Ladakh

In India's Kashmir area, Ladakh is a union territory. Ladakh, which was previously part of the state of Jammu and Kashmir, became a union territory on October 31, 2019. Ladakh is a place unlike any other, stretching from the Siachen Glacier to the main Great Himalayas. Ladakh is known as the world's coldest desert, with spectacular vistas. High hills adorn the landscape, sheer cliffs stand in stark contrast, gorgeous lakes glimmer invitingly from all directions, long empty highways beckon, and the air is filled with a quiet and pure mood. There are many wonderful spots to see in Ladakh; places of such grandeur and subtlety that you can't help but marvel at the strength of the natural creative process that created them.

Ladakh is blessed with a spectacular landscape that includes hilly terrains, high-altitude peaks, and lush green grasslands. It is located at an elevation of 2750 - 7672 metres above sea level. Ladakh attracts adventurers from all over the world because of the numerous trek tracks and hiking options available. Ladakh, the former Buddhist kingdom, is a stunningly craggy landscape. Arid mountains, dramatic rocky outcrops, scenic gompas, meditational mani walls, and multi-colored flags are just a few of the many sights that highlight Ladakh's grandeur. In terms of environmental consciousness, Ladakh's well-balanced traditional community has much to offer the rest of the world.

Ladakh is a riot of complex murals and red-robed monks, with stunning Gompas (Tibetan Buddhist monasteries), fluttering prayer flags, and whitewashed stupas. Only in Ladakh is it reported that a man sitting in the sun with his feet in the shade can get both sunstroke and frostbite. Ladakh's population is pleasant and open to travellers, with a culture that is comparable to Tibetan culture.

Ladakh's terrain is enriched by both natural and man-made wonders, making a journey there a magnificent experience that will leave you with everlasting memories. Ladakh is one of the best places to visit in the world, with a depth that is breathtaking and sensations that are intense and varied. Here is a list of the greatest locations to visit in its two major regions: Kargil and Leh.
 

Main Attractions

Leh has something for everyone, from quenching the thirst of bikers to providing spirituality to those seeking serenity. With castles, gompas, and monasteries standing high above Ladakh's rugged environment, it is a Buddhist empire. It's a place with unique vistas that you won't find anywhere else in India. There is no shortage of things to do in Leh, whether it's camping in the heart of Ladakh, trekking for an adrenaline rush, going on a jeep safari with your friends, feeling the uneven terrain while on a caravan, or having a mind-boggling experience of river rafting, or even cycling.

Kargil was formerly known as 'Purig.' Gasho Thatha Khan, also known as the Purig Sultan, gathered all of the region's warring small-time princely republics under his control. Purig later became Kargil, which is now the administrative centre of Ladakh's Kargil district. The Kargil Fight, in which Indian military forces seized insurgents from Tiger Hill and won in the ongoing war, is perhaps the town's most enduring memory. At an elevation of 8,780 feet, it is situated along the banks of the Suru River, also known as the Indus. The architectural styles are a mix of Tibetan and Iranian influences. Kargil is a fantastic adventure destination.

The dazzling blue waters of Pangong Lake, with the surrounding panorama of naked Himalayan peaks, are a photographer's delight. It's 12 kilometres long and runs from India to Tibet, and it's also known as Pangong Tso. Nearly 60% of Pangong Lake is located in the Tibetan Autonomous Region. The most prominent tourist destination in Ladakh is Pangong Lake, which is an endorheic (landlocked) lake located 4350 metres away. A visit to the fascinating Pangong Lake, which lies on the Sino-Indian Actual Line of Control, necessitates an internal line permission. The lake's odd feature is that it does not remain blue throughout the year or even throughout the day, but rather shifts from azure to light blue to green and back again. It became a tourist attraction as a result of the Bollywood film "3 idiots," which was filmed here.

On top of a rocky hill, Namgyal Tso Monastery, founded in the 15th century, offers a stunning view of the snow-capped Zanskar mountain range and the Indus River. The three-story-high golden statue of Maitreya Buddha is the monastery's most prominent feature. The convent is a sight to behold, with its Tibetan architecture, frescoes, and wall paintings inside the monastery. Traveling to Namgyal Tsemo Gompa can be a remarkable spiritual and scenic experience for guests.

