Ladakh – The Land of High Passes, a mountainous region and a Union Territory is the highest plateau situated in the state of Jammu and Kashmir in north India located at an altitude of much over 3000m (9800 ft) above sea level. Leh is above 3500m (over 11,000 ft) and other parts of Ladakh are higher yet. The modern region borders Tibet to the east, Lahaul and Spiti to the south and Kashmir, Jammu and Baltistan to the west.
Ladakh is well-known for its remote mountain scenery & the moon-like landscapes, Desert Mountains with splashes of green and snow peaks, monasteries and stupas will make you feel far removed from this world.
As the travel season for Leh, Ladakh is upon us, here are Top 5 reasons to visit Ladakh in 2021.
- Pristine Lakes
Ladakh is not just a barren land! It is the place where nature dwells in its purest form. From crystal blue rivers to scenic lakes like Pangong Tso, the natural bounties adorn Ladakh in a charming way. A mosaic of myriad shades of blue, the pristine Pangong Lake is perched at a height of 14,270 ft above sea level and is said to be one of the highest brackish water lake in the world. The beauty of the lake is such that it has been a cinematic backdrop for the popular movie, 3 Idiots. In fact, there is a 3 Idiots Point in the area, where the famous yellow scooter from the movie’s climax is stationed.
- Adventure
The Himalayan nature gives access to different landscapes, which allow you to enjoy many adventure activities like rafting, mountain biking, trekking, jeep safari, river rafting, camel safari, yak safari, ice hockey & more.
- Monasteries
Ladakh is not only jam packed with adventure activities; it is also dotted with various picturesque monasteries. These quaint monasteries in Ladakh are decorated with colorful prayer flags which are quite a common site. The people of Ladakh are friendly and there’s a sense of spirituality in the air. You can sense it as soon as you enter Ladakh. The many Tibetan monasteries contribute to this.
- Festivals
Dotted along the mountain background with stupas, monasteries & temples, this is the right place to enjoy festivals. The culture of the land is infused with Tibetan lifestyle that each festive is a unique extravaganza. In late June and early July, the whole Ladakh region comes alive with festivals. Some are held at the local cricket and polo club in Leh, while others are held at the monasteries. Reserve a place well in advance as they get very crowded. Some of the festivals are only held every 12 years, (such as one at Hemis) and at that time the monastery will display its greatest treasure, such as a huge thangka (a religious icon painted or embroidered on cloth).
- Local Cuisine
One of the best parts of traveling in Ladakh is to savor different dishes & cuisines prepared by the locals. Tibetan influence is palpable, especially thukpa & momos. Ladakhi food is not spicy as Indian cuisine & is simple but healthy. A dish that is strictly Ladakhi is Skyu, a heavy pasta dish with root vegetables. Tea here is traditionally made with strong black tea, butter and salt; it is mixed in a large churn and known as gurgur cha, due to the sound of mixing it.
Best time to visit Ladakh: May – July
Official Language: Tibetan
Get in touch with us to book your picturesque Ladakhi getaway this season.