Ladakh

Coordinates34.1526° N, 77.5771° E

WeatherFreezing sun, 2°C

Best SeasonSummer

Travel MoodHigh-altitude clarity

Elevation3,500m

TerritoryNorthern India

The Travel Archive

Ladakh, the land of high passes, is a high-altitude cold desert of stark beauty. Deep cobalt salt lakes reflect mountains that shift color from gold to purple, while prayer flags flutter in the biting wind over ancient Buddhist stupas.

Travel Note: Pangong Tso salt waters reflecting deep blue sky.

High Points

Pangong Tso cobalt water photography
Khardung La pass motor run
Hemis Monastery summer dances

Cultural Context

Ladakhi wool weaving & jewelry
Solar-passive rammed earth architecture
Apricot blossom harvest festivals