Leh is the capital Laddakh. A distinctive region within the state of Jammu & Kashmir it is a highland desert where the summer is short but resplendent with colours. Winter brings with it a mantle of snow locking people indoors. The Laddakhi people are cheerful, colourful, their art a part of the environment which they see not as full of the environment which they see not as full of life. Buddhism thrives in this desert, and several monasteries from the fuleru of life in Laddakh.

Besides the wealth of natural attractions, on of the most spectacular aspects of Laddakh is its monasteries. Some of the principal monasteries are Alchi Compa, over ten centuries old, and covered with paintings : hermis Gompa, one of the main attraction in Laddakh, famous for its annual dances and for its display of thanks, the largest one of which is displayed once every twelve years Lamayura, the oldest the region.; Likir Gompa with its clay Buddha Statues. Shey palace and Monastery with picturesque gardens, a god victory stupa and a spectacular double stupa and a spectacular double stories statue of the Buddha Sakyamuni; Spituk Monastery, 12 storeys high and consisting of eight temples.