De laatste Nomaden (The last Nomads)

For centuries, nomads in the high-altitude desert of Ladakh have moved with the seasons, travelling with their herds. It is a life of extremes: bitter cold and snowstorms in winter, dusty, dry and scorching conditions in summer. Snow leopards and wolves roam the landscape.
Modern life is gradually making its presence felt, with solar panels, mobile phones and gas stoves, yet goats, sheep and yaks are still herded on foot, day after day. Is it any wonder that the younger generation is turning its back on this rugged way of life?

Myra de Rooy visits this nomadic region and makes friends along the way. Her treks through this breathtaking yet inhospitable landscape offer a glimpse into the world of the herders. She walks through an open geology book on the roof of the world, following former caravan routes, crossing mountain passes and tracing rivers and salt lakes. Over countless cups of butter tea, people share inspiring stories of their lives and pass on generations of traditional knowledge. She also hears about the challenges they face, including climate change. Is education a blessing or a burden?

With its many photographs, The Last Nomads offers an intimate and compelling portrait of a way of life that is slowly disappearing.