In many places the ice doesn't extend across the river or is too thin to walk on. At such times, trekkers have to exercise extreme caution on the ice-to fall into the water is a life-threatening experience-or try to find a way up and along the sheer rock walls. on the other hand, obviously such spectacular scenery is a reward for this hardship. Zanskar, India.
Slippery slopes and vertical walls line the ice gorge cut millions of years ago by Zanskar river. This treacherous winter route has been in use for at least a thousand years. But familiarity with thw path does not guard against fatal mishaps. Abale, the group's guide, falls through the river, only his backpack saving him from being swept away by the currant. Even as fear eitches itself on his face, another member slides bravely along on the thin ice, stretching his stick forward. Abale grabs it and is pulled back to safety. Zanskar, India.
A shear canyon captivates with its beauty till it becomes clear that the river goes right up to the rock walls. The ice sidewalks have turned to slush and faced with hypothermia, the trekkers are forced to climb the crumbling cliff walls. Any misstep on this vertical cliff-face means certain death. Zanskar, India.
