Monk on Horseback
We were leaving the Himalayas after spending the night at Lake Tsomoriri. At more than 15,000 feet, nights were freezing cold at the lake and our tent was only a few hundred yards from shore. I had slept under more than 7 blankets, plus my clothing including my down jacket and was still cold. But now the sun was shining and the day was crisp and bright as only high altitude days can be.
We spotted this monk and his companion riding their Mongolian ponies across the high desert and we gave chase, trying to get a good shot. You can see from the monk’s expression that he is not happy about the situation. Being a good Buddhist, he displayed no anger other than a frown.
I must ask you to look at his shoes.
Tibetan Shoe
They are handmade in the style worn for thousands of years. I had seen no other person wearing this type shoe. Who was that medieval costumed man?
Himalayan High Desert
P.S. He does not use stirrups. Perhaps they are unnecessary because this pony ambles. This gait was popular when the saddle horse was the primary means of transportation. It is called the “running walk” in Tennessee Walking Horse circles. It is an ultra smooth gate and is fun to ride. There is no need to post or try to sit the trot. Good for long distances.