HIMALAYAS, THE LOST VALLEYS OF PALDAR

Living high

An episode from the series TRIBES OF THE HIMALAYAS

Synopsis

In the heart of the Himalayas, there are still some forgotten valleys such as those of Paldar. Hard to reach, they were known for their Sapphire mines, but the 1990’s Kashmir conflict plunged into oblivion this singular region nicknamed "the Himalayan Switzerland" because of its picturesque landscapes.

Rigzen Tsewang, who lives in Zanskar, has decided to travel to Paldar through the imposing Omasila pass, nestled 5,400m high. As our guide, he leads us to exceptionally well preserved villages where Hinduism adds a very colorful dimension, especially during the Nague Festival which celebrates the beginning of the harvest.