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By Karan Singh Bisht
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Updated on 1 Apr 2025, 12:42 IST
Capital of Ladakh: Ladakh, one of India's newest Union Territories, is known for its stunning landscapes, high-altitude passes, and unique cultural heritage. A frequently asked question is: "What is the capital of Ladakh?" Interestingly, Ladakh does not have just one capital; it has two capitals—Leh and Kargil—each serving different administrative purposes.
Ladakh has two capitals—Leh and Kargil—which function as the summer and winter capitals, respectively.
Thus, both Leh and Kargil share the status of being Ladakh's capital at different times of the year.
Ladakh has two capitals for better governance and accessibility. Leh, being the larger city, is the primary capital, while Kargil serves as an alternate administrative hub, ensuring that government services are accessible even in extreme winter conditions.
Unlike states in India, Union Territories do not have an official state capital in the same way as states like Rajasthan or Maharashtra. However, Leh and Kargil together serve as the administrative capitals of Ladakh.
Both Leh and Kargil are crucial for Ladakh’s governance, but they serve different purposes:
While Leh is more developed and internationally recognized, Kargil remains an essential administrative and strategic location for Ladakh.
Ladakh is divided into two major districts:
Both Leh and Kargil serve as district headquarters for their respective regions.
Before 2019, Ladakh was part of the state of Jammu and Kashmir. On August 5, 2019, the Indian government revoked Article 370 and bifurcated Jammu & Kashmir, creating Ladakh as a separate Union Territory.
Ladakh is famous for its breathtaking landscapes and cultural heritage.
Ladakh is strategically important due to its border with China and Pakistan. The Indian Army and Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) maintain a strong presence in the region.
Ladakh is a land of diverse cultures, languages, and traditions. The people of Ladakh belong to different ethnic groups, including Ladakhi Buddhists and Balti Muslims.
| Season | Temperature Range | Accessibility | Administrative Impact |
| Summer (May-Sept) | 15°C to 30°C | High | Peak governmental activity |
| Winter (Oct-Apr) | -20°C to 10°C | Limited | Reduced accessibility |
To summarize:
Ladakh's dual capitals reflect the unique geographical and political conditions of the region, making it an important part of India. Whether you're a traveler, history enthusiast, or student, understanding Ladakh’s capitals helps appreciate the region’s rich history and strategic significance.
Leh is the principal capital of the Union Territory of Ladakh in India. Historically, it has been the capital since the medieval period.
Yes, Ladakh designates Leh as its summer capital and Kargil as its winter capital. This arrangement ensures administrative functionality throughout the year, considering the region's harsh climatic conditions.
In 2024, Leh continued to serve as the summer capital, and Kargil as the winter capital of Ladakh.
Historically, Ladakh was known by several names, including "Maryul," meaning "low land," and "Kha-Chumpa." The Chinese pilgrim Hiuen Tsang referred to it as "Ma-Lo-Pho."
Ladakh, as a Union Territory, does not have a Chief Minister. Instead, it is administered by a Lieutenant Governor appointed by the President of India. As of now, Brig. (Dr.) B.D. Mishra (Retd.) serves as the Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh.
The term "Ladakh" is not an acronym; it doesn't have a full form. The name "Ladakh" translates to "Land of High Passes."
India comprises 28 states and 8 Union Territories. The Union Territories are Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Chandigarh, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, Lakshadweep, Delhi (National Capital Territory), Puducherry, Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh.
Leh is the capital of Ladakh. Ladakh itself is a Union Territory and is not part of any state. It was formerly a part of the state of Jammu and Kashmir until October 31, 2019, when it was reorganized into a separate Union Territory.
Ladakh capital is Leh. Jammu and Kashmir, now a separate Union Territory, has two capitals: Srinagar serves as the summer capital, and Jammu serves as the winter capital.
Ladakh is located in the northern part of the Indian subcontinent, nestled between the Karakoram and westernmost Himalayan mountain ranges. It is bordered by the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir to the west and the state of Himachal Pradesh to the south. Its northern and eastern borders are disputed with Pakistan and China, respectively.
