Leh-Absolute Himalayan Paradise

Leh at Night

Introduction:
Lying deep amidst the Himalayan mountain ranges, Leh is a high altitude desert city. At an elevation of roughly 3500 metres above sea level, Leh is one of the few high-altitude desert cities in the world. Leh gets it beauty from its arid landscape and the harsh climate which results in some genuinely amazing scenery. Getting to Leh is not for the faint-hearted however, because it lies at such a high-altitude we advise any potential visitors to acclimatise to the high altitudes of the Himalayas before proceeding to Leh. Failure to do so may result in severe mountain sickness (and possibly even Death).

Things to Do and Places to Visit:
Leh Palace/Shanti Stupa:  When at Leh, one simply must visit the Shanti Stupa and the nearby Leh Palace. The views from both these places are simply astounding and deeply relaxing. Remember to take several layers of warm clothes as it gets very cold.

Shanti Stupa (Winter)

Pangong Lake: Pangong Tso is a lake which extends for roughly 134km between India and China. Its known by locals as the place where the sky shakes hands with the earth. Words cannot do the beauty of this place justice. You must visit this place. Word of caution however, is that since this lake is at nearly 5000 metres above sea level don't spend more than 25 minutes.

Sunrise at Pangong Tso

Places to Eat: Perhaps the only major disadvantage of visiting Leh is that there are no renowned eatries-due to high altitude and severe weather especially during winter when temperatures have been recorded to dip below -20 degrees. However, with that being said Gesmo Restaurant near Leh Palace can provide a yummy meal for relatively cheap prices.

What to Try: If in Leh one should aim to have Momo's. Momo's are dishes native to Tibet and Nepal and seeing the large tibetan influence in Leh, its a dish to definitely try. Momo's are like Dumplings.

Momo

Where to Stay: The Zen Ladakh is unquestionably the place any visitors should stay. Although its a bit expensive its definitely worth it once you factor in the harsh environment.

What to Watch out For:
Weather: Because Leh is at such a high altitude one can never be too careful. Ensure to pack as many warm clothes as you can, they will come in handy. Also try to acclimatise to the surroundings before attempting any road trips or day excursions, because exertion at this altitude will lead to altitude sickness and maybe even death.

Airfare: 
Flight from Sydney to Leh (Via Delhi) for one adult as of 11th October 2017 is roughly $1312.

Overall Opinion: 
Leh, a genuine wonder city- a must visit for all travel enthusiasts. However, lack of luxury accomodation or food eateries may off-put certain visitors, because of these short-comings Leh receives a 3.5/5 star rating. However-if someone isn't worried too much about food or accomodation-this rating is revised to a 5/5 star rating.

(All info sourced from https://www.lonelyplanet.com/india/jammu-and-kashmir/leh)

-Sargunn Sahota

Delhi-The city of a billion dreams

Delhi,India

Introduction:

The city of New Delhi is the capital of India and it is the most populous city in India with a staggering population of roughly 21 million people. Embedded in New Delhi (or "Delhi"as its also known as ) is a rich history which spans back centuries to roughly 3500 BC according to renowned historians and archaeologists. 

Post India's economic boom in the mid-2000's Delhi has genuinely become a modern metropolis with a wide array of malls, hotels and industries opening up and taking off .If you are into history, culture and cuisine New Delhi is for you!!

Taj Mahal

Things to Do and Places to Visit:

Taj Mahal: Coming to Delhi and not journeying to Agra to visit the divine Taj Mahal may be almost borderline insulting ! The Taj Mahal is mausoleum constructed by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in honour of his favourite wife Mumtaz Mahal.
When visiting the Taj Mahal, make sure to bring your camera so you can take some truly remarkable pictures and also don't forget to bring a bottle of water-as temperatures in Agra regularly exceed 25 degrees even in winter.

Qutub Minar: The Qutub Minar is a UNESCO world heritage site, which automatically makes it something every tourist must consider visiting. The Qutub Minar was at one point in time during the 1300's considered to be the highest man-made structure in the world. The beauty of this tower lies not only in it's "towering height" or architecture but rather in its enduring ability. This tower has survived 2 lightning strikes during the 12th century and remarkably is still intact even today in the 21st century.

Qutub Minar

Place To Eat and What to Try:
Khan Chacha: If you visit Delhi, eating at Khan Chacha's is a must. The most brilliant Indian street food you could ever imagine is routinely served up here at prices that are almost "too cool to be true". One dish i personally recommend would be the succulent Shahi Kebab-its too good.
Nirulas: India's oldest fast-food restaurant chain. It's basically Indian Mcdonalds, everything is available here from: kebabs, curries, pizzas and even burgers. Visiting Nirulas at least once is something all tourists should aim to do.

Food to Try:
Kulfi: Kulfi is basically "Indian Ice-cream" except with a way more milky taste. It's unique and is almost exclusive to the north of India. You must taste it to experience the difference.

Kulfi

Things to Look out For:
Taxi-Drivers: Indian taxi-drivers are known for being relentless in their pursuit for a customer. If a taxi-driver approaches you please decline as it is in the best interest of your well-being. These taxi-drivers will scam you and deceive you by charging up to thrice the fare. It's best to use the Auto-Rickshaws or apps such as Uber and Ola to go around from place to place

Water Quality: Delhi is the most polluted city in the world (both air and land). Drinking water from taps is a strict no. Remember to carry packaged drinking water bottles at all times.

The Place to Stay:
Taj Palace: Although this hotel is a tad bit expensive, it's the best place to experience Delhi in all its luxurious glory. This 5 star hotel is within walking distance of bus stops and metro stations and is conveniently located near the Airport.

Airfare: 
Flight to New Delhi from Sydney for one Adult as of 15th September is roughly: $1051. (zuji.com.au)

Overall Opinion:
If you visit India, you MUST travel to Delhi to experience its rich history and taste it drool-worthy food.  4/5 stars.

(all info sourced from :https://www.lonelyplanet.com/india/delhi)

-Sargunn Sahota