What do we generally seek on a vacation? Leisure? relaxation?? luxury?? What if I told you that your vacation could be much more than that? It could be days filled with adventure, passion, discovery, limitless fun and that too in an extremely affordable budget.
These were the key factors which motivated a few friends and me to seek the thrill of a lifetime and plan this ‘Great Indian Road Trip’. The round trip starting from Srinagar encompassed the beautiful Kashmir, the noble Kargil, the peaceful Leh, the sandy Nubra Valley and the chilly Pangong Lake.
DAY 1
We set out for this journey, high on adrenaline and driven by excitement for what lay ahead. As we got nearer to Kashmir and the flight began its descent we realized why this place is so treasured and unique as even from the skies its beauty is beguiling. Upon landing, we did not seek any rest but were instead eager to visit the Mughal gardens namely Nishat, Shalimar and Chashme Shahi gardens.
The Beautiful Dal Lake
Kashmir is home to not only scenic but also man-made beauty which has been nurtured over the ages to perfection. The flora here is different in all seasons and it is tough to decide the correct time to visit this everlastingly gorgeous place. As we ended our day we were able to see The Dal lake that runs like a snake through the city and is filled with shikaras, lined by houseboats, laced with lotus plants and home to several fishes and marine life.
DAY 2
Affarwath
Early mornings are a part and parcel of any road trip, along with poor music choices and reckless positions to gain sleep whilst on the move. On day 2, we headed to Gulmarg to enjoy the exotic views of the valley. We got there on a gondola ride, which ends at Affarwath. Once you hop-off the second level cable car at Affarwath, there is often pop in the ears, drop in temperature, the heaviness of breath and feeling of bliss – all at once. The overdose of sensation is due to the high altitude and gorgeous view of snow-capped mountains and freshly fallen snow that enters through your eyes and sinks into your soul.
You can even have a sledge ride or ski ride over the snow once at the top or simply play with the fairy white snow like a toddler. As the day begins to end, the night lights that twinkle across the Dal lake make sitting out on the balcony of the houseboat after a fulfilling day absolutely perfect.
DAY 3
On day 3, we were all set for Pahalgam. We reached the hills close to Amarnath well in time and before we knew it, we were already riding our horses over the topsy- turvy routes through the hills, which brought us to all the viewing points one can visit here. Mention worthy amongst all the 7 wonderful viewing points is Baisaran, also popularly called Mini Switzerland due to its epic resemblance with the famous destination.
Baisaran
Adventure thirsty as we were, we challenged ourselves for an afternoon white water rafting activity which left us freezing in mind-numbing cold water and screaming as the mighty rapids took over our raft. In order to have a relaxing evening, we did the most touristy thing to do while in Kashmir – enjoyed an hour-long shikara ride while the sun set around us in the most majestic way.
DAY 4
After breakfast, we parted ways with our floating home, the houseboat to welcome our next destination as we passed Sonmarg only to encounter a complete change in scenery. Slowly and carefully we begin our challenging climb over the narrow winding roads of Zojilla pass to reach our halt in Drass.
The War Memorial at Drass
The war memorial at Drass that is made as a testimony to never forget the heroes who laid down their lives for our nation made our eyes moist and hearts full of pride. The green and white of the mountains are now replaced completely by brown dry mountains with little greenery hinting our final arrival for the day at the historical city of Kargil.
DAY 5
From the moderate greenery and civilization of Kargil, we proceed to the moon landscape areas of Leh completely devoid of vegetation but magnificent nonetheless. For a brief time, we stop over and view the Lamayuru monastery and continue uphill through Ulleytokpo and magnetic hill.
At the Lamayuru Monastery
Also en route, we visited a gurudwara which is popular among all travellers and is under the care and service of the Indian army. Evening arrives and we set out to roam the local markets in search for souvenirs and trinkets to carry home from this magical land of Leh.
DAY 6
Our climb has now lead us to what is known as “The TOP of the World” aka Khardungla pass, where it is tough to acclimatize and hence, we could only hang around briefly for Maggi, hot chocolate and of course photography!! Nubra Valley is our next destination and on the way, we visit the Deskit monastery and check into the campsite area of Hunder.
Our day was almost brought to a sudden halt due to a sandstorm but we were stubborn enough to carry on and enjoy our camel safari over the sand dunes and cultural dance show where active participation is encouraged for all visitors.
DAY 7
Pangong Lake
Our ears are filled with the sound of waves, clothes and jackets doused in droplets of rain, bodies shivering and heads filled with the picturesque sight of the Pangong Lake. The view which lay in front of me had a beauty unparalleled and words would not be enough to describe the landscape before us. Although greatly popularized by the “3 Idiots” movie, this gigantic lake does not disappoint those who visit. A yak ride along the coast and a night stay in a tent while viewing the night stars make this one of the most memorable days of our trip.
DAY 8
JULEY LADAKH! A phrase we become familiar with as we cross Changla pass and begin our return journey back to Leh. Rancho’s school, Shanti stupa and Hall of Fame are worth a visit as well. Road trip to Leh-Ladakh would be incomplete without a ride on the Royal Enfield through the hills, roads and streets of Leh.
DAY 9
Heading back towards Srinagar at 4 am in the car, we were filled with the hope to meet our beloved Kashmir once again by evening. The return journey makes me notice things I failed to notice before. The road signs and warnings made by BRO( Border Roads Organisation) give powerful messages in an extremely humorous and memorable way such as ‘It is not a rally, enjoy the valley’, ‘mountains are a pleasure if you drive with leisure’ etc. Also, the various areas which span the mountains for kilometres are well guarded and supervised by our Indian Army who indeed is ‘UNFAZED IN WAR, UNMATCHED IN PEACE’.
DAY 10
United with our love Kashmir, only to be separated once again, we packed our bags with a heavy heart and say our final goodbyes. Before we head to our hometown we make a final stop at the Shankaracharya temple which is at the top of a hill and one must climb 243 steps to pay homage to Lord Shiva and have an awe-striking view of the entire city. The airport very aptly has a headboard which reads as ‘Jannat-e-Kashmir’, which clearly describes this state of wonder, awe and heavenly beauty bestowed upon these lands by the Gods.
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