Getting High on Life! Gautam With Thrillophilia in Leh-Ladakh
“Go out, go out I beg of you And taste the beauty of the wild. Behold the miracle of the earth with all the wonder of a child.” –
These words by Edna Jaques describe every traveler’s lives.
Gautam Kumar, a Jharkhand-based traveler, believes that there's no such possible option as "enough traveling." Gautam, who has a special place in his heart reserved just for travel, has already seen the country and doesn't plan on stopping anytime soon. He's a government employee by day, but travel gives him a rush, and he relishes every opportunity to embark on a new adventure.
For him, the mountains are always calling him, and it's his fitness that keeps him on the road whenever he can. He attributes his physical fitness to his professional sports experience in badminton and cricket, as well as other numerous adventures that he has participated in. A solo journey to Ladakh in June was just what he needed to amp up his adrenaline levels, and boy does he not regret it! Gautam made a lot of new friends on his solo trip, and he describes his fellow travelers as passionate and adventure-crazy people who kept him entertained.
The Planning for the Dream Trip!
A lone road trip to Ladakh is risky because most bikers who visit the region are part of their own bike gangs. Gautam, on the other hand, felt it was past time for another trip to Ladakh after having visited nearly every other region of India. His solo bike trip from Manali to Leh, planned with Thrillophilia, began in mid-June with no second thoughts.
In addition to planning the trip, he also researched the weather and the best spots to visit while on his own in the mighty hills. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity, so be sure to bring all the essentials, including your camera and a power bank for low-light hikes and a supply of dry fruits to keep your energy levels up as you take in the majestic Himalayas. Also, don't forget to bring a safety kit for biking, medicines, warm clothes, and a raincoat.
By planning ahead, Gautam says, you can enjoy every moment of your journey without being distracted by anything unexpected or unpleasant.
Creating Lifetime Memories on Twisted Roads
Any trip to Ladakh is guaranteed to be an adventure thanks to the varying landscape and unpredictable weather. Even though he set out on his own, Gautam was able to meet incredible people along the way on his solo bike trip from Manali to Leh.
According to Gautam, the best part of the trip was the route between Jispa and Sarchu because it was the first significant water crossing that put the bikers' skills to the ultimate test. They did not hesitate to take on the obstacles head-on, and in addition to constantly encouraging each other, they had fun on the trip by stopping to capture moments and eat snacks. The group refueled themselves with a refreshing dip in the river or stream as they made their way to their destination!
To keep their spirits high, they also took breaks from biking to dance on the streets several times. While on the road, Gautam was enthralled by the ever-changing landscapes and when he drove the world's highest motorable road, Chang La, he felt like he was literally at the top of the world. The thrill and joy of this accomplishment added to the already amazing trip.
Gautam fulfilled his lifelong ambition by conquering Khardung La and Tanglang La on a bike. He was filled with joy and peace as he gazed up at the snow-covered peaks of the high passes. At Khardung La, the bikers were constantly captivated by the dramatic change in scenery, which occurred within a few kilometers, as they descended from the snow-capped peaks towards the deserted land of Hunder.
During favourable conditions, bikers also enjoyed cruising around on the bike at high speeds on the open road. For Gautam, one of the most memorable parts of the trip was when they rode their bikes for about 20 kilometers at 80 kph! While all of the riders were giddy with excitement as they rode, the trip's real high point was still to come.
The Highlights of Pangong Tso
Visuals of clear blue lake water reflecting the mountains in the distance appear when the name Pangong Tso is mentioned. Gautam's trip to the Pangong Tso was one of the most remarkable and anticipated experiences of his life. He has a vivid memory of the lake's blue and violet hues from the first vantage point he saw.
Pangong Tso's waters genuinely represent the joys of life, thanks to the ever-changing clouds that reflect the mountain colors. Awe-inspiring was the shifting hues of the lake's water against the backdrop of these mountains! At the camp of Pangong Tso, he made the most of every moment by taking pictures of the lake and relaxing on the lakeside.
During the trip, Gautam and the other riders had some of the best camping experiences. Camping was an essential part of the trip because it allowed the group to bond over shared experiences and activities in the most extreme terrain. Ladakh's natural beauty was perfectly exemplified by the weather, which was cool and free-flowing. Gautam lauds his decision to travel to Ladakh in June because he was mesmerized by the land's beauty. Because he's an adrenaline junkie, he's planning on doing some bungee jumping in New Zealand, which is a bucket-list item for thrill seekers all over the world.