The shopping list for Leh Ladakh should ensure that you carry the best things from the region with you while going back. The picturesque landscapes, Buddhist culture, welcoming folks, and avenues for adventure activities are why Leh earns a top spot on the bucket list of many travellers. Apart from the memories and those excellent Instagram pictures, one thing you are sure to get back from the journey is souvenirs.
Markets in Leh are flooded with plenty of local stuff, especially during the peak tourist season of June to September. The famous things that comprise a part of the shopping list for Leh Ladakh for most travellers range from Pashmina Shawls, native handicrafts, rugs and carpets to woollens and traditional silver jewellery.
You will easily spend hours admiring the handicrafts, jewellery and other artefacts displayed in the bazaars of Leh. You are bound to be mesmerized by the fine artistry and the range of products that this small town has to offer. So, whether you are a shopaholic or not, you will surely feel like picking up and carrying back a part of the cold desert with you.
While the beauty of Ladakh is known by most people, we often tend to sideline the other things it has to offer. In addition to raw and rugged mountains, Ladakh is home to some wonderful markets selling goodies you simply can’t miss out on.
In my current blog, I intend to provide you with the complete shopping list for Leh Ladakh that will help you to pick just the right things without making holes in your pocket.
So, while deciding on what to buy in Leh, this current blog of mine will act as your very own shopping guide.
Shopping List for Leh Ladakh: What and Where to Buy?
Shopping adds to the whole experience of travelling to a new place. You can bring back souvenirs and unique things to remember your visit. Here’s a quick overview of the shopping list for Leh Ladakh Trip, where and what to buy in Leh Ladakh.
| What to buy in Leh and Where to buy in Leh? |
| Pashmina Shawls
Main Bazaar Road |
| Tibetan Handicrafts
Main Bazaar Road |
| Apparels and Accessories
Main Bazaar Road |
| Carpets and Rugs
Main Bazaar Road |
| Gems and Jewellery
Moti Bazaar |
| Traditional Turquoise Ladakhi Jewellery
Moti Bazaar |
| Traditional Artifacts
Moti Bazaar |
| Clothes
Changspa Road Market |
| Hand-woven garments, carpets and rugs
Changspa Road Market |
| Silver and Copper Trinklets
Changspa Road Market |
| Antiques and handicrafts
Tibetan Market |
| Warm Clothes
Tibetan Market |
| Traditional Ladakhi dresses
Shar Market |
Shopping List for Leh Ladakh: Top 10 things to Buy
The markets of Leh are filled with numerous things that should find a spot in your shopping list for Leh Ladakh. While the region is most famous for Pashmina shawls, this is not the only speciality of the region. Other famous things to buy include Leh Ladakh handicrafts, Buddhist masks, turquoise and Tibetan silver jewelry, woollens and apricots.
Until I went to Ladakh, I was unaware of the fact that Ladakh is home to some of the world’s best apricots. Due to restrictions on exporting fresh fruits outside the district, apricots and apricot products are widely sold locally. It’s fresh, organic, and delicious.
The famous things to buy in Leh Ladakh and those you need to put on your shopping list for Leh Ladakh are:
Tibetan Handicrafts and ArtefactsTibetan artifacts and handicrafts are the priority in every traveller’s shopping list for Leh Ladakh. There is so much to choose from that it becomes difficult to stop at just a few. The prices of handicrafts in Leh vary from low and affordable to very high. The most popular ones are: Thangka paintings– These intricately painted wall hangings not only make for beautiful wall-pieces, but they also help you meditate. Painted on cotton or silk, these are traditionally meant to be hung on the wall without a frame or kept rolled up when undisplayed. They usually depict a scene from Mandalas or some Buddhist Gurus. Singing bowls– These are made from brass and copper and decorated with intricate carvings. The sound of these bowls supposedly has healing powers. Choktse– These beautifully adorned wooden tables are painted in vibrant colours. They are simply stunning. |
Ladakhi and Tibetan JewelleryIf you like jewelry, then Turquoise stoned jewelry and Tibetan Silver jewelry is a must on your shopping list for Leh Ladakh. You can browse through the huge collections of pure silver jewelry pieces worn traditionally by Ladakhis and Tibetans. From neck pieces to earrings, rings, bracelets, you always want more. Copper and Silver Trinkets are also something that can be bought. |
Pashmina ProductsOne thing that should undoubtedly be on your shopping list for Leh Ladakh is Pashmina. You can buy shawls or stoles or other garments made out of the fine Pashmina wool in Leh. The pashmina wool is delicate, light and yet very warm. The cost of pashmina shawls in Leh may vary anywhere between Rs 500 to over 2 Lakhs. |
Buddhist Motifs and SymbolsMarkets in Leh are flooded with Buddhist motifs and symbols. The most interesting ones are classic Buddhist masks depicting the history of Buddhist culture. Prayer wheels are also sold at a number of shops and stalls. A cylindrical wheel on a spindle, it is made from metal or wood. It also has some chants imprinted on the wheel. If your shopping list for Leh Ladakh has gifts listed on them, Buddhist motifs make for perfect contenders. |
