#Sari Pass Trek

[tempesttreks]

Sari Pass Trek In Himachal – Visit This Little Heaven To Get A Unique Experience In Your Life

The Sari Passand Sari Pass Trek in Himachal is one of the few passes which will connect you to the lower Kullu with the Kangra Valleys at an altitude of 3720 m. If you wish to witness the snow then you plan your Sari Pass trek during the winter times. During the winter you can witness that the mountains are covered by a thick blanket of snow.

If you are new to trekking, then this Sari Pass trekking will be the best option for you since it's one of the easiest treks you will from Dhauladhars to PirPanjals. The trail will pass through the dense forest of Oaks and Rhododendrons with verdant greenery and the natural scenic vistas with rivulets, lakes and quaint villages.

The Highlights Of The Sari Pass Trek In Himachal:

The mountains here will be snow-covered and you will find beautiful scenery during your Sari Pass Trek in Himachal. You can explore the beauty of nature during this trekking and go through the forests and verdant meadows of Himachal Pradesh. In Himachal Pradesh, one can see abundant beauty which will mesmerize any nature lover.

The Sari Pass Trek is not a difficult trek. Anyone can trek even beginners. It will have a moderate level of difficulty when it comes to trekking. But proper body training and conditioning will be helpful in completing the trekking. If you are trekking during the winter season make sure to have warm clothes since they will help you fight the cold weather. During the night you will find that the temperature drops.

If you have any breathing issues then take your medicines and equipment you will need to keep you warm and comfortable throughout the trip. You can take your cellphone, camera and power bank so that you can take good pictures of yourself and nature during the Sari Pass Trek. Travel light and other essential things in your backpack will make your entire trekking easier.

The duration for this Sari Pass Trek in Himachal will be for around four days and may take longer if you walk slowly or face any challenges during your trekking. There is no specific time which is best to carry out this trekking. Throughout the year you can trek but it's always better to avoid the monsoon season. The highest point in this trek is about 3720 m.

As mentioned earlier, the nights will be colder while you will feel a pleasant temperature during the daytime. If you are a beginner in trekking then you can hire a guide with you for this trekking. They will help you complete the trekking safely. If you are a beginner ensure that you can complete the trekking once. Trekking along with your friends and family will add more fun to this trip. If you are a solo traveller then you can make sure that you complete the trekking as you wish.

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[elenamegan14]

Yandere One Piece - Irish/Nordic Fae Folk Myth X F!Reader - Prologue

It's a spooky season, and I have yet to see any Yandere One Piece reader fics based on Slavic myths and legends! Blame me for being too invested in Bramble: the Mountain King game.

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Once, there was a childless couple who lived in a quaint village. Although the village is rich in tradition and harvest, it was also a fearsome place. Not far from them lies a great forest called the Grand Line, a home of every fae folks, each more astounding and nightmarish than man had ever known. 

But that was where our story began. 

One night, on a full moon during a winter’s eve, the couple is visited by a frail, old woman. They immediately brought her in, warmed her, and fed her. When all is done, she transforms into a beautiful fairy. A member of the fairy monarchy, Rogue. 

To thank the couple, Rogue rewarded them with something they had yearned for years: a child. And so, on the first day of Spring, a healthy baby girl was born. 

Alas, even the fairy world has it;s own rules, and the rule is crueler than the rules of mankind. A baby who is granted life by the fairy must be returned back by the ripe age of thirteen. Rogue did not want her work to go to waste, so she told the couple that they must move the child away from the village, never to enter any fairy rings at any cost, and give their child a pair of special earrings made of iron to protect them. 

Thus, the family evaded the pursuit of the fae folks beyond the age of thirteen. In retaliation, the fae folks began to terrorize the villagers - they would not stop to torment them until the child was given to them. Furious at the fleeing family for putting them into this bedlam, the villagers set up a trap to return the child back to the Grand Line. 

Eighteen years have passed, and the child grew up in the Kingdom of Goa. With each passing day, the blessings from Rogue had made the child cunning, wise, and attractive. The child was a curious oddity amongst her peers, but there was one person who despised her existence more so than the others. 

Sarie is the daughter of a notorious monarchy in the Goa Kingdom. Although she has everything in the palm of her hand, she is wicked jealous of the child’s charm and beauty. Her opportunity stuck when a vengeful villager asked her to cooperate to rid of the child’s existence in the mortal world. 

Soon after, Sarie begged her fiancee, Sterry, to arrange a special trip only for his classmates, the child included, straight to the child’s original village. Sterry and his cohorts lured the child to the edge of the forest, right before the entrance of Grand Line. Once there, Sarie threw her scarf into the middle of the fairy ring and asked the child to pick it up for her. 

The child is confused. Why should she follow such a petty instruction? Also, the child pleaded that she was not supposed to enter the fairy ring at any cost. However, Sterry and their classmates loudly demanded her to do so. 

When the child reluctantly tried to enter the fairy ring, Sterry once again ordered the child to take off the child’s iron earrings for Sarie. She tried to refuse but Sterry warned her that if she disobeyed, he would make sure that she became the enemy of Goa. 

The child had always wanted to be accepted by Sterry and Sarie - she did not understand what she had done wrong to receive his ire. The child also knew that Sarie and Sterry’s family had more power than her family did. She hastily took off her earrings and gave them to Sarie. With a heavy heart, she entered the fairy ring. 

Sterry and Sarie’s deception became light once she turned around inside the fairy ring, only to find herself alone in a strange forest. She ran back and forth, calling for her classmates. 

None answered. 

Alone, terrified, and confused, the child trekked into the woods of Grand Line on her own, in hoping to find her way home… not knowing that she had fulfilled her promise…

And break the village’s curse. 

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You are wandering around the fogged oath, unable to see what's beyond. Suddenly, you heard footsteps. Behind you, in front of you, everywhere! You barely have a moment's rest when a mischievous-looking human-like creature appears before your very eyes. Shrieking, you fall back behind, astounded by what you see.

"Shishishi! Did I scare you?" The creature grinned hugely, enhancing his unique shaggy features with a stitched scar underneath his left eye.

Monkey D. Luffy, the Pookah, has arrived. Next

[choptatour]

Chopta: The Unseen Wilderness Beyond the Tourist Trails

Introduction

Hidden in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, Chopta offers more than its reputation as the starting point for the Tungnath and Chandrashila treks. While most travelers are drawn to the area for these popular routes, there’s a side of Chopta that remains unexplored, shrouded in its pristine wilderness and untold stories. Far from the trodden paths, Chopta invites you to discover a realm where nature reigns supreme, and the experience goes beyond mere adventure.

Welcome to the unseen Chopta—a place of mystery, biodiversity, and ecological significance, where every trail leads to a deeper connection with the earth.

Choptatourpackage

A Natural Sanctuary: The Untouched Biodiversity of Chopta

Chopta is part of the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, an expansive 975 square kilometers of protected land. This sanctuary isn't just a place for wildlife enthusiasts—it’s a microcosm of the Himalayan ecosystem. With towering deodars, rhododendrons, and oak trees, the forests here are dense, dark, and alive with the hum of nature. While most visitors stick to the well-worn trails, the true wonder of Chopta lies deeper within the sanctuary, where fewer venture.

This region is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, some of which are rare and endangered. The elusive snow leopard, the agile musk deer, and the ever-graceful Himalayan tahr roam these forests, hidden from human eyes but integral to the ecosystem. Birdwatchers flock to Chopta, eager to catch a glimpse of the vibrantly colored Himalayan monal, the state bird of Uttarakhand. But it’s not just about checking species off a list—it’s about being in a place where wildlife thrives, where the pulse of the forest is uninterrupted by human interference.

Hidden Trails and Forgotten Paths

While the Tungnath-Chandrashila trek is undoubtedly the main draw, Chopta is crisscrossed with lesser-known trails that offer equally stunning vistas. One such route leads to Deoria Tal, a high-altitude lake surrounded by thick forests and offering reflections of the snow-covered peaks on clear days. The journey to Deoria Tal begins from Sari village, a quiet hamlet that sits at an altitude of about 2,000 meters. The trek is easy and short, making it ideal for those who want a more relaxed adventure without compromising on beauty.

But for the more seasoned trekker, there are hidden paths that lead into the denser parts of the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary. These trails, unmarked on most maps, wind through virgin forests and remote meadows, taking you to vantage points that few have seen. Here, nature reveals itself in its rawest form—untouched, unspoiled, and fiercely wild.

Exploring these lesser-known paths gives you a sense of Chopta’s isolation, where silence dominates, and every rustle of the leaves feels like a secret being whispered by the earth. It’s here that you’ll find true solitude—a rare commodity in today’s overly commercialized destinations.

Myths, Legends, and Mysteries of the Himalayas

Chopta isn’t just about the physical experience of trekking or camping. The region is steeped in legends that have been passed down through generations, many of which remain a mystery to the outside world. While Tungnath’s history is tied to the Mahabharata and Lord Shiva, the surrounding areas are believed to be ancient grounds for yogis and sages who meditated here in solitude, connecting deeply with the spiritual energy of the mountains.

Locals talk of hidden caves and secret meditation spots, some still visited by mystics today. These stories, while often shrouded in myth, give Chopta an otherworldly dimension. It’s not just a place to hike and trek—it’s a place where the line between the natural and the supernatural blurs, where the air is thick with the presence of something ancient and mystical.

Some tales even speak of mythical creatures that protect the forests and rivers. Whether you believe in these stories or not, there’s no denying that Chopta’s atmosphere feels different—charged with an energy that is both awe-inspiring and humbling.

