8 Breathtaking Places to Visit in Ladakh, the Land of the Broken Moon

Pangong Tso is one of the highest lakes in the world. The water stretches for over 130 kilometers across the border between India and China. The lake changes color from blue to green throughout the day as the sun moves. You can spend hours just sitting by the water and watching the mountains. The area around the lake is perfect for photography and camping. Many travelers stay overnight to see the stars at night.

Nubra Valley sits north of Leh and offers green landscapes in the middle of desert mountains. The valley has small villages where you can meet local people and learn about their lives. There are double-humped camels that you can ride on the sand dunes near Hunder village. The Diskit Monastery stands on a hill with a large Buddha statue that you can see from far away. The valley also has hot springs and several old monasteries worth exploring.

Khardung La is one of the highest motorable passes in the world at about 5,359 meters. The road to the top is challenging but the views are worth the effort. Snow covers the pass for most of the year, even in summer months. You can see prayer flags everywhere, moving in the strong wind. Many travelers stop here to take photos and drink tea at the small cafe. The pass connects Leh to Nubra Valley and shows you how high the Himalayas really are.

Thiksey Monastery looks similar to the Potala Palace in Tibet. The white buildings climb up the hillside in steps, creating an impressive sight. Inside, you can find a large statue of Maitreya Buddha that is 15 meters tall. The monastery has prayer rooms with old paintings and religious objects. Morning prayers start early and you can join the monks if you wake up in time. The view from the top shows the Indus Valley and surrounding villages below.

Tso Moriri is a high-altitude lake in the Changthang region, less crowded than Pangong Tso. The lake sits at 4,522 meters and is home to many birds, including the black-necked crane. The water is deep blue and very clear, reflecting the mountains around it. Small villages near the lake show you traditional Ladakhi life without many tourists. You need a special permit to visit this area. The peace and quiet here make it special for people who want to escape busy places.

Leh Palace was built in the 17th century and looks over the whole city. The palace has nine floors and was home to the royal family of Ladakh. Now it sits empty, but you can walk through the old rooms and halls. The thick walls and small windows show how people lived in the cold mountain climate. The palace is especially beautiful at sunset when the light makes the building glow. The view from the top shows Leh town, the mountains, and the valley stretching far away.

Shanti Stupa is a white peace monument built on top of a hill in Leh. Japanese Buddhist monks built it in 1991 to promote world peace. The stupa has golden Buddha statues on all four sides. You can reach it by road or climb the steep steps from the town. The monument is especially popular at sunset when many people gather to watch the sky change colors. The location gives you a 360-degree view of Leh and the surrounding mountains.

Zanskar Valley is more remote than other parts of Ladakh and harder to reach. The valley has dramatic landscapes with deep gorges and high peaks all around. In winter, the Zanskar River freezes completely and you can walk on it. The valley has several ancient monasteries including Karsha and Phugtal, which sit in caves on cliff sides. Life here moves slowly and you can see how people manage in such isolated conditions. The valley is perfect if you want adventure and solitude away from other travelers.