Leh: Gateway to the Himalayas

One location in India that stays on top of every traveller's bucket list is 'Leh", the capital of Ladakh. It is a dream destination that will live in your memory for years after the trip! Every visitor to Ladakh is enthralled by its untamed and majestic beauty, leaving them wanting more. Leh is situated amidst the snow-clad fringes of the Himalayan Mountains in Ladakh, a union territory of India. Famous for its remote location, high altitude, and rich culture, it is an excellent place for adventure sports, river treks, and bike trips. You will fall in love with this place as you witness the powerful Indus River rush through numerous deep valleys and high mountains.

Places You Cannot Miss in Leh

There is no doubt about how breathtakingly beautiful Leh is! The list of places you can explore while in Ladakh is quite long, so brace yourself! Located at an altitude of about 14,270 feet above sea level is the stunning Pangong Tso Lake. The lake is famous for its blue colour and will leave you completely awestruck. Many Bollywood movies like 3 Idiots, Jab Tak Hai Jaan, and Dil Se have been shot here. Visit one of Ladakh's oldest and biggest monasteries, i.e., Thiksey Gompa Monastery. Do not miss exploring the Leh Palace, which was built in memory of Ladakh's royal family and has majestic architecture. You can also explore the Stoke Palace, famously known as the Royal Summer Retreat, constructed by King Tsepal Namgyal in the 1820s. Shanti Stupa, Sankar Gompa, and Gurudwara Pathar Sahib are a few places you cannot miss out on at any cost while travelling to Leh.

Shopping Places in Leh

Leh is known for its locally made handicrafts like jewellery, shawls, and woollen clothing. Make sure you buy the world-famous Pashmina shawls while being in Leh. The city is also popularly known for spices and dry fruits, so get yourself some Apricot oil, dry fruit jams, and seed mixes. You can also buy Buddhist thangka paintings, Buddha sculptures, and Prayer wheels. Leh Main Bazaar, Tibetan Market Main Bazaar, and the Ladakh Art Palace are the best places to shop in Leh.

Best Places to Eat in Leh

One of the major highlights of visiting Ladakh is trying native cuisine and bringing home recipes to remember your trip. Ladakhi cuisine is mostly derived from Tibetan culinary traditions and differs greatly from Indian cuisine in that it is not spicy. Tsampa, Thukpa, Momos, and Skyu are some traditional food items of Ladakh. The best places in Leh to dine with family and friends are The Tibetan Kitchen, Lehvenda Cafe, Bon Appetit, Syah Ladakh, and Gesmo Restaurant.

Best Time to Visit Leh

March to June is the best time to visit Leh, as the weather is very pleasant during these months. However, August to October also offers moderate weather, making it possible to explore the stunning beauty of Ladakh. Take your time and decide the month most suitable for you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Which Airports serve Leh?

Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport is a military airfield of the Indian Air Force and the domestic airport that serves Leh, the capital of Ladakh. It is one of the highest commercial airports in the world, with an altitude of 3,256 m above sea level. Because of its location between the Himalayas, Leh Airport is one of the most difficult and picturesque approaches.

How do I commute from IXL to different parts of the city?

Depending on your preferred location and convenience, you can commute about Leh mainly via local buses, taxis, or just walking because the city centre is tiny. You might rent a motorbike or take a tour for further distances.

How many airlines serve Leh?

Many airlines serve the city of Leh and provide direct and connecting flights to many domestic destinations. Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Vistara are a few airlines serving IXL.

How many destinations does IXL connect to?

Leh Airport operates flights to a few destinations across India, including Delhi, Jammu, Srinagar, Chandigarh, and Mumbai. Mumbai is the seasonal route.

When is the cheapest time to fly to Leh?

You can find the cheapest flights to Leh from November to March, as during this time, the region experiences harsh weather conditions like heavy snowfall and cold temperatures.

Things to do In Leh

Popular city Magnets of Leh.