Ladakh among NYT's top 52 places to go in 2024
Annually, The New York Times curates a list of 52 destinations deemed worthy of exploration. The 2024 compilation showcases travel hotspots recommended by experts, emphasizing sustainable travel, international and cultural events, as well as nature and art. Eight Asian destinations are featured in this year's list, including our very beloved Ladakh.
Eight places to visit in Asia
The list provides diverse travel ideas for every adventurer, suggesting incredible places all over the world. Eight destinations from Asia listed are as follows: 3 - Yamaguchi, Japan 7 - Singapore 9 - Ladakh, India 16 - Negombo, Sri Lanka 24 - Lake Toba, Sumatra, Indonesia 25 - Almaty, Kazakhstan 34 - Koh Ker, Cambodia 37 - Mustang, Nepal.
Ladakh - Land of high passes
Ladakh, the only Indian destination on the list, is cradled between the Himalayas and the Karakoram range. Recent administrative changes improved infrastructure and accessibility, notably the Atal Tunnel, transforming a lengthy journey into a brisk 20-minute ride. This facilitates exploration of Ladakh's stunning landscapes, Buddhist monasteries, and cultural attractions. Adventure seekers can find exciting new hiking and trekking routes in Leh and Zanskar Valley.
Path of Totality, North America, tops the list
On April 8, a total solar eclipse will sweep from the beaches of Mazatlán, Mexico, to the coves of Maberly, Newfoundland. With the moon nearing its closest point to Earth, an exceptionally broad and prolonged totality is expected. Mexico, Canada, and 13 US states will celebrate, featuring events like the Portal Eclipse Festival in Mazatlán and NASA's broadcast from the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
Yamaguchi - Kyoto of the West
Yamaguchi, the first Asian destination on the list, boasts uniqueness with minimal "tourism pollution." Yamaguchi's Gion Festival, a historic Kyoto alternative, revives in 2024 after pandemic restrictions, offering parades, costumes, and dancing in July. One can explore Mizunoue's pottery kilns at Toshunji Temple, counter-only oden shops, and Yuda Onsen, a charming hot-springs village. A must-visit is the Rurikoji Temple, a stunning five-story pagoda.
'100 journalists and photographers work on the annual list'
Annually, global journalists nominate destinations for selection by NYT travel editors. "In 2024, we sought destinations that would inspire readers and spark their travel curiosity, ensuring the destinations are compelling, geographically diverse and news-driven. A team of almost 100 journalists and photographers work on the annual list, a process that begins in September until publication in January each year," said Stephen Hiltner, travel editor.
Hiltner has some must-visit recommendations
"By my count I've been to 18 of the places on this year's list — but not necessarily recently!" explained Hiltner. Poras Chaudhary, an Indian contributor, wrote about Ladakh, and Craig Mod, a Japan-based contributor, covered Yamaguchi and Almaty. Following their guidance, Hiltner recommends the stunning nine-story Leh Palace in Ladakh, the Rurikoji Temple in Yamaguchi, and the Arasan baths in Almaty, as must-visits.
