White Water River Rafting India

“Untamed river is earth’s traitor, resisting magnitude, boogieing to its own melodies,for eternity breaking off away and ultimately always charming. There is not anything even half of the pleasure while sitting in a boat and enjoying, playing & messing around with white water.”

You can call the rafting as the mother of all courageous sports. White water rafting is a tough spare time bustle using a raft to steer a river or erstwhile bodies of water. This is generally done on white water or diverse levels of forceful water, so as to delight and electrify the raft folks along for the ride. Leh Ladakh is one of the best places in the world where white water rafting is practised every year.

Get ready for a breathtaking action jam-packed experience in wilderness of white water trip with Destination At Doorstep. Catch 13,000 cubic feet per second of water and include few friends with you to get this ultimate pleasure. We make available all the equipments and accessories like life jackets, plastic safety helmets, first aid kits, throw bags and winch systems for river rescues, etc.

White Water Rafting in Ladakh and Zanskar

Leh Ladakh provides ample of options for adventurous activities amongst landscapes of stunning, rocky exquisiteness. These for the most part consist of river rafting, mountaineering and trekking.

River rafting in Ladakh is pretty contrasting anywhere else in the world. The Indus River ranks from grade three to five and gives a lot of adventure. Ladakh gives a variety of rafting on the Indus and its main tributaries. The most favourable stretch in white water is on the Indus between Spituk and Nimu.

The most thrilling and adventurous rafting option is available on the Zanskar River, along its spectacular course through a gorge in the Zanskar Mountains between Padum and Nimu. We train out adventure loving guests and take care of all the adequate arrangements for rescue back up.

Ladakh package of white river rafting during Leh Ladakh tour takes you via its charming landscape, high snow-covered peaks, summit monasteries, hillside villages and exceptional wildlife. The two rivers Indus and Zanskar are the best options to raft. Indus River and its tributaries offer a wide range of rafting options.Zanskar River offers some of the most difficult and pleasurable rafting options. Its water will be frigid at six to seven degree Celsius so it is advisable to carry a wet suit.

Best Time

From June till October you can take pleasure of rafting. Don’t waste your time, plan your vacation now, call us on 1800-103-2228 (toll free in India) or visit our website http://www.destination-doorstep.com/leh/

Trekking in Ladakh

“Imagine a world as a book and the destinations are the chapters which you should cover to explore your knowledge, experience and joy. If you will leave the chapters just because of being lazy, you won’t be able to discover the true beauty of nature, culture and adventure.”

Destination At Doorstep offers adventurous trekking tours for its guests. The magnetisms in Ladakh for the tourists are snow clad peaks, translucent lakes, barren terrain, etc. The best time to visit on trekking in Ladakh is during between July and September.

So, this is the time you should start packing your bags and allow us to assist you.

Leh Ladakh tours propose the exploration trekking trips also. This is a setup sandwiched between two of the world’s utmost mountain ranges, Himalayan and the Karakoram. This valley barred initially for the reason that of the rival and then for its tactical geographic location.

The major obstacle in the trekking in Ladakh is by reason of frosty waves and snowstorm. Therefore, particular clothing is mandatory for trekking in this county. You require following items before you start trekking:

• Pullovers and anorak must be reserved handy,
• A pair of walking shoes along with tough rubber or synthetic soles for hold,
• Thick strand socks,
• Good sleeping shoulder bag,
• Awater – resistant tent,
• Afine quality water container,
• Flash light with ample stock of batteries,
• A sun – hat,
• First – aid and
• A pair of good quality sunglasses 

These are necessary gear for arrival on a trek and all should be back packed in a good quality bag.

Apart from these necessary things, in proportion to the time and budget; the traveller offices at Leh, Kargil or Padum plan trekking programs for the visitors but the accurate and simplest means to go on trek is by contacting us, we will take care of each and every arrangements including:

• Camping gear,
• Provisions,
• Staff and all other matters.

It is sensible to have each & every necessary thing with you however, we will help you in providing all the necessities.

Our Involvement

We have capability in providing the day-trippers, the promising trek trip packages at bazaar leading prices. In addition, we as wellgiveconsideration on the facilities and backing provided by us throughout the completeexpedition to give surety a safe and memorable venture touring experience. We also have best hotels in Ladakh, Nubra, etc. to reside with comfort.

Plan your vacation now, call us on 1800-103-2228 (toll free in India) or visit our website http://www.destination-doorstep.com/leh/

Leh Ladakh Tour in Jeep Safari

If you are enthusiastic to acquire true way into the heart of Ladakh and want to travel around its rowdiness and get pleasure from its rural villages and picturesque majesty, a jeep safari is just the right thing for you. Destination At Doorstep offers one of the best, relaxing and most thrilling ways for seeing the sights of the Himalayas. Ladakh and adventure go simultaneously. When we talk about adventure, jeep safari turns out to be one the luxury opportunities to travel around the landscape surprises and the distant areas of Ladakh. 

The Trans Himalayan county of Ladakh recommends both modest and rough landscape. However, depending on your potential, you can go for a jeep safari preference if you desire or if it suits you. We have a task force of well maintained and good conditioned jeeps operated by professional drivers. The jeep drivers have the complete knowledge of the entire landscape as they travel in like the rear of their hands. Arrangements for feast, staying, guides and caretakers throughout jeep safaris in Ladakh are particularly considered and implemented from our side however, we request our guests to contact us for more details.

