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Top 15 places to visit in ladakh that will leave you spellbound.

Ladakh, also known as the “Land of High Passes,” is a region located in the northernmost part of India, a Union Territory, which was previously a part of Jammu and Kashmir. Ladakh is famous for its rugged terrain, stunning natural landscapes, and unique cultural heritage. The region is surrounded by some of the world’s highest mountain ranges, including the Himalayas, Karakoram, and the Ladakh range. It’s a land of the coldest deserts in the world; it is a land to be lost in the beauty of rugged terrains and click awesome pictures; seeking solace in numerous Gompas and satisfy your adventures soul by indulging in various adventure activities like trekking , rafting, paragliding, mountain climbing, biking etc.

You will also encounter various remotest villages and get fascinated by their rustic life as Ladakh is also home to a diverse population that includes Tibetans, Muslims, and Buddhists. The region’s strategic location at the crossroads of Central Asia, India, and Tibet has shaped its unique culture, architecture, and cuisine. The traditional Ladakhi way of life is centred around farming, trading, and livestock rearing, and the locals have developed a close relationship with their environment.

The place has a rich cultural heritage and an awesome palace – Leh Palace. The list is endless and this is just the tip of an iceberg. Ladakh Tourism Map is filled with numerous beautiful places to overpower your soul with delight. Ladakh will never be monotonous as it has so much to offer to a tourist. And, that’s why, Ladakh is unquestionably one of the best places to visit in India for a vacation.

In this blog, we will mention the top 15 best tourist places in Ladakh to help you plan your trip to this beautiful and fantastic world of bliss.

Also Check Out Some of the Most Popular Leh Ladakh Tour Packages

Pangong Lake – Color Changing Lake

Situated at the height of 4350 m in the Himalayas, Pangong Lake is the world’s highest salt water lake.  Picturesque mountains in the background, landscaped vistas and tranquil blue waters of the lake would teleport you into the world of fantasy. It is one of the most popular points of tourist interest in Leh Ladakh. Pangong Lake got its name from a Tibetan word ‘Pangong Tso’ which means ‘High Grassland Lake’. The most interesting fact about this lake is that it changes its color, appearing blue, grey, green or red at different points of time. You can only feel its true bliss, if you visit here once.

Highlights – May to September is the best time to visit Pangong Lake.

Also Check Out: Popular Lakes in Ladakh

Lamayuru – Moonland of Ladakh

Have you ever seen a moonlike landscape for real? No? Then Lamayuru in Leh is a place to be in. It is often called a ‘Moonscape for tourists. It was founded in the 11th century by Mahasiddacarya Naropa. The landscape of Lamayuru is surreal, sublime, moonlike and divine.

Lamayuru is known for its rugged landscape, odd geographical formations, picturesque views and Lamayuru monastery which is situated at a height of 3510 meters. If you are looking for a beautiful place to click some awesome pictures then Lamayuru is one of the most popular tourist destinations to visit in Ladakh.

Highlights – Yuru Kabgyat is the annual festival of Lamayuru Monastery which is the center of attraction of this monastery. The famous mask dance performed by Lamas is the best part of this festival.

Also Read: Must Visit Monasteries in Ladakh

Zanskar Valley – Valley of secluded serenity

Zanskar is one of the best tourist attractions to visit in Leh Ladakh. If you are in a need of solace and serenity then this desolated Himalayan range will definitely soothe your mind and soul. It is less crowded and beautiful which would be a perfect destination to spend some moments of peace. Glittering blue of the skies, snow covered steep terrains, awesome weather and mind – boggling water bodies will be the perfect landscape to disappear in the folds of time to dance and dream.

Highlights – June to September is the best time to visit Zanskar Valley. Trekking adventure, Paragliding, water rafting in Zanskar Valley are some of the best things to do in your Ladakh trip.

Also Read: Incredible History of Ladakh

Kargil – Adventure Hub

Your Holidays in Ladakh are incomplete without visiting Kargil. Kargil is one of the top tourist attractions in Ladakh. It is situated on Srinagar- Leh highway. If you are a thrill seeker, you must not miss Kargil because it is a hub of adventure sports like trekking, camping, river rafting and mountaineering etc.

The most interesting part is the Line of control which is just 11km away from Kargil. It divides India from Pakistan. It is also a tourist paradise as many beautiful and old gompas and monasteries, scenic valleys and stunning mountain ranges will come in your way when you wander like a wanderer in its lanes.

Highlights- Sumdo chinmu village to Alchi, Zoji, Padum to Lamayuru are some of the best trekking adventures you can enjoy in Kargil, during your Ladakh trip. May to July is the best time to visit Kargil.

Also Read: Popular Adventure Sports Activities in Ladakh

Khardung- La Pass- Scenic Motorable Pass

Welcome to the highest motorable passes in the world. What? You haven’t visited Khardung- La Pass yet? Really? Then you must visit this place once in your lifetime as it is one of the must visit tourist destinations in Ladakh.

Khardung – La Pass is a gateway to Nubra and Shyok valleys. It is an endless world of scenic vistas. The thing of beauty and bliss is here forever. For a thrill seeker, nature lover, solace seekers, Khardung – la pass is one of a kind. You will never be able to forget its charm if you visit here once.

Highlights – May to September is the best time to visit Khardung- la Pass. It is the best place for adventure bikers.

Also Check Out: Other Popular Mountain Passes in Ladakh

Magnetic Hill – Place Where Gravity Fails

It is one of the most popular Ladakh Tourist attractions in Ladakh. I am sure you would definitely want to see a place where science takes a backseat and gravity has no meaning. There is a yellow sign board in Magnetic hill which says ‘The phenomenon that defies gravity’.

It instructs you to park your vehicles at the base with a white point on the road, which is also known as magnetic road and when you park your vehicle at that spot, your vehicle will automatically move forward. Isn’t it interesting? This place should definitely be on your list of top places to visit in Ladakh.

Highlights- May to September is the best time to visit Magnetic Hill. The best thing you can do here is photography of the scenic vistas.

Also Read: Religious Tourism in Ladakh

Spituk Gompa – Seek the Divine Grace

Travelling to Ladakh would elevate your travel experience to a higher level if you visit some sacred places to seek solace.

Spituk Gompa is one such place to be in. It is also one of the most popular destinations in Ladakh. The gompa is located at the top of the hill and the scenic views from the hill would overpower your mind with delight.

The Gompa was established in the 11th century by Od- De.  It houses the divine image of Mahakaal which is only shown in the annual festival of Spituk in January.

Highlights- Spituk Monastery’s Museum has a rich collection of ancient masks, Thangkas and antique items. May to September is the best time to visit Spituk Gompa but if you want to enjoy the Spituk Festival then visit in January. 

Also Read: Arts & Culture of Ladakh

Hemis National Park & Wildlife Sanctuary – Say Hello to the wild world

How many of you are fond of exotic and rare wildlife species, endangered flora and pristine wilderness? I am sure all of you would love to visit Hemis National Park Wildlife Sanctuary in Ladakh . It was named after Hemis Monastery in 1981.

Your experience of witnessing this nature’s wonder would be interesting if I tell you that this wildlife Sanctuary is full of alpine vegetation like Veronica, Anemone, Gentiana, Lloydia etc and animals like Snow Leopard, wild sheeps, shapu, ibex and goats, bharal, dholes etc. would blow your heart away.

Don’t forget to look for 70 different species of birds like Throated thrush, Robbin acceptor, Himalayan whistling Thrush etc.  This place is one of the best places to explore in Ladakh.

Highlights – May to October is the best time to discover Hemis Wildlife Sanctuary in a Jeep Safari.  Do visit Hemis Monastery, it is very famous for its mask festival.

Also Read: Ladakh Wildlife Information

Tso Moriri Lake – Hidden beauty of Ladakh

If you are exploring Ladakh then Tso Moriri Lake should be the place you must not forget to be in. It is one of the offbeat destinations to explore in Ladakh. Located in Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary, Tso Moriri Lake is a piece of heaven for the people who love calm and scenic places.  It is not wrong to call it one of the most beautiful places in Ladakh to enjoy your day. It is 4000 meters above sea level, decked with snowcapped mountains all around, beautiful migratory birds and rare Tibetan wolves.  For honeymoon couples, this place would be an absolute bliss because of its picturesque setting which gives a romantic feel.

Highlights – May to August is the best time to visit Tso Moriri Lake.  During January to March this lake remains frozen. It is located near the Line of actual control. You Need an Inner Line Permit to visit this place.

Also Read: Best Time to Visit Ladakh

Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary – Preserving Wild Wonder

A protected area located in the Leh district of Ladakh covers an area of 4,000 square kilometres, Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a wide range of flora and fauna. It is situated at an altitude of 4,500 metres above sea level and is known for its high-altitude lakes, including the famous Pangong Tso. Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary in Leh is the best place to spot several endangered and rare species of animals, such as the snow leopard, Tibetan wild ass or Kaing, Tibetan argali, and the black-necked crane. Other species found here include the Tibetan wolf, Eurasian brown bear, marmot, and several species of birds, such as the bar-headed goose, Himalayan snowcock, and the great crested grebe.

The sanctuary is a popular tourist destination and is visited by wildlife enthusiasts and adventure seekers from all over the world. Visitors can go on guided treks, wildlife safaris, and bird watching tours to explore the sanctuary and its rich wildlife.

Highlights: May and September is the best time to visit Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary as the weather is relatively milder this time.

Also Read: Summer Weather in Ladakh

Leh Palace – Regal Beauty Preserved

Leh Palace, also known as Lhachen Palkhar, is a magnificent structure situated in the city of Leh. Perched on a hill overlooking the city, providing a breathtaking view of the surrounding Himalayan mountains, Leh Palace is an iconic landmark of the region, and it is a must-visit destination for anyone travelling to the region. The palace offers a unique blend of history, culture, and architecture, making it a fascinating place to explore and learn about the rich cultural heritage of the region. The construction of the palace dates back to the 17th century when King Sengge Namgyal, the ruler of the Namgyal dynasty, commissioned its construction. The palace was built as a royal residence for the king and his family and also served as the administrative centre of the kingdom. The palace has nine stories, and its architecture is a blend of traditional Tibetan, Indian, and Islamic styles.

The palace has been converted into a museum that showcases the rich history and culture of the region. The museum exhibits various artefacts, including thangkas (Tibetan Buddhist paintings), old photographs, traditional costumes, and other objects that give visitors a glimpse into the lives of the royal family and the people of the region.

Highlights: Leh Palace remains open from 8 AM to 5 PM everyday and morning is the best time of the day to visit the palace to avoid crowds.

Also Read: Information About Stock Palace

Thiksey Monastery – Serene Spirituality Awaits

Thiksey Monastery , also known as Thiksey Gompa, is a Tibetan Buddhist monastery located approximately 19 kilometres east of Leh, in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. It is situated on a hilltop overlooking the Indus Valley and is considered one of the most beautiful and largest monasteries in Ladakh. It is an architectural masterpiece and is famous for its resemblance to the Potala Palace in Lhasa, Tibet. The complex comprises several temples, halls, and chambers, which are adorned with beautiful murals, thangkas, and statues of various deities. The main prayer hall is adorned with a 15-metre-high statue of Maitreya Buddha, which is the largest of its kind in Ladakh.

Apart from the main prayer hall, the monastery also has a nunnery, a library, a museum, and a school for young monks. The nunnery houses nuns who follow the Gelugpa order, and the school provides education to young monks from various parts of Ladakh. One of the interesting facts about it is, the complex also has a set of buildings which accommodate female renunciates.

Highlights: Thiksey Monastery is also famous for its annual festival, which takes place in the eleventh lunar month (October or November) and is celebrated with great pomp and show.

Also Read: Information About Matho Monastery

Nubra Valley – Nature’s Tranquil Escape

Nubra Valley is a breathtakingly beautiful destination located in the northernmost part of India, in Ladakh. It is a high-altitude cold desert that is renowned for its mesmerising landscapes, picturesque villages, ancient monasteries, and unique culture. The valley is situated at an elevation of about 3,000 metres above sea level and is surrounded by majestic snow-capped mountains that make it a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The valley is accessible via the Khardung La Pass, which is one of the highest motorable roads in the world, and offers a thrilling experience for those who dare to take the journey.

Nubra Valley is also famous for its double-humped Bactrian camels, which can be seen grazing on the sand dunes in the region. Visitors can enjoy a camel safari and explore the valley’s remote corners, visiting ancient gompas and remote villages. The valley is also a popular trekking destination, with several trails offering stunning views of the mountains and valleys.

Highlights: The best time to visit Nubra Valley is between May and September, when the weather is mild and pleasant. However, visitors should be prepared for sudden changes in temperature and weather conditions, as the region can be quite unpredictable.

Also Read: Information About Hunder Sand Dunes

Alchi Village – A Peaceful Oasis

Alchi is a small village situated in the Leh district of the Ladakh region in India. It is located on the banks of the Indus River and is famous for its ancient Alchi Monastery , which is over a thousand years old. The village is surrounded by stunning landscapes of snow-capped mountains, lush greenery, and the glistening river, making it a popular destination for tourists. The monastery houses some of the most beautiful and well-preserved murals, sculptures, and artefacts that offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Ladakh.

Apart from the monastery, Alchi village is also known for its vibrant and colourful markets, where one can buy locally produced handicrafts, clothes, and souvenirs. The village is also home to several small cafes and restaurants, serving delicious traditional Ladakhi cuisine. The locals of Alchi are warm and welcoming, and their traditional way of life is still preserved in the village. Overall, Alchi is a must-visit destination for anyone travelling to Ladakh, offering a unique cultural experience amidst breathtaking natural beauty.

Highlights: Food is one of the main reasons to visit Alchi. Some of the must have dishes of Alchi are walnut salad, mok-moks (momos), Kashmiri pulao, baril, paba, tangutur, etc.

Also Read: Popular Festivals of Ladakh

Chadar Trek – Once in a lifetime experience

What could be the experience of trekking in a frozen lake? Have you ever thought about that? Well, if you want to experience something like this, Chadar Trek would be one of the best things to do on your Ladakh Trip.

Holidays in Ladakh without trekking aren’t fun. So, one must take part in adventurous trekking for once in a lifetime. It is a popular river in Zanskar valley which remains frozen in winters. It resembles a Chadar i.e. blanket of ice. Its beauty is always at its peak which is best for clicking awesome pictures for wonderful moments and memories. If you are visiting Ladakh, you must do Chadar Trek, it will make your trip wonderful.

Highlights- Best time to do this trek is between January to February.

Also Read: Best Season for Trekking in Ladakh

I know that this list is not enough to explain the beauty of Ladakh. There are other numerous beautiful places to visit in Ladakh which I will cover in my next blog. The places I mentioned come in the list of top 15 places to visit in Ladakh. I hope this will definitely help you in planning a wonderful vacation in Ladakh.  Ladakh is a place one should definitely visit if they truly want to know the meaning of beauty and adventure.

Other Important Ladakh Tourism Information Links

• Popular Short Treks in Ladakh
• Best Ladakh Tour Packages
• Things to Do in Ladakh

Frequently Asked Questions

Do we need permits to visit nubra and pangong.

Yes, special permits will be needed to visit Nubra and Pangong.

What is the best way to travel to Ladakh, by air or by road?

It totally depends on your preference. Ladakh is a very scenic location. If you want to enjoy picturesque views then traveling by road is the best option for you. However, a road trip is a long journey. There are two routes for Ladakh by Road, one is through Manali and the other is through Srinagar. By Air is the best option for those who want comforts and want to reach Ladakh in a hurry and then enjoy the scenic spots. Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport located in Leh is the nearest airport which is connected with the major cities. Travelling by air will save a couple of days and there is no need to take a Rohtang Pass Permit.

Is Ladakh a safe destination to travel with small kids?

Ladakh is safe to travel with family or small kids but with some precautions.

• If you are travelling with an infant or a small kid then do not plan your trip to a high or low altitude place. It's not safe for health purpose.
• Weather might not be suitable for small kids, so keep warm clothes.
• Keep your and your kids body hydrated.
• If the kid is not physically fit then a trip to Ladakh is a big NO.
• Newborns will be sensitive to everything. Be it weather, sunlight, snow etc. So, travel when they are at least 7 to 12 months old. It is not medical advice but precaution is always necessary.

What are some of the most essential things to carry on a Ladakh Trip?

• All the important travel documents and Id card, driving license, Aadhar Card etc. is essential to carry in Ladakh.
• Passport size pictures
• Medical insurance
• Comfortable footwear and warm clothes. Pair of socks, mufflers, gloves and caps.
• Necessary medication to prevent altitude sickness
• Camera, because you will come across beautiful locations.
• Power bank, spare battery, extra memory card and charger

What type of clothes should I carry on a Ladakh Trip?

Ladakh’s weather conditions will be harsh, depending on the time you are travelling. Always carry heavy woolen clothes, comfortable footwear, thermals, gloves, socks, jackets for your comfort. In summer, you can carry light cotton T-Shirts and light jackets. If you are travelling in Rainy season then carry a raincoat, a pair of shoes and light clothes.

How is the mobile and internet connectivity in Ladakh?

Post -paid connections work well in Ladakh. At a few places Airtel connection would work but BSNL will not function properly. You have to get a BSNL or MTNL postpaid connection. In major cities your internet will work well but you will get the facilities of internet not more than 3G. At some places there is no connectivity.

How is the ATM facility in Ladakh?

In Leh market ATM facility is available but at another places ATM is hard to find. So, please carry enough cash, as small shopkeepers will not accept cards.

Are there any direct flights for Ladakh from Delhi & Mumbai?

Yes, if you are travelling to Ladakh from Mumbai then Go Air, SpiceJet operates flights from Mumbai for Leh. It is a very convenient option. From Delhi also Indigo and Go Air offer flights to reach Ladakh. Depending on the time you are going, prices of flights will be raised or reduced.

Published: 15 Mar, 2023 | Last Updated:  05 Feb, 2024

About the author

Pallavi Roy

She is a candle who burns and melts in the chaos of infinity, from where her visceral whistles and leaves an imprint of desire in her heart to know the map of an Island where there are different sunrises and sunsets. Her curiosity brightens to conquer the hearts unrelieved and sometimes mysterious. Her name is - Pallavi Roy - A traveller by soul and a writer by Profession.

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Places To Visit In Ladakh

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1. Pangong Lake

88 km from city center 1 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Located in : Hemis

The most popular tourist attraction in Ladakh, Pangong lake is an endorheic (landlocked) lake situated at 4350 meters. The lake does not remain blue throughout the year or even the day, rather it changes colours from azure to light blue to green and grey too! It is famous amongst tourists as Ladakh lake, the spot where the Bollywood movie "3 Idiots" was shot.

2. Khardung La

14 km from city center 2 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Located in : Leh

Khardung La, also known as Khardzong La, is one of the highest motorable roads in India at an elevation of 5602 metres. It serves as the gateway to Shyok and Nubra Valley. An inner line permit is required to visit. It remains closed from October to May.

3. Magnetic Hill

21 km from city center 3 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Nesting pretty at an altitude of 14000 feet above sea level, you have to take the Leh-Kargil-Baltic National Highway to reach the destination. Found at a distance of 30 km from the scenic town of Leh the magnetic hill is girdled by the Sindhu river on its eastern side and cradled in a picturesque backdrop of the Himalayan Range.

4. Zanskar Valley

86 km from city center 4 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Located in : Zanskar

Located in the Kargil district to the east of Ladakh (around 105 km) lies the bewitching Zanskar Valley. The semi-desert region is flanked by snow-capped mountains and sparkling clean rivers along with distinct flora and fauna. The easiest way of reaching Zanskar is from Kargil through Suru Valley.

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71 km from city center 5 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Located in : Nubra Valley

Nubra Valley lies in the union territory of Jammu & Kashmir, at a distance of around 140 Km from Leh. With arid mountains in the backdrop, it is famous for the Bactrian camel rides, orchards and monasteries. Surrounded by snow-dusted Himalayan mountains, it can be reached via Khardung La.

6. Shanti Stupa

2 km from city center 6 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

The Shanti Stupa is a white-domed Buddhist monument. It is a religious place for Buddhists as it holds the relics of Buddha, consecrated by the 14th Dalai Lama. It looks exceptionally beautiful during the full moon night.

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7. Stok Palace

9 km from city center 7 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Located around 15km from Leh, the Stok Palace is the summer home to the royal family of Ladakh and descendants of King Sengge Namgyal. It was established in 1820 by King Tsepal Namgyal and was opened to the public in 1980 by the Dalai Lama. The Stok Palace has been converted into a heritage hotel and houses the Stok Palace Museum and Temple.

8. Tso Moriri

8 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Tso Moriri Lake is the largest high altitude lakes in India situated at an altitude of 4,595m. Located between Ladakh and Tibet in the Changtang region, it is a twin to the Pangong Lake. This lake offers a scenic place of peace and tranquillity flanked by mountains, measuring about 28 km in length from north to south, and 8 km wide. An inner line permit is required for visiting Tso Moriri.

9. Hall of Fame Leh

4 km from city center 9 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Located at approximately 4 km from the main city, this glorified museum was built in memory of the brave soldiers who lost their lives fighting for India at the Indo-Pakistan war. Maintained by the Indian Army, the Hall of Fame showcases seized arms and amenities of Pakistani Army, pictures and biographies of brave soldiers.

10. Thiksey Monastery

13 km from city center 10 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Thiksey Monastery is a Tibetan-style monastery located 20km south of Leh. The main highlight is the Maitreya Temple which houses a 15-metre high Maitreya Buddha statue. It is the largest such statue in Ladakh.

99 km from city center 11 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Sangam is the confluence of Indus and Zanskar Rivers in Ladakh. The two rivers can be separately seen meeting at this point. While the Indus River appears as shiny blue, Zanskar River appears muddy green.

12. Shey Monastery and Palace

10 km from city center 12 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Shey Monastery or the Shey Palace is an ancient monastery. It once served as the summer capital of Ladakh but is mostly in ruins now. Located on top of a hillock, it offers stunning panoramic views. The highlight of the monastery is 39ft tall Shakyamuni Buddha statue. A special permission needs to be taken to visit the monastery.

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13. Hemis Monastery

29 km from city center 13 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Hemis is a Buddhist monastery ranked as one of the wealthiest monasteries in India. It is most visited during the annual Hemis Festival, held every year in early June. The monastery is well-connected with motorable roads.

14. Rafting in Ladakh

23 km from city center 14 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Rafting expedition is done on Zanskar River, called the Grand Canyon of India, with high cliff like gorges at certain places. The Zanskar Rafting expedition is one of The best river trips in The world.

15. Pathar Sahib Gurudwara

19 km from city center 15 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Gurudwara Pathar Sahib is a beautiful gurudwara, dedicated to Guru Nanak Dev. It is highly revered as it houses a rock which resembles Guru Nanak's back. It is built at the site where he is believed to have vanquished a demon.

146 km from city center 16 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Located in : Kargil

Kargil lies near the Line of Control facing Pakistan-administered Kashmir's Baltistan to the west, and Kashmir valley to the south. Zanskar is part of Kargil district along with Suru, Wakha and Dras valleys. Kargil was at the center of a conflict between India and Pakistan in 1999.

17. Likir Monastery

37 km from city center 17 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

The Likir Monastery is the oldest monastery in Ladakh, located around 52 km from Leh in the scenic Likir village. Belonging to the Gelugpa sect of Tibetan Buddhism, the main attraction here is a 75 feet large seated statue of Maitreya Buddha gilded in gold. There are also various paintings of guardian divinities, murals and thangkas that adorn the walls of assembly halls.

18. Alchi Monastery

38 km from city center 18 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Located in : Lamayuru

Located in the Alchi Village of Ladakh, Alchi Monastery is a complex of Buddist temples of which Alchi Monastery is the oldest and most famous. Cemented on a flat ground unlike other monasteries in Ladakh, the traditional architecture of the monastery is a monastic complex which has 3 separate temples, known as Dukhang, Sumstek and the Temple of Manjushri.

19. Spituk Monastery

6 km from city center 19 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Spituk Monastery also called Spituk Gompa, is a Buddhist monastery located about 8 kms from Leh. One of the most dazzling monasteries in India, it houses 100 monks and a giant statue of Kali. It is famous for its collection of Buddhist objects of antique arms, icon, ancient masks and numerous Thangka paintings.

