Most newlyweds have an inherent desire to spend quality time with each other. Secluded honeymoon destinations are a perfect choice for couples looking forward to spend time together amidst nature and far away from the crowded city life. The gorgeous landscape in the Ladakh valley is custom-made for romance. It boasts of breathtaking scenery and a diverse line up of activities (riding, trekking, historical monuments, etc.). It is a respite from the real world and one of the most popular destinations for a honeymoon. Once you set foot in the Ladakh valley, you are bound to be blown away by the sight of the Himalayas looming large and the tranquility that prevails here.
The Ladakh valley is a high altitude desert and is locked between the Karokoram, Zanaskar and Ladakh ranges. Leh is the district headquarters and an ideal base for most activities. It is situated at an altitude of about 11,975 feet above sea level, and can be approached from two highways, Srinagar and Manali. Leh is around 434 kilometers from Srinagar and 473 kilometers from Manali. A number of buses and private vehicles ply on these roads. It is well connected by air from Srinagar, Jammu and New Delhi. A number of people ride to Leh from New Delhi too.
Leh is home to a number of iconic structures, including the nine-storey high Leh Palace. The Ladakh mountain range is a perfect backdrop and offers a sprawling view of the town below. If you have dreamt of a honeymoon amidst snow-capped mountains, colorful hues of carnivals and an adventure extravaganza – Leh does not disappoint.
There are a number of monuments, such as, the Stork Palace Museum, Hemis Monastery, Thikse Monastery, Shey Monastery, Alchi Monastery, Likir Monastery and Lamayuru Monastery and if you are lucky, you can catch masked dance festivals at these monasteries too.
You can choose to take a daytrip to Pang Gong, one of the most beautiful lakes in the region, changeable in mood and color, yet tranquil. This “long, narrow, enchanting lake” is a perfect example of a kaleidoscope of nature’s extremes – sub zero temperature and barren mountains in shades of brown. It is a 135-km-long lake, and more than half of it lies in China.
Trekking is one of the most famous adventure activities of the region and is believed to have started in the 19th century itself. Today, you can choose trek routes between Spituk to Markha Valley, Lamayuru Gompa to Chilling and Likir to Temisgam, or the famous Nubra Valley Trek, Trans Zanskar trek, Rupshu Valley trek and much more. Depending on the time on hand and your energy levels, you can plan a trek during your honeymoon in Ladakh too. You could even try white water rafting at the confluence of the Indus and Zanskar rivers. The region is revered for its diverse flora and fauna too.
A lot of people might warn you that the environment and climate might be hostile and recommend you go elsewhere for a honeymoon. However, if you are inclined for some adventure and want to have the experience of a lifetime – Leh is the place. There are a number of tour operators who will offer customized packages for a trip to Leh. However, you should note that the best time to travel to Ladakh is between June and September.
