I’ll inform you first that, Leh is different from Ladakh. Leh is the capital of Ladakh – a big area located in northern India. Since it has a low rain fall, Ladakh can be described as a very high altitude area surrounded by tall Mountains. Like in the desert, it’s equally noisy around with small, populated towns that not many people live there. Ladakh is divided into two parts: Leh and Kargil.
If you want to know what Leh for you :
If you embarked in this journey, I would say that this will be unforgettable. With unmatched views, history and an enviable air of peacefulness; it’s truly an unforgettable destination! Ladakh, a high desert area. The place is perfect for all seeking an adventurous spirit, to be in touch with nature and discover other peoples’ cultures.
Best time to visit Leh:
The desert climate of Leh is dry and cool. May until August, this is when you want to travel to Leh. During such months, it is usually warm during the day with a cool wind at night. You may also consider September as a good time to visit, mainly for witnessing Ladakh Festival. Your journeys may be combined here with great intercultural activities and perfect travel conditions during time of year.
How to reach Leh, Ladakh?
Traveling to Leh is very easy and you have two options: by rail, by road and by air.
By Road: The drive is smooth and getting to Leh is easy through a road. The distance is 600 kilometres from Srinagar while it is approximately 500 kilometres from Manali, Himachal Pradesh.
By Railway Station: The nearest railway station to Leh is the Jammu Tawi railway station, which is located approximately 712 kilometres from Jammu.
By Flight: The nearest Airport is the Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh. This Airport provides you regular flights to all major cities throughout India. The airport is easily accessible near the heart of Leh, making your arrival quick and easy. So, whether you like the romance of a road trip or the convenience of flight, just I just want to say that the trip to Leh has never been easier.
Now, there are some useful tips to know before planning your trip to Ladakh:
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- Ladakh is controlled by nature. It has absolute control over everything. So, keep this in mind if you want to visit Ladakhi, while planning your trip
- Ladakh is far larger than just Leh. Some areas are so rural that you can only be reached by foot and some regions are restricted to the public. It’s like a large, high region in the Himalayas, and analysing it all may take longer than you expect.
- Leh is an important destination for travellers. It has many of the attractions found in big cities. But keep in mind that Ladakh is a cold desert, where things like water are rare. So, while you’re in Ladakh, be careful then, don’t waste anything.
Things to do in Leh:
Visit Pangong Lake:
The beautiful Pangong Tso Lake, located at a high altitude of 4350 meters. It is a must-see attraction in Leh. This popular tourist destination is a five-hour trip from central Leh. The relaxing blue waters of the lake provide a beautiful view against the backdrop of tall mountains, creating a peaceful and attractive environment.
Visit Tso Morori:
Tso Moriri is a stunning green lake between Ladakh and Tibet. This is another hidden gem if you want to curious about new things. It is India’s largest high-altitude lake, height of 4595 meters above sea level. Tso Moriri is a five-hour drive from Leh and usually includes overnight camping. It is allowing you to fully lose yourself in the peaceful glory of the surroundings.
Visit Magnetic Hill:
The magnetic hill of Leh is a unique attraction, where anti-gravity action seems to defy the laws of physics. Visitors are surprised to see their cars spinning despite gravity. The site is covered in educational signboards and warnings, which provide a visitor with an exciting mix of curiosity and scientific intelligence.
View Chham Dance:
When you visit Leh, you must watch Chham Dance. It is a colourful performance by Llamas and you can immerse yourself in the lively local culture. The traditional dance is famous in the Ladakh Festival, held in September each year. The Chham Dance is a display of Ladakhi traditions. You can see the complete with bright costumes and rhythmic movements that provide you a one-of-a-kind cultural experience.
Hunder Camel Safari:
A camel safari on the Bactrian camels among the Hunder Sand Dunes is an exciting journey for those people who want to ride in a camel. Riding these double-humped camels along the Shyok and Nubra rivers is possible in Leh, which is known for the mountain desert. This Trek allows you to fully experience the natural beauty of the country while experiencing the thrill of camel riding, making your visit to Leh memorable.
Places to Visit in Leh:
Leh Palace:
Nine storied Leh palace built in 16th Century by King-Sengge Namgyal. The upper floors formed part of the royal quarters, while the lower levels had stables and storehouses. Views from the palace’s roof tops are breathtaking, overlooking numerous mountain ranges across the landscape below. On the inside, ancient wall murals showcase Buddha’s life, making the palace more historic.
Hemis Monastery:
With a distance of 45km south of Leh towards its west bank where the Indus flows. The biggest and the richest of them all is the Hemis Monastery located. It was built in 1630 in a distinctive manner. Prayer flags can be seen waving at all corners. A serene ambiance in the monastery with beautiful architectural detail makes it worthwhile watching. One of the outstanding monastic places in Ladaka is the Hemis Monastersy.
Thiksey Monastery:
Thiksey Monastery is a Tibetan monastery styled like Tibet’s potala palace perched on a hill about 20 kms cast of leh. The impressive Maitreya statue is erected in this twelve-storey building which sits amidst the Himalayan Mountains at the height of 11,800 feet. There is a plenty of objects dating to Buddhism in here such as stupas, statuities, thanguks, drawings on the walls and even swords. While at Thiksey Monastery, one can enjoy not only seeing inside but viewing on top for magnificent views of Indus Valley too.
Shey Monastery and Palace:
Shed about two hundred years from Leh town lie Shey Monastery and Palace constructed during 16th century. It has a huge almost 10-metre sculpture of Lord Buddha in the temple hall called the du-khang. To his credit, King Deledan Nagmyal who built Shey Palace has the tallest victory stupa (the top is pure gold) at Leh. Shey Palace was the residence of the royal family up to 1834 AD, and later they moved to Stok Palace.
CONCLUSION
If you are making plans to visit Leh, then you have most beautiful experience ever! Ladakh, home to Leh, is a high desert area which is bordered by towering mountains in Northern India. Beautiful landscapes, history, and tranquillity are featured in Ladakh which has been split into Leh and Kargil. A visit to Leh will stay in the heart of those who go there. For those who like adventure, spirituality, or just to take a break from daily life, in Leh there are places that no one can repeat, because they combine unique splendours, culture, and calmness, which cannot be found anywhere in the world.
Leh is great to visit during May to August, when the days are usually sunny with nighttime being cold. Alternatively, one can visit the Ladakh Festivals during this period. Visit Leh at this time and let the beauty of Leh take over your heart. Leh has something to offer every adventurer and nature lover alike. Therefore, this adventurous trip right into the soul of Ladakh.
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