Places to visit in Ladakh

Located in Changthang Plateau in Ladakh in Northern India, Tso Moriri is also known as the Mountain Lake. The Lake covers an area of 120 KM sq. and is located at an elevation of 4522 metres. Famous for birdwatching and taking in the beauty of nature, the lake is the perfect place to spend some time away from the hustle and bustle of the city and include this famous attraction at its best with our Leh Ladakh tour packages.

The famous Magnetic Hill of Ladakh is a cyclops hill, a place where vehicles seem to have defied the force of gravity and move upwards when parked at a particular marked location here. Located on the Leh-Kargil-Baltic National Highway, this place remains a mystery even today, as many tourists are awestruck to witness the magical experience.

Tucked amidst the breath-taking landscapes of Ladakh is the Alchi Monastery, which is amongst the most sacred places for Buddhists. Dating back to at least 1000 years, the monastery is also the oldest Buddhist Learning Centre in the region. Detailed carvings on the walls, along with the age-old wall paintings are some of the major attractions of Alchi Monastery.

A nine storey high building that displays the influence of Potala Palace in Lhasa is the famed Royal Leh Palace. It stands with its head high on a cliff top overlooking the ravishing Leh town. Leh Palace has now been converted into a museum which features ancient paintings and relics of Buddha along with cutlery used by the Royal family.

Hemis National Park is the largest national park in South Asia, and is located in the eastern section of Ladakh. The park covers 4400 square kilometres and is home to 16 species of mammals, 73 bird species, and around 200 snow leopards. The National Park is famous for the huge population of snow leopards throughout the world and is considered to be the only protected area where these wild cats can be found in such abundance and it must be part of your Ladakh tour packages.

Perched atop a hillock by the Indus River, Spituk Monastery prides itself as one of Ladakh’s most significant monastery complexes to visit with our Leh Ladakh packages. The Gompa is home to Tsongkhapa Order of Tibetan Buddhist monks, housing around 125 resident monks. The monastery complex houses a massive statue of the Hindu deity Kali along with several small shrines, some dating back to 900 years.

The Hall of Fame in Leh is a museum that was constructed by the Indian Army in memory of the brave Indian soldiers who sacrificed their lives trying to protect their motherland in the Indo-Pakistan wars. Located on the Leh-Kargil Road, the museum is a great place to see photos of the soldiers, their training camps, the different war relics, and a lot more on your Leh Ladakh tour.

With the word Chadar meaning a blanket, the Chadar Trek depicts a trail over the frozen Zanskar River, on which people travel for several kilometers to reach the final destination. Unlike other trekking expeditions in India, this one does not require you to pass through forests or rock formations, but instead lets you walk over frozen water, which once was a gushing river. 

Home to a 30-feet-tall statue of the Maitreya Buddha, the Mulbekh Monastery is one of the most popular monasteries in the Ladakh region. Offering stunning views of the Srinagar-Leh Highway, this monastery must be part of your Ladakh tours which boasts of beautiful ancient relics and frescoes, along with a huge prayer wheel, which adds to the serene ambiance of this place.

Nestled in the Rapshu region of southern Ladakh, the Tso Kar Lake stands out in its beauty. Forming a part of a complex wetland network, Tso Kar is recognized as one of India’s most prominent Ramsar sites to explore on your Ladakh Trip. The lake attracts a lot of birds and small wildlife as well such as the Tibetan Gazelle, the Kiang and the deep-necked crane.

Phuktal Monastery, located in the remote Zanskar Valley of Ladakh, is a stunning Buddhist monastery perched on a cliff. Accessible by a challenging trek, this ancient monastery offers a serene atmosphere and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Believed to have been founded in the 12th century, it remains a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists. The unique architecture, with whitewashed walls and prayer rooms nestled in caves, makes Phuktal a must-visit destination for spiritual seekers and adventurers alike.