Whether its Leh Ladakh expedition or trekking in Ladakh, jeep safari is ultimate to provide you the thrill of connection with the wild beast and also takes you into the utter niches and spots of Ladakh.

We are offering ultimate Ladakh packages with the bizarre jeep safari routes during Leh Ladakh tour ranging from extended distance route into Zanskar or to the adjoining states of Himachal Pradesh to small distances into the well-known Nubra valley, bazaars, etc:

• Leh – Mahe Bridge – Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Tanglang La – Rumtse – Leh A five days tour, Altitude is 17, 469 feet per 5325 metres stretch.
• Leh – Khardung La – Diskit in Nubra valley 12 days package, Altitude is 18,000 feet per 5500 metres stretch.
• The Trans Himalayan this jeep safari packages is of 12 days, Altitude is 17,469 feet per 5325 metres.
• The Dha Hanu and Pangong Lake this is a combined jeep safari involves 9 days. Altitude is 18,000 feet.
• Rangdum – Mulbekh the tour takes 8 days to complete. Altitude is 4400 metres.
• The source of the Ganges Safari  takes 12 days of beautiful voyage. Altitude is 3500 metres.
• The Monastery and Lake Safari involves 11 days. Altitude is 12,000 feet.

For the selection of your suitable Ladakh packages and its details along with jeep Safari in Himalayas please click Contact Us or email us at travel@destination-doorstep.com!

Land of High Passes – Ladakh

Packed in between the great Himalayas and the impressive Kurnarakom Range, Ladakh is the bizarre section situated in the northernmost Indian state of Jammu & Kashmir. It is a hard feeling to portray while you drive beside those mountain ranges or dip your feet in a cool watercourse near a village may this is the reason Ladakh is a very admired tourism destination in India. Ladakh is one of the attractive locations which win the heart of voyage tourists and nature lovers. Before you enter to the adventurous land of Ladakh, we would like to enrich your information about Ladakh’s culture and activities.

Ladakh culture is very rich due to which Ladakh is well recognized for artistic tours, adventure tours, fair and festivals, monasteries, trekking, and many more activities. The events during the festival including –

• Archery ,
• Polo and Mask Dances from the monasteries,
• Conventional dances by cultural troupes,
• Motorbikes expedition to Khardung-la,
• Thanka canvas exhibitions,
• Trekkingin Ladakh,
• River rafting and
• Folk songs in addition to a string of various music concerts as well as cultural programs organized.

Weather

You can visit Ladakh in summer as well as in winter. International tourists come and spend the summer here while domestic tourists prefer the snow capped hills and the frozen lanes. Moreover, couples visit the destination for their honeymoon.

Ladakh experiences tremendous climate deviations a lot for its lofty altitude. The region is also meagrely populated. Due to Greater Himalayas range of location, exposes the place to excessive winters.

The distinctive feature of the winter is excessive temperature dip during the hours of darkness but no snowfall. Although, the Himalayas lingers snow covered during this time. However, some parts experience snowfall from end of September and liquefy faster.

Just as the intense winter, summer would put you soaked in perspiration. The temperature rises up to 35 degree Celsius, a sharp difference to the winter. The parts that experience snowfall have it thawing out at faster rate whereas, in Leh and Shimla, the snow stays on for no less than a month.

Destination At Doorstep has great Ladakh packages deals for you with no concern from which part of the world you are! This destination is a place where you can enjoy all types of the tour packages. We also offer packages for our visitors who want to experience adventurous pleasure.

For better assistance please feel free to contact us any time by clicking Contact.

Ladakh – The Best Place for Trekking in India

Ladakh is a high terrain region and is known for trekking. It is suitable for almost all types of trekking. Tourists and trekkers from across the world come to this place to experience the endless fun of watching and practicing trekking. Leh is a city of Ladakh and are mostly referred together. People who want to enjoy Ladakh trekking / Leh Ladakh trekking can do it with the help of travel and tour companies.

Trekking in Ladakh without the help of such companies can be little troublesome. In such cases the aspirant has to get the permissions and do all the registrations and this might take much time. Travel and tour companies get these passes for you without wasting your time and energy. Under their guidance people can enjoy without any perimeter and do what they really wanted to, which is trekking.

In Leh Ladakh, the two most famous types of trekking are mountain trekking and river-side trekking. Apart from these two, one can also enjoy forest trekking and sand trekking. Depending upon the choice of the trekker the track can be of 5 miles or 25 miles. As far as mountain and forest trekking are concerned they both go hand in hand i.e. most of forests in Ladakh are on mountains or cliffs. It is clear that after such a tiresome sport one needs good accommodation and dining facilities. Tired by the trekking people sleep like never-before and enjoy the meal as if never had before.

This is why the hotelsin Ladakh have wide range of national and international cuisines. There are many types of hotels and rest houses established across the regions of Ladakh. These hotels are economically divided but do stand different on geographical notes. In Ladakh one is never limited to trekking or rafting, tourists in Ladakh are well treated by local Ladakhi people. These people serve them love and expressions, custom and culture, stories and legends. One can also enjoy gudgud chai that is capable of killing the anxiety, stress and exhaustion experienced after trekking.

Plan your vacation now, call us on 1800-103-2228 (toll free in India) or visit our website http://www.destination-doorstep.com/leh/

The most difficult river rafting on Zanskar River

Ladakh tourism is the backbone of ladakh’s economy. This industry has provided employment to a huge number of local people. Ladakh tourism offers great scope for adventure activities amidst landscapes of breathtaking, rugged beauty. The most popular among these are trekking, mountaineering and river-rafting.

