.

Best time to visit: June to October Location: Ladakh

45. Hundur Monastery

Image Credit: Karunakar Rayker for Wikimedia

If you are travelling to Nubra Valley then you must visit Hundur Monastery as it is situated there. It is regarded as one of the ancient Buddhist sites where religious people come to gain knowledge on Buddhist lineage. It is also known as Hundur Gompa.

Best time to visit: June to August Location: Nubra Valley, Ladakh

Magnetic Hill In Ladakh: A Handy Guide To Unravel This Mystery

46. Sindhu Darshan Festival

Image Credit: Arian Zwegers for Wikimedia

Every year on the full moon day, Sindhu Darshan Festival is celebrated with great vigour and energy by the people of Ladakh for three days. The festival is celebrated for River Sindhu as a symbol of communal harmony in India. One of the interesting facts about the festival is that the movie Dil Se was shot when the first Sindhu Darshan Festival was celebrated.

B est time to visit: March to September Location: Ladakh

47. Moonland Lamayuru

Image Credit: NArender9 for Wikimedia

In Lamayuru, there is a beautiful landscape on the Leh- Kargil road which is known as Moonland. It is known as Moonland because the landscapes are in the shape of a moon. It is indeed one of the most beautiful sights to watch and if you go on full moon night then it is the most extraordinary sight to witness.

Best time to visit: May to September Location: Village Lamayuru, Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir 194106

  Article 370 Scrapped: Effects On Travel In Jammu & Kashmir, And Ladakh

48. Umling La Pass

Image Credit: Unsplash

Umling La Pass is one of the most popular roads in Ladakh which owns the title of being the highest motorable road in India. Biking enthusiasts often take a journey to this region that is beyond the general attractions of Ladakh to enjoy the endless vistas and serenity this pass has to offer.

Best time to visit: April to August Location: Umlingla Pass, Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir 194106

49. Shang Gompa

It is located in the snow-crested mountains alongside the majestic landscapes of Leh and Ladakh. The Shang Gompa represents harmony, levelheadedness, and quietness. The reciting of the monks is pretty much a mesmerizing and soul-touching experience here. It is also one of the most popular tourist places in Leh Ladakh .

Best time to visit: All around the year Location: Hemis, Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir 194106

Hemis Festival: Your Gateway To Enter The Magical Realm Of Ladakh

50. Wanla Monastery

This gompa is connected with Lotsawa Rinchen Zangpo, and is a contemporary of Alchi, dating longer than a century old, and may likewise be crafted by Kashmiri craftsmen from Ladakh’s pre-Tibetan time. In spite of the fact that not as celebrated on the vacationer circuit as Alchi and Lamayuru, it is considered by local people to be the most remarkable structures that people from all over India come to visit.

Best time to visit: May – September Location: Hemis, Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir 194106

51. Shyok River

Best time to visit: May – September Location: Leh Ladakh

Best Time To Visit Leh Ladakh

If you’re planning to visit Leh Ladakh, then make your plans during the months of April-May as it is the best time to visit. During this time the temperature in Leh remains moderate and Srinagar is clear to commute. Travellers can explore most of the places to visit in Leh Ladakh during this time.

101 Places To Visit In India Before You Turn 30

Did this get you excited already? Well, we wouldn’t blame you! The places to visit in Leh Ladakh have that kind of appeal. Planning a holiday well in advance has its own perks. While you decide which of these places should be on your itinerary, we say booking a trip to Ladakh isn’t wouldn’t require much time! So, get your bags packed and get going! It’s time to treat the traveller in you!

For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here

Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Leh Ladakh

Is it safe to visit Ladakh during Covid times?

You need to be careful during your entire trip. Get yourself tested at least 48 to 72 hours before leaving for the journey. Carry your negative RT PCR report with yourself. Remain masked while stepping out and maintain social distancing. Keep sanitizing your hands regularly after touching surfaces. Avoid crowded places and social and public gatherings.

Is Ladakh worth visiting?

Yes, the region of Ladakh is worth visiting, especially for the ones looking for adventure on the road. With the beautiful valleys of this place, you’ll feel like you have been brought closer to nature. Moreover, there are various tourist sites here, including Khardung-la Pass, Nubra Valley, Zanskar Valley, Magnetic Hill, and Pangong Tso Lake that will make your vacation worthwhile.

What should I carry for the Ladakh trip?

Some of the travel essentials that you should definitely carry while traveling to Ladakh are listed below: 1. Warm clothes, including pullovers, jackets, and mufflers 2. Medical Kit 3. Sunscreen and moisturizer 4. Toiletries 5. Cash 6. ID proofs

What are the best places to visit in Leh Ladakh in January?

Most of Ladakh stay inaccessible during this time of the year, owing to heavy snowfall. The region is very cold, with the temperature dropping till -50. However, this is a much-awaited time for trekkers wishing to go for Chadar Trek. This trek is recommended if you’re an experienced trekker.

What was Article 370?

At the time of independence, Jammu & Kashmir was given a special provision. Article 370 was added to the Indian constitution that allowed the state to have a separate flag and be a separate Union Territory with no legislature. However, with the scrapping of Article 370 and following the new bill, Ladakh will now be a separate union territory with no legislature while Kashmir will have an Assembly.

Will your Ladakh trip be affected after Article 370 is scrapped?

No. The locals say that the place is absolutely safe and life is normal in Ladakh. Leh airport is operational and the tour operators shared that the places to visit in Ladakh are all accessible

Which are the best shopping markets in Ladakh?

The best shopping markets in Ladakh where you can head for a shopping spree are: 1. Moti Bazaar 2. Tibetan Market 3. Shar Market

What is the best time to visit Ladakh?

Ladakh is a beautiful place to visit which offers interesting tourist attractions. The best time to visit Ladakh is from May to July. During these months, the weather is perfect and the highway from Srinagar to Leh opens up.

People Also Read:

Places To Visit In Indore Places To Visit In Bhimtal Places To Visit In Panjim

Recent Posts

आनंदपूर्वक घूमने के लिए 52 भारत में सर्वश्रेष्ठ छुट्टियाँ बिताने की जगहें

2024 में एक ताज़गी भरी 49 छुट्टियों के लिए उत्तर भारत में घूमने की जगहें

भारत से घूमने के लिए सबसे सस्ते देश जहां आपको 50K से भी कम खर्च आएगा!

8 Serene Places To Visit Near Eiffel Tower And Admire Its Timeless Beauty

9 Best Places To Visit Near Humayun Tomb For A Wholesome Experience

27 पुणे में मज़ेदार जगहें 2024 में आपका उत्साह बढ़ा देंगी

Trending Blogs

20 Mysterious Places In India To Visit In 2023 More Bizarre Than The Bermuda Triangle

10 Scariest Roads In India That Are A Driver’s Nightmare

101 Places To Visit In India Before You Turn 30 in 2024

35 Exotic Places To Visit In December In India 2024 To Enjoy A Surreal Vacation

60 Best Honeymoon Destinations In India In 2024

95 Best Honeymoon Destinations In The World In 2023 For A Romantic Escape!

Best Places To Visit In India By Month

Best places to visit outside india by month.

• TravelTriangle
• Ladakh »
• Tour Packages
• Honeymoon Packages
• Family Packages
• Budget Tour Packages
• Luxury Tour Packages
• Adventure Tour Packages
• Group Tour Packages
• Kerala Tour Packages
• Goa Tour Packages
• Andaman Tour Packages
• Sikkim Tour Packages
• Himachal Tour Packages
• Uttarakhand Tour Packages
• Rajasthan Tour Packages
• Tour Packages From Delhi
• Tour Packages From Mumbai
• Tour Packages From Bangalore
• Tour Packages From Chennai
• Tour Packages From Kolkata
• Tour Packages From Hyderabad
• Tour Packages From Ahmedabad
• Kerala Tourism
• Goa Tourism
• Sikkim Tourism
• Andaman Tourism
• Himachal Tourism
• Uttarakhand Tourism
• Rajasthan Tourism
• Hotels in Kerala
• Hotels in Goa
• Hotels in Sikkim
• Hotels in Andaman
• Hotels in Himachal
• Hotels in Uttarakhand
• Hotels in Rajasthan

A trip to Leh-Ladakh, has over the years become a popular bucket list item for anyone and everyone who likes to travel. And this comes as no surprise at all. Be it the more popular places like the Pangong Lake, Khardung La or the less popular but enriched with culture the Hemis or the Thiksey monastries of Leh, there is no end to the amazing places to visit in Leh Ladakh. And here is your detailed guide with complete information to make this dream vacation a memorable one.

If you like watching a video to get all the information, then this video is for you!!

HOW TO REACH LEH

Srinagar to Leh highway : There are both government and private buses on this route, though not as frequent as on the Manali highway.

Suggested Read: Follow this step by step itinerary to make the most of your Manali Leh cycling expedition .

WHERE TO STAY IN LEH

Leh has some wonderful stays. It has both hotels and hostels to serve all kinds of travellers visiting Leh, both the luxury travellers as well budget travellers. Depending on your inclination, feel free to book from the following options:

Luxury Hotels

Leh boasts of some of the hotels with world class amenities and picture-perfect views. When you are looking for the perfect stay with no hassles, you can be rest assured that the following hotels will live up to your expectations:

The Grand Dragon Ladakh

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tripti Dahiya (@traveldustblog) on Aug 11, 2020 at 5:01am PDT

Ladakh Sarai Resort

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ladakh Sarai (Luxury Resorts) (@ladakhsarai) on Jun 25, 2018 at 11:59pm PDT

TIH The Zen Ladakh

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Vineet Alexander (@vinalexus) on Oct 26, 2018 at 5:50am PDT

View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Abduz (@theabduz) on Feb 2, 2020 at 6:32am PST

Budget Hostels

Leh is a host to all demographics of tourists. None more so than the students and working professionals who visit this place to escape the fast paced lives that they are leading and want to soak in the best of what nature has to offer. If you are travelling on a shoe-string budget or want to meet the like minded free spirited travellers make sure that you try these hostels below.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jigar🇮🇳 (@jigzz_shah) on Apr 27, 2019 at 3:15am PDT

Raybo Hostel

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Raybo Hostels (@raybohostels) on Feb 4, 2018 at 5:59am PST

Hearth Stays

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Hearth Hostel (@thehearthstays) on Mar 15, 2019 at 2:46am PDT

Woosah Hostel

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Woosah Hostel Leh (@woosahhostel_) on Sep 20, 2020 at 5:50am PDT

• If, during your trip you do plan on sleeping in Nubra Valley , Himalayan Bunker in Hunder village is a good option.
• Otherwise homestays in Turtuk village is another good option.
• At Pangong lake , there are a lot of dhabas and motels to choose from.
• Be it Nubra Valley, Pangong or other places in these areas they are definitely worth it when it comes to the night view of the sky.
• While visiting Tso Moriri , you will find a few motels relatively nearby.

BEST PLACES TO EAT IN LEH

Leh boasts about some very good places to eat. When in Leh you could very well try the multicuisine restaurants Il Forno (Leh Main Market) and Bonfire (Old Fort Road). Both these restaurants offer some quality food and ambience. You should definitely try the Italian cuisine at Il Forno and fried momos at the Bonfire.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Yogesh Sarkar (@yogeshsarkar) on Sep 22, 2019 at 2:55am PDT

For quality vegan food, Bodhi Greens is a really good option. The host is quite welcoming as well.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bodhi Greens | Chef Varun (@bodhigreens) on May 31, 2019 at 1:01am PDT

• When you are on the road, Hunder as well as Diskit have quite a few joints to eat. However, do not expect out of the world places to eat here.
• When you are in Turtuk , you will find a few cafes to choose from. However, I would recommend trying out the Balti Kitchen . Raheem (who is the chef) is a one man show here serving some amazing food.
• Pangong lake has multiple dhabas for you to choose from.

