Mohammad Arif Khan
The ascent began with contagious energy, and the trail unfolded to unveil breathtaking views of mountains and hills. We traversed through lush jungles and picturesque landscapes, blessed with ideal hiking weather—a sunny and enchanting winter morning. By 11:15, we reached Champadevi temple, where we took a pause for prayers and rejuvenated ourselves with a variety of fruits and dry fruits.
Continuing our trek towards Chandragiri at 11:45, the sun reached its zenith, casting a golden glow on the landscape. The lengthy and scenic trail became a backdrop for sharing stories, engaging in deep thoughts, and enjoying friendly conversations—a genuine bonding experience among team members. Throughout our journey, we encountered fellow hikers from various parts of Nepal and struck up conversations with some foreigners who were also undertaking the same trail, enriching our experience with diverse perspectives and shared stories.
Adding a touch of adventure, a minor detour led our team temporarily astray for about 15 minutes before realizing our mistake and retracing our steps back to the correct trail. Reaching the Chandragiri temple at 3:30, we took the opportunity to explore the surroundings before descending via cable car to Thankot at 4:00, where our waiting van transported us back.
Our adventurous day concluded at Monalisa Thakali in Naxal, where we relished a fantastic meal, perfectly capping off our day of scenic wonders and camaraderie. The cozy ambiance of the restaurant facilitated reflections on the trek, creating lasting memories for each team member. As the day unfolded with moments of challenge, discovery, and connection, it became a chapter etched in our collective journey of exploration and shared experiences.
Conclusion:
Our trek to Chandragiri was not just about reaching a destination; it was about the journey itself—marked by discovery, connection, and the shared joy of exploring the beauty that nature and camaraderie offer. As we concluded this chapter, we found ourselves grateful for the day's experiences and eagerly looking forward to the next adventure that awaits us on our shared path.
