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Locations

Ladakh, India

This Article Features Photo Zoom

Photo Experience
Ladakh is a high-elevation location. Bright daytime light yields high contrast between very, very blue skies and the brown color of the topography. Polarizers and split ND filters can be particularly useful. Many photographic opportunities exist. Some favorites are the dramatic mountains, stunning monasteries, many of which are elevated or perched atop hills, and the vibrant colors of local festivals. For a far-off location like Ladakh, it might not be possible to have a full complement of gear, so a good big-range zoom is an especially useful piece of gear to have in the bag.

Best Times
The best time to visit Ladakh is June to October. Weather conditions are pleasant, with daytime average temperatures in Leh in the 70s and nighttime average temperatures in the 40s. Aside from these optimal weather conditions, June to October is the prime time for the wonderful Ladakhi festivals.

Trip Planning: Ladakh is best reached by air from Delhi, as well as overland routes from Himachal Pradesh and Srinagar. Destination Himalaya will lead a group tour to Ladakh, with a special visit to the Hemis Festival, June 18-July 4, 2009. For information on this and other trips to Ladakh, visit www.destinationhimalaya.net/india/ladakh.php.

Essential Gear...

Neutral-density filters are popular with landscape photographers for reducing light to slow shutter speeds. The longer capture time offers extended control over exposure and also provides motion-like effects like water, which can be subtly blurred for a dreamlike effect. B+W offers ND filters in strengths of one and two stops, ranging in diameter from 19mm to 77mm. Contact: B+W (Schneider Optics), (631) 761-5000, www.schneideroptics.com.

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