Then another attraction for tourists is Zanskar which can be said to be the least developed of Ladakh's regions, but has a distinct character, different both from Kargil area or the Leh district. The central part of the valley is broad and intensively cultivated. The valley is green with grass and scrub, yet completely bereft of trees. The monastries are spectacular in their location and their originality. One example is Phugtal which is a cave high above the river. Although a motorable road runs upto the capital Padum the tourists can't overlook Zanskar's importance as a centre of adventure. The Zanskar river is runnable by professionals and Padam is a stage for major treks into Kishtwar, Manali and

Ladakh is also known for the spectacular Monastic Festivals, held to commemorate the founding of a monastry, the birthday of its patron saint or major events in the evolution of Tibetan Buddhism. Thousands of people turn out in their colourful best making every festival a carnival of colours. No other festival can match these festivals in religious and entertainment value. 'Chham^, a highly choreographed sacred dance-drama, is the core event of every monastic festival. A select group of resident lamas, in brightly patterned brocade robes, perform these dances in the courtyard of the monastry. These festivals also provide an opportunity for socialising and trading. A makeshift market springs up overnight outside the monastic complex. During the summer festivals, people organise picnics, overnight excursions and all-night singing and dancing parties.

When you go to Ladakh, it is preferable to go by road rather than take the arial route. That's because Ladakh offers one of the most breathtaking drives in the world. Besides that, it is better to go by road to Ladakh because acclamatisation is gradual and one doesn't have to spend the whole of the first day resting in Ladakh - a region where the lowest altitude is 9,000 feet above sea level. The access to Leh by road is from the state capital Srinagar. The route is an age old one that traders from Central Asia used for centuries before the road was built. Then there is another road from Manali in neighbouring Himachal Pradesh. This road running through Barachala and many other passes, is used by tourists and is a major attraction for the travellers.