Leh

The gateway to Ladakh and ‘The Land of Lamas’, Leh is a small but vibrant town. A melting pot of religion, along one street you might hear the chanting of Buddhist monks, a muezzin calling his brothers to prayer or the bells and dedications of a Hindu temple. Our pick of the best places to stay in Leh are all ideally located for exploring the town’s attractions.

This congregation of faiths and cultures is reflected in the food too. With plenty of cafes and restaurants you can sample Tibetan momos and Kashmiri kebabs in a couple of strides.

A great place to stop off for some rest and recuperation, a slap up meal and a spot of shopping either before or after beginning your adventures. There are plenty of agencies in town to help you book everything from treks to the Zanskar Valley, white water rafting down the River Indus, a motorbike trip to Pangong Lake or traversing the Ladakhi plateau by pony. There are countless ways to explore this land of extremes.

Our pick of things to do whilst you're here include:

• Overlooking the town whilst almost blending in to the mountainous scenery is Leh Palace. Modelled on Tibet’s Potala Palace it is a small, but perfectly formed version of its bigger brother.
• Take a tour of the old town, with its winding goat strewn alleyways and vegetable stalls. There is also a thriving Tibetan market selling handmade wares.
• Open Hand is the go-to place for a freshly ground coffee and a sweet treat, whilst Bon Appetit serves a blend of continental and Ladakhi dishes including their famous chocolate momos!

Our pick of the best places to stay in Leh all provide a comfortable stay within easy reach of town.

For great location

• Ask any Leh local if they know The Grand Dragon and the answer will be affirmative. The best accommodation in town and within walking distance of its sights, it provides comfortable rooms and pleasant gardens in which guests can bask in the midday sun.

For great value

• With rooms starting from just £40 a night, The Kaal provides traditional Ladakhi accommodation at a great price. Within walking distance of town this is a great stay.

For boutique chic

• Not what you'd expect to find in a such a remote location, but the Gomang Boutique hotel offers chic modern rooms, all just a short walk from the centre of town.

Still not sure which to book? Browse through our list of the best places to stay in Leh to start to plan your trip. Or you can check out all our recommendations in Jammu and Kashmir, or contact one of our friendly gurus for advice.