Top 5 experiences in Leh

The beautiful town of Leh is full of surprises, where every turn reveals something breathtaking and otherworldly. It offers a laid-back atmosphere that permeates through its cozy cafes, bustling bazaars, and quiet streets. At the same time, Leh offers many thrilling activities, paragliding over the panoramic views, and the Indus river is perfect for rafting. Leh is also the gateway to the cultural richness of Ladakh, with deep-rooted ancient traditions and colourful festivals. The Leh and Stok Palaces display Ladakh’s royal past. Standing on rocky cliffs overlooking the valley, Thiksey Monastery with its 12-storey structure, has an exquisite collection of Tibetan art and scriptures. Hemis Monastery nearby is known for its beauty and traditions, and for the Hemis Festival.

Circumambulate the Shanti Stupa, Leh's sanctuary for world peace
Going up to the top of the hill to the Vishwa Shanti Stupa is an experience in itself, with the breathtaking expanse of Leh and its rugged landscape below you. The intricately carved statues of Buddha, and its pagoda-style architecture with engraved Buddhist teachings, serves as a symbol of world peace. It was built by Japanese monks in collaboration with the Ladakhi community, and funded by Nichidatsu Fujii, a Japanese Buddhist leader, who donated his entire Jawaharlal Nehru Award money for this project. It was inaugurated in November 1997 by the Dalai Lama.

Experience the beauty and richness of Buddhism at the Thiksey Gompa Monastery
Thiksey Gompa (Monastery), one of the oldest in Ladakh, founded in the 15th Century, commands breathtaking views of the surrounding Indus Valley. Its architecture includes a 12-storey complex that houses numerous stupas, statues, scriptures, and art, reflecting the artistic heritage of Tibetan Buddhism, centre for learning and meditation. Inside its ornate gates lies a world of spiritual resonance with monks in crimson robes performing ceremonies that have been passed down generations. Discover the secrets of this centuries-old monastery, where every corner tells a story of devotion and wisdom.

Witness the miracle of Gurudwara Pathar Sahib and experience the famed magnetic hill
Gurudwara Pathar Sahib is a sacred Sikh shrine, built in honour of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism. Legend has it that he rested in Leh on his return to Punjab from Sikkim, Nepal, and Tibet in 1515-18. He miraculously vanquished a demon at this very site, who tried to crush him with a huge boulder, but the boulder turned soft and took Guru Nanak’s shape. In 1970, the same boulder was discovered, and the Indian Army, along with help of the local people, constructed this gurudwara to pay homage. Just a short distance away lies the Magnetic Hill, where vehicles appear to defy gravity and roll uphill, mystifying visitors.

Discover the beauty and antiquity in the palatial marvels of Leh Palace and Stok Palace
Also referred to as the Lhachen Palkhar, Leh Palace stands on a hill overlooking the town of Leh. Built in the 17th century by King Sengge Namgyal to resemble the Potala Palace in Lhasa, it has served as the residence of the Ladakhi monarchs for centuries, facing the Stok Kangri mountain range. With nine storeys, it is one of the tallest buildings of its time in the region, with exquisite murals, woodwork, and artifacts. A short distance away lies Stok Palace, the current residence of the Ladakhi royal family. Built in the 19th century by King Tsepal Namgyal, it has a remarkable collection of thangkas, and other royal objects.

Explore local attractions
Changthang and Hemis wildlife sanctuaries must be visited to see Ladakh’s wilderness. Trekking enthusiasts can undertake challenging trails across valleys and mountains, walking along rivers, traversing several high mountain passes and villages along the way. Explore the mystical Nubra Valley, home to the world's highest motorable pass, Khardung La, and surreal sand dunes, where you can ride the unique double-humped Bactrian camels. Beyond Leh's immediate reaches, another world unfolds, from the spellbinding Pangong Lake to the cultural richness of Alchi, home to some of the oldest and most well-preserved Buddhist murals in the region. All this is further enriched by the warm hospitality of the Ladakhi people and their traditional cuisine.