Ladakh

Tucked in the midst of hulking high peaks, at an elevation of 3500 meters, Leh, the erstwhile capital of Ladakh region in the north Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir, is one of the popular hill stations in India. Over the years, Leh has won the heart of the global tourists who seek to experience the indigenous culture of the Indo-Tibetans and explore the relics of ancient civilizations, Buddhist monasteries and remote villages. Some of the notable attractions in and around Leh are the Shanti Stupa, Leh Palace, Hemis Gompa, Chamba Temple, Jama Masjid, Sankar Gompa, Thiksey Monastery, Shey Monastery and Stok Palace. The lofty city is also the gateway to several trekking destinations in the Ladakh region and activities like river rafting, mountaineering, and mountain biking and camping. The Pangong Lake, at an altitude of 4350 meters, is one of the popular places for camping in Leh. Being one of the frequented hill stations in India, tourism in Leh has developed with lot of modern amenities that includes luxury to budget hotels, transportation and other facilities. It also hosts its own domestic airport, the Leh Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, which has scheduled flights to New Delhi, Jammu and Srinagar. Nonetheless, Leh is also connected to Manali and the drive on Leh-Manali highway, passing through some of the highest mountain passes of the world, is one of the breathtaking journeys that offer a panoramic scenic beauty.