5 Best Experiences In Ladakh That Belong On Your Travel Bucket List

A trip to Ladakh for many men for the longest time has been a one of the top spots to go bike riding. Growing up, boys only knew of two must-go to travel destinations- Goa and a roadtrip to Ladakh. The long unwinding and undulating roads covered by snowy mountains on both sides at an altitude of 5500 metres indeed calls for once in a lifetime experience.

But what if we told you that beyond the off-roading adventures, the vast landscapes of the union territory has a plethora of other thrills to offer to you. From going for a warm and comforting cup of chai at the infamous tea shop from Aditya Dhar-directed Ranveer Singh-starrer Dhurandhar to art Biennale spread across the region to marathon and more.

This Ladakh travel list (or if you prefer calling it wishlist) suggests new spots and activities to do around Ladakh apart from your usual recommendations. Surely, if you're planning to make your way to the snowy terrains of Ladakh, you already might want to go visit Nubra Valley, Pangong Lake and Hemis Monastery and Diskit Monastery.

But if you are looking to enjoy Ladakh and its beauty differently, you can add some of Esquire India recommended spots and activities to your Ladakh travel itinerary. Here they are:

Ladakh Art Biennale

If you are planning to go to Ladakh in August, you can catch one of the highest art biennale's of the world at Ladakh. Sa Ladakh is an annual art biennale that highlights climate, culture, and community through art works presented at the biennale that is spread across the region of Ladakh.

Ski Mountaineering or Sliptboard Ski in Khardung La

For those passionate about Skiing, Ladakh is a perfect place to do that. That said, if you're passion has been recessive for the longest time, an escape to Ladakh can also be 14 days ski course in the high-altitude terrain in Zanskar, Khardung La, Kang Yatze Massif or the alpine bowls of the Stok Range where riders can explore dramatic backcountry lines through a mix of glacier travel, steep descents and expedition-style touring.

Star Gazing in Hanle

The jet-black skies at Hanle is one of those other worldly skies you'll ever come across. At Hanle Dark Sky Reserve, you fill find yourself in wonderment with mouth agape as the Milky Way will be visible to you and your naked eyes. Time here is just a concept, truly! (And you don't really have to be an astrophysicist to go and enjoy yourself)

Tea and Biryani at Washma Butt

A real-life biryani and chai shop located in Leh, Ladakh, a visit to Washma Butt is a quirky add-on to your travel to Ladakh. The quirky name gained viral fame after being featured in Aditya Dhar's Dhurandhar, where Ranveer Singh's character visits the spot with Aalam Chacha. While Jassi aka Hamza didn't enjoy the tea, you can be the judge for it yourself.

Fossil Hunting in the Shinku La Region

Shinku La region is a high-altitude pass between Himachal Pradesh and Leh/Ladakh, and offers an exhilarating glimpse into the deep past of the Himalayas.

While the highest point of the pass sits at over 5,000 meters, the surrounding valleys are teeming with ancient marine life and prehistoric plant fossils that date back millions of years to the Tethys Sea.