If you are a travel junkie like me, nothing can stop you from exploring new places! You will find a way to get where you want to by any means. My love for travelling and determination to do something worthwhile coaxed me into an amazing trip!
A few days ago, I woke up early in the morning, geared up, packed my bag and set off on a long journey towards fulfillment, inspiration and a gorgeously breathtaking view!
Travelling on my cycle has always been a dream. I decided to turn it into reality by setting off an awe-inspiring yet demanding journey from Leh to the Tso Moriri Lake and Tso Kar Lake in the Leh Ladakh district of India.
The journey wasn’t easy. If you have ever travelled on this road, you would know. The bumpy and rutted roads weren’t the only challenge. The climate of the area was pretty harsh, making it even more difficult for me to navigate my way. However, I kept going.
Like they say, the destination is worth the journey.
It definitely was.
Located at an altitude of 4530m and surrounded by barren mountains and snowcapped peaks, lies a gorgeous, deep blue lake. The Tso Moriri Lake is as picturesque as you would want any place to be. The views weren’t the only mesmerizing thing about the Tso Moriri Lake. The peace, calm and serenity of the area truly stole my heart. This beautiful lake runs through the Rupshu valley. You can also expect to find various animal species such as the kiang, blue sheep and rare Tibetan wolves lurking in the area.
The phrase Tso Kar is Ladakhi for “white lake.” The lake gets its soothing white color from the thick crust of salt that surrounds it. A well-known fact is that, the Tso Kar lake used to be a source of salt for the locals of Ladakh and Tibet in the past. However, things have changed now. Moreover, in spite of the highly saline water, the Tso Kar Lake serves as a phenomenal habitat for various bird species, making the area even more interesting.
From a deep blue picturesque sight to a gorgeous white lake, the Leh Ladakh district has so much to offer. Apart from these breathtaking views, another highly admirable factor of this place Ladakh is its immensely rich and colourful culture that will pick your interest without fail.
Moreover, the Leh district has some super-cooperative locals. Hospitality runs through the veins of these folks. Whether it was with the navigation or the best food suggestions, the locals of Ladakh were heartwarmingly helpful in every regard.
An important thing to note is that, you require an Inner Line Permit to travel to Ladakh. It is a travel document issued by the Government of India that allows the inward travel of Indian citizens into a restricted or protected area. The Inner Line Permit is a security measure taken by the Government and is typically applicable only for specified areas of the Leh region. You can obtain the application form of the permit from a stationary shop located behind the Leh DC office.
Even though this permit isn’t applicable to all areas of Leh, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Moreover, don’t forget to carry copies of your nationality proof and photo-IDs along with the permit as you might get stopped at the check posts by military personnel.
Ladakh truly is a must-visit. The crystal clear skies, the magnificent landscapes, the culture, and the people; it has a lot to offer!
written by – Saaransh (visit his intsagram account)