HOW TO TRAVEL AROUND LEH

Given how beautiful Leh Ladakh is, you will be mesmerised with its charms irrespective of what option you choose to travel.

Option 1 – Bus

You can take a bus to the various places to visit in Leh. However, these buses do not visit all the spots on a daily basis. Some spots may not have any bus service at all. Others maybe as low as once or twice a week as well. Therefore, it is recommended that you check before hand for when are the buses available for the places you choose to visit. You can get this information from the JKSRTC Bus Stand .

Option 2 – Taxi

Hiring a taxi for the duration of your visit is a much better option. it will prove to be expensive yes, but this will be the most convenient as well. You can either ask the place where you are staying to help you hire a taxi or hire one from the Leh taxi stand . Beyond that feel free to contact one of the most friendly taxi driver, Stup-gyes (Number: +91 9469660648) . To understand the rates, refer to taxi union rate list for 2020-2021 season . To give you an idea, we paid 20k for 2.5 days for Mahindra Xylo. We covered Nubra Valley, Turtuk and Pangong Lake!

Option 3 – Bike

One of the most popular option, especially when it comes to a group of friends or among a relatively younger group of travellers in general, is the motorbike. This place is literally heaven for the bikers! Traversing Leh and all those places around on a bike, is the perfect mix of adventure and breathtaking views at your own speed. You can hire a bike from the many shops on the Fort Road . You can get the rate list for the 2020-2021 season here .

Option 4 – Bicycle

This is no doubt the toughest option out there but also with the most sense of accomplishment. Bicycle has gained quite a bit of popularity to reach Leh from Manali and then to also conquer Khardung La on it. However, bicycle in not popular when it comes to other places a little far way from Leh, like the Pangong lake or Nubra Valley. Still, for the local Leh sightseeing a bicycle is a fun option. You can rent a cycle from the many shops on Fort Road . Another adventure activity is to drive with your cycle to Khardung La top, and cycle back down. Getting all the thrills of a downhill ride without having to bear the physical pain to get your cycle to the top. A lot of these cycle shops offer this activity!

PLACES TO VISIT IN LEH – LADAKH

There is no disputing the fact that Leh-Ladakh region is most popular for its monastries, lakes and the landscape in general. And to make the most of your time here, read the following places that you can visit depending on your inclination and the time that you may have on your hands.

In case you want to experience all the places to visit through a video, and at the same time get all the information on places that are worth visiting in Ladakh, then do watch this video!!

Section 1 – Local Sightseeing in Leh

Out of the innumerable places to visit in Leh Ladakh, lets start with the places that are perfect for local sightseeing in Leh and other nearby places . I would recommend that you take 2 days to cover the good part of what I am about to mention in this section:

1. Leh Palace

Built in 16th century by Sengge Namgyal, Leh Palace is a testament to the pride of Namgyal dynasty. Leh Palace has become quite the popular tourist place in Leh for the splendid views it offers and how majestically it overlooks the charismatic Ladakhi village of Leh. The palace now houses a small exhibition detailing about the history of the palace and Leh in general. It is a short hike up from the Leh Main Market if you are on foot.

2. Namgyal Tsemo Gompa

Built in 15th century by the king Tashi Namgyal is a place famous for its Buddhist principals and teachings. Idols in Namgyal monastery are still worshipped and monks lights the lamps on a daily basis. It is at a walking distance from Leh Place and offer some splendid views for photography.

3. Shanti Stupa

Shanti Stupa is one of the more popular monastries in Leh-Ladakh. Every monastery offer peaceful and positive vibes and in that regard Shanti stupa is no different. Built in 1991 by Japanese Buddhist Bhikshu, Gyomyo Nakamura, it is a white-domed stupa on a hilltop in Chanspa. Make sure you head here for some peace of mind and the perfect sun-sets!

4. Hall of Fame

Hall of fame was built to memorialize the bravery and names of all those soldiers who fought and were martyred in the Indo-Pakistan war. It is to honor the Indian soldiers and serves as the reminder of the fact that their service to the nation will never be forgotten. Run by the Indian Army, the Hall of Fame houses, weapons, history exhibits & a souvenir shop as well.

5. Leh Main Market

Leh Main Market or Leh Main Bazaar is one of the liveliest places to visit in Leh. It is always brimming with people and is popular for shopping, eating meals in the cafes, the delicious street food, buying souvenirs, pashmina shawls, Buddhist relics or jamming with strangers to perfect tunes, this market has it all. One of the best places to spend an evening in Leh.

6. Thiksey Monastery

Thiksey Monastery is a thing of beauty. This 12 storeyed gompa is a home to more than 500 monks. This monastery is one of the largest in central Ladakh and you should definitely visit, if you want to know more about the Buddhism culture in general and more specifically see all the beautiful artwork and stupas up close.

7. Hemis Monastery

Just like Leh Palace, Hemis Monastery is another important place in the Ladakhi history, that can be attributed to the king Sengge Namgyal. For any traveller, Hemis almost always makes the list of places to visit in Leh-ladakh. With all its murals, paintings and stupas it is a paradise for someone who can appreciate art or wants to learn more about the Buddhism culture. Hemis sees a huge influx of people during the annual two day festival which just makes the monastery absolutely vibrant.

8. Spituk Monastery

Spituk Gompa has as old a history as any other monastery out there. Having stood tall through the test of time, this beautifully carved monastery is home to more than 100 monks. Spituk Gompa (also known as Pethup Gompa) is about 8km from Leh. This serene monastery observes Gustor Festival from 27-29th of the 11th month of Tibetan calendar every year and it is a sight worth witnessing first hand.

Without a doubt, these are some of the must visit places in Leh. If you still end up with more time on your hand you can visit the following places – Zorawar Fort, Datun Sahib, Sindhu Ghat, Sankar Gompa and Phyang Monastery.

Section 2 – A Day in Sham Valley near Leh

It is important to note that all the places that I mention in this section are in between Sham Valley and Leh. A day trip on this Leh Srinagar highway till Sham valley and back can easily be done in a day. Read along to learn all that you can do in one day:

1. Gurdwara Pather Sahib

Amongst the many beautiful monastries and in the land of monks stand a Gurdwara to pay homage to Gura Nanak Dev Ji. According to the legend , Guru Nanak conquered a demon at this very same place and forgave him for his sins. The Gurdwara is about 23km from Leh, on the Leh-Kargil highway and is maintained by the Indian Army. Did you know – this place is equally respected by Sikhs as well as Ladakhis. Make sure you visit the place to soak in its peaceful vibes!

2. Magnetic Hill

Magnetic Hill is one of those places that you wouldn’t believe exists until you actually visit it it on your own. At about 27 km from Leh, there appears a yellow signboard after which the magic happens. You park your vehicle inside the marked box, switch the gear to neutral and voila, you appear to defy all laws of gravity. Two possible explanations are prominent: First, that it is just an optical illusion given the whole landscape and that you aren’t actually going uphill but rather downhill. Second theory, which is still unproven is that due to magnetic pull of the earth cars tend to move uphill on their own. Well, in any case you can only find out once you visit this intriguing place!

3. Sangam – Zanskar and Indus River Confluence

At Nimmu, a simple yet a soothing view awaits you. This is where Indus river and Zanskar River meet. This place of confluence of these two rivers has also popularly came to be known as Sangam. Given the various factors, the rivers change their color as well as force of their flow throughout the year. When the Zanskar river freezes in winters, the ever so popular Chadar trek takes place wherein the experience of walking on frozen lake and seeing waterfalls that have frozen mid-air is quite a sight.

4. Basgo Palace and Monastery

Basgo is quite popular for its ruins. At about 40km from Leh, Basgo Palace is stands tall atop a cliff. It houses three splendid temples that date back between 15th and 17th century. These temples are namely – Chamba Lhakhang, Serzang and Chamchung. Palace and monastery, given their position above the Basgo town, they offer some breathtaking views. This place has also been named in the world’s 100 most endangered heritage sites by the World Monuments Fund.

5. Likir Monastery

Likir monastery or Likir Gompa is quite deeply routed in the history of Buddhism. Built in 11th century, the monastery is believed to be protected by the serpent spirits. Some of the models are made of butter and yet they do not melt, how cool is that? The monastery is about 56km from Leh and one that you should not skip. Especially so, if you want to learn more about the Buddhist culture as there is a public library on the premises.

6. Alchi Monastery

Located at about 66km from Leh, Alchi monastery or Alchi gompa is no more an active monastery and is maintained by the monks of Likir monastery. This monastery is one of the oldest ones in Leh. With such historic murals, sculptures and paintings, this monastery is a testament to an era gone by. There are camps as well in the Alchi village should you wish to spend the night here in absolute peace and away from hustle bustle of Leh.

Visiting all these places is sure to uplift your spirits, bring you quite a bit of joy and relieve the tensions of your daily lives. You can either choose to stay at Alchi or come back to Leh. Generally people travel back to Leh the same day. Should you end up with a lot more time on your hand feel free to visit Rizong Monastery and if you go further on the highway still you can visit the Hemis Shukpachan village for some photograph worthy views.

Section 3 – Rest of Amazing Ladakh

Now that we are done with places to visit in Leh and nearby areas, let’s move a little further. Even though the places in this section maybe a little distant from Leh they still are the ones that are most popular and on every ttraveller’s bucket list. If you plan on visiting all of them on this list it might take you about 3 days or so.

1. Khardung La

Khardung La is one of the highest motorable roads around. At 17,852ft, this mountain pass offers the perfect challenge to ride to the top. This ride is the holy grail for bikers. Also, A few of the operators and cycle shop owners (on Leh fort road) are offering to drive you to the top and then you can come back down on a cycle for an exhilarating adventure. At such a height Khardung La offers some splendid views that are second to none. When you set out on the tour for rest of Ladakh this mountain pass will serve as the gateway to Shyok and Nubra valley.

2. Nubra Valley

Nubra Valley is one of the most beautiful places in all of Ladakh. About 160km from Leh, Nubra has it all, be it monasteries, lakes, cold desert, sand dunes or absolutely peaceful villages. Any soul that has stepped foot here has left with nothing less than pure bliss and a peace of mind. That figures, given the profound natural beauty of the valley. However, given the sensitivity of the region and its proximity to Siachen, essential permits need to be taken to visit Nubra valley. Read along for the various places that you can visit in Nubra Valley:

a. Diskit Monastery

One of the oldest surviving monasteries in the Nubra Valley, the Diskit Monastery (Gompa) has become quite popular amongst tourists. It also features the statue of Maitreya Buddha, standing tall with an impressive height of 106ft. The monastery oversees the beautiful village of Diskit. The ministry also runs a school in association with the NGO, “Tibet Support Group”.

b. Hunder Sand Dunes

Ladakh is a cold desert and its terrain and beautiful landscapes are a testament to that. To add to that you can actually find sand dunes in Hunder village of Nubra Valley. And if that wasn’t enough to convince you, how about the fact that you can find the Bactrian two humped camels here. Also, you can take a ride. Now, how cool is that!

c. Panamik Village

Panamik is a small village by the Nubra river and offers some splendid panoramic vistas to soak in. It is popular for its hot sulfur springs which is believed to have medicinal properties. Also, should you visit Panamik make sure you shop from here for their Pashmina shawls and other Kashmiri and Tibetan artefacts.

d. Turt uk Village

Turtuk is one of the northernmost villages in Ladakh. If you ever thought of having a place of your own amongst the mountains in a small beautiful village, well Turtuk is it. This village is surrounded by some of the most beautiful views you are ever likely to see. This untouched gem has now been open to tourists for some while. Locals are more than happy to share their stories and the cafes here serve good food. Do try Balti Kicthen, if you do choose to visit this place.

