Confession of a Climbing Freak
Getting Ready for It…
The trek was still just an idea when I began preparing—daily walks, jogging, and, most importantly, a proper diet. More than physical strength, it’s mental endurance that matters on such treks. After nearly a month of hard work, the day finally arrived. We were off for the adventure I’d been dreaming about.
We reached our hotel in Dehradun. As we checked in, the hotel manager gave us a shock:
“Ma’am, the road to Sankri is closed. It’s been snowing for three days straight. Electricity poles are broken, water pipes are frozen. You won’t even be able to reach Sankri. Better roam around a bit and return to Mumbai.”
Me and Kinjal looked at each other. And right there, we decided: We’re doing this trek. No matter what.
Boss, ab to trek complete karke hi laut ke aana hai.
Pic 1: Checking out from Hotel Kolam, Dehradun
And Here We Started
The drive from Dehradun to Sankri was breathtaking—towering mountains, rushing rivers, and endless scenic beauty. Our journey kicked off over steaming plates of garma garam parathas at Dhanolti. Strangers at the start, we were already forming bonds that would only deepen over the next few days. Especially us four: Anjil, Kinjal, Ram, and myself.
It’s true what they say: “Fill your life with experiences; money will come and go.” And we lived every single day of this trek to the fullest.
Pic 2: At Juda Ka Talab
Pic 3: Bridge along the climb
We played in the snow and told ghost stories at night. We shared cutlery, delicious food, and endless laughter. We teased Sharma Ji, yet we helped and supported him when needed. We gazed in wonder at Juda Ka Talab and the magnificent Himalayan views of Harkidun, Kala Naag, and Swargarohini.
We pitched tents on snowy ground and huddled into our sleeping bags each night. We motivated each other during steep climbs and joked around during breaks. We danced around bonfires under starry skies. We devoured Maggi and eggs, and fed biscuits to friendly mountain dogs. We struggled up difficult slopes—and then laughed like children sliding back down from the snow-covered peaks.
Everything was challenging: climbing through waist-deep snow, battling the high altitude, freezing temperatures dropping to minus 12, and dealing with relentless snowfall. But every hardship felt worth it.
Pic 4: Trekmates
Pic 5: When even water in the bottle turned to ice…
The Scene of Achievement
The moment we stood on the summit, pure joy washed over me. It was a surge of happiness, pride, and disbelief. The view stretched across valleys, lesser-known peaks, and quiet villages far below. It felt like being on top of the world.
Spending days on snow, wrapped in the crisp mountain air, was an experience that captured my heart and kept me thrilled every single moment.
Pic 6: The best views come after the hardest climbs
Standing there, exhausted yet exhilarated, I told myself I’d never attempt a winter trek again—especially one during heavy snowfall when the temperatures plummet so low. My body ached, and I couldn’t sleep a wink that night. But now? I can’t wait for my next winter trek.
This was a fantastic adventure, and I’d strongly recommend it to anyone who dares to step out of their comfort zone. I’ll be back soon with my next trekking story!
Goodbye for now!
Pooja Vichare Shetye
Mumbai