Kolkata:
To get a first-hand experience of life in the high-altitude Himalayas and understand the impact of melting of glaciers due to global warming, a group of people, including researchers and youngsters, will undertake a two-week trek next month.
On a 474-km stretch in between Manali to Leh, participants of the 'Himalayan Walkathon' will start the journey from June 23 to raise awareness on the need to combat climate change.
Organised by the Bangalore-based adventure sports organisation 'The Third Element', the group will comprise of around 100 participants coming from diverse backgrounds.
"We want people to see how the glaciers are melting as they walk all along the route. When you talk to the local people and tribals you will get to understand how the climate is changing and affecting not only their lives but also the flora and fauna," the walkathon's organiser Arindam Bhattacharjee told PTI.
He said the melting of snow in the Arctic Poles and climate change is reported frequently but the melting of the Himalayan glaciers goes largely unreported.
After their journey, the team would then try to impress upon the central government the need to develop new adaptation and mitigation strategies for tackling climate change.
The walkathon will begin from Manali and cross the Rohtang Pass, Baralacha La Pass, Tanglang La Pass to reach Leh at 3500 metres elevation.
Besides climate change, participants will also get the opportunity to study the local culture, wildlife, visit Buddhist monasteries and also practice 'Hatha Yoga' amidst the panoramic view of the mountain ranges.
"It will have something for everyone. The pristine beauty of the Himalayas are a treat for nature lovers and photographers while those interested in religion will get to see the Buddhist monasteries spread all over the Himalayas. It is also the best place to meditate," the organisers said.