LADAKH - TRAVEL GUIDE

LADAKH - TRAVEL GUIDE

LADAKH - TRAVEL GUIDE

INTRODUCTION

Ladakh - The adventure capital of the country, is the destination that has the top three highest mountain passes in the world. Bounded by the Karakoram and Himalayan mountains, Ladakh is the largest province in the state of Jammu and Kashmir.Majestic in its scope and fascinating in the depth and variety of its experiences, Ladakh is one of the best places to visit in the world.Ladakh has strong links with Buddhism and Tibetan culture.Ladhak is a favorite among adventure sports enthusiasts, offering unique adventures in trekking, mountaineering and white water rafting.here are many beautiful places to visit in Ladakh; places of such grandeur and subtlety that they make you marvel at the power of the natural creative process that went into forming them.Ladakh is a very famous tourist destination for those who love isolated adventure spot for many outdoor activities that pump adrenaline into the brain.From architecture to cuisine, this city has an Eastern outlook.  Ladakh is a stretch of null vegetation hills, craggy mountain passes, think snow, monasteries and clear water bodies that usually stands as block ice.The landscape of Ladakh, a high altitude desert, is defined by craggy, barren cliffs and plateaus.There are many beautiful places to visit in Ladakh; places of such grandeur and subtlety that they make you marvel at the power of the natural creative process that went into forming them.Ladakh celebrates a numbers of monastic festivals - annual events of the major monasteries primarily in winters. The month of September, hosts the Ladakh Festival, that gives a peek into the richness, depth and pageantry of Ladakh's centuries-old culture, traditions and folk heritage. One can witness the best samples of the region's performing arts, Archery contests and the Ladakh Polo Cup.The trekking options range from short, day-long walks to visit monuments or monastic settlements to long, trans-mountain treks involving weeks of walking and camping in the wilderness.

With so many places to see and things to do your trip to Ladakh, it promises to be full of excitement and variety. The chance to visit Ladakh is a great blessing, so enjoy it thoroughly. The options are many and varied, and the thrills you get out of them will be endless.

TEMPERATURE   

                                           










7°C - 30°C
Summer 
June - September

-20°C - 12°C
Monsoon 
October - May


Places to visit in ladakh

1.LEH PALACE

Bearing a passing similarity to the Potala Palace in Lhasa (Tibet), this nine-storey dun-coloured edifice is Leh's dominant structure and architectural icon.A 17th-century palace built after the fashion of medieval palaces in Tibet, and which stands overlooking the town of Leh, the Royal Leh Palace is one of the most important cultural destinations in Ladakh.It took shape under 17th-century king Singge Namgyal but has been essentially unoccupied since the Ladakhi royals were stripped of power and shuffled off to Stok in 1846.Such is its significance that the structure is considered to be one of the most important buildings in Ladakh, despite its dilapidated outlook.Located atop a high hill, the palace offers a panoramic view of the town of Leh spread out against a backdrop of the Stok Kangri and Ladakh ranges. 

2.KHARDUNG LA PASS

Situated at an altitude of 18,379 ft. above the sea level, Khardung La makes one feel on the top of the world.Khardung La lies at a distance of 39 km from the Leh.The breathtaking views en route make the journey worth experiencing at least once.It was once believed to be the highest motorable pass in the world, but facts prove it is among the highest motorable passes in India.There are four stops from Leh to Khardung La. These are Leh – Phyang – South Pullu – Khardung La. Since, this pass is gaining popularity day by day, entry and exit timings are restricted. In order to run the traffic smoothly, vehicles coming from Leh are allowed from 9 am to 1 pm. Similarly, the exit timings from Khardung La to Leh are from 1 pm to 5 pm.This mountain pass in the Ladakh region of Jammu and Kashmir was prepared for motors in 1976 and opened in 1988 for the public.Connecting Leh with Nubra valley this pass serves as a gateway to the famous Siachen Glacier. Siachen lies on the north of  Leh and about 40 Kms away by road to the Nubra valley.Alternatively known as the ‘Pass of Lower Castle’, Khardung La is the inspiration of motorbike, automobile and mountain biking expeditions. This makes it adventure aficionados’ paradise indeed. A visit to Khardung La is one of the must things to do in Ladakh. The picturesque panoramas and pure air lures tourists from every nook and corner of the world.

