Class 11 English Hornbill Chapter 5 – Silk Road (Nick Middleton) Theme

 

NCERT Solutions For Class 11 English

Hornbill

Chapter 5 – Silk Road (Nick Middleton)

Theme

Accompanied by Daniel and Tsetan, the author Nick Middleton departed Ravu. Prior to their departure, Lhamo presented him with a parting gift – a long-sleeved sheepskin coat. Their subsequent destination was Mount Kailash, and Tsetan, confident in his knowledge of a shortcut, assured them of a smooth journey if there was no snow. Driving through the hills, they encountered solitary 'drokbas,' tending their flocks, who would occasionally pause, gaze, and wave as the car passed by.

 

Approaching nomads' tents, Tibetan mastiffs would begin barking, chasing the car briefly before falling silent. The terrain became more challenging with sharper turns and bumps, and unexpected snowfall obstructed their path. To ensure safe driving, the author and Daniel exited the car, as the perilous icy top layer of snow threatened slippage. Their journey led them to a guesthouse in Darchen, where the author experienced a troubled night, grappling with blocked sinuses and inadequate oxygen, hindering his sleep. The following day, Tsetan took him to Darchen Medical College, where the doctor diagnosed a cold exacerbated by altitude and provided medication, allowing for a restful night.

 

Tsetan, with a commitment to Buddhism and a belief in life after death, expressed concerns about the potential impact on his tourism business. Despite the worries, Tsetan continued with his work, leaving the author feeling lonely and abandoned in Darchen.

 

Keen on completing the kora at Mount Kailash but reluctant to do it alone, the author sought an English-speaking companion for ease of communication. In a café, Middleton encountered Norbu, a Tibetan working in Beijing at The Chinese Academy of Social Sciences. While not religious, Norbu intended to undertake the kora. The author decided to join Norbu on the ascent of Mount Kailash.