Other than these places Nubra Valley is also home to the Yarab tso Lake and Samstanling Gompa. Should you have more time on your hand and want to explore you can definitely try out these places.

3. Pangong Tso

Pangong Lake or Pangong Tso situated at a height of 14,270ft, it is the definition of calm. You could spend an entire day and still not get enough of it. 60% of the lake is in China while the rest remains within the borders of India and much lesser part of it is still accessible to public. And yet when you will look at it, you will only be able to see the lake till the horizon. Interestingly, given the time of day and year, you can see the water in the lake have different colors. The lake shot to fame after the movie “3 idiots” and has been on everyone’s bucket list when it comes to places to visit in Leh-Ladakh.

4. Tso Moriri

Surrounded by towering peaks, Tso Moriri (or Moriri lake) remains quite secluded from the outside world. It is a lesser known/visited alternative to Pangong Lake. Like Pangong lake, Tso Moriri is frozen during the winters too. And owing to the landscape around it, this is quite the place for photography. Given that the lake is situated in the Changtang Wildlife Sanctuary, you may also be able to spot the likes of bare-headed goose, the Brahmin duck, the great-crested grebe and the brown-headed gull. Himalayan hares are popular as well around the lake.

With this comes the end to this section that talks about some of the most popular places to visit in Leh-Ladakh. If after visiting all this you still seem to have time on your hand for your dream trip to Leh-Ladakh, I would recommend that you rent a bike from Leh and traverse the Manali-Leh highway. You will see sceneries that you didn’t know exist and you will have an experience to cherish forever. I along with two of my best friends cycled from Manali to Leh on the same highway and those are the days that are etched in my memory as some of my best on this beautiful planet!

Suggested Read: Should you feel like reading about the highway or our experiences from the trip feel free to give these articles a read .

HOW TO GET PERMITS TO VISIT PLACES IN LEH-LADAKH?

Ladakh being close to the border, some of these areas that lie under the Inner Line, require that in order to visit, Indian tourists get Ladakh Inner Line Permit (“ILP”) and foreigners get Protected Area Permit (“PAP”). Places to visit in Leh-Ladakh that fall under Inner Line and require permits are Khardung La, Nubra Valley, Turtuk, Dah-Hanu villages, Man, Merak, Nyoma, Loma Bend, Tyakshi, Chan La, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri, Chusul, Hanle, Digger La, Tangyar (for trekking only). Both ILP and PAP permits can be obtained online through the www.lahdclehpermit.in website. Please note however that permits for Hanle and Pangaon lake to Tso Moriri direct route can only be obtained by going in person to the Leh DC office . Alternatively, you can get the permit online but will still have to go to the Leh DC office to get the permits stamped. Please note that places like Leh, Tso Kar, or Zanskar Valley do not require any permits.

SOME HELPFUL TIPS FOR THE TRIP

• It takes 6-7 days or so to enjoy most of the places to visit in Leh-Ladakh. If you have lesser time, then you will have to pick which places interest you the most.
• While renting a bike, make sure that it is in a proper condition for a hassle free ride.
• Some parts of this tour can cause you high altitude sickness or mountain sickness. Best is to spend a couple days in and aroud Leh so as to acclimatize to the altitude.
• If at any point you feel breathless, you could return to the car and stay put for a while and/or use camphor (kapur). You should also keep doctor prescribed medicine.
• Travelling in hills can always cause motion sickness. Please only keep doctor prescribed medicine.
• Tourists while visiting Nubra valley, generally sleep at either Hunder or Diskit village. Though, my personal recommendation is to spend one night in Turtuk, at one of their homestays and get to know more about the people and wake up to a peaceful morning with stunning views.
• Should you decide to stay the night at Pangong, there are camps available. Though, be ready for strong winds at night.
• Only BSNL and Airtel post-paid sim or a locally bought pre-paid sim card are the only ones that work in Leh.
• Generally speaking the temperatures are always low in the region and especially so at night, make sure that you pack enough warm clothes for the trip.
• Make sure that you do not litter at all. It is your responsibility to keep such a pristine place clean.

Have you made a list of places to visit in Leh-Ladakh yet? Let us know some of your favourite ones in comments below!

ENJOYED READING ABOUT PLACES TO VISIT IN LEH-LADAKH?

Read more articles related Manali and Leh: Manali to Leh cycling – Complete guide Photo Blog – Ditch your Enfield and take a CYCLE from Manali to Leh! 7 day solo trip to Manali Trek to Beas Kund, Solang in Manali

SUBSCRIBE IF YOU LIKED OUR CONTENT

We create new exciting travel  content , curate an excellent social feed and also organise  experiences  like these. If you enjoyed our content, stay on our mailing list to hear from us about new exciting things we create and curate!

Use the unsubscribe link in our emails to opt-out at any time, no hard feelings!

Ensure you travel responsibly and keep your carbon footprint to the minimum. Happy Xploring!

Xclusive Merch Launched

How It Works

• Tell us details of your holiday plan.
• After you submit the form, one of our travel experts will get back to you with customised holiday package based on your requirement, within 24 hours.
• Grab the deal and start packing your bags for an indelible holiday with Tour My India.

Call Us for details

+91-9212777225

Request a quote.

• Himachal Pradesh
• Uttarakhand
• Uttarpradesh
• Andhra Pradesh
• Maharashtra
• Madhya Pradesh
• Chhattisgarh
• Andaman and Nicobar Islands
• Jammu and Kashmir
• Dadra and Nagar Haveli
• Daman and Diu
• Hill Station
• Yoga and Ayurveda
• Motor Biking
• Peak Climbing
• Mountain Biking
• River Rafting
• Horse Safari
• Camel Safari
• Jeep Safari
• Christianity
• Jammu & Kashmir
• Heritage Tours
• Ayurveda Tours
• Special Interest
• Golden Triangle Tour
• Classical India Tour
• Golden Triangle with Tiger Tour
• Sikkim Darjeeling Tour

Frozen River Trek

• Palace on Wheels
• Heritage on Wheels
• Maharaja Express
• Royal Rajasthan on Wheels
• Buddhist Circuit Train
• Indian Wildlife Tour
• Temple Trails Tour India
• Buddhist Circuit Tours
• Himalayan Wonder
• Chadar Trek
• Chopta - Chandrashila Trek
• Snow Leopard
• Dzongri Goecha La Trek
• Agra Hotels
• Jaipur Hotels
• Udaipur Hotels
• Manali Hotels
• Ladakh Hotels
• Ranthambore National Park
• Bandhavgarh National Park
• Corbett National Park
• Kanha National Park
• Pench National Park
• Tadoba National Park
• The Park Calangute
• Neelam the Grand
• Hotel Calangute Towers
• Alor Holiday Resort
• Lazy Lagoon Sarovar Portico Suites
• Aman-i-Khas, Ranthambore
• Hyatt, Bangalore
• Hyatt Regency, Delhi
• Leela Palace, Udaipur
• ITC Grand Chola, Chennai
• Weekend Getaways Delhi
• Weekend Getaways Mumbai
• Weekend Getaways Chennai
• Weekend Getaways Bangalore
• Weekend Getaways Nagpur
• Weekend Getaways Hyderabad
• Weekend Getaways Cochin
• Weekend Getaways Chandigarh
• Weekend Getaways Ahmedabad
• Weekend Getaways Pune
• Weekend Getaways Jaipur
• Destinantion Weddings

Medical Tourism

India tours, international tours, destination wedding.

Plan Your trip

Leh Tourism

Jaw-Dropping Views, Tranquil Settings, and Heartwarming Hospitality Welcome you to Leh - Ladakh.

Witness the impressive white-washed monasteries.

Leh is the base for many cycling expeditions in Ladakh.

Buy the traditional Ladakhi artefacts.

• Best Time to Visit
• How to Reach
• Places to Visit
• Things to Do

March - Oct

Not Required

About Leh Tourism

Leh is where your adventure in Ladakh begins! The capital city of the recently formed union territory is the right reflection of what this venturesome North Indian destination is all about. At first, you might find Leh to be a quiet destination, but with further exploration you’ll find, Leh to be quite an exciting place to be for everyone. Be it a nature lover, a cultural aficionado, a history lover, an adventure enthusiast or even honeymooners, there’s certainly something special for all in Leh tourism.

Inside Leh City, for history & culture lovers are some must-see places like Leh Palace, seated atop a mountain; Shanti Stupa, perched on a mountain and is widely acclaimed; Leh Market, an ideal place for shopping in Ladakh; and the War Museum that gives you a detailed insight into the wars in India and the role of Indian Army. Around Leh also sit some of the most amazing places for sightseeing in Ladakh. The confluence of Indus and Zanskar rivers in Nimmu; the sacred Sikh gurudwara, Patthar Sahib; Magnetic Hill, known for its optical illusion; are some of the major places to visit for tourists.

For a spiritual tour amidst the beautiful settings sit imposing Buddhist monasteries like Ladakh’s richest monastery, Hemis Gompa; the oldest monastery, Alchi Gompa; Thiksey Monastery; Matho Monastery, Spituk Gompa and more. These monasteries are ideal for history lovers as well as culture enthusiasts who can enjoy annual festivals here and large collections of books, artifacts and more.

For adventurous souls, Leh is the base point for several adrenaline rushing activities. From the city starts numerous enthralling trekking tours, motor biking adventures, mountain biking ventures, as well as river rafting preparations. It is in fact the place to gear up for the adventure of your choice and buy/rent all the necessary accessories. For wildlife lovers, sitting close to Leh is the largest national park in India, Hemis National Park, which is home to a large number of rare animals like snow leopards, ibex, and Tibetan gazelle.

With our authentic Leh travel guide, find all the information on planning your Leh trip. Get insights on top places & activities, best places to stay and season to visit along with an ideal way to reach along with best Leh sightseeing tour packages.

Best Selling Ladakh Tour Packages

5 Nights - 6 Days

Best of Ladakh Honeymoon

16 Nights - 17 Days

Eternal Romance with Himalayas

6 Nights - 7 Days

Ladakh Photography Tour; Capture the high mountains of Ladakh

12 Nights - 13 Days

Glimpses of Ladakh

9 Nights - 10 Days

Manali to Leh Jeep Safari Tour

13 Nights - 14 Days

Manali - Leh overland Motor Bike Safari

11 Nights - 12 Days

Whispers of Secrets of Himalayas: Ladakh with Zanskar Tour

4 Nights - 5 Days

Ladakh Spiritual Tour

Sindhu Darshan Tour

Ladakh tour packages by theme.

Ladakh Trekking Tours

Ladakh Peak Climbing Tours

Ladakh Family Tours

Ladakh Mountain Biking Tours

Ladakh Photography Tours

Ladakh Pilgrimage Tours

Ladakh Jeep Safari Tours

Ladakh Adventure Tours

Ladakh Motorbiking Tours

Best time to visit leh.

Summer Season in Leh

In Leh, between March and June, temperature ranges from -1°C to 15°C. The city is covered in snow which starts to melt by the month of May.

Monsoon Season in Leh

The months between July and September are considered the best time to visit Leh. The temperature is between 15°C and 35°C, and since Leh is situated at a high altitude, it does not receive much rain.

Winter Season in Leh

From the month of October, Leh starts to receive snow and the mercury dips 0°C and even less. If you enjoy snow, winter is the best time to visit Leh.

Best Places to Visit in Leh

Hemis Monastery

Dubbed the richest monastery in Ladakh, Hemis Gompa is a must-see in Leh.

Alchi Monastery

The oldest and most famous monastery in Ladakh, Alchi Monastery around Leh is a must-visit.

Stok Palace

An ancient palace turned into a heritage hotel; Stok Palace is indeed a place to plan your stay.

Shanti Stupa

Built as a part of Peace Pagoda, Shanti Stupa in Leh is the top attraction.

Matho Monastery

Situated on the bank of Indus, Matho is known for its annual Oracle Matho Nagrang Festival.

