Ladakh Nubra Turtuk Pangong Kargil Tour

About this tour

Leh:

Leh is a district in the Indian Union territory of Ladakh. It is the second largest district in the country, with an area of 45,110 km2. The district headquarters is in Leh, the capital of Ladakh. It borders China’s Tibet Autonomous Region to the east, the Lahaul and Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh to the south, the Kargil district to the west, and the Aksai Chin region of China to the north. It is home to the country’s highest mountain passes, including the world’s highest motorable pass, the Khardung La. It also contains some of the most spectacular landscapes in the world, including the Zanskar and Ladakh ranges, Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri lakes, and the Changthang Plateau. It is also home to several Buddhist monasteries, such as the Thikse Monastery, Hemis Monastery, and Spituk Monastery. Leh is also known for its vibrant culture, which includes various traditional festivals and events. There are numerous historical sites, including Tsemo Gompa and Leh Palace. Leh is the second-largest district after Kargil. It is located in the eastern part of the Union Territory, bordering the Tibet Autonomous Region to the east, the Chinese-controlled Aksai Chin region to the north, and the Himachal Pradesh district of Lahaul and Spiti to the south. The city of Leh operates as the district’s capital.

High-altitude deserts, Buddhist monasteries, and mountain ranges are some of the region’s best-known natural features. The area has a unique culture and heritage because of its lively festivals, folk music, and artwork. The city offers various sports, including mountaineering, mountain biking, rock climbing, rafting, and trekking. A few of the annual events in the town are the Ladakh Festival, Hemis Festival, and Ladakh Marathon. Because of its rich cultural legacy, magnificent scenery, and distinctive architecture, it is a well-known tourist attraction in India. Leh is home to numerous Buddhist monasteries, palaces, and historical sites, and it receives a large crowd of tourists every year. The city is famous for outdoor activities like mountain biking and trekking, and it is known for its stunning views of the Himalayas.

Nubra Valley:

The Nubra Valley is a cold, high-altitude desert that is a part of the Ladakh region of the Indian Union.  Nubra means “western” in Ladakhi.   Nubra was a junction for several ancient routes that led to various places.  The valley is situated north of the Ladakh valley, around 150 kilometres from the town of Leh. The valley is located between the Karakoram and Ladakh mountain ranges in the north and south, respectively, and has an average elevation of about 10,000 feet above sea level. The valley is well known for its beautiful views and two-humped Bactrian camels. The Siachen or Nubra River, which flows from the Siachen Glacier and Shyok River, forms the Nubra Valley. The Siachen Glacier is the second-longest glacier in the world, after the Fedchenko Glacier in Tajikistan. A significant valley that separates the Karakoram and Ladakh mountain ranges is formed when the Siachen and Shyok rivers unite at the confluence of the Nubra or Siachan Rivers. There are several populated areas in the valley, which is a popular tourist destination. The valley’s main attractions include the Sand Dunes, Bactrian Camels, Panamik Hot Springs, Buddhist Monasteries, and Magnificent Views of the Karakoram Range.

Some of Nubra Valley’s most well-known attractions include lovely villages, apricot orchards, pristine natural beauty, beautiful lakes, mediaeval monasteries, picturesque landscapes, and pleasant surroundings. Local farmers grow staple crops, including barley, wheat, other grains, fruits, and nuts like apricots, almonds, apples, and walnuts. Nubra Valley is called the Orchard of Ladakh and was formerly known as Dumra, which refers to “the valley of flowers.”

Turtuk:

Situated along the banks of the Shyok River in the Nubra Valley, Turtuk is the final village within India’s Leh district before reaching the border with Pakistan. The town is known for its unique culture and its strategic location on the Silk Road. It is an essential stop for trekkers, backpackers and travellers who want to experience the region’s culture. It is a tiny village close to the Line of Control between India and Pakistan, in the northernmost settlement in India, between the Karakorum Range and the Himalayas. On the banks of the Shyok River, in the Nubra tehsil of the Leh district, is Turtuk. The Baltistan region, where the village is situated, is currently governed by Pakistan. These villages are the only places in India where Baltis reside. Turtuk is well known for its many different fruit varieties, especially apricots. A few gompas are on the plateau above the Shyok River, and an old royal residence is in the town. Turtuk, one of the few places in India where one can encounter Balti culture, is also home to a few guest rooms and homestays. Before the Line of Control, it was the last significant village where tourism was permitted.

