Ladakh — A Traveller’s Perspective Beyond The Majestic Mountains
How often do you come across a place that blesses you spiritually, gives you a perspective towards life, teach you values and makes you a better human?
Travelling by code of understanding the people of the country, knowing their core values & traditions, trying what they wear and tasting what they eat took me to Ladakh — The Land of High Passes. The place which is every traveller’s dream destination and every bikers dream road to ride at.
The trip to Ladakh has forever been on the list. The charm of mountains and picturesque landscape is not hidden from any! However, in the quest, I never wished to stop onto scenic beauty. While the landscape is a treat to the eyes, knowing the locals and living the way they adore a place is a treat to the soul.
Here are a few of my moments from the trip which I feel everyone must experience once!
- The Land of Buddha
Buddhism as a religion plays a crucial role in the lives of the people of Leh and Ladakh. Colourful praying flags, people with praying wheel in hand, monks in red robes and sculpted stupas are a common sight in the region.
While there are a number of monasteries in Ladakh-listing down a few of the most popular which are worthy of your time and energy.
✦Hemis Monastery
You won’t get the sight of it from the main road! Nestled in between the mountains, it is one of the oldest (390 years old) and largest — spiritual centre in Ladakh. Being of symbolic significance, Hemis Monastery host annual festival in June in honour of Padmasambhava, an 8th century Buddhist aka second Buddha.
✦Thiksey Monastery
It’s a building on a cliff!! This one is my personal favourite as it stands out on a cliff in between a village and is surrounded by beautiful flora. The monastery encases a 15-meter high statue of Maitreya Buddha, dedicated by the Dalai Lama in 1980. Trade fair is a common sight at the base of the monastery. Feel free to treat yourself to some souvenir buying.
✦Diskit Monastery
Your visit to Nubra Valley is incomplete without experiencing an enchanted visit to Diskit Monastery. Diskit Monastery is the largest and the oldest Gomba in the valley.
2. Delectable, Authentic Indo-Tibetan Food
This mountain is beyond Maggie!!
If you’re a foodie who loves to travel, this is your paradise to taste the most authentic Indo-Tibetan cuisine. The food in Ladakh is not fancy but simple and subtle. What makes it special is the use of the finest spices from the region and the use of freshly plucked ingredients from the farm. The place greets you with appetizing Thukpa and Momos. Though every eatery in the region offers the best of taste, my favourite restaurant from the place in terms of hospitality and authentic food taste is The Tibetan, located in Leh market.
Love Tea & Conversation?
The people of Leh are known for their genuine smiles and warm hospitality. Connect with them over conversations and get yourself a treat of yak-butter tea, right from their kitchen. Because some of life’s simple pleasure comes from great tea and conversations.
3. A cultural extravaganza
The festivals at Ladakh are as warm as the host. A large congregation of monks in the mid of fluttering colorful praying flags and sound of wind is the most spiritual atmosphere. The Naropa Festival, also known as the Kumbh Mela of Himalayas takes place every year from September 25–28th.
The festival opens in Leh with a long procession. The opening ceremony is followed by the cultural programs from early morning through the day. In the afternoon, both renowned and aspiring local artists and artisans gather to display their craftsmanship at the Art & Craft Exhibition. If you love to shop for collectibles and handcrafted trinkets, then this exhibition is your paradise.
4. Acclimatize your body and go camping
Your visit to places and stay at Ladakh makes you a traveler on wheels. Located 3,000 meters from sea level, Ladakh is known as the land of a high pass. Acclimatize your body and go slow! Crossing the highest motorable road, Khardungla, located at 18,000 ft. from sea level is an experience of a lifetime. While you cross the roads passing through the magnificent mountains, don’t forget to have an overnight camping at Pangong Lake. Step up into the wide open space of nature and sit beside this sparkling blue lake. The place offers a panoramic sunset and sunrise view. And if not cloudy, you may witness the Milky Way in the night sky.
