i dont suppose anyone can tell me if it is possible leh and surrounding areas in january
february. obviously i will have to fly up there but can you move around once there?

Ladakh and the valleys down to Padum and on to Manali are very difficult in winter, it is
extremely cold, can be minus 30, and the mountain passes are very difficult. Most of the
walk is above 11,000 feet and flying in would not get you acclimatised very quickly. Also
as few supplies are coming in getting food etc. unless you plan to carry it all could be
difficult. This is a remote region. Try summer from June on, July to October is better. 
 

I traveled in this area in 1985.  The rumor then was that it was possible to walk up the
Zanskar (sp?) River during winter to get into the valleys beyond.  Normally this is an
impassable canyon.  Can't say that I know anyone who has done it though...

Great pictures of Ladahk here!