Ladakh is a heaven for adventure and nature lovers. Visit ancient monasteries like Thiksey, Hemis and Diskit to immerse yourself in the rich culture of Ladakh. Explore the serene Pangong Lake and Tso Moriri, take a camel ride in the Nubra Valley, or set out on a trek and river rafting adventure. The clear night skies of Ladakh also provide spectacular stargazing opportunities for which the Indian Astronomical Observatory at Hanle is truly a unique place in India. Discover all this and much more with Ladakh Tour Packages as you explore the top 23 places to visit in leh Ladakh, each offering a distinctive blend of natural beauty, cultural richness and spiritual peace.
Pangong Lake is situated at an altitude of about 4,350 meters and is the world’s highest saltwater lake. Its bright blue waters create a wonderful contrast with the arid mountains that surround it. One-third of Pangong Lake, spread over approximately 160 km, falls within the Indian border, while the remaining two-thirds is located in China. The name of this famous lake of Leh Ladakh is derived from the Tibetan word “Pangong Tso”, which means “lake of high grasslands”.
Best time to visit: May to September
Famous for: Scenic beauty, changing color of the lake
Located: Pangong Lake is located in the Ladakh region of Jammu and Kashmir, India.
Situated at an altitude of 18,379 feet, Khardung La is one of the highest motorable roads globally, creating thrill and delight among travellers. Also known as the ‘Pass of the Lower Castle’, Khardung La gives one the feeling of being on top of the world. It serves as an inspiration for motorbike, automobile and mountain biking expeditions, establishing itself as a paradise for adventure enthusiasts. Additionally, it plays an important role in connecting Leh to Zanskar and Nubra region, making it an integral part of the entire Ladakh circuit.
Best time to visit: May to September
Famous for: Highest motorable pass, breathtaking views
Located: Khardung la Pass is located in the Ladakh region of Jammu and Kashmir, India.
Leh Palace is also known as Lhachen Palkhar and is situated atop the deserted Tsemo hill. Built in the 17th century as the former palace of the royal family of Leh, it was once one of the tallest structures with nine floors. Today, managed by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), the slightly dilapidated palace remains one of Leh’s most popular attractions, offering breathtaking views of Stok Kangri, the Ladakh mountain range and the city.
Best time to visit: May to September
Famous for: Historic palaces, stunning architecture
Located: Leh Palace is located in Leh, Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir, India.
Diskit, the administrative center of the Nubra Valley, is famous for its ancient monasteries, Diskit Gompa is the largest and oldest monastery in the valley, dating back to the 14th century. Also known as Diskit Gompa, its main attraction is the huge Maitreya Buddha statue at the top, which was inaugurated by His Highness the Dalai Lama. Situated on a hill above the plains of the Shyok River, the monastery offers a stunning panoramic view of the Nubra Valley. It was founded by Changzen Tserab Zangpo in the 14th century.
Best time to visit: May to September
Famous for: Huge Maitreya Buddha statue, panoramic view
Located: Diskit Gompa is located in the Nubra Valley of Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir, India.
Nubra Valley, the northernmost part of Jammu and Kashmir, is about 150 km from Leh. It is known as the Garden of Ladakh, its original name was dumra, which denotes the valley of flowers. Surrounded by the snow-clad Himalayan ranges, Nubra Valley is located between Tibet and Kashmir, offering a picturesque and breathtaking view. During winter, the entire valley turns into a lunar-like landscape (hence the name Moonland), while in summer it blooms with lush greenery.
Best time to visit: June to September
Famous for: Sand Dunes, Bactrian camel
Located: Nubra Valley is located in the northeastern part of Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir, India.
Tso Moriri Lake is located at an altitude of 4,522 meters (14,836 ft) in the Changthang Plateau in northern Ladakh. It is one of the highest saltwater lakes in India. The adjacent area is designated as the Tso Moriri Wetland Conservation Reserve, where camping or building on the lake shore is prohibited. This pristine blue lake offers stunning views, creating an incredibly romantic atmosphere. The presence of exotic migratory birds flying over the lake adds a heavenly touch, while the serene reflections of the surrounding mountains and hills soothe the soul.
Best time to visit: May to September
Famous for: High Altitude Lake, pristine surroundings
Located: Tso Moriri Lake is located in the Changthang region of Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir, India.
Magnetic Hill, located in Ladakh along the Leh-Kargil highway, defies gravity and mesmerizes observers with its unique phenomenon. Located 30 km from Leh City, this road pulls stationary vehicles uphill, and when the engine is turned off, the cars can actually climb up at speeds of up to 20 km/h. Referred to as ‘Mystery Hill’ and ‘Gravity Hill’, this phenomenon occurs at an altitude of 14,000 feet above sea level, where the Indus River flows on the eastern side of the hill.