20. Diskit Monastery

44 km from city center 20 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Also known as Deskit/ Diskit Gompa, this is the oldest and largest monastery in Nubra valley, belonging to Gelugpa (yellow hat) sect of Tibetan Buddhism.

21. Bactrian Camel Ride

71 km from city center 21 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Nubra Valley is famous for the Bactrian Camel Safari. These camels are not even the usual ones that you must have seen in Rajasthan or in pictures. These camels having two humps were the major mode of transport to travel to silk route. These are now used for the safari in the region is hugely popular among the tourists.

22. Leh Palace

2 km from city center 22 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

The Leh Palace is a 17th-century former royal palace that is converted into a museum. The highlight is the sweeping view of Leh and the surrounding Zanskar mountain from the rooftop.

23. Tso Kar

101 km from city center 23 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Tso Kar is a fluctuating salt lake located in the Rupshu Plateau of scenic Ladakh Valley. It is popularly known as the White Lake owing to the white salt deposits it leaves on the shores. Tso Kar Lake is the most peaceful and calm of the three high-altitude lakes (Pangong Lake and Tso Moriri) and also the smallest of the three. It is popular for bird-watching.

24. Hemis National Park

46 km from city center 24 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

At an altitude ranging from 3,300 m to 6,000 m above sea level, this sanctuary is known to be the highest in the world as well as the largest park of South Asia. It is also a habitat to the rare Snow Leopards.

25. Chadar Trek

37 km from city center 25 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

The Chadar Trek or The Frozen River Expedition is one of the most unique and challenging treks in India. The 6-day chadar trek across the frozen Zanskar River in Ladakh takes place during the latter part of January till the end of February or sometimes even in the first week of March, depending on the weather.

26. Hunder Village

49 km from city center 26 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Hunder is a remote village located in the Nubra Valley region, 7km from Diksit Monastery. It is known for its sand dunes, cold desert and bactrian camel rides. It is also home to forests of sea-buckthorn, which is a medicinal plant. Hunder is popular amongst trekkers.

27. Taglang La

1 km from city center 27 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

The Tanglang La is a high mountain road located on the Leh-Manali highway just a few kilometers from Leh. It is at a height of 5,358 metres, is the second-highest mountain pass after Khardung-La Pass, and is also the 12th highest motorable pass. This popular spot in Ladakh is known for being the second highest mountain located in Zanskar range. The pass summit is breathtaking and is adorned by a number of prayer flags.

105 km from city center 28 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Turtuk is a small village located in Nubra Valley region of Ladakh, on the banks of Shyok River. It is an unexplored and offbeat place, opened to tourists only in 2010. The picturesque village with its tiny houses and fields is surreal. It remains cut off from Ladakh for 6 months during winter.

29. Hundur Monastery

48 km from city center 29 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Hundur Monastery is a hilltop temple located in the Nubra Valley, quite close to the Diskit monastery and Lachung temple. This ancient Buddhist religious site is also known as the Hundur Gompa, which is basically a small Buddhist fortification, enclosing years of Buddhist learnings and lineage. However, this part in Hundur marks the extent to which tourists are allowed into the village.

30. Phugtal Monastery

105 km from city center 30 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

The Phugtal (Phuktal) Monastery is a Buddhist monastery situated in the south-east part of Zanskar region in Ladakh. Situated at the mouth of natural cave on a cliff, it is one of the most isolated monasteries in the region, built around 2500 years ago. The Phugtal Monastery looks like a honeycomb from a distance. It is popular amongst trekking enthusiasts.

31. Lamayuru

76 km from city center 31 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Lamayuru is a tiny village that's popularly known as the Moonland of Ladakh. It is immensely popular for housing the Lamayuru Monastery, the oldest and largest monasteries in Ladakh. It is an ideal stopover between the Kargil-Leh route.

32. Stargazing

32 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Leh-Ladakh, as already mentioned earlier, is a must visit place for all photography lovers – especially, Astro-photographers! The Major reason why Ladakh is a favourite among astrophotographers is because it provides clear night skies to complement the scenic beauty. Cities don’t generally have such pellucid skies owing to the pollution around.

33. Chang La Pass

34 km from city center 33 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Chang La Pass is a high mountain pass and one of the highest motorable roads in the world. The 15km long pass is especially popular amongst bikers. The roads are mostly paved and are driveable by any vehicle. Changla is open for tourists from Mid May to October.

34. Chemrey Monastery

29 km from city center 34 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Chemrey Monastery is a 400-year-old yet unexplored Buddhist monastery located approximately 40 kilometres (25 mi) east of Leh in northern India. It is known for housing a staggering statue of Padmasambhava (almost a storey-high)and a collection of ancient scriptures with the text emboldened in gold letters with the titles in silver.

35. Namgyal Tsemo Monastery

2 km from city center 35 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Traveling to the Namgyal Tsemo Gompa makes you encounter the steep mountains and submerges you in its serene and spiritual folds. The monastery has long lured travelers seeking Buddhist experience but surprises them with something unexpected- the moon like, quiet and mystic expanse of Ladakh's landscape.

36. Trekking in Ladakh

36 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Know for its majestic and moon like terrains, Leh is attracted by many natural lovers and adventurous tourist. Some popular trekking routes include Spiti to Ladakh, Markha Valley trekking, Ladakh Zanskar trekking and the Nubra Valley trekking.

37. Sankar Gompa

2 km from city center 37 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Sankar Gompa is a beautiful Buddhist monastery located 6 km from Leh. A subsidiary of Spituk Monastery, it serves as the residence of the Abbot of Spituk, the senior incarnate lama of Ladakh, making it an important religious site. The main attraction is the statue of Avalokitesvara with 1000 arms and heads.

38. Druk White Lotus School

11 km from city center 38 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

The Druk White Lotus School, also known as Druk Padma Karpo School, is a Buddhist cultural school located in the Shey valley, close to Shey Monastery and Palace. It is popular as the Rancho School from the famed Bollywood movie 3-idiots. It has become a popular tourist attraction, even though it is a not public tourist spot.

39. Shopping in Ladakh

39 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

For all those who like to fill their bags with souvenirs and local produce, the markets in Ladakh offers beautiful Tibetan jewellery, motifs, decorated carpets and woolen clothes. 

40. Sindhu Darshan Festival

40 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

The Sindhu Darshan festival is celebrated Leh Ladakh region, every year on the full moon day. Celebrated over three days, this is a celebration of River Sindhu, the former Indus Valley Civilisation, with the motive of endorsing the river as an icon of communal harmony in India. The Bollywood movie "Dil Se" was shot at the first Sindhu Darshan Festival.

41. Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary

111 km from city center 41 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

The Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary is located at an altitude of about 4000-9000 feet in the Ladakhi Changthang Plateau. The vast range of exotic flora and fauna attribute the sanctuary to be the second-largest nature reserve. It houses the three popular high altitude lakes - Tso Moriri, Pangong Lake and Tso Kar.

145 km from city center 42 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Nyoma is a quaint village located 150 km from Leh on the banks of the Indus River. The main attraction of this unexplored village is a Buddhist monastery and the long walks in the peaceful lanes. Nyoma is best visited as a stopover when travelling to Chumathang from Leh. An inner line permit is required to visit Nyoma and its monastery.

43. Mountain Biking in Ladakh

24 km from city center 43 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Often termed the paradise of mountain bikers, Leh has thousands of tourists coming in every year to experience the thrill of driving on its steep slopes and adrenaline gushing paths.

44. Chumathang Hot Spring

111 km from city center 44 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

The Chumathang Hot Spring is a hot sulphur spring situated in a small hamlet along the Indus River called Chumathang about 138 km from Leh, Ladakh. The spring originates quite close to the river itself and is believed to have medicinal properties. Many believe that the mineral-rich water can cure one of skin diseases.

45. Panamik Hot Springs

71 km from city center 45 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Located at a distance of about 140 Km from Leh, Panamik Village is the northernmost part of India. It lies on the bank of Nubra river and is well known for its hot water spring, Pashmina goats and the bactarian camels. 

46. Yarab Tso Lake

1 km from city center 46 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Popular as the hidden lake, Yarab Tso is located in the Nubra Valley region. It is an uninhabited lake with crystal clear water. Being located in a remote location, the only way to reach it is through an uphill hike.

47. MoonLand, Lamayuru

76 km from city center 47 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

A peculiar landscape near Lamayuru on Leh-Kargil Road is the MoonLand. It is called so fondly, because the landscapes here are said to be like that of the moon.

48. Darcha Padum Trek

100 km from city center 48 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Located on river Bhaga, Darcha is a small Lahaul region in the Himachal district of Spiti. Whereas Padum is among the two primary capital cities of the Zanskar society. There are plenty of camping sites en route, spread across a variety of nomadic sites travellers would pass by. 

49. Maitreya Buddha

43 km from city center 49 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Near the Diskit monastery in Nubra Valley stands a 32 meter tall statue of Maitreya Buddha facing towards the Shyok river. This statue is built with 8 Kg gold which was donated by the head of Gompa and was sanctified by the Dalai Lama. 

50. Shyok Valley

50 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Shyok Village is a hidden gem located in the Nubra Valley region, between Leh and Pangong Lake. Located on the banks of the Shyok River, this tiny hamlet is an offbeat location with only a few houses and families. It is the perfect place to slow down, breathe in nature and get away from the daily routine.

51. Samstanling Monastery

45 km from city center 51 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Samstanling Monastery in Sumlur village is an important Buddhist shrine in Nubra Valley. Founded 140 years ago, the monastery houses 50 monks who look after its daily functioning. The main attraction is the spectacular murals and paintings of Buddha.

52. Lamayuru Monastery, Lamayuru

75 km from city center 52 out of 68 Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

Lamayuru is one of the largest and oldest monasteries in India. It is known for its rich wall paintings, thangkas and murals. The best time to visit is during the two annual Mask Dance Festivals.

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The Top 20 Things to Do in Ladakh, India

The remote, high-altitude Union Territory of Ladakh opened to visitors in 1974 after decades of conflict, and has since developed into a prominent tourist destination. Once part of the Tibetan Empire, Ladakh became an independent kingdom in the 9 th century, eventually expanding into what is now Western Tibet. The kingdom prospered as a nexus for the trade of Pashmina wool between Tibet and Kashmir . However, invasion from the Dogra region of neighboring Jammu ended the kingdom in 1834; later, Ladakh was incorporated into the state of Jammu and Kashmir. It became a separate union territory in October 2019.

These days, Ladakh lures tourists with a mix of Tibetan Buddhist culture, dramatic scenery, and outdoor adventure activities. The fact that the region remains cut off by road for most of the year has helped it retain its distinctive customs and lifestyle.

Read on to find out the top things to do in Ladakh and when is the best time to visit Ladakh .

Wander Through Leh's Main Market

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If you fly into Leh, Ladakh's tourist hub , you'll need to spend a few days there to acclimatize to the high altitude. Start off by wandering through the market area in the town center to orientate yourself. This lively commercial district was recently given a makeover as part of a beautification project. Rows of Ladakhi women sit on the sidewalks selling homegrown local produce, and the shops are stocked with everything from souvenirs to trekking gear (it's also possible to rent climbing and trekking gear at Venture Ladakh ). Check out the Tibetan Refugee Market for prayer wheels, sound bowls, thangka paintings, and jewelry. You'll find plenty of travel agents to help with your plans as well. Drop into the Central Asian Museum on Main Bazaar Road (open daily from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.) to learn about Leh's role in Silk Road trade.

Take a Heritage Walk of Leh's Old Town

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Behind the market area, Leh's atmospheric Old Town is an amazingly well-preserved maze of narrow lanes and centuries-old mud brick houses. This rare example of an intact historic Tibeto-Himalayan urban settlement was originally situated within a walled fortification. The New York-based World Monuments Fund has included the Old Town on its list of 100 Most Endangered Sites due to the threat of damage from climate change and poorly-planned modernization. It's now being preserved by the Tibet Heritage Fund .

Start your exploration of the Old Town at Jama Masjid (mosque) near the market. Attractions include several Buddhist temples and chortens , and the interesting  LAMO arts center in a pair of magnificently restored 17 th -century mansions. Go on this guided heritage walk so you don't miss anything.

Enjoy the Views from Leh Palace

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While you're exploring Leh, make your way over to Leh Palace (formally known as Lachen Palkar Palace), perched above the Old Town. Completed by King Sengge Namgyal in the early 17 th century, this former royal palace has outstanding medieval Tibetan architecture. Unfortunately, the royal family were forced to abandon the palace and relocate to Stok in the mid 19 th century after the Dogra invasion. Much of it was in ruins until the Archeological Survey of India's restoration.

Leh Palace can be reached by walking uphill from town or by road. Tickets to go inside cost 300 rupees (about $4) for foreigners, and 25 rupees (about 40 cents) for Indians. The Palace Museum has regal memorabilia for you to check out; however, the superb views over town are arguably the biggest draw.

Spend Sunset at Shanti Stupa

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Shanti Stupa is another standout place in the vicinity of Leh for views, and it's particularly evocative at sunset. The white-domed stupa was built between 1983 and 1991 by a Japanese Buddhist group to celebrate 2,500 years of Buddhism. This symbol of peace occupies a barren hilltop in Chanspa, opposite Leh Palace. Get there by taxi or climb about 500 steps to be rewarded with the panoramic view from the top. The stupa is open from dawn to 9 p.m. and is illuminated at night. Head there for sunrise if you like to wake up early.

Give Some Love to Abandoned Donkeys

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When many donkeys reach the end of their useful working lives, they are abandoned on the streets, where they become weak and are attacked by stray dogs. Animal lovers will appreciate the wonderful work the Donkey Sanctuary is doing to provide a "home for homeless donkeys" and treat their injuries. The sanctuary cares for up to 30 donkeys at a time, and visitors can pet and feed them. It's located in Upper Leh, about 15 minutes north of town on Korean Temple Road.

Try Local Food

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You'll find that Ladakhi cuisine is heavily influenced by the surrounding regions, including Tibet and  Kashmir . Don't limit yourself to momos (dumplings) and thukpa (noodle soup) when visiting this area. There are many other traditional dishes to try. One of them is skyu, a delicious indigenous pasta stew with root vegetables. Alchi Kitchen at Chhutey Rantak in Leh gives a modern twist to it. Ladakhi Women's Cafe , a welfare enterprise run by a local group of women in Leh's main market, serves up inexpensive homestyle lunches. Dzomsa on Fort Road does authentic Ladakhi breakfasts featuring khambir (bread), signature butter tea (with yak butter and salt), and homemade apricot preserve. The Tibetan Kitchen on Fort Road is renowned for its succulent momos and other Tibetan fare.

Want to learn how to cook Ladakhi food too? Tendrel Travel offers momo making classes led by local chefs.

Visit the Monasteries

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Most tourists visit at least one Buddhist monastery in Ladakh. Nearly half the population there practices Tibetan Buddhism, so spectacular monasteries are dotted all over the region. Most can be visited on day trips from Leh or on the way to other destinations. Spituk is the closest monastery to Leh, whereas Lamayuru and Alchi (both on the way to Kargil) are the region's oldest monasteries. The ancient ruins of Basgo Monastery , near Alchi, are on the WMF's list of 100 Most Endangered Sites. Diskit Monastery, with its gigantic Maitreya Buddha statue, is in Ladakh's Nubra Valley . The most incredible (and most inaccessible) monastery is Phugtal, halfway between Padum and Darcha in the Zanskar region. It can't be reached by road, so you'll have to trek or ride a pony to it.

Experience Ladakhi Village Life

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Ladakh is a marvelous place to experience village life and there are options for all kinds of travelers. For luxury travelers, Shakti Ladakh has transformed several old village houses in rural Ladakh into elegant lodging; Nimmu House , too, provides quality accommodations in a village setting. Those who aren't too fussed about facilities will find plenty of homestays in various quaint villages. Farmstays Ladakh is a relatively new initiative that brings visitors to stay with farming families in Phyang and Phey villages. Another community empowerment initiative, Mountain Homestays , has appealing properties in rural Ladakh too. Alternatively, adventurous travelers can join a village-to-village trek, such as the popular Sham Trek (see below). Dreamland Adventures offers numerous homestay treks .

Go Trekking

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There are treks for all levels of fitness and experience in Ladakh. The region is quite the trekkers paradise with stark landscapes, high-altitude passes, ancient gompas , unusual flora and fauna, fascinating villages, and even frozen rivers in winter. If you don't want to camp out, there are now village homestay accommodations on many treks. The four-day Sham Trek is regarded as the beginner's trek (although it still isn't easy). It starts in Likir, and goes through the arid Sham region to the west of Leh. If you're up for a challenge, try the Chadar Trek along the frozen Zanskar River. It's one of the most difficult in India!

Stay with Royalty at Stok Palace

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19 th century Stok Palace, about 30 minutes south of Leh, has been turned into a heritage hotel and private museum of the Ladakhi royal family . The palace overlooks the Indus Valley, and is smaller and cozier than the one in Leh. The erstwhile king still lives there; he's passionate about conserving Ladakhi culture and likes his discerning guests to have a personal experience. While the museum is open to everyone, overnight guests are given a guided tour of the palace (including the monastery and throne room) and may even dine with the king. Impromptu cooking sessions are possible in the royal kitchen as well. Of course, the privilege doesn't come cheap. The six carefully restored palace rooms are priced from around 18,000-38,000 rupees (about $250–540) per night, inclusive of meals for two people. They're only open during the summer months though. Guests can stay in the two-bedroom villas in the royal apricot orchard year-round.

Glamp at High Altitudes

Indus River Camp

There are plenty of happy glampers in Ladakh. Luxury tented camps have cropped up in popular places such as the Nubra Valley and Pangong Lake . The most glamorous ones are The Ultimate Traveling Camp's opulent Chamba Camp near Thiksey Monastery and Chamba Camp at Diskit . These seasonal camps are open from mid-May to the end of September or October. Exclusive bespoke itineraries are offered at each. Elsewhere, the 42-acre Indus River Camp is an excellent less-costly option on the river bank, conveniently only 15 minutes from Leh. This stunning location offers activities such as yoga, cycling, rock climbing, and visits to a local camel sanctuary.

Have a Bollywood Moment at Pangong Lake

The final scenes of the 2009 hit movie "The 3 Idiots" were shot at Pangong Lake —and ever since it was released, Indian tourists have been flocking there to have their Bollywood moment (props are even available for hire). At 4,350 meters above sea level, this surreal salt water lake is among the highest in the world. It's also unusual because it's completely landlocked. The lake is about a six-hour drive southeast of Leh, on the border of China-dominated Tibet. It's disputed territory, so permits are required to visit the area. Stargazing is sensational at night!

Spot Himalayan Marmots

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While driving through Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary on the way to Pangong Lake, you'll probably encounter some vehicles stopped on the side of the road. It's a popular location to spot Himalayan marmots, which emerge from their winter hibernation in May and bask in the sun. The furry rodents are a type of giant ground-dwelling squirrel and are among the longest-hibernating mammals in the world. Marmots are usually timid—but because these ones have become used to tourists giving them food, they will actually approach people. Do obey the signs that say not to feed them, as it is causing concerning changes to their behavior.

Eat at the Highest Cafeteria in the World

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Khardung La, which passes over the Ladakh mountain range on the way to the Nubra Valley, may not actually be the highest drivable road as is often claimed (the Indian government has stated its altitude to be only 17,582 feet above sea level, as opposed to 18,380 feet). However, you can still grab a bite to eat at Rinchen Cafeteria, the "highest cafeteria in the world". Avoid spending any longer than about 15 minutes there though, as the super high altitude is likely to make you feel lightheaded and unwell.

Ride Camels Through the Sand Dunes

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A camel safari through the desert is an iconic thing to do in Rajasthan . It's also possible in Ladakh, although the camels are the rugged double-humped Bactrian variety. The safaris take place in the sand dunes between Diskit and Hunder in the Nubra Valley . Camel riding also is possible at Sumur, but the dunes are less impressive.

Learn About Balti Culture and Traditions

It's often said that India is one of the most diverse countries in the world. You'll really understand why at the Balti village of Turtuk in the Nubra Valley, close to the Pakistan border. Baltistan was part of Pakistan until India reclaimed some of it during the 1971 Indo-Pakistani War, and Turtuk was off-limits to tourists until 2010 due to security concerns. The Balti Heritage Museum in Turtuk showcases local history, starting from the time the village was inhabited by the Brokpa tribe and later overtaken by warriors from Central Asia. See if you can meet the "king" of Turtuk, Yabgo Mohammad Khan Kacho, a descendant of the Yabgo Dynasty that ruled Baltistan for 2,000 years. He still lives in the former palace and has set up a museum there dedicated to the dynasty's memorabilia. Old wooden mosques that have withstood the test of time are another attraction in Turtuk. Spend a night or more in a luxury tent at Turtuk Holiday Resort or Maha Guest House . Balti Farm at Turtuk Holiday Resort prepares fabulous Balti cuisine.

Get an Adrenaline Rush from River Rafting

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River rafting in Ladakh is one of the top adventure activities in India and a whole lot of fun. It takes place along the Indus and Zanskar rivers, with various grade rapids for all levels. The Chilling-to-Nimmu stretch of the Indus River is ideal for white water junkies who love an adrenaline rush, as there are plenty of rapids on this three-hour, grade 3+ stretch. Splash Ladakh is one of the best rafting operators. You'll be picked up from your hotel in Leh early in the morning, driven to Chilling (an hour and a half away), collected from the end point near Nimmu, and dropped back at your hotel mid-afternoon. Longer rafting expeditions with riverside camping are offered, too.

Marvel Over Magnetic Hill

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Is it an optical illusion, or is something more mysterious going on at gravity-defying Magnetic Hill on the the Srinagar-Leh Highway? Place your car in neutral gear and it will appear to roll uphill on this bizarre stretch of road. According to the sign, there's a real magnetic force at play. Locals and the Indo-Tibetan Border Police have claimed that the magnetic power can be experienced if flying above the hill in a helicopter or airplane as well. You'll find Magnetic Hill just before the confluence of the Zanskar and Indus rivers near Nimmu, about a 30-minute drive from Leh.

Admire the Confluence of the Indus and Zanskar Rivers

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The Indus and Zanskar rivers meet not far from Nimmu (at a place locally called sangam ) and it can be seen from a picturesque viewpoint on the Srinagar-Leh Highway. The color of the water is renowned for changing—from green to blue to gray—throughout the day and year. Aim to be there in the morning around 10:30 a.m. for the best light and brightest spectacle. It's quite awe-inspiring. What's also astounding is that the Zanskar River freezes over in winter, while the Indus flows faster with ice floating on it. After admiring the vista, head to Nimmu village for lunch.

Pay Your Respects to Kargil War Heroes

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The highway between Srinagar and Leh passes through Kargil in western Ladakh. This town is roughly equidistant from each place (five hours) and is considered to be the gateway to Ladakh. Unfortunately, it has been the site of some awful border clashes with Pakistan. The worst of these was the Kargil War in 1999. The Indian Army has built a Kargil War Memorial at the war zone in Drass (about an hour from Kargil towards Srinagar) to honor the hundreds of soldiers who lost their lives defending India from invasion. A 20-minute documentary about the war is screened at the memorial. Other attractions include a Bofors gun, MiG-21 fighter aircraft, war bunkers, an eternal flame, and stones with soldiers names engraved on them. It's very moving and thought-provoking.

