The warmth in the palms of my hands

Kashmir - Winter 2008

First winter in the Himalayas. Nothing prepares you for this kind of cold — dry, silent, biting. Here, they don't heat the houses. They heat the people.

I was handed an object I didn't recognize. A wicker basket. Inside, a clay cup filled with embers.

"Kangri"

I would hear that word dozens of times every day.

The heat in the valleys of Kashmir. The invisible companion under the long tunics, slipped under the duvet at night, placed close to the body during the day.

I came looking for adventure — I found the simplicity of a fire to carry with me. Sometimes survival hinges on a handful of embers.

Since then, I have never forgotten that lesson: heat travels.

Inspired by the simplicity and efficiency of the Kangri, Nomad Drift chose to create a modern version. Lightweight, reliable items designed for outdoor living, movement, and withstanding the elements—without depending on anything or anyone.