ALL THE WAY UP!

Exploring the vast landscape of Ladakh with Renault India's lineup - why would we say no?!

- Keshav Teiva Poumai

Ladakh, adakh, the land of high passes, nestled in the Himalayas, is a mosaic of rugged mountains, vast deserts, and serene lakes. It was a trip that was waiting to be ticked off a bucket list for a long time now. The crisp mountain air, although thin, carries with it whispers of traditions and cultures as old as the mountains themselves.

Monasteries perched on the edges of cliffs, colourful prayer flags adorning every nook and corner, while the friendly faces of Ladakhi people smile at you from their warm little homes.

It is a different world altogether, one that welcomes us with a warm embrace as everything else freezes in time. I had always imagined that my first journey here would be on two wheels, but the number of wheels doesn't really matter, does it?

Coming to what brought us to Ladakh, Renault India had invited us to take part in an experiential drive of its entire vehicle lineup in one of the most challenging driving conditions in the world.

We are always up for a good challenge, so off we went into the lap of the Himalayas to drive a few cars and see a few sights. Upon arrival in Leh, we were told to rest and acclimatise ourselves, or else we could fall prey to the ill effects of the sudden change in altitude.

I managed to sit tight for the first day, but that was about all the self-control that I had. On the second day, I set out for the market and explored all the colourful bylanes where the locals were selling their beautiful wares, stopping now and then to sample the simple but flavourful Ladakhi cuisine at small eateries along the way. No better way to acclimatise than that, I say.