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Spectacularly jagged, arid mountains enfold this magical Buddhist ex-kingdom. Picture-perfect gompas (Tibetan Buddhist monasteries) dramatically crown rocky outcrops next to fluttering prayer flags and whitewashed stupas, while prayer wheels spun clockwise release merit-making mantras. Gompa interiors are a riot of golden Buddhas and intricately colourful murals and home to red-robed monks. It's a little corner of Tibet marooned in the furthest reaches of India.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Bearing a passing similarity to the Potala Palace in Lhasa (Tibet), this nine-storey dun-coloured edifice is Leh's dominant structure and architectural…

Thiksey Gompa

Glorious Thiksey Gompa is one of Ladakh’s biggest and most recognisable monasteries, photogenically cascading down a raised rocky promontory. At its heart…

Choskhor Temple Complex

The original murals and statues within these four outwardly modest 11th-century temples are considered the crowning glory of Ladakh’s Indo-Tibetan art…

Wanla Gompa

Above Wanla village, tiny medieval Wanla Gompa is dramatically perched on a towering knife-edge ridge flanked by two shattered tower remnants of a now…

Leh Old Town

Behind Leh’s central Jamia Masjid, winding alleys and stairways burrow between and beneath a series of old mud-brick Ladakhi houses and eroded chortens…

Diskit Gompa

Nubra Valley

Directly above Old Diskit, a 2km spaghetti of hairpins winds up to this photogenic monastery complex, much of which dates to between the 14th and 17th…

Yungdrung Gompa

Lamayuru's gompa is one of the most photogenic Buddhist monasteries in Ladakh. Behind glass within the gompa’s main prayer hall is a tiny cave-niche in…

Spituk Gompa

Founded in the late 14th century as See-Thub (Exemplary) Monastery, impressive Spituk Gompa surveys the Sengye Tsangpo (Indus) Valley, with surreal views…

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25 Best Things to Do in Ladakh

Located in the Greater Himalayas in far North India, Ladakh is one of the most incredibly beautiful places I’ve ever seen with my own eyes. The rugged arid valleys are flanked by the jagged, snow-capped peaks of the Zanskar, Ladakh and Karakoram ranges and hilltops are dotted with crumbling ancient monasteries.

It’s undoubtedly an unbelievable adventure to even reach Leh, the capital of Ladakh. The town sits at a lofty altitude of 3500m and requires a long road journey or spectacular flight to reach. But from there, you can explore the surrounding area, which has plenty of things to do and see from Buddhist monasteries to high altitude lakes.

I’ve visited Ladakh twice now and spent over two months in total in the region. It’s easily one of my favourite places to visit in India. This post will give you a detailed look at the must see sights in the Ladakh region for your next trip to North India. See you there!

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Why Visit the Ladakh Region?

Ladakh covers the far northern extent of the Indian subcontinent and is bordered by Pakistan to the west and China and Tibet to the north and east. Flanked by the dramatic Karakoram Mountains and Zanskar Range, the region is an incredibly beautiful part of the Greater Himalayas.

Characterised by an arid mountain area, known as a cold desert, the landscape is one of the most unique aspects of Ladakh. That coupled with a fascinating history of the ancient Silk Road and a predominantly Buddhist population, the region is very different to the rest of India.

Leh is the main town and transport hub of the Ladakh region. This is where you’ll want to head to explore Ladakh. While some people confuse Leh and Ladakh as being the same thing, Leh is the town while Ladakh is the name of the broader region. From old monasteries dotting ridgelines to delicious Tibetan food, there are many reasons why Ladakh offers one of the best adventures in India.

Essential Reading: Comprehensive Travel Guide to Ladakh

How to Get to Leh, Ladakh

You can reach Leh by road or by air. However, getting to Leh is no easy feat, especially if you decide to take the road option.

The journey to Leh by road is one of the  greatest road trips  in the world and is not for the faint-hearted. To reach Leh by road, you can come from two directions:  from Srinagar or from Manali . There are public buses, tourist buses and shared taxis tackling the roads in both directions during summer.

For most travellers, coming from Manali is convenient and the most popular option, although the road is more arduous with three high passes. On the other hand, the Srinagar-Leh road is less travelled but is a great option if you want to explore Kashmir. The Srinagar-Leh route also has a more gradual altitude climb compared to Manali.

If you prefer to fly, there is a small airstrip in town at Leh Airport . There are frequent flights to Delhi throughout the year. In winter, this is the only way in and out for tourists. Prices can vary hugely and when any of the roads from Delhi to Ladakh are washed out or closed, expect prices to skyrocket. The flight time is around 1.5 hours and tickets can cost between 3000 rupees (AU$60) up to 10,000 (AU$200) rupees one way.

Read more: How to Get to Leh by Public Transport

When is the Best Time to Visit Ladakh

High season runs from June to August in Ladakh. These are the best months for road safety, as the weather is at its warmest and the snow has been cleared from most passes. However, it’s also the busiest time, although it’s not as crowded as other parts of India.

Still, if you want to join any tours or treks, then it’s the perfect season to meet other travellers and join groups. Outside of these months it can be hard to find regular departures for tours.

On the other hand, you can also go to Ladakh between April and June or from September to October, before and after most of the tourists arrive and leave. However, road conditions can’t always be guaranteed and you’ll have to check closures before departing.

Where to Stay in Leh

There are plenty of accommodation options for all budgets in Leh. For budget travellers, the best accommodation are the family-run guesthouses that you can find around the market and Fort Road. You could easily find somewhere to stay upon arriving by walking around, but here are my top picks if you want to book ahead.

Budget: Raybo Hostel

Budget: Peace Guest House

Midrange: Chandan Guest House

Midrange: Rock Castle Residency

High-end: Grand Dragon

Read more: Best Places to Stay in Leh for All Budgets

Permits and Ticket Prices for Ladakh

For some places around Ladakh, travellers require an Inner Line Permit or Protected Area Permit . These places include Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley and Tso Moriri, with check points on some of the roads and passes. Permits are approved by the Deputy Commissioner’s Office in Leh and are valid for a maximum period of 15 days for foreigners.

While you can arrange the permit yourself, if you’re joining a jeep tour to Pangong and Nubra Valley the travel agency can easily arrange it for you. The permit costs 560 rupees (AUD$11) for a standard three night tour from Leh for a foreigner.

Apart from the permits, entry fees are pretty cheap around Ladakh. Most monasteries charge somewhere between 30-50INR (AU$0.50-1) for entry, with a couple of exceptions like Hemis Monastery and Alchi Monastery which charge 100INR (AU$2).

How to Get Around Ladakh

Once you find yourself in Leh town, getting around Ladakh to all of the attractions listed below is relatively easy with a variety of options. Whether you hire your own transport or opt to go with public transport, travelling by road in Ladakh is one of the best experiences in the region. The options you have include:

• Public bus: There are limited public bus services to places around Leh, however you’ll need a lot of time and patience to reach most places. Head to the bus station in Leh to check the latest schedule and whether buses are running at all (it highly depends on demand sometimes).
• Shared tours: A convenient way for all travellers is to join one of the organised tours leaving Leh regularly during high season. Virtually every travel agency in Leh have departures a few times per week, usually covering the same route: Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley and, sometimes Turtuk over 3-4 days. This is a great way for budget travellers to share the cost of a driver and vehicle.
• Private taxi: Taxis operate as part of a union in Ladakh, which means prices are set for each destination. You can easily get a taxi in Leh for day trips and dropping at trekking route trailheads for a fair price.

I opted for a combination of public transport and organised tours to get around to most places. I found this the perfect balance as a budget traveller. But, taxis can also be very convenient for obscure trips like to the trailhead of trekking routes.

Read more: A Detailed 10 Day Leh Ladakh Itinerary

Best Things to Do in Ladakh

Ladakh is a large area, covering numerous valleys, villages, monasteries, lakes and peaks. There are plenty of sights and attractions to keep you busy for weeks. Even after two trips there, I still have places on my list that I want to visit next time.

Below I’m outlining the 25 best things to do in Ladakh, based on my experience in the region. This covers the essential things to see and do if you want to get the most out of your trip to North India. But it also includes a few off the beaten track places as well, such as Zanskar Valley, for those that have extra time.

1. Leh Market

The main bazaar and tourist area in the middle of Leh town is the hub of all the action. It has everything you might need, such as souvenir shops, trekking gear shops, travel agencies, cafes, supermarkets, banks and a government-run tourist information office.

It’s the best place to people watch and enjoy the best that the town has to offer. The main thoroughfare is Old Fort Road and Main Bazaar Road, with part of the Bazaar Road being pedestrian only. This is where you’ll find some of the best cafes and restaurants in town as well.

You can also access Leh Palace on foot from the northern end of the bazaar, which is worth a visit (detailed below).

2. Central Asian Museum

I highly recommend a visit to the Central Asian Museum, which is tucked behind the Main Bazaar Road. It’s the best place to learn about the history of the Ladakh region and is housed inside an old mosque.

It features some incredible photographs from the ancient Silk Road days, plus artefacts showcasing the local culture and history. The top level also offers a nice view of Leh Palace and the Sikh temple.

Entry fee: 50 INR (AU$1)

3. Shanti Stupa

Shanti Stupa is one of the most popular things to do in Leh. The white washed stupa sits atop a hill to the northwest of Leh town. It’s nowhere near as old as many of the monasteries around Ladakh and was built just in 1991.

However, the appeal for non-Buddhists is the incredible vantage point of the stupa, which offers one of the best views over Leh. You can either drive up to the stupa or walk. If you want to walk, you can find a steep staircase at the end of Changspa Road which consists of around 500 steps to reach the top. Otherwise a taxi will set you back about 400INR (AU$8) return from Leh town.

It’s best to head up there at sunset, when the last light offers an incredible glow across the valley and mountains.

4. Leh Palace

Leh Palace is the remaining evidence of Leh’s status as the royal capital of Ladakh from the 17th century onwards. It was the residence of the royal family who ruled over most of Western Tibet at the time. The incredible structure still stands tall above Leh town and is one of the best things to do in Ladakh.

You can explore the nine levels of the palace, which has recently seen a lot of effort put into turning some rooms into a museum. Plus, the view from the ninth floor is outstanding, right across the town below.

You can drive around to the palace by road. Or, you can climb up from Leh Bazaar on foot and just admire the incredible view over the valley. You’ll find stairs leading up to the palace from Old Leh town, which can be accessed by taking the small street running off the main market near the Jama Masjid (main mosque).

Entry fee: 100 INR (AU$2)

5. Namgyal Tsemo Monastery

Sitting high above Leh Palace is Tsemo Monastery and the old fortress ruins. As one of the highest points in Leh town, it easily offers one of the best views.

The beautiful monastery was founded in the 15th century and is one of my favourite spots to watch the sunset. You can drive up to the temple, or hike up to it from two different directions.

The walk up from Chubi is on a paved trail with stairs. It starts beside the Chubi HP Petrol Station on Sankar Road. But, most people hike up from Leh Palace, where you’ll see a dirt trail cut into the mountain. It’s a bit of a workout if you’re not yet acclimatised to the altitude!

Entry fee: 30 INR (AU$0.60)

6. Pangong Lake

Pangong Tso is one of the highest saltwater lakes in the world sitting at 4250m. It’s also one of Ladakh’s biggest drawcards. The fluorescent blue colour of the water amongst the arid slopes of the mountains is a truly spectacular sight.

It’s considered sacred for Buddhists and almost 2/3 of the lake actually lies across the border in Tibet. Pangong is over 150km east of Leh town and requires a long drive to reach, including crossing a high mountain pass, Chang La, at over 5000m.

Many people travel to Pangong Lake to spend the night there or as part of a multi-day tour to Nubra Valley from Leh. You’ll find many glamping style accommodation and guesthouses strung along the shores of the lake to choose from.

Most people stay at a place called Spangmik , a cluster of hotels on the lake shore. However, we asked our driver to continue to the last village called Man , which only had a couple of places and a more laidback vibe. Or you can continue even further to Merak , one of the last villages before the Tibet border.

Prices can vary wildly and many charge at least 2000 INR (AU$40) per person for a glamping style tent.

Where to stay? Nirvana Resort in Spangmik or Pangong Travel Camp in Man

7. Khardung La

While there are numerous high passes you can cross while exploring Ladakh, the most famous is Khardung La. This road pass was once considered to be the highest road pass in the world and sits at 5360m. It connects Leh with Diskit in Nubra Valley and is usually included as part of a tour to the valley and Pangong Lake.

The drive from Leh to Khardung La is just 40km, but takes over an hour due to the constant hairpin bends and some patches of rough conditions. The road is only open from May until October and, depending on when you drive the road, it can have snow and be riddled with landslides. However, there’s constant construction and improvements going on, meaning it’s mostly kept in good condition.

Be prepared for a lot of crowds and traffic, with a bit of a chaotic atmosphere as everyone tries to get out and take a photo. There are a couple of teahouses up there and a military outpost, so you can have a break and soak in the feeling of driving up over 5000m.

8. Nubra Valley

One of the most popular excursions from Leh is to travel north to Nubra Valley. This is the most recently opened area of the Ladakh region and was once an important valley through which traders on the Silk Road passed through. Nubra Valley stretches from the Karakoram Mountains in Pakistan to the border of Tibet. 

To reach Nubra Valley, you’ll have to cross the incredible Khardung La pass from Leh. It forms a tri-armed valley cut by the Nubra and Shyok Rivers and backed by the Karakoram Mountains. Its Tibetan name Dumra means “valley of flowers”, as it’s easily one of the most beautiful parts of the region.

Other than the obvous beauty, most people head to Nubra to also visit Diskit Monastery, the Hunder sand dunes and Bactrian camels. You can also access Turtuk and Siachen Glacier from Nubra Valley.

9. Diskit Monastery and Buddha Statue

The main town in Nubra Valley is  Diskit , which has a beautiful monastery and plenty of hotels and restaurants servicing all the bikers and tours en route. Diskit Monastery dates back to the 14th century and is the oldest and largest in Nubra Valley.

It occupies a spectacular location, high up on the rocky slopes of the valley. Also known as Diskit Gompa, the monastery’s most prominent attraction is the 100ft Maitreya Buddha statue which offers a panoramic view of the valley floor.

Entry fee: 40INR (AU$0.80)

Where to stay? Ama Guesthouse or Himalayan Regal House

10. Hunder Sand Dunes

On the western outskirts of Diskit, you’ll find a stretch of sand dunes, which offer a bizarre contrast to the snow-capped mountains surrounding them.

Double humped camels known as Bactrian camels roam around the dunes, and there are plenty of people offering camel trips and tours. This is by far the most popular thing to do in Nubra Valley, but we decided to just spend time patting the camels instead!

You can also stay in Hunder, a smaller village than Diskit and closer to the sand dunes. It’s part military base and part local village, with some basic shops and restaurants.

Where to stay? Hunder Stay and Camp or Hunder Haven

For those with more time, a drive further west from Nubra Valley will bring you to the village of Turtuk. This is the northernmost accessible village in India. Technically a part of Baltistan, which is mostly now in Pakistan, the village is home to ethnic Balti people.

It’s a picturesque village on the banks of the Shyok River and if you climb up to the small temple on the side of the slope high above, you’ll get spectacular views of snow capped mountains through the valley.

The town is not always included on a tour but it’s certainly one of the most beautiful and unique places to see in Ladakh and is worth the long drive. There are various homestays available in Turtuk if you want to spend the night, and I highly recommend that you do.

Where to stay? Khan Homestay offers rooms for 1000 rupees (AUD$20) or Sukoon Homestay charges around 1600 rupees (AU$30).

12. Shey Palace

Shey Palace is just 12km south of Leh town and an old royal palace and monastery complex dating back to the 17th century. It was used as a summer retreat by the royal family until they fled during the Dogra invasion of the 19th century to nearby Stok.

While the palace is now in ruins, the monastery is worth visiting and requires a bit of a steep climb to reach. The main temple houses a large copper statue of Shakyamuni Buddha, which is the second largest of its kind in Ladakh.

From the vantage point offered by the complex on the edge of the valley, you can see right across the area, including further down to Thiksey Monastery, Stok and Stakna.

13. Thiksey Monastery

Further down the Keylong-Leh Road from Shey Palace, you’ll come across the impressive Thiksey Monastery. This is one of the grandest monasteries in the Ladakh region and I highly recommend a visit. It consists of 10 temples, a nunnery and an assembly hall, all of which are built up over the top of a hill, similar to many other monasteries in the region.

Thiksey is known to have a distinct resemblance to Lhasa’s Potala, the former seat of the Dalai Lamas. It’s incredibly impressive as soon as you arrive in the car park at the bottom and gaze up at the structures cascading down the hill.

You can walk your way up through the complex, following narrow passageways to reach the more important temples at the top. Towards the back of the complex, the monastery also operates a restaurant open all day for visitors. While an unlikely highlight, we thought it had some of the best North Indian food we’d eaten in Ladakh and at very reasonable prices.

Entry fee: 50INR (AU$1)

14. Spituk Monastery

If you’re short on time and looking for a monastery closer to Leh, Spituk Monastery is just 7km outside of town on the other side of the airport and past the Hall of Fame Museum. While it appears much smaller than other monasteries like Thiksey, it’s far less visited and offers a quieter experience.

The view from the top of the monastery complex is quite stunning, with a vista across Leh town, Leh Palace and the valley towards Stok Kangri. It’s best visited at sunrise or sunset if you want the perfect lighting.

There’s a small museum and a few temples to visit around the top of the monastery, with friendly monks to show you the way.

Entry fee: 20 INR (AU$0.40)

15. Hemis Monastery

Arguably the most important monastery to visit during your time in Ladakh, Hemis Monastery is the largest in the region. While it was officially established in the 17th century, many believed that it was used as a temple as far back as the 11th century.

It’s built in between a gorge in the Hemis National Park with a large courtyard at its centre. The buildings are intricately carved in a traditional Tibetan technique with paintings around the windows and doors. There is also a fantastic museum inside with an important collection of Buddhist artefacts and relics.

One of the best times to visit the monastery is during the festival dedicated to Guru Rinpoche which is held in June or July each year. It’s an incredibly popular event on the Ladakh calendar and one that attracts hundreds of people every year.

Hemis is an hour’s drive south from Leh off the Leh-Manali Highway.

16. Stok Monastery

Just outside of Leh and across the valley at the base of Stok Kangri, Stok village was home to the royal family of Ladakh, the Namgyals, after they fled during the invasion of the Dogras. The small settlement is dominated by the old Stok Monastery, founded by Lama Lhawang Lotus in the 14th Century.

In front of the monastery is an impressive 71-foot Gautama Buddha statue, built just 10 years ago, which offers a great view over the village and back towards Leh. A taxi from Leh to Stok and back will cost around 1200 INR (AU$24), including waiting time at the monastery and lunch at a home stay.

17. Gyab-thago Heritage Home Stay in Stok

While the monastery is the dominating highlight, Stok village is also home to a number of homestays and local restaurants. I recommend arranging a visit to Gyab-thago Heritage Homestay. This lovely family offer a daily lunch (with prior arrangement) showcasing local Ladakhi dishes.

From home brewed Chhang beer to butter tea, veg momos and skyu noodle soup, you’ll get to taste the delicious home-cooked local food. Plus, they also have a 200-year-old house out the back that they will take you on a tour of to see how the older generations used to live.

Where to stay? Many homestays offer beds or try the 5 star Stok Palace Heritage Hotel , inside the converted old palace for something really unique.

18. Markha Valley Trek

There are numerous treks in Ladakh, however, the most popular one for independent hikers is Markha Valley trek. It’s easily accessible from Leh and can be organised completely on your own because there’s a good network of homestays along the way. You can also arrange local taxis to drop and pick you up from the trailheads at Chilling and Shang Sumdo.

The trek takes around 4-5 days to complete, including the crossing of Kongmaru La at 5250m. This obviously means you’ll want to be well acclimatised in Leh before attempting this trek.

It offers one of the best ways to explore the landscapes of Ladakh at a slower pace and enjoy the hospitality of the old Tibetan villages. Make sure you check out my guide if you plan on doing it yourself, otherwise you can also hire a guide or join a tour from Leh.

Read more: A Guide to Hiking the Markha Valley Trek

19. Sham Valley Trek

If you’re looking for a shorter or easier trek in the region, the Sham Valley trek is a popular option as well. Another homestay adventure starting in Likir, you don’t necessarily need a guide for this trek and it can be done independently just like Markha Valley.

Covering approximately 30km over three days and ascending over numerous passes at around 4,000m, it’s still no walk in the park, and you’ll want to have at least a few days in Leh to acclimatise before setting out.

Read more: Complete Guide to the Sham Valley Trek in Ladakh

20. Zanskar Valley

Zanskar Valley is seldom visited by tourists who travel to Ladakh. It’s very remote, has basic infrastructure and is a challenging place to reach. However, it’s also one of the most rewarding places to visit in the entire country.

The high altitude, Zanskar Valley sits in the lower Ladakh region south of Leh amongst breathtakingly rugged mountains surrounded by crumbling ancient Buddhist monasteries. While it doesn’t appear too far away from the town of Leh, the journey to reach Zanskar Valley requires a pretty epic road trip on either a bus or shared taxi.

Once you reach Padum, at the centre of Zanskar, however, you’ll be one of only a few visitors to explore the area per year. There are some fascinating old monasteries and palaces to explore, as well as a rewarding trek out to Phuktal Monastery, one of the last remaining places like it in India.  

Read more: How to Explore Zanskar Valley in North India

21. Alchi Monastery

Hidden away off the main highway connecting Srinagar to Leh, Alchi Monastery is often forgotten on a trip to Ladakh. However, its strategic location has allowed it to remain untouched even during countless invasions by enemies over the centuries.

Instead of being built cascading down a hilltop like other Ladakh monasteries, the complex is spread out with multiple temples, shrines, assembly halls and a monastic school. The old Buddhist buildings are uniquely carved with decorated wooden details on the doors and windows.

However, one of the complex’s most important feature is the almost 900-year old colourful murals which have remained intact and well-preserved over the years inside the temples. Some depict historical events, while others include thousands of pictures of Buddha. It’s considered one of the most important historical sites in Ladakh.

It’s located an hour and half west of Leh, on the way to Lamayuru and Srinagar.

22. Lamayuru

Along with Hemis Monastery, Lamayuru is one of the most important monasteries in the Ladakh region. The awe-inspiring complex is built amongst the otherworldly landscape and rocky terrain between Srinagar and Leh. The main highway passes right through Lamayuru village and the view of the monastery from the road is certainly worth a quick photo stop before exploring it further.

Lamayuru is the oldest monastery in Ladakh, with the central prayer cave dating back to the 11th century. The remainder of the complex was built in the 16th century by King Namgyal. 

There is an annual festival known as Yuru Kabgyat held at Lamayuru sometime between June or July each year. It’s one of the best experiences in Ladakh, attracting Buddhist pilgrims from near and far, as well as many tourists who wish to witness the famous masked dances.

The village around the monastery has plenty of guesthouses and restaurants open for visitors who wish to spend time at the monastery. Lamayuru is two and a half hours drive from Leh, on the way to Kargil and Srinagar.

23. Tso Moriri

While everyone who travels to Ladakh wants to visit the huge Pangong Lake, there is another just as beautiful lake known as Tso Moriri or the “Mountain Lake”. It’s located on the Changthang Plateau south of Leh at an altitude of 4522m.

The lake and surrounding area are protected under the Tso Moriri Wetland Conservation Reserve, as it attracts a range of wildlife, including migratory birds, marmots and on rare occasions, the Tibetan wolf.

The lake is very remote and requires an epic 6-7 hour drive to reach from Leh. There’s very limited infrastructure around the lake, but you can find some basic homestays and glamping accommodation in Karzok village on the western side of the lake. Any travel agency in Leh will be able to help arrange a jeep and driver to get you to Tso Moriri, but expect it to be pricey.

Where to stay? Tsomoriri Resorts or MilkyWay Guesthouse

24. Stok Kangri

For any keen adventurers, one of the ultimate experiences in Ladakh is climbing Stok Kangri. The peak stands at 6153m just across the valley from Leh town. It’s considered the perfect introduction to mountaineering for beginners, with little technical skills or experienced required. But it’s not for the faint hearted.

The expedition takes between 4-6 days, beginning from Stok village and heading to base camp. The main challenge during a Stok Kangri trek is the summit day. Trekkers have to brave sub-zero temperatures and trek on a glacier for about 6-7 hours in the dark, before walking on the ridgeline for two hours to reach the actual summit.

It’s recommended to spend at least a couple of days around Leh town before you attempt the climb to acclimatisation. There are a few agencies in Leh that are able to arrange a Stok Kangri climb, with most ascents done in the summer time. 

