“Reaching for a Dream” by Visiting Ladakh
Đỗ An Ninh’s trip to “Little Tibet” left a stronger impression than he had ever imagined.
Đỗ An Ninh, 28, a Korean language teacher, recently completed an 11-day trip to India in late August. His destination was Ladakh, a region in the Jammu and Kashmir state known as “Little Tibet.” Ninh joined a group tour, which was cheaper than initially expected, with a total cost of nearly 30 million VND per person.
In addition to being a Korean language teacher, An Ninh runs a travel blog named OnTheMars, where he shares his trips and personal travel experiences. Ninh wanted to fully explore Ladakh, focusing only on the local lifestyle and scenery. However, he also took the opportunity to explore New Delhi during his layover and overnight stay. What impressed him most was the vast and modern New Delhi airport, though it was very crowded. Ninh advises everyone to allow extra time to reach the airport to avoid missing their flights.
India has relaxed many Covid-19 quarantine regulations. Upon entry, customs only requires proof of at least two doses of vaccination. “Airport security is very strict, so before you go, make sure to print your international and domestic flight tickets (if any), hotel reservations, and vaccination certificates to be ready to provide them if asked,” Ninh shared.
“India is a country with a rich cultural and historical background and diverse architecture, making it very worthwhile to explore. Additionally, after seeing beautiful photos of Ladakh, I was even more determined to go. It’s quite a safe place, contrary to what many people think. So, I decided to learn more about this region and make the trip,” Ninh explained why he chose Ladakh.
Leh Town, the Capital of Ladakh: This is where Ninh experienced altitude sickness and shortness of breath due to the thin air. “This was also the place where we adapted to continue our journey to higher elevations. I spent two days in Leh, visiting the local markets, palaces, and famous Buddhist monasteries such as Leh Palace, Shey Monastery, Thiksay Monastery, Hemis Monastery, and Alchi Monastery.”
After two days of acclimating to the altitude in Leh, Ninh set out to conquer the Khardung La and Chang La passes, both above 5,000 meters. “The altitude truly tested human endurance; it was also very cold. I struggled with shortness of breath due to the lack of oxygen,” Ninh said.
Next Stop: Nubra Valley and Hunder Village: Here, he rode camels in the valley. “Riding through the white sand dunes stretching to the horizon was an amazing experience. The peaceful village of Hunder, with its red apple trees and heavy apricot branches, felt like a paradise.”
Ninh then visited Turtuk Village, located on the India-Pakistan border. He was impressed by the fields of pure white buckwheat flowers surrounded by mountain ranges. The scenery here is described as “romantic like European landscapes.”
The Most Loved Places by Visitors: The brackish water lakes of Pangong and Moriri. He has unforgettable memories of staying with locals in a small village at the foot of the mountains. There were no mobile signals, no internet, only the clear lake, distant snowy peaks, and the dazzling Milky Way in the night sky.
Ladakh left Ninh with more impressions than he had imagined. “The nature here is like a grand and majestic painting. The winding mountain roads, golden wheat fields next to rushing streams are images I will never forget.”
Ladakh is also a land of Buddhism, so the density of monasteries is high, often situated on mountain peaks, with grand structures that bring a solemn atmosphere.
“The people are another special aspect of this region. They are not rushed; everyone is open, gentle, and always willing to strike up a conversation even with strangers. They are also always ready to help if someone needs it. Each day in Ladakh brought new surprises about the people,” Ninh added.
Notes Before the Trip
Regarding visa applications, Ninh noted that he found the process straightforward. You can apply online, which includes submitting a 3×4 photo, a passport photo, filling out information on the website, and paying a fee of 25 USD. After 3-5 days, you will receive an e-visa via email.
One of the fastest routes, chosen by many Vietnamese travelers to reach Ladakh, is Hanoi – New Delhi – Leh. 100 Indian Rupees is equivalent to 33,000 VND.
Travelers should exercise and prepare physically before the trip. Ninh took extra brain health supplements for half a month before departure to minimize the effects of altitude sickness and lack of oxygen.
It is advisable to bring warm clothing because it gets cold at night, as well as body lotion, moisturizer to prevent dry skin, and sunscreen. Avoid wearing short skirts or shorts when visiting palaces and Buddhist monasteries.
The cuisine in Ladakh may be difficult for some to enjoy, as most locals follow Buddhism or Hinduism, resulting in vegetarian dishes or spices that may not suit Vietnamese tastes. Therefore, Ninh brought some dried food from Vietnam.
“Seeing Ladakh for the first time through pictures, I started dreaming about this land. And finally, I’m happy to have reached that dream,” Ninh said about the trip.