Ladakh, a Buddhist region in the heart of the Indian Himalayas, is a real little corner of paradise for lovers of the great outdoors and trekking enthusiasts… A beautiful trip awaits you! Best Reasons to Visit to Ladakh.
Passionate about this region in northern India, Ladakh is one of my favorite places in the world. It is also here that I made my very first solo trip (and that I caught the travel bug). I have been there greatly, and it was a real treat.
Where is Ladakh?
Ladakh is located in the northern part of Indian, now it is an Union Territory. It is one of the least populated regions of India.
Formerly independent, the small kingdom of Ladakh has long been a transit region between China and Pakistan. The minimum altitude of this region is 3400 meters.
Discovering Buddhism with best Reasons to Visit to Ladakh
Visit to Ladakh is the only Buddhist region in India. It is therefore a high place of Buddhist spirituality and the last refuge of Tibetan culture. This is why it is also nicknamed Little Tibet.
This magnificent region of India is still one of those rare parts of the earth little influenced by the rest of the world. In a lunar setting, dominated by snow-capped peaks, you can discover many splendid gompas (monasteries), in breathtaking sites.
The presence of religion is visible everywhere, in the valleys, in villages and houses, at the bend of a path or at the top of a pass.
You will see a multitude of engraved stones, chörten (a kind of stupa), lungtas (prayer flags) and monks in their purple robes waving their prayer wheels.
Meeting the Ladakhis
A mountain people, the Ladakhis are welcoming and caring people. Always very serene, loving and respectful of the nature that surrounds them, they are used to living to the rhythm of two seasons: a short and hot summer and a long and very harsh winter.
Even if in many villages the locals do not speak English, they will not hesitate to invite you to their home to offer you a chai (tea) and share a friendly moment.
Leh, The Capital of Ladakh
Leh, the capital of Ladakh is located in the Indus Valley. There are many markets, stalls where you will find jewelry, clothes, prayer wheels and other objects of Tibetan art.
You can also taste the famous momos, steamed donuts, a typical dish of the region. The city is home to two remarkable monuments, the Shanti Stupa and the Leh Palace, both overlooking the city.
The Monasteries of Ladakh
Ladakh is full of magnificent monasteries. Among the most beautiful are those of Thiksey, Shey, Likir, Alchi or that of Phuktal in Zansakr. Take the time to linger there. To soak up the calm and the call to spirituality that emanates from the place.
Ladakh, a high-altitude desert
Due to its high altitude, the mountains of Ladakh are desert-like and sometimes have improbable colors.
In Lamayuru, an impressive number of fairy chimneys surround the village and contribute to this decor that is described as lunar…
Discovering the lakes of Ladakh
There are three large lakes in Ladakh: Pangong Lake, Tsomo Riri Lake and Tso Kar Lake.
You can spend a night (or more) on the banks of one of these lakes at high altitude and fully enjoy the tranquility of the place.
Trekking in Ladakh
Ladakh is a fabulous destination for trekking. Walking in the heart of the Indian Himalayas means discovering lunar scenery and quickly reaching high peaks.
Alone or with guides and mule man, you can then crisscross the trails and meet the locals in isolated villages.
There are many trekking routes in Ladakh, but among the must-sees are the Markha Valley trek and the trek from Tso Moriri Lake to Tso Kar Lake.
Stok Kangri (6000m) Summit
Stok Kangri, the highest in the Stok massif, remains an accessible summit from the top of its 6125 meters.
You just need to be well acclimatized, in good physical condition and you can then try to go to its summit!
Ladakh, a land of adventures
Just accessing Ladakh is a small adventure in itself. You can easily reach this region by plane or, for the more adventurous, by taking the legendary Manali road which passes through the Himachal Pradesh region.
You will then realize to what extent Ladakh is a kingdom nestled in the middle of the mountains and so to speak completely cut off from the rest of the world. This road offers a grandiose spectacle that you will not soon forget. It is also one of the highest and most dangerous roads in the world!
Ladakh, a total change of scenery
You will have understood from its culture, its landscapes, its religion and Buddhist culture, Ladakh, which is not at all representative of India, will offer you a complete change of scenery from your Western habits and lifestyles.
An extraordinary and incredibly rich journey awaits you!
Thankyou, for reading our page “The Best Reasons to Visit to Ladakh”
