To the west of Leh, in the Rumbak and Stok valleys, some villages are pleased to welcome and offer board and lodging to the passing walkers. A perfect way to discover and appreciate the Ladakhi people at the rural and secular pace of the farmers and shepherds who live with their Pashmina goats. An introduction to hiking at altitude far removed from tourist trails, enhanced with crossing a pass at an altitude of 4900m and visiting the famous Buddhist monasteries.