Day 5 in Ladakh ~ Nubra Valley to Pangong Lake to Leh
I was excited to wake up early because we were heading to the beautiful Pangong Lake. Having seen pictures from my friends visit to the lake, I knew I had to go there. Also, it became famous with the Indian tourist in the past few years because of various Bollywood movie such as, “3 Idiots,” which filmed the movies climax scene here. My tour guide had informed me that the lake will not be as beautiful because it is frozen. I still decided to visit the lake and experience it’s frozen stillness because there is so much beauty even when things might seem barren. Just as in life, you have to appreciate the moments of nothingness, for therein lies answers to one’s life purpose.
The best part of the scenic drive of 3.5 hours from Nubra Valley to Pangong Lake were the wildlife I encountered along the way.
When we got to Pangong Lake, I was simply in awe with nature’s miracle. I’m sure it must be more beautiful when the lake is not frozen but I still loved being there. Luckily, being off season there were only a handful of visitors there, so it was much easier to enjoy the serenity and calmness. Also, I braved and decided to walk on the thin ice, until it started to crack and I ran back to the shore. I could have stayed there longer but then more tourist started pouring in and they ruined my “me moment,” so I decided to bid good bye and continue on my journey back to Leh.
I was supposed to stay overnight in the luxury camps by the Pangong Lake but the Government had decided a day ago to remove all the camps due to concern of pollution and impact to the birds migration pattern. I wished I could have stayed there overnight but I’m happy to know that they are taking action to protect the nature and animals. I was a bit disappointed to see that there were plastic water bottles and trash in the lake dumped by the tourists. I wish somehow these bad actors are fined so they stop this “trashing” practice.
My drive from Pangong Lake to Leh was long as the roads were not in great condition and the snow had caused problems for the motorbikers as they were skidding. We had to wait until all 20+ bikes reached to safe ground. The super long drive exhausted me and I was happy to be back in Leh, inspite of the cold room, the comfy bed was a treat into itself.
