Leh

Leh is Ladakh's capital and the main base for exploring the region. It sits around 3,500 m (11,500 ft) above sea level in the Indus Valley, surrounded by bare, rugged mountains. The town blends old Ladakhi and Tibetan culture with a lively traveller scene so that you will find prayer flags, whitewashed homes, cafés, and busy markets all within a short walk.

Leh Palace, built in the 17th century, looks over the old town. Shanti Stupa is a favourite spot for sunrise and sunset views, and Leh Main Market is great for pashmina, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Nearby, you can visit Thiksey, Hemis, and Spituk Monasteries, the Hall of Fame museum, Magnetic Hill, and Sangam Point, where the Indus and Zanskar rivers meet. Leh is also the starting point for trips to Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley and Khardung La.

The best time to visit is May to September. Leh has its own airport and road links from Srinagar and Manali. Rest for the first day or two to adjust to the altitude before heading to higher places.

Quick Facts & Information About Leh

Region

Located in the Ladakh Union Territory, Leh is the region's main town and administrative headquarters.

Location

Set along the Indus Valley, Leh sits high in the Trans-Himalayan mountains at an altitude of approximately 3,500 metres.

Area

Leh district covers approximately 45,100 sq. km.

Major Cities & Nearby Towns

Karu, Shey, Thiksey, Choglamsar, Spituk and Stok.

Languages Spoken

Ladakhi is widely spoken, while Hindi, Urdu and English are also used in daily communication and tourism.

Climate

Cold desert climate with freezing winters (-20°C to -30°C) with sunny summers, and very little rainfall.

Best Time to Travel

May to September is best for sightseeing, trekking, and mountain drives.

Key Attractions

Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, Hall of Fame, Thiksey Monastery, Hemis Monastery, Shey Palace, Magnetic Hill and Gurudwara Pathar Sahib.

Famous Festivals

Hemis Tsechu, Losar, Dosmoche, Sindhu Darshan Festival, Matho Nagrang and Ladakh Festival.

Cuisine

Skyu, Thukpa, Momos, Khambir, Paba, Chhutagi.

Unique Experiences

Explore ancient monasteries, enjoy a scenic drive along the Indus Valley, visit traditional villages, try local Ladakhi food and watch the stars under clear mountain skies.

Economy

Tourism, hospitality, handicrafts, pashmina wool, agriculture, livestock rearing and local trade are important parts of Leh's economy.

Specialty

Known for its high-altitude desert scenery, Leh is famous for ancient Buddhist monasteries, traditional Ladakhi culture, mountain passes and spectacular Himalayan views.

28D / 27N

Tour of Himachal and Ladakh

10D / 9N

Leh - Ladakh

17D / 16N

Splendours Of Ladakh And Kashmir

Leh