3.PANGONG TSO LAKE 

The famous and sparkling blue Pangong lake is situated near Leh-Ladakh in the Himalayas, approximately at the height of 4350 meters.Pangong Lake, one of the most famous lakes in Leh Ladakh, derives its name from the Tibetan word, “Pangong Tso”, which means “high grassland lake”.This endorheic lake is 12 kilometres long and extends from India to Tibet, with two-thirds of it lying in the latter. Owing to its altitude, the temperature here ranges from -5°C to 10°C as a result of which the lake freezes completely during winters in spite of its salinity.Pangong Lake is also known to change colors, appearing blue, green and red at different times. If you have decided to go on a trip to Ladakh anytime soon, don’t forget to visit the Pangong Lake.Pangong lake is home to many migrating birds in summer, and one can witness numerous ducks and gulls "surfing". Other than being a haven for these birds, it is also an important breeding ground for birds like Brahmani ducks and seagulls.The beauty which awaits you there cannot be described in words. It has to be seen, felt and absorbed within yourself.

Reaching Pangong Lake from Leh

If you are coming on this route, you need to take the Manali-Leh highway and keep driving till you reach Karu. This should take you less than an hour. Leave the Manali-Leh highway from Karu and turn left towards Sakti. Continue towards Chang La.  
After reaching Chang La, keep going towards Durbuk. You will reach the town of Tangste in a few hours. From Tangtse, Pangong Lake starts appearing after about a distance of 8km. Alongside the lake, you will find several lakes which will be used for camping.

4.Zanskar Valley

Zanskar Valley, nestled in the remote corner of Ladakh, is one of the most enchanting places to visit in Himalayas. It is located on the eastern corner of J&K state and is separated from Ladakh by Zanskar mountain range.Wrapped in snow capped peaks and huddled amidst two tiny alpine lakes, Zanskar is a beautiful tourist destination in the northern parts on India. It is one of the scantly inhabited Himalayan valleys blessed with immense natural scenic beauty.In ancient times, Zanskar & Ladakh together were part of kingdom of Guje in Western Tibet. It is connected through Kargil by road and Darcha in Himachal Pradesh by a trekking route over Shingo La pass. Once you visit this wonderland, you will just fall in love with its wide open vistas, fresh aqua blue water streams gushing through the valley, the compelling aura of total remoteness and the massive glaciers which appears to be just a touch away.Zanskar is located in the Ladakh district of Jammu and Kashmir state.

Best Routes to reach Zanskar Valley

Srinagar – Kargil – Padum is the best & fastest route to reach Zanskar Valley. However, one can also travel from Manali – Leh Highway to reach Leh and then travel from Leh to Kargil – Padum route. In case, you are planning to come from Manali side and exit from Srinagar side, then plan the Zanskar Valley trip through Leh – Kargil route. Otherwise, shortest route to reach Zanskar Valley is through Srinagar – Kargil only.Zanskar is truly a thrilling adventure destination in Ladakh. The undulating hilly ranges offers ample of opportunities for the adventure enthusiasts.

Mountaineering: Scale the great height of majestic mountains and experience its rugged surfaces by taking part in mountaineering expeditions.
Trekking: Explore the fascinating trek routes and enjoy nature’s beauty at its best. During winter, trekking over the frozen Zanskar River is a major tourists’ attraction. This trek is known as the Chadar Trek.
White water rafting: Bring out the adventurous side in you by indulging in white water rafting to challenge the wild and soft waves of Zanskar river.
Camping: If you are bit more adventurous than carry your personal tents and enjoy an exclusive experience of camping. Dinning under star-studded sky amidst the high hilly ranges in an open, is truly a wonderful experience.