Hemis Monastery is one of India's most well-known Buddhist monasteries, famous for its yearly mask celebration, also known as the Hemis Festival. The event is held in honour of Guru Padmasambhava, who is thought to be Gautam Buddha's reincarnation. Hemis Monastery is a Buddhist monastery located 45 kilometres south of Leh. It was founded by Ladakhi King Sengge Namgyal and is one of India's wealthiest monasteries. Hemis Monastery is the most frequented during the annual Hemis Festival, which takes place every year in early June. The Buddhist Red Sect, or Dugpa Kargyupta Order, is home to Hemis Monastery. Hemis Monastery houses a magnificent copper statue of Lord Buddha, as well as gold and silver stupas, thangkas, and murals. It also serves as a centre for Tantric Vajrayana education.

The Khardung La Pass is a doorway to some of the most spectacular and untouched regions in the world. At an elevation of 5,359 metres, Khardung La is found in the Leh district of the Indian Union Territory. It is regarded as the highest motorised pass in the world.

Sherab Zangpo founded Thiksey Monastery near Stakmo, and his nephew Spon Paldan Sherab renovated it in its current position in AD 1430. It is tied to the Gelug lineage, which is part of the Yellow Hat sect of Tibetan Buddhism. The Thiksey Monastery is a massive religious structure that is considered one of Ladakh's most stunning Buddhist sanctuaries. In present times, this monastery is thought to be led by the reincarnation of Skyabsje Khanpo Rinpoche. The architecture of this monastery incorporates features of Ladakh's ancient architectural style. The annual Gustor Festival, observed in the ninth month of the Tibetan calendar, attracts followers from all over the world.

The Alchi Monastery was founded between 958 and 1055. The murals at the monastery are incredibly stunning and depict the life of both Hindus and Buddhists a thousand years ago. The Assembly Hall (Dukhang), which is located in the centre of the monastery, the Alchi Sumtseg, which is still well preserved in its raw state, and the Manjushri Temple, which was dedicated to the Goddess Manjushri in the 12th century, are the three main sections of the temple.

The Leh Palace is a historic royal palace from the 17th century and one of Leh's most popular tourist attractions. It was built under the patronage of King Sengge Namgyal to shelter his kin. The nine-story dun-colored structure today houses a museum and a prayer room, with the rooftop offering a spectacular view of Leh and the adjacent Zanskar Mountain.

Although the contrast of the sand with the colouring of dirty water is popular at Tso Kar Lake. The vistas you'll see here will undoubtedly make you fall in love with the area and make you want to come back again and again. This lake, which is one of Leh's most pleasant things to do, is frequented by tourists all year. The lake is 9 kilometres long and has an earthy aspect.

Shanti Stupa was built by Japanese and Ladakhi Buddhists to commemorate 2500 years of Buddhism and to promote world peace. The white surface is lovely during the day, but during full moon evenings, when bathed in the soothing glow of the moon's rays, it is even more stunning. The dome of Shanti Stupa and its distinctive white construction are the most recognisable features in Leh.

Several specialists have proposed several explanations in support and opposition to the hypothesis, attempting to explain why the car is driving upwards rather than downhill against the slope. They came up with the Magnetic Theory or Optical Illusion component among many other answers. Hundreds of tourists visit each month because of the effect. It's easy to observe them savouring the same facts and ideas and then putting them aside. This short stretch is ideal for making videos, taking photos, and finding some peace and quiet.

