BY ARUNDHATI AIL
Instead of Nubra valley, stay in Zanskar
Instead of going to Pangong lake, visit Tso Moriri
Said to be the largest high altitude lake in India that is entirely in Indian territory, Tso Moriri lies 4,000 metres above sea level. The picturesque lake in Rupshu Valley offers calm and solitude, flanked by mountains on all sides. Unlike Pangong lake—the popular choice among tourists since the famous 3 Idiots scene there—you will need an Inner Line Permit to visit Tso Moriri. But the sprawling blue lake makes it worth it and you even get to enjoy two more lakes on the way—Tsokar Lake and Tso-Kyagar. Distance from Leh: 5 hours, 30 minutes.
Explore the Ladakhi village of Turtuk instead of Diskit
While most tourists choose to stay in Diskit village for its high altitude, views of the Shyok river and the Diskit monastery, lower in the landscape is Turtuk—a smaller village with a rich history and stunning scenery. The lesser-known hamlet is the one of the northernmost villages in India, beyond which lies Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir. The village lies between Nubra and Baltistan, on the banks of the Shyok river, and was once an important gateway for the Silk Route. The tiny village is dotted with apricot and walnut plantations, and houses a 16th century polo ground and the Balti Heritage House and Museum—a 140-year-old structure built with wood and stone. Distance from Leh: 5 hours, 30 minutes.
Get your adrenaline rush on the Sham Valley trek instead of the Markha valley trek
The Markha valley trek is among the most popular treks in Ladakh. Spanning about a week, the trek involves river crossings, passing through beautiful villages and crossing the Kongmaru La pass, all while enjoying Mt. Kang Yatse. But if you’re looking for an easier trek, suitable for complete beginners and families, the Sham Valley trek is a great alternative. The trek takes you through Ladakhi villages—where you will have beautiful homestay options. Visit the Alchi monastery—which is more like a complex of temples—and while you’re in the area, enjoy a meal at the Alchi Kitchen. The unique restaurant helmed by chef Nilza Wangmo offers traditional Ladakhi delicacies with a modern twist like saffron paneer momos, sandwiches made with khambir—the local whole wheat bread and skyu—a soup-based dish with root vegetables and pieces of pasta-like dough
Skip the popular monasteries for Matho Monastery and Stok Palace.
If you’re taking a trip to the Thiksey monastery in the Indus valley 20km from Leh, look out for the Matho Monastery right opposite. Though it’s a little more offbeat than the former, it has a lot on offer for history buffs. The monastery was founded in 1410 and houses a large collection of Buddhist thangkas or paintings from the 14th century. And if it’s historical structures you’re looking for, look beyond the well-known monasteries and consider a trip to Stok Palace in Leh. The stunning property is almost 200 years old and is said to have been built entirely by Ladakhi craftsmen as the residence of the Namgyal dynasty. It houses royal apartments, prayer chambers, a museum, sprawling courtyards and a temple. It has also been converted into a heritage hotel, where you can book yourself into royal suites or villas amidst apricot and willow trees.
Enjoy the scenery from Namgyal Tsemo Gompa instead of the Shanti Stupa
The white-domed Shanti Stupa in Leh is known for its magnificent structure and stunning views of the landscape. But if you want to avoid the crowds, head to the Namgyal Tsemo Gompa close-by, just behind the Palace of Leh, where you can enjoy the same views, minus the chatter of tourists. This Buddhist monastery founded in 1413 houses a three-storey tall gold statue of Maitreya Buddha. Here, perched on a mountain-top, you can enjoy panoramic views of Leh, against the bright blue sky.
Get a history lesson at the Central Asian Museum instead of Leh Palace
Although not as grand as the Leh Palace, the Central Asian Museum next to the main market in Leh says a lot about the history of the region. Ladakh has always been an important place of trade in Central Asia and the museum houses artefacts, maps, manuscripts and pieces of heritage that highlight this role. Here, you can even get a glimpse into the old Ladakhi way of life through the many day-to-day artefacts on display—from utensils and coins to copies of hand-written Qurans and even a prototype of an ancient Ladakhi kitchen. Central Asian Museum: Main Bazaar Road, Leh, 194101