25. Mulbekh Monastery

Sitting 600 ft above the Leh-Srinagar Highway in a village called Mulbekh, Mulbekh Monastery is one of the most unique things to do in Ladakh. Home to a stunning 30-ft tall Buddha statue carved into the rock, it’s unlike anything else in the region.

Believed to have been built about 800 years ago, it’s accessible by a steep footpath up from the road. It’s just 45 km from Kargil or 260 km from Leh on the incredible road trip between Leh and Kashmir. It’s possible to combine Alchi, Lamayuru and Mulbekh on one long day trip from Leh or stay in Lamayuru for a one night trip.

More North India Travel Guides

• Complete 10 Day Leh Ladakh Itinerary
• Best Cafes in Leh
• Best Places to Stay in Leh
• How to Explore Zanskar Valley
• A Guide to Hiking the Markha Valley Trek
• A Travel Guide to Spiti Valley

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[…] Read next: 18 Best Things to Do in Ladakh […]

[…] the best months to visit the Himalayas in India. This is the short time when roads are open to Ladakh and Spiti Valley in the far north. However, most of the rest of the country succumb to intense […]

For those who want to explore Ladakh, you have created a thorough and interesting guide. I appreciate the way you divided the material into categories and added pertinent details and advice. Your writing is compelling and clear.

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[…] to what you’ll find in Ladakh and Zanskar Valley, Spiti Valley is home to some incredible monasteries, including the postcard […]

[…] for its bright blue colour, similar to more popular Pangong Lake in Ladakh, Chandratal is an incredible sight. With no public transport options, and a rough detour off the […]

[…] views over the arid, snow-capped landscape. This itinerary I’ve put together covers the best things to do in Ladakh over 10 days based on my multiple trips to the […]

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20 Best Enchanting Tourist Places to Visit in Ladakh for an Incredible Holiday

Home / Blog / 20 Best Enchanting Tourist Places to Visit in Ladakh for an Incredible Holiday

Embark on a journey to witness the mesmerizing scenery of Ladakh – a Himalayan destination that every traveler must visit at least once. The high-altitude desert remains cool throughout the hottest months, offering the perfect escape from the summer heatwave. Our comprehensive Leh Ladakh Travel Guide offers insights into the best tourist attractions for your dream trip.

Ladakh landscapes are alluring, dreamy and fascinating. It is on the bucket list of all travelers. At once in a lifetime, we all desire to travel to Ladakh. Rugged landscapes, high altitude lakes and monasteries, mighty Himalayan mountains, highest motorable passes, snowfall, captivating motor biking expeditions and mesmerizing trekking trails, rafting, camping in the meadows, serene stopovers, enchanting festivals and unique cuisines, rituals and culture makes Ladakh is one of the most scenic destinations to travel for every kind of wanderer. Ladakh is one of a kind tourist destination which you must visit at least once in a lifetime.

Quick Travel Information on Ladakh Tourism

Let’s know about ladakh’s top 20 incredible tourist attractions.  if you are planning leh- ladakh tour this blog will definitely help you..

• Nubra Valley
• Hemis National Park
• Pangong Lake
• Tsomoriri Lake
• Markha Valley
• Diskit Monastery
• Thiksey Monastery
• Khardung-la Pass
• Shanti Stupa
• Magnetic Hill
• Zanskar Valley
• Namgyal Tsemo Gompa
• Alchi Monastery
• Hall of Fame
• Gurudwara Pathar Sahib
• Kargil Valley
• Spituk Monastery
• Hemis Monastery

Avail Up to 30% Early Bird Discount on Our Leh Ladakh Tour Packages . Contact Us Now via Call or WhatsApp at +91-8802149265 for More Details and Booking.

1. Nubra Valley- Wholesome for Memories

Poetry of the mighty mountains, the green landscapes of the enchanting Nubra Valley will blow your heart away. It comes first in the list of 20 top tourist places to visit in Ladakh. Wherever you go, the varied landscapes, the color changing sky will captivate your soul forever, keep your camera ready.

Arid sand dunes, ancient ruins and euphoric Buddhist monasteries have kept the valley’s aura peaceful, mysterious, and spiritual for over a decade. This beautiful valley is located at the confluence of the Shyok and Siachen. You will also see the unique double humped Bactrian camels. However, people love to do rafting, ATV rides and camel safari but the essence of Nubra Valley is not in adventure activities, it’s in listening to the silence of the myriad landscapes of Nubra Valley. Take a moment to explore and you will feel that nature is meditating.

Enjoy the therapeutic hot springs of Panamik Village, the holy Yarab Tso Lake’s stillness will teach you to return to what is sacred as you breathe more deeply in its serenity. The monasteries and sand dunes of the magical Hunder village are a must not miss. The farming villages, the Baltistani dishes make holidays wholesome forever. Nubra Valley is a must visit place in Leh-Ladakh.

2. Hemis National Park- A Place to Become One with the Wild

Hemis National Park is one of the top tourist attractions to explore in Ladakh sightseeing Tour. It is a wild realm of Himalayan wildlife species who will enchant you with their sights, sounds and stories. Located in Eastern Ladakh, the park is spread over 4400 sq. km. You will be amazed to know that it has the highest population of Snow leopards globally. It is home to many interesting wildlife species such as Red fox, Agrali, Asiatic Ibex, Eurasian Brown Bear, etc. in total there are around 16 mammal species and 73 bird species to see and enjoy the wildlife tourism of Hemis National Park. not to forget the floral species of the park.

The alpine vegetation, rare medicinal plants makes the place an interesting sight to explore to learn about plant life. There are more than 200 snow leopards in the park. Located inside the national park are the monasteries – Gotsang Gompa and Hemis Monastery whose sacred space has the power to rejuvenate your soul from the fangs of chaos. There are many villages inside the park which will captivate your eyes. Rumbak Valley in the park is a fantastic bird watching attraction which you must not miss. Trekking to Stok Kangri and Markha Valley will elevate your adventure experience to a different level.

3. Pangong Lake- Serene, Sublime and Secluded Beauty

Situated at the height of 4350 m, this is the highest saltwater lake in the world. It’s one of the most beautiful surprises of nature to mankind. Extending to almost 160 km, its one third part is the euphoria of tourists and the other two thirds are in China. Pangong Lake got its name from a Tibetan word – Pangong Tso which means ‘High grassland Lake’. Tourists from all across the globe come to see this richest pearl of the Leh Ladakh tourism. The most interesting highlight of the beautiful lake is that it changes its colors to blue, grey, and green at different times. The climate is very harsh to bear in winters as it is one of the high-altitude lakes in Leh Ladakh. Summer months are perfect to enjoy the beauty of panoramic Pangong Lake.

4. Tsomoriri Lake- Picture of Infinite Beauty

If you are looking for a place to dive deep into the calmness, then why not head to Tsomoriri Lake of Ladakh. It is one of the popular points of tourist interest in Ladakh for peace and nature lovers. Beauty of this lake would awaken in you a feeling that you never knew you had.

Decked in the beautiful Changthang Valley, Tsomoriri lake’s lovely loneliness will heal your tired soul from the chaos of the world. It’s a lake of quietude and peace. Vibrant in color, surrounded by tall peaks, this is a home to many amazing featured creatures such as the bare-headed goose, great-crested grebe, Brahmin duck and brown-headed gulls. It’s also a wonderful place to spot Bharal or blue sheep, marmots, Tibetan sheep, red fox and kiang or Tibetan ass. For a bird watcher and wildlife lover, Tsomoriri lake is an opportunity to meet Himalayan wildlife species and avifauna.

Note- You can enjoy a thrilling mountain biking adventure to make your day memorable in Tsomoriri lake. It is also the highest Ramsar site in the world. So, you cannot put a camp or set up any type of accommodation around this lake.

5. Changthang- Gentle and Wild Paradise for tourists

Beauty of both India and Tibet, the beauty of Changthang will make your heart dance with joy. Isn’t it exciting to see the life of Changpa Tribes, Ladakhi and Tibetan nomads living in higher altitudes? This beautiful place will be the music to your soul. Deep gorges, canyons and vertical passes will meet your eyes wherever you go. You will find Changthang to be one of the top 10 most amazing tourist attractions of Ladakh. Gigantic Peaks and highest summits make the sight even more beautiful. Life here is very difficult, the cold climate of this area and the resilience of people inspires us a lot to face difficulties in life.

The arrival of winter brings challenges in the life of the Changpa Tribe. The temperature went down to as low as -30 degrees. People here live in harmony with nature and the wild. Nomads protect their domestic animals such as goats from wild animals and in return they get butter, milk, wool and meat for sustenance. However, you will be mesmerized by the simplicity of lifestyle and the natural beauty of Changthang.

Note- The major highlight of Changthang is Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary which you must visit to completely explore the beauty of Changthang. Spread over an area of 1600 sq. km, this is one of the top tourist attractions to visit in Leh Ladakh. There are a variety of Himalayan floral and faunal species which you have never seen before. You will discover snow leopard, Wild ass, brown bear, mormot, wild yak, Bharal and wolf etc. Don’t miss the most beautiful lake – Tso Moriri and the world’s highest village Korzok Village. This is also very famous for spotting species of water birds, migratory birds, and a variety of avifauna. Visiting Changthang in Ladakh would definitely be memorable.

6. Markha Valley – Soul of Adventurous and Nature lovers

The beauty of Ladakh Himalayas cannot be fully explored if you have not been to Markha Valley. It is one of the most popular treks of Leh -Ladakh. Adventures from all over the world consider Markha Valley in the list of top 5 places to explore in Ladakh. You will be in a dreamland when you see the variety of landscapes this valley is blessed with. It will also take you to the most popular National Park – Hemis National Park which will give you an amazing opportunity to see Himalayan wild animals. You will be in the wild realm of several species like Ladakhi Urial, Lynx, Mountain hare, marmot, red fox, great Tibetan sheep, – Arghali and Dhole etc.

Also, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the hidden wonders of Leh- Ladakh such as Rumbak and Yurutse village. You will be spellbound to see the unique lifestyle and soul uplifting rich indigenous culture of Indo- Tibetans. The beautiful sceneries of the valley along the way also attract the lens of many photographers.

Note – The Tibetan markets and Buddhist monasteries will nourish your soul with excitement and spiritual wisdom.  June and September are the best months to explore and enjoy Markha Valley Trek. Markha Valley will be the best place for solace seekers, nature lovers and adventure loving souls.

7. Diskit Monastery – Get the Divine Grace

One more sacred place to find yourself.  Located in Nubra Valley, Diskit Monastery is one of the famous attractions to visit in Ladakh. The main highlight of Diskit Gompa is the 106 ft huge Statue of Maitreya Buddha inaugurated by HH Dalai Lama. if you see its surroundings, you will never want to go back. The gorgeous views of Nubra Valley’s colorful landscapes blend with the serene silence of the Gompa. It was built by Changzen Tserab Zangpo in the 14th century. December is the best time to visit here as the Dosmoche Festival is celebrated here. The intricate frescos and wall paintings, images of Buddhist deities. Above the monastery is the LachungTemple where the large idol of Tsong Khapa, the founder of the Gelugpa sect of Buddhism is worshiped.  The gorgeous views of Diskit village are irresistible.

8. Thiksey Monastery- Elevated Seat of the Divine

19 km away from Leh, Thiksey Monastery will find the radiance of lost souls. Overlooking the Indus River and Stok range, it offers panoramic views with sacred ambiance to the peace seekers.  It is a must visit attraction in your Ladakh sightseeing tour.

It is a beautiful 12 storey building which displays the wonders of Buddhist art and culture. You will behold Buddhist art in its most elevated form. See the beautiful Thangkas, swords, wall paintings, statues etc. one of the most remarkable attractions is the Maitreya Temple which showcases a 49 ft tall statue of Maitreya Buddha. It is so huge that it covers the two floors of the building.  You must visit Tara Temple dedicated to goddess Tara, there are 21 images of goddess Tara kept in glass covered wooden shelves. Also see Stangyur and Kangyu, the two popular Buddhist.  scriptures in Lamokhang Temple. It’s a wonderful place to blend into the rhythm of serenity.

9. Khardung La Pass- Snowy Wonder of Ladakh

Enchanting gateway to Nubra and Shyok valleys of Ladakh, Khardungla Pass is one of the highest motorable passes in the world. The views here will captivate your heart and soul. You won’t be able to stop clicking pictures of this mesmerizing pass.

It is very popular among the adventurers who came here for biking adventures from all over the world. It is at an elevation of 5,395 meters. It’s also a very important tourist attraction which is maintained by the Border Roads Organization. The journey to Khardungla is very exciting. You will come across many hairpin bends and high gradients on the road. You need an Inner Line Permit to enter Khardung La Pass. frost covers, hairpin bends makes driving on the roads exciting and dangerous. So always be careful and enjoy the beauty of the enchanting Khardungla Pass. Indeed, it is one of the most picturesque tourist attractions to explore when you are enjoying Leh Ladakh sightseeing tour.

Note- April to June and the month of September to October is the best time to visit Khardung La Pass. if you are a passionate bike rider then it will be one of the best places to visit in Ladakh, cold breeze of the Himalayan mountains, snowy roads and challenging bends will definitely make your adventure soothing.

10. Shanti Stupa- Namobuddha

The soul uplifting white domed Buddhist monument known as Shanti Stupa is one of the best places to explore in Ladakh. Decked in a steep hilltop at a height of 11,841 ft, it is a sacred Buddhist pilgrimage place consecrated by the e14th Dalai Lama. Giver of serenity and peace, the view of Shanti Stupa is one of a kind.

The most healing view to your soul will be the gilded statue of the Buddha and the Dharmachakra (wheel of life).  The stupa is a relic of Lord Buddha which was built in 1991 by a Japanese Buddhist named Bhikshu Gyomyo Nakamura.  It was built to promote world peace and to commemorate 2500 years of Buddhism. The mind-boggling views of Leh and Changspa village, mesmerizing sunsets, the beauty of the twilight due to sunset and the spiritual vibe makes this place one of the best tourist attractions to explore in Ladakh for a spiritually inclined and peace-loving soul. Devotees move the wheels and pray to God for their wellbeing.

Note- Timings – 5:00am to 9:00pm & Best time to visit – July to September 

11. Zanskar Valley- Mesmerizing Valley of Himalayas

If you are fond of exploring remote and enchanting locations, then visiting Zanskar Valley would be a great decision. It is one of the best places to visit in the remote corner of Ladakh.  This valley is the crowning jewel of the northern flank of the great Himalayas. Zanskar Valley’s mesmerizing landscapes, sparkling water bodies and weather will definitely blow your heart away. Consider this place for honeymoon holidays in Ladakh as the valley’s irresistible charm will be in tune with your romantic heart. Zanskar valley would be one of the most wonderful holiday options for families, couples, and adventurers.

You will enjoy amazing opportunities to try water rafting, paragliding and trekking. In fact, there are many mind-boggling trekking options such as Padum Trek, Lamayuru to Darcha Trek. Zongla, Zongkhul etc. are the centuries- old monasteries to restore your sacred reserve of energy. Connecting the valley of Suru and Zanskar, the beautiful Penzil a Pass is an amazing attraction and spot to enjoy camping.

Note – Winters are harsh. Temperature drops down to -30-degree Celsius and the roads are heavily covered in snow. The best time to enjoy the beauty of Zanskar Valley is between the months of June to September.

12. Magnetic Hill- A Place That Defies Gravity

A place which defies Gravity and amaze your curious mind is known as Magnetic Hill of Ladakh. Located at the Leh- Kargil highway, it is one of the top places to visit in Leh- Ladakh.  It is marked by a yellow sign board which states that “The phenomenon that defies Gravity” there is a box which is marked with a white point on the road, also known as the magnetic road, is used to park vehicles. If you park your vehicle at the indicated spot, you will be amazed to see that your vehicle will be moving forward at a speed of 20km/h. The meandering Sindhu River at the east of Magnetic hill is a great place to capture delightful sceneries.

An interesting myth is associated with Magnetic Hill. Villagers here believe that once upon a time this road used to lead people straight to heaven. Those who deserved and pure by heart were pulled directly to heaven. Those who didn’t deserve couldn’t make it to paradise. According to a popular theory people believe that it’s just an optical illusion. The road which actually goes uphill seems like it’s going downhill. Driving here will not be a hindrance if you visit it in the months of July and October.

13. Namgyal Tsemo Gompa- Purify Your Heart in the Seat of Divine

Renowned for the three-storey high solid gold idol of Maitreya Buddha, just behind the magnificent Leh Palace, Namgyal Tsemo Gompa is a beautiful monastery of Ladakh.  It is one of the must-see tourist attractions in Leh- Ladakh.

The scenic villages, Zanskar Valley, meandering Indus River makes the surroundings visually appealing to the tourists. It was built by King Tashi Namgyal in 1430 AD. Its ambiance is enough to awaken spirituality from the sacred depths of the soul. If you are fond of spiritual places, then you must visit Namgyal Tsemo Gompa. one-storey high statues of Avalokitesvara and Manjushri also captivate the soul and mind. When you come down from the hill you will also behold Shankar Gompa which is connected to Namgyal Tsemo Gompa. These two monasteries are ritualistically connected. Monks from Shankar Gompa worship Lord Buddha and lit butter lamps at Namgyal Tsemo Gompa. The heavenly vibe of this Gompa makes the heart cheerful.

14. Alchi Monastery- Radiance of the Divinity

Built by Ringchen Zangpo, the eminent translator of Sanskrit Buddhist text into Tibetan, Alchi Monastery is one of the popular religious places to visit in Ladakh. It is a blessed seat of various gods such as principal Buddha Vairocana Lhakhang, Lhotsava Lhakhang, Jamyang Lhakhang (Manjusri temple) and sumtsag Lhakhang. The Indian style Thangka paintings is one of the main highlights of Alchi monastery. It lies on the serene banks of the Indus River. There are many splendid paintings and thousands of miniature paintings of Lord Buddha which captivates the mind. There are souvenir shops, restaurants, and tea stalls for the recreation of tourists.  You will feel the infinite wisdom of spirituality in the ambiance. The surrounding will nourish your soul to make you feel connected to the divine.

15. Leh Palace- Royal Charm of Ladakh

In the 1500s King Sengge Namgyal built the magnificent Leh Palace but it was completed in the 17th century. Today Leh Palace is now one of the top tourist attractions to explore in Ladakh.  Its facade looks like the Potala palace in Lhasa, the capital of Tibet. It’s a masterpiece of medieval Tibetan architecture which also boasts 9 storeys. If you look at the view from Leh Palace roof you will be spellbound by the beauty of Ladakh’s magical landscape and the mighty Stok Kangri. The wooden carved figurines in the Palace entrance, wooden balconies and Stupas and mural fragments are amazing sights to please your eyes and soul. Chandazik Gompa and the Chamba Lhakhang Temple within which dwells the infinite wisdom of ages and sacred vibe. The museum in Leh Palace carries some artifacts which are more than 450 years old. The palace is under the maintenance of the Archaeological Survey of India.

16. Hall of Fame- Heroes of the Nation

Keeping alive the memory of brave Indian Soldiers who sacrificed their lives in Indo- Pak wars, the Hall of Fame Museum is a treasure and watch worthy tourist attraction of Ladakh.

Located in the Leh- Kargil Road it was built in the memory of Brave Indian soldiers who protected the country with the sacrifice of their life. This museum contains the weapons used in war. In the upper floor, in OP Vijay Gallery you will discover the weapons used in Kargil War. It also contains various apparel and amenities by the Indian Army. There are various pictures of army posts showing the difficult life of soldiers. You will also see the pictures of Kargil Wars.

The wall named “Lest we Forget” shows the pictures of soldiers who sacrificed their life for the nation. In the ground floor there is a projection room where you can watch the documentary on Operation Vijay. You will be deeply moved by the last letter of Captain Vijayant Thapar which is framed on a wall to his parents before he attained martyrdom. There are some sections which also showcase the history and culture of Ladakh region.

Timings – 9:00am to 1:00pm and 2:00pm to 7:00pm

Note- On the front of the Hall of Fame there is a statue of Lord Buddha with a beautiful message which says, “It is better to conquer yourself than to win a thousand battles. Then the victory is yours. It cannot be taken from you, not by angels or by demons, heaven or hell.” What a beautiful message to mankind!

17. Gurudwara Pathar Sahib- Sacred Bliss

Revered seat of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism- Gurudwara Pathar Sahib is one of the most beautiful religious places to visit in Ladakh. There is a very interesting story about this sacred place. It is said that Guru Nanak Dev Ji was meditating at this place, but a demon was constantly creating hindrance in his meditation. He was throwing big rocks to disturb him, but Guru Nanak Dev Ji turned the rock into soft wax which was completely harmless. Seeing this the demon realized that Guru Nanak Dev Ji is not a normal person and he asked for penance for his deed. Guru Nanak Dev Ji forgave him. In Gurudwara Pathar Sahib you can see the imprint of the body of Guru Nanak Dev Ji in a boulder and the footprint of the demon. This place is maintained by the Indian Army. Tibetans revered Guru Nanak Dev Ji as a Buddhist saint. Hence, they call him Guru Gompka Maharaj.

18. Kargil Valley- Land of Warriors

Kargil Valley, the second largest town of Ladakh is one of the incredible places to visit in Ladakh. It has been a major trade center in the past having trade relations with China, Central Asia, and different parts of India. It is one of the most visited tourist destinations for mountaineers and trekkers.

It is the place where the famous Indo- Pak war happened in May- July 1999. Tiger Hill, Tololing, Mushku valley and Batalik are some of the best attractions which became the heart of Kargil tourism.

One of the best highlights of Kargil is the enchanting Suru Valley which is a hidden bliss. The meandering Suru River runs through the valley, decked with mesmerizing villages, you won’t be able to set your eyes off from its beauty.

Adventurers love Kargil as it offers great opportunities for mountain adventure such as trekking and mountaineering. You can also try snow skiing and river rafting. There are many Buddha statues, fort Palaces, ancient Rock carvings, war memorials, monasteries and mosques which dazzles the eyes and mind.

19. Spituk Monastery- Seat of Sacredness

Decked on a conical hill with three chapels in the periphery of Leh, Spituk Monastery is one of the best tourist attractions to include in your Ladakh itinerary. It was built in the 11th century by Od- de, elder brother of Lha Lama Changchub Od.  The meaning of the name of the monster y is Exemplary which is quite apt as it is one of the most magnificent and desirable seats of Lord Buddha.

Festival of Gustor is celebrated with great pomp and show with beautiful, masked dance performances in the11th month of the Tibetan calendar. It is a celebration of peace and prosperity. It is celebrated in such a grand way that you will hear prayers and rituals 7 days before the day of the festival. It belongs to the Gelugpa lineage of Buddhism. There is a beautiful image of Mahakaal which is kept covered and unveiled in the annual festival of Spituk held in the month of January. Indeed, it is one of the blessed seats where the sacredness of faith is visible in an exalted form.

20. Hemis Monastery – Awake the Inner Peace

the western banks of the Indus River are blessed with the sacredness of Hemis Monastery. It is one of the top visiting spiritual tourist attractions in Ladakh. It is said that the monastery was built before the 11th century. Re-established in 1672 by Sengge Namgyal, the king of Ladakh. It is one of the most magnificent monasteries of Leh-Ladakh.  It is decorated with beautiful colored flags on all four sides. The wall stones are decorated with religious figures.

You will also find an amazing collection of Thangkas and stupas. Don’t miss the grand annual festival of the birth anniversary of Guru Padmasambhava. During the festival you will see the annual bazaar where Ladakhis from remote areas come to buy and sell wares. You will also see the mask dance performance which represents the reincarnation of Buddha. This monastery belongs to the Drukpa lineage of Buddhism. Every 12 years during the Hemis Festival, one of the largest Thangkas is displayed in front of a large crowd.

Its large library contains ancient religious texts, some of them are in unknown languages which will arouse your curiosity. Tourists who are spiritually inclined or who are looking for peace would definitely find Hemis Monastery one of the best places to fine-tune the soul.

Enjoy and explore the wonderful destinations of Leh- Ladakh. Trust us, Ladakh is the most beautiful mountain desert region of India. Holidaying here will be one of the most memorable trips of your life. You will leave its shores but the beauty of Ladakh will keep calling you.

