Journeys for Knowledge

The next morning we got back on the road, following the Shyok river in the opposite direction, east towards the Chinese border. Our destination was Pangong Lake, a source of the gorgeous glacial water accompanying us along the road. While the lake has recently become famous for its role in the final scene of Three Idiots, the serenity and beauty of the lake really speaks for itself. Ignoring the tourist traps, we found a spot to just appreciate the lake for itself, and the unique colors of its deep waters. The lake itself is actually split between India and China, so the Indian Army was not far behind. For the evening we stayed at the only hotel by the lake with concrete walls, but even that was not enough to keep the cold winds at bay.

Waking up to a frigid morning, we finally began the journey back to Leh, taking a lower pass that went around the mountains rather than over them. Passing by local farmers and settlements, I was relieved to be heading back home. I am sure in time I could adjust to life in the mountains, but my current role requires me to be more interconnected with society, and so it was time to return to work. There may come a time, one day, when I do return to the mountains as my ancestors once did, and withdraw from such a busy life.