Discover the Hidden Gems: 10 Must-Visit Spots in Leh-Ladakh
4 min read
1. Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary
Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the high-altitude region of Ladakh, India, and spans across 4,000 square kilometres. It is known for its stunning landscapes, including vast plateaus, lakes, and snow-capped mountains, as well as its unique biodiversity. The sanctuary is home to several rare and endangered species such as the snow leopard, Tibetan wolf, and black-necked crane.
2. Tso Moriri Lake – Hidden beauty of Ladakh
Tso Moriri Lake, nestled in the remote region of Ladakh, is a stunning, high-altitude lake known for its pristine blue waters and serene surroundings. It is home to diverse wildlife, including rare bird species, making it a haven for nature lovers. Surrounded by majestic mountains, Tso Moriri offers breathtaking views and a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
3. Hemis National Park & Wildlife Sanctuary
Hemis National Park, located in the eastern Ladakh region of India, is the country’s largest national park and is known for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. It is home to the elusive snow leopard, as well as other rare species such as the Asiatic ibex, Tibetan wolf, and red fox. The park also encompasses several high-altitude monasteries and offers opportunities for trekking and wildlife observation in a unique Himalayan setting.
4. Spituk Gompa – Seek the Divine Grace
Spituk Gompa is a stunning Buddhist monastery located near Leh, India, known for its panoramic views and sacred atmosphere. The monastery, founded in the 11th century, houses ancient artifacts, colourful murals, and valuable scriptures. Seek divine grace and spiritual tranquillity as you explore its serene halls and participate in prayers and rituals.
5. Magnetic Hill – Place Where Gravity Fails
Magnetic Hill, often considered a “gravity hill,” is a location where the layout of the surrounding land creates an optical illusion that makes a slight downhill slope appear to be an uphill slope. This effect causes objects, like vehicles, to appear as though they are rolling uphill against gravity. These phenomena can be found in various places worldwide and often attract curious visitors who want to experience the unusual sensation.
6. Khardung- La Pass- Scenic Motorable Pass
Khardung La Pass, located in the Ladakh region of India, is one of the highest motorable passes in the world, sitting at an elevation of around 5,359 meters (17,582 feet). The pass offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains and valleys, making it a favourite among adventure seekers and nature lovers. Despite the challenging road conditions, the pass is a popular destination for travellers exploring the rugged beauty of the Himalayas.
7. Kargil – Adventure Hub
Kargil is a picturesque town in the Indian Union Territory of Ladakh, known for its stunning landscapes and rugged terrain. It offers a wide range of adventure activities, including trekking, mountaineering, and river rafting, making it a hub for outdoor enthusiasts. Kargil’s unique location provides an opportunity to explore the beauty of the Himalayas while immersing yourself in the region’s rich culture and history.
8. Pangong Lake – Color Changing Lake
Pangong Lake, located in the Himalayas on the border between India and China, is known for its mesmerizing colour-changing waters, shifting hues from blue to green to shades of grey depending on the sunlight and time of day. This high-altitude lake is situated at over 4,200 meters (13,800 feet) above sea level, making it one of the highest navigable lakes in the world. Its breathtaking beauty and serene environment attract tourists from around the world, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and photographers.
9. Zanskar Valley – Valley of secluded serenity
Zanskar Valley, nestled in the Indian Himalayas, is a stunning destination known for its rugged beauty and remote tranquility. Often called the “Valley of Secluded Serenity,” it offers breathtaking landscapes, including towering mountains, deep gorges, and pristine rivers. The region is home to ancient monasteries and traditional Tibetan culture, providing a peaceful retreat for those seeking solitude and spiritual reflection.
10. Lamayuru – Moonland of Ladakh
Lamayuru, often referred to as the “Moonland of Ladakh,” is known for its otherworldly landscapes that resemble the moon’s surface due to its unique, eroded hills and valleys. The region is home to one of Ladakh’s oldest monasteries, the Lamayuru Monastery, which boasts stunning views and a rich cultural history. Visitors to Lamayuru can enjoy its serene atmosphere and explore the picturesque lunar-like scenery that sets it apart from other parts of Ladakh.
