Leh is one of the highest inhabited towns in the whole world! We can go on about how beautiful the palace is, but it’s one of those destinations where you have to visit to experience Leh’s ethereal beauty. Another fact that you were probably unaware of is that you have to mandatorily spend 48 hours in Leh. Why? With an altitude of over 3,500 meters above sea level, your body will need some time to acclimatize before you visit even higher locations like Pangong Lake and Khardung La. So now you’re in Leh and have got 48 hours to kill. Fortunately, there are a lot of things to do in Leh before you continue your journey. Here’s a 2-day Leh itinerary to make the most of it!
Places To Visit On Day 1
- The Tibetan Kitchen
- Leh Market
1. The Tibetan Kitchen
Being your first day of acclimatization, you don’t want to overexert yourself right away. Try spending most of your time in your hotel room and step out for some lip-smacking Tibetan food.
This cozy restaurant in Leh serves delicious Tibetan dishes, creamy Chinese cuisine, and scrumptious Indian food. Thukpa and grilled trout are two of the dishes you want to surely order because they’re a treat for your tastebuds.
Cost For Two: Approx INR 1,000
2. Leh Market
After having some fresh, hot food, you can go shopping, something without which your 2 days in Leh remain incomplete. This main market of Leh has everything from jewelry and clothes, to Tibetan goods and spices. The vibrancy and colorful ambiance will make you want to purchase a little bit of everything.
Be sure to haggle because all the shops are willing to give discounts if you’re adamant about the prices you want. It might be the perfect time to channel your inner Monisha from Sarabhai Vs Sarabhai.
Places To Visit On Day 2
- Leh Palace
- Tenzin Dickey
- Shanti Stupa
1. Leh Palace
Constructed by Tsewang Namgyal back in 1553, the Leh Palace has a typical Tibetan-style architecture. From carved entrances, and spacious rooms to long corridors, the palace still charms a lot of the tourists who visit.
There’s even a monastery inside the palace, making it a place of importance for the monks. It’s 9-storey tall and there are no elevators, so climbing will surely be a task. However, if you don’t want to miss out on the views, the ascent is worth it.
Timings: 7:00 am – 4:00 pm
Entry Fee: INR 15
2. Tenzin Dickey
Ready for round two of irresistible food? We are. Tenzin Dickey is a proper hole-in-the-wall establishment that isn’t very fancy-looking but the food is delicious. Even the proportions are very filling and will leave your soul content.
This casual diner offers great local Tibetan cuisine like momos, thukpa, and Skyu. Even the prices are very pocket-friendly.
Cost For Two: INR 400
3. Shanti Stupa
Built-in 1991, this Stupa was built to spread the message of peace and prosperity and to commemorate 2,500 years of Buddhism. You’ll get to see relics of Buddha that were consecrated by the 14th Dalai Lama.
Divided into two stories, you can enter the Shanti Stupa free of charge. Of course, being on top offers you a mesmerizing view of the town and the mountains around Leh. Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be climbing a lot of stairs.
Timings: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm
Summing Up
Remember that you’re spending 2 days in Leh to acclimatize yourself. But why waste this time when there’s a lot to see and do and eat? No need to tire yourself out, but do spend time eating relishing the cuisine and taking strolls close to your hotel.
FAQs
What Is The Famous Food Of Leh?
Thukpa is hands down the famous food of Leh. It’s a clear soup with veggies and noodles made of wheat. You can order it in most restaurants.
Which Is The Best Month To Visit Leh?
April to June is the ideal time to visit Leh to enjoy the landscapes and tourist places in pleasant weather.
