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India.com
24-07-2025
- India.com
5 Motorcycle Rides From Ladakh So Beautiful They'll Give You Goosebumps
High deserts. Snow-capped peaks. Endless horizons. Few places on earth stir the soul like Ladakh, and the best way to drink in its drama is on two wheels. Straddling your bike on Ladakh's roads means exchanging ordinary for extraordinary. Every turn reveals a new vista: sapphire lakes, barren moonscapes, hidden villages clinging to the cliffs. These aren't just rides. They are journeys that chart your heart's wildest maps. Why motorcycle rides from Ladakh feel differentYou're not following a guidebook path. You're blazing your own trail. Ladakh's highways are both ancient trade routes and modern marvels carved through the Himalayas. On a motorcycle the wind sharpens your senses—each rev echoes off granite walls, each distant peak dares you forward. Below the helmet, the engine hums; above you, the sky feels wider than anywhere else in India. Tired of the same jeep tours? These five rides await 1. Ladakh to Nubra Valley via Khardung La – The Roof of the World Distance: 120 km • Elevation: 5,359 mKhardung La is legendary as one of the highest motorable passes on earth. From Leh the road climbs in hairpin turns up barren slopes that shimmer with mineral hues. At the summit you'll find prayer flags snapping in the wind and a signboard that begs for a photo. The descent into Nubra Valley feels like passing through a portal: sudden green oases of poplar trees, sand dunes where Bactrian camels wander, and the gentle flow of the Shyok River. Camp under a starlit sky in Hunder or explore Diskit Monastery atop a rocky hill. 2. Ladakh to Pangong Tso via Chang La – Mirror of the Sky Distance: 160 km • Elevation: 5,360 mPangong Tso needs no introduction: it was immortalized in films and travelogues for its color-shifting waters. But getting there on a bike makes every kilometer a thrill. First comes Chang La, a lesser-known high pass that demands respect—its loose gravel tests your balance and your mettle. Then the road pitches down into valleys dotted with nomad camps and wild horses. When Pangong appears, its vast blue expanse seems to float between sky and mountain. Spend a night lakeside for sunrise reflections that no camera can fully capture. 3. Ladakh to Tso Moriri via Debring – Serenity Beyond the Crowds Distance: 220 km • Elevation: 4,522 mIf you seek solitude, Tso Moriri is your sanctuary. The ride begins on the Leh–Manali highway before veering off toward Debring—an untouched highland hamlet. From there the road narrows into raw, rugged track. You'll cross the Changtang Plateau, home to wild kiang (Tibetan wild asses) and blue sheep. When Tso Moriri finally emerges, its calm waters mirror distant snow peaks with a stillness that stops your bike in its tracks. Wildlife enthusiasts will spot migratory birds like the black‐necked crane, while cultures seekers can visit Korzok Monastery perched on the lakeshore. 4. Leh to Lamayuru via Nimmu Road – Moonland and Monasteries Distance: 135 km • Elevation: 3,969 mBegin early from Leh, cutting across the confluence at Nimmu where the Zanskar meets the Indus. The road snakes through the Zanskar Gorge and opens into landscapes that resemble another planet. Lamayuru Monastery, one of Ladakh's oldest, sits astride golden cliffs that glow at dusk. The surrounding 'Moonland' badlands are perfect for off-bike exploration—hike among mushroom-shaped rocks or pause at Sangam Viewpoint where river currents swirl below. 5. Ladakh to Kargil via Fotu La and Mulbekh – History and High Passes Distance: 215 km • Elevation: 4,108 m (Fotu La)This is a ride with layers of story woven into the mountains. From Leh you follow the Indus River westward, climbing to Fotu La, the highest point on the Srinagar–Leh highway. Beyond, the road undulates into ancient trade towns and war memorials: Mulbekh's towering Buddha rock carvings, the battlefield echoes at Namika La, and the Kargil War Memorial that honors brave soldiers. The descent into Kargil brings a shift from stark high desert to verdant fields along the Suru River. Practical Tips for Your Ladakh Motorcycle Adventure Acclimatize firstSpend at least two days in Leh before tackling high passes. Altitude sickness can strike fast. Choose the right bikeRoyal Enfields are popular for good reason—torque, reliability, and spares availability. Pack smartLayered clothing, waterproof gear, energy bars, extra fuel canisters, and a first-aid kit are must-haves. Ride with respectFollow local speed limits, yield to wildlife and livestock, and support roadside teashops. Check permitsSome areas require Inner Line Permits—get them sorted in Leh before you go. Why These Rides Matter Beyond the Road Motorcycling in Ladakh isn't just an adrenaline fix. It is a way to connect with remote communities, support local homestays and dhabas, and witness ecosystems that survive at the edge of habitability. Your tyres trace the routes of ancient salt caravans and modern explorers alike. Every rupee you spend at a village teashop or a roadside artisan fuels livelihoods that cherish these fragile landscapes. Final Thought Ladakh's highways are more than blacktop and gravel—they are lifelines carved through time. On a motorcycle you move at the speed of wonder, with nothing between you and the mountains but your own courage. So mount up, twist the throttle, and let these five scenic rides reveal the untamed spirit of Ladakh—one breathtaking vista at a time.
