Day 5- Himalayan Trek
Day 4 – 10.05.2023. Trek to reach the Snout, Sobala R.F.
A Bright day. After a sumptuous breakfast, by 8.30 am everyone was ready to go for the trek. It was along the meadows, closer towards the mountains, a view to see starting point of the glacier fed streams, towards Sobala R.F.
It was a long walk with breaks for Geo Talks by Suvrat, the Geologist, who would explain to us about the rocks and its formations. Walk along Fresh water Streams from mountains, Meadows, Cows grazing, Puddles of water, beautiful flowers growing, it was an experience never to forget. Not to forget chats with the group members along the way, Dasarathi’s pun and Mannu’s help.
We stopped for lunch break. Had sandwiches made freshly made by Mannu, with water to quench our thirst from the fresh water streams flowing. After some rest and refreshments, we were given an option to Trek towards the snout or tired folks who did not want to go further, could start walking back to the base camp . But the Snout was touching point of Trek.
Although I was tired, with some encouraging words from Samir, like… you have come this far, a 20 minutes more, you will be elated to see the view. I was tempted to trek, It was interesting to see the enthusiasm and I joined. But it was a serious trek, although I managed to scaleup with help, it was challenging. I just went with the group and they helped me out in many rough rocky terrains… and finally reached the spot… it was beautiful. Snow cave ?? I was happy that I went along and reached the touch down. Couldn’t thank enough for the view and the rough trek… pushed that extra mile… I could achieve it… it was worth the effort…yeah!!!
The walk back was tiring and I wished I was airlifted and placed in the staying place rather than to walk up… but with many breaks, the last stretch was the toughest, which was going to be a climb upwards. Surprisingly a Jeep ride was offered, wished it took to the staying place, but had to climb little bit more. With some refreshments, felt much better… good to go for the rest of the evening.
We were to move to another village and all our bags were packed ready to go to next homestay. But the plan was changed as we had gotten back from the trek around 5.30 pm and was not safe to travel at that time as it was late and all of us were tired. Whole day of walking, all of us just wanted to rest up.
Hence, it was decided not to travel that day and were moved to another Homestay. This place was a very cozy place. The beds were placed down and had lots of blankets and didn’t have to cuddle up in the sleeping bag.
It was fun this evening as all the girls were in one room and talking and giggling away for so long although we were so tired, a memorable one-night stay. There was a kind of bonding among the us that we were happy to be together and the coziness of the bed and the blankets, took care of rest of the ailments.
Dinner being served… Pasta and Fruit Custard, can’t thank enough for the food, which was healthy and prepared fresh. Discussion on next day’s plan was being made… Next day would be to trek towards the Panchchuli Glacier. After today’s trek, I was not very keen to go for it as the initial climb was going to be a climb and then walk towards the glacier mountain. Come back and then go to Naagling, Our last day in the highest altitude.
