LIFE on the PLANET LADAKH

In the island of Kyushu, life breathes within the ancient caldera. The green hills turn grey, and a faint smell of sulfur wafts in. You can sense it approaching. However, encountering an active volcano, especially one of the world’s largest that regularly spouts minor eruptions, is an unexpected shock. I don’t know if the dome-shaped bunkers, speakers, 24-hour surveillance, and strict access regulations are reassuring or unsettling. Perhaps both. Peering through the fence, I can’t see the red boiling cauldron like in a movie, but steam ominously billows out. Our usually chatty group is silent this time, and no one protests when it’s time to leave. We don’t want to […]

The post Exploring the Mysteries of an Ancient Caldera: Resilience, Harmony, and Adventure Await appeared first on LIFE on the PLANET LADAKH.

Which is the most intriguing town in the world, and why? Rochefourchat France. This tiny town even deceives Google. How? Read on. Since the census of 1999, this town has had only one inhabitant, making it the least populated commune in France and the world, excluding those destroyed in World War I that now have zero inhabitants (List of French villages destroyed in World War I – Wikipedia). In 1793, Rochefourchat had 220 inhabitants. That was its peak, and since then, the population has steadily declined. Between 1990 and 1999, another inhabitant died. Did the remaining resident handle the funeral? If you’re tired of noisy neighbors, early morning visits from […]

The post Rochefourchat France: Discover the World’s Most Intriguing and Tranquil Town with Only One Resident appeared first on LIFE on the PLANET LADAKH.

Why do people climb mountains? In short, “The Very Big and the Very Small.” To elaborate, there’s a route in the Rainbow Slab of North Wales named “The Very Big and the Very Small.” When it was first established, it was one of the most challenging slab climbs in the world. The name of this route derives from the contrast between the extreme focus gained by immersing oneself completely in the sensation of one’s body during the climb (the very small) and the experience of feeling fully open to the entire surrounding environment when reaching the end of the climb or a ledge on a multi-pitch climb (the very big). […]

The post Climbing the World’s Most Exhilarating and Stunning Mountains: The Ultimate Adventure on the Rainbow Slab appeared first on LIFE on the PLANET LADAKH.

It had been several days since Pooh and Piglet last heard from Eeyore. With concern in their hearts, they donned their hats and coats, embarking on a journey through the mystical expanse of the Hundred Acre Wood. Their steps led them to Eeyore’s humble abode, a house crafted from sticks and twigs. Inside, they found Eeyore. “Hello, Eeyore,” said Pooh, his voice a gentle whisper in the stillness. “Hello, Pooh. Hello, Piglet,” replied Eeyore, his tone tinged with a melancholic undertone. “We came to see how you are,” said Piglet, his words wrapped in sincere worry. “We hadn’t heard from you and wanted to know if you were okay.” Eeyore […]

The post Eeyore’s Journey: Embracing Friendship and Finding Light in the Hundred Acre Wood appeared first on LIFE on the PLANET LADAKH.

Is Immortal Life Possible? Life is already immortal. We lament our mortality, while each of us is merely an expression of the phenomenon of life that began billions of years ago and may continue for trillions of years. We do not know exactly when life began on Earth, but the oldest confirmed traces date back 3.7 billion years. It was then that the self-sustaining, never-ending, and incredibly complex chemical reaction we call life began. Every time organisms reproduce, this reaction spreads to new clusters of matter. They are insignificant as long as the whole phenomenon persists. We see this in eusocial organisms like ants and termites. They sacrifice their lives […]

The post Immortal Life: The Endless Journey of Earth’s Living Phenomenon appeared first on LIFE on the PLANET LADAKH.

What Are the Things People Never Tell You About Life? One of the seldom mentioned truths about life is regret. Most people keep their regrets to themselves, feeling too ashamed or believing there is no need to speak of what has already passed. What do people regret the most? “If only I had been brave enough to speak my mind. If only I had believed in myself more.” Indeed, something worse than failure is regret. As I read the novel Before the Coffee Gets Cold, I came to understand an essential truth rarely spoken of about life: the regrets that people tightly keep to themselves. Regret for choosing to leave […]

The post Regret: Embracing Life’s Journey with Courage and Authenticity appeared first on LIFE on the PLANET LADAKH.

