Check in to your hotel, complete paperwork and rest — the first priority in Leh is acclimatisation to 3,500m to avoid AMS. Take it very easy for the next 24 hours and drink plenty of water.
A gentle stroll through Main Bazaar to slowly get moving, browse shops selling pashmina, prayer flags and local handicrafts; most shops operate roughly 9:00am–8:00pm but winter hours can vary.
Short drive and a few steps up to Shanti Stupa for panoramic sunset views over Leh and the Indus valley; the stupa is usually open 6:00am–6:00pm so plan arrival before closing.
Warm Tibetan/Nepali favourites and soups are ideal for a cold evening; popular restaurants in Leh generally operate around 10:00am–9:00pm but check local hours in November.
Visit the 17th-century Leh Palace for views over the town and a small museum; usually open around 9:00am–5:00pm — great for photos and short cultural orientation.
Drive 15–25 minutes to Shey to see the ancient summer palace of Ladakhi rulers and the large Buddha statue; site visits typically possible 9:00am–5:00pm.
Short drive to the Hall of Fame museum run by the Indian Army to learn about Ladakh’s military history and culture; usually open 9:00am–5:00pm — allow 1–1.5 hours.
Enjoy Ladakhi specialties or continental cuisine at a cosy rooftop cafe to end your day; check opening hours during winter as some places close earlier.
Drive 30–45 minutes to the famous Magnetic Hill where a slight downhill seems like an uphill — site is accessible 24 hours but winter road conditions may affect access, so check locally.
Head south ~40–45 km to Hemis Monastery, one of Ladakh’s largest gompas; monastery visiting hours are typically 9:00am–4:00pm — allow ~1.5–2 hours travel each way depending on road conditions.
Pick up souvenirs (pashmina, apricot products, prayer flags) and confirm timings for delivery or safe packing for flights; most shops open until early evening but winter hours vary.