Frustrated with my daily routine, shuffling between office and home, I decided to isolate myself from the crowd of Durga Puja and pack my bags to enjoy nature during Durga Puja holidays. Little did I know that this spontaneous decision would lead me to a hidden paradise nestled in the heart of the Himalayas.
My journey began from Delhi as I reside in NCR (National Capital Region) at the cosy “Indian Backpackers Hostel” in Jagatsukh village, Manali, a steal deal for just ₹417/- per night. As I stepped out of the vehicle, the crisp mountain air filled my lungs, instantly washing away the memories of my stuffy office cubicle.
Chitkul, my first stop, was like stepping into a living postcard. Picture this: snow-capped peaks touching the sky, their reflection shimmering in the crystal-clear Baspa River. It was love at first sight.
The next morning, I found myself huffing and puffing up to Mathi Temple. But oh, was it worth it! The view from the top was straight out of a dream – the tiny village of Chitkul sprawled below, surrounded by majestic mountains. I stood there, mouth agape, wondering if I had accidentally wandered onto a movie set.
In Sangla Valley, I stumbled upon the quaint tradition of the ‘7 Pebbles Wish’. As I carefully stacked my pebbles by the riverside, I wished for more adventures like this. To my delight, the stack stood firm. Who knows? Maybe there’s some magic in these mountains after all!
The adventure junkie in me couldn’t resist the Charang Chitkul Pass Trek. It was no walk in the park, mind you. But with each gruelling step, the landscape transformed, revealing alpine meadows dotted with wildflowers and glaciers that looked like rivers frozen in time. At the pass, 5,240 meters high, I felt on top of the world – quite literally!
The Kamru Fort was like stepping back in time. As I climbed its ancient steps, I imagined myself as a Kinnaur warrior, defending the fort from invaders. The view from the top? Let’s just say it made me forget all about my Instagram feed.
But the real showstopper was Rakcham. Imagine a village straight out of a fairy tale – traditional houses with slate roofs, apple orchards heavy with fruit, and a backdrop of mountains so magnificent it makes your heart skip a beat. I half expected a dragon to swoop down from the peaks!
As the days flew by, I found myself transformed. The guy who once complained about a five-minute walk to the office was now gleefully embarking on day-long treks. The constant ping of emails was replaced by the soothing sound of prayer wheels at the Buddhist Monastery. And my idea of excitement evolved from binge-watching series to white-water rafting on the Baspa River.
Every evening, as I sat by the hostel’s bonfire, swapping stories with fellow travellers, I realized something. This wasn’t just a vacation. It was a journey back to myself, a reconnection with the wide-eyed kid who once dreamed of adventures.
Chitkul and its surrounding areas are truly a hidden gem in the Indian Himalayas, perfect for those seeking solitude, adventure, and natural splendour.
As I returned home, my backpack was heavier with souvenirs, but my heart was lighter. The mountains had worked their magic. I returned to my cubicle, but now with the spirit of a wanderer, the memories of Chitkul’s beauty etched in my mind, and a burning desire for the next adventure.
Who knew that a simple decision to escape the Durga Puja crowds would lead to the most thrilling chapter of my life?
“Chitkul, you beauty, I’ll be back.”
