Places of Interest
Leh is famous for trekking, biking, and spiritual retreats. Inner Line Permit (ILP) is required to visit places close to border. ILP for Indian citizens can be obtained online. Foreigners can obtain this through travel agents. Indian citizens have to pay Rs. 20 per day plus an environment conservation fee of Rs. 400. The environment conservation fee is charged each time one applies for ILP. Foreigners have to pay somewhere around Rs. 700 for 7 days for ILP.
Weather
Temperature: 4.27°C, Humidity: 19%, Wind Speed: 1.02 m/s. (Updated on 2024-11-01 14:20:11)
Air Quality Index
42Sightseeing
Leh Market (0.00 km, 4 ), Soma Gompa (0.05 km, 5 ), Leh Palace (0.56 km), Sankar Gompa (1.14 km), Old town (2.24 km), Old Castle (Tsemo Hill) (2.56 km, 5 ), Shanti Stupa (3.24 km, 5 ), Buddha Shakyamuni Statue (4.37 km, 4.5 ), Hall of Fame (8.87 km), Spituk Monastery (8.90 km, 4 ), Shey Palace (13.97 km), Stok Palace (15.12 km), Rancho school (15.57 km), Thiksey Monastery (20.10 km, 5 ), Phyang monastery (21.35 km), Stakna gompa (23.49 km), Gurudwara Pathar Sahib (25.52 km, 5 ), Magnetic Hill (29.63 km, 3 ), Indus and Zanskar River Sangam (35.73 km, 5 ), Hemis Monastery (36.57 km, 3 ), Khardung La Pass (37.02 km, 5 ), Likir Gompa (58.34 km), Chilling (62.09 km, 4 ), Alchi Monastery (68.41 km), Skiu (73.90 km, 5 ), Chang La Pass (76.62 km), Tanglang La (108.59 km), Diskit Monastery (111.78 km, 5 ), Moonland Lamayuru (113.70 km, 5 ), Lamayuru Monastery (116.01 km), Hunder Sand Dunes (116.61 km, 4 ), Changthang wildlife sanctuary (129.82 km), Fotu La (130.30 km), Panamik Hot Spring (135.22 km), Chumathang Hot Spring (137.00 km), Tso Pangong (163.23 km), Siachen War Memorial (195.73 km), Turtuk (201.52 km, 5 ), Thang (212.05 km, 2.5 ), Kargil (220.33 km), Tso Moriri (245.25 km, 5 ), Hanle monastery (255.43 km), Hanle (257.11 km, 4 ), Drass (277.84 km), Umling La (357.78 km)
Hiking
Markha Valley (74.77 km), Kang Yatse (47.12 km), Stok Kangri (20.23 km), Nun (296.40 km), Kun (307.54 km), Lungser Kangri (246.02 km), Changthang wildlife sanctuary (129.82 km), Chamser Kangri (233.55 km), Spangnak Ri (216.81 km), Shanti Stupa (3.24 km, 5 ), Old Castle (Tsemo Hill) (2.56 km, 5 ), Turtuk (201.52 km, 5 ), Skiu (73.90 km, 5 ), Buddha Shakyamuni Statue (4.37 km, 4.5 ), Tsemo Maitreya Temple (2.56 km, 3.5 )
Adventure Sports
Ladakh Bungee Jumping (44.07 km), River rafting at Sangam (35.73 km), Rock climbing in Shey (11.26 km)
Day / Multi-Day Tours
- Chumathang Hot Spring→ Tso Moriri [5.0 ]
- Khardung La Pass→ Diskit Monastery→ Hunder Sand Dunes→ Turtuk→ Thang [4.5 ]
- Hall of Fame→ Spituk Monastery→ Gurudwara Pathar Sahib→ Magnetic Hill→ Indus and Zanskar River Sangam→ Chilling→ Skiu [4.0 ]
- Hall of Fame→ Spituk Monastery→ Gurudwara Pathar Sahib→ Magnetic Hill→ Indus and Zanskar River Sangam→ Likir Gompa→ Alchi Monastery→ Moonland Lamayuru→ Lamayuru Monastery [3.5 ]
- Chumathang Hot Spring→ Hanle→ Umling La
- Stok Palace→ Shey Palace→ Thiksey Monastery→ Hemis Monastery→ Chang La Pass→ Tso Pangong
- Khardung La Pass→ Panamik Hot Spring→ Siachen War Memorial
Transportation
Bus, shared taxi, motorbike rental are available for tourists. Rental vehicles from other states are not allowed by local unions. Private vehicles are allowed. Bus frequencies are less to tourist spots. Hitchhiking is easy, especially in remote areas. Following bus schedule was available at the bus stand. 
