An Unplanned Hitchhike From Chandrataal to Batal and Manali.

Episode 1 July 2017 

About Chandrataal

Chandrataal: A Tranquil Gem in the Himalayas 🏞️

Nestled within the Lahaul and Spiti Range of Himachal Pradesh, Chandrataal Lake is a renowned turquoise lake, a hidden treasure within the Chandrabhaga Range. A haven for trekkers and adventurers, this lake beckons with its stunning allure.

The 14km motor road from Batal to Chandrataal offers breathtaking views of nature, even though it is treacherous. The journey to this picturesque lake is an adventure in itself, attracting thrill-seekers.

Chandrataal Lake is a dream for trekkers and campers, inviting them to experience its beauty. Accommodations are available 5 kilometers (3.1 mi) from the lake, and camping by the shores of the lake should definitely be on every nature lover’s bucket list.

The lake is surrounded by vast meadows, bursting with a myriad of wildflowers during the springtime, creating a mesmerizing tapestry of colors. The name “Chandra Taal” is derived from its crescent shape, adding to its mystique.

Perched at an altitude of about 4,300 meters (14,100 feet) in the Himalayas, Chandrataal is an ethereal destination that overlooks the Chandra River, a source of the Chenab. Its breathtaking views and serene ambiance make it a must-visit spot from May to late October.

So here it goes

Tales of Chandratal: A Journey Written by the Universe

A Leap of Faith

As I set out on my trek from Chandratal to Batal, the formidable peaks of Chandrabhaga 14 and Chandrabhaga 13 stood tall, their glacier tips shimmering in the sunlight.

The awe-inspiring Chandrabhaga Range left me speechless as I ventured away from the lake, feeling as if the mountains were whispering secrets to me. Restless but energized, I breathed the magnetic, magical air.

In this adventure, weariness and fatigue were strangers. My heart pounded with the pulse of the mountains. It seemed like an illusion, but it was the reality – a moment to live and relish.

The echoes of those mountains now resonate within my very being, and the sight of the green meadows had imprinted upon my soul. Escaping the bustling city life through valleys and passes, Chandratal had become a part of me.

During the trek, I trailed behind a friend, pushing to reach Batal before the daunting nightfall. The mighty river Chenab flowed beside me, its currents a soundtrack of encouragement. Strangers in passing cars cheered me on.

Far away from me, the echoes of the mountains run within my bones. 

The glimpse of the green grass clenched my soul. 

Through valleys and passes, I abscond from city life. 

My memoirs are overflowed with your instills, creating a sense of tranquility, 

Too many reminiscences, you have become a part of me. 

The Unseen Pace of the Mountains

As I ventured through the mountains, I was humbled by the realization that everyone has their unique pace while trekking in the grandeur of the Himalayas. My friend, faster than I had quickly advanced ahead, leaving me approximately 1km behind on this awe-inspiring trail toward Batal.

I began my journey at 4 pm, fully aware of the treacherous and nerve-wracking 14km path that lay ahead. The mighty river Chenab flowed beside me, its spirited currents resonating with enthusiasm, urging me to persevere through the challenge.

In the midst of this enigmatic valley, I found myself a solitary figure, embracing the tranquil beauty surrounding me. Cars passing by acknowledged my effort with encouraging thumbs up and encouraging words, motivating me to keep moving forward.

As the sun descended, painting the sky with hues of orange and red, the task of reaching Batal within a short period seemed daunting amidst the growing shadows. The hike demanded resilience and determination.

However, luck smiled upon me throughout this expedition, and just when I needed it most, a group of people in a car appeared from the other side of the mountain. Seizing the opportunity, I approached them and shared my destination – Batal.

Little did I know that this chance encounter would prove to be a turning point. A lift to my final destination awaited, a surprise I had never anticipated amidst the wilderness.

An Intimate Conversation with the Universe

In the midst of my solitary trek, surrounded by the towering mountains and the rushing river, I felt a deep desire for safety and guidance. A heartfelt prayer escaped my lips, reaching out to the vast Universe, the guardian of all creation. For in my heart, I held the unwavering belief that a higher power watched over us all.

In a moment of profound connection, I could only surrender to the energy around me. The words flowed from my soul, a simple yet emotional plea, “Dear Universe, guide me to where my journey leads.”

A profound realization washed over me, leaving me speechless. The Universe had heard my silent words, my unspoken wishes, and was orchestrating its response.

