Tope Tibba

Two weeks ago, a crew of us went on a day hike to Tope Tibba, a nearby hill that is somewhere near 9,000ft in elevation. I believe it is the highest peak on the Mussoorie/Landour Ridge. We drove about 10 km east of Woodstock to get to the trail head. There were 5 of us dorm parents and the two Hanifl Center leaders. Woodstock is building a strong outdoor education program and has two fulltime staff members who work at the Hanifl Center to coordinate and lead outdoor activities. One of them has been here for many years and knows everything about the flora, fauna, and the geography of the area. The other is in his first full year at Woodstock. He most recently directed the NOLS India program, one of the best outdoor leadership training organizations in the world. He kept us in line with proper "expedition behavior."

The trail was really nice for the first half of the hike. We stopped many times to learn about plants (and we got to eat some too!). About half way up, we passed through a tiny village. The villagers were happy to see us; they are used to Woodstock visitors. After the village, the path all but disappeared, so we followed winding goat paths up the steep hillside. We reached the top in time for lunch and just as the view was completely obscured by all-encompassing monsoon clouds. Despite the lack of view, it was a wonderful spot to sit. The descent was much quicker, and much funnier due to our deteriorating muscle control as we tumbled down the steep goat paths.

Off to an energetic start. Beware of goats and cows!


Kutty enjoying the view before it disappeared into the clouds.

Darab bestowing his nature knowledge on us.

Villagers working in the fields just outside the village.

A few of the village buildings.

We made it to the top! Notice the spectacular view (of clouds).

Family

My parents and Al are on a 20-day India trip. They spent a week in Mussoorie visiting me, enjoying good food, hamming it up with the local tailors, and seeing the beautiful foothills and Himalayas. Mussoorie was their first stop. Now they are heading to Rishikesh for the weekend and then on to Delhi and Agra.


Breakfast at the hotel. This turned into a 2 hour morning ritual.


Atop Gun HIll (highest point in Mussoorie)


Mom and Dad in front of the snow capped Himalayas.


Sunday brunch up at Char Dukan. Delicious banana pancakes, lassis, and a jolly cake (pancake with a candy bar!)...not very traditional, but indian nonetheless!


Hiking Benog Tibba.


Picnic atop Benog TIbba. The Himalayas had just disappeared into the clouds.


View from the Hindu Temple atop Benog Tibba.


Afternoon trip to Himalaya weavers (in a village past Woodstock). Looking at the beautiful colors of the natural dyes.


Seeing where and how the wool is dyed.


Getting a tour of Faiz tailor's house.


Al getting fitted by Islam for a vest at Inam's.