Ladakh
| General Ladakh (meaning "land of high mountain passes") is a mountainous region in North India. Leh, the main city is situated at 3500m above sea level nestled in the great Himalayan, Karakoram, Zanskar and Ladakh ranges. Ladakh is known for remote mountain beauty, studded with monasteries and stupas. Ladakh is often referred as "Little Tibet" due to its geographical proximity and strong links to Tibetan culture. Capital: LehArea: 98 000 square kmAltitude: altitude ranges from 2750m at Kargil to 7672m at Saser Kangri in the KarakoramLanguages: Ladakhi, Zanskari, Tibetan, English and HindiThe predominant language is Ladakhi, it is closely related to Tibetan though is not mutually intelligible with it. A Ladakhi phrasebook "Getting Started in Ladakhi" by Melong publication is available in bookstores.Population: 250 000 out of which 23 000 live in LehReligion: Buddhist (77.3%), Muslim (13.8%), Hindu (8.6%)Climate: Ladakh is a rain shadow region of the Himalayas, the annual average rainfall in Leh is 100 mm. In summer, temperature reaches 25°C and it drops down to -15°C in winter.The high passes are closed during winter due to heavy snowfall. History The first inhabitants of Ladakh were nomads who came with their yaks during the Neolithic period. Later, Buddhist pilgrims travelling from India to Mount Kailash in Tibet settled permanently in the Indus valley and brought Buddhism which emerged as the main religion in the region.Over the centuries, the kings of Ladakh established a kingdom going from Kashmir to Tibet, guarded by forts and large monasteries.Ladakh was frequently attacked from the west by Muslim armies (16th century) and from the east by Tibetan armies (17th century). The kingdom revived under the Namgyal dynasty who extended the realm as far as Nepal and built a new capital at Leh. During the 19th century, Ladakh was invaded by the Dogra army from Jammu and became part of the state of Jammu and Kashmir.On 31st October 2019, Ladakh was separated from the rest of Jammu and Kashmir and became an independent state (Union Territory). Ladakh is divided into 2 disctricts: Leh district and Kargil district (which includes Zanskar). Getting there Delhi-Leh flights operate daily. Flights are very reliable in summer, while in winter they are sometimes cancelled in case of heavy snowfall. There are 8 flights per day in each direction. Flight tickets can become very expensive during the peak season, the best rates can usually be found on the internet and these two websites are convenient to compare the prices: www.yatra.com and www.makemytrip.com. All airlines are equivalent (Air India, GoFirst, SpiceJet, Vistara, IndiGo) so you may select the cheapest ticket that you can find.If you opt to come or leave Ladakh by road, you can take either the Manali or Srinagar Highway. The roads are closed in winter and they usually open in May. The 2-day road trip can be done by bus or by taxi. Acclimatization Leh is at 3500m above sea level so acclimatization can get difficult because of high altitude. It is advisable to spend at least two days to acclimatize before you set out for your adventures. Drink plenty of water or other fluids such as soup, tea and juice. | |
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Activities
There is no second thought that Ladakh is a dream destination for all the adventure junkies out there. This incandescent beauty of the land not only provides with the scenic view of its landscape but also some of the best adventure sports in Ladakh. Ladakh definitely evokes what we call as an ‘Adrenaline rush’ in the traveller’s heart. The fantastic views and majestic landscapes not only excite you but also give you an experience of a lifetime. If there is a thrill seeker within you this place will not disappoint you. This scenic and majestic landscape is an adventure in itself, the natural habitat and sight it offers to the travellers add further to the experience of visiting Ladakh. Best Adventure Sports in Ladakh to Enjoy Trekking Options in Ladakh Explore the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Himalayas. Extraordinary canyons, diversity, wide range of flora and fauna can make you feel close to nature like no other activity can do. This is a must-do activity and cannot be missed while vacationing in this dreamland. We list some of the famous treks in the region below. 1. Chadar Trek Chadar Trek It is one of the popular treks in the world. Thousands of people travel to enjoy trekking on a thin sheet of ice. Interesting and fascinating enough? ‘Chadar’ refers to the blanket or sheet as the rapid river of Zanskar freezes during the winter months transforming itself into a blanket of ice. Trekkers and the adventurers travel during the winters to take this action which is exciting, enthralling and challenging. Usually undertaken from mid-January to end of February one needs to withstand the tough climatic conditions. The total distance covered approximately is 105 km with a 15 to 17 km walk every day. 2. Markha Valley Trek Markha Valley Trek This one is purely surrounded by greenery and streams. One can explore the beauty of Hemis National Park, Gandala La and Kongmaru La which is situated at a height of about 15,748 feet and 17,060 feet respectively. It is a 9-day trek, best undertaken in the months of May to September. The sights of this trek are breathtaking- the deep river of Markha, Zanskar ranges, the Stok Kangri and Kang Yissay peaks makes it alluring as ever. The trekking distance is 75 km paving your way through the waist deep river of Markha leading to a view of Buddhist villages and rock monuments. 