We youngsters, at some point or another, wish to go on a trip with our friends, which usually involves much planning and decision making, thus being time consuming. So finally after about four years of planning, I got the chance to experience in reality what most of us crave for i.e. a trip with our friends, which involved some fun adventure activities also! Here is how my experience turned out…
Shivani Bisht
Wishing to go on a trip and to actually reach the destination includes some steps in between such as convincing our parents and friends, or even convincing friends’ parents sometime, making sure nobody backs out at the end etc., but these issues are last on the list that people worry about.
Once everyone was on the same page, we got down to net surfing to decide our adventure destination. There are so many sites and trip organisers all over the internet, which is great as they provide you various destinations to choose from with different tour packages, but it’s always suggested to opt for the trustworthy and known website. After all fact checks and background searches, we decided to go to Himachal Pradesh for its most famous Triund Trek.
Trekking, technically, is the activity that involves walking long distances on foot. But on a personal note, trekking, for me, is a way to make a meaningful connection with environment and to understand nature as well as ourselves with every step taken. ‘Lap of Nature’ is the first thing that comes to mind when we are asked about finding peace, and trek is the most suitable way to achieve that.
Before the trekking day, we went for sightseeing and explored the ‘Little Lhasa’ i.e. Mcleodganj. It is one of the few places in India where one can witness a perfect blend of Indian and Tibetan cultures. We witnessed the beauty of this hill station by exploring the places which are must visit and are on top in the list of attractive places in this suburb of Dharamshala.
The enchanting Bhagsunag Waterfall
After a walk for about 15-20 minutes from Mcleodganj, one comes face to face with the majestic Bhagsunag fall, which is also called the Bhagsu Falls. The place is the house of the Bhagsunath temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It’s not just an attractive place to visit, but is also an important place for Hindu pilgrims.
The cascading fall is about 20 metres in height is an absolute wonder to look at. You can also visit it during the trek from Mcleodganj. Although driving up to Bhagsu village is an option, but I would recommend you to cover it on foot and introduce yourself to the local culture. The essence of the surroundings when you are near the fall is worth the exhaustion. The water is crystal clear and chilled. Not just the view, the food is also great. There is a nice cafeteria next to the fall which makes the area a great picnic spot.
Visit St. John in the Wilderness church
The church of St. John in the Wilderness is one of the oldest Anglican churches in Mcleodganj, constructed in 1852. This neo-gothic church is surrounded by mighty Deodar trees, which contributes to the name itself, and even today is a place of wilderness in a growing tourist destination. This church was built to provide a place of worship for the British soldiers posted here. The church is full of memorial stones and the most impressive one is just behind the church, dedicated to Lord Elgin, Viceroy of India from 1862-63. This site is within walking distance of bus stop and main market. Apart from being a historical place, it serves to be one of the best places for people to capture photographs. Go there and get enjoy the wilderness.
There are three beautiful places to visit such as:
- Namgayal Monastery, where the Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama is believed to have his abode.
- Tibetan Museum that has collection of all brilliant forms of Tibetan Art, including history documents, paintings, handicrafts etc.
- Also, never miss the chance to walk around the streets and explore the local market filled with Tibetan artefacts, beautiful and unique handcrafted items that you can buy and carry them as souvenirs.
Trek to Triund
Trek to Triund is about 18kms walk from Dharamshala. It takes approximately 4-5 hours, depending on individuals’ walking pace (as given by the guide). It took us 7-8 hours to reach the hill top. The whole path was exhausting and it got steeper and difficult with increasing height, but it failed to kill the excitement. The cold wind surrounded us after a while of walking and warm clothes were needed. With light rainfall throughout the way and rumbling clouds, everything became more thrilling and adventurous. By the time we reached the top, everyone was extremely exhausted and we needed to rest. However, upon reaching there and witnessing the view of Dhauladhar mountain range covered in snow, all our struggle, bruises and exhaustion became insignificant. Our pale faces turned bright and happy. It won’t be too much to say that every soul was joyful there. The night was spent in the tents where the sky was all clear, filled with stars. It was truly a magical view when we looked up. Also, we made sure to not miss the sunrise, so we woke up early in the chilling morning and witnessed nature’s beauty. It gave us a little heartache when we started to trek down because nobody wanted to leave such a beautiful place.
As mesmerizing as it is and as easy as it is to get lost in the enjoyment, one should always keep certain things in mind. Even though my parents didn’t fall behind to give the instructions and a list of Do’s and Don’ts, in this trip I personally realised that few things should always be kept in mind, such as:
- Carry a light weight bag and avoid unnecessary items, keep only the useful ones.
- Follow what guide says, don’t try to be daring.
- Take care of your own sanitation. Even though it’s beautiful there, sanitation maintenance could be a problem.
- Be hydrated. Always keep a water bottle handy.
- Do not compromise with clothing. Always wear comfortable clothes. Don’t forget to keep warm clothes.
- Always be in a group, do not get left out. It’s easy to lose the path.
- Be a responsible tourist and keep the environment clean.
A single trip can change a lot within us, be it with friends, family or solo. A few days spent in arms of nature unexpectedly give a strange yet comforting and beautiful feeling and there’s no doubt in the fact that it helps to cope with everything and gives a fresh start. As people say, when life becomes difficult, throw yourself into the mountains.
