What's the Next Station, Captain?

Travelling and learning

Even though I'm quite a homebody, there's an undeniable thrill in travelling and discovering new things. I've been lucky to journey across India, both to familiar spots and unexplored corners. India's ever-changing tapestry always has something new to offer, making every visit a unique adventure.

Last December, on a whim, we decided to head to Bidar. Just like that, the next morning, we were on our way. We stayed in a cosy village homestay, where the locals treated us like family.

It was a complete change of pace – sipping fresh coconut water, exploring farms, and simply being in nature's embrace was pure bliss. The next day, we explored the heart of Bidar. A visit to a Gurudwara left me awestruck by its beauty, and the community kitchen (langar) filled my heart with warmth.

During Sankranti in 2023, I finally got to re-experience the dreamy city of Mumbai. Our purpose was to be there for my dad's full marathon, and what an experience it turned out to be. The Mumbai marathon, witnessed from the sidelines, is an energy that courses through your very being – the sheer multitude of runners creates a palpable buzz, making the ground beneath seem to pulse. The infectious spirit of Mumbaikars only deepened my fondness for them.

Mumbai's bustling streets and unceasing vitality captured everything I hold dear about the city. Wandering through its lanes, soaking in a plethora of sights, exploring local treasures like the legendary Fashion Street, treating myself to the irresistible Rustom ice cream, and seizing every chance to savour a coffee while taking in the breathtaking Marine Drive views – these moments etched themselves onto my heart. But what truly made this experience unparalleled was sharing it all with my mom, weaving an extra layer of warmth and significance into every memory.

Ventured off to Sikkim and Darjeeling with my parents and cousin. Settled into a charming homestay in Pelling, Sikkim, right on the cusp of the bustling season. The experience unfolded with delightful food, perfect weather, and captivating architecture. We explored a bird sanctuary teeming with nature's wonders and serene Buddhist monasteries that offered a glimpse into a unique culture, climate, local nature spots and culinary world. Ah, the momos! Those four days treated me to an abundance of this local treat, creating cherished memories. From the remarkable architecture of Japanese temples to beautiful small hikes, I soaked in the history and ecosystem of this new place.

Darjeeling had its own tale to tell. Amidst cold rain, we braved the elements to discover local restaurants, but luck wasn't on my side as most were closed. My love for coffee shared with my mom, led us to seek comfort in Darjeeling's cafes. The iconic spots and the rich hot chocolate I savoured remain etched in time and decade-old photos I recreated, a special moment forever held close. We also covered a

I had the chance to revisit Dehradun and Delhi after many years, taking in the changes and familiar sights. An exciting highlight was a short, 3-day Himalayan expedition to Madhyamaheshwar. We covered a total distance of 32km over the course of these days.

The first day started with a seemingly manageable 6km trek. However, I found myself more fatigued than expected. The following day brought a daunting challenge – a continuous uphill climb spanning 10km. Despite my initial doubts and fears, I pushed through, driven by determination. While it was physically demanding and more challenging than I anticipated, completing the uphill trek filled me with a profound sense of accomplishment. My calves ached, but the satisfaction was undeniable. The simple, nourishing meals that followed provided not only sustenance but also a soothing balm for the soul.

Both nights, we rested in a modest room provided by local villagers for trekkers. As we shared meals in the small kitchen, the humility of our surroundings contrasted beautifully with the awe-inspiring scenery just beyond. The first night, under a clear sky, we observed constellations, a reminder of our place in the universe. The gentle sound of a nearby river added to the tranquil ambience.

On the second day, we found ourselves in a valley, encircled by towering mountains crowned with glistening snow. Our gruelling 10km uphill journey led us to Madhyamaheshwar on a day of special significance – the temple's reopening after six months. The sight of a multitude of people gathered at an altitude of 3200 meters to celebrate this auspicious event was truly remarkable.

My visits to Dehradun and Delhi hold a special place in my heart, as they are primarily about family. These trips allowed me to reconnect with numerous relatives after years. The experience was a beautiful blend of nostalgia and heartwarming moments, filled with laughter, shared jokes, and quality time spent with many of my beloved cousins.

Not long ago, I had the opportunity to journey to Kurnool as part of a college field visit. Our itinerary included visits to a destitute home and a village, allowing us to gain insights from a social work perspective. This marked my inaugural college trip, and boy, was it something truly extraordinary.

From belting out songs at the top of our lungs during the train ride to those late-night giggles and pizza parties in our cosy pyjamas, we crafted memories that hold a unique place in my heart. This adventure introduced me to a plethora of first-time experiences, and I am immensely thankful to the individuals who contributed to making it so incredibly special.

Travelling has become a way for me to dive into stories and soak up new experiences. Lately, I've been focusing on exploring local gems, truly immersing myself in the vibe of each place and savouring the local cuisine – it's been quite a delightful shift.

These past few months, my adventures have taken me closer to home. I've developed a keen appreciation for embracing the charm of nearby destinations, whether it's the hidden spots or the flavours that define them.

I've come to understand the profound truth in my dad's words – growth comes when you step out of your comfort zone, Be uncomfortable! It's fascinating how feeling a bit uneasy, whether it's adjusting to a smaller space or even conquering a relentless uphill climb for hours, can mould you into a better person. Those moments challenge you, teach you resilience and broaden your life skills in unexpected ways.