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Good News

Making A Mark In History ~Ladakh Becomes fully Literate Union Territory!

Under the ULLAS (Understanding of Lifelong Learning for All in Society) - Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram, the Union Territory of Ladakh has attained complete functional literacy. Over 97% of the population in Ladakh is literate, according to the Union Education Ministry. On June 25, 2024, Dr. B.D. Mishra, the Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, presented this information during a function held at Sindhu Sanskritik Kendra (SSK), Leh. Over 77 lakh individuals nationwide have benefited from the 'ULLAS' (Understanding of Lifelong Learning for All in Society) program. The ULLAS Mobile App has over 1.29 crore students and 35 lakh volunteer teachers registered. Sanjay Kumar, Secretary, Department of School Education & Literacy, Ministry of Education, Government of India, spoke on the occasion and stated that the Ministry of Education will provide all assistance necessary to enhance the Ladakh school education system. In India, someone who is unable to read or write in any language and is seven years of age or older is referred to as illiterate. As per the 2011 census, there were 25.76 crore illiterates in the age bracket of 15 years and above, with 9.08 crore men and 16.68 crore women. Behind the Success ~ ULLAS-Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram The ULLAS Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram is a centrally sponsored scheme implemented from 2022-23 to 2026-27. The scheme seeks to cover all aspects of Adult Education to align with the National Education Policy(NEP) 2020. The NEP 2020 has recommendations for Adult Education and Lifelong Learning. The outlay for the Scheme ~ The total outlay for the scheme is Rs.1037.90 crore for 2022-23 to 2026-27 duration. The government of India's share is Rs.700 crore, and the state's share is Rs.337.90 crore. (Source: Google Images) Aim and Target of the Scheme Non-literates of 15 years and above in all States/UTs in the country will be covered under the scheme. The target for Foundational Literacy and Numeracy is five crore learners or one crore learners per year. The whole scheme is being implemented through online mode and the teachers will be volunteers. The volunteer teachers will conduct the class online through the ULLAS app. Component of the ULLAS-Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram Scheme The scheme has five components, namely; Foundational Literacy and Numeracy- It means the ability to read and write and count, Critical Life Skills - These include digital literacy, legal literacy, financial literacy, healthcare and awareness, childcare and education, family welfare, etc. Basic Education- It includes education up to secondary stage (classes 9-12). Vocational Skills- These include suitable skill development to obtain employment, The ULLAS scheme is a step towards improving the education system of Ladakh in totality. Under this scheme, the basic skills of all people are strengthened. 'You need a certain standard of literacy, moral and ethical values, to be able to run a one man, one vote system.' ~ Lee Kuan Yew

27 Jun 2024

Good News

World Record Broken: Half-Marathon on a Frozen Lake!

Ladakh has made history by breaking a world record for organizing the highest half-marathon on a frozen lake. The event took place on Pangong-Tso lake, which is located at an altitude of 13,862 feet above sea level and is spread across the Indian and China border. The saltwater lake is frozen with ice during winter, and the temperature can drop as low as minus 30 degrees Celsius. Despite these challenging conditions, the event was a grand success, with 75 participants completing the four-hour-long marathon. The half-marathon was named the 'Last Run' to raise awareness about climate change and the need to save the Himalayas. The Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council, Leh, the Ladakh Tourism Department, and the Leh district administration worked together to organize the event. It was organized by the Adventure Sports Foundation of Ladakh (ASFL). In border settlements in eastern Ladakh, the marathon sought to promote sustainable winter tourism and create employment possibilities for locals, particularly during the winter months. To enhance their running fitness, the participants endured a six-day acclimatization period that included two days in Pangong and four days in Leh. In case of any medical issues, mobile ambulances were also deployed. Medical personnel and oxygen assistance were stationed at five energy stations along the route. The Indian Army and ITBP actively supported the event's logistics and medical needs. The top three finishers in both the men's and women's categories received cash awards in addition to medals and certificates as appreciation for their accomplishments. The event has undoubtedly put Ladakh on the world map as a destination for adventure sports and tourism.

