A Trip To The City Of Paradise, Leh Ladakh

Ladakh, is a popular destination known for its natural beauty and splendor. Being a perfect combination of adventure prospects and leisure experiences, this place is on everyone's bucket list.

With ancient monasteries, breathtaking landscapes, and glistening streams, it's a perfect spot to spend time with your loved ones. Whether you are a nature lover, thrill-seeker, and shutterbug, there is something for everyone. From bike trips and trekking to camping and mountaineering, visitors can indulge in a lot of activities.

Well, there are plenty of mesmerizing places in Ladakh. In case you are planning to travel there, this blog can be quite helpful for you. With its help, you can ensure you won't miss out on any spectacular sights.

Here we have listed all the things which might help you on the trip. From popular places to getting along and food, there is everything you will need. Let's take a sneak peek at how it will feel when you are in Leh Ladakh.

Places To Visit In Leh Ladakh

As mentioned earlier, there are a plethora of places that will make your trip a memorable one. But everyone can't travel to all the places on a trip. Many people might have planned a short vacation.

Here we've provided a listicle of the most popular places that you must visit in Leh Ladakh. Make sure to add them to your travel plan while you hit the road to explore.

• Diskit Monastery

This is one of the oldest and largest enduring monasteries in the Nubra Valley and is located in the middle of the bare landscape. The monastery is home to a 100 feet tall Maitreya Buddha statue that is visible from a far distance.

Diskit Gompa is perched on top of a hill above the flats of Shyok River. It is cuddled at an altitude of 3,142 m above sea level. From the monastery, visitors can catch the glimpse of the sheer beauty and bird’s eye view of the valley.

Things To Do

• Seek prayers from the iconic statue of Cho Rinpoche

• Meditation

• Visit Dikit Village

• Royal Leh Palace

Situated on the top of the deserted Tsemo Hill, Leh Palace is the old home of the past royal lineage of Leh. Also, it shares a resemblance to the Potala Palace of Lhasa. It is created of wood, mud, sand, and stones.

The palace is also known as Lhachen Palkhar; you can visit from 07:00 AM to 04:00 PM (every day). This 9-storied structure is now home to royal belongings. Although the fort is in a little ruined condition, one can witness breathtaking views from the top.

Things To Do

1. Relish the incredible views from the top.

2. Visit the on-site museum with royal Thangkas, jewelry, belongings, murals, costumes, etc.

3. Marvel at the stunning architecture.

• Nubra Valley

Nubra valley is also among the top attractions in Ladakh and is full of jaw-dropping locales and unique landscapes. It offers numerous experiences and is connected with Leh by Khardung La Pass. The valley is famous for its Bactrian double-humped camels and cold desert.

A camel ride with the backdrop of Diskit Monastery gives an amazing experience. When you visit the place during sunset, the ambiance is much more mesmerizing. It will become one of the most memorable experiences of your trip.

Things To Do

1. Enjoy a camel ride

2. Visit nearby monasteries and villages

3. Stop by apple and apricot orchards

4. Photography

5. Camping

6. Bike ride

• Magnetic Hill

Magnetic Hill, also called ‘Cyclops Hill’, is popular for the phenomenon that defies the law of gravitation. When you park the vehicle there, you can notice the vehicle rolling uphill in defiance of gravity as it is downhill. It is a must to visit there and get captivated by this phenomenon.

Things To Do

1. Pay a visit to the nearby Gurudwara

2. Marvel at the magic of Magnetic Hill

• Zorawar Fort

This is among the not-so-famous kinds of places to see in Ladakh. Although many people have not heard about this, this is a must-see if you are into historic places. Also known as Riasi Fort, this fort once possessed rulers of the Dogra Dynasty.

The fort is located above the Leh palace, and you can't miss out on the stunning views from there. General Zorawar Singh Kahluria, one of the greatest warriors, once owned the fort. Thus, you can witness a variety of coins and specimens of new stamps with the ruler’s treasure.

