Daily writing prompt

Tell us about the last thing you got excited about.

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Hello Dear Friends,

A shiver of anticipation ran down my spine as I read the daily writing prompt.”Tell us about the last thing you got excited about.

My mind instantly flashed to the last thing that truly excited me – my virtual journey to the enchanting realms of Gangtok and Nathula Pass. It was as if I could still feel the crisp mountain air against my skin and hear the distant echo of our laughter.

Friends, Excitement, for me, is like a spark that ignites the joy within, urging me to explore the things that make life truly exhilarating.

And while my last big excitement wasn’t about a trip to the Himalayas, it was about a virtual journey to a place that holds a special spot in my heart – Gangtok and Nathula Pass in Sikkim.

Join me on this virtual expedition as we navigate the twists and turns of the Himalayan roads, explore the wonders of Gangtok, and conquer the heights of Nathula Pass.

Adventure: A Mindset, A Way of Life

Adventure, to me, is not just a physical pursuit but a mindset that craves new experiences and challenges. It’s about finding joy in the journey, embracing the unknown, and growing through the process.

The adventure begins not when you reach your destination, but the moment you set foot on the path less traveled.

Sikkim: Nature’s Treasure Trove

Sikkim, a gem nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, beckoned us with its majestic mountains, lush valleys, and pristine lakes.

However, our journey wasn’t just about the breathtaking landscapes; it was a cultural exploration spanning centuries.

Ancient monasteries, historic sites, and unique traditions painted a vibrant tapestry of Sikkim’s rich heritage.

The Call of the Unknown

Retirement has opened doors to endless possibilities, and last summer, the allure of Sikkim’s frosty weather beckoned us to embark on a journey to Gangtok and Nathula Pass.

The excitement was palpable as we planned our rendezvous with these stunning destinations.

We booked a car from a tour operator well in advance, and on the day of our adventure, we set out early in the morning from Gangtok. Nathula, being a protected area, required us to obtain a Protected Area Permit (PAP) before starting our journey.

The mighty Nathula Pass, perched at an astonishing height of approximately 4,310 meters above sea level, is one of the highest motorable mountain passes in the world. The thought of conquering such heights filled us with both anticipation and excitement.

Nathula Pass: The Gateway to Adventure

Our journey took us through scenic valleys and along roads that, while treacherous, offered breathtaking views of snow-covered mountains. The beauty of the landscape was so captivating that I couldn’t resist capturing it with my camera.

As we ascended, the roads became increasingly challenging, but the excitement only grew. The higher we climbed, the more the temperature dropped, and soon, we were surrounded by snow.

The roads leading to Nathula were bustling with visitors, all eager to experience the frosty weather.

We made a brief stop at a roadside shop, where we warmed ourselves with hot coffee. The resilience of the local women managing these shops in such harsh conditions was truly inspiring.

A Glimpse into the Forbidden Zone

Finally, we reached Nathula Pass. After parking our car, we trekked the final 100 feet to the gates of the Protected Area, where photography was strictly prohibited. The sight of Indian and Chinese soldiers standing just a handshake’s distance apart was surreal.

The temperature had dropped to -4°C, and the air was thin, making it difficult to breathe. Yet, despite the harsh conditions, our soldiers stood vigilant, guarding our borders with unwavering dedication.

The view of the snow-covered Chumbi Valley of Tibet, guarded by a long range of snow-capped mountains, was nothing short of mesmerizing. Though we couldn’t capture it on camera, the memory remains etched in our minds.

Darshan at Baba Harbhajan Singh Memorial Temple

After enjoying our coffee, we continued our journey to the Baba Harbhajan Singh Memorial Temple, located near Nathula Pass at an altitude of 13,123 feet.

The temple, built in memory of Baba Harbhajan Singh, an Indian Army soldier who died near Nathula in 1968, holds a unique place in the hearts of the locals and soldiers alike.

Legend has it that Baba’s spirit continues to protect the soldiers posted in the area, and his presence is still felt by many.

The Indian Army treated Baba as a soldier who never died, retiring him with full honors in December 2016. The temple stands as a testament to his enduring legacy.

A Journey Beyond the Map

As we wrapped up our adventure, we carried with us not just photographs and memories, but a profound respect for the harmony of nature, the diversity of cultures, and the courage of those who safeguard our borders.

Life, indeed, is an adventure, and every journey is a chapter in the book of our experiences.

May your paths be filled with discovery, your spirits high, and your heart open to the wonders that await beyond the map.

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BE HAPPY….BE ACTIVE….BE FOCUSED….BE ALIVE…

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Categories: infotainment

Tags: dailyprompt, dailyprompt-2039