Having gained a reputation as the “Little Tibet”, Leh has had a great influence of Tibetan Buddhism since the beginning. It is known for its scenic locations, pristine beauty, monasteries, and crossroads with the historic ‘silk route’. Due to its unique placement and high altitude geographical location, it is quite popular among thrill-seekers and adventurers!

Abhishek Sher is a Civil Engineer who works as an Assistant Executive Engineer for the government of Haryana. Having a deep passion for travel and exploring life beyond the 9 to 5 job, he made plans to visit Leh.

Day 1

Starting his journey from Delhi, he flew to Leh and later checked in at GoSTOPS. Keeping the first day pretty light, he did not have many plans. However, he did some pre-planning and arrangements before the main trip. He got the line permits and passes and also rented a bike for the rest of his stay. 

Day 2 

The next day, he started his day early and left for Sangam, which is about a 40-50 km drive away. Sangam Valley is the confluence of the Zanskar and Indus rivers, and the view just from the road is enough to sweep you into ecstasy. The colours of both rivers are different and can be seen distinctively. 

On the way, he also stopped at the Military Hall of Fame Museum. Located on the Leh-Kargil road, it is built by the Indian Army in the memory of all the soldiers who were martyred in the  Indo-Pak wars.  Another stop on his list was the Gurudwara Pathar Sahib. Situated at 12,000 ft above sea level, it is beautifully constructed in the memory of Guru Nanak. 

Magnetic Hill was yet another destination en route to Sangam. Situated in the trans-Himalayas, it is a photographer’s delight with barren hills and the Sindhu river flowing in the east. It is an interesting spot that creates an illusion of sorts which makes downhill look as if it is uphill.  After hitting several spots he also explored nearby cafes for some special treats. 

Day 3 

The third day of his trip took him to Nubra Valley. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, it is famous for its scenic locale, monasteries, orchards, and breathtaking views. He changed his hotel from Leh to Diskit. After settling in, the first stop for the day was Khardung La. Famous for being the highest motorable pass in the world, it is also a gateway to the Shyok and Nubra Valley. After having lunch at the Army canteen, he left for the Diskit Gompa. It is the largest and oldest Buddhist monastery in the Nubra Valley. An incredible view of mountains and the magnificent Buddha statue does the trick. 

Hunder sand dunes were next on the list. The gleaming silver dunes are situated like an oasis amidst the cold desert. Being located on the bank of a river adds to its beauty. The highlight of the day was the ride on the Bactrian camels which are unique to the region and offer one of a kind experience. After enjoying an eventful trip, Abhishek called it a day and retreated to his hotel for the night.

Day 4

Starting the next day afresh, he planned the day with fewer activities, starting with the Shyok river. Also known as “the river of death”, it is a tributary of the Indus river and indeed the blue gushing stream against the barren white spread is something to look at!  Second halt was at Pangong Tso. Known for its colour changing ability, it is one of the highest altitude lakes in the world that is filled with saline water. Glistening in the shades of blue, you will not miss it, even from a distance. 

Day 5

Approaching the end of the trip, this was his last day of exploring. Abhishek moved back to Leh from Pangong. Not before making a stop at Chang La Pass. Claimed as the third highest motorable road in the world, it is laced with white mountains on either side. The next stop was the Thiksey Monastery which is the largest one in all of Central Ladakh. Other than the fact, it is also known for its 49 ft tall Buddha statue, which covers about 2 floors of the monastery. 

This was his last night in Leh and the next morning he flew back to Delhi! And just like that his adventurous trip to Leh came to an end!

For more photos and videos, check out his page @beyond_ninetofive. 

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