Ladakh lies in the rain shadow of the Himalaya.

Explanation:
- The rain shadow effect occurs when there is a mountain range that blocks the passage of rain-bearing clouds, thereby creating a dry region on the leeward side.
- In the case of Ladakh, it lies on the northern side of the Himalayan mountain range, which acts as a barrier for the monsoon winds coming from the south.
- The monsoon winds carry moisture from the Indian Ocean and bring rainfall to the southern slopes of the Himalayas and the Indian subcontinent.
- As these winds rise and reach the southern slopes of the Himalayas, they cool down and release moisture, resulting in heavy rainfall in regions like Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh.
- However, as the winds continue to move northwards and reach the northern side of the Himalayas, they have already lost most of their moisture content, resulting in a rain shadow effect.
- Ladakh, being located in the rain shadow region, experiences very little precipitation, making it a cold desert with arid and barren landscapes.
- The mountains of Ladakh, including the Zanskar Range and the Ladakh Range, block the incoming monsoon winds, preventing them from reaching the region and causing rainfall.
- The absence of rainfall and the high altitude of Ladakh contribute to its extreme cold and dry climate.
- Despite the lack of rainfall, Ladakh does receive some precipitation in the form of snow during the winter months, which is vital for sustaining its fragile ecosystem and supporting agriculture and livestock.

In conclusion, Ladakh lies in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, which is why it experiences a cold desert climate with very little rainfall.