Leh & Ladakh – In the lap of the Himalayas

An erstwhile Himalayan kingdom, Ladakh is a vast landscape of unspoilt beauty. Once the capital of Ladakh, the picturesque town of Leh is an ideal base for exploring Ladakh! Tibetan influences are heavy; in fact Ladakh is known as Little Tibet. Steep mountains, pristine lakes, colourful Tibetan monasteries, a vibrant culture, numerous trekking trails, rugged terrain – Leh-Ladakh draws nature lovers and adventure junkies in equal numbers. Here are some of the places you must visit in the region.

Book Your Leh Ladakh Tourism Packages Now

Leh Palace

leh palace ladakh himalayas

Built in mid-16^th century, the palace was the world’s highest building at that time. Make your way around its dark corridors and hidden passageways, gaze upon the murals depicting the Buddha’s life and find peace in the palace’s prayer room.

Shanti Stupa

shanti stupa leh ladakh himalayas

The white-domed structure perched on a hilltop was built by Japanese monks to promote world peace. Not only is it of religious significance, but it also offers one of the best views of Leh.

Stok Palace & Museum

stok monastery leh ladakh himalayas — The imposing and enchanting Stok Palace

The palace is home to the exiled royal family. It houses a museum where royal artefacts, jewellery, and costumes are displayed. Some of the thangkas (paintings on silk) are said to date back to the 16^th century.

Spituk Gompa

spituk monastery leh ladakh himlayas — Photo Credit: Bob Witlox/fickr

This late 14^th century monastery is perched on a hillock near Spituk village. It houses a golden-roofed shrine, Skodong Lakhang, as well as ancient masks and arms. There is also a massive statue of Mahakal that is unveiled during the Spitok festival.

Pangong Tso

pangong leh ladakh himalayas

Situated at a height of 4,250 metres, Pangong Tso is the highest lake in the world. With its crystal clear water, the surrounding mountains and the tranquil surroundings, it’s not hard to imagine why Pangong Tso means “the enchanted lake” in Tibetan.

Nubra Valley

nubhra valley leh ladakh himlayas — Surreal, is it not? Like God himself painted this....

Known as the “orchard of Ladakh”, Nubra Valley is a vegetation rich landscape ideal for trekking and camping. The Diskit Monastery situated on the hill above the Shyok River is also worth a visit in the Nubra Valley.

Khardung La

khardungla leh ladakh himalayas

The Khardung La Pass is the world’s highest motorable road and is used by the Indian Army to carry provisions to the Siachen Glacier. It’s a great place for carrying out driving and biking expeditions.

Hemis Gompa

hemis gompa leh ladakh himalayas

This Tibetan-Buddhist monastery was established in the late 17^th century, but its origins date back to the 11^th century. Try visiting this place during June when the annual Hemis festival is held.

Drass Valley

drass valley leh ladakh himalayas

The Drass Valley in Ladakh is particularly known for its trekking routes, including the 3-day trek to Suru valley and the trek to Amarnath’s holy cave.

Matho Gompa

Located on the banks of the Indus River near Matho village, this monastery dates back to the 15^th century. The Matho Nagrang Festival is one of its attractions. During the festival, blindfolded monks act as oracles and are known to predict the future.