Just recently, one of my friends reached out to me as she was interested to go to Pakistan and India but she didn't want to go there alone. She asked whether I wanted to go with her. First of all, if given a chance to explore the new place that I've never been, I'd definitely say yes.
However, since the only way to travel for me these days is by saving up… As much as I want to go to Leh and Kashmir, for now, I have my own priority as I've been saving up for my next destination myself. But hey, I may finally stop by India in 2021 or so! 😉
Speaking of which, on this week's $10 series we're also gonna talk about another city in India. After covering some other cities from Mumbai to Darjeeling, today we've got Radhika of Nomllers to talk about Leh in Ladakh and see how far you could get there within the budget.
Some Experiential Things that You Can Do in Leh, Ladakh
Ladakh lies in the upper region of Himachal Pradesh and hands down it is one of the most picturesque places to visit in India. I have been there twice; the first time was during the summer season where I did rafting on the Zanskar river and the second time was to Chadar trek.
Experience the local life by staying in a homestay
The daily living in Ladakh is very unique. When you will see the Leh Ladakh map, you will notice that it is one of the highest places in India, tucked up in the upper ranges of the Himalayas. The locals here live a very simple life with nothing but just basic amenities. You will find that despite not having the city luxury they live a very happy and simple life which is very inspiring and makes your grounded.
Cost – $8 to $10 (INR 500 – INR 700)
Visit the World's Highest Motorable Roads
If you love riding a bike, then Ladakh is perfect for you. You can feel the thrill of riding at the world's highest motorable road lying at 19,300 feet – Umingla Pass. During peak summers the temperature still remains in negative and bikers love such adventures. You will find many fellow bikers giving you company on this stretch
Bikes in Ladakh.
Eat the Local Tibetan Food
Momos, thukpa, Maggie with tea; you name it and Ladakh has every mouth-watering Tibetan food to serve. One of the staple food of Ladakh is Chutagi which is a dumpling soup. It is made of flour and contains potatoes, carrots and spinach. You will be able to find this dish at any local shop in Ladakh.
Cost – $3 to $4 (INR 200 to INR 400)
Enjoy Rafting on the Zanksar River
Ladakh, apart from offering breathtaking views and stunning landscapes is also a place for adventure geeks. Over here you can enjoy river rafting in negative temperatures and if you are brave enough then jump into the bone-chilling water to try body surfing. You will also be able to see the confluence of two rivers – Zanskar river and Indus river.
Cost – $8 to $ 10 (INR 500 – INR 700)
Double hump camels in Ladakh.
Enjoying a Ride on Double Hump Camels
There are very few places on Earth where you can find double hump or Bactarian camels. Ladakh is one of them. Found in the Nubra region of Ladakh, these camels are a very rare species of the famous Silk Route. You can also sit on their backs and enjoy the marvelous view of nature.
Cost – $6 to $8 (INR 400 – INR 500)
Contributor: Radhika Sharma from Nomllers
Radhika Sharma is a travel blogger, an avid YouTube an IG influencer for the past 2 years. She is based in New Delhi and quit her corporate job a year back. She is the co-founder of the blog, Nomllers.