Best time to visit: All year round
Famous for: Optical illusion of cars moving upward
Located: Magnetic Hill is located near Leh in the Ladakh region of Jammu and Kashmir, India.
Lamayuru Monastery serves as the primary seat of the Drikung Kagyu School of Buddhism and is one of the oldest and largest monasteries in Ladakh. Its history dates back to the 11th century when the Buddhist monk Arhat Madhyantika prophesied the establishment of a monastery at Lamayuru, which was previously a lake. Later, Mahasiddha Naropa, who had come to meditate in a nearby cave, played a role in drying up the lake, leading to the foundation of Lamayuru Monastery.
Best time to visit: June to September
Famous for: Ancient monasteries, moon-like landscapes
Located: Lamayuru Monastery is located in the Lamayuru village of Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir, India.
Shanti Stupa, a major attraction of Leh, is situated on a mountaintop, providing a panoramic view of the city and its surroundings. Built by Japanese Buddhist monks as part of the Peace Pagoda Mission, the stupa houses the remains of the Buddha. Sunrise and sunset are considered to be the best times to visit Shanti Stupa when the view of this attraction of Leh is spectacular.
Best time to visit: May to September
Famous for: Peaceful ambiance, panoramic views
Located: Shanti Stupa is located in Leh, Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir, India.
Shey Monastery or Shey Palace is located 15 km south of Leh and is an ancient monastery that offers dramatic panoramic views from its premises. Today mostly in ruins, it is situated on a hill overlooking Thiksey Monastery along the Leh-Manali Highway. Tourists often visit Shey Monastery as a day trip from Leh, and explore other nearby monasteries such as Thiksey Monastery, Hemis Monastery, Stakna Monastery and Matho Monastery.
Best time to visit: June to September
Famous for: Ancient monasteries, dramatic views
Located: Shey Monastery is located in Shey village, near Leh in Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir, India.
Turtuk is a small village in the Nubra Valley region of Ladakh, situated on the banks of the Shyok River. It is India’s northernmost village, in the Baltistan region, near the India-Pakistan border. Opened to tourists only in 2010, Turtuk offers trekking and visits to two monasteries and the Royal House. This picturesque village with its small houses and farms is amazing, being cut off from Ladakh for six months during winter.
Best time to visit: May to September
Famous for: Remote villages, cultural experiences
Located: Turtuk is located in the Nubra Valley of Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir, India.
Umling La Pass situated at an altitude of 19,300 feet, has overtaken Khardung La Pass to take the title of the highest motorable road globally. The construction of this road was a long-awaited project, and the seemingly impossible feat was realized by the Border Roads Organization (BRO) as part of “Project Himank”. If you believe that you have seen all that Ladakh has to offer in terms of adventure, then facing the Umling La Pass will undoubtedly add a new dimension to your experiences. Driving both the pass and the route leading to Umling La Pass is an exceptionally unique and memorable journey.
Best time to visit: June to September
Famous for: Highest motorable road, adventure
Located: Umling La is located in Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir, India.
Kargil, one of the two districts of the Ladakh region, is the second largest city, located at approximately equal distance (200 km) from Srinagar, Leh, Padum Zanskar and Skardu Baltistan. Historically, Kargil served as an important trade center, attracting merchants trading in tea, wool, carpets, silk and precious stones from various parts of China, Central Asia and India. Kargil again came into prominence in 1974 when it was opened to tourists, attracting a large number of tourists, trekkers and mountaineers.
Best time to visit: May to September
Famous for: Historical significance, rugged landscape
Located: Kargil is located in the Kargil district of Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir, India.
Alchi Monastery, located about 70 km from Leh on the banks of the River Indus on the way from Leh to Kargil, can be reached in just 90 minutes from Leh. Situated at an altitude of 10,200 feet, Alchi Monastery is famous for its well-preserved 11th or 12th-century wall paintings in the Indo-Himalayan style. It is an integral part of the ‘Alchi Group of Monuments’, along with Mangyu and Sumda Chun, which form a division of three villages in the lower Ladakh region. Alchi Monastery, also known as Alchi Gompa, is more than just a monastic complex; It consists of three temples: Dukhang (Assembly Hall), Sumtsek, and Manjushri Temple.
Best time to visit: June to September
Famous for: Ancient monasteries, vibrant murals
Located: Alchi Monastery is located in Alchi village, Leh district, Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir, India.
Gurudwara Pathar Sahib, located about 23 kilometers from Leh on the Srinagar-Leh Highway, is situated at an altitude of over 12,000 feet, making it one of the highest Gurudwaras globally. Built to commemorate Guru Nanak Dev’s visit to Ladakh in 1517, it has religious and tourist importance. Whether traveling from Leh to Srinagar or vice versa, visiting Gurudwara Pathar Sahib is a must. Located along the highway, it offers an opportunity to take a quick rest and pay respects.