Best Travel Tips to Enjoy Ladakh Trip and Make Amazing Memories

Without planning and knowing your destination, traveling to any place might be physically and mentally overwhelming. As you don’t know what kind of challenges you will face. It is very essential to know the basic information about the destination you are traveling to. Knowing the weather conditions, accommodation facilities, culture and destination information makes you a smart traveler. In a place like Ladakh which is blessed with myriad landscapes, harsh weather conditions and unique culture, it is very important to think wisely and collect important information to plan your holiday. The comfort comes with proper planning.  Here are some important travel tips for Leh- Ladakh Holidays –

• Ladakh is a land of variations. It is very important to know the weather conditions in advance. In some regions of Ladakh you will experience subzero temperatures, at some places the temperature will fall down to – 30-degree Celsius in winter season. In summer the temperature is quite comfortable. However, you still need to keep some warm clothes as the weather is unpredictable. The road side of the passes is still covered with snow even in the month of June. So, we really can’t say. Keep woolen clothes ready.
• Some of the places in Ladakh require an Inner Line permit. Plan in advance where you want to explore and get the Inner Line Permit online or from the DC office in Leh.
• The level of oxygen is low when you are in the high-altitude area of Ladakh region. Some of you will suffer from mountain sickness. Keep your pace of travel slow and don’t rush to places when you are having acute mountain sickness. Let your body rest for a day or two after a high climb of 2000ft for acclimatization. You can also carry Oxygen cylinders. Keep the necessary medicines in your bag. Stay healthy.
• Get the post- paid BSNL mobile connect from any phone shop. It’s the only mobile connection that functions in Ladakh.
• Keep plenty of cash in Hand. There are less ATM machines in Ladakh. Most of the places do not accept credit cards. In Leh Market you will find ATMs of different banks.
• Always keep multiple copies of valid ID Proof, PAN card or passport. It will be needed in military checkpoints.
• It is not bad to know about the major tourist attractions, culture and heritage of Ladakh before going. It will enrich your travel experience.
• You can always rent cars and bikes to enjoy your Himalayan holidays in the best possible manner.
• Always book your hotel in advance in Leh. March to June is the peak tourism season. You will find it difficult to get accommodation.
• You must hire a private tourist guide to travel locally in Ladakh. Also get the advantage of local transport facility as it is not advisable to travel to most of the areas by foot due to mountain sickness.

Popular Leh Ladakh Tour Packages 2023

Frequently asked questions, why must you visit ladakh.

Leh Ladakh is one of the top destinations to visit in India. It is a dream destination of many. High mountain passes, Chadar frozen lake, monasteries, tough terrains, beautiful snowfall and many adventure activities makes it the most wholesome destination for any kind of tourist. A tourist will never get bored here. In fact, every mile will invoke curiosity as Ladakh landscape keeps on changing textures. It is indeed a must visit destination for wanderers.

What are the top destinations to visit in Leh- Ladakh?

Some of the top-rated tourist attractions in Ladakh are –

• Pangong Tso Lake
• Khardung La Pass
• Chadar Trek

What is the best time to visit Leh- Ladakh?

The best time to visit Ladakh depends on the choice of season. In summer April to May the tourist season starts in Ladakh. From the end of April, the ice of Tso Moriri and Pangong Tso Lake starts melting. The Srinagar-Leh highway opens from the first week of May which makes it more crowded and the best time to visit Ladakh. But Khardung-La and Chang-La passes remain closed due to snowfall.

In Mid-September to October months the temperature starts to cool down a bit. The minimum 1 degree Celsius.

October to March, winter starts. At this time the maximum temperature is 7 degrees and the minimum are -6 degrees Celsius. The lakes freeze completely and it’s time to enjoy the famous Chadar Trek of Ladakh. The Zanskar river freezes completely in winters.

How is the weather in Ladakh?

Ladakh is definitely included in the travel list of most Indian tourists. Since Ladakh is a cold and extremely cold region, you should plan your trip to Ladakh according to your cold tolerance. In high altitude places there would be harsh weather conditions. Temperature will drop down to subzero levels. Summer months are a good time to plan your trip but for those who love snowfall, winter is the best time but the cold weather will give you chills.

What is the best way to travel to Ladakh?

The simplest way to travel to Ladakh is by air. Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport located in Leh, is the major airport of Ladakh. You can get regular flights from Delhi, Jammu, Srinagar, Mumbai, Kolkata and Chandigarh etc. If you prefer to go by rail it’s actually not a favorable option. You cannot reach Ladakh directly by train. There is no train station in Ladakh. The only nearest railway station is Jammu Tawi Station which will help you to reach Ladakh from Jammu. If you want adventures and the scenic beauty in your view then a road trip is highly recommended. You can access the roads of Ladakh from the month of May to October. After that heavy snowfall, bad road conditions will make it inaccessible. Buses, cars, jeeps and motorbikes are easily available for Ladakh Trip.

What are the popular adventure activities for tourists in Leh Ladakh?

Ladakh’s cold deserts, rugged terrains call for amazing adventures. It is one of the top destinations for adventurers. Some of the most popular adventure activities to enjoy in Ladakh are –

• Mountain Biking
• wildlife safari
• Quad Biking
• Rock climbing
• Paragliding

What are the popular trekking routes in Ladakh?

Without trekking adventure your holidays in Ladakh would be incomplete. Trekking is one of the top adventure activities to do in Ladakh.  The landscape of Ladakh is best for trekkers due to the snow-capped mountains and high cold deserts, sparkling lakes and natural beauty.  Some of the most popular trekking routes of Ladakh are –

• Markha Valley Trek
• Nubra Valley Trek
• Chadar Frozen River Trek
• Rumtse to Tso Moriri Trek
• Stok Kangri trek
• Sham Valley Trek
• Spituk to Stok Trek
• Lamayuru to Alchi Trek
• Zanskar Trek from Padum to Lamayuru
• Snow Leopard Trek
• Padum to Darcha Trek

What are the accommodation options available in Ladakh for tourists?

Don’t worry you will get clean and moderate budget accommodation in Ladakh. Hotels in Ladakh offer the best hospitality to the tourists with all the facilities that a traveler needs.  However, if you are in High altitude region or village, you will not get any luxury hotels, but the guest houses will welcome you with warm hospitality and decent facilities. You will get good accommodation options to stay with family.  Any moderate budget stay accommodation in Ladakh would cost around 1500 to 2000 for double bedrooms. Luxury lovers will also get good accommodation options with all the comforts. Some of the best Luxury accommodation options are The Grand Dragon Ladakh, Woody Vu Stok House, Chamba Camp, Nubra Organic Retreat and Stok Palace Heritage Hotel.

What are the popular must-see cultural festivals in Ladakh?

Some of the popular and must-see cultural festivals to enjoy in Ladakh are –

• Losar Festival- February to March
• Hemis Tsechu- Late June to July
• Sindhu Darshan Festival- June
• Ladakh Harvest Festival- September
• Saka Dawa Festival- June
• Dosmoche Festival – May
• Yuru Kabgyat – June

Is Ladakh a good destination for Honeymoon couples?

Good? Say Best! Don’t underestimate Ladakh’s beauty. It is one of the most beautiful tourist destinations of India. Honeymoon couples must visit Ladakh. Every landscape of Ladakh is colorful, beautiful, steeped in beautiful history and amazing stories. The unique cultural experiences, the thrilling adventure activities, the scenic motorable passes, the enchanting monasteries, everything Ladakh is blissful for a romantic couple. For honeymoon couples Ladakh is a must recommend.

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• 14 Best Places To Visit In Ladakh
• POPULAR DESTINATIONS
• 08 November 2021
• By urja sen

Tourism is a major source of revenue for Ladakh, a union territory in northern India. The union territory is located at an elevation of 11,400 feet and is part of the larger disputed Kashmir region. it is located between the Karakoram and Himalayan mountain ranges to the north and south, respectively. The districts of Leh and Kargil make up Ladakh. There are important Buddhist sites in the area, as well as an ecotourism industry. If you are thinking about a hill vacation then Ladakh is the Best Places To Visit. Below we are going to discuss the best  Places To Visit In Ladakh .

Major Places To Visit In Ladakh are Leh:

Leh is the union territory of Ladakh’s joint capital and largest town in India. Leh, located in the Leh district, was also the historical capital of the Kingdom of Ladakh, with its seat in the Leh Palace, the former residence of Ladakh’s royal family, built in the same style and around the same time as Tibet’s Potala Palace. At 3,524 meters above sea level, Leh is linked to Srinagar in the southwest via National Highway 1 and Manali in the south via the Leh-Manali Highway. Leh is one of the famous best  Places To Visit In Ladakh . 

Also Read: TO BEST 16 PLACES TO VISIT IN UTTAR PRADESH

2. Pangong Lake :

At an elevation of 4,500 meters, the Pangong Tso is an endorheic lake that spans eastern Ladakh and western Tibet. The five sub lakes that make up the 134 km long lake are Pangong Tso. Tibet China makes up about half of the overall length of the lake, which is 5 kilometers wide at its widest point. It covers a total distance of 604 kilometers. The lake freezes completely during the winter, despite the fact that it is saline water. It has a landlocked basin separated from the Indus River basin by a small elevated ridge, but it is thought to have once been a part of the latter. Pangong Lake is one of the favorite Places To Visit In Ladakh.

3. Drass or Dras valley :

Drass is a hill station in India’s union territory of Ladakh’s Kargil district. It is located on the NH 1 (previously known as the NH 1D before all national highways were renumbered) between Zoji La pass and Kargil town. Drass is India’s coldest place and the “World’s Second Coldest Inhabited Place”. It is known as “The Gateway to Ladakh” because of its high-altitude trekking routes and tourist sites. The town is officially spelled Drass by the government. Dras is also known as “ The Gateway to Ladakh “. 

Also Read: TOP 13 BEST FAMOUS PLACES IN JAMMU

4. Nubra Valley :

Nubra, also known as Dumra, is a historical region of Ladakh that is now administered as a tehsil and subdivision in the Leh district. The Nubra and Shyok rivers cut through the inhabited areas, forming a tri-armed valley. Its Tibetan name Dumra means a “valley of flowers”.The Shyok River meets the Nubra River or Siachen River to form a large valley that separates the Ladakh and Karakoram Ranges. The Shyok River is an Indus River tributary. The average altitude of the valley is more than 10,000 feet above sea level. Traveling from Leh over the Khardungla pass is the most common way to reach this valley. Nubra Valley is one of the beautiful and famous Places To Visit In Ladakh.

5. Markha Valley :

If you enjoy camping, the Markha Valley in Ladakh is the place to be! For starters, you can hike up to Markha, Skiu, and Hankar, which are all incredible places to visit. Once you’ve reached the top, relax with some lovely tents, a bonfire, and make new friends. Don’t you think it’s a good deal? Markha Valley is one of the beautiful Places To Visit In Ladakh.

Also Read: 8 FAMOUS HILL STATIONS IN MAHARASHTRA FOR A PERFECT SUMMER BREAK

6. Spituk Monastery :

Spituk Monastery is a Buddhist monastery located in Spituk, Ladakh. It is also known as Spituk Gompa or Pethup Gompa. The Arhat Nyimagung blessed the Spituk site. Od-de, the elder brother of Lha Lama Changchub Od, founded it when he arrived in Mary in the 11th century. He described the monastic community. When Lotsewa Rinchen Zangpo Translator arrived at that location, he predicted the formation of an exemplary religious community, and thus the monastery was named spituk. During the reign of Dharma raja Gragspa Bum-Ide, Lama Lhawang Lodos restored the monastery and introduced the Tsongkhapa stainless order, which has remained in place to this day. Spituk Monastery was the Places To Visit In Ladakh.

Basgo is a small town with 150 residents in Jammu and Kashmir, located on the Indus River in Ladakh’s Leh district. Bago Gompa is another name for it. It is a historical site known for its Basgo Monastery and Gompas, located on the hills of Leh in the northern Himalayan and Karakoram mountain ranges. Basgo is one of the beautiful Places To Visit In Ladakh .

Here are two massive statues of Maitreya Buddha and Jamyang Namgyal King.

Between the 11th and 13th centuries, the ancient temples and structures of Basgo were first documented, and they are now a UNESCO world heritage site. Because of its frail structure, the Basgo Palace has been named one of the world’s 100  most endangered heritage sites by the US World Monument Fund. 

Also Read: 11 FAMOUS PLACES TO TRAVEL IN COORG

8. Dah Hanu :

This is a more straightforward route to Kargil along the Indus River, with views of the Indus and Zanskar rivers along the way. The Hall of Fame war museum, Gurudwara Patthar Sahib, Magnetic Hill, Basgo ruins, Likir Monastery, Alchi Monastery (Ladakh’s oldest Buddhist monastery, founded in the 11th century AD, with wonderful architecture and extensive collections of thangkas), and Lamayuru Monastery are all worth visiting en route.

The villages of Dha and Hanu are located in the Dhahanu valley. Because of their lower altitude, Dha and Hanu are warmer than Leh, allowing for the cultivation of wine grapes, cherries, apricots, and walnuts. “Some households still practice polyandry…the groom pays the bride price.” Women have the ability to divorce. Dah Hanu is the Places To Visit In Ladakh.

9. Khardungla Pass:

The Nubra and Shyok Valleys in Jammu and Kashmir’s Ladakh region are famously known as the “Gateway to the Nubra and Shyok Valleys.” It is the world’s highest motorable pass. It’s packed with tourists who are passing through from Leh and stopping to take photos. Adventure bikers from all over the country and the world ride their motorcycles through this mountain pass in search of an adrenaline rush. At an elevation of 18,379 feet, Khardung La Pass is located in the Ladakh range, 40 kilometers from Leh. KHARDUNG LA PASS is one of the beautiful and famous places to  Visit In Ladakh.

Also Read: 18 BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN TAMILNADU

10: Magnetic Hill :

You will come across fascinating sights on your travels around Leh-Ladakh that will pique your interest. Magnetic Hill, a place where gravity takes a backseat, is one such sight attraction. The Magnetic Hill, about 30 kilometers from Leh, is marked by a yellow signboard that reads “The Phenomenon That Defies Gravity.” It also tells you to park your car in the Magnetic Road box, which is marked with a white point on the road. Vehicles begin moving forward at nearly 20 km/h once parked at the designated location.

Magnetic Hill is on the Leh-Kargil-Srinagar National Highway, which runs through the Trans-Himalayan region. It is one of the famous Places To Visit In Ladakh .

11. Shanti Stupa In Ladakh :

Shanti Stupa is a Buddhist religious shrine with a white dome on the hilltop of Chanspa in Ladakh, about 5 kilometers from Leh. Shanti Stupa was built in 1991 as part of the Peace Pagoda mission by Japanese Buddhist Monk Bhikshu, Gyomyo Nakamura. This stupa was constructed to commemorate the successful completion of 2500 years of Buddhist history.

This structure was constructed to promote world peace and to serve as a symbol of friendship between Japan and Ladakh.

 The holy relics of Buddha are protected and enshrined at the Shanti Stupa in Ladakh by the 14th Dalai Lama. On the panels of this stupa, there are various Buddha sculptures depicting his life stories, such as his birth, defeating devils, and death. Various Buddha sculptures depict his life stories, such as his birth, defeating devils, and death, on the panels of this stupa. Is one of the holy places to visit in Places To Visit In Ladakh.

Also Read: TOP 10 HILL STATIONS NEAR CHANDIGARH

12. Khardungla Pass :

The Khardungla pass is located at an elevation of 18,380 feet above sea level. The Leh-Khardungla pass – Nubra road is known to be one of the world’s highest roads, as well as India’s highest road. Thousands of tourists flock to Khardungla Pass because of its unique feature of being so high and powerful.

Khardungla pass attracts a large number of motorcycle riders from all over the world who come to set personal records for riding above 18,000 feet. The Indian Army has a post on the summit of Khardung-la, and the view from there is spectacular, with a wider view of the mountain ranges.

Leh valley and Leh district’s Nubra sub-division are separated by the Khardungla pass. It takes 60 to 90 minutes to drive from Leh to the Khardungla pass, depending on the weather.

To visit Khardungla Pass, one must have an Inner Line Permit/Restricted Area Permit. At North Pullu and South Pullu, the permit will be checked on both sides of the pass. The Khardungla pass also serves as a gateway to the Nubra Valley and the world’s highest battleground, the Siachen Glacier.

The village of Khardung, after which the pass is named, is located in the base of the pass, to the north of the pass. Khardungla Pass is one of the famous palaces Places To Visit In Ladakh .

13. Thiksay Monastery :

Thiksay Monastery is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Leh, Ladakh. It is the largest Gompa in central Ladakh, located atop a hill in Thiksay village, about 19 kilometers from Leh town. It is known for stupas, statues, thangkas, wall paintings, swords, and a 15-meter (49-foot) high statue of Maitreya that spans two stories of the building, making it the largest such statue in Ladakh.

This is one of the most fascinating places in Leh to visit. The Indian Army built and maintains the Hall of Fame museum, which honors Indian soldiers who died in the Indo-Pak wars and also commemorates the Army’s role in cloudburst relief in 2010. The landscape of Leh Ladakh will humble you and give you a perspective that you will carry with you for the rest of your life, whether you go on a solo trip, a group tour, or one with your better half. Those are really beautiful Places To Visit In Ladakh .

Also Read: TOP 13 BEST MUST VISIT PLACES IN MALDIVES

Ladakh, also known as the “ Land of High Passes ,” is what you might call “God’s Art.”  You’ll find a lot of information about how our brave soldiers survive in such harsh conditions in the Siachen Glacier section.

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Top 10 places to visit in Ladakh

Last Updated on November 23, 2023

There are very few places in the world as enchanting as Ladakh and its capital Leh. Its mountainous landscapes, deep blue lakes and scenic road journeys have been luring travellers from all around the world. Alluring beauty aside, there are plenty of attractions to take in, from beautiful monasteries and elegant palaces to quaint villages and high mountain passes. Want to know which of these amazing places should be on your bucket list? Check out our cherry-picked list of the top 10 places to visit in Ladakh.

Table of Contents

Sitting on top of a hill, Leh Palace is one of the finest examples of medieval Tibetan architecture. The palace is made of stones, wood, mud and sand and  is often compared to the world-famous Potala Palace in Lhasa. The walls of the palace provide warmth in winters and create a cool ambience in summers.

The interiors are adorned with crowns, ceremonial dresses, jewellery and artistic paintings. Some as old as 450 years and made from colours derived from powdered stones and gems. Murals etched on the walls depict glory days of the past. If that’s not fascinating enough, the palace provides spectacular views of the surrounding mountain range and the valley below. There’s no doubt why this makes it to our list of top 10 places to visit in Ladakh.

Location: Leh How to get there: Leh Palace is a short walk uphill from Leh Market. Alternatively, you can drive up to the entrance

Shanti Stupa

The Shanti Stupa is a white-domed monument built on top of a steep hill. Facing snow-capped peaks, it was made by an interesting blend of Japanese Buddhists along with the locals. It marked and celebrated 2500 years of Buddhism and was also meant to be a symbol of peace. The stupa holds a golden Buddha statue and images of his birth and death.

Being at a vantage point, the stupa affords unadulterated views of the valley below. Lit up at night, it acquires a beauty of its own. If you want to witness a magical sunrise or sunset, this is one of the best places to visit in Ladakh.

Location: Leh How to get there: You can go by car up to its entrance

Sangam at Nimmu

On the way to Leh, along the Srinagar-Leh highway, lies the Sangam. It is a confluence of two rivers at Nimmu. Breathtaking to witness, here the emerald waters of the Indus merge with the brownish waters of Zanskar. It makes for a spectacular sight, especially for nature lovers. It is one of the top 10 places to visit in Ladakh if you want to see an unforgettable sight of natural wonder.

Location: Sham Valley How to get there: It is 33 kms from Leh by road

Lamayuru Monastery

A quaint village between Kargil and Leh. Lamayuru is known for its moon-like terrain, earning it the nickname ‘Moonland’. If that name itself isn’t enough to justify its place on our list of top 10 places to visit in Ladakh, simply read on.

Legend has it that a lama named ‘Naropa’ walked this land when it was submerged underwater. Upon his request, the water receded thus letting him establish the monastery which is now the famed ‘Lamayuru Monastery’. One of the most beautiful monasteries in Ladakh, its interiors are embellished with jaw-dropping paintings and frescoes. A cave next to the prayer hall has statues of Naropa and his disciples, one of the highlights of this shrine.

Perched on a hill, the monastery also offers unparalleled views of the moonscapes around it. And just like the moon, the monastery is ‘out of this world’.

Location: Lamayuru (Leh-Srinagar Highway) How to get there: It is 116 kms from Leh by road

Khardunga La Pass

Imagine what it would feel like to be on top of the world. No, we are not talking about the arduous climb to Everest. On the way to Nubra Valley, a popular destination in Ladakh lies Khardung La pass – the world’s highest motorable road. It’s located at a staggering altitude of 18,380 feet.

Stop here for a cup of tea and admire the surreal snow-covered landscape around you. This is on the bucket list of everyone who travels to Ladakh. It almost feels like you are at a winter wonderland. This is because everything around you from rocks to roads to mountains are draped in snow.

The steep and rugged terrain, winding roads, furious winds and unpredictable weather means you will earn bragging rights for making it this far. No wonder it’s a rite of passage and one of the top places to visit in Ladakh for bikers, cyclists and travel junkies.

Note: Being at such a high altitude, you cannot stop here for more than 20 minutes. The oxygen levels are very low, so don’t linger around for too long.

Location: Khardung La Top How to get there: It is 40 kms from Leh city by road

Sand Dunes at Hunder

One of the best experiences in Ladakh is lying on the desert and gazing at a million stars. You wouldn’t believe us, would you? After all, who expects to find a desert atop the Himalayas? Most of you may not be aware that Ladakh is actually a high altitude cold desert. It’s more than evident at the super scenic Nubra Valley.

One of the most popular attractions in this valley is the village of Hunder. Every year, this place is swarmed with thousands of travellers, who come to witness sand dunes wrapped around by golden brown mountains.

The desert is also home to the double-humped Bactrian camel, a rare species found only in this region of Ladakh. A ride on the backs of these sturdy animals is surely one of the most memorable experiences to have.

Location: Nubra Valley How to get there: It is 120 kms from Leh by road

Straddling borders with Pakistan, Turtuk is the closest village to the ‘line of control (LOC)’. Located so close to the border, this is the only village that tourists are permitted to visit. The landscape here changes dramatically with barren wastelands giving way to lush greenery, with an abundance of Apricot and Peach fields. Inhabited by a Muslim population, this quaint village is one of the last towns in India to have a prominent Balti culture. Try the delicious Balti cuisine here, especially the Apricot based stew.

With its serene ambience, scenic vistas and the aquamarine waters of river Shyok meandering through the village, Turtuk is as heavenly as it gets. It is definitely one of the top offbeat places to visit in Ladakh, where you can soak up the beauty undisturbed by tourist crowds.

Location: Nubra Valley How to get there: It is 205 kms from Leh by road

Pangong Tso Lake

Ladakh is home to many high altitude lakes, but none can match the grandeur of Pangong Tso. Brought to limelight by the movie ‘3 Idiots’, it is now the most popular destination in Ladakh.

Flanked by mountains of brownish hues, walking along the banks of the azure blue lake is akin to living in a postcard picture. Its uniqueness though, lies with the changing shades of the lake as the day progresses. Be ready to whip out your cameras and catch this mystic phenomenon live. At night, watch the sky blanketed by a million stars as you camp next to the lake.

Come night or day, there is always magic in the air at Pangong.

Location: Tso Pangong, Changthang plateau How to get there: It is 160 kms from Leh by road

Hemis Monastery

Hemis monastery is the largest monastery in Ladakh. It’s widely known for playing host to the popular Hemis festival every June. Its exquisite architecture, serene surroundings and views of neighbouring mountains make it a must visit on your Ladakh trip.

The monastery has one of the rarest collections of Thangka paintings, murals, Buddhist scriptures and stupas made of gold and silver. Wonderful paintings of Buddha cover the monastery walls.

If you happen to visit during festival time, you can see masked dancers performing, listen to traditional music, watch people strolling about in colourful attires and gorge on delicious local cuisine.