Nestled in the snowy peaks of the alarming Zanskar Range, Zanskar is a sub-division of Kargil in the interior part of the Leh Ladakh region. Its administrative center is at Padum. Zanskar is the most isolated part of the Leh Ladakh region.

River Rafting on Zanskar River

Ladakh temperature can fall to a bone-severing -30 degree Celsius during winter season. Temperature in Ladakh rises up to 30 degree Celsius in the summer months. The best time for tourists to visit Leh ladakh is between April to September.

River rafting is available on the Indus and its major tributaries. The best stretch for professionally guided rafting in white water is on the Indus River between Spituk and Saspol. River rafting in this stretch can be performed by up to grade 2 rafters. After Saspol, the river becomes very difficult and funny, so it requires technically more skilled 4+ grade participants under careful and best trainer’s organization. The easiest stretch in Lndus River is between Spituk to Karu that can be performed by below 2+ grade rafters in a day. This stretch is an ideal for basic training and full of scenic floating for amateurs. In recent years, running the Indus has become an attractive alternative to trekking and features on the itinerary of most visitors.

The most difficult but exciting option for river rafting is on the Zanskar River between Padum and Nimo through the gorge in the Zanskar Mountains. This is suitable only for well organized white-water expedition, prepared for several days of river running and camping in absolute wilderness. Participants are required to be trained rafters of grade 4+. The arrangements should be assigned to a dependable professional agency like Destination@doorstep. Sufficient rescue arrangement is an essential pre-requirement for embarking for a white -water expedition on river like the Zanskar.

Plan your vacation now, call us on 1800-103-2228 (toll free in India) or visit our website http://www.destination-doorstep.com/leh/

Climate conditions in Leh Ladakh

Leh Ladakh is known as a summer destination for tourists of all over the world. The land is famous in winter for international tourists and honeymoon couples too. A large number of tourists come here to spend the summer while foreign tourists prefer the snow capped hills and the frozen lanes. Honeymoon couples rush for a winter trip here for the romantic air and the much comfortable resorts. However, every traveler to the place should know about Ladakh temperature and the weather conditions of Leh Ladakh before deciding a trip.

A famous tour operator Destination@Doorstep gives you information about climate in Leh Ladakh and the season that could be appropriate for your travel. One important part of your Ladakh tour would be to know that during extreme winters, there are landslides and road blockades dangers.

Ladakh temperature varies much due to its high altitude. Most of Ladakh is situated above 2,500 meters and the capital Leh is at 3,500 meters. The summers are hot and the winters are cold. Ladakh temperatures sometimes reach about 35 degree Celsius in summer and dropping as low as -25 degree Celsius in winter. So, you need to bring appropriate clothing for a range of conditions, because with global climate change, one may experience the occasional cool day even in summer. At an altitude of 3521 meters above the sea level, the months of December and January are freezing below minus 30 degree Celsius. Often people from the small towns of Ladakh move to mainland where the climate is still warmer. The barren locations of Ladakh are also dry and hot in the months of April to October.

One important aspect of the climate of Ladakh is the absence or scanty rainfall over the years. You wind the roads more dry, windy, and sandy. Rainfall in Ladakh amounts to around 10 cm annually.

Some parts experience snowfall from end of September and melts away faster. Ladakh temperature in winter varies from minus 25 degree Celsius and 15 degree Celsius.

Plan your vacation now, call us on 1800-103-2228 (toll free in India) or visit our website http://www.destination-doorstep.com/leh/

Best Ladakh Packages for Happy Moments

When you plan for a tour with family or with your friends what you look for most is fun and happy moments. You always look for tours that give your wild, passionate and wacky thoughts the complete satisfaction. Your tours are like realizing your wishes and dreams that was never fulfilled. All these thoughts and desires can be fulfilled when you are in Leh Ladakh.

Well not all but almost all, as it is a high terrain region where of course there is no SEA, so you won’t be getting the seaside fun, but yes, you will find many lakes and river bodies. You can enjoy swimming, river rafting and many such water sports in these water bodies. These rivers and lakes are clean and healthy for your body, so no hygiene issues as well. Some famous lakes and rivers of Leh Ladakh are Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley River, and Zanskar River.

The famous Buddhist monasteries and temples that you will find at Leh Ladakh are very old and are also the golden heritage of Ladakh. When you plan to visit such places, you cannot just pack your bags and leave for fun. But yes, you can do so when you get the help of Destination@Doorstep. It is a Travel and Tour Company that pioneer the Ladakh tourism.

The company has different types of Ladakh Packages and these packages are categorized according to the choice of tour. Some packages are based on the selection of days while some simply the combination of all. Your expedition with fun and happiness is the ultimate aim of this company, so they also offer custom package options for all customers. The main areas of expedition you shall enjoy at Leh Ladakh are Jeep Safari, Cultural, River Rafting, and Mountain Rafting and Climbing.

Ladakh Tour cannot be summarized in these expeditions. The experience and fun you enjoy there is beyond speech and expression, it is just the moments to live in and remember life time. Explore your favorite expedition and let your soul free in Leh Ladakh.

Choose your favorite Leh Ladakh package plan at Destination@Doorstep, call us on 1800-103-2228 (toll free in India) or visit our website http://www.destination-doorstep.com/leh/

Beginning of New Year: Losar Festival

Losar is a Tibetan word which means “New Year”. Losar is considered as one of the most beautiful festival in Leh Ladakh. This festival is celebrated for the 15 days in which 3 days were the main days. Most of the festivals are held in winter but some popular festival take place in summer too. The monastic festivals are the heart of all the festivals. They are performed by Monks wearing colorful silk garments and different facial mask.

