Leh is a mystical place hidden in the mountains of Ladakh. With its beautiful landscapes, ancient monasteries, and crystal blue skies, this is a town that seems to be a world away. If you are visiting Leh for the first time, then three days is a perfect amount of time to explore the beauty of Leh. The following is a basic itinerary that will enable you to enjoy your trip, as well as not to hurry up or get overwhelmed.
Day One: Start with the Most Famous Spots
Your first day in Leh should start with the most popular attraction in Leh, Shanti Stupa. This beautiful white dome is situated on a hilltop, and it has breathtaking views of the entire valley. The calm ambience of this place will instantly soothe your mind. After spending some time at the stupa, you can explore the areas and other points of interest near the stupa . This is a day of just soaking in the beauty and getting to grips with the high altitude. Be relaxed and enjoy every moment. This should keep you busy with something nice for about seven hours of your day.
Day Two: Discover the North Side of Town
The second day, take the road to the north side of Leh. Start your morning at the old Leh Palace that was once the royal home of the Ladakhi kings. The palace is a tall fort that faces the mountains and offers you a glimpse of the history of the region. After taking a tour of the palace, you can relax by visiting local shops such as the Zanskar Arts and the pashmina showrooms. Ladakh is well known for beautiful shawls and handicrafts, and hence, this is the right time to shop for some souvenirs. You’ll have a fun day full of discoveries, lasting around seven hours
Day Three: Explore and Shop Before You Leave
Your very last day in Leh should be a combination of sightseeing and shopping. You can go back to Shanti Stupa in the morning for the sunrise views. Thereafter, start your way through the city slowly, stopping at interesting spots along the way. End your trip at Moti Market Leh, where you can buy traditional items, jewellery, and local snacks. This relaxed day will take approximately eight hours and leave you with wonderful memories that you can take home with you.
Where to Stay for a Comfortable Trip
Finding the right place to stay is very important, especially in a place like Leh, which has cold weather and a high altitude that requires time to acclimatize. Luckily, there are a number of wonderful hotels in Leh which provide comfort and warmth. The Bodhi Tree is a beautiful choice for those who wish to be peaceful on their journeys. The Grand Dragon Ladakh is luxurious and provides very good service. If you want a cosy and stylish experience, The Driftwood Ladakh and Charmwood Hotel are good ones. For something really special, The Postcard in The Himalayan Willows presents you with a unique Himalayan experience. And if you are planning to visit Pangong Lake thereafter, The Pangong Hotel is an absolutely fantastic choice.
Tips to Make Your Trip Easier
Leh is situated at a very high altitude so allow time to let your body adjust to it. Drink plenty of water, get some rest on your first day and avoid heavy physical activities. Carry some warm clothes even if you visit here in summer, as nights can get cold. Also, have some cash handy, as not all shops take cards.
Conclusion
Leh is a place that you will never forget. With this easy-to-follow three-day itinerary, you will be able to visit its best spots, enjoy some local culture and create some beautiful memories. Choose from the many amazing hotels in Leh, plan your days wisely and get ready for an adventure you will not forget for the rest of your life.
