Draped with the alluring charm of the Indian Himalayas and poised with enchanting tales, Leh is the crown of Ladakh. One of the most mystique as well as tourist-friendly destinations in the world, this historic city is a true treasure trove for its admirers.
Guarded by several fascinating ranges of the mighty Himalayas, ornate with sacred gompas, and poised with a unique charm, a visit to this gorgeous tourist destination in Ladakh is a must for every travel bug. Be it the honeymooners, leisure seekers, adrenaline junkies, history enthusiasts, or any other types of travellers, Leh something or the other for everyone!
The once a capital of the Himalayan Kingdom of Leh, this semi-arid desert in the Zanskar Valley is located at an elevation of 3,524m, and is untouched by the mundane world. Though life in Leh does not run parallel with the rest of the country, it is revered as one of the tourist-friendly destinations in India. Book your Ladakh tour packages; visit this imposing city to explore its bountiful beauty, diverse history, rich culture, rustic traditions, and fill your travelogue with experience and not just memories!
Best Time to Visit Leh
Winter (November to February):
For those who are planning for a Leh Ladakh tour during the winters, they should not proceed further with their tour itinerary! Visiting Leh or almost other parts of Ladakh is a strict ‘no’ during the winters. Temperature drops down drastically, and makes it almost unbearable for the outsiders. Except for the enthusiasts of the ‘Chadar Trek’, which is conducted only during January-February, Leh Ladakh tourism takes a halt during the winters due to heavy snowfall.
Summer (April to June):
As Leh welcomes the summers, temperature starts rising and the valley starts regaining its charm and appeal. With the sun shining bright, the atmosphere becomes much clear. Snow starts melting by early April, and the vicinity comes alive once again with all its glories. However, visitors must carry as well as wear enough of warm clothes to maintain their body temperature and also to get acclimatised with the climate.
Monsoon (July to August):
Even the monsoon is not at all recommended to indulge in Leh Ladakh tourism. With the advent of the rain, chances of landslides reach the peak in Leh. For those, who are planning to book Leh Ladakh tour packages during July to August, they must rethink on their choices.
Places to Visit in Leh
Shanti Stupa
The Shanti Stupa was built to promote world peace and prosperity and to commemorate 2500 years of Buddhism. It is considered a symbol of the ties between the people of Japan and Ladakh.
Hall of Fame
The Hall of Fame Leh is a museum constructed and maintained by the Indian army in memory of the brave soldiers who lost their lives in the Indo-Pak wars.
Gurduwara Pathar Sahib
Gurdwara Pathar Sahib, is a beautiful Gurudwara sahib constructed in the memory of Guru Nanak, about 25 miles away from Leh, on the Leh-Kargil road.
Leh Palace
Perched atop the deserted Namgyal Hill, the Leh Palace stands as a testimony of Ladakh's splendid heritage. This palace was constructed during the 17th century, under the patronage of King Singe Namgyal.
Fairs and Festival in Leh
Ladakh Festival:
It is an annual festival that is celebrated in the month of September. It is mainly celebrated with the intent to showcase the rich culture and traditions to the outer world; encouraging Leh Ladakh tourism is also one of the objectives of Ladakh Festival.
A 7 days’ celebration, visitors can enjoy and participate in an array of merry and fun-frolic activities during this festival. Traditional polo math, archery, monastic dance, and folk dances are the major attractions of Ladakh Festival. In addition to this, visitors can also experience the local life at its best while visiting Leh during this festival.
Hemis Festival:
If you planning for Leh Ladakh tour, make sure you plan it in such a way, you get to witness the pageant Hemis Festival! A true riot of colours, cultures and traditions, it is an annual festival that is celebrated on the 10th day of Tse Chu (Lunar Month in Tibetan Calendar) to observe the birth anniversary of Guru Padmasambhava.
The entire valley comes alive with the locals wearing their traditional and colourful garbs, jewelleries and much more. Festivity begins with the Head Lama of Hemis Monastery commemorating the birth of the Guru by carrying his portrait to the main courtyard of the monastery. Following this, the lamas perform their traditional ‘Cham Dance’ (or Mask Dance) in the most heartfelt way. Hemis Festival is celebrated to mark the triumph of good on the evils.