Leh itself is small enough to walk — the main bazaar, old town, and Changspa tourist village are all within 20 minutes on foot. The altitude makes even gentle slopes tiring on the first couple of days, so pace yourself.
Taxis are the main way to reach monasteries and attractions outside town. The Leh Taxi Operators Union runs fixed-price taxi stands, with set fares to Thiksey, Hemis, Alchi, Nubra Valley, Pangong Lake, and other destinations. You can hire a taxi for a full day or negotiate multi-day monastery circuits. Settle the price at the taxi stand rather than flagging down random vehicles.
Motorcycles can be hired from several shops in the bazaar and along Fort Road. Royal Enfields are the classic choice for the Manali-Leh and Khardung La routes. Having a valid driving licence and some experience with mountain roads is strongly advised.
Local buses run from the bus stand near the main bazaar to villages in the Indus Valley and over Khardung La to Nubra. They are cheap and often crowded, but a good way to travel if you have time and patience.
Minibuses and shared jeeps (Sumos) cover routes to popular destinations like Thiksey and Hemis at set morning departure times. Ask at the bus stand or your guesthouse the evening before.