Ladakh wears a white blanket in winter months. Post October, when the temperatures start dipping below the freezing point, the brown and barren mountain slopes get decorated with powdery snow. Mercury dips quickly in November and December months, often going below -30C in the high Changthang Plateau located in western parts of Ladakh bordering Tibet. The huge high altitude lakes in this region that paint the landscape blue in the summer months freeze and turn white. The weather is unforgiving but the landscapes is dressed in bridal wear. Here is a photograph of Pangong Lake made during the harsh winter of January 2013.
Ever since I travelled to Ladakh with expedition leader Manish Lakhani, who took me on the fabulous Chadar Trek, I have been longing to return again in a winter. I have been itching to visit Pangong Lake in winter months when it freezes over.
Pangong Tso in winter. Photograph by Rajiv Kumar Bharat; reproduced with permission.
This January, I am back in Ladakh, again with ever-reliable expedition leader Manish. While I am skipping his Chadar Trek (if you ever want to go on Chadar, he is the man to go with) this time, I am joining him to explore the winter season at Pangong Lake and surrounding areas. Our itinerary is fluid, except for the date of arrival and exit. Join us, if you are interested in exploring the stark landscapes of Ladakh in a time when few people dare to venture in this region.
Dates
+ Arrival in Leh: 28th January, 2013
+ Depart from Leh: 3rd February, 2013
The Itinerary
During the seven days that we are spending in Ladakh, here is the rough itinerary that we are looking at. This itinerary remains fluid. Do note that the weather and administrative difficulties play a role in executing this plan. Any changes in the itinerary would keep in mind an interest to see beautiful places in Ladakh in winter glory.
Rest day and acclimatization on arrival – 1 day
Pangong Lake – 1 to 2 days
Tso Moriri – 2 days
Monasteries and interesting places around Leh OR drive to Hanle close to the border to Tibet – 1 to 2 days
Departure day – 1 day
Contact me if you intend to join this tour. Please do not leave a comment.
Glimpses of Ladakh – its beautiful mountain landscapes, the ancient tradition of Tibetan Buddhism, the vast beautiful lakes, enchanting festivals and beautiful people.