Established in the 16th century, the Stakna Monastery has a long-lasting legacy in Ladakh. The monastery’s position atop a hillock grants it access to some of the best views in the city. Home to a stunning array of paintings, murals, and statues the Gompa is also renowned for its excellent art and architecture. Explore this monastery with Ladakh packages for an unforgettable experience.

Situated at an elevation of 17,590 feet, Chang-la Pass is the gateway to the breathtaking landscapes of Ladakh. It is regarded as the "World's third-highest motorable road," which successfully connects Leh to the iconic Pangong Lake. While driving this pass, do not forget to immerse in the mesmerizing views of rugged terrains, fluttering prayer flags, and snow-capped peaks.

Dating back to the 17th century, the Chemrey Monastery, one of the must-visit popular sites to visit with our Ladakh tour packages. It is predominantly known for three things, namely a majestic statue of Guru Padmasambhava, along with a stunning location, and an extensive collection of 29 volumes of sacred scriptures on solver, written entirely in gold. The monastery belongs to the Drugpa sect of Buddhism and was founded by Lama Tagsang Raschena

Established in the 17th century, the Shey Monastery, among the most famous monasteries to visit with our leh packages. The Monastery served as the summer residence of the Ladakh royalty. The Monastery is best known to house a statue of Shakyamani Buddha. Owing to its fantastic location and the scenic route that leads the way, it is a popular hiking spot. Shey Monastery also conducts several important Buddhist festivals throughout the year

Amongst the most beautiful and mysterious places in the country, With our Ladakh trip packages, you can explore Kongka La Pass a highly restricted mountain pass that falls in the Chang-Chenmo region and has many UFO theories associated with it. With an altitude of 5171 metres above sea level, the Kongka La Pass in Ladakh is situated in the Line of Control between India and China.

Gurudwara Pathar Sahib is a spiritual sanctuary located on the Leh-Kargil Highway. It stands as a testament to Guru Nanak Dev's divine confrontation with a demon. The Gurudwara is maintained by the Indian Army and captivates visitors with a boulder imprinted by Guru Nanak's form. It is a place where faith and history intertwine. The Gurudwara attracts travellers and devotees alike to experience its serene ambience and rich legacy., make sure to include this place on your Ladakh tour.

Perched atop a mountain, the 15th-century Namgyal Tsemo Monastery in Leh is a sight to behold. Built by King Tashi Namgyal, it houses a stunning three-storey-high golden Maitreya Buddha statue. The monastery offers breathtaking views of the Indus River and snow-draped Zanskar mountains. Inside, you can find ancient manuscripts, frescoes and exquisite statues of Avalokitesvara and Manjushri. Discover the rich cultural heritage of Ladakh by exploring Ladakh tour packages, which often include visits to this historic monastery.

Situated at a lofty altitude of 3500 meters above sea level, Leh Post Office stands as one of India's highest. Operating seamlessly amidst unpredictable weather conditions and challenging roadways, it remains a testament to efficiency. Part of the Jammu and Kashmir circle, under the jurisdiction of Srinagar headquarters region and Leh division, this post office is a remarkable feat of resilience. Explore this unique destination with Ladakh holiday packages

Nestled in the serene landscapes of Leh Ladakh, the Donkey Sanctuary stands as a beacon of compassion and care for these resilient animals. With a mission to provide refuge and rehabilitation, this sanctuary offers a haven where donkeys receive love and attention. Visitors on a Leh Ladakh tour can witness firsthand the impactful work being done to ensure the well-being of these gentle creatures.

Location: The sanctuary is situated on Korean Temple Road in Khakshal Village, Leh Ladakh. It is only 3 kms from the main city to reach the sanctuary.

Best time to visit: Any time round the year is suitable to visit the sanctuary.

Entry fee: No entry fee is required to visit the sanctuary

Nestled about 3500 meters above the sea, Sakti village is far removed from the busy tourist life that permeates Leh. With mostly Tibetan inhabitants, the village is often referred to as the Little Tibet of India. Sakti village is known as the home of Takthok monastery, one of the oldest Buddhist gompas in Ladakh dating back to the 16th century.

