Exploring the Magical Land of Leh Ladakh — A Journey of a Lifetime
What comes to mind when you think of India? Street food, the diversity of people, the Taj Mahal, and its religious significance? India is undoubtedly known for these aspects, but today I want to showcase a different perspective of this remarkable country.
When I shared my plans to visit India with my friends and family, I was met with a common question: “Why India?” With 195 countries in the world to choose from, I deliberately selected India — a country that elicits diverse reviews on the internet. It’s a destination that has the power to captivate you or leave you with mixed emotions. I was seeking an experience that would fuel my adventurous spirit and fulfill my desire for adrenaline. Exploring India seemed like the perfect opportunity to embark on thrilling adventures before reaching the age of 30 or when my energy levels may not allow such escapades.
Let’s uncover the unexpected India (Leh) together and uncover the enchantment that lies within its borders.
Leh, the capital of Ladakh, is a town located in the northern part of India. Surrounded by the majestic Himalayas, it offers breathtaking views and a unique cultural experience. The town is divided into different areas, each with its own charm and attractions.
Below is the detailed map of Leh :
Day 1: Arrival at Leh
We flew to Leh Ladakh via a connecting flight in New Delhi as there are no direct flights to Leh. The view from the airplane was breathtaking, as snow-capped peaks and dry, brown terrain emerged to greet us.
Book a window seat: left side for Leh-bound, right side for return.
Enjoy breathtaking views!
Initially, we had grand plans to explore numerous attractions around Leh. However, we made the friendly decision to prioritize rest and acclimatization to the high altitude, foregoing those excursions.
In the midst of my rest, it dawned on me that we needed a local SIM card since roaming or external prepaid SIM cards were not permitted in Leh. Despite numerous websites claiming limited internet access for tourists, I discovered that in 2023, acquiring a local SIM card in Leh Market is now possible, taking only 15 minutes to activate.
Local SIM Card Details: We purchased an Airtel SIM card with a 1.5 GB per day internet package valid for 30 days. The cost is 700 INR for all of India and 600 INR for the Leh region specifically. Please note that passport and visa are required for registration.
Based on our personal experience, Airtel service has good coverage in most areas. However, we found that the 1.5 GB per day internet package was not sufficient for our needs. To stay connected without any worries, we decided to top up an extra 100 INR for an additional 7GB of data.
Day 2: Leh — Sangam
During our trip, we explored various fascinating destinations in Ladakh. We started with a visit to Sham Valley, Basgo castle Magnetic Hill, Sangam, Hall of Fame, Leh palace and the iconic Shanti Stupa.
Magnetic Hill offered a mesmerizing view of a long road against a backdrop of mountains. Tourists flocked to a designated car stop to capture the picturesque scenery.
Sangam, the confluence of the Indus and Zanskar Rivers, showcased a brilliant fusion of colors. The sight was truly captivating and a photographer’s delight.
We also had the opportunity to enjoy a peaceful and leisurely rafting activity, spanning approximately 6 kilometers and lasting about 1 hour. The experience was suitable for all skill levels and provided a relaxed way to appreciate the surroundings. The cost for this activity was 900 INRs per person for those with a private car.
During our journey, we were constantly stunned by the magnificent mountains that greeted us. The breathtaking landscapes filled us with wonder and we eagerly shared our countless “Wow” moments throughout the trip.
I had a fantastic time exploring Leh Palace, one of my favorite places. Just a friendly tip for Thai visitors: remember to bring your passport and visa, as you might be eligible for a discounted entrance fee.
One of the highlights not to be missed was witnessing the breathtaking sunset at Shanti Stupa. The meeting of the mountain range and the vibrant hues of the sky created an indelible impression.
Day 3: Leh — Nubra Valley
On Day 3, we had an amazing drive through the breathtaking Khardong-la pass (the world’s highest motorable road) to reach Nubra Valley. However, my friend got sick from the high altitude and vomited. It was a reminder for us to take medicine for carsick or other proper medication before starting such high-altitude trips.
At high altitudes like Khardong-la, the air can be thin, so it’s important to be prepared. Don’t forget to purchase an oxygen can from the Leh market. This will come in handy to ensure you have an adequate oxygen supply and help mitigate any discomfort caused by the high altitude.
Nubra Valley greeted us with its magical sand dunes, friendly camels, and serene mountains. It was a day filled with pure wonder and treasured memories.
Riding a camel in Nubra Valley is an activity worth experiencing. The cost is 350 INRs or approximately 150 baht for a 15-minute ride. It’s a unique and enjoyable way to explore the scenic surroundings and create lasting memories.