Forest Bathing: Reconnecting with Nature

In a world filled with technology and constant stimulation, Chopta offers a sanctuary for those looking to reconnect with nature in a mindful way. One of the most therapeutic practices in Chopta is “forest bathing” or Shinrin-yoku, a Japanese concept that involves immersing yourself in the sights, sounds, and smells of the forest.

The dense oak, pine, and rhododendron forests of Chopta are perfect for this practice. As you walk through the quiet woods, your senses heighten. The sound of birds calling, the earthy scent of moss, and the feel of the cool, fresh air against your skin all combine to create a deep sense of peace. Scientific studies have shown that spending time in forests can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and boost mood. In Chopta, where the forests are vast and undisturbed, the benefits of forest bathing are amplified.

For those seeking mindfulness and meditation, there’s no better place than the solitude of Chopta’s wilderness. Whether you spend your time walking through the forests or simply sitting still in a meadow, the silence and beauty of the surroundings naturally lead to a meditative state of mind.

The Night Sky: A Stargazer’s Dream

One of Chopta’s hidden treasures reveals itself only after the sun sets. Due to its remote location and lack of light pollution, Chopta offers some of the clearest, most mesmerizing night skies you’ll ever witness. On cloudless nights, the sky transforms into a glittering canvas of stars, planets, and distant galaxies.

Astrophotographers often make their way to Chopta to capture the Milky Way in all its glory. But even without a camera, the experience of lying under the vast Himalayan sky, watching the constellations drift by, is magical. It’s a humbling reminder of how vast the universe is and how small we are in comparison.

If you’re fortunate enough to visit during a meteor shower, the sight of shooting stars streaking across the sky over the silent mountains is nothing short of breathtaking. It’s these moments—so simple yet profound—that make Chopta more than just a destination.

Local Initiatives: Preserving Chopta’s Ecosystem

One of the most remarkable aspects of Chopta is the local community’s dedication to preserving its natural beauty. Eco-tourism initiatives have been embraced wholeheartedly by the residents and the government. Unlike many other tourist destinations that are overrun with commercialization, Chopta maintains its charm by promoting sustainable tourism.

Several eco-friendly campsites have been set up, ensuring minimal impact on the environment. Waste management programs are strictly enforced, and travelers are encouraged to leave no trace behind. The locals understand that the true wealth of Chopta lies in its untouched beauty, and they take great care to ensure that this treasure is passed down to future generations.

As a traveler, you play an important role in this effort. By choosing eco-friendly accommodations, respecting the local wildlife, and following responsible travel practices, you contribute to the preservation of this fragile ecosystem.

Chopta: The Adventure Lies Beyond the Horizon

Chopta is a reminder that the world still holds places of raw, untamed beauty. While it is known for its trekking trails, the true magic of Chopta lies in its quiet corners—the hidden paths, the untold stories, and the sacred wilderness that few take the time to explore.

For those who venture beyond the typical tourist experience, Chopta reveals itself in ways that words can’t fully capture. It’s a place where you can lose yourself in the forest and find yourself under the stars. A destination where adventure isn’t just about reaching a peak, but about experiencing the world in its most natural, unrefined state.

In Chopta, the journey never really ends. As you leave, the wilderness beckons you to return, whispering promises of more to discover, more to experience, and more to understand.

[tourmyholidayholiday]

Best Chopta Tour Packages for Nature Lovers and Adventure Seekers

Introduction to Chopta: The Ultimate Retreat

Chopta, often referred to as the "Mini Switzerland of India," is a serene hill station located in the Uttarakhand state of India. A haven for both nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers, Chopta boasts lush meadows, dense forests, and stunning views of snow-clad Himalayan peaks. From trekking to camping, Chopta offers an array of activities that attract travelers all year round. This guide will highlight the best Chopta tour packages tailored to suit different interests, ensuring you make the most of your Himalayan adventure.

Why Choose Chopta for Your Next Adventure?

Chopta is an idyllic destination offering diverse experiences: treks through dense forests, serene camping spots, and stunning panoramic views. Its untouched natural beauty and spiritual significance make it an ideal location for various types of travelers. The tour packages to Chopta are designed to cater to both casual travelers and thrill-seekers, offering a range of activities like trekking, camping, bird watching, and spiritual visits to ancient temples.

Top Chopta Tour Packages

1. Chopta Trekking Tour Package

Perfect for adventure enthusiasts, the trekking tour package includes guided treks to some of the most iconic spots around Chopta, like Tungnath and Chandrashila.

Duration: 4 Days / 3 Nights

Highlights:

Tungnath Trek: The trek to the highest Shiva temple in the world, located at 3,680 meters, offers a blend of spirituality and adventure. The trail winds through beautiful forests and meadows, with mesmerizing views of the surrounding peaks.

Chandrashila Summit: An additional trek to the Chandrashila peak provides stunning 360-degree views of the majestic Himalayan ranges, including Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Kedarnath.

Camping: Spend the nights camping under the stars in the midst of the forest. Enjoy bonfires, local cuisine, and the serene mountain ambiance.

Inclusions:

Accommodation in tents or basic lodges

Meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)

Guide and trekking equipment

Ideal For: Adventure seekers, nature lovers, and photography enthusiasts

2. Chopta and Deoria Tal Exploration Package

For those who wish to explore the hidden gems around Chopta, this package focuses on nature and tranquility. Deoria Tal, a pristine lake surrounded by forests, is known for its mirror-like reflections of the Chaukhamba peak.

Duration: 3 Days / 2 Nights

Highlights:

Deoria Tal Trek: A short trek from Sari village takes you to this beautiful lake. The trail is an easy one, passing through forests filled with oak, pine, and rhododendron trees. Upon arrival, you’ll witness the tranquil lake reflecting the mighty Himalayas.

Camping by the Lake: Set up camp near Deoria Tal, offering a unique experience of staying amidst the serene wilderness. The peaceful ambiance of the lake is perfect for a meditative retreat.

Local Village Exploration: Explore the quaint village of Sari to experience the traditional lifestyle and culture of the local Himalayan communities.

Inclusions:

Accommodation in camps near Deoria Tal

All meals and tea/snacks

Guide and trekking support

Ideal For: Nature enthusiasts, families, and those seeking a peaceful retreat

3. Chopta Winter Wonderland Package

If you’re eager to experience the magic of Chopta in winter, this package is for you. It covers all the must-visit spots in Chopta, blanketed in a thick layer of snow.

Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights

Highlights:

Snow Trekking: Experience trekking to Tungnath and Chandrashila in the winter. The trek becomes more challenging due to the snow, but the reward is breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks and meadows.

Snow Camping: Camp in the snow-covered meadows of Chopta. Warm bonfires, hot meals, and the starlit sky create a magical camping experience.

Bird Watching: Winter in Chopta is perfect for bird watchers. The region hosts numerous migratory birds, adding to the natural beauty of the area.

Inclusions:

Accommodation in winter-proof tents

Meals and snacks

Guide, trekking equipment, and snow gear

Ideal For: Adventure lovers, experienced trekkers, and photographers

4. Chopta Yoga and Wellness Retreat

Chopta’s tranquil environment makes it an ideal location for a wellness retreat. This package combines the peaceful ambiance of the mountains with yoga and meditation sessions.

Duration: 4 Days / 3 Nights

Highlights:

Yoga and Meditation: Daily guided yoga and meditation sessions amidst the serenity of Chopta’s natural surroundings. The clean mountain air and serene environment create a perfect setting for spiritual practices.

Nature Walks: Easy nature walks through the forests of pine, deodar, and rhododendron to rejuvenate the mind and body.

Camping: Stay in eco-friendly lodges or camps, providing a comfortable yet nature-immersive experience.

Inclusions:

Accommodation in eco-lodges or camps

All meals (with an emphasis on healthy and organic options)

Yoga instructor and wellness guide

Ideal For: Those seeking relaxation, mental peace, and a connection with nature

5. Chopta Bird Watching and Wildlife Tour

For wildlife and bird enthusiasts, this package offers a chance to explore the rich biodiversity of the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, of which Chopta is a part.

Duration: 3 Days / 2 Nights

Highlights:

Guided Bird Watching Tours: Explore the sanctuary with an experienced naturalist who will guide you through the rich avifauna of the region. Spot exotic species like the Himalayan Monal, Koklass Pheasant, and a variety of other Himalayan birds.

Forest Treks: Walk through the dense forests to catch a glimpse of the diverse flora and fauna, including the elusive musk deer.

Photography Opportunities: The varied landscapes of Chopta provide ample opportunities for nature and wildlife photography.

Inclusions:

Accommodation in eco-lodges

Meals and guided bird-watching tours

Naturalist and forest entry permits

Ideal For: Bird watchers, nature photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts

Customizing Your Chopta Tour Package

Many tour operators offer customizable packages to suit your preferences. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie looking to scale the peaks or a nature lover seeking a peaceful retreat, these packages can be tailored to include activities, accommodations, and itineraries that fit your needs. Some add-ons you might consider include:

Local Village Tours: Explore the traditional Himalayan lifestyle by visiting nearby villages.

Spiritual Tours: Incorporate visits to the nearby temples, including Tungnath, for a spiritual experience.

Extended Treks: Include other trekking spots in Uttarakhand like Auli, Kedarnath, or Valley of Flowers in your Chopta itinerary.

Tips for Choosing the Right Chopta Tour Package

Assess Your Fitness Level: Some treks, especially in winter, can be challenging. Choose a package that matches your physical fitness and adventure level.

Check Inclusions: Ensure your package covers essentials like accommodation, meals, trekking gear, and guide services.

Seasonal Considerations: Winter packages offer snow activities, while summer ones focus on lush greenery and mild weather. Pick a season that aligns with your preferences.

