One of the most remote and mythical regions of India, Ladakh is a landscape of unearthly beauty. Carved through its center by the headwaters of the Indus River, Ladakh sits high in a Himalayan valley between the Ladakh and Zaskar ranges, close to the Chinese border. The wall of the Himalayas blocks precipitation, and the resulting terrain is dry, barren, and poetically austere. Life here has remained virtually unchanged for thousands of years.
Ladakh’s biggest attraction is its ancient gompas, or Buddhist monasteries, which contain some of Asia’s greatest wonders of gold and tapestry work. It is possible to stay overnight in some, making a trek in Ladakh curiously like a sort of pilgrimage. The people of Ladakh, many of whom are Tibetan refugees, are famous for their friendliness and hospitality.
Ladakhis are predominantly Buddhist, except in the Kargil and Suru Valley, where there is a shia muslim population. The outward symbols of Buddhism are every where – Hilltop medevial monasteries, gompas with art treasures, giant prayer wheels, Buddhist thangkas, antique manuscripts, weird musical instruments, paintings of Tantric divinities, fluttering prayer flags, and white washed chortens.
The road journeys to Ladakh. Starting at Manali is an unforgetful experience; crossing over a series of high passes, topped by the 5360 m high Tanglang-la – it is an adventure, offering spectacular scenery.
Ladakh offers numerous high altitude treks, wild jeep safaris, white water rafting, mountain biking and mountain climbing. Meeting its colorful people, and participating in their festivals are experiences to remember. Tours to monasteries are soul enriching and awe-inspiring.
Ladakh comprises of the Indus Valley, Nubra Valley, Changthang, and the Rupshu.