Pangong Tso:

Pangong Tso, known as Pangong Lake, is a high-altitude lake in Ladakh, India’s Himalayan region. The lake is 4,340 m (14,270 ft) and spans 134 km (83 mi), making it the longest lake in the area. Pangong Tso is partially in the Tibet Autonomous Region, and the Line of Actual Control passes through it. It is also home to different fish species, such as Schizothorax and snow trout. The lake is one of Ladakh’s most visited tourist attractions, and it is known for its stunning views, serene atmosphere, and unique wildlife. Despite having salt water, the lake freezes over throughout the winter. It is the world’s highest lake and one of the largest saltwater lakes. The brilliant blue tint of the lake and its stunning surroundings, which include the snow-capped mountains that border its shores, have made it famous. After the lake has completely frozen for the winter, the ice breaks in late May or early June. The lake is home to a vast variety of fauna, including migrating birds, marmots, and kiangs, a species of wild ass. The lake’s pure blue waters are surrounded by rough, rocky terrain and some of the most breathtaking scenery on earth.

Kargil: 

Located in India’s Ladakh region, Kargil is just 60 kilometres (37 miles) away from the Line of Control with Pakistan. The city is on the Suru River’s banks, an Indus River branch. Kargil has a rich cultural heritage and is home to many historical monuments, including the ancient Buddhist shrine of Mulbek and the 16th-century Maitreya Buddha Statue. The town also has several centuries-old mosques, monasteries, and nunneries. The city is also known for its adventure sports, such as trekking, mountain biking, paragliding and rock climbing. The town lies 205 kilometres from Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir’s capital. In 1999, a brief but violent conflict between India and Pakistan took place in Kargil, which is close to the Line of Control (LoC) between them. The Indian military successfully counterattacked Pakistani soldiers from the heights surrounding Kargil in July 1999. Several religions, including Hinduism, Islam, Buddhism, Sikhism, and Christianity, are practised in Kargil. Due to its location near the entrance to the popular trekking destination of the Zanskar Valley, the town is also a significant tourist attraction. The city has several ancient monuments, including the Karpo-Kangri fort and the ancient temple of Sengge Namgyal. The city has several ancient monuments, including the Karpo-Kangri fort and the ancient temple of Sengge Namgyal.

How to reach

• By Air:

Leh’s closest airport is Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, which is situated in Leh town and about 4 kilometres from the city centre. It has regular flights from Delhi, Jammu, Srinagar, and other significant Indian cities. One of the easiest and quickest methods to get to Leh is via air.

• By Road:

From Manali, Srinagar, and other locations in India, you can travel by road to Leh. The Manali-Leh highway is the most well-liked route to Leh by car. This path is open only from May to September when the snow has cleared, and the roads are passable. The trip takes about two days and includes some problematic high-altitude terrain. The travel can be broken up by spending the night at one of the numerous towns. Keylong and Sarchu are the most frequently visited stops. One can enjoy camping and walking along the road while taking in the glory of the Himalayan highlands.

• By Train:

Unfortunately, Leh has no direct train service from anywhere in India. Leh’s closest railway connection is at Jammu Tawi Railway Station in Jammu and Kashmir. You can take a bus or taxi from the station to Leh. 

Places to visit during Ladakh Nubra Turtuk Pangong Kargil Tour

The Hall of Fame War Memorial:

Leh, Ladakh, India, has the Hall of Fame War Memorial memorial. It was built in 1968 as a memorial to the Indian Army personnel who gave their lives in the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971. The monument was built in 1997 by the Indian Army as a testament to the bravery and courage of the Indian soldiers who participated in the conflict. It is a part of the National Memorial Complex for the Indian Army and is the only memorial nationwide. The names of the martyrs are honoured on various monuments, and the memorial’s main hall is home to a bronze bust of a soldier who died in battle. The first gallery includes a variety of artefacts from the Indo-Pak Wars, including weapons, uniforms, and photographs. The memorial also includes a sculpture of an eternal flame to symbolise the soldiers’ sacrifice. At this place, visitors can discover more about the background and achievements of the Indian Army. One of the memorial’s other structures is a bronze statue of Subedar Major Yogendra Singh Yadav, who was awarded the Param Vir Chakra, India’s highest military honour, for his bravery during the Kargil War. A life-size bronze statue of a soldier dressed in the traditional Ladakhi dress known as the Churidar Pyjama is another monument to the soldiers who fought in the Indo-Pak Wars.

