The Silk Road Chapter-6 Class 11 Book-Hornbill Chapter Summary

 The Silk Road 

The chapter narrates the author’s journey along the remote, rugged terrains of the Tibetan plateau towards Mount Kailash, focusing on the physical and cultural experiences encountered during the trip.

Departure from Ravu

The journey begins on a serene morning as the author and his companions leave Ravu. Lhamo gifts the author a long-sleeved sheepskin coat for the harsh weather. Tsetan, the driver, chooses a shortcut through the Changtang region, a route with several high-altitude mountain passes.

Encounters with Wildlife and Nomads

The landscape transitions from rolling hills to vast open plains populated by gazelles and wild asses (kyang). They also pass nomadic drokbas tending their flocks and encounter fierce Tibetan mastiffs, reflecting the rugged and remote nature of the region.

Challenges of High Altitude and Snow

The journey becomes more challenging as they ascend to high mountain passes covered with snow. The group faces icy obstacles, requiring them to spread dirt on the snow for traction. The altitude causes the author to experience headaches and breathing difficulties.

Arrival at Hor

Reaching the grim, desolate town of Hor, they encounter accumulated refuse despite its location near the sacred Lake Manasarovar. The town lacks the spiritual atmosphere described by previous travelers. Tsetan departs for Lhasa, leaving the author to continue his journey.

Health Issues in Darchen

At Darchen, the author struggles with altitude sickness and sleeping difficulties. He visits a Tibetan doctor, who prescribes traditional medicine. After taking the medicine, the author experiences significant improvement and regains his strength.

Meeting Norbu

In Darchen, the author meets Norbu, a Tibetan academic from Beijing. Norbu, who has studied the Kailash kora academically but never completed it himself, proposes they undertake the pilgrimage together. Although ill-equipped for the trek, Norbu’s humor and enthusiasm make him an appealing companion.

Preparation for the Pilgrimage

The chapter concludes with the author and Norbu preparing for the kora, considering hiring yaks for their luggage. Norbu’s lightheartedness and practical approach contrast with the devout believers the author initially envisioned accompanying him.

Themes and Key Takeaways

1. The stark beauty and challenges of the Tibetan landscape.

2. The spiritual and cultural significance of Mount Kailash and the kora.

3. The resilience and adaptability required for high-altitude travel.

4. The contrast between traditional beliefs and modern perspectives.

This chapter blends travelogue and cultural insights, offering a vivid depiction of the physical and spiritual journey along the historic Silk Road.