The Nubra Valley, located around 160 kilometres from Leh, Ladakh's capital, is a visual treat for those who visit. The Nubra Valley, which serves as a gateway to the country's upper regions, particularly Siachen, has an oasis of a town in its heart, Diskit, which is an excellent location to pause and take in the scenery. The Diskit Monastery, Hunder Sand Dunes, Samstanling Gompa, Yarab Tso Lake, and Turtuk and Panamik settlements are all located in the frigid desert Nubra Valley. The Nubra Valley is a deep cut valley caused by the combined influence of the rivers Shyok and Nubra (Siachen). In truth, the Nubra Valley is a Tibetan Plateau expansion (Qing-Zang Plateau)

It is a sight to behold, with its blue waters, surrounding mountainous terrain, and open sky. Camping here and sleeping under the stars is a must-do activity near the lake. Tso Moriri Lake is India's largest alpine lake and, in comparison to the other lakes in Leh-Ladakh, a remote lake. Due to its isolated position, tough environment, and poor roads, fewer visitors visit this lake.

Like the rest of the state, the Suru Valley is a magnificently gorgeous valley with the River Suru, a significant tributary of the Indus River, running through it. This fertile valley, which stretches from Kargil to the Panzella Glacier, is far more farmed than any other in Ladakh. The Suru Valley, like the rest of the state, is a stunningly gorgeous valley dotted with the River Suru, a significant tributary of the Indus River. The Suru Valley is a great place for bicyclists, with scenery that you'd only see in movies.

This shrine's past is riddled with doubt. According to legend, the gompa was built in the 8th century, however many people believe it was built in the 18th century. Rangdum Monastery is an old Buddhist temple and monk monastery located more than 130 kilometres from Kargil. It appears to be a fortification perched atop a mountain that protects and overlooks the tranquil valley. The shrine includes a big central prayer area that resembles a museum due to its extensive collection of Tibetan antiques and other valuable items. It also houses around 40 Buddhist monks who can be observed meditating in the peaceful surroundings. This monastery offers a breathtaking view.

Located in the Kargil district of Drass village, this victory monument was built after the Indian Army drove Pakistani troops out of the area and took control. This historic victory was declared on the battlefield on July 26, 1999, which is commemorated as Vijay Diwas every year. The memorial is built of pink sandstone and has an epitaph honouring the heroic sacrifice of Indian troops. This memorial museum houses army symbols, collections of battle papers, and miniatures of the Himalayan mountain range.

Drass, after the Russian settlement of Oymyakon, is often regarded as the second coldest inhabited area on the planet, as well as the coldest place in India. This village is located in the Drass Valley, approximately 56 kilometres from Kargil, a city known for its political and historical importance. This city, often known as the "Gateway to Ladakh," is the first after the Zoji La Pass. Drass is also the starting point for the Suru Valley hike, which takes you along the Umbala Pass and through lovely flower-filled fields on both sides. The enormous Drang. Drung glacier is without a doubt the best site to visit in the valley.

Zanskar Valley is perennially famous for its lofty snow-capped mountains and surrounding landscape, as well as topographical characteristics that are unique to this area. This valley is a semi-desert with a known affinity for Buddhist teachings. Zanskar is a minor district of Kargil, located in the eastern section of Ladakh, it is also known as Zahar.

It serves as a mountain crossing and an entrance to Padum. Padum is the administrative centre of the Zanskar division of the Kargil district. Pensi La is worth visiting for the utterly beautiful and breathtaking view of the Drang Drung Glacier, glacial lake, and Suru River Valley that it provides travellers.

These mesmerising lakes, which you must believe in, are an excellent tourist destination in Ladakh. Lang Tso and Stat Tso are twin lakes located just around the corner from Pensi La Pass, which connects the Zanskar Valley to the Zuru Valley. You can also camp near the lake and have a good time. These two breathtakingly lovely lakes are so clear and pristine that they reflect Zanskar's snow-capped peaks in the background.

Mulbekh Monastery is a Buddhist monastery in Mulbekh, Afghanistan. The Mulbekh Monastery is divided into two gompas: Serdung Gompa of the Drukpa sect and Rgaldan-se Gompa of the Gelugpa sect. The monastery is thought to have been founded some 800 years ago by the students of Tibetan scholar Lotsawa Rinchen Zangpo. Mulbekh Monastery is on a ridgeline nearly 656 feet above the road and is approached via a steep walk. The monastery is thought to be located at an elevation of 11,495 feet. Mulbekh Monastery is a renowned tourist site in Kargil for a variety of reasons, one of which is its location. The 30-foot Maitreya Buddha figure, sculpted on a massive stone slab, is another highlight. 

