Mandala Journeys

LADAKH - Land of High Passes

Ladakh is the highest plateau in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. Much of it is over 3,000 m (9,800 ft) above sea level. It spans the Himalayan and Karakoram mountain ranges and the upper Indus River valley. The Indus is the most important part of Ladakh for its people. Most major historical and current towns are located close to the Indus River. The stretch of the Indus flowing through Ladakh is the only part of this river in India. The river is sacred in the Hindu religion and culture.

The largest town in Ladakh is Leh. It is one of the few remaining places in South Asia where Buddhism is very strong. Leh is followed by Kargil as the second largest town in Ladakh.

In the past, Ladakh was important for trade. It was where several important trade routes met. However, China closed the border with Tibet in the 1960s, and since then, international trade has suffered. Tourism is an exception, and it has been very important for Ladakh's economy since about 1974. Because the wider region is a part of the Kashmir conflict, the Indian military has a strong presence in Ladakh.

How to reach

By Air

The easiest way to travel to Ladakh is by air. The nearest airport is Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport located in Leh. This airport is connected with many international airports in India like Delhi. It also receives flights from Srinagar, Jammu, Chandigarh and other common destinations in India. The airport is a military terminal and thus, the security is a bit strangling. It is important to have all your documents ready when you enter Ladakh via the airport. It is better to have a hard copy of your e-ticket.

By Train

The nearest railway station to Ladakh is in Tawi, which is 700 km away from Ladakh. This railway station receives trains from many important destinations like Kolkata, Mumbai, Delhi, and others. From the station, you can find cabs to reach Ladakh. You can also pre-book cabs. It would take two days to reach Ladakh and the trip will cost INR 10,000. Other nearest railway stations are in Chandigarh and Pathankot. It would take at least three days to reach from the railway station to Ladakh.

By Road

You can hire taxis from Manali to Leh. Bargain before you agree upon a charge. It would cost minimum INR 12,000. Hire local drivers as they have more experience in driving through the rocky terrain. If you are choosing a taxi from Manali for reach Leh, you can hire cars with Manali registration or any other registration. If you are planning to use the same car for sightseeing inside Leh, you ought to have a car registered in Leh or a private (white board) car. Rented cars with other city registrations are not allowed for sightseeing in Ladakh.

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