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3 Days in Leh for a Tasty Food Trip
Leh is a hidden gem for food lovers, blending Tibetan, Ladakhi, and Kashmiri flavors in the most unexpected ways. Over three days, you'll get to taste everything from steaming momos to rich butter tea, all while soaking in the stunning Himalayan backdrop. I've put together this itinerary based on my favorite spots and local secrets to help you eat like a true Ladakhi.
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Day 1
Day 1 in Leh
Start your Leh adventure with its most iconic sights and flavors, from the historic Leh Palace to the bustling local markets and must-try Ladakhi dishes.
Activities
Leh Palace Visit
Kick off your day with a visit to the 17th-century Leh Palace, a smaller cousin of Lhasa's Potala Palace. The nine-story structure offers panoramic views of the town and surrounding mountains. Wander through its empty halls and imagine the royal life of the Namgyal dynasty. The climb to the top is steep but worth it for the sunrise views over Leh.
- Wear sturdy shoes for the uneven steps
- Carry water – the altitude makes climbing harder
Explore Leh Market & Local Eats
Head to Leh Main Market, a vibrant mix of Tibetan, Kashmiri, and Ladakhi culture. Browse through stalls selling pashminas, prayer wheels, and apricot products. Stop by local bakeries for fresh khambir (Ladakhi bread) with butter tea. Don’t miss the tiny momo stalls tucked in alleys – try the steamed beef momos with fiery chutney.
- Bargain politely – prices are often inflated for tourists
- Try seabuckthorn juice – a local superfood drink
Shanti Stupa Sunset
End your day at the gleaming white Shanti Stupa, built by Japanese monks for peace. The 500-step climb (or short taxi ride) rewards you with 360-degree views of the Indus Valley. Time your visit for sunset when the stupa glows golden and monks chant prayers. It’s quieter than daytime, with just a few locals circumambulating the dome.
- Walk clockwise around the stupa as per Buddhist tradition
- Carry a light jacket – it gets windy up there
Must Try Foods
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Day 2
Leh Culture & Cuisine Day
Dive deeper into Leh's rich culture and flavors with monastery visits, local markets, and authentic Ladakhi meals.
Activities
Hemis Monastery & Museum
Start your day with a visit to Hemis Monastery, the largest and wealthiest monastery in Ladakh. The peaceful vibe and stunning architecture make it a must-see. Don’t miss the museum inside, which houses ancient relics, thangkas (Buddhist paintings), and a giant statue of Buddha. The drive here is scenic, winding through rugged mountains.
- Wear modest clothing as it’s a religious site.
- Carry water and sunscreen—the high altitude sun is strong.
Local Thukpa & Momos at Neha Snacks
Head back to Leh and stop by Neha Snacks, a humble local eatery famous for its thukpa (noodle soup) and momos. The beef momos here are a hit, but they also serve vegetarian options. The broth in the thukpa is rich and warming—perfect after a morning of exploring.
- Try their chili chutney with momos—it’s fiery but delicious.
- Cash-only spot, so carry small bills.
Stroll & Shopping at Tibetan Market
Spend the late afternoon browsing the Tibetan Market, a colorful strip of stalls selling everything from pashmina shawls to handmade jewelry. Bargaining is expected here, so don’t hesitate to negotiate. The market is also a great place to pick up souvenirs like prayer flags or Ladakhi hats.
- Look for authentic handmade items—avoid mass-produced trinkets.
- Carry a reusable bag; many shops don’t provide plastic.
Must Try Foods
Transportation
Day 3
Leh’s Hidden Gems & Local Flavors
A relaxed day exploring lesser-known spots and savoring Ladakh’s unique flavors, from quiet monasteries to cozy family-run eateries.
Activities
Morning at Shey Palace & Monastery
Skip the crowds and head to Shey, just 15 km from Leh. The ruined palace offers stunning views of the Indus Valley, and the nearby monastery houses a striking 12-meter Buddha statue. The vibe here is peaceful, with fewer tourists than Hemis or Thiksey.
- Wear sturdy shoes—the climb to the palace ruins is rocky.
- Look for the small prayer wheels near the monastery entrance—locals spin them for blessings.
Lunch at Gesmo Restaurant
A Leh institution run by a Ladakhi family, Gesmo feels like eating in someone’s cozy kitchen. Their butter tea is the real deal (salty and rich), and the yak cheese momos are a must-try. The apricot jam with fresh bread is a sweet local touch.
- Ask for the daily Ladakhi special—it’s often not on the menu.
- Cash only—no card payments accepted.
Stok Village & Homemade Chhang
A short drive south of Leh, Stok feels worlds away. Visit the modest Stok Monastery, then stop by a local home (ask your driver to arrange) to try chhang, Ladakh’s fermented barley beer. It’s served warm in wooden cups and has a mild, earthy flavor. The village views of the Stok Kangri range are breathtaking.
- Don’t confuse chhang with the stronger ara—chhang is milder.
- Respect local customs—ask before taking photos of homes or people.