Al Etihad
29-06-2025
- Science
- Al Etihad
Cloning camels in UAE: How biotechnology safeguards heritage and strengthens food security
29 June 2025 23:48 SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)Camels, the ships of the desert, hold deep historical and cultural significance in the UAE — and preserving the finest of these animals for future generations has become a key mission for a leading biotechnology centre in the country. The Reproductive Biotechnology Centre in Dubai gained international acclaim in 2009, when it produced the world's first cloned camel, named "Injaz". Since then, numerous camels have been cloned, helping preserve the lineage of the most elite to Aletihad, Dr. Nisar Ahmad Wani, the centre's scientific director, explained the long-term impact of cloning these prized camels. 'By harvesting cells from an elite animal, even after death, we can preserve its genetics indefinitely. These cells are stored in our cell bank and can be used years later to recreate that exact animal,' he said. It's not just about replicating elite camels, Dr. Wani said, 'this technique could also support conservation efforts for endangered species, such as the Bactrian camel'.'We can use dromedaries as surrogate mothers to reproduce Bactrians or insert or delete genes to create genetically modified camels for specific traits,' he said. This technique could also help in the production of genetically modified camels either by insertion or by deletion of some genes in donor cells, Dr. Wani added. In a previous report, another expert highlighted the sentimental value that has been attached to cloning procedures. 'Owners often have a strong emotional bond with their camels, and cloning strengthens these bonds by keeping their beloved mounts close at hand,' Khalifa Al Nuaimi, CEO of the Advanced Scientific Group, said in a recent Aletihad report. The Perfect Desert CompanionsIn terms of genetics, camels are the most ideal desert companions, Dr. Wani said. 'Camels are unique animals that have adapted to survive in harsh agroclimatic conditions,' he said. 'They can thrive on food and water sources that other livestock cannot. Their phenotype — with specialised lips, long eyelashes, and padded feet — is perfectly suited to desert life.'Camels conserve water efficiently, produce concentrated urine, and have physiological traits that enable them to cope with extreme heat and dust storms, making them ideal livestock for arid climates like the conditions in the UAE, Dr. Wani said. 'Camels are fundamental to food security and sustainable agriculture in dry regions,' he emphasised. 'They provide milk, meat, wool, leather, and transport, especially in the UAE's desert ecosystem.'Dr. Wani also noted the growing economic impact of camel racing, milk production, and beauty contests, which have become multimillion-dollar industries. 'Camels are part of the UAE's cultural heritage, but they are also a reliable, climate-resilient resource for future food systems,' he added. Like any species, however, camels vary genetically. Some possess the DNA of champion racers, while others stand out in beauty contests. Certain camels produce higher volumes of milk, making them highly prized in the dairy industry. Cloning Techniques At the Reproductive Biotechnology Centre, advanced techniques such as Somatic Cell Nuclear Transfer (SCNT), commonly known as cloning, and Multiple Ovulation and Embryo Transfer (MOET) are employed to enhance camel production.'With MOET, we can obtain multiple offspring from elite females in one breeding season. Embryos are flushed from a donor and transferred to synchronised surrogate camels,' Dr. Wani explained. 'In SCNT, we use a donor camel's cells, often stored in our cell bank, to produce embryos in the lab. These embryos are then transferred to surrogate mothers. The resulting calves are exact genetic copies of the donor, whether it is a racing male, beauty queen, or high-producing dairy female.'The centre also offers in vitro embryo production, gene banking, natural selection breeding, and the continuous treatment of infertile camels using ultrasound-guided monitoring and hormone therapies. 'Even animals that cannot breed naturally due to injury or age can still produce offspring,' Dr. Wani said. Looking ahead, the expert sees camel science evolving and making more meaningful impact across sectors. 'Selective breeding and assisted reproductive technologies should focus on producing disease-resistant camels and multiplying genetically superior animals to improve the economics for farmers,' Dr. Wani said.
