Your first 48 hours
If you fly into Leh, make arrival day deliberately uneventful. Transfer, eat lightly, hydrate normally and rest. On day two, choose gentle sights close to town. Fitness does not protect a traveller from altitude illness.
What to see
Leh Palace and the old town explain the historic capital. Shanti Stupa is best in soft morning or evening light. The market is useful for cafés, equipment, crafts, cash and supplies. Hall of Fame provides regional and military context.
Monastery circuits
East of Leh, combine Shey, Thiksey, Hemis and Stakna selectively. West, the Sham Valley route links Pathar Sahib, Magnetic Hill, the confluence, Alchi and Lamayuru. Choose according to interest instead of forcing every stop into one day.
Where to stay
The market area is walkable; Changspa has guesthouses and cafés; the outskirts are quieter. Confirm heating outside summer, hot-water timing, stairs or lift, power backup and vehicle access.
Food and shopping
Try skyu, chutagi, thukpa, momos, khambir and butter tea. For pashmina, jewellery and carpets, ask about materials and origin rather than buying under pressure.
Confirm weather, roads, permits, prices and local instructions near departure.