The barren beauty of Ladakh with snow capped peaks and clean azure sky have attracted the intrepid traveler since the region was opened to tourists in the 1970s. Since then, Ladakh has become a favorite haunt for trekking and mountaineering enthusiasts. The rugged terrain and the majestic mountains around, make an exotic cocktail for an adventure sport lover. But before you decide to fly away to the land of Buddhist monasteries and brave people, it is imperative to understand that you need at least a week to enjoy your tour to Ladakh. Since, acclimatization it self needs at least a few days in Ladakh.

Ladakh is one of the largest provinces in Jammu and Kashmir. Bordered by the Karakoram Range, Ladakh is home to a large number of Buddhists, who have preserved their rich culture and tradition from the days of yore. A tour to Ladakh is not just about beautiful views of snow-capped peaks kissing the blue sky or colorful flags flattering in the wind but is also about centuries old culture of Ladakhi people and their indomitable spirit to live cheerfully in one of the most hostile terrains in the world.

Religion and Culture

This is perhaps what keeps going an ordinary Ladakhi in most inhospitable conditions. At a place where the mercury plummets below zero degrees celsius in winters and the rainfall during the year is as scant as 50 mm, one needs to be little more than fit to lead a healthy life. Buddhism is the way of life in Ladakh, though there are people of other faiths in Ladakh who live in harmony with each other. Since Ladakh is part of Jammu and Kashmir, 11 per cent of the population is Muslim here. No wonder then, the Buddhist monasteries dot the Ladakh landscape and are the center of attraction during the various fairs and festivals.

Life Style

Simplicity is the way of life in Ladakh, as the modernity has not touched the town as it has happened in other cities and towns of India. Cut-off from rest of the world, Ladakh is barren yet beautiful. Ladakh comes alive during the fairs and festivals as one can see Ladakhi people in their traditional dress. Ladakhis are the brave people who are industrious and cheerful. Perak, the headgear worn by traditional Ladakhi women is the striking feature of womenfolk of Ladakh. This is a common sight during the festivals. The other feature that strikes are the precious stones that adorn a woman's neck in Ladakh.

Monasteries

Monasteries in Ladakh either belong to Mahayana or Hinayana sect of Buddhism. Hemis is one of the largest and most popular monasteries in Ladakh. The monastery is quiet popular among tourists and most travelers to Ladakh visit the monastery. The Hemis is center of action during the annual Hemis festival that takes place in June-July. The festival is held to commemorate the birth anniversary of Guru Padmasambhava. This is the best time to see the cultural side of Ladakh. During the festival, locals from remote corners of Ladakh converge on the Hemis monastery.

Social Structure

Ladakhis follow a patriarchal society where the elder son inherits all the property. He is the one who shoulders the responsibility of the family. But when it comes to younger son or sons, the Ladakhi society permits him to become a lama if he wants. He can also remain in the family. Lamas are devoted to God and remain detach from world affairs. There are about 500 Lamas in Ladakh. Even Hemis Monastery can accommodate up to 150 Lamas.

Buddhism

Buddhism is the dominant religion in Ladakh and one can find its stamp all over in Ladakh. Be it monasteries, music or simple of way of life, Buddhism is essence of Ladakh. One can find 'tangkhas', masks, musical instruments and precious items in the Gompas in Ladakh. A huge painting of the Buddha inside the Hemis Monastery is the biggest draw. Thikse and Shey monasteries are the classic architectural wonder in the region. No matter which part of Ladakh you travel, the smiling Buddha and His followers greet you in smile.

Reaching Ladakh

Leh is the nearest airport, which is connected to Delhi, Chandigarh and Srinagar. The nearest railway station to Ladakh is Jammu. From Jammu you can head to Srinagar by road and then to Ladakh, which is some 434 kilometers away. It is about a two-day journey from Srinagar with a night halt at Kargil. On the road from Srinagar to Leh you will cross the high Zoji La Pass, and travel past Mulbek where there is a giant image of the Maitreya Buddha. The Namika La and Fotu La Passes and the Spituk Gompa are scenic attractions on the road from Srinagar to Leh. You can also approach Leh Ladakh from Manali. On the road from Manali you will cross the Rohtang Pass and the Baralacha La Pass. Stop overnight at Sarchu Serai and on the next day travel through Tanglang La and Lachang La passes to Upshi and onward to Leh. Along the way you will see many ancient monasteries and Buddhist structures. Leh Ladakh India provides complete information on a tour to Leh Ladakh. You can book your tour to Leh Ladakh online. Discover a new way of life and culture in the Himalayas with Leh Ladakh India.

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