Top 12 Best Places to Visit in Hampi – 2023 (with Photos)
Embark on a mesmerizing journey to discover the top 12 places to visit in Leh, a breathtaking paradise nestled in the heart of the majestic Himalayas. From awe-inspiring monasteries to rugged mountain landscapes, Leh offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage that will leave you spellbound.
Immerse yourself in the serene ambiance of the Thiksey Monastery, where the chanting of Buddhist monks resonates through the air, or witness the panoramic vistas from the world-famous Pangong Tso Lake, known for its ever-changing shades of blue. Explore the mystical Magnetic Hill, where gravity appears to defy all laws and visit the enchanting Nubra Valley, adorned with rolling sand dunes and vibrant orchards.
Indulge in thrilling adventures amidst the mighty peaks, whether it’s rafting in the gushing waters of the Zanskar River or embarking on a challenging trek to the stunning Markha Valley. Discover the Alchi Monastery’s ancient wonders and explore the Leh Palace’s architectural marvels.
Top Visiting Places in Hampi Ratings
| Places | Rating |
|---|---|
| Virupaksha Temple | 4.8 |
| Hampi Bazaar | 4.5 |
| Vitthala Temple | 4.7 |
| Matanga Hill | 4.6 |
| Elephant Stables | 4.4 |
| Lotus Palace | 4.3 |
| Hazara Rama Temple | 4.7 |
| Queen’s Bath | 4.5 |
| Tungabhadra River | 4.8 |
| Hanuman Temple | 4.6 |
| Sanapur Lake | 4.7 |
| Hemakuta Hill | 4.4 |
With its rich heritage, surreal landscapes, and adrenaline-pumping experiences, Leh beckons adventurers, nature enthusiasts, and spiritual seekers alike. Unleash your wanderlust and let Leh weave its magic, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable expedition to these remarkable places in Leh and unlock the treasures of this captivating destination.
Top 12 Best Places to Visit in Hampi 2023
1. Thiksey Monastery Hampi
Immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance of Thiksey Monastery, known for its stunning architecture and serene surroundings. Entry fee: Free. Reach: Located around 19 km from Leh, it can be reached by road. Best time to visit: May to September. The monastery holds morning prayers at sunrise, offering a mesmerizing experience.
Highlights of Thiksey Monastery
- Maitreya Buddha
- Assembly Hall
- Tara temple
- Lamokhang temple and quarters
- Gustor Festival
Best Time to Visit Thiksey Monastery
The best time to visit Thiksey Monastery is during the Gustor Festival in the month of October/November. During the festival, one can witness the traditional Cham Dance.
How to Reach Thiksey Monastery?
The best way to reach Thiksey Gompa is by hiring car or renting a bike from Leh, which is around 19 km away.
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2. Pangong Tso Lake Hampi
Be mesmerised by the ethereal beauty of Pangong Tso Lake, renowned for its crystal-clear blue waters and breathtaking mountain backdrop. Entry fee: INR 200 (for Indian visitors). Reach: Located around 160 km from Leh, it can be reached by road. Best time to visit: May to September. Stay overnight to witness the lake’s changing hues during sunrise and sunset.
Open hours : It’s open throughout the year however the best time is between 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM when the lake has it’s popular color.
Time Required : 1 to 2 hours
Entry Fee : Here is how much an Inner Line Permit will cost you:
- Environmental fees: INR 400
- Donation to the Red Cross: INR 100
- Fee for wildlife protection: INR 20 per day
- Height: 4350 metres
- Length: 12 kms
3. Magnetic Hill Hampi | Vitthala Temple
Experience the intriguing phenomenon of the Magnetic Hill, where vehicles appear to move uphill on their own due to a magnetic force. Entry fee: Free. Reach: Located around 30 km from Leh, it can be reached by road. Best time to visit: Throughout the year. Park your vehicle in the designated area and witness the illusion in action.
- Best Time To Visit: May to September
- Location: Ladakh, India
- How to reach: 30 km from Leh. Drive of 38 min.
- What to do: Yak Safari, mountain climbing, trekking.
- Entry Fee: Free
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4. Nubra Valley Hampi | Matanga Hill
Discover the mesmerising beauty of Nubra Valley, adorned with lush green villages, sand dunes, and the famous Diskit Monastery. Entry fee: Free. Reach: Located around 150 km from Leh, it can be reached by road via Khardung La Pass. Best time to visit: May to September. Enjoy a camel ride in the sand dunes and savour the tranquillity of the valley.
- How to reach: 121 km from Leh. Drive of 4 hr 48 min via Khardung La Road.
- What to do: Bactrian Camel Rides, Jeep Safari, Photography,
- Entry Fee: NA
- Best time to visit: As per the climatic conditions, the best time to visit Nubra valley is during the autumn season which is between the month of July to September.
- Location: Ladakh, India
5. Zanskar River Hampi | Elephant Stables
Indulge in exhilarating river rafting adventures in the Zanskar River, known for its rapids and pristine surroundings. Entry fee: Varies based on the rafting package. Reach: Rafting starting points are accessible from Leh by road. Best time to visit: June to September. Experience the thrill of navigating the rapids while marvelling at the stunning landscapes along the river.
- Best Time to Visit: Zanskar is best visited between June to September when the road is clear of the snow and the Leh temperature is at moderate. It’s closed for a significant time due to extreme snowfall and winter.