As an American, is there a way to live self-sufficiently off-grid without worrying about property taxes or government issues? Yes, there is. Based on your very limited criteria… A.) Choose one of the following states (note the later edit about “Indian” reservations!): Alaska, Alabama, Missouri, Georgia, Tennessee, or Texas. (These states have legalized off-grid living and offer a high standard of living for those who choose it.) In other states, off-grid living is essentially criminalized. B.) Find a ranch, farm, oil field, or other facility where property taxes are free/reduced. C.) Negotiate a barter agreement with the owner/operator of that facility – trade labor on the farm or ranch (a […]

The post Empower Your Lifestyle: Thriving Off-Grid Living with Sustainable Solutions appeared first on LIFE on the PLANET LADAKH.

Why don’t the Black Americans, who feel unjustly treated in America, wish to return to Africa? There was a man named David Robinson. He was the son of the legendary American baseball player Jackie Robinson. Over thirty years ago, he decided to leave America. He sold everything he owned – his house, his car, his entire American life – and set out for the countryside of Tanzania. One day, David Robinson was walking with one of his grandchildren on his farm. Amidst the vast greenery, he said, “One day, all of this will be yours.” His words carried gently on the wind. He was a proud man. Robinson and his […]

The post David Robinson: A Journey of Triumph from America to Tanzania appeared first on LIFE on the PLANET LADAKH.

  Meeting the Cyclist Attempting a World Record: 110 Days Around the Globe Lael Wilcox, a name spoken in hushed reverence among the world of long-distance cycling, was, surprisingly, a late bloomer in the sport. It was a sun-kissed morning on May 26, 7:06 a.m. precisely, when Wilcox pedaled away from Chicago’s Grant Park, initiating her audacious pursuit of the Guinness World Record for circumnavigating the globe by bicycle. The clock had started ticking. Her goal was clear: to cover 18,000 miles in 110 days, demanding at least 163 miles of daily cycling, a challenge that would test the very fabric of her endurance. In pursuit of this record, Wilcox […]

The post Lael Wilcox’s Epic Quest: Breaking the Guinness World Record with Unstoppable Endurance and Passion appeared first on LIFE on the PLANET LADAKH.

A 12-year-old boy fell from a boat into the middle of the sea, unnoticed by anyone. Scott Welsh, a 40-year-old man from New Zealand, had a passion for fishing. This love for the sport had been passed down to his 12-year-old son, Rico. Scott, Rico, and Rico’s uncle, Krunal, would seize any opportunity to embark on fishing trips together. They had fished in various exotic locations, reeling in rare catches. Their next fishing trip was meticulously planned, and they decided to venture out to sea in a motorboat. With all preparations complete, they set out in the morning, heading for the southern coast, hoping to land some good fish. A […]

The post Orca Miracle: Brave Rescue of Young Boy on Thrilling Fishing Adventure appeared first on LIFE on the PLANET LADAKH.

What are the tough wild animals that survive in the harsh wild? There are many, but let me tell you something different. You often eat this. Think your life is the hardest? This fish is threatened with death every second from all directions by various ocean creatures! You know the answer already, don’t you? Yes, the sardine, also known as the “pilchard” in some parts of the world. What’s special about sardines and other similar small fish? Sardines can live up to more than ten years in the wild, but usually only around five years because of the many serious threats they face, including large-scale human fishing.   Their strategies […]

The post Sardines Thrive: Resilience Amidst Nature’s Fury appeared first on LIFE on the PLANET LADAKH.

What are the most important lessons you’ve learned in life? Do you know what the strongest flower in the world is? The strongest flower is not the one with thorns. Nor is it the most poisonous. In truth, the strongest flower is the one that can be eaten safely. Ironically, the smallest flower, no bigger than a pinky nail, is the strongest flower in the world. Do you know why? It’s because it’s the only flower that can bloom in the Arctic. Saxifraga oppositifolia. This flower, eaten by the Inuit when they are starving, has a sweet taste. It’s purple, tiny, and grows between the cracks in ice or the […]

The post Strongest Flower: A Story of Resilience and Inspiration appeared first on LIFE on the PLANET LADAKH.