Things To Do

1. Enjoy the scenic beauty.

2. Click lots of Insta-worthy pictures.

3. Take sight of the coins and old treasures of erstwhile rulers.

• Lamayuru Town

With a dreamy moon-like landscape, this town lies between Leh and Kargil. There is a crater-type yellowish-orange formation in the brown-colored soil which will seek your attention without any doubt. Words are enough to describe its beauty; you need to see it with your eyes.

Pay a visit to the beautiful Lamayuru Monastery on your trip. Not only is it a place of worship, but also has thangkas, Buddhist guardian deities, and frescoes which you can witness. This monastery all goes back to the 11th century.

Things To Do

1. Opt for a homestay.

2. Visit the 11th-century Lamayuru Monastery.

3. Take a stroll in the moon-like landscape.

4. Explore the beautiful place.

• Pangong Tso Lake

Located at an elevation of 4,225 m above sea level, Pangong Tso Lake is situated on the India-China border. This endorheic and pure lake is about 134 km long and stretches from India to China.

The major interest is the color that changes over the duration of the day. Plus, it offers sights of the mighty surrounding peaks in the lake, which is a unique experience.

The lake is home to some of the exotic migratory species of birds; you can spot them on the bank of the lake. Moreover, the lake freezes in the harsh winters. For those who are looking for some adventure, camping on the bank of the lake would be a delight.

Things To Do

1. Do participate in the ice skating festival.

2. Enjoy a bonfire if you stay at Pangong Retreat Camp, Ladakh.

3. Indulge in bird watching, including ducks, seagulls, and cranes.

4. Catch the glimpse of a stunning sunrise with your cameras.

• Kargil

Kargil is the best spot to dive into the beauty of nature. It is home to numerous valleys, lakes, mountain passes, and villages. Some of the must-visit places of Kargil are Suru Valley, Pensi La, and Drass. The top attractions of Kargil are Mulbekh Monastery, Rangdum Monastery, Kargil War Memorial, Hundermand Village, and Drang Drung Glacier.

All adventure lovers can make their trip thrilling with a trek to Nun Kun massif. You can catch mulberry, apple, and apricot trees that enhance the beauty of Kargil. A war took place between India and Pak in 1999 in Kargil. People visit the War Memorial to witness the courage and valor of the Indian Army.

Things To Do

1. Attend Hemis Festival

2. Trekking

• Hunder Village

This is a remote village in the Nubra Valley area of Hunder Village. The place is best for tent stays and homestays. You will get the basic meals in the restaurants just like at home. Plus, there are no ATMs, be mindful of that.

The village is great for trekkers who want to explore the sand dunes and cold desert and enjoy Bactrian camel rides. It is full of breathtaking views and makes you feel as if you are in a fairytale. Apart from that, you can catch Siachen Glacier, a huge attraction in Ladakh.

1. Try out the camel rides.

2. Explore the spectacular beauty of the region.

3. Take a stroll along the forest areas.

4. Look out for tents for your stay.

• Phyang Gompa

Phyang Gompa is a 900-year-old museum and one of the two monasteries in Ladakh that belong to the Drikung Kagyu sect. It has got its name after the mountain in its backdrop, Gang Ngonpo. The founder of this monastery is Denma Kunga Drakpa, who camped here in the 16th century.

The museum is the best place to experience and explore the history of that time. You get to see a number of idols and thangkas, along with Mongolian, Chinese, and Tibetan weapons. To make the most of your trip you can attend the Phyang Tsedup festival. It is celebrated annually in the 1st month of the Tibetan calendar from the 17th to the 19th.

Things To Do

1. Strive for blessings at the Mahakal temple here.

2. Make a visit to the monastery’s own school named Ratnashri School.

3. Discover more about Buddhist civilization.

• Turtuk

Previously known as Baltistan, Turtuk is a village in Ladakh. This place was under Pakistan’s control till 1971. It is tough to reach Turtuk, but when you reach the place, it will be worth every step. Also, it includes many little villages and has only one monastery atop a hill.