Best time to visit: May to September
Famous for: Sikh pilgrimage sites, spiritual significance
Located: Gurudwara Pathar Sahib is located in the Leh district of Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir, India.
Sangam Point marks the confluence of the Indus and Zanskar rivers in Ladakh and is located at Nimmu, 35 km from Leh on the Leh-Srinagar Highway. The meeting point displays two rivers separately – the bright blue Indus River and the muddy green Zanskar River. The flow of rivers varies with the seasons; The Zanskar is swollen and fast in summer, while the Indus is calm. In winter, Zanskar slows down and almost freezes. The Indus River originating in Tibet is one of the longest rivers in Asia, while the Zanskar River is formed in the Zanskar Valley region.
Best time to visit: May to September
Famous: Confluence of Indus and Zanskar rivers
Located: Nimmu, Ladakh, India
Tso Kar Lake is the smallest of the three high-altitude lakes of Ladakh and is located about 50 km from Tso Moriri. Situated at an altitude of 15,280 feet, it is surrounded by high mountains that are home to the elusive snow leopard. Known as the “White Lake” due to the amount of white salt on its shores, the beauty of Tso Kar Lake is awe-inspiring. The area around the lake is rich in wildlife and flora, making it a must-see point for bird lovers during the migration season, attracting various species including the black-necked stork.
Best time to visit: June to September
Famous for: High Altitude Lake, bird watching
Located: Tso Kar Lake is located in the Rupshu Valley of Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir, India.
Namgyal Tsemo Monastery in Leh, Ladakh is famous for its three-storey high solid gold statue of Maitreya Buddha. Situated on a mountain top behind the Leh Palace, the monastery provides a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside, the gently flowing Indus River and the snow-clad peaks of the Zanskar Range. Established in 1430 AD by King Tashi Namgyal, a devoted follower of Buddhism, the Gompa stands as a testament to the king’s respect for Buddhism, as he built the monastery above his palace. Situated on the rock of Namgyal Hill, the architecture of Namgyal Tsemo Monastery is truly impressive.
Best time to visit: June to September
Famous: Ancient Monastery, Golden Buddha Statue
Located: Leh, Ladakh, India
The Hall of Fame Leh is located in Leh city near Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, serves as a museum dedicated to the Indian Army, showcasing their bravery and sacrifice in various wars, including the Siachen area conflict. The museum houses exhibitions highlighting Ladakhi culture, heritage and traditions. Visitors can gain insight into the history of Ladakh by viewing various sections of the museum, which include photographs, weapons used in wars, documents related to historical events and models depicting war scenarios. There is also a dedicated section to honor Lord Buddha and his teachings.
Best time to visit: All year round
Famous for: Indian Army Museum, Historical Exhibitions
Located: Hall of Fame is located in Leh, Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir, India.
Known as the “Gateway to Ladakh”, Drass Valley holds the distinction of being the coldest place in India. Located in the Kargil district of the newly formed Union Territory of Ladakh, this valley is situated at an altitude of about 3280 meters above sea level. For lovers of valleys and exploration, a trip to Drass Valley is a must on your next holiday, whether alone, with friends, or with family. Drass Valley stands as a true beauty whose memories will be cherished forever by you and your loved ones.
Best time to visit: May to September
Famous for: Coldest place in India, Beautiful landscape
Located: Drass Valley is located in the Kargil district of Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir, India.
Thiksey Monastery, or Thiksey Gompa, affiliated with the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism, is located atop a hill in Thiksey, about 19 kilometers east of Leh in the Ladakh region of northern India. Similar in appearance to the Potala Palace in Lhasa, Tibet, it is the largest monastery in central Ladakh. Thiksey Monastery has a separate set of buildings for female monks, which contributes to significant recent construction and restructuring efforts.
Best time to visit: May to September
Famous for: Similarity to Potala Palace, Cultural significance
Located: Thiksey Monastery is located in east of Leh, Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir, India.
Hemis Monastery also known as Hemis Gompa is one of the most famous and largest monasteries in the Ladakh region of northern India. Its prosperity is mentioned in various literary works. Established by Sengge Namgyal in 1672, this monastery belongs to the Drukpa Kagyu sect and has strong links with the royal family of Ladakh. Covering a vast area of approximately 2,500 acres in Ladakh and Zanskar, within the Stock Kangri mountain range valley.
Best time to visit: June to September
Famous for: Largest monastery in Ladakh, annual festival
Located: Hemis Monastery is located in southeast of Leh, Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir, India.