- Location: Leh-Ladakh
6. Markha Valley Hampi | Lotus Palace
Embark on a challenging trek through the picturesque Markha Valley, dotted with vibrant prayer flags, monasteries, and awe-inspiring vistas. Entry fee: Free. Reach: Trek starting point is accessible from Leh by road. Best time to visit: June to September. Immerse yourself in the tranquillity of the valley, encounter friendly locals, and witness the unique culture of the region.
- Best time to visit: June to October
- Location: Ladakh
- Entry Fee: Free
7. Alchi Monastery Hampi | Hazara Rama Temple
Explore the ancient wonders of Alchi Monastery, known for its exquisite murals and sculptures dating back to the 11th century. Entry fee: Free. Reach: Located around 70 km from Leh, it can be reached by road. Best time to visit: May to September. Admire the intricate artwork, soak in the spiritual atmosphere, and learn about the rich Buddhist heritage.
- Entry Fee: NA
- Visiting Timings
- 10:00 am – 01:00 pm
- 02:00 pm – 06:00 pm
- Open all days
How to Reach Alchi Monastery?
Alchi Monastery is 70 kilometers away from Leh. To reach here, one has to hire a taxi from Leh.
8. Leh Palace Hampi | Queen’s Bath
Visit the historic Leh Palace, offering panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains. Entry fee: INR 15 (for Indian visitors). Reach: Located in the heart of Leh city, it can be reached by road. Best time to visit: May to September. Explore the palace’s architecture, climb to the rooftop for stunning vistas, and delve into the royal history of the region.
- How to reach: 5 km from Leh airport via car.
- What to do: Visit the museum, see the scenic view from the top, admire the architecture.
- Entry Fee: INR 15 per person (Indian citizens), INR 100 (Foreigner nationals).
- Best Time To Visit: It is best to visit this palace in the month of August
- Entry Fee: INR 20 for Indians and INR 100 for foreigners
- Timings: 07:00 AM to 04:00 PM everyday
- Location: Leh, Jammu, and Kashmir
9. Spituk Monastery | Tungabhadra River
Discover the serene Spituk Monastery, known for its captivating location and ancient Buddhist artifacts. Entry fee: Free. Reach: Located around 8 km from Leh, it can be reached by road. Best time to visit: May to September. Attend the early morning prayers, explore the monastery’s halls, and soak in the peaceful surroundings.
- How to reach: 8 km from Leh via car.
- What to do: Photography, Fairs and Festivals.
- Entry Fee: INR 20 per person
10. Hemis Monastery | Hanuman Temple Hampi
Witness the grandeur of Hemis Monastery, the largest and wealthiest monastery in Ladakh, known for its colourful festivals and rare Buddhist relics. Entry fee: INR 100 (for Indian visitors). Reach: Located around 40 km from Leh, it can be reached by road. Best time to visit: June to September. Attend the vibrant Hemis Festival, explore the museum, and experience the spiritual aura.
- How to reach: 41 km from Leh. 59 min via Keylong-Leh Road
- What to do: Culture, Temple tour
- Entry Fee: NA
- Best time to visit: This is one of the best places to visit in Ladakh in summer i.e April to August
- Location: Leh, Jammu, and Kashmir
11. Gurudwara Pathar Sahib | Sanapur Lake hampi
Pay homage at Gurudwara Pathar Sahib, a sacred Sikh shrine with a fascinating legend and a serene atmosphere. Entry fee: Free. Reach: Located around 25 km from Leh, it can be reached by road. Best time to visit: Throughout the year. Seek blessings, participate in Langar (community kitchen), and appreciate religious harmony.
- Tags: Gurudwara
- Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM
- Entry Fee: NA
12. Shanti Stupa | Hemakuta Hill Hampi
Bask in the peaceful ambiance of Shanti Stupa, a white-domed Buddhist monument offering panoramic views of Leh and the surrounding mountains. Entry fee: Free. Reach: Located near Leh city, it can be reached by road. Best time to visit: May to September. Meditate, enjoy the serene surroundings, and witness the stunning sunset or sunrise views from the Stupa.
- Best time to visit: Between May to September
- Location: Shanti Stupa Rd, Leh, Jammu and Kashmir
- How to reach: 5 km from Leh via car.
- What to do: Meditate in the Buddha Hall, Walk around the stupa, photography, shopping for handicrafts.
- Entry Fee: Free
Each of these top 12 places in Leh offers a unique experience, whether it’s spiritual enlightenment, natural beauty, adventure, or cultural immersion. Plan your visit accordingly and explore the wonders of Leh at their best.
Do I need a permit to visit Pangong Tso Lake?
Yes, a permit is required to visit Pangong Tso Lake. It can be obtained from the Leh District Magistrate Office or through registered tour operators
What is the best time to visit Pangong Tso Lake?
The best time to visit Pangong Tso Lake is during the months of May to September when the weather is pleasant and the lake is accessible.
Is camping allowed on the Pangong Tso Lake?
Camping is allowed near Pangong Tso Lake, offering a unique experience of staying amidst the serene surroundings. However, it is advisable to check with local authorities for any specific regulations.
How to reach Pangong Tso Lake?
Pangong Tso Lake can be reached by road from Leh via the Chang La pass, which is approximately 160 kilometres away. Private taxis or organised tours are popular options for transportation.
What hotels are near Pangong Tso?
There are several hotels and accommodations near Pangong Tso Lake, including campsites and guesthouses. Some popular options include Pangong Delight Camp, The Pangong Inn, and Camp Redstart. It is recommended to book in advance, especially during the peak tourist season.
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