Page 39 - MASALA Magazine Vol.15 Issue 6 | August - September 2024

HOW TO GET THERE

The easiest way to reach Ladakh from
Thailand is to fly. IndiGo, SpiceJet, and
Vistara all provide flights to Kushok Bakula
Rimpochee Airport (IXL) in Leh from
Bangkok with a layover at Delhi’s Indira
Gandhi International Airport (DEL).
However, this layover in Delhi is often
overnight, so I would suggest finding
accommodation for that duration so that
you are well rested for the next morning’s
journey to Leh. Once you arrive, you’ll
notice there are many narrow, mountainous
dirt roads which are difficult to navigate
without practice, so hiring a driver and car
is the best way to truly enjoy the scenery
without worrying about anything else.
For those prone to motion sickness, keep
some medication such as Dramamine
easily accessible, because it can feel like a
rollercoaster ride at times! Once you’re at
Ladakh, taking a road trip to Spiti Valley
will be the most exciting way to get there,
and it’ll also give you a chance to take in
the one-of-a-kind scenery.

WHAT TO DO AND WHERE TO VISIT:

Nestled on the bank of the Indus River with
an altitude of 3,500 metres, Leh is known
for its stunning natural beauty. Because of
its varied geography, it also offers a range
of outdoor activities that will satisfy any
adrenaline junkie. Here is a list of activities
that are sure to get your heart racing, as well
as other places to visit that will help you fall
in love with the beauty of this destination:

• Get a thrill out of white water rafting
right on the confluence of the Indus
and Zanskar Rivers. You will see exactly
where they split, and their difference in
colour, right from the water! The ideal
time to do this is said to be between June
and September.
• Visit Pangong Lake for its breathtaking
views and crystal clear waters. It is a good distance away from
the main centre of Leh-Ladakh, but seeing this marvel is so
worth it.
• Find immense peace at Thiksey Monastery. You will immediately
feel a sense of relief and calm once you visit the property and
the monks who are completely connected to their spirituality.
• For some special local souvenirs, visit the main Leh Market.
There, you can buy lovely pashmina shawls, have a drink, eat
a delicious meal, or walk around to window shop.
• If you love your bike rides, roaring up the mountain trails of Leh
Ladakh is every motorcyclist’s dream! The panoramic scenery
as you ride up is unlike anywhere else. Even in a car, opening
the windows to feel the air is supremely refreshing.

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