Perhaps, Lonely Planet says it best when they describe Ladakh:
“Spectacularly jagged, arid mountains enfold this magical Buddhist ex-kingdom. Picture-perfect gompas (Tibetan Buddhist monasteries) dramatically crown rocky outcrops amid whitewashed stupas and mani walls. Colourful fluttering prayer flags share their spiritual messages metaphorically with the mountain breeze. Prayer wheels spun clockwise release more merit-making mantras. Gompa interiors are colourfully awash with the murals and statuary of countless bodhisattvas.
Though threatened by a rapidly increasing number of visitors, Ladakh has much to teach the West regarding ecological awareness. Most Ladakhis are cash poor yet their traditional mudbrick homesteads are large and virtually self-sufficient in fuel and dairy products, organic vegetables, and barley used to make tsampa (roast barley flour) and chhang (barley beer).”
From a photographer’s perspective, Ladakh is a feast for the eyes and the camera. Photo opportunities are plentiful and varied; from environmental “people shots” to landscapes. My advice to everyone, get Ladakh on your to-do list, it’s a magical place that is sure to grow in popularity as more people find out how much there is to see there! Here’s a link to my upcoming 2018 tour.
These are beautiful and tell a fascinating story.
I wonder why you say it is a Buddhist ex-kingdom?
Magnificent shots. Pure joy to see.