Leh Tourist Attractions!

Leh has attracted tourists for its distinct identity. Its popularity revolves around being the centre point of Tibeto-Buddhism cultures since ages. Colorful Gompas, splendid landscapes, friendly inhabitants, dazzling lakes and Buddhist monasteries evoke a touch spirituality to any tourist.

Thiksey Gompa is known for its splendid magic of Ladakhi architecture. It is one of the oldest gompas in Ladakh. The beauty of the gompas lies in its marvelous stupas, images and fine wall paintings. The two-storeyed statue of Buddha, the art gallery and the main prayer hall are some other features of this ancient gompa.

Stok Palace, about 200 yrs old, once served as the residence of the banished royal family. The palace consists of a museum where one can get a glimpse of the rare jewelries, tankhyas displaying the life history of the Sakya Muni Buddha. There are several fascinating objects which include Armour, seals, weapons and a whole lot more.

Spituk Monastery, situated about 8 kms from Leh is perched on a hillock facing the mysterious Indus Valley. The monastery was built in 15th century and houses several valuable collections of ancient masks and an image of Mahakala. Apart from all these, several tankhyas and icons are also stored in the monastery. Tourists can get a glimpse of the covered face of Kali at the annual function held in January every two years.

Hemis Gompa, located at a distance of 40 kms from Leh was built in 1630. It is considered amongst the richest, biggest & well known Gompa in Ladakh. Innumerable tankhyas, beautiful images of Buddha and lovely silver chortens adorned with several precious stones can capitivate anyone. Another reason for its popularity is it serves as the venue for the annual festival held in summer in honour of Guru Padma Sambhava's birth anniversary . The spectacular fresco known as the Wheel of Life is another striking feature of this Gompa.

Alchi Gompa, situated on the banks of the Indus dates back to some thousand years. It is situated 70 kms from Leh. One can see several pictures of Buddha hanging on the wall, six temples comprising of seated Buddha, a chorten and lovely paintings. The painted walls displaying the course of events in the life of Buddha, lamas and musicians.