Shey Monastery:

Shey Monastery is located in the Ladakh region of India at an altitude of over 11,204 feet. It is a Buddhist monastery of the Yellow Hat or Gelugpa sect, considered one of Ladakh’s oldest and most important monasteries. The monastery was founded in the early 17th century by Deldan Namgyal, the king of Ladakh. It contains several ancient artefacts and scriptures and is home to many monks. The main attraction at Shey Monastery is the 41-foot-high gold-plated statue of the Maitreya Buddha, considered the world’s most giant statue. The monastery also houses an extensive library containing many Buddhist scriptures and manuscripts. Also, the monastery is home to a vast collection of ancient wall paintings and manuscripts. These paintings and manuscripts show local myths, legends, and scenes from the Buddhist canon. Several holy artefacts, including the skull of Tsangpa Gyare, the founder of the Drukpa Lineage of Tibetan Buddhism, are also preserved at Shey Monastery. The Tibetan master Lama Lhawang Lotus is thought to have brought the skull to the monastery. The monastery welcomes visitors and is a significant Hindu and Buddhist pilgrimage site. The inside of the monastery is famous for being heavily decorated. Three stupas and a temple to the goddess Dukhang are also part of the monastery complex. Buddhists from all over the world travel frequently to the Shey Monastery for religious ceremonies. Visitors can participate in various events, including prayer rituals and meditation workshops. Additionally, the monastery provides accommodation for guests who want to stay overnight there.

Thiksey Monastery

Located in the village of Thiksey in Ladakh, India, the Thiksey Monastery is a prominent Tibetan Buddhist monastery. Its architecture bears a striking resemblance to Tibet’s Potala Palace. This twelve-story complex is renowned for its extensive collection of Buddhist artefacts, including stupas, statues, thangkas, wall paintings, and ceremonial swords. Affiliated with the Gelugpa sect, also known as the Yellow Hat Sect, the monastery shares its lineage with the Dalai Lama. It belongs to the Gelugpa or Yellow Hat Sect, the same as the Dalai Lama. The monastery is located on a hilltop and overlooks the Indus Valley. It is one of the largest and most impressive gompas in Ladakh. The monastery was founded in 1433 by Sherab Zangpo of Stod, a descendant of the great translator Rinchen Zangpo. It was initially called Pethup or “Peak of the Wind”. Palden Sangpo, the disciple of Tsongkhapa and the founder of the Gelugpa sect, later expanded the monastery. In the 16th century, the Gelugpa sect took over the monastery and renamed it Thiksey. The monastery also has an impressive collection of the Kangyur and Tengyur, which are the Buddhist scriptures. Thiksey is known for its annual festival, Gustor, held during the first week of December. Being the largest monastery in Central Ladakh, it is also famous for its 49-foot-tall statue of Maitreya Buddha in the lotus position, which covers two floors of the monastery.  The monastery is home to around 500 monks and has a library of ancient Tibetan manuscripts and books of Buddhist philosophy. It also houses several ancient murals, statues, and stupas. Thiksey Monastery holds an annual festival in May. During this festival, the monks perform traditional dance and mask dances. The monastery also hosts a vital debate session, inviting scholars from different Buddhist schools to discuss religious topics. Thiksey is also known for its extensive collection of Tibetan thangkas and statues.

