Palaces in Leh
abandoned in the mid 19th century, the ruined palace has been restored by the
Archaeological Survey of India. Its roof offers panoramic views of Leh and the
surrounding areas. The prayer room of Leh Palace offers a glimpse of the grandeur of
the former Leh Palace.
Stok Palace: This palace, around 15km from the main city of Leh, was built in 1825
and is presently the residence of the royal descendants of King Sengge Namgyal. The
palace has a cafeteria with a great open terrace. The palace has several beautiful
gardens as well as library with around 108 volumes of the Kangyur-collection of
Buddha’s teachings. There are museum rooms displaying royal family treasures like
the queen’s crown. The five secret guest rooms of the palace, decorated with
beautiful murals, can be hired for rent.
Shey Palace: This palace was built more than 555 years ago by Lhachen Palgyigon,
the King of Ladakh. The palace is also a monastery. It is home to Ladakh’s largest
golden Buddha statue. It is located in Shey village of Leh district. Shey Monastery has
two seasonal festivals which are held every year. The first festival is held at Shey
Palace on the 26th and 27th day of the first month of the Tibetan calendar which is
generally in the months of July or August. This festival is called “Shey Doo Lhoo” it is
held to mark the beginning of the sowing season. The two-day celebration is marked
by special rituals performed by the monks in the main monastery, in addition to
several other religious rites. Villagers gather in large numbers at the monastery to
celebrate the festival.
Also, check out:
Leh:
Ladakh:
Nubra Valley:
Pangong:
Tso Moriri:
Zanskar:
Others:
Maps: