After a thirteen hour plane ride to Hong Kong, a six hour layover, and a four hour flight through Thailand, we arrived safely in Delhi. We spent two days jumping around the bustling city via cab and rickshaw, using the opportunity to buy Indian clothing and musical instruments as well as taking time for a peaceful respite in a local ashram. Delhi offered a wild and unreserved introduction to the many faces of Indian life, from the delicious food and chaotic marketplaces to the naked presence of homelessness and poverty. Our hotel in the Tibetan district provided a space for group orientation while we acquainted ourselves with the country and our fellow group members (including Tiana, who arrived on the last day).
While Jeff stayed in Delhi to search for Dylan’s bag, the rest of the group began a long trek towards Gangtok, Sikkim. A scenic drive through the mountainous northern region brought us to this large Himalayan town, where we met the host of our group home-stay, Arthur. Gangtok, which tumbles beautifully off its steep mountain face, seems rural and calm compared to Delhi. We learned about the history of the Sikkim region, attended a talk on the future of nearby Nepal, and met the owner of a local rug company that we will be working with for the next week. We are currently learning how to operate a loom, dye yarn, and perform the various other tasks involved in rug making.
In several days we will begin our three-day trek through the mountains. We give you our best wishes until the next entry, and hope you wish us a fulfilling and leech-free experience!
