30 Places to Must Visit in Ladakh

Pangong Lake which is at an extremely high height of about 14,270 feet (4,350 meters) is recognized as the highest saltwater lake in the world. Spreading over about 160km, it is shared by India and China, where one-third of the lake goes to India and the rest two-thirds are in the land of China.

In the Tibetan language, it is called "Pangong Tso" which means "high grassland lake". Pangong Lake is famous for constantly displaying colors such as light blue, green, and red, at different times of the day.

Lake Pangong gained popularity because of its characters in the famous Bollywood movie 3 Idiots. If you are planning a trip to Ladakh, make sure to include a visit to Pangong Lake in your itinerary. The beauty that is waiting for you there is indescribable.

• How to reach: Travel from Leh (around 5 hours) through Chang La Pass.

The Leh Palace, a lot of people say it's the best place to visit, sits on the hill Namgyal in the Leh town. It is nine stories high. On the upper floors lived the family of the ruler. The lower floors were for stables, stores, and other rooms. The palace, following the make-over into a museum, features historical relics together with the royal assets, becoming an example of how Ladakh preserves its cultural past.

• How to reach: The Leh Palace has been built in the city and from it one can get there on foot or by taxi easily.

Being in Leh-Ladakh, the different and photogenic things await you to see and that will be the objects of your ceaseless wondering. The hill which is located along the Leh-Kargil-Srinagar road particularly amazes onlookers with its displayed mirages of an imaginary wonderful scene of moving uphill effortlessly despite natural physics.

The Magnetic Hill is associated with a yellow signpost that reads "The Phenomenon That Does Not Follow Gravity". Park your car, shift it into neutral, and observe as it moves uphill! Once vehicles are parked in the designated spot, they start moving forward at a speed of nearly 20 kilometers per hour.

• How to reach: Drive 30 Km from Leh

At an altitude of 15,075 feet (4,595 meters), Tso Moriri is a peaceful lake enclosed by desolate mountains. Tso Moriri has turquoise waters that mirror the sky, and its shores are a sanctuary for migrating birds. Camping beneath the star-filled Ladakhi sky is a memorable experience that will never be forgotten.

• How to reach: Drive towards the southeast of Leh approx 240 Km 7-8 hours journey via Chumathang.

Penzi La Pass, located 160 km from Kargil, features two turquoise lakes, camping sites, and views of permafrost mountains. It is the highest point on the Kargil-Zanskar road and is spread over 5,000 Sq.Km. Zanskar, halfway through the pass, is one of the least interfered with microcosms of Ladakh and one of the last surviving cultural settlers of Tibet. 

During the winter season, the well-known Chadar Trek takes place on the frozen Zanskar River. During the summer months, the valley shows impressive scenery, historic monasteries, and quaint villages.

• How to reach: Drive for 6-7 hours from Kargil

Kargil, the second largest city in the Ladakh region, is known for its rich cultural, historical, and political significance. Located 2676 meters above sea level, it has an extreme climate with temperatures dropping to -45 degrees Celsius in winter. 

The city is known for the Kargil War, which was fought in 1999. Today, Kargil is a peaceful and beautiful destination for tourists. A place of historical importance, Kargil stands as a tribute to valor and sacrifice.

Referred to as the "Valley of Flowers," Nubra Valley is encircled by snow-covered mountain tops and provides awe-inspiring scenery. The mystical atmosphere in Nubra is formed by its dunes, double-humped camels, and ancient monasteries.

You should visit Diskit Monastery and Hunder; they are must-see attractions. Nubra Valley serves as an entrance to the Siachen Glacier and a meeting point for different cultures.

• How to reach: Travel from Leh to Khardung La Pass by driving for approximately 4-5 hours.

Tso Kar Lake, also known as the "White Lake," is a lesser-known but untouched destination in Southeastern Ladakh. Located near Leh-Manali Highway, it offers stunning views, excellent photography opportunities, and a serene environment. The lake's shores are marked with white salt, giving it a unique appearance.

• How to reach: Drive southeast from Leh on the Leh-Manali Highway.

Known for its snow leopards, it has the highest density of these elusive cats in any protected area globally. The park also hosts Tibetan wild ass (Kiang), brown bears, and more.

• How to reach: Hemis village is about 45 kilometers east of Leh.

The Changtang Wildlife Sanctuary spans approximately 1,600 square kilometers in the eastern Ladakh region. This sanctuary is home to an incredible variety of flora and fauna. It houses the highest-altitude water lakes—Tso Moriri, Pangong Tso, and Tso Kar.

• How to reach there: Explore the sanctuary while visiting Tso Moriri and Pangong Tso.