I was headed to Skurbuchan Gompa. The rickety bus left the town of Leh and drove along the Leh-Srinagar Highway. At a junction, the highway crossed a bridge leading to Lamayuru, while continuing along the Indus River led to Dar-Hanu. Our bus didn’t cross the bridge; it headed towards Skurbuchan Gompa on the way to Dah-Hanu. The road descended slowly, with the Indus River to the left. Every green patch along the narrow land by the river was a village. This area, from Domkhar to Skurbuchan, Achinathang, Sanjak, Dah-Hanu, and Garkun, would be covered in apricot trees bearing juicy, orange fruit in a month and a half. The air would […]

The post Discover the Enchanting Skurbuchan Gompa: A Serene Journey through Ladakh’s Hidden Gem appeared first on LIFE on the PLANET LADAKH.

Are there animals, other than humans, that possess self-awareness? Essentially, every creature we encounter on our journey through life possesses a form of self-awareness. Animals make conscious and rational decisions, experience emotions and sensations, and sometimes even exhibit a sense of humor. Allow me to begin with a few stories, and conclude with references to scientific studies and recent findings. I was born in 1963 and received a flawed education in primary school, middle school, high school, and university in Poland. The teachings may have evolved since then. Let me share my experience. The Story Around 2008, after many years, I grew increasingly irritated by the noisy magpies near my […]

The post Unveiling Animal Consciousness: Exploring the Brilliance and Depth of Animal Minds appeared first on LIFE on the PLANET LADAKH.

When you set out on a long hike, where and how do you sleep? About 30% of New Zealand’s South Island is government-managed land, enveloped in national parks and various reserves. A network of tracks crisscrosses the island, and there are approximately 650 huts scattered throughout. These huts were initially built to provide accommodation for government-employed deer hunters tasked with reducing the population of deer that were ravaging the forest undergrowth. In the early 1970s, helicopter hunting proved to be more efficient, and these huts are now used by recreational hunters and mere hikers, known in New Zealand as trampers. Over time, many new huts have been constructed, and old […]

The post New Zealand’s Hidden Gems: Exploring the Majestic Backcountry Huts and Scenic Great Walks appeared first on LIFE on the PLANET LADAKH.

Life of the Indigenous People at Lake Titicaca Today On the Sacred Lake Life at Lake Titicaca According to the indigenous people of the Andes, this is where the world was born, where the first Incas appeared. What is life like today at Lake Titicaca? In the ancient past, all was darkness. There was no sun, no stars, no moon. Then, the creator god Apukuna Tiksi Wiraqutra, known in Quechua as “the man who came from the sea foam,” or simply Viracocha, emerged from Lake Titicaca, and the miracle of creation began. Giants roamed the earth in the darkness. Viracocha said, “The world will become beautiful.” The giants lived peacefully, […]

The post Vitality and Inspiration: The Spirit of Lake Titicaca appeared first on LIFE on the PLANET LADAKH.

Can one truly understand the laws of the universe? 🍀 A man, severely injured in an accident, was brought to the hospital in critical condition. The doctor, who was also the owner of the hospital, began to treat him immediately in the ICU. After a grueling 2-3 hour surgery, the doctor emerged and instructed his staff, “Ensure this man experiences no discomfort here. And do not charge him a single penny for his treatment or medication.” The patient stayed in the hospital for about 15-20 days. When he had recovered and was ready to be discharged, the doctor reviewed his final diagnosis. A bill of approximately 550,000 rupees was prepared […]

The post Universe’s Miracles: Inspiring Acts of Compassion and Gratitude appeared first on LIFE on the PLANET LADAKH.

What is the most important aspect that people tend to overlook when reading a book? Reading must strike a balance with thinking. The progression of time brings about many changes. Once, people delighted in paintings on canvas; now, many revel in the world of photography. Once, people exchanged information through books and writings, but now other media serve this purpose too: television, podcasts, and even audiobooks. Once, people relied on their brains for thinking, but in the near future, they might heavily depend on computers with artificial intelligence. So, is reading still an effective medium for broadening one’s perspective? Perhaps it depends on the type of information needed. Sometimes, discussions […]

The post Reading with Purpose: Unlocking Critical Thinking and Boundless Creativity appeared first on LIFE on the PLANET LADAKH.