Conclusion

Chopta is a versatile destination that offers a range of experiences for every kind of traveler. Whether you want an adrenaline-pumping trek, a serene nature retreat, or a spiritual journey, the best Chopta tour packages ensure an unforgettable adventure. Pack your bags and get ready to immerse yourself in the magical beauty of the Himalayas.

[chardham-tour]

Why the Chopta Chandrashila Trek is a Must-Do Adventure

The Chopta-Chandrashila Trek is an enthralling excursion through the breathtaking winter scenery of the Garhwal area of Uttarakhand. This journey is a must-do because of its amazing views, spiritual importance, and difficult yet rewarding trails. The journey begins close to Sari hamlet and passes via Tungnath and Chopta before reaching Chandrashila Peak. Trekkers are treated to snow-covered scenery and the tranquil beauty of the Chopta area throughout the winter.

[explorewithkunal]

Discover the Best Treks in Rishikesh: A Perfect Blend of Nature and Spirituality

Rishikesh, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, is not just a hub for spiritual seekers but also a paradise for trekking enthusiasts. Known as the "Yoga Capital of the World," this town in Uttarakhand offers a unique blend of spirituality, adventure, and natural beauty. Discover the best treks in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand For those who crave the thrill of trekking while being surrounded by stunning landscapes, Rishikesh is the perfect destination.

Rishikesh is famed for its serene beauty, spiritual vibes, and the sacred Ganga River. The town attracts pilgrims, yogis, and nature lovers from all over the world. The picturesque landscapes, majestic mountain peaks, and spiritual ambiance make it an ideal starting point for some of the best treks in Uttarakhand with amazing things to do in Uttarakhand. The treks in and around Rishikesh offer an array of experiences, from dense forests and meadows to panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayas.

Valley of Flowers Trek: A Blooming Paradise

The Valley of Flowers Trek is one of the most popular treks in Rishikesh and Uttarakhand. This enchanting journey takes you through a lively paradise of blooming flowers, nestled within the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The trek begins from Govindghat, a small village accessible by a bus ride from Rishikesh to Joshimath.

The trek from Govindghat to Ghangaria is approximately 16 km and passes through dense forests, fields, and small streams. Ghangaria serves as the base camp for the Valley of Flowers Trek and the Hemkund Sahib Trek. The valley itself is a vibrant canvas of over 500 species of flowers, including the Himalayan blue poppies, cobra lilies, and primroses, as well as a variety of birds and butterflies.

Chopta-Chandrashila Trek: A Trekker’s Delight

The Chopta-Chandrashila Trek is another must-do trek near Rishikesh. It begins at the quaint village of Sari, about a 7-hour drive from Rishikesh. The trek to Deoriatal Lake, a high-altitude lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains, is the first leg of the journey. The lake reflects the towering Chaukhamba Peak, creating a mesmerizing sight, especially during sunset.

The next phase of the trek takes you through dense forests and meadows as you ascend to Syalmi via Rohini Bugyal. The views of Kedar Dome and Chaukhamba Peaks along the way are breathtaking. The final ascent to Chandrashila Peak, via Tungnath, the highest Shiva temple in the world, offers panoramic views of the Garhwal Himalayas, including Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Chaukhamba.

This trek is known for its year-round accessibility, though the winter months offer the added challenge of trekking through snow-covered trails. The views from Chandrashila Peak, especially at sunrise, are unparalleled, making it one of the most rewarding treks in the region.

Kuari Pass Trek: The Lord Curzon Trail

The Kuari Pass Trek, also known as the Lord Curzon Trail, is a roller-coaster adventure through the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. Starting from the village of Joshimath, the trek takes you through lush forests, charming meadows, and snow-clad landscapes.

The trek begins with a drive from Joshimath to Auli, followed by a trek to Tali Top, where you are greeted with stunning views of Nanda Devi, Dronagiri, and Kamet peaks. The final ascent to Kuari Pass is a journey through enchanting forests and meadows, culminating in panoramic views of the majestic Himalayas. The trek offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural immersion, making it a favorite among trekkers.

Har Ki Dun Trek: The Valley of Gods

Har Ki Dun, often referred to as the Valley of Gods, is a trek that combines scenic beauty with a sense of spiritual adventure. The trek begins from Sankri Village and takes you through ancient villages, dense forests, and alpine meadows. The valley is surrounded by towering peaks, including Swargarohini and Bandarpoonch.

Nag Tibba Trek: A Weekend Adventure

For those seeking a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, the Nag Tibba Trek is the perfect weekend getaway. Located about 164 km from Rishikesh, Nag Tibba is the highest peak in the Nag Tibba range of the Garhwal Himalayas. The trek is relatively short, covering approximately 10 km, but it offers stunning views of the Himalayas.

The trek begins at Pantwari Village and takes you through charming villages, terraced fields, and dense forests. The summit of Nag Tibba offers panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, including Bandarpoonch, Kedarnath, and Gangotri. This trek is ideal for those looking to experience the beauty of the Himalayas in a short amount of time.

[kanika75]

Chopta Adventures: Best Treks and Must-Visit Spots in One Day

Nestled in the enchanting landscapes of Uttarakhand, Chopta stands as a serene and picturesque destination that attracts nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. This quaint village, often referred to as the "Mini Switzerland of India," is a gateway to some of the most stunning vistas and thrilling treks in the region. Whether you are seeking a day filled with exploration or an adventurous trekking experience, Chopta has something to offer for everyone. The Best treks in Chopta and places to visit in Chopta in one day provide a perfect blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure, making it an ideal destination for a memorable getaway.

Exploring Chopta in One Day

If you have only a day to spend in Chopta, there are several must-visit places that you can explore to make the most of your time. The day can be packed with visits to serene lakes, ancient temples, and breathtaking viewpoints that offer a glimpse into the natural and cultural richness of the region.

Tungnath Temple

One of the most revered sites in Chopta is the Tungnath Temple, which is the highest Shiva temple in the world. Situated at an elevation of 3,680 meters, this ancient temple is a significant pilgrimage site and a marvel of architectural beauty. The trek to Tungnath is relatively short but steep, taking you through lush green meadows and rhododendron forests. The panoramic views from the temple, especially at sunrise and sunset, are truly mesmerizing and worth the effort.

Chandrashila Peak

A short trek from Tungnath leads you to the Chandrashila Peak, which offers a 360-degree view of the majestic Himalayan ranges, including Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Kedarnath peaks. The trek to Chandrashila is moderately challenging, but the reward at the summit is a breathtaking vista that makes you feel on top of the world. It is an ideal spot for photography and to soak in the tranquil beauty of the mountains.

Deoria Tal

Another beautiful spot to visit in Chopta is Deoria Tal, a pristine lake surrounded by dense forests and the towering peaks of the Himalayas. The trek to Deoria Tal starts from the village of Sari and is a relatively easy hike suitable for all age groups. The crystal-clear waters of the lake reflect the snow-capped mountains, creating a picture-perfect scene that is a delight for nature lovers and photographers.

Ukhimath

A short drive from Chopta, Ukhimath is a charming town that serves as the winter abode of Lord Kedarnath. The town is dotted with ancient temples and offers a serene environment away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Ukhimath is also a great place to learn about the local culture and traditions of the Garhwal region.

Best Treks in Chopta

Chopta is renowned for its trekking routes that cater to both beginners and seasoned trekkers. The treks in this region take you through dense forests, alpine meadows, and snow-covered trails, offering an exhilarating experience amidst nature.

Tungnath-Chandrashila Trek

One of the most popular treks in Chopta is the Tungnath-Chandrashila trek. This trek is not only a spiritual journey but also a visual treat, with the trail passing through enchanting forests, vibrant meadows, and offering panoramic views of the Himalayas. The trek starts from Chopta, leading to the Tungnath Temple and then further to the Chandrashila Peak. The entire trek can be completed in a day, making it an ideal choice for those with limited time.

Deoria Tal Trek

The Deoria Tal trek is another gem in Chopta’s trekking offerings. This easy to moderate trek starts from the village of Sari and takes you to the picturesque Deoria Tal lake. The trail is adorned with lush greenery, chirping birds, and occasional sightings of wildlife. Camping by the lake under the starlit sky is an experience that stays with you forever.

Rohini Bugyal Trek

For those looking for a more offbeat and less crowded trek, the Rohini Bugyal trek is a perfect choice. This trek takes you through dense forests, quaint villages, and expansive meadows. The highlight of the trek is the Rohini Bugyal, a beautiful alpine meadow that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. This trek is a great way to explore the unspoiled beauty of Chopta and its surroundings.

Kartik Swami Trek

The Kartik Swami trek is a relatively lesser-known trek that offers a unique blend of adventure and spirituality. The trek starts from the village of Kanakchauri and leads to the Kartik Swami Temple, dedicated to Lord Kartikeya. The temple is perched on a ridge, offering spectacular views of the snow-clad peaks and the valleys below. The trek is moderately challenging and takes you through dense forests and rocky terrains.

Combining Treks and Day Visits

For those who wish to combine the Best treks in Chopta with the places to visit in Chopta in one day, a well-planned itinerary can help you make the most of your trip. Starting your day with a trek to Tungnath and Chandrashila allows you to experience the thrill of trekking while enjoying the spiritual and scenic beauty of the region. After descending from Chandrashila, you can drive to Deoria Tal for a relaxing afternoon by the lake. Ending your day with a visit to Ukhimath or exploring the local markets and cafes in Chopta adds a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.

Practical Tips for Your Trip to Chopta

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Chopta is from April to November when the weather is pleasant, and the trekking routes are accessible. The region experiences heavy snowfall in winter, making it challenging to trek but offering a different kind of beauty for snow lovers.

