Hanle, or Anley, a village in eastern part of Ladakh in Leh district at altitude of about 4,500 meters above sea level, is very close to China border and has become a popular tourist destination. Hanle village of Ladakh is believed to be the best place for stargazing. The high altitude plains here offer beautiful panoramic views. The Indian Astronomical Observatory is established above Hanle village for astronomical studies. The scientists chose Anley as a suitable place for this observatory due to many reasons. Hanle is a rain shadow place, which means the region rarely see clouds or rain. Secondly, the remote village is located at a high altitude plateau with almost no air or light pollution. These features make Hanley village a preferred destination for star gazing. Hanle village is also famous among tourists for its ancient monastery. The 17th-century monastery (gompa) of the Drukpa Lineage of the Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism is located at the entrance of the village in the right hand side. Many tourists reach Hanle with misconception that they can see stars, planets and galaxies from the Hanle Observatory. This is not true. Tourists can visit the astronomical observatory here for education purpose and to see how it works. But, keep it in mind that this observatory is teleoperated from Bangalore, not from Hanle. Many tourists also see photos of our galaxy that have been shot from Hanle and they think they also can see similar view with naked eyes. Yes, stars are brighter, thicker and appear closer from Hanle (if there is no cloud or moon). Even the strips of galaxies can be seen with naked eyes. But, those attractive photos are generally captured with professional cameras. You can see the wonder of nature with a telescope. Umling la, the highest motorable pass
Hanle, or Anley, a village in eastern part of Ladakh in Leh district at altitude of about 4,500 meters above sea level, is very close to China border and has become a popular tourist destination. Hanle village of Ladakh is believed to be the best place for stargazing. The high altitude plains here offer beautiful
Border Roads Organisation connects Nimmu-Padam-Darcha Road March 25, 2024: After Srinagar-Leh and Manali-Leh highways, Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has provided Leh Ladakh with third option to connect landlocked Leh Ladakh with outer world with its newly connected road -- the Nimmu-Padum-Darcha (NPD) road. The BRO achieved breakthrough in this road today. The NPD road connects Nimmu, 30km from Leh on the Leh-Kargil-Srinagar highway with Himachal's Darcha, 100km from Manali on the Manali-Leh national highway. The work on this strategically important road, which is more beneficial for people of remote Zanskar valley of Ladakh, had started many years back. From Darcha in Lahaul valley of Himachal, the road takes a diversion from the Leh-Manali highway, and passes through Shinkula pass (Shingo La), and enters the Zanskar valley. Darcha was first connected by Padum, headquarters of Zanskar valley. The work to connect Zanskar valley with Leh was undergoing on war footings for years but the formation cutting of the road along the Zanskar river was extremely dangerous and challenging which even claimed lives of brave BRO workers and officers. This new road will soon be opened to general traffic movement. The blacktopping of the road will also start soon. Tourists visiting Leh ladakh will now have an alternative option to explore the scenic road. The true measure of a nation’s progress is not just its highways in cities but also the connectivity it provides to its remotest corners. As the nation was celebrating the festival of colours, Holi, the intrepid personnel of BRO were tirelessly cutting through vertical rock face connecting the final stretch of Niraq gorge in subzero temperature. March 25, 2024 marked the culmination of many years of hard work, toil, dedication and perseverance by BRO personnel in one of the most challenging terrain and trying weather conditions in the
Border Roads Organisation connects Nimmu-Padam-Darcha Road March 25, 2024: After Srinagar-Leh and Manali-Leh highways, Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has provided Leh Ladakh with third option to connect landlocked Leh Ladakh with outer world with its newly connected road — the Nimmu-Padum-Darcha (NPD) road. The BRO achieved breakthrough in this road today. The NPD road connects
Umling La pass or Umlingla pass or उमलिंग ला (in Hindi) is a high mountain pass located in the Himalayan mountain range of India in eastern Ladakh near Demchok village close to Indo-Tibetan border. It is situated at an elevation of 5,798 m (19,024 feet) above sea level. Umling La pass has earned the distinction of being the highest motorable pass in the world. The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) received applause for building the world's highest road in difficult terrains with low oxygen level and extreme weather with very few water sources. BRO was not building the world's highest road but the engineers came to know about the feat after formation cutting through Umling la. 753 Border Road Task Force (BRTF) of BRO under its project Himank constructed a road from Chisumle to Demchok in 2017 which connects one of the remotest villages and areas of the country. Last year the road was completely black-topped and made completely smooth for all kinds of vehicles. Umling La will be a new tourist destination in Ladakh in the coming years. Mostly adventure and thrill-seeking tourists, who wish to drive through the highest mountain pass, will make a beeline for Umling La pass. As this high mountain pass connected to the road and rose to fame, people are also vying for making personal or official records. While some tourists reached here on bicycle, some reached here by autorickshaw. A person drove his 3 Cr + Lamborgini Urus to Umling la from Leh (Ladakh). This mountain range extends from Hanle, a well-established tourist place, which is generally a rain shadow area and receives very less snow and rain. However, Umling La road being located very high from sea level, it's very cold and susceptible to heavy snowfall. The area has a low oxygen level.
