The author embarks on a winter trek to the Kiagar Ri peak in Ladakh, drawn by the allure of solitude in a region often crowded during summer. The journey begins with acclimatisation in Leh, amidst snow-covered landscapes, before proceeding to Korzok village, where the harsh cold of winter is palpable. Despite the challenges posed by extreme temperatures, altitude sickness, and a few group members dropping out, the trek continues. After persevering through difficult conditions, the author finally reaches the summit, experiencing a profound sense of achievement. The trek concludes with a return to Leh, filled with memories of the arduous yet rewarding adventure.
Tag: winter
Winter twilight, and winterline
Winter twilight in the mountains….
on placid whites – winter hike to Chenap valley…
‘twas perchance that we got to know of Chenap valley, which we did as our original plans went awry at the last moment… tucked in ‘twixt religious fervours, highways and hydropower more hedonistic that utilitarian, and the never-ending scrapes of JCB for last-mile connectivity, ‘tis purported to be a quieter alternative to Valley of Flowers, …
On solstice sculptures…
Winter solstice – the longest night – one end of the seesaw from whose embers daylight begins to claw back… it is dreamy, surreal time in the mountains, when contrasts of autumn are overtaken by misty monochromes of cold… for darkness is a time of reminiscence, and as the solstice approaches it gains in strength… …
the woods o’ winter…
I wonder if the snow loves the trees and fields that it kisses them so gently? And then it covers them up snug, you know, with a white quilt; and perhaps it says, ‘Go to sleep, darlings, till the summer comes again’. -Lewis Carroll the woods of winter are an exercise in a patient build …