Leh's main sights are the palace and monasteries that line the Indus Valley. The Leh Palace rising above the old town is the defining monument. Above it, the Namgyal Tsemo Monastery rewards the steep walk with outstanding views. The Shanti Stupa on its ridge above the tourist village of Changspa gives panoramic views and is particularly beautiful at sunset.
Sankar Monastery is an easy walk from town and one of the more intimate gompas in Ladakh. The Zorawar Fort near the airport houses a small museum covering the Dogra period of Ladakhi history.
For the monastery circuit further afield, Thiksey (19 km) and Hemis (45 km) can be visited as day trips by taxi. Alchi (65 km) is best combined with Likir and Basgo in a longer day.
The adventure highlight is driving or riding over Khardung La (5,359 m) to the Nubra Valley — sand dunes, Bactrian camels, and the Karakoram peaks in a single crossing. River rafting on the Zanskar and Indus, and multi-day treks in the Markha Valley, are the other signature experiences.