Himalayan Honeymoon x 2

Well, the himalayan portion of our honeymoon is over, and now we're onto the rest of our lives (sap sap sap). Currently, we are in the simmering 115 degree heat of Jaipur, capital of the desert state of Rajastan. To get away from that heat for a second, i'll tell y'all (practicing my southern drawl) about the last few days of the honeymoon. After our brief stopover in Manali (see last post), we went on a two-day trek up to an 11,000 foot pass (whose name escapes me due to the heat-induced delirium). It was quite an experience. We opted for the non-conventional (depending on one's perspective), and hired a local person to 'act' as a guide. Luckily, Jo was able to speak hindi with him, for he didn't speak any english. the trip up to the pass was pretty difficult to say the least. we ascended about 4,000 vertical feet in probably 4 miles. The 'campsite' was quite interesting as you will see from the snapfish pictures. essentially a few logs with some tarps thrown over them, it provided simple, yet sufficient, accomodations. luckily, they provided plently of blankets, as we had no sleeping bags, and it was not quite so warm as jaipur to say the least. the next morning we hiked up to the pass, and were greeted by outstanding views (see photos). A beautiful penultimate end to our honeymoon. THe actual end was slightly less nice, some mountain tummy troubles and a bumpy sixteen-hour bus ride did little to leave a happy smile on my face-until i reached the hotel. As i mentioned at hte beginning of htis email, we are now in jaipur, jo is settling into her program, and i am finally )err) getting back to my various academic projects. I will try to update the blo g in the next few days, so look out for report backs on the camels and candy-floss colored turbans-
take care-
David and Joesphine