Jispa is a small town located in Himachal Pradesh, and is often marked as an essential halt on a Leh-Manali trip. This quaint village has many features that allures travelers to stop here, including a famous Monastery, a small folk museum, and a helipad with a post office. Surrounded by Himalayan backdrop, the place is perfect for a city detox.

Nestled amidst the snow-clad mountains of Ladakh is the village of Upshi, also known for being one of the highest civilized settlements in the country. A part of an important trade route in the past, Upshi is also quite a popular place for cycling and trekking, so make sure to include in your Ladakh tour packages. Its vigorous terrains and scenic beauty all around has captured the hearts of many.

Take a plunge to the Zanskar River in Tsogsti village at Ladakh Bungee Jumping, known as the highest bungee jumping venue in the world. Awaken the adrenaline in you as you jump from a height of 190 feet all the way to the river down below, whilst enjoying sights of the snow-clad mountains around you. 

Also fondly referred to as Ladakh’s wintry paradise, the Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary is every wildlife lover’s go-to haunt. Sprawling across 16,000 massive feet, the sanctuary is home to some of the best and rarest animals, plants and birds in the Ladakh region and must include this place in your Le Ladakh tour packages. A smattering of alpine lakes, monasteries and temples can be found scattered throughout the sanctuary premises, adding to its breathtaking beauty. 

Known as the “Desert Wonder of Leh,” Hunder Village is nothing less than a stunning oasis tucked amidst the cold desert of the Nubra Valley in Ladakh. Home to the exotic double-humped Bactrian camels, majestic grey sand dunes and explore Ladakh holiday packages and immense natural beauty, the village, located at an altitude of 4,000 metres above the sea level, is a magical paradise.

Karu is a beautiful small town situated on the entrance of the Leh-Manali highway. Explore the diverse hues of land, surrounded by mighty mountains and small streams of Sindhu river, passing through the town. The place offers picturesque views during your ride via Chang La pass, as it is situated in the center of many Leh attractions, such as Hemis Monastery.

Adventure lovers always had an affection to Markha Valley and still it fulfills the dreams of a trekker or adventure seeker with the unrivalled collection of natural spectacle. Long day trekking tours are offered by a lot of tour providers all over India which promise a journey through the most scenic locations and villages. The awesomely exciting feature of this trek is that it will let the trekker cross two high altitude passes in Ladakh; Gandala La at 4980 meters and Kongmaru La at 5276 meters.

 Being one of the diverse treks in Ladakh region, Markha Valley trek offers a lot of adventurous moments throughout on your Ladakh trip. The barren land of Ladakh and the Buddhist temples found throughout the journey make the trek special. The route winds past the Ladakhi villages and it goes to Hemis National Park where the chances to spot some rare wildlife species are comparably high. The nomadic groups of people will be a unique picture to keep in heart. The symbols of Buddhism like ‘chortens’, stupas, multi colored prayer flags and numerous monasteries narrate the story of Buddhist culture embraced Markha centuries ago. Another interesting fact heard about Markha Valley trek is that it is also called ‘tea house trek’ due to the accommodation provided in parachute tents in most of the villages during the tour.

Maximum altitude: 15000 feet is the maximum altitude the trek will cover.

Location: In most of the cases, the trek starts from Leh. The trail usually goes through Chilling, Skyu and then to Markha. From Markha it would take the trekker to reach Hankar and Nimaling and finally return to Leh. The ideal trekking distance is 75 kms and it would be graded as difficult.

Best time to visit: The months of June, July, August, September and October are recommended as the best time to do Markha Valley trek.

The Kargil War Memorial, located in Dras, India, honors the sacrifices made during the 1999 Kargil War between India and Pakistan. It is a tribute to the soldiers who fought courageously in the conflict, showcasing their bravery and resilience. The memorial also has a Wall of Remembrance written with the martyrs' names and offers visitors a glimpse into the heroic tales of the war.

