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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 towards 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 calling one of our India specialists on 01993 838 330
Suggested itineraries featuring Leh
Our itineraries will give you suggestions for what is possible when you travel in Leh, and they showcase routes we know work particularly well. Treat them as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.
Ladakh Explored: Leh, Alchi & Nubra Valley
A trip to the mountain kingdom of Ladakh, taking in beautiful scenery, high altitude passes, deserts and monasteries.
Highlights of Ladakh tour
This itinerary will provide a taste of what Ladakh has to offer. High desert landscapes and ancient Buddhist monasteries are explored with visits to Leh, Alchi and the Nubra Valley.
Map of Leh
Places & hotels on the map
Places near Leh
- Ladakh 7 miles away
- Alchi 25 miles away
- Nubra Valley 43 miles away
- Dharamsala & McLeod Ganj 154 miles away
- Pragpur 181 miles away
- Shimla 214 miles away
- Amritsar 236 miles away
- Mussoorie 258 miles away
- Rishikesh 284 miles away
- Haridwar 293 miles away
Photos of Leh
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![Leh Palace]()
Leh Palace -
![Leh Palace, Ladakh]()
Leh Palace, Ladakh -
![The rooftops of Leh, Ladakh]()
The rooftops of Leh, Ladakh -
![Typical landscapes of Ladakh]()
Typical landscapes of Ladakh -
![Royal Enfield]()
Royal Enfield -
![Approach to Lekir Monastery, Ladakh]()
Approach to Lekir Monastery, Ladakh -
![View of Leh from Leh Palace]()
View of Leh from Leh Palace -
![Thikse, Ladakh]()
Thikse, Ladakh
Accommodation choices for Leh
We’ve selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit Leh. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.
Spic N Span
Spic n Span is a modern hotel built in the traditional Ladakhi style, located in the heart of Leh town.
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.
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.