From the village of Sumda-chenmo, today we will join the camp of Lanak, the base of Dundungen-La pass. At the camp, we will again approach the imposing yaks and meet these humble shepherds who spend the whole summer with their animals.
When trekking, we no longer think in miles but in walking hours or vertical meters . It is a slow world, where the expression 'wasting time' has no reason to be. Nothing gets there without effort, reward is tenfold flavor! The trek is the world of true values.
When going trekking ?
Ladakh / Zanskar
During the months of July / August , the temperature can reach up to 30 °C during the day at 12000 ft high and is rarely below 5 °C over night. In winter, however, temperatures are very low and can reach -25 °C. The climate is dry ,whatever the season. The July / August are the best months to visit this beautiful area.
Who can trek ?
Me, trekking ? I can't, I have no level! You just have to make sure of a good/normal overall fitness. Walking is one thing, walking for several days with a load on the back is another. The trekking is like the rest , you must go progressively. But physics is not essential. The key plays ... into the mind ! The tenacity, the will, these are the real assets to face the difficulties of the trek.
What do I take to trek ?
Trekking is the art of impossible balance ! Ah, anxiety attacks when preparing luggage ! Overall, there is the inevitable (sleeping-bag, rigid non-slip soles shoes, fleece, waterproof and breathable jacket (Gore-tex type), metal water bottle and purification tablets to water ,first aid kit ,knife ,headlamp ... ).
The trek is framed by an English speaking guide and by a local guide familiar with the trail. Local kitchen helpers are good assets during difficult passages or in case of problems .
Security
By the dangerous nature of this high altitude trek, we avoid all unnecessary exposure and insist on the climatic conditions studies. We must add that any spirit of competition is excluded. If necessary, rapid evacuation will be ensured by a helicopter of the army.
Food
in town, it is very easy to get Western food. During the trek, you will have the opportunity to discover the Indian specialties (Tahli , daal ,...) , or even the delicious "momos" large ravioli feast days of Tibetans. The sweet "djo" (yak yogurt) will reduce the fire of the famous green peppers. To drink, tea is everywhere, In some remote villages, you will be able to taste the local beer ("t'chang") coming "tsampa" (barley flour) . Apart from the road, it means in mountain hamlets , we eat the "toukpa" soup made of barley meal with one or more vegetables depending the altitude, or the "skyou" , or "tchoutaki".
Insurance
We ask you, when sending your registration form, to subscribe an insurance covering the costs of eventual rescue, hospitalization or repatriation. The registration process will be valid with the receipt of a copy of the insurance contract.
Portage
When trekking, you have only the bare minimum daily to wear. The rest of your luggage and logistics (tents, equipment , food, .. ) is carrying by a horse or mule run by professionals accustomed to this kind of ordeal.
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