Over 2000 Km by road, in around 10 days. Stunning landscapes, wonderful people. That sums up our Ladakh trip. But how did it actually work? How did we make it happen? Read on to find out! Leh, the capital of Ladakh , is accessible by air and road. Flying into Leh is the easiest, and time-saving option, while the road is the time consuming one, but with the added advantage of driving past some of the most beautiful landscapes in our country. Each option has much to recommend it, and we chose the road for just one reason – altitude sickness. Altitude sickness was one of my biggest concerns, since I suffer from motion-sickness. Yes, I do travel a lot, but that is despite my condition, and, over the years, have learnt how to handle it. I struggled with it when we visited Nathu-La in Sikkim, and wondered if I would be able to manage a week at the even higher altitudes that we would encounter in Ladakh. This was the reason we stuck to a basic plan, of only 9 days in Ladakh, though we
Ever since I started sending postcards, I have been inundated with requests for postcards showing snake charmers. When I did find some, I realised something else. I might not be a great fan of snake charmers, but Samhith hadn't even seen a single one!!! He hoarded all the cards I found, and refused to allow me to send any but duplicates! Moreover, he was now curious. He wanted to see a snake charmer!!! I told him about what they did, how it was cruel to snakes, and that it was illegal, but he was still curious. Now, apart from the fact that I do not like the idea of trapping snakes and using them to amuse people, I couldnt even find a snake charmer to show him... yes, for those of you who are wondering, our area remains immune to snake charmers even on Naga panchami day, and I couldnt remember when I had last seen one!! His wish was eventually fulfilled, of all places, at Amer Fort!!!
This chap lounged by the exit of the fort, snakes securely packed in their boxes, a turban ready to be worn, and the tools of his trade near at hand. Needless to say, Samhith was enthralled! He sat down, spoke to him, asked him if he could really make snakes dance... and eventually asked him if he could wear the turban.....
I was initially hesitant, since I had no intention of seeing a snake charmer at work. However, the man smiled and gave Samhith not just his turban, but also his flute... Now came the difficult part. He wanted to see the snake. Of course, the man obliged. But, no sooner had the snake peeped out of the basket,that Samhith had run off!!! I was relived, not as much as having missed a performance, but that at last I wouldnt be pestered for photos of snake charmers anymore!
hahaha....lovely. Had seen so many snake charmers during my growing up days in Hyderabad. Today with all the animal rights activists,these people are a rare species.
ReplyDeleteThanks Liju! Welcome to my space! they are indeed rare these days
DeleteHe looks so cute and good that it has worked out for you too!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Mridula!!
Deletehmhm... yes - The snake charmers (yes, they were cruel to the snakes) did have their charm. And he looks awesome in that turban.. :)
ReplyDeleteHe will be so happy to hear that, Muthu!! and yes, I so agree... they did have their charm, before our awareness set in!
DeleteSnake charmers are one very popular and a great attraction of the Amer Fort . These snake charmers profession is declining in India after the Animal rights group has made an impact, very rare they are seen around. It is fascinating enough to see a snake dancing on the tune of the flute, they say, this sound hypnotizes the snake hence they tend to sway.
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