“O dear Himalaya…why are you so amazing, can I kiss your peak or can I just let your silence speak…O dear Himalaya…”
Our first full day in Kathmandu unfolded as a journey through faith, culture and unexpected discoveries. From a leisurely breakfast in Thamel to the sacred precincts of Pashupatinath and Guhyeshwari, every experience revealed another facet of Nepal’s spiritual heart. Witnessing ancient rituals, funeral rites and wedding ceremonies, we discovered how devotion intertwines with life, death and new beginnings.
A devastating flash flood in Nepal has once again exposed the fragility of the Himalayan ecosystem. An ice-and-rock avalanche unleashed a torrent through the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli rivers, destroying homes, bridges and livelihoods. Beyond Nepal, the disaster carries a warning for South Asia: a warming Himalayas demands stronger cooperation, real-time monitoring, early-warning systems, and urgent action to protect vulnerable communities downstream
In 1852, Radhanath Sikdar, a Bengali mathematician, discovered that Peak XV was the world's highest mountain, later named Mount Everest. His groundbreaking calculations were overshadowed by British imperial bias, as the peak was named after a British official. Sikdar's contributions to the Great Trigonometrical Survey were largely ignored, encapsulating the colonial erasure of non-Western intellectual achievements.
Tapas Dey shares his delightful family adventure in Jibhi, Himachal Pradesh, highlighting the ups and downs of their journey. After initially considering other locations, they settled on a homestay amid concerns from weather warnings. The trip included car troubles, breathtaking scenery, and memorable experiences at various picturesque sites. Despite challenges, it became a cherished escape filled with bonding and laughter.
Our final day in Darjeeling was filled with exploration, starting at Ghum Railway Station, the highest in India. We visited the Old Ghum Monastery and Batasia Loop, marveling at their histories. The day culminated in the vibrant Chowrasta square before dining at Glenary's, leaving us with cherished memories of this enchanting region.
The journey through Tinchuley and Lamahatta in North Bengal was an extraordinary experience. Tinchuley, renowned for its tea gardens and stunning views, showcased its involvement with the World Wildlife Federation. Peshok Tea Estate and the Lovers Meet Viewpoint provided breathtaking scenery and historical significance, while Lamahatta offered a serene haven for nature enthusiasts.
Takdah unfolded before us like a whispered secret—mist-draped hills, colonial bungalows, and a warmth that felt like home. At Rose Villa Heritage Homestay, the Lama family’s kindness wrapped around us as gently as the mountain fog. Our days flowed with quiet walks, fragrant tea, and stories etched into timeless landscapes. Takdah didn’t just soothe us—it changed us.
The yeti, a legendary ape-like creature, has fascinated believers in Nepal and Tibet for centuries. Amidst lack of concrete evidence, the myth persists, with recent claims by the Indian Army. Despite scientific skepticism, the allure of the yeti endures, blurring myth and reality in the mystique of the Himalayas. The mystery continues.
The third day of the journey in Sikkim explored the stunning Yumthang Valley and the dramatic Zero Point. The day began with breathtaking views of the Himalayas in Lachung. The ascent to Zero Point was challenging yet rewarding, revealing a barren landscape at an altitude of 15,300 feet, marking the edge of civilization. The return included a visit to the vibrant Yumthang Valley, rich in floral beauty, before experiencing obstacles on the road back to Gangtok, culminating in unforgettable memories.
The journey from Gangtok to Lachen initiated an unforgettable Himalayan adventure. The pristine beauty of North Sikkim, with its winding roads and serene landscapes, provided a tranquil escape from urban life. Lachen served as a gateway to higher altitudes, while Thangu became an essential acclimatization stop. The extraordinary Gurudongmar Lake, amid breathtaking scenery, evoked a sense of awe, merging spirituality with nature’s raw beauty, enriching the traveler’s experience.
