Leh Ladakh

“India’s Own Moonland”

Leh Ladakh Tourism-A Glimpse

A land like no other, with superabundance of attractions to visit and phantasmagoric and fabulous landscapes, amazing people and culture, Ladakh is truly a heaven on Earth.

Bounded by two of the world’s mightiest mountain ranges, the Great Himalaya and the Karakoram, it lies athwart to two other, the Ladakh range and the Zanskar range. Ladakh is mystical in all the spheres, be it its natural setting, geography, sceneries or the modest cultures that it fosters. Right from gompas to the sensational momos, the superabundance of attractions makes this city a ‘must visit.’ It is said that only in Ladakh can a man sitting in the sun with his feet in the shade suffer from sunstroke and frostbite at the same time.

For those of us living in the constant confusion about the difference between these twin locations, Leh-Ladakh, here is something that might help you. The state of Jammu and Kashmir is divided into three parts: Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh. Ladakh, further is divided into two districts: district Leh, and district Kargil. The former district has a popular town which is Leh and is a great tourist attraction because of its beautiful monasteries, picturesque locations, and interesting markets defining the culture of the place.

What’s Great?

Adventure destination. Snow clad mountains throughout the year with beautiful scenery in the backdrop.

What’s Not So Great?

Climatic conditions and travel are a bit rough. Infants and older people may have some breathing problems. People living at low altitudes may take time to adapt to places at such heights.

For Whom?

A superb destination for adventure freaks, bike riders, a group of friends seeking some activities and adventure. Not for leisure or relaxing.

The perfect getaway for an adventure!

For someone who thrives on adventure and lives his life on the edge, Ladakh is their Mecca. There’s nothing more satisfying than traversing such high peaks with nothing but daunting yet majestic snow-clad mountains in the backdrop. Every minute you spend here becomes a memory. From bike riders to cycling enthusiasts, this is the place to test your endurance and skill. For those who aren’t afraid of the water, do not miss the river rafting in Zanskar river at the confluence of Indus and Zanskar. The price per person is around INR 1000 for the long-distance rafting. This is an absolutely unforgettable experience for people who seek thrills. The largest city in this region is Leh and although this city has many monasteries, it is a treat to visit nearby cities like Nubra Valley, Pulu for magnificent views of the scenic beauty. Visit one of the highest motorable roads in the world- Khardung La while on your journey to the Nubra Valley.

Innerline Permits

Permits are required (also for Indian Nationals) to travel the inner line areas of Nubra Valley, the Durbuk Block, Khardung La, Dha-hanu, Tso-Moriri and Tsokar Lakes and Pangong Lake. These are available in the Leh town and you are advised to get them from trusted travel agents. Take the photocopies of the Protected Area Permit (PAP) or Restricted Area Permit (RAP) with you wherever you go in Ladakh. Government authorities have launched a web portal http://lahdclehpermit.in/ on June 1, 2017, making it easier for the travellers to obtain a permit. A fee of INR 400 + INR 20 per day as an Inner line fee is applicable. Note: There is no online payment option on this portal. Take the printout of the permit and visit TIC Office, Opposite J&K Bank, Main Market, Leh. You can get permit signed and stamped there. The timings of the office are 9.00 AM to 03:00 PM.

Validity: The validity of the inner line permit is 21 days for Indians and 7 days for foreign nationals.

Restaurants and Local Food in Leh Ladakh

Leh is a multi-cuisine town serving Indian, Tibetan, Chinese and even Korean. The cuisine here exhibits hints of these foreign influences. Visitors must try out the local dishes which almost define the cuisine here such as Thukpa, noodle soup, Tsampa, known in Ladakhi as Ngamphe (roasted barley flour), and Skyu which is a heavy pasta dish with plenty of veggies as well as the very popular and delicious Momos which are steamed dumplings stuffed with vegetables or meat.

Drinks include Tea, coffee, beer and Chang which is an alcoholic beverage drunk especially on festive occasions.