After a flight to Dehradun and a seven-hour Stugeron-induced calm drive we finally reach the beautiful Bhagirathi valley.
The next morning we are at the Sangam Chatti bridge (the starting point for the Dodital Lake trek). We put on our daypacks, pull out our walking sticks and try to look like we belong.
The course of the trek is interesting. Walking for 4-6 hours every day, our thoughts oscillate between wanting a comfortable couch to loving each and every second of the hardship.
The latter half of the day is reserved for the joy of wet wipes, warm clothes and the dining tent. Between mouthfuls, the adventures of the day are discussed as the food surprises us daily&mdashbountiful breakfast spreads to hot, piping dinners.
Imagine enjoying the food with a view of blue waters, snow-capped mountains and starry skies. We imagine this is what heaven looks like.
For five days we meander through maple forests, alpine meadows, Garhwal villages and snow&mdasha setting so surreal we can&rsquot associate our daily lives with. It is simply astounding how far our legs and sheer determination can take us as it does to the heavenly Dodital Lake, Lord Ganesha&rsquos supposed birthplace. The place is surrounded by snow, water and alive with Dodi (a rare Himalayan trout). Oh, wishes do come true.