Accommodation: Chopta offers a range of accommodation options, from budget guesthouses to luxury camps. Staying in a camp or a homestay allows you to experience the local hospitality and enjoy the natural surroundings.

Packing Essentials: Pack warm clothing, comfortable trekking shoes, and essential trekking gear. Carry a first aid kit, water bottles, and energy snacks for the treks. Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning landscapes.

Local Guides: Hiring a local guide can enhance your trekking experience as they are well-versed with the trails and can provide valuable insights into the local culture and flora and fauna.

Respect Nature: Chopta is a pristine and ecologically sensitive region. Ensure that you follow eco-friendly practices, such as carrying your waste back, avoiding the use of plastic, and respecting the local wildlife and vegetation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Chopta is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts, offering a perfect blend of scenic beauty and thrilling treks. The Best treks in Chopta and places to visit in Chopta in one day provide an unforgettable experience that leaves you longing for more. Whether you are trekking to the highest Shiva temple, relaxing by a serene lake, or exploring ancient temples, Chopta promises a journey filled with awe and wonder. So pack your bags, lace up your trekking shoes, and get ready to explore the magical land of Chopta.

[aniket623]

10 Best Treks in Chopta: Explore Stunning Trails

Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, Chopta is a picturesque hamlet in Uttarakhand that serves as the base for some of the most breathtaking treks in the region. Known for its lush green meadows, dense forests, and stunning views of snow-capped peaks, Chopta is a trekker’s paradise. Whether you are a seasoned trekker or a novice explorer, the trails in and around Chopta offer something for everyone. Here, we explore the 10 best treks in Chopta, highlighting the unique features and experiences each one offers. If you’re into trekking in Chopta and want to try things to do in Uttarakhand from the usual treks from Chopta, this trek provides a fantastic opportunity to enjoy the serene beauty of Chopta trekking.

1. Tungnath-Chandrashila Trek

One of the most popular treks in Chopta, the Tungnath-Chandrashila trek is known for its religious significance and panoramic views. The trek starts from Chopta and takes you to Tungnath, the highest Shiva temple in the world, and then to Chandrashila, the summit which offers a 360-degree view of the Himalayan peaks, including Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Chaukhamba. The trek is relatively short but steep, making it perfect for a day hike.

2. Deoria Tal Trek

The Deoria Tal trek is a relatively easy trek that is ideal for beginners and families. The trail starts from Sari village and leads to Deoria Tal, a pristine lake surrounded by dense forests and offering stunning reflections of the Chaukhamba peaks. The campsite near the lake is a perfect spot for stargazing and experiencing the tranquility of nature.

3. Chopta-Tungnath-Chandrashila Winter Trek

For those who love snow and winter trekking, the Chopta-Tungnath-Chandrashila winter trek is a must-do. The trail, covered in a blanket of snow, presents a magical landscape and a challenging trekking experience. The frozen Tungnath temple and the snow-covered Chandrashila summit provide an unforgettable winter adventure.

4. Kartik Swami Trek

5. Bisuri Tal Trek

The Bisuri Tal trek is an offbeat trail that leads to a high-altitude lake, offering solitude and stunning natural beauty. The trek is moderately challenging and takes you through dense forests, alpine meadows, and remote villages. The serene Bisuri Tal, surrounded by snow-capped peaks, is a perfect spot for camping and experiencing nature in its purest form.

6. Rohini Bugyal Trek

The Rohini Bugyal trek is another offbeat trail that takes you to a beautiful meadow at an altitude of 3,200 meters. The trek offers stunning views of the Himalayan ranges and passes through dense forests and charming villages. The campsite at Rohini Bugyal is an excellent place to relax and enjoy the serene beauty of the surroundings.

7. Chopta-Ukhimath Trek

The Chopta-Ukhimath trek is a moderate trek that connects the two picturesque locations of Chopta and Ukhimath. The trail offers scenic views of the Himalayan ranges, lush green forests, and beautiful meadows. Ukhimath is also known for its religious significance, as it is the winter abode of Lord Kedarnath.

8. Panwali Kantha Trek

The Panwali Kantha trek is a high-altitude trek that offers stunning views of the Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath ranges. The trek is moderately challenging and takes you through alpine meadows, dense forests, and remote villages. The highlight of the trek is the panoramic view from Panwali Kantha, a beautiful meadow at an altitude of 3,960 meters.

9. Chopta-Dugalbitta Trek

10. Kanchula Korak Musk Deer Sanctuary Trek

The Kanchula Korak Musk Deer Sanctuary trek is a unique trail that takes you through a wildlife sanctuary known for its population of musk deer. The trek offers a chance to explore the rich biodiversity of the region, with sightings of various bird species and other wildlife. The sanctuary is also known for its beautiful rhododendron forests and stunning views of the Himalayan ranges.

Tips for Trekking in Chopta

Best Time to Visit: The best time for trekking in Chopta is from April to November. However, the winter treks, especially the Chopta-Tungnath-Chandrashila winter trek, are best done from December to February.

Acclimatization: Since some treks in Chopta reach high altitudes, it is essential to acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness. Spend a day or two in Chopta before starting your trek.

Physical Fitness: Most treks in Chopta range from easy to moderate difficulty. However, being physically fit and prepared is crucial for a comfortable trekking experience.

Packing Essentials: Pack light but ensure you carry all necessary items, including warm clothing, trekking shoes, rain gear, first aid kit, and sufficient water and snacks.

Guides and Porters: Hiring a local guide or porter can enhance your trekking experience. They are familiar with the trails and can provide valuable insights and assistance.

Respect Nature: Chopta is a pristine and ecologically sensitive area. Ensure you follow the principles of Leave No Trace and respect the natural environment.

Conclusion

Chopta, with its stunning landscapes and diverse trekking trails, offers an unparalleled trekking experience. From the religiously significant Tungnath-Chandrashila trek to the serene Deoria Tal trek, each trail has its unique charm and beauty. Whether you seek adventure, tranquility, or a spiritual journey, the 10 best treks in Chopta provide an opportunity to explore the natural splendor of the Himalayas. So pack your bags, lace up your trekking shoes, and set out to discover the enchanting trails of Chopta.

[anilbisht]

Up Close to Garhwal Himalayas - A Trekking Trip to Chopta, Tungnath, Chandrashila and Deoria Tal

Well, we had been to the mountains several times before, but never indulged in any uphill summit trekking leading up to the 13000 ft+ elevation levels. This in mind, initially, we two, the Bisht’s, planned to go to this trekking trip covering Chopta-Tungnath-Chandrashila-Deoria Tal. And, then the word spread, and five more, the Negi’s and the Rawat’s, joined us for this adventurously lifelong memorable trekking trip.  

In the second week of June 2023, we all undertook this 5-daylong, 1000 kms+ self-driven trip to higher reaches of Uttarakhand. We took the route from Delhi to Haridwar to Rishikesh to Devprayag to Srinagar to Rudraprayag to Agastyamuni to Ukhimath to Chopta to Sari Village (for Deoria Tal). Enroute, we detoured slightly to the revered shrines of Maa Dhari Devi, Srinagar and The Koteshwar Mahadev, Rudraprayag.

On Day1, we took a midway halt at Jayalgarh (10kms before Srinagar), a beautiful campsite arrayed on the banks of river Alaknanda. A piece of advice to all the travelers – avoid passing through Rishikesh on the weekends, otherwise you will end up facing multiple diversions, and sweat it out over the struggles of negotiating serpentine queues of a torturous bumper-to-bumper traffic right up to the Shivpuri. It’s a colossal waste of time and energy dealing with such heavy jams.  And, if no option, pass through Rishikesh around the wee hours.

We were late to reach Jayalgarh, reaching by 6.30pm; exhausted due to the Rishikesh traffic, we rested a bit for whatever little time we had. After some rest, we walked down to the riverbank and had some serene moments with our feet dipped in the cold flowing waters of Alaknanda. Allure of the Alaknanda is such that we revisited the riverbanks early in the morning just to witness the orangey dawn over the white sand banks and the morning mistiness of the river.

Our trip on Day2 started with a holy visit to the much-revered Maa Dhari Devi, regarded as the guardian protector deity of the state of Uttarakhand, the temple seating an avatar of Goddess Kali. Jai Maa Dhari Devi is a sacred temple in the Garhwal region, and is structured beautifully, with all its shine and glory, in the middle of Alaknanda River, which is connected to the adjacent hill through a foot bridge. The temple’s architecture is splendid, colourful and has intricate wooden designs and carvings around it. We all offered our holy prayers, soaked ourselves in the holiness of the deity, bought a few souvenirs and headed to our next stopover: Koteshwar Mahadev cave temple.

As we reached Koteshwar Mahadev - which is at a slight detour of 3-4 kms after crossing over the Rudraprayag Bridge - the amazing sight of the two parallelly imposing rocks standing next to each other welcomes you, with river Alaknanda gushing through the vertical gap, which not only beholds your attention and gaze but also mesmerizes you with its Grand Canyon like settings. Lord Shiva is seated inside a spring-water-dripped cave, which is naturally cool and dark and is dotted with several Shivlings. We offered our prayers to the almighty and headed to our ultimate destination, Chopta.

