Srinagar to Leh

Ladakh translated as "Land of high passes" is a land like no other, it is bound to exceed every expectation that one can muster. Bounded by the Great Himalayas on one side and the Karakoram on the other, this is the highest plateau (over 3000 mts) and houses the largest district in India, Leh.

Ladakh is also known as "Little Tibet" as it is heavily influenced by Tibetan culture. 

A high altitude desert created by the Great Himalayas - which provide a rain shadow- meaning they prohibit the entry of rain bearing clouds.

Culture Of Ladakh

Ladakhi culture is heavily influenced by Tibetan culture, in fact it is quite similar. Ladakhi food has much in common with Tibetan food, the most prominent foods being thukpa (noodle soup) and tsampa, known in Ladakhi as ngampe (roasted barley flour). Tea in Ladakh is traditionally made with strong green tea, butter, and salt. It is mixed in a large churn and known as gurgur cha (Butter Tea), after the sound it makes when mixed. Most of the surplus barley that is produced is fermented into chang, an alcoholic beverage drunk especially on festive occasions.

Festivals Of Ladakh

Festivals of Ladakh are an important part of life there, which mark several occasions such as harvesting, commemoration of the head Lamas of the founding monastery, New Year etc. The festivals of Ladakh conducted by various monasteries often have religious masked dances, which are an important part of Ladakh's culture.
Hemis Festival : The most famous of all monastic festivals in June (a three day affair) to commemorate birth of Guru Padmasambhava, the founder of Tantric Buddhism in Tibet. The sacred dance drama of the life and mission is performed wearing facial masks and colorful brocades robes. 
Thiksey, Karsha and Spituk Gustor: Gustors takes place at all the three monasteries at different times of the year. A two day celebration, to mark the victory of good over evil. Gustor literally means "Sacrifice of the 29th day" and it ends with burning of effigies representing evil.
Ladakh Festival: From September 1st to 15th every year in Leh and in the villages around, the Ladakh festival is celebrated in the grandest style. With cultural troupes performing from different parts of Leh, forming the part of the procession which leads to the Polo ground, for the big inauguration.

People Of Ladakh

The Ladakhi society is considered one of the most peaceful societies in the world and that is largely based on the beliefs that follow through from the Buddhist way of life. A feature of Ladakhi society that distinguishes it from the rest of the state is the high status and relative emancipation enjoyed by women compared to other rural parts of India.

WEATHER

The temperatures of Leh varies from 30 degrees celsius during the day to around 16 degrees at night. The sun might be a little harsh during the day, So please ensure sun protection gear along with winter protection. At the same time, places like Pangong and Nubra can get very cold during the night. The region being at such an altitude in the greater Himalayas might experience sudden change in weather as well. Having said the above, rest be assured that Jungle Lore is committed to ensure that you have a memorable and comfortable experience, so all that is necessary will be done to ensure the same.

ACCLIMATIZATION

Once you move to a higher altitude, the body needs rest to get acclimatised.On reaching Leh you should take complete rest and drink lots of water. No alcohol on Day 1 (on reaching Leh) and refrain from smoking, if you do that is.

PHONE NETWORK

None of the pre-paid networks work in the state of JNK. Most postpaid networks work fine in JNK. The most extensive network is BSNL followed by Airtel, and Vodafone. There won't be any connectivity at Nubra (only BSNL Postpaid works) and Pangong.