10 places to visit in ladakh

Places To Visit In Ladakh

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1. Pangong Lake

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

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

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7. Stok Palace

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

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13. Hemis Monastery

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

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Top 15 places to visit in ladakh that will leave you spellbound.

Ladakh, also known as the “Land of High Passes,” is a region located in the northernmost part of India, a Union Territory, which was previously a part of Jammu and Kashmir. Ladakh is famous for its rugged terrain, stunning natural landscapes, and unique cultural heritage. The region is surrounded by some of the world’s highest mountain ranges, including the Himalayas, Karakoram, and the Ladakh range. It’s a land of the coldest deserts in the world; it is a land to be lost in the beauty of rugged terrains and click awesome pictures; seeking solace in numerous Gompas and satisfy your adventures soul by indulging in various adventure activities like trekking , rafting, paragliding, mountain climbing, biking etc.

You will also encounter various remotest villages and get fascinated by their rustic life as Ladakh is also home to a diverse population that includes Tibetans, Muslims, and Buddhists. The region’s strategic location at the crossroads of Central Asia, India, and Tibet has shaped its unique culture, architecture, and cuisine. The traditional Ladakhi way of life is centred around farming, trading, and livestock rearing, and the locals have developed a close relationship with their environment.

The place has a rich cultural heritage and an awesome palace – Leh Palace. The list is endless and this is just the tip of an iceberg. Ladakh Tourism Map is filled with numerous beautiful places to overpower your soul with delight. Ladakh will never be monotonous as it has so much to offer to a tourist. And, that’s why, Ladakh is unquestionably one of the best places to visit in India for a vacation.

In this blog, we will mention the top 15 best tourist places in Ladakh to help you plan your trip to this beautiful and fantastic world of bliss.

Also Check Out Some of the Most Popular Leh Ladakh Tour Packages

Pangong Lake – Color Changing Lake

Situated at the height of 4350 m in the Himalayas, Pangong Lake is the world’s highest salt water lake.  Picturesque mountains in the background, landscaped vistas and tranquil blue waters of the lake would teleport you into the world of fantasy. It is one of the most popular points of tourist interest in Leh Ladakh. Pangong Lake got its name from a Tibetan word ‘Pangong Tso’ which means ‘High Grassland Lake’. The most interesting fact about this lake is that it changes its color, appearing blue, grey, green or red at different points of time. You can only feel its true bliss, if you visit here once.

Highlights – May to September is the best time to visit Pangong Lake.

Also Check Out: Popular Lakes in Ladakh

Lamayuru – Moonland of Ladakh

Have you ever seen a moonlike landscape for real? No? Then Lamayuru in Leh is a place to be in. It is often called a ‘Moonscape for tourists. It was founded in the 11th century by Mahasiddacarya Naropa. The landscape of Lamayuru is surreal, sublime, moonlike and divine.

Lamayuru is known for its rugged landscape, odd geographical formations, picturesque views and Lamayuru monastery which is situated at a height of 3510 meters. If you are looking for a beautiful place to click some awesome pictures then Lamayuru is one of the most popular tourist destinations to visit in Ladakh.

Highlights – Yuru Kabgyat is the annual festival of Lamayuru Monastery which is the center of attraction of this monastery. The famous mask dance performed by Lamas is the best part of this festival.

Also Read: Must Visit Monasteries in Ladakh

Zanskar Valley – Valley of secluded serenity

Zanskar is one of the best tourist attractions to visit in Leh Ladakh. If you are in a need of solace and serenity then this desolated Himalayan range will definitely soothe your mind and soul. It is less crowded and beautiful which would be a perfect destination to spend some moments of peace. Glittering blue of the skies, snow covered steep terrains, awesome weather and mind – boggling water bodies will be the perfect landscape to disappear in the folds of time to dance and dream.

Highlights – June to September is the best time to visit Zanskar Valley. Trekking adventure, Paragliding, water rafting in Zanskar Valley are some of the best things to do in your Ladakh trip.

Also Read: Incredible History of Ladakh

Kargil – Adventure Hub

Your Holidays in Ladakh are incomplete without visiting Kargil. Kargil is one of the top tourist attractions in Ladakh. It is situated on Srinagar- Leh highway. If you are a thrill seeker, you must not miss Kargil because it is a hub of adventure sports like trekking, camping, river rafting and mountaineering etc.

The most interesting part is the Line of control which is just 11km away from Kargil. It divides India from Pakistan. It is also a tourist paradise as many beautiful and old gompas and monasteries, scenic valleys and stunning mountain ranges will come in your way when you wander like a wanderer in its lanes.

Highlights- Sumdo chinmu village to Alchi, Zoji, Padum to Lamayuru are some of the best trekking adventures you can enjoy in Kargil, during your Ladakh trip. May to July is the best time to visit Kargil.

Also Read: Popular Adventure Sports Activities in Ladakh

Khardung- La Pass- Scenic Motorable Pass

Welcome to the highest motorable passes in the world. What? You haven’t visited Khardung- La Pass yet? Really? Then you must visit this place once in your lifetime as it is one of the must visit tourist destinations in Ladakh.

Khardung – La Pass is a gateway to Nubra and Shyok valleys. It is an endless world of scenic vistas. The thing of beauty and bliss is here forever. For a thrill seeker, nature lover, solace seekers, Khardung – la pass is one of a kind. You will never be able to forget its charm if you visit here once.

Highlights – May to September is the best time to visit Khardung- la Pass. It is the best place for adventure bikers.

Also Check Out: Other Popular Mountain Passes in Ladakh

Magnetic Hill – Place Where Gravity Fails

It is one of the most popular Ladakh Tourist attractions in Ladakh. I am sure you would definitely want to see a place where science takes a backseat and gravity has no meaning. There is a yellow sign board in Magnetic hill which says ‘The phenomenon that defies gravity’.

It instructs you to park your vehicles at the base with a white point on the road, which is also known as magnetic road and when you park your vehicle at that spot, your vehicle will automatically move forward. Isn’t it interesting? This place should definitely be on your list of top places to visit in Ladakh.

Highlights- May to September is the best time to visit Magnetic Hill. The best thing you can do here is photography of the scenic vistas.

Also Read: Religious Tourism in Ladakh

Spituk Gompa – Seek the Divine Grace

Travelling to Ladakh would elevate your travel experience to a higher level if you visit some sacred places to seek solace.

Spituk Gompa is one such place to be in. It is also one of the most popular destinations in Ladakh. The gompa is located at the top of the hill and the scenic views from the hill would overpower your mind with delight.

The Gompa was established in the 11th century by Od- De.  It houses the divine image of Mahakaal which is only shown in the annual festival of Spituk in January.

Highlights- Spituk Monastery’s Museum has a rich collection of ancient masks, Thangkas and antique items. May to September is the best time to visit Spituk Gompa but if you want to enjoy the Spituk Festival then visit in January. 

Also Read: Arts & Culture of Ladakh

Hemis National Park & Wildlife Sanctuary – Say Hello to the wild world

How many of you are fond of exotic and rare wildlife species, endangered flora and pristine wilderness? I am sure all of you would love to visit Hemis National Park Wildlife Sanctuary in Ladakh . It was named after Hemis Monastery in 1981.

Your experience of witnessing this nature’s wonder would be interesting if I tell you that this wildlife Sanctuary is full of alpine vegetation like Veronica, Anemone, Gentiana, Lloydia etc and animals like Snow Leopard, wild sheeps, shapu, ibex and goats, bharal, dholes etc. would blow your heart away.

Don’t forget to look for 70 different species of birds like Throated thrush, Robbin acceptor, Himalayan whistling Thrush etc.  This place is one of the best places to explore in Ladakh.

Highlights – May to October is the best time to discover Hemis Wildlife Sanctuary in a Jeep Safari.  Do visit Hemis Monastery, it is very famous for its mask festival.

Also Read: Ladakh Wildlife Information

Tso Moriri Lake – Hidden beauty of Ladakh

If you are exploring Ladakh then Tso Moriri Lake should be the place you must not forget to be in. It is one of the offbeat destinations to explore in Ladakh. Located in Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary, Tso Moriri Lake is a piece of heaven for the people who love calm and scenic places.  It is not wrong to call it one of the most beautiful places in Ladakh to enjoy your day. It is 4000 meters above sea level, decked with snowcapped mountains all around, beautiful migratory birds and rare Tibetan wolves.  For honeymoon couples, this place would be an absolute bliss because of its picturesque setting which gives a romantic feel.

Highlights – May to August is the best time to visit Tso Moriri Lake.  During January to March this lake remains frozen. It is located near the Line of actual control. You Need an Inner Line Permit to visit this place.

Also Read: Best Time to Visit Ladakh

Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary – Preserving Wild Wonder

A protected area located in the Leh district of Ladakh covers an area of 4,000 square kilometres, Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a wide range of flora and fauna. It is situated at an altitude of 4,500 metres above sea level and is known for its high-altitude lakes, including the famous Pangong Tso. Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary in Leh is the best place to spot several endangered and rare species of animals, such as the snow leopard, Tibetan wild ass or Kaing, Tibetan argali, and the black-necked crane. Other species found here include the Tibetan wolf, Eurasian brown bear, marmot, and several species of birds, such as the bar-headed goose, Himalayan snowcock, and the great crested grebe.

The sanctuary is a popular tourist destination and is visited by wildlife enthusiasts and adventure seekers from all over the world. Visitors can go on guided treks, wildlife safaris, and bird watching tours to explore the sanctuary and its rich wildlife.

Highlights: May and September is the best time to visit Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary as the weather is relatively milder this time.

Also Read: Summer Weather in Ladakh

Leh Palace – Regal Beauty Preserved

Leh Palace, also known as Lhachen Palkhar, is a magnificent structure situated in the city of Leh. Perched on a hill overlooking the city, providing a breathtaking view of the surrounding Himalayan mountains, Leh Palace is an iconic landmark of the region, and it is a must-visit destination for anyone travelling to the region. The palace offers a unique blend of history, culture, and architecture, making it a fascinating place to explore and learn about the rich cultural heritage of the region. The construction of the palace dates back to the 17th century when King Sengge Namgyal, the ruler of the Namgyal dynasty, commissioned its construction. The palace was built as a royal residence for the king and his family and also served as the administrative centre of the kingdom. The palace has nine stories, and its architecture is a blend of traditional Tibetan, Indian, and Islamic styles.

The palace has been converted into a museum that showcases the rich history and culture of the region. The museum exhibits various artefacts, including thangkas (Tibetan Buddhist paintings), old photographs, traditional costumes, and other objects that give visitors a glimpse into the lives of the royal family and the people of the region.

Highlights: Leh Palace remains open from 8 AM to 5 PM everyday and morning is the best time of the day to visit the palace to avoid crowds.

Also Read: Information About Stock Palace

Thiksey Monastery – Serene Spirituality Awaits

Thiksey Monastery , also known as Thiksey Gompa, is a Tibetan Buddhist monastery located approximately 19 kilometres east of Leh, in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. It is situated on a hilltop overlooking the Indus Valley and is considered one of the most beautiful and largest monasteries in Ladakh. It is an architectural masterpiece and is famous for its resemblance to the Potala Palace in Lhasa, Tibet. The complex comprises several temples, halls, and chambers, which are adorned with beautiful murals, thangkas, and statues of various deities. The main prayer hall is adorned with a 15-metre-high statue of Maitreya Buddha, which is the largest of its kind in Ladakh.

Apart from the main prayer hall, the monastery also has a nunnery, a library, a museum, and a school for young monks. The nunnery houses nuns who follow the Gelugpa order, and the school provides education to young monks from various parts of Ladakh. One of the interesting facts about it is, the complex also has a set of buildings which accommodate female renunciates.

Highlights: Thiksey Monastery is also famous for its annual festival, which takes place in the eleventh lunar month (October or November) and is celebrated with great pomp and show.

Also Read: Information About Matho Monastery

Nubra Valley – Nature’s Tranquil Escape

Nubra Valley is a breathtakingly beautiful destination located in the northernmost part of India, in Ladakh. It is a high-altitude cold desert that is renowned for its mesmerising landscapes, picturesque villages, ancient monasteries, and unique culture. The valley is situated at an elevation of about 3,000 metres above sea level and is surrounded by majestic snow-capped mountains that make it a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The valley is accessible via the Khardung La Pass, which is one of the highest motorable roads in the world, and offers a thrilling experience for those who dare to take the journey.

Nubra Valley is also famous for its double-humped Bactrian camels, which can be seen grazing on the sand dunes in the region. Visitors can enjoy a camel safari and explore the valley’s remote corners, visiting ancient gompas and remote villages. The valley is also a popular trekking destination, with several trails offering stunning views of the mountains and valleys.

Highlights: The best time to visit Nubra Valley is between May and September, when the weather is mild and pleasant. However, visitors should be prepared for sudden changes in temperature and weather conditions, as the region can be quite unpredictable.

Also Read: Information About Hunder Sand Dunes

Alchi Village – A Peaceful Oasis

Alchi is a small village situated in the Leh district of the Ladakh region in India. It is located on the banks of the Indus River and is famous for its ancient Alchi Monastery , which is over a thousand years old. The village is surrounded by stunning landscapes of snow-capped mountains, lush greenery, and the glistening river, making it a popular destination for tourists. The monastery houses some of the most beautiful and well-preserved murals, sculptures, and artefacts that offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Ladakh.

Apart from the monastery, Alchi village is also known for its vibrant and colourful markets, where one can buy locally produced handicrafts, clothes, and souvenirs. The village is also home to several small cafes and restaurants, serving delicious traditional Ladakhi cuisine. The locals of Alchi are warm and welcoming, and their traditional way of life is still preserved in the village. Overall, Alchi is a must-visit destination for anyone travelling to Ladakh, offering a unique cultural experience amidst breathtaking natural beauty.

Highlights: Food is one of the main reasons to visit Alchi. Some of the must have dishes of Alchi are walnut salad, mok-moks (momos), Kashmiri pulao, baril, paba, tangutur, etc.

Also Read: Popular Festivals of Ladakh

Chadar Trek – Once in a lifetime experience

What could be the experience of trekking in a frozen lake? Have you ever thought about that? Well, if you want to experience something like this, Chadar Trek would be one of the best things to do on your Ladakh Trip.

Holidays in Ladakh without trekking aren’t fun. So, one must take part in adventurous trekking for once in a lifetime. It is a popular river in Zanskar valley which remains frozen in winters. It resembles a Chadar i.e. blanket of ice. Its beauty is always at its peak which is best for clicking awesome pictures for wonderful moments and memories. If you are visiting Ladakh, you must do Chadar Trek, it will make your trip wonderful.

Highlights- Best time to do this trek is between January to February.

Also Read: Best Season for Trekking in Ladakh

I know that this list is not enough to explain the beauty of Ladakh. There are other numerous beautiful places to visit in Ladakh which I will cover in my next blog. The places I mentioned come in the list of top 15 places to visit in Ladakh. I hope this will definitely help you in planning a wonderful vacation in Ladakh.  Ladakh is a place one should definitely visit if they truly want to know the meaning of beauty and adventure.

Other Important Ladakh Tourism Information Links

• Popular Short Treks in Ladakh
• Best Ladakh Tour Packages
• Things to Do in Ladakh

Frequently Asked Questions

Do we need permits to visit nubra and pangong.

Yes, special permits will be needed to visit Nubra and Pangong.

What is the best way to travel to Ladakh, by air or by road?

It totally depends on your preference. Ladakh is a very scenic location. If you want to enjoy picturesque views then traveling by road is the best option for you. However, a road trip is a long journey. There are two routes for Ladakh by Road, one is through Manali and the other is through Srinagar. By Air is the best option for those who want comforts and want to reach Ladakh in a hurry and then enjoy the scenic spots. Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport located in Leh is the nearest airport which is connected with the major cities. Travelling by air will save a couple of days and there is no need to take a Rohtang Pass Permit.

Is Ladakh a safe destination to travel with small kids?

Ladakh is safe to travel with family or small kids but with some precautions.

• If you are travelling with an infant or a small kid then do not plan your trip to a high or low altitude place. It's not safe for health purpose.
• Weather might not be suitable for small kids, so keep warm clothes.
• Keep your and your kids body hydrated.
• If the kid is not physically fit then a trip to Ladakh is a big NO.
• Newborns will be sensitive to everything. Be it weather, sunlight, snow etc. So, travel when they are at least 7 to 12 months old. It is not medical advice but precaution is always necessary.

What are some of the most essential things to carry on a Ladakh Trip?

• All the important travel documents and Id card, driving license, Aadhar Card etc. is essential to carry in Ladakh.
• Passport size pictures
• Medical insurance
• Comfortable footwear and warm clothes. Pair of socks, mufflers, gloves and caps.
• Necessary medication to prevent altitude sickness
• Camera, because you will come across beautiful locations.
• Power bank, spare battery, extra memory card and charger

What type of clothes should I carry on a Ladakh Trip?

Ladakh’s weather conditions will be harsh, depending on the time you are travelling. Always carry heavy woolen clothes, comfortable footwear, thermals, gloves, socks, jackets for your comfort. In summer, you can carry light cotton T-Shirts and light jackets. If you are travelling in Rainy season then carry a raincoat, a pair of shoes and light clothes.

How is the mobile and internet connectivity in Ladakh?

Post -paid connections work well in Ladakh. At a few places Airtel connection would work but BSNL will not function properly. You have to get a BSNL or MTNL postpaid connection. In major cities your internet will work well but you will get the facilities of internet not more than 3G. At some places there is no connectivity.

How is the ATM facility in Ladakh?

In Leh market ATM facility is available but at another places ATM is hard to find. So, please carry enough cash, as small shopkeepers will not accept cards.

Are there any direct flights for Ladakh from Delhi & Mumbai?

Yes, if you are travelling to Ladakh from Mumbai then Go Air, SpiceJet operates flights from Mumbai for Leh. It is a very convenient option. From Delhi also Indigo and Go Air offer flights to reach Ladakh. Depending on the time you are going, prices of flights will be raised or reduced.

Published: 15 Mar, 2023 | Last Updated:  05 Feb, 2024

About the author

Pallavi Roy

She is a candle who burns and melts in the chaos of infinity, from where her visceral whistles and leaves an imprint of desire in her heart to know the map of an Island where there are different sunrises and sunsets. Her curiosity brightens to conquer the hearts unrelieved and sometimes mysterious. Her name is - Pallavi Roy - A traveller by soul and a writer by Profession.

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• 40 Best Things To Do In Ladakh That You Can’t Afford To Miss In 2024!

12 Apr 2024

Ladakh is known for its unique culture and awe-inspiring landscapes. The snow-clad high peaks, cold deserts, and massive glaciers define the topography of the region. And then there are some breathtaking lakes and rivers that captivate the visitors and offer ample opportunities for rafting. Other than river rafting and taking a sightseeing tour of the beautiful places to visit in this region, there are some of the things to do in Ladakh that you simply cannot miss. These tourist attractions and activities ensure a joyful and exciting trip to Ladakh.

40 Best Things To Do In Ladakh In 2024

Planning a Ladakh trip can be exciting and challenging at the same time. What to do, where to do, how to do? And probably a bunch of questions are added to the mind. So, if you’re going to Ladakh for the first time, make sure to indulge into these fascinating activities and explore the culture and traditions of the place.

• Hemis Festival – Interesting Interactions
• Hemis National Park – Spot A Snow Leopard
• Hunder – Try Bactrian Camel Safari
• Khardungla Pass – Visit Highest Cafeteria In The World
• Yak Cheese – Try Yak Cheese Momos
• Buddhist Monks – Hang Out With The Monks
• Hemis Monastery – Peaceful Morning Expeditions
• Adventurous Roads – For Fun Seekers
• Hot Butter Tea – Local Brew Chang
• Locals – Interact And Stay
• Old School Mills – Peep Into The Past
• Spituk Gompa Trek – Adventurous Expeditions
• Zanskar Valley Tour – For Daredevils
• Tso Moriri – Chill And Rejuvenate
• Magnetic Hill – Startling Experience
• Namgyal Tsemo Monastery – Cultural Insight
• Lamayuru – Perfect For Stargazing
• Chadar Trek – Trekker’s Delight
• Local Food – Grab The Scrumptious Delights
• Nubra Valley – Glance At The Beauty
• Donkey Sanctuary – Take A Stroll
• Drang Drung Glacier – For Thrill-Seekers
• Chemrey Monastery – Visit The Illuminating Spot
• Shanti Stupa – Religious Visit
• Gurudwara Pathhar Sahib – For Some Peace
• Main Bazaar – Shop For Souvenirs
• Pangong Tso – Truly Breathtaking Sunrise
• Ladakh Harvest Festival – A Cultural Triumph
• Matho Nagrang Festival – Witness Buddhist Celebrations
• Stok Palace Museum – For Culture Lovers
• Hall Of Fame – Pay Tribute For A Soldier’s Sacrifice
• Zorawar Fort – Visit The Majestic Fort
• River Rafting – Satiate The Inner Thrill-Seeker
• Leh Palace – Witness The Royal Life
• Camping –  A Stay Under The Starry Sky
• Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary –  Travel In A Jeep
• Lehchen – A Peek Into The Nightlife
• Destination Wedding – Get Hitched
• Landscape Photography: For Your Instagram
• Cycling : For The Thrillseekers

1. Hemis Festival – Interesting Interactions

One of the best things to do on a Ladakh trip is seeing the Llamas perform the colorful Chhams. You haven’t felt the spirit and true magnetism of Ladakh if you haven’t seen the dance drama flaunting vibrant clothes and formidable masks. Attend the Hemis Festival of Ladakh Festival to be mesmerized by the colorful dances. 

Where: Hemis Monastery

When: 11th July to 12th July

Highlight: the Chham Dance is quite famous; people dance wearing masks and the dance is symbolic of good winning over bad

Time required:  3-4 hours

Average cost:  N/A

Must Read: 38 Most Colorful Places In India

2. Hemis National Park – Spot A Snow Leopard

There is nothing as breathtaking as looking at a Snow Leopard seen in only a few places in the entire world. Spot the beautiful animal on the snow leopard trek in one of the popular Ladakh attractions – the Hemis National Park , home to more than 200 snow leopards which can be seen only in the winter. As wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers, one of the thrilling things to do in Leh Ladakh in May is to step into Hemis National Park. 

Where: Hemis National Park

When:  During summer

Highlights:  Hemis National Park

Average cost:  INR 500

3. Hunder – Try Bactrian Camel Safari

Image Credit: John Hill for Wikipedia Commons

A ride on the double-humped Bactrian Camels at the sand dunes of Hunder is number three on our list of things to do in Ladakh for its terrain along the breathtakingly beautiful Shyok and Nubra River. This is an integral part of the caravans that used to travel on the ancient trade route. Thus, experiencing the thrill of camel ride is among the ultimate  things to do in Ladakh in June .   

Where: Hunder

When: during the summer months of June to September

Highlight: the scenic beauty that you’ll witness during your ride from Hunder to Turtuk

Time required:  2-3 hours

Average cost:  INR 200

Suggested Read: Adventure Holidays In India For Summer

4. Khardungla Pass – Visit Highest Cafeteria In The World

One of the unique Ladakh attractions is the Maggi point at the highest cafeteria in the world. You may have eaten this noodle everywhere possible, but you have not truly enjoyed it till you savor the 2-minute noodle overlooking the Himalayan ranges at Khardung La Pass, one of the highest motorable passes in the world.

Where: Khardungla Pass

When: the best time to visit Khardungla Pass is from April to June as well as September to October

Highlight: the fact that Khardungla Pass is the highest motorable road in the world is enough to give you a reason to visit this place

Time required:  5-6 hours

5. Yak Cheese – Try Yak Cheese Momos

The wish-granting yak gives the nomads milk, butter, and meat for the table, and in absolutely no other part of the country are you going to get the chance to try out cheese made from the milk of Yak. Also called Chhurpi, try it in its local form or as the delicious Yak cheese momos. This definitely has to be on your list of things to do in Ladakh.

Where: Gesmo restaurant, Opp. Hotel Yak – Tall Fort Road Leh Jammu and Kashmir, 194101

When:  Throughout the year

Highlights:  Delicious Yak cheese momos

Time required:  2 hours

Average cost:  INR 400

Suggested Read: 10 Offbeat Trekking Spots in The Himalayas

6. Buddhist Monks – Hang Out With The Monks

While connecting with the tourists and the locals on your trip is fun, but nothing can beat the magical aura of these Buddhist monks in the valleys of Ladakh who can be seen roaming around and meditate at the monasteries. Hung up on a monk strolling at a monastery and stay set to interact with him on his wise, divine experiences.

Time required:  N/A

7. Hemis Monastery –  Peaceful Morning Expeditions

Don’t just visit the popular Ladakh attractions but also make sure to visit the beautiful Buddhist monasteries, instead stay overnight at the one! Enjoy a stay at Hemis monastery overnight which enables you to attend early morning prayers, a moving rejuvenating experience and we strongly recommended it.

When: 8:00 AM

Highlight: Morning prayers will be a mesmerizing sight to see and will prove to be a great experience

Average cost: N/A

Suggested Read: 12 Festivals Of Ladakh

8. Adventurous Roads – For Fun Seekers

To all the adrenaline junkies out there, a bike ride on the narrow & rocky terrains has to be on your list of adventurous things to do in Ladakh. Your trip is incomplete until you have driven the lonely but beautiful roads on a motorbike with nothing but the clouds above and the formidable mountains around. And if you are really in the spirit then drive to the Khardung-La pass, which at an altitude of 5,602 m is one of the highest motorable passes in the world. All in all, bike riding and car drives are among the exciting  things to do in Ladakh in August. 

