Ep 2. A Passage To India

In the second episode of Himalaya with Michael Palin, Michael continues his journey through the breathtaking landscape of the Himalayan region. This time, he explores India, a country with a fascinating cultural heritage and stunning natural wonders.

Michael starts his journey in the northern region of Ladakh, where he visits a traditional Tibetan monastery that has preserved its ancient practices for over a thousand years. He then travels to the Indus River, one of the major rivers in Asia. The Indus River has been the lifeline of the region for centuries, and Michael takes a boat ride to experience its power and beauty firsthand.

Next, Michael visits the city of Srinagar, located in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. Srinagar is famous for its beautiful Mughal gardens, which were built during the 16th century. Michael enjoys a peaceful stroll in these gardens, surrounded by the vibrant colors and fragrances of the flowers.

But Michael's journey takes a more serious turn when he visits a refugee camp for victims of the conflict between India and Pakistan. He meets families who have lost their homes and loved ones due to the ongoing border dispute. Michael also meets a group of children who have been orphaned by the conflict and are being looked after by a charitable organization.

Despite the hardship, Michael is struck by the resilience and strength of the people in the camp. He is moved by their stories and impressed by their determination to build a better future for themselves and their families.

The next stop is Dharamsala, the home of the exiled Tibetan spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama. Michael meets with the Dalai Lama and explores the Tibetan community in Dharamsala, which has become a hub for Tibetan refugees. Michael learns about the history of Tibet and the struggle for freedom and independence.

Michael's journey ends in the town of Amritsar, home of the Golden Temple - the holiest shrine of Sikhism. The Golden Temple is a marvel of architecture and is known for its peaceful and welcoming atmosphere. Michael takes part in the daily prayer ceremony and learns about the Sikh religion and their values of equality and compassion.

Throughout his journey in India, Michael encounters a diverse range of people and experiences the rich cultural heritage of this diverse country. From the serene beauty of the Mughal gardens, to the heartbreaking stories of the refugee camp, to the spiritual enlightenment of the Golden Temple, this episode of Himalaya with Michael Palin is a captivating exploration of India's vibrant landscape and cultural heritage.