Ladakh
Ladakh is a high altitude cold desert with a low level of atmospheric oxygen. Tourists might want to accumulate the atmosphere before immediately engaging themselves with physical activity. The lanes and by-lanes curve around colorful Ladakhi houses with brightly-painted windows overlooking little gardens blossoming with cosmos, poppies and hollyhocks. Ladakh is are known for their cheerful disposition and most of their festivals fall in winters, which serve as an excuse for social and convivial gatherings.


In summers, archery competitions and native version of polo are quite common and especially among the Buddhists, these competitions are often a local ball where folk songs and dances add to the jovial atmosphere and 'Chang', the local barley beer is amply used. The rich collection of oral literature of the region is full of occasion-special songs and poems and includes the localized versions of the Tibetan epic, 'Kesar Saga'.


Leh
Situated at an altitude of 3505 m above sea level, Leh is to the east of Jammu & Kashmir and is the capital of Ladakh. Zanskar River flows through it and breathtaking sparking white snowcapped peaks surround the valley of Leh. A blending of barren desert and well-irrigated farms, the ruined Tibetan style palace of Leh is the first to attract the attention of the tourists. Leh provides medium and lower class accommodation, with hundreds of guesthouses and hotels, which can suite every budget. Restaurants offer good multicuisine for a reasonable price. There are number of tour Operator/Travel Agents around the town, which look after travelers requirements.


Buddhism & Monasteries In Leh
Though Leh has been capital of this region since the 17th century, strewn around it along the Indus valley are earlier capitals of he region. From Leh one can wander off on marvellous day expeditions to get a glimpse of some of the treasures of Ladakh.


How to Reach

• By Air
  Indian Airlines operates scheduled services from Srinagar to Leh & Jammu/Leh. Leh airport is 8km from city center. Jet Airways also operates services between Jammu , Delhi and Srinagar (Sundays only).
• By Rail
  The nearest Rail Head is Jammu 620 km. from Leh. Jammu is connected to all parts of India through express trains. Malwa Express, Super Fast, Jammu Mail, Jammu Express, Shalimar Express, Sealdah Express, Jehlum Express, Himgari Express, Himsagar Express, Lohit Express, Sarwodya Express, Happa Express, Novyug Express, Gorakhpur Express, Barauni Express, Madras Express, Rajdhani Express & Ferozpur Express.
• By Road
  Leh is approachable on State highway from Srinagar crossing high passes, the highest being Fotu-la(13,479 feet). Road communication between Srinagar and Leh is closed between October & May.