The 17th century palace of Ladakh’s legendary king, Senge Namgyal, towers over the modern city of Leh. Looming above the Palace are the remains of the ancient 16th c castle of Tashi Namgyal built over yet earlier 15th c remains of Gragspa Bum lde’s castle. These two iconic structures form part of the most important historic precinct of Leh. In collaboration with the Archaeological Survey of India and Chemday monastery, a research project commenced in 2021 to understand the historical, architectural, archaeological and cultural significance of these historic buildings, placing them in their larger natural landscape. Architectural survey and documentation alongwith historical research and a documentation of oral testimonies and folk songs was undertaken. The final report sheds new light on the precinct  and will guide the creation of future visitor interpretation at the palace and castle.