I must say that roads condition, overall, was just great; driving through the serpentine courses, forests, riverbanks, and the rocky terrain was a super pleasure. Late afternoon, we reached the picturesque hamlet, Chopta, located at an elevation of 9000 ft., is also famously known as the mini-Switzerland of Uttarakhand. The environ here was cool and wintry. We indulged in a bit of cricket match in the open spaces of the resort along with their staff members. By the night, our jackets were out as the weather had turned much colder. Heating appliances were not available as our stay was in the protected forest area, so the power supply was through solar means only, and that too in the fixed time slot of 7pm to 5am. Aside, we had a blessing in disguise; the mobile signals were hugely erratic, rather phones were down with no network during our time in Chopta. A small stream was also flowing by our cottage side. We gathered and gossiped around the stream sitting on the boulders, cooling our drinks in its icy waters and enjoyed our moments together in the lap of nature. As the sunlight dimmed, surroundings descended to pitch dark, and such was the darkness that it was quite frightening to even peep outside from our cottages in the late night.

On Day3, we woke up early, naturally, awakened by the constant chirping and coo of the birds of different species. Done with morning chores, we packed our breakfast and headed to the Tungnath trek point, about 4-5kms from our stay. On the way, by the roadside, we spotted a group of big-sized vultures feasting heartily on a decaying cow, possibly hunted down, or fallen off the cliff.

We reached the Tungnath base point at around 8am, lest we got late, it was time to start our trek to the world’s highest located Lord Shiva temple, Tungnath Mahadev. We parked our vehicles safely and sequentially by the hillside on the very tight spaces of the single lane road. Mules were also available, but we decided to trek on our own strength. We rented the sticks for the ones who needed it; stocked water bottles in our bag packs; wore our hats and started off spiritedly and spiritually by chiming aloud the bell at the gateway with chants of Har Har Mahadev. It’s a 4km trek, which gets steeper with every step-up. Phew! As we move up, lush green grassed meadows start to appear out of nowhere, surrounded by mountainous terrain and snowcapped ridges. Weather also keeps changing its mood – sometimes it’s sunny, sometimes it’s cloudy, sometimes it’s drizzling, sometimes it’s windy. One can experience all shades of the nature in this 4km long trek! As the climb gets steeper, the destination appears farther away as we start to huff and puff, taking frequent pitstops to normalise the heavy breathing, sipping water in between, and then restarting the trek. But, once we sighted the temple top as we looked up from a distance, we felt reenergized and relieved that our treacherous trek is now almost over. As the trek ended, and as we reached the temple’s premises, all our trekking tiredness vanished in a jiffy. Such is the aura of this sacred temple of Tungnath ji, perched at a high altitude of 12000 ft+.  We queued up and offered our heartfelt prayers to the almighty - Lord Shiva Mahadev - and took the holy blessings. Inside the temple, it was all a divine experience with feelings of the divinity everywhere in, triggering the goosebumps. We took a lap of the temple, offering obeisance to all the deities around, and came out bowed down in reverence and holiness.

It was 1pm by the time we finished our prayers; five amongst us decided to rest and refresh and not to trek further up to Chandrashila. I, along with my brother-in-law, decided to conquer the ultimate Chandrashila peak, which is located 1 km further above of Tungnath.  This 2nd stretch of the trek was much steeper than we had anticipated. And, in fact, it was even more treacherous and tougher than our just completed trek of Tungnath. 1km appeared easier in comparison to the 4kms we had done already - but in reality - it was as good as trekking 4kms again! With small baby steps, and with the might and awe of Lord Mahadev, we eventually, made it to the summit - The Chandrashila peak - an altitude of 13000 ft+.  There is a small temple perched at the top, painted in white with flags and worship bands tied on it, dedicated to the Goddess Ganga. We offered our prayers, clicked a few pictures, and soaked in the cool fresh breeze atop as much as we could. Unfortunately, the weather turned cloudy and dark, and we couldn’t see clearly the much sought after 360-degree panoramic view of the snow-laden mountains, sky-high ridges, and the scenic surroundings of the green meadows.  With looming rains, we quickly started to trek down. Enticed by the short-cuts, I tripped down twice over the sloping and moist meadows without any hurt though, which is nature’s way of telling us to follow the designated path. We rejoined our group at Tungnath, took some refreshments, and then headed back to the base point. Though trekking down takes lesser time, but I found it tougher than trekking up as one not only battles the gravitational pull but also the challenge of body weight balancing itself solely on the calf muscles and the knees. At around 3.30pm, we finally reached back to the Tungnath base after completing a tough uphill-and-downhill trek. As we had already checked-out from our Chopta stay, we were now headed to our next halt, the Sari Village, about 25kms downhill, at an elevation of 6,500 ft. We reached Sari, a beautiful village, and the base point of Deoria Tal, at around 5pm.

We started the Day4 excursion with an early breakfast and got ready for our 2.5km trek to Deoria Tal, a pristine emerald-green lake at an altitude of 8000 ft, part of the Kedarnath Sanctuary. The lake is perched at the hilltop and nestled in the dense forest around it. This trek was shorter in comparison to Tungnath, and not that steep but it was a tough trek as the path was a bit stony and patchy. And, it becomes more difficult, especially, if you are trekking late in the noon under the scorching sun. The trek has few eateries on its route run by the locals. We started the trek at around 9am. The entry point starts from the Sari village. It took us some sweating efforts to reach at the top. The very moment the trek ends, a stunning lakeview welcomes you with its open green spaces. A small forest checkpoint is at one corner where you can buy the entry tickets. The whole area around it has a magically soothing relaxing feel. The minty freshness and the greenery of the place reenergizes the body and the soul evenly. At the ground level, the lake is surrounded by meadows and the jungles; and when you look up at the sky around, the rising snowcapped Chaukhamba range of the Himalayas makes its imposing presence felt. The Himalayan view as seen from our own eyes is truly fantastic, and its reflection on the emerald surface of the lake makes it even more grandeur.  We took a walk around the lake, which is roughly an 800 mtr circled path, passing through the forests and the open spaces. Besotted by the picturesque lake and the gigantic Himalayas around, we spent close to two hours absorbing the magnificent nature and its mesmerising beauty. We leisurely laid ourselves down on the grass beds, lying under the cool and calming shades of the trees soaking in the freshness of the environ. After our delightful time at the lake, we returned to the Sari village, enroute visiting an elegant antique temple, of Lord Shiva, built by a local priest. It was 2pm by the time we returned to our base, had a hearty lunch, and then it was all rest in the lovely weather of Sari.

On Day5, we started our journey back; while one family went straight to Delhi, we, two families, stayed back enroute at a Rishikesh resort for a relaxing pool time and restful night after the tough trekking pursuits we had undertaken all these days. We had started our trip with a stay at Alaknanda riverbanks, and now ending it again with our stay on the riverbanks of the holy Ganges. In the evening, we sat on the banks of the calmly flowing river Ganges. It was quite breezy and sandy, but it offered us wonderfully peaceful moments sitting on the boulders, gazing at the rafts and kayaks pass by us, with our feet downed in the cold waters. As the water levels begun to rise and sunlight faded, we returned to our resort.  

On Day6, we left Rishikesh early, and reached back Delhi by late afternoon.

A fabulous trip with blissful moments, for all of us; to be cherished forever!!!

Anil Bisht

anilbisht@rediffmail.com

more pictures here: instagram.com/anil_bisht_/

  Green meadows on the Tungnath trek

Mountains around the Tungnath trek

Mountains around the Chandrashila Trek

Devprayag - holy confluence of river Alaknanda and Bhagirathi, forming the river Ganges

River Alaknanda at Jayalgarh, Srinagar

Rocky banks of river Alaknanda at Jayalgarh, Srinagar

Jai Maa Dhari Devi Temple, Srinagar

A suspended bridge along side Maa Dhari Devi Temple

Koteshwar Mahadev Temple

The view of the Koteshwar rocks with river Alaknanda passing through the gap

Chopta valley

Trek to Tungnath ji

Trek to Chandrashila

Tungnath Mahadev temple

Tungnath Mahadev Temple

Trek to Chandarshila

Chandrashila summit - the Ganga temple

Kedar himalaya peaks visible from Ukhimath

A Lord Mahadev temple at Sari Village

Deoria Tal

Deoria Tal + Chaukhamba peaks

Deoria tal and the dense forestry around it

Deoria Tal lake

Deoria Tal lake

The imposing Chaukhamba Himalaya range

Sari village from up above the trek to Deoria Tal

Deities inside the Sari village temple

Stone shaped deities placed at the Sari village temple

Sari village temple of Lord Shiva

Rishikesh - Shivpuri, the Ganges banks

[inquisimer]

