The Himalayas are the newest and tallest mountains on Earth they form a range which divides India from the rest of the World in the North and East. The region Jammu & Kashmir State lies in the Himalayan Valley. This is utmost beautiful and charismatic region on Earth. Situated at lofty heights of the State is the Leh & Ladakh region the hub of tourism in the cold desert.
Tourism in the cold regions requires a different approach and degree of difficulty is high. Nevertheless fruits of labor are incredibly rewarding.
At incredible heights much of the plateau is over 3000 MSL. Incredibly cold acclimatization is required to spend time here. Ladakh is the Southern extension of the Karakoram Range which divides Pakistan, China and India. The region supports unique culture, language, beliefs and exotic cold desert wildlife found in the Himalayan Region. The spectacular landscape comprising of cold desert, high rise mountains and glens with rivers is an amazing spectacle.
The sightseeing potential is immense the key activity is visiting the Buddhist Monasteries, the palace and the humble hamlets. Life with amazing people amidst the cold lunar landscape is an experience of the lifetime.
The places of tourist interest are Leh, Drass valley, Suru valley, Kargil, Zangskar, Zangla, Rangdum, Padum, Phugthal, Sani, Stongdey, Shyok Valley, Sankoo and Salt Valley. There are several popular trek routes like Lamayuru - Padum - Darcha, the Nubra valley and the Indus valley.
The Leh Palace was the seat of the capital of Ladakh. The royal family resided here. Leh is a township in the Leh District of Jammu & Kashmir State. The district at more than three thousands MSL connects with the capital city of J&K - Srinagar. The Stupa and Palace are the places of interest and couples with a visit to the local markets.
It is a village it is home to the oldest called Alchi Monastery. The Indo Himalayan styled monastery preserve paintings dating back to 11th and 12th century. There are several home stays that provide modern comforts in the cold desert.
The village at height of 3500 plus MSL is situated on Lamayora Highway that leads to Srinagar. It is home to Yura or Lamayuru Monastery a Buddhist sacred place. It is one of the oldest and largest Gompas in Ladakh Region of J&K State in India. This is where the masked dance festival is held wherein the monks come together to pray. Another place of interest nearby is the Wanla Monastery at Wanla village nearby.