Handwoven Rugs and CarpetsThe Ladakhi rugs and carpets are handmade by local artisans. These are naturally dyed and embossed with striking geometric patterns, dragons and flora. The rugs make for great wall hangings. Kashmiri carpets are also very popular. The intricate patterns on wool will add a royal touch to any house. |
Apricots and Apricot JamsApricots are locally and abundantly grown in the Ladakh area. Savour some freshly harvested apricots and do add the dried apricots and apricot jams to your shopping list for Leh Ladakh. You can take the apricot products as gifts. Ladakh Apricot Store deals exclusively in apricots. Fresh, dried, jam, oil, all its forms are available here. |
Curios and SouvenirsThere are plenty of things that can be taken as souvenirs from Leh. Your shopping list for Leh Ladakh can include many such souvenirs Buddhist flags, Buddha statues in different poses and sizes, key chains, bells, etc make excellent gifting options. Some must buy souvenirs are – Prayer Flags: The prayer flags are very good gifting options since it is believed that you should not buy them for yourself. The flags have the words Om Ma Ni Padme Hum written on them. These can be hung on doors, windows & vehicles. These are generally of two types. Lung Dar – The horizontal prayer flags and Dar Cho – The vertical prayer flags. These come in all sizes and are very reasonable. Ladakhi Hats T-shirts with different motifs |
Woollen GarmentsForgot to carry woollens? No problem. Pick up some of the best and low-priced woollens in Leh. You can buy socks, gloves, pullovers, and caps. Yak wool blankets and garments in local patterns are also worth every penny. |
A traditional Tibetan singing bowl. These bowls produce sounds that are meant to help achieve a state of relaxation. They are widely found in temples, monasteries, and meditation centres in the Himalayas. Learn how to play one or bring one back home!
Best Markets to Fulfill your Shopping List
The bazaars of Leh would any day leave you wanting for more. You can browse for hours through the souvenirs and admire the hand-crafted wall paintings and much more. Even if you aren’t a big shopper, you can just wander around and explore the markets.
When out shopping, you will find plenty of famous things to buy in Leh Ladakh in every nook and corner. However, when preparing your shopping list for Leh Ladakh, you need to understand the local markets or bazaars, as we call them in India commonly. Read on to find out exactly what to buy from Leh from which market so that you get the best worth for your money.
Top 5 Bazaars for fulfilling your shopping list for Leh Ladakh
The markets in Leh are fascinating. FIlled with a range of products, they are fun to take a stroll even if you wish not to buy much. The best 5 bazaars in Leh that you must visit, if you are a shopaholic are:
Main Bazaar Road Leh
If you are a shopaholic, it might be difficult for you to come back from this place. The Main Bazaar Road is a “shopper’s dream come true.” Lined with a number of small shops selling Ladakh famous things like Pashmina shawls, Tibetan silver jewelry, handicrafts and small souvenirs.
Being one of the most popular shopping destinations in Leh, this bazaar is humming with travelers and locals alike. You can find people shopping for Buddhist symbols like prayer wheels, Buddha statues as souvenirs.
| Location
Old Town Leh |
| Price Range
Low to mid-range (budget friendly) |
| Speciality
Jewellery, apparel and accessories |
| Suitable for
Solo, group and family travellers |
| What to Buy?
Handicrafts Thangka Paintings (embroidered silk wall paintings) Hand-woven carpets and rugs Tibetan wooden tables called ‘choktse’ Ladakhi Hats and, Buddhist masks Tibetan silver and turquoise jewellery |
| Notable Outlets
Ladakh Art Palace Tibetan Handicraft Emporium Buddhist Thangka House Ladakh Environment and Health Organization |
| Closing Time
Around 8 pm |
| Important Tip
Don’t forget to bargain Carry cash as cards are not always accepted |
The prices of handicrafts in Leh, the cost of pashmina shawls in Leh and everything else may vary from shop to shop. Bargain your way to checking off the shopping list for Leh Ladakh.
Often seen on bikes, cars, in homes, or elsewhere, these prayer flags are more than just a mere accessory. Each colour symbolizes an element, and the flags are used to promote peace, wisdom and compassion. Do learn more about them when in Ladakh.
Moti Market Leh
Moti market Leh is one of the oldest markets in Ladakh. As the name suggests, Moti Market Leh is famous for gems, pearls, precious stones and jewelry. If your shopping list for Leh Ladakh has traditional jewelry listed, this is the place you need to go to.
The quality of these is quite good but since it is jewellery, the prices are on a higher side. If you are looking for something in your budget, try the traditional artifacts.
| Location
Near Leh Bus Stand |
| Price Range
Mid to High-Range |
| Suitable for
Solo, group and family travellers |
| What to Buy?
Traditional Artifacts Gems, Jewellery, Precious stones Authentic silvery jewellery Traditional Turquoise Ladakhi jewellery |
| Notable Places to shop
Ladakh Art Palace |
| Closing Time
Around 9 PM |
| Important Tips
Bargain for a reasonable price |
Changspa Road
Lined with travel agencies, small shops, and restaurants on both sides, Changspa Road market is a must visit place in Leh. Open only during summers, Changspa Road has everything you need to complete your shopping list for Leh Ladakh.