3. Stok Kangri Trek Stok Kangri Trek Base Cam This is a difficult trek and should be only undertaken by experienced trekkers. This trek aims to push the physical and mental limits of the enthusiasts in a way few very treks can. The starting point is the Stok village and usually takes place over a course of 9 to 10 days, during which trekkers climb up to the highest peak in the region, paving their way through steep trails and freezing waters. The trekking distance is approximately 240 km at an altitude of 20,180 ft. above sea levels. The entire succession has many ridges which lead to a sudden change in scenery of natural grandeur and flourishing green trees. The trek takes nearly 10 to 12 hours a day to be completed within the stipulated time period. 4. Snow Leopard Trek Hemis National Park This is a surprising twist and turn trek located in the eastern part of Ladakh with an average height of 3,000 meters. Covering an area of 600 square km in the valleys of Markha and Rumbak, it has a lot of untold stories to tell. Originally created on a high altitude for the conservation of unique wildlife, this place is gaining a lot of popularity among adventure seekers off late. Snow Leopard, Blue Sheep, Golden Oriole, Snow Cock, Golden Eagle, Horned Lark, Red Billed Chuff are among the few species you can spot while on it. Camping Options in Ladakh Camping- a great way to declutter your mind by adoring and exploring the nature’s beauty. Sleeping in a quiet night under the blanket of blinking stars is a dream come true, right? This adventurous activity is becoming a hot-favourite among young travellers which is located at an average altitude of 11,500 ft above sea level. This is a great way to de-stress from the oppressive weather of the plains. Some of the famous organized and trustworthy camps are Camel Resort Camp, Camp Water Mark, Bikamp at Leh and Nature’s Nest Camp at Pangong Lake. we list some of the activities that can be done while camping. 5. Building a Campfire Camping Near Tso Moriri Lake This is the best way to combat the extremely cold temperatures of the night and enjoy the calmness the night brings. It is a great way to mingle with fellow campers around the campfire. 6. Rock Climbing This is a mentally and physically demanding sport which involves artificial and natural rocks. Specialised climbing equipment is made available by the camps making it an efficient and loved activity. 7. Ice Hockey Various campsites offer this as the region freezes in winter. The cold deserts gear up for winter sports, skating and ice hockey are becoming hugely popular. They are also termed as shinny or pond hockey. Other Adventure Sports in Ladakh 8. Ladakh Marathon Marathon is something which is exciting and rewarding for the human soul and mind. One can test their fitness levels along with enjoying stunning vistas of the mountains and the picturesque view of the Leh. This marathon can certainly provide a sense of accomplishment to the runner as it is the highest and one of the toughest marathons. It allows you to run at a height of 11,500 to 17,618 feet covering a distance of 72 km. It is certainly a unique experience as it allows you to run with the locals giving you a taste of their lifestyle and culture. 9. Khardung La Top- One of the Best Motorable Roads Motor Biking in Ladakh If you’re an adventure freak and heights get you high then travelling to these is a must. Both Khardung La and Marsimik La are considered as the highest motorable road though there are conflicts about which one is the highest. Marsimik La is located at an altitude of 5,582 metres, but the roads are quite tricky and the driver needs to be extremely experienced. The roads of Khardung La located at an altitude of 5,359 metres has no such obstacle making it the highest motorable pass in the world. Among other thrill rides are Taglang La, Wari La, Lachalung La etc. 10. Jeep Safari Jeep Safari in Ladakh Jeep Safaris allows you to enjoy the moonscape and the challenging altitude of this beautiful place. With innumerable places to cover, from high passes to monasteries to icy lakes the best way to enjoy is by a Jeep Safari in Ladakh. There are various tours offered and one can choose as per their convenience. Few of the famous routes are Manali-Leh, Srinagar-Leh, Trans Himalayan Safari. Jeep safaris are very favourable and convenient for all age groups, especially if travelling with family. The duration usually differs as per the itinerary ranging from 5 to 15 days. 11. River Rafting in Indus and Zanskar River Rafting