Markha Valley was wonderful.

The track, which is quite simple and seems like a second skin to Ladakh, leads you through a variety of scenery, charming settlements, and breathtaking views. I also encountered groups of nomads, who had a calm demeanour and an aura of satisfaction about them. I was ready for a little more excitement after that peaceful little trip in Markha Valley, where I got to talk to locals, take in the vistas of Ladakh, and understand the topography of the area. But wow, did I raise the stakes more than I had intended!

Time for some challenging fun

The magnificent Stok Kangri was the next destination on my Ladakh trekking route. Any hiker worth his or her 

It had a peculiar flavour about it that did require some getting accustomed to, but in the end, it was really great. On my numerous walking paths, I also drank herbal teas, which were energising in the chilly weather and beneficial to my health.

Though I was happy climbing Stok Kangri, I felt compelled to try paragliding despite my resolve to stay on the ground. And I'm happy I didn't hesitate. I had previously done it in Manali, but this time, the experience was just extraordinary. It is indeed a unique experience to soar through the sky of the most isolated region of North India.

Some things simply cannot be expressed in words. One of them is love, and another is Ladakh, a place of breathtaking scenery, charming rusticity, and pristine environment. Though I will make every effort to avoid being carried away in those wonderful moments spent in the lap of the mighty Himalayas, I will try to capture my experience of Ladakh as best as I can in this essay.

I knew as soon as I landed in Ladakh that this was going to be a magical experience, and I would surely extend my journey beyond the 15 days I had originally planned. I wasn't mistaken on either front. Although it took me a few days, the place enchanted me and left me fascinated.

Ladakh

The most anticipated journey of my life was the one I took to Ladakh. Bollywood flicks (beautiful moments from 3 Idiots and Jab Tak Hai Jaan) simply served to fuel the flames. In the first week of May, I therefore had the opportunity to travel to Ladakh for the first time, an experience that has left me with lifelong memories and firmly etched breathtaking sights of this magical location in my head.

Even the labyrinthine routes getting to Ladakh are fascinating. The moment you catch a sight of paradise coated in snow, your eyes light up! It's beautiful to picture yourself staring down on a calm, serene lake that is bluish-green in colour.

Imagine being welcomed by majestic mountains instead; that was a greeting I will never forget. Natural beauty is the most captivating thing about Ladakh.