Shanti Stupa:

The Shanti Stupa is a Buddhist stupa (peace pagoda) on a hilltop in Chanspa, Ladakh, India, inaugurated by the Dalai Lama in 1985. It was built by Japanese Buddhist Bhikshu Gyomyo Nakamura and his disciple, Japanese Buddhist Bhikshu Seiryu Kamada. The Shanti Stupa holds the relics of the Buddha at its base, which was built to promote world peace and prosperity. It is illuminated in the evenings, and the view of the sunset from the top of the hill is considered a breathtaking experience. The stupa is believed to symbolise the spread of Buddhism and peace worldwide. The stupa was built with the support of the Ladakh Buddhist Association and the Japan Buddha Sangha. The 14th Dalai Lama inaugurated it on 8 August 1985. The stupa is built in a Japanese style, with four main pillars and a dome. The stupa is adorned with prayer flags and a golden statue of the Buddha. The Shanti Stupa is a living symbol of peace and a reminder that peace and harmony can be achieved through understanding and tolerance. The Stupa has become a tourist attraction due to its religious importance and location, which provides complete views of the surrounding landscape. 

The Leh Palace:

Leh Palace, also known as Lachen Palkar Palace, located in the Ladakh Union Territory of India, is an ancient nine-story palace that was once the royal residence of the Namgyal dynasty of Ladakh. The palace has been renovated and is now open to the public. The palace also houses an exciting museum showcasing Ladakh’s history and culture. The palace is situated on Tsemo Hill and overlooks the Ladakh Range of the Himalayas. The palace also contains several stupas and shrines and a museum that houses a collection of Ladakhi royal artefacts. It is now a protected monument of the Archaeological Survey of India. Amazing views of the Stok Kangri and the Ladakh region can be seen from the Leh Palace’s roof. It is an excellent representation of mediaeval Tibetan architecture, with nine floors, massive walls, and wooden balconies. Wooden carved sculptures adorn the palace’s entrance. The palace is a prime example of Ladakh’s unique architecture, and its walls are decorated with murals, frescoes, and carvings. It also showcases a collection of artefacts from the royal family, including silver jewellery and weapons.

Leh Market:

Leh Market is a popular shopping destination in Leh, India. It is a vibrant market with various items for sale, including traditional and contemporary handicrafts, garments, spices, jewellery, and much more. The market is located in the Old Town of Leh and has been popular with locals and tourists for centuries. The market is filled with shops offering diverse goods, from handicrafts to clothing and jewellery. The traditional items are all handmade by the locals, and each item is unique, giving shoppers an exceptional experience. There are also a variety of spices, vegetables, fruits, and traditional foods like momos and thukpa. The market is also a great place to find souvenirs and gifts. Many handicrafts, jewellery, and clothing items can be customised with names and messages, making them ideal for any special occasion or event. The market is open daily, with many festivals and events yearly. This makes it a great place to visit year-round. Leh Market is an excellent place to visit for a unique shopping experience. Whether you’re looking for traditional items from the region or something more modern, you will find something to take home.

Gurudwara Patthar Sahib:

Gurudwara Patthar Sahib, situated in Leh, Ladakh, India, is a historic Sikh temple dating back to the 17th century. Founded by Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Guru of Sikhism, it commemorates his visit to the city. Legend has it that Guru Gobind Singh fought against the Mughal armies here in 1699 during their attempt to seize the city. Today, Sikhs from around the globe journey to this revered pilgrimage site to pay homage to Guru Gobind Singh and uphold his profound teachings. The Gurudwara is a stunning white marble building with a large prayer hall and several smaller worship spaces due to its ability to provide visitors with a look into the history and culture of the area. A copy of the Guru Granth Sahib, the Sikhs’ sacred text, and several weapons and other items may be found inside the gurudwara. The gurudwara hosts a variety of celebrations and occasions all year, including the Guru Gobind Singh Martyrdom Day, the Guru Nanak Birthday Festival, and the Guru Gobind Singh Birthday Festival. Gurudwara Patthar Sahib is a significant site with deep spiritual and cultural significance in Sikh history and culture. It serves as a reminder of the bravery, commitment, and heroism shown by Guru Gobind Singh and the Sikh faith’s believers.

