Best Places to Visit in Ladakh

The Mecca of riders, the destination for adventure tourists, the house of picturesque valleys and passes, the origin of ancient cultures, the confluence of life with non-living, and so on. Expressing Ladakh in a word is next to impossible. Bikers live a dream here and tourists from all corners of the world head for this beautiful destination in the months of the summer.  

Visiting this mesmerizing place can be a magnum opus of your whole travel journey. There are a number of attractions in Leh Ladakh that are filled with enthralling beauty and picturesque sites. Here are some of the places to see in Leh-Ladakh:

1. Pangong Lake

Pangong Lake is one of the most beautiful and famous lakes in Ladakh. It is situated at a height of almost 4,350m and also it is the world’s highest saltwater lake. The name is derived from the word ‘Pangang Tso’ which means “high grassland lake”. As the view in this valley is enchanting and hypnotizing, you will never have enough of its beauty and you can spend a lot of time in this lake.

Moreover, the Lake is well known for its changing colour and you can pick a place nearby for camping. If you are planning to go to Ladakh then this lake is must be on your top list. Want to visit Pangong? Check bike rentals in Leh for your Pangong bike trip.

2. Shanti Stupa

It is actually one of the most majestic architectural structures of a Buddhist monastery. Shanti Stupa is situated at a dazzling height of 11,841 feet above sea level and facing towards the Leh Palace. Here, you can see the whole of Leh with a spectacular view of the Changspa village.

3. Tso Moriri Lake

This Lake is located inside the Changtang wildlife sanctuary. It has been declared as a Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar convention in 2003.  If you are searching for a place with gripping beauty and tranquility then it is just the place for you.

4. Leh Palace

The Leh Palace or known as “Lhachen Palker” is one of the most historical places of Leh. The building will give you a panoramic view of the whole Leh town and the nearby village Stok Kangri and Zanskar mountains of the mighty Himalaya.

5. Nubra Valley

Nubra valley is a stock of green views in the land of passes. During summer the whole valley is carpeted with pink and yellow roses and by autumn the valley is covered with wild lavenders. You cannot miss this splendid beauty after all.

6. Zanskar River

If you want to add some thrill to your trip then you can go for white water rafting in the Zanskar River. A rafting expedition is done on the Zanskar River which has high cliffs. It is one of the best river trips in the world.

7. Drass Memorial

Drass Memorial was built in memory of the martyrs who lost their lives for the nation. To visit this place is actually a great gesture of respect towards these national heroes who served great glory for the sake of the country.

8. Tiger Hill

Tiger Hill in Drass Valley is a strikingly beautiful mountain peak that serves as a gateway to Siachen Glacier. This region has a history of battles over the decades and must visit this place because of its historical importance. 

9. Maitreya Buddha

This is a majestic statue of Jampa Buddha and this mighty structure is one of the prime and deeply appreciated structures. You should visit this place at least one time in your life.

10. Khardungla Pass

It is also known as the gateway to the Nubra and Shyok valleys. This captivating beauty of the Ladakh region is a very important strategic pass into the Siachen glacier and it is one of the worlds’ highest motorable passes. Ladakh stores a bundle of captivating sceneries for you.

11. Magnetic Hill

And here, just be amazed by the magical hill of Leh-Kargil Highway. It is located at a distance of 30km from Leh city. The hill is called magnetic due to the fact that it pulls stationary vehicles upwards. You must visit this geographical wonder.

12. Hall of Fame Museum

The Hall of Fame Museum of Ladakh is maintained by the Indian Army showcasing the war apparel and amenity used by the Indian Army. The Museum was built on the memory of the brave soldiers who lost their lives in wars for the sake of the nation. Visiting this place is itself a tribute to the heroes of the country.

And the list goes on as for example, Chadar track, Namgyal Tsmo Gompa, Spituk Monastery, Changtang Wildlife Sanctuary, Tso Kar Lake, Stock Palace, Zanskar Valley, Nyoma, Phuktal Monastery, and other monasteries in Ladakh, etc.

Some of The Markets in Ladakh Region for Shopping

Shopping is a fun idea to relax a little during the trip. It will energize your mood as the city stores a handful of options for you. For example, some venues in Leh are as follows:

• Moti Market near the Leh bus stand
• Tibetan market of old Leh Road for clothes.

Some of the main markets of Ladakh are:

• Tibetan Handicraft Community Showroom in Choglamsar
• Ladakh Art Palace on the Main Bazaar Road
• Tibetan Handicraft Emporium on the main Main Bazaar Road
• Cottage Industries Exposition in Changspa
• Ecology Centre in Changspa
• Women’s Alliance in Changspa
• Ladakh Environment and Health Organization on the Main Bazaar Road.