The Losar (New Year) celebration is followed by Galdan Namchot, the birth anniversary of Tsogkha pa who introduced Gelukpa School of order. 14^th Dec. 2012 will be celebrated as New Year day (Losar festival).

Losar Festival

The origin of Losar festival can be marked even before the beginning of Buddhist religion in Tibet. During pre-Buddhist period, Tibetans followed the Bon religion. With the arrival of Buddhism in Tibet, Bon ceremony was merged into Buddhist tradition and was renamed as Buddhist Losar festival. During the reign of the ninth king of Tibet, Pude Gungyal, this religious custom was celebrated as the Buddhist celebratory occasion.

The sheer charm of Losar festivity steals the heart of every visitor. It is a mirror of the rich and vibrant culture of Ladakh. People celebrate the festival with great pomp and splendor. The festival fever begins one month in advance and people make lots of preparations for the festival.

Losar festival is celebrated with dancing, music and laughter. People are filled with joy and excitement on arrival of Losar. Local people clean their houses and get them painted. After that they decorate their houses with beautiful decorative items to create a happy atmosphere. Every house and holy shrine is illuminated with colorful lights in the evening. Images of Ibex are hanged on the doors and walls of houses for good luck and prosperous life.

Losar Festival Celebration

On the auspicious occasion of Losar, a huge procession, “Methi” is organized in the evening. The streets and bazaars of Leh Ladakh turn out to be lively as the people walk through these streets with flaming torches (Mashal) and enchanting slogans. The procession ends with throwing of torches outside the town to offer farewell to old year and heartily welcoming the New Year.

Ladakhi people wear new bright colored clothes and visit the holy shrines, and monasteries to seek the blessing of Lord. They offer prayers and follow the tradition of 'Lama Losar' in which they give gifts to nuns and monks of the monastery. On this special occasion, people also exchange greetings by saying “Tahsi Delek”.

Plan your vacation now, call us on 1800-103-2228 (toll free in India) or visit our website http://www.destination-doorstep.com/leh/

The biggest festival of Leh Ladakh

Hemis Gompa is the wealthiest, best-known and biggest monastery (gompa) of Ladakh. It is located at 40 km west from Leh. The major annual festival of the monastery is Hemis festival which is celebrated in summer and is the main cause for its popularity. The major celebrations can be witnessed here at the biggest and wealthiest monastery of Leh Ladakh. Hemis monastery was built in 1630 during the reign of Sengge Namgyal, a well-known ruler of Ladakh. It flourished under the Namgyal dynasty for the royalty favored the Drugpa sect. Local people call this monastery as “Chang Chub Sam Ling”, which means the single place of the passionate.

Hemis Gompa

The monastery is divided into two parts, the assembly hall on the right and the main temple on the left. The hall Dukhang is also used as "green room" by the dancers during the festival. The temple is known as Tshogkhang. The varandahs have a surfeit of frescoes, among them the Buddhist 'wheel of life' (Kalachakra) and the lords of the four quarters, besides the prayer wheel.

The courtyard of Hemis Gompa, the biggest Buddhist monastery in Ladakh is the stage for the famous Hemis festival that celebrates the birth anniversary of Guru Padmasambhava. He is said to be responsible for bringing Buddhism to Nepal and Ladakh. The occasion also celebrates the ancient victory of Lamaism over Shamanism and other religious practices.

Hemis Festival

Local people are seen dressed up in their finest traditional dress for the occasion. Lamas perform splendid masked dances and holy plays with cymbals, drums and long horns. The head lama presides over the function. This famous Thanka, richly decorated with pearls and semi-precious stones. A colorful fair of beautiful handicrafts is the special highlight of the festival. The fair is organized in the courtyard of the monastery.

The Hemis festival is celebrated for two days on the 10th and 11th day in the fifth month of the Tibetan calendar. Generally this festival is celebrated in the month of June. This year the Hemis Festival is going to be celebrated on 29th and 30th June. Tibetan Monkey year is celebrated after every 11 years. The Hemis festival takes an auspicious turn in the Monkey year, when the two-storey high 'Thanka' is displayed.

Ladakh – The Mecca for Adventure Lovers

Ladakh with its arid deserts and enchanting beauty happens to be a dream destination for all the adventure lovers, whose ultimate desire is to visit this enthralling place once in their lifetime.  From poets to painters, from tourists to trekkers, all have been captivated by the alluring beauty of Ladakh.

Though Ladakh has been an independent kingdom for centuries, Tibet and the Muslim neighboring lands have a strong influence on its culture. The architecture in Ladakh, especially the monasteries and the housing complexes bear a strong resemblance to those in Tibet. As Ladakh lies in the great Himalayan range, it has a unique climate and culture. About the climate; summer here is usually bright and warm, whereas winter can be harsh. Owing to its resemblance to Tibet, Ladakh is often called as the little Tibet.

Embarking on a trekking tour is the best way to fuse adventure and natural beauty of Ladakh. Trekking here is dubbed as a lifetime experience by those, who have surrendered to the enticing rugged terrain of this land.  Ladakh adventure is not restricted to just trekking, but also river rafting, cycling, village tour, walking, and bike expedition. The famous Trekking routes in Ladakh are Stok Kangri trek, Markha Valley, Alchi - Lamayuru Trek and Rupshu valley, Nubra Valley Trek, Spituk to Markha Valley, Lamayuru Gompa to Chilling, Likir to Temisgam, Spiti valley trek and Rupshu Valley trek. June to October is the ideal time for trekking adventure in Ladakh. With every nook and corner of Ladakh offers adventure enthusiasts new vistas to get indulged in activities such as cycling, white water, rafting, and mountaineering, polo, archery, Jeep and Yak Safari.