2 Mar 2023

Good News

Karnataka Postmaster Creates a Unique Record

A Branch Postmaster has opened 151 postal savings accounts in a single day, a remarkable accomplishment that is the first of its kind in the state and likely the only one in the nation. The record was set on December 5 by D K Ranganath, the 64-year-old Branch Postmaster of the Dasanur Branch Post Office in Nanjangud Division in the Mysuru district. Speaking to TNIE, Ranganath explained that all of the accounts he had opened were for recurring deposits. Each of the 151 accounts cost Rs 100 to start, and each month, the same amount will be deposited. Since he had been employed there for 45 years and everyone knew him, he invited them to create their accounts on Monday. From 9 am to 6 pm that day, he worked nonstop on these RD accounts, he added. He began working for the Postal Service on December 7, 1977 and will retire on November 23 of the following year after 45 years of Dak Sevak service. This branch office serves the communities of Dasanaru, Paduvalamarali, Outhalapur, and Ramashettypura. According to his superior, the villagers' positive opinion of him and his close personal relationship with them contributed to his success. H C Sadananda, Superintendent of Posts, Nanjangud Division complimented the postmaster's service and stated that he was skilled at comprehending new ideas of the department and selecting eligible clients who may be included in various projects. He made sure that all the villagers had insurance, which included Rs. 10 lakh accident coverage.

12 Dec 2022

Good News

A Giant Step in Astro Tourism As India’s First Ever Night Sky Sanctuary Coming Up in Ladakh

A Night Sky Sanctuary is a place that has an outstanding quality of starry nights and the night sky due to which it is conserved for its scientific, environmental, or educational worth, and the enjoyment of the general public. There is reason to cheer as the construction of India's first-ever Night Sky Sanctuary, which is being established in Hanle, Ladakh, by CSIR under the Union Ministry of Science & Technology, is well underway and should be ready in a month. Science & Technology minister Dr. Jitendra Singh said that "India's first-ever "Night Sky Sanctuary" will be established in Ladakh as a part of Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary and the proposed Dark Sky Reserve will be completed at Hanle in Ladakh. It will boost astronomy tourism in India and make it one of the highest-located sites in the world for optical, infrared, and gamma-ray telescopes. A sanctuary differs from a reserve and adds more value as it is situated in a distant area with minimal and constrained public intrusion. The protection of a night sky sanctuary is a long-term endeavor because it is a sensitive area. Precautionary measures need to be taken to prevent any harm to the quality of its starry skies. Hanle in Ladakh has been chosen for this project since it is situated in a cold, deserted area with clear skies and dry weather all year long. Additionally, it is far from any type of human disturbance. The Union Minister stated that all parties involved are tasked with working together to preserve the night sky and safeguard it from unwelcome light pollution and lighting, which pose a major threat to scientific observations and the sky's natural conditions.

30 Nov 2022

Good News

The First ‘Go Green’ Wedding in Kerala Gets Huge Recognition

As people all over the country are gradually getting aware of the hazards of plastic, many citizens are switching over to eco-friendly ways of organizing events. The green concept is gaining popularity these days as more and more people are shunning plastic and thermocol and adopting natural products for decoration, cutlery, return gifts etc. The Green Wedding Kerala recently hosted a totally ‘green wedding’ which overwhelmed the guests who also got the message to be eco-friendly. Dhishan, the founder of Daksh Events organized his neighbour’s wedding in a unique and environment-friendly way. It was a challenge to decorate the stage without using oasis foam to pin the flowers. They instead used banana stem. Plastic cutlery was replaced by plates made from the leaves of areca nut trees. Glasses were made of clay. Water was served in kooja pots. The used plates were collected in baskets made of straw. Catering employees wore T-shirts that said ‘Say no to plastic’ slogan printed on them. Huge Recognition While the bride, the groom and their families were very impressed by the unique arrangement, the greatest recognition for Dhishan came when District Collector S Shanavas shared the event’s picture on his Facebook page. The guests were given vegetable plant seeds and a bag inscribed with ‘Say no to plastic’ message as return gifts. Apart from being easy on the pocket, the green wedding also gave an immense sense of satisfaction to the host and the organizers.

