Читать книгу Trekking in Ladakh. Eight adventurous trekking routes онлайн

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Situated in the far north of India, Ladakh is far more culturally and environmentally linked to Tibet than to the plains of India, Kashmir or the Indian Himalayas. But Ladakh is certainly much more than just ‘Little Tibet’, as it is frequently called. Located in the shadow of the Great Himalaya Range it is isolated from the summer monsoon rains. Like western Tibet and the adjacent former Guge Kingdom, its high elevation and low precipitation combine to create a high-altitude cold desert environment, with limited vegetation. The ethnic origin of the majority of the people is Tibetan; their language is similar to Tibetan, and their religion is Tibetan Buddhism. However – unlike Tibet – being at the crossroads of major trading routes between the Indian plains, Kashmir, Central Asia and Tibet, Ladakh has always had strong connections with the outside world. These interactions over the centuries have changed, enhanced and enriched the region’s heritage.

The Tibetan roots of the land and its people are not the only magnet for visitors seduced by the far-reaching Ladakhi landscapes and Tibetan Buddhist culture. Outdoor activities such as cycling and rafting are on offer, but trekking in the mountains is a major draw: from deep gorges to glaciated peaks, from wide valleys to narrow, high mountain passes, from alpine meadows to arid plateaux. There are popular routes where accommodation is in village ‘homestays’ with local hosts, others where fixed campsites with good facilities provide overnight comforts, as well as remote, exciting wilderness treks where you will not see anyone for days and will be totally dependent on yourself and your team. With its magnificent landscape, hospitable and charming people, rich heritage – and still limited numbers of tourists – Ladakh is a desirable destination for every trekker.