Annapurna: Kag Beni

Jan. 6, 2009

Here's another album depicting the village and the surrounding areas of Kag Beni, the last town up the Kala Gandaki River that may be visited freely by tourists. Beyond this little town lies the Mustang Kingdom. Much like Bhutan, the region charges tourists a daily fee to see the place. The act keeps tourism in check and allows the region to maintain much of its authenticity.

Though I didn't venture into the kingdom, I climbed up a high cliff one day to take photos of the Thorung La pass and the further regions including Mustang. Apparently from the top of the peak, one can also see as far as Tibet. I, however, lost the path and then decided to quit the search and descend to town when the midday winds kicked in. On the way down, I witnessed a young shepherd boy running down the mountain full speed, sliding along the rocky terrain, unafraid of the velocity, sure in his step. It was amazing to see someone so adapted to this alien terrain.