Ramesh Khatri
The day before our hike, the rain poured incessantly, setting the stage for what would be an adventurous and challenging day. Undeterred, we gathered at 109, embracing the challenge enthusiastically and determinedly. Breakfast was a hearty affair, filled with anticipation for the journey ahead. Our bags, packed with raincoats, cucumbers, apples, almonds, and water bottles were ready for whatever the day had in store for us.
Arriving at the Lamataar bus stop, the starting point of our hike, we felt a surge of energy as the clock struck 8:50 AM. The journey began with full enthusiasm as we took shortcuts through dense, slippery paths, the thrill of exploration driving us forward. Laughter and camaraderie made the challenging terrain enjoyable, even as the rain began to pour.
We quickly donned our raincoats and umbrellas, switching to the main road for safety. The trail became steeper as we walked through the forest, with the soothing sounds of birds chirping and the calming presence of trees enhancing the experience.
After an hour and fifteen minutes of trekking, we took a well-deserved tea break. The continuous rain made this stop feel like a refueling station, recharging our energy for the next leg of our journey. A 30-minute rest later, we resumed our hike, soon reaching Lakuri bhanjyang. A quick snack of cucumbers and almonds revitalized us, preparing us for what lay ahead.
After walking for a while, we arrived at the paragliding spot, where a friendly villager confirmed we were on the right track. Assured, we headed downhill towards our final destination, Godawari. Despite the rain and challenges – slippery roads with water flowing down them like small streams, landslides making paths treacherous, leeches clinging to our feet, and countless earthworms wriggling underfoot – our spirits remained undaunted. Each obstacle became a part of our adventure, adding excitement to every step.
From the tea break spot, it took us 2 hours and 30 minutes to reach Godawari. After reaching Godawari, we took a break and enjoyed a hot cup of tea, reflecting on our journey and sharing our experiences. It was a well-deserved rest after a challenging hike. Finally, it took us around 50 minutes to reach 109, back for our lunch.
The challenges we faced and the beautiful moments we shared made this monsoon hike truly remarkable. It was an adventure that refreshed our spirits and strengthened our bonds, leaving us eager for more such joyful events in the future.
