Ladakh- An Ethereal Cold Desert
Better known as the “Little Tibet”, Ladakh is truly a destination worth to visit. The land of soaring peaks, shooting stars and barren landscapes appeal tourists from far and wide. Leh-Ladakh region lies in North-West India serves as a hot spot for travellers. Be it trekking, mountaineering or festivity, Ladakh has every flavour of tourism for its visitors. If you are planning to visit Ladakh after Covid, then this article will be very helpful for you.
With its awe-inspiring natural beauty, Ladakh is a heaven for voyagers, honeymooners and tourists. The important tourist places in Ladakh India include Leh, Kargil, Nubra Valley, Lamayuru Monastery, Pangong and Tso Moriri Lake.
History
The rock carvings found in different parts of Ladakh show that it has been colonized from Neolithic times. Its first inhabitants were mixed Indo-Aryan population. Ruled by a number of dynasties, now Ladakh boasts of its rich historical background.
Major Tourist Places
Leh
Located at an elevation of 3505 m, Leh is the capital city that lies towards the eastern parts of Jammu and Kashmir. Watered by the Zanskar river that flows into the Indus river below, Leh is an enchanting tourist destination in India. With the mark of a ruined Tibetan style palace on one side and a swath of lush irrigated farmland, Leh leaves tourists spell-bound. The town is famous for its monasteries and the festivals that take place in these religious places.
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Padum
Being the capital of the antique monarchy of Zanskar, Padum is situated at about 3505 m distant in the current time to the directorial headquarters of the county. In the midst of residents of almost 1500, the place Padum can be explained as the highly crowded completion of Zanskar Tour, or else an extremely hardly occupied dale. By the way, Padum place is merely in Padum that there is a neighborhood of Muslims comprising almost half the town’s inhabitants, its foundation in the region timing as of mean 17th century. Recently, Padum place has turned into well-known as a most important marching support and a trendy traveler.
Kargil
Renowned as the second largest city of Ladakh, Kargil lies at a height of 2,704 m. The breathtaking valleys of Kargil like Suru, Zanskar, Drass, Chiktan and Wakha-Mulbek are the major attractions of the region. Blessed with sheer scenic charm, the serene place boasts of its picturesque locals. With its misty valleys, lofty mountains and meandering rivers, the destination is a perfect place for enjoying holiday in lap of mother nature. Popular for its rock sculpture of Maitreya Buddha, the Mulbekh Gompa is an important attraction. Shergole monastery is another popular place to visit.
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Nubra Valley
Located 10,000 ft. above sea level, Nubra Valley is a gorgeous place on the earth. Referred as “Orchard of Ladakh”, the valley abounds in vegetation. It is home to landscapes and offers excellent trekking opportunities. The wonderful attractions of Nubra Valley include the Samstanling Gompa, Diskit Gompa and hot water Sulphur Springs.
Pangong
The sunlight enhances the beauty of this famous lake. The crystal clear water refracts violet, green, blue, red and orange colours that can be seen on the surface resembling to a tinted canvas. It positions itself at an altitude of around 4240 m and thus becomes the highest lake in the world. Enveloped by serene gorges and vistas, the lake fascinates tourists coming from far-flung areas.
Tso Moriri
Situated to the south-east of Leh amidst the main valley of Rupshu, Tso Moriri is an important lake of Ladakh. The term “Tso Moriri” means the mountain lake, which has derived its name from the fact that it received water from the Changthang Plateau. The tranquil environment of the lake transports you to another world where you can soothe your tired senses with the genuine touch of mother nature.
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Lamayuru
It is the famous Tibetan Buddhist Gompa that locates on the Srinagar-Kargil-Leh in Kargil district. Being one of the largest and oldest monasteries of Ladakh, it attracts tourists from far and wide. Founded by Mahasiddha Acharya Naropa, the monastery dates back to 11th century. It serves as a permanent shelter of more than 150 monks.
Other Tourist Attractions
Khardung La, Drass Valley, Zanskar Valley and Shanti Stupa are other famous attractions of the place.
Best Time to Visit
Ladakh is known for its extremely cold weather throughout the year. If you want to visit Ladakh, then June to end of September is the best month when the temperature is between 14 to 30 Degree Celsius .
Cuisine
Leh Ladakh offers a variety of cuisine that varies from Real Tibetan to European, Continental and Kashmiri. It encompasses the traditional staple Tsampa, Boiled Beef & Mutton, Yak Butter, Momos, Noodle Soup, Tibetan Barley Wine and Thukpa.
Shopping
Popular shopping items that you can buy from here are Pashmina shawls, handicrafts, jewellery and wool garments. Locally made Apricot jam is also a must carry home.
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Accommodation
Visitors can choose a suitable accommodation in and around Leh. Ladakh offers budget and medium range hotels.
How to Reach
By Air
Leh serves as the nearest airport with connecting flight from Delhi, Srinagar and Chandigarh.
By Road
It is a two-day journey from Srinagar to Leh (434 kms) with an overnight stay at Kargil. The road is open from June to October.
