Jammu And Kashmir, India
This popular circuit covers several significant monasteries and palaces along the Indus River.
Shey Palace: Former summer palace of Ladakhi kings, a large, gilded copper Sakyamuni Buddha statue. Thiksey Monastery: Resembles the Potala Palace, Maitreya Buddha statue and morning prayers. Hemis Monastery: Largest and wealthiest monastery in Ladakh, rich collection of artifacts. Stok Palace: Active residence of the former royal family, a museum showing royal artifacts.
Exploring Ladakh's diverse landscapes and cultural sites calls for varied transport.
The most practical option for day trips. It presents flexibility to set your own pace, stop for photos, and dedicate time at each site. This suits families or small groups.
A more economical option. Find other travelers to share a taxi at the Leh taxi stand or through your guesthouse. While usually for longer trips, some shared options may be found for day trips.
Ladakh's natural beauty extends beyond its main valleys, offering opportunities to explore parks, scenic landscapes, and unique phenomena.
Hemis National Park is dedicated to conserving high-altitude wildlife, especially the snow leopard. Day trips for general trekking or wildlife viewing are possible in other seasons.
Nubra Valley, often an overnight trip, presents unique sand dunes, double-humped camels, and Diskit Monastery. A very long day trip from Leh is less recommended due to distance.
Pangong Tso is often a long day trip (5-6 hours one way), but an overnight stay is highly recommended to appreciate the lake's changing colors and avoid rush.
Turtuk Village (Nubra Valley) is a Balti village near the border. It presents an unique cultural and natural experience with stunning apricot orchards and a glimpse into a different way of life.
Ladakh's unique ecology features several protected sites for biodiversity.
Explore Ladakh's history and local life by visiting historical sites and rural villages outside the main tourist centers.
Lamayuru Monastery & Moonland: A full-day trip from Leh, Lamayuru is one of Ladakh's oldest and largest monasteries, dramatically set amidst lunar-like landscapes. This trip presents a different perspective on Ladakhi monastic architecture and geology.
Villages like Alchi, Likir, Basgo, Phyang, and Hemis, while having famous monasteries, also present insights into traditional Ladakhi village life, agriculture (barley fields, apricot orchards), and quiet local rhythms. Walking through these villages connects visitors with the daily life of Ladakhis.
Many monasteries remain active pilgrimage sites for Buddhists. Observing daily rituals, prayer wheels, and devotion creates a moving cultural experience.
Explore the unique Ladakhi monastic architecture and art, reflecting centuries of Buddhist influence and local craftsmanship.
For those with more time, extending your trip beyond Leh with multi-day excursions presents a more immersive and adventurous exploration.
The most popular 2-3 day extension, covering Khardung La, Diskit Monastery, Hunder sand dunes, and the scenic Shyok River route to Pangong Tso.
A remote, stunning high-altitude lake. A 2-day trip for a serene and less touristy experience, with birdwatching and nomadic interactions.
A more rugged and remote region. Requires 3-5+ days by road to Padum, offering stunning landscapes, remote monasteries, and traditional Zanskari culture.