Where: Khardung-La pass

When: if you want to experience the best of this pass, then make sure you plan your visit here in the months of April to August and September to October

Highlight: it is considered to be the world’s highest motorable road

Time required:  1-2 hours

9. Hot Butter Tea – Local Brew Chang

You might have had chai on every other place in the country, but when in Ladakh you have to try out the local Butter tea, and if you are in for a good time then try out Chang, the local brew made in a cylindrical porcelain pot by fermenting miller. For tea lovers, this is a must thing to taste while in Ladakh.

When: Throughout the year

Highlight: the best thing about the two beverages is that they give you a fair idea about the local culture of Ladakh

Time required:  1 hour

Average cost:  INR 100

Suggested Read: 29 Best Adventure Destinations In India

10. Locals – Interact And Stay

Hotel stays are great but it isn’t a trip to Ladakh if you don’t experience life in the mountains. Get a whiff of the local culture first hand as you stay with a native Ladakhi family. Feast on the Ladakhi cuisine prepared right at home for an unparalleled experience.

Highlight: if you’ll stay with the locals, you’ll get a better idea of their lifestyle and their place will be like a home away from home.

11. Old School Mills – Peep Into The Past

See how one the most expensive handlooms in the world – the Pashmina is crafted only at these old school mills in Ladakh. You can haggle over prices in your city but this is one of the places you can actually see the magic at work. Extra points if you can find a Pashmina goat to pet. You will wish you could take one home.

Highlight: a Pashmina will give you an idea about the history as well as the artistic aspect of Ladakh. It will also throw light on the skills of artisans that live here.

Suggested Read: Wildlife Experience India

12. Spituk Gompa Trek – Adventurous Expeditions

Spituk Gompa is a magnificent ancient monastery resting at the top of a hill. One of the unique monasteries in Ladakh, it is quite a great place to explore by adventurous souls. This location looks quite a vantage point along with the uneven mountains surrounding the place.

Where: Leh, Jammu and Kashmir 194104

Highlight: standing here one can enjoy a beautiful view of the entire landscape while enjoying the silence in the air.

13. Zanskar Valley Tour – For Daredevils

 Image Credit: Jochen Westermann for Wikimedia Commons

This valley lies in the secluded region of Ladakh and is one of the most-visited places owing to its breathtaking view. This valley is considered to be a part of the Tethys Himalayas. There are cave monasteries and trekking trails enveloped within an awe-striking natural setting. You can even come to this site for enjoying thrilling river rafting.

When: The best time to visit Zanskar Valley is considered to be July to September.

Highlight: Come to this valley if you want to undergo an unparalleled sightseeing experience.

Time required:  4-5 hours

Average cost:  INR 1,000

Suggested Read: 8 Tourist Circuits Of Ladakh

14. Tso Moriri – Chill And Rejuvenate

If you’re looking for a place where you can just sit and chill and enjoy the breathtaking views around, then picnicking at Tso Moriri can be a great idea. This lake is not that popular amongst the lakes of Changtang Wildlife Sanctuary. However, it is considered to be quite similar to the much-famous Pangong Lake. This lake is around 100 feet deep and is surrounded by majestic hills.

When: During the winters, this lake freezes, and therefore the summer months of May, June, July, and August are considered the best for visiting this lake.

Highlight: Apart from the hills, you can witness some unique species of flora and fauna here.

15. Magnetic Hill – Startling Experience

Image Credit: Vikrantdhiman189381 for Wikipedia Commons

The Magnetic hill in Ladakh is famously considered as the anti-gravity hill, as you’ll see that the vehicles don’t seem to move according to the force of gravity at this place. If you want to see the proof, park your vehicle and watch it move uphill on its own. Leh is at a distance of 30 kilometers from this hill and it is a must-visit when you’re out to explore the magnificent tourist attractions!

When: the best time to visit this place is considered to be between the months of July and September

Highlight: there are some mythical stories attached to this hill which makes it all the more worthy to explore

Time required:  3 hours

Suggested Read: 10 Hotels In Leh Ladakh

16. Namgyal Tsemo Monastery – Cultural Insight

Image Source: Kmohankar for Wikimedia Commons

If you want to get closer to the spiritual aspect of Ladakh, then a visit to this monastery is a must. Traveling to this monastery is itself an experience you will cherish. On your way, you’ll witness the beautiful mountains, making the whole experience more mesmerizing. Many people come to this monastery to seek knowledge of Buddhism.

Where: Leh district, Ladakh

Highlight: the vibes at this monastery are quite amazing, making it one of the best places to visit

17. Lamayuru – Perfect For Stargazing

If you want to watch the stars twinkling while sitting amidst the beautiful mountains, then this is the place for you. Popular by the name, Moonland of Ladakh, Lumayuru is a hamlet that lies at the Srinagar to Leh highway, at a distance of 100 kilometers from Leh. This place is essentially famous for the Tibetan Buddhist Monastery. This is the place where you’ll see nature at its best. People from different regions come to this spot to enjoy nature’s best gifts. Also, some of the best Ladakh resorts are situated in the vicinity.

When: You can visit this village in the summer as well as monsoon months. However, it is suggested that you must stay careful during the monsoons as the chance of landslides is quite high.

Highlight: Stargazing at this point would be a delight and an experience that you’ll never forget.

Suggested Read: Shopping In Chandni Chowk

18. Chadar Trek – Trekker’s Delight

Image Credit: Sumita Roy Dutta for Wikimedia Commons

Are you interested in walking across frozen sheets of ice? If yes, then take the Frozen River trek while holidaying in Ladakh. Being one of the most popular things in Ladakh, the experiences of this trek are spellbinding. You will also be capturing panoramic sights of frozen valleys while strolling here and the serene ambiance will surely make you fall in love with this place. This is one of the best activities to do in Ladakh.

Where: Chadar

When: In the month of December

Highlight: Frozen river and serene ambiance

Time required:  6-8 hours

Average cost:  Cost of supplies for the trek: INR 1,000

19. Local Food – Grab The Scrumptious Delights

Image Source: Shutterstock

The place is known for offering multi-cuisine food items including Indian, Tibetan, Korean, and Chinese. You must surely try Thukpa, Tsampa, and Skyu here to get the best taste of Tibetan cuisine. Apart from other delightful items to eat you must surely sip Chang, a local alcoholic drink before leaving Ladakh! 

Highlight: Must try Thukpa, Tsampa, Skyu, and Chang

Average cost:  INR 800

Suggested Read: Shopping Destinations In India

20. Nubra Valley – Glance At The Beauty

Another interesting thing to do here is heading to Nubra Valley. Located at a distance of nearly 140 kilometers from Leh, the place is known for its scenic beauty and adventurous expeditions. You will be crossing the thriving Shyok and Nubra rivers to reach the valley which is also home to numerous beautiful monasteries. The area is under military supervision because of its proximity to Siachen Base camp. The place is also known for interesting Bactrian camel rides. 

Where: Nubra Valley

When: Between June to September

Highlight: Scenic beauty, Bactrian camel rides, and treks

21. Donkey Sanctuary – Take A Stroll

Isn’t is surprising to visit Donkey Sanctuary on your vacation? However, it may sound funny, but the place offers numerous interesting reasons for you to explore the place. The sanctuary offers care to the old and sick donkeys of the regions and provides them the geographical conditions required for a healthy living. 

Where: Khakshal Village, Leh Ladakh

When: Between June to October

Highlight: The place gives you a chance to be friendly with animals, who are usually mocked. 

Suggested Read:  New Year In Ladakh

22. Drang Drung Glacier – For Thrill-Seekers

Another awesome thing to do in Ladakh is taking a trek to Drang Drung Glacier located in Suru Valley. The glacier extends from Kargil to Panzella and the region is believed to be the most fertile in the Ladakh region. Don’t forget to visit Panikhar and Parachik on your way to Drang Drung glacier for the best experience. This is one of the most exciting activities to do in Ladakh.

Where: Suru Basin, Leh Ladakh

When: During summers

Highlight: Scenic beauty, adventurous expeditions

23. Chemrey Monastery – Visit The Illuminating Spot

Chemrey Monastery in Ladakh is an impeccable Buddhist monastery that was established nearly 400 years ago. Located at a distance of nearly 40 kilometers from Leh, the prime highlights of this monastery is the enormous statue of Padmasambhava and the ancient scriptures with text embedded in gold and silver letters. It was founded by Lama Tagsand Raschen and is known for its serene ambiance. 

Where: Chemrey

Highlights: Statue of Padmasambhava and ancient scriptures

Suggested Read: 11 Adventure Sports In Ladakh

24. Shanti Stupa – Religious Visit

Shanti Stupa in Leh is amongst the most popular Tibetan structures that is known for its architecture and beauty. Its white-dome structure is truly mesmerizing and the place offers panoramic sights of the surrounding area. The place will surely give you a perfect chance to revive your soul amidst the peaceful ambiance of this stupa. The stupa was established by a popular Japanese Buddhist, Bhikshu Gyomyo Nakamura in the year 1991. 

Where: Shanti Stupa Rd, Leh

Highlights: White-dome structure and serene ambiance

25. Gurudwara Pathhar Sahib – For Some Peace

Gurudwara Pathhar Sahib comes on the way from your travel to Sham Valley from Leh. If you’re in luck and time, you will be able to taste the delicious food from the langar. The place is Devoted to Guru Nanak Dev Ji and is a sacred place built beautifully to commemorate his visit to Ladakh. The place is also flocked by Tibetans as they worship the presiding deity of Guru Gompa Maharaj.

Where: NH 1D, Phey, Jammu and Kashmir 194101

When: May to September (make sure the roads aren’t closed)

Highlight: Sometimes, the Indian army personnel get to serve delicious meals. You’d be lucky if you witness that.

Suggested Read: 10 Homestays In Ladakh

26. Main Bazaar – Shop For Souvenirs

Wondering what to do in Ladakh? Engage in shopping extravaganza at the Main Bazaar, which is a sprawling marketplace in Leh. Get a whole range of affordable items like apparel, accessories, Tibetan jewelry, and more. The locals as well as the tourists visit the markets in abundance. With a multitude of shops, you can expect a whole lot of bargaining. 

Where: Main Bazaar Road, Leh

When: Evening and Night

Highlight: High end items at a pretty moderate budget

27. Pangong Tso – Truly Breathtaking Sunrise

One of the wondrous things to do in Ladakh is observing the sunrise at Pangong Tso or Pangong Lake. It is a supreme spectacle located at an elevation of 14,270 ft. above sea level. With an estimated depth of 300 ft, a major portion of the lake lies in the Tibetan Autonomous Region. A breathtaking sight and true craftsmanship of nature. You will observe an eye-catching blue sky which is tranquil, and cold. This is one of the truly amazing Ladakh lakes that you can find.

Where: Leh-Ladakh

When: Early Morning

Highlight: The turquoise blue waters and sights make it an awe-inspiring spectacle. No particular place to stay here except surrounded by Mother Nature. 

Time required:  4 hours

Suggested Read: Trekking In Ladakh

28. Ladakh Harvest Festival – A Cultural Triumph

This is an annual event that continues for two weeks and usually falls in September. The festival witnesses a vibrant procession that starts from Leh and continues to move till Polo ground. It is an immense celebration full of ceremonial costumes, music, and cultural performances. What’s even better to watch are the lamas of the sacred monasteries performing masked dances. Explore a multitude of contests including wedding celebrations, archery, and polo contests.  Celebrating here can be considered as one of the top things to do in Ladakh.

When: September

Highlight : Catch the color of Asian, Tibetan and North Indian traditions that capture its customs through theater shows, folk dances, and music.

29. Matho Nagrang Festival – Witness Buddhist Celebrations

Another famous festival in Ladakh is the Matho Nagrang Festival where you get to capture the true essence of Buddhism. Also, called the festival of the oracles, it is celebrated on the 15th day of the 1st month of the Tibetan calendar. The monks perform masked dances with colorful silk robes depicting various Gods. The oracles predict the future, of the locals as well as the tourists. Witnessing the festival is one of the top things to do in Ladakh.

When : February

Where : Matho Monastery

Highlights : Two oracles, who after a full month of meditation and isolation make an appearance in the main courtyard with masked dancers.

Suggested Read: Delhi To Jammu Trains

30. Stok Palace Museum – For Culture Lovers

Image Credit: Susheel Verma for Wikipedia Commons

Get to understand the history and culture of the valley in this museum. Located within the residential compound of the royal family, this huge museum has only a tiny portion available for tourists. One can find precious artifacts and relics which are heaven if you are a history lover. Other displays include royal seals, jewelry, photographs, and costumes. The war memorials are exhibited in a separate area which includes bows, swords, shields, and arrows. This is one of the top things to do in Ladakh. In fact, the museum is awfully close to one of the most famous treks called Stok Kangri Trek .

When : Throughout the year

Where : Stok, Jammu and Kashmir 194101

Highlights : An intriguing collection of the region’s history built in a huge palace

31. Hall Of Fame – Pay Tribute For A Soldier’s Sacrifice

Visiting this majestic region, although, at the center of Indo-Pak conflicts and not getting into a war museum is an activity you should try and add to your list. The Hall of Fame museum has been constructed by the Indian Army to remember the martyrs of several Indo-Pak wars over the years.  The museum is divided into 2 regions, one where the arms, ammunition, and weapons are displayed while the other region has the apparel and amenities used by the army during the wars.

Where : Leh, Jammu and Kashmir 194101

Highlights: The displays give you chills and make you realize the sacrifices of the soldiers for the country.

Time required: 1 Hour

Suggested Read: 9 Best Places To Visit Near Humayun Tomb

32. Zorawar Fort

Image Credit: Deeptrivia for Wikimedia Commons

If you are visiting Leh, a visit to Zorawar Fort would give you access to a majestic view of the entire city. It was built in the 1830s when the Dogras and Sikhs took control of the valley. Under the recent renovation process, there has been an addition of a museum to explore. This fort stands as a pride for the entire region and is made up of local clay, sun-dried bricks, stones, and wooden frames.

Where : Skara Rd, Leh, 194101

Highlights: Witness the struggles that the fort went through during its conflicts with the Chinese  

33. River Rafting – Satiate The Inner Thrill-Seeker

Image Source: babasteve for Wikipedia Commons

Get ready to channelize your inner adventure junkie by indulging in one of the best things to do in Ladakh. River rafting is a popular activity that all thrill-seekers find quite enticing and to satiate your souls, Ladakh has trails like Phey to Nimmo that will surely blow your mind away. Witness the beauty of this region while you cross quaint villages and stunning monasteries for which Ladakh is famous all around the world. Follow all the instructions given by your guide and try and keep safe on the boat!

When: June and August

Where: Phey to Nimmo

Highlights: The monasteries and villages that you will cross are the highlights of your journey.

Suggested Read: River Rafting In Ladakh

34. Leh Palace – Witness The Royal Life

Constructed by Sengge Namgyal, the king of Ladakh in the 17th century, Leh Palace is one of the most visited tourist attractions in India. If you want to experience the way Royals lived, then Leh Palace should be on your list This palace has nine stories and the uppermost story accommodated the royal family and the other stories were used as storage and as stable. The museum inside the palace has a collection of royal ornaments, jewelry, and ceremonial dresses.

When: 7 AM – 4 PM

Where: Namgyal Hill, Leh, Jammu and Kashmir

Highlights: The museum inside the palace that has all the royal jewelry and dresses.

35. Camping – A Stay Under The Starry Sky

Image Credit: McKay Savage for Wikimedia Commons

Travelers prefer staying in camps rather than hotels and if you are one of them then one of the best things to do in Ladakh is to stay in a camp. There are a plethora of camp setups in Ladakh and all you need to do is to choose the perfect location and book your stay. Pangong Retreat Camp is one of the most famous camps as it offers all travelers a view of the serene Pangong Lake. Other camps that you can stay at are Double Humped Camp Hunder, 100 Sky Camp, and Nomadic Life Camp. If you are seeking  offbeat things to do in Ladakh, go camping at hidden gems.

When: May to October

Where: There are different locations like Pangong Lake and other lakes.

Highlights: The fun activities arranged by the camp owners and the sky full of stars.

Time required:  Overnight

Average cost:  INR 1500 – 3000

Suggested Read: 9 Places To Visit In Nubra Valley

36. Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary – Travel In A Jeep

Image Source: Vinay Goyal, Ludhiana for Wikipedia Commons

Situated in Ladakhi Changthang plateau, Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its rich flora and fauna. While you are planning to visit this sanctuary try doing it in a jeep and make your journey full of thrill and amazing view. You can spot a lot of animals like snow leopard, wild yak, Tibetan wolf, and brown bear. This wildlife sanctuary is spread across an area of 1,600sq.km and is home to 200 species of wild plants that you must have a look at. Travel in style and hire a jeep to reach this monastery! Hence, exploring Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary is among the best things to do in Ladakh in May.

When: May and December

Where: Ladakh, Jammu, and Kashmir

Highlights: Snow Leopard

37. Lehchen – A Peek Into The Nightlife

Ladakh doesn’t have a lot of bars and clubs where you can dance and party. This region has a lounge and bar setup called Lehchen and you can grab a refreshing cocktail or two at this place. Order tandoori momos and the cocktail that suits your taste and enjoy the mesmerizing view this place has to offer. Hangout with the locals and start a conversation to know more about their culture and traditions. Experiencing the nightlife is one of the top things to do in Leh. Do try the Lamb strips and yak cheese served at this terrific lounge and restaurant! 

When: 8 am – 10:30 pm

Where: Zangsti Rd, Leh, Jammu, and Kashmir

Highlights: Cocktails and Tandoori Momos

Average cost:  INR 1000

Suggested Read: Ladakh In May

38. Destination Wedding – Get Hitched

Image Source: Damionmower for Wikimedia Commons

The best among the things to do in Ladakh is yet to come and it is undoubtedly planning a destination wedding in this beautiful region. Plan your escape with your friends and family and get hitched in Ladakh to make your wedding day memorable and unforgettable. Become the trendsetter in your family and either do a pre-wedding shoot or just get married in the valleys of Ladakh. You may not do it in the traditional way but the whole experience will be fantastic. There are luxurious hotels in Ladakh where you can stay and do make your booking at least 6 months before.

When: September – October

Average cost:  Variable

39. Landscape Photography: For Your Instagram

Image Credit: Harvinder Chandigarh for Wikimedia Commons

When you are in a destination like Ladakh, disconnecting from the virtual world seems appropriate but there is no harm in taking your camera/mobile phone once in a while to shoot some of the thrilling landscapes that you will come across very often. Ladakh is a paradise for photographers and even if you are just a hobbyist, there is the chance to get some amazing shots for sharing with your loved ones. 

When: 24 hours

Where: Everywhere in Ladakh

Highlights: Instagrammable travel photography

Suggested Read: 7 Valleys In Ladakh

40. Cycling: For The Thrillseekers

Besides being one of the most popular ways of exploring Ladakh, it is also a popular choice among thrill-seekers who are willing to ditch the comfort of being driven to their location. If you want to enjoy a more grounded view of this place can either rent a bike from a local vendor or bring your own to ride on the main roads or motorable trails. It also gives you a chance to stop and explore many offbeat places on your way.

When: All year round

Highlights:  The chance to explore on the go

Average cost:  INR 1,000 (If renting the bike)

Further Read: 16 Most Beautiful Villages In India That You Must Visit

So, hurry up, it’s Ladakh calling! If you can’t keep your adrenaline rush at bay and want to experience the best sightseeing around this pristine land, then make sure to indulge in these things to do in Ladakh. The most pristine highlands with vibrant cultural aesthetic awaits. So, plan your trip to Ladakh today.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Things To Do In Ladakh

What are the top attractions to visit in Leh?

Some must-visit attractions of Leh include: 1. Thiksey Monastery 2. Pangong Tso Lake 3. Khardung-la Pass 4. Markha Valley 5. Nubra Valley 6. Tso Moriri lake 7. Hemis National Park 8. Diskit Monastery

What are the most popular things to do in Ladakh with children?

Activities that you can enjoy with children in Ladakh include: 1. Visit Hemis National Park 2. Explore all the monasteries 3. Witness the culture at Stok Palace Museum 4. Enjoy camping 5. Witness the confluence of the Indus and Zanskar Rivers

What should I shop for in Ladakh?

There are numerous things to shop in Ladakh. Some must-buys include Tibetan handicrafts and wares, silver and stone jewellery, pashmina shawls, other woollen items, and Kashmiri carpets.

What is famous in Ladakh?

Ladakh is famous for its scenic beauty, Buddhist monasteries, unique culture and exciting adventure spots. It is also known for its amazing trekking routes. Leh, Ladakh’s administrative capital, is also popular among tourists because of its beautiful surroundings and monasteries.

Which is the best time to visit Ladakh?

April marks the start of the tourist season in Ladakh and it is the best time to visit Leh Ladakh. However, June is also considered one of the best times of the year to visit Leh by bike. Visiting Leh Ladakh is still a cherished trip for many. If you wish to see the snowy roads and mountains this is the best time to go for a holiday. By mid-June, the snow begins to melt and therefore some of the most beautiful lakes in Ladakh are a treat to the eyes.

What attracts tourists to Ladakh?

The several places to visit in Leh Ladakh is surely an experience of a lifetime. The beautiful landscape, and the monasteries, Buddhist culture attracts tourists from all across the globe. Adventure activities like skiing, trekking and more also attract travellers from far off.

What food is famous in Ladakh?

Thukpa, Chutagi, and Tapu are some of the famous food in Ladakh. These are the signature dishes of Ladakh which are worth drooling over.

What are the main activities in the Ladakh region?

Ladakh is famous for its adventure activities. It offers an incredible opportunity for white water river rafting, camping, trekking, and exciting motorbiking experiences. The Buddhist monasteries reflect the rich art and culture of the region and are one of the must-visit in Ladakh.

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Places to Visit in Ladakh

Placed at the base of the mighty Himalayas and the Karakoram mountain ranges, Ladakh boasts of owning a varied yet picture-perfect landscape. Famed as a Buddhist ex-kingdom, there are several tourist attractions in Ladakh. Out of them, Gompas or monasteries are the most popular of all. Also referred to as the 'Land of High Passes,' Ladakh has been bestowed with abundant natural beauty, attracting many tourists worldwide. These Ladakh famous places are ideal for honeymooners, family vacationers, and adventure enthusiasts. You can enjoy the pure lakes, rivers, snowy peaks, wildlife, adventure sports, ancient monasteries, wooden handicrafts, food, interact with warm locals, handwoven woolens, and much more.

Ladakh's unique experiences make it a dream destination for all types of travelers. From the high desert of Nubra Valley to the serene banks of the Indus River, there are plenty of famous places to visit in Ladakh. Whether you are a romantic couple seeking tranquility, a solo traveler searching for adventure, or a family vacationer looking for a spiritual retreat; Ladakh has something special for each of you. The Ladakh tourist spots are enriched with beauty, tranquility, spirituality, adventure, and everything a traveler likes to enjoy. While the high mountain passes Khar Dung La throws a challenge to conquer its glamor, the stunning Pangong Lake invites you to enjoy the sheer bliss of nature. In the same way, the famous Hemis or Diskit monastery offers a spiritual treat, all being the best Ladakh tourist places. By booking a customized Ladakh tour package from Leh Ladakh India, you can enjoy all these best places to visit in Ladakh hassle-free.

Nubra Valley

Stok kangri, suru valley, shyok valley.

Leh, the capital of Ladakh, is a strategic junction on the ancient Silk Route. Covering an area of 45,110 sq km, it is the second-largest district in the country. The Leh altitude is 11,562 ft, with picturesque landscapes and a profound cultural heritage. Dominated by the majestic ruins of the Leh Palace, this scenic destination offers a glimpse into the royal heritage of Ladakh, with its architecture inspired by the Potala Palace in Tibet. It boasts of being home to several known ancient Buddhist monasteries, each with its unique history and cultural significance. Leh is one of the most visited destinations in Ladakh, and there are several things to do in Leh, including historical and artistic exploration.

Nestled in the Kargil district in the state of Jammu and Kashmir, 60 kilometers to the west, Drass sector is often dubbed as 'The Gateway to Ladakh'. The region first shot to prominence during the Kargil war, when there was an armed conflict between Indian and Pakistani troops. It is situated at an elevation of 10,990 feet and spans across a range from 16000 feet to 21000 feet. It is a starting point for a three day trek to the Suru Valley. The trek passes through some breathtaking highland villages and flower-filled meadows on both sides.

Kargil, situated at an altitude of 8,780 feet above sea level, is Ladakh's second-largest town after Leh. The Kargil City, nestled on the banks of Indus (Suru) river, is home to a population of around 10, most of whom are of Dard and Tibetan descent. Despite its small size, this town has a rich cultural heritage, with a significant chunk of the population being followers of Buddhism. It is a transit hub with roads leading to Leh, Padum (Zanskar) and Srinagar. The town also bears the scars of the Kargil war, a testament to the resilience of its people. The Kargil Valley houses several monasteries here that even host several annual festivals, showcasing the vibrant spirit of its inhabitants.

Hailed as the high altitude desert of India, Nubra Valley, is nestled towards the northeast of Ladakh at 150 Km from Leh. The tri-armed valley is perched 3048 meters above the sea level and is termed as heaven on earth. Nubra valley is popular for its scenic natural beauty of white sand dunes surrounded by snow-capped Himalayan peaks. It is necessary for a tourist to acquire an Inner line permit for entering the valley.

