Exploring Solo Travel: My Journey to the Tungnath Uttrakhand and Beyond
When and where did I go on my first solo trip? It began with a bold adventure to Egypt, followed by an unforgettable journey to the highest Shiva temple in the world. This article recounts my experiences and tips for solo travel.
A Savage Adventure in Egypt
I embarked on a 7-day solo trip to Egypt, a place that some might consider too hot for comfort. Despite the scorching temperatures, particularly in the Valley of the Kings, I was driven by the childhood dream of exploring this ancient land. Although my stay was marked by episodes of vomiting and diarrhea, I found solace in the experience. I stayed in multiple hotels and avoided salads to stay healthy, but the unfiltered shower water and relentless pressure to buy souvenirs dampened my enthusiasm. Despite these challenges, the realization of my childhood dream made all the suffering worth it.
Embracing Solitude with a Trek
Feeling lost and motivated by the need for a fresh start, I sought solace in a trek to the highest Shiva temple in the world - Tungnath in Uttrakhand. Following a thorough research phase, I meticulously planned every aspect of my solo trip, including arranging the necessary gear like trekking shoes, a backpack, and a torchlight.
Preparation for the Journey
Before setting out, I ensured I had all the necessary items. I rented a majority of them and packed the rest myself, including essential items such as thermals, underwear, a scarf, socks, toiletries, tissues, a pee safe, a small trek bag for snacks, sunscreen, basic medications, an inhaler, and cash. I also considered the hygiene and essentials that would be crucial on a long trek.
The Adventure Begins
The journey began in the evening on a traveler bus from Majnu Ka Tila in Delhi. I boarded the bus with a group of other solo travelers, and we all introduced ourselves to each other. After passing Rudraprayag and Devprayag, we stopped at Chopta for lunch. The following day, we arrived at the campsite and were allowed to settle in after lunch. We spent the evening exploring our camps, sitting under the stars, and cooking by the bonfire. The excitement of the trek the next day was palpable, and the temperature dropped significantly at night, making it difficult to sleep.
The Climb and the Summit
The next morning, around 5 AM, we geared up and started the trek to Tungnath. After breakfast and packing food for the trek, we got some group pictures and boarded a bus to Tungnath. The trek itself lasted about 2-3 hours and was full of friends and newfound companions. To reach Chandrashila, we faced a steeper path, but with the help of others, we finally reached the peak.
The summit was breathtaking, with a range of mountains and peaks in the distance. However, the harsh wind and cold temperatures made the experience even more challenging. The descent was relatively easier, and I was joined by another stranger and two dogs on the way down. That night, I experienced the most peaceful moment of the journey, under the stars with no distractions.
Reflecting on the Journey
The second day of the trip was spent visiting nearby places before returning to Delhi. We made a brief stop at Rishikesh and enjoyed the vibes at Laxman Jhoola before heading back to the hustle and bustle of the city life. After the trip, I quickly resumed my college lectures and began editing my photos, which I shared on my Instagram, turning my solo adventure into a shareable experience.
Tips for Solo Travelers
For future solo travelers, I recommend packing the following essentials: pee safe, sunscreen, tissues, and sanitizer. Keep them close to you throughout the trip. This preparation will make your journey smoother.
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