Tradition & Culture

Authors and visitors have been unable to replace the term Shangri La to describe northern India's far-flung country of Ladakh for centuries. However, at first glance, this part of the Tibetan Plateau appears to be an unexpected paradise. Ladakh's culture, economy, and society have been influenced by several factors, including its proximity to Tibet in the east, the Chinese province of Xinjiang in the north, Pakistan in the northwest, Kashmir in the west, and the Himachal Pradesh valleys of Lahaul and Spiti in the south, as well as Central Asia, and how the culture and community that has evolved in Ladakh over the years has influenced and shaped all of these areas.

The Ladakhi population is largely Buddhist, akin to Tibet's and Central Asia's religion and culture. Buddhism was transmitted from India to Tibet via Ladakh. Buddhist rock carvings can also be seen in Muslim-populated areas like the Dras and Suru valleys. Cooperation is a way of life for them, both within the extended family and throughout the village. The young learn from and help the elderly, and there is no hard separation between women's and men's labour and rights. In Ladakh, life is filled with immense stability and peace. Violence and poverty are relatively unnoticed.
The people's culture is heavily influenced by religion, and Ladakhis celebrate monastic festivals throughout the year. Monastery festivities follow the Chams (mask dances), highly choreographed dances performed by lamas (monks) to the music of the monastic orchestra.
One of the most important characteristics of Ladakhi culture is the vast oral literature of songs and poems for each case.
 

Fairs & Festivals

Fairs and Festivals of Ladakh:

Celebrations in Ladakh are eagerly awaited moments and are observed with much ceremony and amusement. These are followed by 'Daman' and 'Surna.' Festivals in Ladakh are eagerly anticipated by locals. Harvest-related or socio-religious festivals are held in Ladakh by default. Chhams is a sacred dance performed by lamas (monks) and is linked to monastery festivals where the monastic orchestra's music is performed. Chhams are not meant to be enjoyed, but rather to invoke blessings to combat evil.

  • Hemis Tsechu festival- Tourists consider the Hemis Tsechu festival to be the most popular monastery event in Ladakh. This festival honours Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche), the founder of Tibetan Buddhism, by commemorating his birthday. The resident monks of the monastery perform sacred mask dances, or cham, in the courtyard. The world's largest thangka, or Tibetan scroll artwork, may be found at the monastery. Once every 12 years, this two-story thangka is uncovered. The thangka was first displayed in 2016 and will be presented again in 2028.

 

  • Losar Festival- During the Losar festival, which lasts a month, the Gods, deities, ancestors, and even animals are served deliciously prepared food. Two months before the Tibetan New Year, it is celebrated as the New Year. King Jamyang Namgyal, in the early 17th century, intended to undertake an attack against the Baltistan armies in the winter, therefore he decided to celebrate the event two months earlier. Later on, it became a custom to commemorate it in the eleventh month. During these events, people light candles in their homes and make sacrifices and offerings. Pictures of an Ibex are hung on the walls of kitchens as an auspicious symbol, as they are considered to bring prosperity.

 

  • Sindhu Darshan- Another bright Ladakh festival is the Sindhu Darshan, which takes place on Guru Purnima. The locals remember the Indus River through this event because they feel the river is important in sustaining harmony and togetherness among India's diverse ethnic groups and communities. The three-day festival also serves as a tribute to the courageous Indian soldiers who risk their lives to defend ours.

 

  • Spituk Gustor Festival- After Losar, Spituk Gustor is the first celebration in Ladakh (the New Year). Attendees brave the cold to attend this festival. The festival's major attraction is a giant thangka of Je Tsongkhapa, the Gelugpa sect's founder, which is on exhibit for the public. People also queue at the gonkhang (main temple) gate to get blessings from guardian goddesses such as Mahakala and Sridevi (Palden Lhamo), whose faces are only revealed during the festival.

