Leh, India

Leh, India

Leh India

Leh, a high desert city in the Himalayas, is the capital of the Leh region in the state of Jammu and Kashmir in northern India. It was originally a stop for commercial caravans and is renowned for its Buddhist sites and nearby hiking areas. The massive 17th-century Leh Palace, modeled after the former residence of the Dalai Lama (the Potala Palace in Tibet), overlooks the old city's bazaar and its maze-like streets. With panoramic views from a peak above the city, Namgyal Tsemo is a monastery established around 1430, housing a gold-plated Buddha statue. Also known for its views is the Shanti Stupa, a modern Buddhist monument with a white spire. Other monasteries in the area include Thikse, a collection of buildings on various levels of the slopes, featuring Tibetan shrines, statues, and other pieces of art. South of Leh, the Indus River and its tributary, the Zanskar River, are famous for rapid descents in runs through breathtaking gorges. Hiking expeditions reach impressive heights in the Indus Valley area, including the Khardung La Pass at 5,359 m.
Recommended airport
Leh (IXL)
Nearby destinations
  • Stok Kangri a 22.21 km
  • Khardung La a 14.23 km
  • Alchi a 38.22 km