Leh is a beautiful city located in the northernmost region of India, in the Union territory of Ladakh. This city is not only the largest in Ladakh, but it also serves as the joint capital of the territory. Situated in the Leh district, it is a historical city that was once the capital of the Kingdom of Ladakh.
Pangong Tso Lake is undeniably one of the most beautiful places on the planet. Its breathtaking beauty is something that you can only fully comprehend after experiencing it in person. It is a popular destination in Ladakh, not only for its mesmerizing views but also for its significance as a delicate border point along the Line of Actual Control.
The Khardungla Pass is an incredibly significant landmass for the country. At an elevation of 5359 metres, it is the highest motorable pass in the world. The pass boasts mighty mountains on both sides and offers the most dramatic views one can imagine.
Zanskar Valley is a hidden gem located near Leh, Ladakh which offers sublime scenic views of the snow-laced Himalayan range with sparkling blue river flowing at their foothill. It even provides an exotic experience of trekking, ‘Chadar Trek’, on a thick sheet of Ice on a river during the winter season.
Nubra Valley, also known as Dumra, is a stunning place in Leh, Ladakh, with hot springs, rivers, old monasteries, and far-off villages. It's like a desert up high in the mountains, part of the Tibetan Plateau that starts in China.
Travelling to Ladakh by air is one of the best ways to travel in this region. Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport is the major airport of Ladakh that connects with major cities of North India.
To date, the union territory does not have any railway station. Jammu Tawi Railway station is the nearest station located at a distance of 700 km from the city of Leh.
Ladakh being situated in the northern part of India is well connected with the rest of Indian cities by roadways. NH 1 is the major highway that connects Leh with Srinagar allowing easy access to the tourists.
Nestled at the foothills of the majestic Himalayas, Ladakh is a dream destination among most tourists due to its purity, uniqueness and natural wonders that are beyond imagination. While many are attracted to its natural beauty and rich culture, others travel to indulge in thrilling activities which the place offers. Located in the northern part of the country, the place is the hub of Buddhism with is home to more than 19 monasteries. The union territory shares international boundaries with Pakistan, Afghanistan and China due to which some of its region comes under highly secured areas entering which need to obtain a Protection Area Permit (PAP) from a licensed travel agent.
Apart from beautiful nature and rich culture the union territory is also popular for high altitude passes; Umling La Pass situated at an elevation of 5,883 m is the highest motorable pass in the world that attracts mountain bikers and adventure seekers from all over the globe. Although being regarded as the coldest desert in India, the region is home to diverse wild animal and bird species that have abilities to survive in extreme weather conditions. Some of the common animal species include Snow Leopard, Red Fox, Himalayan Brown Bear, Tibetan Antelope, Marmot and Urial. While Himalayan Vulture, Tibetan Snowcock, Greylag Goose and Eurasian eagle owl are some of the common birds that can be sighted in the crystal clear skies of Ladakh.
Buddhism is the dominant religion that contributes towards the culture and tradition of Ladakh. Indo-Aryans are the oldest inhabitants of this region along with multiple ethnic groups that have migrated from Tibet. The people of Ladakh live a nomadic life and are known for their calm and honest nature. The eastern part of Ladakh has a population that is dominated by Muslim religion. Khotak Chenmo is a folk dance of Ladakh that is performed during festivals and celebrations.
Ladakh offers a unique cuisine that is a combination of dishes from various cultures including Indian, Tibetan and Chinese. Thukpa is the staple diet, soupy noodles made with seasonal vegetables and minced meat. Most of the dishes have a high amount of non-vegetarian ingredients along with rich spices that help to increase the temperature of the body. Some of the popular food dishes of Ladakh include momo, sky, tingmo, churpee, butter tea, khambir and apricot jam.
Festival is a major event when all of the people come together to celebrate with great zest and zeal. Festivals also act as a major attraction for tourists that are celebrated throughout the year. Although the majority of the festivals are related to the Buddhist religion, the region also celebrates festivals of Hindu and Muslim with passion and enthusiasm. It is during festivals when tourists can witness the folk dance and musical forms of Ladakh along with local cuisines sold in small shops. Losar, Stok Guru Tsechu, Dosmochey and Hemis are some of the major festivals of this region.