Settling in to Ladakh
Galen called to describe the group's first day in Leh, Ladakh. Following a smooth, spectacular flight from Delhi up to the Himalaya, the group was met by Namgial and checked in to the Chube guest house in Leh. Namgial led a walking orientation through the old city and main bazaar, followed by a visit to the polo grounds where an exhibition on hydropower, animal husbandry, and apricot harvesting provided more introduction to life in the Himalayas.
Everyone's health and spirits are great--a bit tired from getting up at 3am to catch the flight, but otherwise feeling little to no effects from the higher altitude and savoring the crisp temperature compared to Delhi's heat and humidity. After acclimatizing to the altitude for a few more days, the plan is to take a day hike outside of nearby Phey village to test out boots and gear prior to beginning the longer trek.
All are eager to email and post to the blog, but the Internet is down in Leh at the moment--it might be back up later this afternoon, according to local prognosticators.
John