5.Tso Kar Lake

There is another must-see attraction in Leh Ladakh tour and that is the Tso Kar Lake.the Tso-Kar Lake also known as 'White Lake' is one of the three high altitude salt water lakes in Ladakh.The smallest of the three high altitude alpine lakes in THE Ladakh region of Jammu and Kashmir, Tso Kar Lake is situated in the Rupshu Valley at an elevation of over 14,700 ft. It is also known as the White Lake because of the amount of salts that get deposited on the banks of the lake. It is spread across 10 sq km and lies 250 km southeast of Leh, 50 km from Tso Moriri Lake which is the highest brackish water lake in India.The lake is also popular among bird watchers as the marshlands surrounding the lake is home to several rare species of birds. The common birds that are seen are Brahmni ducks, bar headed geese and great crested grebe.Tso-kar Lake is the smallest lake among the three important lakes in Ladakh.A trip to the three lakes, Tso Kar, Tso Moriri and Pangong is popular activity among travelers.

LADAKH - TRAVEL GUIDE

LADAKH - TRAVEL GUIDE

How to reach Kaza - Temprature , kaza hotels , lahaul and spiti

How to reach Kaza - Temprature , kaza hotels , lahaul and spiti


How to reach Kaza - Temprature , kaza hotels , lahaul and spiti


The capital of Lahaul and Spiti, Kaza sits on the eroded flood plain of the Spiti River, with jagged mountains rising on either side, and is the biggest settlement you’ll encounter in this empty corner of the planet. It feels a bit like a small frontier town with an easygoing pace. The often-dry Kaza Nullah stream divides New Kaza (west of the nullah) from the bazaar area, Old Kaza, to the east. The bus and taxi stands are at the bottom of the bazaar.



Kaza is also the starting point for trips to Ki Gompa and the villages of Kibber, Langza, Hikkim, Komic and Demul, high on the east side of the valley, and a good place to organise treks and tours in or beyond Spiti.



Kaza is located high up in the mountains of the Lahaul and Spiti valley in the north Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. It does not have an airport but is connected by road to major cities of Himachal.





Here is how to reach Kaza:
By Air


Kaza can be reached either from Manali or via Shimla. Indian Airlines and some private airlines operate regular flights to Bhuntar Airport, the nearest airport to Manali. Pre-paid taxis are available from Bhuntar airport. Buses and taxis can be hired from Manali to Kaza. Flights from New Delhi and Chandigarh operate on a daily basis to Shimla airport.


By Train

Jogindernagar is the nearest railway station. The rail route from Jogindernagar to Chandigarh is a narrow guage one. Shimla and Chandigarh are the nearest broad guage railway stations. Buses and taxis are available from Shimla and Chandigarh to reach Kaza.


By Road




It is a 115 km journey from Manali which takes six hours. Another option is to take bus from Shimla via Kinnaur to Kaza. The route from Shimla to Kaza remains open from May to October and is about 412 km long.


Climate and temprature
The climate is cold and temperate. The rainfall in Kaza is significant, with precipitation even during the driest month. This climate is considered to be Dfb according to the Köppen-Geiger climate classification. The temperature here averages 5.1 °C. The average annual rainfall is 668 mm.


How to reach Kaza - Temprature , kaza hotels , lahaul and spiti

Why every indian needs to visit Paris in 2019

Why every indian needs to visit Paris in 2019

Why every indian needs to visit Paris in 2019

The City of Light draws millions of visitors every year . The divine cuisine and vast art collections deserve some of the credit as well. The gentle River Seine rambles through the city, flanked by stately museums, centuries-old churches, and blocks of Rococo- and Neoclassic-design architecture, further enhanced by cascading trees and glowing streetlamps.

Peppering the Seine's cobbled walks and graceful bridges are impossibly chic Parisians, probably on their way to the market, cafe or cinema.  Paris is also a city of "many splendors," as Ernest Hemingway recalled in his memoir, "A Moveable Feast." Visit the beloved Musee d'orsay, shop the biggest designers on the Champs Elysees or hit the boutiques in Le marais, take in the view atop the Eiffel Tower, or even plan a day trip to Versailles palace.

Containing world-class museums, fashion, cuisine and an atmosphere all its own, But don't miss out on the simple pleasure of meandering the marvelous arrondissements (districts), or snacking on street crepes either.
The cloud-piercing, wrought-iron Eiffel Tower, broad Arc de Triomphe guarding the glamorous avenue des Champs-Élysées, gargoyled Notre Dame cathedral, lamplit bridges spanning the Seine and art nouveau cafes' wicker-chair-lined terraces are enduring Parisian emblems. 

