Ladak more commonly spelt Ladakh, today is still a land of considerable mystique. At the crossroads of Asia its barren landscapes, mountains and passes have long been a focus for trade, exploration and religion. From the plains of India to the high plateau of Tibet, to Chinese Turkestan, the Pamir and the Hindu Kush, all routes converge on the Ladakhi capital of Leh. The book is part travelogue but more a handbook about the geography, climate, culture and life of the people, their religion, etc.