5 Dec 2019

Good News

A Development Boost to Ladakh as a New Medical College to Come Up

According to a J&K Health and Medical Education Department statement, the Centre has proposed the establishment of a new medical college in Leh. As per the requirement, the department has prepared a detailed project report (DPR) and technical report for the medical college and it will be submitted within two-three days. The report has been made as per the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare guidelines. Location After consulting the Deputy Commissioner, Leh, and the Ladakh Hill Development Council, the department has identified 201 kanals of land at Shey Sindhu Ghat village for the college. The new medical college in the hilly region is a boost to the healthcare sector and also speed up the development in the region. Finance Allocation The centre has sanctioned a total amount of Rs 325 crore for the medical college. Of this, Rs 115 crore will be spent on building the college, Rs 80 crore on hostel facilities and homes for students and faculty, Rs 70 crore on medical equipment and Rs 60 crore on up-gradation of a teaching hospital. The Centre also has plans to improve the facilities of the SNM Hospital at Leh by upgrading it to 500 -bed hospital from the existing 300- bed hospital. It also plans to set up a new emergency block, OPD block and diagnostic block.

24 Sep 2019

Good News

Star Citizens

Healing Hands and Compassionate Heart: Dr. Tsering Landol's Mission for Women's Health

Little Tsering Landol's core memory from her childhood was watching her mother isolated from the family during childbirth, fed in separate vessels, and held back by superstitions and traditions. This experience left an indelible mark on her young mind, inspiring her to break free from these constraints and change societal mindsets. Today, at the age of 79, Dr. Tsering Landol is a beacon of empowerment and health for women in Ladakh, championing their rights to proper healthcare while dispelling superstitions that have plagued the region for generations. Born in 1945 in Leh, Dr. Landol emerged as a pioneer in her family, being among the first to receive formal education. Undeterred by societal barriers, she went on to become the first female gynecologist in the Ladakh region. Her journey was not without opposition. Some of her relatives believed that her medical pursuits would upset their deities. However, her father's foresight and determination allowed her to pursue a career in medicine. Joining the district hospital in 1979, Dr. Landol faced arduous conditions, including sub-zero temperatures and a lack of heating systems. She conducted home deliveries, carrying essential equipment through freezing conditions. The challenges extended beyond the physical; Dr. Landol had to educate women about the importance of institutional deliveries, maternal health, and shatter the social stigma surrounding discussions of women's health. Through relentless efforts, regular outreach, and medical camps, Dr. Landol transformed the landscape of women's health in Ladakh. She championed family planning and institutional deliveries, emphasizing the benefits of smaller, better-educated families. Her empathy, communication skills, and cultural understanding endeared her to the local population, spurring the change she envisioned. Remarkably, Dr. Landol never charged her patients, driven by a deep desire not to exploit people's vulnerabilities. Her focus was on the greater good. Awards, such as the Padma Shri in 2006 and the Padma Bhushan in 2020, acknowledged her incredible service. However, her greatest reward is witnessing the transformation in Ladakh's women, who are now empowered, no longer hiding when seeking healthcare. In many ways, Dr. Tsering Landol's journey shares a profound resemblance with Kushmanda, the powerful goddess celebrated on the fourth day of Navaratri. Just as Maa Kushmanda is revered for her strength and ability to create the universe with her smile, Dr. Landol's relentless commitment and unwavering determination have had a transformative impact on the lives of countless women in Ladakh. Her life's work demonstrates the extraordinary potential within each of us to effect change and create a brighter, healthier future for all.