France’s reputation for its cuisine (the French word for ‘kitchen’) precedes it, and whether you seek a cosy neighbourhood bistro or a triple-Michelin-starred temple to gastronomy, you'll find that every establishment prides itself on exquisite preparation and presentation of quality produce, invariably served with wine. . A host of culinary courses – held anywhere from home kitchens to the world’s most prestigious cookery schools – offers instruction for all schedules, abilities and budgets.boulangeries , fromageries and crowded, colourful street markets are perfect for putting together a picnic to take to the city’s beautiful parks and gardens.

You can come to Paris any time but the atmosphere is quite different at different times of year. Winter is a time for festivals and feasting on game and oysters. Spring and early summer are the time to make the most of city parks and café terraces. In August the capital slows down and a beach takes over the quays, many people love it for the feeling of calm. The autumn rentrée starts with a burst of energy for the new cultural season, big exhibition openings and new restaurant arrivals.

Why every indian needs to visit Paris in 2019

Top places to visit in Pakistan

1. Sheessh Mahal 

The Sheesh Mahal is situated in the royal fort of Lahore. It was not in a very good condition and its roof was very near to collapse but Government and local authorities are trying to restore it. The workers are repairing this Palace of mirrors. The word Sheesh means mirror while Mahal means Palace. It is a beautiful structure in the Royal Fort of Lahore city. Few history writers say that the Queen is buried in this place but there is no grave at its premises. Mughal had a special interest in those types of palaces which contained thousands of small mirrors in their design. This is the reason that Agra fort, Lucknow, Amer fort, Mehrangarh fort, Rohtas fort and Taj Mahal contained these types of palaces. Sheesh Mahal is situated at the west corner of Lahore fort which is the area of Shah Burj block. In the era of Mughal King Shah Jahan, this beautiful structure was built in the year 1631 to 1632.

2. Lake Saif ul Malook 

Saif ul Malook lake is a famous tourist resort, well known for the associated story of a Persian prince Saif ul Malook. It is located about 8 kilometers (5 miles) north from the town of Naran in northern end of Kaghan Valley, in District Mansehra, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The lake with its majestic and mesmerizing natural beauty, pleasant atmosphere and associated tale and history, attracts thousands of tourists each year from all around the country during the summer. The lake is also famous for being habitat of large size Brown Trout fish, which weigh up to 7 kilograms. Lake Saif ul Malook also provides a marvelous view of Malika Parbat, which is the highest peak of Kaghan Valley. The best time to visit Lake Saif ul Malook is between May and the end July. It remains covered in snow during winter, and the road to the lake stays closed due to heavy snow fall.

3. Chitral valley

Chitral Valley is one of Pakistan’s most beautiful places to visit. From icy mountain peaks to rivers to forests, we can find all in Chitral. Located in Khyber Pakhtunkwa, and the capital of District Chitral, Chitral is also one of Pakistan’s most historical cities and a tourist hub. The valley is famous for mountaineering, trekking, fishing and hiking in addition to a number of beautiful tourist spots. The best time to visit is from July to September, because it can get very hot during May and June. Known for hospitality, it is a common practice for tourists to stay with a traditional Chitrali family during their visit where they can experience everything from the culture to the food to the dressing.

4. Hunza valley

Hunza was a princely state, bordering China to the north-east and Pamir to its north-west, which continued to survive until 1974, when it was finally dissolved by Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. The state bordered the Gilgit Agency to the south, the former princely state of Nagar to the east. The state capital was the town of Baltit (also known as Karimabad) and its old settlement is Ganish Village.Situated at an elevation of 2,438 meters, Hunza Valley's tourist season is from May to October. The temperature in May is maximum 27°C and minimum 14°C.The October temperatures are: maximum 10°C and minimum 0°C. Hunza is a 100 km drive from Gilgit, and most people arrive by road and it takes almost 2-3 hours to reach Hunza from Gilgit. The main bus stand is on the KKH Aliabad. There are booking agents in town for long distance buses & jeeps along the KKH. The journey from Islamabad can take as long as 24 hours.

