SOTC Blog

Situated between the Kunlun mountain range and Himalayas, Ladakh literally translates to land of high passes. Sparsely populated with people mostly with Tibetan descent, Ladakh is popular for its culture and remote beauty of the mountains.

Here are 10 reasons to have Ladakh on your bucket list –

For the Landscapes

Whether you’re traveling from Kashmir or via Manali, you’re bound to notice the change in terrain, harsh and beautiful at the same time. The Nubra valley is one of the most picturesque places with bald mountains in stark contrast with a river flowing through. Lakes such as the Pangong lake along with some patches of green break the brown beige expanses with brilliant blue-green hues.

For the Spirituality

Hemis, Alchi, Matho, Spituk, Thiksey, Stok, Lamayuru and Stakna are some of the most beautiful monasteries and gompas here stoically bearing centuries of history, culture and Buddhism in their structures. Awaken your spirituality enroute these places rich with ancient architectures and antiques.

For Scaling the Mountains

Once an important part of the trade route between India and China, Ladakh tourism presents plenty of opportunities for all levels to scale the mountains. Kang-Yatse, Stok Kangri and Nun-Kun are some of the popular trekkable peaks while Khardung La – the highest motorable road, Changla, Wari La, Tanglang La, etc are some notable passes.

For Conquering the Roads

Getting to and fro from Ladakh is a road trippers haven. Ladakh is extremely popular in the biker communities across the world because of Khardung La. The Khardung La to Nubra Valley, Leh to Srinagar, the lake circuit route, etc. are some of the most beautiful routes to explore.

For the Festivals

See the masked Lamas dance to folk drums along with other colorful characters during the festivals of Kalachakra, Phyang, Naro Nasjal, Hemis, etc and add to your spiritual experience while discovering a new culture.

For a Nomadic Lifestyle

Technology is still only a visitor here, so experience the raw nomadic lifestyle with minimum technology, warm home-stays with locals, camping, traveling and trekking to explore.

For Rare Animals

Ladakh tour packages offer wildlife treks to spot the rare snow leopard, lynx, red fox, Tibetan sand fox, yak, ibex, marmots, kiangs, etc.

For Stargazing

There’s a reason why the world’s highest telescope is housed here in Indian Astronomical Observatory in Hanle which takes a special permit for access. Devoid of air and light pollution, Ladakh has some of the clearest skies for stargazing especially ideal for campers.

For Local Food

Delicious and healthy, the local food has a unique flavor. Remember to try the momos, thukpa, ska, pava, etc with a dash of the indigenous red chili.

For Unique Experiences

The festivals, home stays, spotting rare animals, road trips, wandering about the old town, the magnetic hill, river rafting on top of the world, riding a double humped camel or yak are some unique experiences not to be found elsewhere.