There are plenty of travel agencies, budget hotels and guest houses in the area. A majority of foreign tourists coming to Leh live on the Changspa Road because of this accessibility. Apart from shopping, you can also enjoy the beautiful garden restaurant and cafes here. There is also a small office of the Indian Mountaineering Foundation in an eatery called Mentokling, where you can check out some trekking plans.
| Location
Behind the ridge on the Shanti Stupa road |
| Price Range
Low to mid-range (budget friendly) |
| Suitable For
Solo, group and family travellers |
| What to Buy?
Souvenirs Clothing Trekking Accessories |
| Places to buy from
Cottage Industries Exposition Ecology Centre Women’s Alliance Venture Ladakh |
| Important Tip
Do try the cafes here |
Tibetan Market Leh
The Tibetan Market is the perfect place to buy antiques and traditional handicrafts. This budget-friendly market has many small shops maintained by Tibetan refugees. Put to use your bargaining skills here.
Ladakh is home to locally woven woolen and Pashmina shawls. Not only are they beautiful – making for a great addition to an outfit, but are also warm. Note that they can be really differently priced depending on the work, and the cloth’s quality.
Tibetan Market Leh is a flea market with a throng of stalls offering numerous Tibetan and Ladakhi souvenirs options such as jewellery, Buddha idols, Prayer wheels, etc. A perfect place for street shopping in Leh, here you can mark off a lot of stuff on your shopping list for Leh Ladakh. Another thing it is famous for is woollen clothes.
| Location
Off Leh Road |
| Price Range
Low to mid-range (budget friendly) |
| What to Buy?
Tibetan handicrafts like shawls, hand-spun rugs, carpets Turquoise stoned Jewelry, silver jewellery |
| Suitable for
Solo, group and family travellers |
| Important Tip
Beware of the fake antiques |
Shar Market
Shar Market Leh is a place you should visit if traditional Ladakhi dresses are on your shopping list for Leh Ladakh. There are plenty of stalls and shops selling Ladakhi dresses, traditional handicrafts, jewelry, etc.
The most commonly bought Ladakhi dress items include:
Goucha: It is a thick woollen robe generally worn by men. It is secured at the neck, under the armpit and tied at the waist with a colourful sash called “Skerag.“
Kuntop: Women wear this robe with a colourful shawl, the “Bok” on their backs. Traditionally, the women carried a baby or parcels on the backs.
Perak: A lambskin headgear is worn by women studded with semi-precious turquoise stones.
| Location
Opposite Main Bazaar Road, Old Town Leh |
| What to Buy?
Traditional Ladakhi dresses |
| Places to buy from
Tibetan Handicraft Community Showroom |
| Important Tip
Bargaining will help you get a better price |
Apart from these markets, the markets in Kargil, Zanskar and Nubra Valley also offer some shopping avenues for travellers.
Kargil MarketKargil Market offers Leh Ladakh handicrafts and ornaments. Here you can also shop for Woolen clothes, Pashmina Shawls, hand-woven carpets. Apricot products are also very famous and you can pick up some jam and dry Apricot. |
Zanskar Valley MarketPadum at Zanskar Valley has a market which is famous for Pashmina shawls, silk carpets and handicrafts items. |
Nubra ValleyDiskit Market is the only place in Nubra Valley where you can shop. However, it does not offer a huge variety when compared to markets in Leh. You can still find clothes prayer wheels, Turquoise Jewelry and Sea-buckthorn Juice here. |
Silk carpets can be found in a variety of designs, sizes, and colours in Ladakh. However, note that these are generally heavy on the pocket, for silk is costly. Furthermore, also remember that these are heavy. Make sure that you have enough space for it.
Shopping List for Leh Ladakh: Top 5 Shopping Tips
When shopping in Ladakh, these shopping tips will come in handy.
Bargain your BestBargaining skills are very important. When shopping at the markets in Leh, make the most of your haggling skills. The prices are generally inflated and bargaining will help you get them right. Try it with all the street vendors and small stalls and shops |
Know Where Not to BargainThere are many government-operated crafts emporiums in Leh. These have fixed rates and you should not try bargaining here. |
Carry CashAlways carry sufficient cash. Some shopkeepers in Leh don’t accept Credit Card/Debit Cards or the POS machines just won’t work a lot of times. |
Keep Separate Time for ShoppingMarkets in Leh are quite big and browsing through them may take time. You need the best value for your money and that requires going from one shop to another. You should keep at least two evenings or a day and a half to best explore the markets and complete your shopping list for Leh Ladakh |
Beware of FakesWhen buying silver jewellery, check its authenticity by inspecting the hallmark on the jewellery. |
Complete your shopping list for Leh Ladakh in the vibrant markets of Leh and bring home the most unusual and beautiful souvenirs that remind you of your Leh adventures.
Happy Wayfaring.