Leh

Leh City Tour Guide

  • Area: 380 sq. km
  • Population: 192,967 (1991)
  • Altitude: 5,205 m above sea level
  • Languages Spoken: Hindi, English, Ladakhi, and Urdu
  • Best Time to Visit: April to September
  • STD Code: 01982

Introduction to city Leh - In Jammu and Kashmir

Leh, located in the union territory of Ladakh in Jammu and Kashmir, is a region of breathtaking natural beauty. It is situated amidst two of the world's mightiest mountain ranges—the Karakoram in the north and the Great Himalayas in the south. This high-altitude desert is a land of rugged terrain, awe-inspiring landscapes, and ancient Buddhist culture. Ladakh was once covered by an extensive lake system, remnants of which still exist in the southeast plateaus of Rupshu and Chushul, in the lakes of Tso-moriri, Tso-kar, and Pangong-tso. The main source of water in this region is winter snowfall.

Sightseeing: Places to Visit in Leh

Leh is renowned for its historic monuments and Buddhist monasteries (gompas). The nine-storey Leh Palace, built in the early 17th century, is a key attraction. Nearby, the Shey Palace, the ancient capital of Ladakh, offers palaces and temples worth visiting. Basgo and Tingmosgang, located down the Indus River, were royal capitals during the 15th century and have remnants of forts and temples from that period. Stok Palace, across the river from Leh, is the current residence of the former royal family and houses a museum of artifacts related to the dynasty.

Excursions: Places Nearby Leh

Leh offers several exciting excursion options. Hemis Monastery, one of the largest and most famous monasteries, belongs to the Drukpa Order. Likir Monastery, associated with the Gelugpa Order, is another must-visit site. Additionally, the Lamayuru Monastery, which belongs to the Drikungpa Order of Tibetan Buddhism, is a noteworthy destination.