In this article, we are talking about the most famous places to visit in Ladakh. All are must-visit places during Ladakh Trip.
Pangong Tso Lake
Pangong Tso Lake sprang to prominence as a result of Aamir Khan’s 3 Idiots, and it is without a doubt deserving of a spot on any Ladakh travel itinerary. Pack a tasty picnic basket and travel to the lake with your family, perhaps even camping next to it, to savour every moment of quiet and tranquilly.
Pangong Lake, located at a height of 4350 metres on the Indo-China border, is one of Ladakh’s most famous tourist destinations. This saltwater lake, also known as Hollow Lake or Pangong Tso, is one of Asia’s biggest. It has a radius of around 100 kilometres. One-third of this lake is in eastern Ladakh, while two-thirds is in Tibet (Chinese territory). It is about 160 kilometres from Leh city and is surrounded by magnificent scenery. During the winter, the lake freezes over and is transformed into an ice skating rink. A modest cost is required to get an Inner Line Permit from the deputy commissioner of Leh.
Things to do
1. Participate in the ice skating competition.
2. While staying at Pangong Retreat Camp in Ladakh, enjoy a bonfire.
3. Use your cameras to capture the breathtaking dawn.
4. Enjoy seagulls, ducks, and cranes while bird watching.
Shanti Stupa
Shanti Stupa is a white-domed Chorten situated on a mountaintop near Chanspa, about 5 kilometres from Leh. It was erected between 1983 and 1991. It is one of the greatest attractions in Leh, with a view over the town. This stupa was commissioned by Japanese monks to commemorate the end of the 2500 years of Buddhism and to encourage world peace. Gilded panels represent the life of Lord Buddha on the walls. From this vantage point, the sunrise and sunset are spectacular. The Buddha figure is seated on a pedestal on the first floor of this two-story building, spinning the Dharmachakra.
Things to do
1. Meditate the Buddha hall.
2. Circumambulate around the stupa.
3. Savor the stunning views of the surroundings, Sunrise and Sunset.
4. Watch the display of varied Buddhist reliefs.
Royal Leh Palace
The old palace of the formerly royal family of Leh, Leh Palace, was built in 1553 AD and is located on the summit of the abandoned Tsemo Hill. The palace looks a lot like Lhasa’s Potala Palace. It is made of stones, sand, wood, and mud and is slightly smaller in size. It is open from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and is also known as Lichen Palkhar (every day). This 9-story building currently houses a museum containing royal artefacts. The fort is in a bit of a state of disrepair, but the views from the top are breathtaking. The Archaeological Survey of India is now in charge of this building (ASI). It was assaulted by Dogra troops in the second part of the nineteenth century and therefore abandoned by the inhabitants.
Things to do
From the summit, take in the breathtaking views.
Admire the magnificent architecture.
Visit the on-site museum, which houses royal artefacts. Thangkas, jewellery, paintings, and costumes, to name a few examples.
Tso Moriri Lake
The pristine Tso Moriri Lake, located in a remote part of the larger Himalayan mountains, is India’s biggest alpine lake. It appears to be a gift of nature, situated at an elevation of nearly 15000 feet above sea level in a harsh environment. It is frequented by a smaller number of visitors due to its high altitude and difficult travel. In the crystal blue waters of the lake, the shadows of the surroundings may be observed.
Thing to do
Korzok, a nearby settlement, is a good place to camp.
Enjoy the magnificent dawn.
Enjoy the tranquilly and stunning landscape.
Namgyal Tsemo Gompa
The Namgyal Tsemo Monastery, which was founded in 1430, is situated in the background of the Leh Palace. The monastery is one of the most popular locations to visit in Leh Ladakh because of its beautiful surroundings. The plains, as well as the neighbouring snow-capped peaks of the Zanskar mountain range and the Indus River, provide breathtaking vistas. The 3-story high pure gold statue of Maitreya Buddha is the main attraction. Avalokitesvara and Manjushri sculptures are very popular. It also contains a large number of beautiful frescoes.
Things to do
The golden statue of Maitreya Buddha, which stands three stories tall, is a sight to behold.
Take a peek at this wonderful collection.
At the assembly hall, take note of the wall murals.
Enjoy the views of the Zanskar mountains, the plains, and the Indus River.