Spituk Monastery

A short distance away from Leh, Spituk Monastery contains a giant statue of Kali.

Top Things to Do in Leh

White Water Rafting

Enjoy the thrill of river rafting at the Nimmu Village a short distance away from Leh.

Stay in the Ladakhi homes to get the authentic experience of the local life of Ladakh.

Mountain Biking & Cycling

Leh is the base for many mountain biking & cycling expeditions in Ladakh and is the ideal place to buy all your biking gears.

Monastery Exploration

Witness the impressive white-washed monasteries that are a cultural treasure trove of Ladakh.

Buy the traditional Ladakhi artefacts like beaded jewellery, thangkas, prayer wheels at the bustling Leh Market.

How to Reach Leh

Leh has its own airport, Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport that has good connectivity to many destinations in India.

The nearest railway station to Leh is in Jammu, which is around 680 km away. From Jammu, one can hire a car to reach Leh.

NH1 via Zoji La connects Leh with Srinagar. From Himachal side, Manali-Leh Highway is the way to reach Leh.

Leh Travel Guide by Category

• Where to Stay
• Things To Do
• Tourist Attractions

Accommodation in Leh

Leh, the most-visited destination in Ladakh offers a plethora of accommodation options for its visitors. The area around its market has a large number of hotels & resorts in a variety of budget ranging from pocket-friendly to luxury hotels.

In Leh, one can also choose to stay in homestays that offer an authentic staying experience. Around Leh, one can also opt for staying in tented accommodations. Near Thiksay Monastery, adventurers can enjoy camping against a stunning background.

We at TMI are associated with the best hotels and resorts in Leh in order to ensure you get the finest accommodations. We also offer the best deals and discounts and give best prices to book your hotel in Leh at.

Leh is the base for many adventure activities like mountain biking, motor biking, trekking, and peak climbing in Ladakh. From the city, many adventure tours start after acclimatisation, training, and shopping/renting of all the necessary gears.

Amongst the top activities in Leh is white water river rafting that can be enjoyed from the nearby Nimmu Village. Camping is another activity that you must not miss out in and around Leh. There are a number of stunning places where camping becomes a memorable experience. A homestay experience to learn about the Ladakhi culture and lifestyle is one of the best things to do in Leh.

Tourist Attractions in Leh

The picturesque Leh City is where the tourists can find a number of places to visit and be at awe of. It is home to a beautiful Shanti Stupa that sits atop a mountain overlooking the beautiful city. History lovers can enjoy visiting age old Leh Palace that offers detail into the glorious past of Ladakh and the War Museum that has a large collection on the wars in India.

There are a number of sightseeing places around Leh that are a must-visit. The jaw-dropping view of the Indus-Zanskar confluence at Nimmu Village; the optical illusion at Magnetic Hill; the sacred Patthar Sahib Gurudwara; the famous Hemis and Thiksay Gompas are some of the tourist attractions that should be included in your travel itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. what is the best way to visit leh.

There are two ways to visit Leh: airways and roadways. Leh has its own domestic airport where flights from major cities of India ply on a regular basis. Leh is connected well by roads and can be easily reached from the neighbouring state of Jammu & Kashmir via NH1 and Himachal Pradesh via Leh-Manali Highway.

Q. Why Leh is so famous among tourists?

Leh is the largest town in Ladakh. It houses the only airport in the union territory. It is a base town for all the travellers visiting Ladakh with a number of attractions in and around it.

Q. Do we need any special permit to visit Leh?

No, a permit is not required to visit Leh.

Q. Does one need to be physically fit to visit Leh?

Leh is situated at a height of 3500m, which is a high altitude location where one needs a day or two for acclimatisation. One need not to be physically fit but at least has to be physically well to travel in a high altitude region.

Q. What is altitude sickness why it is so common in Leh?

The scarcity of oxygen at a great height (above 3000m) is what causes altitude sickness in Ladakh where the air pressure decreases. When one scales such heights, the body may not immediately adapt to the change in the surroundings, and thus, altitude sickness occurs. Since Leh is situated at a height of 3500m, it is quite common for visitors to get altitude sickness

Q. Does TMI offer sightseeing tours in Leh?

Yes, TMI offers the best sightseeing tours in Leh that include the top attractions like Hemis Monastery, Sangam, Magnetic Hill, Shanti Stupa, Leh Palace and many other sites.

Q. Does TMI offer trekking and climbing tours in and around Leh?

Yes, TMI has all kinds of trekking and climbing tours in and around Leh.

Q. Can I go to Leh in my personal vehicle?

Yes, you can take your personal vehicle to Leh, however, it will not be allowed for the local sightseeing and visiting other parts of Ladakh.

Q. Can I use my prepaid connection in Leh?

No, only postpaid connections work in Ladakh.

Q. Does TMI offer motor biking / jeep safari tour in Leh?

Yes, TMI has all the provisions for organising the best motorbiking and jeep safari tours in Leh.

Why Choose TMI?

Experienced

An experienced Ladakh tour operator, with a team of an experienced travel enthusiast ensure to give our clients well-designed Leh Ladakh tour packages.

We are certified by major tour and travel associations in India and world like IATA, IATO, TAAI, IMF & MOT (Ministry of Tourism, Govt of India).

Happy Customers

TMI has received numerous accolades from its happy customers for its excellent services and best Ladakh holidays.

Local Offices

We have local office in Ladakh for our customers to find assistance anytime and anywhere.

Our Latest Informative Travel Blogs

Snow Leopard Population Grows in India; Ladakh Has the Highest Numbers

Top 6 Treks to Explore in Ladakh That Will Leave You Spellbound

Top 15 Places to Visit in Ladakh That Will Leave You Spellbound

Popular pages on tour my india, ladakh tourism information at a glance, ladakh destinations.

• Leh Travel Guide
• Nubra Travel Guide
• Zanskar Travel Guide
• Kargil Travel Guide
• Drass Travel Guide

Travel Packages

• Ladakh Honeymoon Packages
• Peak Climbing Packages
• Ladakh Trekking Packages
• Ladakh Family Packages
• Ladakh Jeep Safari Packages

Popular Activities

• Camping in Ladakh

Hotels in Ladakh

• Nubra Hotels
• Zanskar Hotels
• Kargil Hotels
• Drass Hotels

Weather & How to Reach

• Best Time to Visit Ladakh
• Summer Weather
• Monsoon Weather
• Winter Weather
• How to Reach Ladakh

Places To Visit In Leh Ladakh

Top hotel collections.

5 Star Hotels

Leh Homestays

Leh Hostels

Top places within Leh Ladakh

Nubra Valley

Places To Visit In Ladakh

• Filter (68)
• Buddhist Temple (20)
• Hills & Valleys (8)
• Village (6)

1. Pangong Lake

88 km from city center 1 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Located in : Hemis

The most popular tourist attraction in Ladakh, Pangong lake is an endorheic (landlocked) lake situated at 4350 meters. The lake does not remain blue throughout the year or even the day, rather it changes colours from azure to light blue to green and grey too! It is famous amongst tourists as Ladakh lake, the spot where the Bollywood movie "3 Idiots" was shot.

2. Khardung La

14 km from city center 2 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Located in : Leh

Khardung La, also known as Khardzong La, is one of the highest motorable roads in India at an elevation of 5602 metres. It serves as the gateway to Shyok and Nubra Valley. An inner line permit is required to visit. It remains closed from October to May.

3. Magnetic Hill

21 km from city center 3 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Nesting pretty at an altitude of 14000 feet above sea level, you have to take the Leh-Kargil-Baltic National Highway to reach the destination. Found at a distance of 30 km from the scenic town of Leh the magnetic hill is girdled by the Sindhu river on its eastern side and cradled in a picturesque backdrop of the Himalayan Range.

4. Zanskar Valley

86 km from city center 4 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Located in : Zanskar

Located in the Kargil district to the east of Ladakh (around 105 km) lies the bewitching Zanskar Valley. The semi-desert region is flanked by snow-capped mountains and sparkling clean rivers along with distinct flora and fauna. The easiest way of reaching Zanskar is from Kargil through Suru Valley.

Leh Ladakh Travel Packages

Compare quotes from upto 3 travel agents for free

Fascinating Ladakh Package 7 Nights & 8 Days

Leh ladakh holiday package with nubra & pangong stay, himalayan caravan deluxe tour package.

Ladakh Family Tour Package - Drive through Khardung La Pass

Best of Ladakh Holiday Package with Tso Moriri

Ladakh tour with overnight camping in nubra & pangong, 5. nubra valley.

71 km from city center 5 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Located in : Nubra Valley

Nubra Valley lies in the union territory of Jammu & Kashmir, at a distance of around 140 Km from Leh. With arid mountains in the backdrop, it is famous for the Bactrian camel rides, orchards and monasteries. Surrounded by snow-dusted Himalayan mountains, it can be reached via Khardung La.

6. Shanti Stupa

2 km from city center 6 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

The Shanti Stupa is a white-domed Buddhist monument. It is a religious place for Buddhists as it holds the relics of Buddha, consecrated by the 14th Dalai Lama. It looks exceptionally beautiful during the full moon night.

Top Hotels In Leh Ladakh

₽ 5,161 onwards

₽ 2,662 onwards

₽ 610 onwards

₽ 664 onwards

₽ 4,106 onwards

₽ 1,017 onwards

7. Stok Palace

9 km from city center 7 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Located around 15km from Leh, the Stok Palace is the summer home to the royal family of Ladakh and descendants of King Sengge Namgyal. It was established in 1820 by King Tsepal Namgyal and was opened to the public in 1980 by the Dalai Lama. The Stok Palace has been converted into a heritage hotel and houses the Stok Palace Museum and Temple.

8. Tso Moriri

8 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Tso Moriri Lake is the largest high altitude lakes in India situated at an altitude of 4,595m. Located between Ladakh and Tibet in the Changtang region, it is a twin to the Pangong Lake. This lake offers a scenic place of peace and tranquillity flanked by mountains, measuring about 28 km in length from north to south, and 8 km wide. An inner line permit is required for visiting Tso Moriri.

9. Hall of Fame Leh

4 km from city center 9 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Located at approximately 4 km from the main city, this glorified museum was built in memory of the brave soldiers who lost their lives fighting for India at the Indo-Pakistan war. Maintained by the Indian Army, the Hall of Fame showcases seized arms and amenities of Pakistani Army, pictures and biographies of brave soldiers.

10. Thiksey Monastery

13 km from city center 10 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Thiksey Monastery is a Tibetan-style monastery located 20km south of Leh. The main highlight is the Maitreya Temple which houses a 15-metre high Maitreya Buddha statue. It is the largest such statue in Ladakh.

99 km from city center 11 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Sangam is the confluence of Indus and Zanskar Rivers in Ladakh. The two rivers can be separately seen meeting at this point. While the Indus River appears as shiny blue, Zanskar River appears muddy green.

12. Shey Monastery and Palace

10 km from city center 12 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Shey Monastery or the Shey Palace is an ancient monastery. It once served as the summer capital of Ladakh but is mostly in ruins now. Located on top of a hillock, it offers stunning panoramic views. The highlight of the monastery is 39ft tall Shakyamuni Buddha statue. A special permission needs to be taken to visit the monastery.

Discover More About Sightseeing & Tourist Attractions in Leh Ladakh

Acclimatisation Tips For High Altitude Regions

Leh Manali Highway - A Road Trip Guide to Ladakh

Food of Ladakh: A Culinary Journey Through The Region

Travel Tips

J&K and Ladakh To Be Separate Union Territories - Here's What It Means For Travellers

Road Trip To Ladakh : Best Route to Ladakh and More

Sightseeing

Things to Do in Leh Ladakh for an Action-Packed Fun Trip

13. Hemis Monastery

29 km from city center 13 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Hemis is a Buddhist monastery ranked as one of the wealthiest monasteries in India. It is most visited during the annual Hemis Festival, held every year in early June. The monastery is well-connected with motorable roads.

