Leh Tourism | Places to Visit | Things To Do

Leh town is like a relic left behind by religious men of the past and dynastic politics, age-old traders and imperial inter-kingdom relations. The Kushanas, the Tang dynasty or the anti-Buddhist Tibetian king, Langdarma; they have all left an impression on this ancient town. It’s the place where God seems to have tried out his artistic prowess for the first time because the scenic splendor comprises of a riot of colors. The biscuit-colored hills to the tanzanite skies; it’s a veritable visual treat. God’s own shangrilla, this town is an enchanter.

There are places to visit in Leh and things to do in Leh for every type of traveler. Located at a height of around 11,562 feet, Leh experiences bitter cold winters but that can never deter a soul that exists to travel. People have survived there since time immemorial, so can you and you will, as a matter of fact because the sight of the frosty neighboring hills is calling out to you. Get ready to tour the town travelers because there’s a whole adventure waiting out right there for you to grab. A melting pot of the different religions each year the Sindhu Darshan Festival promotes harmony and understanding through singing, dancing and merrymaking.

The ruined royal palace at Leh built by Sengge Namgyel is just like the Potala Palace of Lhasa. It’s seems like an item right out of a period drama of warring dynasties. The same goes for the 16th century Tsemo fort which is a perpetual presence in the city no matter where you go. The Spituk Gompa gives way to mud brick buildings that extend upto a tiny village. The triple layered spirit shrine exudes a kind of inexplicable powerThe relatively new Shanti stupa built by Japanese monks, the Gomang stupa, full of Buddhist rock carvings and chortens , the sparkling white shrine of Leh’s presiding deity Nezer Latho, the victory tower, the Sankar gompa,the Hemis gompa, the Stok Palace or monastery founded by Lhawang Lotus are all wondrous elements making up an exotic destination. Do not miss out on the chance to make a short trip to Nubra Valley en route to Kardung la. It’s situated at the base of the Karakoram Range and will leave you breathless for at least 5 minutes before you get back your bearings. The Bactrian camels found in Nubra Valley has this cold and barren landscape as its native homescape and makes Nubra Valley on the most popular of Ladakh attractions.

Leh is so unique that it has something called the donkey sanctuary. Where else will you find a real ‘sanctuary’ dedicated to these adorable beasts of burden? It’s an extremely convivial ambience you’ll find here. Feed them carrots and you’ve earned their loyalty for life. This town is a paradise for trekkers, hikers and even cyclists. Experimenting souls have tried cycling from Leh to Manali. You might also consider trying it out if not a rafting expedition from Phey to Nimmu. When visiting a place, why leave the experience incomplete. Travelers should never have to live with regrets.

Carry a Ladakh Map in case weather throws at you some last minute surprises.