Ladakh v. Rajasthan in May '07--11 days max???
 

anyone been to Ladakh lately? was there 20 years ago (Leh) and would like some feedback. will be traveling (as independently as possible) with 22 year old daughter (we have both traveled/lived in "developing nations"). We plan on 3 days in Delhi and 1-2 around Agra (Taj & FS)...after that other ...the other 5 days are up for grabs and we are looking into 'options'. thank you Jan

I was in Ladakh last year around May and thought it was beautiful -- the monasteries were incredible. I flew there-- didn't do the highway thing. I sort of wish I'd had time to.

Ladakh seems like it would be a wonderful change after delhi and agra. It also depends of course on when you're traveling -- when Delhi's 105 F or so, you might be very ready to head to the himalayas.

John; can you give me any more feedback? Actually, the fodor's guidebook says Ladakh is "closed" until June r/t snow. However, we will be flying to Ley (probably from Srinigar). Where would you recommend we stay (don't need top, top of the line.)? any names of guides you used to drive out to the monasteries? Did youbring the monks any kind of school or other supplies? and so on. thank you Jan

If you are travelling in early May, you had better take a flight from either New Delhi or Srinagar. The road from Srinagar passes through Sonmarg, Pahalgam, beautiful for the sceneries, over the Zozila pass to Leh. This pass opens every year by 20th May. While driving back from Leh towards Manali, one crosses the Baralacha pass which opens late June.(We are having a severe late snowfall up north, just as I write). Your daughter would perhaps love the drive from Gramphoo towards the Kunzum Pass (opens early July),Tabo, Kaza, Nako & Sangla.
Hotel Larimho in Leh is a very good option. They have spacious rooms & serve excellant food.
Happy Travels!

would only fly to Ley as our time is limited. would like to go to Srinigar first but have read that it is still over run with military-type people and that does not sound like much fun. Considering Nepal, as well.

Ladakh is beautiful I am told by friends who try to go every year. The Shambhala hotel has been recoed to me. In May I'd defi choose Ladakh over Rajasthan, it is the right season for the former and terrible weather for the latter.