Magnetic Hill:

Magnetic Hill is a gravity hill near Leh in  Ladakh, India. The area is a popular tourist spot, as people come to experience the unusual phenomenon for themselves. Many believe that the hill has mystical properties associated with it. The hill has an optical illusion in which a slight downhill slope appears uphill. It is located on the Leh-Kargil-Batalik highway, about 30 kilometres from Leh, at 14,000 feet above sea level. The phenomenon of Magnetic Hill was known to locals for centuries, and a British Army Officer first noticed it in the early 20th century. The local people believe that the hill has a magnetic force, which causes a mysterious pull on vehicles that pass through it. Scientifically, the phenomenon is explained by the fact that the downhill slope of the hill is not visible due to the surrounding hills and mountains. When a car is parked on the hill, and its engine is turned off, it appears to move uphill due to the optical illusion. The hill is also associated with many supernatural stories. According to one legend, a saint meditated on the hill, and it was believed that he had magical powers. It was also thought that the hill could pull objects toward it. 

Khrdung La:

Khardung La is a mountain pass in the Ladakh region of India that serves as the gateway to the Nubra Valley. It is the highest motorable pass in the world at an altitude of 5602 m (18,380 ft). The Leh-Khardung La-Nubra Valley Road traverses the pass and provides access to the Shyok and Nubra Valleys. The Siachen Glacier lies to the north of the pass. The pass was first discovered in 1839 by a British officer, Claude White, who was attempting to map the area. He named the pass “Khardung La”, which means “the pass of the great gate”. In the 1950s, the Indian Army began using the pass as a strategic military route, connecting the Siachen Glacier with Leh. In the late 1970s, it was opened to tourists and adventurers. The pass is also home to the historic Galta Monastery, built in the 16th century and is believed to be the oldest surviving Buddhist monastery in the region.

Diskit Village:

Diskit Village is a small village in India’s Nubra Valley of the Ladakh region. It is the administrative centre of the Nubra Valley and home to the Diskit Monastery, a Buddhist monastery of the Gelugpa sect. The village is about 10,000 feet and is surrounded by the Karakoram and Ladakh mountain ranges. The town is home to about 1,000 people and is known for its spectacular views of the snow-capped mountains. The village is also the starting point of the famous Nubra Valley trek.

The village was founded in the 15th century and is believed to be one of the oldest villages in Ladakh. The town is known for its ancient traditions and culture. It is home to the Diskit Monastery, which Changsem Sherab Zangpo founded in the 14th century. This monastery is the oldest and most prominent in the Nubra Valley and is believed to be the first of its kind in Ladakh. It houses many ancient artefacts, including the oldest scripture of Buddhism, the Kangyur. The village is also home to several other ancient monuments, such as the Diskit Stupa and the Chamba Temple, which is believed to be more than 600 years old. The village also hosts the annual Ladakh Festival, which is celebrated in September. It is an excellent opportunity to witness the culture, traditions, and lifestyle of the people of Diskit.

Diskit Monastery:

Diskit Monastery, or Diskit Gompa, is a Buddhist monastery in Diskit village in the Nubra Valley of Ladakh. It belongs to the Gelug sect of Tibetan Buddhism and is a sub-gompa of the Thiksey Monastery. The monastery is home to about 100 monks and is headed by the ‘Diskit Rinpoche’, a reincarnate lama. The monastery contains a giant statue of the Maitreya Buddha, which is believed to be more than 500 years old. The monastery also houses several ancient thangkas, manuscripts, and frescoes. Every year, the Dosmoche Festival is held in the monastery grounds.

The monastery complex comprises several buildings, including a main temple, a library, an old meditation hall, and several smaller temples. The main temple houses the giant statues of Maitreya and Padmasambhava, which are around six meters tall. The library contains ancient manuscripts, some of which are said to date back to the 9th century. Monks and other visitors seeking meditation and prayer can use the meditation hall. The monastery has around 120 monks responsible for daily running and upkeep. The monks are members of the Gelugpa school of Tibetan Buddhism and observe the same practices and rituals as other monasteries in the region. The Diskit Monastery is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists worldwide to pay homage and offer prayers. 