14. Rafting in Ladakh

23 km from city center 14 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Rafting expedition is done on Zanskar River, called the Grand Canyon of India, with high cliff like gorges at certain places. The Zanskar Rafting expedition is one of The best river trips in The world.

15. Pathar Sahib Gurudwara

19 km from city center 15 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Gurudwara Pathar Sahib is a beautiful gurudwara, dedicated to Guru Nanak Dev. It is highly revered as it houses a rock which resembles Guru Nanak's back. It is built at the site where he is believed to have vanquished a demon.

146 km from city center 16 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Located in : Kargil

Kargil lies near the Line of Control facing Pakistan-administered Kashmir's Baltistan to the west, and Kashmir valley to the south. Zanskar is part of Kargil district along with Suru, Wakha and Dras valleys. Kargil was at the center of a conflict between India and Pakistan in 1999.

17. Likir Monastery

37 km from city center 17 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

The Likir Monastery is the oldest monastery in Ladakh, located around 52 km from Leh in the scenic Likir village. Belonging to the Gelugpa sect of Tibetan Buddhism, the main attraction here is a 75 feet large seated statue of Maitreya Buddha gilded in gold. There are also various paintings of guardian divinities, murals and thangkas that adorn the walls of assembly halls.

18. Alchi Monastery

38 km from city center 18 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Located in : Lamayuru

Located in the Alchi Village of Ladakh, Alchi Monastery is a complex of Buddist temples of which Alchi Monastery is the oldest and most famous. Cemented on a flat ground unlike other monasteries in Ladakh, the traditional architecture of the monastery is a monastic complex which has 3 separate temples, known as Dukhang, Sumstek and the Temple of Manjushri.

19. Spituk Monastery

6 km from city center 19 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Spituk Monastery also called Spituk Gompa, is a Buddhist monastery located about 8 kms from Leh. One of the most dazzling monasteries in India, it houses 100 monks and a giant statue of Kali. It is famous for its collection of Buddhist objects of antique arms, icon, ancient masks and numerous Thangka paintings.

20. Diskit Monastery

44 km from city center 20 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Also known as Deskit/ Diskit Gompa, this is the oldest and largest monastery in Nubra valley, belonging to Gelugpa (yellow hat) sect of Tibetan Buddhism.

21. Bactrian Camel Ride

71 km from city center 21 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Nubra Valley is famous for the Bactrian Camel Safari. These camels are not even the usual ones that you must have seen in Rajasthan or in pictures. These camels having two humps were the major mode of transport to travel to silk route. These are now used for the safari in the region is hugely popular among the tourists.

22. Leh Palace

2 km from city center 22 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

The Leh Palace is a 17th-century former royal palace that is converted into a museum. The highlight is the sweeping view of Leh and the surrounding Zanskar mountain from the rooftop.

23. Tso Kar

101 km from city center 23 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Tso Kar is a fluctuating salt lake located in the Rupshu Plateau of scenic Ladakh Valley. It is popularly known as the White Lake owing to the white salt deposits it leaves on the shores. Tso Kar Lake is the most peaceful and calm of the three high-altitude lakes (Pangong Lake and Tso Moriri) and also the smallest of the three. It is popular for bird-watching.

24. Hemis National Park

46 km from city center 24 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

At an altitude ranging from 3,300 m to 6,000 m above sea level, this sanctuary is known to be the highest in the world as well as the largest park of South Asia. It is also a habitat to the rare Snow Leopards.

25. Chadar Trek

37 km from city center 25 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

The Chadar Trek or The Frozen River Expedition is one of the most unique and challenging treks in India. The 6-day chadar trek across the frozen Zanskar River in Ladakh takes place during the latter part of January till the end of February or sometimes even in the first week of March, depending on the weather.

26. Hunder Village

49 km from city center 26 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Hunder is a remote village located in the Nubra Valley region, 7km from Diksit Monastery. It is known for its sand dunes, cold desert and bactrian camel rides. It is also home to forests of sea-buckthorn, which is a medicinal plant. Hunder is popular amongst trekkers.

27. Taglang La

1 km from city center 27 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

The Tanglang La is a high mountain road located on the Leh-Manali highway just a few kilometers from Leh. It is at a height of 5,358 metres, is the second-highest mountain pass after Khardung-La Pass, and is also the 12th highest motorable pass. This popular spot in Ladakh is known for being the second highest mountain located in Zanskar range. The pass summit is breathtaking and is adorned by a number of prayer flags.

105 km from city center 28 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Turtuk is a small village located in Nubra Valley region of Ladakh, on the banks of Shyok River. It is an unexplored and offbeat place, opened to tourists only in 2010. The picturesque village with its tiny houses and fields is surreal. It remains cut off from Ladakh for 6 months during winter.

29. Hundur Monastery

48 km from city center 29 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Hundur Monastery is a hilltop temple located in the Nubra Valley, quite close to the Diskit monastery and Lachung temple. This ancient Buddhist religious site is also known as the Hundur Gompa, which is basically a small Buddhist fortification, enclosing years of Buddhist learnings and lineage. However, this part in Hundur marks the extent to which tourists are allowed into the village.

30. Phugtal Monastery

105 km from city center 30 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

The Phugtal (Phuktal) Monastery is a Buddhist monastery situated in the south-east part of Zanskar region in Ladakh. Situated at the mouth of natural cave on a cliff, it is one of the most isolated monasteries in the region, built around 2500 years ago. The Phugtal Monastery looks like a honeycomb from a distance. It is popular amongst trekking enthusiasts.

31. Lamayuru

76 km from city center 31 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Lamayuru is a tiny village that's popularly known as the Moonland of Ladakh. It is immensely popular for housing the Lamayuru Monastery, the oldest and largest monasteries in Ladakh. It is an ideal stopover between the Kargil-Leh route.

32. Stargazing

32 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Leh-Ladakh, as already mentioned earlier, is a must visit place for all photography lovers – especially, Astro-photographers! The Major reason why Ladakh is a favourite among astrophotographers is because it provides clear night skies to complement the scenic beauty. Cities don’t generally have such pellucid skies owing to the pollution around.

33. Chang La Pass

34 km from city center 33 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Chang La Pass is a high mountain pass and one of the highest motorable roads in the world. The 15km long pass is especially popular amongst bikers. The roads are mostly paved and are driveable by any vehicle. Changla is open for tourists from Mid May to October.

34. Chemrey Monastery

29 km from city center 34 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Chemrey Monastery is a 400-year-old yet unexplored Buddhist monastery located approximately 40 kilometres (25 mi) east of Leh in northern India. It is known for housing a staggering statue of Padmasambhava (almost a storey-high)and a collection of ancient scriptures with the text emboldened in gold letters with the titles in silver.

35. Namgyal Tsemo Monastery

2 km from city center 35 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Traveling to the Namgyal Tsemo Gompa makes you encounter the steep mountains and submerges you in its serene and spiritual folds. The monastery has long lured travelers seeking Buddhist experience but surprises them with something unexpected- the moon like, quiet and mystic expanse of Ladakh's landscape.

36. Trekking in Ladakh

36 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Know for its majestic and moon like terrains, Leh is attracted by many natural lovers and adventurous tourist. Some popular trekking routes include Spiti to Ladakh, Markha Valley trekking, Ladakh Zanskar trekking and the Nubra Valley trekking.

37. Sankar Gompa

2 km from city center 37 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Sankar Gompa is a beautiful Buddhist monastery located 6 km from Leh. A subsidiary of Spituk Monastery, it serves as the residence of the Abbot of Spituk, the senior incarnate lama of Ladakh, making it an important religious site. The main attraction is the statue of Avalokitesvara with 1000 arms and heads.

38. Druk White Lotus School

11 km from city center 38 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

The Druk White Lotus School, also known as Druk Padma Karpo School, is a Buddhist cultural school located in the Shey valley, close to Shey Monastery and Palace. It is popular as the Rancho School from the famed Bollywood movie 3-idiots. It has become a popular tourist attraction, even though it is a not public tourist spot.

39. Shopping in Ladakh

39 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

For all those who like to fill their bags with souvenirs and local produce, the markets in Ladakh offers beautiful Tibetan jewellery, motifs, decorated carpets and woolen clothes. 

40. Sindhu Darshan Festival

40 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

The Sindhu Darshan festival is celebrated Leh Ladakh region, every year on the full moon day. Celebrated over three days, this is a celebration of River Sindhu, the former Indus Valley Civilisation, with the motive of endorsing the river as an icon of communal harmony in India. The Bollywood movie "Dil Se" was shot at the first Sindhu Darshan Festival.

41. Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary

111 km from city center 41 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

The Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary is located at an altitude of about 4000-9000 feet in the Ladakhi Changthang Plateau. The vast range of exotic flora and fauna attribute the sanctuary to be the second-largest nature reserve. It houses the three popular high altitude lakes - Tso Moriri, Pangong Lake and Tso Kar.

145 km from city center 42 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Nyoma is a quaint village located 150 km from Leh on the banks of the Indus River. The main attraction of this unexplored village is a Buddhist monastery and the long walks in the peaceful lanes. Nyoma is best visited as a stopover when travelling to Chumathang from Leh. An inner line permit is required to visit Nyoma and its monastery.

43. Mountain Biking in Ladakh

24 km from city center 43 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Often termed the paradise of mountain bikers, Leh has thousands of tourists coming in every year to experience the thrill of driving on its steep slopes and adrenaline gushing paths.

44. Chumathang Hot Spring

111 km from city center 44 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

The Chumathang Hot Spring is a hot sulphur spring situated in a small hamlet along the Indus River called Chumathang about 138 km from Leh, Ladakh. The spring originates quite close to the river itself and is believed to have medicinal properties. Many believe that the mineral-rich water can cure one of skin diseases.

45. Panamik Hot Springs

71 km from city center 45 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Located at a distance of about 140 Km from Leh, Panamik Village is the northernmost part of India. It lies on the bank of Nubra river and is well known for its hot water spring, Pashmina goats and the bactarian camels. 

46. Yarab Tso Lake

1 km from city center 46 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Popular as the hidden lake, Yarab Tso is located in the Nubra Valley region. It is an uninhabited lake with crystal clear water. Being located in a remote location, the only way to reach it is through an uphill hike.

47. MoonLand, Lamayuru

76 km from city center 47 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

A peculiar landscape near Lamayuru on Leh-Kargil Road is the MoonLand. It is called so fondly, because the landscapes here are said to be like that of the moon.

48. Darcha Padum Trek

100 km from city center 48 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Located on river Bhaga, Darcha is a small Lahaul region in the Himachal district of Spiti. Whereas Padum is among the two primary capital cities of the Zanskar society. There are plenty of camping sites en route, spread across a variety of nomadic sites travellers would pass by. 

49. Maitreya Buddha

43 km from city center 49 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Near the Diskit monastery in Nubra Valley stands a 32 meter tall statue of Maitreya Buddha facing towards the Shyok river. This statue is built with 8 Kg gold which was donated by the head of Gompa and was sanctified by the Dalai Lama. 

50. Shyok Valley

50 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Shyok Village is a hidden gem located in the Nubra Valley region, between Leh and Pangong Lake. Located on the banks of the Shyok River, this tiny hamlet is an offbeat location with only a few houses and families. It is the perfect place to slow down, breathe in nature and get away from the daily routine.

51. Samstanling Monastery

45 km from city center 51 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Samstanling Monastery in Sumlur village is an important Buddhist shrine in Nubra Valley. Founded 140 years ago, the monastery houses 50 monks who look after its daily functioning. The main attraction is the spectacular murals and paintings of Buddha.