Umling La pass or Umlingla pass or उमलिंग ला (in Hindi) is a high mountain pass located in the Himalayan mountain range of India in eastern Ladakh near Demchok village close to Indo-Tibetan border. It is situated at an elevation of 5,798 m (19,024 feet) above sea level. Umling La pass has earned the distinction
Chang La Pass or Chang La or Changla pass is a high mountain pass on the Leh-Pangong lake road in Leh district of Union Territory of Ladakh, India. Perched at an awe-inspiring elevation of 5,360 meters (17,590 feet) above sea level, Chang La Pass stands as a majestic gateway to the heavens in the heart of Ladakh. Renowned as one of the world's highest motorable mountain passes, this Himalayan gem beckons adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. This high altitude mountain pass mostly remains covered with snow. Lakhs of tourists traverse Changla pass especially during summer season from May to September. Chang La pass remains open for tourists even in winter months. However, very heavy snowfall sometimes block the road to Pangong at this mountain pass for few hours or few days. Being strategically important, Border Roads Organisation (BRO) clears the snow immediately after snowfall. Join us on a virtual journey as we explore the unparalleled beauty, challenges, and spiritual resonance that define the breathtaking Changla Pass. Unveiling the Landscape: Chang La, translating to "Pass towards the South," is a dramatic spectacle where the stark beauty of Ladakh unfolds. As you ascend the serpentine roads, the landscape transforms into a canvas of barren mountains, pristine snowfields, and glimpses of azure lakes in the distance. The air becomes crisp, and the altitude imparts an otherworldly feel to the surroundings. Adventurous Ascent: The journey to Chang La Pass is an adventure in itself. Negotiating the winding roads and navigating through challenging terrain, visitors are rewarded with panoramic views that stretch as far as the eye can see. The pass is a vital link on the route to Pangong Lake, adding an element of excitement to the overall Ladakh experience. Chang La's Spiritual Aura: Beyond its geographical significance, Chang La is imbued with spiritual
Chang La Pass or Chang La or Changla pass is a high mountain pass on the Leh-Pangong lake road in Leh district of Union Territory of Ladakh, India. Perched at an awe-inspiring elevation of 5,360 meters (17,590 feet) above sea level, Chang La Pass stands as a majestic gateway to the heavens in the heart
The Kargil War Memorial, also known as the Drass War Memorial, is located on the Leh-Srinagar national highway in the Drass region of Kargil district in Union Territory of Ladakh, India. It is a significant landmark dedicated to honoring the brave soldiers who lost their lives during the Kargil War of 1999 between India and Pakistan. The memorial stands as a tribute to the valor, sacrifice, and indomitable spirit of the Indian armed forces. It serves as a reminder of the heroism displayed by the soldiers who fought under extremely challenging conditions at high altitudes and rugged terrain during the conflict. The Kargil War Memorial has now become a major tourist destination in Ladakh. The war memorial is visited by thousands of visitors every year. Key features of the Kargil War Memorial include: Vijaypath: The Vijaypath, or the Victory Flame, is a central feature of the memorial. It is a symbolic representation of the ultimate triumph of the Indian armed forces in recapturing the strategic peaks occupied by infiltrating Pakistani forces during the war. Wall of Remembrance: The Wall of Remembrance displays the names of the soldiers from the Indian Army, Air Force, and Navy who made the supreme sacrifice during the Kargil War. It serves as a solemn reminder of their courage and sacrifice. War Gallery: The memorial also houses a War Gallery that showcases photographs, weapons, equipment, and artifacts related to the Kargil War. It provides visitors with an insight into the challenges faced by the Indian armed forces during the conflict. Drass War Room: The Drass War Room, located within the memorial complex, contains information panels and maps detailing the military operations carried out during the Kargil War. It offers visitors an opportunity to understand the strategic aspects of the conflict. The Kargil War Memorial attracts visitors
The Kargil War Memorial, also known as the Drass War Memorial, is located on the Leh-Srinagar national highway in the Drass region of Kargil district in Union Territory of Ladakh, India. It is a significant landmark dedicated to honoring the brave soldiers who lost their lives during the Kargil War of 1999 between India and