A significant symbol of the pride and glory of the Gelug Sect of Tibetan Buddhism, Thiksey Gompa is located on a hilltop at an altitude of 3,600 meters above sea level. It is the largest monasteries in Ladakh and it must be part of your Ladakh packages, towering 12 stories high, that is surrounded by the dreamlike beauty of the snow-capped mountains and panoramic views of Indus Valley.

Tanglang La, a high mountain pass, stands as Ladakh's proud jewel, a beloved destination for bikers and trekkers alike. Rising to a dreamlike height of 5328 meters above sea level, it offers a thrilling adventure to those daring enough to ascend its summit. The Leh-Manali highway leading to the pass, from Upshi to Tanglang La, is predominantly paved, except for a 500-meter unpaved stretch. With its well-maintained pavement, Tanglang La ensures a smoother climb, enhancing the experience on your Ladakh trip itinerary.

There are a lot of confusions existing regarding the position of Tanglang La in the list of world’s highest motorable passes and the world believes it to be the second highest which is proven to be wrong. The local sign on the top of the pass shows the altitude of the pass is 17582 feet or 5359 meters. But now, it is said that the sign board gives a wrong impression but the original height of the pass is 5328 meters. The pass is made beautiful by the innumerous Buddhist prayer flags despite the fact the road is tough to conquer and any type of traveler will fall for the scenery at the pass and adventure lovers would love to try their energy level by climbing up to the top. But remember, the oxygen level will be decreased as you cover the altitude and reaches to the half of what you feel at sea level.

Height: 5328 meters of 1248 feet

Best time to visit: May to October

How to reach: The pass is close to Leh-Manali highway and can be reached via 21 Gata loops

One of the least explored places in the country and must be included in your Le Ladakh tour packages, Zanskar Valley is a hidden gem located near Leh, Ladakh which offers sublime scenic views of the snow-laced Himalayan range with sparkling blue river flowing at their foothill. It even provides an exotic experience of trekking, ‘Chadar Trek’, on a thick sheet of Ice on a river during the winter season.

A magnificent white-domed Buddhist monument, the Shanti Stupa in Leh is home to the relics of Buddha, and offers some of the most surreal views of Leh and the nearby village of Changspa. It is also one of the seven grand Buddhist Shanti Stupas in the world, boasting a life-sized figure of Gautam Buddha and you must visit on your trip to Ladakh.

The Indian Astronomical Observatory in Hanle is a premier research facility located in the remote region of Ladakh, India. Situated at an altitude of about 4,500 meters (14,764 feet) above sea level, it boasts clear skies and minimal light pollution, making it ideal for astronomical observations. Equipped with state-of-the-art telescopes and instruments, including the Himalayan Chandra Telescope and the Gamma-ray Imaging Telescope, the observatory conducts cutting-edge research in various fields of astronomy and astrophysics. Its strategic location and advanced infrastructure make it a vital hub for astronomers and researchers worldwide, contributing significantly to our understanding of the universe.

Situated in the rugged and hilly terrain of Ladakh, the Basgo Monastery is testament of the Buddhist culture of Ladakh. Standing atop a hill, this monastery will seem as if it is an ancient one, yet it was constructed only in the 15th century. You’ll find ruins of the complex, with empty rooms, walls and narrow alleys. There are three temples in this complex - Serzang Temple, Chamba Temple, and Maitreya Temple and all of them have a grandeur of their own. 

Located in the southern reaches of Ladakh, Nyoma captivates with its unspoiled charm and stunning vistas. This quaint village remains largely undiscovered, revealing awe-inspiring desert mountain panoramas. Nyoma Leh, famed for its namesake monastery, beckons travelers. Yet, it's the opportunity for trekking and camping along the Indus River that truly adds to the village's allure.

