Ladakh, a union territory in the Kashmir region of India, is a land of stunning Gompas, fluttering prayer flags, and whitewashed stupas, exuding rugged beauty and Buddhist culture. Known as 'Little Tibet' or 'the last Shangri-La', Ladakh is a high-altitude desert cradled by the Karakoram and Great Himalaya ranges. With a culture similar to the Tibetans, the people of Ladakh are friendly and welcoming to tourists. Divided into two districts, Leh and Kargil, Ladakh offers a plethora of attractions, including beautiful monasteries, Shanti Stupa, cafes, and Leh Bazaar. Adventure enthusiasts can enjoy rafting and high-altitude trekking, while the Chadar trek on the frozen Zanskar river takes place from January to the end of February. The region is accessible by air and road, with the Leh Ladakh area being inaccessible by road outside the summer months. Ladakh boasts a rich history as an important trade route on the ancient Silk Road, and is politically claimed by Pakistan but controlled by India as a union territory.