18 Oct 2023

Star Citizens

From Folklore to Future: Discover the Inspiring Journey of India’s First Female Music Technician

In an era marked by technological advancements and a vast array of digital content, audiobooks have surged in popularity, particularly among art and literature enthusiasts. Recognizing this growing demand, Saajida Khan, a trailblazing audio engineer and recipient of the prestigious President's Award, has emerged as India's first female music technician. Hailing from Hyderabad, she is currently embarked on a remarkable mission to safeguard the captivating musical instruments and folklore of tribal Telangana, among other interesting projects. During an interview with TNIE, Saajida Khan expressed her concern regarding the modern generation's inclination towards learning popular musical instruments like the guitar and piano, often overlooking the cultural and traditional ones such as the tabla, veena, and mridangam. Reflecting on a tribal music festival she attended at Osmania University, she lamented the passing of many participating tribal artists. "About forty tribal artists who graced the festival are no longer with us. Hence, it is crucial to document these unique and rare folk songs along with their musical instruments," she emphasized. This realization has fueled her determination to preserve the invaluable folk songs and musical instruments of indigenous communities. Saajida Khan also sheds light on the significance of instruments like the Kinnera, a stringed instrument akin to the veena, tracing its origins back to the 4th century CE. Saajida has also ventured into creating audiobooks from the writings of government school children in Telangana. These unique audiobooks encompass stories, poetry, and motivational tales penned by the students themselves, narrated in their own voices. This pioneering initiative aims to cultivate a love for literature among students and stands as the first of its kind in Telangana. Recently, Saajida's audiobook on the Telangana Forest Act, available in both Telugu and English, was launched on the International Day of Biodiversity. It serves as a comprehensive guide to the rules and regulations for environmental conservation as outlined in the act. Saajida believes that this initiative will raise awareness among residents of remote areas about the vital importance of environmental preservation. Driven by her passion for art, culture, literature, and tribal music, Saajida Khan aspires to create more audiobooks free of cost. Additionally, she is working on audiobooks centered around sound design, with the aim of guiding others into embracing this profession and supporting their livelihoods. Through her studio, Saajida remains unwavering in her commitment to the development and preservation of various art forms, enriching the cultural landscape of Telangana and beyond.

31 May 2023

Star Citizens

The Story of Mattur Nandakumara: How a Passion for Teaching Led to a Lifetime of Achievement

Mattur Nandakumara, a Sanskrit scholar, hailing from the village of Mattur in Shivamogga, has been chosen for the prestigious Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE). Nandakumara is an ambassador for India’s art, culture, and philosophy, and is recognized as one of the top 100 influential Asians in the United Kingdom. His journey to success is one of hard work and determination. Nandakumara started off as a Sanskrit teacher earning only Rs 475 per month. When he didn't receive his salary for the first eight months, he covered his expenses by giving tuition to students who needed help with Sanskrit. Teaching became his passion, and he was content with it. Nandakumara went on to do his Masters in Sanskrit, scoring 4th rank in university. He became a Sanskrit teacher at Raghavendra High School in Bengaluru. His love for teaching led him to fill in as a Kannada grammar teacher when there was a shortage and was very popular among the students. A French lady, Jenine Miller, who was studying the Vedas under him, offered to host Nandakumara if he intended to take up further studies in London. Almost at the same time, his uncle suggested that he do his Ph.D. in London. So, he travelled to London and completed his Ph.D. John Marr, his guide there, was a big influence on him. Nandakumara went on to teach Sanskrit at Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan in London and was appointed as academic director there later. He became the head of the institution after the retirement of his uncle. His immense efforts in shaping the Bhavan have been acknowledged by Sudha Murthy, who described him as a humble poet and scholar. Nandakumara's recognition and respect as an MBE recipient are well-deserved. He has created a unique homely atmosphere for Indian art and culture in London. He teaches a variety of art forms, including classical music, Kuchipudi, Bharatanatyam, and Odissi. He even teaches Ramayana and Mahabharata on weekends. His journey is an inspiration to all those who believe in hard work, determination, and a passion for teaching.