Visiting Leh-Ladakh, you ask? Leh is the joint capital of Ladakh, the new Union Territory of India. It’s a terrestrial paradise, impossible to capture its magical essence in mere photographs. Recently, I had the chance to visit Ladakh, and the memories are vivid. Embarking on an 8-day road trip with childhood friends, let me share our itinerary. It may not suit everyone, but here it goes. Participants: 5 Vehicle: Mahindra XUV Driving: Self-driven RT-PCR Test: Done Permits for Nubra, Pangong: Obtained Day 1: We departed from my hometown, Mandi (Himachal Pradesh), around 8 p.m. after work and booked accommodation in Siss, Lahaul district (about 150 km from Mandi). We reached […]

The post Ladakh: Embark on a Majestic Journey of Natural Beauty and Adventure appeared first on LIFE on the PLANET LADAKH.

Where might one find the most breathtakingly small town in the world? Small, picturesque villages that can only be reached by car, boat, trail, or ferry offer greater rewards for the discerning adventurer. On the world map, these beautiful villages and cities, if they are even marked, are recorded in the tiniest of letters. Despite their astonishing beauty, they remain content in their smallness, and it is this very quality that deserves a toast. They keep no secrets, but their remoteness often restrains their size, making them somewhat difficult to reach. Nonetheless, these towns are well worth the visit. Koh Phi Phi, Thailand Population: 2,500 Koh Phi Phi is no […]

The post Breathtakingly Small Town Wonders: Discover the Charm and Beauty of Hidden Gems! appeared first on LIFE on the PLANET LADAKH.

The Stork in Lithuanian Myth and Memory The Reverent Bird Discovering the Stork I first encountered the stork in Lithuania from the back of a bicycle. It was in the midst of summer, in July, while cycling through the meadows northwest of Vilnius. We were on our way to Kernavė for the Midsummer Festival, where we would light bonfires, sing songs, eat sausages, and float candles on the river. The day was hot and the sun was intense, and wildlife was abundant. We saw several cats, a solitary crane, and even a fox. We navigated dirt and sand paths, sticking to the forest as much as possible. Occasionally, overwhelmed by […]

The post Stork: The Timeless Symbol of Life and Renewal in Mythology and Tradition appeared first on LIFE on the PLANET LADAKH.

What Do Ladakhi People Eat? What Do They Own? Beyond Momos: A Flavorful Guide to Ladakhi Cuisine When people think of Ladakhi food, momos and noodle soups often come to mind. However, the reality of Ladakhi cuisine is far richer and more diverse than these staples suggest. Highlights – Most people believe Ladakhi cuisine is limited to momos and noodles. – Ladakhi food is influenced by neighboring regions like Tibet and Kashmir. – Ladakhi cuisine emphasizes hot brews, soups, and breads. In the northernmost reaches of India lies Leh Ladakh, a destination on every road tripper’s bucket list. This remote, isolated region, though difficult to access, has served as a […]

The post Ladakh Cuisine Unleashed: Discovering the Flavorful Delights of the Himalayas appeared first on LIFE on the PLANET LADAKH.

I’ve often heard people speak of how a journey to the Himalayas transformed their lives. But precisely where in the vast expanse of the Himalayas do they find this transformation? Let me share my own Himalayan experience, a journey that not only revealed my life’s purpose but also gifted me with a fresh perspective. Once, I toiled in a multinational corporation renowned for its employee-friendly ethos. Yet, I found myself at odds with the rigid demeanor of my superior. His habit of overlooking my efforts and appropriating my achievements in front of the directors became a constant source of discontent. A moment arrived in my life when I questioned the […]

The post Himalayas Quest: Discovering Inner Peace and Spiritual Awakening for Personal Growth appeared first on LIFE on the PLANET LADAKH.

The Solitude of the Wilderness: A Young Soul’s Journey into Wilderness Survival At sixteen, I embrace the wilderness, finding solace in the solitude of nature’s embrace. Evenings are spent by the flickering fire, tanning animal skins and carving wood, each act a sacred ritual. In the remote serenity of the Isle of Skye, I have discovered my sanctuary. Here, I dwell alone in a tipi, shrouded in secrecy, hidden from the world. Some might find it unusual for one so young, but my spirit finds peace in solitude, and my heart is dedicated to preserving the wild spaces that nourish our souls. Raised by my mother, Ghillie, and my sister, […]

The post Wilderness Survival: Embracing Solitude and Adventure on the Isle of Skye appeared first on LIFE on the PLANET LADAKH.

