Sitting in the Himalayan Mountains, Leh - in the state of Jammu/Kashimir – is geographically, culturally, and historically linked to Tibet and Kashmir by trading routes.

Leh retains its medieval charm and multicultural flavor. With a strong Buddhist influence and strong ties to Tibet, and rugged mountain surroundings, Leh is a challenge to reach but very worth the trip. 

Sleep

Being quite a popular destination now, many budget and mid-range hotels and resorts dot this area. You can find accommodation starting from Rs 800 to Rs 5,000. 

Eat

Leh is known for its excellent Tibetan cuisine. Many political refugees leaving Tibet settled in Leh and brought their delicious recipes and cooking styles. Roadside food in

Leh is the best way to sample the true cuisine of Leh. Try chunks of mutton-tikka with roomali roti which is garnished by radish and green chutney (Rs 15 only). Goshtaba (meat balls with khameeri roti) are also a must-try. For just Rs 40, it’s a filling meal!

Many Indian, Chinese, and Continental eateries and clubs, bars, and cafes are also available. Spend your first day in Leh acclimatizing to the higher elevations. A day spent chilling in a cozy café is an excellent way to meet fellow travellers and plan your stay.

To do 

Places of interest include the Buddhist complex Shanti Stupa, a modern Buddhist structure; Leh Palace, the 16th century nine-storied palace of the King of Ladakh now under renovation; Namgyal Tsemo Gompa, a 13th century mountain-top temple; and the main bazaar. Many travellers to Leh trek in the surrounding mountains and visit the monasteries in the region. Changspa is a suburb of Leh and has many restaurants, shops, and guest houses. You can even play at the world’s highest tennis courts at Baku Tennis.

The Main Bazaar in Leh has many places to shop, including fascinating antique stores filled with treasures from many eras, traditional handicraft shops, and trekking outfitters.

The suburb of Changspa holds many handicraft stores, clothing stores, and antique dealers. High-end handicraft and art shops are accessible in the Bazaar and Changspa. You can also buy good quality adventure gear in reasonable prices.

Visit the War Museum, a fascinating place run by the Indian Army showcasing the history, glory and the tools of the trade related to army operations defending India in some of the most hostile terrains in the world. It also has a fascinating display on the Siachen battlefield - the highest and more arduous battlefield in the world.

Pass through the Khardung La, a high mountain pass, located north of Leh. It is the gateway to the Shyok and Nubra valleys. It is believed to be the highest motorable road in the world. However, there is not much proof to validate this claim. 

Leh, owing to its mountainous and exciting terrains, offers a huge number of possible trekking routes you could try your courage on. White-water rafting is also a popular sport which adventurers indulge in. Please be advised that the Indus rafting route from Nimmu towards the Pakistani border has rapids of increasing severity which run along the grades of 4, 4+, and 5. The latter two grades are extremely tough and not recommended for amateurs.

Article By

John Huber

An Indian Backpacker