Exploring the Majestic Beauty of Leh-Ladakh with Friends

Spiritual Sanctuaries and Shopping Sprees

Today in Leh was a beautiful blend of the spiritual and the material. After several days of immersing ourselves in the rugged landscapes, it felt good to delve into the cultural and artistic heart of Ladakh, with a touch of retail therapy to round things off. The crisp mountain air and bright sunshine made it a perfect day for exploration with my friends.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Tsas by Dolkhar. What a delightful place! Nestled amidst apple and apricot orchards, the restaurant itself is a work of art. The architecture blends seamlessly with nature, and the attention to detail is remarkable. I opted for one of their vegan-friendly breakfast options, a scrumptious lentil toast with cashew cheese, while my friends enjoyed some local pasta. We all agreed that the chef puts so much love into the menu. It was the perfect start to a day of exploration.


Experience authentic Ladakhi cuisine at Tsas by Dolkhar – where tradition meets modern dining in the heart of Leh.

Fueled up, we set off to Phyang Monastery, a place that truly embodies the serene spirit of Tibetan Buddhism. Founded in the 16th century, the monastery belongs to the Drikung Kagyu School and stands as a beacon of spiritual and cultural heritage. As we approached, the whitewashed walls and golden rooftops stood out against the backdrop of desolate mountains and azure skies. The monastery is perched on a hill, offering panoramic views of the Indus Valley, a sight that immediately calmed my soul.


Explore Phyang Monastery, a serene Buddhist temple in Ladakh that offers stunning architecture, vibrant culture, and a peaceful retreat for spiritual seekers.

Inside, the monastery was a treasure trove of ancient scriptures, Thangka paintings, and statues of Buddhist deities. I was particularly captivated by the intricate frescoes depicting scenes from Buddhist scriptures and the life of Guru Rinpoche. The air was filled with the scent of incense and the low hum of chanting monks, creating an atmosphere of profound peace. Although we missed the Phyang Tsedup Festival, which usually takes place in the summer, I could imagine how vibrant the monastery would be with the traditional masked dances and rituals.

In the heart of Ladakh, where the mountains touch the sky, lies a tapestry of serenity and commerce, weaving together the threads of ancient spirituality and modern desires.

Next on our itinerary was the Spituk marshes. After the spiritual heights of Phyang, the marshes offered a different kind of serenity. It was a welcome change of pace to wander through this unique ecosystem, observing the local birdlife and enjoying the vast open space. Despite the cold, the marshes were teeming with life, a testament to the resilience of nature in this high-altitude environment. The landscape was stark yet beautiful, and the silence was broken only by the occasional bird call. I found myself reflecting on the simple beauty of nature and the importance of preserving such places.


Explore the enchanting Spituk Marshes in Ladakh, a serene wetland rich in biodiversity and stunning mountain views, perfect for nature lovers and peace seekers.

After a morning of spiritual and natural immersion, it was time for lunch. We headed to The Urban Garden Restaurant Leh, a place recommended for its tranquil ambience and delectable cuisine. The restaurant is tucked away in a corner of Changspa, near the river, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling town. The Urban Garden Restaurant was a delightful experience. The Urban Garden certainly lived up to its name; it was a hidden oasis in Leh. I had the most wonderful zen moments there. The nice decor and pretty atmosphere made us feel relaxed.


Discover exquisite flavors at The Urban Garden Restaurant in Leh – where local ingredients meet global cuisine amidst stunning landscapes.

For dinner we decided to try CHIMATH TIBETAN KITCHEN. The Dalai Lama smiles from one wall and a large poster of the Potala graces another wall. The low, cushioned, comfortable platforms ranged around wooden, Tibetan-design tables lend a very Ladakhi air to the restaurant. The service is discreet and polite. The purely Tibetan menu has eclectic Tibetan dishes rarely found elsewhere. I ordered a vegetable mokthuk and a fried vegetable chutagi. The food was beyond my expectations. Absolutely delicious, the Chimath certainly has a very skilled chef, it's almost gourmet. It was an absolute dream.


Discover authentic Tibetan flavors in Leh at Chimath Tibetan Kitchen - where every dish tells a story of tradition and taste.

In the afternoon, we dedicated some time to shopping, and De Pashmina Emporium was our destination of choice. I was on the hunt for a high-quality pashmina to take back home as a souvenir, and perhaps a few as gifts for my friends in Bamberg. The Emporium was a treasure trove of beautifully crafted shawls, scarves, and other woolen items. The colors and designs were simply stunning, and I found myself drawn to the intricate patterns and soft textures. I learned about the different types of pashmina and the craftsmanship involved in creating these exquisite pieces.


Discover the exquisite craftsmanship of pashmina and unique handicrafts at De Pashmina Emporium, a must-visit destination in Leh Ladakh.

I finally settled on a few pieces: a classic cream-colored pashmina for myself, a vibrant blue scarf for my friend Annalise, and a warm grey shawl for my mother. I also picked up a few smaller items, like woolen gloves and socks, perfect for the cold German winters. The experience was delightful, and I felt good supporting local artisans and taking home a piece of Ladakhi culture.

As the day drew to a close, we gathered for dinner at CHIMATH TIBETAN KITCHEN, a cozy restaurant in the heart of Leh. The restaurant is known for its authentic Tibetan cuisine and warm, inviting atmosphere. We feasted on momos, thukpa, and other traditional dishes, savoring the flavors of the Himalayas. The restaurant was filled with locals and tourists alike, all enjoying the delicious food and friendly service. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration and discovery.

Thinking about tomorrow, I’m excited about visiting Thiksey Monastery and Guphuks view point. I've heard that Thiksey Monastery is particularly stunning, resembling the Potala Palace in Lhasa. I'm also looking forward to experiencing the local nightlife at Cheday Bar and restaurant, Moti market.

Back at our guesthouse, I reflected on the day's adventures. Leh is a place that nourishes both the soul and the senses, and I feel incredibly grateful to be here with my friends, experiencing the magic of Ladakh. I am also grateful I remembered to pack my travel journal, even though I forgot my sunscreen and sunglasses. It is December, after all, and I am not used to this mountain sun!

Tomorrow promises new adventures, and I can't wait to see what Leh has in store for us. Good night from the Himalayas!