Location: Off Karu, on the Leh-Manali highway How to get there: It is 44 kms from Leh by road

Tso Moriri is Pangong’s alter ego, similar in its bluish complexion and astounding beauty. It is remotely located higher than the Pangong Lake. Accordingly, visited by fewer tourists, and therein lies its appeal. With brownish mountains towering over it on one side and a lush green countryside on the other, it is like staring at a live oil painting. Bird enthusiasts have another reason to cheer as the lake attracts a number of migratory birds, right from seagulls, Brahmin ducks and geese, to the rare and elusive black-necked cranes.

For a more immersive experience you can camp at Korzok village in the vicinity of the lake.

Location: Korzok Village, Changthang Plateau How to get there: It is 220 kms from Leh by road

Leh and Ladakh are stunning locations, and well worth the visit. We hope that reading our list of top 10 places to visit in Ladakh has inspired you to plan a trip there. Contact us for any sort of help you need, and for more insider tips and advice on where to go and how to get there.

Explore Further: Navigating the Top Places to Visit in North India

Click on  Plan Your Trip  for your ideal itinerary.

About Harsh Sonawala

Harsh Sonawala is the co founder of India Someday and since his childhood, he has travelled to different parts of India and the world. The thrill of travelling and sharing his experiences with others was the reason behind starting India Someday. Other than the office where he is conjuring up marketing ideas, he can be found scuba diving in the Andamans or relaxing in a chalet in the Himalayas.

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10 Must-Visit Tourist Places in Ladakh

Sitting amidst the majestic Karakoram Range in the North and Zanskar mountains in the south, Ladakh is an incredibly beautiful cold desert in India . Encompassing snow-clad mountains, deep valleys, sparkling rivers and exciting winding roads, it is synonymous with picturesque beauty. Ladakh is blessed with some of the most popular Buddhist monasteries and palaces of royalty. It is an ideal destination for experiencing bliss in the lap of Mother Nature. Scroll down to find out – the 10 amazing tourist places in Ladakh to visit for a memorable mountain vacation.

A Quick Glance Through

• Pangong Tso Lake
• Zanskar Valley
• Khardung La
• Hemis Monastery
• Nubra Valley
• Shanti Stupa
• Thiksey Monastery
• Hemis National Park
• Tso Moriri Lake

Summer in Ladakh

Monsoon in ladakh, winter in ladakh, best time to visit leh ladakh, ladakh by air, ladakh by train, ladakh by road, delhi to ladakh, travel tips for ladakh, best tourist places in ladakh, 1. pangong tso lake.

Set at a height of 4,225 m (13,862 ft) in Eastern Ladakh, the Pangong Tso lake extends from India to Tibet. Out of the 604 sq km area of the lake, one-third part lies in India while the rest of it is in Tibet.

The brackish water of the lake freezes completely during winters where ice skaters and skiers gather during the ice skating festival.

The lake also serves as a breeding ground for many species of birds including migratory birds such as Brahmini ducks.

Pangong Tso Lake is 5 hours drive from Leh and lies on the India-China Line of Actual Control.

Indian nationals need Inner Line Permit and foreign nationals must obtain Protected Area Permit to visit the lake.

You can apply for the permit online through the official website of Leh district administration.

2. Zanskar Valley

One of the most isolated regions in Ladakh but replete with splendid natural beauty Zanskar Valley is thronged by tourists every year in the summers.

Zanskar river is popular for river rafting during summers when the weather is pleasantly warm and dry. Other adventurous activities here are trekking, rock climbing and camping.

It houses some of the finest monasteries of Ladakh such as Phugtal Monastery and Bardan Monastery.

The valley lies on the Leh-Srinagar highway and Kargil is the nearest town located at a distance of 240 km. You can hire a jeep or a car or catch a bus from Kargil to reach there.

3. Khardung La

Also known as Khardung pass, Khardung La is amongst one of the highest motorable passes in the world at an altitude of 5,359 m (17,582 ft). The highest motorable road also lies in Ladakh region going via Umling La top at an altitude of 5,883 m (19,300 ft).

Khardung La was built in the year 1976 and it was opened for visitors after 12 years in 1988. This pass is one of the most sought-after tourist places in Ladakh by adventure enthusiasts.

Situated north of Leh it is the gateway to the Shyok and Nubra valleys. Khardung pass is strategically important for India as it is used for carrying supplies to the Siachen glacier.

The splendid landscapes, pristine natural beauty and fresh unpolluted air can leave you in awe of this place.

Khardung La is accessible by road from Leh (39 km) which is connected by road from cities like Delhi and Manali. This road is closed during winters from the month of October to May.

Indian nationals need Inner Line Permit and foreigners require Protected Area Permit to visit Khardung La.

4. Hemis Monastery

Stationed atop a hill surrounded by majestic mountains , Hemis monastery is placed on the west bank of the serene river Indus, one of the important rivers in India .

The monastery is situated around 45 km away from Leh town. It was built in the year 1630 belonging to Drukpa lineage or the red sect of Buddhism.

Decorated by the colourful prayer flags fluttering to the gush of wind, the grandeur of this quaint monastery is beyond words.

Hemis monastery exemplifies the rich cultural heritage of Ladakh and is famous for the annual Hemis festival honouring Lord Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche) held every year in the month of June.

The festival is organised in the rectangular courtyard in front of the main door of the monastery. The sacred rituals performed in the festival are believed to give spiritual strength and good health.

Attracting plenty of visitors from all across the world Hemis monastery is amongst one of the most visited tourist places in Ladakh.

5. Nubra Valley

About 150 km north of Leh, the confluence of Shyok river and Nubra river forms a large valley that separates the Ladakh and Karakoram Ranges.

Perched at an altitude of 3,048 meters an exquisite marvel of nature, Nubra valley offers splendid views of harsh arid mountains, flowing rivers, sand dunes and the rugged vastness of Ladakh.

On the bank of the Shyok river lies the famous Diskit Monastery in Diskit village and the amazing sand dunes in Hunder village. Two humps bactrian camel ride is one of the must-do adventure activities in Nubra Valley.

The most convenient way to access this valley is to travel over the Khardung La pass from Leh.

In order to visit Nubra valley, Indian citizens require an  Inner Line Permit and foreign nationals are required to get a Protected Area Permit.

6. Shanti Stupa

Strategically located on a steep hill at a height of 3,609 meters in Leh, Shanti stupa is the magnum opus of Buddhist architectural excellence. Shanti stupa has been bestowed with stark tranquillity that is beyond the reach of chaos.

It was built by Japanese and Ladakhi Buddhists as part of the Peace Pagoda mission in the year 1991.

The stupa offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Overlooking the Leh palace it also offers a birds-eye view of the vibrant town of Leh.

It is considered a symbol of the ties between the people of Japan and Ladakh. Since the time the stupa was open for visitors, it has become one of the must-see tourist places in Ladakh.

A motorable road leads to the hilltop where Shanti Stupa is located or you can climb 500 steep steps to reach there if you are an adventure seeker.

7. Leh Palace

One of the noted tourist places in Ladakh, Leh Palace is a former royal palace stationed on a cliff with spectacular mountains in the backdrop.

Constructed in the 17th century by Sengge Namgyal, a Namgyal dynasty King of Ladakh the palace was later invaded by Dogra Rajputs forcing the royal family to abandon the palace.

It comprises nine storeys and each level was meant to serve different purposes during the royal days.

Perfectly hinged with the charming vistas, the royal palace offers a breathtakingly beautiful view of entire Leh town.

8. Thiksey Monastery

Thiksey monastery is perched at an altitude of 3,600 meters in Thiksey village, approximately 19 km east of Leh. It is known to be the largest monastery in central Ladakh district.

This Buddhist monastery of the Gelugpa sect of Tibetan Buddhism is famous for its unique architecture. Resembling Potala Palace in Lhasa, the monastery is referred to as ‘Mini Potala’ of India.

The monastery offers breathtaking views of Indus river and pristine Indus valley.

It also houses two-storey tall almost 49 ft statue of Maitreya (Future Buddha), which was erected to commemorate the visit of the 14th Dalai Lama to this monastery in the year 1970.

One of the other prime attractions here is Tara temple dedicated to Goddess Tara, also known as Jetsun Dölma in Tibetan Buddhism. There are 21 images of the Goddess kept in the glass-covered shelves.

9. Hemis National Park

Counted among one of the most famed tourist places in Ladakh for wildlife enthusiasts Hemis National Park is popular for its elusive snow leopards in India .

Nestled in the scenic valley of Ladakh it is the largest national park in South Asia spread over an area of 4,400 sq km. The park gets its name from the noted 400-year-old Hemis monastery.

The prime attractions for wildlife explorers and photographers in this park are snow leopards.

It is also home to many other forms of wildlife including Tibetan wolf, endangered Eurasian brown bear, red fox, Himalayan marmot and mountain weasel.

Blessed with plenty of exotic bird species, Hemis National Park is a delight for birdwatchers.

Jeeps are not allowed inside the park. You will need to go trekking to enjoy the pristine landscape and wonderful wildlife of the park.

10. Tso Moriri Lake

Tucked in the lap of scenic Rupshu valley in Changthang region of Ladakh, Tso Moriri Lake is the largest high altitude lake in India at an altitude of 4,522 meters.

The surrounding lofty mountains, shimmering blue waters of the lake and the shining summer sun come together to make it nature’s wonderland.

Tso Moriri attracts a lot of migratory birds and some rare forms of wildlife such as Tibetan wolf, marmot.

The lake remains mostly frozen during peak winters from December to March. The best time to visit Tso Moriri Lake is during summers from the months of May to September.

You will need to get an Inner Line Permit (Indian citizens) or a Protected Area Permit (Foreign nationals) to visit this lake as it is very close to the Line of Actual Control.

Ladakh Weather

Ladakh experiences summer season from the month of May to August when the temperature ranges from less than 5 degrees at night to a maximum of 25 degrees in daylight.

The warmest month is June-July when snow caps melt and tourists flock to Ladakh to enjoy the spectacular natural beauty of this region.

Though the days are sunny during summers but the sun is very harsh sometimes and prolonged exposure to sunlight can lead to sunburn and skin damages.

This is the time when you can get a flavour of Ladakhi culture as many local festivals and events are celebrated during summers.

Rainy season kicks in from the month of August. Falling under the rain shadow of the Himalayas, rainfall in this region is quite low from drizzling to light rains.

Monsoon in Leh Ladakh adds to the charming beauty of the region and the entire landscape looks absolutely stunning.

There are incidents of landslides and rock breaks during monsoon. So, plan your trip with the necessary precautions.

The sky is clear and pristine blue when it’s not raining but nights still carry the winter chill. Days are pleasant with temperatures varying from 20-22 degrees.

Winter starts knocking from the month of September and the early winter season continues till November.

It becomes freezing cold at night while days could still be bright with sunshine during the early winters.

Mercury starts dropping below zero degrees with the temperature hovering around -20 degrees at night from December till February.

This is the time when Ladakh region begins to experience snowfall and many tourist places are closed for visitors. It feels chilly during March also but relatively better than the peak winter months (December – February).

April is when it starts getting warmer with temperatures hovering around 10-12 degrees in the daytime. Summers arrive after that and it is the time of the year when visitors rush to see the famous tourist places in Ladakh.

Perched at a great altitude ranging from 3,000 meters in Kargil to more than 8,000 meters in Karakoram, Ladakh experiences freezing cold and dry weather for most of the year. So, the best season to visit Ladakh is during summers from the months of May to August.

How To Reach

Kushok Bakula Airport located in Leh is the nearest airport and is well linked to the major airports in India such as Srinagar, Delhi. You can hire taxis available outside the airport for onward journey.

Leh airport falls under a high-security zone. It is recommended to have all required documents including printed air tickets ready beforehand.

The nearest railway station is in Jammu Tawi 712 km away from Ladakh. There are direct trains to Jammu Tawi from cities such as Delhi, Mumbai and Chennai.

Other nearest railheads are located in Kalka (756 km), Pathankot (760 km) and Chandigarh (766 km). You can hire a cab from any of these stations to reach Leh.

Ladakh is accessible by road via Leh – Srinagar Highway and Leh – Manali Highway. Both the routes are open from May to September.

Spanning across 434 km, Leh – Srinagar is one of the most scenic routes covering Sonmarg, Zozi la, Drass, Kargil, Mulbek, Lamayaru, Saspol and then comes Leh.

Leh – Manali Highway is a 490 km long route covering Rohtang Pass, Gramphu, Kokhsar, Sissu, Tandi, Keylong, Jispa, Darcha, Baralacha La, Sarchu, Gata Loops, Tanglang La, Upshi and Karu before reaching Leh.

You can hire a jeep or taxi and choose any of the two routes to reach Leh. Government buses also ply daily at regular intervals from Manali and Srinagar Leh.

Adventure enthusiasts can travel by bike also which are easily available on rent at Srinagar and Manali.

Delhi (1,000 km) is the nearest metropolitan city to Leh. The best way to reach Ladakh from Delhi is by flight. There are many direct flights from Delhi which take a little over 1 hour to reach Leh.

By train, the closest railhead to Delhi is Jammu Tawi. Some of the trains operating from Delhi to Jammu are New Delhi-Jammu Tawi Rajdhani Express, Jammu Tawi Express and Jammu Mail. It is almost 18 hrs drive from Jammu to Leh via Leh – Srinagar highway.

• Many famous tourist places in Ladakh (such as Pangong Tso Lake, Nubra Valley, Khardun La, Tso Moriri Lake) are close to Sino-Indian Border and entry is not allowed without the permit.
• Plan at least 4-5 nights trip with enough room to settle and acclimate to weather conditions.
• Avoid alcohol consumption as it can cause dehydration.
• Woolen Sweatshirt, Pullover
• Inner thermals
• Windcheater jacket
• Trekking pants or trouser
• Caps for protection against direct sunlight
• Hand gloves if travelling in winters
• Choose well-fitting shoes – sports shoes or comfortable trekking shoes.
• Sunglasses for protecting your eyes against the reflection of sunlight.
• Carry enough drinking water.
• Get a first aid kit in your backpack for treating minor injuries and high altitude sickness in case of any medical emergency.

Over To You Now…

Ladakh is a gateway to the unspoiled world of the Himalayas offering experiences ridden with sheer thrill and excitement.

Have you visited these amazing tourist places in Ladakh? Share your experiences with us in the comment section below.

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A passionate traveler, nature and wildlife enthusiast, Rashmi loves to explore places filled with natural beauty. She believes there is nothing more fulfilling than wandering in nature. She is here to show you beautiful places around the world, from the most popular to the most offbeat spots.

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Ladakh, India

Adventures and eats.

W ith its astonishing alpine landscapes and Tibetan Buddhist culture, Ladakh—in the farthest-flung part of North India—has enough wonders to warrant multiple visits.

In 2023, India designated its first D ark Sky Reserve , in Hanle village, about 168 miles southeast of Leh, Ladakh’s capital. The village has roughly 270 clear nights a year, making it ideal for astronomical splendor. The reserve spans 414 sq. mi. and envelops much of the Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary.

The launch of a new helicopter service in summer 2022 has reduced the travel time between major destinations in Ladakh—including Leh, Zanskar, Kargil, and Drass—from five to 12 hours by car to just 45 minutes.

While you’re there, experience Delhi’s legendary eateries Karim’s, known for its Mughlai menu of grilled meats, and Nathu’s Sweets, which both opened outlets in Leh in August 2022. Or hotfoot over to Cafe Montagne , which opened its doors in July 2022, for a meal of tempura fried prawns with sea-buckthorn, fondue, or spicy fried chicken. For those heading to Turtuk Village, about a 5-hour drive from Leh, don’t miss Farmer’s House Cafe , another newly-established eatery that opened in July 2022 and try sushi, Himalayan herbs salad with local cheese, or hand-rolled pasta with walnut sauce.

Bookend your adventures with a stay in one of the region’s new sustainable properties: Dolkhar in Leh, the Kyagar Hotel in Nubra Valley, and Shel Ladakh , a 30-minute drive from Leh airport.

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• 51 Places To Visit In Leh Ladakh For A Spell Binding Vacation In 2024

23 Mar 2023

Ladakh is a place like no other. The beauty of the place can’t be expressed in words. Visiting Leh Ladakh can be a great experience as these places have a bounty of natural beauty. here is a bundle of the best places to visit in Leh Ladakh , filled with pristine beauty. Ladakh, with a unique characteristic that is a blend of Indian, Tibetan as well as Buddhism linings, is a place that is worth paying a visit to. So, scroll down to know what awaits you.

Top 51 Places To Visit In Leh Ladakh In 2024

Going on a holiday to a charming land like Ladakh is surely an experience of a lifetime. So, why would you want to miss out on anything best there? Monasteries, rivers, valleys, lakes, villages and museums – this place is a confluence of so many popular and awesome things. Here’s a list of the top places to visit in Leh Ladakh for a fantastic vacation.

1. Zanskar Valley

Image Credit: Ashish swaroop for Wikipedia Commons

Without a doubt, Zanskar valley is one of the best places to visit in Leh Ladakh and the best Ladakh tourist places. It is amongst the most desolate places in the Himalayan range. The steep terrains covered with snow reflect the heavenly skies. The tributaries of the Zanskar River is one of the most famous places for river rafting in India. Thus, satisfy your adventurous souls as you embark on an exhilarating journey. 

Best Time to Visit: Zanskar is best visited between June to September when the road is clear of the snow and the Leh temperature is at moderate. It’s closed for a significant time due to extreme snowfall and winter. Location: Leh-Ladakh

Must Read: Things To Do In Ladakh

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2. Pangong Tso Lake

Image Credit: KennyOMG for Wikipedia Commons

Remember the breathtakingly beautiful lake from 3 Idiots where Kareena Kapoor confessed her love? It’s Pangong Tso, a lake among the popular tourist attractions in Leh Ladakh situated on the Changtang plateau in the eastern Ladakh region. In addition, the lake offers an awesome site for camping and is the current hotspot for all people making it one of the best Ladakh tourist places. To avoid the crowd, you can visit this place during the off-season. The lake totally freezes during the winter, making it one of the best places to visit in Leh Ladakh in January.

Best Time to Visit: June to September is the best time to travel to Pangong Tso Lake Location: Leh district, Ladakh, India

Image Credit: Shyam.akirala for Wikimedia Commons

A trip to Leh Ladakh is incomplete without a visit to Kargil which is one of the prime tourist places in Ladakh. This is the second largest town in Ladakh, situated on the banks of the Indus River. It is a transit hub with roads leading to Leh, Padum (Zanskar) and Srinagar. Furthermore, it is a haven for adventure enthusiasts as they can enjoy sports such as trekking and mountaineering. So, make sure you pack sufficiently to enjoy these activities at one of the most visited tourist places in Leh Ladakh!

Best Time to visit: The summer season between May to July is the best time to visit Kargil as the temperature is cool with frigid nights. Location: Ladakh, India

Suggested Read: Camping In Leh

4. Khardung-la Pass

Image Credit: Samson Joseph for Wikipedia Commons

Khardungla Pass is a gateway which leads to the Nubra and Shyok valley and is one of the best tourist places in Ladakh. While this might not be a typical tourist attraction in Leh Ladakh, it is definitely among the must-visit places to visit in and around Leh Ladakh for adventure junkies. Managed by the Border Roads Organization, Kardung-la Pass is the gateway to the north and one of the most difficult yet thrilling passes to ride on. All in all, Khardungla Pass is among the top 6 tourist places in Ladakh.

Best time to visit: The best time to visit Khardung-La pass is during the summer season, between May to September. Location: Ladakh, India

5. Nubra Valley

Image Credit: Ashwin Kumar for Wikipedia Commons

Certainly one of the best places to see in Ladakh, it was featured as one of the top 5 places to visit in Ladakh, Nubra valley, a tri-armed valley towards the northeast. The sand dunes of the Nubra Valley offer tourists Arabian Nights experience. Nubra valley is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Leh Ladakh for its two-humped camels.

So, be sure to check out this one while you’re out and about in the scenic land of Leh! One of the captivating places to visit in Leh Ladakh, here is the Samstanling Monastery, which should definitely be on your list. Panamik village which is famous for hot sulphur springs is another attraction in Nubra Valley.

Best time to visit: As per the climatic conditions, the best time to visit Nubra valley is during the autumn season which is between the month of July to September. Location: Ladakh, India

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6. Magnetic Hill

Image Credit: Kartikey Brahmkshatriya for Wikimedia Commons

One of the best places to visit in Leh Ladakh is Magnetic Hill. The science behind the phenomenon is unknown but it has been observed that if you leave your vehicle at the base of the hill with the brakes unlocked, it will start moving uphill slowly on its own. Magic? Definitely not. It’s simply the superpowers you get when you reach this place. Hence, it is considered one of the top 10 places to visit in Leh Ladakh for a wholesome experience. 

Best Time To Visit: May to September Location: Ladakh, India

7. Spituk Gompa

Image Credit: Redtigerxyz for Wikimedia Commons

Ladakh is known as the land of the monks and monasteries. Spituk is one of the many tourist places to visit in Ladakh and one of the best places to see in Ladakh. This is famous for its beautifully carved location at the top of a hill. The winds at the night, however, may chill you to the bones. Make sure you pack a few extra warm clothes to be comfortably cosy to visit one of the most serene places to go in Leh Ladakh. 

Best Time To Visit: May to September Location: Leh, Jammu, and Kashmir

Suggested Read: Zanskar Valley Trek

8. Hemis National Park

Image Credit: Paras31194 for Wikipedia Commons

If you want to get the best of Ladakh sightseeing, visit the Hemis National Park has the distinction of being the largest national park in South Asia. The park is a protected home for endangered mammals like leopards, Asiatic ibex, Tibetan wolf, the Eurasian brown bear, and the red fox.

For nature lovers and bird watchers, this has to be on your list of places to see in Ladakh. A pollution-free environment and noise-free surroundings make bird watching a joyful experience. So, if you are looking for places to visit in Leh Ladakh in May, should be definitely on your itinerary.

Best time to visit: Between May to September Location: Jammu and Kashmir

9. Shanti Stupa

Image Credit: ClickAR89 for Wikimedia Commons

What better place to invoke some thoughts from within than this? Located on a hill in Chanspa, Leh, the Shanti Stupa is one of the most magnificent and peaceful Buddhist monuments you could possibly see in the extreme north of India for the best of Ladakh sightseeing. Take the steep slights to reach the Stupa which offers beautiful sunrise and sunset views. Also, the panoramic views of the landscape around it make the Shanti Stupa one of the best tourist places in Ladakh.

Best time to visit: Between May to September Location: Shanti Stupa Rd, Leh, Jammu and Kashmir

Suggested Read: Wildlife Experience India

10. Hemis Monastery

Image Credit: Shashank Mehendale for Wikimedia Commons

Hemis Monastery is known for its annual mask festival. This is a two-day spiritual celebration taking place on Tse Chu, the tenth month in the Tibetan calendar. The festival is celebrated in the memory of Guru Padmasambhava, who is believed to be the Gautam Buddha’s reincarnation. Thus, if you are looking for the best places to visit in Leh City, Hemis Monastery is ideal for you.

Best time to visit: This is one of the best places to visit in Ladakh in summer i.e April to August Location: Leh, Jammu, and Kashmir

11. Royal Leh Palace

Image Credit: Deepank Ranka for Wikipedia Commons

Resembling the essence of the Potala Palace in Lhasa, the Royal Leh Palace is situated on a cliff overlooking the charming town of Leh. A prominent symbol of the royal family’s glory living in this town in the old days, this place cannot be missed by any explorer out there! The stunning statue of Buddha at the back of this palace adds more to the charm of this place. You can add this attraction in the list places to visit in Leh Ladakh in June for immense fun. 

