Trek Through The Zanskar Range In Ladakh

Only the snow-capped peaks in the distance distinguish the barren trails from another planet. This view is from Konze La, 16,200 ft (4950 m).

If it wasn't for the marvels of the internet, no one would ever know I was having a bad hair day.

Hanging out by my tent contraption. It was water proof, but not breathable, so it got very humid inside, and I had to poke holes for fear of becoming a victim of the world's largest plastic bag suffocation incident...

"Ph.D. Engineer Suffocates Self In Home-Made Tent."

This one wins the "Most Precarious Bridge" award. Check out the flex in the wood supported section.

On night #3 I made a great campfire. Good choice, since camp was at 14,600 feet and it rained on me, snowed another 200 feet up. "Campfire???" you say. Have no fear, I wasn't burning any of the scarce, precious local wood.

No-siree! This here camfire is fueled with 100% dried Yak turds, collected by yours truly. Hey, if it's good enough for Maria Martinez... (and Papovi Day, Tony Day, et al.).

Looking down a valley a short walk up from my campsite. Great views.

My last pass for the trip, which is SUPPOSED to have great views, and I'm actually standing in a snowstorm! But by this time in my trip, it was "just another 16,980 ft pass." When will I ever be able to say that again?