That’s, ah….WOW! This is Ladakh… The sights are awe-inspiring; the scenes, charming green surroundings, picturesque lakes, fascinating gompas and quaint hamlets. Difficult is to put the beauty of Ladakh in words, and sometimes the words fail describing its celestial splendour. The pristine looking landscape in the lap of Himalayas exudes some awe in the beholder. No doubt how scores of people throng this paradise often. With umpteen numbers of tourist spots to savour and adrenaline rushing game and sports events to try at: be it mountain climbing, hiking or rafting on the Indus waters; a trip to Ladakh is always an exhilarating and indelible experience for any traveller.
What is in a name? But, historically, Leh (Ladakh) has different names. It was Maryul or low land for some whereas Kha- chumpa for others. The undulating landscape of Ladakh can spill colours and magic over you. The relaxing camel safari on a Bactrian camel is more like a sedate way to get to know these beautiful remote places. The safari tour to the Valley mostly ends at panoramic vistas, or prominent villages. Immerse in the splendour of nature, motoring in its rugged landscape. Challenge yourself trekking or get to the world of icy wonders, on foot, or just take the unpaved routes to wilderness, on a horse back; there are options, in plenty!
The’ time to visit Ladakh is June-September when the temperature settles at a comfortable 20-30°C and the province sees clear blue skies, with pretty good weather. The temperatures may drop drastically at night.
The “valley of flowers”, Nubra, exudes some kind of tranquil and serene feel. It’s cold and barre most of the year but in summer, patches of it are a colour riot. Vivacious, colourful and stunning flowers, amongst lush green scenery, the place looks like straight from a movie.
The highlight of going to Nubra is one of the highest motorable road Khardungla pass (18,380ft.), majestic peaks and glaciers, enchanting valleys and villages. Diskit and Samstanling Gonpa, Panamik hot spring, double humped camel safari, river rafting, trekking and Sunbathe in the sand dunes at Hunder are also a great source of attraction. Nubra lies at average altitude about 10,000 feet above sea level. Nubra is more of a broad valley with so many estuaries, riverine and lofty mountains on its all sides. Valley assumes greater attractions at the site where both the rivers meet. Above the village, on the spur of rocky mountain and at the most commanding point having clear view of best of Nubra. The rich biodiversity of the valley can mesmerize you. Nubra Valley is definitely one of the best places to see in Ladakh. How about taking a ride on a domesticated Bactrian camel (the rare camel flocks that were used in the silk route trade era), amid marvellous sand dunes?
Imagine taking a plunge into the hot-water springs after experiencing the chilly winds of Ladakh! What if it is beneficial health-wise also! The hot-water springs of Panamik are believed to have awesome health benefits. The presence of high amount of Sulphur content in these waters is believed to cure the ailments.
All areas around it including Insa Gompa and Murgi waterfall across it combined with scenic view strengthen its beauty and hospitality. It also offers stunning views of the snow-capped mountains and the emerald valleys as it is located very close to the highest battlefield in the world, the Siachen Glacier. Woollen socks, Kashmiri carpet, and Pashmina shawls is what you get to own here in this village. Pashmina goats and rare wildlife are other things to admire. Everything about Panamik is simply amazing. The trees turn yellow and red during the months of September and October; it’s a sight to behold.
Ladakh is an ecstasy; and Lamayuru must be in the top choice for all nature lovers. Rightly called ‘the Moonland’, the distinct geographical formation of Lamayuru is one intriguing places on earth. Yellow and orange coloured soil with spectral shapes of formations, on these soft craters makes it a spectacle to cherish, and has to be the chosen jaunt for shutterbugs and wanderlusts. It is tour de force of Mother Nature. ‘Moon on Earth’ is what it can be called.
Lamayuru is quite near Likir and it can easily be reached via a cab from Leh or buses. It’s a decently a spot worth the sweat. The Lamayuru monastery is set along the foot of the mountain. The monastery is also known as Yung Drung; famed for some the best Wall paintings, artefact collections in the ‘Dukhang’, (assembly hall). Teachings of Buddha are well etched in the Norpa’s cave and Kanshur. This monastery houses around 300 Buddhist monks. Camp in the mountains, trek, go for a bike ride or just slip to Yoga and Meditation. Yuru Kab Gyat (June 18-19) and Hemis Tse Chu (June 30 – July 1) are celebrated with much pomp and piety, and colourful ritual unfolds here; the camouflaged monks dances with large colourful masks and music adds up the flavour. Lamayuru is one of the most beautiful places in Ladakh.
Enveloped by barren hills, the ‘Mountain Lake’ of Tso Moriri is an imposing site with the backdrop of snow-capped mountains. Nicely placed at an elevation of 15,000 feet above the sea level; Tsomoriri is at a distance of 240 km from Leh in the South-eastern sector of Ladakh, close to Rupshu district. The drive from Leh to Rupshu can be covered in around 9 hours. Tso Moriri is one of the most offbeat places in Ladakh.
The Lake is pearl shaped and contains large mineral deposits. Korzok village is situated on the South-west bank of this lake. Korzok Gonpa and its inhabitants’, mostly nomads by tradition named ‘Changpas’ are the other most outstanding features of this area. Tso Moriri’s amazing aviation population makes it a bird watchers’ heaven. It has 30 species of birds; Tibetan gazelle, great Tibetan sheep, Black-necked Cranes endangered, the Tibetan wild ass and other wildlife like Ladakhi Bharal, Blue Sheep, Himalayan mountain goat, snow leopard, lynx and grey wolves. Tso Moriri is for sure one of the top 10 places to visit in Ladakh.
