Photo story: Ladakh

Sandwiched between the Kunlun mountain range to the north and the great Himalayas to the south, Ladakh is one of the most sparsely populated regions of India, home to one of the last undisturbed Tantric Buddhist populations on earth, protected by the sheer force of geography. Isolation has preserved an almost medieval way of life, dictated by the changing seasons, but in summer, for those who brave the slightly hair-raising flight or mountain pass, this rugged region offers spectacular scenery, cultural treats and fabulous hiking opportunities. These lovely photos were captured in the villages around Leh by Ben Jones.