Home
>> Buddhist
Destinations India >>
Leh
Leh
Leh is the
district headquarter of Ladakh situated at an altitude of 3500 metres.
Hemis, the largest of the gompas, founded in the 17th century, is the
most accessible of all the monasteries in Ladakh. Other monasteries
are Shey (15 kms. From Leh), Spituk (8 kms. From Leh), Thiksey (17 kms.
From Leh). Leh is connected by flights from Delhi, Jammu and Chandigarh.
If you are in love, visit Leh, even if only with the Hills. This fantastic
place in Ladakh has a dreamy landscape, and a cool weather, with some
of the most colourful people in the world. An old school of Tibetan
Buddhism, the rituals of the folk are as interesting as their handicrafts
and behavior. And by interesting I mean, interesting, very interesting,
for scholars and layman alike.
Location
The administrative capital of Ladakh, Leh, is situated at an altitude
of 3505 m from the sea level and falls in Jammu and Kashmir. In the
map you'll find it at the head, in northernmost part.
Attractions
The Leh Palace - The 17th century palace closely resembles
to that of Lhasa, both in architecture and styling. The top of the namgyal
hill, and above the palace is the Victory tower, towered in the memory
of victory over Kashmiri Balti army.
The Namgyal Tsempo gompa - Built by King Tashi Namgyal, this gompa,
with a gold idol of Buddha and some rare artifacts of architectural
splendour, this gompa , on Namgyal Tsemo peak is worth a visit, if only
human eyes are still open.
Leh mosque - The mosque presents an amalgamation of
Trkeyish and Indian architecture and a splendid monument in Green and
white.
Excursions
Spituk Gompa - At a distance of 8 km, this Gompa is
one of the best Buddhism architectures of 15th century, most probably
for the Buddhist monks' meditation and learning.
Shey - The Shey palace and the adjacent Gompa is a major attraction
for both general tourists and Buddhist devotees. The game of sunlight
and the Hills of Shey is a never surpassable natural beauty, and the
religious monuments of the place attract hoards of people. The Buddha
figures and the numerous murals is some of them.
How to reach
Air - Leh airport is connected to all major Indian cities.
Rail - Rail routes are not convenient since they are
far, nearest station is at Jammu.
Road - Road journeys, rather say, safaris are exciting, the main
route being Leh-Srinagar-Leh.