Stories of Thedas - Day 22: Waterfall

sad Mahariel is sad😭 as she takes care of Tamlen’s remains

wc: 536

~~~

Sari took Tamlen’s ashes with her when she left Denerim. 

It felt like an age had passed since she’d seen him whole, and another since she’d been forced to end his half-life. They’d burned his body separate from the darkspawn corpses and Wynne fashioned a makeshift urn to hold the ashes Sari so carefully collected. It took up most of her pack and weighed down her already burdened shoulders, but none of her companions were foolish enough to suggest that she let anyone else carry it. 

As the months passed and she became increasingly despondent, she would sit cross-legged by the fire and clutch the urn close to her heart. When the fire died down to barest embers, Alistair would come and pull her into the tent or, if she refused even that, wrap a blanket around her shoulders and sit by her in silence. 

But Alistair was gone and they wouldn’t let her carry his remains with her–he was important, unlike the elf who hadn’t lived.

It was selfish, truthfully. Although she no longer kept to the old ways, Tamlen had and he deserved the proper rites. But Sari couldn’t bring herself to send him away and, though she still loved her former clan dearly, in her last, bitter memories of them, the Keeper gave up on finding Tamlen. So, no, Sari wouldn’t give his ashes to the clan and Tamlen, wherever he was, would just have to forgive her for that. Or not.

It wasn’t like she was going to forgive herself. 

As in much of their youth, he was her only companion on the journey away from Denerim. She left the others behind, along with her armor and any foolish trappings the Wardens might have had of forcing her to stay. She cradled the urn like a child and cried: for Alistair, for Zevran, for all the mistakes she’d made and the wrongs she couldn’t make right. She cried for Tamlen and she cried for the girl he used to chase through the trees, catching butterflies. 

She didn’t find the courage to let go until many, many years later. After her trek to the west and the terrible discoveries there, after she brought that knowledge back to Avernus, after they used it to cleanse her blood of the Taint. It was only then that she worked up the nerve.

She took him back to the Brecilian Forest. He would’ve liked that, she hoped, to be laid to rest where they shared so many memories. It was a difficult path to walk. She saw ghosts of people who weren’t dead and memories of people she had killed around every bend and tree, but she managed to find a clearing they’d frequented when the clan camped nearby.

It was hardly large enough to be called such, just a little u-shaped space that butted up against a cliffside. A gentle stream of water trickled over the rocks and flowed into the creek that bisected the ground; it was there that she sat, and dangled her feet into the stream, and finally said goodbye to her oldest friend.

And as the last of his ashes drifted away with the current, “Sule tael tasalal.”

Until we meet again. 

[razellas-feed]

𝐌𝐘 𝐅𝐎𝐍𝐃𝐄𝐒𝐓 𝐓𝐑𝐀𝐕𝐄𝐋 𝐌𝐄𝐌𝐎𝐑𝐘

𝙲𝚑𝚘𝚌𝚘𝚕𝚊𝚝𝚎 𝙷𝚒𝚕𝚕𝚜 𝚘𝚏 𝙱𝚞𝚕𝚊𝚌𝚊𝚗: 𝚃𝚑𝚎 𝚃𝚒𝚕𝚊 𝙿𝚒𝚕𝚘𝚗 𝙷𝚒𝚕𝚕𝚜

It's almost been three years since quarantine happened due to a pandemic and I know that most of us are itching to travel again to unwind and somehow forget how stressful the situation is. However, some popular tourist destinations here in the Philippines require a lot of New Normal requirements for us to be able to enter the place.

𝚂𝚘𝚖𝚎 𝚘𝚏 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚛𝚎𝚚𝚞𝚒𝚛𝚎𝚖𝚎𝚗𝚝𝚜 𝚊𝚛𝚎:

• Tourist QR Code and copy of your Health Declaration Card

• Medical Certificate issued by a government physician

• Negative RT-PCR Test

• Valid company ID/certificate of employment, and travel or mission order

Just looking at the list of requirements, you'll probably know that it requires a huge amount of money before arriving at your desired destination. Since we are still in the middle of the pandemic, money must be valued by anyone and each of us seek affordable goods. Therefore, if you live near the Province of Bulacan, it would be a great opportunity for you! Wanna know why? The reason is, there's a bunch of hidden tourist destinations here in Bulacan and I will share one of those to you---let me narrate my lovely experiences behind this trip!

I would like to introduce to you the Tila Pilon--the Chocolate Hills of Bulacan. It is located at Doña Remedios Trinidad, Bulacan. The estimated time of travel from Manila to Tila Pilon Hills is approximately two (2) and a half hours. These Hills serve as a budget friendly destination to those who want to visit Chocolate Hills of Bohol but do not have enough money to buy a flight ticket like me and my friends.

Tila Pilon Hills entrance fee is PHP 20.00. Tour guides are also mandatory for this place which is worth a fee of PHP 300.00 and they guide our group going to the top of the Hills; I am sure that they will be the one who will assist your group too if you visit the destination. The hike starts on a garden-like trail where there is a plantation of various crops and vegetables on the side of the Hills. Most of the trail was flat and had different muddy portions. Sometimes the path is a mix of easy, beginner-friendly descents and ascents. While we are taking our walk up to the Hill, we see different fruit trees surrounding the place, but of course tour guides would not let us pick any of those so it won't become a habit. And taking a few more steps we passed a road where patrols were; they are the personnel who checks if everything is fine and they also check and confirm the number of visitors the guide has under his/her care. Aside from that, a sari-sari store and several houses are visible in the place.

After 30-40 minutes of trekking, we've finally able to reach the summit and see the grassy knolls of Tila Pilon Hills. Scenic view definitely gave us a refreshing feeling and the idea that we are walking side-by-side with nature; a blissfulness, indeed. Note that you must bring a camera or at least a powerbank for your phone to capture every single detail of the place like what we did. Besides, there are instagrammable props in the area and camping with your loved ones is also allowed.

In addition to this, you can also visit Talon Pari Falls (with minimal fees) because it's just 5 kilometer away from Tila Pilon. But that time, we focused on enjoying the Hills. So, we might go back and try visiting Talon Pari Falls. Thus, what are you waiting for? I hope we will see each other there!

As the day ended, a curve on my lips formed.

𝙵𝚘𝚛 𝚏𝚞𝚛𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚛 𝚑𝚎𝚕𝚙 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚖𝚞𝚜𝚝 𝚗𝚘𝚝𝚎 𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚜𝚎.

Trail Foods (be responsible on your own trash)

Water (depending on your consumption)

Packed breakfast and lunch

Flashlights or headlamps for night trek

Camera or power banks

Extra money

Extra clothes

Toiletries

𝚈𝚘𝚞 𝚌𝚊𝚗 𝚌𝚘𝚗𝚝𝚊𝚌𝚝 𝚑𝚎𝚛 𝚒𝚏 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚑𝚊𝚟𝚎 𝚊𝚗𝚢 𝚌𝚕𝚊𝚛𝚒𝚏𝚒𝚌𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚘𝚗:

Josiephine Broa

Tour Guide (Tila Pilon Hills)

09999076946

𝚘𝚛 𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚌𝚑 𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚖 𝚘𝚞𝚝 𝚊𝚝:

https://m.facebook.com/NormanVillelaCampo/

𝓟𝓱𝓸𝓽𝓸 𝓒𝓻𝓮𝓭𝓲𝓽𝓼: 𝓡𝓮𝓪𝓵𝔂𝓷 𝓔𝓼𝓽𝓮𝓵𝓵𝓸𝓻𝓮

[tempesttreks]

The duration for this Sari Pass Trek in Himachal will be for around four days and may take longer if you walk slowly or face any challenges during your trekking.

[actualbabe]

From the prompt list “this is all your fault”;)

They’re arguing about something. They’re always arguing about something. Arguing, bickering, yelling, fighting, whatever kind of label you wanna slap on it. It drives Nick fucking crazy sometimes, having to put up with it all the time, especially when he’s trying to shove down that weird pull of attraction in his gut to instead focus on the white hot rage that Jess sends through his veins. Anger and lust and frustration and love all scrambled up into a snarled knot that he can’t undo, doesn’t really wanna undo. 

He wants her to be the one to do it, to reach into his chest with her dainty fingers, her nose all scrunched up in concentration and glasses slipping down the bridge of her nose as she picks at the tangled mess. Jess perched in his lap and looking down at him like that, like he’s some kind of puzzle she wants to figure out. His hands resting on the soft, bare skin of her hips and mind blissfully blank as he watches her watch him, his heart leaping up into his throat when she sinks the sharp edge of her white teeth into the swell of her lower lip. 

Except they’re not in his bed, her enticing pale curves pressed to his sweat-slick skin. Instead they’re on some half-thought-out trek to go camping or some shit because Nick’s never been to the Redwood forest and they need some place to go that isn’t back to the loft. They’re in the same clothes from Cece’s wedding, Nick’s tie long-since abandoned in the backseat and his shirt smelling like a combination of the dusty air vent he crawled through and the accumulating stench of his sweat. Jess’ sari is equally worse for wear, and she keeps drawing odd stares when they stop for snacks at the variety of truck stops up the winding California highway.

“Would you slow down?” Jess complains, her lips drawn down in a pout as she gazes out the window at the blur of trees they fly past.

“There’s no one around,” Nick counters, tightening his grip on the steering wheel. He’s the one driving. Jess is in charge of navigation. Can’t she let him do his own damn job for once? “We’re fine.”

She huffs, unimpressed. “Just because there are no cops around doesn’t mean that suddenly all crimes are legal.”

“I’m going fucking ten over, Jessica.” He grits his teeth together, sick of arguing at her for the third consecutive hour. “That’s not a crime.”

“It’s illegal.”

Nick groans, but he doesn’t change the pressure of his foot on the accelerator. “Just pass me the trail mix.”

Jess doesn’t push him any further, just makes another annoyed noise as she digs through the mess of plastic bags at her feet, muttering something under her breath with the higher-pitched version of her Teacher Voice that she uses when she’s convinced that she’s right.

“Here.” She shoves the bag towards him, the top half-ripped in annoyance.

He digs around for a few seconds, his frown slowly deepening. “Wait, where are the M&Ms?”

“What?” Jess’ brow wrinkles in confusion. “It’s trail mix.”

“Uh, yeah... Everyone knows you just dig around all that other junk to get at the chocolate pieces.”

“That couldn’t be any more wrong.”

“Oh really?”

“Yes!” Jess lets out an exasperated groan. “God, Nick, I swear that you’re such a child sometimes.”

“Oh, so you do think I’m a child!” he yells back.

“Because you keep acting like one!”

“Well I’m sorry I can’t meet your fucking sky high expectations!”

“I’m asking for the bare minimum here, Nick!”

“I’m asking for an inch of lee-way, Jess!”

They’re flying down the road now, his anger turning his foot into lead as he subconsciously pushes down harder on the gas pedal, his grip on the steering wheel so tight that it’s turning his knuckles white. He keeps trying to turn to face her, to make his point and stare her down so she knows that he isn’t gonna let her just win every goddamn one of these fights. Jess gets so uppity sometimes, so damn convinced that she’s right and that everyone else is wrong, too far up on her high horse to acknowledge anyone else’s opinion and Nick fucking hates it.

