Taking a flight to Leh from Delhi would be the most convenient. Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport serves Leh and its IATA code is IXL.
The prices for Delhi to Leh flights are between Rs. 1,742 and Rs. 12, 868. They vary according to the availability of flights, layovers between the two cities and classes of travel.
The best way to save on the overall airfare is to book a round trip. Booking a flight, a month or two weeks before will also be economical.
Air India, GoAir, SpiceJet and Vistara are the major airlines that fly regularly from Delhi to Leh. These airlines offer direct and connecting flights. The layover for the connecting Delhi to Leh flight is in Chandigarh.
Delhi Airport facilities
Indira Gandhi International Airport boasts of state-of-the-art facilities. The airport has lounges for the passengers. There is a food court and vending machines for snacks and beverages. Access to Wi-Fi is provided for 2 hours at the airport. You can also shop from brands like United Colors of Benetton, Tommy Hilfiger and Hamleys.
Leh Airport facilities
Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport consists of a single domestic terminal and it is one of the high-altitude airports in the country. You can expect a heavy security here. The airport also has tourist counters and a doctor-on-call for medical emergencies. There are a limited number of tea/coffee counters and a snack bar.
Baggage Information, Security Check-in and Document required
The limitations on baggage depend on the class of travel. They also vary from airline to airline. GoAir and SpiceJet offer daily Delhi to Leh flights and their baggage allowance information are as follows:
GoAir: The domestic flights of GoAir offers a maximum weight of 7kg as cabin baggage and 15kg as check-in baggage for the passengers travelling in GoSmart (Economy) class. The baggage allowance for GoBusiness travellers is 7kg for in-flight luggage and 35kg as check-in baggage.
SpiceJet: Passengers are allowed a cabin baggage not weighing more than 7kg. The airline offers 15kg worth of check-in baggage to its economy passengers while 30kg of check-in baggage is allowed to business class passengers.
Along with the e-ticket, passengers must carry another document that holds up as an identification proof. To enter the airport, any of the documents mentioned below will let passengers enter the airport:
- A voter ID card
- PAN Card provided by the Income Tax Department.
- A valid Passport.
- Valid birth certificate if travelling with infants.
- School ID card for children.
- Photo Credit card.
- Photo ID card issued by the government or reputed private organization.
- Driving License.
- Aadhar card.
Places to visit in Delhi
Delhi has a vast number of insta-worthy places. Here are a few places you can check out:
- Lodhi Colony Art District: A quaint spot located in Lodhi colony has the walls covered with vibrant murals and artworks. This place is a favourite spot for budding influencers and photographers. It is located 14km from the airport.
- Dilli Haat Market: Among Delhi’s top photogenic places, Dilli Haat is one such place where you can shop for handicrafts and goods from all over India. Apart from shopping, you can also enjoy authentic food from different regions of India.
Places to visit in Leh
Leh is an enchanting place to be. Amongst the old stupas and monasteries, there are a lot of adventure activities that you can be a part of. The few places not to miss when in Leh are:
- Leh Palace: Located within 5km from Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, is this grand structure from where you can get a panoramic view of Leh town. Although a significant portion of this is in ruins, it still remains to be a stunning place to explore.
- Spituk Gompa: One of the most well-known Buddhist monasteries in Leh, Spituk Gompa is located 5km from the airport. This monastery has a giant statue of Goddess Kali. Every year Gustor festival is held here based on the Tibetan calendar.
- Shanti Stupa: Shanti Stupa is one of the most breathtaking attractions in Leh. It is around 7km from the Leh airport. Get ready to be mesmerized by the enthralling view of snow-capped Himalayas.
Shops and restaurants in Leh
When you stroll through the narrow lanes in Leh, you will be amazed by the range local stuff and their artistry. These are the places you must go:
- Moti Market: The oldest market in Leh, situated 4km from the airport, is an ideal place to buy jewelleries such as pearls, gems and precious stones. If you want to buy traditional Ladakhi jewellery, this is the place to be. Don’t hesitate to bargain when you are here.
- Main Bazaar: This is the main market in Leh where you can buy Tibetan souvenirs, handicrafts, antiques and pashmina shawls at competitive prices. There is also a store that sells only apricots and its derivatives such as dried apricot, fresh apricot, apricot jam and oil. It is 4km from the Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport.
- The Tibetan Kitchen: To get a wholesome travelling experience in Leh, you need to eat here. It is one of the oldest restaurants in the town serving authentic local cuisines. Have a piping bowl of thukpa or a steaming plate of momo here.
- Rendezvous Café Leh & German Bakery: If you are looking to try something new, this bakery located 4.3km from the airport is every foodie’s dream. Grab a soothing breakfast here such as tuna sandwich and salted butter tea.
Weather in Leh
Leh has cold desert weather. The winters are cold and long often with temperatures below freezing point. The best time to visit Leh is between June and September.
