The Spell of Travel and Mountains
Whenever the word 'travel' resonates in my mind, the image that immediately pops up is that of mountains and snow. My heart leaps with anticipation every time I hear the word. Mountains, especially the stunning peaks of the Himalayas, hold a special place in my heart. There’s something profoundly beautiful about waking up to the cold chill of a snowy morning, seeing everything blanketed in a fluffy white layer, and the majestic peaks cut through the clouds like silver needles against the blue sky.
Recently, during the peak of winter, I embarked on a Kedarkantha trek in Uttarakhand. We were greeted by a flurry of snow as we reached Sankri, making the road to our hotel a scenic journey through a winter wonderland. It was my first experience with snow, and the magic of the moment was truly unforgettable. Although we couldn’t reach the summit due to heavy snowfall, the view we witnessed was simply breathtaking. It was definitely worth the effort of climbing.
The Thrill of Ephemeral Plans
The excitement of planning a trip is incomparable. I love when someone says, "Hey… let’s plan for a travel next month!!!!" There’s an instant lift in my spirits, and a twinkle in my eyes. My mind rushes to the destination well before the day of departure. The to-do list starts to take shape, often a day or two in advance. I meticulously pack my bags, ensuring that all important documents, such as identity cards and travel documents, are safely tucked away in my luggage. I also make sure to update my song playlists, and I even head out to the market to grab some healthy, travel-friendly snacks. Dry fruits are my go-to choice, as they are perfect for long journeys and provide sustained energy.
Adventures Without a Plan
One of the most thrilling aspects of travel for me is that feeling of not knowing. The inspiration comes, the tickets are bought, and a new country and culture are explored without a predefined itinerary. It’s a journey where life takes you where it chooses to go. It’s in these moments that the true magic of travel unfolds. For instance, in May 1986, I planned a solo adventure that took me around Karaikal, Pondicherry, Chennai, Vijayawada, Visakhapatnam, Bhubaneswar, Konarak, Sambalpur, Hirakud, Calcutta, Jalpaiguri, Kathmandu, and cost me only Rs. 3600/-. It took 28 days, and quite unexpectedly, I made a friend shortly after Chennai.
Travel, for me, is about the spontaneous moments, the unexpected encounters, and the sheer joy of discovery. It’s the snow-capped mountains, the golden sunrise over frozen lakes, and the thrill of the trek. And with every step, the world feels a little more alive.
Note: All the images belong to my personal gallery.