“You’re insane!” he yells, pointing an accusing finger at her.

“You drive me nuts, Miller!” Jess screams.

“Oh fuck off, Jess!”

Jess shrieks. “Nick, the road!”

The truck driver doesn’t try to stop, doesn’t slam on his horn, doesn’t do anything, because he’s three-quarters asleep behind the wheel and so hopped up on allergy pills and energy drinks that he doesn’t even register that he barreling right into them.

Nick reflexively jerks the wheel to the right but it doesn’t do anything to help. They slam into the truck at full speed, catching the front corner of the truck and sending their car rolling off the road and through the steel meridian like it’s made of tissue paper. The car goes careening, and Nick feels himself tossed around like a rag doll, limbs flopping about and only barely held back by the seatbelt Jess had nagged him into wearing. Everything happens so fast that he can barely process it, and everything goes dark when his head slams forward into the airbag.

---

Things finally come to still, and Nick can faintly hear the distant curses of a flustered man freaking out about how he’s going to lose his job and that’ll they’ll revoke his truck license over this for sure, followed a short while by a paramedic team yelling out instructions that Nick can’t quite make out through the wetness leaking down over his ears. The darkness surrounds him again and Nick falls into it, lulled into unconsciousness by the ache in the back of his head.

---

When he wakes up he’s in the hospital, the smell of antiseptic clogging his nose and his shoulder trapped in a huge black sling that’s holding his arm in place. Nick’s leg is heavy, and when he blinks his gritty eyes open he notices a plaster cast is wrapped around his lower right leg. 

“Nick!” Schmidt leaps up from a plastic hospital chair to stand at his bedside, his eyes lit up with surprise and delight. “Fuck, man.”

“How long was I out?” Nick’s thoughts feel cloudy as he looks around the room, trying to remember where he is and how he got here. The effort makes his head hurt, a dull throb that feels like a too-tight helmet he stubbornly tried to shove his head into. “What happened?”

“A few hours,” Schmidt explains, his voice still pitched high with disbelief. “You were in a pretty bad wreck.”

The pieces click into place like that, the flash of headlights barreling towards them, the smell of smoke, Jess’ voice ringing in his ears as they argued. A sudden tightness grabs at his heart, squeezing like a vice as his field of awareness focuses on one infinitely important detail. “Is Jess okay?”

Schmidt’s face falls and it feels like a hundred pound barbell drops into the pit of Nick's stomach. “I’m sorry...”

“Where is she?” Nick asks again, shock and horror slowly descending upon him. The room feels like it's caving in on him, pressing all the air out of his chest while he struggles for breath.

“Nick...”

“Where’s Jess?” he demands, refusing to make the connection himself. His disoriented head feels empty, alarm bells ringing as a recurring sharp pain stabs through his temples to reverberate through his aching skull.

“She didn’t make it,” Schmidt says softly.

A cold rush runs down Nick’s spine as his world flips upside-down.

---

It doesn’t really hit him until the funeral, mostly because Nick straight-up refuses to believe that it’s happening. The time between waking up in the hospital and the day of the service passes in a blink of an eye with Nick too exhausted from trying to recover from his injuries and numb with denial to be aware of the days flying by. He shuffles into the chapel of the funeral home, struggling to keep his balance on his crutches since he’s riding a mix of painkillers and alcohol that he’s really not supposed to be drinking. 

There’s a photo of Jess up at the front next to the coffin, where a distraught Joan and closed-off Bob stand somberly while various friends and family come up to pay their respects. It seems wrong for the reproduced image of Jess to be smiling so brightly given the somber mood of the guests. But it also seems odd to portray her any other way. Even when Jess is miserable she still manages to pull off a watery smile.

She used to manage. Fuck. Nick still hasn't figured out how to think and talk about her in the past tense. It just doesn't feel right. Like she's still Jess even though she's... Well, you know.

The casket is open, but even from a distance the sight of it makes Nick’s stomach heave, so he just takes a seat near the back of the room where he hopes he won’t attract any attention. Winston joins him a moment later, giving him a silent pat on the back as he takes his seat before handing over a pamphlet for the ceremony off to Nick. There’s another photo of Jess on the cover, and her sweet smile makes Nick’s heart seize up with hurt as his stomach churns with guilt. 

It should've been him. He was the one driving the car. He was the one who didn't see the truck coming until it was too late. He was the one who started that stupid fight. Nick's been wracked with misery since Schmidt told him the news. He would give up anything to fix this. All his life he's sworn to take care of the people he loves, to be better than his no-good flake of a father. But he failed. He's such a fuck up that he couldn't take care of the person who mattered more to him than anything else. 

Nick leans forward in the pew to run his hand through his hair in defeat. The guilt of it is eating him up from the inside, leaving a sour taste of bile in the back of his mouth and a constant throbbing in his head, worse than any hangover he's ever had. There’s nothing he wants more than a drink, something to calm his nerves and help him forget this nightmare is real. But his flask has gone surreptitiously missing, likely some scheme by Schmidt and/or Winston to keep him from going off the deep end and doing something crazy. 

The service is nice, even though the pastor leading it doesn’t really know anything about Jess so all of his words feel like empty platitudes. Nick feels tears slip down his face the minute the organ first starts to play, and Winston is polite enough not to comment on it even after Jess’ family give their eulogies and the room slowly clears out with one final hymn.

“Do you want to go to the burial?” Schmidt asks them when they regroup in the lobby area. “I’m going with Cece.”

“I don’t think...” Nick trails off, not sure what the end of that sentence is. ‘I don’t think I can handle it,’ feels impossibly selfish. ‘I don’t think they want the man who killed her to be there,’ is the truth, but it hurts too much to admit out loud.

Winston gives his shoulder another reassuring shake. “We’re gonna go home. Process things.”

Schmidt nods in agreement, and gives each of them a vigorous bear hug before leaving. He squeezes Nick a little tighter than he probably should, given that his shoulder is still tender from when it popped out of place. When he wraps an arm around Nick’s back, Schmidt reaches up to give his hair a tug, which Nick would normally tell him off for being too weirdly intimate, but he still feels so broken apart that he can't bring himself to do so.

He finally steps away with a resounding slap on Nick’s back. “I’ll see you at home.”

---

When they finally get home, Nick stumbles around the apartment numbly, trodding back and forth across the living area on his crutches like it'll calm the storm inside his head. There's some whispered voice in the back of his head that tries to goad him on, positing things like if he can make it to the end of the hallway in three steps or tap one of his crutches against his big toe fifty five times then Jess will come back. He knows that's not how this works, but it doesn't stop him from staring longingly at the front door, just in case Jess happens to walk in after he completes one of his invented challenges.

Both Schmidt and Winston turn in early, only sparing Nick a worried look before retiring to their respective rooms to process the events of the day. Time passes without Nick being aware of it, until he's exhausted and the moonlight filtering in through the window casts strange shadows over the loft. But Nick keeps going, the steady clack of his crutches the only thing still making noise at this late hour. 

Despite the ache in his shoulders from the crutches digging into his armpits, Nick continues his relentless pacing, head aching as he tries to make sense of it. Jess is gone. She’s gone. And it’s all his fault because he wasn’t paying attention to the road ahead of them, all because he wanted to prove his point to her. And instead the last words he ever said to her were telling her to fuck off. Like an asshole.

Nick falls onto the couch with a thud, the ache in his head doubling down as his muscles whine in protest from his relentless torture of them in his exhaustive quest to punish himself for his actions. 

He and Jess were so fucking close. After months of being too cowardly to admit his feelings, he finally had made his move. They held each other tight and whispered confessions into bare skin as Nick moved over her, Jess rolling her hips up to meet him as he cursed under his breath and tried not to lose his mind from the intensity of it. And even with the world pitching every possible obstacle their way, they still made it through the unexpected chaos of Cece’s wedding and back into each other's arms. It feels like only yesterday that they agreed to 'uncall it,' when he was holding Jess in his arms and kissing her as she smiled against his mouth in joy and relief. 

But just like everything else in his life, Nick managed to fuck it all up.

He brings his hands up to his face to rub tiredly at his eyes with the heels of his hands. He needs a drink. Or some sleep. He hasn’t slept at all since the accident, the time all blurring together into something incomprehensible that he can’t truly remember or parse out. The doctor told him he would have trouble with that for a while, that his head was rattled pretty hard and he would probably be struggling to get things right for a few more days. Nick grits his teeth as a fresh wave of pain washes over his head, making his vision swim until it finally abates to a dull throb behind his eye sockets.

With a long sigh Nick leans forward in his seat, fumbling on the floor for his abandoned crutches. After finally managing to find them in the darkness, Nick hauls himself up off the couch to balance on his good foot, wincing at the press of the crutches against his tender underarms. His throat feels dry and gritty with regret and guilt, so Nick reluctantly makes his way towards the kitchen to pour himself a glass of water before he finally crashes into his bed. But when he rounds the corner of the couch he sees something that stops him dead in his tracks.

Jess is standing in the kitchen, making a cup of tea like she always does when she can't sleep. Her fingers flip through the different options of tea bags in the little tin she keeps by their toaster while the kettle of water heats up on the stove. There's a crinkle between her brows as she considers her options, swaying back and forth on her feet like she just can't keep still for even a moment.

