Skis 4 Kashmir

                The Skis4kashmir team has finally made it to Gulmarg!  There was a sense of relief as we got back into the mountains after two days of thick traffic in Srinagar and Delhi that create a heavy haze of exhaust that cloud the lungs. Our drive took us through the heart of Kashmir.  As we made our way to the mountains we passed through towns that never see Americans, so when we stopped to get Steve and Max traditional Kashmiri pharens we were swarmed.  As foreigners we are required to register in Tangmarg, a small town about halfway through the drive between Srinagar and Gulmarg.  The drive gives an interesting insight into Kashmiri’s daily life.  Horse drawn carriages can be seen trotting through mazes of soldiers and produce vendors; cows are free to wonder through traffic.  Anywhere we go with ski equipment a crowd of locals constantly try to help us move our luggage.  Our limited budget requires that we avoid unnecessary expenses, like paying for porters. So we carry it ourselves.  From Tangmarg, the road thins and switchbacks into the snow.  The terrain is highlighted by fallen trees and pillows that have endless opportunities for face shots.  We drove for an hour or so when, out of nowhere you find yourself in a winter paradise.   The main floor of the valley is empty and ringed by several hotels in various stages of completion and operation.  We drove until the road ended and then carried our bags 20 minutes to our new home at the Alpine Ridge guesthouse.  It’s very modern and has great access to the mountain. Last night we had another large dinner of rice and chicken curry accompanied by live Kashmiri music.   Two rababs were part of the music.  Rababs are an instrument that has deep roots in the history of Kashmiri music.  Charlie and I had the pleasure of seeing this instrument being played on our first trip.  Pakistan and Afghanistan apparently have their own variation of this stringed instrument.   Our first night in Gulmarg was a warm welcome after such a long journey.    

                This morning we wanted to get acquainted with the mountain but unfortunately weather prevented us.  We skinned “Monkey Ridge” and found some alright turns.    Skinning up through the trees felt really good after the constant car and air travel.  Our afternoon was spent relaxing and discussing the schedule for the first session of kids the snow continued to fall.    Monday will bring the students along with a whole new set of challenges but we are ready.  Updates soon.

Dallas