From Leh, it takes about 8 to 9 hours to reach there. That is why you have to make an overnight stop at Hunder. Also, people are very considerate and friendly. So, it would be a great call to interact with them for an insight into their daily life.

Things To Do 

1. Try out the homestay.

2. Click good pictures from the bridge.

3. Try out hiking to the monastery.

4. Take sight of Mount K2.

5. Relish the tasty local delicacies.

• Markha Valley Trek

This valley is located in the Ladakh region and is obtainable from Gongmaru La Pass near Hemis and Ganda La Pass near Spituk. You can get the best trekking experience in your life over there.

The thrilling experience will add up more if you camp at various sites like Hankar, Markha, and Skiu and see the starry skies in the mountains. In addition to that, you can get an opportunity to have a look at the enchanting views of the Stok Kangri.

Things To Do

1. Aspire prayers at the Techa Gompa

2. Enjoy camping in Markha, Skiu, and Hankar

3. Cross Gongmaru La and Ganda La on the path

4. Gaze at the intriguing beauty of Stok Kangri

• Alchi

Here comes the tiny captivating hamlet on low land, Alchi, one of the best places to visit. It is at a distance of around 70 km westwards of Leh, on the banks of the Indus river. The village is famous for its fertile land, and you will notice the apricot trees on both sides of the road while exploring the place.

Moreover, visitors can witness the influence of Hinduism, Buddhism, and Islam. You can check out various tourist interests like Sumtsek Temple, Monk Cells, Manjushree Temple, etc. Also, don't miss out on the Alchi Monastery, one of the most famous monasteries in Ladakh.

Things To Do

1. Enjoy the greenery and soak in the peaceful ambiance

2. Visit the top appeals of the village.

3. Pay a visit to the widespread Alchi Monastery.

• Tso Moriri Lake

The lake is situated in one of the most astonishing regions of Ladakh, the Changthang Plateau region. Tso Moriri is an alpine lake lodged at a height of 4,522 m above sea level. This ‘Mountain Lake’ is the highest brackish water lake in India and is located in the beautiful Rupshu Valley.

This emerald blue-colored lake will take you on a tour of heaven. Tso Moriri is home to a range of migratory birds, including marmots. Also, it is the place where Tibetan wolves are spotted. No one can construct or pitch a tent on the bank as it is part of the wetland reserve under the Ramsar site.

The frosty cliffs of the Changthang Plateau feed the lake. This lake comes under one of the sacred lakes among the locals in Ladakh. However, you can stay in the camps near the lake.

Things To Do

1. Try out camping in Korzok, a nearby village

2. Enjoy wondrous sunrise

3. Click memorable pictures

4. Savor the captivating and peaceful scenery

• Khardung La Pass

Also known as the ‘Gateway to Nubra and Shyok Valleys’, Khardung La is one of the highest at an elevation of 5359 m above sea level. It is around 40 km from Leh and comes among one of the best places to visit on your trip. It opened for vehicles in 1988 and is also known as ‘Pass of Lower Castle’.

Well, this road is popular among motorbiking enthusiasts. You can have some tea and snacks at the army canteen while listening to the waving sound of the vibrant Tibetan prayer flags.

The views from the road are stunning, and you can click great photos. Also, you can purchase some memorabilia from the souvenir shop. The Indian army also uses it to carry supplies to the Siachen Glacier.

Things To Do

1. Relish the tea and refreshments from the army canteen

2. Shop for memorabilia at the souvenir shop

3. Get filled with wonder by the sights of the snow-capped cliffs

Food Of Leh Ladakh

The area offers a lot of delicacies to visitors. You have the opportunity to savor mouth-watering dishes when you are in Leh Ladakh. Make sure to relish a lot of delicacies on your trip. When you get back to your home, the taste will keep you reminded of the place.

Food Facts Of Leh Ladakh

• Ladakhi dishes mostly comprise skyu and chutagi. Both of them are heavy and rich soup pasta dishes. Chutagi is made with leafy greens and vegetables, and skyu is made with root vegetables and meat.

