Ladakh

(1) CONQUERING THE SUMMIT

LADAKH EXPEDITION 

We feel the confluence of natural elements in their present form and observe them vividly at certain places on our earth. One such sacred place, according to the ancient epics, is in the hills of northern India. Mythology says it is the dwelling place of Gods and Goddesses. Into this timeless realm I made my first long expedition.

This day, that age! It was in May 2016. A few friends had come together for Bali’s birthday treat, and we mooted the idea for a trip to Ladakh. Forgotten was the treat as we sat down to plan dates, places and the route. The idea was to drive from Bengaluru to Khardung La Pass, one of the highest motorable roads in the world. It is every biker’s dream ride, featuring at the top of their bucket list.

Ladakh looks like a piece of moon-land because of the barren topography. It has lakes that change colour during the day and vast barren mountains in every direction. People visit Ladakh with different perspectives. It could be to explore the major city of Leh, or to drop in at the many monasteries in the region. It could be for trekking/mountaineering over its numerous hills or to visit the many lakes. Driving over the different terrain, each person has an individual take on what they want to experience. It can be an adventure, educational or cultural tour. Visitors can choose from a variety of escorted trips, like jeep safaris but for a few of us prefer to drive on our own……….

CONNECTION BETWEEN SENSE ORGANS AND THE PANCHAMAHABHUTAS:

A morning prayer from Vamana Purana1 reads:

‘Prithvi sugandha sarasthathaapah sparshascha vayauh jwalanah sathejah

nabhah sashabdham mahatha saheva yacchanthu sarve mama suprabhatam’

meaning,

‘May this day begin with the fragrance of the earth, the coolness of the water, the delicate touch of the air, brilliant flames of the fire, and the pleasant sounds over the sky. May all these make my day happy!’

Panchamahabhutas are the five significant elements found in nature: ether (akasha), air (vayu), fire (agni), water (ap or jal), and earth (prithvi). These five elements are interconnected and mutually dependent upon each other, possessing their own structure and features. Verses from the Yajur Veda points out that man should have proper knowledge of the elements, as they help serve the welfare of mankind. Having gained adequate knowhow from wise scholars, we should share this knowledge with others and work towards the welfare of all beings……..