Where It All Started: A Dream, A Backpack, and the Himalayas

Hello, Reader!

I’m Alamkrutha — a dreamer, traveler, writer, and storyteller.

Welcome to my travel blog, where I share stories of my adventures, moments of self-discovery, and the pursuit of dreams.

Today, I want to take you back to a journey that marked a significant milestone in my life — my first backpacking trip in 2016.

Coming from South India, I had never even heard of McLeod Ganj, Dharamkot, Triund — let alone Bir, Kasol, or Tosh — which weren’t as popular back then as they are now. I hadn’t looked them up, not even once on Google Maps, until I began planning this trip. Very few people in my circle knew about these places. I was also the only woman in my circle in 2016 to take the leap into solo backpacking.

With a backpack packed with essentials (thanks to tips from backpacking groups and online forums), and a heart full of mixed emotions, I took the first step toward fulfilling my biggest dream. I was anxious, full of self-doubt, yet bursting with excitement.

I took a flight from Hyderabad (almost my first time!) to Delhi, and then a train from Delhi to Pathankot. Meeting my childhood friend in Delhi gave me the comfort I needed before the real adventure began.

At Pathankot, I stood at the bus station, boarding an HRTC bus for the very first time — ready to begin a journey that was more than just a physical one. I lifted my 60L backpack onto the top of the bus all by myself. That moment felt symbolic — like taking control of my life and my dreams.

The ride was filled with winding roads, scenic views, and conversations with locals. As dusk settled, the clouds parted and golden sunlight kissed the mountain tops — and there they were, the Himalayas. Their white, mighty presence welcomed me with open arms, a warm hug of sun rays, and a cold breeze. That feeling still lingers, no matter how many times I return. It was in that moment that I realized the eternal connection I shared with these mountains — a bond rooted in devotion and healing. The Himalayas have become my happy place, a sacred space to self-heal, no matter what life brings.

Lost in thoughts and inner conversations, I reached my first destination: Dharamshala. From there, I caught another bus to McLeod Ganj, also known as “Little Lhasa” or “Dhasa.” It's the residence of His Holiness, The Dalai Lama, and is home to the serene Dalai Lama Temple.

But what truly made this journey magical was how I revisited the Himalayas — not just through places I had never known, but through a connection I had never imagined.

A reminder to everyone: it's never too late to take that first step toward your dream. Be brave and take that step.Keep chasing moments that turn into memories.

Your Storyteller,

AliveWanderer ✍🏼🫡