at Zanskar River River Rafting in a rapid river makes you feel close to heaven and is definitely for the strong hearted. If this experience has to be lived fully, there couldn’t be a better destination than the Leh amidst the Himalayas. The picturesque landscape it offers makes it a no miss for every rafter. Traversing through the cold waters amidst deep canyons and snow-covered peaks makes it a unique experience of a lifetime. Ladakh offers a variety of options for river rafting like the Indus River rafting and Zanskar River rafting. If we talk about the stretches the best in River Indus is between Spituk and Nimu or Saspol. If difficult stretches excite you more, go for the deep ravine in the Zanskar between Padum and Nimu. 12. Quad Biking in Nubra Sand Dunes Quad Biking- Nubra Valley If biking exhilarates you, then Quad biking in Nubra Valley is your thing. It allows you to explore the highest motorable regions with an ATV ride. It definitely can quench the adventure thirst within you. One can explore the amazing beauty of Nubra valley biking through the criss-cross shimmering roads. The kind of the thrill this adventure provides is to die for. You can marvel at the sight of this natural beauty all day. 13. Camel Safari- Nubra Valley Camel Safari at Nubra Valley Want to feel like a Nomad wandering in the deserts? Well, riding on a double-humped camel on the striking landscapes of the high altitude desert of the Nubra Valley will make you feel like one. The safari covers remote areas through the rocky terrains and elevated swinging passes making it an exquisite experience. Camel Safari is slowly gaining a lot of popularity among youngsters making this one of most sought-after adventures. The safaris in the Diskit and Hunder valley are also popular. It takes you through the sand dunes in every nook and cranny of the valley which is quite impossible to reach by any vehicle. The kind of majestic beauty that it provides Leh Ladakh is a must visit for every age groups. It is a magnificent treat for all the travel and adventures lovers. We would love to hear about your Leh experiences and memories garnered in the comments section below. Please feel free to provide your valuable feedback and information on more adventure activities if we have missed any. |
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Location Attractions
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. Highlights – May to September is the best time to visit Pangong Lake. Lamayuru – Moonland of Ladakh Have you ever seen a moonlike landscape for real? No? Then Lamayuru in Leh is a place to be in. It is often called a ‘Moonscape for tourists. It was founded in the 11th century by Mahasiddacarya Naropa. The landscape of Lamayuru is surreal, sublime, moonlike and divine. Lamayuru is known for its rugged landscape, odd geographical formations, picturesque views and Lamayuru monastery which is situated at a height of 3510 meters. If you are looking for a beautiful place to click some awesome pictures then Lamayuru is one of the most popular tourist destinations to visit in Ladakh. Highlights– Yuru Kabgyat is the annual festival of Lamayuru Monastery which is the center of attraction of this monastery. The famous mask dance performed by Lamas is the best part of this festival. 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. Highlights– June to September is the best time to visit Zanskar Valley. Trekking adventure, Paragliding, water rafting in Zanskar Valley are some of the best things to do in your Ladakh trip. Also Read: Incredible History of Ladakh Kargil – Adventure Hub Your Holidays in Ladakh are incomplete without visiting 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. Highlights- Sumdo chinmu village to Alchi, Zoji, Padum to Lamayuru are some of the best trekking adventures you can enjoy in Kargil, during your Ladakh trip. May to July is the best time to visit Kargil. Khardung- La Pass- Scenic Motorable 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. Highlights– May to September is the best time to visit Khardung- la Pass. It is the best place for adventure bikers. Also Check Out: Other Popular Mountain Passes in Ladakh Magnetic Hill – Place Where Gravity Fails 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. Highlights- May to September is the best time to visit Magnetic Hill. The best thing you can do here is photography of the scenic vistas. Spituk Gompa – Seek the Divine Grace Travelling to Ladakh would elevate your travel experience to a higher level if you visit some sacred places to seek solace. Spituk Gompa is one such place to be in. It is also one of the most popular destinations in Ladakh. The gompa is located at the top of the hill and the scenic views from the hill would overpower your mind with delight. The Gompa was established in the 11th century by Od- De. It houses the divine image of Mahakaal which is only shown in the annual festival of Spituk in January. Highlights- Spituk Monastery’s Museum has a rich collection of ancient masks, Thangkas and antique items. May to September is the