Ladakh, in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir, is one of those places where it is almost easier to tell you what isn’t there, in order to highlight what is so wonderful about it. First, there are the Himalayas and mountain passes that go up to 6,000m but not ones that require highly trained alpinism skills. Just a passion for trekking. Second, there are practically no tourists outside July, August and September. Third, forget WiFi or mobile signal outside Leh. Fourth, despite what people believe, there is no travel warning here. That was lifted in 2012. Fifth, Ladakh is not Tibet, but it feels like it. Serenity, spirituality and solace are what Ladakh is all about. Sixth, there are few trees and forests. This is a barren, cold desert with rugged, rocky mountains. Are you loving all these Ladakhi lacks as much as we do? Then read more in our Ladakh travel guide.

This remote, Himalayan terrain and its traditional, mostly Buddhist culture is not to be rushed. From the ancient Namgyal Tsemo Gompa or monastery in Leh to the remote 14th century Diskit monastery in the flower filled Nubra Valley, the many cultural sites will stop you in your tracks, they are so beautiful. Ladakh is a place to trek at high altitude but not have to be super skilled, such as in the Markha Valley or in Hemis National Park. You can track snow leopard in the latter, although they are elusive. In fact, in Ladakh, you too will feel elusive. With little connection with the rest of the world, this is one place where you will definitely feel on top of it.