West of Leh Scenic Drive

The West of Leh Scenic Drive is a 124 km route that starts in the city of Leh in India and ends in the city of Lamayuru. This two-day road trip takes you through some picturesque landscapes, small towns, and traditional Buddhist monasteries. The journey begins with a stop in Spituk, where you can visit the Spituk Monastery and admire the grand views of the Himalayan Mountains. The next stop is Alchi, a small town known for its ancient Buddhist monasteries and carvings. The drive also offers some breathtaking views of the Zanskar Mountains, the glaciers, and the Indus River. The best time to take this road trip is during the summer months, from April to October. However, be aware that due to the mountain terrain, the roads can be narrow and curvy in some places, and bad weather can close the roads in winter. This road trip is suitable for all drivers, and can be managed on a fair budget.

Leh, in India's northernmost state of Jammu & Kashmir, is a paradise for adventurers and nature lovers. It is the perfect starting point for a spectacular road trip, the "West of Leh Scenic Drive". This stunning route passes through small villages, high mountain passes, and culminates in the beautiful Nubra Valley, a region of stunning natural beauty. Along the way, travelers can enjoy sights such as the famous Pangong Lake, the nomadic Changthang Plateau, and the majestic Khardung La pass. The nearest international airport to Leh is Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (IXL). Car rentals are available at the airport, and are the ideal way to explore the region in all its glory. Leh is full of fascinating sights to explore. Highlights include the ancient Leh Palace, the local bazaar full of colorful wares, and the Shanti Stupa, a peaceful Buddhist monument. Nature lovers will also enjoy the nearby Hemis National Park, with its rich flora and fauna. Leh is the perfect starting point for a spectacular road trip. With its natural beauty, fascinating sights, and convenient airport, there's something for everyone in this charming town. So, embark on the "West of Leh Scenic Drive" and discover the wonders of this unique part of India.

Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Leh to Spituk! This journey of 8 km will take no more than an hour, but the incredible sights you'll be able to spot along the way will make it seem like eternity. In Leh, explore the Shanti Stupa, a Buddhist monument built to promote world peace, and take in the beauty of the Leh Palace, a former royal residence. As you drive, be sure to keep your eyes peeled for the narrow sections of the road and the stunning mountain views! You'll eventually reach Spituk, where you can visit the Spituk Monastery, a Buddhist complex dating back to the 11th century. While you're there, you can explore the ancient murals and statues inside the monastery. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along this route, please consult the Itinerary of this stage. Make sure to make the most of this amazing road trip!

Start your adventure with a road trip from Spituk to Alchi! The drive is only 60 km and takes less than two hours. Get ready to be amazed by the stunning views of the Himalayas as you make your way to Alchi. Keep an eye out for the seasonal road closures that may occur in some sections. Additionally, the winding and narrow roads can be a bit tricky to navigate, so please drive carefully. Along the way, you will pass by Spituk Gompa, an ancient Buddhist monastery, and Basgo, an ancient fortress. As you continue to Alchi, you will come across a small village where you can take a break and get a glimpse of the local culture. When you reach Alchi, be sure to explore the ancient temples and monasteries. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the Itinerary of this stage. Bon voyage!

Start your journey in Alchi with a visit to the most important monasteries in Ladakh, located on the banks of the Indus River. This spectacular, 11th-century complex is home to some of the oldest wall paintings and unique woodcarvings in India. Then, take a 56 km drive to the village of Lamayuru. On the way, enjoy the stunning views of the Himalayan mountain range and the Karakoram Range. You may come across some sections of the road that are closed seasonally, and some steep ramps and winding roads. Be aware that in some sections, the road is quite narrow. After arriving in Lamayuru, explore the oldest monastery in Ladakh, located on a steep hillside. As one of the most important monasteries in the area, Lamayuru boasts some remarkable wall paintings and sculptures. Make sure to take some time to admire the stunning view of the village and the mountains. On your way back to Alchi, make sure to keep an eye out for some of the beautiful sceneries along the way. This two-hour drive is sure to be an unforgettable experience. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage.

Lamayuru is a small town in India, located 65 km away from Leh, Ladakh. It is the perfect ending point for the West of Leh Scenic Drive, a road trip through the majestic mountains of the Himalayas. The town of Lamayuru is renowned for its ancient monastery, the oldest in the region. It was built in the 10th century and is home to a large collection of Buddhist artifacts and scriptures. The town is also known for its breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and its unique rock formations, often referred to as 'moonland'. Apart from its famous monastery, Lamayuru is also home to many other attractions. Visitors can explore the ruins of an old fort, the Yungdrung Gompa, a Tibetan Buddhist temple, and the Dha Hanu Village, where they can learn about the local culture and traditions. There are also plenty of trekking routes in the area, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas. For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh, with IATA code IXL. The airport is located just a few kilometers away from Lamayuru. From Lamayuru, travelers can continue their journey to other destinations in Ladakh, or take a break and relax in the peaceful atmosphere of this small town. With its ancient monastery, stunning views, and unique attractions, Lamayuru is the perfect ending point for the West of Leh Scenic Drive.

Before you set off

Embark on the West of Leh Scenic Drive, a spellbinding 124 km journey from Leh, the capital of Ladakh in Northern India, to the ancient village of Lamayuru. Spanning two days, this Road Trip is a symphony of natural splendor and rich cultural heritage. As you navigate through the breathtaking Himalayan terrain, you'll encounter revered monasteries, quaint towns, and awe-inspiring vistas that are sure to leave an indelible mark on any traveler's memory.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

• Spituk: Home to the esteemed Spituk Gompa, this site offers not only spiritual insights but also commanding panoramic views of the Indus Valley and the majestic Stok Kangri.
• Alchi: Delve into history at Alchi Monastery, one of the oldest in Ladakh, renowned for its stunning frescoes and wood carvings which are a testament to the skill of medieval artisans.
• Zanskar Mountains: Be captivated by the rugged beauty of the Zanskar range, with its towering peaks and pristine glaciers that form the backbone of the region.
• Indus River: Experience the tranquil beauty as you follow the course of the historic Indus River, with opportunities to witness the confluence of the Zanskar and Indus rivers, a mesmerizing natural phenomenon.

Best Time to Go:

Embark on this journey between April and October to take advantage of the clear skies and temperate climate, ideal for exploring the high-altitude landscapes of Ladakh.

Potential Risks:

• The winding and narrow mountain Roads require careful navigation, especially for those unaccustomed to the terrain.
• Inclement winter weather and snow can cause unexpected Road closures, making travel during this time challenging.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

• This epic drive traverses high-altitude Roads including the Fotu La pass, which at 4,108 meters is one of the highest in the region, offering stunning views and a thrilling driving experience.
• The Road Trip is surprisingly affordable, with options for budget accommodations and local eateries along the route.
• Due to the high altitude, visitors may need to spend a day or more in Leh to acclimatize and avoid altitude sickness before beginning their drive.

A good choice for:

The West of Leh Scenic Drive is an extraordinary odyssey that takes you through the vibrant heart of Ladakh's dramatic landscapes and its millennia-old culture. It's an ideal quest for the adventurous spirit, offering a unique blend of excitement and spiritual enrichment on one of the world's most magnificent Roadways.