A Week of Family Fun in Leh - July 2023

1. Day 1: Leh Palace
   10 minutes (2.3 km) from Leh Main Bazaar

   Explore the stunning architecture of the 17th century Leh Palace in the morning. Relax with a picnic lunch at the lush lawns and learn about the rich history of the Ladakh kingdom. Shop for souvenirs in the nearby market in the evening.

2. Day 2: Shanti Stupa and Tsemo Fort
   20 minutes (4.5 km) from Leh Palace

   Start your day with the serene and peaceful sunrise at the white-domed Shanti Stupa. Hike to the old Tsemo Fort to explore the ruins of the ancient castle. Enjoy delectable momos and thukpa in a nearby restaurant in the evening.

3. Day 3: Hemis National Park
   1 hour 30 minutes (40 km) from Leh Main Bazaar

   Embark on a thrilling jeep safari to Hemis National Park, home to the elusive snow leopard, Asiatic ibex, and red fox. Hike to the nearby Gotsang Gompa monastery in the afternoon. End the day with a warm bonfire and traditional Ladakhi music and dance.

4. Day 4: Magnetic Hill and Pathar Sahib Gurudwara
   35 minutes (30 km) from Leh Main Bazaar

   Experience the strange phenomenon of the Magnetic Hill in the morning, where vehicles seem to defy gravity. Visit the revered Pathar Sahib Gurudwara, a beautiful white marble temple, and learn about the teachings of Guru Nanak. Enjoy a delicious vegetarian lunch at the langar.

5. Day 5: Nubra Valley
   5 hours (120 km) from Leh Main Bazaar

   Take a scenic drive to the famous Nubra Valley, known for its sand dunes, Bactrian camels, and hot springs. Visit the Diskit Monastery and the statue of Maitreya Buddha in the morning. Have lunch in a local restaurant and try out the local apricot jam. Return to Leh in the evening.

6. Day 6: Alchi Monastery and Likir Monastery
   1 hour 20 minutes (70 km) from Leh Main Bazaar

   Visit the picturesque Alchi Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and admire the 11th-century mural paintings. Drive to the nearby Likir Monastery to see the imposing Buddha statue and the stunning views of the valley. Have lunch in a local restaurant and enjoy the scenic drive back to Leh.

7. Day 7: Leh Market and Tsemo Gompa
   15 minutes (3.5 km) from Leh Palace

   Shop for souvenirs, jewelry, and handicrafts in the bustling Leh Market in the morning. Visit the Tsemo Gompa in the afternoon, famous for its grand Maitreya statue and the panoramic views of the city. Have dinner in a rooftop restaurant with live music and dance performances.

Recommendations

Don't miss the opportunity to witness the colorful Hemis Festival if you're visiting Leh in July. Take a day trip to the scenic Pangong Lake and camp overnight for a unique experience. Try out the local butter tea and skyu noodle soup for an authentic taste of Ladakhi cuisine.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Leh Palace (2 hours, ₹200)
• Shanti Stupa (1 hour, Free)
• Tsemo Fort (1 hour, ₹50)
• Hemis National Park (8 hours, ₹3000)
• Magnetic Hill (1 hour, Free)
• Pathar Sahib Gurudwara (2 hours, Free)
• Nubra Valley (10 hours, ₹5000)
• Alchi Monastery (2 hours, ₹100)
• Likir Monastery (2 hours, ₹100)
• Leh Market (2 hours, Free)
• Tsemo Gompa (1 hour, Free)
• Total Estimated Costs: ₹8650

Check out https://booking.tp.st/VhZsadPo for the best hotel and flight deals.