Ladakh is much more than just a great place for bikers! In fact, it has a lot to share. Whether it be the values of Buddhism, the tranquility of its unending landscapes, fervor in the cultural music & dance forms, the sweetness of simplicity in its cuisine, the flavour of barley beer & traditional beverages, everything about Ladakh will keep you hooked on this picturesque travel destination.
In short, it is a rich folk heritage to take pride in. While everything about this city is great, what really intrigues the wanderers is the Ladakh Festival that is hosted in September for travelers from across the globe. It is believed to be an event that is as unique and as beautiful as Ladakh, itself!
Ladakh festival is an endeavour to revive, showcase and popularise the rich culture, festivals, and cuisines of Leh-Ladakh. This annual festival, that takes place in the month of September, features exhilarating lama dance performances, masked dance, music performances, folk singing, Buddhist ceremonies, food and lots more to admire and appreciate.
Interesting Facts
This year's Ladakh festival is all the way more interesting, exciting and happening because this time it’s going to be hosted by a newly formed Union Territory of India i.e. LADAKH.
After the recent revocation of article 370 from the Indian constitution, Ladakh which was formerly a part of Jammu and Kashmir has now been converted into a separate union territory. This has been a reason for great joy for the Ladakhians who have been demanding the status of UT for a long time now.
Historical Prominence
The culture of Ladakh has a very strong influence from the adjoining nation-states like Tibet, and China. The geographical location of Ladakh is such that in the old times it was conveniently accessible for travellers from Central Asia and especially East Asia, who gradually shaped and influenced the culture in this region. Apart from being politically, geographically and environmentally significant, the region has been a good host and a paradise for the tourists for a long time now.
Leh-Ladakh is a place that has developed its culture over the years and the warmth of their hospitality is enough to keep you comfortable in the cold climate of this region. Participating in the event is an opportunity to experience life, culture, and fervor at high altitudes.
Major Attractions of Ladakh Festival
Wild Adventures
The alluring landscapes of Leh and Ladakh are a hub of adventurous activities such as trekking, jeep safaris, mountain biking, mountaineering, camping, and more. The place is a paradise for adventure enthusiasts.
Deep Rooted Spiritualism & the Buddhist Connection
Ladakh is home to a lot of old monasteries where one can find contentment at the central institute of Buddhist studies. This is a great place to learn about Buddhism and its fundamentals in detail. Hemis monastery, Thiksey monastery, Alchi Monastery, Diskit monastery, and Phyang monastery are some popular monasteries here, where a lot of ceremonies happen throughout the year and are popular visiting spots for tourists and Buddhist followers.
An Attire that’s Colorful and Functional
The traditional Ladakhi attire will also grab your attention. The attire for Ladakhi men is known as “Goucha” which is a woollen robe that people tie from around the neck up to the waist. The robe protects them from the cold and makes quite a fashionable statement. This garment is tied with a vibrant sash which in the local language is known as Skerag. Women wear a similar type of woollen robe which is known as Kuntop. And not to forget the Perak hat that adds more colours to the dress and makes it much more fashionable.
Savour the Flavors of Leh-Ladakh
Visiting the festival will not just give you a sneak peek into the unique culture of Ladakhians but also a savoury delight through its local cuisines. Thukpa, Tsampa, Momo, Skyu, Tingmo, and butter tea made in a special vessel offers scrumptious flavours that will leave you content.
Stop by for these Historical Delights
It’s impossible to explore complete Ladakh in a week or two’s time. Its beauty knows no boundaries and the city is huge. Every view till the horizon is picturesque that’s worthy of being framed. Leh Palace (17th century), Stok palace (18th century), Hall of fame museum, Drass War Memorial, Magnetic hill and Drang-Drung Glacier are some other places that are worth visiting destinations if you are in Leh-Ladakh.
How to Reach Ladakh Festival?
By Air: One can reach Leh to be a part of this enormous celebration by air which will save a lot of your time and will be convenient and comfortable as well. The nearest airport is Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport located in Leh. It has overall good connectivity to other cities like Sri Nagar, Jammu, Chandigarh, Delhi etc. Depending upon your location it will take you around 4-5 hours to reach here and the trip would cost you somewhere between Rs.5,000-Rs.10,000 on an average.
By Road: Leh Ladakh is well connected through roads hence one can plan a trip by road through Zoji La pass. Depending upon your location you will have to take either of these national highways - NH 44, NH 48, or NH 52. From New Delhi, Mumbai, Chandigarh you will have to cover an approximate distance of 1,098 km, 2,500 km, and 868 km respectively.
By Rail: Jammu Tawi is the nearest railway station to Ladakh if you wish to travel and explore the Ladakh Festival by rail. It is very well connected with other cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, etc. After getting down at the station one has to travel another 700 km. After that, you can hire a cab or state bus service to reach your destination point.
You can plan your trip and create your own route to the city with Adotrip’s technically driven circuit planner. Click here