Time of India
18-06-2025
- Time of India
Ladakh in July: A complete travel guide for road trips & treks
Ladakh, or the "Land of High Passes," is an awe-inspiring region nestled in the far north of India. With its harsh but surreal terrain, sparkling lakes, snow-covered mountains, and rich cultural heritage, it beckons hundreds of tourists every year. One of the greatest months to enjoy Ladakh's unparalleled charm is July, a time when the area comes alive with open roads, fair weather, and cultural activity. Why Visit Ladakh in July? July is the peak tourist season in Ladakh. The sun of summer dissolves the remaining winter snow, making every corner of this desert highland accessible to travelers. Skies are mostly blue, days are long and bright, and there is hardly any rain. Contrary to the rest of India, which is experiencing the monsoon, the arid climate of Ladakh guarantees dry, travel-conducive weather in most areas. Road trips Taking a road trip to Ladakh in July is an experience unlike any other. With its stunning scenery, Ladakh is always on the bucket list of adventurers who crave both thrill and tranquility. July has tolerably pleasant weather, making this month the ideal time to venture into this far-off heaven. Here are two travel paths to Leh that are best for road trips. 1. Delhi - Leh - Khardung La - Nubra Valley - Chang La - Tso Pangong - Tso Moriri - Tso Kar From a day at Leh, drive to Nubra Valley through Khardung La, the highest motorable pass in the world. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giao dịch vàng CFDs với mức chênh lệch giá thấp nhất IC Markets Đăng ký Undo Drive through surreal landscapes and see two-humped Bactrian camels at Hunder. Drive on to reach Pangong Tso, which is known for its color-changing landscapes, followed by Tso Moriri and Tso Kar lakes. The return journey involves driving over Chang La and Tanglang La passes, providing breathtaking Himalayan views. 2. Srinagar - Kargil - Leh - Khardung La - Nubra Valley - Chang La - Tso Pangong - Tso Moriri - Tso Kar - Tanglang La - Sarchu - Manali This route combines the best of the Srinagar-Leh and Manali-Leh highways. Starting from Srinagar, pass through Kargil and explore the confluence of the Zanskar and Indus rivers. After a day of rest in Leh, the road trip covers major highlights like Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, and Tso Moriri efore descending into Himachal Pradesh via Sarchu and finally arriving in Manali. This route offers a complete Ladakh experience. Ladakh Road Trip Travel Essentials Documents & Permits Even though Ladakh is in India, a few places need Inner Line Permits (ILPs),and more so for foreign nationals. Have these at hand: Valid Driving License & Vehicle Registration PUC Certificate Insurance Papers Government-issued ID (Aadhaar, Passport or VoterID) Inner Line Permit is available online or from the Leh DC office Important Road Trip Tips Acclimatize in Leh : Stay here for at least a day to acclimatize. Drink lots of water, avoid booze, and carry basic altitude sickness medication. Pack Smart : Layering clothes, thermals, waterproof tops, and gloves. and sturdy trekking shoes are must-haves. Keep cash : After Leh, ATMs are unheard of. Digital payments are not reliable either. Offline Maps : Mobile coverage is erratic. Download offline maps in advance. Emergency Contacts : Store numbers of local police and BRO helplines. Selecting the Correct Vehicle For Ladakh's rough terrain, a dependable vehicle is essential. Cars : Opt for 4×4 SUVs like Tthe Thar,Scorpio, or Fortuner. For soft-roading, high-clearance vehicles like Cthe Cretaor Seltos will do the job. Bikes : Royal Enfield Himalayan Classic 350/500, KTM Duke 390/250, Bajaj Dominar 400, and Hero Xpulse 200 are bthe bestoptions. Keep spare fuel. Treks in Ladakh 1. Markha Valley Trek The MarkhaValley Trek, 6-8 days, is Ladakh's most popular trek in Hemis National Park. It provides Stok Kangri and Zanskar Rangeviews, going over Ganda La (4961 m) and Kongmaru La (5260 m). From Spituk or Chilling, it goes through villages filled with barley. In July, it has lush greenery, dry paths, and a clear sky, making it ideal. 