Located in the western region of Ladakh, amidst mountain backed badlands, is one of the most popular villages and an ideal stopover between the Kargil-Leh route. It is situated around 127 kilometers from the town of Leh. Tourists who visit Ladakh halts in Lamayuru as a rule to visit Lamayuru monastery in this region. Dating back to the 11th century, Lamayuru monastery was founded by Mahasiddhacharya Naropa and belongs to Red-Hat sect of Buddhism.

Stok Kangri is the highest mountain in the entire Ladakh Region situated in the Zanskar valley. From the summit of this mountain, one can view the entire valley and surroundings. Also known as trekkers’ hotspot, Stok Kangri is an active trekking place for not just adventure junkies but families as well. It offers medium to challenging trekking trails for people to enjoy while staying in the valley. For those who wish to know what “Stok Kangri Trek” is; it is a complete package of obstacle crossing, climbing up the steep slopes, and enjoying the way up to 20,127 ft. This is a complete Stok Kangri travel & tourism guide that has all the important elements covered to help tourists in achieving what they desire.

One of the most awe-inspiring destinations in the Ladakh, the Suru Valley forms the foundation of Kargil district. It is nestled in the northeastern foothills of the Great Himalayas, at a height of 3000 meters above sea level. Tourists in large number throng the place to spend their vacation amidst tranquil and picturesque natural beauty.

A trip to Shyok Valley is equally memorable and highly enjoyable. People usually stop by at this place while heading towards Pangong Lake from Nubra Valley. Shyok might be a smaller valley but has a great gift of huge mountains and beautiful vistas around it. The valley receives water from the Shyok river that flows through Nubra Valley. Here is a complete guide of Shyok Valley including how to travel, where to visit, and more.

Sarchu is an overnight stopover with tented accommodation on the Manali-Leh highway, on the border of Ladakh and Himachal Pradesh in India. It is nestled between the Baralacha La pass to the south and Lachulung La to the north, at a height of 4,290 meters.

While it's true that Lahaul and Spiti are distinct regions, it's equally true that Keylong, Himachal Pradesh, is far more than just a pitstop on the way to Ladakh. With its unparalleled beauty, various adventurous activities, and unique cultural experiences, Keylong is a destination that will leave you spellbound. Here is a complete Keylong Travel Guide that will assist you in planning your trip to the "Land of Monasteries" effectively, covering all the essential points to make your journey memorable.

Nestled in the enchanting Ladakh region, the Zanskar range rises majestically to an altitude of 19,700 feet. This awe-inspiring mountain range, a significant part of the Tethys Himalaya, is a natural divide between Kinnaur district and Spiti in Himachal Pradesh. Renowned for its remote and rugged beauty, Zanskar Valley remains one of the most isolated regions in Ladakh. It is accessible only by a challenging week-long trek and a grueling 14-hour drive along the uneven paths of the Suru River. This range is a biodiversity sanctuary, boasting a rich variety of flora and fauna that thrive in its pristine environment. However, a new road connecting Padum to Nimmu along the Zanskar River provides a strategic and shorter pathway than existing routes. This enhances the connectivity and economic development in the region.

Padum, named after Padmasambhava (known as the second Buddha) is the only town in Zanskar and one of the two main capitals of the erstwhile Zanskar Kingdom. Although there is not much of greenery or vegetation around the place but there is an abundance of wildlife here.

Phugtal is also known as Phuktal and is a key attraction of Ladakh. It is located on the South-East side of the union territory. The monastery of Phugtal is constructed on the mouth of a cave on a cliff and is considered to be one of the most isolated regions of the union territory. The monastery is believed to be more than 2500 years old.

Jispa is located in the Lahaul and Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh, at an elevation of almost 10,500ft. It lies at a distance of about 20km from Keylong along the Manali-Leh highway. The village of Jispa, which is located along the River Bhaga, is dotted with several Buddhist stupas which is quite a common sight in the villages of this region.

Also referred to as 'the desert in the Sky' the mesmerizing village of Hunder is perched as an oasis surrounded by cold desert and stark Himalayas in Nubra Valley in Ladakh. The village shot to fame after some of the scenes of a song sequence of super hit Bollywood movie of Maniratnam's Dil Se featuring Manisha Koirala and Shahrukh Khan was shot here.

Nestled at an altitude of 14,846 ft above sea level, Changthang is a high altitude plateau in the North western Tibet, extending from eastern Ladakh into Tibet. The main attraction of this place is Changpa nomads. It has been listed as one of India’s five ‘bio-diverse regions’.

Diskit is a wonderful attraction in the Nubra Valley known for the spectacular Diskit Gompa. The beautiful hamlet is located in the middle of the Nubra Valley, offering matchless experiences to visitors. With just the sound of the gushing Shyok River breaking the silence prevailing in the area, visitors find the desired respite away from the chaotic city life. Decked with historic monasteries, pristine valleys, lovely grasslands, and much more, the place is truly a paradise.

Panamik is a beautiful and scenic village in the Nubra valley. This village is popular for its breathtaking view and the hot springs too. Panamik is considered to be the last destination where tourists can visit in this direction because after this village its the Indo-Tibetan border. Panamik is approximately 150 km from Leh and just about 55 km from Diskit- which is the first village at the beginning of Nubra Valley.

Turtuk is a treasure of beauty situated in the northernmost part of India. It is located in the Nubra Valley of Ladakh region and is a well-known village parted by the Shyok River. This village is perched at 205 km from Leh and snuggled on the bank of Shyok River.

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Things to do in Ladakh

Ladakh neighbors Tibet in the east.

Ladakh is one that inspiresawe!

If not for its cold desert-like climate

Ladakh is highly rich in organic flavors.

A popular theme for cultural tours in Ladakh

Ladakh is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts

Jeep Safari in Ladakh is a taste of adventure

Ladakh is adventure incarnate!

River rafting in Ladakh evokes thrill like no other.

Lined up in the row is Mountain Biking in Ladakh.

It is really impossible to come empty hand from ladakh

Its lakes, mountains, valleys, passes, monasteries.

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25 Best Places to Visit in Ladakh

What is the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Ladakh ?

Rocky terrain, crystal lakes, high altitude passes, momos, bikers at every other corner and lots of winding roads. But that doesn't even cover half of it. Ladakh has great history attributed to its name, it has finger licking Ladakhi food, uncountable stupas which give us its immensely rich culture, it has fresh orchard fruits if you know where to find them, and it has scenery which will make every single one of you out there, turn into bloggers overnight.

Let's take a virtual trip through my most loved spots in Ladakh, and look out for some insider secrets which I suddenly discovered, and which made it all the more memorable.

1) Alchi Monastery

Alchi monastery - choskhor.

Alchi is a one hour drive from the main city of Leh, and this drive is absolutely worth it. Alchi Monastery has a great significance to the history and cultural heritage of Ladakh, and very rightly so, it's one of the most visited Monasteries. Here, you can buy traditional Buddhist meditational bowls and can induge in traditional food at Alchi's Kitchen ( One of the lesser known places, but serves authentic Ladakhi food).

Check out Kanika's experience at Alchi Monastery.

2) Lamayuru Monastery

The lamayuru monastery.

Just 30 minutes from Alchi, we reach Lamayuru. Lamayuru Monastery is again one of the very well know monasteries in Ladakh, and it's accessible from Srinagar as well as the city of Leh. You can spend an hour being awe struck at the rocky terrain on which this monastery is standing today, marvel at the simple yet intricate architecture of the monastery.

Well, I got something for you here too, On the road from Alchi to Lamayuru, you'll find a lot of fruit vendors selling mini apples fresh from the orchards especially in the months of August- September.

Check out Arunabha's experience in Lamayuru.

3) Gurudwara Pathar Sahab

Gurudwara pathar sahib.

This place holds immense cultural importance, in the land of Buddhist monasteries we have a Gurudwara dedicated to Guru Nanak Dev. This experience was extremely dear to my heart. Before we entered, we get the Khada prasad and as soon as we enter the Gurudwara, there is warm water kept to wash your feet.

There is a very interesting tale behind the legacy of this Gurudwara, and I'll let you all find that out when you go to Gurudwara Pathar Sahib.

4) Shanti Stupa

Shanti stupa.

The Shanti Stupa is a unique symbol of culture and long lasting ties between Japan and the people of India. It's a white marble color monument located 5 kms away from Leh, but you can see it clearly from the main city.

This towering monument is a symbol of peace and inner consciousness, and it offer a panoramic view of Leh.

It's best to go this monument on your first day in Leh, as you won't be able to travel too much due to the sudden air pressure difference.

5) Sangam Point

Indus & zanskar river sangam.

The Sangam point quite literally means 'merging' , here it refers to the confluence of the two mighty rivers of India, The Indus and the Zanskar.

It is truly an extraordinary sight to behold, I personally could see the different colored waters of the two river mix to form an entire new color.

You can get a hot cup of tea, and sit and look at the waters for as long as it takes for you to soak it all in.

6) Hemis Monastery

Hemis monastery museum.

Hemis is one of the main monasteries of Ladakh, all the other monasteries are registered here and it holds the record for one of the worlds highest settlements, and the best part?

It's located inside the Hemis National Park. Here, you can see Buddhist monks chanting, but ask ahead, as there are only certain time slots, usually very early in the morning or very late in the evenings.

7) Thiksey Monastery

Thiksey monastery.

This imposing structure of architectural magnificence, is one of Ladakh's most prized travelers spot. It is a 12 story high construction, with several prayer rooms, residences, stupas and small shrines.

The first look you get of this significant structure, is the best place to get photos with it. Enjoy and feast your eyes at something you'll only find in Ladakh.

You can read about Riyanka's experience of finding a hidden gem, here!

8) Shey Palace

Shey palace.

The Shey Palace was used by the Maharaj of Ladakh during the summer times and has been constructed in the traditional Ladakhi style, made mostly of wood with lots of windows giving ventilation.

The Shey Palace is a marvel of architecture, and gives the visitors a good exercise of climbing up flights of rocky stairs.

It also has great spots for photography, and prayer rooms which you can visit and witness grand statues of Buddha.

9) Hall Of Fame

Hall of fame.

Hall of fame is an experience dedicated to the Indian army. It has various equipment displayed, which have been used by the Indian army or captured by them.

To experience this more than just visualize it, attending the night show is an absolute must. it will end your night with goosebumps and make it a night you'll never forget.

10) Khardung La Pass

Khardungla pass.

Khardung la pass has become an increasing famous point for every traveler when they visit Leh, Ladakh. It is one of the highest motorable passes, but definitely not the highest which few people claim it to be. While travelling from Leh city to Nubra valley, we have to go through the Khardung La.

It's one of the most picturesque passes, but due to the high altitude, it's advisable not to stop here for more than 15 mins.

11) Nubra Valley

Nubra valley.

Nubra Valley is a must visit destination with lots of hidden activities apart from the camel and ATV bike rides. The stay options at Nubra Valley are pretty good as it's a well connected place.

There is a cultural dance show in the sand dunes of Nubra Valley, it's best to ask the locals about the timings and the place. Near the dance tents, you also can indulge in some pahadi maggi and chai.

12) Panamik Hot Water Springs

Panamik hot spring.

One of the best places to go especially in the cold months. Panamik Hot Springs is located 30 mins from the main area of Nubra Valley and is easily accessible. It dervies it's name from the natural hot springs located in the Panamik region.

Hre you can chill in hot tubs marked separately for men and women, you can rent towels here, but I'd suggest carrying your own. You can also take a short hike to see the origin of the spring.

13) Turtuk Village

Turtuk is one of the last villages before the LOC, and if you ask right you can see tents of the two armies pitched high on the mountains. Here, you get to know of a new language called 'Bali', which is a mix of Persian and Turkish.

In Turtuk, there's an age old dynasty of kings, and if your are lucky, you can meet the old monarch who walks with an eagle hilted cane and pluck apricots from his orchard.

14) Chang La Pass

Chang la pass.

Chang La is one of the highest passes in the world, and you cross it when heading from Pangong Tso to Leh. This pass is higher than the mighty Khardung La, and hence, be well prepared to brave the cold winds. It's best to now wait for more than 10 mins, as the huge difference in altitude can affect many people.

So cozy up and enjoy the chilly weather.

15) Pangong Tso

Pangong tso.

This is the last place that needs any description to all the readers. There's a high possibility that most of you are heading to Leh, to visit the world famous Pangong Tso Lake. The road to Pangong is one of the most scenic routes you can ever choose to take, with sprawling grasslands, grazing yaks and sheeps, and the ever intimidating rocky terrain.

Due to the high altitude that this lake claims, it gets very cold during the night, hence, it's best to get a cottage instead of tents. And do not forget to get up at 3 am and watch the milky way playing with colors in the sky.

PRO TIP: Stay as warm as you can and do not litter the area around the lake.

16) Tso Moriri

Tso Moriri is so well known as it's the highest altitude lake in India that is entirely in Indian territory, apart from this, its a pristine, calm emerald lake, that attracts many travelers because of it's sheer natural beauty and untouched landscape.

The wetlands surrounding this lake is also the breeding grounds for many species of birds and animals.

So, take a trip to this immensely beautiful high altitude lake when visiting Ladakh.

17) Hemis National Park

Hemis national park.

Hemis National Park, is a world famous destination for all wildlife lovers, especially the thrill seekers on a quest to find the ever elusive snow leopard. It's one of the few parks situated at such a high altitude. It got it's name from the well known Hemis Gompa.

Keep ticking off the animals you never even heard of: Blue sheep, Argali, Ladakhi urial, Asiatic Ibex, Tibetan wolf,

So, get out your lenses and head to the Hemis National Park.

18) Chadar Trek

Chadar trek - trekking in ladakh - frozen river trekking in ladakh.

This is one of the most sought after treks in India, Pumped up for the adventure seekers and adrenaline junkies, this trek takes you through the frozen waterfalls and the frozen path of the Zanska river, gaze at the majestic mountain summits and you go through innumerous gorges.

So bundle up and grab your gang to accompany you for this trek that'll leave you breathless.

19) Gata Loops

Gata Loops is a series of 21 hairpin bends, and ends near one of the highest passes in Ladakh. The hairpin bends will leave you winded, but it's definitely worth the experience, espeically when you get to descending the curves.

There is a local legend that talks about a mysterious ghost that resides in these hairpins, and people end up paying tribute the ghost by giving mineral water and cigarettes.

Yes, you heard right, the mysterious ghost likes smoking.

20) Atal Tunnel

Atal tunnel.

Atal Tunnel reduces the time of travel from Manali to Leh, and is an experience in itself. It's one of the world's longest tunnels situated on such a high altitude.

The Atal tunnel is one of the most well maintained tunnel passes of India, having being inaugurated by the Prime Minister himself.

21) Apricot Blossom Festival

Leh ladakh - लेह लदाख.

Apricot Blossom festival in held in Ladakh from the 13th of April till the 22nd of April, Ever year the host districts shuffle, so in different years you can enjoy the apricot blossom in different parts of Ladakh. During this time, travelers can view the mesmerizing blossom of apricot trees and buy from a variety of freshly blossomed apricots kept on display.

This year Kargil, Sanjak and Karkichu hosted this festival.

Stok Palace

Stok is a picturesque village located in the Leh district of Ladakh. This place holds immense significance as the current royal family of Ladakh resides at the 19th century palace located in Stok.

It also appeals to the cultural and historical background of Ladakh, as it hosts the 14th century Stok Monastery which has a 22m statue of a seated Gautam Buddha.

While in Ladakh, this place construes an impossible to resist atmosphere and offer peace to all the travelers.

23) Kargil War Memorial

Kargil war memorial.

A huge dedication to the utter grit and perseverance of our Indian army is the Kargil War Memorial. It has engraved the names of all the brave warriors who were martyred during the 1999 Kargil War between India and Pakistan.

From this memorial, you can see the point of conflict, where most of the fighting took place, namely, Tololing, Tiger Hill, and Point 4875.

When in Ladakh, the rocky terrain that seems intimidating to us, is where our soldiers climbed and fought, visit this memorial to pay homage and tribute to our soldiers.

Find the best budget hotels in Ladakh, here.

24) Mulbek Chamba

Mulbekh chamba statue མུལ་བེཁ ཅམ་བ །.

Mulbek Chamba is a complete off beat place in Ladakh, and it is well known for not being very well known, ironical isn't it?

Mulbek Chamba is a rock cut statue of Maitreya Buddha. The immense architectural precision is commendable. Maitreya Buddha is the future Buddha or the Buddha to come, hence, while constructing the statue, the sculptors left several holes, so that the future sculptors could sculpt the precise beautiful face of Lord Buddha on the statue.

25) Suru Valley

Suru valley.

Suru Valley is known for being the greenest valley in the Greater Himalayas, but also hosts towering red mountain peaks, making it a paradise for trekkers and seasoned Mountain climbers. The best time for visiting Suru Valley is between April and September, the winter months are unimaginably harsh, hence should be avoided.

Suru valley looks like a farmland with immense greenery and a charm of mountains, and gives all travelers sunrises and sunsets they'd never forget.

Ladakh is one of the gems that India can host with pride. We have maintained the monuments, the culture, the history and the raw scenic beauty as best as we could.

A small plea to all those keen to rev their bike engines on rocky terrains: keep the pristine beauty as it has always been. One of the main charms of Ladakh is how beautiful everything is, and I'd urge all travelers to keep it that way.

Ready to travel for free? Earn credits and redeem them on Tripoto’s weekend getaways, hotel stays and vacation packages.

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20 Places To Visit in Ladakh

Visiting Ladakh is an adventure of a lifetime. This destination is the dream destination of every traveler. After all, it’s a land of high passes. When people visit this place, they often miss out on the best places to visit in Ladakh . There’s a lot to explore at this breathtaking destination. 

Ladakh in itself is a very big union territory. Every place you visit at this destination will leave you spellbound. Here, we’ll tell you about 20 such places in this rugged terrain that you must explore.

20 Must Visit Places In Ladakh

Most travelers get to travel to Ladakh only once in a lifetime. Let’s admit it! It’s a far-away destination and you need to make a lot of preparations to reach Ladakh. 

For example, you’ll need to pack a lot of warm clothes and jackets, make yourself comfortable with the low oxygen levels, and much more! Let’s not forget about the challenging terrains you have to navigate to witness some of the most beautiful landscapes. 

But where’s the fun if you don’t know what’s the best time to visit Leh Ladakh and spend most of your time traveling and exploring different terrains to reach Ladakh? That’s what makes traveling adventurous, isn’t it?

Well, since you might get only one chance to explore this place, make sure you cover every attraction. Here’s a list of the 20 best places to visit in Ladakh. 

1. Nubra Valley

Dubai isn’t the only place where you can witness the best sand dunes. If you don’t believe us, just visit the amazing Nubra Valley. This valley has stunning sand dunes that make a perfect backdrop for pictures. 

You’ll also find the beautiful and clear Shyok River in Nubra Valley . Let’s not forget to mention the Bactrian camels that you can ride here. 

2. Diskit Monastery

When you’re in Nubra Valley, you can also visit Diskit Monastery . This monastery is one of the best places to visit in Ladakh because of its historical significance. Diskit Monastery is one of the oldest monasteries here. 

This place is worth visiting because of the meditative atmosphere it offers to the visitors. You’ll experience peace and serenity when you visit this place. 

It wouldn’t come as a surprise to know that you’ve never heard about these places. Well, it’s not your fault since Panamik and Turtuk are the two hidden gems in Nubra Valley.

These destinations are a paradise for trekkers. So, if you are in for some trekking adventure, you can definitely add Panamik and Turtuk to your to-do things in Ladakh!

Leh is going to be the starting point of your vacation. When you reach Leh, spend some time acclimating yourself to the atmosphere. 

Your vacation’s starting point will offer you a lot of adventure activities. For example, you can enjoy river water rafting, mountain biking, etc., in Leh. 

5. Pangong Lake

Pangong Lake has gained a lot of popularity and you’ll also find this lake featured in many movies. Believe us: This lake deserves the hype! The crystal-clear water at this lake will leave you mesmerized. 

It’s one of the best places to visit in Ladakh for birdwatchers. You can also set up your camp near the lake and sleep under the stars.

6. Tso Moriri

We bet that you’ve heard about only one beautiful lake in Ladakh – The Pangong Lake . But there’s one more lake that you should explore. Tso Moriri is a clean and beautiful lake located at a high altitude in Ladakh. 

The snow-capped peaks that surround this lake make it look even more breathtaking. If you are a wildlife lover, visiting this lake is even more fun since you might get to spot some rare Himalayan species. 

7. Magnetic Hill

Everyone has heard of Magnetic Hill in Ladakh. When you visit this hill, you’ll notice something unusual. Your car would move uphill without power. Magnetic Hill defies the law of gravity and creates illusions for the people. 

8. Gurudwara Pathar Sahib 

Here’s another place that you can add to your places to visit in Ladakh list. Gurudwara Pathar Sahib was constructed in the memory of Guru Nanak Singh when he visited Leh. 

You can visit this Gurudwara when you explore Magnetic Hill. The distance between the two destinations is not much. 

9. Khardung La

If you skip visiting Khardung La , we’d say that you wasted your trip to Ladakh . Traversing Khardung La in Ladakh is the dream of every biker or person who loves off-roading. You’ll realize what we mean when you witness the natural beauty that awaits you here. 

Khardung La is the highest motorable road in the world and the views that you’ll see here are unparalleled. 

10. Hemis Monastery

Hemis Monastery is an architectural beauty in Ladakh. Also, it’s known to be one of the wealthiest monasteries here. On visiting this monastery, you can learn about its historical significance. 

If you’re lucky, you might get to witness Hemis festival where Ladakhis perform masked dances, plays, etc. This monastery is one of the best places to visit in Ladakh if you love to meditate or introspect.

11. Zanskar Valley

Zanskar Valley is an isolated area but it’s literally a paradise that you must explore. The crazy thing about this place is that as soon as it snows heavily, it gets cut off from the rest of the region. 

There are many high-altitude treks in Zanskar Valley. So, make sure when you visit Ladakh, you enjoy your piece of adventure in this valley. 

12. Chadar Trek

If you’re brave enough to survive almost inhospitable conditions for 6-7 days, try Chadar Trek in Ladakh ! As you trek through the frozen Zanskar River, you’ll see a lot of natural wonders. But let’s warn you! Don’t begin this trek if you are faint-hearted. 

Chadar Trek is the best for experienced trekkers. The temperature at this place can drop as low as -10 degrees Celsius. If you go on this trek, it’s going to be one of the best experiences of your life. 

13. Shey Palace

Shey Palace is the summer capital of Ladakh and one of the top places to visit in Ladakh.

Shey Palace has a stunning architectural beauty. You’ll love its beautifully carved interiors, murals, Buddha statues, and whatnot! Another thing you’ll like about visiting this palace is the panoramic views you’ll witness. This palace provides you with some of the most beautiful picture-perfect spots. 

14. Alchi Monastery

There’s no shortage of monasteries in Ladakh. All of the monasteries here are remarkably beautiful. One such monastery is the Alchi Monastery . It’s famous for its unique Kashmiri-style art and sculptures. 

As you explore this monastery, you’ll discover Thangka paintings. The paintings and murals at this monastery will allow you to delve deep into Buddhist mythology.

15. Spituk Monastery

If you want to revive your soul, we recommend you attend a prayer session at the Spituk Monastery . Spituk Monastery is a religious institution and one of the best places to visit in Ladakh. 

You can also attend the Spituk Gustor Festival here if it coincides with your visit. You’ll definitely love the Ladakhi culture and their way of celebrating important festivals. 

16. Shanti Stupa

The Shanti Stupa in Ladakh is the symbol of peace. It’s also a spot where you can meditate and enjoy a peaceful environment. 

We recommend you visit Shanti Stupa at the time of sunset or sunrise. This place offers some of the most stunning views during these times. 

17. Chang La

Khardung La isn’t the only mountain pass that’s worth visiting. You can also add Chang La to your list of places to visit in Ladakh. This pass is at an elevation of 5,360 meters. 

As you reach the top, you’ll see two of the most beautiful lakes – Tso Moriri and Tso Kar. Don’t forget to stop for a cup of tea at any small tea stall at Chang La. 

18. Hall Of Fame

Hall Of Fame is a museum that pays tribute to the Indian Armed Forces. You’ll learn about some of the most heroic deeds of the armed forces as you visit this museum. ‘

The Hall Of Fame is well-known to pay Homage to the heroes who protect the nation. 

If you’re traveling to Ladakh via Srinagar, you can also explore Kargil en route. This destination is often overlooked but it’s just as beautiful as Leh. 

In ancient times, Kargil was a part of the Silk Route. The Kargil War of 1999 was also fought here. While in Kargil, you can also explore the Kargil war memorial in Dras. At this memorial, you will find photographs, equipment, and stories of valor from the war. 

20. Suru Valley

While visiting Kargil, you can also explore the Suru Valley . You’ll find some of the most beautiful and lush green fields here. The rivers in Suru Valley are crystal clear. 

This valley is also home to beautiful villages. Unlike the rugged terrain of Ladakh, Suru Valley offers a serene contrast. Also, you’ll find some great trekking destinations in this valley. 

It’s A Wrap!

You might have spent a couple of months planning your vacation to Ladakh. But if you don’t explore all the places there, it would be a waste of a trip! So, take note of these 20 places to visit in Ladakh. 

