This IITian spent 3 weeks in Ladakh without visiting Pangong or Nubra Valley—Here’s why

When most people think of a trip to Ladakh, they picture dramatic landscapes: turquoise lakes, towering mountains, sprawling valleys, ancient monasteries, and the Instagram-perfect spots everyone talks about. But there’s much more to this high-altitude desert than the postcard views. Hidden villages, winding trails, local markets, and the rhythms of daily life paint a different, more intimate picture of the region—one that only reveals itself to those willing to slow down.

Kanak Agrawal, an IIT alumna with a passion for slow travel, embraced this approach wholeheartedly. She spent three weeks in Ladakh without visiting any of the typical tourist magnets like Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley, or the famed monasteries. Instead, she immersed herself in the essence of Ladakh, discovering its hidden corners, tasting local flavors, and building connections that most travelers miss.

Experiencing Ladakh Like a Local

Kanak’s journey wasn’t about ticking off a checklist. She wandered through towns and villages, explored quiet streets, and savored the region’s culinary delights. From the best thukpa to steaming cups of chai and the tastiest chole-kulche, she discovered the flavors that define Ladakhi life. Familiar shopkeepers greeted her by name, and her homestay hosts treated her like family, showing her the kind of warmth and hospitality you can only find off the beaten path.

A local aunty invited her to join a pooja, fellow travelers became trusted companions during hitchhiking rides, and even when mobile networks went down, Kanak knew exactly where to go to stay connected. It was these small, intimate moments that formed the heart of her Ladakh experience, proving that sometimes the journey is richer than the sights themselves.

Kanak Agrawal spent three weeks in Ladakh skipping the usual tourist spots—here’s what she explored instead. (Image: Instagram/ @kanakxagrawal)

The Power of Slow Travel

Slow travel is about peeling back the layers of a destination. It’s about being present, listening, tasting, and observing, rather than rushing from one famous landmark to another. Kanak’s LinkedIn post sparked conversations about how slowing down allows travelers to experience the real Ladakh—the people, the culture, and the stories that make it unforgettable.

She joined temple langars where locals welcomed her like family, discovered hidden eateries that only residents know, and moved with the rhythm of everyday life. Over time, she stopped feeling like a visitor and began to feel like a temporary resident, woven into Ladakh’s fabric.

Lessons from Kanak’s Trip

Her story resonated with readers, some feeling envious, others recognizing their own love for slow travel. Many shared similar experiences in Himachal villages or small towns where local vendors remembered them and streets felt like a second home. Kanak’s journey beautifully highlighted that the magic of travel lies in connections, culture, and the little moments—not just landscapes.

Kanak summed it up perfectly: "None of this happens when you rush through a place. That’s why I choose slow travel." She added that she didn’t just see the world—she lived a hundred different lives within it.

Kanak Agrawal discovered that the real magic of Ladakh lies in slowing down and living like a local, not rushing through the landmarks. (Image: LinkedIn/ Kanak AgrawalKanak Agrawal)

Why This Journey Stands Out

Kanak’s Ladakh adventure shows that travel isn’t merely about sightseeing—it’s about living the experience. It’s about collecting stories from ordinary moments, forming friendships, tasting local flavors, and feeling a sense of belonging, even temporarily. Her journey redefines exploration, reminding us that the most unforgettable experiences often happen away from the tourist trail.