26 Apr 2023

Star Citizens

Meet Chewang Norphel: The Ice Man of India

Chewang Norphel, also known as the "Ice Man of India," is a retired civil engineer who has dedicated his life to finding sustainable solutions to water shortages in his home state of Ladakh, located in the Himalayan region of India. Norphel's innovative approach to addressing water scarcity involves building artificial glaciers, which are essentially large mounds of ice that are created by storing water in winter and allowing it to freeze. These artificial glaciers then melt gradually throughout the dry summer months, providing a constant source of water for irrigation and other uses. Norphel's work has had a significant impact on the local community, particularly in the dry, arid regions of Ladakh where water is scarce. His artificial glaciers have helped to improve crop yields and increase the availability of drinking water for both humans and animals. In recognition of his work, Norphel has received numerous awards and accolades, including the Padma Shri, one of the highest civilian honors in India. He is an inspiration to others and serves as a reminder of the importance of finding innovative solutions to pressing global challenges such as water scarcity.

22 Dec 2022

Star Citizens

This Iron Lady Treks Treacherous Terrain to Render Education Facilities to the Remotest Ladakh Villages

Sujata Sahu, a teacher in a reputed Delhi school was out on a solo trek in Ladakh when due to her deteriorating health, she took shelter in a school. She was surprised to know that the school was attended by a few kids regularly and teachers trekked through mountains to get the books and uniforms. Sahu was full of admiration for the people of Ladakh, who in spite of very difficult terrain and extremely harsh weather, were trying their best to improve their condition. Many parents sent their children to private schools which were so far away that they had to stay in hostels and dormitories. Due to lack of proper guidance, many of them dropped out and many couldn’t return to their roots. 17000 ft Foundation The determination to come to school and learn, the eagerness of the teacher to learn something new to teach his students and the aspiration of the parents to educate their children was my inspired Sahu to drop everything and help those amazing people. Along with the tremendous support from husband Sandeep Sahu and a Ladakhi businessman Dawa Jora she set up the ‘17000 ft foundation’. She started off on her mission to provide Ladakh government schools with the right resources to further the education of their students. She introduced playgrounds and libraries which were accessed by the children with great enthusiasm. Sahu and her team persisted with their efforts to upgrade the government schools in the region with positive results. Locals now don’t send their children far away from their roots to private schools, but put them in the government school in their area. Voluntourism Sujata Sahu had started encouraging volunteers to participate in the mission to provide better education to the children of remote areas in Ladakh. Her team of volunteers mapped around 600 schools after a seven-month-long study. The success of the volunteer programmes helped the foundation grow and each of these schools has been geo-mapped for travellers to find. Outsiders showed enthusiasm and support for the project and also donated regularly for the cause. Digilabs were introduced in schools which helped children get to know about the world from which they were cut off due to their geographical location. Sujata Sahu’s undying passion to educate the children living in the remote regions of Ladakh earned her the title of Iron Lady. Recently, her organisation ‘17000 ft Foundation’ electrified and digitized 120 schools in Leh and Kargil, providing solar electricity and tablets with customized digital learning content, a TV, and a server to provide offline data syncing. She now wishes to continue with her efforts for the children residing in the harsh mountainous regions of Arunachal Pradesh and Himachal Pradesh. Image Source: ScooNews

