It’s funny how some of the most life-changing decisions start with a simple ‘why not?’ One minute you’re curled up on your couch, binge-watching travel documentaries, and the next, you’re signing up for your first trek to Kedarkantha with Safarwallah. That was me a few months ago – terrified, excited, and wondering what on earth I was getting into.
Looking back, I can confidently say it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Not just because of the breathtaking views, the snow-covered peaks, or the exhilarating sense of achievement when I finally reached the summit, but because it changed something deep inside me. But, let me take you through the journey from the very beginning – the moments that made this adventure unforgettable, and how it gave me a new perspective on life.
The Leap of Faith: Leaving My Comfort Zone
When I first heard about Kedarkantha, I had no idea where it was. All I knew was that it involved a trek in the mountains. The word “mountains” alone sent a chill down my spine. But somehow, after reading a few blogs and seeing those stunning pictures of snow-capped peaks, I found myself texting a friend: “Hey, do you want to sign up for a trek to Kedarkantha?”
Her reply came almost immediately: “Are you sure? It’s quite a challenging trek.”
And that’s how it started. A little nudge, and suddenly I was enrolled, ready to head to the mountains with Safarwallah. What struck me instantly about Safarwallah was their approach to trekking: they made it accessible, fun, and most importantly, safe. They gave us all the information we needed, from what gear to pack to the essentials for the trek. But I still had a sense of dread hanging over me.
The Journey Begins: The First Step Toward the Unknown
The trek started easy enough. A few hours into the journey, and I was already wondering how on earth I was going to carry that heavy backpack up the steep hills. It was as if the mountain had taken one look at me and said, “So, you think you’re ready for me?”
I was panting, my muscles already aching, but then something unexpected happened. The forest opened up, and there, in front of me, was a view so beautiful it almost stopped me in my tracks. The sunlight streamed through the trees, the scent of pine filled the air, and for the first time, I felt like I was truly alive.
The First Night: Around the Bonfire, Under the Stars
That night, after hours of walking, we arrived at our campsite. The tents were set up, the evening meal was bubbling away, and the air had a crispness to it that I had never experienced before. I was exhausted, but there was a certain magic in the air. The moonlight reflected off the snow, and the crackling sound of the bonfire made everything feel like a dream.
The Final Push: Reaching the Summit
The morning of Day 3 arrived with a clear, cold sky and a sense of anticipation that I could feel in my bones. It was time to make the final push to the summit. The last stretch was going to be the toughest. The snow was deeper, the wind sharper, and the climb steeper. I remember feeling the cold wind hit my face like needles, the snow crunching beneath my boots with every step.
The Aftermath: A Changed Perspective
Coming back down to the base felt strange. It wasn’t just the aching muscles or the tired eyes – it was the feeling of having left a part of myself behind on that mountain. Kedarkantha had taught me so much about resilience, courage, and the importance of taking things one step at a time. It had shown me that the real rewards of life often come when we push through our fears and embrace the unknown.
Why Safarwallah?
If you’re reading this and wondering whether you should go for your first trek, I’d say: Go for it. Don’t wait for the “perfect moment” – just take that first step. With Safarwallah by your side, you’re not just signing up for a trek; you’re signing up for an experience. They’ll guide you every step of the way, making sure you feel safe, supported, and most importantly, excited.
So, what are you waiting for? The adventure of a lifetime is just one step away.
