How has this journey impacted you personally? Any moments of self-discovery?

This journey was, without a doubt, the most epic and transformative experience of all my travels—a true once-in-a-lifetime kind of trip. While I don’t consider myself particularly religious, being at nearly 5,000 meters in the surreal surroundings of Kailash and Mansarovar, surrounded by a group that was deeply spiritual, affected me in unexpected ways.

One powerful moment of self-discovery occurred during a Hawan ceremony that the group was performing. I decided to participate and dedicated it to my father, who had instilled in me a love for travel and was a very religious man himself. As I sat there, tears began streaming down my face for no clear reason. It was an overwhelming mix of emotions—joy, sadness, and a deep sense of connection to my father and the journey itself. It touched me in a way I hadn’t anticipated.

Another realization came from the dynamics of traveling with a group of diverse people—different cultures, backgrounds, and age groups. As a traveler, you adapt to shared spaces, limited comforts, and unexpected challenges. There were differences and occasional arguments, but I learned that in such circumstances, you find a way to adjust. You may not always have control over the environment or the people you’re with, but in the end, everything falls into place. This experience taught me patience, acceptance, and the beauty of human connection, even in less-than-perfect situations.

Did you have any spiritual experiences during the Yatra? How did the local culture affect you?

Absolutely. The energy around Mansarovar Lake was unlike anything I had ever experienced—it was deeply surreal and profoundly spiritual. Witnessing the full moon on the night of Gurupoornima was mesmerizing, but what followed was even more magical. As the moon transitioned from bright white to a deep red, eventually vanishing into a total eclipse, the atmosphere felt charged with a mystical force. To add to that, we witnessed the much-talked-about mysterious lights rising from the shores of the lake and disappearing into the night. Some believe it’s Shiva and Parvati dancing, others say it’s the Saptarishis or dancing lamps. Combined with the falling stars, this sequence of events created an otherworldly experience—one that words still fail to fully capture, even six years later.

And of course, I can’t forget the moment we first laid eyes on the majestic Mount Kailash. That sight alone felt like a spiritual encounter, as if the mountain itself held centuries of sacred energy. It was a reminder of why many travelers consider this journey one of the most sacred pilgrimages in the world.

As for the local culture, it added a rich layer to the experience. The simplicity and spirituality of the Tibetan people, their devotion, and the serene landscapes that form the backdrop of their daily lives had a deep impact on me. Their resilience, calm, and quiet strength reminded me to live with greater mindfulness and humility. The combination of their traditions and the natural beauty of the region left a lasting impression on my heart.

How did your family and friends react? Did you have a support system during the Yatra?

My husband and daughter were incredibly supportive throughout the entire process. They helped me with everything from booking tickets to taking care of the documentation, which was a huge relief. Other family members and friends were also very encouraging, though some were a bit anxious about the trip. However, those who know me well were confident in my ability to take on the challenge, which gave me a lot of mental strength and reassurance.

During the journey itself, my support system came from the new friends I made in the group, but especially from my close friend Tarana, who also decided to embark on this adventure. Having her by my side made the experience even more enjoyable and far less stressful. We helped each other through the tougher moments and shared the joy of each new discovery, which made the journey unforgettable.

I would also say that as the trip progressed, I gained a lot of inner strength from the experiences themselves. Overcoming the various hurdles along the way builds resilience, and you draw inspiration from your fellow travelers simply by observing their determination and spirit. In that sense, the entire group became a kind of extended support system, whether we realized it at the time or not. Not to forget the group of sherpas who accompanied us throughout—they were amazing, carrying our luggage, encouraging us when needed, singing along, sharing laughter, and attending to our complaints from time to time. I can never forget their smiling faces!

Ultimately, this journey reinforced what every traveler knows deep down—the most rewarding trips aren’t just about reaching a destination but about the people you meet, the challenges you overcome, and the memories that shape you long after you return home.

Do you have future travel plans or goals inspired by this trip?

My solo journeys will definitely continue; I’m kind of addicted to traveling now. I’ve always believed that when it comes to travel, I don’t pick the destination—it’s as if the place chooses me, and I simply go with the flow. This trip has further inspired me to embrace the concept of slow and sustainable travel, which means staying longer in one place, connecting deeply with locals, and gaining a richer understanding of the local culture. I want to immerse myself in the region’s traditions, try the local cuisine, and prioritize traveling by train whenever possible.

More importantly, I’ve become even more conscious of the planet we live on—Mother Earth. Moving forward, my travel goals are focused on being mindful of my impact and ensuring that I travel in ways that respect and protect the environment. As a traveler, I now see my journeys as more than just personal experiences; they are opportunities to engage with the world responsibly.

In the six years since my Kailash Mansarovar trip, I have taken solo trips to various locations across India, including Pondicherry/Auroville, a Zen center near Kodaikanal, and a monastic institute in Bir. I’ve also explored Dharamshala, Dharamkot, and other parts of Himachal, as well as offbeat locations in Karnataka like Sirsi, Yana, Belgaum, and Kundapura. India is truly incredible, and high on my wish list are all the northeastern states—the Seven Sisters.

Now, I’m also planning to take solo trips outside India, starting with Southeast Asia. The idea of stepping into new cultures excites me, and as a passionate traveler, I know my list of dream destinations will always keep growing. The world is full of hidden gems waiting to be explored, and I can’t wait to see where my next adventure takes me.

What advice do you have for other women considering a similar journey?

My advice is simple—don’t overthink it. Just make the decision, tell your family, friends, and even the world that you’re doing this for yourself. Once you’ve taken that leap and booked it, everything else will start to fall into place. You’ll find yourself naturally preparing—both physically and mentally—and the journey will become a fulfilling experience.

Sometimes, all it takes is that first baby step. Before you know it, you’re not just walking—you’re jumping, running, and dancing through life’s challenges and joys. Travel teaches you so much and helps you grow in ways you never imagined. Any traveler will tell you that some of the best experiences happen when you embrace the unknown. I once read that sometimes you need to switch off from the world to rediscover parts of yourself, and I couldn’t agree more. It’s worth every step, every moment, and every new experience you’ll encounter.

For anyone hesitant, remember that every great traveler started somewhere—why not let that first journey begin with you?