24 Nov 2019

Star Citizens

Positive Reads

Ukdiche Modaks: Crafting Pune's Sweetest Tradition

The fervor of Ganeshotsav has swept through Pune and at the forefront of this celebration stands the delicious modaks that satiate every palate. While homemade "gharguti" Modaks undoubtedly hold a special place in our hearts, not everyone possesses the time or culinary finesse to craft the perfect "ukdiche" Modak at home. Thankfully, the city of Pune is blessed with numerous general stores, food marts, and sweet shops that offer ready-made ukdiche modaks during this auspicious time. But have you ever wondered about the dedicated individuals who are responsible for creating these delectable treats? Meet Akash Medhi of Chaitanya Caterers, a fourth-generation expert in the art of making and supplying ukdiche modaks on a grand scale during every Ganeshotsav. With a minimum order of 21 modaks, they are more than happy to provide you with a fresh and authentic taste of this beloved delicacy. The sight within their production facility resembles a culinary masterpiece, churning out a minimum of 10,000 Modaks daily! Each Modak is lovingly handmade, incorporating Desi Ghee, authentic Ambemohor rice flour, natural jaggery, and freshly grated coconut. Most of Pune's Modak shops proudly offer Modaks made in this very factory run by the Medhi family. While machinery like dough mixers, rollers, and massive steamers expedite production, every Modak is filled and packed by hand with utmost care and love. It's a labor-intensive process that guarantees the utmost quality and authenticity. As we savor these delicious ukdiche modaks during Ganeshotsav, let us not forget the passion and dedication of individuals like Akash Medhi and his family, who continue to bring this cherished tradition to life for all of us to enjoy.

27 Sep 2023

Positive Reads

The Vadakkumnathan Temple - the Pride of India

Temples and monuments are abound in India, but their upkeep and conservation demands intense efforts done with dedication.The Vadukkamnathan Temple in Kerala is an example of the concerted efforts taken by authorities to preserve the pristine beauty of the temple. It is no wonder then, that the 1,200 year old Vadakkumnathan temple bagged the UNESCO Asia- Pacific Heritage award for Cultural Heritage Conservation this year. The majestic temple is a sheer marvel in wood and stone which stands in the centre of Thrissur district. The unique fact about this temple is that its mural paintings, wood carvings and idols and massive gateways facing all four directions have remained the same as reflected in the hundred year old photograph. It is a miracle, how the temple which is made of wood could withstand termites as well as the weather, Kerala being a state that receives heavy rainfall during the monsoons. It was a herculean task for the team of archaeologists, craftsmen and others to renovate the temple and restore it to its original glory. Normally, with cement and concrete taking over the construction, the national monuments got a ' modern facelift'. The dwindling number of skilled craftsmen were also a matter of grave concern. Therefore, most of the monuments were in ruins. The same was the case of the Vadakkumnathan temple until the Archaeological Survey of India took over its maintenance in 1997 and started part by part renovation of the temple. A private company also sponsored the renovation. The temple was bestowed with the award for conservation which employed age old rituals and conservation techniques drawn from Vaastu Shastra that ensured that the spirit of the place resonates through the site. Traditional method of conservation known as ' Jeernodharana' was adopted. All ritualistic principles were followed and conservation was carried in an authentic manner after consulting astrologers and keeping in tune with Vaastu Shastra. The use of cement, ceramic tiles or paint was out of question as it has led to the ruin of many historical monuments in the country. Therefore, original materials such as, a mixture of lime, jaggery and materials like kadukka and oonjal valli ( a creeper which is soaked in a particular mixture and later used in construction material). The damaged wood was meticuluosly reconstructed by skilled craftsmen and it was coated with a special oil made up of eight ingredients to protect wood from termites. Utmost care was taken to keep the original structure in tact. Detailed research was carried out and a separate strategy was chalked out for each shrine. Around 300 craftsmen worked for a decade, as work on each part of the temple took three months and at times years to bring it to its actual state. Apart from the beautiful murals, the temple also has an idol of Shivlinga which nobody has seen as it is covered in a mount of ghee which is 9 feet tall. Another interesting fact is that 'Koothambalan', situated within the temple is made entirely of wood, but there is not a single nail. The structure has made use of slots. Now that the temple has got the most coveted award, it has come into the international arena. The award will also motivate the temple authorities to maintain the temple up to its standards as conservation is a continuous process. This temple in God's own country has really made every Indian proud.