 

  • Saka Dawa Festival- Ladakh's prominent and well-known festivals are considered to be among the holiest Buddhist feasts. It is observed in June, the fourth month of the Tibetan calendar, which is supposed to be the month when Buddha was born and received spiritual awakening or Nirvana. The words ska and data indicate month and star, respectively, and are particularly associated with the fourth lunar month's full moon. Every year on this day, the lamas of nearby monasteries change the flagpole at Tarboche, which is located in the southern part of the mountain, Kailash Kora. Tibetans think that if the pole does not stand upright after being replaced, it is not fortunate. During this holiday, people refrain from performing certain things, such as slaughtering animals, and instead release them for the day. Lamas will also be reciting the mantra 'Om Mani Padme Hum,' which means hail to the jewel and lotus. To honour Sakyamuni's distinguished enlightenment, people follow Dharma practises such as reciting mantras, conducting sadhanas, offering mandalas, taking precepts, and preserving animals during this Ladakh festival.

 

  • Ladakh Festival- The Ladakh festival is one of the most well-known celebrations in Ladakh, showcasing the cultural richness of the region. Performers go from all across Ladakh to join in the festivities, which are filled with joy and splendour. The Ladakh festival is one of the must-see festivals in Ladakh, with a wide range of dance programmes, traditional music performances, and colourful robes all around. The celebration, which lasted almost two weeks, came to a close at the polo ground in Leh. The holy procession travels from one monastery to the next during this time, and people dance and enjoy the harvest season.

 

  • Thiksey Gustor Festival- Thiksey Gustor, along with Chemrey Wangchok, is one of the last festivities before Ladakhi New Year or Losar and is held in either October or November. The celebration at Thiksey Monastery is as magnificent as the edifice itself, attracting a large number of visitors during the two-day event. People endure the cold to attend the monastery's early morning prayers led by the monks. The mask dances done by the monks wearing black hats, who give the sacrifice cake (known as Storma) at the end of the celebration, are one of the event's highlights.

 

  • Stok Guru Festival- The Stok Guru is an annual festival held in Stok Village, the current seat of the Ladakhi Royal Family, on the 9th and 10th days of the Tibetan calendar's first month. In this festival in Ladakh, Buddhist monks demonstrate their faith and zeal by performing sacred masked dances, which mostly feature priests from the Spituk monastery. The celebration also features oracles, who are lay people who have been taught by priests to receive the spirits of the gods and the prophecies given by these oracles are widely accepted by the locals. During this period, many exhibitions and fiestas are held, and the Ladakh people take great pride in all of the festivities.
     

Cuisines

Cuisines

Because the people of Ladakh share a culture that is similar to that of Tibetans, the culinary habits and cuisines of Tibetans are widely observed in Ladakh. Ladakhi cuisine is adapted to the hard weather conditions of the region. Because of the large number of international visitors, Ladakh has a plethora of multi-cuisine eateries.

Here are a few of the most important: 

