Bearing a passing similarity to the Potala Palace in Lhasa (Tibet), this nine-storey dun-coloured palace is Leh's dominant structure and architectural icon. It took shape under 17th-century king Sengge Namgyal but has been essentially unoccupied since the Ladakhi royals were stripped of power and shuffled off to Stok in 1846. Today the sturdy walls enclose some exhibition spaces and a small prayer room, but the most enjoyable part of a visit is venturing up to the uppermost rooftops for the view.
Interesting structures ranged around the palace’s base include the prominent Namgyal Stupa , the colourfully muralled Chandazik Gompa and the 1430 Chamba Lhakhang with medieval mural fragments between the inner and outer walls. Don't count on any of these being open.