• Food from the plains of India has become more popular with the rise of Ladakh tourism and modernization.

• Ladakhi food is a must-try, which is full of flavor; thukpa (made of wheat flour), ava (made of sattu), and khambir (local bread) are the most famous dishes to try.

• Apart from these, there is a huge variety of dishes that you can try while you are on a trip to Leh Ladakh.

Popular Food Of Leh Ladakh

While you eat the food in Ladakh, you will get to know more about its history and culture. These are the must-try food items while you are in Ladakh.

• Skyu

A cuisine with a hint of Kashmiri touch will blow your mind. Locals of Ladakh have this dish almost every day along with momos or dumplings. The ball of root veggies like carrots and turnips with soft wheat dough is cooked with meat and fresh vegetables.

• Thukpa

Ladakhi cuisine is known for thukpa, a clear soup with vegetables and noodles. This dish may also include meat such as chunks of chicken, mutton, or yak. To enhance the taste, people serve it with spicy chutney. There are multiple versions of this noodle soup, and it will keep you warm as well.

• Khambir

A traditional bread known as tagi is what locals prefer the most. This bread has a thick crust and is brown. Restaurants serve the bread with butter tea which is prepared by adding a pinch of butter and salt.

• Tingmo

Made with white flour without any filling, Tigmo or Teemo is a staple food for the people of Ladakh. This soft bread is eaten with dal, cooked vegetables, or meat. Locals like to have it for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and as a tea-time snack.

• Chutagi

Chutagi, a signature, and pasta-like dish with a rich vegetable-based sauce. It has bow-tie-shaped chunks of dough made of wheat flour. They are boiled in a thick stew made of peas, potatoes, carrots, and regional leafy green veggies. There is also a non-veg version of this dish which is cooked with meat.

• Apricot Jam

Apricot is the most popular locally-grown fruit in the region, and you can see its trees almost everywhere. You can find several delicious products made from this fruit. And apricot jam is something you will enjoy while having in your brekkie.

How To Reach Leh Ladakh

Visitors always wonder how they can reach Ladakh from different corners of the country. Well, it is not a big deal as it has good connectivity via air, rail, and road. You can try out any method according to your convenience.

• By Air

The best and most comfortable method to travel to Ladakh is via flight. Both during the peak season and off-season, you can get a number of flights to reach there. Yet, you have to check it out before planning your trip.

The closest airfield is Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, which is located in Leh. This airport is about 3.8 km away from the main city. Plus, it is well connected with many international airports in India, like Delhi. It also receives flights from Chandigarh, Srinagar, Jammu, and other common destinations in India.

A flight from Delhi takes about one and a half hours to reach Leh. Global visitors can take a flight from prominent cities like Mumbai, Kolkata, and Delhi to get to Leh Airport by air. After that, they can ultimately get to Ladakh. In order to reach the desired destination, you can find taxis or book a cab.

The scenic flight from Delhi to Leh takes Even international travelers who can directly board a flight from the You can find a few taxis outside the airport or book a cab to reach the required destination.

• By Road

There are two road routes to Leh Ladakh- one through Srinagar and another via Manali in Himachal Pradesh. You can hire a cab or a jeep or board a JKSRTC bus from Kargil to reach by road. Traveling by road is possible between May to September, as during the winter months, the highways are shut due to heavy snowfalls.

• By Rail

The nearest railway station is Jammu Tawi, at a distance of about 650 km. There are a number of trains operating from significant Indian cities to Jammu. Some of the major trains are Jammu Mail, New Delhi-Jammu Tawi Rajdhani Express, and Jammu Tawi Express. Travelers can hire private cabs, taxis, or state buses to reach the desired destination.

Summing It Up

Ladakh is one of the places that boasts immense scenic beauty. You can explore a lot of attractions on your visit. The trip will let you gather a lot of amazing experiences when you get back.

The surreal views, villagers, and connection with nature and wildlife will leave you feeling amazed. Check out all the places we have mentioned and relish the scrumptious delicacies on your trip. Happy Journey!