  • Momos- Without question, the most popular food in Ladakh is momos. It's a dough-wrapped dumpling filled with meat or vegetables. While meat-filled momos are popular among the natives, vegetarian momos are equally popular. These dumplings are served with a dipping sauce and are either steamed or fried. On exceptional occasions, such as the Losar festival, momos are offered to guests (Ladakhi New Year).
  • Thukpa- Thukpa is a popular dish in Ladakh cuisine. It's a transparent soup with vegetables and wheat or barley flour noodles. Meat, such as chicken, mutton, or yak, is frequently included in this meal. Thukpa is traditionally served with a spicy "chutney" to complement the flavour. This noodle soup can be made in a variety of ways, with a variety of savoury ingredients added for a delicate flavour blend. Thukpa is one of the most popular foods in Ladakh, and it is also popular in other Himalayan locations. It is a budget-friendly dish that can be found in all of Leh's local restaurants and is ideal for keeping you warm during the winter.
  • Ladakhi Pulao- When compared to other Kashmiri or Lucknowi variations, Ladakhi Pulao appears understated; nonetheless, it does not lack flavour. It catches you off guard. Raw white rice absorbs the tastes of the aromatic herbs as well as the mutton stock. The barista (caramelised onions), caramelised carrots, and nuts are then placed on top to enhance the flavour and look. It may not be a typical sight on the streets or in restaurants, but if you're lucky enough to be invited to a local home-cooked meal, you'll make sure to find it.
  • Skyu- Skyu, a soup-based traditional dish from Ladakh, is another delicacy. Vegetables and dough are kneaded into flattened thumb-sized balls in this meal. These flattened balls are then cooked on low heat in a saucepan with water and veggies. Skyu is also available as a beef dish. The dish has a lot of calories and fills you up. Skyu is primarily drank throughout the winter months when the temperature goes below freezing. It's also a popular destination for travellers who want to go hiking and stay in villages. Milk is occasionally used as a primary ingredient in skyu. Oma (milk) skyu is the name of this dish. If you visit Ladakh, you must eat this dish.
  • Tingmo- Tingmo (or Timok) is a steamed Tibetan bread served with dal, sautéed vegetables, or meat in Ladakhi. It is similar to white bread or "baguette" in French cuisine and is a staple dish for the inhabitants of Ladakh. Tingmo is a basic white flour bun that is light and fluffy and contains no filling. It's best served hot (after being steamed for about 15 minutes), and it pairs well with stews. Tingmo looks a lot like the Chinese "Hua Juan" (also known as Flower Bun or Mandarin Rolls). Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are all provided with tingmo. It's also a popular tea-time snack.
  • Saag- Saag is a spinach-based vegetarian cuisine. It's a simple dish with a lot of flavour. It is made with spinach, red chillies, garlic, and cloves, and it is cooked in mustard oil. It's served with rice or a plain roti. It's a semi-dry concoction. As a result, the procedure entails not allowing the water to evaporate. In Ladakh, it is an everlasting food. Saag has its beginnings in Kashmir as well.
  • Chhutagi- Chhutagi means "water bread" in Ladakhi (chhu means "water" and tagi means "bread"). Chhutagi is a traditional Ladakhi delicacy that is high in nutrition. The flattened dough is typically sliced into circular shapes before being shaped into a bow tie. After that, the dough is cooked in a thick broth comprised of vegetables or meat. Chhutagi is a hefty lunch that is frequently offered to harvest workers to keep them energised. Different kinds of chhutagi have been created by some local restaurants in Leh. It is undoubtedly one of Ladakh's gastronomic specialities that must be tasted.
  • Chhurpi- Yak cheese, known in Ladakhi as "Chhurpi," is manufactured from the milk of domesticated yaks known as "dzomo." A dzomo is an animal that is a cross between a yak and a cow. This crossbreed's female produces roughly three times the amount of milk as a female yak. Chhurpi is white and has a mellow flavour comparable to ricotta from Italy. Chhurpi comes in two varieties: soft and firm. This traditional cheese is commonly consumed in Ladakh due to a paucity of vegetables and fruits. Because it is a major source of vitamins and proteins, it is an important part of the local people's diet. In Ladakh, chhurpi is found with a variety of foods such as thukpa and is used as a filling for momos.
  • Khambir- Khambir is a traditional Leh Ladakh bread that is used in almost all of their cuisines. This bread has a brownish colour and a thick crust that has been baked in a pan. The bread is accompanied by a butter tea made with a pinch of butter and a pinch of salt. The nicest thing you can ask for in Leh Ladakh is a cup of butter tea with a loaf of Khambir.
  • Butter Tea- Butter tea is a must-have on any occasion in Ladakh. It is offered at weddings, festivals, and other important Ladakh events. It is consumed throughout the day by the people of Ladakh since it not only gives warmth but also keeps the body hydrated in the chilly, high-altitude environment. The tea, known as gur-gur chai, is made using butter, milk, and salt, which are combined with boiled tea leaves and churned until well combined. Tsampa is commonly used to make kholak with butter tea.
  • Chang-Chang is a traditional alcoholic beverage, known as "local beer" in Ladakh, manufactured from barley and containing 5 to 7% alcohol. During joyous events, people have been drinking chang for ages. The boy's uncle presents the girl's family with a pot of chang as a marriage proposal. Family and neighbours bring chang, butter, and wheat to the parents when a child is born. Chang is offered to visitors with a little slice of butter on the brim of the cup as a symbol of respect. The guest dips a finger into the wine and flicks a few droplets into the air as a gift to the gods before consuming. For the Buddha, the Dharma, and the Sangha, it is normally done three times.
  • Phirni- Phirni is a delicious and amazing food to consume in Ladakh. It is served in the Kheer area. It is served in a kulhad, which is a mud-based pot that enhances the flavour. It's an Iranian rice pudding that's made using boiled rice, vermicelli, milk, and sugar. Dry fruits and pistachios are also included.
  • Apricot Jam- Even though several flavours of jam are easily available in supermarkets, nothing compares to the taste of apricot jam. The jam, which is made from the most popular fruit growing in the region, chulli ("apricot" in Ladakhi), has become famous among travellers to Ladakh. Apricot jam could be served with khambir or bread.

