India > A restart at Leh Airport

Before seven o’clock, I am already at Delhi Airport for my domestic flight to Leh in Ladakh. I check in my luggage and pass through security. In the waiting area, I order a sandwich and coffee for breakfast. Shortly after half past eight, the plane takes off toward Ladakh. Along the way, I have a view of the beautiful snow-covered Himalayan mountain ranges. As we approach Leh, the plane has to make a sharp turn through the mountains.

India - The snowcovered peaks of the Himalayan giants en route to Leh

I see mountains appearing on both sides of the wings. Suddenly, the pilot accelerates again—a go-around. The pilot announces that there was too much wind for the landing. I get the impression that the plane simply had too much speed for the short runway. We make an extra circle. This time, the plane approaches lower and lands safely at Leh Airport. From there, a minibus takes me to the hotel just outside the center of Leh. I immediately notice that I am at 3,500 meters above sea level. I walk slowly and drink water regularly. Apparently, you should drink one liter per 1,000 meters of altitude. I start on my first bottle. In the afternoon, I take it easy. I sit in the garden to rest, hoping to make up for the short nights I’ve had recently. In the evening, I walk to the center of Leh, about one and a half kilometers. It’s a shame the hotel isn’t closer, especially since we’re staying here for four days. I feel somewhat sluggish from the altitude and have a mild headache. I have dinner in the garden of Penguin Garden.