Adventures in India

Leh, the capital of the Ladakh region of India is a great starting point for a mild to moderate trek through the Indus Valley. If time permits it is a good idea for hikers and trekkers of all skill levels to acclimate themselves when newly arrived in the country. A tour of the city is a great way to do this.
Some suggested itinerary stops on a tour of Leh includes the seventeenth century Palace and the several Gompa, or Buddhist temples. The Palace of the King of Ladakh has been undergoing restoration for a long time, and there is not yet much to see on the inside of the massive structure, but the views outside are quite remarkable.

Among the Gompa open to view in Leh are the Namgyal Tsemo Gompa, the Soma Gompa (home to the Ladakhi Buddhist Association) and the Karma Dupgyud Choeling. There is also a small mosque in the town. Outside of the town are several other visit-worthy Gompa including the Shey Gompa and the Thiksey Gompa. The most famous and largest Gompa in the Ladakh region is here as well, and Hemis is open for visits.

Departing for what is commonly called the “Baby Trek” visitors can anticipate stops in Likir, Yangthang, Sermanchan, Wanla and Lamayuru before making a circuit back to Leh. Though its name does not indicate difficulty this is still a mountainous trek and includes many steep ascents. The journey will also include views and visits to large villages, agricultural lands and fields and the opportunity to meet some of the native peoples. Though the region is in the ownership of India, many of the peoples in the mountains retain Tibetan customs and cultural characteristics.

Along the journey trekkers can expect to enjoy many natural and scenic views or vistas, and they can also count on seeing some of the many animal and plant species native to the region. Among these are many unique birds and mammals including the Black Necked Crane and the vulture known as the Lammergeier, the Argali sheep, and Kyang (or Tibetan Wild Ass). There are also occasional glimpses of Lynx, Snow Leopards and even Tibetan Wolves, though these predators never present any problems to the many trekkers and hikers in the area.

Many visitors come to this area for the scenic splendor and the historical and beautiful Buddhist monasteries and temples. A journey along the path outlined will guarantee a moderate hike with the opportunity to experience some of the most desired scenes and experiences of Indus Valley trekking.