What lies beyond Leh? 6 villages that’ll surprise you

It’s summertime! You have finally had your dream trip to Leh. But you JUST can't get enough of it! And now you’re wondering, where to next? No worries, we’ve got it sorted! It's time to turn the pages of Ladakh’s storybook and dive into its lesser-known villages. These gems might not be on every travel blogger’s list, but they definitely deserve a role in your own travel movie.

Townscape of Leh

1. Turtuk – Military occupied sensitive region

If Yash Raj Films ever made a romantic thriller set on the Indo-Pak border, Turtuk would be the star location. ‘Turtuk’ in Balti means ‘a desire to stay.’ Once part of Pakistan until 1971, it now gives travellers a glimpse into a unique culture that feels Central Asian and Ladakhi. This is a military-occupied sensitive region as it is very close to the LOC (line of control) between India and Pakistan. Once visited, you can also see the bunkers of Pakistan’s army. It is said that it is the last village in India where tourists are allowed despite the border being so close.

• Permits required: Indian tourists require an Inner Line Permit (ILP) to visit the village while foreign residents require
• Distance from Leh: Approximately 205 km

Green village of Leh

2. Lingshed – A 900 years old village

It is said that this village is almost 900 years old, could you believe it? Lingshed, a remote village, is home to the oldest and culturally rich monastery (Lingshed Gompa). The village didn’t have electricity until last year, when volunteers from IEEE Smart Village installed solar lights in the monastery and school. The school has now got a new name: ‘Solar School.’

• How to reach: To get here, one must take a taxi from Leh to Photoskar. From there, there’s a trek of 8 km to reach Lingshed. In this short span of trek, you’ll cross two mountains each about 15,000 ft high.
• Distance from Leh: Approximately 275 km (via Zanskar)

Lingshed monastery 

3. Padum – The pulse of Zanskar

Padum, the administrative capital of the Zanskar Valley, is home to several remarkable monasteries that reflect the region's deep-rooted Buddhist culture. Among them, the Phutkal Monastery has been gaining popularity for its unique location and spiritual ambiance. Built into the side of a cliff and partially enclosed within a natural cave, it is often referred to as the 'Cave Monastery.'

Apart from Phutkal, the valley also houses the revered Sani Monastery, one of the eight holiest Buddhist sites in the world and the Karsha Monastery, which stands as the largest monastery in the entire Zanskar region. Another notable site is the Stongdey Monastery, situated at the top of a hill, offering beautiful views of the valley below.

• Distance from Leh: Approximately 465 km

Padum monastery

4. Nang – The peaceful pause

Nang is one of the agricultural villages in Leh, offering views of the mountain desert that define Ladakh. But what truly sets Nang apart is its remarkable resilience. In recent years, the village has faced severe water shortages due to declining rainfall. In response, the resourceful villagers have come up with an innovative solution: artificial glaciers. By building embankments along mountain streams, they are able to store and conserve water for their crops. It's an inspiring example of human ingenuity in the face of climate challenges.

A visit to Nang during your trip to Leh is highly recommended. Not just for its scenic beauty, but to witness firsthand how the locals adapt and thrive amidst the harsh realities of high-altitude desert life.

• Distance from Leh: Approximately 45 km

Nang village of Ladakh | Credits: en.wikipedia.org

5. Merak – The quieter Pangong

Merak is often referred to as ‘the authentic side of Pangong Tso.’ If you're looking to experience the true essence of the azure lake, Merak is the place to be. While the popular stretches of Pangong are usually bustling with tourists, Merak offers a more peaceful and untouched setting. Situated at the snow-clad foothills of the mountains in Ladakh, this quiet village is characterized by its fascinating network of grey stone walls and beautiful natural beauty.

• Distance from Leh: Approximately 176 km

Merak, a Ladakhi village

6. Chushul – Where the wind whispers history

While Merak is perfect for those seeking solitude away from the crowds, Chushul is for those who wish to stand where history was etched in courage. Located on the Indo-China border, Chushul is the last Indian village before the frontier and is best known for the legendary Battle of Rezang La (1962). It was here, in the unforgiving cold and harsh terrain, that Indian soldiers of the Kumaon Regiment made their heroic last stand during the India-China war.

Rezang La, a mountain pass on the southeastern approach to the Chushul Valley, witnessed unparalleled bravery under the leadership of Major Shaitan Singh, who was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra for his valor.

Today, Chushul is a windswept, hauntingly beautiful village surrounded by vast plains and mountains, home to a poignant war memorial that silently narrates tales of sacrifice and resilience.

• Fun fact: It is one of the highest villages in India
• Distance from Leh: Approximately 210 km

India-China border | Credits: bloomberg.com

Conclusion

This blog is an amalgamation of a few lesser-known villages in and around Leh. Each offering a unique glimpse into the soul of Ladakh. From war-scarred border villages like Chushul and Turtuk that echo with stories of bravery, to peaceful hamlets like Nang and Merak that reflect resilience, these places are more than just dots on a map. If you’re someone who seeks more than just sightseeing, who loves to uncover the unexplored, the untrodden paths, these villages promise experiences that go beyond postcards.