Mountaineering in Ladakh is yet another memorable experience. The terrain is known for its exigent peaks and alps, climbing on which promises an adrenalin rush. The popular mountaineering range here are Stokkkhangri,  Khangiri, Nun, Kun, Konglacha Peak, Kantaka, and Gulap Matho West and many more. It is advisable to take the permission of the India Mountaineering Federation in Delhi, before you embark on a mountaineering expedition.

Biking in Ladakh is a good option for adventure freaks. Bike safari is the best way to explore the inaccessible regions in Ladakh. Biking proves to be a thrilling experience, is it gives the tourist an opportunity to behold astounding glaciers and steep hills. Manali to Leh route is one of the famous routes to explore the beauty of Ladakh region.

Ladakh the land of Gompas, mesmerizes the tourists with its rugged terrains and a number of passes and barren rocks. It is undoubtedly the paradise for adventure lovers with plentiful activities to please ones adventurous spirit.

 http://ladakh.dadspl.com/

Silk Route Cottage in Nubra Valley

Ladakh is an unparallel tourism destination for adventure lover tourists in India. It is located in the state of Jammu & Kashmir. It is bounded by the mighty mountain ranges of the Great Himalaya and the Karakoram. The beautiful land of Ladakh draws a number of travelers and tourists from all over the world. Ladakh wins the heart of adventure tourists, nature lovers and religious interest tourists. Ladakh is known for cultural tours, adventure tours, fairs & festivals, monasteries, trekking, etc. Ladakh tours attract a number of adventure enthusiasts from all over the world. Trekking in Ladakh is a rewarding experience. There are many natural trekking routes in this region. Monasteries are one of prime attractions of Ladakh tours and travels.

Silk Route Cottage is located in a quaint village Sumur in the Nubra Valley to the north of Leh. It has a very large property with lush green fields and gardens. The only A Class property in Nubra Valley with attached toilets and showers for 24x7. The rooms are fitted with modern amenities and are very spacious & comfortable. The organic vegetables grown in the garden are used for preparing the meals.

There are lots to do in this little village, from village walks to visiting the Sumur Monetary and to raft down the Shyok River. You can enjoy Bactrian Camel Safari to hot springs and fulfill your desire by searching the hidden lakes. Hundar or Deskit Monetary is in two hours bike safari. You can learn how to paint Buddhist paintings. Tourists can visit a Yak farm where they can touch yak. Enjoy a traditional meal at a village home. Spend your time in visiting the local women alliance to learn about their self help group activities and experiencing a local cultural evening dressed in the traditional clothes.

Facilities: 14 Bamboo Cottages and 5 Tents with attached toilets, Sight Seeing/Travel desk, Car on hire, hot & cold shower, Telephone and post paid BSNL mobile, TV with multi-channels, Room service, Multi-cuisine restaurant, Open air restaurant, Village Handicraft Shop, Reception cum Library, Parking, Laundry.

Facilities on demand: Doctor on call, Cultural Show on demand, Bon fire on demand, Barbeque on demand, Room heating on demand.

Silk Route Cottage, Sumur in Leh Ladakh is a favorite and suitable place for Nubra ethnic camp in affordable budget. Tariff is not so high its charges are equivalent to guest houses of Leh.

Plan your vacation now, call us on 1800-103-2228 (toll free in India) or visit our website http://www.destination-doorstep.com/leh/ 

Effigy of the evil forces is burnt in Karsha Monastery

Ladakh Tourism provides the opportunity to know the ancient culture of northern hilly area of India. Various Ladakh packages for cultural tours are announced by the tour operators of India which will take you through the Buddhist monasteries in Leh Ladakh. Mostly festivals of Ladakh is celebrated in winter season, when tourists has to face many difficulties to reach there. Some festivals are held in summer.

One of the important festivals of the region is Karsha Gustor, which is celebrated in Karsha, Stok  and Spituk monasteries in Ladakh every year as their annual festival. Karsha monastery is situated on the top of the hill in Zanskar region of Ladakh. This year, the festival is going to be celebrated for two days on 16^th and 17^th July 2012.

The fate of predictions held in Stok is commonly known as Zanskar (Karsha Gustor). The layman is predictor of the future instead of reputed forecasters, who are commonly recognized for this job. The layman is spiritually authorized by the Lamas after a formal selection, and is prepared for receiving the spirit of the Holy Deity.

During the Karsha Gustor, a Black Hat Dance is performed. The significance of this dance is to force the evil forces to leave the region and to establish the victory of good over the evil. This is also a masked dance similar to Chhams. The festival is a famous festival of the Buddhists.

This is a Masked Dance that is performed by the Monks of the Geluk-pa order because the Zanskar (Karsha Gustor) Festival is typical to that order. The masked Hat Dancers symbolizes the guardian divinities (Dharmapalas), and is a kind of help by the Geluk-pa order.

The festival finishes with the distribution of the sacrificial cake. This is also known as the Storma. The concluding part of the Black Hat Dance during the Zanskar (Karsha Gustor) is killing of the evil force by the leader of the dancers, which is known as Argham.