Pangong Lake or Pangong Tso or Pangong Tso Lake is a high altitude lake that is famous for its beautiful blue water which seems to changing its colour three to four times a day since dawn to dusk due to golden mountains and sunrays. The Pangong tso lake is about 150 KM from Leh and is accessible after a 5-hour drive, traversing the 17,590 ft (5,360 m) high Changla pass (Chang-la). Pangong Lake is at an altitude of about 14,250 ft (4,350 m). Pangong lake is reachable by road from Leh via Shey, Thiksey and Changla pass. Pangong is reachable from Nubra valley via Shyok village. Pangong lake is also reachable from Hanle/Tso Moriri / Mahe bridge via Chushul and Tsaga la. The lake is 134 km in length and 5 km wide at its broadest point and India-Sino Actual Line of Control passes through it. Nearly 60% length of Pangong Tso lake lies in China occupied area. Pangong Lake is a saline water lake. The lake water freezes completely during winter months. A thick layer of frost covers the waters, making lake walkable. Pangong tso lake waters are not favourable for aquatic life but thousands of migratory words come here for breeding. Tourists are required to obtain inner line permit to visit the lake. Thousands of tourists visit the lake during peak season between April and September. However, the lake can be reached even during winter months. Pangong lake is the first choice of tourists visiting Ladakh. Pangong Tso Lake was a must-visit tourist destination of Ladakh for years but it was Bollywood movie 3 Idiots that popularised Pangong among tourists. The climax of 3 Idiot was shot at Pangong lake. The number of tourists visiting the lake increased suddenly after the movie was released. Tourists visit Pangong Tso
Pangong Lake or Pangong Tso or Pangong Tso Lake is a high altitude lake that is famous for its beautiful blue water which seems to changing its colour three to four times a day since dawn to dusk due to golden mountains and sunrays. The Pangong tso lake is about 150 KM from Leh and
At an altitude of about 14,835 ft from sea level and 240 km from Leh, Tso Moriri Lake or tsomoriri lake is located in Changthang plateau of Ladakh in India, having a maximum length of 19km and a maximum width of 3km. The lake is very deep with maximum depth at a point up to 350 ft (106m). Tsomoriri lake is said to be the largest of the high altitude lakes in India in the trans-Himalayan biogeographic region. Officially the lake is now known as Tso Moriri Wetland Conservation Reserve. The bluish crystal clear water of Tsomoriri lake mesmerizes the visitors. Korzok village which inhabits a large number of people is situated by the bank of the lake. An Indian Army post is also situated by the bank of the lake and at the gateway to the village. An entry with the military post is must before entering the village. Tso means lake in Tibetan language. So, many people call it Moriri lake. Tso Moriri Lake is mostly accessible only during summer months but the villagers and military stay here round the year. The region had no telephone connectivity until recent when a small BSNL tower was established here. The village is given power supply during night time by a power generator maintained by Indian Army. A large number of homestay units, hotels and camping sites have come up in the village in the recent past. Villagers cultivate peas, barley and potato by the bank of the lake. A 400-year-old Korzok Monastery is also worth visiting for tourists and pilgrims. The lake is fed by the melting of snow and spring waters. The lake has no outlet, so it does not give birth to any water stream or river. As Tsomoriri lake is a high altitude lake in Leh district
At an altitude of about 14,835 ft from sea level and 240 km from Leh, Tso Moriri Lake or tsomoriri lake is located in Changthang plateau of Ladakh in India, having a maximum length of 19km and a maximum width of 3km. The lake is very deep with maximum depth at a point up to
Choosing Ladakh over the Maldives offers a distinct shift in experience, providing a unique blend of adventure, spirituality, and awe-inspiring landscapes. Ladakh, nestled in the northern part of India, presents a stark contrast to the tropical paradise of the Maldives. If you love sea beaches, what about having a unique experience of enjoying beach at an altitude of 14,000-foot from sea level. Yes, its true. You can have a merry time at the shoreline of huge Pangong lake or Tso Moriri lake in Ladakh. In Ladakh, you find yourself surrounded by rugged mountains, high-altitude desert, high-altitude lakes, snow-capped peaks, world's highest roads, unique culture, and serene monasteries. The region is a haven for adventure enthusiasts, offering trekking opportunities amidst breathtaking scenery. From exploring ancient Buddhist monasteries like Thiksey, Alchi, Lamayuru, Diskit and Hemis to traversing the famous Pangong Lake, Ladakh's cultural richness and natural beauty are unparalleled. The climate in Ladakh, with its warm summers and crisp winters, adds a layer of diversity to your experience. The clear, high-altitude air brings a sense of tranquility and an opportunity for stargazing under the vast Himalayan skies. While the Maldives is renowned for its luxurious overwater bungalows and water-centric activities, Ladakh provides a different kind of luxury – the luxury of solitude, self-discovery, and a connection with nature. Choosing Ladakh over the Maldives is an invitation to embark on an adventure that not only stimulates the senses but also offers a profound cultural and spiritual journey amidst the majestic peaks of the Himalayas. Both Maldives and Ladakh offer unique experiences, but they are quite different in terms of climate, landscape, and activities. Here's a brief comparison to help you decide: Maldives Location: Maldives is a tropical paradise located in the Indian Ocean, known for its overwater bungalows, coral reefs, and clear blue
