5N/6DLadakhLeh Ladakh Classic
2N Leh · 1N Nubra · 1N Pangong · 1N Leh- Hotels
- Meals
- Transfers
- Sightseeing
Starts from
₹18,900
per person
Leh Palace, Leh
The old royal palace above the town
- Type
- Palace
- Location
- Leh, Ladakh
- Time needed
- 1 to 2 hours
- Best time to visit
- All year. Late afternoon for the light on the town and the mountains.
About Leh Palace
Leh Palace stands on the ridge above the old town and can be seen from almost anywhere in Leh. It was built in the 17th century by King Sengge Namgyal, and the royal family of Ladakh lived here until they moved to Stok Palace in the 19th century. Its sloping walls and wooden balconies follow the style of old Tibetan buildings.
The palace has nine storeys. Much of it was left empty for many years, and parts are still being restored by the Archaeological Survey of India. Inside, you can walk through rooms and corridors, see a small collection of thangkas, costumes and jewellery, and climb to the roof terraces.
The roof gives some of the best views in Leh, over the old town, the main bazaar, Shanti Stupa and the Stok range. Above the palace, a steep path leads to Namgyal Tsemo, a small monastery and fort with prayer flags. Late afternoon is a good time to go, followed by sunset at Shanti Stupa.
Things to do at Leh Palace
- Climb to the roof terraces for views over Leh
- See the small display of thangkas and royal costumes
- Walk through the old town lanes below the palace
- Climb on to Namgyal Tsemo once you are acclimatised
How to reach Leh Palace
- From Leh market: about 2 km. You can drive most of the way up or walk up through the old town in about 20 minutes.
Tips before you go
- The stairs inside are steep, narrow and dark in places. Carry a phone torch and go slowly
- Save the climb to Namgyal Tsemo for after your first two days
- There is an entry ticket, and timings can change, so confirm locally
Packages that cover Leh Palace
5N/6DLadakhView
6N/7DLadakhLeh Ladakh Explorer with Turtuk
2N Leh · 2N Nubra · 1N Pangong · 1N Leh- Hotels
- Meals
- Transfers
- Sightseeing
Starts from
₹22,900
per person
8N/9DLadakhKashmir and Ladakh Road Trip
2N Srinagar · 1N Kargil · 2N Leh · 1N Nubra · 1N Pangong · 1N Leh- Hotels
- Meals
- Transfers
- Sightseeing
Starts from
₹34,900
per person
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Who built Leh Palace?
Leh Palace was built in the 17th century by King Sengge Namgyal of Ladakh. The royal family later moved to Stok Palace.
Is Leh Palace worth visiting?
Yes, for its history and especially for the views from the roof. It is close to the market and an easy visit on an acclimatisation day, as long as you take the stairs slowly.