Weekly Photo Challenge: Achievement

The ‘Trans Himalayan Safari’ takes you through four lofty, snow-clad mountain passes, each averaging about 4000 m (approx 13,000 ft). The route starting from Manali (Himachal Pradesh), ends in Leh (Jammu & Kashmir) and is covered in a period of two days. I spent three sleepless nights, prior to our trip, having nightmares of what could go wrong. I had read blogs (not the wisest idea) of Enfield bikers suffering respiratory problems and palpitations. I was/am no biker. When I heard the roads had opened, I chickened. I asked for a oxygen cylinder, but our organiser said that I wouldn’t need one. En-route, we saw bikers sleeping in make-shift tents and later cyclists pedalling their way through circuitous mountain roads. I felt sheepish. Here I was in a solid, heavy vehicle, with the best local driver, and yet I was worried. After two bad passes (day one) and a sleepless night at Sarchu (4000m) – I finally began to let my mind forget that queasy feeling. If I made this trip, in one piece, I’m sure I’d be able to do anything (well almost) else! Day two was a contrast. By this time, the surreal Himalayan landscapes helped alleviate my fear. There were two more passes, but I guess – I didn’t care any more. We reached Leh in one piece. But what truly mattered to me, was that I had done something, I never thought I could. And no matter how many trips we go on, the achievement of completing this trip, will always remain the most important memory for me.