Getting There and Away

The Route from Manali
Manali, a beautiful hill resort in Himanchal Pradesh of India is connected with Leh, the capital of Ladakh by road, which opens barely 3-4 snow-free months of the year starting from mid June to late September. Its two days bus or jeep ride, with a halt in Sarchu.  People taking a private trip also would like to halt in Jispa in order to gain acclimatization and explore the castles of Keylong.

The road is very much rugged and passes through valleys of Chandra River and Bhaga River are so barren as to be entirely without settled habitation. Right after leaving Manali, you will ride over the beautiful Rhotang Pass (13050 ft /3978m).  Beyond Keylong, the road follows the Bhaga river up towards its source, passing through several villages. You will be challenged by another pass-Baralacha La (16,050 ft /4892m). This is at the crossing of Great Himalayas. Now the barren landscape becomes positively lunar, dusty plains covered with scattered boulders,stretch into the distance and only the occasional patch of pasture reminds the traveler of the existence of vegetation in the world. You will have to cross the Zanskar Ranges that involves two high passes, the Lungalacha-La (16060 ft/5059m) and the mighty Tanglang La (17469 ft/5325m). Once over Tanglang La, the descent to the Indus starts and soon the first village, Rumtse is passed. From Rupshi its all plain sailing.

The Routes from Kashmir
Travellers from Srinagar,the capital of Jammu and Kashmir state of India drive on this route by bus or jeeps taking two days and breaking journey at Kargil. It provides the best possible introduction to the land and its people.
However, because of political tension in this region, tourists are recommended this route.

Air Route
There are regular flights between Delhi and Leh by Indian Airlines and depending on tourist season by Jet Airways. This one hour long flight offers excellent views of the snow capped ranges, lakes and rivers.