Life in Leh so far

We have been here now for a few days, I am starting to sleep deeper and getting into a regular pattern with afternoon naps :). .

Getting accustomed
Getting more adjusted to the altitude. I remember arriving here, walking was an exercise by itself. Now it is getting better by the day. Still need to walk like a panda, but it is alright, I am not in a hurry.

Leh in progress
According to the local Ladakhis, Leh has changed a lot over the past 5-6 years, in a more negative way. Indian tourism has increased, so it is more busy than usual. Even Marcus is surprised about the prices here, much more expensive than in the rest of India. Because of the Kalachakra many "beautification" (as they call it) happening, makes it very dusty and noisy here. It is like everyone is building at the same time.

Coffee!!
We've found a great coffee place that serves very good coffee, Nespresso-like quality, and it is just around the corner from our guesthouse. With limited unstable Wi-Fi connection there, it has become our favourite coffee place.

Japanese? No, I am from Holland.
The Ladakhis keep on asking where I am from, nobody believes I am from Holland and actually believe that I am from Japan. So next time someone asks me where I am from, I will say I am from Japan.

Altaf the passionate
We met Altaf, a shop owner from Kashmir that sells Tibetan painting (thangkas) and statues, which are definitely on a different scale than the regular stuff they are selling here. The only person I have seen talking so enthusiastic about things is Marcus haha. Altaf suggested us to go to Dharamshala through Srinigar, Kashmir. I think Srinigar will be a nice place to stay for a few days. So no need for us to fly to Delhi and decide where to go next.

Altaf, introduced us to his Dutch friend Marc, who is doing volunteer work for a local NGO to help disabled children in remote villages. Interesting guy, had a coffee with Marc yesterday evening and talked about Dutch football haha. I actually missed the last 2 games haha. They are actually showing the matches here, but it seems one of the least things on my mind.

More resting
In the coming few days, we will be resting more. On the 1st of July we will attend the Heart Sutra transmission in Likir Monastery (2 hours drive from Leh) with the Dalai Lama. And 3rd of July the Kalachakra starts. 

Lessons learned
One thing I noticed, is how easy it is to meet people. When we are traveling we greet people and ask how they are, or where they are from. Why then when we are back in society everyone is so grim, so closed? Why do we distance ourselves so much from others then? Loneliness and depression, our biggest poverty in current society. Open up, say hello, smile, what do you have to fear?

Enjoy the pictures!