Visiting Ladakh is an adventure of a lifetime. This destination is the dream destination of every traveler. After all, it’s a land of high passes. When people visit this place, they often miss out on the best places to visit in Ladakh. There’s a lot to explore at this breathtaking destination.
Ladakh in itself is a very big union territory. Every place you visit at this destination will leave you spellbound. Here, we’ll tell you about 20 such places in this rugged terrain that you must explore.
20 Must Visit Places In Ladakh
Most travelers get to travel to Ladakh only once in a lifetime. Let’s admit it! It’s a far-away destination and you need to make a lot of preparations to reach Ladakh.
For example, you’ll need to pack a lot of warm clothes and jackets, make yourself comfortable with the low oxygen levels, and much more! Let’s not forget about the challenging terrains you have to navigate to witness some of the most beautiful landscapes.
But where’s the fun if you don’t know what’s the best time to visit Leh Ladakh and spend most of your time traveling and exploring different terrains to reach Ladakh? That’s what makes traveling adventurous, isn’t it?
Well, since you might get only one chance to explore this place, make sure you cover every attraction. Here’s a list of the 20 best places to visit in Ladakh.
1. Nubra Valley
Dubai isn’t the only place where you can witness the best sand dunes. If you don’t believe us, just visit the amazing Nubra Valley. This valley has stunning sand dunes that make a perfect backdrop for pictures.
You’ll also find the beautiful and clear Shyok River in Nubra Valley. Let’s not forget to mention the Bactrian camels that you can ride here.
2. Diskit Monastery
When you’re in Nubra Valley, you can also visit Diskit Monastery. This monastery is one of the best places to visit in Ladakh because of its historical significance. Diskit Monastery is one of the oldest monasteries here.
This place is worth visiting because of the meditative atmosphere it offers to the visitors. You’ll experience peace and serenity when you visit this place.
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It wouldn’t come as a surprise to know that you’ve never heard about these places. Well, it’s not your fault since Panamik and Turtuk are the two hidden gems in Nubra Valley.
These destinations are a paradise for trekkers. So, if you are in for some trekking adventure, you can definitely add Panamik and Turtuk to your to-do things in Ladakh!
4. Leh
Leh is going to be the starting point of your vacation. When you reach Leh, spend some time acclimating yourself to the atmosphere.
Your vacation’s starting point will offer you a lot of adventure activities. For example, you can enjoy river water rafting, mountain biking, etc., in Leh.
5. Pangong Lake
Pangong Lake has gained a lot of popularity and you’ll also find this lake featured in many movies. Believe us: This lake deserves the hype! The crystal-clear water at this lake will leave you mesmerized.
It’s one of the best places to visit in Ladakh for birdwatchers. You can also set up your camp near the lake and sleep under the stars.
6. Tso Moriri
We bet that you’ve heard about only one beautiful lake in Ladakh – The Pangong Lake. But there’s one more lake that you should explore. Tso Moriri is a clean and beautiful lake located at a high altitude in Ladakh.
The snow-capped peaks that surround this lake make it look even more breathtaking. If you are a wildlife lover, visiting this lake is even more fun since you might get to spot some rare Himalayan species.
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7. Magnetic Hill
Everyone has heard of Magnetic Hill in Ladakh. When you visit this hill, you’ll notice something unusual. Your car would move uphill without power. Magnetic Hill defies the law of gravity and creates illusions for the people.
8. Gurudwara Pathar Sahib
Here’s another place that you can add to your places to visit in Ladakh list. Gurudwara Pathar Sahib was constructed in the memory of Guru Nanak Singh when he visited Leh.
You can visit this Gurudwara when you explore Magnetic Hill. The distance between the two destinations is not much.
9. Khardung La
If you skip visiting Khardung La, we’d say that you wasted your trip to Ladakh. Traversing Khardung La in Ladakh is the dream of every biker or person who loves off-roading. You’ll realize what we mean when you witness the natural beauty that awaits you here.
Khardung La is the highest motorable road in the world and the views that you’ll see here are unparalleled.
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10. Hemis Monastery
Hemis Monastery is an architectural beauty in Ladakh. Also, it’s known to be one of the wealthiest monasteries here. On visiting this monastery, you can learn about its historical significance.
