Ladakh Travel Experience – I Dreamt, I Explored and I Got a Story

Get an insight into my personal Leh Ladakh travel experience from Leh to Nubra Valley and Pangong Lake, including the most common questions about the Ladakh trip.

There are some places in the world that refuse to be fully described in words. Love is one of them. And then there is Ladakh. A land where mountains speak in silence, where nature reveals its rawest form, and where time seems to slow down just enough for you to truly feel alive.

I visited Leh Ladakh in June 2018, and even today, the memories feel as vivid as they were back then. This journey was not just about landscapes or sightseeing. It was about emotions, unexpected connections, and moments that quietly changed something inside me.

Years ago, I attended a photography exhibition at the India Habitat Centre in New Delhi. The exhibition showcased Ladakh through the lens of bikers who had captured its rugged beauty. That was the moment a silent promise formed within me. I knew I wanted to see this place at least once in my lifetime.

After years of waiting, planning, and postponing, I finally decided it was time to stop waiting for the perfect moment. When I came across a Ladakh travel deal online, I raised an inquiry.

Soon after, I received a call with a thoughtfully designed itinerary that included accommodation, meals, and private transfers. Without overthinking, I packed my bags and prepared myself for a journey that would soon turn into a lifelong memory.

My Ladakh Travel Experience:

Day 1: Delhi to Leh | First Glimpse of Ladakh

The moment the flight began descending into Leh, I knew this trip was going to be special. I had a window seat, and what unfolded outside was nothing short of magical. Snow-capped peaks, endless mountain ranges, and a sky that looked unreal.

I landed in Leh in the morning hours. This was also my first-ever group trip, and we were a group of six people. Until then, I had always believed Ladakh was meant for young, adventurous travelers. That assumption changed instantly.

Our group included three couples. One couple was in their sixties, another in their fifties, and we were the youngest. Initially, I was unsure how this dynamic would work. But Ladakh has its own way of breaking stereotypes.

After reaching our hotel, Snow View, we were warmly welcomed by the staff. They strongly advised us to rest and acclimatize due to the high altitude. We followed their advice, had lunch at the hotel, and spent time getting to know each other.

Hotel Snow View, Leh

In the evening, despite suggestions to rest, our excitement pushed us to explore. We visited Shanti Stupa, Leh Palace, and later walked through Leh Market. Surprisingly, the senior couples were more energetic and enthusiastic than we were. That day taught me my first Ladakh lesson. Age does not define adventure.

Day 2: Leh to Sham Valley | Culture and Landscapes

After a hearty breakfast, we set off for Sham Valley. The route itself felt like a visual journey through Ladakh’s soul.

Our first stop was the Hall of Fame, a deeply moving tribute to Indian soldiers. From there, we visited Magnetic Hill, where nature plays tricks on perception. We then witnessed the stunning confluence of the Indus and Zanskar rivers, where two distinct colors merge yet remain separate.

We also visited Gurudwara Pathar Sahib, Moonland, and Likir Monastery. Each place added a new layer to my understanding of Ladakh’s spiritual and cultural depth.

Our night stay in Sham Valley was one of the warmest experiences of the trip. The hotel owner welcomed us like family, invited us to his home, and served traditional Ladakhi tea and bread. That evening, conversations flowed effortlessly. Strangers were slowly turning into companions.

Day 3: Sham Valley to Leh | Local Life and Memories

The day began with a visit to the hotel owner’s apricot garden. Walking among fruit-laden trees, listening to local stories, and sipping tea felt deeply grounding.

On our way back to Leh, we visited Alchi Monastery, known for its ancient art and peaceful surroundings. We also explored local markets and picked up souvenirs to carry back pieces of Ladakh with us.

By evening, we were back at our Leh hotel, tired but content, carrying new stories and deeper connections.

Day 4: Leh to Nubra Valley via Khardung La

This was the day I had been eagerly waiting for. After breakfast, we began our journey to Nubra Valley, crossing Khardung La, one of the highest motorable passes in the world.

Standing at such an altitude was overwhelming. The air was thin, the silence powerful, and the view unforgettable. After lunch at a local village, we continued driving alongside the Shyok River, which accompanied us like a quiet friend.

Before checking into our hotel, we visited the dunes of Nubra Valley. Riding double-humped camels on soft sand, surrounded by mountains, felt surreal. As the sun set, the golden light transformed the landscape into something out of a dream.

Day 5: Nubra Valley to Leh | Diskit Monastery

After breakfast, we visited Diskit Monastery, famous for its massive statue of Lord Buddha overlooking the valley. I spent a long time capturing its beauty from every angle.

The calmness of the monastery and the panoramic views below made this visit deeply peaceful. Later, we returned to Leh, soaking in the final views of Nubra Valley along the way.

Day 6: Leh to Pangong Lake | A Dream Come True

This was the most-awaited day of my Ladakh journey. Pangong Lake had lived in my imagination for years, especially after seeing it in films.

The drive was long and tiring, passing through Chang La Pass, one of the highest motorable roads in the world. But all exhaustion disappeared the moment Pangong Lake came into view.

The lake changed colors constantly. Blue, green, turquoise, and shades I had never seen before. I lost count of how many photographs I clicked. Watching the sunset by the lake was pure magic.

At night, electricity shut down early. We stepped outside our tents and looked up. The sky was filled with stars. For the first time in my life, I saw the Milky Way with my own eyes.

Day 7: Pangong to Leh | Sunrise and Spiritual Moments

We woke up early to witness the sunrise at Pangong Lake. Sitting silently by the water for hours felt meditative. At that altitude, I could not practice yoga, so I chose meditation instead.

On our way back to Leh, we visited Hemis Monastery, Thiksey Monastery, Druk White Lotus School, and Shey Palace. Each place added depth to our journey.

That evening in Leh, we shared our favorite moments from the trip. Laughter, reflections, and gratitude filled the room.

Day 8: Leh to Delhi | Goodbye, But Not Forever

Leaving Ladakh was harder than I had imagined. One of our group members suggested a beautiful farewell ritual. We wrote notes for each other at the airport, sealing memories onto paper.

I knew then that Ladakh had changed me in ways I could not fully explain.

Related Read: Budget-Friendly Travel Destinations From Delhi

Conclusion: Why Ladakh Will Always Call Me Back

This trip cannot be measured in days or photographs. Ladakh is an emotion. It humbles you, challenges you, and embraces you all at once.

Even now, I know this was only my first chapter with Ladakh. I will return. Because some places never really let you leave.

So keep travelling. Keep exploring!

Frequently Asked Questions About Ladakh Trip

Is Ladakh suitable for all age groups?

Yes, Ladakh can be enjoyed by travelers of all ages with proper acclimatization and planning.

Which is the best time to visit Ladakh?

June & July are the best months to visit Ladakh due to pleasant weather and open mountain passes.

Is Pangong Lake worth the long journey?

Absolutely. The changing colors, peaceful surroundings, and night sky make it unforgettable.

How important is acclimatization in Ladakh?

Acclimatization is essential to avoid altitude sickness. Resting on the first day is highly recommended.