September 26, 2013Read time - 2 minutesSandwiched between the vast ranges of the Karakorum and the Himalaya in the far north of India is the highest, least populated, most remote and most beautiful region in the whole country. Lying in the rain shadow of the Himalaya, Ladakh is an ideal summer destination that enjoys plenty of sunshine. To Exodus Leader Valerie Parkinson, it is the most wonderful place on earth and the world’s best adventure travel destination.Valerie Parkinson in LadakhHere she takes us on a ‘virtual tour’ of some of her favourite places. Ladakh has an inherent beauty made up of multi-coloured landscapes, chaotic ridges, azure blue lakes, snow-capped peaks, deep gorges and the vibrant green oases of the villages.Valerie ParkinsonRemote Tibetan Buddhist monasteries dot the hillsides, there are wild trekking routes and spectacular drives; Ladakh really has something for everyone.Most Exodus trips to Ladakh begin with a spectacular flight over the Indian Himalaya to Leh, the capital. At 3,500m, everyone needs to get used to the altitude. Acclimatisation time is used to explore the spectacular hilltop monasteries, try rafting, go cycling or visit the Khardung La by Jeep; at 5600m it is reputedly the highest road pass in the world.Ladakh Trekking HolidaysOur Ladakh trekking holidays take you through spectacular mountain ranges that have remained relatively unexplored by outsiders. All treks are fully supported camping trips.Many of our Nepali Sherpas can be found working in Ladakh in the summer and the service is operated to the same standard that you find in Nepal.From the easier Markha Valley Trek, which explores villages and valleys around Leh to the ascent of Stok Kangri – one of the technically easier 6,000m peaks in the world – there is something for all abilities.Valerie on Stok KangriIf you really want a challenge the Grand Traverse of the Indian Himalaya takes you across many high passes to remote high latitude lakes into Spiti.Cultural LadakhLadakh is not only for trekkers; culturally akin to Tibet, the Buddhist culture and way of life is alive and kicking in this part of the world. Colourful masked dance festivals and some of the most spectacular roads in the world beckon the adventurous traveller.From the barren mountains of Ladakh, we drive across the Himalaya to the lush forests of Manali from where we visit Dharamsala, home of the Dalai Lama before finishing the trip at the Sikh Golden Temple in Amritsar.You cannot fit much more into two weeks! Although Ladakh is primarily a summer destination, few people realise that it is possible to go there in winter when very few other tourists are there.As temperatures plummet, it becomes cut off from the rest of the world. BUT, this is the time when the elusive Snow Leopard descends to the valley floor in search of food.In Search of the Snow Leopard trip transports you to Ladakh in the height of winter. Wonderful walking, a visit to Matho festival to see the state oracle and the chance of spotting a Snow Leopard, this trip is a photographer and wildlife enthusiast’s delight.By Valerie Parkinson, Exodus Asia Base Manager and Tour Leader.Browse our trips to Ladakh and The Himalaya below.
Spice Trails of Kerala 53 reviews Walking through the beautiful hills and tea plantations of South India Walking & Trekking Activity level: Moderate Ages: 16+ 15 Days from £1,699 Guided (Excl. Flights) View More Details
Search for Snow Leopards with Valerie Parkinson 16 reviews 2022 + 2023 Dates: Search for the elusive Snow Leopard with celebrated Himalayan trekking guide Valerie Parkinson. Walking & Trekking Activity level: Moderate Ages: 18+ 14 Days from £2,699 Guided (Excl. Flights) View More Details
Ladakh: The Markha Valley 22 reviews Classic trekking in 'Little Tibet' Walking & Trekking Activity level: Challenging Ages: 18+ 14 Days from £1,999 £1,849 Guided (Excl. Flights) View More Details
Peaks of Ladakh Trek 6 reviews Conquer your first 6,000m peak and experience the unique culture of the High Himalaya. Walking & Trekking Activity level: Tough Ages: 18+ 16 Days from £2,349 £2,149 Guided (Excl. Flights) View More Details