Description
Alchi Monastery
An ancient monastery known for its stunning architecture and intricate wall paintings. The site offers a glimpse into the region's Buddhist heritage and culture. Alternate name: Alchi Chhoskhor.
Photo Gallery for Alchi Monastery
Buddha Shakyamuni Statue
This Buddha statue is visible far from Shanti Stupa and Old Castle. Hike to this place if you're staying in Leh and have the energy to walk for 10 km.
Photo Gallery for Buddha Shakyamuni Statue
Chamser Kangri
This peak is relatively simple and facilitates an easy climbing experience. Altitude: 6622 m. Reference: https://www.lehladakhindia.com/mountaineering-in-ladakh/
Chang La Pass
Mountain road on the way to Tso Pangong from Leh.
Photo Gallery for Chang La Pass
Changthang wildlife sanctuary
A vast wildlife sanctuary known for its unique high-altitude ecosystem. It is home to various species, including rare and endangered animals. The stunning landscapes and serene environment provide opportunities for wildlife viewing and trekking.
Chilling
A small village on the way to Skiu. There's a small waterfall and bungee jumping facility in this area.
Photo Gallery for Chilling
Chumathang Hot Spring
Hot spring on the way to Hanle, Tso Moriri, Umling La.
Photo Gallery for Chumathang Hot Spring
Diskit Monastery
Buddhist monastery situated in Diskit. Entry fees: Rs. 40. The monastery is close to Hunder sand dunes. This place provides private rooms for two people starting at Rs. 500. Alternate name: Diskit Gompa.
Photo Gallery for Diskit Monastery
Video Gallery for Diskit Monastery
Drass
Situated at 3,230 meters, Drass is the second coldest inhabited place in the world, after Siberia. From here, you can view the famous pinnacles of Tiger Hills, the Three Pimples, and Tololing. Alternate name: Dras.
Photo Gallery for Drass
Fotu La
Fotu La is a desolate mountain pass between Kashmir and Ladakh, rising even higher than Zoji La. As the highest point on the highway, it is one of two passes connecting Kashmir and Kargil. The stunning scenery of barren hills and snowy mountains against blue skies makes it a must-visit spot. Reference: https://traveltriangle.com/blog/places-to-visit-near-srinagar/
Photo Gallery for Fotu La
Gurudwara Pathar Sahib
Worship place for Sikh community. It is situated near Leh on the way to the intersection point of river Zanskar and Indus. They provide free food (Langar) to everyone as a community service. One should donate to support their generosity. Alternate name: Gurdwara Pathar Sahib.
Photo Gallery for Gurudwara Pathar Sahib
Hall of Fame
Musuem/war memorial run by Indian army.
Photo Gallery for Hall of Fame
Hanle
Visit the village during the new moon and a clear night for the best stargazing experience. Nothing else to do here. The road to Hanle has beautiful landscapes.
Photo Gallery for Hanle
Hanle monastery
An ancient monastery known for its beautiful architecture and serene setting. One can explore the tranquil environment and admire the intricate murals. The site offers a glimpse into the local Buddhist culture and traditions. Alternate name: Hanle gompa.
Photo Gallery for Hanle monastery
Hemis Monastery
Buddhist monastery near Leh. There's a big museum inside containing Buddhist artefacts and relics. The road leading to the monastery has beautiful striped mountains. Entry fees: Rs. 100. Alternate name: Hemis Gompa.
Photo Gallery for Hemis Monastery
Hunder Sand Dunes
Sand dunes in Hunder. Sand dunes near the main entrance is extremely commercialised with camel rides, cultural show, archery, etc. Much better views are available from the highway when approaching Hunder from Diskit.
Photo Gallery for Hunder Sand Dunes
Indus and Zanskar River Sangam
Intersection point of Indus and Zanskar river. One can do river rafting here.
Photo Gallery for Indus and Zanskar River Sangam
Kang Yatse
Start Point: Skiu. Base Camp: Nimaling (4,800 meters. Close to Markha valley. Summits: Kang Yatse I and Kang Yatse II. Elevation Kang Yatse I: 6,496 meters (21,309 feet). Elevation Kang Yatse II: 6,250 meters (20,505 feet). Length: 70km. Days: 10. Type of Climb: Alpine Expedition. Best Time: June to September. Difficulty Kang Yatse I: Technically challenging, requiring advanced mountaineering skills. Difficulty Kang Yatse II: Basic mountaineering skills. Gear: Ice axes, crampons, ropes, harnesses. Reference: https://trekthehimalayas.com/kang-yatse-II. Alternate name: Kang Yatze.