You can find the Lamayuru Monastery at Lamayouro, at an elevation of 11,520 feet above sea level. It is a sacred place for Tibetan Buddhist practice, called Tharpa Ling. Known as Ladakh's oldest and largest monastery, it is home to over 150 monks. Here, you can experience the charm of a bygone era as you delve into the history of a picturesque village and its old artefacts.and must be part of your Leh Ladakh Packages,

Dah Hanu, also known as Dah and Hanu, are the last Aryan villages in the country, in addition to being the only place in India where you can meet the Aryan tribe. Home to the Brokpa community, Include this famous place in your Ladakh trip and get a chance to learn a lot about the Indo-Aryan history, cultures and traditions.

Nestled in the heart of the Himalayas in Ladakh, India, Leh Market is a vibrant hub of culture and commerce. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, it offers a unique shopping experience to visitors, with stalls selling traditional handicrafts, colourful textiles, and Tibetan artefacts. While admiring the breathtaking scenery, you can treat your taste buds with local delicacies like momos and thukpa. The market is an example of Ladakh's rich heritage and its role as a crossroads of cultures.

Lachung La Pass, located in Ladakh, India, is a breathtaking mountain pass renowned for its rugged beauty and challenging terrain. Situated at an altitude of approximately 16,600 feet, it offers panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks. The pass is a must-visit destination for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts, providing an unforgettable experience amidst the stunning Ladakhi landscape.

Losar Festival Ladakh is held on the first day of the first month of the Tibetan lunar calendar. Losar means New Year in Tibet and the festival marks the beginning of a new year for Tibetans. Buddhists in Ladakh celebrate this festival by making religious offerings to their shrines or in the Gompas. The whole Tibetan community celebrates the festival by making festive food, visiting each other and indulging in cultural activities and rituals, if you take part in this festival during your Ladakh trip. Losar is a very special festival which draws people together.

More Plains in Ladakh, nestled within the Indian Himalayas, captivates with its breathtaking high-altitude plateau. Positioned at approximately 15,000 feet above sea level, it presents a surreal panorama of expansive meadows encircled by towering mountains. The scenic allure of More Plains is a standout feature for travelers traversing the Leh-Manali Highway, delivering an unforgettable and enchanting encounter with Ladakh's distinct terrain. Explore this mesmerizing destination as part of your Ladakh packages for a truly memorable experience.

Tiger Hill in Ladakh is a prominent attraction known for its stunning panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks and valleys. Located at a high altitude, it offers an ideal vantage point to witness the sunrise and the mesmerizing play of colors on the mountains. A must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers in Ladakh and it should be part of your Ladakh trip packages.

Nestled in Leh's Nubra Valley, the Hundur Monastery is an ancient Buddhist gompa known for its serene architectural design. Beyond its simplicity, the monastery's strategic location offers unparalleled views of the surrounding mountainscape. Serving as the boundary for tourists, Hundur Monastery marks the endpoint of accessible terrain. Consider including it in your Leh Ladakh itinerary for a glimpse of its tranquility and scenic vistas.

Situated on the outskirts of Ladakh, Basgo village is steeped in a storied past. Renowned for its ancient gompas and temples, adorned with intricate architecture and centuries-old murals and paintings, Basgo is a testament to cultural richness. Notably, it hosts the iconic "Basgo Castle," recognized as one of the world's most delicate monuments. Discover this historical treasure on a Leh Ladakh tour.

Sprawling along the Shyok river, the Shyok Valley is home to some of Ladakh’s most beautiful villages and sights and you must consider tp include this valley as a part of your Leh ladakh packages. The picturesque villages of Diskit, Hundur and Turtuk lie along the valley, offering plenty of adventure and tourism spots to travelers. The picturesque Valley is rife with adventure opportunities; while hiking along the river bank can be extremely thrilling, several mountain bikers choose to bike through the Shyok river valley as well.

The Central Asian Museum, with its understated yet deeply meaningful architecture, safeguards ancient artifacts that celebrate Central Asia's rich cultural heritage. Within its exhibition spaces, visitors can explore manuscripts, everyday household items, and precious trinkets from bygone eras. Additionally, the museum grounds host Ladakh's oldest mosque. Consider including a visit to this cultural gem in your Ladakh tour packages for a journey through history and tradition.