The main feature of this dance is the re-enactment of the assassination of the Tibetan renegade, King Lang-dar-ma, by a Buddhist Monk. The king was said to be a traitor who lived in mid 9th century, and caused a lot of harm to the state. Effigy of the evil forces is burnt at the end of the festival.

Plan your vacation now, call us on 1800-103-2228 (toll free in India) or visit our website http://www.destination-doorstep.com/leh/

The Cuisine of Ladakh Draws a Number of Tourists

The delicious food of Leh Ladakh is almost the same as Tibetan food. Farmers in Ladakh practice farming of vegetables like potatoes, pumpkins, beetroots, beans etc. These vegetables are cooked in different ways. Non-vegetarian dishes like mutton and chicken are very common and are cooked in a variety. Trying nourishing and usually mildly flavored local food of Ladakh like Thukpa, Momos. Steamed dumplings stuffed with meat or vegetable can be a different experience, when you enjoy your LehLadakh tour in India. There are many restaurants in Ladakh where you can get Tibetan, Korean, Chinese and other international dishes of your choice. A variety of recipes for chicken and dumplings, from old-fashioned to low-fat and easy to cook is one of the most popular dishes of Leh Ladakh.

Ladakh serves a variety of Tibetan, Korean, Chinese, and Continental dishes. When it comes to the traditional food of Ladakh, the use of dry fruits (walnuts, almonds and raisins), spices (cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, saffron, etc) and additive spices (Hing, Saunf, chillies and dry ginger) are a must to provide a pleasant aroma and flavor to the food.

Ladakh hosts the formal grand feast 'Wazawan' like other parts of the state of Jammu and Kashmir. Wazawan is a rich and delicious meal, consists of mostly non-vegetarian dishes. Vegetarian specialties are dam (potato and chaman), korma sag (made from the popular Dal Lake vegetable 'lak'), saag (made from thick-leafed green leafy vegetable 'hak'), lotus root and apricot jam and Ladakh also serves all the vegetarian dishes of India.

Non-Vegetarian Specialties are thukpa (noodles cooked in mutton soup), skieu (made with veggies, mutton and flour), yakhni and tabaq naat (made of fried ribs). There are several restaurants and hotels in Ladakh that are known for their specialties. Ladakh serves the choicest selection of vegetarian and non vegetarian meals. The rich and aromatic flavor of the cuisine of Ladakh draws a number of tourists from all over the world. The special gurgur tea of the snow desert is famous which is prepared by yak-milk and special spices for the tea.

Enjoy the delicacies and taste of Ladakh. Plan your vacation now, call us on 1800-103-2228 (toll free in India) or visit our website http://www.destination-doorstep.com/leh/

Accommodation in Nubra Valley – Ladakh

The Nubra valley is one of the best agricultural areas in Leh Ladakh. The Nubra Valley is known to the world for famous Silk Route along the banks of Nubra River. There are numerous hotels in Ladakh for comfortable accommodations. Hotel Karma Inn in Nubra valley is located just 1 km from the sand dunes of Hunder village in a very scenic and peaceful atmosphere amidst poplar and apricot trees. Hotel Karma Inn is nestled in the lap of Hunder, suitable for a peaceful and relaxed holiday. It is one of the best places for ethnic camp in the region. Nubra means orchard or garden, is a picturesque green valley. It has milder climate as compared to any valley of Leh Ladakh. Karma Inn Hotel is well known for its additional service like guiding tourists and helping them with other facilities.

Hotel Karma Inn provides furnished rooms with all modern facilities and comfort, fertile garden studded with multi-colored flowers, provide an opportunity to relax and experience the best of life. Through the windows of your room you can enjoy the panoramic view of Shyok River and sand dunes. Friendly staff makes sure that that you get whatever you need in time to lead a stress free life in the hotel. Hotel can arrange and advice you the best suitable route for sight-seeing and trekking in Ladakh.

All rooms of the hotel have attached bath-room with 24 hours running hot and cold water. They provide their special Ladakhi traditional food and Gurgur tea, a special tea of Leh Ladakh. Different types of International cuisines like Chinese, Italian, Tibetan and Indian are cooked by well trained and dedicated Chefs with international taste and standard.

Other facilities provided by the hotel are airport pick-up on request, laundry facilities, cultural- show on demand, travel help desk, doctor on call, in house generator and camel safari rides.

Tariff of the hotel is similar to any standard hotels in Ladakh. They have single and double room facility. They are providing extra bed on charge in pick season. Hotel is charging room rent in four categories; EP is simple room rent, CP is room rent with breakfast, MAP is room rent with breakfast and lunch, and fourth AP is room rent with tea, breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Plan your vacation now, call us on 1800-103-2228 (toll free in India) or visit our website http://www.destination-doorstep.com/leh/

The Nubra Valley: Valley of Flowers

The Nubra Valley is called valley of flowers in Leh Ladakh. It was on the trading route of southern Asia and central Asia via the famous Karakoram Pass. This valley has been recently opened for the tourists of India and abroad. Nubra Valley is located in the north of Leh at the average height of about 10,000 feet above the sea level. Leh to Nubra Valley is one of the best trekking routes for jeep safari and trekking in Ladakh. The Khardong village, Khalsar and Deskit are the main villages of Nubra valley.

The valley is prime farming land in Leh Ladakh, but at the first glance it looks arid and dry area. Apples, apricots, barley and orange berries trees and plants can be seen in the valley as dotted areas of the Tsetalulu. Ancient gompas, ruined palaces and villages are very close to each other. So trekking in the valley becomes magnificent. Nature of the local people of Nubra Valley is very co-operative, friendly and hospitable.