Choosing Ladakh over the Maldives offers a distinct shift in experience, providing a unique blend of adventure, spirituality, and awe-inspiring landscapes. Ladakh, nestled in the northern part of India, presents a stark contrast to the tropical paradise of the Maldives. If you love sea beaches, what about having a unique experience of enjoying beach at
While Ladakh is known for its iconic attractions like Pangong Tso Lake, Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, Khardungla pass, Nubra Valley, Magnetic Hill and Sangam, the region is also home to some offbeat places that are worth exploring. Here are a few lesser-known but beautiful offbeat places in Ladakh: Tso Moriri Lake: Located in the Changthang region, Tso Moriri is a high-altitude lake that offers stunning views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains. The lake is less crowded than Pangong Tso and provides a serene and tranquil atmosphere.Tso Moriri, also known as Lake Moriri, is a stunning high-altitude lake located in the Changthang region of Ladakh, India. It is situated at an elevation of about 4,522 meters (14,836 feet) above sea level, making it one of the highest lakes in the world. Tso Moriri is known for its serene and picturesque surroundings, nestled amidst snow-capped mountains and vast open spaces. The lake is fed by several mountain streams and remains frozen during the winter months. It is famous for its crystal-clear blue waters, which reflect the surrounding landscape, creating a breathtaking sight. The lake is located within the protected Tso Moriri Wetland Conservation Reserve, which ensures the preservation of its natural beauty and biodiversity. The region is home to a variety of wildlife, including migratory birds, Tibetan wild ass (kiang), and occasionally even snow leopards. Visiting Tso Moriri offers a peaceful and tranquil experience, away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The area is relatively remote and less crowded compared to other popular tourist destinations in Ladakh, providing an opportunity for solitude and a closer connection with nature. Traveling to Tso Moriri usually involves a long and scenic road journey from Leh, the capital of Ladakh. The road passes through stunning landscapes, mountain passes, and small villages, offering glimpses of
While Ladakh is known for its iconic attractions like Pangong Tso Lake, Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, Khardungla pass, Nubra Valley, Magnetic Hill and Sangam, the region is also home to some offbeat places that are worth exploring. Here are a few lesser-known but beautiful offbeat places in Ladakh: Tso Moriri Lake: Located in the Changthang
Tsogtsalu or Tsogtsalo or Tsolu is a camping ground and a pasture in the Chang Chenmo valley of Leh district in Unition Territory of Ladakh, India. Tsogtsalu is a ground and a high-altitude pasture near the India-China border, north of Pangong Lake. Indian Army has established its camp here as the area is strategically very sensitive. The ground is located at the confluence of Chang Chenmo river and Rimdi Chu river, which are tributary of Shyok River which later flows into Nubra valley. Tsogtsalu served as halting point for the travellers to Central Asia via the Chang Chenmo Route which used to pass through Aksai Chin during British rule. A border outpost was established here by the team of Captain Karam Singh from border police after the Independence of India. The area is rugged and remote and can be reached by road from Pangong lake. And Indian Army post is established here. As of May 2023, the Government of India has planned to open Tsogtsalu for Indian tourists. Marsimik La and Chang Chenmo are also among the list of restricted zones which will be opened for tourists. As government is planning to open all the border areas of the country for tourists in phasewise manner, Hot Springs and Karam Singh Memorial in Ladakh many also be opened in near future. Has Tsogtsalu opened for tourists? Although government has planned to open it for tourists in future, an official notification in this regard is awaited. Tourists will be allowed only after Ladakh administration issues notification. Is there hotel/camp at Tsogtsalu? No. As there is no accommodation facility in the area, tourists will have to return back to Pangong/Lukung for night stay. Do we need permit to visit this restricted zone? No special permit is needed to visit Tsogtsalu. Tourists, who
Tsogtsalu or Tsogtsalo or Tsolu is a camping ground and a pasture in the Chang Chenmo valley of Leh district in Unition Territory of Ladakh, India. Tsogtsalu is a ground and a high-altitude pasture near the India-China border, north of Pangong Lake. Indian Army has established its camp here as the area is strategically very