Winter Holidays: A Memorable Journey in the North-East

By Siddhant Roy

The chilly winds whispered secrets as I stepped off the train, my breath visible in the frosty air. The North-Eastern part of India, with its mist-laden hills and vibrant culture, had beckoned me for years. Finally, during my winter holidays, I embarked on a journey that would etch memories into my heart forever.

Exploring the uncharted beauty

The quaint town of Shillong welcomed our family with open arms. Its colonial architecture stood in stark contrast to the lush green hills surrounding it. I wandered through narrow alleys, sipping hot ginger tea and listening to local tales. The Umiam Lake, shimmering like a silver mirror, reflected the azure sky above. I took a boat ride, the water was splashing against my face, and felt a sense of freedom I hadn’t experienced before.

A Winter Wonderland in Kaziranga

From Shillong, I traveled to Kaziranga National Park. The early morning jeep safari revealed a magical world—the dew-kissed grasslands, the haunting call of the one-horned rhinoceros, and the elusive Bengal tiger lurking in the shadows. As the sun rose, the mist lifted, revealing the majestic Himalayan peaks in the distance. I stood there, awestruck, feeling the pulse of nature.

Dancing with the Tribes

The North-East is a tapestry of diverse cultures. In Nagaland, I attended the Hornbill Festival, a riot of colors and traditions. The Naga tribes danced, their feathered headgear swaying to ancient rhythms. I joined in, my feet tapping to the beat of drums, forgetting the world beyond. The warmth of their smiles and the taste of Bamboo shoot curry lingered long after.

Sikkim: A Spiritual Retreat

In Gangtok, I found solace in the Rumtek Monastery. The prayer flags fluttered, carrying prayers to the heavens. The monks chanted, their voices merging with the mountain breeze. I sat cross-legged, my mind emptying of worries, and discovered a sense of peace. The snow-capped Kanchenjunga watched over us, a silent guardian of wisdom.

A Frosty Adventure in Arunachal Pradesh

My journey took me to Tawang, where the snow-clad peaks seemed to touch the sky. I trekked to the Tawang Monastery, the world’s second-largest, perched on a hill. The monks welcomed me, their maroon robes contrasting with the white landscape. As I spun the prayer wheels, I prayed for unity and compassion. The Nuranang Falls, frozen in time, whispered ancient stories.

Homecoming with a Heart Full of Memories

As my winter holidays drew to a close, I boarded the train back home. The North-East had woven its magic around me. I carried back not just photographs but a heart full of stories—the laughter of children in Mizoram, the aroma of Thukpa in Arunachal, and the echo of tribal songs in Manipur. The North-East has now become a part of me, and I promised to return, to dance with the clouds and lose myself in its mysteries once more.