Best Time To Visit: It is best to visit this palace in the month of August Entry Fee: INR 20 for Indians and INR 100 for foreigners Timings: 07:00 AM to 04:00 PM everyday Location: Leh, Jammu, and Kashmir

Suggested Read: Ladakh In April

12. Moonland

Image Credit: Surohit for Wikimedia Commons

Its close resemblance to Moon is the main reason why this beautiful naturally occurring land is one of the best places to visit in Ladakh is hard to miss on your way to Lamayuru. If you wish to visit one of the most stunning unseen places in Leh, this is the place to be. It is best to travel to this place during the time of a full moon since it is believed to be a unique experience altogether with the moonlight reflecting on this kind of surface. Moonland is one of those unique places to visit in Leh Ladakh in April. Moreover, if you are seeking an offbeat travel experience, you can visit Moonland. It is among the hidden places to visit in Leh Ladakh as it boasts scenic views and natural allure. 

Best Time To Visit: The best time to visit this place would be around April to May Location: Village Lamayuru, Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir

13. Tso Moriri Lake

 Image Credit: Raghavan37 for Wikimedia Commons

A twin to the popular Pangong Tso Lake, Tso Moriri Lake is a lesser-known lake located in the Changtang Wildlife Sanctuary. Its location contributes to the scenic beauty of this lake. Barren hills with snow-capped mountains in the backdrop make the sight simply breathtaking.

The attribute of being a “lesser-known” makes this place less crowded so you can be sure of having a place to yourself at the lake. The open sky at Tso Moriri Lake makes it a perfect place for star gazing at night. Moriri Tso, also known as a ‘Mountain Lake’ was declared as a wetland reserve.

Various kinds of species including the Brahmin duck, bare-headed goose, the brown-headed gull, and the great-crested grebe are found here, along with Himalayan Hares that are present in large numbers. The peaks that surround this lake are so high that they shut off this place from the outer world.

Best Time To Visit: May to August Location: Ladakh

Suggested Read: 10 Homestays In Ladakh

14. Chadar Trek

Image Credit: Sumita Roy Dutta for Wikipedia Commons

How about walking on a frozen lake? Chadar Trek is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Ladakh such an unbelievable and exciting experience. ‘Chadar’ refers to a blanket, because in winter the popular Zanskar River in Leh Ladakh freezes into a blanket of ice. Come to witness the transformation of colours of this frozen river while you trek on it.

The mild blue colour changes to light yellow when the sun shines directly on it for a few hours in the day. It looks milky white on a moonlit night. The Chadar Trek journey is said to be one of the most adventurous and toughest trek journeys.

Best Time To Visit: January and February Location: Ladakh

Image Credit: Harvinder Chandigarh for Wikipedia Commons

Alchi is a busy village located in the Himalayan region of Ladakh, in the valley of the Indus River. The model town of Alchi is home to an ancient Buddhist monastery that dates back to 900 years. The monastery proudly bears the 11th – 12th-century Indo-Tibetan paintings done in bright green, gold, ochre and azure shades.

The painted statue of Bodhisattva Maitreya is a major highlight of the monastery. You are suggested to spend a night at Alchi to discover the real Ladakhi village life. You can also enjoy river rafting at the Alchi Nyemo.

Best Time To Visit: June to September Location: Ladakh

Suggested Read: 11 Adventure Sports In Ladakh

16. Thiksey Gompa

Image Source: Angshuman Chatterjee for Wikimedia Commons

Resembling the Potala Palace in Lhasa, Tibet, Thiksey is one of the beautiful Buddhist monasteries in Ladakh. Snuggled at an altitude of 11,800 feet, this monastery is looked after by the people of the Yellow Hat (Gelugpa) sect. It comprises a 12-story building complex and houses more than 500 monks. Thiksey has a large and precious collection of Buddhist books, journals, statues, scripts, stupas, swords, and Thangka paintings.

Best Time to Visit: October to November Location: Leh Manali Hwy, Thiksey, Jammu and Kashmir

17. Diskit Monastery

Image Credit: Ashwin Kumar for Wikimedia Commons

Located in the beautiful Nubra Valley, Diskit Monastery is one of the most beautiful and the oldest Buddhist monasteries in Ladakh, founded in the 14th century by Changzem Tsera Zangpo. It belongs to the Gelugpa sect (Yellow Hat) of Tibetan Buddhism and has various Buddha statues, images of other guardian gods, and a huge drum.

Owing to the breathtaking location, this one of the famous monasteries in Ladakh offers solemn serenity and inner peace. Situated close to it is Maitreya Buddha, another famous attraction here.

Best Time to Visit: July to September Location: Jammu and Kashmir

Suggested Read: 10 Ladakh Resorts

18. Stakna Monastery

Image Credit: lensnmatter for Wikimedia Commons

Stakna, locally known as Tiger’s Nose, is a small and serene monastery. It was founded during the reign of King Jamyang Namgyal in 1580. It houses numerous paintings, idols, and Buddhist scriptures, and has many sister monasteries like in Zanskar-Bardan, Stakrimo, and Sani. Located on the left bank of Indus River and perched on a hill, the Stakna monastery in Leh Ladakh offers amazing views of the Indus valley.

19. Phyang Gompa

Image Credit: Deepank Ranka for Wikimedia Commons

Phyang Gompa belongs to the red hat sect of Buddhism and is perhaps the most impressive monastery in Leh Ladakh. It is located on a hilltop and thus offers stunning views of the surrounding. This white and ochre-coloured structure is one of the must-visit monasteries in Ladakh and is an important hub of Digung teachings. The wall paintings at Phyang Gompa depict Buddhist culture and heritage. Make sure to stop by here on a day tour to Ladakh.

Best Time to Visit: May to October Location: Jammu and Kashmir

Suggested Read: Ladakh Travel Tips

20. Likir Monastery

Image Credit: Meridius27 for Wikimedia Commons

Likir Monastery is located 53 km west of Leh in the Likir village in the Indus Valley. Along with taxis, many buses travel between Leh and Likir from 5 in the morning to 3 in the afternoon. Popularly known as Likir Gompa, it was founded by Lama Duwang Chosje in the 14th century. According to Buddhist mythology, this is the first construction by the Tibetan monks. The museum located inside the monastery showcases a wide array of Tibetan artefacts and relics.

21. Phugtal Monastery

Image Credit: Bishtashita for Wikimedia Commons

Phugtal Monastery is constructed around and inside a hollow cave. Its mysterious location and structure make it one of the most fascinating sites for visitors. It is located in the southeast part of the Zanskar region in Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir.

It is an isolated monastery and remains tucked far away from the city. One of the unique features is that the water of the cave remains flowing at the same pace irrespective of the water running outside. The water is also believed to have medicinal powers.

Best Time To Visit: May to July Location: Jammu and Kashmir

Suggested Read: Stok Kangri Trek

22. Namgyal Tsemo Gompa

Image Source: Goutam1962 for Wikimedia Commons

If you love to come across rugged and steep mountains replete with peaceful and spiritual folds, you must visit Namgyal Tsemo Gompa. The monastery is famous for its Buddhist principles and teachings. Travellers from all over the world come here to experience divinity. Experience the distinct mystique that surrounds the place on your visit here.

Best Time To Visit: April to September Location: Jammu and Kashmir

23. Stok Palace

Situated at a distance of only 15 km, Stok Palace is found in the Stok Village. It is famously known as the summer home to the royal family of Ladakh. Established in the year 1820 by King Tsepal Namgyal. It is a glaring example of the rich history and lifestyle of the royal family. It is also home to Stok Monastery and is equipped with beautiful gardens and a huge library. It has now been converted into a heritage hotel for visitors to come to experience the royalty here.

Best Time To Visit: June to September Location: Stok Village, Jammu and Kashmir

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24. Chemrey Monastery

Image Credit: Amalpratip for Wikipedia Commons

The 400-year old undiscovered Buddhist Monastery, Chemrey Monastery is located 40 km away, in the east of Leh. One of the most remarkable features of the Monastery is the high statue of Padmasambhava. On your visit, do check out the wide collections of ancient scriptures. These scriptures are emboldened in gold and silver. Capture stunning views of the surrounding areas while you are here.

Best Time To Visit: June to October Location: Jammu and Kashmir

25. Tso Kar

Image Credit: Nitai Mondal for Wikipedia Commons

The oscillating salt lake in Ladakh valley, Tso Kar is one of the most popular destinations in Ladakh. It is more often known as the white lake, and the Tso Kar Lake is a serene retreat for many travellers. Surrounding areas of the lake include a couple of nomadic families, a few yak sheds, and a monastery. It is suggested to camp overnight in Tso Kar for a completely different experience. It is also an amazing place for birdwatching.

Best Time To Visit: June and July. Location: Jammu and Kashmir

Suggested Read: 9 Ladakh Lakes

26. Lamayuru Town

Image Credit: Kondephy for Wikimedia Commons

During your trip to Leh, take out a day to travel to Lamayuru. The small town is famous for its Lamayuru Monastery. It is believed that a stretch of land is borrowed from the moon. Take a look at the aesthetic fresco paintings which are also found in the houses of the locals.

Best Time To Visit: May to September Location: Jammu and Kashmir

27. Sankar Gompa

Image Credit: Bhrigu bayan for Wikimedia Commons

Sankar Gompa (Sankar Monastery) is located 6 km from Leh. It is a beautiful monastery located in the main city of Ladakh. It is believed to be a branch of the traditional Spituk Monastery. The presiding head or Lama is the same while there are 20 other monks who reside here to learn the culture of Buddhism. The Sankar Gompa is also the residence of the Abbot of Spituk, adding to its religious importance. Visit Sankar Gompa to get a view of Namgyal Tsemo Hills from the monastery.

Best Time To Visit: March to October. Location: Jammu and Kashmir

Suggested Read: 19 Monasteries In Ladakh

28. Dha Hanu

Image Source: Shutterstock

Dha Hanu is otherwise the name of two villages – Dha and Hanu. They are a few among those villages which are home to the people of the Drokpa tribe. If you are really keen to discover the cultural life of the tribe here, it is a wonderful place to visit. The Drokpa tribes are known for using distinct head gears and ornaments in their attire.

Best Time To Visit: The best time to visit is between June to October. Location: Jammu and Kashmir

Image Credit: Vinay Goyal, Ludhiana for Wikipedia Commons

A quaint town, Nyoma is located in the district of Leh, 370 km from Srinagar. The most striking attribute of Nyoma is that it is located on the Indus banks. If you have a permit for the inner line, you can also visit the small Buddhist monastery in the town which is known as Gompa.

Best Time To Visit: September to May. Location: Jammu and Kashmir

Suggested Read: 8 Tourist Circuits Of Ladakh

30. Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary

Image Credit: Prakash R Iyer for Wikipedia Commons

Located at a height of about 4000-9000 feet, Changtang wildlife sanctuary is an isolated wildlife sanctuary that offers impressive views from the top. There is a wide range of flowers, plants and animals here. It also constitutes of the highest lakes – Tso Moriri, Pangong Tso, and Tso Kar. The Korzok Monastery is also another main feature here.

Suggested Read: 60 Best Hill Stations In India

31. Hall Of Fame – Salute The Martyrs

Image Credit: Chris Hunkeler for Wikimedia Commons

Hall of Fame is a museum dedicated to all those soldiers who fought in the Indo-Pakistan war and sacrificed their lives for the country. The brave act has been inculcated in the photo frames that are hanging on the walls of the museum and will tell you the story of their bravery. Apart from that, there are arms and amenities used by the soldiers. It is one of the best places to visit in Ladakh.

Entry Fee : INR 10 Timings: 9 am – 1 pm, 3 pm – 7 pm Location: Leh, Jammu and Kashmir 194101 Best Time To Visit: May to September

Suggested Read: Leh Ladakh Bike Trip

32. Rohtang Pass

Image Credit: Vikramdeep Sidhu for Wikimedia Commons

Rohtang Pass is one of the most famous avalanches in Ladakh that is often visited by tourists to catch mind-blowing views and comes at the top of the Ladakh travel tips list and go through narrow roads under severe climatic conditions. Adventure seekers often travel through this route to experience the chills and for thrill-seeking adventures. It acts as a link between Kullu Valley and Lahaul and Spiti Valley.

Location : The pass is located about 51 km away from Manali and you can reach the pass if you take Leh- Manali Highway. Best Time To Visit: May to September

33. Lachulung La

Image Source: John Hill for Wikipedia Commons

Lachulung La is a pass that is situated at an elevation of 5059 m above sea level. It is considered to be extremely dangerous with that much height and is on the border of Himachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir. It also separates the valleys of Tsarap Chu and Tozay.

Location : Take the Leh-Manali highway, from Sarchu 54 km and from Pang, 24 km Best Time To Visit: May to September

Suggested Read: Trekking In Ladakh

34. Tanglang La – For Thrill-Seeking Adventure

Image Credit: Wolfgang Maehr for Wikimedia Commons

Again, it’s a high mountain pass that is a favourite haunt for many tourists who come to visit for the breathtaking views and the thrill-seeking adventure. It is situated 5328 m above sea level and poses as a thrill-seeking adventure for those who are interested in making the climb.

Location : The pass is close to Leh-Manali highway and can be reached via 21 Gata loops Best Time To Visit: May to September

35. Mulbekh Monastery

Image Credit: Ashishyadav.photographs for Wikimedia Commons

Consisting of two gompas, it is located at a pristine location which is about 260 km from Leh town. The two gompas, namely, Drukpa and one Gelugpa Buddhist monastery are architectural marvels.

Location : Thang, Kargil, Jammu and Kashmir 194103 Best Time To Visit: May to September

Suggested Read: 9 Places To Visit In Nubra Valley

36. Gol Market

Image Source: Ronit Bhattacharjee for Wikimedia Commons

Gol Market is a market in Ladakh where one can buy woollen clothes and other general items required for camping. It is one of the best places to visit in Ladakh for buying souvenirs too as one can find embroidered Ladakhi work and antiques here.

Location : Jammu and Kashmir Best Time To Visit: May to September

37. Central Asian Museum

The Central Asian Museum is one of the top places to visit in Ladakh. It is a tapered four-storey stone tower inspired by the Lhasa architecture and located close to the Main Bazaar. The museum showcases trade done using the  Silk route – Ladakh, Yarkand, Turkestan, Baltistan, Tibet and China. The museum is located in a courtyard along with a traditional Ladakhi show kitchen and the oldest mosque, Masjid Sharif in Leh. The complex is also famous for the 500-year old sacred tree also known as the Datun Sahib.

Location : Main Bazaar Road, Leh, Jammu and Kashmir 194101 Entry fee : INR 50 Best Time To Visit: May to September

Suggested Read: Dodda Ayur

38. Leh Donkey Sanctuary

Image Source: Dave Crosby for Wikimedia Commons

The sanctuary supports a huge population of stray donkeys. As the population rose, houses were built in Ladakh, and animals such as donkeys became strays on a regular basis. In 2007, the sanctuary was started with the idea of not leaving a single donkey astray and taking care of food, medicines and a proper habitat for donkeys. It is considered one of the best Ladakh tourist places for animal lovers and researchers.

Location : Korean Temple Road, Khakshal, Leh-Ladakh  194101 Entry fee : INR 10 for Indians, INR 50 for foreigners Best Time To Visit: May to September

39. Panamik Village

Image Credit: Addy6697 for Wikipedia Commons

Where the grasses are green, the mountains are white and the waters are clear, is a heavenly place, also called the Panamik village, one of the most beautiful places to visit in Ladakh. Set by the side of the Nubra river, Panamik is most popular for its therapeutic hot springs. The village also acts as a base for the trek to Ensa Gompa, which is almost a 250-year-old trek. 

Location : Leh-Ladakh Best time to visit : June to September

40. Zorawar Fort

Image Credit: Deeptrivia for Wikipedia Commons

The Zorawar Fort marks the victory for General Zorawar Singh, who conquered Ladakh. To commemorate his victory, he built this fort in 1930 overlooking the hills and the mountain city of Leh. If you want to explore amazing architecture, then the Zorawar fort is one of the best places to visit in Ladakh. The fort’s  structure is made from local clay, some sun-dried bricks, stones and wooden frames hinged around the edges. 

Location: Leh-Ladakh  Best time to visit : March to September

41. Tiger Hill

Image Credit: ANKAN for Wikimedia Commons

Tiger Hill is one of the highest places to see in Ladakh located in the Kargil sector. The hill holds immense importance to the Indo-Pak war of 1999. The sight from the top of the hill is just magnificent with a view of the valley, the colossal mountain and marks a cold climate throughout the year. This place is perfect for enjoying some of the most popular adventure sports in Ladakh. 

Location : Leh-Ladakh Best time to visit : March to September

Suggested Read: Mountaineering In Ladakh

42. Lachung Templet

Image Credit: Prof Ranga Sai for Wikipedia Commons

Lachung Temple is one of the most visited places in Ladakh situated in Nubra Valley. You will get to view exclusive colourful and narrative paintings. If you are an art lover then this place will surely captivate you as this is one of the oldest holy sites in Ladakh.

Best time to visit: October to June Location: Nubra Valley, Ladakh

43. Ladakh Market

Image Credit: Chris Hunkeler for Wikipedia Commons

If you love shopping then you must explore the markets in Ladakh which sells exclusive souvenirs, beautiful Tibetan jewellery, woollen clothes, and decorated items like carpets and motifs. You can buy all the stuff for yourself as well as for your friends and family for beautiful memories. It is also one of the best places to visit during a Leh Ladakh bike trip with your family and friends.

Best time to visit: April to June Location: Ladakh

Suggested Read: Honeymoon In Ladakh

44. Markha Valley Trek

For all the adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers, trekking in Leh and Ladakh is one of the most thrilling experiences that you must surely witness. Some of the famous trekking routes are Markha Valley trekking, Ladakh Zanskar, Nubra Valley Trek and trek from Spiti to Ladakh. It is also one of the best Ladakh tourist places to visit with your friends.

Best time to visit: June to October Location: Ladakh

45. Hundur Monastery

Image Credit: Karunakar Rayker for Wikipedia Commons

If you are travelling to Nubra Valley then you must visit Hundur Monastery as it is situated there. It is regarded as one of the ancient Buddhist sites where religious people come to gain knowledge on Buddhist lineage. It is also known as Hundur Gompa. So, on your next trip, do not forget to add this captivating attraction to your itinerary. 

Best time to visit: June to August Location: Nubra Valley, Ladakh

Suggested Read: Magnetic Hill In Ladakh

46. Sindhu Darshan Festival

Image Credit: Saad Faruque for Wikimedia Commons

Every year on the full moon day, Sindhu Darshan Festival is celebrated with great vigour and energy by the people of Ladakh for three days. The festival is celebrated for River Sindhu as a symbol of communal harmony in India. One of the interesting facts about the festival is that the movie Dil Se was shot when the first Sindhu Darshan Festival was celebrated.

B est time to visit: March to September Location: Ladakh

47. Moonland Lamayuru

In Lamayuru, there is a beautiful landscape on the Leh- Kargil road which is known as Moonland. It is known as Moonland because the landscapes are in the shape of a moon. It is indeed one of the most beautiful sights to watch and if you go on full moon night then it is the most extraordinary sight to witness.

Best time to visit: May to September Location: Village Lamayuru, Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir 194106

Suggested Read: Leh To Nubra Valley

48. Umling La Pass

Image Credit: Naresh Parate for Wikipedia Commons

Umling La Pass is one of the most popular roads in Ladakh which owns the title of being the highest motorable road in India. Biking enthusiasts often take a journey to this region that is beyond the general attractions of Ladakh to enjoy the endless vistas and serenity this pass has to offer. So, what awaits you? Feel the adrenaline rush as you ride your bikes and satisfy your soul. 

Best time to visit: April to August Location: Umlingla Pass, Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir 194106

49. Shang Gompa

It is located in the snow-crested mountains alongside the majestic landscapes of Leh and Ladakh. The Shang Gompa represents harmony, levelheadedness, and quietness. The reciting of the monks is pretty much a mesmerizing and soul-touching experience here. Additionally, it is also one of the most popular tourist places in Leh Ladakh.

Best time to visit: All around the year Location: Hemis, Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir 194106

Suggested Read: Hemis Festival

50. Wanla Monastery

This gompa is connected with Lotsawa Rinchen Zangpo, and is a contemporary of Alchi, dating longer than a century old, and may likewise be crafted by Kashmiri craftsmen from Ladakh’s pre-Tibetan time. It is considered by local people to be the most remarkable structures that people from all over India come to visit.

Best time to visit: May – September Location: Hemis, Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir 194106

51. Shyok River

Image Credit: Eatcha for Wikipedia Commons

Another one of the most famous Leh Ladakh tourist places is the Shyok River. A tributary of the Indus river, this river rises in the Rimo Glacier which is one of the branches of the Siachen Glacier in the Karakorams. It is also known as the ‘The River of Death’ as many men and animals were swept away while crossing this river. Furthermore, the views of the river are breathtaking and it is definitely one of the best places you will witness in the Leh Ladakh region.

Best time to visit: May – September Location: Leh Ladakh

Best Time To Visit Leh Ladakh

If you’re planning to visit Leh Ladakh, then make your plans during the months of April-May as it is the best time to visit. During this time the temperature in Leh remains moderate and Srinagar is clear to commute. Moreover, travellers can explore most of the places to visit in Leh Ladakh during this time.

Further Read: >101 Places To Visit In India Before You Turn 30

Did this get you excited already? Well, we wouldn’t blame you! The places to visit in Leh Ladakh have that kind of appeal. Planning a holiday well in advance has its own perks. While you decide which of these places should be on your itinerary, we say booking a trip to Ladakh isn’t wouldn’t require much time! So, get your bags packed and get going! So, it’s time to treat the traveller in you!

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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Leh Ladakh

Which are the best shopping markets in Ladakh?

The best shopping markets in Ladakh where you can head for a shopping spree are: 1. Moti Bazaar 2. Tibetan Market 3. Shar Market

What is the best time to visit Ladakh?

Ladakh is a beautiful place to visit which offers interesting tourist attractions. The best time to visit Ladakh is from May to July. During these months, the weather is perfect and the highway from Srinagar to Leh opens up.

What should I carry for the Ladakh trip?

Some of the travel essentials that you should definitely carry while traveling to Ladakh are listed below: 1. Warm clothes, including pullovers, jackets, and mufflers 2. Medical Kit 3. Sunscreen and moisturizer 4. Toiletries 5. Cash 6. ID proofs

What are the best places to visit in Leh Ladakh in January?

Most of Ladakh stay inaccessible during this time of the year, owing to heavy snowfall. The region is very cold, with the temperature dropping till -50. However, this is a much-awaited time for trekkers wishing to go for Chadar Trek. This trek is recommended if you’re an experienced trekker.

What was Article 370?

At the time of independence, Jammu & Kashmir was given a special provision. Article 370 was added to the Indian constitution that allowed the state to have a separate flag and be a separate Union Territory with no legislature. However, with the scrapping of Article 370 and following the new bill, Ladakh will now be a separate union territory with no legislature while Kashmir will have an Assembly.

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Top 5 places to visit in Ladakh

The capital city of Ladakh, Leh, serves as the perfect gateway to the region. Surrounded by stunning mountain ranges, Leh offers a blend of scenic beauty and cultural heritage. Explore the historic Leh Palace, which stands as a reminder of the royal era. Discover the vibrant markets of the Old Town, where you can shop for exquisite handicrafts, jewelry, and traditional Ladakhi souvenirs. The Shanti Stupa and Leh Mosque are also worth visiting for their architectural splendor and peaceful ambiance.

Pangong Tso Lake

Prepare to be mesmerized by the ethereal beauty of Pangong Tso Lake. Located at an altitude of 4,350 meters, this captivating lake is known for its ever-changing hues, ranging from deep blue to turquoise. The crystal-clear water against the backdrop of majestic mountains creates a postcard-worthy landscape. Take a stroll along the shoreline, enjoy a picnic, or simply sit back and absorb the tranquil atmosphere. A visit to Pangong Tso Lake is an experience that will leave an indelible mark on your memory.

Nubra Valley

Embark on an enchanting journey to Nubra Valley, a remote paradise located in the northernmost part of Ladakh. This high-altitude desert boasts sweeping sand dunes, lush green villages, and picturesque monasteries. One of the highlights of Nubra Valley is the incredible double-humped Bactrian camels, which you can ride on the sand dunes of Hunder. Visit the Diskit Monastery, home to a towering statue of Maitreya Buddha, and soak in the spiritual aura of this serene region.

