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A Land Like No Other
Let me share a recipe for an exotic getaway with you. Take the month of July, add the rain-shadow region of breathtaking Ladakh and complete it with a travel experience with Far Horizon, the result is nothing short of a perfect holiday. It all began in the month of July, when I, along with four friends, boarded the 06:30 am flight leaving the capital, which transported me straight into the thick of action - Leh, approximately 11,000 feet above sea level. The flight itself was an experience. Our tour leader Davinder mentioned, “The Delhi-Leh sector is one of the three most spectacular air routes, over the Himalayan range, the other two being Kathmandu-Tibet and Kathmandu-Bhutan.” Flying over the Pir Panjal, Zanskar and Nun Kun mountains of Kashmir, my seven-day experience in the terrains of Ladakh began exactly at 7:40 am.
 Hopping into the jeeps, which took us straight to our temporary abodes, it was a day meant for total acclimatisation. Plenty of water, light lunch, a casual stroll in the Leh market, followed by a trip to Sankara Gompa. His experienced words, “Take it easy guys, lots of action yet to come with every passing day. If you push yourself too much, you will push yourself out of a holiday.” And I must say, he was so true. A new experience, a new vision unfolded everyday, from the exciting tours through the streets and settlements of Leh, to the breathtaking views of the sunset from the Shanti Stupa, from the visit to the Stok Palace to sipping the traditional Gurgur Chai (made of barley) in the Tibetan village, every experience was unique. Remember to pick up some interesting Tibetan silver jewellery and teak handicrafts at the villages and in Leh. The following day, we took a trip right into the heart and culture of Ladakh, to inimitable places like Likir, Lamawiu and Alchi.
 With every passing day, we picked up pace, with the highlight being our two night stay at the base camp at Tso Morari Lake. Reaching destination Tso Morari was a visual treat, driving along side the river Indus, stopping at the beautiful Thikse Monastery, passing through Mahe, the brigade head of the Indian army, and experiencing the splendid flora and fauna of the region. From our camp, perfectly blending convenience and comfort, we explored the region and discovered the various facets of nature in quick succession.
The ultimate finale of our skillfully-planned holiday ended in a spiritual fashion. We were fortunate to witness the Hemis festival unique to the region held for just two days in July. We offered Khatak (silk scarves) at the monastery, which is believed to bring good luck and fortune. With memories of this everlasting experience lingering on, we left the Hemis monastery to set out on our journey back to metropolitan musings.
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