Road to Ladakh
Perched on the western end of the Tibetan plateau in the great Himalayan range, Ladakh was an independent kingdom for 900 years up until the 19th century. In modern times Ladakh has come under Indian jurisdiction. Ethnically and culturally closer to Tibet and a fascinating mix of Buddhism, Islam and ancient belief systems, Ladakh remains enchanting and remote.
Its geographical isolation has maintained traditional ways of life much revered by many although the hardships of village life and work in altitudes up to 4500 meters (15,000ft) with surrounding peaks of nearly 8000 meters (26 000ft) are not to be underestimated. Possessing the highest motorable roads in the world, much of the region is only accessible by road for a short period in the summer.
This image series from 2013 explores the majesty of the terrain from Himachal Pradesh to Leh, the timelessness of culture and the geopolitical tensions of a region whose territorial boundaries remain in dispute between India, Pakistan and China. This body of work is further expanded upon in the book Departures.
Mount Mulkila, Himachel Pradesh 21,391ft (6,517meters).
Buddhist prayer flags near Suraj Tal lake, Himachel Pradesh
Shepherd, Tsarap River, Leh-Manali Highway
Lachulungla Pass, Leh-Manali Higway
Military convoy, Leh-Manali Highway
Military base in Martian-esque landscape with cricket pitch, Lee-Manali Highway
Street scene, Thiksey Monastery, Leh, Ladakh
Traveller, Leh-Manali Highway, Ladakh
Stupa, Leh-Manali Highway, Rotang Pass, Himachel Pradesh
Thiksey Buddhist Monastery, Leh, Ladakh
Buddhist monks, Sankar Monastery, Leh, Ladakh
Young Buddhist monks planting the garden, Leh, Ladakh
Road to Changla Pass and Pangong Lake, Leh, Ladakh
Road Labourer near Changla Pass 17,598ft (5.059 meters) Ladakh
Road Labourers near Changla Pass 17,598ft (5.059 meters) Ladakh
Road Labourers near Changla Pass 17,598ft (5.059 meters) Ladakh
Road Labourer near Changla Pass 17,598ft (5.059 meters) Ladakh
Himalayan Yaks, Ladakh
Pangong Lake, Ladakh
Thiksey Monastery, Leh, Ladakh
Buddhist Monastery, Leh, Ladakh
Stupas, Leh, Ladakh
Along the Leh-Manali Highway, Ladakh
View from Leh, Ladakh