Hotel Atithi in Agra on Google Maps:

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We reached around noon, and after resting for some time, decided to move towards Agra Fort (description on Wikipedia). We took a local conveyance from the hotel rather than taking our own vehicle, and it was a pretty short distance. Agra Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage monument, and is fairly well maintained. The fort was the headquarters from which most of the Mughals ruled over their vast kingdom, and remains an imposing structure. It is also well frequented by tourists on holidays, so you would need to spend a bit of time in a queue when entering, but after that initial wait, it is perfectly fine inside (although the entry rates are so low that a huge amount of people are always visiting). We had taken a guide when we were entering the fort, and he explained the various palaces, buildings and other structures inside the fort to us.

Tourists walking from the outside gate to the inner gate of the Agra Fort

A view of the well maintained main gate of the Agra Fort along with a huge lawn in front

A beautiful green central square inside the Agra Fort

We really enjoyed the fort, and it took us a couple of hours inside; we saw the separate palaces for the queens and princesses, as well as saw the section where the emperor Shah Jahan was confined, when he was usurped by his son Aurangzeb, locked up inside the fort with a view across the river to the Taj Mahal (the burial spot for his favorite wife, Mumtaz Mahal). This specific location was cordoned off from public view and nobody was allowed to enter.

A small tomb in the courtyard of the Diwan-e-Aam in the Agra Fort

A sample of the architecture of one of the inner buildings inside the Agra Fort

Beautiful building in the Agra Fort

The brightness of the sun over the Agra Fort

The sun peeking through the outer fence of the Agra Fort

Tourists gathered around one of the fountains in the Taj Mahal complex

After exiting the fort, we decided to head over to the Taj Mahal (it was now late afternoon), but the huge queue over there (especially since we did not know whether mobile phones and other possessions were allowed inside) caused a bit of wait. Finally we had to call off the visit since there was no chance that we could get inside (the queue was expected to take another hour, and closing time was in 30 minutes). We decided to visit the Taj Mahal the first thing the next morning.

Many more photos of the Agra trip at this location.

History of Luxor: Luxor was a very famous part of Egyptian history, being earlier known as Thebes, the capital of the New Kingdom. The city started becoming more important in the time of the 11th dynasty, when the town became a big town with important people living in it. It also became a center for religion, art, and the wise. As the Pharaohs who were based here became more powerful militarily, the city became famous even outside Egypt. However, as things rise, they also fall, and it was during the time of the Late Period that Luxor started losing its power, as the political center of Egypt shifted to cities in the north. But, since the city was the center of the powerful god Amon-Ra, Thebes never lost its religious influence, even upto the time of the Greeks when Egypt became less powerful.

Location of Luxor, Egypt on Google Maps:

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Places to visit in Luxor: When you have a location that is so full of history, it is good to know more about the places to see, so that you can draw up your own list. Luxor primarily has 3 different regions for the purpose of tourism; temples and others inside the City of Luxor on the East side of the Nile; the famous town of Karnak just north of Luxor; and the old city of Thebes, (called Waset by the ancient Egyptians), which is on the west side of the Nile across from Luxor.

The City of Luxor:

The Luxor temple does not take very long to visit, and can be visited in a period of around 1 hour. The Temple is situated in the center of the town, and was built by the New Kingdom Pharaoh Amenophis III. It looks really spectacular. The hours are 9am – 6pm and admission is 20 Egyptian Pounds.

We talked about Luxor being a large museum by itself, but as for an actual museum, you have The Mummification Museum. It provides visitors with an understanding of the ancient art of mummification, and answers all the questions you could ever have on this topic. Who knew that reptiles, birds as well as humans were mummified?! (Wikipedia)

The Luxor Museum houses many of the relics found at the Theben temples and necropolis on the west bank. The museum comes highly recommended because it will enrich your experience when you visit the rest of the sites. (Wikipedia). The museum was inaugurated in 1975.

The city of Karnak:

As you move north of Luxor, you get to a view of the magnificent Temples of Karnak (Wikipedia). In ancient times, the area around Karnak was actually known as Ipet-isut, which means ‘The most select of places’. The temple complex of Karnak was built over a time period of 1500 years and was the most important place of worship in ancient Egypt. The site is huge, measuring 1500 x 800 meters, and is a spectacular complex of sanctuaries, kiosks, pylons and obelisks, all dedicated to the Theban gods. The most spectacular view of this entire complex is the Hypostyle Hall in the Precinct of Amun-Re, a hall area of 50,000 sq ft (5,000 m2) with 134 massive columns arranged in 16 rows. The main deity was the god Amun, head of the Theban Triad; with the name of the complex being derived from the nearby modern village of el-Karnak, some 2.5 km north of Luxor.

Ancient Thebes (West Bank):

Crossing the Nile to the West of the city of Luxor lies the necropolis of ancient Thebes. Because there is so much to see and so much ground to cover, guided tours usually enter 3 tombs at the major archaelogical sites.

The Valley of the Kings: Names so because of Kings (Pharaohs) being buried here. This is where the pharaoh’s were buried and hoped to meet their Gods in the afterlife. Most famous because of the tomb of the boy Pharaoh, Tutankhamun’s tomb was discovered in the 1920′s and had remained almost untouched when it was found. However, King Tut was a minor Pharaoh, having lived for only a few years (he dies when he was around 18-19), and his history was also almost eradicated by the second pharaoh who came after him. These tombs have all suffered looting over the ages, and hence when King Tut’s tomb was found untouched, it was a marvellous find. These tombs contained those of the 18th to the 20th Dynasties, and were not like the earlier pyramids, but were cut into the rock and were more difficult to find and rob.

The Valley of the Queens: The Valley of the Queens lies at the southern end of the necropolis. This is where the queens and their children were interred. Only four tombs are open to the public in the Valley of the Queens and if you had to choose just one, it would have to be Queen Nefertari’s tomb, which is the most decorated ones, apparently because she was the favorite queen of the powerful Ramesses II. Tickets are limited to just 150 a day and you are only allowed in for 10 minutes, but it is worth the effort.

The Colossi of Memnon: Two giant statues make up the Colossi of Memnon. Most visitors get a glimpse of them on their way to the Valley of the Kings but it is worth a stop to see them up close.

How to get to Luxor: Since Luxor is so much on the tourist map, it is very well connected through flights, trains and taxis from most places, including from Cairo. Inside Luxor, you can even take a hot-air balloon ride (link)

Blogs / external articles:

1. Which monuments (Tombs / Temples) in Luxor are available when (link)

2. UCLA project related to Karnak (link)

3. Virtual Tourist (link). Detailed overview of the temples and other places in Luxor.

4. A detailed description of Luxor (link)

Even in ancient times, during the late Dynasties of the Greek and Roman periods, the area drew tourists, and has been doing so ever since. Today Luxor is well equipped to accommodate tourists with many hotels and in general a tourist industry ready and willing to serve the people from many countries that descend on this area of the Nile Valley every year.

5. Details of the Valley of the Kings, including the pharaohs buried there (link)

The Egyptian belief that “To speak the name of the dead is to make him live again” is certainly carried out in the building of the tombs. The king’s formal names and titles are inscribed in his tomb along with his images and statues. Beginning with the 18th Dynasty and ending with the 20th, the kings abandoned the Memphis area and built their tombs in Thebes. Also abandoned were the pyramid style tombs. Most of the tombs were cut into the limestone following a similar pattern: three corridors, an antechamber and a sunken sarcophagus chamber.

6. Valley of the Queens (link)

The Tomb of Queent Titi (Tomb 52): She is probably the queen of a 20th Dynasty. She is depicted with the sidelocks common to the Egyptian young of the period and in the presence of the gods Thoth, Atum, Isis and Nephthys. In the next chamber the queen is shown making offerings to Hathor the cow, and in the last chamber the gods Neith, Osiris, Selquit, Nephthys and Thoth.

7. Description of the Colossi of Memmon (link)

Due to an earthquake in 27 BC, these statues became known for a bell like tone that usually occurred in the morning due to rising temperatures and humidity. Thus they were equated by the early Greek travelers with the figure of Memnon, the son of Aurora who’s mother, Eos, was the goddess of dawn. To be granted a song meant that you were very much in favor of the gods. Visitors came from miles around to hear the music, including Emperor Hadrian, in 130 A.D. The Roman emperor Septimius Severus, seeking to repair the statues in 199 AD, inadvertently silenced them forever.

8. Guide to Luxor (link)

9. Wikipedia link of Luxor (link)

ater, the city was attacked by Assyrian emperor Assurbanipal who installed the Libyan prince on the throne, Psammetichus. The city of Thebes was in ruins and fell in significance. However, Alexander the Great did arrive at the temple of Amun, where the statue of the god was transferred from Karnak during the Opet Festival, the great religious feast. The grandeur of Thebes would still remain a site of spirituality, and attracted numerous Christian monks in the Roman Empire who established monasteries amidst several ancient monuments including the temple of Hatshepsut, now called Deir el-Bahri (“the northern monastery”).

Videos of Luxor on Youtube:

Luxor at night – Karnak – Hatshepsut

Egypt 2007 – Luxor King and Queen valley, Hatshepsut, Karnak

Temples in Luxor Egypt 2003

Karnak Temple Luxor Egypt

The Valley of the Kings, Luxor, Egypt

Colossi Of Memnon & Queen Hatshepsut’s Temple

Shopping Market Bazaar In Luxor Egypt

Valley of the Queens, Luxor, Egypt

Hot air ballooning over Luxor in Egypt

Luxor at night

Egypt (Eyewitness Travel Guides) (Paperback)

The Rough Guide to Egypt 7 (Rough Guide Travel Guides) (Paperback)

Global Treasures LUXOR Egypt – DVD

Cairo, Luxor and Aswan, 3rd (Cadogan Guides Cairo, Luxor, Aswan) (Paperback)

(Photo taken from Flickr)

Abu Simbel on Google Maps:

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Over the ages, the temples were lost to the sands of time, with sand covering them up; it was only in 1813 that Swiss orientalist JL Burckhardt discovered the top of the main temple, and it was only in another visit in 1817 that the Italian explorer Giovanni Belzoni (with whom Burckhardt had shared information about the visit) managed to enter the temple, and it was after that visit that the temple became famous among tourists. One curious fact is about why the temple is named ‘Abu Simbel’. This is apparently because there was a young boy who would guide the early discoverers to the site, and the temple got named after him.
The main view that people have of the temple is of the rock-cut façade where there are the four colossal seated figures of Ramses. This facade has impressive dimensions, being one 119 feet wide, and 100 feet high, and the colossal statues themselves are 67 feet in height. At the top of the pylon, is a row of stone baboons, (known as Watchers of the Dawn), with them being shown with their hands raised in adoration of the (rising) sun. The Egyptians believed baboons played a role in helping the sun god Ra defeat the darkness of night and so were believed sacred to the worship of the rising sun.
Another interesting fact about the design of the temples was the fact that they were designed to catch the rays of the sun on 2 specific days of the year – on February and October 20, the rays of the sun would get inside the depth of the temple and in a wonder of design, shine on the sculpture on the back wall, with just the exception of statue of Ptah (the god connected with the Underworld who always remained in the dark). There is no complete clarity on the reasons for these 2 dates, with supposition being that these dates are the king’s birthday and coronation day respectively, no confirmation though. When the temple was moved to prevent it from going underwater, this link was maintained.

How to get to Abu Simbel: Given that it is one of the most visited tourist site, there is a well defined way of getting there.

By flight: This is a less taken option, but there are flights from Cairo and Aswan to Abu Simbel. Egypt Air (http://www.egyptair.com) provides flights on this route.

By car: Because of security issues, foreigners cannot travel by car.

By bus: There are twice a day convoys that go from Aswan to Abu Simbel by coach or minibus, with police escort. These can be booked in advance, either through your travel agent, or through the hotel where you are booked.

Blogs / Articles:

1. Detailed view of Abu Simbel, including details of the temple (Wikipedia)

The complex consists of two temples. The larger one is dedicated to Ra-Harakhty, Ptah and Amun, Egypt’s three state deities of the time, and features four large statues of Ramesses II in the facade. The smaller temple is dedicated to the goddess Hathor, personified by Nefertari, Ramesses’s most beloved wife (in total, the pharaoh had some 200 wives and concubines). The temple is now open to the public.

2. Many photos at virtualtourist.com (link)

3. Travelblog.com (link)

4. Egypt’s Abu Simbel (link)

There are two temples in the complex. The larger one is dedicated to Egypt’s three deities (Re-Herakhty, Ptah, Amen) while the smaller temple is honored to goddess Hathor. As you enter these temples, you can see Ramses’ statues all around and for you to understand, Pharaoh Ramses has over two hundred wives and concubines.

5. catswhistertours.com (link)

Memories of Abu Simbel will linger with me for a long time, not least because the visit entailed a 2.30am start and a long coach drive through the desert to reach the site just after dawn broke. Like many equivalent sites in Egypt I felt I was just part of a mass tourism production line with quality of information and the overall visitor experience somewhat mediocre. Compared to this the quality of information etc., at a typical Historic Scotland site is on a different (higher) level, but that said the climates are not comparable and Egypt is not Scotland.

6. The Abu Simbel Relocation (link)

Lost once to the sands of the desert, Abu Simbel was almost lost for a second time when the construction of the Aswan High Dam threatened to submerge the site under the waters of Lake Nasser. The Egyptian government along with UNESCO and a team of engineers, scientists and archaeologists worked for four years to relocate the monument 200 feet from the original site.

7. Hotels in Sbu Simbel (link)

Nefertari Hotel Abu Simbel – This hotel offers comfortable accommodations and quality services to Abu Simbel travelers. It is situated along Antonion Ayouyo Street near T Lake Nasser. The city center is merely 2 kilometers away and the Abu Simbel Airport is merely 3 kilometers away.

8. Description of Abu Simbel by Professor Yasser Metwally along with photos and videos (link)

Between the legs and on each of their sides stand smaller statues of members of the royal family. The smaller statues of relatives were probably, for the first southern colossus: Queen Nefretari by the left leg, the king’s mother, the great wife of Seti I, Muttuya by his right leg, and Prince Amenhirkhopshef in front. For the second southern colossus, Princess Bent’anta stood by the left leg, Princess Nebettawyby the left, and one unnamed female figure, probably that of a lesser royal wife named Esenofre.

9. Description of the temple (link)

Four colossal 20 meter statues of the pharaoh with the double Atef crown of Upper and Lower Egypt decorate the facade of the temple, which is 35 meters wide and is topped by a frieze with 22 baboons, worshippers of the sun and flank the entrance. The colossal statues were sculptured directly from the rock in which the temple was located before it was moved. All statues represent Ramesses II, seated on a throne and wearing the double crown of Upper and Lower Egypt. The statue to the left of the entrance was damaged in an earthquake, leaving only the lower part of the statue still intact. The head and torso can still be seen at the statue’s feet.

Photos of Abu Simbel: No Photos allowed inside the temple.

1. At the door of Nefertari (Ramses wife) temple in Abu Simbel, Egypt right before sunrise (link)

2. Photos of the temple and relief paintings (link)

3. Photos of Abu Simbel at travelphoto.net (link)

4. Abu Simbel Photos at trekearth.com (link)

5. Large photos at this blog (link)

6. Photo Gallery of Abu Simbel at National Geographic (link)

7. Photos at Fotosearch (link)

8. Photos inside the temple at Abu Simbel, some beautiful photos (link)

9. Links to more photos at Infohub.com (link)

10. Photos of Abu Simbel with description (link)

Videos about Abu Simbel at Youtube:

See Abu Simbel in Egypt – Things to do before you die – BBC

Travelogue about Egypt by John Sawyer

Abu Simbel Two Temples Egypt

Egypt’s most famous temple, a clip from “King Tut, Ramses and Me”, a free Intrepid Berkeley Explorer video of time travel in Egypt

Aswan/Abu Simbel

Global Treasures – ABU SIMBEL – Egypt

Some books / Videos:

The Mysteries of Abu Simbel: Ramesses II and the Temples of the Rising Sun (Paperback)

Global Treasures ABU SIMBEL Egypt:

National Geographic: Engineering Egypt (2007)

Historic Print (S): The sixty-five foot portrait statues of Ramses II, before rockhewn temple of Abu Simbel

Luxor Illustrated: With Aswan, Abu Simbel, and the Nile (Paperback)

Abu Simbel Posters:
1. Ramses Temple and the Nile Shoreline at Abu Simbel Photographic Poster Print by David Boyer, 56×42
2. Night View of the Temple and Statues at Abu Simbel Photographic Poster Print by O. Louis Mazzatenta, 64×48
3. Large Statues in Temple at Abu Simbel Photographic Poster Print by Eliot Elisofon, 24×32
4. The Temple of Re-Herakhte for Ramses II, Abu Simbel Photographic Poster Print by Robert Harding, 16×12

Now, Aswan is most famous for the Nile, and this is probably one of the easily accessible places where the Nile is very beautiful, flowing through a variety of different surroundings and contrasting features such as amber desert and granite rocks, round emerald islands covered in palm groves and tropical plants.

What is the origin of the city ? Well, the word Aswan is derived, as would be expected, from an Ancient Egyptian word Swan, which means “the market” (that is how far back Aswan was famous for its markets and souks)! This basis of being an important marketing center was also based on the fact that it was located on the main trading route between Egypt and the southern lands, where gold, slaves and ivory passed into Egypt. The governors of the 6th Dynasty sent many expeditions to explore the many African countries located to the south, and most of these started from Aswan! It was also the major source of granite, sandstone and quartzite used in the construction of the various monuments throughout Egypt! Egypt has a long history of Gods and Goddesses, and in earlier times the God Khoum was the major God of the city, but in later periods the Goddess Isis, Goddess of magic and maternity, became the main patron God, with a temple being built for her at Philae.

What are some of the places to go to if you were to visit Aswan ?

Nubia Museum (wikipedia) – A beautiful museum displaying Geological, Pharaonic, Roman, Coptic and Islamic ages.

Elephantine island – The island divides the Nile into 2 parts, 2 channels, just opposite the city of Aswan. It has a small museum set beautiful gardens, and also has ruins of temples.

The Aga Khan Mausoleum: A beautiful Mausoleum, built on the top of a Hill, containing the remains of Sultan Mahommed Shah, Aga Khan III (November 2, 1877 – July 11, 1957)

The monastery of St. Simeon: This was a monastery that is of ancient origin, built in the 10th century AD, and then destroyed soon after in 1173 by Salah-al-Din. A great place to see.

The unfinished Obelisk: This is supposed to be a replica of the Obelisk now in place in Rome (Lateran Obelisk at Karnak), it was abandoned due to a crack as it was being carved out of a rock. Seems to be very popular with visitors.

The tombs of the Nobles: These belong to the princes of the Old Kingdom, and have been carved out of rock. They are located on the West Side of the Nile, opposite Aswan. The same hill is also the location of a Coptic monastery.

The High Dam: World famous, it is known as an engineering marvel. The Dam was built in the 1960′s, together with the Aswan dam (located 6 km away), it produces electricity for the whole of Egypt. The Dam is part of the tourist circuit, and a must see for all visitors.

Kalabsha temple: Read more at Wikipedia. The temple was shifted the present location in 1970, and were build of sandstone by the Roman emperor Octavius Augustus.

Philae temple: The Philae temple has a sound and light show at night which should not be missed. The temple was moved at the same time as Abu Simbel, shifted to Agilika lsland about 500 m from its original place on Philae Island due to the construction of the High Dam.

Weather: Because of the location of Aswan, just north of the Tropic Of Cancer, the city enjoys a very hot climate throughout the year! It is advised to cover your head when walking about and drink water constantly.

How To Get To Aswan:

By flight:
EgyptAir runs daily flights to Aswan and the flight duration is about 70 minutes from Cairo. Flights land at Aswan International Airport, located 15Km to the south west of the city.

By train:
You can reach Aswan by train from Cairo or Luxor; the train station is located in the city centre.

Hotels in Aswan

Aswan has many hotels, comfortable and luxurious.

Amongst Aswan’s most famous hotels, is the Old Cataract Hotel, which was built in 1925 (it is the most expensive hotel in Aswan today!). The hotel has witnessed many of the important guests and dignitaries who have come to visit Aswan; it was where Agatha Christie stayed when she wrote her book “Death On The Nile”.

External sites / Blogs:

1. Nubia Museum in Aswan (link)

The Nubia Museum harbors the history of the “Land of Gold” as the word Nubia in the Hieroglyphic, language of ancient Egypt in which pictorial symbols are used to represent meaning and sounds, means the “Land of Gold”…Hence, this land, over times, was abounding in monumental treasures. The Nubia Museum, in Aswan, as a matter of fact, is deemed to be one of the most
important Egyptian museums. A number of factors have combined together, yielding the magnificence of such museum, as it is the only unique open museum of its kind.

2. Visit Aswan Egypt (link)

The city of Aswan is famous for its large number of mosques, and Muslims from around the world visit this holy city. Non-Muslim travellers who visit the region will appreciate the unique architecture of these mosques.

3. Aswan and Luxor (link)

Abu Simbel was built by Ramses II (I’m pretty sure, we have been bombarded with Egyptian history and I could very well be confused) and was originally 4 figures including him and his wife cut into the side of a hill, there is then a small temple inside the hill behind the figures. However when the Aswan dam was built Abu Simbel would be flooded, so they moved the entire structure up the hill in the 1960-70’s. The figures on the outside are amazing and the inside is just as impressive. There is still colour on the walls..over 3000 years old! At the far end of the inside of the temple is a statue of Ramses II and every year on October 22nd the temple was built so that the sun would hit his face just for that day, which was the day of his coronation.

4. Madam, tip my horse, too (link), with some great photos.

The trip to the Northern Quarries was hot and lasted half an hour. A short brief story of the Unfinished Obelisk, photo opportunity and straight back to the bus without a glance at any shops..Next stop , Aswan High Dam at Lake Nasser which is the huge source of energy for Egypt. .
We then proceeded to what I think is the loveliest temple – Philae temple on a tiny island on the island called Philae. Built by the Romans, the rich greenery contrast with the lovely golden monuments and seeing it during sunset made the it really beautiful.

Photos of Aswan:

1. West Bank of Nile opposite Aswan (link)

2. Photo of Unfinished Obelisk (link)

See towering mountains reach up to a clear blue sky, and seem to touch it. Hear the rhythmic chant of Buddhist monks in an ancient monastery where time stands still, in a land with a mix of religions living peacefully with each other. See the rushing waters of an icy river, the Indus (Sindhu) surge down from a glacial height. This is all part of what Ladakh (the Land of Passes and the Roof of the World) awaits you. From age-old Buddhist monasteries to exciting adventure tours, Leh (the capital of Ladakh) has a lot to offer. Explore a Gompa, go mountaineering in the Himalayas with sheer slopes and rocky cliffs, camp on the Ladakh plateau, trek on treacherous and breathtaking routes and see rare mountain goats ascend the slopes. Tour a land that will amaze you with its stark beauty and delight you with the warmth of the Ladakhi people.
Leh has a cold, arid climate with long, harsh winters from October to early March, with minimum temperatures well below freezing for most of the winter. The city gets occasional snowfall during winter. The weather in the remaining months is generally fine, and leads to a tourist season that peaks between July and September.

Leh (capital of Ladakh) on Google Maps:

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Travellers flock to Ladakh from all corners of the globe, and Ladakh is becoming an adventure for a large number of Indians as well. This trans-Himalayan district of Jammu and Kashmir has now become a favourite of both adventure freaks and culture enthusiasts, and a good place to consider going to when you want to avoid those commercial tourist locations.
Leh, the capital of Ladakh is a fascinating destination. Monasteries that seem from the ages, quaint lanes, colorful markets, friendly people, and stunning views of the Himalayas make Leh an exotic destination. Leh is where your adventure in Ladakh begins. You can go trekking through the mountainous terrain of Ladakh, or even enjoy a game of polo in a high altitude arena or watch a local contest of archery between local residents. Mountaineering, white water rafting and wildlife tours are other adventurous attractions of Leh.
Leh is is bounded by Pakistan occupied Kashmir in the West, China in the north and eastern part, and Lahul Spiti of Himachal Pradesh in South East.

Major tourist attractions

• Leh Palace: This is a building built to reflect the grand traditions of Tibetan architecture, and which is said to have inspired the more famous Potala palace in Lhasa (Tibet), built half a century later. The palace was built long back, in the 17th century and had nine storeys with different floors for the royals and for those who server them, but it is now dilapidated and deserted (It was the home of the royal family until they were exiled to Stok in the 1830s). Within the palace are Buddhist wall paintings, centuries old ‘tankas’ or painted scrolls and other artefacts. Above the palace, at the top of the Namgyal hill, is the Victory Tower, built to commemorate Ladakh’s victory over the Balti Kashmir armies in the early 16th century.
• Leh Monastery and Gompa: The central area of Ladakh has the greatest concentration of major Buddhist monasteries or gompas, incredibly beautiful and a must see. Of the twelve situated on or near the Indus, the oldest monastery is that of Lamayuru, which is believed to have been a sacred site for the pre-Buddhist religion known as Bon. The monasteries of Phiyang, Hemis and Chemrey were all founded under the direct patronage of members of the ruling Namgyal dynasty. Phyang represents an act of penance by the 16th century King Tashi Namgyal for the violence and treachery by which he reached the throne.
• Spituk Monastery – The Gompa is famous for a wonderful view of the commanding river, the Indus. Further, the gompa stands on the top of a hillock, 8 Kms. from Leh. Many icons of Buddha and five thankas are found in 15th century monastery. There is also a collection of ancient masks, antique arms, and an awe inspiring image of Mahakal.
• Shanti Stupa: Shanti Stupa is a fairly recent monument, build with the support of the Japanese Government, and build by a Japanese who wanted to spread Buddhism around the world. The Shanti Stupa is located at Changspa, on the hilltop, and was inaugurated by Dalai Lama in 1985. Its state of the art work attracts a lot of tourists to Ladakh and is spectacular to watch. The stupa is connected by a ‘motorable’ road and a steep flight of stairs. The view from the top is great, and you can stop for a snack in the tea shop, and enjoy the panoramic view of the chain of mountains and the peaceful little village of Changspa (having typical Ladakhi houses built along a gushing stream), and the towering Namgyal Tsemo in the distance.
• Shey Gompa: 15 Kms upstream from Leh, a 7.5 metre high copper statue of Buddha, plated with gold, and the largest of its kind, is installed in the palace.
• Soma Gonpa (Jokhang): The Ladakh Buddhist Association in 1957 built the small Gonpa opposite to SBI, in the main bazaar, which is open throughout the day for visitors. The Gonpa contains a statue of Joyo Rinpochey (crowned Buddha).
• Stok Palace Museum: 17 km from Leh town, this museum exhibits precious stones, thangkas, coins, royal crowns and dresses and prayer instruments.
• Namgyal Tsemo Gompa – The Namgyal Tsemo Gompa was built in 1430 by King Tashi Namgyal on Namgyal Tsemo peak overlooking the town. The monastery contains a three-story high solid gold idol of Maitrieya Buddha (future Buddha also called laughing buddha) and a one-storied statue of Avaloketesvara and Manjushri along with ancient manuscripts and frescoes. The fort above this gompa is ruined, but the views of Leh from here are breathtakingly beautiful. The associated temples here remain intact, but they are kept locked except during the morning and evening hours when a monk toils up the hills from Sankar Gompa to attend to the butter – lamps in front of the images.
• Leh Mosque – Apart from all the Buddhist structures, the striking green and white Leh Mosque, an exquisite work of Turko-Iranian architecture, stand in the Main Bazaar of Leh. This historical mosque was built in 1666-67 A.D. consequent to an agreement between the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb and then ruler of Ladakh, Deldan Namgyal.
• The Nubra Valley – The Nubra valley gets clad in endless bushes of yellow and pink wild roses. However, once the rose season is over, a carpet of wild lavender lies gently on it. Nubra is also a relatively warmer valley in Ladakh making it perfect for crops and fruits to grow. Diskit Village located near Khalsar, dotted with apricot plantations is one of the larger village of the Nubra valley. The road between Diskit and the quaint little Hunder Village winds through a gorgeous stretch of sand dunes. A quiet and pleasant evening can be spent amidst nature with snowcapped peaks in the background
• Pangong Lake – This lake is situated at a elevation of 14,000ft. In the Eastern sector of Ladakh, at a distance of 154km. from Leh across Changla pass (17,000ft.). This lake is one of the largest and most beautiful natural brakish lakes in the country. It is located 1/3rd in India, and 2/3rd in China, and one needs a permit to visit the Lake. The trip to the lake is half the pleasure of the lake itself.

Things to do:

Trekking : Leh is a trekker’s paradise. The treks from Spituk to the Markha valley and Lamayuru gompa to Chiling village alongside the Zanskar River are the most popular treks in the region. Another trek route is from Likir to Temisgam. Treks are open from the June end upto mid October. The passes for trekking are as high as 5,000 m in altitude, so you need to attempt these only if you are fit, and have experience. Many trekking agencies in Leh offer trek packages with a guide, packhorses, food and supplies.

Polo : Polo is also very popular in Leh. Apart from a well-maintained polo ground, regular matches and competitions are organised during the Ladakh festival.

River Rafting : One might also take fun of rafting in the Zanskar River in the month of July to September.

Places to stay:

Mehek Guest House
Green Land, Ladakh Hotel
Khangri Hotel, Ladakh
Laser Mo Hotel
Hotel Lumbini
List of places to stay (link to post)
Chamba Camp
The Grand Dragon
Hotel Caravan Center
Hotel Cho Palace
Hotel Dragon
Hotel Gawaling International
Hotel Holiday Ladakh
Hotel Khanglachan
Hotel Mandala
Hotel Lotus
Hotel Namgyal Palace
Hotel Omasila
Hotel Royal Palace
Hotel Shambha-La (link)
Hotel Spic N Span
Hotel Yak Tail
Sangaylay Guest House
Hotel Singge Palace (link)

By Air: The airport is approximately 8 kms away from Leh.

By rail: Jammu is the closest among all with a distance of 620 Kms.

By road: Kashmir valley is the closest place to approach Leh. The approach road to Leh is either through (434 km) Srinagar-Kargil-Leh, or through (473 km) Manali-Keylong-Leh. Both roads are open only on a seasonal basis.

External articles / blogs:

1. Biking from Srinagar to Leh (link to article):

Early on the 10th June we started for Leh. After 8.5KM of uphill we took a 5KM deviation from the main road to visit the Likir monastery. The ride from Likir monastery till the main road was an easy downhill and later the road was relatively flat till Nimmu (our Lunch halt). After climbing up till the Magnetic Hill and facing some heavy wind which made even standing difficult we reached the Pattar Sahib Gurudwara. The road beyond the Gurudwara was a neatly paved downhill for more than 10KM. This stretch gave us an oppurtunity to touch a maximum speed of 77.7KMPH and soon we entered the busy Leh city!

2. Proposed drive to Leh on the 4th of July (link to article)
3. Drive from Srinagar to Leh with some great photos (link to article)
4. Complete guide to Leh-Manali Road (link to article)

It is the difficulty involved in traversing the road that attracts travelers to make the journey from Manali to Leh by road. Nowhere else in India do you get to drive hundreds of kilometers without seeing a single permanent habitation. The road runs above ten thousand feet for almost entire journey, and the highest point on the road is above 18,000 feet. The landscapes are unparalleled. The superb greenery on the way out of Manali will be the last stretch of abundant vegetation that you encounter until the day you return from Ladakh

5. Ice hockey in Leh (link to article)

The famous Karzoo Ice Hockey Rink has become the most sought after destination in Leh during winters for the localites as well as tourists having a passion for Ice Hockey. It is the highest Ice Hockey rink in the country, which is situated at an altitude of 3483 meters above sea level. 2009 has been an year of achievement for the local players from Ladakh, where they got an opportunity to represent their county in International Ice Hockey Federation Challenge Cup of Asia held at Abu Dhabi.

6. Khardung La – World’s Highest Motorable Road (link to article)

Khardung La (la means pass in Tibetan) (elevation 5359 m) is a high mountain pass located in the Ladakh region, Jammu and Kashmir, India. The local pronunciation is “Khardong La” or “Khardzong La,” but, as with most names in Ladakh, the romanised spelling varies. It is the highest motorable road in the world as signs put up by the Border Roads Organization proudly proclaim. The views from this pass are no doubt breathtaking – with the Ladakh range to the south and Karakoram to the north. And snow capped peaks at almost touching distance all around. The pass experiences up to 10 feet of snow in winters, with temperatures dropping to 40 degrees Celsius below zero. Even though temperatures in summers average 20 degrees Celsius, the weather can turn for the worse suddenly.

7. Not walking to Leh (link to article):

We traveled to Leh, in northern Kashmir, a few years ago. Good sample-the-local-culture tourists that we are, we traveled on crowded buses, hitchhiked on trucks, and once, memorably, on a fully loaded gasoline tanker truck driven by a dozing driver. One thing we did not try to do much was hike.

8. Whether safe to plan to drive in October on the highways (link to forum post)

I’m looking at doing the trip from manali to leh. Trying to coordinate the trip with some friends overseas and the only time that works for all of us would be early – mid october. Also we’d only have 12 days from arriving in delhi to leaving delhi. So first of all how trafficable is the route at this time of year – I’ve heard it officially closes in september. We would be self supported on mountainbikes so not opposed to a bit of snow and the like but don’t want to do anything stupid. Also what would we find in the way of tent villages and permanent villages along the way. As for the 12 days (probably 10 by the time you bus out to manali and fly back from leh) is it realistic in this time. I don’t expect or want this to be an easy ride but I don’t want to bite off more then I can chew.

9. Trip to Leh (link to article)

For the spiritually inclined, the monasteries of Thiksey, Hemios, Spitup, and Lamayuru provide perfect refuge. Most monasteries also have small guest houses where visitors may stay and participate in Buddhist rituals with the resident monks. These monasteries offer great insight into the culture of Leh – with their museums holding great treasures of tourist interest. Religion plays an important part in Leh’s culture and it is advisable to listen carefully to your guide so as to not disrespect any religious sentiments.

10. Leh and Ladakh (link to article)
11. Long trip covering Leh and Amarnath (link to forum post)
12. Ketchup with Aubs (link to article)

The capital city of Leh offers a rare insight into what Tibet was like before the Chinese invaded the country. It also boasts the highest golf course in the world at the Indian army base (at about 3,200m). Permission can be sort to play a round. Similar to the Gulf, you carry a piece of artificial turf around and aim for the “greens”, which are actually brown – a mix of oil and sand which offers a seriously challenging putting surface.

13. Manali-Leh highway (link to article):

From Manali, a pretty village in the green foothills of the Himalayas, the journey takes two days and ends up 500kms north in Leh, Ladakh’s capital – a staggering 3505m above sea level. It’s certainly an experience worth having, but the combination of Indian driving and a disconcerting lack of barriers on the windy mountain roads makes for a nail-biting trip. Rather alarmingly, our driver was suffering with altitude sickness and kept momentarily blacking out, reminding me to ‘grab the wheel’ if he fainted. On the plus side, he did own the full Bob Marley collection which blared most of the way, so, you know, swings and roundabouts.

14. Adventure on the Leh-Manali highway (link to article):

arlier this week I took a 20-hour jeep ride from Leh to Manali. Their were 10 people (I was the only non-Indian) in a jeep that was made for 7, so it was uncomfortable. Despite, the discomcomfort, or perhaps because of it, it was a ride I will never forgot. The scenery was stunning, and the road was terrifying. The road was rarely more then 1 lane wide and was on the edge of a mountain atleast 75% of the time.

15. manali-Leh highway (link to article)

The scenery is breathtakingly beautiful. The road is only open between June and October, and by this time the landscape is a vast expanse of barren, snow-capped mountainous and deep canyons with rivers running through it. There’s the odd house or tiny settlement along the way, but the most people you’ll see are at the numerous rest-stops where drinks and snacks are sold. There are no toilets though – you’ll have to bare your bum at the side of the road – not so bad higher up where you can hide behind a mound of snow, but pretty embarrassing in the open, barren expanses lower down.

16. Wonderful post on travel through India (with Leh at the lower section) (link to article):

I visited Thiksey Monastery (or Gompa) first, leaving at sunrise and watching the incredible changes of light on the harsh, bare, and beautiful mountains. Thiksey sprawls down a mountainside, and has the usual monastery accoutrements of small shrines, huge Buddhas, and many steps. What it did not have many of, that day, was monks, as they were mostly visiting in the village for a funeral. It was fascinating to wander around, though, and is very aesthetically pleasing.
The monasteries have incredible artwork, but what I loved best about this area is the flowers. The garden at my guesthouse is a small treasure, and everywhere at the “gompas” (monasteries) and along the roadsides in the valleys there are flowers of all shapes and sizes, most noticeably vivid hollyhocks. They have such a short season that everything seems to grow with abandon.

Photos of Leh / Ladakh:

1. Photos from Srinagar to Leh (link to article)

2. Photos of Leh-Manali highway (link to photos)
3. Beautiful photos of Leh (link to post)
4. Photos at thisismyindia.com (link)
5. Official site (link)
6. Leh Photo Gallery at world66.com (link)
7. Photo Gallery at pbase.com (link)
8. Blog + Photo Gallery (link)

Map of Vatican City (placement within Rome) on Google Maps (may need to zoom in)

View Larger Map

A great site with information on timings for many places inside the Vatican, dress code, mass timings, climbing the cupola, grottoes, restrooms, St. Peter’s Tomb, seeing the pope, Sistine Chapel, Tours (link)

Hours: St. Peter’s Basilica is open daily, Apr-Sep 7:00-19:00;
Oct-Mar 7:00-18:00
Treasury Museum: 9:00 – 18:15 (Apr – Sep) 9:00 – 17:15 p.m. (Oct – Mar)
Grottoes: 7:00-18:00 (Apr – Sep) 7:00-17:00 (Oct – Mar)
Cupola: 8:00 – 18:00 (Apr – Sep) 8:00 – 16:45 (Oct – Mar)
Scavi Office: weekdays 9:00 – 17:00

Vatican Museum & Sistine Chapel – (Vatican website)
Hours – Closed on many holidays, check the Vatican Website
Mar-Oct 8:45-15:20, Exit 16:45 Saturdays 8:45 – 12:20 Exit 13:45
Nov-Feb 8:45 – 12:20, Exit 13:45
Closed Sundays, except the last Sunday of the month which is free.
Regular Price – 12 Euros

Virtual Tour of St. Paul’s Basilica Outside the Walls available at this link (click here)

Virtual tours of the Vatican Museums at this link (click here)

Information on St. Peter’s Basilica (Wikipedia – including the history of the construction of the Church) and Square in the Vatican City (link), (Photos from EWTN Catholic Network)

For people visiting the Vatican, it is always a challenge for them to decide what to visit. Here are some links to articles that describe what to visit:

Article in the Telegraph about how to visit the museums (click here)

Few visitors to the Vatican Museums come away unmoved by what they see – especially in the Sistine Chapel. The sheer scale of Michelangelo’s ambition and achievement (he painted more than 600 figures in all), the coherence of the compositions and the consistency of the artistic quality is heart-stopping. The problem is how to enjoy it. Throughout most of the year, the sheer number of people cramming into the chapel, and especially into the Raphael Rooms, undermines the whole experience. It’s like trying to read metaphysical poetry in a rugby scrum.
Top 20:
Raphael paintings and tapestries, Aldo-Brandini Wedding Fresco, Horses heads, The Ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, The Last Judgment, Fra Angelico: Chapel of Nicholas V (for more, including descriptions, visit the actual article)

Some useful tips at this forum post at fodors.com (link)

The Sistine Chapel is part of the Vatican Museums and furthest from the entrance. There is an admission fee. For an additional fee, you can prebook a timed entry to avoid waiting in line. Anecdotal evidence suggests that lines are short or non-existent after about 1 pm.

http://biglietteriamusei.vatican.va/musei/tickets/index.html

There is no fee for entry to St. Peter’s Basilica, but there is a security line, which generally moves quite fast.

Tips from ehow.com (link)

Select the day you want to visit Vatican City. Check the official Vatican website for events you want to attend or avoid, including the Pope’s weekly public appearance in St. Peter’s Square.

Private visit to the Vatican Gardens and Sistine Chapel (link)

Detailed description of visit to the Vatican City with photos (link)

Finally, we moved into the Sistine chapel where no speaking, photography or videography is allowed. It is difficult to comprehend the scope of the Michelangelo ceiling from individual images – they can never recreate the feeling of looking up at this work in its whole. This is also the room in which the Pope is elected by the college of cardinals and seems to resonate with history and untold secrets. It was far less crowded in the chapel from the last time I visited, and we were able to take seats along the benches that line the perimeter. From here we could comfortably take in the various panels without the sort of reverse vertigo that you get from walking in slow circles with your head tilted back. Certainly the panel showing God creating Adam is captivating, but so are many of the less famous images that lead to this centre piece.

Ticket Office online of the Vatican Museums (for skipping the lines, for getting guided tours, for school groups, and for pilgrimages) (link)

A pilgrim’s report (link)

As Christian and Catholic, I will never conceive a visit to Rome without visiting the Vatican City, the spiritual centre of the Christendom, with the famous Saint Peter’s Basilica and the other three Basilicas located outside the Holy See walls: Saint John in Lateran, Saint Mary Major and Saint Paul outside the Walls, the impressive Vatican Museums, the beautiful Gardens and the fantastic St. Peter’s Square.

Vatican City, Italy – Sistenth Chapel, St Peter’s Basilica

2 parts of a virtual tour of the Vatican (an excerpt from a National Geographic documentary titled “Inside the Vatican”).

A virtual tour of the Vatican (Part 1)