Ladakh, a land of Tibetan temples, high-altitude deserts and glacial lakes, is India's northernmost hidden gem. In line with our mission to champion under-the-radar regions, we sent Holly, our Asia specialist, on a research trip to uncover the essential ingredients for a perfect Ladakh getaway. From discovering salt lakes in the Tibetan Plateau to venturing into the Nubra Valley, read on to discover what made Holly’s trip to this slice of India so special.
Where did you visit?
During my 12 days in Ladakh, a region in the northernmost part of India, I visited Nimmu, a pretty village filled with traditional Ladakhi houses; Lamayuru, Alchi, Hemis and Thiksey, villages famous for their ancient monasteries; Shey, which was once the summer capital; Stok, where the Stok Palace houses the royal family of Ladakh; Tso Kar, Tso Moriri and Pangong Tso, lakes in the Tibetan Plateau; and the stunning desert landscapes of Nubra Valley.
Image by Holly Barber.
What did you get up to?
I visited many Tibetan monasteries, each reflecting the country’s significant Tibetan Buddhist population. I also visited lovely lakes, villages and mountains, met with yak and pashmina herders, camped over 13,000ft for three nights and embarked on exciting road trips.
Image by Holly Barber.
What made your trip special?
Ladakh is known for its gorgeous mountain views, and this stunning scenery certainly didn’t disappoint. The atmosphere at the Tibetan monasteries was also completely compelling – it felt like I was in a different world. I also met the Bollywood star Farhan Akhtar, who had booked out one of the hotels we were supposed to be staying in!
Did you learn about any hidden gems?
Yes – the lakes in the Changtang, within the Tibetan Plateau, were parts of Ladakh that I previously knew nothing about. These included Tso Kar, known as ‘White Lake,’ due to salt deposits, and Tso Moririri, a freshwater lake home to Tibetan gazelles and the elusive snow leopard (that I sadly didn’t get to see).
Image by Holly Barber.
What new things did you learn?
Although my two visits to Tibet had already taught me a great deal about Tibetan Buddhism, I gained new insights into the Changtang's high-altitude yak herders. I also learned about the ongoing conflicts between India, China and Pakistan, which explain the significant military presence in the region.
What’s one thing that can’t be missed?
Nubra Valley. It’s only around a four-hour drive from Leh, the city where every Ladakh journey kicks off. Not only is the scenery magnificent, but it’s best explored atop a Bactrian double-humped camel – an adventure in itself!
Image by Holly Barber.
What’s a top tip you’d give to clients?
Take it easy when you arrive in Leh. Adjusting from sea level to an elevation of 11,550ft in a day is a shock to the system, so don’t be alarmed if you have a headache or are struggling for breath – it's normal! Also, expect very high temperatures from June through August. Despite the altitude, when the sun is out, it doesn’t hold back.
Header Image by Holly Barber.
