Understand

Leh, a small town located in the Indus river valley, is a historical crossroads of ancient trading routes from Kashgar, Tibet, and Kashmir. Once an important trading town, its significance diminished after the partition of British India and the closure of the border during the Sino-Indian war in 1962. Since opening its doors to tourists in 1974, Leh has transformed into a vibrant tourist hub, attracting large numbers of Kashmiri traders. Get ready for an adventure in this compact, mud brick-filled old town! Explore the narrow lanes, mingle with the locals, and discover hidden treasures. Don't forget to visit the bustling Main Bazaar, situated at an impressive elevation of 3505 meters. However, be cautious of altitude sickness, as even experienced high altitude travelers might experience some trouble. To make the most out of your Leh experience, it's highly recommended to seek professional guidance. Various giants in the travel industry offer customized packages tailored to suit your every need. So, why shoot for the moon when you have the whole cosmos to explore with their help?

Get in

Leh, a captivating town in northern India, is accessible by two extraordinary roads. The first, winding its way from the south, begins in Manali, a breathtaking hill station nestled in the scenic landscapes of Himachal Pradesh. The second route, originating from the west, starts in Srinagar, the vibrant capital of Jammu and Kashmir. Both paths, although time consuming, offer unparalleled beauty to behold. With their narrow and winding roads, these routes promise a thrilling adventure for anyone seeking to explore Leh. However, brace yourself for numerous military checkpoints along the way. Embarking on the Srinagar route, spanning a distance of 434 km (270 mi), presents several advantages. It runs at a lower altitude, mitigating the risks of altitude sickness. Additionally, this road remains open for a longer duration, usually from June to October. Following the ancient trade route between Ladakh and Kashmir, the passage takes you through charming villages and serene farmlands. A stopover in the historical town of Kargil is recommended for a rejuvenating overnight rest. Prices for tickets on ordinary and deluxe buses are set at Rupees 370 and 470 respectively. On the other hand, the Manali-Leh route, covering 473 km (294 mi), is often favored by tourists. This path demands two days of travel and offers an overnight break in either Keylong, situated at an elevation of 3096 meters, or in tent accommodations amidst the wilderness of Sarchu (4253 meters) or Pang (4500 meters). Choosing Keylong as the first stop significantly reduces the risk of altitude sickness. As you traverse this ancient trade route, memories of the India-China war of 1962 linger in the air. Majestic snow-capped peaks loom overhead, crafting a jaw-dropping spectacle. However, do bear in mind that this route is not for the faint-hearted. Reliable access is limited to mid-June through end-September, as snow obstructs the path for the remainder of the year. The clearance of snow begins in early April, with updates about full accessibility shared on the official website of Leh: [1][^1^].

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Dish: Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani)Butter chicken is a rich and creamy curry made with marinated chicken pieces cooked in a tomato-based sauce. The dish originated in the Indian subcontinent and gained popularity in Canada due to the large population of Indian immigrants. It's typically served with basmati rice and naan bread. Butter chicken contains meat – chicken.

Dish: BiryaniBiryani is a popular rice dish made by cooking Basmati rice with meat (usually chicken, goat, or fish), vegetables, yogurt, and a blend of spices. It originates from the Indian subcontinent and is often considered the national dish of Pakistan. It's known for its flavorful layers and distinct aroma. Biryani contains meat – primarily chicken, goat, or fish.

Dish: SamosasSamosas are deep-fried or baked pastry snacks filled with a savory mixture of spiced potatoes, onions, peas, and sometimes meat. They originate from South Asia and have become a popular street food across India. Often served as an appetizer or a quick snack, samosas can be found at roadside stalls, train stations, and even weddings. Samosas can contain meat – typically potatoes, onions, and peas, but some varieties may include meat such as chicken or lamb.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing