HIMALAYA: HUMLA: Rice Traders, Humla

While the deep valley floor is still in the grip of the overnight freeze, these caravan-drivers load up their mules and set off on their day's march towards Tibet. Humla has never been able to grow sufficient grain to feed its population, and traditionally relied on trans-Himalayan trade to make up the deficit. Rice and barley are taken to Tibet and exchanged for salt, which is then caried back to the lowlands. The difference in the exchange rates for the two commodities at either end of this long and arduous trade route enables the participants to add considerably to their family's stores of grain at home.Canon EOS500, 28mm, Fuji Velvia
Rice Traders, Humla

While the deep valley floor is still in the grip of the overnight freeze, these caravan-drivers load up their mules and set off on their day's march towards Tibet. Humla has never been able to grow sufficient grain to feed its population, and traditionally relied on trans-Himalayan trade to make up the deficit. Rice and barley are taken to Tibet and exchanged for salt, which is then caried back to the lowlands. The difference in the exchange rates for the two commodities at either end of this long and arduous trade route enables the participants to add considerably to their family's stores of grain at home. 

Canon EOS500, 28mm, Fuji Velvia