Exploring the magnificent Leh
Serenity, blissfulness and geographical treasures can redefine Leh, once the capital of the Himalayan Kingdom Ladakh and presently mapped as a district of Jammu and Kashmir. This is the second largest district of India with an average area of 17,417 sq miles/45,110 Km.
Here at Leh, you can get peace of mind to rejuvenate once again, spectacular panoramic views to heal your eyes and a great adventurous getaway when you will hire a bike and ride all the way to kill your fatigue and stress that you have collected from the city life.
History
Until 17th century, Leh has been ruled by King Sengge Namgyal, who became habituate of the frequent attacks of the Muslims from Kashmir region. Later on Leh is elevated of being a state capital and flourished through trade and commerce for the Silk Route.
The royal palace of Leh, popularly known as the Leh Palace, was built by King Sengge Namgyal within 1612–1642. It is presumed that within that tenure, the Portuguese Jesuit priest, Francisco de Azevedo visited Leh and Sengge Namgyal's dies in 1642.
Attraction & Activities
Leh can be your ideal destination, if you are tired of the daily hustles and bustles of city life and looking forward to move to a serene place with blissfulness and a romantic aura. Besides, if you want adventure, you can bike to reach Leh after reaching a certain point by road. It can be an experience of your lifetime. You bet!
Alongside, if you can plan the trip considering the festivals and fiestas here, you are going to have a blast altogether. The Ladakh Festival, Hemis Festival, and Losar Festival are worth mentioning carnivals of Ladakh- Leh.
The most popular sightseeing at Leh are:
Pangong Lake
Located at a distance of 160 kilometers from Ladakh, Pangong Lake is one of the most popular places here. The drive to the lake is an additional advantage for nature lovers. The crystal blue water of the lake and the while snowcapped mountains at the backdrop creates a perfect ambience to rest here for some time and trek the place. Weather remains pleasant all throughout the year.
If you have a passion to watch migrating birds, then Pangon Lake will not disappoint you. Black necked Siberianis spotted here besides, other rare species birds. The Mahe marshes are said to be the only breeding places of the Siberian birds. So don’t forget to bring your high mega pixel camera to capture the perfect shots.
Tso Moriri Lake
This is another beautiful lake, which is around 60 Kms from Leh and the 6-7 hours of thrilling and adventurous drive on the Rupshu Valley can be breathtaking for the exquisite beauty of the place all around.
Leh Palacea
The 17th Century Leh Palace is almost a ruin now; still people visit this place for the historical significance. It is now maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India.
Shanti Stupa
This Stupa has a significance of its own for being created in a collaboration of Ladakh and Japan to preserve the relics of the Buddha. This place is under the surveillance of the Dalai Lama Himself.
Namgyal Tsemo Gompa
The three story monastery with an image of Buddha and ancient scripts will thrill you here.
Victory Tower This is a shrine built in the memory of the Ladakhies over the Balti Kashmir force during the 16th century.
How to reach Ladakh ?
Road distances :
Delhi - Leh - 1047 Kms
Srinagar - Leh - 434 Km
Kargil - Padum (Zanskar) - 240 Km
Manali - Leh - 473 Km
Srinagar - Kargil - 204 Km
Indian Airlines operates 3 flights in a week from Leh-Delhi. Jet Airways offer 6 flights and Go Air operates daily flights from Leh-Delhi.