5. Neelam valley

Neelum is one of the most beautiful valleys of Azaad Kashmir, and it hosts several brooks, freshwater streams, forests, lush green mountains, and a river. Here, you see cataracts falling down the mountains; their milky-white waters flowing over the roads and splashing against the rocks, before commingling with the muddy waters of River Neelum. Athmuqam is the capital city of Neelum Valley. It has been administratively divided into two sub-districts: Athmuqam and Sharda. From Muzaffarabad, a tarred road comfortably leads you to Sharda, whence you need to travel on a rocky and curvy jeep track, which can take you to the farthest town of the region, Tau Butt.

Top 5 places to visit in Jammu and Kashmir

5. Pangong Lake, Leh Ladakh

The famous and sparkling blue Pangong lake is situated near leh-Ladakh in the Himalayas, approximately at the height of 4350 meters. This endorheic lake is 12 kilometres long and extends from India to Tibet, with two-thirds of it lying in the latter. Owing to its altitude, the temperature here ranges from -5°C to 10°C as a result of which the lake freezes completely during winters in spite of its salinity. A unique feature of the lake is that it does not remain blue throughout the year or even the day, rather it changes colours from azure to light blue to green and grey too! It has been a tourist attraction for a very long time and has gained further popularity after being a 'hot-spot' for many film shoots, apart from being an essential for anyone travelling to Leh - Ladakh. The sublime beauty, crystal waters and gentle hills of Pangong Lake are an exceptional example of the beautiful landscape of the region.

4. Aru Valley

Nestled between towering mountains, and flowing streams, Aru Valley is as pristine as it gets. Lush green meadows welcome you here. Once you move past the small village, numerous meadows and lakes await you. If you are up for it, some multi-day treks from here can take you to places, you won’t believe exist! The locals pronounce it as आडू (Aadu) and not अरु (Aru) or आरू (Aaru). Don’t get confused with the pronunciations. Aru is only about 100 kms from Srinagar and the journey takes about 2 hours .the roads are good fror most part till pahalgam. you can shop for kashmir willow cricket bats from the innumerable shops that dot this highway. Also available, are various crafts shops. Most people visiting Pahalgam make a day trip to aru.

3. Nathatop, Patnitop

One reaches Nathatop after a short trek from Patnitop. The hill station is covered with snow during winters thereby enhancing its beauty two times. One can happily go skiing in these mountains. Nathatop has become very famous for its paragliding and sometimes people from different parts of the country travel to experience the beauty and these experiences offered by the place. One gets an excellent and clear view of the Himalayas from the peak of these hills. It has an altitude of about 2711m. Nathatop has a variety of roadside food vendors who sell yummy delicacies to fill the bellies of the visitors coming there. It has a pleasant climate and is fun to hang out at. It is a must-visit place for the nature lovers and those who love to sit quietly at one place and enjoy the serenity of a place. It is a peaceful place away from the fast moving lives of the city. Pir Panjal Mountains, when visited during winters, are filled with snow all over and are a treat for the eyes! Snow is replaced by lush green grass in summers.

2. Amarnath Cave

Amarnath Yatra is one among the four major pilgrimages of India, and flock of devotees trek through the south Kashmir Himalayas to the Holy Cave Shrine of Shri Amarnathji every year. The temple is opened for devotees only during summers, in the month of July to August. People rush to see the Ice image of Lord Shiva that is formed in the shape of a Lingam - stalagmite. The image incredibly waxes and wanes with the sight of Moon. People of Hindu faith in India consider this religious journey as one of the major tasks of their life that can fairly show them the path to heaven. This year the Yatra was started on 28th of June and it will end on 26th of August that is for 2 months. 1500 pilgrims are allowed per day and they should fall in the age of 14 to 74 years.

1. Kongdori , Gulmarg 

Asia’s largest and highest cable car project lead to Kongdori Mountain perched at an altitude of 3099.6 meters from the resort situated in Gulmarg. A bowl shaped area, it is known for its abundant opportunities for enjoyable sessions of powder skiing and snowboarding. As a popular destination for skiing, Kongdori has earned fame as one of the best Gulmarg tourist places to visit. A lofty mountain that adjoins Apharwat peak, Kongdori can rightly be called the skier’s paradise. Jammu & Kashmir tourism department credit Kongdori for catching the eyes of travel enthusiasts. Rendering a perfect blend of adventure and recreation, Kongdori is a little paradise in its own right.