Leh-Ladakh

It is the region of mountain passes, an ideal place to see the supreme beauty of nature. Ladakh lies between 32 to 36 degree north latitude and 75 to 80 degree east longitude. It is the highest flat terrain of the Indian state of Kashmir with many of it being over 3,000m about Ladakh. The total area of 45110sq km makes Ladakh the biggest district in India. Ladakh region is divided in Kargil and Leh districts. Kargil lies at an height of 2750m and Leh at 3505m. The largest town in Ladakh is Leh. The altitude differs between 5000 to 14000 feet above the sea level. Leh is the capital of Ladakh.

Ladakh is famous for its distant mountain beauty and culture. It spans the Great Himalayan and Karakoram mountain ranges and the upper Indus River Valley. Ladakh is bordered by two of the world’s uppermost elevation ranges like the Karakoram in the north and the great Himalayas in the south. The Pakistan occupied Kashmir lies in the west and China in the north and Eastern part and Lahul Spiti of Himachal Pradesh in the South east of the district. Ladakh’s racial composition consisted of Mongoloid and a mixed Indo-Aryan population of Mons and Dards. It is now and then called little Tibet due to strong cultural and geographical similarities with Tibet. The approach to Ladakh is always marked with many long walls running 2-3 kms, adorned with engraved stones bearing the mantra “Om Mani Padme Hun” and Chortens which symbolizes Buddha’s mind. Through 1962 war among China and India and the part of the Leh was taken by China.

Ladakh is known as the land of abundant passes, supernatural lamas and shattered moonland. Ladakh is a high elevation desert as the Himalayas make a rain shadow thus segregation the entry of monsoon clouds. The main source of water here remnants the winter snowfall on the mountains that forms glaciers. The rest of the parts of the country where people request for rain, here ladakhi’s implore for the glaciers or the snows to melt for irrigation and drinking determinations. The district of Skardo and a part of Kargil became the terrain of Pakistan occupied Kashmir (Pak) and Ladakh remained with Jammu and Kashmir. There are also some spiritual places of Muslims which establish somewhat more than 15% of the district’s population. The most gorgeous structures of the landscape of Leh are the Buddhists Gonpas known as Monasteries. The main source of water here relics the winter snowfall on the mountains that forms snow. The district is bordered Pakistan engaged by Kashmir in the west, and China in the north, Eastern part and Lahul spiti of Himachal Pradesh in the south east. Buddhism originated from the western Ladakh through Kashmir in the 2nd century. The majority of the religion in Leh is Buddhism. Ladakh is a region unsurpassed beauty of nature and is also called as land of mountain passes with a part of shattered moon land. Ladakh is famous for its well-known beauty of mountains and its culture. Ladakh is surrounded by Pakistan and in the west is the Kashmir. China is in the north and in the Eastern part of Himachal Pradesh in the south east. Approximately 60-65 million years ago the layer of Ladakh range and the Himalayas is an amazing miracle between the Indian and the Eurasian landmasses.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Ladakh is from June until September, the region’s summer season. At this time, Ladakh is an unmatched heaven, with patent, stunning views and warm and sunny weather – the average temperature range during the day is about 20–30°C. Keen trekkers naturally head to Ladakh during July and August, when the Manali-Leh and Srinagar-Leh highways are open to vehicles. That said, Ladakh is a land bound by two of the world’s highest mountain ranges – the Himalayas and Karakoram – anyone visiting Ladakh, even in the middle of summer, should be prepared for the sharp drop in temperatures at night.

Pangong Lake – Color Changing Lake

Situated at the height of 4350 m in the Himalayas, Pangong Lake is the world’s highest salt water lake.  Picturesque mountains in the background, landscaped vistas and tranquil blue waters of the lake would teleport you into the world of fantasy. It is one of the most popular points of tourist interest in Leh Ladakh. Pangong Lake got its name from a Tibetan word ‘Pangong Tso’ which means ‘High Grassland Lake’. The most interesting fact about this lake is that it changes its color, appearing blue, grey, green or red at different points of time. You can only feel its true bliss, if you visit here once.

Zanskar Valley – Valley of secluded serenity

Zanskar is one of the best tourist attractions to visit in Leh Ladakh. If you are in a need of solace and serenity then this desolated Himalayan range will definitely soothe your mind and soul. It is less crowded and beautiful which would be a perfect destination to spend some moments of peace. Glittering blue of the skies, snow covered steep terrains, awesome weather and mind – boggling water bodies will be the perfect landscape to disappear in the folds of time to dance and dream.

Kargil

Kargil is one of the top tourist attractions in Ladakh. It is situated on Srinagar- Leh highway. If you are a thrill seeker, you must not miss Kargil because it is a hub of adventure sports like trekking, camping, river rafting and mountaineering etc.