Kargil
A high-altitude town known for its location on the India-Pakistan Line of Control. It serves as a base for travelers heading towards Leh or Srinagar. A strategic point with access to several trekking routes and historical sites related to the Indo-Pak conflict.
Khardung La Pass
The road to Khardung La Pass is rough and can get very dusty, so wear a mask and safety glasses to protect your eyes.
Photo Gallery for Khardung La Pass
Kun
This mountain peak is a part of the Zanskar range. Altitude: 7077 m. Reference: https://www.lehladakhindia.com/mountaineering-in-ladakh/
Ladakh Bungee Jumping
Bungee jumping for Rs. 4000. The place is located between Sangam and Chilling.
Lamayuru Monastery
Ancient Buddhist monastery in Lamayuru.
Photo Gallery for Lamayuru Monastery
Video Gallery for Lamayuru Monastery
Leh Market
The Leh market features a range of shops to meet tourists' needs, including travel agencies, bike rentals, souvenir stores, restaurants, and grocery shops. Vegetables and fruits are available in the alleys next to the primary market. You can find cheaper markets if you walk a little away from the tourist area.
Photo Gallery for Leh Market
Leh Palace
Ancient royal palace in Leh. Entry fees: Rs. 30 (Indian citizens), Rs. 300 (Foreigners). Good place to see a bird-eye view of Leh. If you want to avoid paying a fee (especially foreigners) and get a better view, go to Old Castle (Tsemo Hill) which is adjacent to it.
Photo Gallery for Leh Palace
Likir Gompa
Buddhist monastery in Likir.
Photo Gallery for Likir Gompa
Lungser Kangri
Difficulty: Moderate. Altitude: 6666 m. Reference: https://www.lehladakhindia.com/mountaineering-in-ladakh/
Magnetic Hill
It is famous for its optical illusion, which shows vehicles appear to defy gravity. Mostly people stop here for photo shoots.
Photo Gallery for Magnetic Hill
Markha Valley
Many travellers complete this trek on their own. I have been told that there are multiple homestays in between that can also pack food. So, no need to carry tents either. Start Point: Skiu. Length: 65-75 kms. Time: 6-8 days Altitude: 5,250 meters (17,225 feet) at Kongmaru La pass. Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult. Best Time to Hike: Mid-June to September. Reference: https://indiahikes.com/documented-trek/markha-valley-trek
Photo Gallery for Markha Valley
Moonland Lamayuru
Beautiful mountain landscape near Lamayuru monastery.
Photo Gallery for Moonland Lamayuru
Nun
This mountain peak is a part of the Zanskar range. Reference: https://www.lehladakhindia.com/mountaineering-in-ladakh/
Old Castle (Tsemo Hill)
You can enjoy breathtaking views of Leh city and the surrounding mountain ranges from the hilltop. It's also a good spot for watching both sunrise and sunset.
How to Reach? Shanti Stupa can be reached by road and on foot from Leh. There’s a shortcut from Leh Market to Leh Palace Road, but parts of the route are rocky and uneven. The path is unmarked, so it’s advisable to ask a local for directions. The hike from Leh Palace is moderately challenging.
Entry Fees: Rs. 0. The hike up to Old Castle Hill is free, but accessing the Tsemo Maitreya Temple at the summit requires an entrance fee of Rs. 20.
Photo Gallery for Old Castle (Tsemo Hill)
Old town
Located below Leh Palace, the Old Town is home to many historic buildings, temples, and monasteries. It is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site and has been a focus of restoration efforts to preserve its unique architectural and cultural heritage.
Photo Gallery for Old town
Panamik Hot Spring
Hot spring in Nubra.
Phyang monastery
An ancient monastery situated on a hillside, known for its unique architecture and vibrant festivals. The site offers panoramic views of the landscape. Alternate name: Fiang monastery.
Photo Gallery for Phyang monastery
Rancho school
This school was featured in 3 idiots movie.
River rafting at Sangam
River rafting place near Sangam point.