best time to visit Spituk Gompa but if you want to enjoy the Spituk Festival then visit in January. Hemis National Park & Wildlife Sanctuary – Say Hello to the wild world How many of you are fond of exotic and rare wildlife species, endangered flora and pristine wilderness? I am sure all of you would love to visit Hemis National Park Wildlife Sanctuary in Ladakh. It was named after Hemis Monastery in 1981. Your experience of witnessing this nature’s wonder would be interesting if I tell you that this wildlife Sanctuary is full of alpine vegetation like Veronica, Anemone, Gentiana, Lloydia etc and animals like Snow Leopard, wild sheeps, shapu, ibex and goats, bharal, dholes etc. would blow your heart away. Don’t forget to look for 70 different species of birds like Throated thrush, Robbin acceptor, Himalayan whistling Thrush etc. This place is one of the best places to explore in Ladakh. Highlights – May to October is the best time to discover Hemis Wildlife Sanctuary in a Jeep Safari. Do visit Hemis Monastery, it is very famous for its mask festival. Tso Moriri Lake – Hidden beauty of Ladakh If you are exploring Ladakh then Tso Moriri Lake should be the place you must not forget to be in. It is one of the offbeat destinations to explore in Ladakh. Located in Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary, Tso Moriri Lake is a piece of heaven for the people who love calm and scenic places. It is not wrong to call it one of the most beautiful places in Ladakh to enjoy your day. It is 4000 meters above sea level, decked with snowcapped mountains all around, beautiful migratory birds and rare Tibetan wolves. For honeymoon couples, this place would be an absolute bliss because of its picturesque setting which gives a romantic feel. Highlights– May to August is the best time to visit Tso Moriri Lake. During January to March this lake remains frozen. It is located near the Line of actual control. You Need an Inner Line Permit to visit this place. Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary – Preserving Wild Wonder A protected area located in the Leh district of Ladakh covers an area of 4,000 square kilometres, Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a wide range of flora and fauna. It is situated at an altitude of 4,500 metres above sea level and is known for its high-altitude lakes, including the famous Pangong Tso. Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary in Leh is the best place to spot several endangered and rare species of animals, such as the snow leopard, Tibetan wild ass or Kaing, Tibetan argali, and the black-necked crane. Other species found here include the Tibetan wolf, Eurasian brown bear, marmot, and several species of birds, such as the bar-headed goose, Himalayan snowcock, and the great crested grebe. The sanctuary is a popular tourist destination and is visited by wildlife enthusiasts and adventure seekers from all over the world. Visitors can go on guided treks, wildlife safaris, and bird watching tours to explore the sanctuary and its rich wildlife. Highlights: May and September is the best time to visit Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary as the weather is relatively milder this time. Leh Palace – Regal Beauty Preserved 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. Highlights: Leh Palace remains open from 8 AM to 5 PM everyday and morning is the best time of the day to visit the palace to avoid crowds. Thiksey Monastery – Serene Spirituality Awaits 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. Highlights: Thiksey Monastery is also famous for its annual festival, which takes place in the eleventh lunar month (October or November) and is celebrated with great pomp and show. Nubra Valley – Nature’s Tranquil Escape 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. Highlights: The best time to visit Nubra Valley is between May and September, when the weather is mild and pleasant. However, visitors should be prepared for sudden changes in temperature and weather conditions, as the region can be quite unpredictable. Alchi Village – A Peaceful Oasis 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. Highlights: Food is one of the main reasons to visit Alchi. Some of the must have dishes of Alchi are walnut salad, mok-moks (momos), Kashmiri pulao, baril, paba, tangutur, etc. Chadar Trek – Once in a lifetime experience What could be the experience of trekking in a frozen lake? Have you ever thought about that? Well, if you want to experience something like this, Chadar Trek would be one of the best things to do on your Ladakh Trip. Holidays in Ladakh without trekking aren’t fun. So, one must take part in adventurous trekking for once in a lifetime. It is a popular river in Zanskar valley which remains frozen in winters. It resembles a Chadar i.e. blanket of ice. Its beauty is always at its peak which is best for clicking awesome pictures for wonderful moments and memories. If you are visiting Ladakh, you must do Chadar Trek, it will make your trip wonderful. |
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