Exploring the Heights of Tawang

Day 21 and 22. At the end of our first 250 kms. long segment of our extensive Himalayan tour by bicycle, we have been quite tired and fatigued. Yet the glorious vistas of Tawang and the holy sites continue to draw us deeply, and we committed to some serious climbing today, with an attempt to cycle from 10,000 ft altitude to 13000 ft where Lake Pang Tse lake is situated in just 14 kms. We reached on 12 mark and were at an elevation of 12,000 ft when the weather turned extremely foggy and the rain promised to intensify, which would have made a very risky descent, on a narrow road heavily traveled by army convoys. Yet it was a very satisfying and wonderful ride past lush forests, steep winding hairpins and fluttering prayer flags. Along the way, the stoic BRO signs kept us in good humour and spirits! The energy of Tawang and its upper heights are filled with a reigning spirit of spirituality, bravery, hardship, determination, courage and sacrifice. There is no other way to describe this region. Whether it is the Indian army, the ITBP, the SSB and various other forces, or the hardy, affectionate and happy Tibetan Buddhist Monpa people, the ethos is triumph over all adversity. Being in the midst of this holy lands and greatness all around is greatly inspiring.