Surrounded by the mighty Great Himalayas and Karakorum Range, Ladakh is known for its untamed beauty. The jagged mountains, the beautiful gompas, the fluttering prayer flags and the pristine lakes, there are lots to discover here. In fact, you visit any place in Ladakh you will be surprised by its unaltered beauty. What also attracts many travellers here to this place is its mysticism and unique charm. Moreover, it is an ultimate road trip destination with two routes, one through Manali and the other through Srinagar. The ideal time to visit Ladakh is from June to October and winter it is mainly open for the Chadar Trek. So, if you do have plans to visit this enthralling destination then here are few places that you must visit.
Pangong Tso Lake
The Pangong Tso Lake became more popular from the movie 3 Idiots. This pristine lake is situated in the Changtang Plateau in eastern Ladakh. The crystal-clear water of the lake and the colossal mountains in the backdrop gifts you a stunning vista that will be forever etched in your memories.
Tso Moriri Lake
The Tso Moriri looks exactly like a painting. The emerald mountains with snow covered peaks, the blue sky, the calm waters of the lake and the verdant pastures is the perfect epitome of beauty. This lake isn’t as popular as Pangong Tso but it is a must visit especially if you want some solace.
Zanskar Valley
Zanskar Valley is one of the isolated places in Ladakh. One has to trek to reach there and its main attraction are the monasteries and the Zanskar River. During summers the river is open for white water rafting while in winter it freezes and people come here for the famous Chadar Trek.
Nubra Valley
A desert amidst the Himalayas might seem impossible, but the sand dunes of Nubra Valley provide the same experience that of a desert. In fact, you can enjoy a camel ride there too. The nothingness of Nubra Valley and its mystic beauty makes it a place that shouldn’t be missed in Ladakh.
Khardungla Pass
If you are an adrenaline junkie, then Khardungla Pass is the perfect spot to visit. It is basically the highest motorable road in the world and also the gateway to Nubra as well as Shyok Valley. This isn’t exactly a tourist attraction but a place worth visiting for the amazing road maintained by Border Road Organization.
Spituk Gompa
As we all know that Ladakh is a land of monasteries and monks, so Spituk Gompa is one such monastery worth visiting. The monastery is nestled on the top of a hill and in the backdrop, are enormous mountains guarding it and this sight is just worth cherishing.
Shanti Stupa
The trip to Ladakh isn’t complete if you don’t visit the Shanti Stupa. This snow-white stupa huddled amidst the mountains is a perfect place to find peace. The night view here is also breath-taking and if you are photographer don’t forget to take few good shots or do timelapses.
Hemis National Park
If you want to witness the snow leopard or take photos of the flamboyant animal then head to Hemis National Park in Ladakh. This national park is home to distinct species of mammals like Snow Leopards, Red Fox, Tibetan Wolf, Asiatic Ibex, and the Eurasian brown bear. The national park is also ideal for birdwatching. This place away from noise and pollution where you can be close to nature.
Turtuk
Turtuk is a remote village few kilometres away from the Line of Control. This place is still unexplored and is open to foreign tourist. Inhabited by ethnic Muslims this village is blessed with enticing scenery and very friendly people.
Magnetic Hill
This is an amazing place to visit in Ladakh. The landscape of Magnetic Hill is such that it creates an optical illusion. It feels like that the downhillroad is the uphill road. Apart from that the road here the scenery is amazing and a perfect place for photographers to take good shots.
Ladakh will surprise you in every way possible. So, pack your bags and head to this mystery land. Don’t forget to try the special Tibetan dishes up there on the mountains.
