Ladakh, also called small Indian Tibet, is a wonderful region to discover. In this article, we will tell you about our experience by advising you what to see in Ladakh in fifteen days and places to visit in Ladakh.
Where Ladakh is located
Ladakh is a Himalayan region administered by India as a Union Territory. The region comprises two large districts, that of Kargil and that of Leh, the capital of Ladakh. The population is mainly divided into Tibetan Buddhists and Shiite Muslims, there is a Hindu minority but the major religious currents are the first two. Buddhists and Muslims in Ladakh live peacefully. Violent incidents are very rare.
Best time to visit in ladakh
The best season to fully enjoy Ladakh’s beauty in summer. From the end of May to the end of September you will be able to find in the mountains all the steps open and clear of snow and ice. If you are lucky you will meet the first caravans of shepherds who move with cattle to reach the pastures in the mountains.
Nomadic shepherd met on one of the high mountain road sections in Ladakh
At the beginning of summer, the landscape in the high mountains is partially covered by snow, rivers full of crystal clear water and glaciers abound with fresh snow. Overnight temperatures drop significantly. We advise you to bring technical clothing and a good sleeping bag like this if you will sleep in shelters or guest houses.
During the summer months, the temperatures are milder, even on the passes. We were in Ladakh in mid-September and during the day we were practically always in short sleeves despite the altitude. We were lucky enough to arrive in the period of the harvest and harvest of the wheat. The fields are golden yellow and there are a lot of farmers engaged in harvesting activities with the whole family and livestock.
Peasant engaged in the harvest of wheat near Lake Pangong, Ladakh
How to get to Ladakh
By plane
The easiest and fastest way to reach Ladakh is by plane. Several daily flights depart from Delhi to reach Leh, the capital of Ladakh.
Once you leave Delhi in just over an hour, you will arrive at your destination. It will be exciting to see the mountain ranges that protect Ladakh from above. Incredible peaks of infinite beauty, perennial snow and breathtaking colours.
By bus
From Manali, it is possible to reach Leh by crossing one of the most spectacular Indian highways bypassing passes that reach 5000 m. Once you are in Manali you will have different possibilities by asking for information in the various agencies. You can choose between shared taxis.
There are no direct buses connecting Manali to Leh, the journey is divided into two stages. On the first day, you will reach Keylong, a small town that is 100 km away from Manali and then reaches Leh the following day. From Manali several buses leave every day for Keylong, arriving in the afternoon you will have the opportunity to rest and continue the next morning with the second bus to Leh.
Places to visit in Ladakh
If you want a photo preview on Ladakh look at our gallery! You will find the faces and landscapes of this magnificent region and places to visit in Ladakh.
Leh, Best place to visit Ladakh
Leh is generally the first travel stop in Ladakh. It is strongly recommended to stay here for two days, to acclimatise and to visit the beauty of the surrounding area. There are some places to visit in Ladakh.
The wonderful Shanti Stupa in Leh, Ladakh
The Nubra Valley
The Nubra Valley is located 150 km north of Leh, the capital of Ladakh. To reach the valley, cross the spectacular Khardung La pass, the highest road in the world at 5600 m! Once you reach the pass, you will feel like you are floating in the air, breathing deeply.
Kardung La pass, the highest carriage road in the world located in Ladakh
Kardung La pass, the highest carriage road in the world
The Nubra is a valley that hosts two important rivers: the Nubra, which gives its name to the valley and the Shyok, a well-known tributary of the Indus. The two intersect in the heart of the region through rugged and rocky terrain, large areas dedicated to agriculture and surprising high-altitude deserts. We are at about 3000 m and it seems incredible to find imposing tongues of sand at this altitude, surrounded by the wonderful snowy mountain ranges. The typical camels of the Nubra Valley, one of the major attractions in Ladakh. The typical camels of the Nubra Valley, one of Ladakh’s attractions. The Nubra Valley attracts thousands every year.
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