Travel in Ladakh
Ladakh is a region in the state of Jammu & Kashmir in the north west of India. Ladakh is a high altititude mountainous area of remote beauty. Nestled between the Karrokoram range in the north and the Himalayan range to the south, it displays amazing geological features. The central area of Ladakh includes the ranges of the Zanskar and the Ladakhi range, these are included in some of the popular treking routes and typify the breathtaking arid beauty of the region. Ladakh is a great place to visit for those with an interest in treking or mountaineering.
The region is also home to many buddhist monasterys which are renowned
for there unique architecture and painted interiors.The capital of Ladakh
is Leh, this unique city hosts many cultural and religous festivals and
has great markets featuring an array of Tibetan and Kashmiri craft items
including pashmina scarves, thanka paintings and wooden carvings.
Climate
Ladakh has a climate of extremes due to the change in altitude throughout
the region which ranges from 2500m to 7500m. Winter is December through
to Febuary and is extremely cold and reaches as low as -30 c. During this
period roads are closed due to ice, snow and freezing conditions. Ladakhi's
prepare duing summer to spend this winter period indoors.
The best time to visit Ladakh is during May to October which includes the
summer period of July and August where temperature varies from 20c up to
40c. Summer heat in Ladakh is low humidity and comfortable. VBB works only
during the summer months when the roads are open.
Culture
Ladakh is sometimes known as "Little Tibet" due to the strong influence of Tibetan culture in the region. It is a predominately Buddhist district with religion still playing a strong part in the culture. The region has many famous monasterys including Thikse, Alchi, Hemis and Lamayuru, these sites display architectural features common in Tibetan construction. The interiors display the richly painted murals associated with mystical Tibetan Buddhism. During summer outdoor festivals are popular and include local polo games, archery and folk dancing. Despite neighbouring Kashmir’s political issues, Ladakh has remained a peaceful region.
Food
Leh has many great options for food, from rich creamy Kashmiri style and
North Indian style thali houses to traditional Ladakhi cuisine. Many restarants
in Leh do a fantastic Chicken Jalfrezzi, as well as providing an extensive
vegetarian menu. For those that enjoy delicious creamy dishes and delicate
curry flavours a visit to one of the many Kashmiri restaurants is recommended.
Leh is a busy tourist town during the summer and tourists can enjoy meals
from all over the world, including great apple pies and delicious breads,
as well as Italian, French and Israeli cuisine to name a few. Don't miss
the outstanding Indian chai and sweet shops, or try a Kashmiri tea flavoured
with cardamon and mint.
