Traveling solo is indeed a privilege that not everyone gets to enjoy. It takes a certain mindset to venture out all by yourself, fully prepared to tackle a host of unknown challenges and relish novel experiences. Ladakh is a popular holiday destination that appeals to solo travelers yearning to take a break from the mundane routines of life and they get to do exactly that.
While Ladakh caters to travel interests of people who love nature, culture, spirituality, and adventure, it probably is one of the best destinations that can soothe your soul as well. If you are wondering how and why read on.
Experience the joy of being unfettered
On the “Roof of the World”, you most likely will discover the true meaning of being free. Vast expanses of barren land with not a soul in sight, sprawling plateaus and valleys with an occasional patch of vegetation, placid lakes with sheets of water reflecting the rays of the sun, snow-clad mountains in the horizon, open clear blue skies overhead, impressive monasteries and towering statues of the Buddha are bound to set your spirits soaring.
You are literally free to enjoy your time here at your own pace, charting your own itinerary based on your interests. If you plan to book a Ladakh tour package, make sure to customize the tour to suit your preferences. There is nothing more challenging or refreshing than a road trip to from Delhi or Manali to Leh! Winding through long and mostly deserted stretches of road with rolling empty terrain on either side, it’s definitely easy to get lost!
Get close to nature
Well-preserved pristine settings of Ladakh with diverse geographic terrain and natural wonders such as the Magnetic Hill are bound to leave you spellbound. You will be enthralled by the cold desert at Nubra Valley and the stark landscape of Moon-land, excited by the vibrant birds and wildlife at the Hemis National Park, pacified by the still waters at the Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri Lakes. With no major distractions, you get to rest comfortably in nature’s lap, rejuvenated by the crisp, cool unpolluted mountain air.
Probably get closer to God
Close to the sun, sky, and nature, you are bound to feel closer to god as well, no matter what faith you follow. The majestic monasteries dotting this terrain are spiritual hubs that soothe the soul.
Irrespective of whether you choose to meditate, pray or quietly explore the serene spiritual settings, you are bound to revel in a sense of calm that prevails throughout the place. The monasteries /temples are typically located on a hill, from where you can have a panoramic view of the spectacular scenery.
The Hemis, Thiksey, Diskit, Likhir, Shey, Lamayaru, Spituk and several other monasteries are not only spiritual centers but also architecturally significant historical monuments. Some of them are home to monks and also serve as centers of learning where young monks are introduced to Buddhist teachings. The architecture, sculptures, paintings, Thangkas, and imposing yet divinely graceful Buddha statues are a pleasure to behold.
Rediscover/reinvent yourself
Spending quality time with yourself in the quaint picturesque settings, observing the simple local lifestyle based on Buddhist principles and experiencing the serene spiritual vibe has a healing effect on the mind and body. This is indeed an ideal setting for soul searching, should you be interested in conversing with yourself. Solo travel does not mean you are lonely.
Traveling alone gives you an opportunity to step out of your comfort zone, know /test your limits, meet new people, make new friends and learn more about yourself during this experience. Trekking, outdoor camping, white water rafting, and other activities give you a chance to try out new things or revive your passion for adventure.
Boost your resilience and resolve
The trip to Ladakh is not an easy one, even if you fly to Leh. Getting acclimatized to the high-altitude climate/temperatures is the very first of challenges you’ll have to face.
The constantly changing weather conditions can cause unexpected delays in your travel plans, teach you a lesson or two in patience. The pace of life too is a tad slower than in the busy cities, persuading you to take time to soak in the scenic settings at almost every turn of the road. The adventure activities you indulge in spark your confidence and alertness and improve your resilience and tenacity as you explore this harsh yet beautiful terrain.
Treks are an integral part of your trip to Ladakh be it the strenuous Zanskar Chadar Trek, the popular Snow Leopard Trek, or even shorter treks to the Sham Valley. The experience is indeed quite satisfying and rewarding too and so is white water rafting on the Zanskar and Indus rivers.
You can enjoy the thrill of camping outdoors during the longer treks or even find accommodation at homestays, which often prove a humbling experience.
It’s never too late to go on a solo trip to Ladakh. Simply sign up for your favorite Ladakh tour package with your trustworthy tour operator for a memorable experience. Remember to follow the usual precautions when traveling alone, and while you are free to pursue your travel interests, do so responsibly and judiciously.
A solo trip to Ladakh is bound to refresh your mind, body, and soul, leaving you confident, strong yet humble to get on with life!