52. Lamayuru Monastery, Lamayuru

75 km from city center 52 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Lamayuru is one of the largest and oldest monasteries in India. It is known for its rich wall paintings, thangkas and murals. The best time to visit is during the two annual Mask Dance Festivals.

Places To Visit In Nearby Places

FAQs on Leh Ladakh

Can you suggest an itinerary for ladakh, how can i commute within ladakh, how much does a package cost for ladakh, what are the top restaurants in ladakh, what are the top sightseeing places in ladakh, what are the top shopping places in ladakh, what are the top activities in ladakh, what are the top hotels in ladakh, browse package collections, leh ladakh package collections.

Ladakh Honeymoon Packages

Nearby Destinations for Packages

Spiti Valley

Vaishno Devi

Dharamshala

Top Listed Packages

Ladakh Package for Couple

Srinagar Leh Ladakh Tour Package for 8 Day

Leh Ladakh Manali Tour Package with Kargil & Srinagar

Similar Places

Filter ( 0 selected)

Get the best offers on travel packages.

Compare package quotes from top travel agents

Compare upto 3 quotes for free

• India (+91)

*Final prices will be shared by our partner agents based on your requirements.

Log in to your account

Welcome to holidify.

Forget Password?

Share this page

• Destinations

Leh Tourism

Leh Tourism: Nestled in the heart of Ladakh, Leh is also known as the Land of Lamas or Little Tibet. Surrounded by mesmerizing beauty, this place is home to many Buddhist temples, gompas, prayer flags, ridges and small settlements. To top it off, the Indus River gives Leh a unique charm.

When it comes to Leh tourism, travellers can explore high-altitude treks in the Ladakh range, river rafting in the Indus and Zanskar River, Buddhist temples and monasteries, Tibetan handicrafts, jewellery and more.

Leh Travel Guide

With our authentic Leh travel guide, get all the information you need to know about your trip to Leh. Get insights on best places to visit in Leh and best places to stay along with an ideal way to reach along with best Leh sightseeing tour packages .

Best Places to Visit in Leh

Shanti Stupa A white dome – Stupa located on the Changspa hill is a magnificent shine in Leh. From the height of 4267 meters where Shanti Stupa is present, you can enjoy the panoramic view of surrounding snow-capped mountains as well as the city of Leh. After climbing 500 steps, you will be welcomed by a Dharmachakra with two deer on each side on the first level. While, on the second level, the birth of Buddha, defeating of devils in meditation and the death of Buddha is presented. (Tip: Witness the sunrise and sunset on the beautiful Leh Palace which is located opposite this Stupa.)

Famous as one of the top tourist places in Ladakh, Leh Palace is a must-visit place in Leh. Once a palace for the royal family, Leh Palace today is one fine example of medieval Tibetan architecture. This nine-story palace built in the 17th Century was one of its kind in those days. You can also cherish the panoramic views of Leh city as well as the majestic Stok Kangri Mountains.

Hemis Monastery Situated on the western banks of the Indus River, Hemis Monastery is the biggest and richest monasteries of Ladakh. Built in 1630, this monastery is dedicated to Lord Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche) as he was able to mark the victory of good over evil. Apart from the architecture, the library here has several Tibetan books and an impressive collection of Thangkas, gold statues and Stupas embedded with precious stones.

Hall of fame The most popular tourist place near Leh airport is the Hall of Fame which displays the supreme sacrifice made by the Indian soldiers during the India Pakistan war. In this museum, many seized arms and weapons of the Pakistan army are showcased. The Indian Army has kept the photos, as well as the, belongs of the soldiers here. In addition, there are items that showcase the history and culture of Ladakh, the wildlife and the vegetation.

Fairs and Festivals in Leh

Dosmoche Festival Also known as the “Festival of Scapegoat,” the Dosmoche festival is celebrated to eradicate evil. Dosmoche festival, which is the most popular festival of Ladakh is celebrated just below the Leh Palace. Monks from different regions gather here and perform the masked dances known as Chhams. This festival is celebrated for two days every year in the month of February.

Losar Festival Losar is one of the important festivals celebrated in Ladakh. This festival that originated in the 7th century signifies the arrival of the new year in Tibetan Buddhism. During this 15 days festival, the ancestors, gods & animals are fed while there is a staged fight between the forces of good and evil. You can also participate and enjoy the Ibex Deer Dance which is the highlight of the festival. You can also check out other festivals like Hemis Tsechu, Sindhu Darshan, Saka Dawa and more. Plan a trip to Leh during the festival season to explore the ancient culture of the local and connect with them better.

• Nubra Valley
• Stok Khangri
• Suru Valley
• Shyok Valley

Trending Ladakh Tour Packages

5 Days Ladakh Trip

Ladakh Monasteries Tour

Best of Leh Ladakh Trip

Leh Ladakh Tourism and Travel Guide

All You Need to Know About Travelling to Leh Ladakh

Planning a trip to paradise? Oh well, yeah - we've got you covered. Find the best places to stay in Ladakh, most Insta-worthy cafes in Leh, road trip guides and more. This is your one stop guide to plan that epic trip to explore Leh Ladakh.

Start Planning: Find Where to Stay in Leh- Ladakh

Wondering where to stay during your trip? Here are the best luxury resorts, homestays, budget hostels and premium hotels - you can pick the one that suits your tastes and preferences.

Check Out These Super Fun Leh- Ladakh Itineraries

Ladakh is the land of high mountain passes and gorgeous lakes; white sand dunes and high-altitude monasteries. Shops sell Tibetan artifacts and curio items, yak wool shawls, and Kashmiri pashminas. Discover Ladakh with Tripoto to experience these and a lot more.

When in Leh Ladakh: Don't Miss These Unique Travel Experiences

From safari in the white dunes of Nubra to the winter trail of Chadar, from motorcycle rides to trekking expeditions, experience Ladakh and create your own stories.

We've Got The Best Leh Ladakh Tour Packages, Just For You!

Where to Eat When in Leh - Ladakh?

Take a Virtual Leh Ladakh Tour: Pictures & Videos

Ladakh is a place so postcard-perfect that mountain enthusiasts invariably include the destination in their bucket list. The terrain offers roads that are dangerous yet scenic.

Post About Your Leh Ladakh Trip & Make it to Editor's Picks

Where To Go In Ladakh?

Leh tourism has made the task of finding the best places to visit easier. With Leh tourism information available everywhere, visitors can plan their itineraries without any hassle. You only need to know what kind of experience you are looking for, and Leh tourism will have it!

Shanti Stupa

Located in Leh, Shanti Stupa is one of the first places that tourists visit. Perched on a hill, this grand Tibetan stupa is breathtaking. Overlooking the vibrant city, it offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, grassy fields and Tibetan houses. Constructed to mark the completion of 2,500 years of Buddhism and to further the faith’s message of peace, the stupa preserves ancient relics of Buddhist culture. What is striking about the Shanti Stupa is the mesmerising idol of Buddha which is the centre of attraction. Perched on a steep slope, it’s best to take a bike or taxi here. Owing to the growth of Leh tourism, you will find a number of Leh tourism local guides ready to take you through the history of Shanti Stupa.  

An important place to visit in Leh, the Leh Palace is the erstwhile residence of the king and queen. Also known as Lhachen Palkhar, the palace is a huge attraction primarily for its picturesque location. Situated on a hill, the palace offers breathtaking views of the Ladakh mountain range and Leh city. While Leh tourism and ASI has made considerable efforts to maintain the palace, some parts of the palace is in ruins owing to its size and damage through the years. It’s best to head here on your first or second day as you will be in the process of acclimatization.

Pangong Tso

Pangong Tso's beauty is incomparable. The majestic blue waters surrounded by rugged mountains is a sight one cannot forget.  The journey from Leh to Pangong is equally mesmerising. The road takes you from Leh through beautiful hamlets and passes through Chang La, claimed to be the second highest motorable road in the world. The drive on serpentine roads that lead up to Chang La, though unnerving, is an amazing experience.  

Once at Pangong, there are multiple options to have a nice lunch. There are a number of dhabas where one can get good Indian food. The area along these dhabas is usually very crowded and Leh tourism has made efforts to clean and protect the area. If you would like to spend a night near Pangong Tso, you can head to Durbuk or Tangste which are 40km away. It’s highly recommended to spend a night in either of the villages after the long, bumpy journey.

Although Pangong is better known among travellers, thanks to the efforts by Leh tourism, Tso Moriri lake is gradually witnessing an increase in visitors. Situated in the Changthang area of Ladakh, this lake is the largest high altitude lake in India that is entirely in the Indian territory. Fed by fresh water springs and snow from nearby mountains, the lake is among the most sacred for Ladakhis. The breadth of the lake is 7km at its widest point, and it is 19km long. The majestic blue waters of the lake are a treat for the eyes a huge attraction for Leh tourism. The 400-year-old Korzok Monastery, on the west bank of the lake, is another attraction near the lake.   Pitching of tents or construction of any hotels/homestays near the banks of the lake is strictly prohibited to preserve Leh tourism. Also, as it is close to the Line of Actual Control (LAC), an Inner Line Permit (ILP) is required to visit the lake. You can get a permit from the DC office or the Leh tourism office in the city.

Khardung La and Nubra Valley

Said to be the highest motorable road in the world and a huge draw for Leh tourism, a drive to Khardung La is thrilling, to say the least. Full of unexpected turns, the maze of fully constructed roads end at South Pullu. From South Pullu till the pass, it's a whirlwind of turns and stone-stacked roads. But despite the back-breaking ride, the views throughout the journey more than make up for it.Offering you panoramic views of the valley and the mountains above, you realise the vastness of nature. Once at the top, you may feel a little bit of a headache so treat yourself to a piping hot cup of tea and the world famous maggi. It's recommended not to spend more than 15 to 20 minutes at the top, lest nausea hits you.

From Khardung La, you can take the road leading to Nubra Valley. Verdant, vibrant beauty under the blue skies welcome you, and you will not fail to  notice the difference in the landscape. You must stay at least a couple of nights in Nubra to recover from the journey and to take in the beauty of this lovely valley. Do see the double-humped camels, they are one of a kind in the world and a big part of Leh tourism. Also, the popular Leh berry owes its origin to the beautiful valley of Nubra – a huge contributor in making Leh tourism known world-wide.

Hemis Monastery

One of the most wealthy monasteries in the country, the stunning Hemis Monastery should certainly be part of your Leh Ladakh itinerary. Built by the Ladakhi king Sengge Namgyal, it is located 45km away from Leh. Home to an awe-inspiring Buddha statue in copper, the monastery also has a number of thangka paintings and other relics. The Red sect or the Dugpa Kargyupta order of Buddhism take care of all matters relating to the monastery. If you head here during the months of July when the Hemis festival is in full swing, you’ll witness Leh tourism and the vibrant culture.

Alchi Monastery

A trip to Leh Ladakh to explore Leh tourism definitely calls for a visit to the oldest monastery in the region. Located in Alchi village, the monastery supports a traditional form of architecture and has three separate temples – Dukhang, Sumstek and the Temple of Manjushri. With an intriguing mix of Tibetan and Hinduism, the monastery’s temple is built in typical Kashmiri style. A few kilometres from Zanskar River, the monastery is enveloped by surreal beauty. Due to the increased awareness owing to Leh tourism, a few restaurants serving great food have sprung up along the premises. You can definitely plan your day in a manner which allows you to have lunch amidst towering mountains and under the open blue skies.