2. Nubra Valley Trek (Phyang to Hunder) This 5-day Phyang to Hunder trek traverses an ancient Silk Route. It passes over Lasermo La (5438 m), with glacial summer scenery and Karakoram views. Best during mid-July to September, it connects Indus to Nubra Valley. Post-trek highlights are Hunder's sand dunes and Bactrian camels with Diskit Monastery's 32m Buddha. 3. Rumtse to Tso Moriri Trek The Rumtse to Tso Moriri trek spans 7 days through Ladakh's high-altitude Changthang plateau. Starting at 4500m and crossing six 5000m+ passes, this difficult trek is best from mid-June to early October. In July, enjoy surreal landscapes, Tso Kar and Tso Moriri lakes, and encounters with Changpa nomads. The trek ends at Korzok, beside sapphire-blue Tso Moriri. 4. Sham Valley Trek Known as the "baby trek," the Sham Valley trek is a 3-day gentle trek between villages below 4000 m. Ideal for families, it is possible throughout the year but particularly nice in July. Along the way, pay a visit to old monasteries such as Alchi, Likir, and Basgo. 5. Spituk to Stok Trek This 3-day Spituk to Stok trek is perfect for short-term travelers who desire a flavor of Ladakh's landscape. From Spituk Monastery, it traverses the Indus to Zingchen and Rumbak village, overnighting in a local homestay. The trekking highlight is Stok La Pass (4855 m), providing colorful mountain scenery. It's a moderate hike that goes well into a July Ladakh itinerary. 6. Lamayuru to Alchi Trek The 5-day trek from Lamayuru to Alchi is one of remote splendor and rich cultural heritage. It traverses two high passes: Kongskil La (4948 m) and Stakspi La (5153 m). July weather is ideal for this difficult trek. Visit Lamayuru and Alchi monasteries earlier or later for a spiritual experience.
Scotsman
06-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Scotsman
Fluffy rare Bactrian camel calf Woburn Safari Park
Watch a fluffy rare camel calf as he goes exploring with mum for the first time at a UK Safari Park. Sign up to our daily newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to Edinburgh News, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... Meet the male Bactrian camel calf as he goes on a wobbly-legged adventure with mum for the first time. The adorable rare camel was born on April 22nd to proud parents Rita and Khan - and has not yet been named. Fluffy rare camel calf wobbles with mum in adorable video | woburn safari Camel soaks up the sun In the clip above (click to play), watch the cute calf as finds his wobbly legs and soaks up the sun at Woburn Safari Park. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Head of Reserves Tom Robson said: 'We're really delighted to welcome a male camel calf to the herd at Woburn Safari Park this month. This is Rita's second calf, with her first born three years ago, so this a truly special moment for the keepers, the Park, and the entire herd. Rita has been an attentive mum, staying close to her little one as he begins to explore his surroundings in the large camel paddock, alongside his brother Walter, dad Khan, and the rest of the herd.' Camel finds wobbly legs Fluffy rare camel calf wobbles with mum in adorable video | woburn safari What are Bactrian camels? Bactrian camels are social animals and live in groups of five to 30 individuals, typically led by a dominant male. At Woburn Safari Park, that role belongs to Khan, a true safari favourite, best known for his wild hairdos and big personality. While male Bactrian camels like Khan don't usually take part in rearing their young directly, they do play an essential role in leading and protecting the herd. Fluffy rare camel calf wobbles with mum in adorable video | woburn safari The camels at the Park belong to the domesticated species population, currently listed as 'Least Concern'. However, their wild relatives, the critically endangered Bactrian camels face serious threats in their natural habitats. That's why the team of expert keepers at Woburn are dedicated to helping preserve and care for this unique species through ongoing breeding and conservation efforts.
