Ladakh is a union territory of India centered in Kashmir. On October 31, 2019, Ladakh, which was originally part of the state of Jammu & Kashmir, had become a union territory. Ladakh, which extends from the Siachen Glacier to the main Great Himalayas, is a place unlike any other. Ladakh is known for being the world’s coldest desert, with breathtaking views.
Ladakh is a riot of elaborate paintings and red-robed monks, with stunning Gompas, fluttering prayer flags, and whitewashed stupas. Only in Ladakh has it been stated that a guy can acquire both sunstroke and frostbite while sitting in the sun with his feet in the shade. Ladakh’s people are friendly and welcoming to visitors, with a culture that is similar to Tibetan culture.
Rafting and rising trekking are popular activities in Ladakh. During the summer months, Leh Ladakh is only accessible by car. The trail passes close together from October to May, and the only way to get there is by flight. From January to February, the Chadar walk on the frozen Zanskar River takes place.
Here’s something that might help those of us who are constantly confused about the differences between these twin locations, Leh and Ladakh. The state of Ladakh is divided into two districts: Leh and Kargil. The former district features a well-known town, “Leh,” which is a popular tourist destination due to the neighboring stunning monasteries, Shanti Stupa, cafes, and Leh Bazaar, which define the culture of the region.
HEMIS WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
Some of the most unique and uncommon flora and animal species can be found in this National Park. It was formed in 1981 and is named after Lama Tagstang’s Hemis Monastery, which was founded in 1630. Snow Leopards, Shapu, Wild Sheeps, Ibex, and Goats are among the sanctuary’s most sought-after animal species. There are 17 animal and 70 bird species in its natural environment. Anemone, Veronica, Delphinium, Gentiana, Lloydia, and Kobresia are among the alpine plants that grow there. The Great Grey Shrike, Red Mantled Rose Finch, Black-Throated Thrush, Robin Acceptor, Spotted Flycatcher, Himalayan Whistling Thrush, White Rumped Shama, and other birds call this place home.
Overview of Pangong Tso, Leh Ladakh
Ladakh’s most prominent tourist spot, Pangong Lake, Ladakh’s most prominent tourist spot, is an endorheic lake at 4350 meters. It is also known as Pangong Tso and stretches 12 kilometers from India to Tibet. Over 60% of Pangong Lake is covered by the Tibetan Autonomous Community. The lake’s distinctive trait is that it does not remain blue all year.
Tourism in Nubra Valley
This divine creation is located on the Silk Route in the paradise of Jammu and Kashmir, approximately 140 kilometers from Leh. The valley is adorned with the Shyok and Nubra rivers twisting through it, as well as some lovely monasteries painted in rich hues of gold, red, and other colors.
MONASTERY OF HEMIS
Hemis is located 45 kilometers south of Leh, on the Indus River’s western bank. The Hemis Monastery is Ladakh’s largest and most well-endowed monastery. It was constructed in 1630. Hemis, unlike the other important monasteries in Ladakh, is impressive and intriguing. Colorful prayer flags float in the breeze and offer prayers to Lord Buddha on all four sides of the monastery.
Every 12 years, during the Hemis Festival, which takes place in June and July, one of the largest Thangkas is shown. The yearly festival honoring Guru Padmasambhava’s birth anniversary brings the monastery’s courtyard to life. The yearly ‘bazaar,’ when Ladakhis from remote locations buy and sell items, takes place during the festival, where good triumphs over evil in a colorful pageant. Several rituals and mask dances are conducted in this courtyard throughout the event.
How to reach
The most convenient way to get to Ladakh is by air. The Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh is the primary airport in Ladakh. Daily flights connect it to all of India’s main cities through New Delhi. Another way for travelling to Leh Ladakh is by vehicle. Bike riding is the most common means of transportation for travelers to Leh Ladakh.
Best time to Visit
The optimum time to visit Leh Ladakh is from the end of May to the middle of July, when both the Srinagar-Leh highway and the Leh-Manali route are open. There is also a lot of snow, especially on the Leh-Manali highway. From the middle of September through October, when Ladakh is at its most gorgeous, is another ideal time to visit. Due to the lower number of tourists, it is often possible to receive good discounts during this period.
It is best to avoid visiting Leh Ladakh during the monsoon season, which runs from late July to early August, because the region is prone to landslides. The Srinagar-Leh and Leh-Manali highways are also clogged with sludge, making travel difficult.
