I was always fascinated with visiting Laddakh, the pictures always lured me towards it, and once I went there, well no place in this world will take its place as my favorite destination.
Laddakh is one marvelous place that will just leave you wanting more. Surrounded by the huge mountains you start to wonder how insignificantly small you are. Well, not going into the philosophical bit, it is a place that helps you find peace and rediscover yourself, a place where you can complete your trekking fantasy, a place where you can experience and admire simplicity. The view might be merely just the mountains but it just never seems to be enough. It's one place I fell in love with and it's tranquility is capable of having this effect on anyone who appreciates nature. Only tip, carry an oxygen cylinder or medicines that can help you to deal with the lack of Oxygen because otherwise you wouldn't be able to enjoy as much.
With the little streets surrounded by the massive mountains, with people who are absolutely down to earth, you already feel out of the world on the first day. But don't get on the trekking mode just today, acclimatizing to the weather is of utmost importance.
The monastries are located at places which are located at places which would seem impossible to habitate. The siplicity reflected by these monks are sure to leave you thinking about the materialistic life we live.
The 6 hour long journey goes by without you realising it. From Leh we first go through a steep winding road to Khardung La - one of the highest passes around. The snow capped mountaines, the cool breeze just take your breath away. And then the downward journey to Nubra Valley is again one of a kind. Its a place where you see huge mountains, sand dunes, a little vegetation and a river all blended into a beautiful scenery. A stop at the Thiksey Gompa monastry enroute gives the perfect view of this place. The place will just give you a high from its sheer beauty. Recommended to camp here and take a ride on the Bactrian Camel.
Take a last look at this place which lives up to the title "The Land of The Moon". Once back in Leh spend some time shopping at the market. Apricots and singing bowls are a few popular items. Bought this amazing T-shirt which says "That's how I got Leh'd", and you bet I did.
The Hall of Fame arouses the patriotism that every Indian has hidden. It shows the brutal atrocities of the Kargil War, how every soldier survives in those conditions and every aspect that makes you feel proud of being an Indian, or well generates a sense of respect in everyone who comes visit.
The Magnetic hiill is just a strech leaves you wondering if its science, magic or just an optical illusion when you car moves ahead all on its own.
N with the Sangam as the last stop, once again you end up relishing the sheer beauty of Laddakh. It's here that that the muddy Zankar river and the clear Indus merge and form the Indus river that flows toward Pakistan. It's also a spot for trying river rafting for the adventure seekers.
While the trip to Nubra was more of a feel of a huge desert in between the mountains, the drive to Pangong is spotted with tiny meadows, a view of yaks grazing the fields, adorable Marmots coming out of the burrows to take a peak, and little ponds and streams flowing past you. And when you finally arrive at pangong, well the view is just breath taking. Tons of shades of blue that just sparkle in the broad day light. Camping here again is widely recommended.
Explore and shop. Visit the Open Hand Cafe at Leh and relish some amazing Hot chocolate in the evening.
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