Make sure that you cover all these places to make your vacation wholesome. Every destination in this list has a beauty of its own! So, keep a list of these places handy before you hop on your bike or get into your car to reach Ladakh. 

Wanderlust Spots Pvt Ltd based in India, is one of India's leading online travel companies and operates the website Wanderlustspots.com.

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Top 10 places to visit in Ladakh

There are very few places in the world as enchanting as Ladakh and its capital Leh. Its mountainous landscapes, deep blue lakes and scenic road… Read More

Last Updated on November 23, 2023

There are very few places in the world as enchanting as Ladakh and its capital Leh. Its mountainous landscapes, deep blue lakes and scenic road journeys have been luring travellers from all around the world. Alluring beauty aside, there are plenty of attractions to take in, from beautiful monasteries and elegant palaces to quaint villages and high mountain passes. Want to know which of these amazing places should be on your bucket list? Check out our cherry-picked list of the top 10 places to visit in Ladakh.

Table of Contents

Sitting on top of a hill, Leh Palace is one of the finest examples of medieval Tibetan architecture. The palace is made of stones, wood, mud and sand and  is often compared to the world-famous Potala Palace in Lhasa. The walls of the palace provide warmth in winters and create a cool ambience in summers.

The interiors are adorned with crowns, ceremonial dresses, jewellery and artistic paintings. Some as old as 450 years and made from colours derived from powdered stones and gems. Murals etched on the walls depict glory days of the past. If that’s not fascinating enough, the palace provides spectacular views of the surrounding mountain range and the valley below. There’s no doubt why this makes it to our list of top 10 places to visit in Ladakh.

Location: Leh How to get there: Leh Palace is a short walk uphill from Leh Market. Alternatively, you can drive up to the entrance

Shanti Stupa

The Shanti Stupa is a white-domed monument built on top of a steep hill. Facing snow-capped peaks, it was made by an interesting blend of Japanese Buddhists along with the locals. It marked and celebrated 2500 years of Buddhism and was also meant to be a symbol of peace. The stupa holds a golden Buddha statue and images of his birth and death.

Being at a vantage point, the stupa affords unadulterated views of the valley below. Lit up at night, it acquires a beauty of its own. If you want to witness a magical sunrise or sunset, this is one of the best places to visit in Ladakh.

Location: Leh How to get there: You can go by car up to its entrance

Sangam at Nimmu

On the way to Leh, along the Srinagar-Leh highway, lies the Sangam. It is a confluence of two rivers at Nimmu. Breathtaking to witness, here the emerald waters of the Indus merge with the brownish waters of Zanskar. It makes for a spectacular sight, especially for nature lovers. It is one of the top 10 places to visit in Ladakh if you want to see an unforgettable sight of natural wonder.

Location: Sham Valley How to get there: It is 33 kms from Leh by road

Lamayuru Monastery

A quaint village between Kargil and Leh. Lamayuru is known for its moon-like terrain, earning it the nickname ‘Moonland’. If that name itself isn’t enough to justify its place on our list of top 10 places to visit in Ladakh, simply read on.

Legend has it that a lama named ‘Naropa’ walked this land when it was submerged underwater. Upon his request, the water receded thus letting him establish the monastery which is now the famed ‘Lamayuru Monastery’. One of the most beautiful monasteries in Ladakh, its interiors are embellished with jaw-dropping paintings and frescoes. A cave next to the prayer hall has statues of Naropa and his disciples, one of the highlights of this shrine.

Perched on a hill, the monastery also offers unparalleled views of the moonscapes around it. And just like the moon, the monastery is ‘out of this world’.

Location: Lamayuru (Leh-Srinagar Highway) How to get there: It is 116 kms from Leh by road

Khardunga La Pass

Imagine what it would feel like to be on top of the world. No, we are not talking about the arduous climb to Everest. On the way to Nubra Valley, a popular destination in Ladakh lies Khardung La pass – the world’s highest motorable road. It’s located at a staggering altitude of 18,380 feet.

Stop here for a cup of tea and admire the surreal snow-covered landscape around you. This is on the bucket list of everyone who travels to Ladakh. It almost feels like you are at a winter wonderland. This is because everything around you from rocks to roads to mountains are draped in snow.

The steep and rugged terrain, winding roads, furious winds and unpredictable weather means you will earn bragging rights for making it this far. No wonder it’s a rite of passage and one of the top places to visit in Ladakh for bikers, cyclists and travel junkies.

Note: Being at such a high altitude, you cannot stop here for more than 20 minutes. The oxygen levels are very low, so don’t linger around for too long.

Location: Khardung La Top How to get there: It is 40 kms from Leh city by road

Sand Dunes at Hunder

One of the best experiences in Ladakh is lying on the desert and gazing at a million stars. You wouldn’t believe us, would you? After all, who expects to find a desert atop the Himalayas? Most of you may not be aware that Ladakh is actually a high altitude cold desert. It’s more than evident at the super scenic Nubra Valley.

One of the most popular attractions in this valley is the village of Hunder. Every year, this place is swarmed with thousands of travellers, who come to witness sand dunes wrapped around by golden brown mountains.

The desert is also home to the double-humped Bactrian camel, a rare species found only in this region of Ladakh. A ride on the backs of these sturdy animals is surely one of the most memorable experiences to have.

Location: Nubra Valley How to get there: It is 120 kms from Leh by road

Straddling borders with Pakistan, Turtuk is the closest village to the ‘line of control (LOC)’. Located so close to the border, this is the only village that tourists are permitted to visit. The landscape here changes dramatically with barren wastelands giving way to lush greenery, with an abundance of Apricot and Peach fields. Inhabited by a Muslim population, this quaint village is one of the last towns in India to have a prominent Balti culture. Try the delicious Balti cuisine here, especially the Apricot based stew.

With its serene ambience, scenic vistas and the aquamarine waters of river Shyok meandering through the village, Turtuk is as heavenly as it gets. It is definitely one of the top offbeat places to visit in Ladakh, where you can soak up the beauty undisturbed by tourist crowds.

Location: Nubra Valley How to get there: It is 205 kms from Leh by road

Pangong Tso Lake

Ladakh is home to many high altitude lakes, but none can match the grandeur of Pangong Tso. Brought to limelight by the movie ‘3 Idiots’, it is now the most popular destination in Ladakh.

Flanked by mountains of brownish hues, walking along the banks of the azure blue lake is akin to living in a postcard picture. Its uniqueness though, lies with the changing shades of the lake as the day progresses. Be ready to whip out your cameras and catch this mystic phenomenon live. At night, watch the sky blanketed by a million stars as you camp next to the lake.

Come night or day, there is always magic in the air at Pangong.

Location: Tso Pangong, Changthang plateau How to get there: It is 160 kms from Leh by road

Hemis Monastery

Hemis monastery is the largest monastery in Ladakh. It’s widely known for playing host to the popular Hemis festival every June. Its exquisite architecture, serene surroundings and views of neighbouring mountains make it a must visit on your Ladakh trip.

The monastery has one of the rarest collections of Thangka paintings, murals, Buddhist scriptures and stupas made of gold and silver. Wonderful paintings of Buddha cover the monastery walls.

If you happen to visit during festival time, you can see masked dancers performing, listen to traditional music, watch people strolling about in colourful attires and gorge on delicious local cuisine.

Location: Off Karu, on the Leh-Manali highway How to get there: It is 44 kms from Leh by road

Tso Moriri is Pangong’s alter ego, similar in its bluish complexion and astounding beauty. It is remotely located higher than the Pangong Lake. Accordingly, visited by fewer tourists, and therein lies its appeal. With brownish mountains towering over it on one side and a lush green countryside on the other, it is like staring at a live oil painting. Bird enthusiasts have another reason to cheer as the lake attracts a number of migratory birds, right from seagulls, Brahmin ducks and geese, to the rare and elusive black-necked cranes.

For a more immersive experience you can camp at Korzok village in the vicinity of the lake.

Location: Korzok Village, Changthang Plateau How to get there: It is 220 kms from Leh by road

Leh and Ladakh are stunning locations, and well worth the visit. We hope that reading our list of top 10 places to visit in Ladakh has inspired you to plan a trip there. Contact us for any sort of help you need, and for more insider tips and advice on where to go and how to get there.

Explore Further: Navigating the Top Places to Visit in North India

Click on  Plan Your Trip  for your ideal itinerary.

About Harsh Sonawala

Harsh Sonawala is the co founder of India Someday and since his childhood, he has travelled to different parts of India and the world. The thrill of travelling and sharing his experiences with others was the reason behind starting India Someday. Other than the office where he is conjuring up marketing ideas, he can be found scuba diving in the Andamans or relaxing in a chalet in the Himalayas.

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15 Best Places to Visit in Ladakh for Lifetime Experience

Ladakh is a perfect amalgamation of adventure activities and leisure vacations. It is a land of high passes that boasts about alpine lakes, ancient monasteries, breathtaking landscape, and glistening streams. There are a plethora of best places to visit in Ladakh, which are an absolute delight for nature lovers, thrill-seekers, and shutterbugs. From bike trips and trekking to camping and mountaineering, Ladakh has so much to offer to tourists.

The Buddhist monasteries nestled in the lap of the mighty Himalayas for thousands of years and an important cultural center where religious festivals organize and offer glimpses of the rich past of the region. There are a number of adrenaline-rushing activities offered here, which make the Ladakh trip memorable.

Top 15 Places to Visit in Ladakh for Memorable Vacations

Pangong tso lake, thiksey monastery.

• A confluence of the Indus and Zanskar Rivers
• Hall of Fame

Gurdwara Pathar Sahib

Shanti stupa, hemis national park, khardung la pass, nubra valley, tso moriri lake, magnetic hill, spituk gompa, diskit monastery, hemis monastery, here are the best 20 tourist places in ladakh, which you should definitely visit to have a vacation of a lifetime:.

It is home to some of the exotic migratory species of birds, which you can spot on the bank of the Pangong Tso. Owing to the harsh winters, the lake freezes down during this time. Camping on the bank of the lake is a sheer delight for adventure enthusiasts.

• Things to do at Pangong Lake: Camping, bird watching, and nature walk
• Best time to visit Pangong Lake: May to September
• How to reach Pangong Lake: Leh Airport is the nearest airport, which is 225 km away. The lake is well-connected from Leh via Chang La Pass.

Browse our well customized 5 Days Trip to Ladakh

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Renowned for its resemblance with the Potala Palace in Tibet, Thiksey Monastery is among the most revered sites in Ladakh among Buddhists. The monastic complex was built in the 15th century by Palden Zangpo. It is the largest gompa in central Ladakh and the major attraction of Thiksey Monastery is Maitreya Temple, which was built in 1970 to commemorate the visit of the Dalai Lama in the 14th century.

The monastery houses the 15 m tall Maitreya Buddha statue in the monastery, which is the largest statue in Ladakh covering two stories of the building. Gustor Festival is the major event organized here, which offers glimpses of the rich cultural heritage of the region.

• Things to do at Thiksey Monastery: Sightseeing and meditation
• Best time to visit Thiksey Monastery: May to September
• How to reach Thiksey Monastery: Leh Airport is the nearest airport, which is 20 km away and is easily accessible from Leh city.
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A confluence of the Indus and Zanskar Rivers: Sangam Point

Popularly known as Sangam in the Leh region, the confluence of the Indus and Zanskar Rivers is a famous tourist attraction in Leh. Amidst the barren mountains, two of the major rivers of Ladakh merge at a place and offer heavenly views. Nimmu Valley is a place where these two water bodies meet. These two rivers can be easily distinguished owing to their different colors.

The shiny blue Zanskar river that has its source in Zanskar Valley merges with the green-tinged Indus that originates from the Indus Valley near the Mansarovar range in the mighty Himalayas. From March to May, the colors of these rivers can be best witnessed.

• Things to do at Sangam Point: Sightseeing and river rafting
• Best time to visit Sangam Point: March to May
• How to reach Sangam Point: Leh Airport is the primary airport that serves the region, which is 10 km away and is easily accessible from Leh city.

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Hall of Fame Museum

Constructed by the Indian Army to commemorate the brave Indian martyr soldiers, the Hall of Fame Museum is located in Leh. It stands as a reminder of the great sacrifice of the brave soldiers who laid down their lives to save their country. There are two stories in the museum, which are divided into several sections.

On the Upper Floor, there is a gallery named OP Vijay Gallery that comprises the arms and ammunition captured and used during Kargil War. You can see the pictures of the training processes, accommodations, and army posts on the faraway glaciers. On another floor, you can see the pictures of the Kargil War. You can watch the documentary of Operation Vijay on the ground floor and witness the exemplary courage of Indian soldiers during the war.

• Things to do at Hall of Fame Museum: Watch the documentary and buy souvenirs
• Best time to visit Hall of Fame Museum: May to September
• How to reach the Hall of Fame Museum: Situated at 2 km from Leh Airport, which can be reached by taxi.

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Gurudwara Pathar Sahib is located in the lap of the mighty Himalayas in Ladakh. It is dedicated to Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism. Ladakh is predominantly a Buddhist region but this Gurdwara is one of the revered sites among all faiths in the region. According to the legends, Guru Nanak Dev Ji was attacked by the demons during his visit and threw a large boulder on him while he was meditating at the base of a hill.

As per the demon’s surprise, the rock became soft like molten wax and failed to cause any harm to the Sikh Guru and he realized that Guru Nanak Dev is a divine person. After which, the demon stopped harassing him along with the people of the town.

• Things to do at Gurudwara Pathar Sahib: Seek blessings and meditation
• Best time to visit Gurudwara Pathar Sahib: May to September
• How to reach the Gurudwara Pathar Sahib: Situated at 21 km from Leh Airport, which can be reached by taxi.

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Perched atop a steep hilltop, Shanti Stupa is a stunning white-domed Buddhist monument. It is one of the most religious sites for Buddhists that holds the relics of Buddha that was consecrated by the 14th Dalai Lama. From the Shanti Stupa complex, you can enjoy the bird’s eye view of Leh city and soak in the tranquil aura of the surroundings.

It is the perfect tourist place in Ladakh for peace-seekers and shutterbugs. Nestled in the Changspa Village, Shanti Stupa was constructed in 1991 by Japanese Buddhist, Bhikshu Gyomyo Nakamura. It was built to mark the completion of 2500 years of Buddhism and to promote world peace. It is a part of the peace pagoda mission, which aims to spread harmony through the preaching of Buddha.

• Things to do at Shanti Stupa: Seek blessings and meditation
• Best time to visit Shanti Stupa: May to September
• How to reach the Shanti Stupa: Leh Airport is situated 6 km away from Shanti Stupa, which can be reached easily by taxi.

Home to some of the rare and endangered species of wildlife, Hemis National Park is located in the eastern region of Ladakh. Spread over 4,400 m sq. km, this is one of the largest national parks in South Asia. It is the largest contiguous protected region after Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve. Several gompas and villages are a part of the Hemis National Park.

This is a protected home to some endangered species including leopard, Asiatic ibex, Tibetan wolf, the Eurasian brown bear, and the red fox. It is famous for Snow Leopard treks during which you can spot Snow Leopard along with other wildlife species. This is among the famous places to visit in Ladakh for adventure enthusiasts. Camping and trekking are popular activities here.

• Things to do at Hemis National Park: Trekking, hiking, and camping
• Best time to visit Hemis National Park: May to October
• How to reach the Hemis National Park: Leh Airport is the nearest airport, which is situated 47 km away from the national park. It can be reached easily by taxi.

One of the highest motorable roads in the world, Khardung La Pass is perched at an altitude of 5,349 m above sea level. This high-altitude mountain pass connects Leh from the Shyok and Nubra Valleys. Traversing through the highest passes in the world is a unique experience and this excitement is beyond any description.

You can enjoy a spectacular view of the snow-capped Himalayas from the top of the pass, which can make the Ladakh trip memorable. It is one of the top places to visit in Ladakh with family and friends. The bike trip to Khardung La Pass is a thrilling experience, which you can enjoy with your loved ones.

• Things to do at Khardung La Pass: Bike ride, photography, and hiking
• Best time to visit Khardung La Pass: May to September
• How to reach Khardung La Pass: Leh Airport is the primary airport that serves the region and is situated 41 km away from Khardung La Pass. It can be reached easily by taxi, bike, and bus.

Popular for its unique landscape and jaw-dropping locales, Nubra Valley is among the top attractions in Ladakh. It is connected with the Leh by Khardung La Pass and offers innumerable experiences. Nubra Valley is known for its cold desert and Bactrian double-humped camels. You can enjoy a camel ride amidst the barren mountains in the sand dunes of the valley.

With the backdrop of Diskit Monastery, the camel ride offers an amazing experience. During the sunset, the surroundings look mesmerizing and offer a memorable experience during the Ladakh trip. There are numerous eco-friendly camps, where you can enjoy camping. Hunder Village, Diskit Monastery, Turtuk, and Panamik are the major attractions of the Nubra Valley.

• Things to do at Nubra Valley: Bike ride, camel ride, photography, and camping
• Best time to visit Nubra Valley: May to September
• How to reach Nubra Valley: Leh Airport is the nearest airport from Nubra Valley, which is situated 127 km away from Nubra. It can be reached easily by taxi, bike, and bus that are available in Leh city.
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Located in one of the most beautiful and scenic regions of  Ladakh is the Changthang Plateau region, Tso Moriri Lake is an alpine lake nestled at an altitude of 4,522 m above sea level. This ‘Mountain Lake’ is the highest brackish water lake in India lies in the breathtakingly beautiful Rupshu Valley. Tso Moriri is an emerald blue-colored lake, which attracts a range of migratory birds, marmots, and rarely spotted Tibetan wolves.

Being part of the wetland reserve under the Ramsar site, it is actually known as Tso Moriri Wetland Conservation Reserve and no one can pitch a tent or construct anything near the banks of the lake. The snowy peaks of the Changthang Plateau feed the lake and it is one of the sacred lakes among the locals in Ladakh. There are camps near the lake where you can stay and enjoy the trip.

• Things to do at Tso Moriri Lake: Camping, nature walk, and hiking
• Best time to visit Tso Moriri Lake: May to September
• How to reach Tso Moriri Lake: Leh Airport is the nearest airport from Tso Moriri Lake, which is situated 224 km away. You can board a bus and share a taxi from Leh. Also, hire a bike or private taxi to reach the lake.

Also known as ‘Cyclops Hill’, Magnetic Hill is renowned for the phenomenon that defies the law of gravitation. The hill road is downhill and when you park your vehicle in a box there, it seems like the vehicle rolling uphill in the defiance of gravity. Located on Srinagar Leh Highway, Magnetic Hill is the best place to visit in Ladakh and to get captivated by this phenomenon.

However, it is proved that this is an optical illusion and the vehicle rolling downhill but owing to the illusion phenomenon it seems like it is going uphill. This is a must-visit place in Ladakh and has a memorable experience.

• Things to do at Magnetic Hill: Sightseeing
• Best time to visit Magnetic Hill: May to September
• How to reach Magnetic Hill: Leh Airport is the nearest airport from Magnetic Hill, which is situated 24 km away. You can hire a bike or private taxi to reach Magnetic Hill.

Boasts about religious scriptures, frescos, wall painting, and numerous shrines, Spituk Monastery is also known as Pethup Gompa. This is a perfect place to visit for history buffs and peace-seekers. Here you can meditate and spend some time amidst the tranquil aura of the monastery. It is home to 100 monks who live here, meditate, and learn about Buddhism.

There is a giant Kali statue in the monastery, which they reveal at the annual celebration of the Gustor Festival when a large number of people visit the monastery to attend the festivities. There is a big throne inside the monastery for the Dalai Lama and there are shrines dedicated to the Vajrabhairava deity. The major attraction of Spituk Monastery is the Cham Dance performed by the Lamas during the Gustor Festival, which is worth watching.

• Things to do at Spituk Monastery: Seek blessings and meditation
• Best time to visit Spituk Monastery: May to September & November (for Gustor Festival)
• How to reach Spituk Monastery: Leh Airport is the primary airport that serves the region. From Spituk Monastery is situated 4 km away. You can hire a private taxi to reach the monastery.

One of the largest and oldest surviving monasteries in the Nubra Valley, Diskit Monastery is located amidst the barren landscape. It houses a 100 feet tall Maitreya Buddha statue that can be seen from far away. Nestled at an altitude of 3,142 m above sea level, Diskit Gompa is perched atop a hill above the plains of Shyok River. From the monastery, you can witness the sheer beauty and bird’s eye view of the valley.

The Hunder Sand dunes and Bactrian camels can be spotted from here. The renowned Dosmoche festival is celebrated in the courtyards of the monastery, which offer glimpses of the rich cultural heritage of the region. It is a perfect way to get along with the locals and monks to learn about their lifestyle and life in the valley.

• Things to do at Diskit Monastery: Seek blessings, meditation, and visit Dikit Village
• Best time to visit Diskit Monastery: May to September
• How to reach Diskit Monastery: Leh Airport is the primary airport that serves the Nubra Valley and Ladakh region. Diskit Monastery is situated 120 km away from the airport. You can hire a private taxi or bike from Leh to reach the monastery. Also, government buses ply regularly for Nubra Valley.

Belongs to the Drukpa lineage, Hemis Monasteries is among the largest monastic institutions in Ladakh. It houses the Mahayoga Tantra School where monks learn about Buddhism. The monastery boasts of vast collections of prehistoric artifacts and relics.

Some of the popular things housed in the monastery are the statue of Buddha made of copper, stupas made of gold, and silver, thangkas, and murals. From the top of the monastery, you can enjoy a great view of the Chomoling which is home to several nuns, and soak in the scenic vistas of the serene surroundings. Hemis Festival is the major event celebrated here, which is attended by a large number of tourists every year.

• Things to do at Hemis Monastery: Sightseeing and attend Hemis Festival
• Best time to visit Hemis Monastery: May to September
• How to reach Hemis Monastery: Leh Airport is the nearest airport from Hemis Monastery, which is situated 38 km away. You can hire a private taxi or bike from Leh to reach the monastery. Also, government buses ply regularly for Hemis.

One of the two major districts of Ladakh and the joint capital of the region, Kargil is home to numerous lakes, valleys, mountain passes, and villages. It is one of the best adventure places in India you should visit it at least once in your lifetime. Suru Valley, Pensi La, and Drass are the famous places to visit in Kargil. The major attractions of Kargil are Kargil War Memorial, Mulbekh Monastery, Rangdum Monastery, Drang Drung Glacier, and Hundermand Village where a large number of tourists visit.

To enjoy the thrill of mountaineering, adventure lovers can go for a trek to Nun Kun massif. Mulberry, apple, and apricot trees enhance the breathtaking beauty of the landscape of Kargil. In 1999, Kargil was the place where the war between India and Pak took place owing to which it is famous and people visit the War Memorial to witness the courage and valor of the Indian Army.

• Things to do at Kargil: Sightseeing and attend Hemis Festival
• Best time to visit Kargil: May to September
• How to reach Kargil: Leh Airport is the nearest airport from Kargil, which is situated 214 km away. Srinagar Airport is another primary airport that serves Kargil, which is 222 km away. You can hire a private taxi or bike from Leh and Srinagar to reach the monastery. Also, government buses ply regularly from these two cities for Kargil.

Ladakh is a paradise for nature lovers and thrill-seekers. It has become a favorite destination among families, couples, honeymooners, and friends in the last few years. Here is the list of best places to visit in Ladakh, which will help you to plan a Ladakh tour . Plan a trip, add the top tourist places in the itinerary, book a Ladakh tour, and embark on the journey of a lifetime. Make sure you will visit among these attractions and make your trip memorable. Also, share your experiences with us and mention which place entices you the most!

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20 Best Enchanting Tourist Places to Visit in Ladakh for an Incredible Holiday

Home / Blog / 20 Best Enchanting Tourist Places to Visit in Ladakh for an Incredible Holiday

Embark on a journey to witness the mesmerizing scenery of Ladakh – a Himalayan destination that every traveler must visit at least once. The high-altitude desert remains cool throughout the hottest months, offering the perfect escape from the summer heatwave. Our comprehensive Leh Ladakh Travel Guide offers insights into the best tourist attractions for your dream trip.

Ladakh landscapes are alluring, dreamy and fascinating. It is on the bucket list of all travelers. At once in a lifetime, we all desire to travel to Ladakh. Rugged landscapes, high altitude lakes and monasteries, mighty Himalayan mountains, highest motorable passes, snowfall, captivating motor biking expeditions and mesmerizing trekking trails, rafting, camping in the meadows, serene stopovers, enchanting festivals and unique cuisines, rituals and culture makes Ladakh is one of the most scenic destinations to travel for every kind of wanderer. Ladakh is one of a kind tourist destination which you must visit at least once in a lifetime.

Quick Travel Information on Ladakh Tourism

Let’s know about ladakh’s top 20 incredible tourist attractions.  if you are planning leh- ladakh tour this blog will definitely help you..

• Nubra Valley
• Hemis National Park
• Pangong Lake
• Tsomoriri Lake
• Markha Valley
• Diskit Monastery
• Thiksey Monastery
• Khardung-la Pass
• Shanti Stupa
• Magnetic Hill
• Zanskar Valley
• Namgyal Tsemo Gompa
• Alchi Monastery
• Hall of Fame
• Gurudwara Pathar Sahib
• Kargil Valley
• Spituk Monastery
• Hemis Monastery

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1. Nubra Valley- Wholesome for Memories

Poetry of the mighty mountains, the green landscapes of the enchanting Nubra Valley will blow your heart away. It comes first in the list of 20 top tourist places to visit in Ladakh. Wherever you go, the varied landscapes, the color changing sky will captivate your soul forever, keep your camera ready.

