In 2018, I had the incredible opportunity to explore parts of India and Himalayas that left a lasting impression. My journey began in Siliguri, where I was warmly welcomed by a close friend, and we stayed at her sister’s house. From there, we traveled to Kalimpong, a quaint hill town near the famous Darjeeling, known for its world-class tea. Though I didn’t visit Darjeeling, Kalimpong had a charm of its own. The weather wasn’t entirely on my side—not a drop of rain, which was nice, but the dry, dusty air meant poor visibility. On clear days, you can see Kangchenjunga, the third-highest peak on Earth, rising to a staggering 8,586 meters (28,169 feet). Sadly, I wasn’t so lucky.

We then set off for Sikkim, a breathtaking state in northeastern India that borders Nepal, Tibet, and Bhutan. Sikkim is a land of dramatic contrasts, with elevations ranging from low valleys at 280 meters (920 feet) to snow-covered peaks that dominate the skyline. The journey through its narrow, winding roads was an adventure in itself, with drivers navigating hairpin turns like pros.

In Pelling, we stayed at a cozy local hotel and explored some of the area’s highlights: Kanchenjunga Falls, Khecheopalri Lake, Buddha Park, Rabdentse Ruins, and the serene Pemayangtse Monastery.

One morning after a night of heavy rain, I woke to an unforgettable sight. The skies had cleared, and there on the horizon were massive, snow-covered peaks. Among them, I’m sure, was Kangchenjunga. Seeing it up close, even briefly, was surreal—the sheer scale of the Himalayas is beyond anything I’ve ever experienced.

Another memorable moment came when we visited an old family friend. Once again, I stood before those towering mountains, overwhelmed by their sheer majesty. The moment was so moving, I found myself in tears—awed by their beauty and reminded of how small we are in the face of such grandeur. Those mountains will forever hold a place in my heart, a humbling and unforgettable experience.

Khecheopalri Lake, nestled at an altitude of 1,700 meters in West Sikkim, India, is a sacred site cherished by both Buddhists and Hindus. The name translates to “palace of flying yoginis,” reflecting its deep spiritual significance. Shaped like a goddess Tara’s footprint, the lake is considered a manifestation of the deity herself.

Local legends speak of the lake’s miraculous cleanliness—birds are said to remove any leaves that fall on its surface, keeping it pristine. Formed around 3,500 years ago by glacial activity, the lake is surrounded by lush temperate forests and bamboo groves, offering a serene and mystical atmosphere.

An essential part of the Buddhist pilgrimage circuit, Khecheopalri Lake draws thousands of devotees during an annual festival held on a full moon in January or February. During the event, butter lamps are floated on the lake in a deeply symbolic and spiritual ritual.

Preserving the sanctity of Khecheopalri Lake is a priority for locals and visitors alike, ensuring that this tranquil and sacred site remains unspoiled for generations to come.

After our time in the north, we headed to Mumbai, which felt like a completely different world. The air was thick with pollution, and the city buzzed with energy. We stayed with friends in a nice area, enjoying a laid-back lunch and drinks amidst the city’s hustle.

We also tried the local train, which was packed and absolutely crazy. It was an experience I won’t forget—definitely one of the most intense parts of the trip.

One of the highlights was visiting the Elephanta Caves. From the Gateway of India, I took a boat to Elephanta Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site located about 7 kilometers from the mainland. The caves, constructed around the mid-5th to 6th centuries AD, are dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. The main cave features an impressive 20-foot-high relief sculpture of Trimurti, depicting a three-headed Shiva. Surrounded by playful monkeys and lush greenery, the caves offered a peaceful retreat from the city’s chaos, with rich history and remarkable artwork to discover.

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