Jammu and Kashmir
Explore the beauty, culture, and attractions of Jammu and Kashmir.
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2 Days in Leh for a Stunning Nature Trip
Leh is where the mountains meet the sky, and every turn feels like a postcard. I've spent countless mornings sipping butter tea while watching the sun paint the peaks gold. This itinerary packs the best of Leh's natural beauty into two days, from serene lakes to rugged valleys, all while keeping things relaxed and enjoyable.
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Day 1
Day 1 in Leh
Start your Leh adventure with its most iconic sights, from ancient monasteries to breathtaking viewpoints, and soak in the local flavors.
Activities
Visit Leh Palace
Kick off your day at Leh Palace, a stunning 17th-century royal residence perched high above the town. The palace offers panoramic views of Leh and the surrounding mountains. Wander through its empty halls and imagine the grandeur of the Namgyal dynasty. The climb up is steep but worth it for the vistas.
- Wear comfortable shoes for the climb
- Bring water and sunscreen
Explore Shanti Stupa
Head to Shanti Stupa, a gleaming white Buddhist stupa built to promote peace. The short hike up rewards you with sweeping views of the Indus Valley and Leh town. The stupa is especially serene in the late morning light, and you might catch monks chanting.
- Respect the silence and remove shoes before entering
- Carry a light jacket as it can get windy
Stroll through Leh Market
Spend your evening browsing Leh Market, a lively mix of Tibetan handicrafts, pashmina shawls, and local souvenirs. The market is also a great place to try Ladakhi snacks or pick up some apricot jam, a regional specialty. The narrow lanes buzz with energy as locals and tourists mingle.
- Bargain politely for better prices
- Try the local butter tea at a café
Must Try Foods
Transportation
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Day 2
Day 2 in Leh
A mix of nature, culture, and local flavors to round off your Leh experience, focusing on the stunning landscapes and unique Ladakhi traditions.
Activities
Hike to Hemis Monastery
Start your day with a scenic drive to Hemis Monastery, the largest and wealthiest monastery in Ladakh. Nestled in the mountains, it’s a peaceful spot with vibrant murals and a fascinating museum. The hike up is gentle but rewarding, with panoramic views of the Indus Valley. If you’re lucky, you might catch monks chanting in the prayer hall.
- Wear sturdy shoes for the hike
- Check if there’s a festival happening—Hemis is famous for its annual Tsechu
Visit Thiksey Monastery
On your way back to Leh, stop at Thiksey Monastery, often called 'Mini Potala' for its resemblance to Lhasa’s Potala Palace. The 12-story complex is a maze of chapels, stupas, and a giant Maitreya Buddha statue. The midday light here is perfect for photography, and the quiet ambiance makes it a great place to reflect.
- Climb to the rooftop for breathtaking views
- Respect the silence—monks are often in prayer
Relax at Shey Palace and Monastery
End your day at Shey Palace, the former summer retreat of Ladakhi kings. Though partly in ruins, the palace offers a quiet charm, and the adjacent monastery houses a striking 12-meter Shakyamuni Buddha statue. The surrounding barley fields and willow trees make it a serene spot to unwind before heading back to Leh.
- Bring water—there’s little shade
- Combine this with a picnic by the nearby Shey Lake