NDTV
02-06-2025
- NDTV
5 Epic Road Trips Across The Himalayas For The Adventure Of A Lifetime
If you're the kind of traveller who gets a thrill from twisting mountain roads, thin air, and jaw-dropping views, the Himalayas offer some of the most unforgettable road trips in the world. These aren't just drives — they're full-blown adventures through dramatic passes, remote villages, and landscapes that look too surreal to be real. From the thrill of scaling the world's highest motorable roads to winding through apple orchards and pine forests, these five epic Himalayan road trips are absolutely worth adding to your bucket list. Expect unpredictable weather, limited phone signal, and scenery that'll make you forget Instagram even exists. Here Are The 5 Best Road Trips Across The Himalayas: 1. Manali to Leh via Keylong and Sarchu (Himachal Pradesh to Ladakh) Distance: Approx. 474 km Best time: Mid-June to September This route is basically the Everest of road trips in India. Stretching between Manali and Leh, this journey takes you over five high-altitude passes, including the Baralacha La (4,890 m) and Tanglang La (5,328 m), one of the highest motorable passes in the world. The road cuts through stark moonscapes (think Keylong), frozen rivers, and barren plateaus that look like Mars decided to have a holiday in India. You'll pass remote tent cities like Sarchu and vast open plains where you'll barely see another soul for hours. Carry extra fuel and get your vehicle checked beforehand — there's not much in terms of infrastructure, but the remoteness is what makes it magical. 2. Srinagar to Leh via Zoji La and Kargil (Jammu & Kashmir to Ladakh) Distance: Approx. 420 km Best time: May to October This route is an absolute stunner — and more forgiving in terms of altitude compared to the Manali-Leh highway. Starting from the green valleys of Kashmir, the road climbs over the treacherous Zoji La Pass (3,528 m), one of the most nerve-wracking mountain roads in India, before reaching the stark terrain of Ladakh. Along the way, make time for a stop in Kargil, not just for its war history but also for its raw beauty and underrated local culture. The road continues along the Indus River, with massive monasteries perched on cliffs, and if you're lucky, the surreal sight of double-humped Bactrian camels near Leh. 3. Shimla to Spiti Valley via Kinnaur (Himachal Pradesh) Distance: Approx. 450 km Best time: May to October If Ladakh is too intense for your first Himalayan trip, Spiti offers a quieter, yet no less dramatic, alternative. Starting from Shimla, the road winds its way through apple-laden slopes of Kinnaur, before reaching the high-altitude desert of Spiti. Think deep gorges, hanging glaciers, and villages like Nako and Tabo where life moves at a pace that barely ticks. The monasteries here, such as Key and Dhankar, are centuries old and perched in gravity-defying spots. This route demands slow driving — partly because of the rough roads, but also because you'll want to stop every 10 minutes for photos. 4. Guwahati to Tawang (Assam to Arunachal Pradesh) Distance: Approx. 520 km Best time: March to May and October to November Tucked away in the northeast, this road trip is often overlooked — big mistake. The drive from Guwahati to Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh is a wild mix of lush forests, rushing rivers, and winding roads that cling to the mountainsides. The Sela Pass (4,170 m), which is covered in snow for most of the year, offers stunning views and a real sense of achievement once crossed. Tawang itself is a gem, home to one of the largest Buddhist monasteries outside Lhasa. This route also gives you a taste of diverse cultures — from Assamese plains to Monpa traditions in Tawang. 5. Darjeeling to Gangtok via Pelling (West Bengal to Sikkim) Distance: Approx. 250 km Best time: March to June and September to November This one's for those who want to mix their mountain fix with a bit more comfort. Starting in colonial-era Darjeeling with its tea estates and toy train, the road leads to Pelling, a small hill town in Sikkim that offers panoramic views of Kanchenjunga. From there, drive on to Gangtok, where things get a bit more urban but still keep the Himalayan vibe strong. There's a ton to see — from monasteries to lakes like Tsomgo and even a ropeway that gives you an eagle-eye view of the city. It's a gentler introduction to Himalayan road trips, but no less beautiful. Pro tips for all Himalayan road trips: Acclimatise properly — altitude sickness is real and not fun. Always check the weather and road conditions in advance. Go slow, stay hydrated, and don't push your limits. Mobile networks are patchy — download offline maps and keep someone informed.
