Located in the eastern region of the state of Jammu and Kashmir, Leh-Ladakh is a natural charm located at an altitude of about 2,300 to 5,000 meters above sea level. The chilly desert is not only popular for its beautiful kaleidoscope, but also for its stunning rock mountains and Buddhist temples.
The destination reportedly experienced a surge in tourists after 3 Idiots starring Aamir Khan and Kareena Kapoor Khan was released. Even after a decade of films, tourists are still clicking photos at Pangong lake posing on scooters, wearing red helmets and wedding lehenga.
For those of you who like to climb mountains, you must try this one of the most beautiful tourist destinations in India. Moreover, the terrain is quite challenging, coupled with a quite tense climate.
If you want to play in the water, relax your soul, calm your mind, enjoy the beauty of the wild, imagine yourself in an enchanting valley or have time to walk alone or even with friends? Enjoy the mesmerizing views from the top of the Khardungla Pass, feel peaceful at the Shanti Stupa, try to breathe in the Drass Valley, pray for the war heroes at Kargil, and do more amazing things like hiking the hypnotizing sites of Leh, Ladakh.
Not only an adventure sport of trekking, Leh is filled with fun despite doing nothing, but just sitting in one place and enjoying the serenity of a flowing river or the chirping of birds. Here's a list of amazing things that can be part of your trip to Leh Ladakh.
Pangong Tso. The lake
Leh Ladakh is home to many lakes in the highlands, but none can match the importance of Pangong Tso. Brought to fame by the movie “3 idiots”, it is now the most popular destination in Ladakh.
Flanked by mountains of brownish hue, walking along the azure blue lake shore is akin to a postcard living in the real world. Its uniqueness though lies in the changing color of the lake as the day goes on. Get ready to beat your camera and capture this mystical phenomenon. At night, watch the sky shrouded in a million stars and enjoy the magical view.
Nubra Valley
One of the beautiful places to see in Ladakh, the heavenly valley of Nubra is a stunning valley located 150 km northeast of Leh. Located at an altitude of 3,048 meters above sea level, the valley is surrounded by the Shyok and Siachen Rivers, white sand desert, double hump camels, rich fertile villages and rugged mountain peaks. This valley has scenic beauty in bounty as it is situated peacefully on the slopes of the Karakoram mountains. Ride a Bactrian camel and explore the valley. You will admire the natural landscapes and green surroundings, capture Mother Earth on your camera, visit nearby villages and monasteries, and visit apple and apricot orchards.
Namgyal Tsemo Gompa
Namgyal Tsemo Monastery is located in the backdrop of Leh Palace, founded in 1430. The monastery has a beautiful setting and is one of the most popular places to visit in Leh Ladakh. The views of the plains, around the snow-capped peaks of the Zanskar mountains, and the Indus River are breathtaking. Another attraction is the statues of Avalokitesvara and Manjushri. It also has a large collection of beautiful frescoes. The walls of the assembly hall are decorated with brilliant paintings. You will see a good collection of frescoes and old Buddhist manuscripts, see frescoes in the assembly hall, relax with views of the Zanskar mountains, plains and the Indus River.
Leh Palace
Leh Palace is one of the finest examples of ancient Tibetan architecture. It is often compared to the world famous PotaPalaceace in Lhasa. Made of stone, wood, mud and sand, the palace walls provide warmth in winter and create a cool atmosphere in summer. Leh Palace is an uphill walk from Leh Market. Alternatively, you can drive to the entrance.
The interior is decorated with crowns, ceremonial gowns, jewelery and artistic paintings, about 450 years old! And made of colors that come from powdered stones and gems. If that wasn't interesting enough, the palace provides spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.
Magnetic Hill
Located on the Leh national highway, about 30 km from Leh, Magnetic Hill is essentially a gravity hill, famous for retaining its magnetic properties. This magnet is so strong that it can even pull a neutral car uphill. The strength of this hill can be seen from the fact that passing planes increase their altitude to avoid magnetic interference. This hill is at an altitude of 14,100 feet above sea level. However, it is said that this is an optical illusion, but it is definitely worth experiencing. You can admire the magic of Magnet there or visit the nearby Gurudwara, which is staffed by the Indian Army.
However, Pangong Lake, the highest icy desert in the Nubra Valley, Namgyal Tsemo Gompa, Leh Palace and the stunning Magnetic Hill are just a few of the places in this fairytale-like region. With rushing waters, snow-capped mountain peaks and varied trekking trails, you're sure to fall in love with Leh-Ladakh!