Arid sand dunes, ancient ruins and euphoric Buddhist monasteries have kept the valley’s aura peaceful, mysterious, and spiritual for over a decade. This beautiful valley is located at the confluence of the Shyok and Siachen. You will also see the unique double humped Bactrian camels. However, people love to do rafting, ATV rides and camel safari but the essence of Nubra Valley is not in adventure activities, it’s in listening to the silence of the myriad landscapes of Nubra Valley. Take a moment to explore and you will feel that nature is meditating.

Enjoy the therapeutic hot springs of Panamik Village, the holy Yarab Tso Lake’s stillness will teach you to return to what is sacred as you breathe more deeply in its serenity. The monasteries and sand dunes of the magical Hunder village are a must not miss. The farming villages, the Baltistani dishes make holidays wholesome forever. Nubra Valley is a must visit place in Leh-Ladakh.

2. Hemis National Park- A Place to Become One with the Wild

Hemis National Park is one of the top tourist attractions to explore in Ladakh sightseeing Tour. It is a wild realm of Himalayan wildlife species who will enchant you with their sights, sounds and stories. Located in Eastern Ladakh, the park is spread over 4400 sq. km. You will be amazed to know that it has the highest population of Snow leopards globally. It is home to many interesting wildlife species such as Red fox, Agrali, Asiatic Ibex, Eurasian Brown Bear, etc. in total there are around 16 mammal species and 73 bird species to see and enjoy the wildlife tourism of Hemis National Park. not to forget the floral species of the park.

The alpine vegetation, rare medicinal plants makes the place an interesting sight to explore to learn about plant life. There are more than 200 snow leopards in the park. Located inside the national park are the monasteries – Gotsang Gompa and Hemis Monastery whose sacred space has the power to rejuvenate your soul from the fangs of chaos. There are many villages inside the park which will captivate your eyes. Rumbak Valley in the park is a fantastic bird watching attraction which you must not miss. Trekking to Stok Kangri and Markha Valley will elevate your adventure experience to a different level.

3. Pangong Lake- Serene, Sublime and Secluded Beauty

Situated at the height of 4350 m, this is the highest saltwater lake in the world. It’s one of the most beautiful surprises of nature to mankind. Extending to almost 160 km, its one third part is the euphoria of tourists and the other two thirds are in China. Pangong Lake got its name from a Tibetan word – Pangong Tso which means ‘High grassland Lake’. Tourists from all across the globe come to see this richest pearl of the Leh Ladakh tourism. The most interesting highlight of the beautiful lake is that it changes its colors to blue, grey, and green at different times. The climate is very harsh to bear in winters as it is one of the high-altitude lakes in Leh Ladakh. Summer months are perfect to enjoy the beauty of panoramic Pangong Lake.

4. Tsomoriri Lake- Picture of Infinite Beauty

If you are looking for a place to dive deep into the calmness, then why not head to Tsomoriri Lake of Ladakh. It is one of the popular points of tourist interest in Ladakh for peace and nature lovers. Beauty of this lake would awaken in you a feeling that you never knew you had.

Decked in the beautiful Changthang Valley, Tsomoriri lake’s lovely loneliness will heal your tired soul from the chaos of the world. It’s a lake of quietude and peace. Vibrant in color, surrounded by tall peaks, this is a home to many amazing featured creatures such as the bare-headed goose, great-crested grebe, Brahmin duck and brown-headed gulls. It’s also a wonderful place to spot Bharal or blue sheep, marmots, Tibetan sheep, red fox and kiang or Tibetan ass. For a bird watcher and wildlife lover, Tsomoriri lake is an opportunity to meet Himalayan wildlife species and avifauna.

Note- You can enjoy a thrilling mountain biking adventure to make your day memorable in Tsomoriri lake. It is also the highest Ramsar site in the world. So, you cannot put a camp or set up any type of accommodation around this lake.

5. Changthang- Gentle and Wild Paradise for tourists

Beauty of both India and Tibet, the beauty of Changthang will make your heart dance with joy. Isn’t it exciting to see the life of Changpa Tribes, Ladakhi and Tibetan nomads living in higher altitudes? This beautiful place will be the music to your soul. Deep gorges, canyons and vertical passes will meet your eyes wherever you go. You will find Changthang to be one of the top 10 most amazing tourist attractions of Ladakh. Gigantic Peaks and highest summits make the sight even more beautiful. Life here is very difficult, the cold climate of this area and the resilience of people inspires us a lot to face difficulties in life.

The arrival of winter brings challenges in the life of the Changpa Tribe. The temperature went down to as low as -30 degrees. People here live in harmony with nature and the wild. Nomads protect their domestic animals such as goats from wild animals and in return they get butter, milk, wool and meat for sustenance. However, you will be mesmerized by the simplicity of lifestyle and the natural beauty of Changthang.

Note- The major highlight of Changthang is Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary which you must visit to completely explore the beauty of Changthang. Spread over an area of 1600 sq. km, this is one of the top tourist attractions to visit in Leh Ladakh. There are a variety of Himalayan floral and faunal species which you have never seen before. You will discover snow leopard, Wild ass, brown bear, mormot, wild yak, Bharal and wolf etc. Don’t miss the most beautiful lake – Tso Moriri and the world’s highest village Korzok Village. This is also very famous for spotting species of water birds, migratory birds, and a variety of avifauna. Visiting Changthang in Ladakh would definitely be memorable.

6. Markha Valley – Soul of Adventurous and Nature lovers

The beauty of Ladakh Himalayas cannot be fully explored if you have not been to Markha Valley. It is one of the most popular treks of Leh -Ladakh. Adventures from all over the world consider Markha Valley in the list of top 5 places to explore in Ladakh. You will be in a dreamland when you see the variety of landscapes this valley is blessed with. It will also take you to the most popular National Park – Hemis National Park which will give you an amazing opportunity to see Himalayan wild animals. You will be in the wild realm of several species like Ladakhi Urial, Lynx, Mountain hare, marmot, red fox, great Tibetan sheep, – Arghali and Dhole etc.

Also, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the hidden wonders of Leh- Ladakh such as Rumbak and Yurutse village. You will be spellbound to see the unique lifestyle and soul uplifting rich indigenous culture of Indo- Tibetans. The beautiful sceneries of the valley along the way also attract the lens of many photographers.

Note – The Tibetan markets and Buddhist monasteries will nourish your soul with excitement and spiritual wisdom.  June and September are the best months to explore and enjoy Markha Valley Trek. Markha Valley will be the best place for solace seekers, nature lovers and adventure loving souls.

7. Diskit Monastery – Get the Divine Grace

One more sacred place to find yourself.  Located in Nubra Valley, Diskit Monastery is one of the famous attractions to visit in Ladakh. The main highlight of Diskit Gompa is the 106 ft huge Statue of Maitreya Buddha inaugurated by HH Dalai Lama. if you see its surroundings, you will never want to go back. The gorgeous views of Nubra Valley’s colorful landscapes blend with the serene silence of the Gompa. It was built by Changzen Tserab Zangpo in the 14th century. December is the best time to visit here as the Dosmoche Festival is celebrated here. The intricate frescos and wall paintings, images of Buddhist deities. Above the monastery is the LachungTemple where the large idol of Tsong Khapa, the founder of the Gelugpa sect of Buddhism is worshiped.  The gorgeous views of Diskit village are irresistible.

8. Thiksey Monastery- Elevated Seat of the Divine

19 km away from Leh, Thiksey Monastery will find the radiance of lost souls. Overlooking the Indus River and Stok range, it offers panoramic views with sacred ambiance to the peace seekers.  It is a must visit attraction in your Ladakh sightseeing tour.

It is a beautiful 12 storey building which displays the wonders of Buddhist art and culture. You will behold Buddhist art in its most elevated form. See the beautiful Thangkas, swords, wall paintings, statues etc. one of the most remarkable attractions is the Maitreya Temple which showcases a 49 ft tall statue of Maitreya Buddha. It is so huge that it covers the two floors of the building.  You must visit Tara Temple dedicated to goddess Tara, there are 21 images of goddess Tara kept in glass covered wooden shelves. Also see Stangyur and Kangyu, the two popular Buddhist.  scriptures in Lamokhang Temple. It’s a wonderful place to blend into the rhythm of serenity.

9. Khardung La Pass- Snowy Wonder of Ladakh

Enchanting gateway to Nubra and Shyok valleys of Ladakh, Khardungla Pass is one of the highest motorable passes in the world. The views here will captivate your heart and soul. You won’t be able to stop clicking pictures of this mesmerizing pass.

It is very popular among the adventurers who came here for biking adventures from all over the world. It is at an elevation of 5,395 meters. It’s also a very important tourist attraction which is maintained by the Border Roads Organization. The journey to Khardungla is very exciting. You will come across many hairpin bends and high gradients on the road. You need an Inner Line Permit to enter Khardung La Pass. frost covers, hairpin bends makes driving on the roads exciting and dangerous. So always be careful and enjoy the beauty of the enchanting Khardungla Pass. Indeed, it is one of the most picturesque tourist attractions to explore when you are enjoying Leh Ladakh sightseeing tour.

Note- April to June and the month of September to October is the best time to visit Khardung La Pass. if you are a passionate bike rider then it will be one of the best places to visit in Ladakh, cold breeze of the Himalayan mountains, snowy roads and challenging bends will definitely make your adventure soothing.

10. Shanti Stupa- Namobuddha

The soul uplifting white domed Buddhist monument known as Shanti Stupa is one of the best places to explore in Ladakh. Decked in a steep hilltop at a height of 11,841 ft, it is a sacred Buddhist pilgrimage place consecrated by the e14th Dalai Lama. Giver of serenity and peace, the view of Shanti Stupa is one of a kind.

The most healing view to your soul will be the gilded statue of the Buddha and the Dharmachakra (wheel of life).  The stupa is a relic of Lord Buddha which was built in 1991 by a Japanese Buddhist named Bhikshu Gyomyo Nakamura.  It was built to promote world peace and to commemorate 2500 years of Buddhism. The mind-boggling views of Leh and Changspa village, mesmerizing sunsets, the beauty of the twilight due to sunset and the spiritual vibe makes this place one of the best tourist attractions to explore in Ladakh for a spiritually inclined and peace-loving soul. Devotees move the wheels and pray to God for their wellbeing.

Note- Timings – 5:00am to 9:00pm & Best time to visit – July to September 

11. Zanskar Valley- Mesmerizing Valley of Himalayas

If you are fond of exploring remote and enchanting locations, then visiting Zanskar Valley would be a great decision. It is one of the best places to visit in the remote corner of Ladakh.  This valley is the crowning jewel of the northern flank of the great Himalayas. Zanskar Valley’s mesmerizing landscapes, sparkling water bodies and weather will definitely blow your heart away. Consider this place for honeymoon holidays in Ladakh as the valley’s irresistible charm will be in tune with your romantic heart. Zanskar valley would be one of the most wonderful holiday options for families, couples, and adventurers.

You will enjoy amazing opportunities to try water rafting, paragliding and trekking. In fact, there are many mind-boggling trekking options such as Padum Trek, Lamayuru to Darcha Trek. Zongla, Zongkhul etc. are the centuries- old monasteries to restore your sacred reserve of energy. Connecting the valley of Suru and Zanskar, the beautiful Penzil a Pass is an amazing attraction and spot to enjoy camping.

Note – Winters are harsh. Temperature drops down to -30-degree Celsius and the roads are heavily covered in snow. The best time to enjoy the beauty of Zanskar Valley is between the months of June to September.

12. Magnetic Hill- A Place That Defies Gravity

A place which defies Gravity and amaze your curious mind is known as Magnetic Hill of Ladakh. Located at the Leh- Kargil highway, it is one of the top places to visit in Leh- Ladakh.  It is marked by a yellow sign board which states that “The phenomenon that defies Gravity” there is a box which is marked with a white point on the road, also known as the magnetic road, is used to park vehicles. If you park your vehicle at the indicated spot, you will be amazed to see that your vehicle will be moving forward at a speed of 20km/h. The meandering Sindhu River at the east of Magnetic hill is a great place to capture delightful sceneries.

An interesting myth is associated with Magnetic Hill. Villagers here believe that once upon a time this road used to lead people straight to heaven. Those who deserved and pure by heart were pulled directly to heaven. Those who didn’t deserve couldn’t make it to paradise. According to a popular theory people believe that it’s just an optical illusion. The road which actually goes uphill seems like it’s going downhill. Driving here will not be a hindrance if you visit it in the months of July and October.

13. Namgyal Tsemo Gompa- Purify Your Heart in the Seat of Divine

Renowned for the three-storey high solid gold idol of Maitreya Buddha, just behind the magnificent Leh Palace, Namgyal Tsemo Gompa is a beautiful monastery of Ladakh.  It is one of the must-see tourist attractions in Leh- Ladakh.

The scenic villages, Zanskar Valley, meandering Indus River makes the surroundings visually appealing to the tourists. It was built by King Tashi Namgyal in 1430 AD. Its ambiance is enough to awaken spirituality from the sacred depths of the soul. If you are fond of spiritual places, then you must visit Namgyal Tsemo Gompa. one-storey high statues of Avalokitesvara and Manjushri also captivate the soul and mind. When you come down from the hill you will also behold Shankar Gompa which is connected to Namgyal Tsemo Gompa. These two monasteries are ritualistically connected. Monks from Shankar Gompa worship Lord Buddha and lit butter lamps at Namgyal Tsemo Gompa. The heavenly vibe of this Gompa makes the heart cheerful.

14. Alchi Monastery- Radiance of the Divinity

Built by Ringchen Zangpo, the eminent translator of Sanskrit Buddhist text into Tibetan, Alchi Monastery is one of the popular religious places to visit in Ladakh. It is a blessed seat of various gods such as principal Buddha Vairocana Lhakhang, Lhotsava Lhakhang, Jamyang Lhakhang (Manjusri temple) and sumtsag Lhakhang. The Indian style Thangka paintings is one of the main highlights of Alchi monastery. It lies on the serene banks of the Indus River. There are many splendid paintings and thousands of miniature paintings of Lord Buddha which captivates the mind. There are souvenir shops, restaurants, and tea stalls for the recreation of tourists.  You will feel the infinite wisdom of spirituality in the ambiance. The surrounding will nourish your soul to make you feel connected to the divine.

15. Leh Palace- Royal Charm of Ladakh

In the 1500s King Sengge Namgyal built the magnificent Leh Palace but it was completed in the 17th century. Today Leh Palace is now one of the top tourist attractions to explore in Ladakh.  Its facade looks like the Potala palace in Lhasa, the capital of Tibet. It’s a masterpiece of medieval Tibetan architecture which also boasts 9 storeys. If you look at the view from Leh Palace roof you will be spellbound by the beauty of Ladakh’s magical landscape and the mighty Stok Kangri. The wooden carved figurines in the Palace entrance, wooden balconies and Stupas and mural fragments are amazing sights to please your eyes and soul. Chandazik Gompa and the Chamba Lhakhang Temple within which dwells the infinite wisdom of ages and sacred vibe. The museum in Leh Palace carries some artifacts which are more than 450 years old. The palace is under the maintenance of the Archaeological Survey of India.

16. Hall of Fame- Heroes of the Nation

Keeping alive the memory of brave Indian Soldiers who sacrificed their lives in Indo- Pak wars, the Hall of Fame Museum is a treasure and watch worthy tourist attraction of Ladakh.

Located in the Leh- Kargil Road it was built in the memory of Brave Indian soldiers who protected the country with the sacrifice of their life. This museum contains the weapons used in war. In the upper floor, in OP Vijay Gallery you will discover the weapons used in Kargil War. It also contains various apparel and amenities by the Indian Army. There are various pictures of army posts showing the difficult life of soldiers. You will also see the pictures of Kargil Wars.

The wall named “Lest we Forget” shows the pictures of soldiers who sacrificed their life for the nation. In the ground floor there is a projection room where you can watch the documentary on Operation Vijay. You will be deeply moved by the last letter of Captain Vijayant Thapar which is framed on a wall to his parents before he attained martyrdom. There are some sections which also showcase the history and culture of Ladakh region.

Timings – 9:00am to 1:00pm and 2:00pm to 7:00pm

Note- On the front of the Hall of Fame there is a statue of Lord Buddha with a beautiful message which says, “It is better to conquer yourself than to win a thousand battles. Then the victory is yours. It cannot be taken from you, not by angels or by demons, heaven or hell.” What a beautiful message to mankind!

17. Gurudwara Pathar Sahib- Sacred Bliss

Revered seat of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism- Gurudwara Pathar Sahib is one of the most beautiful religious places to visit in Ladakh. There is a very interesting story about this sacred place. It is said that Guru Nanak Dev Ji was meditating at this place, but a demon was constantly creating hindrance in his meditation. He was throwing big rocks to disturb him, but Guru Nanak Dev Ji turned the rock into soft wax which was completely harmless. Seeing this the demon realized that Guru Nanak Dev Ji is not a normal person and he asked for penance for his deed. Guru Nanak Dev Ji forgave him. In Gurudwara Pathar Sahib you can see the imprint of the body of Guru Nanak Dev Ji in a boulder and the footprint of the demon. This place is maintained by the Indian Army. Tibetans revered Guru Nanak Dev Ji as a Buddhist saint. Hence, they call him Guru Gompka Maharaj.

18. Kargil Valley- Land of Warriors

Kargil Valley, the second largest town of Ladakh is one of the incredible places to visit in Ladakh. It has been a major trade center in the past having trade relations with China, Central Asia, and different parts of India. It is one of the most visited tourist destinations for mountaineers and trekkers.

It is the place where the famous Indo- Pak war happened in May- July 1999. Tiger Hill, Tololing, Mushku valley and Batalik are some of the best attractions which became the heart of Kargil tourism.

One of the best highlights of Kargil is the enchanting Suru Valley which is a hidden bliss. The meandering Suru River runs through the valley, decked with mesmerizing villages, you won’t be able to set your eyes off from its beauty.

Adventurers love Kargil as it offers great opportunities for mountain adventure such as trekking and mountaineering. You can also try snow skiing and river rafting. There are many Buddha statues, fort Palaces, ancient Rock carvings, war memorials, monasteries and mosques which dazzles the eyes and mind.

19. Spituk Monastery- Seat of Sacredness

Decked on a conical hill with three chapels in the periphery of Leh, Spituk Monastery is one of the best tourist attractions to include in your Ladakh itinerary. It was built in the 11th century by Od- de, elder brother of Lha Lama Changchub Od.  The meaning of the name of the monster y is Exemplary which is quite apt as it is one of the most magnificent and desirable seats of Lord Buddha.

Festival of Gustor is celebrated with great pomp and show with beautiful, masked dance performances in the11th month of the Tibetan calendar. It is a celebration of peace and prosperity. It is celebrated in such a grand way that you will hear prayers and rituals 7 days before the day of the festival. It belongs to the Gelugpa lineage of Buddhism. There is a beautiful image of Mahakaal which is kept covered and unveiled in the annual festival of Spituk held in the month of January. Indeed, it is one of the blessed seats where the sacredness of faith is visible in an exalted form.

20. Hemis Monastery – Awake the Inner Peace

the western banks of the Indus River are blessed with the sacredness of Hemis Monastery. It is one of the top visiting spiritual tourist attractions in Ladakh. It is said that the monastery was built before the 11th century. Re-established in 1672 by Sengge Namgyal, the king of Ladakh. It is one of the most magnificent monasteries of Leh-Ladakh.  It is decorated with beautiful colored flags on all four sides. The wall stones are decorated with religious figures.

You will also find an amazing collection of Thangkas and stupas. Don’t miss the grand annual festival of the birth anniversary of Guru Padmasambhava. During the festival you will see the annual bazaar where Ladakhis from remote areas come to buy and sell wares. You will also see the mask dance performance which represents the reincarnation of Buddha. This monastery belongs to the Drukpa lineage of Buddhism. Every 12 years during the Hemis Festival, one of the largest Thangkas is displayed in front of a large crowd.

Its large library contains ancient religious texts, some of them are in unknown languages which will arouse your curiosity. Tourists who are spiritually inclined or who are looking for peace would definitely find Hemis Monastery one of the best places to fine-tune the soul.

Enjoy and explore the wonderful destinations of Leh- Ladakh. Trust us, Ladakh is the most beautiful mountain desert region of India. Holidaying here will be one of the most memorable trips of your life. You will leave its shores but the beauty of Ladakh will keep calling you.

Best Travel Tips to Enjoy Ladakh Trip and Make Amazing Memories

Without planning and knowing your destination, traveling to any place might be physically and mentally overwhelming. As you don’t know what kind of challenges you will face. It is very essential to know the basic information about the destination you are traveling to. Knowing the weather conditions, accommodation facilities, culture and destination information makes you a smart traveler. In a place like Ladakh which is blessed with myriad landscapes, harsh weather conditions and unique culture, it is very important to think wisely and collect important information to plan your holiday. The comfort comes with proper planning.  Here are some important travel tips for Leh- Ladakh Holidays –

• Ladakh is a land of variations. It is very important to know the weather conditions in advance. In some regions of Ladakh you will experience subzero temperatures, at some places the temperature will fall down to – 30-degree Celsius in winter season. In summer the temperature is quite comfortable. However, you still need to keep some warm clothes as the weather is unpredictable. The road side of the passes is still covered with snow even in the month of June. So, we really can’t say. Keep woolen clothes ready.
• Some of the places in Ladakh require an Inner Line permit. Plan in advance where you want to explore and get the Inner Line Permit online or from the DC office in Leh.
• The level of oxygen is low when you are in the high-altitude area of Ladakh region. Some of you will suffer from mountain sickness. Keep your pace of travel slow and don’t rush to places when you are having acute mountain sickness. Let your body rest for a day or two after a high climb of 2000ft for acclimatization. You can also carry Oxygen cylinders. Keep the necessary medicines in your bag. Stay healthy.
• Get the post- paid BSNL mobile connect from any phone shop. It’s the only mobile connection that functions in Ladakh.
• Keep plenty of cash in Hand. There are less ATM machines in Ladakh. Most of the places do not accept credit cards. In Leh Market you will find ATMs of different banks.
• Always keep multiple copies of valid ID Proof, PAN card or passport. It will be needed in military checkpoints.
• It is not bad to know about the major tourist attractions, culture and heritage of Ladakh before going. It will enrich your travel experience.
• You can always rent cars and bikes to enjoy your Himalayan holidays in the best possible manner.
• Always book your hotel in advance in Leh. March to June is the peak tourism season. You will find it difficult to get accommodation.
• You must hire a private tourist guide to travel locally in Ladakh. Also get the advantage of local transport facility as it is not advisable to travel to most of the areas by foot due to mountain sickness.

Popular Leh Ladakh Tour Packages 2023

Frequently asked questions, why must you visit ladakh.

Leh Ladakh is one of the top destinations to visit in India. It is a dream destination of many. High mountain passes, Chadar frozen lake, monasteries, tough terrains, beautiful snowfall and many adventure activities makes it the most wholesome destination for any kind of tourist. A tourist will never get bored here. In fact, every mile will invoke curiosity as Ladakh landscape keeps on changing textures. It is indeed a must visit destination for wanderers.

What are the top destinations to visit in Leh- Ladakh?

Some of the top-rated tourist attractions in Ladakh are –

• Pangong Tso Lake
• Khardung La Pass
• Chadar Trek

What is the best time to visit Leh- Ladakh?

The best time to visit Ladakh depends on the choice of season. In summer April to May the tourist season starts in Ladakh. From the end of April, the ice of Tso Moriri and Pangong Tso Lake starts melting. The Srinagar-Leh highway opens from the first week of May which makes it more crowded and the best time to visit Ladakh. But Khardung-La and Chang-La passes remain closed due to snowfall.

In Mid-September to October months the temperature starts to cool down a bit. The minimum 1 degree Celsius.

October to March, winter starts. At this time the maximum temperature is 7 degrees and the minimum are -6 degrees Celsius. The lakes freeze completely and it’s time to enjoy the famous Chadar Trek of Ladakh. The Zanskar river freezes completely in winters.

How is the weather in Ladakh?

Ladakh is definitely included in the travel list of most Indian tourists. Since Ladakh is a cold and extremely cold region, you should plan your trip to Ladakh according to your cold tolerance. In high altitude places there would be harsh weather conditions. Temperature will drop down to subzero levels. Summer months are a good time to plan your trip but for those who love snowfall, winter is the best time but the cold weather will give you chills.

What is the best way to travel to Ladakh?

The simplest way to travel to Ladakh is by air. Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport located in Leh, is the major airport of Ladakh. You can get regular flights from Delhi, Jammu, Srinagar, Mumbai, Kolkata and Chandigarh etc. If you prefer to go by rail it’s actually not a favorable option. You cannot reach Ladakh directly by train. There is no train station in Ladakh. The only nearest railway station is Jammu Tawi Station which will help you to reach Ladakh from Jammu. If you want adventures and the scenic beauty in your view then a road trip is highly recommended. You can access the roads of Ladakh from the month of May to October. After that heavy snowfall, bad road conditions will make it inaccessible. Buses, cars, jeeps and motorbikes are easily available for Ladakh Trip.

What are the popular adventure activities for tourists in Leh Ladakh?

Ladakh’s cold deserts, rugged terrains call for amazing adventures. It is one of the top destinations for adventurers. Some of the most popular adventure activities to enjoy in Ladakh are –

• Mountain Biking
• wildlife safari
• Quad Biking
• Rock climbing
• Paragliding

What are the popular trekking routes in Ladakh?

