Band of Dogs

It's only 11.30 but I think I will start today's blogg anyway. Perhaps I'll write some more in the afternoon. I feel a bit muffled myself today, and it took some time to get started this morning. I had breakfast with an Australian guy who's studying to become an MD, and the topics of conversation were mostly related to tropical diseases. He carried a book stating the various diseases and their symptoms so that might have affected me.

The weather is getting colder by the day now although some people are still leaving for treks. This morning a couple left for Markha valley. They will probably have to struggle through more snow than they care for. There is a shortcut from Changspa to Leh across the fields where you have good views of the mountain ranges on both sides of the valley. There are snow everywhere up there now, and the snow clouds hover around the peaks. Today is Sunday and families are helping out in the potato harvest, singing to keep the pace.

I saw the kittens and their mother this morning as they finally ventured out of the dark potato cellar. There was a little sunshine coming through and they seemed to be alright. Strangely enough there are no dogs around the house. But yesterday I came across a whole band of dogs sleeping on the curb outside the State Bank, blocking the way for pedestrians.

After I left the Internet place I set out for a long walk. First I went up the mountain past the palace and all the way up to the abandoned monastery and ruined fort on the top. From that spot one gets great views over Leh and the Indus valley. I was all alone up there apart from a couple of stray cows and donkeys. Thousands of prayer flags were flapping in the cold wind. I continued beyond the fort along the ridge and came down across the field of dilipidating stupas near the Lamgon school. From there I crossed the alluvial valley through Sankar village. The road bridge over the river was gone and there was only a narrow jetty to the other side. Then I followed the valley side down to the guest house which is situated right benetah the peace stupa. It was a long and dusty trek, and maybe I had done better reading in my bed. Anyway, now it's done. Got to close now as it is getting dark and I have to wind my way back to Changspa. Unfortunately I forgot to bring my torch.