Activities and Things to Do in Leh Ladakh

Leh Ladakh has gradually become one of the most popular destinations for experienced and new trekkers contributing to Leh tourism. With its craggy mountains, hidden trails and awe-inspiring, it's not surprising that Leh tourism has made considerable efforts to promote trekking. From easy treks to extremely difficult routes – there is something for everyone. If you’d like to go trekking in Leh, do ensure you have enough time to cover the trek and see this beautiful region. The most popular trek for beginners is the Sham Valley trek. Nicknamed the ‘baby trek’, it is a four-day trek which is far easier than most others. Let’s take a look at some of the other popular trekking routes part of Leh tourism:

• Markha Valley
• Lamayuru to Alchi
• Chadar trek
• Ripchar Valley trek
• Tso Moriri lake trek
• Padum to Darcha trek

Rafting on Zanskar River and Sangam

Imagine a small raft, four to five people, the gushing Zanskar River and you. Rafting in Leh Ladakh is an experience that can’t be described in words. A mix of exhilaration, adventure and peace – every traveller should experience it once. For rafting in Leh, you can get in touch with any of the Leh tourism operators in the city who will arrange it for you. Rafting will take up most of your day, so it’s recommended not to plan too many things. A Leh tourism taxi from Leh will take you to Chilling, which is about 2 hours away from the city. The tip of the road is where you’ll begin your descent to the confluence of Zanskar and Indus - known as Sangam. You will be required to change into wetsuits (provided by the rafting operators). They will take you through a short verbal training which will help you understand the rowing technique. It’s fairly simple, but as is with all adventure sports, it’s extremely important to be careful.

Once in the water, you will forget about everything else but the mesmerising beauty surrounding you. The ride will start with quite a few rapids, but the route becomes calmer as you approach the Sangam point. Typically, post rafting, you will be treated to a hot, simple, delicious lunch arranged by Leh tourism operators.

Cost: Rs. 2000 to Rs. 3000 per person (depending on the season)

Shopping in Leh

Silver jewellery, antique Tibetan jewellery, home decor and postcards! Leh is a great place if you are looking to take back some souvenirs for friends and family. The popularity of Leh tourism has helped locals with their bread and butter. Lined with shops selling everything from kemp bags, pashmina shawls, semi-precious stones to homedecor, shopping in Leh tourism offers a good break if you have been on the road for the last few days. It is suggested to leave the last day for shopping in the city since you can’t plan a long trip anyway. Do remember to bargain, especially in the flea market which is on the main road.

Monastery Tour

The land of monasteries, Leh Ladakh is home to some of the oldest, biggest and most beautiful religious and spiritual structures in the world. If you are interested to learn more about these beautiful spiritual centres or simply admire the architectural marvels, you can plan a small tour of monasteries in Leh and around the city. Let’s take a look at this detailed list of monasteries which are part of Leh tourism.

• Spituk Monastery - 11km from Leh
• Stakna Monastery - 25km from Leh
• Thiksey Monastery - 19km from Leh
• Hemis Monastery - 40km from Leh
• Likir Monastery - 53km from Leh  

Where To Stay In Ladakh

The increasing number of tourists has largely contributed to the growth of Leh tourism and has given the local economy a boost. From homestays to shops to tour operators by Leh tourism - locals in Leh have welcomed tourists from across the world with open arms. From luxury homestays to budget stays, you can explore a plethora of accommodation options in Leh.

Luxury hotels in Leh

Luxury Leh Ladakh hotels are designed to give travellers the best facilities and ensure a comfortable and pleasant stay. Let’s take a look at some of the Leh tourism hotels which stand out.

• The Grand Dragon
• Gomang Boutique Hotel
• Ladakh Sarai Resort
• Ladakh Himalayan Retreat

Mid-range hotels

If you want to experience the beautiful city of Leh as well as bask in the warm hospitality the locals offer, it’s best to go for mid-range accommodation. Giving you the best of both worlds, you can save some cash as well as enjoy a comfortable stay. Let’s take a look at some of the popular ones:

• Himalayan Residency Ladakh
• Hotel Ladakh Palace
• Hotel Singge Palace
• Hotel Lasermo

Hostels and Homestays

It’s said that the best way to discover a city is to befriend a local. Staying in a homestay or hostel gives you the opportunity to live the way locals live. With fresh vegetables straight from their kitchen gardens to tons of information on surrounding areas, homestays truly become your home in the mountains. And Leh tourism has made this accommodation option even more popular. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular ones:

• Dawa Guesthouse
• Tukchu Homestay
• Osel Premium Homestay
• Tsetan Guesthouse

Best Time To Visit Leh Ladakh

The cold desert of Leh Ladakh is accessible only for a few months in the year. While you can travel here during winter via air travel, it’s best to restrict your trip to the summer months.

The season begins in April when Leh tourism is at its busiest and when the Srinagar route is open. It’s also during summer when the frozen lakes of the region begin to melt giving way to a kaleidoscope of colours.

From April till mid-October, the region is home to visitors from across the world and it’s the best time to visit. All maintenance work for the two major highways is almost complete and visitors can have a safe journey.

Planning For Ladakh

Planning for Leh Ladakh entails a number of things such as planning thorough itineraries, extensive packing lists and preparing for the unexpected climatic conditions. Awareness by Leh tourism board has helped travellers to a large extent, however, let’s take a look at permits, AMS and what you need to pack for your trip to Leh Ladakh.

Leh tourism has made it simple and convenient for both domestic and international tourists to travel to Leh Ladakh. However, it’s important to remember that the region is a critical zone owing to its shared borders with China and the presence of the Indian Army. For all tourists, it’s important to get in-line permits for a few places in Leh Ladakh.

Inner line permits

If you are an Indian tourist, according to Leh tourism board, you will need to have Inner Line Permits to travel to some regions of Leh Ladakh such as

• Nubra Valley
• Khardung La
• Pangong Tso Lake
• Tso Moriri Lake

Where can I get the permit from?

You can get the inner line permits from the DC office or Tourist Information Center (TRC) at Leh. Alternatively, you can also get these permits online on www.lahdclehpermit.in .

What do I need to submit?

You will have to submit a valid photo ID, nationality proof and pay the required fee of Rs 400 + Rs 20 per day that you will stay in Ladakh to visit these places .

Acute Mountain Sickness

One of the most important things to remember when visiting Leh Ladakh is the need to acclimatize. Since most places in the region are above an altitude of 10,000 feet, travellers may be unable to manage the sudden change in terrain and temperature. It is strongly recommended to keep the first two days of your trip to Leh Ladakh for acclimatization. It is preferred that you stay in your hotel or explore only the city. This becomes more important if you are planning a trekking tour around the region.

What are the symptoms? How can I prevent the onset of AMS?

The typical symptoms of AMS are nausea, headache, dizziness, breathing trouble. The best way to avoid AMS is to increase the altitude gradually as well as to rest the body completely before setting out to explore the region. As per guidelines by Leh tourism, you can also sleep well, avoid alcohol and smoking as well as carry AMS preventive medicines with you at all times.

Packing for Leh Ladakh

The thought of planning for Ladakh can be daunting. Even though the increasing Leh tourism has ensured that travellers find everything they may need, it’s important to be prepared. We have a list of things in our  travel guide that will make this task easier.

Travel essentials

• Photo IDs for all members
• Bag locks with multiple keys
• Lenses or extra spectacles
• Match boxes
• Cloth bags (for garbage)
• Personal water bottle
• Hand sanitizer
• Lip guard/ Vaseline
• Basic medicines/ first aid
• Two jackets

Biking in Ladakh

Bikers travelling to Leh Ladakh have largely benefitted from Leh tourism. From solo bikers to big biker groups - the months of May, June and July witness a huge number of enthusiastic riders making their way from all parts of the country. The most preferred route is via the adventurous and tricky Manali highway. With multiple stops for rest, it typically takes three to four days to reach the city of Leh from Manali. Dangerous yet captivating, a biking trip to Ladakh is on the list of almost every biking enthusiast.

However, if you don’t want to ride all the way from Delhi or Manali, you can always hire a bike in Leh. With multiple transport operators, there are a lot of options available on per day rate which allow you to explore the neighbouring areas. The rising popularity of Leh tourism has enabled access to the best bikes. From Avengers to KTM Duke to Royal Enfield, you can get a bike of your choice easily.

What should I remember?

In a lesser-known territory, it’s always advised to travel in groups. If you are going to be riding solo, try and ride alongside fellow riders. So in case of an emergency, you have someone to help you out. While owing to Leh tourism, the locals in Leh Ladakh are extremely helpful, there are long stretches of barren lands where there are no villages or human population.

Cuisine and Where to Eat In Leh Ladakh

The food in Ladakh will surprise you! With strong influences of Kashmiri, Nepali, Tibetan and Pahadi cuisine, the local cuisine in Leh is dependent on the food that grows there. Owing to this you will find a lot of leafy, green vegetables on your Ladakh trip - a fact made popular by Leh tourism information. Light and easy on the stomach, the cuisine comprises mostly of broth, soup and brew.

Here is a list of dishes that you must try during your Leh Ladakh trip:

Spinach cooked with red chilli and cloves in mustard oil. Best enjoyed with rice or roti.

A Ladakhi favourite, it’s made from roasted grain, saltwater and barley.

The best of Kashmiri and Ladakhi cuisines come together in Tabak Maaz. Marinated ribs which are kept overnight and sprinkled with milk and saffron. Cooked with Indian spices, this one is a big favourite.

The yummier variant of Thukpa, Thenktuk is a mix of noodles, flour dough, onions, tomatoes and ginger-garlic relish. It’s light and a great dish to keep yourself warm when the temperature drops.

Best Places to Eat in Ladakh

Small dhabas at the foothills of the mountains or brick cafes on a mountain - the rise of Leh tourism has ensured a varied range of restaurants in Leh Ladakh which keep food lovers very happy. With quite a few places to explore, let the locals and your instincts guide you. To begin with, we have a short list of places which are a must try.

• Summer Harvest
• Bob’s Restaurant
• World Garden Cafe
• Lamayuru Restaurant
• Gesmo Restaurant
• Wonderland Restaurant and Coffee House

Typical Costs In Leh Ladakh

Typically accommodation in Leh can cost anywhere between Rs.10,500 to Rs. 56,000 for a 7-day trip. If one were to include the transport cost within the city and outside, this number would double - depending on the kind of transport you choose. Shared taxis under Leh tourism are the most reasonable, however, they follow a strict schedule and you have to coordinate with fellow travellers.

Food in Leh is quite reasonable. The most expensive meal will cost you Rs. 1500 for two and the most reasonable can be as low as Rs. 200 for two. So eat to your heart’s delight in Leh. For neighbouring areas, Leh tourism has encouraged locals to set up tea and maggi stalls, which also serve a complete, delicious Indian meal for as low as Rs. 120.

Transport In Leh Ladakh

The best way to travel in Leh is on a bike! It’s fast, convenient and quite reasonable. However, if you are not an experienced driver, riding a bike in Leh Ladakh can be very dangerous. Leh tourism has made efforts to spread awareness about Ladakh’s unfamiliar and rugged terrain, as well as the absence of roads in some areas. Off-roading, as fun as it may sound, is completely prohibited in Leh Ladakh, especially around the area surrounding Magnetic Hill.

Where can I rent a bike in Leh?

On the main Leh Fort Road, you will find numerous Leh tourism shops offering bikes on rent. To rent a bike, you must have a valid license, an identity proof and the skills! The per day price for renting a bike starts at Rs. 1000 and goes up according to the model, make and year of the bike.

Where can I rent a taxi?

On the main Leh road, you will see a number of Leh tourism transport operators who rent out taxis for trips in and near Leh. It is also a great place to find shared taxis for Tso Moriri, Pangong Tso and Nubra Valley. You can also try your luck bargaining for reduced rates - but only if it’s the low season.

Public Transport

The city of Leh is well-connected by Leh tourism government run buses. However, the erratic schedules of these buses makes it difficult to plan a trip, especially if you are heading towards Pangong or Tso Moriri. If you’d like to cut costs, it’s recommended to do so by using shared taxis.

