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Exploring the Himalayan trail

The adventurous expedition was an enthralling experience for the team

NATURE CALLS Magnifient view of Ladakh

Mountains have their moods...enthralling, ever changing. Especially the Himalayas. Grim and severe like the cranky aunt and soft and inviting when it sparkles under the majestic light of dawn. "But once you visit the Himalayas, the magnificent mountains beckon you towards it and you feel like visiting it again and again" - recalled Rajendra Prasad, one of the team members of the Youth Hostel Association of India, who went on an adventurous trip on motor vehicle to Khardung La, the highest motorable road in the world in the Ladakh region.

The five-member team of K.K. Sagar, P. Rajendra Prasad, P. Srinivas, K. Ramesh, Uma Maheswara Rao and Bala Sundar, embarked on the journey from Vizag on October 1. "Our aim was not only to explore places but also to create awareness among the people by distributing pamphlets carrying road safety slogans on our way," said team leader Sagar. The team covered a total distance of 7,500 km. and touched the highest motorable road, Kardung La that is situated at 18,380 feet above sea level.

It was the rigour of the journey, the camaraderie of the team and the ecstasy of reaching the top that egged them on.

But there were obstacles to be cleared before the team could begin their Himalayan effort. Special permit had to be obtained before they could start on their final lap. Surpassing minor initial hurdles, the team reached Leh on October 8 after crossing the enchanting hilly routes of Himachal Pradesh.

"The change in the temperature was so drastic that initially it was quite tough. But gradually we got adjusted to the extreme climate," said the team members.

At 18,380 feet above sea level, the excitement was palpable. Totally smitten by the sheer beauty and majesty of the place, they meant it when they said, "This was the most beautiful experience we have ever had!"

Their next destination was Kargil. Travelling along the endless serpentine tricky routes, the signboards on the precarious trail constantly reminded them that `You are under enemy's observation'. Dwarfed by the towering, snow-capped Himalayas, they braved the spiky chill of the Drass sector that is considered to be the second coldest place in Asia where the temperature dips to as low as -55 degrees.

All along the 450-km. Stretch, army personnel kept a watch for the safety of tourists. "Contrary to popular belief, we never faced any sort of trouble in the serene Kashmir valley. We could enjoy the mystical beauty of the place without any hindrance," they said. However, it was not all that easy for them.

There were tense moments when at Jojilla Pass they were stranded for more than six hours in the thick blanket of snow. But the thrill and excitement of the entire experience helped them counter all the problems.

During their journey, they also visited the famous Khajuraho temple, the fascinating Taj Mahal and crossed the thick forests of Orissa, Chattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh. The expedition was also a lesson in community living, knowing and respecting different traditions and religions.

NIVEDITA GANGULY

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