Most Inspirational Moment
Constant views over the mountain range - emptiness - apart from a few yaks, sheep, goats, and tea tent people. Great museum in Hemis monastery - with very interesting pieces about history of the place and old photos of frozen rivers. Loved Leh for all the local tiny side streets and general life there. Made me really wonder what it's like when all is blocked off in winter. Must admit to loving the colourful clothes and stone jewellery - everything is simply beautiful - if you like the tibetan nepalese type things. And it is an opportunity to share a chat and a tea in several places. Very interesting to hear about how Ladakhi people are living now, learning to make the most out of visitors and seemingly retaining their identity - hopefully will stay this way.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Oh - where to start??? This lady is the most professional, knowledgeable, patient and dedicated guide I ever came across. Her knowledge of buddhism is encyclopedic - and she keeps all information really lively and interesting. Her knowledge of the area is amazing, so is her dedication to the Ladakhi people, and clients alike. She is working relentlessly to improve life for the Ladakhi, which is an enormous plus point in my book - and am very glad Exodus is supporting this. She makes sure that drinking water is available in all tea tents, works with others to train people how to use solar power, UV water filters etc. Every day she made sure all of us were ok in terms of coping with altitude, giving all the necessary advice at all times. Some of us did struggle a little with altitude - but thanks to her recommendations it was a great experience. And she keeps her sense of humour at all times. I think she is a solar powered green modern buddhist deity ;-) Better add her name - Valerie Parkinson.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Having read other reviews, I did not think it was that hot - but yes - a wide brimmed hat is crucial - and 50+ sun cream and lip salve. Absolutely follow the advice to drink lots of water - 4-5 litres a day a must. If you are concerned about the altitude - you can consider taking Diamox 2-3 days before the trip. But not a must - I took some on day 2 after arriving and was fine after that - but everyone is different. Do take all the things on the packing list. The level of fitness required was less than I expected - but maybe because the pace was always slow enough to cope with the altitude. Expect a lot of temperature changes - you will need warm trousers or leggings and thick fleece - as well as thin T-shirt. There are some steep-ish ascents - but short ones - and 1-2 slightly slippery but again brief descents - but mainly the paths are really easy. A walking stick comes in handy when crossing rivers. Take 2 big 1 litre bottles with you that can cope with hot water. Camel back water bag also handy.