Sand Dunes:

Sand Dunes Leh is a desert-like area in Ladakh, India’s Leh district. It is about 10,000 feet above sea level and over 4 square kilometres. The area is characterised by its vast expanse of dunes, reaching heights of up to 40 feet. Sand Dunes Leh is also home to wildlife, including foxes, hares, and desert cats. The dunes are spectacular, with golden sand flowing over hills and valleys, creating an ever-changing landscape. The history of the dunes in Leh dates back thousands of years, with evidence of human settlements in the area as early as 5000 BC. Local legends tell stories of ancient civilisations that lived in the area and worshipped the dunes as a symbol of fertility and abundance. In recent years, the dunes in Leh have become a popular tourist destination—with activities such as camel rides, sandboarding, trekking, and stargazing. The area is entirely wildlife, including rare species of birds and mammals, which can be seen at the nearby Nubra Nature Reserve. 

Camel Ride Point:

Camel Ride Point Leh is a popular tourist attraction in Leh, India. It is a major attraction for tourists who wish to experience a camel ride amid the breathtaking landscape of Ladakh. The point provides a thrilling experience of riding a camel and exploring the area. The point offers various options for camel rides, ranging from short rides to full-day excursions. The point also has a restaurant and souvenir shop. The area has a rich history dating back to the 15th century when it served as a caravan route between India and Tibet. Camel Ride Point in Leh is located near Leh Palace and is a great way to experience the local culture and scenery. Camel Ride Point in Leh is an excellent spot for sightseeing, as the area offers stunning views of the Himalayas and snow-covered peaks. Several nearby monasteries and ancient buildings provide great insight into the local culture and history. The area also offers restaurants, cafes, and souvenir shops where visitors can purchase local jewellery, clothing, and carpets. Camel Ride Point in Leh has a yearly festival in August, celebrating the region’s traditional culture. Whether you’re looking for a unique experience or a chance to explore the local area, Camel Ride Point in Leh is worth a visit.

Hunder:

Hunder Leh is a small village in the Leh district of India. It is situated at the confluence of the Indus and Zanskar rivers and is the last village before the famous Nubra Valley. The area is known for its breathtaking views of the Himalayan mountains, lush green valleys, and serene lakes. The town of Hunder is believed to have been established in the 19th century by the Changpa nomads. The Changpa people are a semi-nomadic tribe from the Tibetan Plateau who migrated to the Ladakh region for a better life. Over time, the Changpa people established a permanent settlement along the banks of the Shyok River in the Nubra Valley. The village is known for its double-humped Bactrian camels, which were once used as a form of transport in the region. The camels are now primarily used for tourist rides, allowing visitors to explore the dunes of the Nubra Valley. Hunder is also home to several Buddhist monasteries, including the Diskit Monastery, built in the 14th century. The village also features several ancient chortens, or stupas, which are believed to be over 1000 years old. The town offers visitors a unique insight into the culture and tradition of the Changpa people and stunning views of the Himalayan and Karakoram mountain ranges.

Shyok River:

The Shyok River is a tributary of the Indus River, which originates from the Rimo Glacier in the Karakoram Range. It flows northwest until it merges with the Indus River near the small town of Khalsi. It enters the Indus River near Skardu in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. The Shyok River is 535 kilometres (332 miles) long and has a drainage area of about 21,000 square kilometres (8,100 square miles). It is one of the region’s major rivers and an essential water source for India and Pakistan. It is also home to various aquatic life, including endangered species. The Shyok River has a necessary place in the history of Ladakh. It was once part of the ancient Silk Route, which connected China with Central Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. The river has also been an essential water source for the people of Ladakh. It is used for irrigation, drinking, and other purposes. The river also serves as a natural boundary between India and Pakistan in this region. The Shyok River has also been an important source of hydroelectric power. In the 1950s, the Indian government built a dam on the river to generate electricity. The Shyok Dam, as it is known, is still in use today and provides electricity to the region. The Shyok River is also a popular spot for tourists. It is known for its picturesque beauty and popular rafting, fishing, and kayaking destination.

