Arrival in Darjeeling: A Warm Welcome

The moment our plane touched down in Bagdogra, I could feel the anticipation bubbling within me. This was my first time in India, and I was ready to embrace the adventure that lay ahead. My fiancée and I were greeted by a friendly driver who whisked us away to our hotel in Darjeeling. The journey was smooth, and the scenery was breathtaking, with lush green hills and tea plantations stretching as far as the eye could see.

Catherine from Adventures Unlimited had been in touch with us even before we arrived, ensuring that we had everything we needed for our trek. She provided us with a list of recommended hotels, and we chose one that was perfectly situated in the heart of Darjeeling. The hotel was charming, with a cozy atmosphere that made us feel right at home. We spent our first evening exploring the local area, guided by Catherine’s recommendations for restaurants and shops. The food was incredible, and the people were warm and welcoming.

The Trek Begins: Into the Heart of the Himalayas

The next morning, we met our guide, Tenzi, who would lead us on the Singalila Trek. Tenzi was a local, born and raised in the area, and his knowledge of the region was unparalleled. As we set off on our trek, I could feel the adrenaline coursing through my veins. The trail was challenging but manageable, and the views were nothing short of spectacular.

We trekked through picturesque villages, each one more charming than the last. The simplicity of life in these villages was refreshing, a stark contrast to the hustle and bustle of city life. Tenzi shared stories of the local culture and traditions, and his passion for the region was infectious. He was also an expert in Red Panda photography, and his enthusiasm for wildlife was evident as he pointed out various birds and plants along the way.

Reaching New Heights: The Peaks of the World

As we climbed higher, the air grew thinner, and the views became even more breathtaking. We were fortunate enough to have clear skies, allowing us to see four of the world’s five highest peaks: Mt. Everest, Mt. Kanchenjunga, Mt. Lhotse, and Mt. Makalu. Standing there, surrounded by the majesty of the Himalayas, I felt a sense of awe and wonder that words cannot fully capture.

Tenzi ensured that we had the best vantage points for viewing the peaks, and he even brewed us some of the best coffee and tea I’ve ever tasted. Despite the physical challenges of the trek, Tenzi’s confidence in our abilities kept us motivated and smiling throughout the journey. His humor and warmth made the experience all the more enjoyable, and by the end of the trek, we felt like we had gained a new friend.

The Singalila Trek was an unforgettable adventure, one that I would highly recommend to anyone seeking a unique and exhilarating experience. The combination of stunning landscapes, rich culture, and the thrill of trekking through the Himalayas made it a journey of a lifetime. If you’re looking for an adventure that will leave you breathless in more ways than one, this is it. Singalila Trek