Magnetic Hill, also called Gravity Hill, is a unique and extraordinary destination in Ladakh where vehicles defy the force of gravity. When you park a car at some location on this hill, the vehicle moves upward instead of downwards.
This awe-struck phenomenon has made Magnetic Hill one of Ladakh’s most mysterious and exciting places. Located at 14,000 feet above sea level, lies along the banks of the Sindh River.
Tourists visiting place will see a signboard that reads “Magnetic Hill -that defies Gravity” and a white box that says you should park your vehicle there. After parking your car in neutral gear, you will see that the vehicle will move upward at 10/20 km per hour, defying the force of gravity.
You can capture stunning pictures here as it is blessed with scenic beauty. While some believe that the Hill is a gravity-defying spot, scientists say it is due to optical illusion. Another theory about it is called magnetic force theory, which states that the magnetic forces of the earth’s interior pull vehicles upward.
Whatever the theory behind the hill, the place is counted as one of the most beautiful attractions in Ladakh. This spot’s mystery and uniqueness make it worth visiting on your Ladakh tour.
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ToggleThe Mystery of Magnetic Hill Ladakh
There have been many myths and theories from ancient times about the unusual phenomenon at Magnetic Hill. For generations, the locals have been discussing Magnetic Hill. Some ancient people claimed that the road to the hill went straight to heaven, and only pure-hearted people could reach it. Here, we will discuss some myths and theories about the Hill or Gravity Hill mystery.
The superstitious belief
The locals of Ladakh are superstitious about Magnetic Hill. They believe that things here go uphill because there is a road that is a gateway to heaven. Those who are deserving and pure-hearted were pulled to heaven by God, and those who didn’t deserve it could never make it there.
The Magnetic Force Theory
Theoretical and sensible theory by scientists is widely believed and stated that a strong magnetic force is emerging from the hill, which pulls that towards it that is in its range. This mysterious incident on the Leh-Kargil highway has been experienced and proven by travellers all across the globe. It is also believed that the airplanes don’t fly over this region and divert their path due to magnetic disturbances caused by the hill.
The theory of illusion
Another critical theory about the hill is the optical illusion theory, which says that there is no magnetic force behind the mystery of this hill. According to this theory, the concept of optical illusion makes the downslope of the road leading to Magnetic Hill look like an upslope. It is an illusion where people see that the vehicle is going uphill, but it is going downhill.
Top nearby places around Magnetic Hill
You can visit nearby places after discovering the mysterious Magnetic Hill in Leh Ladakh. Below are some attractions to visit around.
Zanskar Valley: The mesmerizing Zanskar Valley is just a few hours’ drive from Magnetic Hill and the mighty Himalayan mountains surrounding it. You can enjoy the scenic beauty of landscapes with the frozen Zanskar River. Adventure lovers can also enjoy the Chadar trek here in the winter season. This place is a blend of nature’s beauty and adventure.
Sangam Point: Located 7 km from Magnetic Hill, Sangam Point is the confluence of the Indus River and the Zanskar River, an eye-catching sight. Tourists can witness the blue water of the Indus River meeting the brown, muddy water of the Zanskar River, creating a blend of colours.
Hall of Fame: The Hall of Fame is a museum 23 kilometres from Magnetic Hill. It was built and maintained by the Indian Army to honour the sacrifice of those soldiers who lost their lives during the Indo-Pak War. The museum showcases pictures of war heroes and arms and ammunition that were captured from Pakistan.
Gurudwara Pathar Sahib: Situated 3 km from Magnetic Hill, Gurudwara Pathar Sahib is the 16th-century old shrine built to commemorate Guru Nanak’s visitNanak’s visit to this place. It is a common belief that Guru Nanak defeated a demon here. The shrine houses a holy rock called ‘Pathar,’ which has an inscription indicating the body of Guru Nanak and the devil’s footprint.
How to reach Magnetic Hill – Travel Guide
Perched around 14,000 feet above sea level, Magnetic Hill is 27 km from Leh on the Leh-Kargil-baltic National Highway. Due to its well-maintained roads, is easily reachable by air and by road or train.
By Flight: The nearest airport to Magnetic Hill is Leh airport, which is 32 km away. You can book a flight from any major city in India as the airport is well-connected to all the airports in the country. After reaching Leh airport, you can book a taxi or a cab to reach.
By road: If you are traveling via road, the best way to reach Magnetic Hill in Ladakh is via the Leh-Manali highway. Regular state-level buses operate from Himachal Pradesh to Leh. Tourists can also drive their vehicles to travel from Manali to Leh.
By Train: Jammu Tawi is the nearest railway station, 700 km from Leh. It is well-connected to all the major Indian cities by rail lines. From Jammu Tawi station, you can book a taxi to reach Leh.
The best time to visit Magnetic Hill
You can visit Magnetic Hill throughout the year, but the best time is during summer.
Summer season: The best time to visit Magnetic Hill is during the summer, from May to September when the weather is pleasant and warm. You can enjoy the scenic beauty and discover the hill during this time.
Winter season: experiences harsh cold and heavy snowfall from October to February. It becomes difficult to reach here due to landslides and road blockages. It is advisable to avoid visiting Magnetic Hill in winter as it is located at a high altitude.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a Magnetic pull at Magnetic Hill?
It has been put forward by optical illusion theory that the upward force at Magnetic Hill is due to an illusion that makes people perceive that the vehicle moves upward but actually, it moves downhill.
Are there any entry fees for visiting?
No, it is free to visit Magnetic Hill and is accessible for tourists during any time of the year for all days of the week.
What are the times for visiting?
Although there is no fixed time to visit Magnetic Hill, the best time to explore is from 8 AM to 5 PM.
What other activities can we do near Magnetic Hill?
You can enjoy sightseeing and photography in Magnetic Hill and also visit nearby attractions such as the Hall of Fame, Leh Palace, and Gurudwara Pathar Sahib.
What is the altitude of The Hill?
Magnetic Hill is situated at a height of 3,500 meters (11,500 feet) above sea level and offers stunning views and gravity force pulling vehicles upward.