India > Start Sham trekking

I still don’t sleep well because of the altitude. This morning I woke up completely exhausted. Not exactly the best preparation for the trek, which starts today. I decide to make the best of it.

India - Wearing slippers we wade through the icy meltwater during the trek in Ladakh

I pack my luggage, which will remain at the hotel. I also pack my bag for the coming days and my daypack for today—a full planning session. When I go downstairs, I meet Dadul, the guide for the next few days. He is notably small but radiates energy. He seems like a very suitable guy for the trek. We drive to Basgo in two minibuses to start the Sham trek. When I get out, I notice that it’s cloudy, and the visibility is somewhat hazy.

India - The large Buddha statue of the Likir Monastery

The route has a short climb and then continues across an open plain. In the strong sun, this would be no fun at all. Even with the clouds and a headwind, it is sometimes tough. Along the way, I look for a spot out of the wind to eat my lunch. After that, I continue to Likir. I’m glad to arrive at the campsite. My tent has already been set up by the six-person crew. Dadul introduces everyone. I crawl into the small tent for a nap—I’m completely wiped out. In the afternoon, tea is ready in the canteen, along with a snack: fried onion rings. Delicious! Afterwards, I climb to Likir Monastery. A solid climb of about an hour. At the monastery, Dadul explains the different Buddha images and their meanings. It’s very interesting to hear it directly from him. The way back is a bit quicker because I walk downhill. I arrive just in time for the seven o’clock dinner. After dinner, I quickly head to my tent to sleep. I am exhausted.