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Ladakh is a land like no other. Bounded by two of the world's mightiest mountain ranges, the great Himalayas and the Karakoram, it lies athwart two others, the Ladakh range and the Zanskar range. It is spread over a huge area and has very low density population.

Leh, the headquarters of Ladakh, is a fascinating destination. Age-old monasteries, quaint lanes, colourful markets and stunning views of the Himalayas make Leh an exotic destination. Leh is where your adventure in Ladakh begins. You can go trekking through the mountainous terrain of Ladakh, enjoy a game of polo in a high altitude arena or watch an archery contest where local residents compete in a contest that remains unchanged by time. Mountaineering, white water rafting and wildlife tours are other adventurous attractions of Ladakh. Though the weather can be freezing cold, the smiles on the faces of the Ladakhi people are sure to warm your heart. Feel on top of the world in Ladakh.

The barren beauty of Ladakh with snow capped peaks and clean azure sky have attracted the intrepid traveller since the region was opened to tourists in the 1970s. Since then Ladakh has become a favourite haunt for trekking and mountaineering enthusiasts. The rugged terrain and the majestic mountains around make an exotic cocktail for an adventure sport lover. But before you decide to fly away to the land of Buddhist monasteries and brave people, it is imperative to understand that you need at least a week to enjoy your tour to Ladakh since acclimatisation itself needs at least a few days in Ladakh.

Ladakh is home to a large number of Buddhists who have preserved their rich culture and tradition from the days of yore. A tour to Ladakh is not just about beautiful views of snow-capped peaks kissing the blue sky or colourful flags fluttering in the wind but is also about centuries old culture of Ladakhi people and their indomitable spirit to live cheerfully in one of the most hostile terrains in the world.

Religion and Culture

Life Style

Simplicity is the way of life in Ladakh, as modernity has not touched Leh town as it has happened in other cities and towns of India. Cut-off from the rest of the world, Ladakh is barren yet beautiful. Ladakh comes alive during the fairs and festivals as one can see Ladakhi people in their traditional dress. Ladakhis are brave people who are industrious and cheerful. Perak, the headgear worn by traditional Ladakhi women, is the striking feature of womenfolk of Ladakh. This is a common sight during the festivals. The other feature that strikes are the precious stones that adorn a woman's neck in Ladakh.

Monasteries

Hemis is one of the largest and most popular monasteries in Ladakh visited by most travellers to Ladakh. The famous annual Hemis festival that takes place in June-July commemorates the birth anniversary of Guru Padmasambhava. This is the best time to see the cultural side of Ladakh. During the festival Ladakhis from remote corners of the region converge on the Hemis monastery.

Social Structure

Ladakhis follow a patriarchal society where the elder son inherits all the property. He is the one who shoulders the responsibility of the family. But when it comes to a younger son, the Ladakhi society permits him to become a Lama if he wants. He can also remain in the family. Lamas are devoted to God and remain detached from worldly affairs.

Buddhism

Reaching Ladakh

Ladakh is an exotic destination where a high plateau, steep mountains and valleys abound. The route to Ladakh by road is through several scenic passes. La in the Ladakhi language means mountain pass, therefore Ladakh means 'land of passes.' You can find some of the highest motorable roads in the world in Ladakh, which traverse these high passes and take you to exotic hidden locations high in the Himalayas.

Zoji La Pass

If you travel to Ladakh by road from Srinagar, the capital of Jammu and Kashmir, you can see panoramic vistas of the Himalayan landscape. The 434 Km long road crosses the Zoji La which is 11,500-ft. or 3,505 m high. As you cross the pass, there is a striking change in the landscape, since the forested hills of Kashmir are left behind and the bare mountains of the Drass region appear. The Zoji La is snowbound in winter and this route is only open during the summer months from June to September.

Rohtang Pass

Baralacha-La Pass

IThe high Baralacha La is also along the Manali-Leh highway, It is at the lofty height of 16,050 ft or 4,892m. It is situated at a tri-junction of three roads-from Manali, Leh and Spiti. The view from Baralacha La is spectacular with the Himalayas extending along the horizon, as far as the eye can see.