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Leh lies at some 3,500 metres above sea level and is the capital of Ladakh.
Trading routes
The town lies in the ancient Indus valley and has been a trading post for Himalayan peoples for centuries, with routes running up into the Nubra Valley to the Silk Route and over the high passes to Manali and the Indian plains toward to Tibetan Plateau.
Architecture
Its dilapidated palace makes for an interesting backdrop, it is described as a miniature version of the Potala Palace in Lhasa, and is fine example of medieval Tibetan architecture and the central markets give the town life, they are well supplied from Kashmir.
Visiting Leh
The adventurous may choose to reach Leh by road to appreciate breathtaking scenery, or alternatively you may fly from Delhi. It makes a great base to visit the many monasteries, chortens and gompas in the surrounding area such as those at Lekir, Alchi, Stok and Thiksey.
who's been there
Start planning your tailor-made trip to Leh by contacting one of our India specialists
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Suggested itinerary featuring Leh
This sample itinerary will give you an idea of what is possible when you travel in Leh, and showcases routes we know work particularly well. Treat this as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.
Places near Leh
- Alchi 25 miles away
- Ladakh 25 miles away
- Nubra Valley 43 miles away
- Dharamshala & McLeod Ganj 154 miles away
- Pragpur 181 miles away
- Shimla 214 miles away
- Amritsar 236 miles away
- Mussoorie 259 miles away
- Rishikesh 284 miles away
Photos of Leh
Our expert guides to exploring Leh
Written by our specialists from their own experiences of visiting Leh, these guides will help you make the most of your time there. We share both our practical recommendations and the best ways to appreciate Leh at its best.
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Summer in India: Ladakh ![Thiksey Monastery in Leh, Ladakh]()
Summer in India: Ladakh
Summer in India: Ladakh
Considering India between June and September? India specialist James explains that, while much of the country is too hot or wet to visit, it’s the ideal time of year to explore mountainous Ladakh, a region of high-altitude deserts, Buddhist monasteries and sheer-sided mountains.
Read this guide
Ideas for experiencing Leh
Our specialists seek out authentic ways to get to know the places that could feature in your trip. These activities reflect some of the experiences they've most enjoyed while visiting Leh, and which use the best local guides.
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Explore around Leh ![Sarchu, trekking ponies, Manali to Leh Road]()
Explore around Leh
Explore around Leh
Immerse yourself in the mountainous scenery of Leh and explore the gompas (Buddhist fortifications) statues and palaces that characterise this special area.
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