Day 4 of Himalayan Trek.
Day 3 – 9th May 2023. Morning in Dantu Valley.
Come morning… it was nice sunny no traces of snow, it was cold. We went outside to the astonishing view of the mountains. We were looking at the Panchchuli Ranges. It was covered in clouds, but slowly cleared and could see 3 ranges. Mesmerizing view… .
Dantu valley was a Valley with around 20-25 houses but very few people had come back to the Valley, migration from plains had just started because of weather change and the summer season had delayed. Usually, the older generation come to stay who do the farming activities during the summer which lasts till November and then the migrate to the plains with grains and cattle as it becomes unhabitable due to drop in temperature and snowfall.
Today’s Plans of trekking was discussed. After Breakfast we were to Trek from Dantu valley to see 3 valleys Goe, Phelum and Bhon.
Walking trail, going down and up the ranges, fresh water streams, reached Gho valley. Must have around 10-15 houses. People were yet to come back to the valley and we saw 3-4 men who had come in early to get their home cleaned so that the rest of the family and cattle can start migrating.
We took a break chatting with the Village people. It was fascinating to hear the story from one of the older guys about the King who ruled there and their main work was to trade with Tibet. Tibet border was close by and the generations before used it as trade route. Now the Geographical and Political structure has changed and with no roads and the border closed since China took over, not a trade route anymore. People go to the plains of Darma Valley to make a living by working there during winter months and migrate during summer months to do faming and taking care of livestock.
From there, we trekked towards Phelum Valley. Trek through meadows, streams … big and small ones, one place we had to cross a small bridge and then a climb upwards towards the Valley. No one had moved in yet in this valley. It was quiet. The entrance to this valley was beautifully done with some stone laying like an entrance.
Trekking back was the tough one especially the last leg of the climb. It took a lot of time to trek back thankfully 2 more trekkers were in the same pace as mine and 2 guides also joined us to help us get through the walk.
Back to homestay and had lunch. Rested a while. Had a nice time chatting with couple of them and a herb tea picked up from the walk.
In the evening, plan was to explore Dantu Valley and be treated to Maggie noodles and Chai. Trek to the Temple on top of the Mountain, which was the worship place for all the Villages around and the annual festival is held once a year during August. All the villagers from nearby Valleys come together to worship deity Shiva.
Evening was again a get together around the fire place, discussion about next day’s plan and dinner. Next day’s plan was to trek along the meadows towards the Snout, the starting point of the Glacier.