Rock climbing in Shey
Reference: https://www.mountainproject.com/area/107102659/shey-rock
Sankar Gompa
Buddhist monastery and temple. Alternate name: Samkar Gompa
Shanti Stupa
There are two ways to enter Shanti stupa: by road (easy hike) and through stairs (easy to moderate hike). Fees: Rs. 30 for entering by road. On the way to the stupa from the main road, you'll find a meditation centre that makes for a peaceful stop. The Shanti Stupa offers stunning views of Leh City and the surrounding mountain ranges. It is an excellent spot to see sunrise and sunset.
Photo Gallery for Shanti Stupa
Shey Palace
Palace near Leh. There's also a rock climbing place in Shey.
Photo Gallery for Shey Palace
Siachen War Memorial
A war memorial close to India-China border.
Skiu
A village in Zanskar. Near Skiu, one can witness the striking confluence of the bluish Markha River and the brownish Zanskar River. Markha valley and Kang Yatse trek starts from this village. Alternate name: Skyu
Soma Gompa
Buddhist temple in Leh market. Entry fees: Free.
Spangnak Ri
The peak offers a view of Tso Moriri. Starting point: Rumtse. Reference: https://www.lehladakhindia.com/mountaineering-in-ladakh/
Spituk Monastery
Buddhist monastery near Leh. Entry fees: Rs. 0. One of the few monasteries in Leh which do not charge entrance fees. Alternate name: Spituk Gompa.
Photo Gallery for Spituk Monastery
Stakna gompa
A historic monastery perched on a hilltop, known for its architecture. Visitors can explore its halls, admire the intricate murals, and enjoy panoramic views of the Indus River valley. Alternate name: Stakna monastery.
Photo Gallery for Stakna gompa
Stok Kangri
Altitude: 6153 m. Duration: 4-5 days. Reference: https://www.lehladakhindia.com/mountaineering-in-ladakh/
Photo Gallery for Stok Kangri
Stok Palace
A small palace in Stok. Entry fees: Rs. 50.
Photo Gallery for Stok Palace
Tanglang La
Mountain pass connecting Manali and Leh.
Photo Gallery for Tanglang La
Thang
This is the last village in India at the India-Pakistan border; it is close to Turtuk. It is difficult to identify the border from Thang. Carry a binocular if you want to see the checkpoints. There's no difference between the Indian and Pakistan sides of the land. Surprisingly, all the tourist restaurants here sell South Indian food.
Photo Gallery for Thang
Thiksey Monastery
Buddhist monastery near Leh. Entry fees: Rs. 50. One can stay overnight in the monastery to attend early morning prayers at 6 a.m. Women cannot stay overnight inside the monastery but can book their guesthouse for overnight stays. Alternate name: Thiksey Gompa.
Photo Gallery for Thiksey Monastery
Tsemo Maitreya Temple
Buddhist temple near Old Castle (Tsemo Hill). The views are similar to those of Old Castle (Tsemo hill). Entry fees: Rs. 20.
Photo Gallery for Tsemo Maitreya Temple
Tso Moriri
Multi-day trip from Leh. Overnight stay is available in Karzok village. Most homestays offer complementary dinner and breakfast with accommodation. Alternate name: Moriri Lake.
Photo Gallery for Tso Moriri
Tso Pangong
Multi-day trip from Leh. Lake at India-China border. Alternate name: Pangong Lake.
Photo Gallery for Tso Pangong
Turtuk
Turtuk is situated near the Line of Control with Pakistan. Renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant Balti culture, it boasts lush orchards and traditional stone houses. While in Turtuk, one can hike to a local monastery and the Turtuk waterfall. The trail to the waterfall is steep, so wear good hiking shoes and avoid carrying heavy bags.
Photo Gallery for Turtuk
Umling La
Highest motorable road in the world. Road access is not great. After Hanle, ask locals for navigations to avoid getting lost.
Photo Gallery for Umling La
Author
- Anurag Gupta is a frequent traveller and an advocate of eco-tourism and sustainable living. He believes in opensource technology, and wants to promote technology for eco-living. He is an M.S. graduate in Electrical and Computer Engineering from Cornell University. He also holds an M.Tech degree in Systems and Control Engineering and a B.Tech degree in Electrical Engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay.
Acknowledgement and Collaboration
I want to thank everyone who shared their travel plans and itinerary to make my life easier. I also want to thank Danny Mathieu, for sharing travel pictrures for reuse. If you want to add/correct something on this webpage, write an email to anuragg@in2eco.com, or message Anurag Gupta on instagram. Many images have been used from internet. Refer to image name for details. Proper credits will be added soon.