Trekking : A way of life

Trekking is not just walking the trail and appreciating the scenic beauty the mountains have to offer.

"It is a way of life." 

There’s no joy in this world greater than setting foot on a mountaintop. That last step is like a panacea that drives away all the weariness and fatigue from the climb. Nature rewards you with a breathtaking view of the valley below and the distant mountain ranges standing high on the earth.

You don’t want to go back to the civilized world of the civilized with high hygiene standards and no living standards. Up on the mountain it seems like a world of your own. 

Every trek is different in its own way. On one you may find waterfalls that fascinate most hikers, while on the other  picturesque views of the valleys. Most of the Himalayan trails after reaching a certain altitude provide a breathtaking view of the snow-capped lofty Himalayan range.

On a trek you only meet people like yourself. You are away from people of the civilized world who piss you off. I've met the most beautiful and helpful people while hiking. You share your experiences in the mountains and in a few minutes the strangers become all known to you. 

One of my favourite encounters on a trail is with the sheep and goats of the Gaddis grazing on the Himalayan flora. You’ll find them climbing steep cliffs that you’d never dare to scramble up.

Then there are those friendly Gaddi dogs that accompany you up the trail you never know for how long. They will trod past you and then wait for you, sometimes they’ll just leave the trail or stray away and be left behind. And as you begin to think their company was only thus far, they catch up with you just to prove you wrong. 

Glacial lakes in the Himalayas attract a larger number of hikers. I love camping by the lake. In the morning when you crawl out of your tent, the lake provides a heavenly feel.

There are a lot of lakes in the Himalays - Glacial and non-glacial.

The Himalayan trails are home to thousands numerous species of plants and animals.

Numerous species of birds inhabit the mountains and the Himalayas are a hub for bird viewing.

Golden eagles are a major attraction for hikers. They are mostly found at higher altitudes in the Himalayas.