Stretching amidst the ranges of the Himalayas, encompassing high altitude lakes, passes, rivers, deserts and meadows, Leh has spectacular scenery and offers many activities to those who amble into the valley. Here's a list of the top things you must do while in Leh.

Leh is famous for its Buddhist monasteries, some of which are over a thousand years old. The Alchi Monastery was built as early as the 12th and 13th century with ancient shrines and murals. The Thiksey monastery is a 15th-century marvel - a huge complex consisting of many shrines, an assembly hall, an elaborately engraved pillar, an ancient temple called Lakhang Nyerma, and more. The Hemis monastery residing at a peak gives a glorious view of the valley below. The Namgyal Tsemo is a ruin of a 15th-century monastery that was built to ward off evil spirits. It is interesting to note that many manuscripts and paintings are still preserved here. The ancient shrine of Spituk monastery overlooking the Indus is also quite a sight to see!

The Losar Festival is probably the most vibrant festivals celebrating the New Year according to the Buddhist calendar. The Hemis Festival conducted in the huge complex of the Hemis Monastery is an annual fest to look forward to. The Ladakh harvest festival has its own show of masked dances and colorful processions. The Matho Nagrang Festival conducted at the banks of the Indus is another one you shouldn't miss.

From the clear and starry nights with the Milky Way painted across its expanse, to the lakes and rivers nestled amidst the rough rocky terrain, Leh has a lot of breath-taking sights to see. The Nubra Valley and its sand dunes are one of the first to come to mind. The cold desert has its own unique culture, traditions and many mysteries waiting to be explored. The Tso-Moriri Lake is a beautiful gift after you trek through the Rupsho Valley. Also, the Pangong Lake and the Tso-Kar Lake are equally stunning. The Sangam point where the rivers Indus and Zanskar meet is another magical sight.

A fun way to tour the landscape of Leh is to go on a Jeep Safari or pedal away on your bicycle. There is no need to mention how popular Leh is amongst bikers because of its challenging roads and passes. Many wait for the ice to melt so they can ride through the highest motor-able passes in the world. Camel and Yak Safari are other interesting options to traverse the land. One of the most effective ways to explore the landscape is of course to trek. There are many trekking routes in Leh, the most popular one being the Chadar trek which involves walking on the frozen Zanskar river. When the river melts it offers the perfect conditions for white water rafting.