Jimit Shah's Family Journey Through Ladakh and Kashmir with Thrillophilia

When Jimit Shah, his wife Saloni, their children Ruvi and Dhivam, his brother Ketan, and their close friend Kunal Bahuva landed in Leh, the sight before them felt unreal. The mountains stretched endlessly, their snow-capped peaks glistening under the sunlight. This was a trip they had dreamed of for years, a family adventure finally coming alive.

At their hotel in Leh, they were welcomed with warm drinks and genuine smiles. Respecting the altitude, the family spent the first hours gently adjusting, strolling through Leh Market, visiting Leh Palace, and watching the golden glow on Shanti Stupa. Dinner that evening was simple yet comforting, made more special by the thoughtful attention given to their request for Jain food. That care hinted that the journey would be more than sightseeing, but rather it would be about feeling looked after.

The following morning, they set out for Nubra Valley, crossing the iconic Khardung La Pass. The drive itself felt adventurous, winding through high-altitude roads as Ruvi and Dhivam pressed their faces to the windows to spot yaks and fluttering prayer flags. A stop at Rinchen Café for bowls of Maggi turned into a highlight, the thin mountain air making the taste unforgettable. At Diskit Monastery, the towering Maitreya Buddha inspired quiet reverence. Meanwhile, the children lit up with laughter on the dunes of Hunder, riding camels with joy echoing across the cold desert. That night at the Nubra camp, under a canopy of stars, the family felt the essence of Ladakh wrap around them.

From Nubra, the road led to Pangong Tso, the lake they had anticipated the most. The shifting shades of blue on the water felt like watching a living canvas change by the hour. Ruvi and Dhivam skipped stones on the shore while mountains reflected in the still lake, leaving Jimit and Saloni in awe of nature’s brilliance. The camp by the lake was warm and welcoming, the staff’s care making them feel at ease despite the winds outside.

Crossing Chang La Pass on their way back to Leh, the family paused at the small temple there, reflecting quietly. The visit to Druk Padma Karpo School delighted the children, while Thiksey Monastery offered a sense of timelessness, its chants echoing through centuries-old halls. Returning to Leh felt like coming back to a familiar and comfortable place.

The journey to Kargil stretched long but was filled with remarkable stops. At Lamayuru Monastery, the family absorbed the wisdom etched in its ancient walls. Basgo Palace rose tall with vibrant red and gold hues, while the Giant Buddha at Mulbek left them humbled. That evening in Kargil, stories and laughter around a bonfire under the stars deepened their bond.

Onwards to Srinagar, the family passed through Drass, shivering at the thought of being in the second coldest inhabited place on earth. They gazed at Tiger Hill and other peaks that bore witness to the Kargil War, a reminder of sacrifice and resilience. The drive through Zoji La Pass tested them with sharp turns and towering walls of snow but soon opened into the lush valleys and lakes of Kashmir. By the time they reached Srinagar, the contrast felt almost dreamlike.

The final morning in Srinagar carried a bittersweet note. As they shared breakfast, they knew the journey was ending, yet their hearts brimmed with gratitude. What made the experience seamless was not only the grandeur of Ladakh and Kashmir but also the meticulous planning by Thrillophilia. From spotless cars and attentive drivers to comfortable hotel stays, delicious Jain meals, and constant support, everything had been arranged with care. Even when small challenges arose, like Dhivam growing restless during long drives, the team’s patience and thoughtful stops kept the journey smooth.

For the Shah family and Kunal, this trip became more than just a holiday. It was a collection of memories to cherish forever. The stillness of Pangong, the laughter at Hunder, the reverence at monasteries, and the wonder of Kashmir’s valleys blended into one unforgettable experience. They returned home with full hearts, thankful for the decision to finally take this family journey.

Also Checkout: Thrillophilia Ladakh Reviews