Photo Credit – Scraps from the Loft Living Like the People of Ladakh: A Glimpse into Ladakhi Life and Culture   Can you live like the people of Ladakh? To truly experience the life and lifestyle of Ladakhis, one must delve deep into the narrow alleys and small paths where traditional houses and the daily rhythms of life reveal themselves. Leh’s marketplace is a sprawling area where tourists, locals, street vendors, and shopkeepers freely mingle. But it is in the tight-knit labyrinths that you find the essence of Ladakhi life. The houses, built from mud and stone, appear as blocks scattered irregularly across the hilly terrain. Narrow passageways between them […]

The post Ladakh: Embracing the Vibrant Culture and Timeless Traditions of a Serene Paradise appeared first on LIFE on the PLANET LADAKH.

The Top 10 Mountains to Climb in Asia The Majestic Peaks of Asia: The Top 10 Mountains to Climb Asia, the largest continent in the world, is home to breathtaking mountains such as the Himalayas and the Karakoram Range. These awe-inspiring peaks dominate the environment, captivating people of all ages with their beauty and complexity. Let’s embark on a virtual journey to explore the top 10 peaks in Asia. List of Top 10 Peaks in Asia 1. Mount Everest [8,848 meters (29,029 feet)]—Nepal/Tibet Mount Everest stands at a staggering height of 8,848 meters (29,029 feet), making it the highest mountain in the world. Straddling the border between Nepal and Tibet, […]

The post Conquer the Highest Mountains in Asia: A Journey Through Majestic Peaks and Awe-Inspiring Adventures appeared first on LIFE on the PLANET LADAKH.

Mountaineering Expedition to the Indian Himalayas The Himalayas, perennially cloaked in snow and home to some of the highest peaks in the world, stretch across much of the Indian subcontinent and into Tibetan territory. Indeed, Mount Everest, the tallest peak on Earth, finds its place within these majestic ranges. The untouched beauty of this land, its surreal mountains, stands as a testament to nature’s unyielding power and splendor. Setting foot in the Himalayas is to leave behind the cacophony of city life, to shed the burdens of tension, stress, and looming deadlines. For the first-time visitor, this journey is transformative, prompting reflections on materialistic choices and deepening one’s appreciation and […]

The post Himalayas: Majestic Adventures Await in the World’s Loftiest Peaks appeared first on LIFE on the PLANET LADAKH.

What is life like in Paraguay? For me, the best thing about living in Paraguay is the sense of being truly off the grid. Or perhaps, it’s that the rest of the world is off your grid. Either way, being in Paraguay feels like being somewhere entirely different. It’s a place where you lose track of what year it is and stop worrying about what’s happening in the world. You’re cut off from the noise, the madness, the worries, and every day feels like you’re in another place. This is especially true for those living in the countryside. Life on the farm, the red earth, the rhythm of the seasons, […]

The post Life in Paraguay: Discover Tranquility and Natural Beauty in a Hidden Gem appeared first on LIFE on the PLANET LADAKH.

What is it like to live in the remote parts of Scandinavia? Allow me to offer a glimpse from my life in Jämtland, a region renowned for its untamed wilderness in Sweden. Here, the word “remote” does not feel distant. My wife and I reside in a village of 700 souls. It’s not truly isolated—we have a supermarket, a train station, a gas station, and a school. Yet, once you step outside the village, you find yourself surrounded by vast forests stretching from horizon to horizon, dotted with incredibly blue lakes and small farmhouses scattered here and there. In Sweden, it’s not uncommon to come across a perfectly civilized home […]

The post Discover the Tranquil Beauty of Remote Living in Scandinavia’s Untamed Wilderness appeared first on LIFE on the PLANET LADAKH.

Reflecting on the Trail Experiences that Have Brought Valuable Life Lessons and Personal Growth Among the many trails I’ve walked, the trek to Everest Base Camp in Nepal stands out not only for its physical rigor but also for the profound life lessons it imparted. While this trail may not hold the global renown of summiting Everest itself, it remains a formidable challenge, teaching me the importance of perseverance, humility, and the power of incremental progress. The Lesson of Perseverance The path to Everest Base Camp is fraught with difficulties: thinning air, unpredictable weather, and the physical strain of continuous trekking at high altitudes. Each step tested my limits, teaching […]

The post Everest Base Camp Trek: Transformative Life Lessons and Inspiring Personal Growth appeared first on LIFE on the PLANET LADAKH.