If you’re lucky, you might get to witness Hemis festival where Ladakhis perform masked dances, plays, etc. This monastery is one of the best places to visit in Ladakh if you love to meditate or introspect.
11. Zanskar Valley
Zanskar Valley is an isolated area but it’s literally a paradise that you must explore. The crazy thing about this place is that as soon as it snows heavily, it gets cut off from the rest of the region.
There are many high-altitude treks in Zanskar Valley. So, make sure when you visit Ladakh, you enjoy your piece of adventure in this valley.
12. Chadar Trek
If you’re brave enough to survive almost inhospitable conditions for 6-7 days, try Chadar Trek in Ladakh! As you trek through the frozen Zanskar River, you’ll see a lot of natural wonders. But let’s warn you! Don’t begin this trek if you are faint-hearted.
Chadar Trek is the best for experienced trekkers. The temperature at this place can drop as low as -10 degrees Celsius. If you go on this trek, it’s going to be one of the best experiences of your life.
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13. Shey Palace
Shey Palace is the summer capital of Ladakh and one of the top places to visit in Ladakh.
Shey Palace has a stunning architectural beauty. You’ll love its beautifully carved interiors, murals, Buddha statues, and whatnot! Another thing you’ll like about visiting this palace is the panoramic views you’ll witness. This palace provides you with some of the most beautiful picture-perfect spots.
14. Alchi Monastery
There’s no shortage of monasteries in Ladakh. All of the monasteries here are remarkably beautiful. One such monastery is the Alchi Monastery. It’s famous for its unique Kashmiri-style art and sculptures.
As you explore this monastery, you’ll discover Thangka paintings. The paintings and murals at this monastery will allow you to delve deep into Buddhist mythology.
15. Spituk Monastery
If you want to revive your soul, we recommend you attend a prayer session at the Spituk Monastery. Spituk Monastery is a religious institution and one of the best places to visit in Ladakh.
You can also attend the Spituk Gustor Festival here if it coincides with your visit. You’ll definitely love the Ladakhi culture and their way of celebrating important festivals.
16. Shanti Stupa
The Shanti Stupa in Ladakh is the symbol of peace. It’s also a spot where you can meditate and enjoy a peaceful environment.
We recommend you visit Shanti Stupa at the time of sunset or sunrise. This place offers some of the most stunning views during these times.
17. Chang La
Khardung La isn’t the only mountain pass that’s worth visiting. You can also add Chang La to your list of places to visit in Ladakh. This pass is at an elevation of 5,360 meters.
As you reach the top, you’ll see two of the most beautiful lakes – Tso Moriri and Tso Kar. Don’t forget to stop for a cup of tea at any small tea stall at Chang La.
18. Hall Of Fame
Hall Of Fame is a museum that pays tribute to the Indian Armed Forces. You’ll learn about some of the most heroic deeds of the armed forces as you visit this museum. ‘
The Hall Of Fame is well-known to pay Homage to the heroes who protect the nation.
19. Kargil
If you’re traveling to Ladakh via Srinagar, you can also explore Kargil en route. This destination is often overlooked but it’s just as beautiful as Leh.
In ancient times, Kargil was a part of the Silk Route. The Kargil War of 1999 was also fought here. While in Kargil, you can also explore the Kargil war memorial in Dras. At this memorial, you will find photographs, equipment, and stories of valor from the war.
20. Suru Valley
While visiting Kargil, you can also explore the Suru Valley. You’ll find some of the most beautiful and lush green fields here. The rivers in Suru Valley are crystal clear.
This valley is also home to beautiful villages. Unlike the rugged terrain of Ladakh, Suru Valley offers a serene contrast. Also, you’ll find some great trekking destinations in this valley.
It’s A Wrap!
You might have spent a couple of months planning your vacation to Ladakh. But if you don’t explore all the places there, it would be a waste of a trip! So, take note of these 20 places to visit in Ladakh.
Make sure that you cover all these places to make your vacation wholesome. Every destination in this list has a beauty of its own! So, keep a list of these places handy before you hop on your bike or get into your car to reach Ladakh.