Zanskar Valley

For adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts, Zanskar Valley is a must-visit destination. This isolated valley is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, glistening glaciers, and challenging treks. Explore the frozen wonderland of Chadar Trek, where you can walk on the frozen Zanskar River during winter. Witness the surreal beauty of the Phugtal Monastery, perched on a cliffside and accessible only through a trek. Zanskar Valley offers an off-the-beaten-path experience that will leave you in awe of nature's grandeur.

Hemis National Park

Experience the wild side of Ladakh at Hemis National Park, a haven for wildlife lovers and nature enthusiasts. Spread across a vast area, this national park is home to elusive snow leopards, ibex, blue sheep, and a wide variety of bird species. Embark on a wildlife safari, hike through the rugged terrains, and revel in the untouched beauty of the region. Hemis National Park is a paradise for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts alike.

Distance from Leh is approximately 49 Kilometers.

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• Apr 18, 2023

Lesser Known Places to Explore in Ladakh

Ladakh is a vast and rugged region with many unexplored and off-the-beaten-path destinations. Here are some unexplored places to see in Ladakh:

Ladakh is a stunning region of northern India that boasts breathtaking landscapes, ancient monasteries, and vibrant culture. While popular tourist spots like Leh, Pangong Tso, and Nubra Valley are well-known, there are also many hidden gems to explore in this rugged terrain. Here are some of the lesser-known places to visit in Ladakh:

" Less explored places like Zanskar Valley, Chumathang, Kargil, Dah Hanu and Turtuk are must to visit "

Zanskar Valley: The Zanskar Valley is a remote and isolated valley located in the eastern part of Ladakh, India. It is known for its stunning landscapes, including towering mountains, deep gorges, and turquoise rivers. Here are some of the top places to see in the Zanskar Valley:

Pic: Drang Drung Glacier

Zongkhul Monastery: Zongkhul Monastery is an ancient Buddhist monastery located in a cave in the Zanskar Valley. The monastery is built into a cliff face and is home to a community of monks who follow the ancient Tibetan Buddhist tradition.

Drang Drung Glacier: The Drang Drung Glacier is a massive glacier located in the Suru Valley, which is a part of the Zanskar Valley. It is one of the largest glaciers in Ladakh and is a popular spot for trekking and hiking.

Karsha Monastery: Karsha Monastery is an ancient Buddhist monastery located in the Padum area of Zanskar Valley. The monastery is famous for its beautiful architecture, traditional Buddhist artwork, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Padum: Padum is the largest town in the Zanskar Valley and is the administrative center of the region. It is a vibrant town that offers a glimpse into traditional Ladakhi life and culture.

Phugtal Monastery: Phugtal Monastery is an ancient Buddhist monastery located in a remote area of the Zanskar Valley. The monastery is built into a cliff face and is home to a community of monks who follow the ancient Tibetan Buddhist tradition.

Stongdey Monastery: Stongdey Monastery is an ancient Buddhist monastery located in the Padum area of the Zanskar Valley. The monastery is famous for its beautiful architecture, traditional Buddhist artwork, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Chumathang Hot Springs : Chumathang Hot Springs is a natural hot spring located along the Indus River, about 130 km east of Leh. The water here is believed to have medicinal properties and is a popular spot for locals to come and relax. The Chumathang Hot Springs is surrounded by stunning landscapes of mountains and valleys. The water from the hot springs is rich in minerals and is said to be beneficial for a variety of health conditions, including skin problems, arthritis, and respiratory disorders.

Apart from bathing in the hot springs, visitors can also explore the nearby Chumathang village and visit the Chumathang Monastery, which is located nearby. The monastery is an ancient Buddhist monastery that dates back to the 17th century and is home to a community of monks who follow the Tibetan Buddhist tradition. Chumathang Hot Springs is a great place to relax and rejuvenate in the midst of beautiful natural surroundings. It is also a popular stopover for travellers who are on their way to other destinations in Ladakh, such as Pangong Tso Lake or Leh.

Lamayuru : Lamayuru is a small village located in the Ladakh region of India. It is situated at an altitude of approximately 3,510 meters above sea level. It is famous for its ancient Lamayuru Monastery, which is believed to be one of the oldest and largest monasteries in Ladakh. The village is also known for its unique lunar landscape, resulting from

erosion over thousands of years.

Pic: Lamayuru monastery

The Lamayuru Monastery, also known as Yungdrung Tharpaling Monastery, is a major attraction in the village. It was founded in the 11th century and is home to a community of monks who follow the ancient Tibetan Buddhist tradition. The monastery is famous for its beautiful architecture, intricate murals, and collection of ancient manuscripts and artefacts.

Apart from the monastery, Lamayuru is also known for its stunning landscapes. The lunar landscape, also known as the Moonland, is a unique geological formation that resembles the surface of the moon. It is believed to have been formed over thousands of years of erosion and weathering. The landscape is best viewed during sunrise or sunset when the light casts beautiful shadows and highlights the unique features of the terrain.

Lamayuru is a popular destination for trekkers and hikers, with several trekking routes starting from the village. The most popular trek is the Lamayuru to Chilling trek, which takes around three to four days and passes through beautiful landscapes of mountains, valleys, and rivers.

Overall, Lamayuru is a beautiful and peaceful destination that offers a glimpse into Ladakh's rich culture and history. With its stunning landscapes, an ancient monastery, and vibrant community, it is a destination that is definitely worth exploring.

Tso Moriri Lake: Tsomoriri Lake is a high-altitude lake located in the Changthang region of Ladakh, India. It is situated at an altitude of approximately 4,522 meters above sea level, making it one of the highest lakes in the world. The lake is fed by several small streams and is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, making it a popular destination for tourists who want to experience the beauty of the Ladakhi landscape.

Pic: Tsomoriri Lake

Tsomoriri Lake is a saltwater lake and is home to a variety of aquatic life, including several species of fish and birds. It is also an important breeding ground for the endangered Black-necked Crane and is a protected area under the Wildlife Protection Act of India.

Apart from its natural beauty and ecological significance, Tsomoriri Lake is also famous for its spiritual and cultural significance. The lake is believed to be sacred by the local people, who visit the lake to offer prayers and perform religious rituals.

Visitors to Tsomoriri Lake can explore the surrounding areas on foot. Several trekking routes start from the lake, including the Korzok to Kyagar trek, which takes around five days and passes through several small villages and monasteries.

Turtuk: Turtuk is a small village in the Nubra Valley that was only opened to tourists in 2010. It offers a glimpse into a culture that is very different from the rest of Ladakh, as the people here are predominantly Muslim and speak Balti, a language that is more commonly found in Pakistan. The village is known for its apricots and is surrounded by stunning snow-capped mountains.

Pic: Turtuk

Turtuk was once a part of Baltistan, which is now a part of Pakistan. It was only opened to tourists in 2010, after years of being closed to outsiders. This has helped to preserve the village's unique culture and traditions, making it a great destination for travelers who want to experience the authentic Ladakhi way of life.

One of the main attractions of Turtuk is its scenic beauty. The village is surrounded by beautiful mountains and is located on the banks of the Shyok River, which adds to its natural charm. The village is also known for its apricot orchards, which bloom in the spring and add a splash of color to the landscape.

Another attraction of Turtuk is its unique cultural heritage. The village is home to the Balti people, who have their own distinct language, culture, and traditions. Visitors to Turtuk can learn about the local way of life by visiting the village's many small shops and stalls, where they can sample local food, clothing, and handicrafts. Turtuk is also known for its ancient mosque, which dates back to the 16th century. The mosque is a fine example of the region's Islamic architecture and is a popular destination for tourists who want to learn more about the village's religious heritage.

Dah Hanu Valley : Dah Hanu is a remote region in the western part of Ladakh that is home to the Dard people, who are believed to be the descendants of the original inhabitants of Ladakh. The area is known for its unique culture, traditional architecture, and stunning natural beauty. It is a picturesque valley located in the Ladakh region of India, about 160 kilometers from the capital city of Leh. It is situated along the banks of the Indus River, at an altitude of approximately 2,550 meters above sea level, and is known for its stunning natural beauty and unique cultural heritage.

Pic: Dard Festival at Dah village of Hanu

Hanu Valley is home to the Drokpa community, which is believed to be descended from the ancient Aryans. The Drokpas are known for their unique physical features, such as their light skin, blond hair, and blue eyes, which are believed to be a result of their Indo-European ancestry. The Drokpas also have their own distinct language, culture, and traditions, which are different from those of other Ladakhi communities.

Visitors to Hanu Valley can learn about the Drokpa way of life by visiting the village's many small shops and stalls, where they can sample local food, clothing, and handicrafts. The village is also home to several ancient temples and shrines, which are an important part of the local culture.

Apart from its cultural significance, Hanu Valley is also known for its stunning natural beauty. The valley is surrounded by beautiful mountains, and the Indus River adds to its natural charm. Visitors can explore the valley on foot or by jeep, and can enjoy activities such as trekking, camping, and birdwatching.

Overall, Hanu Valley is a charming and authentic destination that offers a glimpse into the unique culture, history, and natural beauty of Ladakh. It is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to experience the true essence of Ladakh.

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15 Best Places to Visit in India, According to Travel Experts

F rom the alpine meadows of Kashmir to the palm-fringed beaches of Goa, these are some of the subcontinent’s most enchanting destinations.

As a former longtime Delhiite and frequent traveler to India, people often ask me what the country is like. I never know how to respond, for trying to sum up a nation as vast and diverse as India feels impossible. So, instead, I asked a few experts for their insights.

“If you visit India, you feel you have visited several countries, as every part is different,” says Mohd Shafi Billo, an inbound tour operator who specializes in helping international travelers plan their trips to the country. “It’s an exceptional destination, thanks to its culture, history, and inclusiveness of different people from different faiths, and it has everything to offer, from forts to mausoleums, wildlife tours to mountain adventures.”  

Shoba Rudra, founder and partner at hospitality consultancy Rare India , agrees. “The country is living a dynamic moment in history, ever-changing,” she says. “What's constant, however, is the vibrant culture lived through its festivals, cuisine, heritage, crafts, and performing arts.”

While it would take years to see it all, India is an approachable destination — if you can narrow things down. With that in mind, here are 15 of the best places to get you started on your sojourn to the subcontinent.

Stretching along the southernmost part of India’s Malabar Coast, the tropical state of Kerala entices visitors with its marshy backwaters, which most people visit on overnight houseboat adventures. These popular cruises “showcase lush landscapes and peaceful villages, and [give visitors] a glimpse into local life amid tranquil waters and picturesque surroundings,” says Billo. While the backwaters are a star attraction, the state offers much more to explore, from the tea plantations of Munnar, known for its cool climate and seemingly endless rolling hills, to the historic city of Kochi, celebrated in equal measure for its rich coastal history and contemporary art scene . The beaches aren’t too shabby, either. “North Kerala is also famous, as the Malabar Coast is where the spice trade flourished,” says Rudra. “The coastal area is picturesque and this region is still unexplored.”

On the opposite end of the country from Kerala, Kashmir offers entirely different — but equally captivating — landscapes. With its alpine climate, evergreen trees, and snowy winters, Kashmir is often likened to a mini Switzerland . Famed 13th-century Sufi poet Amir Khusrau once proclaimed in Farsi, “If there is a paradise on earth, it is this,” and he may have been onto something. At the heart of it all is Srinagar, Kashmir’s capital city, which is known for its elegant gardens and watery centerpiece, Dal Lake. “Highlights include staying on a houseboat or taking a shikara [traditional Kashmiri boat] ride,” says Billo, who hails from the area. Don't leave without indulging in wazwan , an opulent, meat-heavy feast that can feature up to three dozen dishes in one sitting. 

Occupying a high-altitude plateau in the northernmost reaches of India, Ladakh is characterized by otherworldly landscapes and big skies, punctuated by palatial stupas and monasteries. Many visitors come to Ladakh’s capital, Leh, during the short summer tourist season, but this surreal region offers plenty more to experience beyond the city. Billo suggests visiting the Nubra Valley, an isolated part of the old Silk Road that’s only accessible by crossing Khardung La, one of the world’s highest motorable passes. “The valley offers a glimpse into Ladakh's unique geography and cultural diversity with monasteries, quaint villages, and apricot orchards,” says Billo. The region is also rich with unusual wildlife, from elusive snow leopards to the scaled-down Bactrian camels that originated in the steppes of Central Asia.

Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

On the banks of the sacred Ganges River, the holy city of Rishikesh has held a place in the hearts of spiritually minded travelers — both from India and abroad — for generations. It’s the self-proclaimed “yoga capital of the world,” with a mix of traditional ashrams (spiritual rest houses) that cater largely to Hindu pilgrims and yoga centers that attract international visitors with teacher-training courses and meditation retreats. If you’re not into yoga, you’ll still find plenty to do here. Popular activities include visiting the ruins of the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi’s ashram (dubbed the Beatles Ashram in honor of its most famous former residents) to whitewater rafting adventures on the mighty Ganges. It’s also a great place for a wellness getaway, and nearby Ananda in the Himalayas was voted one of Travel + Leisure readers' favorite international spas in 2023.

Auroville, Tamil Nadu

If you’re looking for a place that’s unlike anywhere else in India — or, frankly, the world — head to the intentional community of Auroville in South India. This UNESCO-recognized global township was founded in the 1960s with the goal of "realizing human unity," beyond the illusory divisions of creed or nationality, and it's home to generations of residents from around the world. Many visitors come for an hour or two, just long enough to view Auroville’s spiritual center — the golden, dome-shaped Matrimandir . However, it’s worth sticking around a bit longer to get a feel for what the community is about. As Akash Kapur, who grew up in Auroville and authored " Better to Have Gone " and " India Becoming ," puts it: "Come to Auroville if you're interested in alternative societies, sustainable living, or spirituality, but try not to just drop in for a few hours (as many do), and instead spend some time here, really getting to know the people and their work. The community rewards sustained immersion."

Andaman Islands

Although most people associate the crystalline waters of the Andaman Sea with Thai island getaways, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in this tropical region are under Indian control. This little stretch of paradise is full of gorgeous shorelines, but most visitors devote their vacations to the island of Swaraj Dweep (formerly known as Havelock). The most popular beach on the island is Radhanagar Beach , which offers just over a mile of white sand sandwiched between tropical jungle and warm, transparent waters. Getting to this remote island requires a bit of gumption: You'll need to fly from the Indian mainland to Port Blair on South Andaman Island, then catch a ferry or charter a seaplane for the final stretch. While visitors are welcome on many islands in the chain, a few — including secluded North Sentinel Island — are off-limits. 

While many travelers see India’s capital as a jumping-off point for visiting further-afield destinations, it’s worth sticking around for a while to truly appreciate what Delhi has to offer. There’s certainly never a dull moment in this busy metropolis, whether you’re shopping for handicrafts at one of its numerous markets or learning about medieval and Mughal history at one of its three UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Humayun's Tomb, Qutb Minar, and Red Fort. Although Delhi is undeniably rambunctious, it also has a quieter, more peaceful side that you can find amidst the trees and 15th-century tombs of Central Delhi’s Lodi Gardens or in the quiet interiors of the Baháʼí Lotus Temple.

Taj Mahal, Agra, Uttar Pradesh

Many travelers to India put the 17th-century Taj Mahal at the top of their list. This white marble mausoleum is easily India’s most recognizable structure — and it’s one of the New Seven Wonders of the World . This popular attraction also has a romantic backstory. “This iconic symbol of love is renowned for its architectural beauty, intricate marble work, and the captivating story behind its creation by emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal,” notes Billo. The bodies of the emperor and his wife remain interred in the Taj to this day. 

Jaipur. Rajasthan

The capital of Rajasthan and one-third of North India’s popular Golden Triangle tourist route (which also includes Agra and Delhi), Jaipur is a must-visit for those who love architecture and shopping. “The Pink City, as it's nicknamed, offers a rich cultural heritage, stunning [landmarks] like Amber Fort, vibrant bazaars, and intricate handicrafts,” says Billo. Many of Jaipur's key attractions are found in the historic walled part of the city, which became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019. Highlights include Jantar Mantar (a collection of oversized — and fully functional — astronomical instruments dating to the 17th century) and Hawa Mahal, or Palace of the Winds, a honeycomb-shaped palace designed with tiny windows that allowed air to flow freely through its interior.

Jodhpur, Rajasthan

Dubbed the Blue City because of the cerulean-colored buildings that extend for miles through the oldest part of town, Jodhpur has long attracted travelers eager to explore the ramparts of the larger-than-life Mehrangarh Fort. It’s also home to the grandiose Umaid Bhawan Palace , which made headlines in 2018 when Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas tied the knot there. While Jodhpur’s beautiful, regal architecture is reason enough to visit, there’s more to the city than massive forts and grand palaces. “The area around the Toorji ka Jhalra stepwell in the old city is fun to explore,” says hotelier Sapna Bhatia, owner of Kaner Retreat and Jodhpur-area native. “For nature enthusiasts, there’s the Rao Jodha desert park near Mehrangarh Fort.”

Udaipur, Rajasthan

T+L readers' favorite city in Asia and second favorite city in the world , Udaipur very much fits the bill of a fairy tale destination. Nicknamed the City of Lakes, thanks to its seven lakes, this gorgeous destination is home to some of India's finest luxury hotels plus historic whitewashed palaces, including the magnificent City Palace, an 11-palace complex that houses hotels, a huge museum with an impressive collection of European crystal, and a royal residence. A short boat ride from the palace lies the 18th-century Taj Lake Palace, an opulent palace-turned-hotel in the middle of Lake Pichola. It’s a quick drive from The Oberoi, Udaivilas , a purpose-built palatial hotel with onion-domed cupolas and a moat-like swimming pool that directly connects to some of the rooms. 

If you’re looking for a less-frequented, but no less amazing, alternative to more touristed states such as Rajasthan, consider Gujarat. “Under-explored but culturally rich, this state in India is a tapestry of festivals, textiles, architectural heritage, communities, and landscape,” says Rudra. Gujarat was also the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi, who led the Salt March, one of his most famous acts of peaceful protest, through the state in 1930. Rudra suggests visiting the National Salt Satyagraha Memorial , which “honors the activists through murals, installations, sculptures, art, and related film.” It's also worth checking out the Kutch district, known for its distinct metal bells , which were originally used for keeping track of livestock and are now popular as decorative wind chimes.

Kaziranga National Park, Assam

The northeast Indian state of Assam is home to a treasure for wildlife enthusiasts: Kaziranga National Park . This expansive, UNESCO-listed wildlife refuge near the borders of Bangladesh and Bhutan has the largest population of Indian one-horned rhinoceroses on the planet, providing a home to roughly 2,000 of these massive beasts. Although rhinos are the star attraction on park safaris, all sorts of animals live here, including tigers, elephants, gibbons, sloth bears, and a small number of endangered Ganges River dolphins. 

Historic, glitzy, and positively gargantuan, Mumbai (formerly known as Bombay) is easily one of India’s most cosmopolitan destinations. This city by the sea is the nation's financial and entertainment capital, and while you’re unlikely to rub shoulders with Bollywood stars here, you're sure to see a lot of impressive attractions in very little time. Take a boat out to Elephanta Island to explore fifth– and sixth–century rock-hewn cave temples, marvel at the grand Indo-Saracenic architecture at Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus , or see thousands of clothes hanging out to dry at Dhobi Ghat, the world's largest open-air laundry. Then, head to the sleek neighborhood of Bandra West, where many of Mumbai’s best restaurants and hotels are located, including Taj Lands End, voted T+L readers' favorite city hotel in India in 2023.

India’s smallest state, Goa, is arguably its top beach destination, where long days of swimming and sunbathing turn into longer nights of partying on the sand. While Goa has been known as a hippie haven since the 1960s, it's started to shed its reputation in recent decades. It’s still very much a party state, though it also draws in families and couples in search of sea and sun, sans nightlife. It’s a great place for history buffs as well, with numerous seaside forts and UNESCO-recognized churches that were built when Goa was under Portuguese rule. And while the destination has always been loved for its fiery dishes that combine traditional Konkani ingredients with Portuguese influences, it has also emerged as a culinary hot spot , where a new generation of chefs is showcasing everything from Japanese yakitori to jackfruit tamales.

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15 Best Places to Visit in Noida in 2024

• Janmashtami
• Shopping & Nightlife
• Sightseeing
• 5 hours ago in Adventure , Janmashtami , Noida , Shopping & Nightlife , Sightseeing , Spiritual , Temples

Are you planning a trip to Noida and wondering which attractions to include in your itinerary? Look no further! Noida, a bustling city in India, offers a wide array of exciting destinations that cater to all interests and preferences. Plus, with a range of family hotels in Noida , including OYO hotels , you can enjoy a comfortable stay while exploring these top attractions.

• Worlds of Wonder (WOW)

Kickstart your Noida adventure with a visit to Worlds of Wonder, a popular amusement park featuring thrilling rides and attractions for all ages.

• Okhla Bird Sanctuary

Escape the city’s hustle and bustle and immerse yourself in nature at the Okhla Bird Sanctuary, home to a diverse range of bird species.

• The Great India Place (TGIP)

Indulge in some retail therapy at The Great India Place, one of Noida’s largest shopping malls, offering a variety of shops and entertainment options.

• Botanic Garden of Indian Republic

Take a leisurely stroll amidst lush greenery and serene lakes at the Botanic Garden of Indian Republic, a peaceful oasis in the heart of Noida.

• DLF Mall of India

Shop till you drop at the DLF Mall of India, a premier shopping destination boasting a wide range of international and local brands.

Let your little ones unleash their creativity and imagination at KidZania, an interactive theme park where children can role-play various professions.

• Rashtriya Dalit Prerna Sthal and Green Garden

Explore the Rashtriya Dalit Prerna Sthal and Green Garden, a sprawling memorial park dedicated to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and the Dalit community.

• Shaheed Smarak Park

Enjoy a picnic amidst lush greenery and scenic landscapes at Shaheed Smarak Park, a popular recreational spot in Noida.

• Noida Golf Course

Tee off at the Noida Golf Course, a well-maintained golf course offering challenging holes and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

• Worlds of Wonder Water Park

Beat the heat and make a splash at Worlds of Wonder Water Park, featuring thrilling water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers.

• Film City Noida

Discover the magic of Bollywood at Film City Noida, a sprawling film studio complex where you can catch a glimpse of the behind-the-scenes action.

• ISKCON Temple

Seek spiritual solace at the ISKCON Temple, a serene and tranquil place of worship dedicated to Lord Krishna.

• Noida Stadium

Catch a live sports event or indulge in a workout session at the Noida Stadium, a state-of-the-art sports complex offering various recreational activities.

• Brahmaputra Market

Experience the vibrant culture and bustling atmosphere of Noida at Brahmaputra Market, a popular shopping and street food destination.

• Buddh International Circuit

Feel the adrenaline rush as you witness high-speed racing action at the Buddh International Circuit, India’s premier motorsport venue.

Why Book OYO Hotels in Noida?

Booking OYO Hotels in Noida guarantees a budget-friendly stay without compromising on quality, ensuring a comfortable accommodation experience while exploring the city’s top attractions. These cheap hotels in Noida offer affordable rates without sacrificing essential amenities, providing guests with a convenient and hassle-free stay. With OYO’s widespread presence in Noida, guests can enjoy easy access to the city’s best places to visit, making it the perfect choice for travellers seeking affordability and convenience. Whether you’re exploring Noida’s amusement parks, shopping malls, or cultural landmarks, OYO Hotels in Noida offer the ideal base for your stay while you make memories in the city.

Here are some of the affordable OYO Hotels in Noida.

• Super OYO 24103 AKBAR PALACE
• Super OYO Flagship Satguru Residency
• Super OYO Townhouse 589 Hotel Diamond View
• Super OYO Townhouse 204 Sector 49 Near Logix city centre
• Super OYO Taj Classic

Noida offers a diverse range of attractions and experiences that are sure to delight visitors of all ages. From thrilling amusement parks and serene nature reserves to vibrant shopping malls and cultural landmarks, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this dynamic city. Plus, with a variety of family hotels in Noida , including OYO hotels , you can enjoy a comfortable and convenient stay while exploring these top attractions. So why wait? Start planning your trip to Noida today and make unforgettable memories with your loved ones.

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