Ladakh
Short Descr
Karzok Monastery The panoramic arid mountain desert of India, Ladakh remains freezing cold throughout the year . Ina ccessible to the world, Ladakh that helped preserving a culture and beauty from getting soiled. Geologically Ladakh is considered to be a new formed land and it was until recent that it was unknown to the world.
Long Descr
Ladakh in India is a very high altitude cold desert land with a low level of atmospheric oxygen. Occupying an area of some 90,000 sq. km at an altitudes of 2,750 to 6,670 m, Ladakh in northern India is situated between the Western Himalayas and Tibet and holding the enchanting Hemis National Park. The pristine beauty and the varieties of activities like trekking, white-water rafting, camel and wildlife safaris and sightseeing attracts thousands of people to this region. Besides the scenic mountain landscape, Ladakh is also home to a variety of cultural resources like - local homes and ancient monasteries. Ladakh also supports a high-altitude ecosystem of uncommon and endangered flora and fauna.
It was only all of sudden Ladakh found an audience for itself and adventurers who trekked their way to reach this unattainable altar. An alternate entry was needed from Kashmir. The new Manali-Highway reduced the travel time from 16 hours to 2 days. The Army moved in. In the second slide came in1974, with the opening up of the region to tourists- strategic decisions, to strengthen ownership rights in International eyes. Trek to the passes or let your land cruisers waltz a adventure on the arid desert, bathe in the cold rivers and learn some Ladakhi accent a bit. Pace up your mood to scale those heights and its only then you can feel Ladakh in a better way.
Leh, the capital of Ladakh, is dominated by the picturesque palace of the former Ladakhi royal family, together with the Victory Fort, built to commemorate an important 16th century Ladakhi victory over neighbouring kingdoms.
Ladakh Festival
A fifteen day festival organized in the month of September is an endeavour of the state government to present the cultural and traditional heritage of Ladakh in a coup of events, dances, dramas and sports.
Elevation
Ladakh - 2,750 to 6,670 m.
Location Details
In the state of Jammu & Kashmir in the extreme northern part of India.
How to Reach There and Distances
Air
Indian Airlines operates scheduled services from Srinagar to Leh & Jammu/Leh. Leh airport is 8 km from city center. Jet Airways also operates services between Jammu, Delhi and Srinagar (Sundays only).
Rail
The nearest Rail Head is Jammu 620 km. from Leh. Jammu is connected to all parts of India through express trains.
Road
Leh is approachable on State highway from Srinagar crossing high passes, the highest being Fotu-la(13,479 feet). Road communication between Srinagar and Leh is closed between October & May. For local sight seeing taxis and luxury coaches are available.
Best Season to Visit/Weather
May to November. Avoid the Winters.
Weather
ry cold during winter and dry hot during summer.
To visit Nearby Places
Gompas
Home to many budding Lamas the Gompas are beautiful structures on the hilly slopes. Some of the famous Gompas are Tsemo Gompa, Shanti Stupa, Shey and Thiksey that are visited by many trekkers and tourists. The Gompas are constructed beautifully with grand images of Buddha and colourful decorations all over.
Hemis and Matho
Hemis Gompa Monastery Further 20 minutes away from Thiksey, having crossed the river at Karu, the roads have massive mani walls into a gorge that hides the Hemis Gompa, till last minute. This is a largest monastery in Ladakh. Matho is 26 kms from Leh and houses swords and has weapons of powerful oracles of Matho.
Stakna Palace Museums
The royal family of Ladakh have been living here since they were ousted by Zorawara. The only part of the 77 rooms palace that is open to tourists is a wing that view are fascinating collection of arte facts from the royal attraction.
Drama of Indus
From June to August end, the Indus offers a splendid option for rafting for the first timer. There are two runs on offer, the first being an easy, stress free float. The second bring some adrenaline in the into play, beginning at Phey. The run is for three to four hours till Nemo.
Leh
The 17th century capital of Dynamical Empire is the epicenter of Ladakh. Leh is a place Buddhism is practiced in the enclosures of the four walls of the Gompas. Just one visit takes you years back in the solitary moments. Leh can be better glanced by walking down its several undulations.
Leh Palace
The nine storey palace of Sengge 'Lion Namgyal imposes itself on Leh. Take a walk and you will come to realize the dilapidated structures needs extensive repairs. Make your way to the top floors to get a brilliant view of the side valleys and the Indus Valleys.