Day 4: Nubra Valley — Turtuk
After immersing ourselves in the beauty of Nubra Valley, we set off on an adventure to Turtuk. This hidden gem enchanted us with its charming village, lush green landscapes, and warm-hearted locals.
Don’t miss the opportunity to capture a memorable photo at the stunning Shyok River. It is a must-visit attraction spot that everyone should make a stop at during their journey.
On our way back to the valley, we tried to find a charming and cozy cafe (Wanlachai Cafe). We indulged in great treats such as hot chocolate, pizza, and a must-try Yak cheese sandwich. However, navigating the area became a bit challenging as several the guideposts and the Google Maps location wasn’t entirely accurate. It’s advisable to exercise caution and rely on alternative navigation methods in such situations.
Day 5: Nubra Valley — Pangong Tso
We departed from Nubra Valley and made our way to the Pangong Tso. Along the journey, we visited the Diskit Monastery, immersing ourselves in its serene atmosphere and admiring the Buddhist architecture.
For the adventure enthusiasts, a zipline experience awaited in Nubra Valley, offering thrilling views of the surroundings and creating unforgettable memories.
This zipline is the world’s longest one in highest altitude you should try once in your life.It costs 2,500 INRs per ride.
It was absolutely amazing to spot those adorable marmots against such a stunning backdrop. They were incredibly playful and mischievous!
Please refrain from touching the marmots as they are wild animals and may potentially bite if approached or handled. Let’s appreciate them from a safe distance and enjoy their natural behavior.
Finally, we reached the Pangong Tso, a stunning lake renowned for its mesmerizing shades of blue.
Day 6: Pangong Tso — Tsumoriri
Last night was quite the adventure! Despite bundling up in 4 layers of clothes and snuggling under 2 blankets, I was still freezing. It felt like a never-ending battle against the cold. And to make matters worse, the water we had intended to use for flushing the toilet had completely frozen!
With temperatures hovering around -20 degrees Celsius and no heater to keep us warm. Plus, no service or WiFi — we found ourselves engaged in endless discussions on how we could survive in such frigid conditions. We anxiously wondered when the sun would set, hoping that the arrival of daylight would bring some respite from the bone-chilling cold.
Our expedition took us from Pangong Tso to Tsumoriri. The journey through the terrain offered captivating views of snow-capped peaks. Tsumoriri, with its serene lake and picturesque surroundings, provided a perfect retreat.
Day 7: Tsumoriri — Leh
Many tourists often skip visiting this place due to its similarity to Pangong Lake, and I completely understand why. The scenic views here are reminiscent of Pangong, but with a more serene. However, it’s important to note that there is no internet or any service available, at least in my hotel — I can’t speak for others. On the bright side, though, they do provide a cozy heater, and the valley is a bit farther from the lake, so the temperatures weren’t as freezing. It’s a trade-off, but one that’s worth experiencing for the peaceful ambiance.
The locals here are incredibly friendly and have a distinct Tibetan appearance. It’s fascinating to see the cultural blend in this region.
It was time to bid farewell to Tsumoriri as we made our way back to Leh. The scenic drive allowed us to savor the stunning landscapes one last time. We reflected on the incredible experiences and unforgettable memories we had gathered along the way.
The public toilets on the way to Leh may not look great, but let’s just say their smell isn’t that bad (?)
Day 8: Leh
After enduring a few days without WiFi, service, heater, or hot water in a remote location, we were thrilled to finally have some downtime in a cozy room with a warm heater. It was pure bliss!
Our last day in Leh was filled with a mix of emotions. We took this opportunity to revisit our favorite spots, explore Leh markets for souvenirs, and immerse ourselves in the vibrant culture of Leh.
In the afternoon, we decided to treat ourselves to some mouthwatering Korean cuisine at a restaurant in the city center. We had been longing for some delicious grilled pork. However, our excitement quickly turned to disappointment when the waitress informed us that they didn’t serve pork or any meat that day due to religious day. Our hearts sank.
Expense Breakdown:
- Flight (Indigo: BKK-Delhi-Leh): 13,000 Baht
- E-visa: 300 Baht
- Ladakh package tour (8 days, 7 nights): 16,000 Baht
- Food expenses (individual): 5,000 Baht
- and other miscellaneous expenses.
Conclusion:
Leh Ladakh is an unforgettable adventure, a trip that truly captivated our senses and cultural richness. Whether you’ve been there or are planning to visit, I hope this blog has given you an insight into the many wonders of this magical land. Until the next adventure!
