Set in a heavenly landscape, surrounded by the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas, Zanskar and Karakoram ranges, bordered by the crystal clear waters of the Shyok, Zanskar, and Indus rivers, Ladakh is one of the coldest deserts in the world. Perched at an altitude of over 11,000 feet above sea level, it is a paradise for adventure sports enthusiasts. Its rugged terrain and gushing rivers offer many opportunities for activities such as trekking, rafting, camping, climbing, and biking. As the winter months approach, the Union Territory is enveloped in a blanket of snow, making it a winter sports paradise. The famous Chadar Trek starts from the village of Chilling, 66 km away, and covers mainly the frozen area of the Zanskar River. Along the way, trekkers walk on precarious icy surfaces, stay in caves filled with stalactites and stalagmites and encounter other snowy landscapes.
Ladakh has three beautiful high-altitude lakes, Tso Moriri, Tso Kar, and Pangong Tso, which look like sapphires embedded in the ground. Magnetic Hill is a natural wonder that leaves tourists in awe. It is said to defy gravity as it tends to pull vehicles upwards. Ladakh is an important center of Buddhism and has several important monasteries. Tourists can walk the monastery trail and see the ancient cultures of the region come alive in the various paintings that adorn the walls while engaging in meditation and other therapeutic and spiritual activities.
The city of Leh was the ancient capital of the kingdom of Ladakh and boasts a heritage that reflects its rich history. The 17th century Leh Palace, which is an excellent example of medieval Tibetan architecture, lies at the heart of the city, which boasts a small number of heritage sites that are still clearly visible today. One of the best ways to experience the culture of Leh is to check into a guesthouse where the host will leave no stone unturned to immerse guests in the Ladakhi culture. Another great way to “discover” the region is to experience its fresh produce: apricots, apples, and other fruits and vegetables found in its orchards and markets.