“An image that kindled a thousand emotions”. A likewise picked from www.dailymail.co.uk
It was an awe inspiring wallpaper. A golden eagle perched on the forearm of a short man dressed in thick fur and woolly hat. He had a big smile on his face and crinkles around his eyes. In the background lay miles of arid land and craggy mountains!
This wallpaper was the expression of my aspiration of exploring distant lands, and experiencing amazing adventures. My heart yearned to get out and travel. The reality though was quite different. My job at the IT bigwig involved long hours at the desk with very little time left for activities that I loved, to calm my restless soul.I knew being desk bound was not what I wanted, and longed to break-free and pursue a career which allowed me to explore exotic lands and experience varied cultures.
Finally, in 2008, I mustered enough courage to take the decision to quit and set-off in pursuit of mountains and adventure. What followed was an unbelievable, roller coaster of a ride spanning eight years, which took me to some of the most remote nooks of the Himalaya.
A ride which gave me the opportunity to see surreal lands, mingle with unique cultures, work with hardy mountain folk, and have some of the most incredible adventures both on the river and in the mountain.
I started my tryst with the outdoors with a season in Ladakh, trekking through wind torn valleys and stunning landscapes. Staying with river guides between treks got me interested with the river and white water rafting too. Over time, I had the good fortune to dabble with multiple disciplines in the outdoors and pick up vital skills to get to a level of expertise. I have trekked, rafted, kayaked, climbed and biked in many regions of Indian and Nepalese Himalaya and indulged in exceptional adventures, most of which in the capacity of a trip leader. These adventures have transformed my life in many ways and left me with indelible memories. The restlessness of yore has calmed a bit, but has not ceased. Even now, my heart races at the prospect of a new adventure!
On the Snow plateau at Camp 2 on Mt. Kun(7070m) Climb, Ladakh
“Adventure Sindbad” is my way to spread my ceaseless love for adventure and outdoors among people waiting to explore the world. A quest to identify and craft extraordinary outdoor sojourns that have the power to change and touch lives. An avenue to use my experience and brimming enthusiasm for a higher purpose…of building and nurturing something beautiful, something greater than the some its parts.
I invite you to join me to discover your inner calling for adventure – Let not your dreams just remain dreams. Throw caution to the winds, get out and give expression to what you have always wanted to experience. Awaken the Sindbad in you.
Go, Adventure Sindbad!
One Comment
Vandana Trivedi
Beautifully written Vishwas. I love where you say the restlessness has calmed down but not ceased ????. Don’t let it cease. All the very best to you, you will do very very well.
Vandana