Ladakh, known as the land of the high passes, is one of the most remote regions of the Indian Himalaya. The region forms part of the Tibetan plateau and the semi-nomadic mountain people that live there are predominantly Buddhist. You will be visiting the scarcely visited Nubra Valley area which offers unrivalled mountaineering and endless opportunities for exploration and adventure including the chance to bag some unclimbed 6,000m peaks. The main fieldwork focus is on human interaction with the environment. You will be investigating both the impact on human physiology, through high altitude physiology studies, and the impact on the mountain ecosystem, through environmental science work on the unique local flora and fauna. You will also be updating the existing maps of the area contributing to a greater understanding of this important though rarely accessed region. Location Your journey begins, after a brief stop in Delhi, by flying over the Greater Himalayan ranges into Leh, the capital of Ladakh. This is one of the highest cities in the world and you will spend three days here acclimatising to the altitude of 3,500m and exploring Leh's rich scenic and cultural aspects. It is an important period as it will allow our bodies to adjust to the rarefied oxygen levels in preparation for the trekking, climbing and the higher altitudes to come.
Experience high altitude mountaineering and explore untouched habitats as an active member of a research team for five weeks.
From Leh you travel to Hundar Dok via the Khardungla pass, which at 18,360 ft is the world's highest motorable road you then embark on three days of superb trekking through the dramatic landscape to establish base camp for further acclimatisation, training and packing before dispersing into two groups to begin the research and adventure projects. Two main areas of fieldwork 1. Human interaction with and impact on the environment a. High Altitude Physiology You will be contributing to work examining the effects of altitude on the human body. b. Environmental Science investigating the human impact on the mountain eco-system determined by conducting census and survey work on flora and fauna The Nubra Valley is generally unknown and poorly mapped. You will be exploring, surveying and mapping the expedition area and thus contributing to a greater understanding of the region. Adventure The main emphasis of the expedition is around mountaineering and you will attempt various 6,000m peaks. We hope to achieve at least one first ascent.
Research
2. Mapping the Nubra Valley
No mountaineering experience is necessary as our experienced mountain leaders will provide full training in the safe use of all equipment. However expedition members will require a good level of personal fitness along with the ability to cope with cold weather.
My Ladakh Experience - Kiri Gascoyne I will never forget this summer, from the moment that everybody met up at Heathrow, to the time when we said our goodbyes I have had some of the best times ever. Experiencing the Ladakhi culture first hand is something that I will always remember. Going to Leh was amazing, and although we were there to work I had a brilliant time, and it was a great place to get to see. Summiting a 6000m peak was also a special moment for me, as it was something that I never thought I would have been able to do. The struggle on the way up was well worth the feeling of achievement I had when I reached the top. This really was a once in a lifetime experience!
How to Apply
Complete your application form and send to the BSES Office today! Places are limited and issued on a first come first served basis after interview.
Good luck!
Cost
Your contribution will be in the region of £2,750 including a deposit of £500
Flights are expected to be around £1000 including all taxes
Key dates
Application Deadline Friday 4th April, 2008
Compulsory Briefing Weekend Friday 18th - Sunday 20th April, 2008
Expedition Dates approx 17th July to 18th August, 2008
BSES Annual Presentation of Expedition Reports Saturday 31st January, 2009
Once you are onboard you will have access to a password protected area of the website which contains all the information you need for the expedition, from a full kit list and equipment advice to health information, suggested fitness programmes and logistical information.
All details are subject to change and correct at time of writing.
For our cancellation policy, please contact the BSES Office.
