Best Time to Visit Leh
June to September is the main season, when the roads and high passes are generally open. Winter is very cold, and travel then is by air only, with limited services.
- Home
- Destinations
- Leh
Leh – Gateway to Ladakh
Leh is the main town of Ladakh and the starting point for almost every trip in the region. It sits in the Indus valley at around 3,500 metres, with a ruined royal palace above the old town and monasteries on the surrounding hills.
At a Glance
Leh Quick Facts
- RegionLadakh
- AltitudeAround 3,500 metres
- Best timeJune to September
- Suggested stay2 to 3 nights, including acclimatisation
- Good forCulture, monasteries and road trips
Introduction
About Leh
Every Ladakh itinerary begins with time here, both to see the town and to let your body adjust to the altitude before travelling higher.
Leh was a stop on the old trade routes between Kashmir, Tibet and Central Asia, and the town still has a market culture alongside its Buddhist heritage. Leh Palace and Shanti Stupa overlook the town from opposite sides.
The Indus valley on either side of Leh holds some of Ladakh's best-known monasteries, including Thiksey and Hemis. To the west, the road towards Kargil passes Magnetic Hill and the meeting point of the Indus and Zanskar rivers.
Leh is also the base for the two most popular excursions in Ladakh: Nubra Valley and Pangong Lake.
Sightseeing
Best Places to Visit in Leh
-
Leh Palace
A nine-storey 17th-century palace above the old town, with rooftop views across Leh.
-
Shanti Stupa
A white hilltop stupa that is especially popular at sunrise and sunset.
-
Leh Market
The pedestrian main bazaar, good for an easy first-evening walk.
-
Thiksey Monastery
A large hillside monastery east of Leh, known for its tall Maitreya Buddha statue.
-
Hemis Monastery
One of the largest monasteries in Ladakh, set in a side valley south of the Indus.
-
Shey Palace
The old summer palace of the Ladakhi kings, on the road to Thiksey.
-
Hall of Fame
A museum maintained by the Indian Army, dedicated to soldiers who served in the region.
-
Magnetic Hill
A stretch of road west of Leh known for an optical illusion in which vehicles appear to roll uphill.
-
Gurudwara Pathar Sahib
A Sikh shrine on the Leh to Kargil road, usually visited together with Magnetic Hill.
-
Sangam
The confluence of the Indus and Zanskar rivers near Nimmu, where the two waters meet in different colours.
Experiences
Things to Do in Leh
-
1
Rest and Acclimatise
Spend your first day taking it slowly. This is the most important thing you will do in Ladakh.
-
2
Watch Sunset at Shanti Stupa
Drive or climb up for the evening light over the town and the Stok range.
-
3
Tour the Indus Valley Monasteries
Visit Shey, Thiksey and Hemis in a single relaxed day.
-
4
Drive the Sham Valley Road
See Hall of Fame, Pathar Sahib, Magnetic Hill and Sangam on a half-day outing west of Leh.
-
5
Walk the Old Town
Explore the lanes below the palace and the market on foot once you feel settled.
Plan Your Visit
Leh Travel Information
How to Reach Leh
Leh has an airport with flights from major Indian cities. By road, the Srinagar to Leh and Manali to Leh highways are open for part of the year, depending on snow conditions.
Altitude and Acclimatisation
Leh sits at around 3,500 metres. Rest for the first 24 to 48 hours, drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol and heavy exertion. If you have a heart or lung condition, speak to your doctor before travelling.
Good to Know
Leh Travel Tips
- Only postpaid mobile connections generally work in Ladakh. Coverage outside Leh is limited.
- Carry enough cash. ATMs are available in Leh but not in most places beyond it.
- Permit and fee rules for areas such as Nubra and Pangong change from time to time. We arrange what is required for your dates.
- The sun is strong at altitude. Use sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat even when the air feels cold.
- If you fly in, do not plan a high pass on your first or second day.
Road conditions, opening times and local rules change through the year. We confirm the details for your travel dates when we plan your trip.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days should I spend in Leh?
Plan at least two nights in Leh at the start of your trip for acclimatisation, plus time at the end if you are flying out.
Do I need to acclimatise in Leh?
Yes, particularly if you arrive by air. Resting for the first 24 to 48 hours greatly reduces the risk of altitude sickness.
What is the best time to visit Leh?
June to September is the main travel season, when roads and passes are generally open.
Can I travel from Srinagar to Leh by road?
Yes, when the highway is open. It is usually done over two days with a night in Kargil. See our Kashmir and Ladakh combined packages.
Is Leh suitable for children and older travellers?
Many families visit, but the altitude needs to be taken seriously. Please consult a doctor before planning the trip.
Planning a Ladakh Trip?
Tell us your dates and we'll build a Ladakh itinerary with the right acclimatisation time built in.