Miles away from any civilization, the Himalayas are home to thousands of villages and hamlets that remain cut off from the modern world, with no access to energy. Most of these places are so remote they can’t even be located on Google Maps. As the world grapples with the effects of global warming, it’s critical that we shift to sustainable energy solutions to protect these vulnerable communities. This is exactly what a group of “heroes” set out to do: bring solar power to these hidden villages tucked away in the mountains.

It was in March 2018 that I stumbled across an application from Global Himalayan Expedition (GHE), a renowned annual mission dedicated to electrifying remote villages in Ladakh using solar micro-grids. I felt an immediate pull—this wasn’t just an opportunity to work on sustainable energy; it was a chance to turn my dream of making a tangible impact in the Himalayas into reality. I was also deeply motivated by the idea of becoming a “hero,” not just for the people I knew, but for the isolated communities that had lived in darkness for centuries.

After a few intense months of anticipation, I was selected for the September expedition to the village of Ralakung. The journey would be physically and mentally demanding, but I was ready to embrace the challenge. Being part of something larger than myself, knowing that my small contribution could light up lives, fueled my excitement. I prepared to be the “hero” my friends, family, and the villagers needed, but what I experienced was far more transformative.

As part of our team, we lived the life these villagers have lived for generations—trekking at altitudes of 4,500 meters, enduring sub-zero temperatures, navigating snowstorms, and witnessing firsthand the harsh realities of life without modern conveniences. It was a humbling experience. But amidst these challenges, I found myself in awe of the simple, pure lifestyle of these communities. More importantly, I began to understand the depth of the problem we were addressing: energy inequality.

Now that I’m back from this extraordinary expedition, having met some truly amazing souls, I don’t see myself as a contributor anymore. I am a learner, deeply grateful for the lessons and memories that this journey has left me with.

Inspiration and Motivation

Before I joined GHE, I spent months watching videos and reading stories about how sustainable energy could transform lives in remote places. I even came across a YouTube podcast that discussed similar expeditions to Ladakh, where people like me shared their journey of discovery, struggle, and impact. It was these stories that planted the seed in my mind, and as I listened to their passion and drive, I realized this was my calling. Joining GHE wasn’t just about volunteering; it was about fulfilling a personal mission to be part of something bigger, something that would create lasting change for people who desperately needed it.

To get a deeper look into what inspired me, check out the YouTube podcast video here that first sparked my decision to join the Global Himalayan Expedition. The stories shared in the podcast left a lasting impression and gave me the final push to take this life-changing step.

The Journey of Ralakung Villagers

The future depends on a few brave souls who step forward to create change, even when the rewards may not be immediate. In January 2018, a couple of villagers from Ralakung embarked on a journey across the frozen Zanskar River in the harshest winter conditions. Their goal? To meet the GHE team and request that their village be electrified. Such was their determination that they waited on the frozen river for days until they finally met the team, greeting them with traditional silk scarves, known as “Khatak.” That meeting marked the beginning of our September expedition to their village. Their resilience and sense of duty to their community left an indelible mark on me and showed me what true leadership looks like.