Leh Ladakh travel guide

Things to do in Leh Ladakh

1. Shanti Stupa

   1 h · Free

   Shanti Stupa is a white-domed Buddhist monument on a hilltop in Leh Ladakh. Built by a Japanese monk, it houses relics of the Buddha at its base. Visitors come here to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

   Tip: Walk up the steps slowly to adjust to the high altitude.

2. Leh Palace

   1 h · ₹100 entry

   Leh Palace is a 17th-century former royal palace overlooking the old town of Leh in Ladakh. Built by Sengge Namgyal around 1600 AD, it was later abandoned when the royal family moved to Stok Palace.

   Tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes to explore the multi-story structure

3. Thiksey Monastery

   2 h · ₹50 entry

   Thiksey Monastery is a large twelve-storey Buddhist complex affiliated with the Gelug school, located on a hill in the Indus Valley. It resembles the Potala Palace in Lhasa and houses rich Buddhist art including stupas, statues, thangkas, and wall paintings. Visitors can experience morning prayers with the monks and see the massive Maitreya Temple.

   Tip: Dress modestly with shoulders and knees covered as a mark of respect

4. Hall of Fame

   1 h · ₹100 entry

   Hall of Fame is an army museum in Leh Ladakh dedicated to showcasing Ladakh's battles. It honors the brave Indian soldiers who fought in the region and preserves their inspiring stories.

   Tip: Take time to watch the documentary film screened on site

5. Magnetic Hill & Sangam

   3 h · Free

   Magnetic Hill and Sangam brings together the striking confluence of the Indus and Zanskar rivers and the famous gravity hill phenomenon where vehicles appear to roll uphill.

6. Khardung La

   2 h · Free

   Khardung La is a high mountain pass on the Ladakh Range situated north of Leh city in Ladakh, India. Sitting at 5,359 meters, it is one of the world's highest motorable passes. The road built by the Border Roads Organisation connects the Indus river valley to the Shyok river valley, Nubra Valley, and the Siachen Glacier.

   Tip: Carry heavy woolens and windproof layers as temperatures drop significantly at this elevation

7. Pangong Tso

   3 h · Free

   Pangong Tso is a high altitude endorheic lake spanning India and China, known for its changing blue waters. Located in Leh Ladakh, it is about 225 km from Leh and makes for a great overnight trip.

   Tip: Keep warm layers handy as temperatures drop sharply near the lake.

8. Hemis Monastery

   2 h · ₹100 entry

   Ladakh’s largest monastery sits on the bank of the Indus River. It belongs to the Drukpa Lineage and was re-established in 1672 by the Ladakhi king Sengge Namgyal. The famous annual Hemis festival honouring Padmasambhava is held here.

   Tip: Look out for the under-construction Bhanupli–Leh line near Hemis village

9. Leh Market

   2 h · Free

   Leh Market is a lively local hub in Ladakh filled with authentic Kashmiri pashminas, colourful prayer flags, and welcoming rooftop cafes. It is a great place to pick up souvenirs and watch local life go by.

   Tip: Haggle politely while shopping for souvenirs and woollens

Where to stay in Leh Ladakh

• Changspa

  ₹1,200–3,500

  Guesthouses and cafes near Shanti Stupa.

• Leh Main Bazaar

  ₹2,500–6,000

  Walk to the market and palace.

• Pangong & Nubra camps

  ₹3,000–8,000 incl. meals

  Overnight in tented camps by the lake/dunes.

What to eat

• Thukpa & momos

  local dish

  Warm Tibetan noodle soup — perfect at altitude.

• Tibetan Kitchen

  restaurant

  Leh’s go-to for Tibetan and Ladakhi food.

• Bon Appetit

  restaurant

  Terrace dining in Changspa.

• Skyu

  local dish · veg

  Ladakhi hand-rolled pasta stew with vegetables.

How to reach Leh Ladakh by bus

Ready-made Leh Ladakh itineraries

• Manali → Leh7 days from Manali by bike