Leh Palace
Palace

Leh Palace

The 17th-century royal palace overlooking Leh — Ladakh's own Potala

1–1.5 hours₹25 (Indians), ₹100 (Foreigners) Moderate crowds

About

Leh Palace (Lachen Palkar) was the royal palace of the Namgyal dynasty, built in the 17th century by King Sengge Namgyal. This nine-storey structure was modeled after the Potala Palace in Lhasa (and was in fact built before the current Potala). Now maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India, the palace offers stunning panoramic views of Leh town, the Ladakh range, and Stok Kangri from its rooftop. The interior, though partially in ruins, contains wall paintings, a small museum, and a Buddhist prayer room. The palace is illuminated beautifully at night.

Highlights

9-storey palace built before Lhasa's Potala Palace
Panoramic rooftop views of Leh and Stok Kangri
Built by King Sengge Namgyal (17th century)
ASI-maintained with small museum inside
Beautifully illuminated at night

Practical Info

Timings

7:00 AM – 4:00 PM daily

Best Time to Visit

Morning for photography, evening for illumination views from below

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