Leh Palace was built during the 17th century by the ruler King Sengge Namgyal. Its construction is on the same lines as the construction of the Potala Palace in Lhasa, Tibet. This palace had to be deserted by the royal family in the middle of the 19th century, because of the taking over of Ladakh by Dogra forces. After this the royal family is living in-exile in the popular Stok Palace. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is restoring some of the ruined portions of this nine-storey palace. While the store rooms were on the lower floors, the royalty resided on the upper floors. The roof of this palace offers an excellent view of the valley.
It served as the regal residence of the Namgyal dynasty until the mid 19th century, after which the royal family permanently shifted to Stok. In present times, the palace is the administrative office of the Archaeological Conservation Organisation that is owned by the Indian Government.
This 9-storey royal edifice is almost in ruins now, but is preserved as a part of Ladakh's heritage. An example of medieval Tibetan architecture, it has massive walls and wooden balconies. A victory tower, built in the memory of Ladakhi soldiers, is present towards the top of the palace. Ancient mural paintings adorn the interiors of this palace and speak of its golden bygone era."
Interesting structures ranged around the palace’s base include the prominent Namgyal Stupa, the colourfully muralled Chandazik Gompa and the 1430 Chamba Lhakhang with medieval mural fragments between the inner and outer walls. Don't count on any of these being open though.
A former royal palace overlooking the Ladakhi Himalayan town of Leh:
Ideal for history enthusiasts
Traveling to Leh - Ladakh can be an exhilarating experience. Ladakh holds immense beauty for the beholder; the mountainous desert stretches from peak to peak, a divine painting done in strokes of purple, brown and grey, with streaks of silver and patches of green along the Indus River. Tourist Attractions in Leh-Ladakh includes its pristine beauty, its well known monasteries, its cities and the adventure sports like trekking, rafting in Indus and mountain climbing. Safaris are also part of its tourist attraction. Exploring Ladakh on the Yak back or the camel, can be an experience worth taking back home.
The moment you land on this amazing mountain town, you can catch the breath taking beauty. The shocking pristine blueness of the sky above will almost sap you off your breath. The trekking along the mountain path can be an experience worth remembering back home. The snow covered peaks, the mountain flowers, the deep valleys and the streams flowing can transport you to a world of complete solitude. The lilting mountain music, the monks in men in saroon robes on their way to the monastery, mun beaten faces trailing behind their herd of sheep are the common sights and sounds of Ladakh.
Known as "Little Tibet" or "Shangri-La", Ladakh is definitely one of the best holiday destinations you can opt for. Ladakh has immense Buddhist and Tibetan influence. There are serene chortens and prayer wheels all around, Buddhist gompas are major Tourist Attractions in Leh-Ladakh.
Though the ideal time to visit Ladakh is from March to October, temperatures in this mountain desert region tend to remain below comfort levels. Temperature reaches 30 degrees on a typical summer day, while the temperatures plunge to 10 degrees in the nights. To enjoy your trip to this beautiful land, plan out your itinerary based on all the Tourist Attractions in Leh-Ladakh.
Tourist Attractions in Leh-Ladakh include its pristine beauty, its well known monasteries, its cities and the adventure sports like trekking, rafting in Indus and mountain climbing. Indianholiday offers you the facility to book your Leh Ladakh tour online!