Without trekking adventure your holidays in Ladakh would be incomplete. Trekking is one of the top adventure activities to do in Ladakh.  The landscape of Ladakh is best for trekkers due to the snow-capped mountains and high cold deserts, sparkling lakes and natural beauty.  Some of the most popular trekking routes of Ladakh are –

• Markha Valley Trek
• Nubra Valley Trek
• Chadar Frozen River Trek
• Rumtse to Tso Moriri Trek
• Stok Kangri trek
• Sham Valley Trek
• Spituk to Stok Trek
• Lamayuru to Alchi Trek
• Zanskar Trek from Padum to Lamayuru
• Snow Leopard Trek
• Padum to Darcha Trek

What are the accommodation options available in Ladakh for tourists?

Don’t worry you will get clean and moderate budget accommodation in Ladakh. Hotels in Ladakh offer the best hospitality to the tourists with all the facilities that a traveler needs.  However, if you are in High altitude region or village, you will not get any luxury hotels, but the guest houses will welcome you with warm hospitality and decent facilities. You will get good accommodation options to stay with family.  Any moderate budget stay accommodation in Ladakh would cost around 1500 to 2000 for double bedrooms. Luxury lovers will also get good accommodation options with all the comforts. Some of the best Luxury accommodation options are The Grand Dragon Ladakh, Woody Vu Stok House, Chamba Camp, Nubra Organic Retreat and Stok Palace Heritage Hotel.

What are the popular must-see cultural festivals in Ladakh?

Some of the popular and must-see cultural festivals to enjoy in Ladakh are –

• Losar Festival- February to March
• Hemis Tsechu- Late June to July
• Sindhu Darshan Festival- June
• Ladakh Harvest Festival- September
• Saka Dawa Festival- June
• Dosmoche Festival – May
• Yuru Kabgyat – June

Is Ladakh a good destination for Honeymoon couples?

Good? Say Best! Don’t underestimate Ladakh’s beauty. It is one of the most beautiful tourist destinations of India. Honeymoon couples must visit Ladakh. Every landscape of Ladakh is colorful, beautiful, steeped in beautiful history and amazing stories. The unique cultural experiences, the thrilling adventure activities, the scenic motorable passes, the enchanting monasteries, everything Ladakh is blissful for a romantic couple. For honeymoon couples Ladakh is a must recommend.

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Places to Visit in Ladakh

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Tourist Places to Visit in Ladakh

Pangong Lake

The Pangong Lake or the Pangong Tso is one of the highest altitude lakes in the world and is famed for its colour changing water, from blue to red and green. From camping to lakeside bonfire, a wide variety of activities can be enjoyed here. During the winter months, the lake can be seen completely frozen, which is a delightful sight in itself.

Top Experiences To Do in Pangong Lake

Nubra Valley

Nestled in the northern part of Ladakh, Nubra Valley offers a stunning blend of deserts, rivers, and snow-capped mountains. Famous for its Bactrian camels and scenic vistas, the valley is accessible via the thrilling Khardung La Pass . Home to remote villages, ancient monasteries, and the enchanting Shyok River, it offers a serene escape for travelers , Nubra Valley has everything that an explorer seeks and is among the most famous places to visit with our Le Ladakh packages . Being a high-altitude destination, you can immerse yourself in the tranquility of this remote Himalayan region.

Top Experiences To Do in Nubra Valley

Khardung La

Gateway to the Shyok and Nubra Valley, the Khardungla Pass is strategically a very important landmass for the country. Famous for being the highest motorable pass with an elevation of 5359 metres, the pass is a favourite spot among bike riders and adventure lovers. The pass has mighty mountains on both of its sides, which further offer the most dramatic views one can imagine.

Top Experiences To Do in Khardung La

Tso Moriri Lake

Located in Changthang Plateau in Ladakh in Northern India, Tso Moriri is also known as the Mountain Lake. The Lake covers an area of 120 KM sq. and is located at an elevation of 4522 metres. Famous for birdwatching and taking in the beauty of nature, the lake is the perfect place to spend some time away from the hustle and bustle of the city and include this famous attraction at its best with our Leh Ladakh tour packages .

Top Experiences To Do in Tso Moriri Lake

Magnetic Hill

The famous Magnetic Hill of Ladakh is a cyclops hill, a place where vehicles seem to have defied the force of gravity and move upwards when parked at a particular marked location here. Located on the Leh-Kargil-Baltic National Highway, this place remains a mystery even today, as many tourists are awestruck to witness the magical experience.

Alchi Monastery

Tucked amidst the breath-taking landscapes of Ladakh is the Alchi Monastery, which is amongst the most sacred places for Buddhists. Dating back to at least 1000 years, the monastery is also the oldest Buddhist Learning Centre in the region. Detailed carvings on the walls, along with the age-old wall paintings are some of the major attractions of Alchi Monastery.

A nine storey high building that displays the influence of Potala Palace in Lhasa is the famed Royal Leh Palace. It stands with its head high on a cliff top overlooking the ravishing Leh town. Leh Palace has now been converted into a museum which features ancient paintings and relics of Buddha along with cutlery used by the Royal family.

Top Experiences To Do in Leh Palace

Hemis national park.

Hemis National Park is the largest national park in South Asia, and is located in the eastern section of Ladakh. The park covers 4400 square kilometres and is home to 16 species of mammals, 73 bird species, and around 200 snow leopards. The National Park is famous for the huge population of snow leopards throughout the world and is considered to be the only protected area where these wild cats can be found in such abundance and it must be part of your Ladakh tour packages .

Spituk Monastery

Perched atop a hillock by the Indus River, Spituk Monastery prides itself as one of Ladakh’s most significant monastery complexes to visit with our Leh Ladakh packages . The Gompa is home to Tsongkhapa Order of Tibetan Buddhist monks, housing around 125 resident monks. The monastery complex houses a massive statue of the Hindu deity Kali along with several small shrines, some dating back to 900 years.

Top Experiences To Do in Spituk Monastery

Hall Of Fame

The Hall of Fame in Leh is a museum that was constructed by the Indian Army in memory of the brave Indian soldiers who sacrificed their lives trying to protect their motherland in the Indo-Pakistan wars. Located on the Leh-Kargil Road, the museum is a great place to see photos of the soldiers, their training camps, the different war relics, and a lot more on your Leh Ladakh tour .

Chadar Trek

With the word Chadar meaning a blanket, the Chadar Trek depicts a trail over the frozen Zanskar River, on which people travel for several kilometers to reach the final destination. Unlike other trekking expeditions in India, this one does not require you to pass through forests or rock formations, but instead lets you walk over frozen water, which once was a gushing river. 

Top Experiences To Do in Chadar Trek

Mulbekh Monastery

Home to a 30-feet-tall statue of the Maitreya Buddha, the Mulbekh Monastery is one of the most popular monasteries in the Ladakh region. Offering stunning views of the Srinagar-Leh Highway, this monastery must be part of your Ladakh tours which boasts of beautiful ancient relics and frescoes, along with a huge prayer wheel, which adds to the serene ambiance of this place.

Tso Kar Lake

Nestled in the Rapshu region of southern Ladakh, the Tso Kar Lake stands out in its beauty. Forming a part of a complex wetland network, Tso Kar is recognized as one of India’s most prominent Ramsar sites to explore on your Ladakh Trip . The lake attracts a lot of birds and small wildlife as well such as the Tibetan Gazelle, the Kiang and the deep-necked crane.

Phuktal Monastery

Stowed away within the folds of the Himalayan mountains, the Phugtal Gompa is among the most secluded monasteries around the world & it must be part of your Le Ladakh tour packages . The monastery is quite literally sprawling among mountain caves with its units spread through them. A complete monastery complex, including prayer halls and shrines, can be found here where a number of festivals are celebrated throughout the year. 

Stakna Monastery

Established in the 16th century, the Stakna Monastery has a long-lasting legacy in Ladakh. The monastery’s position atop a hillock grants it access to some of the best views in the city. Home to a stunning array of paintings, murals, and statues the Gompa is also renowned for its excellent art and architecture. Explore this monastery with Ladakh packages for an unforgettable experience.

Chang La Pass

Situated at an elevation of 17,590 feet, Chang-la Pass is the gateway to the breathtaking landscapes of Ladakh. It is regarded as the "World's third-highest motorable road," which successfully connects Leh to the iconic Pangong Lake. While driving this pass, do not forget to immerse in the mesmerizing views of rugged terrains, fluttering prayer flags, and snow-capped peaks.

Shey Monastery

Established in the 17th century, the Shey Monastery, among the most famous monasteries to visit with our leh packages . The Monastery served as the summer residence of the Ladakh royalty. The Monastery is best known to house a statue of Shakyamani Buddha. Owing to its fantastic location and the scenic route that leads the way, it is a popular hiking spot. Shey Monastery also conducts several important Buddhist festivals throughout the year

Chemrey Monastery

Dating back to the 17th century, the Chemrey Monastery, one of the must-visit popular sites to visit with our Ladakh tour packages . It is predominantly known for three things, namely a majestic statue of Guru Padmasambhava, along with a stunning location, and an extensive collection of 29 volumes of sacred scriptures on solver, written entirely in gold. The monastery belongs to the Drugpa sect of Buddhism and was founded by Lama Tagsang Raschena

Kongka La Pass

Amongst the most beautiful and mysterious places in the country, With our  Ladakh trip packages , you can explore Kongka La Pass a highly restricted mountain pass that falls in the Chang-Chenmo region and has many UFO theories associated with it. With an altitude of 5171 metres above sea level, the Kongka La Pass in Ladakh is situated in the Line of Control between India and China.

Gurudwara Pathar Sahib

Gurudwara Pathar Sahib is a spiritual sanctuary located on the Leh-Kargil Highway. It stands as a testament to Guru Nanak Dev's divine confrontation with a demon. The Gurudwara is maintained by the Indian Army and captivates visitors with a boulder imprinted by Guru Nanak's form. It is a place where faith and history intertwine. The Gurudwara attracts travellers and devotees alike to experience its serene ambience and rich legacy., make sure to include this place on your Ladakh tour .

Top Experiences To Do in Gurudwara Pathar Sahib

Namgyal Tsemo Monastery

Perched atop a mountain, the 15th-century Namgyal Tsemo Monastery in Leh is a sight to behold. Built by King Tashi Namgyal, it houses a stunning three-storey-high golden Maitreya Buddha statue. The monastery offers breathtaking views of the Indus River and snow-draped Zanskar mountains. Inside, you can find ancient manuscripts, frescoes and exquisite statues of Avalokitesvara and Manjushri. Discover the rich cultural heritage of Ladakh by exploring Ladakh tour packages , which often include visits to this historic monastery.

Leh Post Office

Situated at a lofty altitude of 3500 meters above sea level, Leh Post Office stands as one of India's highest. Operating seamlessly amidst unpredictable weather conditions and challenging roadways, it remains a testament to efficiency. Part of the Jammu and Kashmir circle, under the jurisdiction of Srinagar headquarters region and Leh division, this post office is a remarkable feat of resilience. Explore this unique destination with Ladakh holiday packages

Top Experiences To Do in Leh Post Office

Donkey Sanctuary

Nestled in the serene landscapes of Leh Ladakh, the Donkey Sanctuary stands as a beacon of compassion and care for these resilient animals. With a mission to provide refuge and rehabilitation, this sanctuary offers a haven where donkeys receive love and attention. Visitors on a Leh Ladakh tour can witness firsthand the impactful work being done to ensure the well-being of these gentle creatures.

Location:  The sanctuary is situated on Korean Temple Road in Khakshal Village, Leh Ladakh. It is only 3 kms from the main city to reach the sanctuary.

Best time to visit:  Any time round the year is suitable to visit the sanctuary.

Entry fee : No entry fee is required to visit the sanctuary

Sakti Village

Nestled about 3500 meters above the sea, Sakti village is far removed from the busy tourist life that permeates Leh. With mostly Tibetan inhabitants, the village is often referred to as the Little Tibet of India. Sakti village is known as the home of Takthok monastery, one of the oldest Buddhist gompas in Ladakh dating back to the 16th century.

Top Experiences To Do in Sakti Village

Best of Leh

Jispa is a small town located in Himachal Pradesh, and is often marked as an essential halt on a Leh-Manali trip. This quaint village has many features that allures travelers to stop here, including a famous Monastery, a small folk museum, and a helipad with a post office. Surrounded by Himalayan backdrop, the place is perfect for a city detox.

Top Experiences To Do in Jispa

Nestled amidst the snow-clad mountains of Ladakh is the village of Upshi, also known for being one of the highest civilized settlements in the country. A part of an important trade route in the past, Upshi is also quite a popular place for cycling and trekking, so make sure to include in your Ladakh tour packages . Its vigorous terrains and scenic beauty all around has captured the hearts of many.

Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary

Also fondly referred to as Ladakh’s wintry paradise, the Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary is every wildlife lover’s go-to haunt. Sprawling across 16,000 massive feet, the sanctuary is home to some of the best and rarest animals, plants and birds in the Ladakh region and must include this place in your Le Ladakh tour packages . A smattering of alpine lakes, monasteries and temples can be found scattered throughout the sanctuary premises, adding to its breathtaking beauty. 

Hunder Village

Known as the “Desert Wonder of Leh,” Hunder Village is nothing less than a stunning oasis tucked amidst the cold desert of the Nubra Valley in Ladakh. Home to the exotic double-humped Bactrian camels, majestic grey sand dunes and explore Ladakh holiday packages and immense natural beauty, the village, located at an altitude of 4,000 metres above the sea level, is a magical paradise.

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Beyond Wild Places

Your guide to the wilder side of life

A Complete 10-Day Leh Ladakh Itinerary

A trip to Ladakh is undoubtedly on many intrepid travellers bucket lists. The mystical Indian Himalayan region is still one of the most underrated places on earth. Despite it being a very remote corner of the Indian subcontinent, you’ll be surprised that you can see a lot in a short time with this Ladakh itinerary.

Over 10 days, you can visit the famous Pangong Lake, ancient monasteries of Hemis and Lamayuru, the former Silk Road trading route of Nubra Valley, and crumbling palaces with panoramic views over the arid, snow-capped landscape. This itinerary I’ve put together covers the best things to do in Ladakh over 10 days based on my multiple trips to the region.

Whether you fly into Leh for a short trip or incorporate this into a longer North India adventure travelling by road, your time in Ladakh will undoubtedly be something you’ll never forget. Buckle up for some long drives, and you’ll be blown away by the incredible land forms and ancient history awaiting in Ladakh.

Disclaimer:  This post contains affiliate links which means I get a commission if you buy a product through my link at no extra cost to you. By doing so, I can keep this blog going and continue to create helpful guides for you. Read more:  Privacy Policy

When to Visit Ladakh

The best time to visit Ladakh is from mid-May until end of September . This is when the region sees its best weather with warm days and relatively mild nights. The roads and trekking routes are also guaranteed to be clear of snow during these summer months, making places easier to access.

Where to Stay in Leh

Leh is the main town and base for exploring Ladakh. The town has hundreds of accommodation choices, from homestays and hostels to high end hotels. I’d recommend picking somewhere that is comfortable for you and your budget, as you’ll be spending most of the time in this Ladakh itinerary based in Leh. Here are my top picks:

Budget:   Raybo Hostel

Budget:   Peace Guest House

Midrange:   Chandan Guest House

Midrange:   Rock Castle Residency

High-end:  Grand Dragon

Read more:   Best Places to Stay in Leh, Ladakh For All Budgets

How to Get Around Ladakh

Travelling by road is one of the best parts of any Ladakh trip. The scenery from the various road trips in the region offer jaw dropping views that you’ll want to savour every minute (even if some of the drives are long, bumpy and windy).

There are a few ways to get around Ladakh to the various sights and day trips in this itinerary. Which way you choose will depend on your budget and comfort level. However, for this 10 day itinerary, I would recommend a combination of taxis for day trips and a shared group tour for the trip to Pangong Lake and Nubra Valley (unless you want to arrange a private tour).

Here’s more specific information for each transport option:

Public bus: Public transport is a little limited in Ladakh. You’ll need a lot of time and patience if you plan on using local buses to get to all the best places. If you only have 10 days, this is not ideal. But if you have more than 10 days, check out my guide to Leh for more information on the public transport options in the region.

Taxi: This is very ideal for day trips. You can easily organise taxis in Leh to take you to Thiksey, Lamayuru, Hemis, Alchi and more. A popular day trip combining Shey, Thiksey and Hemis costs around 3700 INR (AU$70) for the day as an example. You’ll have to budget more for the drive to Alchi and Lamayuru.

Group tours: Joining group tours to Pangong Lake and Nubra Valley is a popular option. In high season from June until August, you’ll find groups leaving every day in shared taxis for 3-4 days. You can easily organise this upon arrival in Leh.

Private tours: If you want to organise all your Ladakh trip in advance, then I suggest arranging a 10 day tour through a local company in Leh. They can help arrange taxis for day trips, and a private car for Pangong Lake and Nubra Valley. I highly recommend Gonbo of Lungta Travel . He’s also the owner of Rock Castle Residency Guesthouse in Leh and can help with arranging all of this for you.

For more detailed information on these options: Comprehensive Travel Guide to Ladakh

Overview of this 10-Day Ladakh Itinerary

Day 1: Fly from Delhi to Leh

Day 2: Acclimatise in Leh

Day 3: acclimatise and explore leh town.

Day 4: Day trip to Thiksey, Hemis and Shey

Day 5: Day trip to Lamayuru and Alchi

Day 6: road trip to nubra valley via khardung la, day 7: drive to pangong lake and stay the night, day 8: return to leh, day 9: relax in leh (optional visit to stok village), day 10: fly back to delhi.

Detailed 10 Day Ladakh Itinerary

Here’s how I would spend 10 days in Ladakh, if you’re prepared to take some long driving days and want to see as much as you can in a short time.

Day 1: Delhi to Leh

If you’re opting for a quick 10-day trip to Ladakh, then it’s likely you’ll be flying into Leh from Delhi. There are frequent flights every day from Delhi to Leh, mostly in the morning hours. It’s widely considered one of the most beautiful flights in the world.

Flights are run by Air India, Vistara, SpiceJet, and IndiGo. The flight time is around 1.5 hours and can cost anywhere from 3000INR (AU$60) to 9000INR (AU$180) one way.

If you prefer to travel to Leh, Ladakh by public transport , then you can also come via Manali or Srinagar, depending on how much time you have and your trip plans. Read my guide on getting to Leh by public transport for more information.

Once you arrive in Leh, you’ll want to head straight to your accommodation and rest for the remainder of the day. The altitude will likely hit you after about 2-3 hours of being in Leh, so it’s best to relax and stay hydrated for the afternoon to adjust slowly.

Read more: 20 Best Things to Do in Delhi

Your first full day in Leh should also be considered an acclimatisation day. You may wake up on this day with a headache, shortness of breath, and fatigue, which are common symptoms when arriving in Ladakh from Delhi.

The best way to avoid getting sick and easing into the altitude is to rest as much as possible , stay hydrated, and eat regular, small meals to maintain energy.

Try not to do too much on this day, unless you’re coming from somewhere else that is around 2000m or higher. You could walk somewhere into town for dinner, if you’re feeling up to it.

You’ll still be acclimatising for at least 48 hours after arriving, so on day three you shouldn’t try to overexert yourself too much. But, you’re probably keen to get out and start exploring this beautiful mountain town. Here’s how I recommend you spend your day:

Morning: Breakfast at your guesthouse or a cafe in the main market area (my top picks include Bodhi Terrace, Bon Appetit, or Asian Corner Restaurant)

Mid-morning: Explore the Central Asian Museum and then wander around the main market

Lunch: Taste the local Tibetan food at Tibetan Kitchen

Afternoon: Explore Leh Palace and Tsemo Maitreya Temple

Dinner: Chopsticks or Wanderers Terrace

Read more: 25 Best Things to Do in Ladakh

Day 4: Day trip to Thiksey and Hemis Monasteries (plus Shey Palace if you have time)

Get ready for a day trip out to the east of town to some of the most impressive monasteries and villages of the Ladakh area. If you have patience you could get to Thiksey Monastery and Shey Palace by bus, or take a taxi for the day and visit all three places including Shey Palace.

Hemis Monastery is one of the most important in the region. It was originally established in the 17th century and is tucked into a gorge in Hemis National Park. The most impressive part of the complex is the museum, holding the most important Buddhist relics and artefacts of India.

Thiksey Monastery is an imposing monastery built in a similar style to the Potala Palace in Lhasa. The temples at the top of the gompa hold some beautiful Buddhist statues and monuments, plus the view over the valley is incredible.

Another day trip, this one longer than the day before, the drive to Lamayuru is one of the most beautiful in the region. You’ll wind through incredible moonscapes and small villages, with dramatic mountain peaks and raging rivers on either side. After about three hours, you’ll arrive in Lamayuru , the oldest monastery in Ladakh.

Built over several levels across the rocky landscape, it’s easily one of the most impressive sights. Plus, if you time your visit for the midday puja, you can sit with the monks and listen to their their chanting prayers.

On the way back to Leh, stop in at Alchi to visit the unique 1,000 year old Buddhist murals and shrines hidden off the main highway. There’s also some delicious local restaurants there, the standout being Alchi Kitchen, if you time it for a lunchtime meal.

Another few days of long drives ahead, but the scenery makes it all worthwhile. Either join a group tour or hire a private driver to take you to two of the most famous sights in Ladakh: Nubra Valley and Pangong Lake.

On this day, you’ll leave Leh and drive first up to Khardung La pass . Connecting Leh with Nubra Valley, Khardung La sits at 5,360m and was once the highest motorable road in the world (now overtaken by another road in India). It’s an essential photo op, before descending down towards Nubra Valley, the Shyok River and the Karakoram Mountains.

Once part of the old Silk Road trading route across Asia and connecting Pakistan with Tibet, Nubra Valley is a stunning place. Visit Diskit Monastery and it’s Maitreya Buddha statue, sitting high above the valley floor, with panoramic views across the eastern Karakoram Mountains.

Then, head to the village of Hunder to take a look at the double humped camels or Bactrian camels roaming the mountain backed sand dunes.

Stay overnight in either Hunder or Diskit.

Where to stay in Diskit?  Ama Guesthouse or  Himalayan Regal House Where to stay in Hunder?   Hunder Stay and Camp  or  Hunder Haven

From Diskit or Hunder drive back through the valley, and towards Pangong Lake. While the drive is quite long and arduous in some parts, keep soaking up the incredible mountain views out the window.

Pangong Lake is one of the world’s highest saltwater lakes sitting at 4,250m. It’s a sacred site for Buddhists, with almost 2/3 of the lake actually lying across the border in Tibet. It’s bright blue colour shimmering against the arid, desert-like mountains makes it an otherworldy sight that draws many visitors each year.

Stay the night on the shores of the lake. The most popular place is  Spangmik , a cluster of glamping style tents and small hotels. However, the overcommercialisation of this village has led many people to continue further to  Man  or even further to  Merak . You’ll find more laidback tents and homestays in the latter villages.

Where to stay?   Nirvana Resort  in Spangmik or Pangong Travel Camp in Man

The final long day of driving, as you head back to Leh via Changla Pass at 5,360m. You’ll likely need to relax in the afternoon in Leh after all that driving or head to one of the cafes in Leh to eat good food.

On your final day in Leh, you may not feel like driving anywhere! You can hang around the town of Leh and do some shopping in the main market area instead.

If you want to do some extra sightseeing, head to Stok village , just a half an hour drive from Leh. At the base of Stok Kangri, Stok was home to the royal family of Ladakh, the Namgyals, after they fled during the invasion of the Dogras. Check out the 71-foot Gautama Buddha statue and monastery above the village, or arrange to have lunch at Gyab-thago Heritage Homestay, where you can try a traditional Ladakhi meal in a family home.

I highly recommend heading out to Shanti Stupa for sunset, as the perfect ending to this Ladakh itinerary. Shanti Stupa is the white peace pagoda you can see north-west of the Leh bazaar on a small hilltop. It was built in 1991 with funds from the Japanese, and it offers an impressive panoramic view of town.

Flights back to Delhi from Leh tend to leave early in the morning.

Want to Go Trekking in Ladakh?

You’ll need to allow a minimum of two weeks in Leh if you want to add a trek to this itinerary. Otherwise, you could skip the day trips to Lamayuru and Hemis if you were really short on time.

The Sham Valley Trek is a three day moderate trek that could be easily added onto this itinerary. The highest point of the trail is just under 4000m, so it’s doable for those with limited time.

If you preferred something longer and more challenging, the Markha Valley Trek is a five day trek that goes over 5000m. I’d recommend undertaking this trail after spending a week in Ladakh or longer, to ensure you’re properly acclimatised.

More Essential Reading for Ladakh

• Comprehensive Travel Guide to Ladakh
• Ultimate North India Itinerary: 1 Month in Kashmir, Ladakh and Himachal Pradesh
• Best Places to Stay in Leh, Ladakh For All Budgets
• 25 Best Things to Do in Ladakh
• How to Get to Leh, Ladakh By Public Transport ‘

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[…] Read more: A Detailed 10 Day Leh Ladakh Itinerary […]

Thank you author for your blog. Keep it up.

how much would be approx budget for this, assuming we start from mumbai and not delhi, and stay in budget hotels + group trips instead of prrivate

I have a budget breakdown on my Ladakh Travel Guide, so you can find prices for everything there. Accommodation can be 800-1000inr per night, three day tour to pangong and nubra can be 4500inr per person. Also depends whether you’re flying into Leh or driving.