The most interesting part is the Line of control which is just 11km away from Kargil. It divides India from Pakistan. It is also a tourist paradise as many beautiful and old gompas and monasteries, scenic valleys and stunning mountain ranges will come in your way when you wander like a wanderer in its lanes.

Khardung- La Pass

Welcome to the highest motorable passes in the world. What? You haven’t visited Khardung- La Pass yet? Really? Then you must visit this place once in your lifetime as it is one of the must visit tourist destinations in Ladakh.

Khardung – La Pass is a gateway to Nubra and Shyok valleys. It is an endless world of scenic vistas. The thing of beauty and bliss is here forever. For a thrill seeker, nature lover, solace seekers, Khardung – la pass is one of a kind. You will never be able to forget its charm if you visit here once.

Magnetic Hill

It is one of the most popular Ladakh Tourist attractions in Ladakh. I am sure you would definitely want to see a place where science takes a backseat and gravity has no meaning. There is a yellow sign board in Magnetic hill which says ‘The phenomenon that defies gravity’.

It instructs you to park your vehicles at the base with a white point on the road, which is also known as magnetic road and when you park your vehicle at that spot, your vehicle will automatically move forward. Isn’t it interesting? This place should definitely be on your list of top places to visit in Ladakh.

Leh Palace

Leh Palace, also known as Lhachen Palkhar, is a magnificent structure situated in the city of Leh. Perched on a hill overlooking the city, providing a breathtaking view of the surrounding Himalayan mountains, Leh Palace is an iconic landmark of the region, and it is a must-visit destination for anyone travelling to the region. The palace offers a unique blend of history, culture, and architecture, making it a fascinating place to explore and learn about the rich cultural heritage of the region. The construction of the palace dates back to the 17th century when King Sengge Namgyal, the ruler of the Namgyal dynasty, commissioned its construction. The palace was built as a royal residence for the king and his family and also served as the administrative centre of the kingdom. The palace has nine stories, and its architecture is a blend of traditional Tibetan, Indian, and Islamic styles.

The palace has been converted into a museum that showcases the rich history and culture of the region. The museum exhibits various artefacts, including thangkas (Tibetan Buddhist paintings), old photographs, traditional costumes, and other objects that give visitors a glimpse into the lives of the royal family and the people of the region.

Thiksey Monastery

Thiksey Monastery, also known as Thiksey Gompa, is a Tibetan Buddhist monastery located approximately 19 kilometres east of Leh, in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. It is situated on a hilltop overlooking the Indus Valley and is considered one of the most beautiful and largest monasteries in Ladakh. It is an architectural masterpiece and is famous for its resemblance to the Potala Palace in Lhasa, Tibet. The complex comprises several temples, halls, and chambers, which are adorned with beautiful murals, thangkas, and statues of various deities. The main prayer hall is adorned with a 15-metre-high statue of Maitreya Buddha, which is the largest of its kind in Ladakh.

Apart from the main prayer hall, the monastery also has a nunnery, a library, a museum, and a school for young monks. The nunnery houses nuns who follow the Gelugpa order, and the school provides education to young monks from various parts of Ladakh. One of the interesting facts about it is, the complex also has a set of buildings which accommodate female renunciates.

Nubra Valley

Nubra Valley is a breathtakingly beautiful destination located in the northernmost part of India, in Ladakh. It is a high-altitude cold desert that is renowned for its mesmerising landscapes, picturesque villages, ancient monasteries, and unique culture. The valley is situated at an elevation of about 3,000 metres above sea level and is surrounded by majestic snow-capped mountains that make it a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The valley is accessible via the Khardung La Pass, which is one of the highest motorable roads in the world, and offers a thrilling experience for those who dare to take the journey.

Nubra Valley is also famous for its double-humped Bactrian camels, which can be seen grazing on the sand dunes in the region. Visitors can enjoy a camel safari and explore the valley’s remote corners, visiting ancient gompas and remote villages. The valley is also a popular trekking destination, with several trails offering stunning views of the mountains and valleys.

Alchi Village

Alchi is a small village situated in the Leh district of the Ladakh region in India. It is located on the banks of the Indus River and is famous for its ancient Alchi Monastery, which is over a thousand years old. The village is surrounded by stunning landscapes of snow-capped mountains, lush greenery, and the glistening river, making it a popular destination for tourists. The monastery houses some of the most beautiful and well-preserved murals, sculptures, and artefacts that offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Ladakh.

Apart from the monastery, Alchi village is also known for its vibrant and colourful markets, where one can buy locally produced handicrafts, clothes, and souvenirs. The village is also home to several small cafes and restaurants, serving delicious traditional Ladakhi cuisine. The locals of Alchi are warm and welcoming, and their traditional way of life is still preserved in the village. Overall, Alchi is a must-visit destination for anyone travelling to Ladakh, offering a unique cultural experience amidst breathtaking natural beauty.