Inside a Cold Himalayan Valley lies a Mini Desert
Wednesday Post: Peep through this Himalayan desert, read the best of travel books, explore the Andamans like never before and watch how to explore the Pink City of India with Tripoto
Born from the Shyok and Nubra rivers' ancient paths, Hunder is not your typical desert. Tucked deep inside Nubra Valley in Ladakh, this is where sand sparkles under the bluest skies and temperatures can drop below zero even as the sun blazes.
Here, at an altitude of 10,000 feet, where oxygen thins and prayer flags flutter madly in glacial wind, you’ll find an impossible landscape of rolling sand dunes, icy winds, and Bactrian camels with fluffy winter coats.
What sets it apart? The double-humped Bactrian camels, once used in the trans-Himalayan trade along the Silk Route, now roam these dunes as both relics and rides. Watching them walk against snow-kissed mountains is like flipping through a fantasy novel.
But Hunder is more than a photogenic pitstop. It’s a gateway to Diskit Monastery, with its towering statue of Maitreya Buddha overlooking the valley like a guardian of time. And it’s the backdrop to a slow, mindful life — think apricot orchards, stone houses, and skies so clear, the Milky Way feels like it’s within arm’s reach.
Wondering where to stay in Nubra Valley? We have the perfect recommendation for you
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🗺️ Destination Of The Week: Andaman Islands
Think Andaman, and your mind instantly drifts to turquoise waters, powdery white beaches, and scuba selfies.
But there’s an untold side to these islands — one filled with lava-spewing mountains, secret caves, and historical whispers buried beneath the sand.
Start with Barren Island, India's only active volcano, located about 135 km from Port Blair. Though landing is prohibited, boat tours take you close enough to witness the steam and scorched earth. Next, venture to Baratang Island, a place where geology and jungle collide. Here, limestone caves, mud volcanoes, and dense mangrove tunnels make you feel like you’ve stepped into Jurassic Park.
Meanwhile, Chidiya Tapu, just 25 km from Port Blair, remains a lesser-known gem. This birdwatcher’s paradise also offers some of the most dramatic sunsets on the island, with fiery skies reflecting off quiet tidal pools.
The best part? The archipelago is now becoming more accessible. With talks of international flights and seaplane connectivity, it’s never been easier to hop across this chain of emerald isles.
Customize your Andaman Islands trip with Tripoto
👀 What To Watch This Weekend
City Palace Jaipur stands majestically in the heart of the Pink City – a nearly 300-year-old marvel built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II. In this cinematic travel vlog, we wander through its sunlit courtyards and ornate halls, immersing ourselves in the palace’s rich history and breathtaking architecture.
Like the wise elephant, let’s remember deeply, walk mindfully, and honor every footprint on this path.
Our journey continues next week,
With quiet strength,
Sreyashi Paul