A Pilgrimage Beyond Self
by Vince Poscente
Author of The Ant and the Elephant, Invinceable Principles and The Age of Speed
The trek in the Himalayas transitions from India to a remote Tibetan plateau. Here is what we planned across the roof of the world.
Day 10 – July 9th - Parvati Pass Camp to Mud
Eight hours on a long downhill walk brings us to the first village in Spiti named Mud. At 11,800 feet it is set below a cliff and inhabited by the people of an ancient Tibetan origin. This is the last night of the trek. Tomorrow we begin our jeep safari leg of our expedition.
 Days 11, 12 and 13 – July 10 to 12th - Mud / Schichling / Kaza
We explore through the wide expanses of Tibet. We are one of the few Westerners observing the traditional KalChakra at Kaza with the Dalai Lama. This is a place where time has stood still for centuries. On Sunday we visit monasteries over 1,000 years old. Tobo is called the “Ajanta of the Himalayas” due to its magnificent murals and detailed Thankas.
Day 14 – July 13th Nako to Sarahan
The wooden Bhimakali Temple is the grand specimen of hill architecture in a mix of Hindu and Buddhist styles. The palaces of the royal families of the Busharhr rulers are nearby. The Temple was built in 1927 but it has an interesting story. The original Temple tilted slightly in a 1905 earthquake, and then miraculously straightened back with a subsequent tremor.
Day 15 – July 14th Sarahan to Jalori to Kullu
The last day of our jeep safari through the Jalori Pass and on to the Kullu Valley. Descending past flowing waters the day culminates in a celebration with our porters, guides and hosts.
Day 16 – Today, July 15th Kullu to Delhi
Today we fly to Delhi and then tomorrow the 14-hour flight from Delhi to Chicago.
In September, 2006 I left for India to join adventurer and friend Jeff Salz on a climb through the Valley of the Gods in the Great Himalayan National Park. Joining 10 fellow seekers we bonded and made friendships that last to today. Three years later I returned thanks to work done by Jeff and our hosts in India. I find myself grateful.
More friendships. I’m indebted to all those who reach out their hands.
More exploration. I’m appreciative beyond words.
More opportunities to have a pilgrimage within and beyond the self. Thank you!
May you fill your life with the richness and experiences that wait outside your door.
Until next week its full speed ahead,
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