There are a few places in the world when visited once, stay with you forever. One such place is Ladakh. It is situated in the south Kashmir district of the beautiful Himalayas, populated by people of Indo-Aryan and Tibetan origins. Once known for its head-bowing Buddhists, Ladakh has now become the go-to escape of Enfield-riding youngsters. Starting May, the selfie-taking, hand-holding newly married couples come to Ladakh for their honeymoon, but June draws more of bikers, riding Bullets from New Delhi to Leh Ladakh, covering almost 1027 km. There is no place as thrilling and as adventurous as Ladakh, and that’s what makes it so special. You can spend days exploring Ladakh but to make it easier for you, we have picked 8 unforgettable things to do in Ladakh – a medley of offbeat thrills and classic adventures.
Mountaineering Expedition
A mountaineering expedition in Ladakh promises a thrilling adventure amidst the rugged terrain and magnificent mountains. Ladakh, located in the northernmost region of India, is home to some of the highest peaks in the world, including Stok Kangri, Kang Yatse, and Nun & Kun peaks. The expedition typically begins with a few days of acclimatization in the charming town of Leh, followed by a challenging trek to the base camp. From there, climbers embark on a strenuous ascent, often requiring technical skills and equipment, to reach the summit. The panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and peaks make the effort worthwhile. The region's stark natural beauty and the warmth of its people add to the experience, making Ladakh an unforgettable destination for mountaineers.
Indus River Rafting
Indus River rafting offers a unique and exhilarating experience for adventure enthusiasts in the northern region of India. The Indus River, also known as the 'Sindhu,' is one of the longest rivers in Asia, flowing through the picturesque valleys of Ladakh before entering Pakistan. The rafting expedition typically starts from Phey near Leh and meanders through gorges, rapids, and calm stretches, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The rapids range from grade II to IV, making it a suitable adventure for both beginners and experienced rafters.
The journey takes about three to four hours, during which participants navigate through the white waters, work together as a team, and enjoy the thrill of the rapids. The expedition ends at the picturesque village of Nimu, where the Indus and Zanskar rivers converge, offering a glimpse into the local culture and traditions. Indus River rafting is a must-try adventure for those seeking a unique and unforgettable experience in the heart of the Himalayas.
Ride Along Pangong Tso
People who have visited Ladakh, refer to Pangong Tso as ‘heaven on Earth’. It may sound like an overstatement if you’ve never visited Pangong Tso lake, although you may have already seen its panoramic beauty in the last scene of the movie, Three Idiots. The one where Kareena Kapoor rides a yellow scooter? Ring any bells? Yes, you got it! Moving on, a manmade road that runs parallel to an azure blue lake is what makes Pangong Tso a mandatory ride.
Walk Through Nubra Valley
The best way to see the grand-scaled beauty of Nubra Valley is by foot. The arid mountains, Buddhist villages, sand dunes, an ancient palace are some of Nubra Valley’s beautiful offerings. Small conversations with the locals of Nubra Valley will add more points to your Ladakh’s experience.
Experience Driving on Beacon Highway
While many travelers overlook the natural beauty of Beacon Highway and avoid listing it on their itinerary, we highly recommend riding or driving on Beacon Highway. Your high-performance automobile will be logging miles while you’ll be head-banging to the song Born To Be Wild.
Explore the Ruins of Basgo
The much-preserved site of Basgo tends to heighten your senses. Imagine walking in and out of an age-old ancient town that used to be the center of political and economic affairs. Exploring the ruins of Basgo can send you right back in the past.
Succumb to Gravity at Magnetic Hill
We are aware that gravity pulls you down, but at the Srinagar-Leh Highway, the gravity pulls you uphill. In fact, if you are not in the mood to drive, turn off your engine and let the magnetic field pull you up. Defying gravity? No. The magnetic force in this particular area is so strong that it pulls you up the road and the speed can go up to 20 km per hour.
Learn About History at Leh Khar Palace
Leh Khar Palace looks like a giant sandcastle crafted by a skilled sand artist. This architectural masterpiece stands tall, overlooking the entire Ladakhi Himalayan village. While many consider it as a sidekick in their itinerary, it has a huge potential to inspire those who love everything historical.
Find Inner Peace at Spituk Monastery
Spituk Monastery or Spituk Gompa is the ideal place to shrug off your blues. A walk through the monastery will put your contemplative thoughts to rest. Spituk Gompa, housed in the arid hills of Himalayas, was established by Od-de, the older brother of Lha Lama Changchub Od.
Live with Locals Of Choglamsar
Find what it’s really like to be a Tibetan by staying with one of the local families in the village of Choglamsar. Experience a whole new way of living that you wouldn’t get to experience back home.
Leh Ladakh is definitely one of the most attractive places in India attracting not only Indians but foreigners across the globe. This article cannot do justice to the beauty of Leh Ladakh, which is why you should grab one of the Leh Ladakh packages and find out what you have been missing out on.