The Nubra Valley is indeed a precious treasures of Leh Ladakh where people still living in the complete isolation for half of the year from rest of the world. The main attractions of the Nubra valley are Camel safari and sand dunes of the valley. Bactarian Camels (double hump Camel) can be seen around sand dunes. Camel safari is possible only in this valley throughout Leh Ladakh.

Other major attractions are hot water spring and Khardung la Pass (18,380 feet) above sea level. Tourists are advised to spend two to three nights in the valley. A permit is required to visit the valley which tourists have to handover the photocopies of the permit at North Pullu and South Pullu on Khardung la. The permit will allow you to visit the valley for seven days up to Panamik. Tourists have to submit photocopy of the permit while visiting near the bridge of Summer village.

The Jeep safari to Nubra valley leads you through Khardung la (the highest motor able road in the world) and beyond the pass is the wide, flat Nubra Valley, crisscrossed winds of the Shyok and Nubra rivers. The Diskit the administrative headquarter of the valley is about 150 km from Leh. Buses of state government and private companies are running frequently from Leh to Diskit. It is an advice to tourists to enjoy Jeep safari as it provides you the freedom to stop wherever you want to wait. The roads are under control of the Indian army. Sudden change in the climate and short term road blockage by snowfall are common. You should be prepared to face natural hazards while visiting Nubra Valley of Leh Ladakh.

The Most Important Buddhist Site in Ladakh

Ladakh tourism provides the opportunity to trek in a cold desert, nestling in the arid region of Himalayas with wide river valleys on whose fertile soil vegetation and villages have sprung up with its ancient culture. Various Ladakh Packages lead you through Alchi monastery in the remote corner of Ladakh, which is the house of rare manuscripts and ancient painting culture. Today, Alchi monastery is probably the most important Buddhist site in Ladakh.

It is reached by a short deviation from the main Leh to Srinagar road. The settlement is made up of four separate villages surrounded by fields. The trek leads you through above an older settlement with chortens, the newer settlement with guest houses, and a small row of shops. Track ends in a parking area where souvenir shops and a centuries old tree. According to local people, the tree has grown from the walking stick of Lotsava Rinchen Zango. He was the translator of many Indian Buddhist texts into Tibetan and founded Alchi Gompa in 10^th century.

You have to go round the outside of Alchi Gompa which is surrounded by a wall with small prayer wheels.  Rinchen Zango the founder of the Alchi Gompa, brought sculptors and wood carvers from Kashmir. They were abandoned in the 15^th C. The wall paintings are some of the oldest surviving paintings in Ladakh, painted with semi precious stones. They are considered to be among the rarest and most widespread examples of Buddhist art in Leh Ladakh. Photography is not allowed in any of the temples. Pictures of inside of the temples in the form of post-cards and books are for sale in the Dukhang.

Try and visit in the mornings when it is very peaceful and find a monk to unlock temples. The site consists of the Dukhang, Sumstek and Manjushri Lhakhangs were built between 12^th and 13^th century. The Lotsava and Soma Lhakhangs are built later. The Dukhang is at the heart of the complex and is the largest of the temples. In fact, there is a similarity in paintings between Alchi murals and Maharashtra’s Ajanta Caves. Alchi Monastery is a classic example of Kashmiri Buddhist art, which is different from Tibetan.

Destination@Doorstep, a reliable tour operator of India has launched various Ladakh packages in affordable cost. These packages have comfortable night-stay that gives you full entertainment and the essence of natural beauty in Leh Ladakh. All packages will take you through Alchi monastery.

Plan your vacation now, call us on 1800-103-2228 (toll free in India) or visit our website http://www.destination-doorstep.com/leh/

A Place On Earth That Defies Gravity

“A place on earth that defies gravity” is unbelievable!

Ladakh packages are providing the opportunity to visit and test it. LehLadakh is located in the lap of snow-capped Himalayan ranges and silver valleys of Indus River. Ladakh in Northern-India has a Magnetic hill where a vehicle moves up towards hill even its detonation is off. The Magnetic hill or Gravity Hill is situated at a distance of 30 km from the capital city Leh. It is located on the Leh-Kargil-Baltik national highway, at about 14,000 feet above sea level.

The local administration of Leh region has also put up a signboard marking the hill, to help tourists to recognize the Magnetic Hill. The whole phenomenon is clearly written on the board with instructions for tourists to follow them.

Follow the instructions on the signboard and take a drive to test the phenomenon. Turn your car in the opposite direction and repeat the steps. It will start moving uphill. This magnet magic can be experienced while you are trekkingin Ladakh.

The hill attracts all metallic objects, like vehicles, aircraft etc because the hill is believed to have some magnetic properties. Even the planes & helicopters feel the same magnetic impact. To hide from the magnetic impact of the hill in that area the pilots need to fly at a very high speed. The aircraft start to jerk if it comes within the radius of Magnetic Hill according to Locals and the Indo-Tibetan Border personnel.

Many claim that supernatural forces are at work here, causing the magnetic attractions. There are some scientific reasons behind this phenomenon as well.

The Magnetic Hill is a place where the layout of the surrounding land is very slight downhill slope but appears to be an uphill slope. Thus, a vehicle left out of gear will appear to be rolling uphill. The slope of gravity hills is a visual illusion.

