Over the clouds

Local dogs have joined us during our treks at Savandurga. They would tag along at the base and accompany all the way up & down. While I panted and sweated, they would climb effortlessly. I think they climbed easily because... humans are two feet drive (2FD) and dogs are four feet drive (4FD). At the summit, they would rest along with us. They looked so peaceful, closed eyes, calmness written all over their faces, as though in deep meditation.

This particular one you see below, accompanied us (a kid from Savandurga village and I) all the way. This is the only time I ever clouds below the summit. I've been here when the entire hill was shrouded in mist or clouds during rainy seasons but, this happened just one time.

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few shots from Kais, Kullu

These pictures were shot during my only trip to Kais village situated between Kullu and Manali. These views were directly opposite the monastery where I was a guest for 10 days. 

At this level there are no houses because of presence of wild animals and snow. The lower and middle levels are hospitable.

Pine trees have monopoly at this level due to climatic conditions and absence of human settlements. Inside a pine forest, even the ground is covered in a thick layer of pine needles, other plants hardly have a chance to grow there.

In the Himalayas, sunrise and sunset times varies with the altitude. Settlements at lower altitude get lesser sunlight because of mountain shadows. The ones at higher altitude receive sunlight slightly longer but then they are colder as well. It's my personal experience.. as soon as shadow is cast on your place the temperature drops by 5 degrees easily.

Many houses light up their stoves minutes after sunset. The stoves are special- they are used to heat vessels and also the living room. As I watched the shadow climb a mountain, smokes rose from chimneys. This large column was probably from a big house.

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