[…] Detailed 10 Day Leh Ladakh Itinerary […]

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Discover The 10 Most Beautiful Places To See In Ladakh

Nidhi Kadere

Pangong Tso Lake

Situated at 4,350 metres above sea level this lake is famous for changing colours throughout the day. It's also well-known amongst tourists, thanks to its appearance in the Bollywood movie "3 Idiots".

Zanskar Valley

The Zanskar Valley is a bewitching destination located in the Kargil district to the east of Ladakh, around 105 km away. The semi-desert region is flanked by snow-capped mountains and sparkling clean rivers.

Khardung La, also known as Khardzong La, is one of the highest motorable roads in India at 5,602 metres. This road serves as the gateway to Shyok and Nubra Valley and offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks.

Hemis Monastery

The Hemis Monastery is one of the largest and most impressive monasteries in Ladakh and houses a library with rare manuscripts and a museum with ancient relics.

Nubra Valley

Nubra Valley in Ladakh is a beautiful destination that offers a contrast to its dry and barren surroundings. The valley is famous for its sand dunes that change colours with the seasons, making it a visual treat for visitors.

Shanti Stupa

The white-domed stupa in Leh city is a beautiful attraction that was built by His Holiness Dalai Lama in 1999. The stupa is a symbol of peace and harmony and has four Buddha statues inside.

There's a majestic palace in Leh that was built by King Sengge Namgyal in 1642 as his summer residence. Today, the palace has been converted into a museum that displays a variety of artefacts related to Ladakh's history.

Thiksey Monastery

This monastery is located at an altitude of 3,200 metres above sea level and was founded by Lama Dawa Gyeltsen. Inside, you can see a large statue of Maitreya Buddha made of copper plates.

Magnetic Hill

Near Leh town, vehicles appear to roll uphill without any external force being applied on them. This is due to gravity's apparent repulsion on metal objects, and can be experienced at an altitude of 14,000 feet.

Spituk Gompa

This small but charming monastery was founded by Lama Dawa Gyeltsen in 1645, and is located on the banks of the Indus River. It has beautiful architecture with wooden carvings that are quite impressive.

10 Mysterious Monuments From Around The World

• 14 Best Places To Visit In Ladakh
• POPULAR DESTINATIONS
• 08 November 2021
• By urja sen

Tourism is a major source of revenue for Ladakh, a union territory in northern India. The union territory is located at an elevation of 11,400 feet and is part of the larger disputed Kashmir region. it is located between the Karakoram and Himalayan mountain ranges to the north and south, respectively. The districts of Leh and Kargil make up Ladakh. There are important Buddhist sites in the area, as well as an ecotourism industry. If you are thinking about a hill vacation then Ladakh is the Best Places To Visit. Below we are going to discuss the best  Places To Visit In Ladakh .

Major Places To Visit In Ladakh are Leh:

Leh is the union territory of Ladakh’s joint capital and largest town in India. Leh, located in the Leh district, was also the historical capital of the Kingdom of Ladakh, with its seat in the Leh Palace, the former residence of Ladakh’s royal family, built in the same style and around the same time as Tibet’s Potala Palace. At 3,524 meters above sea level, Leh is linked to Srinagar in the southwest via National Highway 1 and Manali in the south via the Leh-Manali Highway. Leh is one of the famous best  Places To Visit In Ladakh . 

Also Read: TO BEST 16 PLACES TO VISIT IN UTTAR PRADESH

2. Pangong Lake :

At an elevation of 4,500 meters, the Pangong Tso is an endorheic lake that spans eastern Ladakh and western Tibet. The five sub lakes that make up the 134 km long lake are Pangong Tso. Tibet China makes up about half of the overall length of the lake, which is 5 kilometers wide at its widest point. It covers a total distance of 604 kilometers. The lake freezes completely during the winter, despite the fact that it is saline water. It has a landlocked basin separated from the Indus River basin by a small elevated ridge, but it is thought to have once been a part of the latter. Pangong Lake is one of the favorite Places To Visit In Ladakh.

3. Drass or Dras valley :

Drass is a hill station in India’s union territory of Ladakh’s Kargil district. It is located on the NH 1 (previously known as the NH 1D before all national highways were renumbered) between Zoji La pass and Kargil town. Drass is India’s coldest place and the “World’s Second Coldest Inhabited Place”. It is known as “The Gateway to Ladakh” because of its high-altitude trekking routes and tourist sites. The town is officially spelled Drass by the government. Dras is also known as “ The Gateway to Ladakh “. 

Also Read: TOP 13 BEST FAMOUS PLACES IN JAMMU

4. Nubra Valley :

Nubra, also known as Dumra, is a historical region of Ladakh that is now administered as a tehsil and subdivision in the Leh district. The Nubra and Shyok rivers cut through the inhabited areas, forming a tri-armed valley. Its Tibetan name Dumra means a “valley of flowers”.The Shyok River meets the Nubra River or Siachen River to form a large valley that separates the Ladakh and Karakoram Ranges. The Shyok River is an Indus River tributary. The average altitude of the valley is more than 10,000 feet above sea level. Traveling from Leh over the Khardungla pass is the most common way to reach this valley. Nubra Valley is one of the beautiful and famous Places To Visit In Ladakh.

5. Markha Valley :

If you enjoy camping, the Markha Valley in Ladakh is the place to be! For starters, you can hike up to Markha, Skiu, and Hankar, which are all incredible places to visit. Once you’ve reached the top, relax with some lovely tents, a bonfire, and make new friends. Don’t you think it’s a good deal? Markha Valley is one of the beautiful Places To Visit In Ladakh.

Also Read: 8 FAMOUS HILL STATIONS IN MAHARASHTRA FOR A PERFECT SUMMER BREAK

6. Spituk Monastery :

Spituk Monastery is a Buddhist monastery located in Spituk, Ladakh. It is also known as Spituk Gompa or Pethup Gompa. The Arhat Nyimagung blessed the Spituk site. Od-de, the elder brother of Lha Lama Changchub Od, founded it when he arrived in Mary in the 11th century. He described the monastic community. When Lotsewa Rinchen Zangpo Translator arrived at that location, he predicted the formation of an exemplary religious community, and thus the monastery was named spituk. During the reign of Dharma raja Gragspa Bum-Ide, Lama Lhawang Lodos restored the monastery and introduced the Tsongkhapa stainless order, which has remained in place to this day. Spituk Monastery was the Places To Visit In Ladakh.

Basgo is a small town with 150 residents in Jammu and Kashmir, located on the Indus River in Ladakh’s Leh district. Bago Gompa is another name for it. It is a historical site known for its Basgo Monastery and Gompas, located on the hills of Leh in the northern Himalayan and Karakoram mountain ranges. Basgo is one of the beautiful Places To Visit In Ladakh .

Here are two massive statues of Maitreya Buddha and Jamyang Namgyal King.

Between the 11th and 13th centuries, the ancient temples and structures of Basgo were first documented, and they are now a UNESCO world heritage site. Because of its frail structure, the Basgo Palace has been named one of the world’s 100  most endangered heritage sites by the US World Monument Fund. 

Also Read: 11 FAMOUS PLACES TO TRAVEL IN COORG

8. Dah Hanu :

This is a more straightforward route to Kargil along the Indus River, with views of the Indus and Zanskar rivers along the way. The Hall of Fame war museum, Gurudwara Patthar Sahib, Magnetic Hill, Basgo ruins, Likir Monastery, Alchi Monastery (Ladakh’s oldest Buddhist monastery, founded in the 11th century AD, with wonderful architecture and extensive collections of thangkas), and Lamayuru Monastery are all worth visiting en route.

The villages of Dha and Hanu are located in the Dhahanu valley. Because of their lower altitude, Dha and Hanu are warmer than Leh, allowing for the cultivation of wine grapes, cherries, apricots, and walnuts. “Some households still practice polyandry…the groom pays the bride price.” Women have the ability to divorce. Dah Hanu is the Places To Visit In Ladakh.

9. Khardungla Pass:

The Nubra and Shyok Valleys in Jammu and Kashmir’s Ladakh region are famously known as the “Gateway to the Nubra and Shyok Valleys.” It is the world’s highest motorable pass. It’s packed with tourists who are passing through from Leh and stopping to take photos. Adventure bikers from all over the country and the world ride their motorcycles through this mountain pass in search of an adrenaline rush. At an elevation of 18,379 feet, Khardung La Pass is located in the Ladakh range, 40 kilometers from Leh. KHARDUNG LA PASS is one of the beautiful and famous places to  Visit In Ladakh.

Also Read: 18 BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN TAMILNADU

10: Magnetic Hill :

You will come across fascinating sights on your travels around Leh-Ladakh that will pique your interest. Magnetic Hill, a place where gravity takes a backseat, is one such sight attraction. The Magnetic Hill, about 30 kilometers from Leh, is marked by a yellow signboard that reads “The Phenomenon That Defies Gravity.” It also tells you to park your car in the Magnetic Road box, which is marked with a white point on the road. Vehicles begin moving forward at nearly 20 km/h once parked at the designated location.

Magnetic Hill is on the Leh-Kargil-Srinagar National Highway, which runs through the Trans-Himalayan region. It is one of the famous Places To Visit In Ladakh .

11. Shanti Stupa In Ladakh :

Shanti Stupa is a Buddhist religious shrine with a white dome on the hilltop of Chanspa in Ladakh, about 5 kilometers from Leh. Shanti Stupa was built in 1991 as part of the Peace Pagoda mission by Japanese Buddhist Monk Bhikshu, Gyomyo Nakamura. This stupa was constructed to commemorate the successful completion of 2500 years of Buddhist history.

This structure was constructed to promote world peace and to serve as a symbol of friendship between Japan and Ladakh.

 The holy relics of Buddha are protected and enshrined at the Shanti Stupa in Ladakh by the 14th Dalai Lama. On the panels of this stupa, there are various Buddha sculptures depicting his life stories, such as his birth, defeating devils, and death. Various Buddha sculptures depict his life stories, such as his birth, defeating devils, and death, on the panels of this stupa. Is one of the holy places to visit in Places To Visit In Ladakh.

Also Read: TOP 10 HILL STATIONS NEAR CHANDIGARH

12. Khardungla Pass :

The Khardungla pass is located at an elevation of 18,380 feet above sea level. The Leh-Khardungla pass – Nubra road is known to be one of the world’s highest roads, as well as India’s highest road. Thousands of tourists flock to Khardungla Pass because of its unique feature of being so high and powerful.

Khardungla pass attracts a large number of motorcycle riders from all over the world who come to set personal records for riding above 18,000 feet. The Indian Army has a post on the summit of Khardung-la, and the view from there is spectacular, with a wider view of the mountain ranges.

Leh valley and Leh district’s Nubra sub-division are separated by the Khardungla pass. It takes 60 to 90 minutes to drive from Leh to the Khardungla pass, depending on the weather.

To visit Khardungla Pass, one must have an Inner Line Permit/Restricted Area Permit. At North Pullu and South Pullu, the permit will be checked on both sides of the pass. The Khardungla pass also serves as a gateway to the Nubra Valley and the world’s highest battleground, the Siachen Glacier.

The village of Khardung, after which the pass is named, is located in the base of the pass, to the north of the pass. Khardungla Pass is one of the famous palaces Places To Visit In Ladakh .

13. Thiksay Monastery :

Thiksay Monastery is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Leh, Ladakh. It is the largest Gompa in central Ladakh, located atop a hill in Thiksay village, about 19 kilometers from Leh town. It is known for stupas, statues, thangkas, wall paintings, swords, and a 15-meter (49-foot) high statue of Maitreya that spans two stories of the building, making it the largest such statue in Ladakh.

This is one of the most fascinating places in Leh to visit. The Indian Army built and maintains the Hall of Fame museum, which honors Indian soldiers who died in the Indo-Pak wars and also commemorates the Army’s role in cloudburst relief in 2010. The landscape of Leh Ladakh will humble you and give you a perspective that you will carry with you for the rest of your life, whether you go on a solo trip, a group tour, or one with your better half. Those are really beautiful Places To Visit In Ladakh .

Also Read: TOP 13 BEST MUST VISIT PLACES IN MALDIVES

Ladakh, also known as the “ Land of High Passes ,” is what you might call “God’s Art.”  You’ll find a lot of information about how our brave soldiers survive in such harsh conditions in the Siachen Glacier section.

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10 Must-Visit Tourist Places in Ladakh

Sitting amidst the majestic Karakoram Range in the North and Zanskar mountains in the south, Ladakh is an incredibly beautiful cold desert in India . Encompassing snow-clad mountains, deep valleys, sparkling rivers and exciting winding roads, it is synonymous with picturesque beauty. Ladakh is blessed with some of the most popular Buddhist monasteries and palaces of royalty. It is an ideal destination for experiencing bliss in the lap of Mother Nature. Scroll down to find out – the 10 amazing tourist places in Ladakh to visit for a memorable mountain vacation.

A Quick Glance Through

• Pangong Tso Lake
• Zanskar Valley
• Khardung La
• Hemis Monastery
• Nubra Valley
• Shanti Stupa
• Thiksey Monastery
• Hemis National Park
• Tso Moriri Lake

Summer in Ladakh

Monsoon in ladakh, winter in ladakh, best time to visit leh ladakh, ladakh by air, ladakh by train, ladakh by road, delhi to ladakh, travel tips for ladakh, best tourist places in ladakh, 1. pangong tso lake.

Set at a height of 4,225 m (13,862 ft) in Eastern Ladakh, the Pangong Tso lake extends from India to Tibet. Out of the 604 sq km area of the lake, one-third part lies in India while the rest of it is in Tibet.

The brackish water of the lake freezes completely during winters where ice skaters and skiers gather during the ice skating festival.

The lake also serves as a breeding ground for many species of birds including migratory birds such as Brahmini ducks.

Pangong Tso Lake is 5 hours drive from Leh and lies on the India-China Line of Actual Control.

Indian nationals need Inner Line Permit and foreign nationals must obtain Protected Area Permit to visit the lake.

You can apply for the permit online through the official website of Leh district administration.

2. Zanskar Valley

One of the most isolated regions in Ladakh but replete with splendid natural beauty Zanskar Valley is thronged by tourists every year in the summers.

Zanskar river is popular for river rafting during summers when the weather is pleasantly warm and dry. Other adventurous activities here are trekking, rock climbing and camping.

It houses some of the finest monasteries of Ladakh such as Phugtal Monastery and Bardan Monastery.

The valley lies on the Leh-Srinagar highway and Kargil is the nearest town located at a distance of 240 km. You can hire a jeep or a car or catch a bus from Kargil to reach there.

3. Khardung La

Also known as Khardung pass, Khardung La is amongst one of the highest motorable passes in the world at an altitude of 5,359 m (17,582 ft). The highest motorable road also lies in Ladakh region going via Umling La top at an altitude of 5,883 m (19,300 ft).

Khardung La was built in the year 1976 and it was opened for visitors after 12 years in 1988. This pass is one of the most sought-after tourist places in Ladakh by adventure enthusiasts.

Situated north of Leh it is the gateway to the Shyok and Nubra valleys. Khardung pass is strategically important for India as it is used for carrying supplies to the Siachen glacier.

The splendid landscapes, pristine natural beauty and fresh unpolluted air can leave you in awe of this place.

Khardung La is accessible by road from Leh (39 km) which is connected by road from cities like Delhi and Manali. This road is closed during winters from the month of October to May.

Indian nationals need Inner Line Permit and foreigners require Protected Area Permit to visit Khardung La.

4. Hemis Monastery

Stationed atop a hill surrounded by majestic mountains , Hemis monastery is placed on the west bank of the serene river Indus, one of the important rivers in India .

The monastery is situated around 45 km away from Leh town. It was built in the year 1630 belonging to Drukpa lineage or the red sect of Buddhism.

Decorated by the colourful prayer flags fluttering to the gush of wind, the grandeur of this quaint monastery is beyond words.

Hemis monastery exemplifies the rich cultural heritage of Ladakh and is famous for the annual Hemis festival honouring Lord Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche) held every year in the month of June.

The festival is organised in the rectangular courtyard in front of the main door of the monastery. The sacred rituals performed in the festival are believed to give spiritual strength and good health.

Attracting plenty of visitors from all across the world Hemis monastery is amongst one of the most visited tourist places in Ladakh.

5. Nubra Valley

About 150 km north of Leh, the confluence of Shyok river and Nubra river forms a large valley that separates the Ladakh and Karakoram Ranges.

Perched at an altitude of 3,048 meters an exquisite marvel of nature, Nubra valley offers splendid views of harsh arid mountains, flowing rivers, sand dunes and the rugged vastness of Ladakh.

On the bank of the Shyok river lies the famous Diskit Monastery in Diskit village and the amazing sand dunes in Hunder village. Two humps bactrian camel ride is one of the must-do adventure activities in Nubra Valley.

The most convenient way to access this valley is to travel over the Khardung La pass from Leh.

In order to visit Nubra valley, Indian citizens require an  Inner Line Permit and foreign nationals are required to get a Protected Area Permit.

6. Shanti Stupa

Strategically located on a steep hill at a height of 3,609 meters in Leh, Shanti stupa is the magnum opus of Buddhist architectural excellence. Shanti stupa has been bestowed with stark tranquillity that is beyond the reach of chaos.

It was built by Japanese and Ladakhi Buddhists as part of the Peace Pagoda mission in the year 1991.

The stupa offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Overlooking the Leh palace it also offers a birds-eye view of the vibrant town of Leh.

It is considered a symbol of the ties between the people of Japan and Ladakh. Since the time the stupa was open for visitors, it has become one of the must-see tourist places in Ladakh.

A motorable road leads to the hilltop where Shanti Stupa is located or you can climb 500 steep steps to reach there if you are an adventure seeker.

7. Leh Palace

One of the noted tourist places in Ladakh, Leh Palace is a former royal palace stationed on a cliff with spectacular mountains in the backdrop.

Constructed in the 17th century by Sengge Namgyal, a Namgyal dynasty King of Ladakh the palace was later invaded by Dogra Rajputs forcing the royal family to abandon the palace.

It comprises nine storeys and each level was meant to serve different purposes during the royal days.

Perfectly hinged with the charming vistas, the royal palace offers a breathtakingly beautiful view of entire Leh town.

8. Thiksey Monastery

Thiksey monastery is perched at an altitude of 3,600 meters in Thiksey village, approximately 19 km east of Leh. It is known to be the largest monastery in central Ladakh district.

This Buddhist monastery of the Gelugpa sect of Tibetan Buddhism is famous for its unique architecture. Resembling Potala Palace in Lhasa, the monastery is referred to as ‘Mini Potala’ of India.

The monastery offers breathtaking views of Indus river and pristine Indus valley.

It also houses two-storey tall almost 49 ft statue of Maitreya (Future Buddha), which was erected to commemorate the visit of the 14th Dalai Lama to this monastery in the year 1970.

One of the other prime attractions here is Tara temple dedicated to Goddess Tara, also known as Jetsun Dölma in Tibetan Buddhism. There are 21 images of the Goddess kept in the glass-covered shelves.

9. Hemis National Park

Counted among one of the most famed tourist places in Ladakh for wildlife enthusiasts Hemis National Park is popular for its elusive snow leopards in India .

Nestled in the scenic valley of Ladakh it is the largest national park in South Asia spread over an area of 4,400 sq km. The park gets its name from the noted 400-year-old Hemis monastery.

The prime attractions for wildlife explorers and photographers in this park are snow leopards.

It is also home to many other forms of wildlife including Tibetan wolf, endangered Eurasian brown bear, red fox, Himalayan marmot and mountain weasel.

Blessed with plenty of exotic bird species, Hemis National Park is a delight for birdwatchers.

Jeeps are not allowed inside the park. You will need to go trekking to enjoy the pristine landscape and wonderful wildlife of the park.

10. Tso Moriri Lake

Tucked in the lap of scenic Rupshu valley in Changthang region of Ladakh, Tso Moriri Lake is the largest high altitude lake in India at an altitude of 4,522 meters.

The surrounding lofty mountains, shimmering blue waters of the lake and the shining summer sun come together to make it nature’s wonderland.

Tso Moriri attracts a lot of migratory birds and some rare forms of wildlife such as Tibetan wolf, marmot.

The lake remains mostly frozen during peak winters from December to March. The best time to visit Tso Moriri Lake is during summers from the months of May to September.

You will need to get an Inner Line Permit (Indian citizens) or a Protected Area Permit (Foreign nationals) to visit this lake as it is very close to the Line of Actual Control.

Ladakh Weather

Ladakh experiences summer season from the month of May to August when the temperature ranges from less than 5 degrees at night to a maximum of 25 degrees in daylight.

The warmest month is June-July when snow caps melt and tourists flock to Ladakh to enjoy the spectacular natural beauty of this region.

Though the days are sunny during summers but the sun is very harsh sometimes and prolonged exposure to sunlight can lead to sunburn and skin damages.

This is the time when you can get a flavour of Ladakhi culture as many local festivals and events are celebrated during summers.

Rainy season kicks in from the month of August. Falling under the rain shadow of the Himalayas, rainfall in this region is quite low from drizzling to light rains.

Monsoon in Leh Ladakh adds to the charming beauty of the region and the entire landscape looks absolutely stunning.

There are incidents of landslides and rock breaks during monsoon. So, plan your trip with the necessary precautions.

The sky is clear and pristine blue when it’s not raining but nights still carry the winter chill. Days are pleasant with temperatures varying from 20-22 degrees.

Winter starts knocking from the month of September and the early winter season continues till November.

It becomes freezing cold at night while days could still be bright with sunshine during the early winters.

Mercury starts dropping below zero degrees with the temperature hovering around -20 degrees at night from December till February.

This is the time when Ladakh region begins to experience snowfall and many tourist places are closed for visitors. It feels chilly during March also but relatively better than the peak winter months (December – February).

April is when it starts getting warmer with temperatures hovering around 10-12 degrees in the daytime. Summers arrive after that and it is the time of the year when visitors rush to see the famous tourist places in Ladakh.

Perched at a great altitude ranging from 3,000 meters in Kargil to more than 8,000 meters in Karakoram, Ladakh experiences freezing cold and dry weather for most of the year. So, the best season to visit Ladakh is during summers from the months of May to August.

How To Reach

Kushok Bakula Airport located in Leh is the nearest airport and is well linked to the major airports in India such as Srinagar, Delhi. You can hire taxis available outside the airport for onward journey.

Leh airport falls under a high-security zone. It is recommended to have all required documents including printed air tickets ready beforehand.

The nearest railway station is in Jammu Tawi 712 km away from Ladakh. There are direct trains to Jammu Tawi from cities such as Delhi, Mumbai and Chennai.

Other nearest railheads are located in Kalka (756 km), Pathankot (760 km) and Chandigarh (766 km). You can hire a cab from any of these stations to reach Leh.

Ladakh is accessible by road via Leh – Srinagar Highway and Leh – Manali Highway. Both the routes are open from May to September.

Spanning across 434 km, Leh – Srinagar is one of the most scenic routes covering Sonmarg, Zozi la, Drass, Kargil, Mulbek, Lamayaru, Saspol and then comes Leh.

Leh – Manali Highway is a 490 km long route covering Rohtang Pass, Gramphu, Kokhsar, Sissu, Tandi, Keylong, Jispa, Darcha, Baralacha La, Sarchu, Gata Loops, Tanglang La, Upshi and Karu before reaching Leh.

You can hire a jeep or taxi and choose any of the two routes to reach Leh. Government buses also ply daily at regular intervals from Manali and Srinagar Leh.

Adventure enthusiasts can travel by bike also which are easily available on rent at Srinagar and Manali.

Delhi (1,000 km) is the nearest metropolitan city to Leh. The best way to reach Ladakh from Delhi is by flight. There are many direct flights from Delhi which take a little over 1 hour to reach Leh.

By train, the closest railhead to Delhi is Jammu Tawi. Some of the trains operating from Delhi to Jammu are New Delhi-Jammu Tawi Rajdhani Express, Jammu Tawi Express and Jammu Mail. It is almost 18 hrs drive from Jammu to Leh via Leh – Srinagar highway.

• Many famous tourist places in Ladakh (such as Pangong Tso Lake, Nubra Valley, Khardun La, Tso Moriri Lake) are close to Sino-Indian Border and entry is not allowed without the permit.
• Plan at least 4-5 nights trip with enough room to settle and acclimate to weather conditions.
• Avoid alcohol consumption as it can cause dehydration.
• Woolen Sweatshirt, Pullover
• Inner thermals
• Windcheater jacket
• Trekking pants or trouser
• Caps for protection against direct sunlight
• Hand gloves if travelling in winters
• Choose well-fitting shoes – sports shoes or comfortable trekking shoes.
• Sunglasses for protecting your eyes against the reflection of sunlight.
• Carry enough drinking water.
• Get a first aid kit in your backpack for treating minor injuries and high altitude sickness in case of any medical emergency.

Over To You Now…

Ladakh is a gateway to the unspoiled world of the Himalayas offering experiences ridden with sheer thrill and excitement.

Have you visited these amazing tourist places in Ladakh? Share your experiences with us in the comment section below.

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About the author.

A passionate traveler, nature and wildlife enthusiast, Rashmi loves to explore places filled with natural beauty. She believes there is nothing more fulfilling than wandering in nature. She is here to show you beautiful places around the world, from the most popular to the most offbeat spots.

