There are numerous tourist places to visit in Leh Ladakh, considered to be amongs the most beautiful, serene and blissful destinations in the world. With rivers like the Indus, Zanskar and Shyok cascading here, and the Himalayas acting as its backdrop, Leh is a treasure trove of mesmerizing landscapes, dramatic natural views and vibrancy. Amongst the countless Leh tourist attractions is the famous Khardung La Pass, a magnetic hill that defies gravity. If you are seeking some peace and solace, visit the Shanti Stupa here, or head over to Kargil to pay your respects to the brave soldiers of the country. Or visit the Pangong Lake and soak in stunning views of the mountains and cloudy skies in the crystal-clear brackish waters of the lake.
In addition to visiting the sightseeing attractions, adventure activities are some of the best things to do in Leh. Whether it is trekking and camping in the foothills of the Himalayas, going on a backpacking trip across the Khardung La Pass, or even river rafting in the Zanskar River, Leh has it all. You can also visit the local markets in the city and get your hands on local souvenirs and handicrafts, or gorge on some lip-smacking local delicacies like thukpa, butter tea, chhurpi and more during your trip to the Land of Lamas.
Best Places To Visit In LADAKH
1. Tso Moriri Lake
A twin to the popular Pangong Tso Lake, TSO MORIRI Lake is a lesser-known lake located in the Changtang Wildlife Sanctuary. 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.
2. Tiger Hill
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 and 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.
3. Zorawar Fort
The Zorawar Fort marks the victory of 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.
4. Rohtang Pass
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 goes 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.
5. Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary
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 consists of the highest lakes – Tso Moriri, Pangong Tso, and Tso Kar. The Korzok Monastery is also another main feature here.
6. Sankar Gompa
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 20 other monks 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.
7. Lamayuru Town
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.
8. Tso Kar
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 travelers. 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.
9. Chemrey Monastery
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.
10. 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.
11. Namgyal Tsemo Gompa
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. Travelers from all over the world come here to experience divinity. Experience the distinct mystique that surrounds the place on your visit here.
12. Phugtal Monastery
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.
13. Likir Monastery
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 Tibetan Monks. The museum located inside the monastery showcases a wide array of Tibetan artifacts and relics.
14. Phyang Gompa
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 surroundings. This white and ochre-colored 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.
15. Stakna Monastery
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 Zanskar-Bardan, Stakrimo, and Sani. Located on the left bank of the Indus River and perched on a hill, the Stakna monastery in Leh Ladakh offers amazing views of the Indus valley.
It’s Pangong Tso lake among the popular tourist attractions in Leh Ladakh situated on the Changtang plateau in the eastern Ladakh region. 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 freezes during the winter, making it one of the best places to visit in Leh in January.
