Ladakh: The Land of High Passes

Ladakh is not for the faint of heart. It is a high altitude desert in the northernmost part of India, with landscapes that look like they belong on Mars. But if you are up for the challenge, it is one of the most rewarding places to travel. I flew into Leh, the main town, and spent the first two days just acclimatizing to the altitude, which is over 3500 meters. The key is to take it easy, drink plenty of water, and avoid alcohol. Once I was adjusted, I rented a motorcycle and set out to explore. The ride to Pangong Lake, the famous blue lake that stretches into Tibet, was a day long adventure over high mountain passes. The lake itself is stunning, a brilliant blue surrounded by brown mountains. I spent the night in a homestay near the lake, and waking up to the sunrise over the water was unforgettable. Another day, I visited the monasteries that dot the region. Thiksey Monastery is particularly impressive, built like a mini Potala Palace on a hilltop. Ladakh is also home to the world's highest motorable road, Khardung La, which sits at over 5600 meters. I drove up there just to say I had done it. If you are not comfortable on a motorcycle, you can hire a driver or join a group tour. The roads are challenging but the views are worth every bump.