The Desai’s Adventure: A Family Odyssey in the Terrains of Ladakh with Thrillophilia
Retirement is not the end of a story but the beginning of a new chapter.
After working tirelessly for years, I, Anil Desai, wanted to celebrate this milestone with the people who mattered most—my family. We used to travel every year when the kids were younger, but over time, life got busy, and these traditions faded. So, for my retirement, I decided to rekindle that joy by planning a grand family trip.
The destination was Ladakh, the land of high passes and serene landscapes. But planning a vacation for 14 people wasn’t easy. That’s when I turned to Thrillophilia, a name recommended by a friend.
They assured me everything would be smooth, and even when we had a last-minute change in plans—two family members had to cancel just days before departure—Ravi from their team handled it like a pro. It was a promising start to what would become an unforgettable journey.
From Sacred Stupas to Gravity-Defying Roads
Our adventure began as soon as we landed in Leh. The crisp, thin air hit us immediately, reminding us of the importance of acclimatisation. After a warm traditional welcome, we were taken to our hotel, where we spent the day resting and adjusting to the altitude.
In the evening, we visited Shanti Stupa. Perched atop a hill, the stupa offered panoramic views of Leh town, framed by rugged mountains. As the golden hour bathed the valley, the kids competed to click the best photos, while the adults sat back, soaking in the peace. This was our first taste of Ladakh’s beauty, and it set the tone for the days to come.
The next morning, we set off for Sham Valley, a region filled with surprises. At Magnetic Hill, we watched in amazement as our vehicle appeared to roll uphill on its own—a phenomenon that left the kids wide-eyed and questioning the laws of physics.
We then visited the confluence of the Indus and Zanskar Rivers, where the two rivers merged in a striking play of colours. At Gurudwara Pathar Sahib, we experienced the warmth of Langar (a communal meal) and the hospitality of the locals.
The highlight of the day was SECMOL, the famous school featured in 3 Idiots. The kids were thrilled to see the place they’d only seen in movies, and we learned about the innovative education system here. Returning to Leh that evening, we felt a mix of exhaustion and excitement for what lay ahead.
Snow, Sand, and Stargazing
The next day was a big one: a drive to Khardung La, the world’s highest motorable pass. The journey was thrilling, with sharp curves and stunning views of snow-covered peaks. Reaching the top at 18,380 feet felt like a personal achievement for everyone. A steaming bowl of Maggi at the Khardung La Café was the cherry on top—a simple meal that felt like luxury at this altitude.
Descending into Nubra Valley, the landscape changed dramatically. The white sand dunes of Hundar looked almost otherworldly. We rode on double-humped camels, a unique experience that had us laughing and holding on for dear life.
As the sun set, we gathered around a bonfire at our campsite, sharing stories under a blanket of stars. It was one of those moments that felt timeless—a perfect mix of adventure and tranquillity.
Lakes and Legends
No trip to Ladakh is complete without visiting Pangong Lake, and the drive there was as stunning as the destination itself. The Shyok River meandered alongside us, reflecting the towering mountains on its surface. And then, there it was—the lake we’d all been waiting for.
Pangong was stunning beyond words. Its colours shifted with the light, from deep blue to green to silver, leaving us spellbound. The kids wasted no time recreating the famous 3 Idiots scooter pose, much to the amusement of onlookers.
Meanwhile, the ladies in our group tried on traditional Ladakhi dresses for photos. Watching them struggle to keep their capes in place as the wind played tricks was hilarious, and we couldn’t stop laughing.
We spent hours by the lake, skipping stones, taking pictures, and simply marvelling at its beauty. That night, at our campsite near the lake, we enjoyed another round of stargazing. The silence of the mountains and the brilliance of the Milky Way made us feel small yet incredibly lucky.
Monasteries, Passes, and Lasting Memories
On our way back to Leh, we stopped at Chang La, the third-highest motorable pass. The roads were challenging, but the views were breathtaking. Every turn brought a new landscape, from icy glaciers to lush valleys.
We also visited Thiksey Monastery, one of Ladakh’s most iconic landmarks. The towering statue of Maitreya Buddha left us speechless, and the monastery’s peaceful ambience was a welcome contrast to the busy days we’d had. Nearby, Shey Palace offered stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Farewell to the Mountains
As our trip came to an end, there was a sense of fulfilment among us. The landscapes of Ladakh, with their raw beauty, had brought us closer together. Thrillophilia’s impeccable planning allowed us to enjoy every moment without worrying about the logistics, and that made all the difference.
Ladakh wasn’t just a destination for us; it was an experience—a journey that reminded us of the joy of being together. From the laughter shared over camel rides to the quiet moments at the stupa, every memory became a part of our family’s story.
As we flew back home, we carried not just pictures but a sense of gratitude for the time spent with loved ones in one of the most beautiful places on Earth.
Read more: Thrillophilia Ladakh Sightseeing Reviews