Pangong Tso Lake was popular much before the ‘3 idiots’ fame, and it was, is, considered as a peaceful paradise people getting here. It contains saline water, but it completely freezes in winters, strange isn’t it!!! Roughly 60% of the Lake is in Tibet. Pangong Lake in many ways is the ‘Mecca’ for the peace seeker.
A journey through the mountainous route, crossing the villages of Gya and Shey, takes us to this Lake. Its water is so clear that it is possible to see the clear sky as well as the brown mountains that surround it. Its marshes are the only breeding ground for migratory birds, including the Siberian cranes. Pangong Tso Lake finds its place amongst the best places to visit in Ladakh. The long and narrow lake is perfect for camping; in fact camping on the banks makes the day; where one can watch in close the brahmini ducks, bar headed goose along with lot other sorts of bird species. The lake changes into different shades of green, blue, purple and violet according to time of day, and its looks romantic. A holiday in Ladakh is incomplete without a visit to Pangong.
At about 62 km west of Leh, and 47 KM from the Leh Airport, is where Likir village is, touted as the one of the oldest villages of India. ‘The Naga encircled’, is what the word Likir means, and is supposed to have come from the names of Naga kings, Nanda and Taksako. The monastery in Likir village is said to one among the oldest existing monastery; since 11th century. Klu-kkhyil gompa was it called, earlier. The 75 feet statue of Buddha is what the monastery is famous for.
Other than the statue of Bodhisattva, what can be found at the monastery are two assembly halls, statues of founders of the sect. About 120 monks are part of this monastery. Likir Dosmochey is celeberated on February 21 – 23. Likir pottery and the colour of sulphur are well known here and Likiris’ proudly exhibit their mastery of it. And here is a chance, learn the art of pottery from experts.
The Indus Valley has shaped Indian culture in numerous ways. It was the lifeline of many civilization, and its network of water bodies were used for trade, and even the Alexander the great had been here with trade interests, and thus leaving behind a legacy. Today, the amazing valleys, and its five villages – Dah, Hanu, Bheema, Garkon and Sanit, house some descendants of his clansmen, mostly his soldiers’ progenies. These are arguably the last Aryan settlements in India.
Dah Hanu Village from quite far from Leh, and it sees culturally, racially and linguistically different people with distinct ornaments and head gears. These villages have considerable anthropological and ethnographic importance. Chhopo Rubla, the harvest festival is the most popular festival in this area. These are considered rare and eventful the year of Drogpa in which all the people of these villages come out in their colourful traditional dress and festival moods to celebrate the festivals. It’s a worth a day or two stay here, perfect to understand the culturally distinct villages, diverse lifestyles and values of this quaint place. Dah Hanu is considered to be one of the best offbeat places to see in Ladakh.
What makes Hanle a cut above the rest, yes, it’s definitely the 17th century monastery and Astronomical Observatory, the world’s second highest too (14764 above sea level)! The Tibetan architectural style of the Hanle monastery is something to adore.
Hanle can be a horrifying beauty, especially during the off seasons; the eerie silence can raise heartbeats. Some wildlife, nomads, few tents, occasional trucks with army men is what this place has. It is 150 km from Mahe, and it enjoys a pleasant climate during the summer months, but winter can be tough for people who are not acclaimed to such conditions. December to March months visits are avoidable. Hanle sure is one of the best places to see while you are in Ladakh.
Drive to the remarkable and the picture-postcard perfect Thiksey Monastery. The iconic structure is located 19 kilometres from Leh, the capital town of Ladakh. Standing on the backdrop is the perfecting setting for the already amazing monastery is the snow-hidden Karakoram Mountains. The admirably impressive building consists of a 12-story building with sanctuaries, a nunnery, and a gathering hall. Around 120 monks reside here.
See how the young disciples of Buddha in their maroon ceremonial dress takes teach lessons, exhibiting the rigorous training that has gone into making such masters, at such young age! Chatting with the monks at Monastery will be some experience. What more one wants, watching the sunset from hotel as you taste a cuppa traditional Ladakhi butter tea and unwind! The fifteenth century monastery is best explored at dawn when the monks have their daily prayer meeting. Make sure that your Ladakh travel package has Thiksey monastery included.
Hemis Monastery’s history dates way back to 11th century. It has a wealth of attractions including the intrinsically built, preserved valuable items such as copper-gilt Lord Buddha’s statue, holy thankas, and numerous silver and gold stupas. The way the monastic complex is built is itself reminds of the architectural expertise of the men involved; amazing murals from the 17th century, multi-dimensional ‘mandala’ with nice handworks and different mixture of colours make the monastery history buffs’ beloved.
The otherwise lethargic, drowsy region ascents in merriment during Hemis Fiesta. The courtyard of the Monastery is where the action begins, Lamas dressed up in colourful vivid attires dance to the music of drums, horns, big trumpets and cymbals. These mark the beginning of the two day festival, piously celebrated on the birth anniversary of Guru Padmasambhava, the Tibetan Buddhism founder. The unfurling of the largest thangka, as high as two-storey building, ornamented with semi-precious gems, stones and pearls is another USP of the festival. Formal and dignified, the pomp and gaiety at which the processions are undertaken takes both the locals and foreigners to the magical realm of Ladakhi culture. Make the day more exciting by taking part in this animated festival and enjoy the local delicacies and take safaris on yaks and camels. Pervade through the stalls to buy the best gifts of the region.