This was a long awaited trip. We started from Chandigarh. Super excited, all decked up my family and I left our home at 4 in the morning.
Soon , we were amidst the gigantic mountains of Himachal. After a 14 hour long drive and 450 kms on our XuV, we reached Jispa.
We stayed at a campsite just beside the riverbed. The hospitality offered by the people was amazing. We sat near the bonfire, chatted with the fellow travellers and had a great time.
Next day, we were supposed to reach Leh. The journey was 12 hours long, covering about 300 kms. We crossed 3 highland passes - barachla, nakeela and lachungla. The roads were treacherous. But the view was worth every discomfort. It was one of the most fulfilling moments of my life.
By 8 in the evening, we finally reached Leh. What a town it is in the middle of no where!
Leh it is! We had been waiting for this day since years. When we could sit comfortably on a chair (not in the car) and appreciate the beauty of the Himalayas. The town is surrounded by snow capped mountains, we could see the shadow of clouds on barren mountains. Ah! I could live in that moment, forever.
We visited the Thiksey monastery early in the morning. It's located on the top of a mountain. Walking 200 meters there really made me question my fitness.
Later, after breakfast, we went to see the Pathar sahab gurudwara. It is completely managed by the Indian army. *Proud feeling*.
It was extremely peaceful 💙. Next, we went to see a tourist spot called 'Sangam'. It's the point where river Zanskar meets Indus! Two different colours, each with their own identity, marrying into one. How cool!
We then went to see the Shanti stupa. It's huge and extremely peaceful. Go there to live your breath to the fullest. It's that fulfilling.
And then, we spent the entire evening roaming on the streets of Leh. Aahhh, please take me back :')
We then visited, the War memorial 🇮🇳
That place gave me goosebumps. We learned about how army men survive and fight in tough conditions (please exaggerate tough), how in past, wars were fought, lives were lost and a lot more. It definitely raised the level of patriotism in my veins and blood. Jai Hind!
Next, we started for Nubra valley. And guess, which pass we crossed..? Yes, yes, yes KHARDUNG LAAAAA. It was too crowded though, so we didn't get any pictures. It literally felt like the top of the world!
We reached a place called Sumur in Nubra valley. There, we went to see sand dunes, and , surprise, double humped camels! And of course, the view never fails to surprise! were are multiple campsites to stay and we randomly chose one. We enjoyed the starry night and freshly prepared food.
It's the Pangong day! After a 5 hour drive from Sumur to Pangong, we witnessed an absolute bliss to our eyes. The lake is huge amid the mountains. The colour of the water changes all day. The sunset looked beautiful. The Maggie tasted delicious!
And the return journey begins. We travelled to Sarchu and stayed at a roadside campsite. Sarchu is the border between Himachal Pradesh and (former J&K ) now Ladakh. Its an open area of land where the cold winds hit hard.
Travelling is a privilege, and traveling to the might Himalayas, well it's a God's gift. Please visit to live your life in a few days.