11 August 2016

THINGS TO DO WHEN IN LEH

There are countless activities and things to do when you are in Leh, it all depends on what you are interested in and what you…

There are countless activities and things to do when you are in Leh, it all depends on what you are interested in and what you are looking for! Leh is situated in Ladakh, and is the perfect place to chill if you are looking for a blend of city-life and nature. Whether you are looking for some adventure, a chill time with some friends or both, Leh has got what you need!

DISCOVER THE BEAUTY OF PANGONG LAKE

Pangong Lake is located 4h away from Leh by car, and is one of the main attractions of the area. This lake is simply breathtaking, and probably one of the top 5 most beautiful lakes in India. It measures 40 miles in length, and is in between the China and India border.

VISIT THE LEH PALACE

Leh Palace overlooks the Leh city, and was a former royal palace modelled after the Potala Palace in Lhasa, Tibet. King Sengge Namgyal built the palace during the 17th century. In the mid 19th century, Dogra forces took control of Ladakh, and the palace was abandoned as the royal family moved to Stok Palace instead. The Archaelogical Survey Of India is restoring the ruined palace, which is home to a rich collection ornaments, crowns, and jewelry.

VISIT THE NAMGYAL TSEMO MONASTERY

Situated behind the Leh Palace atop a hill, this monastery offers one of the most scenic views of Leh. Founded in 1430, Namgyal Tsemo Monastery is famous for its three story high solid Maitrieya Buddha statue. The walk up is neither too long nor tiring, and the reward is totally worth the climb!

CHECK OUT THE SHANTI STUPA

The Shanti Stupa is located on top of a hill just above the touristic Changspa area of Leh. It was built by the Japanese for world peace, and inaugurated by the Dalai Lama in 1985. From the stupa you have a great overall view of the city and the mountains beyond.

GO TO THE NUBRA VALLEY

One of the best things to do when you are in Leh is to go to the Nubra Valley for a couple of days. Nubra is one Ladakh’s most scenic and breathtaking location, and is a MUST DO if you are in the area. During olden times, it used to be a valley of passage for traders of the Central Asian Silk route. The area also has sand dunes in between the villages of Deskit and Hundar, and is one of Ladakh’s most mesmerizing places!

DON’T MISS OUT ON THIKSEY MONASTERY

Thiksey Monastery is located 17 kms away from Leh and is one of the most beautiful monasteries in Ladakh. It belongs to the Gelugpa order, and is home to around 100 monks.

DRIVE TO THE KHARDUNGLA PASS

Khardungla is the world’s highest motorable road in the world, situated at an altitude of 5359 meters! Experience the thrill of driving on top of the world as the icy winds blows across your face, and simply enjoy the beauty of mother nature. The word Khardungla means the “pass of lower castle”. Probably one of the best things to do when in Leh!

GO SHOPPING IN THE MARKET

In the center of the town of Leh you will find the busy market place, which has everything from pashmina’s to trekking gear to fruit juices or tasty meals! Take a walk through it, enjoy the variety of shops and products and eventually buy a souvenir or gift for a loved one back home.

VISIT THE HEMIS MONASTERY

Situated 45 kilometers from the town of Leh, Hemis Monastery existed before the 11th century but was re-established in 1672. It is the wealthiest Tibetan Monastery in Ladakh, and it also has the largest of all thangka paintings in Ladakh which is revealed every 12 years.

SPIN A PRAYER WHEEL

As you wind your way across the city, you will find prayer wheels at numerous different locations. Go ahead and spin the wheel! In Buddhist tradition, spinning the wheel is the equivalent of chanting holy mantras.