The Siachen Glacier is located in northern Ladakh in the Karakoram, a mountain range that originates from the Pamir. Covering an area of approximately 78 km, Siachen ranks as the fifth-largest glacier in the Karakoram Range and the second-largest glacier globally. The average height of Siachen Glacier above sea level is about 17,770 feet. Like the Line of Control (LOC), a significant part of the Siachen Glacier is a disputed area between India and Pakistan. This area also includes “Aksai Chin”. India needs to deploy its troops in the region to keep an eye on the activities of Pakistan and China. Before 1984, neither India nor Pakistan maintained a permanent presence in the region.
Best time to visit: June to September
Famous for: Highest battlefield, glacial landscape
Located: The Siachen Glacier is located in the eastern Karakoram Range of the Himalayas, in the disputed region of Jammu and Kashmir, between India and Pakistan.
Ladakh is the largest province of the state of Jammu and Kashmir and is a high-altitude region characterized by beautiful deserts, mountains, deep valleys and picturesque landscapes. Situated between the Himalayas and the Karakoram Mountains, near the borders of India, China and Pakistan, the city of Ladakh lies at an altitude of more than 11,000 feet above sea level. The district is home to the Zanskar Mountains, one of the highest mountain ranges globally, reaching 7,756 meters (25,446 ft) in the south. Moving eastwards, the Ladakh Mountains form tiers from a central valley, through which the Indus River flows. The area is bounded by the Stod Valley in the north.
The best time to visit Ladakh is the summer season from April to July, during which the temperature in Ladakh ranges between 15 to 30 degrees Celsius. Ladakh is famous for its consistently cold temperatures throughout the year. While summers are quite pleasant, winters are extremely cold. Well, in that case, naturally the best time to visit Ladakh is during summer.
Travel Tips
1) Seek medical advice: Before starting your Ladakh trip, make sure you consult a doctor. They will provide valuable guidance, often recommending blood-thinning medications to aid adaptation.
2) Stay hydrated: Survival at high altitudes depends on proper hydration. Therefore, it is highly advised to drink adequate water before and during the journey.
3) Camphor and Chocolate: Although an unusual pairing, smelling camphor eases breathing in high-altitude areas, and chocolate effectively restores glucose levels. While sharing is caring, it is best to avoid sharing these essentials.
4) Pack your thermals: Despite the deceptive sunlight, Ladakh can be quite cold, even at 12 degrees. Regardless of the weather forecast, it is essential to pack thermally.
5) Wear sweaters, socks, gloves and beanies: In Ladakh, dressing in layers is recommended. Even in mild temperatures, extra layers protect from harsh UV rays.
6) Choose comfortable and sturdy shoes: Although stylish shoes may look great in photographs, the rocky terrain of Ladakh demands comfortable and sturdy shoes for ease of exploration.
7) Sunglasses and Sunscreen: Pack one of the most important items in your luggage, high-quality sunglasses and sunscreen with at least SPF 30+. High altitude intensifies the sun, and reflective snow increases its effect, making these items essential for protection against heat burns.
8) Carry ID proof and photograph: Given Ladakh’s proximity to the border, military posts are in abundance. Make sure you have ID proof and carry at least six passport-size photographs along with photocopies.
9) Bring enough cash: ATMs are rare in Ladakh, available mainly in Kargil and Leh. Additionally, many hotels and tour operators do not accept credit cards or charge a 2% service tax. Carry extra cash with you to avoid inconvenience.
10) Pack extra batteries, flashlights and chargers: Due to inconsistent power and limited plug points, it is wise to have extra batteries for electronics. Don’t forget a torch – it can prove invaluable in unexpected circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions on Ladakh
Q.1 What are some must-visit places in Ladakh?
Ans. Some of the must-visit places in Ladakh include Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley, Khardung la Pass, Lamayuru Monastery and Leh Palace.
Q.2 Which is the highest motorable pass in Ladakh?
Ans. The highest motorable pass in Ladakh is Khardung la Pass, situated at an altitude of 5,359 meters (17,582 ft) above sea level.
Q.3 What is the best time to visit Ladakh?
Ans. The best time to visit Ladakh is during the summer months from April to July, when the weather is pleasant and roads are accessible. However, some places like Pangong Lake and Tso Moriri Lake remain frozen during winter and can be visited even during the colder months.
Q.4 What is Ladakh famous for?
Ans. Ladakh is famous for its stunning landscapes, including high-altitude lakes, snow-capped mountains and rugged terrain. It is also known for its ancient monasteries, vibrant culture and adventure activities like trekking, river rafting and motorbiking.
Q.5 Where is Ladakh located?
Ans. Ladakh is located in the northernmost part of India, in the Union Territory of Ladakh. It is bordered by Tibet (China) in the east, the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh in the south and the Indian-administered territory of Jammu and Kashmir in the west.
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