Perched on a hill near Leh, Hemis Monastery belongs to the Drukpa Lineage. It resembles the Potala Palace in Lhasa, Tibet. Explore its 12-story complex, housing Buddhist art, stupas, statues, and thangkas. Don’t miss the 15-meter-high statue of Maitreya.

• How to reach There: Hemis is approximately 19 kilometers east of Leh.

Thiksey Monastery, resembling the Potala Palace, offers panoramic views of the Indus Valley. Admire its colorful murals, prayer halls, and a 49-foot-tall statue of Maitreya Buddha. It’s one of Ladakh’s largest monasteries.

• How to reach: Thiksey is about 19 kilometers from Leh.

Diskit Monastery stands dramatically on a hilltop in Nubra Valley. You can visit the 32-meter-tall statue of Maitreya Buddha and enjoy panoramic views of the valley.

• How to reach: Travel to Khardung La Pass from Leh.

Spituk Gompa, perched on a hill, overlooks the Indus River. One can explore its assembly hall, statues, and murals. The annual Gustor Festival is a colorful and pleasant celebration here.

• How to reach: Spituk is about 8 kilometers from Leh.

Shanti Stupa stands atop a hill in Chanspa, Leh. The architecture is built to promote world peace and it offers panoramic views of Leh and the surrounding mountains.

• How to reach: A short drive from Leh City.

Alchi Monastery, nestled in a village, is known for its ancient wall paintings. One can explore its temples, especially the Sumtsek Temple with exquisite frescoes.

• How to reach: Alchi is about 70 kilometers from Leh.

At an elevation of 18,380 feet, Khardung La is one of the highest motorable passes globally. Conquer its winding roads and soak in the breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks.

• How to reach: Drive from Leh through a winding mountain road.

Chang La Pass is another high-altitude pass at 17,590 feet. You can enjoy the thrill of crossing this pass and admire the surrounding Himalayan vistas.

• How to reach: Drive from Leh.

Chang La Pass is another high-altitude pass at 17,590 feet. You can enjoy the thrill of crossing this pass and admire the surrounding Himalayan vistas.

• How to reach: Drive from Leh.

Taglang La Pass stands at 17,582 feet Marvel at the rugged terrain and the vast expanse of the Lad

Zoji La Pass, also known as the “Gateway to Ladakh,” connects Srinagar to Leh. This treacherous mountain pass offers breathtaking views of snow-clad peaks and deep valleys. It’s a crucial route for trade and tourism.

• How to reach: Travel from Srinagar for approximately 9-10 hours via the Srinagar-Leh Highway.

Bara-Lacha La, at a height of 16,040 feet, lies on the Manali-Leh Highway. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, it’s a gateway to the Lahaul and Spiti valleys. The pristine Suraj Tal Lake is nearby.

• How to reach: Drive from Manali (approximately 6-7 hours).

Hemis Monastery hosts the annual Hemis Tsechu festival. This vibrant festival celebrates Guru Padmasambhava’s birth anniversary. Masked dances, music, and colorful costumes are the highlights. A peaceful visit could be in June or July.

Celebrated across Ladakh, Losar marks the Tibetan New Year. Witness traditional dances, rituals, and vibrant decorations. It’s a time for family gatherings and feasting. Around February or March a visit could be suitable.

Held on the banks of the Indus River near Leh. Sindhu Darshan celebrates the river Indus, which flows through Ladakh. Pilgrims offer prayers and participate in cultural events.

Phyang Monastery hosts this annual festival. Enjoy masked dances, music, and religious ceremonies. The monastery’s ancient architecture adds to the charm.

Celebrated in Leh and other monasteries. Dosmoche is a winter festival where monks perform rituals to ward off evil spirits. The Cham dance is a highlight.

The frozen Zanskar River becomes a trekking trail during winter. Walk on the icy river, surrounded by towering cliffs. It’s an adventure of a lifetime.

The Markha Valley offers a classic trekking experience. Traverse through picturesque villages, monasteries, and high-altitude landscapes. The Kang Yatze peak is visible. Visits are considered best during the summer months.

Stok Kangri, at 20,182 feet, is a popular trekking peak. Conquer this snow-covered summit for stunning views of the Zanskar and Karakoram ranges.

Hemis National Park is the habitat of elusive snow leopards. Embark on a wildlife trek to spot these magnificent creatures. Also, encounter blue sheep, ibex, and golden eagles. Winter visits are pleasant.

Ripchar Valley is a mystery spot near Leh that is still unknown to most people: Go for a trek with majestic green trees, cross streams, and camp under beautiful splashy stars. Beauty is not just to be found in the landscape of Ladakh but also in its happenings and everything it has. You will find, that Ladakh is the right place for you, no matter whether it is exploration, culture, or need for solace, it is always welcoming you in.