“Travelling- it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller"- Ibn Battuta
Travelling broadens your horizon and brings about fundamental transformation in you. It heals, reduces stress and lets you look at life from a fresh perspective. And that's just what I needed. I took a break, unplugged from technology, took off to Leh-Ladakh and came back home with some of the best experiences in my life. And guess what, even after days and weeks, the beauty of that place refuses to leave me. The majestic mountains, the beautiful terrain, the serene crystal-clear lakes, the vibrant culture, the warm people, the delicious food, the hair-pin curves, the insightful road signs...it all keeps coming back!
Here's a list of 10 things that you must do when you take a trip to Leh-Ladakh.
1. Visit the Pangong Tso
After a five-hour long drive from Leh city on an extremely rough mountain road, you arrive at one the largest brackish lakes in Asia, the Pangong Lake. And let me tell you, the bumpy ride through those never-ending hairpin curves is absolutely worth it! For all those who've seen the "3 Idiots", you will agree with me that this place is truly breath-taking.
2. Camp at the Nubra valley
The journey to the Nubra through the world's highest motorable road is one that will leave you spellbound. Stay overnight to experience the beauty of this austerely beautiful enclave in its fullness.
3. Quench your thirst for adventure
For adrenaline junkies, Ladakh is a must- visit. From river rafting on the Zanskar river, to trekking on the mountains or motorbiking, the possibility of adventure is seemingly endless.
4. Experiment with the local food
The Ladakhi cuisine is not very elaborate, but delicious indeed! Treat yourself to some delicious momos (dumplings) served hot with chilli sauce or soup (the fried ones were a personal favorite). Apart from this, there's thukpa (soupy noodles with chicken or vegetables), skyu (local pasta dish), khambir (local bread) and butter tea.
5. Visit the local monasteries
There are quite a few monasteries in Leh-Ladakh such as the Diskit Gompa, Shanti Stupa and Thiksey. Situated in some of the most beautiful locations, these monasteries are immensely popular among travellers from around the world.
6. Play in the snow
Bring out the inner child in you and go ahead and play in the snow. Touch the snow with your bare hands, make some snow balls, hurl them on your friends. I'm sure you'll never regret it.
7. Shop at the local market
Wish to pick some souvenirs? Don't forget to visit the local markets. Popular items include Pashmina shawls, stoles and other wool garments. You'll also find Tibetian handicraft items, jewellery and a variety of dry fruits including apricots.
8. Participate in a local festival
As the festive season arrives, Ladakh gets all colourful and vibrant. Some popular festivals include Ladakh Festival, Deskit Gustor Festival, Thiksey Gustor Festival and the Galdan Namchot Festival.
9. Learn the local language
It’s always fun to learn a new language. Pick up some commonly used words and surprise your tour guide or the local shopkeepers.
10. Take a deep breath and revel in the moment
There’s so much beauty in this place, more than your heart could ever contain or your camera could ever hold. Simply take a few deep breaths and let all the beauty soak in.