National Institute of Informatics - Digital Silk Road Project
Digital Archive of Toyo Bunko Rare Books

INTRODUCTION.

It may happen that, when once far in the interior, circumstances may make it desirable to throw off the disguise and openly to avow one's self a European. In most cases this is a hazardous proceeding, which should only be resorted to after mature consideration, and â ith the entire consent of the guides.

Letters. When sending a letter or message to a distance, it should never be entrusted to one native alone, but two at least should always be sent in company. Although this proceeding increases the expense, it is only by this means that a safe delivery of the message can be confidently expected.

EQUIPMENT AND GENERAL REQUIREMENTS.

Money. The rupi is not only accepted everywhere in the Himalaya, but even in Tibet and parts of Central Asia. For the latter country, however, it is indispensable to have gold—either Indian gold-mohurs or, better still, gold-dust, and a gold coin named "tila," which has a value of about six rupis. Tilas may be had at Leh, and in small quantities in Kashmir; but care must be exercised with regard to the manner in which they are collected : a demand for a large sum at once may excite suspicion and betray the traveller's intention to penetrate into Central Asia. The paper currency recently introduced into India is as yet unknown in the Himalaya, and for years to come will only be received with distrust.

It is a good plan to inform the kûli who has charge of the package containing the cash respecting its contents ; the man will then be particularly careful at the crossing of rivers, passage of dangerous .spots, &c. There is very little fear of being openly robbed in any of the provinces which can be traversed in European dress.

The traveller should not omit to lay in a supply of small copper coins; not only is it occasionally necessary to pay each of the kalis individually, as they often object to being paid collectively; but in some of the smaller villages it may even happen that no change can be procured.

If a longer tour be intended, and a protracted stay in the Himalayan provinces subject, partially at least, to British rule, and notice hereof be given in due time to the authorities at the hill-stations and the P ,njab, there will be no difficulty in obtaining government drafts on the various hill-chiefs, and even on the Maharaja of Kashmir and his thanadar in Leh; but the kind of coin received in exchange for such