TAWANG, SEP 20:
A heritage trekking initiative, the ‘Salt Trek’, was organised in Tawang on Saturday to commemorate the resilience and legacy of Monpa ancestors who once traversed the rugged high-altitude mountains to trade for salt and other essential commodities from Tibet.
The trek was flagged off by Tawang MLA Namgey Tsering from Griptsang Lake near Nagula and covered around 5.5 km before culminating at Chhu-shet Gyengo near Klemta Lake. More than 100 participants, including the MLA, Tawang Zilla Parishad Member Sonam Nordzin, Indian Army personnel, students, youths and trekking enthusiasts, took part in the heritage journey.
Organised by the Monyul Heritage Tourism and Winter Sports Society in collaboration with the Department of Tourism, Tawang, and Monpa Media Mates, with support from the Indian Army, the initiative formed part of the activities marking World Tourism Day.
During the trek, resource persons Gaon Burah Bomba Bumteng Dorjee Tsering and Phurpa Gombu shared insights into the ancient trade route, pilgrimage sites and oral traditions associated with the region. Participants were encouraged to preserve traditional place names and document local folklore, stories and historical accounts before they are lost over time.
Addressing the gathering, Namgey Tsering described the trek as an effort to reconnect the present generation with the history and hardships of their ancestors. He urged the younger generation to take pride in Monpa heritage and contribute to preserving its traditions, oral history and cultural identity.
The MLA also highlighted the tourism potential of the ancient route and expressed hope that it could emerge as a destination for heritage and adventure tourism, attracting visitors interested in trekking, history, culture and Tawang’s natural landscape.
Environmental responsibility was also emphasised during the programme, with participants urged to maintain the pristine condition of the high-altitude trail and follow the principle of “Leave No Waste Behind”.
At the conclusion of the trek, successful participants were felicitated with traditional khadas. A display of traditional objects, including baskets, horse saddles, walking sticks, a traditional matchbox, silver coins and samples of white and rock salt, offered a glimpse into the material culture and everyday life of earlier generations.
Participants were also encouraged to document Tawang’s culture, history, cuisine and heritage through reels, podcasts and other digital platforms. They were informed about opportunities such as the GEMS OF INDIA Contest of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to showcase the region’s stories at the national level.
The Salt Trek served as a journey into the collective memory of Monyul, retracing a challenging route once traversed by generations of Monpa ancestors. The initiative underscored the importance of preserving the region’s ancestral trade routes, oral history, folklore and cultural traditions for future generations. (Source: Mon Darpan)