Excursion

Shopping

The gorgeous land has become increasingly comfortable for visitors over time. When it comes to shopping in Ladakh, there is something for everyone's taste, from inexpensive trinkets to sartorial grandeur and home decor.

  • Ladakh Women's Alliance Market- The Ladakh Women's alliance is more than just a modest market; it is a statement of women's financial independence. In this market, you'll find stores run by women from more than a hundred adjacent communities. Even if you aren't interested in shopping, you must visit this market to witness the extraordinary features of their lives.

 

  • Handicraft Emporium of the Dalai Lama Charitable Trust- As you marvel at the beauty of local talent and handiwork reflected in all of the handicrafts, shawls, woolens, paintings, and antiquities available here, keep in mind the artisan community's hard work demands and support and remember that purchasing things here helps to ensure that their needs are addressed.

 

  • Main Bazaar- The major route to shop for Tibetan products, Tibetan jewellery and handicrafts, and Ladakhi rugs and carpets is the Main Bazaar. Locally grown Ladakhi apricots are one-of-a-kind and can be purchased as a tasty souvenir for friends and family. Traditional Ladakhi turquoise jewellery, as well as silver Tibetan jewellery, are popular among tourists.

 

  • Tibetan Handicraft Emporium- This shop sells a variety of Tibetan handicrafts. Ladakhi jewellery, including silver and stone, diverse house products, excellent gift pieces, and much more. This Tibetan refugee-run shop attracts a wide range of tourists throughout the year. The spectacular crafts and antiques that also display the craftsmanship at a reasonable price are the shop's centrepiece.
     

Things To Do

Getting There

By Air – Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh is the closest airport to Ladakh. Cabs are readily available outside the airport, allowing you to conveniently travel to the heart of Ladakh. This is one of the busiest commercial airports in the world, with direct flights to major cities such as Kolkata, Mumbai, Delhi, Srinagar, and Jammu. Air India, GoAir, and Jet Airways are the airlines that fly out of this airport. International travellers can fly directly to Leh Airport from large cities such as Kolkata, Mumbai, and Delhi, and then take a cab to Ladakh.

By Railway – Ladakh's nearest railway station is Tawi, which is 700 kilometres distant. This railway station receives trains from a variety of major cities, including Kolkata, Mumbai, and Delhi. Cabs can be found at the station to take you to Ladakh. Chandigarh and Pathankot are the closest railway stations. The journey from the railway station to Ladakh would take at least three days. This is the least convenient way to get to Ladakh.

By Road – The two primary roadways connect Ladakh to the rest of the world. The Manali – Leh Highway, which runs for 473 kilometres from Manali, is one among them. The Srinagar – Leh Highway, which runs for 434 kilometres, is the other highway. Between mid-June and early-October, and between July and November, the highways are usually open. The Himachal Pradesh Tourism Corporation (HRTC) and the Jammu and Kashmir State Tourism Corporation (SRTC) run daily deluxe and regular bus services between Manali and Leh. The bus travel from Manali to Leh takes about 19 hours and 17 hours, respectively, with an overnight stop in Srinagar.

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