Ladakh, a dream destination, is full of adventure and leisure opportunities. It is located at 3542m above sea level, in the shadow of the majestic Himalayas. This place boasts incredible scenic beauty. It is home to many amazing attractions, including monasteries, lakes, palaces, and other natural wonders. You can tag along with us on our trek in Ladakh to see the most popular sightseeing spots. We have compiled a list of the 14 most popular places to visit in Leh Ladakh for curious minds such as yours.
Hemis National Park
Hemis National Park, located in eastern Jammu and Kashmir’s Ladakh region, is known as the Snow Leopard Capital of India. This national park was established in 1981 and is known for its highest snow leopard density in the world. Hemis is also the only national park located north of the Himalayas. According to records, Hemis is home 16 mammal species as well as 73 bird species.
- Things to Do
- Birdwatching in Rumbak Valley is a great experience
- Trekking in the park will allow you to spot snow leopards.
- The Markha Valley Trek, which takes you inside Hemis, is also available to travellers.
Diskit Monastery
Diskit Monastery is a must-see on any list of places to visit in Ladakh trip. The gompa, which is dressed in white, is Nubra Valley’s oldest and largest monastery. The aura is healing and soothing, so it only takes one visit to be enlightened. Changzem Tserab Zangpo was an ardent disciple and founder of Gelugpa. He founded Diskit Monastery in the 14th Century.
- Things to Do
- Get the blessings of Cho Rinpoche’s iconic statue
- The statue of Jampa Buddha, measuring 106 feet in length, is located atop a hill just below the monastery.
Pangong Tso Lake
Pangong Lake, located at 4350m above the Indo-China border is one of the most visited attractions in Ladakh. This is Asia’s largest saltwater lake and is also known as Pangong Tso or the Hollow Lake. Its area is approximately 100 km. It is located in Tibet (Chinese Territory), with the other third in eastern Ladakh. It is located just 160 kilometres from Leh city and has stunning surroundings. The lake becomes a venue for ice skating festivals during winter. The deputy commissioner of Leh can obtain an Inner Line Permit for a small fee.
- Things to Do
- Participate in the ice-skating festival.
- Stay at Pangong Retreat Camp in Ladakh and enjoy bonfire.
- Capture the breath-taking sunrise with your camera
- Enjoy bird watching, including seagulls and ducks.
Shanti Stupa
Shanti Stupa, a white-domed Chorten located on a hilltop near Chanspa and 5km from Leh, is approximately 1983-1991. It overlooks Leh town and is one of the most popular attractions in Leh. This stupa was built by Japanese monks to celebrate the completion of 2500 years Buddhist practice and promote peace around the world. There are gilt panels on the walls that portray the life of Lord Buddha. The views of sunrise and sunset from this location are spectacular. The Buddha statue is seated on a pedestal at the top of the Dharmachakra.
- Things to Do
- Meditation in the Buddha Hall
- Circumambulate around Stupa
- Enjoy the breath-taking views at sunrise and sunset.
- You can see the variety of Buddhist reliefs displayed.
Royal Leh Palace
Leh Palace was built in 1553 AD and is located at the top of deserted Tsemo Hill. It is the former home of the royal family of Leh. It shares some similarities with Potala Palace in Lhasa. It is slightly smaller in size and made up of stones, sand and wood. It is also known as Lhachen Pakhar and is open every day from 07:00 to 04:00. The museum houses royal belongings and is now housed in this 9-story structure. Although the fort is in a somewhat deteriorated state, the stunning views from its top are breath-taking. The Archaeological Survey of India manages this structure. It was attacked by Dogra forces in the second half the 19th century and abandoned by the royal family, who moved to the Stok Palace. Information about tourism in Leh
- Things to Do
- Enjoy the magnificent views from the top.
- Admire the incredible architecture.
- The museum has royal belongings Thangkas and jewellery, as well as murals, costumes, and other items.
Tso Moriri Lake
The pristine Tso Moriri Lake, located in a remote area of the Greater Himalayan Ranges, is the largest alpine lake within India. It is located at an elevation of more than 15000 feet in rugged terrain and looks like a gift from nature. It is less popular due to its difficult journey and high altitude. You can see the shadows of the surrounding areas in the aquamarine waters of the lake. Surreal is the juxtaposition of barren, snow-covered hills and peaceful surroundings.
- Things to Do
- Camping in Korzok (a village nearby)
- Enjoy a beautiful sunrise
- Click memorable photographs
- Enjoy the beauty and peace of the surroundings