Written by  Kirat Sodhi , an in-house Tripoto writer.  Kirat is a proud mom of three cats and lives for lemon tea, a good book and spontaneous travel plans. Follow her to ignite your wanderlust.

Frequently Asked Questions

The weather in Leh Ladakh during the summer months of April to July is sunny during the day and chilly at night - the best time to explore Leh tourism. However, it’s always cold in Leh Ladakh so keep a jacket with you at all times.

Leh is a city in Ladakh, implying that it is part of the Ladakh region. Ladakh is divided into two parts – Kargil and Leh.

Leh tourism has made it convenient for travellers from across the world to visit Leh Ladakh. The best route for a Leh Ladakh bike trip is via the Manali highway. You can also choose to travel via the Srinagar highway which is a safer but much longer route.

The most  popular tourist places in Ladakh  to grow Leh tourism are Zanskar Valley, Leh, Hunder, Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Lamayuru, Kargil and Tso Moriri.

The Leh Ladakh airport is approximately 9km from the city and is accessible by bus and taxi.

You can find a map of Leh and Ladakh in the City Centre Market. You can also find a number of books on Leh tourism to help you during your Leh Ladakh trip.

There is no option to rent a self-drive car in Leh Ladakh. You can only rent a bike to ride yourself or use the shared taxi service from one of the Leh tourism transport operators.

The mobile connectivity in Leh Ladakh is very erratic. The efforts of Leh tourism has increased network towers in the area. However, due to security reasons, some places don’t receive any network - including most trekking routes, Khardung La and Pangong Tso.

Yes, there are five to six ATMs in Leh city. However, beyond the main city, you will not find an ATM. Leh tourism has ensured the maintenance of these ATMs however during winter, one may face difficulty.

• SKIP TO MAIN CONTENT
• लद्दाख केंद्र शासित प्रदेश
• UNION TERRITORY OF LADAKH

• A+ Font Size Increase
• A Normal Font - Selected
• A- Font Size Decrease
• A High Contrast
• A Normal Contrast - Selected

Tourist Information

Watch CBS News

What time the 2024 solar eclipse starts, reaches peak totality and ends today

By Sarah Maddox

Updated on: April 8, 2024 / 8:51 PM EDT / CBS News

The 2024 solar eclipse will be visible across North America today. As the moon's position between the Earth and sun casts a shadow on North America, that shadow, or umbra, will travel along the surface from west to east at more than 1,500 miles per hour along the path of totality . 

That means the eclipse will start, peak and end at different times — as will the moments of total darkness along the path of totality — and the best time to view the eclipse depends on where you are located. Some places along the path will have more totality time than others.

In Texas, the south-central region had clouds in the forecast , but it was better to the northeast, according to the National Weather Service. The best eclipse viewing weather was expected in New Hampshire, Vermont and Maine, as well as in Canada's New Brunswick and Newfoundland.

What time does the 2024 total solar eclipse start?

The total solar eclipse will emerge over the South Pacific Ocean before the shadow falls across North America, beginning in parts of Mexico. The path of totality , where onlookers can witness the moon fully blocking the sun (through eclipse viewing glasses for safety ), is expected to first make landfall near the city of Mazatlán around 9:51 a.m. MT. 

The total solar eclipse will cross over the U.S.-Mexico border into Texas, where it will emerge over Eagle Pass at 12:10 p.m. CT and then peak at about 1:27 p.m. CT.

In Dallas, NASA data shows the partial eclipse will first become visible at 12:23 p.m. CT and peak at 1:40 p.m. CT. The next states in the path of totality are Oklahoma and Arkansas, where the eclipse begins in Little Rock at 12:33 p.m. CT. 

Cleveland will see the beginning of the eclipse at 1:59 p.m. ET. Darkness will start spreading over the sky in Buffalo, New York, at 2:04 p.m. ET. Then, the eclipse will reach northwestern Vermont, including Burlington, at 2:14 p.m. ET. Parts of New Hampshire and Maine will also follow in the path of totality before the eclipse first reaches the Canadian mainland  at 3:13 p.m. ET.

Although the experience won't be exactly the same, viewers in all the contiguous U.S. states outside the path of totality will still be able to see a partial eclipse. Some places will see most of the sun blocked by the moon, including Washington, D.C., where the partial eclipse will start at 2:04 p.m. ET and peak at about 3:20 p.m. ET.

In Chicago, viewers can start viewing the partial eclipse at 12:51 p.m. CT, with the peak arriving at 2:07 p.m. CT.  In Detroit, viewers will be able to enjoy a near-total eclipse beginning at 1:58 p.m. ET and peaking at 3:14 p.m. ET.

New York City will also see a substantial partial eclipse, beginning at 2:10 p.m. ET and peaking around 3:25 p.m. ET.

In Boston it will begin at 2:16 p.m. ET and peak at about 3:29 p.m. ET.

The below table by NASA shows when the eclipse will start, peak and end in 13 cities along the eclipse's path.

What time will the solar eclipse reach peak totality?

Millions more people will have the chance to witness the total solar eclipse this year than during the last total solar eclipse , which was visible from the U.S. in 2017. 

The eclipse's peak will mean something different for cities within the path of totality and for those outside. Within the path of totality, darkness will fall for a few minutes. The longest will last more than 4 minutes, but most places will see between 3.5 and 4 minutes of totality. In cities experiencing a partial eclipse, a percentage of the sun will be obscured for more than two hours.

Mazatlán is set to experience totality at 11:07 am PT. Dallas will be able to see the moon fully cover the sun at 1:40 p.m. CT. Little Rock will start to see the full eclipse at 1:51 p.m. CT, Cleveland at 3:13 p.m. ET and Buffalo at 3:18 p.m. ET. Totality will reach Burlington at 3:26 p.m. ET before moving into the remaining states and reaching Canada around 4:25 p.m.

Outside the path of totality, 87.4% of the sun will be eclipsed in Washington, D.C. at 3:20 p.m. ET, and Chicago will have maximum coverage of 93.9% at 2:07 p.m. CT. New York City is much closer to the path of totality this year than it was in 2017; it will see 89.6% coverage at 3:25 p.m. EDT. 

Detroit is another city that will encounter a near-total eclipse, with 99.2% maximum coverage at 3:14 p.m. ET. Boston will see 92.4% coverage at 3:29 p.m. ET.

What time will the solar eclipse end?

The eclipse will leave continental North America from Newfoundland, Canada, at 5:16 p.m. NT, according to NASA.

At the beginning of the path of totality in Mazatlán, the eclipse will be over by 12:32 p.m. PT, and it will leave Dallas at 3:02 p.m. CT. The eclipse will end in Little Rock at 3:11 p.m. CT, Cleveland at 4:29 p.m. CDT and Buffalo at 4:32 p.m. ET. Burlington won't be far behind, with the eclipse concluding at 4:37 p.m. ET.

Meanwhile, the viewing will end in Chicago at 3:21 p.m. CT, Washington, D.C. at 4:32 p.m. ET, and New York City at 4:36 p.m. ET. 

In Detroit, the partial eclipse will disappear at 4:27 p.m. ET, and in Boston, it will be over at 4:39 p.m. ET.

How long will the eclipse last in total?

The total solar eclipse will begin in Mexico at 11:07 a.m. PT and leave continental North America at 5:16 p.m. NT. From the time the partial eclipse first appears on Earth to its final glimpses before disappearing thousands of miles away, the celestial show will dazzle viewers for about 5 hours, according to timeanddate.com . 

The length of the total solar eclipse at points along the path depends on the viewing location. The longest will be 4 minutes and 28 seconds, northwest of Torreón, Mexico. Near the center of the path, totality takes place for the longest periods of time, according to NASA.

Spectators will observe totality for much longer today than during the 2017 eclipse , when the longest stretch of totality was 2 minutes and 32 seconds.

The moon's shadow seen on Earth today, called the umbra, travels at more than 1,500 miles per hour, according to NASA. It would move even more quickly if the Earth rotated in the opposite direction.

What is the longest a solar eclipse has ever lasted?

The longest known totality was 7 minutes and 28 seconds in 743 B.C. However, NASA says this record will be broken in 2186 with a 7 minute, 29 second total solar eclipse. The next total solar eclipse visible from parts of the U.S. won't happen until Aug. 23, 2044.

Sarah Maddox has been with CBS News since 2019. She works as an associate producer for CBS News Live.

More from CBS News

How often do total solar eclipses happen?

When is the next total solar eclipse in the U.S. after today?

Is it safe to take pictures of the solar eclipse with your phone?

When was the last total solar eclipse in the U.S.? Revisiting 2017

When and where the solar eclipse will be crossing the U.S.

A total solar eclipse will grace the skies over North America on Monday, one of the most hotly anticipated sky-watching events in recent years.

Weather permitting , millions of people in Mexico, 15 U.S. states and eastern Canada will have the chance to see the moon slip between Earth and sun, temporarily blocking the sun’s light .

The total solar eclipse will be visible along a “path of totality” that measures more than 100 miles wide and extends across the continent. Along that path, the moon will fully obscure the sun, causing afternoon skies to darken for a few minutes.

Follow live updates on the solar eclipse

In all other parts of the continental U.S., a partial solar eclipse will be visible, with the moon appearing to take a bite out of the sun. Exactly how big a bite depends on the location.

The first spot in North America that will experience totality on Monday is on Mexico’s Pacific coast at around 11:07 a.m. PT, according to NASA .

After moving northeast across Mexico, the eclipse’s path travels through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Slivers of Michigan and Tennessee will also be able to witness totality if conditions are clear.

In Canada, the eclipse will be visible in parts of southern Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Cape Breton, at the eastern end of Nova Scotia.

The timing of the eclipse and the duration of totality varies by location. Most places will experience around 2 minutes of darkness, but the longest periods of totality are typically in the center of the eclipse’s path.

This year, the longest stretch of totality will last 4 minutes and 28 seconds in an area northwest of Torreón, Mexico.

Below is a list of timings for some U.S. cities along the path of totality, according to NASA .

• Dallas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:23 p.m. CT and totality at 1:40 p.m. CT.
• Idabel, Oklahoma: Partial eclipse begins at 12:28 p.m. CT and totality at 1:45 p.m. CT.
• Little Rock, Arkansas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:33 p.m. CT and totality at 1:51 p.m. CT.
• Poplar Bluff, Missouri: Partial eclipse begins at 12:39 p.m. CT and totality at 1:56 p.m. CT.
• Paducah, Kentucky: Partial eclipse begins at 12:42 p.m. CT and totality at 2:00 p.m. CT.
• Carbondale, Illinois: Partial eclipse begins at 12:42 p.m. CT and totality at 1:59 p.m. CT.
• Evansville, Indiana: Partial eclipse begins at 12:45 p.m. CT and totality at 2:02 p.m. CT.
• Cleveland: Partial eclipse begins at 1:59 p.m. ET and totality at 3:13 p.m.
• Erie, Pennsylvania: Partial eclipse begins at 2:02 p.m. ET and totality at 3:16 p.m. ET.
• Buffalo, New York: Partial eclipse begins at 2:04 p.m. ET and totality at 3:18 p.m.
• Burlington, Vermont: Partial eclipse begins at 2:14 p.m. ET and totality at 3:26 p.m. ET.
• Lancaster, New Hampshire: Partial eclipse begins at 2:16 p.m. ET and totality at 3:27 p.m.
• Caribou, Maine: Partial eclipse begins at 2:22 p.m. ET and totality at 3:32 p.m. ET.

Other resources can also help you figure out when the various phases of the eclipse will be visible where you live, including NationalEclipse.com and TimeandDate.com .

If you plan to watch the celestial event, remember that it’s never safe to look directly at the sun, including through binoculars, telescopes or camera lenses. Special eclipse glasses are required to safely view solar eclipses and prevent permanent eye damage.

Denise Chow is a reporter for NBC News Science focused on general science and climate change.