Durbuk Village:

Durbuk Village is in the Nubra tehsil of Leh district of India, about 45km east of Leh’s headquarters. Durbuk is a small village with a population of about 2000 people. The town is believed to have been founded in the 16th century by a group of nomadic tribes from Central Asia. The villagers are primarily Indo-Tibetan origin, and their primary language is Ladakhi. The town is known for its rural lifestyle, where the people live off the land and depend on agriculture, animal husbandry, and weaving for their livelihood. The village is also known for its vibrant culture, which includes traditional music, dance, and festivals. The town is home to several ancient monuments, including the Durbuk Gompa, which dates back to the 16th century. The Gompa is said to have been built by a monk named Ngawang Namgyal, who was the first ruler of Ladakh. The village also houses several other ancient structures, including the Durbuk Fortress and the Durbuk Stupa. The town is also known for its traditional handicrafts, which include handmade carpets, hand-woven shawls, and various wooden and metal objects. The village is also home to several monasteries, including the Chokhang Gompa and the Chokhang Monastery. Durbuk is an integral part of the region’s culture.

Tangsay Village:

Tangsay Village is a small traditional village in the Ladakh region of India. It is situated in the Indus Valley, on the banks of the Indus River, at an altitude of approximately 4,000 meters (13,000 feet). The village has a population of around 500 people and is situated on the banks of the Indus River. The village is renowned for its traditional mud houses and its beautiful views of the Indus Valley. The village is home to several monasteries and religious sites, including the Tangsay Monastery, one of the region’s oldest monasteries. The village is also known for its traditional crafts and embroidery. The village is home to several festivals and events, including the annual celebration of Yul-Lha, which celebrates the arrival of the new year in the Ladakh region. The village has a long history, dating back to the 16th century when King Jamyang Namgyal, the founder of the Namgyal dynasty, founded it. It is believed that the village was originally a campsite for the Ladakhi army when they were on their way to conquer Tibet. The monastery is still used today and is home to Buddhist monks and nuns. The village also has several ancient Tibetan-style houses and shrines, which can be seen around the village. The village is also known for its traditional handicrafts, such as carpet weaving, rugs, and jewellery. These are made by the villagers and sold as souvenirs to tourists. Tangsay Village is a popular destination for trekkers and mountaineers exploring the region’s rugged terrain and stunning scenery. 

Pangong Lake:

Pangong Lake is an endorheic lake in the Himalayas, close to the disputed border between India and China. It is about 4,351 m above sea level and 134 km long. Approximately two-thirds of the length of the lake lies in Tibet. The lake is being identified under the Ramsar Convention as a wetland of international importance. The lake is a popular tourist attraction. It is also famous for being the location of the climactic scene from the Bollywood film 3 Idiots. The history of Pangong Lake dates back to the 8th century when King Bhim of Ladakh conquered the area and declared it a protected area. Since then, the lake has been a part of Ladakh’s rich cultural history. In 1842, the British surveyed the area and noted the lake’s strategic importance for the region. In the 20th century, the lake became a point of contention between India and China. The 1962 Sino-Indian War saw Chinese troops occupy the lake and a large portion of the Aksai Chin area. The lake is a popular tourist destination today, attracting thousands of visitors worldwide. It is also a popular spot for boating and camping. The lake is also home to wildlife, including brown-headed gulls and bar-headed geese.

Chang La Pass:

Chang La Pass, situated in the eastern Karakoram Range of Ladakh, India, stands at an impressive altitude of 5,360 meters. It ranks as the world’s third-highest motorable pass, following Fotu La at 4,108 meters (13,478 feet) and Tanglang La at 5,331 meters (17,480 feet). It is located between Leh and Pangong Lake, about 53 km from Leh. The pass is a gateway to several other high mountain passes, including the more daunting Tanglang La Pass. The Chang La Pass is open year-round and provides spectacular views of the nearby mountain peaks and valleys. The pass has an exciting history. It was first discovered in the late 19th century by a British officer, Major R.G. Woodthorpe, who was passing through the area on an expedition. The pass was named after the village of Chang La, which is located nearby. In the 1930s, the British Army used Chang La Pass as an essential supply route from Srinagar to Leh. During the 1962 Sino-Indian War, both sides used the pass to transport troops and supplies. In recent years, Chang La Pass has become a popular tourist destination. The pass is accessible by car and offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. Many people visit the pass for trekking and mountaineering activities. Chang La Pass remains an integral part of Leh’s history. It has seen many battles, from the British Army to the Sino-Indian War, and it is a reminder of the region’s rich and varied past.

