Exploring the Majestic Beauty of Leh-Ladakh with Friends

A Warm Welcome to Leh!
After a long journey from Germany, with a layover in Delhi, I've finally arrived in Leh with my friends! The crisp mountain air is a welcome change, and I'm excited to explore this unique region of India. Today promises a blend of spiritual reflection, historical exploration, and cultural immersion. I can already tell this trip to Leh-Ladakh with my friends will be an unforgettable experience. I'm eager to share every moment with you.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at HAPPY LEH. The cozy ambiance and warm lighting made it a perfect start. I savored every bite, knowing we needed the energy for the day ahead. It was a delightful way to experience local flavors and prepare for our Leh adventure.

First stop: the Shanti Stupa.

The Shanti Stupa, a gleaming white-domed Buddhist monument, was our first destination. Perched atop a steep hill in Chanspa, reaching it involved a bit of a climb, but the panoramic views made every step worthwhile. As we ascended, I couldn't help but feel a sense of tranquility wash over me. The crisp air and the fluttering prayer flags created an atmosphere of serenity.

The Shanti Stupa isn't just a monument; it's a symbol of peace and a reminder to seek harmony in our lives.

Reaching the top, we were rewarded with breathtaking views of Leh town, the surrounding mountains, and the Indus Valley. The Stupa itself is a magnificent structure, built in 1991 by the Japanese Buddhist monk Gyomyo Nakamura to commemorate 2500 years of Buddhism and promote world peace. Walking around the two-level structure, I admired the intricate details and the serene atmosphere. It's easy to see why this is considered the most famous tourist attraction in Leh. Though December isn't necessarily the best time to visit in terms of weather, the serene beauty and solitude are quite rewarding. The winter landscape offers a unique, tranquil charm.


Discover the tranquility and beauty of Shanti Stupa, a stunning Buddhist monument in Leh, offering breathtaking views and a peaceful ambiance.

Next, we immersed ourselves in history at Leh Palace.

After soaking in the peaceful vibes of Shanti Stupa, we made our way to Leh Palace, also known as Lhachen Palkhar. This 17th-century royal palace, built by King Sengge Namgyal, stands as a testament to Ladakh's rich cultural heritage. The palace's architecture, reminiscent of the Potala Palace in Lhasa, is a sight to behold.

As we explored the nine-story structure, I couldn't help but imagine what life must have been like for the royal family who once resided here. The palace is now under the care of the Archaeological Survey of India and houses a museum with a fascinating collection of artifacts, paintings, and royal belongings. From the rooftop, we were treated to sweeping views of Leh town and the Zanskar Valley.

It was fascinating to learn about the palace's history and its strategic importance in controlling the trade routes from Ladakh to Kashmir. Despite being in ruins, the palace exudes a unique charm and offers a glimpse into Ladakh's regal past.


Explore Leh Palace, a stunning 17th-century Tibetan architectural gem in Ladakh, offering breathtaking views and rich cultural history.

Lunch at The Tibetan Kitchen was a culinary delight.

By lunchtime, we were ravenous, and The Tibetan Kitchen was the perfect place to satisfy our hunger. This cozy restaurant, just a short walk from the main market, is known for its authentic Tibetan and Ladakhi cuisine. The warm and inviting atmosphere made us feel right at home.

I decided to try the Thukpa, a hearty noodle soup with vegetables and meat, while Hans opted for the Momos, steamed dumplings filled with savory ingredients. Both dishes were bursting with flavor and perfectly spiced. The Tibetan Kitchen truly offers a taste of Ladakh's culinary heritage.

Food is not just sustenance; it's a way to connect with the culture and traditions of a place.

Exploring the treasures of the Central Asian Museum.

Our afternoon was dedicated to exploring the Central Asian Museum, located in the historic Tsas-Soma garden. This museum showcases Ladakh's historical significance as a central hub along the ancient Silk Road. The building itself is an architectural marvel, designed to resemble a traditional Central Asian fortress.

The museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts, manuscripts, and photographs that illustrate the cultural exchanges between Ladakh, Central Asia, Tibet, and Baltistan. It was fascinating to learn about Leh's role as a bustling commercial center and its influence on the Silk Route. The exhibits are carefully curated to tell the story of Ladakh's cultural and historical evolution over the centuries.


Discover the fascinating history and cultural heritage of Central Asia at Leh's Central Asian Museum, a treasure trove of artifacts and stories.

Shopping for souvenirs at Cottage Emporium.

No trip is complete without a bit of souvenir shopping, so we headed to Cottage Emporium in the main bazaar. This emporium is a treasure trove of exquisite Pashmina shawls, intricate Thangka paintings, and other local handicrafts.

I was particularly drawn to the Pashmina shawls, known for their softness and warmth. After much deliberation, I finally chose a beautiful teal blue Kani carpet and some amazing pashmina shawls for me and my family. The knowledgeable staff were incredibly helpful, sharing insights into Kashmiri art and culture.


Explore the Cottage Emporium in Leh for exquisite Pashmina shawls and stunning Thangka paintings, a must-visit for culture and art enthusiasts.

Dinner at Gesmo Restaurant: A perfect end to the day.

For dinner, we decided to try Gesmo Restaurant, also known as the German Bakery. This charming old place has a retro feel, with vintage green glass windows and vinyl floors. The restaurant offers multi-cuisine food, and we were impressed by the extensive menu.

I opted for their famous Yak Cheese Pizza, while my friends tried the Mutton Momos and Thukpa. The pizza was indeed delicious, with a unique rich flavor from the yak cheese. The cozy ambiance and friendly service made it a perfect end to our first day in Leh.


Savor diverse culinary offerings at Gesmo Restaurant in Leh - from Italian pizza to Indian delicacies amidst stunning Himalayan views.

As I reflect on our first day in Leh, I'm filled with a sense of awe and gratitude. We've experienced a blend of spirituality, history, and culture that has left a lasting impression on me. I'm excited to see what tomorrow brings as we venture towards Stok Kangri for trekking in Ladakh. It's going to be another day filled with adventure and exploration!

Until tomorrow, auf wiedersehen!