Beyond, the tarmac heals rapidly and soon the roads are creamy smooth. What is incredible is that if our Indian authorities can create and maintain such brilliant roads in this harsh terrain, why they can’t do it back in the plains beats us. But then, that’s the subject of another story. For several kilometres, the road runs along the banks of the fast flowing grey waters of the Zanskar. One can even see the occasional brightly coloured raft of some white water rafting enthusiast bobbing up and down.
Picturesque though this region is, it continues to be a troubled part of the world. Evidence of this can be found in the number of Army patrols, the myriad camps and barracks and the odd signboard that informs the traveler that satellite phones are illegal here. No, there isn’t a shred of doubt that this part of the world lives in the constant shadow of conflict. A shame really, for if you can get past that horrible bit, the area is absolutely breath taking.
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