2 May 2017

Positive Reads

Wanderlust

Unveiling the Enchanting Moonland of Ladakh: Lamayuru

Did you ever imagine that a piece of the moon could be found right here on Earth? Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Ladakh, a backpacker's paradise renowned for its emerald lakes and trekking trails, lies a hidden gem known as Lamayuru. This captivating village, often referred to as the moonland, offers a unique experience that goes beyond your imagination. Lamayuru is a small village in Ladakh, an ideal place to take a break during your journey from Kargil to Leh. Home to one of the oldest monasteries in the region, this village holds a fascinating legend that claims it was once a thriving lake. Over time, the lake dried up, leaving behind an otherworldly landscape that continues to attract visitors from around the world. The extraordinary geographical formations found in Lamayuru have earned it the nickname "Moonland of Ladakh." Carved into the Greater Himalayas, these moonlike landscapes originated from the lacustrine sediments of a former lake thousands of years ago. A catastrophic landslide triggered by neotectonic activity on the Indus Suture Zone transformed the region, resulting in a topographic surface with an intriguing 'egg crate morphology' and a dense network of sinkholes. Amidst this lunar-like setting, the ancient Lamayuru gompa, or monastery, stands as a testament to the village's rich history. Offering breathtaking views of the mountains during full moons and sunsets, this monastery is the oldest surviving one in Ladakh. Within its walls, visitors can explore dark prayer halls adorned with centuries-old frescoes, illuminated by a single ray of sunshine, and resonate with the deep chanting of mantras. Lamayuru is conveniently located on the Leh-Kargil-Srinagar Highway, making it easily accessible for travelers. While the village itself is enchanting, it is the awe-inspiring landscape that truly captivates. These terrains feature steep slopes, minimal vegetation, and eroded sedimentary rocks, creating a mesmerizing and otherworldly atmosphere. Whether you're an avid photographer, a curious traveler, or an adventure seeker, Lamayuru is a destination that promises to leave you awe-inspired. Discover the moon on Earth and embark on an unforgettable journey to the captivating land of Lamayuru in Ladakh.

10 Jul 2023

Wanderlust

Ladakh’s Forbidden Territories are Now Accessible to All!

For years, certain regions of Ladakh remained off-limits to visitors due to their proximity to the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China or for heritage security reasons. However, recognizing the significance of tourism for the local economy, Ladakh has made the decision to welcome travelers to these once-forbidden territories. This move is expected to bolster revenue and provide a boost to the region's thriving tourism industry. Among the newly accessible areas is the Chang Chenmo sector of Eastern Ladakh, situated north of Pangong Lake. This picturesque region, home to the world's highest saltwater lake, was previously a sensitive military zone. In the first phase, visitors are granted permission to travel from Marsonek La pass to Sauk Salo, a breathtaking area nestled between two rivers at an altitude of 18,000 feet. The second phase will allow access beyond Sauk Salo to a hot spring, where a memorial stands in honor of soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice. Moreover, the Siachen Base Camp, located in the vicinity of the Siachen Glacier, the highest and coldest battlefield on Earth, can now be visited without special permits. Additionally, the village of Turtuk, often described as a lush green oasis in Ladakh's barren desert, is now open to travelers, offering a glimpse of its unique beauty. Environmental activist Sonam Wangchuk, renowned for his innovative ideas, has also taken to social media to encourage visitors to explore lesser-known yet captivating parts of Ladakh, such as the mesmerizing Sham Valley. Ladakh, an enchanting union territory nestled in the Himalayas, has been granted a prestigious accolade by Time magazine as one of the World's Greatest Places of 2023. Known for its awe-inspiring landscapes, majestic high passes, pristine waters, and frozen desert, Ladakh also beckons adventure enthusiasts with its rugged roads perfect for thrilling bike trips. With the support of the Border Roads Organization and Ladakh Administration, exploring these forbidden territories has become a reality. Travelers can now witness the untouched magnificence of Ladakh, creating cherished memories that will endure a lifetime.

2 Jun 2023

Wanderlust