Leh Palace

Leh Palace or Lachen Palkhar is a traditional royal palace found above Leh in Ladakh, India. King Sengge Namgyal built the palace around the 17th century. The Namgyal dynasty lived here until the mid-19th century. 

The fort represents Ladakh’s unique heritage. It offers excellent views of several mountains and valleys. From the palace roof, you can see the town of Leh, the Indus Valley and the Stok Kangri peaks across the horizon. Photography lovers will appreciate how Ladakh’s rugged front is captured best by this vantage point. Choose a Ladakh tour package and explore this famous place. 

Since it was built in 1600, the design of Ladakh Palace Leh reflects classic Tibetan style thanks to its walls and balconies. Some time ago, the upper section housed members of the royal family, yet the palace’s lower half was where goods and horses were held. Some sections of the palace have fallen, but workers from the Archaeological Survey of India are working to restore the rest. People can enter the palace Leh museum and there, they will see numerous thangkas, traditional clothing and customary art from Ladakh.

Things to do in Leh Palace

1. Discover the Old Rooms

You can learn about the house’s early years from the old doors, windows with carvings and dusty nooks. Picture what life was like for the kings and queens who lived here long ago. 

2. Visit the Palace Museum

Visitors will find exhibits of royal clothing, paintings, jewelry and weapons at Leh Palace. Get to know the lives of the leaders who ruled Ladakh. Housed in this small museum are many artifacts that explain the ancient history of Ladakh well.

3. Enjoy the view from the roof

From the rooftop of Leh Palace you can admire the view of the whole town. White houses, shady green trees and distant snowy mountains can be observed clearly in the distance. You can relax and take nice photos from the palace view Leh. 

4. Watch the Sunset

Ladakh Palace Leh is perfect for seeing the sunset. The palace walls are covered by golden light and the peaks of the mountain appear brighter. The colors throughout the sky never seem the same. It is a nice opportunity to take good photos and admire the scenery.

5. Learn the history of Ladakh

Leh Palace Ladakh holds many interesting stories. At many points, you will see signs and displays explaining the region's kings, history of wars and Ladakhi culture. You will learn about daily life in the past and why this palace played a special role in Ladakh’s history.

Leh Palace Opening Hours 

Leh Palace is open from early morning at 7 AM to evening at 4 PM daily. Indian citizens can enter for Rs15 and foreigners for Rs100.

Go to the museum in the morning or late afternoon for the nicest light and to avoid the brightest hours. Leh Palace is located about 2.4 kilometers outside the Leh city center. People can reach it by taxi or bus.