Mulbeksh Monastery:

Mulbekh Monastery is a Buddhist monastery located in the Kargil district. The monastery is atop a hillock, with spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.  It is believed to have been founded in the 8th century by the great Buddhist scholar Padmasambhava, also known as Guru Rinpoche. The monastery is home to a giant statue of the Maitreya Buddha, which is believed to be around 1500 years old. The sculpture is carved from a massive rock and is one of the region’s most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites. The monastery also houses several other statues and images of various Buddhist deities.  The monastery is also home to several deities, including Avalokitesvara and Manjusri. It is believed that the monastery was once a learning centre for Buddhist scholars and monks. The Mulbeksh Monastery is an important historical site. The monastery consists of several temples, shrines, and monastic cells, and the main temple is dedicated to Padmasambhava. The monastery also contains a library and museum that houses ancient manuscripts and artefacts related to Buddhism. Visitors can also explore the monastery’s beautiful gardens and take in the breathtaking views of the majestic mountains. Mulbeksh Monastery is an important cultural and spiritual site in Kargil and worth visiting for anyone interested in the region’s historical and cultural heritage.

Munshi Aziz Bhat Museum:

Munshi Aziz Bhat Museum is located in Kargil, a district in the Indian Union territory of Ladakh. It is the only museum in Kargil and is dedicated to preserving the culture and history of the region. Munshi Aziz Bhat, a scholar born in Kargil and the first to write about the area’s history, inspired the Kargil Municipal Committee to create the museum in his honour. A variety of relics, records, and images about the history and culture of the Kargil district are kept in the museum. It offers insight into the area’s history, covering the pre- and post-Islamic eras. The collection includes pottery, coins, manuscripts, maps, costumes, musical instruments, and photos.

Further, the museum hosts various cultural events like lectures, seminars, and workshops. It is open to the public except for Sundays and public holidays. There is no charge to enter the museum. The gift shop in the museum sells souvenirs and other things related to the local history and culture. It provides an exciting look into the locals’ lives and helps educate tourists about the region’s past. 

Rangdum Gompa

Rangdum Gompa is a Buddhist monastery in the Suru Valley in Ladakh, India. It is situated at an altitude of 4,031 meters above sea level and is surrounded by a landscape of rocky mountains and snow-covered peaks. The Gompa was founded in the 18th century by Losang Geleg Yeshe Drogpa from Tibet and is now home to about 25 monks. The Gompa is dedicated to the Gelukpa sect of Tibetan Buddhism and is considered one of Ladakh’s oldest monasteries. It comprises a small temple, several residential buildings, and an extensive collection of ancient scriptures and religious artefacts. The main prayer hall of the Gompa is adorned with colourful murals and paintings of Buddhist deities. The months of June through September are the warmest and are the ideal times to visit this gompa. The Gompa is reachable by road from Kargil town, approximately 103 kilometres away. For anyone interested in learning more about the area’s rich cultural legacy, Rangdum Gompa is an excellent spot to visit. It is a significant religious location for Buddhists in Ladakh. The neighbouring village of Rangdum is also worthwhile because it provides some fantastic panoramas of the surroundings.

Kargil War Memorial:

The Kargil War Memorial is a memorial in Dras, India, dedicated to the memory of Indian soldiers who fought in the 1999 Kargil War—located at the base of Tololing Hill, the memorial complex was built in the year 2000 to honour the martyrs of the Kargil War. The memorial stands as a symbol of the courage and bravery of the Indian soldiers who fought in the war. The museum also contains information about the conflict and its participants and a tribute to the lost soldiers. The memorial also features a light and sound show, telling the war story.  The monument is divided into four sections, each representing a different aspect of the Kargil War. The first section is a museum, which contains various artefacts from the war, including weapons, ammunition and other items. The second section is a memorial wall, which includes the names of all the martyrs of the Kargil War, along with their photographs and brief biographies. The third section is a memorial garden, which contains flowers, plants, and trees planted in memory of the martyrs. The fourth section is a monument arena, which includes a stage for various cultural programs and events. It is a place that serves as a reminder of the valiant efforts of the brave soldiers who fought for the country. The memorial is open to the public and is a popular tourist attraction in Kargil.