Things to know before making a trip to Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh

Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh are parts of same state and still are very distinct from each other. You will see different people, different culture and different languages spoken in all the three regions, but Hindi and English work in all three destinations. The weather is also very different at these places. 

While travelling to Ladakh, you should be ready for delays on road due to snow, ice, accidents on the road and too much crowd. Do not ignore the wrath of nature while driving through these regions. You can see landslides at any point and must be prepared for that. If you are travelling in the off season, then you must expect some repair works going on the roads with Border Road Organisation constructing new roads taken away by the landslides. 

For easy communication, get yourself a post-paid connection from BSNL. Anything else does not work here. Always keep multiple copies of important numbers, one in your wallet, one in your bag and one in your vehicle. This will allow you to contact others in a situation of crisis. 

You must keep several copies of your photo identities such as driving license or PAN card. This will make it easier for you to get past the military checkpoints. If you have everything ready and prepared, then it will take very less time, and you will save much time, otherwise, you can face unnecessary delays at the checkpoints. At some points, you may have to submit your copies, thus it would be better to keep several copies along with you. 

Before starting your trip, visit your doctor and ask him about the first aid, acute mountain sickness, diarrhoea and other problems you might face during your trip. Make a list of all the medicines and stock up all the medicines before you start your trip. If you are on any prior medicines, then you should take some extra medicines so that you don’t run short of supplies, in case of any delays. 

You may find several ATMs in this region, but it would be best to keep some extra cash in your pocket. Always ask prices before ordering, otherwise you might end up paying far more than you expected. 

For food, you can ask for local food at the restaurants. The major part of the food, in this region, is non-vegetarian, and if you are pure-vegetarian, then keep some packets of instant noodles for relief. Carry enough water with you. Dehydration at mountain can be dangerous. Keeping packets of electrolytes would be a good idea. 

You should know that you are travelling to an area with extreme weather. You must buysweaters online in India and other woollens to keep yourself warm and cozy during your trip. If you are carrying a camera, then you must carry a lot of memory cards as there will be a lot of photography there, and you would not like to miss a moment due to lack of data space.  

With proper information and preparation, you can make this journey memorable for the lifetime.