Ladakh
Ladakh, established in 2019, is a union territory with its capital in Leh. It is situated to the north of Himachal Pradesh and is known for its high mountains and sparse population. The region also houses the world’s highest battlefield, the Siachen Glacier. The main river flowing through the area is the Indus. Owing to extreme cold, vegetation is sparse. It rains little, so it is a cold desert. The important animals found here include yak, bharal (blue sheep), Asiatic ibex (a type of goat) and black-necked crane. An important antelope, called chiru, is found here whose hair is used to make the finest quality of wool called shahtoosh. The principal crops here are barley and wheat. Some people trade in different goods like carpets, textiles etc. This place is well-known for adventure tourism; you can find many motorcyclists riding to this place from all over India for adventure. Ladakhi is the main language and thukpa, a noodle soup, is a popular dish here. Ice hockey is a popular sport in Ladakh. The festival of Dussehra is celebrated with much fanfare, to watch which people come from all over the world.