It is better to see something once than to hear about it a thousand times – Asian proverb
As the unlock started, the destination with the best season seemed to be Ladakh. Numerous posts over the years had me yearning to visit Ladakh and it was finally realized. But this time more than the destination itself it was the journey to the destination that had me completely spellbound.
For itinerary of the trip check :
Here I have tried to pen down the lasting memories that I carry from my Ladakh trip.
Over the mountains:
This was one of the best flight journeys I have experienced so far[merely for the sights and not the service 😉 ]. Flying over the snow peaks and mountain ranges, makes you feel like you have wings. Before landing, as we took a turn in close proximity to the mountain range, it gave me goosebumps.
The minute you set a foot on the grounds on Leh, you can feel the difference in the air as your lungs struggle to grasp oxygen. Do take your acclimatization very seriously and have a good rest before you start exploring.
All things bright and beautiful:
When we reached the hotel we were stunned by the vibrantly colorful flowers tended with care by the owner. With no pollution and clean air, it is no wonder that the flowers here are bright and beautiful. From yellow shiny apricots to green and blushing apples to the bright and beautiful flowers in the gardens, you will be enthralled by the beauty. All the effort for tending to the beautiful garden in vain once the winter sets in for almost half of the year.
Under the bright blue sky:
As you hit the road, you will come across beautiful landscapes everywhere you look. As my husband claims, this place inspired the “point and shoot” concept 🙂 You just need to point in any direction and click, and the picture would be a stunning landscape. With over hundreds of photos to choose from, below is a random selection of few such “point and shoots” 🙂
Rivers, Bridges and the flags:
On your journey you will find numerous bridges adorned with colorful flags, also rivers like Shyok will keep you company. The colorful prayer flags moving in the wind generate positive energy and are considered auspicious. The flags symbolize ladakh and you will find them in every nook and corner. It is such a common souvenir that there are friends who ask for any souvenir apart from the prayer flags 🙂
Desert, Valleys and Stand Storms:
Within a short span the landscape in Ladakh changes. From the green valleys to sand dunes to rocky mountains to green farms. All can be witnessed as you travel across Ladakh. We were in for a surprise as we witnessed a terrible sand storm while travelling around Khalsar in Nubra valley. It was impossible to see anything in front as the cloud of sand completely blocked our view and we had to halt our journey. Thankfully it cleared up in sometime and we were on our way.
Prayer and Peace:
Monks lead a life of simplicity, peace and sacrifice. The monasteries teach us valuable lessons in life. Numerous monasteries spread across Ladakh are beautiful and peaceful.
On top of the world, literally:
One of the best experience is to drive through the worlds highest motorable Khardungla Pass and also the Changla Pass. Even with chilling breeze and cold, gasping for air and fingers turning numb, you take a halt to be clicked at these picturesque locations. Hats-off to the skilled drivers that drive on this route as its no easy feat.
Wildlife Safari On the way to Pangong:
On our way to Pangong lake, as the landscape changed to green pastures we were in for a treat as we encountered numerous Pashmina goats, Yaks and horses grazing happily in the pastures. We also sighted a couple of cute and friendly marmots approaching us in expectation of some treat.
Pristine, untouched lakes
Lakes like Pangong Tso, Tso moriri provide unparalleled beauty, with ever changing colors by the day as the sky color reflects in the crystal clear water. Camping around the lakes is an out of the world experience. The freezing temperatures and the spectacular views make up a memorable stay.
“You are being watched by your enemy”:
As you visit the village of Thang/Turtuk on the Indo-Pakistan border, you can see a board “You are being watched by your enemy” and literally from the bunkers at the top of the hills you are being watched by the Indian and Pakistani armies. 🙂 Gives you creeps, right! 🙂 Similarly as you pass through the Galwan valley or around the Pangong Tso lake there are boards like “You are in shooting range”.
First hand witnessing the hardships of the defense force, enduring the extreme climatic conditions and their undying love for the nation, I have a newfound respect for the defense force. “Nation First”!
[Sorry no photos here, protecting the privacy of defense]
For itinerary of the trip check :
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