Day 2: The Journey to Tehri

1. Morning Gathering at the Hostel

The morning sun peeked through the mountains, casting a golden glow over Mussoorie. As I stepped into the common area of the hostel, I saw the group of strangers-turned-friends from last night, now united by a shared sense of adventure. There’s something magical about travel—it turns strangers into companions and plans into memories. We revved up our scooties, the engines humming with excitement, and set off towards Library Chowk for a quick breakfast of aloo parathas and steaming chai. The air was crisp, the mood light, and the promise of the unknown ahead filled us with anticipation.

2. The Ride to Dhanolti: Scenic Stops and Challenges

The road to Dhanolti was a symphony of winding paths, lush greenery, and the occasional glimpse of the snow-capped Himalayas. Every turn felt like a new painting, a masterpiece crafted by nature. We stopped a couple of times—once for tea at a roadside stall and again to soak in a particularly breathtaking view. The mountains have a way of making you feel small yet significant, reminding you that life is bigger than your worries. Some of us were new to riding on these steep roads, and while I sped ahead, the others teased me, “You ride too fast!” But isn’t that what travel is about? Moving at your own pace, yet staying connected to the journey.

3. The Trek to Surkanda Devi Temple

The trek to Surkanda Devi Temple was tougher than we expected. What we thought would be a simple 1.5 km walk turned into a steep climb, testing our stamina and determination. But every step was worth it. The panoramic view from the top was nothing short of divine—the winter line, the Himalayas, and the temple standing tall against the sky. When we found the temple closed, there was a moment of disappointment. But as we waited, the doors opened, and it felt like the universe was rewarding our patience. The darshan was serene, a moment of stillness amidst the chaos of travel. It reminded me that sometimes, the best things in life come when you least expect them.

4. A Wedding on the Hills

As we descended, we stumbled upon a wedding procession. The bride, in her heavy lehenga, and the groom, trekking up the hill, were a sight to behold. It was a beautiful reminder of how life goes on, even in the most unexpected places. We laughed, marveled, and shared glances that said, “This is why we travel.” To witness moments like these, to see life in its raw, unfiltered form—it’s what makes every journey unforgettable.

5. Lunch and the Ride to Tehri

After the trek, we stopped at a small local restaurant for dal and chawal. It wasn’t fancy, but it was hearty and satisfying. Travel has a way of teaching you to appreciate the simple things—a warm meal, a kind smile, a moment of rest. As we continued our ride to Tehri, we faced a funny yet challenging moment when my pillion rider’s helmet fell off and slid down the road. We laughed it off, retrieved the helmet, and sped up to catch the others. It’s these little hiccups that make the journey memorable, don’t they?

6. Tehri Dam: Jetskis and Unforgettable Memories

Tehri Dam was a sight to behold—a vast expanse of water surrounded by mountains, the kind of place that makes you stop and just breathe. Some of us rode jetskis, the adrenaline rush adding a new dimension to the day. We found a spot to click photos, even creating a makeshift phone stand with a stick. Little did we know, we were at a smashaan ghaat (cremation ground). The realization brought a mix of fear and laughter, especially when we found out the stick we used was part of a cremation ritual. It was a moment of dark humor, a reminder that life and death coexist, and that every moment is precious.

7. The Sunset and the Ride Back

As the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in shades of orange and pink, we paused to take it all in. There’s something about sunsets that makes you reflect—on the day, on life, on the beauty of being alive. The ride back to the hostel was long, but the fatigue was overshadowed by the joy of the day. Travel isn’t just about the destinations; it’s about the journey, the people, and the moments that stay with you long after the trip is over.

8. Nighttime Fun: Dinner, Drinks, and Music

Back at the hostel, we freshened up and headed out for dinner. The night was cool, the air filled with laughter and the clinking of glasses. We got some rum to “vanish our body tiredness,” as we joked, and spent the evening listening to music, sharing stories, and simply enjoying each other’s company. Sitting in the balcony, with the mountains as our backdrop, I realized how travel brings people together. Strangers become friends, and moments become memories.

9. The Plan for Day 3: Rishikesh Calling

As the night wound down, three members of the group mentioned their plan to head to Rishikesh the next day. Without hesitation, I decided to join them. There’s a certain freedom in spontaneity, in saying “yes” to the unknown. As I lay in bed that night, tired but content, I thought about how travel changes you. It pushes you out of your comfort zone, teaches you to embrace the unexpected, and reminds you that the best stories come from the unplanned moments.