Journeyman Travel

Leh – Up above in the mountains so high

Want a break in a hill station? Far from the maddening crowds nestled in the mighty Himalayas is Leh the capital city of Ladakh of the Jammu and Kashmir state of India. Ever heard of a mountain desert? Visit Leh to see it.

How to reach there? Leh is a 45 minutes flight from Delhi. Weather gods permitting there are daily flights from Delhi to Leh. The best season is summer, June to late September. The adventurous can try the land routes through Himachal Pradesh via Upshi Manali or from Sringar Zozila Pass. With lofty cliffs overhanging and howling winds blowing you off it is going to be the ride of a lifetime.

Once in Leh the first few days you must acclimatize. Your body has to get used to the rare oxygen at more than 9000 feet above the sea level. The city has a large number of hotels and guest houses to suit all budgets. To know the people better you can share a room with one of the locals at half the price.

By now the mystery of the place has already started haunting you. Treking on craggy mountain trails, walk on a frozen river,white water rafting on the rapids of a raging torrent, hang gliding and para sailing, climb the toughest and steepest mountains and boating on a pristine blue lake soaking galore in the beauty of nature, you can do it all in Leh.

For the not so adventurous unravel the mystery of the Gompas, meander through the lovely cobbled streets or loose yourself in the markets with dainty damsels. With night fall cozy up with nature and watch the skies and the Milky way brimming with stars as you never seen before.

When in Leh I really felt I was closer to the gods as never before. It is a place not to be missed for any international tourist. Book your seats well in advance to avoid the holiday rush. Pack your warm clothing, a good pair of trekking shoes and a sleeping bag. Be sure to get a medical check up before you reach Leh.