10 must see places & experiences in Ladakh:
(Not in sequence)
1- Aryan Villages of Dah & Hanu
It is believed that some descendants of the Greek army of Alexander, who were lost on their way back here stayed on here. There are only 3 such villages.
2- Hemis National Park to track the Snow Leopard
The natural habitat of this very elusive cat, this bio-diversity park is one of the few snow leopard reserves in the country. A trek from Hemis till Stok is a memorable experience.
3- The Oracle room at Matho Monastery
This less frequented monastery is well-known for the oracles that appear here at the time of the festival. Before they get into a trance, the oracles meditate in a special room. This room is full of barley grains - a bizarre but intriguing sight.
4- Commanding view of Leh from Tsemo Monastery
You huff and puff up to the top of the hill overlooking entire Leh valley & city. The view from there of the widest part of the Indus valley & of course the Leh city is breathtaking and a photographers’ delight.
5- Sand dunes & Bactrain camels at Nubra Valley
Part of the famed Silk Road, the Nubra valley is much lower in altitude than the Indus Valley but is an arid desert. The barren sand dunes at this high altitude and with snow clad mountains make it mesmerizing.
6- Drive to Khardung La – highest motorable Road
The sheer thrill of going to an altitude of 18380 ft is exciting for most people. The sense of pride at the achievement is a once–in-a-lifetime moment. Sipping a cup of hot chai at this altitude will remain embedded in your memory for ever.
7- The “moonscape” of Lamayuru
The village & monastery stand alongside the astonishing landscape. The erosion of limestone mountains due to high winds makes the area resemble lunarscape.
8- Frescos at Alchi
This is the oldest standing monastery in Ladakh (980 AD) and the frescos here are just extraordinary and very different from other places in Ladakh. An ongoing restoration process is revealing the rich heritage & art of that time.
9- Morning prayers at Thiksey monastery’s Lakhang
To feel the spiritual aura, drive early morning in time for the main prayer ceremony at the main temple at Thiksey. Apart from being a striking building, Thiksey is one of the largest yellow hat schools.
10- The Blue waters of Pangong Lake
On the eastern periphery of Ladakh lies one of the most well known and picturesque lakes in the entire Himalayas. Turquoise blue waters against barren brown mountains of Pangong Lake is the most indelible sight and makes the lake a must see !
10 must see places & experiences of Italy (including The Vatican)
1- Naples
One of the most beautiful coastal cities in the Mediterranean, Naples is home to one of the most famous foods – pizza. The underground city – Napoli Sotterranea is absolutely amazing. Of course no visit can be complete without visiting the ruins at Pompeii.
2- The Isle of Capri
The playground of the rich & famous, the island is just a train & ferry ride from Rome. The fashionable cafes which dot the island are famous for its aperitif – Limón cello.
3- Milan
The fashion hub of Europe – Milan is the centre of the haute couture and the Italian car industry. The Duomo cathedral and the Da Vinci’s Last Supper are magnets for the art aficionado.
4- Lakes Como and Garda
Another playground of the rich & famous, the lake Como is just a short train ride from Milan and you can be hobnobbing with the jet set and their million dollar homes. Set against the Italian Alps it is home to the Renaissance architecture. Lake Garda (larger than Lake Como) too is close by and has equally beautiful landscapes.
5- Cinque Terre
Not so famous but stunningly beautiful Riviera is located in the north western region, the area features five villages which are some of the country’s most beautiful landscapes that include steep cliff sides and wine terraces dating back to hundreds of years.
6- Venice
The city of Romance is an absolutely must see as I am sure you all know.
7- Isle of Sicily
This is the largest island in the Mediterranean sea and is home to a unique culture. The baroque churches and the art too are unique. However it is the food which attracts the gastronomes.
8- Florence & Pisa
The art capital of Europe, the Uffizi and Academia galleries alone can keep people spellbound for days. Add to that Pisa and the scenic countryside of Tuscany and you have a perfect Italian holiday. Visit the vineyards to taste the famous local wines.
9- Amalfi Coast
This area is reason enough to visit Italy. The stunning cliff top villages and towns dotted with multi coloured villas of Sorrento and Positano are a must see! The perfect way –self drive holiday.
10- Rome & The Vatican
All roads lead to Rome – and yes it is true!. One can spend days here and yet not have enough of this pulsating city. The many pizzerias, fountains and squares are well-known, but nothing in comparison to St. Peter’s square at the Vatican. The cathedral is awe inspiring. The Sistine chapel undoubtedly is the main draw and breathtaking in its grandeur.
