LADAKH - WHERE EARTH MEETS THE SKY

Welcome to Ladakh – The Land of High Passes and Timeless Wonders. Cradled high in the trans-Himalayan region of northern India, Ladakh is a land of dramatic contrasts and awe-inspiring beauty. Often referred to as the "Roof of the World", this mystical destination offers far more than just stunning landscapes. It is an ever-evolving mosaic of nature, culture, adventure, and peace—where every traveler finds their own story.

Ladakh is India’s highest plateau with much of it being over 3,000 m (9,800 ft). It spans the Himalayan and Karakoram Mountain ranges and the upper Indus River valley. Historical Ladakh includes the fairly populous main Indus valley, the more remote Zanskar (in the south) and Nubra valleys (to the north over Khardung La), the almost deserted Aksai Chin, and Kargil and Suru Valley areas to the west (Kargil being the second most important town in Ladakh). The Indus River is the backbone of Ladakh. All major historical towns — Shey, Leh, Basgo, and Tingmosgang, are situated close to the river.

Ladakh is bound by mighty mountains. To the north the mighty peaks of Rimo I (7385 m) and Teram Kangri (7464 m) in the Ladakh range mark the border with China, while in the south the slopes of the Stok range grown in size until they merge with the Zanskar mountains. In the west the snowcapped peaks of the Nun (7135m) and Kun (7087m) are the gate keepers of the Great Himalayas.

Amid the mountains, life centres on Ladakh’s many river valleys. The Indus valley drains much of the region, joined by the Zanskar and the Suru rivers of the west. In the east of Ladakh there are several lakes, including the huge Pangong Tso, which reaches into Tibet and the Tsomoriri and the Tsokar, set in a high-altitude desert characteristic of the Tibetan Plateau.

Ladakh is a high-altitude desert as the Himalayas create a rain shadow, denying entry to monsoon clouds. The main source of water is the winter snowfall on the mountains. The temperatures in Ladakh are extreme. The sun shines for about 300 days a year and is deceptively strong, so it’s important to use sunscreen and a hat. The extremes of cold mean that Ladakh is little visited in the winter. The passes close and the only way in and out of Ladakh is by air. The Night temperature during January get as low as -20 degrees and day temperature is usually below zero degrees. Surprisingly, though, the thin air makes the heat of the sun even more intense than at lower altitudes; 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.

GREAT ADVENTURES

Ladakh is a dream come true for adventure lovers. With its rugged mountains, valleys, and high-altitude passes, it offers some of the most thrilling outdoor experiences in the world. Trek through ancient trails, ride a motorbike across iconic high altitude passes, or cycle through surreal landscapes dotted with monasteries. Feel the adrenaline rush as you go white-water rafting in the icy Zanskar and Indus rivers or spend a night under the stars while camping.

WILDLIFE JOURNEYS

Explore the untamed side of Ladakh in its pristine wildlife sanctuaries. Spot elusive snow leopards, Himalayan wolves, and blue sheep in the Hemis National Park. Birdwatchers will find solace at the high-altitude wetlands, home to rare species like the black-necked crane. Wildlife in Ladakh is not just a spectacle—it’s a spiritual experience in the vast silence of nature.

EXPLORE THE DARK SKIES

Under Ladakh’s crystal-clear night skies, stars shine like nowhere else on Earth. Join stargazing experiences in Ladakh, where meteor showers, constellations, and the Milky Way stretches endlessly above you.

HERITAGE AND CULTURAL

Step into the soul of Ladakh through its ancient monasteries, palaces, and oral traditions. Visit the iconic Thiksey, Alchi, and Hemis monasteries, marvel at centuries-old murals and Buddhist relics, and walk the corridors of the Leh Palace. Engage with local artisans, learn about Tibetan Buddhism, and witness a living heritage untouched by time.