The Himalayan range is home to several notable locations, including Leh and Ladakh, which is known as the Land of High Mountain Passes. Ladakh experiences long winters and low air pressure due to its high altitude. The best time to visit Ladakh is from April to June or July to August. In this article, we will share the top 8 places to visit in Leh and Ladakh.
Nubra Valley is a popular destination that is 150 kilometers away from Leh. The valley has the confluence of Shyok and Siachen Rivers, white sand deserts, double-humped camels, rich lush villages, shining streams, and craggy mountain peaks. To reach Nubra, one must take a scenic journey from Leh, and the heights of the route provide an adrenaline rush.
Pangong Tso Lake, also known as Hollow Lake, is one of Asia’s largest saltwater lakes. The crystal blue waters of the lake with the surrounding landscape of bare mountain peaks make it a photographer’s delight. In winters, the lake freezes and becomes a popular attraction for the Ice Skating Festival. Two-thirds of the lake is in Tibet (Chinese territory), and one-third lies in eastern Ladakh (India).
The Shanti Stupa is a religious place for Buddhists that holds the relics of Buddha, consecrated by the 14th Dalai Lama. Tourists can experience the joys of meditation inside the Stupa while witnessing the stunning views of sunrise and sunset. The walls have gilt panels that depict the life of Lord Buddha, and on the first of this two-storied structure, there is a Buddha statue in a sitting position on a pedestal, turning the Dharmachakra.
Magnetic Hill is located on the Leh-Kargil-Baltik national highway. The hill is so-called as vehicles seem to defy gravity and move upward on the hill when parked at a marked spot. It is around 30 km from Leh, and the hill lies at a height of 14,000 feet above sea level.
Leh Palace is a 17th-century former royal palace that has been converted into a museum. Inside, there are corridors, spacious halls, and chambers. The ingenious structure of the palace makes the interior warm on cold days and cool in the scorching summer heat. The fort is slightly in a ruined condition, but the views from the top are stunning. The massive nine-story stone structure lies at the base of the Tsemo ridge and towers over the old town.
Chang La Pass is a high mountain pass and one of the highest motorable roads in the world. The pass is especially popular among bikers, and it is approached from Leh via Kharu and Sekti village by an asphalt road. The climb is very steep and requires a careful and experienced driver.
