Leh and the Indus Valley

Leh, the capital of Ladakh, was once an important stop on the historic Asian Silk Road between Xinjiang in China and the plains of India. However, until 1974, it was virtually out of bounds to tourists and retains its rustic charm today. Often considered more Tibetan than Tibet, Leh shares many cultural similarities with its trans-Himalayan neighbour Lhasa, and is one of the last few places where Tibetan Buddhism is still practised in its original form. Set at 3,500 metres in the foothills of the Karakoram range, the small town of Leh lies near the banks of the Indus River and is surrounded by barren mountains, whilst the distant snow-capped Stok Kangri mountain range provides a striking backdrop.

Leh town is barely one sq. km and quickly blends with the picturesque Indus Valley villages. A lazy stroll through Leh’s colourful bazaar, as you get acclimatised to Ladakh’s high altitude, will reveal the influence of Tibetan Buddhism as street corners, as well as the marketplace, are studded with Buddhist Prayer wheels whilst dominating the town’s landscape is the imposing 17th-century Leh Palace, which is architecturally similar to Lhasa’s Potala Palace and offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. High above the Leh Palace is the 16th-century Namgyal Tsemo Gompa (Monastery), which offers visitors an introductory immersion into Ladakhi culture and faith. While a visit to Leh introduces this ancient mountain kingdom, we suggest combining Leh with the beautiful Indus Valley villages that lie to its east and west, as this will allow you to engage in a diverse range of fascinating experiences.

Amongst the many highlights of the Indus Valley, the more rewarding experiences include a relaxed bicycle ride to the 16th-century Basgo Fort ruins, a guided walk through the village of Nimmu, a visit to the celebrated 10th-century Alchi monastery, which houses some of the most magnificent murals you will find in all of Ladakh. Other highlights are white-water rafting down the Indus, an early morning ceremony at the austere Thiksey monastery, and an afternoon with the most famous Oracle in Leh to learn about the Spirit World.