The exploration and appropriation of the wilderness in the heart of the Western Himalayas has become known as the "Gilgit Game" in recognition of its importance as a crucial episode in the "Great Game"--the century-long rivalry between Russia and British India for control of Central Asia. Indeed, authors from Kipling to Masters have treated this struggle as the epitome of this competition between nations. But as John Keay shows in this fascinating and readable account of an exciting period in colonial India, the real characters in this drama were more than a match for their fictional counterparts. With humor, sympathy, and admiration of this small group of intelligence agents, Keay describes the activities that had such far-reaching repercussions in the region. Through extensive research and his own intimate knowledge of the terrain, Keay sheds new light on the once top secret geographical discoveries made by these men, discoveries they were prevented from publishing during their lifetimes. A fresh look at a little-known aspect of political intrigue, this is the first narrative account of Himalayan exploration set against the backdrop of espionage and military brinkmanship.