Ladakh derives its name from the numerous passes that it abounds in. Ladakh lies at altitudes ranging from 9,000 ft to 25,170 feet, bounded in the east by Tibet, west by Pakistan, north by Sinkiang and in the south by Kashmir valley and Lahaul Spiti (H.P.). Buddhist and Muslim constitute the major population. Tibeto Mongol race form the majority, Dard, Tibto Dard and Aryran stock are also found there. Ladakh is a land like no other, the defiant beauty of its barren landscape, its unique flora and fauna, snow clad mountain, the turquoise blue high altitude lakes, its culture and the Buddhist monasteries make this mountain abode a great attraction for the tourists. Ladakh is one of the premier destinations for adventure tourism in India. It offers many challenging options for adventure tourism. Mountaineering, trekking, ice trek, cross-country skiing over western Himalayas, white water rafting, canoeing in Indus river, jeep safari, cycling and hang-gliding are some of the thrills and delights for the adventurers.

Leh the capital town of Ladakh can be reached by both Road and Air. Indian Airlines, Jet Airways and Air Deccan operate daily flights from Delhi to Leh and vice versa. Indian Airlines operate twice a week (Monday & Friday) from Jammu and once a week (Wednesday) from Srinagar.

Road:- There are two road access:
(I) Srinagar – Leh highway (434 Km) via Srinagar, Drass, Kargil and
(II) Manali – Leh highway (473 Km) via Manali, Rothang-la, Keylong (H.P.) and Baralacha-la.

Srinagar – Leh highway remain open for vehicular transport from May to November and Manali – Leh from May/ June to September every year. Regular bus service is available from both these terminus. Besides private taxis are also available at both ends. June to September is the ideal period for visiting Ladakh. Leh is the base for most tourist activities in Ladakh. Apart from Buddhist monasteries and their annual monastic festivals, Pangong lake (the largest brackish lake in Asia), Tsomo Riri lake, Khardung-la (highest motorable road of the world), Royal Palace Museum and Mahabodhi International Meditation Centre are must see in Ladakh. Ladakh Festival 1 – 15 September, every year is a great attraction for the visitors and source of inspiration for the cultural inquisitors.

Ladakh offers a variety of accommodation options to suit almost every pocket and preference in its hotels and guest houses. For detail of hotels and guest houses please log on to www.jktourism.org

Kargil is the second major town of Ladakh, situated in between Srinagar and Leh. Jammu and Kashmir State Road Transport Corporation operate regular bus service both from Leh and Srinagar to Kargil during the season. Shia Muslim constitute the predominant inhabitant. Other communities are Buddhist and Suni Muslims. Nun-Kun massif and the Zanskar series of peaks offer some of the most thrilling challenges for the mountaineers. Hotel accommodation both in public an private sectors at reasonable rate are available at Kargil, Mulbekh, Drass and Padum.

Zanskar in Kargil district is a favourite destination for mountaineers, trekkers and advance river rafting expeditions in Summer and ice trek in the Winter.