A group of Noosa locals is combining adventure and philanthropy on a trekking holiday to the remote kingdom of Zanskar in the Indian Himalaya, which aims to raise funds for the Australian Himalayan Foundation.
The adventure will be escorted by Noosa local, author and AHF ambassador, Heather McNeice.
“We have five Sunshine Coast locals signed up already, plus several interstate AHF supporters, and we’re well on our way to achieving our fund-raising target of $20,000 – but we’d welcome some additional team members to help make the biggest impact possible,” Heather said.
The trek – which is graded moderate to challenging – begins in Leh, capital of Ladakh (Little Tibet) and traverses high passes that afford incredible views of the Himalaya and Zanskar mountain ranges, and visits tiny traditional settlements and whitewashed Buddhist monasteries, following trails into some of the most remote and dramatic landscapes of the Himalaya.
The trip will raise funds for the Australian Himalayan Foundation – the grass-roots charity founded in Australia 20 years ago and now recognised as one of the most effective aid and development organisations in the Himalaya. In particular, the trek is focused on supporting the AHF’s life-changing programs for education (particularly for girls); women’s health and conservation.
Heather, her fellow trekkers and a group of willing Noosa supporters raised almost $20,000 in October 2022, with a cocktail event held at Noosa Springs Resort and Spa, which was attended by over 100 partygoers.
There are still spaces available on the trip, which is limited to 12 participants, who’ll need a good level of fitness. There’s still time to train.
Departing 3 July, 2023, the 16-day adventure, including the eight-day trek, is timed to coincide with the Karshar Gustor Festival, where masked dancers perform and people from all over the Himalaya come to attend one of the region’s most important celebrations.
The adventure is a HUMA Charity Challenge, the charity division of World Expeditions, which is operating the trip.
With a combination of camping and hotel accommodation and most meals included, as well as porters and camping equipment, the 16-day Ladakh with the Australian Himalayan Foundation adventure costs $4295. The carbon emissions from this trip will be fully offset through purchasing accredited carbon credits.
For further information visit HUMA Charity Challenge: humacharitychallenge.com or email Heather McNeice on heathermcneice@mac.com
