Daily writing prompt

Beach or mountains? Which do you prefer? Why?

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Hello dear friends,

I hope this blog finds you smiling, maybe even daydreaming a little. Today’s question is close to my heart: “Beach or mountains? Which do you prefer? And why?”

At first glance, it sounds simple. But pause for a moment—this choice often says more about your personality, your mood, and even how you see life itself.

We all need a pause in our fast-paced lives—a moment to recharge. For me, both beaches and mountains have that magic.

And recently, I got to experience both in ways I’ll never forget.

The Beach: Mandarmani Memories

Let’s start with the beach. My trip to Mandarmani, a serene sea beach in West Bengal, was a journey back to peace.

Today, while scrolling through old videos, I stumbled upon a clip from this trip. The moment it played, I could almost smell the salt in the air again. The rhythmic waves, children laughing, vendors calling out—it all came alive.

Standing at the shore, sand between my toes and waves dancing around my ankles, I felt something I hadn’t felt in a long time—pure calm.

The sea shimmered like molten gold as the sun painted the sky in amber and crimson.

Boats anchored near the shore became dark silhouettes, coconut trees swayed in the evening breeze, and my family and I simply watched, quietly savoring the moment.

The beach awakens all your senses. The salty air, seagulls overhead, ice cream in hand—it’s almost impossible not to feel alive.

Beaches are magical, slowing time even if just for a few hours. And if you’re social, there’s endless fun: volleyball, picnics, laughter-filled walks.

Even alone, the ocean whispers: You are part of something bigger, something boundless.

That day at Mandarmani reminded me of something essential: storms pass, tides return, and beauty waits quietly to be rediscovered.

Happiness, like the waves, may ebb, but it always flows back.

The Mountains: Nathula Adventure

Now, let’s hike to the mountains. Amid a scorching heatwave, my family and I escaped to Gangtok, Sikkim, chasing frosty memories in the middle of summer.

Our destination: the majestic Nathula Pass.
We started at 6 A.M., PAPs (Protected Area Permits) in hand, sweaters and jackets ready, and hearts full of excitement.

The drive itself was thrilling—winding roads, high-altitude winds, and snow-capped peaks all around. We couldn’t stop clicking pictures. Every turn revealed waterfalls, valleys, and pristine landscapes that felt almost surreal.

Finally, Nathula Pass!
At 4,310 meters, it’s one of the highest motorable passes in the world. The Chinese border lay just a handshake away, and Indian jawans stood vigilant, braving extreme cold and unpredictable weather.

Watching their courage and discipline was humbling; I couldn’t help but salute them.

The pass was a winter wonderland—snow everywhere, icy winds, and a chilling – 4°C.

Walking carefully on slippery paths, sipping hot coffee, and playing in the snow, I felt both exhilaration and awe.

The Chumbi Valley stretched below us, framed by mountains glowing under a clear blue sky. Every moment was a reminder of nature’s grandeur and life’s possibilities.

Mountains challenge you physically and mentally, yet reward you with unmatched beauty and perspective. They teach patience, resilience, and reflection.

Unlike beaches, which celebrate joy and playfulness, mountains encourage quiet introspection and adventure. Both are transformative in their own way.

So, Beach or Mountains?

The answer is simple: both. Beaches teach us to let go, laugh, and be present. Mountains teach us courage, reflection, and wonder.

Each experience shapes us differently, and both leave a mark on the soul. My trips to Mandarmani and Nathula reminded me how vital it is to reconnect with nature—whether through the calming rhythm of waves or the thrill of icy peaks.

So, next time wanderlust strikes, ask yourself: do you crave the laughter of waves or the thrill of heights? Either way, nature is ready to teach, heal, and inspire.

Life’s beauty isn’t just in the destination—it’s in the moments we allow ourselves to fully experience.

Whether it’s the sun on your face or snow beneath your boots, take that pause. Let the world around you remind you that life is full of joy, awe, and simple, unforgettable moments.

BE HAPPY… BE ACTIVE… BE FOCUSED… BE ALIVE

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Categories: infotainment

Tags: #adventure, #Beach, #Travel, dailyprompt, dailyprompt-2130, featured, hiking, mountains