India
Ladakh is a large area of the northern and eastern Kashmir region, in the northwestern Indian subcontinent. Administratively, Ladakh is divided between Pakistan (northwest), as part of the Northern Areas, and India (southeast), as part of Ladakh union territory (until October 31, 2019, part of Jammu and Kashmir state); in addition, China administers portions of northeastern Ladakh. Peppered with jagged, arid mountains that enfold this magical Buddhist ex-kingdom. with time-locked gompas (Tibetan Buddhist monasteries) that dramatically crown Rocky Mountain tops wrapped in fluttering prayer flags and whitewashed stupas. It’s one of the highest regions of the world with a uniform elevation of about 13,500 feet (4,100 metres) in its southeastern section.
Project description
A bucket list item, an indelible experience. Ladakh region of India is a jewel, a travelers’ paradise. A land of old Buddhist monasteries, high altitude saltwater lakes and of course the awe-inspiring Himalayan mountains. I was born in the lower Himalayas, and whenever I venture to these mountains I get an unmistakable feeling of this is where I belong, an emotion that tugs so strong in my heart. I met great people, made new friends and explored a region of my country that commands multiple trips. The altitude dictates what you get; most of the trip was at over 4000m and chugging heavy camera gear at night is a big liability. It’s best to travel light, travel slow and plan to be efficient here. But the rarefied air and minimal to no light pollution also gives way to a stunning night sky where you feel you can almost touch the stars.
Pictures
