India > Hiking over the mountain passes

I slept like a log last night. I really needed it. I am woken with tea in bed—what service! When I step out of my tent, breakfast is already ready, and my packed lunch is prepared as well. Today, a five-hour trek is on the schedule. At half past eight, I follow Dadul for the walk. Just outside the campsite, we take a small path. After crossing the river, a steep climb begins.

India - The hike to the mountain top through the barren landscape

Fortunately, this is followed by a flat section. It’s a beautiful route through the mountains. Today’s weather is perfect. The sunlight makes the mountain landscape even more impressive. Today, I will cross two mountain passes. The first one is relatively easy. The path gradually rises, and the top offers a beautiful view. This is followed by a short descent to a village. I take a break by the river. Tea is brought from a nearby tent, and I also eat my lunch immediately. It is very hot, and there is no shade. Continuing on, the second and more challenging pass awaits. Dadul predicts a forty-minute climb. I feel the heat as I start ascending, so I take it slowly. The path winds steadily up through the valley. The group spreads out over the route, with everyone climbing at their own pace. I stay in the middle. Near the top, I see the colorful prayer flags fluttering in the wind. This sight makes the last few meters easier. It takes me three-quarters of an hour in the end. I sit at the top and wait for the other travelers. Once everyone has arrived, I descend via the normal path to the campsite.

India - A large tent is set up by the crew each day for meals

From a distance, I can already see the colorful tents ready. Upon arrival at the camp, I am greeted with a cup of tea. In the afternoon, I walk to the village below. The small village is centered around a monastery. The door of the monastery is closed, and someone is quickly fetched with the key. Inside, the old monastery is simple but atmospheric. From the edge of the village, I look out over the valley. Dadul points out the route for tomorrow’s long trek. There is a choice: a short route of three hours or a long route of nine hours. I prefer something in between, but during dinner, I make up my mind: I choose the long trek. I go to my tent early to be well rested.