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Top 10 places to visit in Ladakh

There are very few places in the world as enchanting as Ladakh. Its mountainous landscapes, shiny blue lakes, and scenic road journeys have been luring travelers from around the world.

Alluring beauty aside, there are plenty of attractions, right from beautiful monasteries and elegant palaces to quaint villages and High Mountain passes. Want to know which of these amazing places should be on your bucket list? Check out our cherry-picked list of the top 10 places to visit in Ladakh.

Sitting on a top of a hill, Leh palace is one of the finest examples of medieval Tibetan architecture. It’s often compared to the world-famous Potala Palace in Lhasa. Made of stones, wood, mud, and sand, the walls of the palace provide warmth in winters and create a cool ambiance in summers.

The interiors are adorned with crowns, ceremonial dresses, jewelry, and artistic paintings, some as old as 450 years and made from colors derived from powdered stones and gems. Murals etched on the walls depict glory days of the past.

If that’s not fascinating enough, the palace provides spectacular views of the surrounding mountain range and the valley below.

Location: Leh How to get there: Leh Palace is a short walk uphill from Leh Market. Alternatively, you can drive up to the entrance.

Shanti Stupa

Shanti Stupa is a white-domed monument built on top of a steep hill facing snow-capped peaks. It was made by Japanese Buddhists along with the locals to celebrate 2500 years of Buddhism and as a symbol of peace. The stupa holds a golden Buddha statue and images of his birth and death.

Being at a vantage point, the stupa affords unadulterated views of the valley below. Lit up at night, it acquires a beauty of its own. If you want to witness a magical sunrise or sunset, there is no better place than this.

Location: Leh How to get there: You can go by car up to its entrance.

Sangam at Nimmu

On the way to Leh, along the Srinagar-Leh highway lies the Sangam, a confluence of two rivers at Nimmu. It is a point where the emerald waters of the Indus merge with the brownish waters of Zanskar. It makes for a spectacular sight.

Location: Sham Valley How to get there: It is 33 km from Leh by road

Lamayuru Monastery

A quaint village between Kargil and Leh, Lamayuru is known for its moon-like terrain, earning it the nickname “Moonland”.

Legend has it that a lama named ‘Naropa’ walked this land when it was submerged underwater. On his request, the water receded, letting him establish the monastery which is now the famed “Lamayuru Monastery”

One of the most beautiful monasteries in Ladakh, its interiors are embellished with jaw-dropping paintings and frescoes. A cave next to the prayer hall has statues of Naropa and his disciples, one of the highlights of this shrine.

Perched on a hill, the monastery also offers unparalleled views of the moonscapes around it.

Location: Lamayuru (Leh-Srinagar Highway) How to get there: It is 116 km from Leh by road.

Khardunga La Pass

Imagine what it would feel like to be on top of the world. No, we are not talking about the arduous climb to Everest. On the way to Nubra valley, a popular destination in Ladakh lies Khardung La pass – the world’s highest motorable road. It’s located at a staggering altitude of 18,380 feet.

Stopping here for tea and admiring the surreal snow-covered landscape around is on the bucket list of everyone who travels to Ladakh. Everything from rocks to roads to mountains is draped in snow. It almost feels like a winter wonderland.

The steep and rugged terrain, winding roads, furious winds, and unpredictable weather mean you will earn bragging rights for making it this far. No wonder, it’s a rite of passage amongst bikers, cyclists, and travel junkies.

Note: Being at such a high altitude, you cannot stop there for more than 20 minutes. The oxygen levels are very low, so don’t linger around for too long.

Location: Khardung La Top How to get there: It is 40 km from Leh city by road.

Sand Dunes at Hunder

What if we told you one of the best experiences in Ladakh is lying in the desert and gazing at a million stars. You wouldn’t believe us right? After all, who expects to find a desert atop the Himalayas? Most of you may not be aware that Ladakh is actually a high-altitude desert. It’s more than evident at the super scenic Nubra valley.

One of the most popular attractions in this valley is the village of Hunder. Every year, this place is swarmed with thousands of travelers, who come to witness sand dunes wrapped around by golden brown mountains.

The desert is also home to the double-humped Bactrian Camel, a rare species found only in this region of Ladakh. A ride on the backs of these sturdy animals is surely one of the most memorable experiences to have.

Location: Nubra Valley How to get there: It is 120 km from Leh by road.  

Straddling borders with Pakistan, Turtuk is the closest village to the LOC that tourists are permitted to visit. The landscape here changes dramatically with barren wastelands giving way to lush greenery, with an abundance of apricot and peach fields.

Inhabited by a Muslim population, this quaint village is one of the last towns in India to have a prominent Balti culture. Try the delicious Balti cuisine here, especially the apricot-based stew.

With its serene ambiance, scenic vistas, and the aquamarine waters of river Shyok meandering through the village, Turtuk is as heavenly as it gets. Being an offbeat place, you can soak up this beauty all by yourself.

Location: Nubra Valley How to get there: It is 205 km from Leh by road.

Pangong Tso Lake

Ladakh is home to many high-altitude lakes, but none can match the grandeur of Pangong Tso. Brought to the limelight by the movie “3 idiots”, it’s now the most popular destination in Ladakh.

Flanked by mountains of brownish hues, walking along the banks of the azure blue lake is akin to living postcards in reality. Its uniqueness though lies in the changing shades of the lake as the day progresses. Be ready to whip out your cameras and catch this mystic phenomenon live. At night, watch the sky blanketed by a million stars as you camp next to the lake.

Come night or day, there is always magic in the air at Pangong.

Location: Tso Pangong, Changthang plateau How to get there: It is 160 km from Leh by road.

Hemis Monastery

Hemis monastery is the largest monastery in Ladakh. It’s widely known for playing host to the popular Hemis festival every June. Its exquisite architecture, serene surroundings, and views of neighboring mountains make it a must-visit on your Ladakh trip.

The monastery has one of the rarest collections of Thangka paintings, murals, Buddhist scriptures, and stupas made of gold and silver. The walls are also covered with paintings of Buddha.

If you happen to visit during festival time, you can see masked dancers performing, listen to traditional music, watch people strolling about in colorful attires, and gorge on delicious local cuisine.

Location: Off Karu, on the Leh-Manali highway How to get there: It is 44 km from Leh by road.

Tso Moriri is Pangong’s alter ego, similar in its bluish complexion and astounding beauty. Located higher than Pangong Lake, its remoteness means, it’s visited by fewer tourists, and therein lies its appeal.

With brownish mountains towering over it on one side and lush green countryside on the other, it is like staring at a live oil painting.

Bird enthusiasts have another reason to cheer, as the lake attracts a number of migratory birds, right from seagulls, Brahmin ducks, and geese to the rare and elusive black-necked cranes.

For a more immersive experience, you can camp at Korzok village, in the vicinity of the lake.

Location: Korzok Village, Changthang Plateau How to get there: It is 220 km from Leh by road.

Do remember to also read The 5 Best Travel Routes to Ladakh & 10 Spectacular Lakes in Ladakh.

To conclude, if you would like to customize and personalize a trip to Ladakh. We can tailor-make a plan using the above places.

10 Best Places to Visit in Ladakh

A dream destination for all those who love to travel, Ladakh is a beautiful amalgam of extraordinary scenic beauty, culture, spirituality, adventure, and great hospitality. It’s a land like no other that has long impressed travelers with its surreal landscapes, towering Himalayas, and breathtaking climate. Ladakh is a real feast for the senses, with pictures and videos simply doing no justice to the scenic bliss and the tranquil vibe that the place offers. You have to go and experience it for yourself to truly understand the real Ladakh . This tiny slice of paradise has something for everyone and surprises all with many unusual places that can’t be found elsewhere. 

Take a look at the  10 Best Places to Visit in Ladakh  that deserve a place in every traveler’s diary:

Royal Leh Palace

The 7th century  Royal Leh Palace , perched on the top of the deserted Tsemo Hill , is one of the  best places to visit in Ladakh . Though, almost in ruins now, the  Royal Leh Palace  still stands in pride as a testimony to Ladakh’s  splendid heritage.

The intriguing medieval Tibetan architecture is an additional perk of visiting this palace. The dun-coloured nine-storey palace now houses a museum and a prayer room, while the highlight is the breathtaking panoramic view of  Leh  and the surrounding Zanskar mountain from the rooftop. The interiors of  Royal Leh Palace  are embellished with ancient mural paintings that speak of its golden bygone era.

Shanti Stupa

Shanti Stupa  is yet another awe-inspiring place you should not miss while visiting  Ladakh . What makes this white domed shaped  Shanti Stupa  worth visiting is that it is a religious place for the Buddhists that holds the relics of  Lord Buddha , consecrated by the 14th Dalai Lama.

The walls of  Shanti Stupa  have gilt panels that depict the life of  Lord Buddha . The view the place offers of the whole of  Leh  and the nearby  Changspa village  is just mind-blowing.  Shanti Stupa  is a perfect getaway for those seeking peace from offering prayers to God and for those who wish to get mesmerized by nature’s wondrous beauty. 

Pangong Tso Lake

Pangong Tso Lake  is no doubt one of the most popular tourist attractions in  Ladakh . It is so famous among tourists as  Ladakh Lake , the picturesque spot where the Bollywood movie “3 Idiots” was shot.

Blessed with breathtaking surroundings, it is one of  Asia’s largest saltwater lakes . A unique feature of the  Pangong Tso Lake  is that it changes colours from azure to light blue to green and grey throughout the year or even the day. This extraordinary Lake turns rock solid and becomes the venue of ice skating festival during the winter season. Furthermore, the peace and tranquility of the Lake make you want to stay for long. 

Thiksey Monastery

Thiksey Monastery  is considered to be the largest and one of the most beautiful Buddhist monasteries in all of  Ladakh . This 12-storey complex is noted for its amazing architecture and houses several stupas, statues, and many items of Buddhist art and artefacts.

Snuggled between the cold deserts of  Leh and Ladakh , its mesmerizing location offers jaw-dropping panoramic views with the  Zanskar mountain range  in the backdrop. The main attraction of  Thiksey Monastery  is the  Maitreya Temple  which houses a 15-metre tall  Maitreya Buddha statue . It is the largest such statue in  Ladakh  and covers two-storeys of the building.

Khardung-La pass

Khardung-la Pass  is quite popular among adventure and motorbiking enthusiasts. It is one of the highest motorable roads in the world placed at an elevation of 5359 m above the sea level and popularly known as the ‘Gateway to Nubra and Shyok Valleys’.

Himalayans and Cruisers are considered to be the best means to travel Khardung-la Pass , to experience the rugged beauty of the journey. Khardung-la Pass  is also used by the Indian Army to carry supplies to the Siachen Glacier . From the top the views are incredible. 

Zanskar Valley

Undoubtedly one of the  best places to visit in Ladakh ,  Zanskar Valley  is known for its pristine and picturesque landscape with wonderful Tibetan-style monasteries, surrounded by snow-capped mountainous peaks. The sparkling river with azure blue waters is a bewitching sight that adds to the beauty of the Valley. 

Zanskar Valley  is often frequented by adventure enthusiasts for trekking and river rafting. The easiest way to reach  Zanskar Valley  is from  Kargil  through  Suru Valley . But due to heavy rainfall, it is cut off from the rest of the world for over 9 months of the year. So, during the winter months of December to February, the only way of reaching Zanskar Valley is to undertake the challenging  Chadar Trek .

Hemis National Park

Hailed as the “Snow Leopard Capital of India”,  Ladakh’s Hemis National Park  is best known for sheltering the highest density of snow leopards in the world. Besides, it is home to 73 bird species and 16 mammal species as per records.

What makes  Hemis National Park  exceptional is the fact that apart from inhabiting the famed snow leopard, it is the only national park in the northern regions of the  Himalayas . It was established in 1981 and offers a great place to spot snow leopards. 

N ubra Valley

The paradisiacal  Nubra Valley  is famed for its white sand deserts and double-humped camels (Bactrian camels). The scenic slopes of the Karakoram range along with the confluence of Shyok and Siachen rivers make  Nubra valley  an exquisite voyage.

It’s an awesome place to admire nature’s bewitching sceneries and to indulge in  Bactrian camel rides . The peacefulness of this enchanting valley is so refreshing to be experienced. 

Chadar Trek

Embark on the 6 days Chadar Trek to encounter a true spine-chilling experience. Also known as  The Frozen River Expedition , it is one of the most unique and challenging treks in India.

What makes the  Chadar Trek  so unique is the fact that the trek is along the frozen  Zanskar River  that freezes in the winter season. It usually takes place during the latter part of January till the end of February or even lasts till the first week of March, depending on the weather. The thick layer of ice that the  Zanskar River  forms resemble a white blanket which in the local language is called  Chadar.  Hence the trek along the frozen  Zanskar River is named as the Chadar Trek .

Magnetic Hill

The  Magnetic Hill  is actually a gravity hill, known for its unique forces that supposedly operate contrary to the law of gravity.

You can see here vehicles defying the force of gravity and moving upwards on the hill when parked at the marked location. However, it is nothing but an optical illusion but surely worth experiencing. This gravity-defying Magnetic Hill  is perched at an altitude of 14,000 feet above sea level, right on the  Leh-Kargil-Srinagar national highway. 

If you haven’t visited Ladakh yet, just drop everything and go now to treat yourself to an unforgettable vacation of a lifetime!

Book a trip to  India  with  South Tourism  and make sure to add these Best Places to Visit in Ladakh to your travel bucket list for this summer!

South Tourism  offers you the best  India holiday packages  and customized  tour packages  to treat you with an unforgettable vacation in Incredible India.

Comment below which of these ‘Places in Ladakh’ you’d like to visit!

Also, let us know in the comments below any other ‘ Places in Ladakh’  that you know can be the best choice to visit other than our pick.

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Top 10 Tourist Places To Visit In Ladakh 2024

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Divided into three main regions - Leh, Nubra, and Zanskar, Ladakh is one of the most magical places in the world that is home to spectacular tourist attractions. With unmatched travel experiences and breathtaking tourist places in Ladakh, there are a lot of hidden surprises in the surreal landscape of this cold region. Ladakh is one of the best trekking destinations in India and also amazes tourists with an array of exciting opportunities such as mountaineering, mountain biking, white water rafting, and more.

Top 10 Tourist Places To Visit In Ladakh

The tourist season begins from the month of May, however, the best time to explore these mesmerizing places to visit in Ladakh is anytime between July to September as there is barely any rain in this high altitude region and the weather is not too cold. Plan your trip accordingly because winters in Ladakh are bone-chilling and unbearable. Here are some of the spellbinding tourist attractions of Ladakh for a memorable travel experience. Take a look!

• Zanskar Valley
• Nubra Valley
• Pangong Tso
• Magnetic Hill
• Spituk Gompa
• Hemis National Park
• Hemis Monastery
• Khardung La Pass
• Umling La Pass

1. Zanskar Valley

One of the finest trekking, paragliding, and river rafting spots in Ladakh, Zanskar Valley is famous for its surreal landscapes that captivate adventure enthusiasts and tourists. Zanskar Valley is located in the Kargil district and is about 105km away from Leh. Besides popular treks such as Lamayuru to Darcha, Lamayuru, Padum trek, there are Zongla, Zongkhul, Strongdey monasteries that are thronged by tourists. Snow-covered mountains and sparkling rivers of Zanskar offer the most tranquil vibes that are refreshing for travelers. Due to heavy snowfall, Zanskar remains secluded from the rest of the country for more than 9 months a year. Therefore, the best time to travel this beautiful valley is anytime between the months of June to September.

2. Nubra Valley

Known as the Orchard of Ladakh , Nubra Valley is one of the most verdant valleys in the snow-covered landscape of Ladakh. Situated about 150km from Leh, Nubra is positioned between Tibet and Kashmir. No wonder, Nubra is one of the spectacular places to visit in Ladakh as it has the best of both places. Home to many famous monasteries of Ladakh and paradisiacal landscape akin to Kashmir, it has the charm of both worlds. Another high point of the region is the Bactrian camels that are found only in the Hunder region of Nubra. Riding the two-humped camels is one of the unique experiences in Nubra Valley for tourists.    

3. Pangong Tso

With no evident outlet, Pangong Tso is one of the most stunning endorheic lakes and the highest brackish water lakes in the world. Situated at an altitude of 4350 meters, Pangong Lake is approximately 134km long and extends from India to China. Another fascinating feature of Pangong Tso is that the pristine water of the lake keeps changing colors with the rays of the Sun. From the hues of blues to green to grey, the colors keep changing with the hours of the day. The magnificent mountain range running through the lake draws a vivid backdrop for the pictures. Along with the most delightful photo shoot, one can enjoy camping on the banks of this beautiful lake which is about 220km away from Leh. 

4. Magnetic Hill

Lying on the Leh-Kargil highway, this tourist attraction of Ladakh is just 30 km from Leh. The enchantment of Magnetic hill in Ladakh beckons many travelers with its mystifying facts. This popular Ladakh tourist place is a gravity hill that pulls vehicles towards it, defying the force of gravity. Magnetic hill is the high point of Ladakh Tourism as travelers love to visit this spot to witness the mind-boggling scene of cars going upwards without ignition. The locals believe that Magnetic Hill possesses superpowers and is considered to be the road leading to heaven. Some belief it to be an optical illusion, theories are many and you gotta visit Magnetic Hill to believe what you experience.

Also Read: Magnetic Hill: The Beautiful But Strange Natural Wonder Of Ladakh

5. Spituk Gompa

Just about 8km from Leh, Spituk Gompa is one of the most significant Monasteries of Ladakh which is popular for its mammoth size Kali statue. This famous monastery in Ladakh hosts an annual Gustor festival when this statue is displayed in public along with various delightful ceremonies that are a treat to watch. Besides witnessing the 11th-century Monastery, one can also catch a sight of a wide collection of artifacts, ancient masks, antique pieces, and Buddhist paintings called Thangkas in a museum that is very much on the premises of Spituk Monastery itself. It’s a place where Buddhist culture can be witnessed in full glory as it is home to a large number of Monks.   

The second largest town in Ladakh after Leh, Kargil lies in the center of the Suru River valley. Known as the Land of Agas , Kargil is in close proximity to the Line of Control with Pakistan. It became a popular tourist spot of Ladakh after the Indo-Pak war in 1999 which is etched in the history of our nation as the Kargil War. Perched at the high altitude, the routes to Kargil remain closed during winters due to heavy snowfall and unbearable climatic conditions. The best time to visit Kargil is somewhere between May and June. Drass War Memorial is one of the top attractions of Kargil while there are many Monasteries that are worth witnessing.

7. Hemis National Park

Home to a large number of snow leopards, Hemis National Park is the largest and highest National Park in India. With global recognition of preserving snow leopards, Hemis National Park is one of the most recommended tourist places in Ladakh that is marked with a big number of wildlife enthusiasts and tourists. Endangered species like Eurasian brown bear, red fox, Tibetan wolf, mountain weasel can also be spotted in this national park of Ladakh. Besides, there are some rare species of birds nested in the park which makes it a paradise for bird watchers.

8. Hemis Monastery

Situated 55 km from Leh, Hemis Monastery is another marvelous tourist place in Hemis Village of Ladakh that is visited by a large number of Buddhists as well as tourists from all over the world. The antiquity of this famous monastery of Ladakh is much before the 11th century and the statue of Lord Buddha inside the monastery looks totally divine and attractive. More than a thousand monks have an abode in the Hemis Monastery where one can catch a glimpse of Buddhist culture and heritage. Another attraction is the Hemis Museum shop where tourists can buy souvenirs and local handicrafts.

9. Khardung La Pass

A mountain pass in the Leh district, Khardung La Pass is the highest motorable pass in the world that lies at an altitude of 5602m. The gateway to the Nubra and Shyok Valleys, Khardung La Pass is about 40km away from Leh. The spectacular vistas of snow-covered Himalayan ranges and criss-cross roads make it an ideal spot for a photoshoot. Indian tourists need an Inner Line Permit and International tourists need a Protected Area Permit to visit Khardung La Pass, so make sure you have all the formalities done much in advance before embarking on the most enduring road trip on the world’s highest motorable road.

Also Read: Top 34 Family Holiday Places to Visit in India

10. Umling La Pass

Located at an altitude of 19,300ft, Umling La Pass connects Chisumle and Demchok villages that are in close proximity to the Indo-China border. Another great feat for Bikers and road trippers, this region in Ladakh is more off-beaten than others. With no trace of civilization, the 86km long drive on Umling La Pass is hair-raising and adrenaline-pumping. Umling La Pass has not made it to the Google map tracker yet, however, it is said that this exhilarating road can surpass Khardung La Pass which is considered the highest motorable road in the world. One needs prior training and a fitness regime before hitting the road on Umling La Pass .  

Read More: Places To Visit In Ladakh

The spectacular beauty of tourist places in Ladakh beckons many travelers who wish to revel in the lap of the mighty Himalayas and open skies. Book your flight tickets, hotels, and tour packages with Adotrip to get exciting offers and a memorable experience of course!

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Frequently asked questions about ladakh tourist places to visit.

Q: What are the Ladakh tourist places to visit with family? A: Some of the Ladakh tourist places to visit with family include

• Pangong Tso Lake
• Shanti Stupa
• Thiksey Monastery

Q: What are the famous places in Ladakh to visit with friends? A: Some of the famous places in Ladakh to visit with friends include Zanskar Valley

• Tso Moriri Lake
• Spituk Monastery

Q: What are the tourist attractions in Ladakh? A: Some of the tourist attractions in Ladakh include

Q: What are the popular places in Ladakh for a solo trip?

A: Some of the popular places in Ladakh for a solo trip include

• Diskit Monastery
• Turtuk Village
• Chadar Trek
• Stok Kangri Trek

Q: What are the beautiful places in Ladakh for a honeymoon? A: Some of the beautiful places in Ladakh for a honeymoon include Pangong Tso Lake

Q: What are the places to visit in Ladakh in winter? A: Some of the places to visit in Ladakh in winter include

Q: What are the Ladakh famous places to visit in monsoon? A: The monsoon season in Ladakh is considered off-season for tourism due to the heavy rainfall and landslides. However, if someone still wants to visit, some famous places to visit in Ladakh in monsoon are Leh, Diskit Monastery, Hemis Monastery, and Alchi Monastery.

Q: What are the tourist places in Ladakh in summer? A: Some of the tourist places in Ladakh in summer include

--- Published By  Adotrip

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Top 7 Places To Visit In Ladakh

L adakh, a high-altitude desert region in the Indian Himalayas, is a land of rugged beauty and serene landscapes and boasts some of the most breathtaking places to explore. Ladakh is a Union Territory, earlier, it was a part of the state of Jammu and Kashmir. It is bordered by the Karakoram Mountains to the north, the Zanskar Range to the west, and the Himalayas to the south. One can hardly resist the attraction of these charming destinations. The region is home to snow-capped mountains, azure lakes, and ancient Buddhist monasteries. Visitors can go trekking, camping, and white-water rafting in Ladakh, or simply relax and soak up the scenery.

Here are the 7 best places to visit in Ladakh:

• Pangong Tso Lake (171 km from Leh, 434 km from Ladakh)

Pangong Tso Lake is a high-altitude lake located in the Ladakh region of India. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Ladakh, known for its stunning beauty and clear waters. The lake is situated at an altitude of 14,000 feet (4,270 meters) and is surrounded by snow-capped mountains. It is a popular spot for camping, boating, and fishing. It is a popular spot for activities such as boating, camping, and fishing.

• Nubra Valley (120 km from Leh, 354 km from Ladakh)

Nubra Valley is a beautiful valley located in the Ladakh region of India. It is known for its stunning scenery, including the snow-capped mountains, the Indus River, and the sand dunes. The valley is also home to a number of Buddhist monasteries, including the Diskit Monastery and the Hunder Monastery.

• Leh Palace (2 km from Leh city center)

The Leh Palace is a historical palace located in the Leh city of Ladakh. It is the former seat of the royal family of Ladakh and is now a popular tourist destination. The palace is built in the Tibetan architectural style and offers stunning views of Leh City and the surrounding mountains.

• Khardung La Pas (39 km from Leh)

Khardung La Pas is the highest motorable road in the world, located in the Ladakh region of India. It is situated at an altitude of 18,380 feet (5,602 meters) and is a popular spot for adventure enthusiasts. The pass offers stunning views of the Ladakh Mountains and the Indus River Valley.

• Hemis Monastery (40 km from Leh)

Hemis Monastery is a large Buddhist monastery located in the Leh district of Ladakh. It is the largest monastery in Ladakh and is home to a number of important Buddhist artifacts, including a statue of the Maitreya Buddha. The monastery is a popular tourist destination and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

• Alchi Monastery (130 km from Leh)

Alchi Monastery is a 12th-century Buddhist monastery located in the Leh district of Ladakh. It is one of the oldest and most important monasteries in Ladakh and is known for its intricate wood carvings and murals. The monastery is a popular tourist destination and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

• Tso Moriri Lake (280 km from Leh)

Tso Moriri Lake is a high-altitude lake located in the Ladakh region of India. It is one of the most remote and pristine lakes in Ladakh and is known for its clear waters and stunning scenery. The lake is situated at an altitude of 15,000 feet (4,572 meters) and is surrounded by snow-capped mountains. It is a popular spot for camping, bird-watching, and hiking.

These are only a few of the amazing locations to visit in Ladakh. With its stunning scenery, rich culture, and mesmerizing history, Ladakh is a truly unique and unforgettable destination.

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