Top Sights
Leh Palace
Leh Palace
Leh Palace is a former royal palace overlooking the town of Leh. Built in the 17th century, it resembles the Potala Palace in Lhasa, Tibet. The palace offers panoramic views of Leh and the surrounding mountains.
Explore the nine stories of the palace, some of which house ancient murals and artifacts. The climb to the top can be tiring, but the views are worth the effort. Imagine the royal family living here centuries ago.
Wear comfortable shoes as there is a fair amount of walking and climbing involved. Photography is allowed inside, but flash photography may be restricted in some areas.
Hours: 08:00-17:00 daily
Best Time: Morning - for better lighting and fewer crowds
Getting There: Located in Leh town; easily accessible by taxi or on foot from the main market.
Honest Take: Skip if you have mobility issues. Worth it for the views and history.
Insider Tip:
Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds and get the best light for photography.
Shanti Stupa
Shanti Stupa
Shanti Stupa is a white-domed Buddhist monument built in 1991 by Japanese Buddhist monks. It symbolizes world peace and prosperity. The stupa offers breathtaking views of Leh and the surrounding mountains.
Climb to the top of the stupa and enjoy the panoramic views, especially during sunset. The peaceful atmosphere makes it a great place for meditation and reflection. The brightly painted panels depict the life of Buddha.
Be prepared for a steep climb if you choose to walk up. Taxis are readily available if you prefer not to climb. Remember to remove your shoes before entering the stupa.
Hours: Open daily
Best Time: Sunset - for stunning views of the surrounding landscape
Getting There: Located on a hilltop in Chanspa, Leh. Accessible by taxi or by climbing a steep set of stairs.
Honest Take: Worth a visit for the views, even if you aren't particularly interested in Buddhist monuments.
Insider Tip:
Visit during sunset for the most spectacular views.
Thiksey Monastery
Thiksey Monastery
Thiksey Monastery is one of the largest and most impressive monasteries in Ladakh. It belongs to the Gelugpa sect of Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery is known for its stunning architecture and collection of Buddhist art.
Witness the morning prayers for a truly immersive cultural experience. Explore the various temples and chapels within the monastery complex. Don't miss the Maitreya Buddha statue, a 15-meter-high golden statue.
Dress respectfully when visiting the monastery. Photography is allowed in some areas but may be restricted in others. Be mindful of the monks and other visitors.
Hours: 07:00-19:00 daily
Best Time: Morning - to witness the morning prayers
Getting There: Located about 19 km from Leh. Accessible by taxi or bus.
Honest Take: A must-see for anyone interested in Tibetan Buddhism and Ladakhi culture.
Insider Tip:
Arrive early to witness the morning prayers and avoid the crowds.
Hemis Monastery
Hemis Monastery
Hemis Monastery is the largest and wealthiest monastery in Ladakh. It is known for its rich collection of ancient artifacts and its annual Hemis Festival. The monastery belongs to the Drukpa Lineage of Tibetan Buddhism.
Visit during the Hemis Festival to witness the colorful masked dances and cultural performances. Explore the monastery's various temples and chapels, which house ancient statues, thangkas, and murals. Learn about the monastery's history and significance.
The Hemis Festival is a popular event, so book your accommodation and transport well in advance. Dress respectfully and be mindful of the local customs.
Hours: 09:00-17:00 daily
Best Time: During the Hemis Festival (June/July)
Getting There: Located about 45 km from Leh. Accessible by taxi or bus.
Honest Take: Worth the trip, especially if you can time your visit with the Hemis Festival.
Insider Tip:
If visiting during the festival, arrive early to secure a good viewing spot.
Diskit Monastery
Diskit Monastery
Diskit Monastery is the oldest and largest Buddhist monastery in the Nubra Valley. It is known for its giant Maitreya Buddha statue, which faces down the Shyok River towards Pakistan. The monastery belongs to the Gelugpa sect of Tibetan Buddhism.
Admire the impressive Maitreya Buddha statue, which offers stunning views of the Nubra Valley. Explore the monastery's various temples and chapels, which house ancient statues, thangkas, and murals. Learn about the monastery's history and significance.
The journey to Diskit Monastery involves crossing Khardung La, one of the highest motorable passes in the world. Be prepared for the altitude and potential road closures due to snow.
Hours: 07:00-19:00 daily
Best Time: Afternoon - for the best light on the Maitreya Buddha statue
Getting There: Located in the Nubra Valley, about 120 km from Leh. Accessible by taxi or bus via Khardung La pass.
Honest Take: A must-see if you are visiting the Nubra Valley.
Insider Tip:
Spend some time exploring the surrounding village of Diskit and interacting with the locals.
Magnetic Hill
Magnetic Hill
Magnetic Hill is a gravity hill where vehicles appear to roll uphill against gravity. This is an optical illusion caused by the surrounding landscape. The area is marked with a sign indicating where to stop to experience the effect.
Stop your vehicle at the designated spot and put it in neutral. Observe as your vehicle appears to roll uphill. Take photos and videos to capture the experience. Some people believe that the hill has magnetic properties that pull vehicles uphill.
The Magnetic Hill is a popular tourist spot, but it is not a guaranteed experience. The effect may vary depending on the vehicle and the weather conditions. Be cautious of other vehicles and pedestrians in the area.
Hours: Open daily
Best Time: Anytime during daylight hours
Getting There: Located about 30 km from Leh on the Leh-Kargil-Baltic National Highway.
Honest Take: A fun and quirky stop along the way to other attractions.
Insider Tip:
Try the experience with different types of vehicles to see if the effect varies.
Pangong Tso Lake
Pangong Tso Lake
Pangong Tso is a high-altitude endorheic lake located at an altitude of about 4,350 m (14,270 ft). The lake is known for its changing colors, which range from blue to green to red depending on the sunlight. Part of the lake extends into Tibet.
Enjoy the breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Take photos and videos to capture the stunning scenery. Observe the various species of birds that inhabit the area. Be prepared for the altitude and potential weather changes.
The journey to Pangong Tso is long and can be challenging due to the high altitude. Obtain an Inner Line Permit before traveling to the lake. Carry warm clothing and sunscreen.
Hours: Open daily
Best Time: Morning - to see the lake's colors change with the sunlight
Getting There: Located about 160 km from Leh. Accessible by taxi or shared jeep.
Honest Take: A must-see destination in Ladakh, but be prepared for a long and potentially uncomfortable journey.
Insider Tip:
Consider staying overnight in a camp near the lake to experience the sunrise and sunset.