The tourist season in Leh Ladakh is going on. Plan a trip with any Ladakh package offered by Destination@doorstep (a reliable tour operator) and make a theory for the reason behind its magnetic property.

Call on 1800-103-2228 (toll free in India) or visit their website http://www.destination-doorstep.com/leh/

Markha Valley and other treks of Ladakh

A holiday in Ladakh means great adventure with mental peace. Ladakh is the land of Buddhists of Tibetan school. Ladakh is also famous as “land of high passes”, which indicates to its spiritual leanings. It is located in between Karakoram Mountain in north and the great Himalayas in south. Leh the largest town of Ladakh was the capital of Ladakh. Leh is so important for Ladakh that it is called as Leh Ladakh.

Leh is a starting place of Ladakh’s adventure. Buddhist monasteries, beautiful views of the Himalaya, charming market, and peculiar lanes make Leh an important destination. Trekking in Ladakh is a paradise for trekkers of the globe with plenty of opportunities to fulfill all type of adventure sporting desire.

Leh is one of the best trekking places of North India. There are many trekking routes in Leh Ladakh for enthusiast trekkers. 24 important treks for light trekking in Ladakh are Spiti Valley trek, Snow Leopard trails trek, etc. Some for moderate trekking are Darcha trek, Pangong Lake, Indus Valley trek, Frozen trek, Junglam, etc. Some for most challenging trekking are Nubra Valley trek, Markha Valley, Alchi to Lamayuru trek, Rupshu Valley trek, etc.

10 most famous and major treks for trekking in Ladakh are  Leh - Darcha valley trek, Frozen River trek, Leh Ladakh trek, Lamayuru Alchi trek , Indus Valley trek, Ladakh monastery trek, Stock Kangri trek , Zanskar Valley trek, Markha Valley trek, Nubra Valley trek. One of the most adventure tours inLadakh is Frozen River trek and is also known as “Chadar Trek”.

Markha Valley Trekking

After acclimatization in the high altitude hotels of Leh Ladakh, you can start to explore the heartland of the Central Ladakh Valley. This trek involves crossing of the three passes (Stok La 4848 meter, Gandla 4878 meter, Kongmaru La 5274 meter) while trekking in Ladakh on the banks of the Markha River. The highlight of the trip is the camping at the base of the Kang-Yutze peak on the plains of Nimaling.

Trekking in Ladakh along the Markha River through one of the world's highest inhabited plateaus and three high passes at elevations up to 17,400 ft. You will be mesmerized by fabulous views of the Great Himalayan, and Zanskar ranges in Leh Ladakh.

Don’t waste your time, plan your vacation now, call us on 1800-103-2228 (toll free in India) or visit our website http://www.destination-doorstep.com/leh/

Sand Dune Magic

Leh Ladakh has beautiful monasteries for peace lovers and religious people. On the other fold Leh Ldakh invites trekkers and adventure tourists from across the globe. Leh Ladakh is bounded by two of the world’s mightiest rages, the Karakoram to the North and the great Himalaya to the south. Enjoy the adventurous trekking through the mountains and relax near the beautiful blue lakes of Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri.

Get ready to explore the memories of the ancient mountain kingdom that can be seen in the old palaces and forts of Leh Ladakh, which was once a part of the legendary Silk Road. Those who seek to visit any mountainous and adventurous locations or look for some peaceful, religious and historical place are advised to browse Ladakh Packages offered by tour and travel companies.

 Destination@Doorstep is a travel and tour company which is focused to help tourists find the best locations of their choice and travel to it with peace, passion, safety, care and comfort. It offers variety of Ladakh packages suitable for different age group. The Ladakh packages can be availed from anywhere anytime in the world.

“Sand Dune Magic with Airfare (06 Nights / 07 Days)” is a special Ladakh package, offered by Destination@Doorstep, especially for trekking and adventure lovers. The Sand Dune MagicTour is available for 6 nights/seven days. The package is available for all and costs INR 25,999, INR 30,999 and INR 36,999 per person (depending upon the Standard, Premium and Deluxe hotels you choose).

The tour starts from Delhi and the first destination is Leh. There on the first day after arrival on Leh Ladakh airport you will be transferred to the hotel according to your choice in the Ladakh package. Full day rest will acclimatize you to this height.  From next day the tour will lead you through Thiksey Monastery, Shey and Hemis Monastery, Rancho’s School, Sindhu Darshan (Indus River), Hall of Fame, Sunset at Shanti Stupa and Leh Fort. 3^rd day continue exploring Leh with river confluence of Indus & Zanskar, millennium monastery of Alchi, Magnetic Hill and Gurudwara Pathar Sahib.

Fourth day, start your visit to Changla (Second Highest Motor-able Road) and the most Colorful Pangong Lake, one of the largest brackish lakes in Asia. Experience yourself to the “Top of the World” with amazing landscapes, as your excursion to Highest Motor-able Road of Khardong la (K-Top). Drive to Nubra Valley known for extremely mesmerizing scenes. Explore the Sand Dunes, Cold Desert and ride on Double Hump Camels. By noon start drive back to Leh over same route to your Hotel.

The tour is definitely the best Ladakh package for adventure lovers and for those who love to see and explore mountains and high altitudes. The package includes all accommodation in comfortable hotels/ guest houses or camps in scenic & off beat destinations including vegetarian meals. Wildlife fees for restricted areas and inner permits are included within the package.

Plan your vacation now, call us on 1800-103-2228 (toll free in India) or visit our website http://www.destination-doorstep.com/leh/.