June 26, 2014 Ladakh, Kashmir-Jammu

Thiksey Monastery

Ladakh is bound by mountains with sheer walls of rock and ice. This rugged region is home to one of the last undisturbed Tantric Buddhist populations on earth with smaller communities of Shia and Suni Muslims. It is virtually cut off from the world from November to May and has an almost medieval way of life. Quite a few people speak English, though some only a few words.

Maitreya Buddha, two stories tall!

The centuries old monasteries were amazing! They perch on a hill overlooking the valley and are ornately carved and painted on the interior with bright colors and house statues overlaid with gold leaf.

The museums held a number of ancient texts as well as a surprising grail made from a human skull. There were religious items from the 9th century that were brought over the Himalaya from Tibet when China took over, killing many monks and nuns.

Leh Palace

Leh, the capital of Ladakh, is a tourist town and busy backpacker center, which backs onto ruined palaces in the lee of the Himalaya. The sky is dark blue due to a breathless altitude of 11,500 ft. The Leh Palace that overlooks the town was built in the 17th century by the Buddhist kings. It is very similar to the Potala Palace in Tibet. 

Jama Masjid Mosque, Main Street

Ladakh is truly a must-see if you have the time. It is a wonderland for trekking, hiking, and many other outdoor sports. Unfortunately I broke my foot there and had to return to the U.S. after getting a fuscia color cast at the local hospital. It cut my trip to 2 1/2 months rather than the 6 months I had planned, but one can always go back!