Miraculously, as if in response to my call, the car I had envisioned stopped before me. The driver, an unexpected angel on this journey, asked me where my path led. I was both stunned and grateful, as the car carried me towards Batal.

In that bewildering moment, I realized the power of faith and the mysterious ways in which fate unfolds. A leap of faith had summoned blessings, and the Universe had conspired to fulfill my wishes.

As I sat in that car, I felt awe and wonder. I marveled at how swiftly life can change, how prayers can be answered, and how the energy we emit reverberates through the cosmos.

Harmonizing with the Cosmos: Energy and Manifestation 

The incident left me in awe of the interconnectedness of everything in our universe. The very fabric of existence is woven with energy, and our thoughts and prayers are like ripples in this vast cosmic ocean.

I understood that by emitting positive vibrations and putting out earnest prayers, we align ourselves with the universal flow. The universe responds to our intentions and energy, manifesting our desires in ways we may never foresee.

So, the lesson remains: send out good vibes, have faith in the benevolence of the cosmos, and watch as the Universe conspires to grant your wishes.

May we all continue to embrace the magic of this existence and be open to the wondrous possibilities that manifest through the power of faith and energy. Amen

Episode 2 September 2019. 

Two years later, the call of Chandratal reached me again. This time, an unexpected twist awaited us. My friend and I fell ill during the trek, our bodies succumbing to the altitude.

Despite the challenges, we persisted, reaching the lake only to witness a different hue, shrouded in a sudden cold front. As illness gripped my friend, we made the difficult decision to retreat.

Stranded and sick, we sought help from passing trekkers. Fate smiled upon us when kind souls from Mumbai offered us a lift back to base camp, saving us from the clutches of mountain sickness.

The journey continued a blend of uncertainty and relief. From Batal to Manali, a delightful surprise awaited. A father-daughter duo from Britain, fellow admirers of the Himalayas, generously offered us a ride, reaffirming the beauty and kindness that the mountains and their visitors embody.

These episodes are tales spun by the Universe, a testament to the magic of the mountains and the miracles that unfold when faith meets fate. Every step etched in our hearts is a reminder that the Universe conspires to bless those who dare to embrace its wonders.

The Universe’s Grace: A Journey of Rescue and Resilience

As I pressed forward towards the camp, a glimmer of hope emerged on the horizon in the form of fellow trekkers from Mumbai. They were the solitary souls on this trail, a beacon of assistance in my time of need. Desperation led to my words as I reached out to them, expressing our urgent need to return to the Basecamp due to the severe sickness that had befallen my friend.

Miraculously, they heeded our distress, displaying immense compassion and kindness. By the grace of the Universe, they agreed to transport us back to the Basecamp, a gesture that filled my heart with gratitude. Saving my friend’s life became the focal point of this unforgettable day.

The Himalayan Magic: A Serendipitous Encounter

In the midst of my Himalayan adventure, at the quaint stop of Batal, destiny unfurled an unexpected delight – a tea break shared with a father and daughter duo from Britain. Their eagerness to explore the rugged beauty of the Himalayas had brought them to Spiti, leaving us with an opportunity to connect and share stories.

As we exchanged tales and laughter over tea, I found myself overcome with joy. When I mustered the courage to ask if we could join them on their journey to Manali, their warm and welcoming response filled me with exhilarating happiness that prompted me to leap out of the vehicle in sheer excitement

Both the episodes have been a fairytale written by heaven, in other words, creation/Universe. 

The twists and turns of fate reminded me once again of the Universe’s benevolence, and I was filled with gratitude. The journey from Batal to Manali turned out to be an unforgettable adventure, a testament to the magic of chance encounters in the Himalayas.

The father, who had first explored the Himalayas two decades ago through the Hampta Pass, recounted the mesmerizing beauty that had captured his heart. He emphasized that there is truly nothing like the grandeur of the Himalayas – the real King, the true God among mountains.

Amidst the breathtaking scenery and winding roads, we delved into conversations about various trails across the Pir Panjal Range, Lahaul Spiti Range, and the Ladakhi Range. The shared passion for adventure and the love for the mountains bridged the gap between strangers, creating a connection that will forever be etched in my heart.

These episodes, woven together by fate and the enigmatic workings of the Universe, stand as a testament to the magic of the Himalayas and the serendipitous encounters that shape our journey. Each moment and memory, a fairytale penned by heaven, leaves an indelible mark on the canvas of my experiences.

In the heart of the Himalayas, amidst chance meetings and shared dreams, I discovered the true essence of this magical journey we call life.