After another moment of consideration, Jess plucks out an orange teabag and sets it aside on the counter so she can fuss with the kettle. Nick takes another step towards her, and when he gets close he realizes with a dawning terror that something’s off. Jess has always been pale, but she’s practically translucent, and Nick swears he can see the shimmer of the metal kettle through the back of her hand. Her hair looks like it’s floating just above her shoulders, like she’s submerged in the bottom of a pool, and the curls swing slowly as they’re pushed around by some invisible current.

Nick’s breath catches in his throat as he stammers, “Jess?”

At the sound of her name Jess turns her head to face him, her hair swirling around her head as she does. The planes of her face are strange, both rounded and flat all at once, like the artist who drew her couldn't decide if they wanted to make a cartoon or a three-dimensional figure. It's almost like an uncanny valley, unmistakably Jess but also not quite right in a way that's strangely unsettling and puts him on edge.

The figure of Jess smiles, and it sends a cold chill down Nick’s spine. It’s familiar, but in a way that’s not familiar at all, like her teeth are too bright and her lips are stretched a fraction too wide. Her eyes are unfocused as if she’s looking straight through his chest at something across the room instead of him standing right in front of her. Nick reaches other to touch her shoulder and feel the soft flannel of her pajama set, but his fingers don’t catch on anything, just pass right through her like she’s not there at all.

“When will this end?" Jess asks him, her voice a million miles away despite that her face is but a few inches from his. It echoes in the silence of the kitchen and makes the hair on the back of Nick's neck stand up, like he brushed up against a live wire by mistake and shocked himself.

The pain in Nick's head doubles, flaring in the edges of his vision. “I don’t-”

“You're scaring me.”

He stumbles backward, nearly losing his footing on his uninjured leg as he fumbles with his crutches. “I-”

“You need to wake up, Nick.”

---

Nick blinks his eyes open, and there’s sunlight streaming through the window of the loft living room. His face is stuck to the leather couch with a pool of drool, a queasy feeling in his stomach that he only gets after nightmares. Of course it was a dream. Jess is gone. He knows that, even if his sleeping, concussed brain hasn’t quite faced that reality. Nick gives his face a slap as he slowly pushes himself up into a sitting position. His head aches again, and Nick glances over to the DVD player to see what time it is, but the numbers swim around and don’t tell him anything worth knowing. 

With a reluctant sigh of acceptance Nick heaves himself up off the couch, hopping on one leg as he hoists his crutches up from the floor before stalking off to the kitchen, where he pours himself a bowl of cereal. After a moment of dread, he looks over at the kettle that Jess had used last night, but it’s not on the stove. It must be packed away where Schmidt always keeps it when Jess isn’t using it. No one’s touched the damn thing since the accident. Even Jess’ little tin of tea bags is still sitting abandoned in the back corner of the kitchen counter.

He’s going crazy. That’s the only explanation for it. He’s guilty and grieving and trying to recover from a serious head injury. Even the thought of it sends another wave of pain radiating through his skull. Nick shovels a bite of cereal into his mouth, and it’s not until he chews that he realizes that he doesn’t remember pouring milk into his bowl. But before he can think too hard about it, he’s interrupted by Schmidt’s door swinging open behind him.

“Hey man,” he says, brushing past him to start up a pot of his ridiculously fancy coffee press thing. “How’re you feeling?”

“Like shit,” Nick answers honestly.

Schmidt hums in consolation as he fills the coffee-thing with tap water. He must be out of the needlessly expensive mineral water he uses. “Yeah, thought so.” The sink cuts off and the stove sparks to life as Schmidt sets the press on the front burner before turning back to Nick. “I miss you.”

“I’m right here, you clown,” Nick responds, his brow furrowing. The expression tugs harder at the ache behind his temples, and he forces his face to relax. 

He watches as Schmdit bustles around the kitchen, grabbing his AssStrat mug off the dish drying rack as he goes to get his oat milk or whatever it is he’s using these days out of the fridge. Nick takes another bite of cereal, but it’s already gone soggy while he was distracted by Schmidt’s weird comment. The melted flakes stick to the back of his esophagus as he tries to swallow, making his throat feel tight as he attempts to clear it with a cough. 

After a few moments pass, Schimdt finally finishes assembling his drink and turns back to face Nick. He takes a long sip of his concoction before grimacing. “Man, this coffee is the worst.”

“It’s that oat stuff you’re using,” Nick says, gesturing to the carton on the counter. The label swims in his vision, but he knows those colors thanks to one too many accidental sips straight from the container when he was too lazy to get a glass or pause to figure out exactly what he was about to drink.

Schmidt laughs a little and takes a seat beside him at the kitchen island. “Would it kill them to invest in a Starbucks or something?”

Nick looks at him for a long moment, confusion settling over him yet again as he tries to parse out the meaning of Schmidt’s words. God, he can’t wait for this concussion to finally heal so he doesn’t feel like he’s going crazy all the time. Which reminds him...

“Can I ask you a question?” Nick admits hesitantly, leaning in close to Schmidt so no one but his best friend can hear how stupid he sounds.

“Talk to me.” Schmidt mirrors his posture and also leans in closer, taking another sip of his gross coffee.

“Are ghosts real?”

Schmidt snorts. “C’mon, Nick.”

Nick ducks his head, suddenly realizing just how ridiculous the question is. Of course they’re not real. This is all mixed up inside his rattled noggin. That’s the perfectly reasonable explanation. “You’re right. I’m being ridiculous.”

Schmidt’s hand lands on his shoulder and he gives him a supportive shake. “I gotta go.”

“Alright.”

“I’ll be back soon.”

“Okay.”

“I’ll... I’ll see you around.”

“Ssesh. Don’t need to make a big production out of it, Schmitty.”

Schmidt chuckles. “Bye, Nick.”

---

After Schmidt heads out for work or whatever else he gets up to during the day, the sour taste in Nick's mouth from passing out without brushing his teeth last night grows too much to bear. Nick hops on one leg as he rearranges his crutches in the least uncomfortable position before making his way off to the bathroom. He wets his toothbrush under the sink before smearing toothpaste on the bristles and shoving it into his mouth to scrub at his teeth and get rid of the strange taste lingering in the back of his throat.

He knows what’s going on. Now that it’s actually sinking into his addled head what happened, the guilt of Jess’ untimely death is driving him mad. Nick’s hand falters slightly as his eyes fall shut, the too-familiar ache pounding at his temples. Jess had been right. He was driving too fast, he was being stupid and reckless and now he has to face the consequences of that. But it’s not the right consequence. He should be the one six feet under, not Jess, who didn’t do anything wrong. He’s the one who doesn’t have anything to make out of his life, at least nothing that he deserves to have, especially now that he’s destroyed the one good thing to ever happen to him.

And it’s not just his life that he’s ruined. Jess is gone. Gone. Her parents will never get to celebrate another Christmas or Thanksgiving without wishing she was there to be with them. Her students will never see her in the halls, smiling cheerily and encouraging them to try out for the fall musical. Cece won’t have her best friend to share secrets and say that she deserves better when her latest trashy excuse of a boyfriend inevitably does something stupid. The loft feels so empty without her, and even though Winston and Schmidt are trying to be supportive of him, he can tell they’re upset by the loss.  

Nick leans down to spit into the sink and swishes a handful of water around in his mouth as his toothbrush falls back onto the metal shelf above the sink with a clatter. He slowly straightens up, and the sour taste of guilt in the back of his throat overwhelms the mint of his toothpaste. Nick scrubs his hands over his face again, too ashamed to face his own reflection in the mirror, though he's sure that it would just look like some kind of abstract painting given how wacked up his head is these days.

With a sigh he leaves the bathroom to stumble into his room. Nick tosses the crutches onto the floor beside his bed before falling down ungracefully onto the mattress. His back aches almost instantly, and Nick groans as he tries to shift into a semi-comfortable position without jostling his broken leg. He rolls over onto his side, and a shiver comes over him again when he blinks his eyes open.

Jess is sitting on the other side of the bed, her back to him and her legs dangling over the edge of the mattress. The slope of her bare back shimmers, the curls of her hair swirling weightlessly around her shoulders. Her hands are resting on either side of her hips, palms pressed down on his mattress as she stares silently at his bedroom window. Nick’s eyes trace over the gentle curves of her that are almost ethereal. In the full light of day she's even more strange, like an afterimage burned into the back of his eyelids, the rough shape of a bright light that fades with each blink.

“Jess?” he asks, heart stuttering.

She turns her head towards him, looking at him over her shoulder, translucent hair floating through the air. The shapes that make up her face blur in his eyes. He can almost see them moving when he stares for too long, like a drawing animated by someone with a shaky hand. The sunlight glints off the upper curve of her arm, and it catches a few of the tiny pieces of dust as they pass through her form before drifting off through the air.

“Nick, please.”

“I know you’re not real," he stammers, equal parts wishing and terrified she'll disappear once he admits it.

Just like the night before, his words don't seem to register with her. She shifts on the bed, bringing up one leg to curl in front of her so she can turn her torso towards him. Unlike the last time he saw her, she isn't wearing any clothes, but the image is just as unsettling. He wants to touch her like the last time she was in his bed, but this isn't her, it couldn’t be. It makes his headache worsen, like there's a huge weight pressing down on the top of his skull.

“I can’t keep doing this," her voice is pained, her offset features realigning to portray the anguish in her tone.

Nick grits his teeth, clinging to whatever scrap of sanity he has left. “This is all in my head,"

“I can’t, Nick. I feel like I can’t breathe.”

“Stop it," he begs.

“Please, Nick. Wake up.”

---

Nick startles awake for the second time that morning, this time tangled up in his now sweat-soaked sheets. His skin is sticky and feels too-tight on his body, like it’s constricting him and keeping him from being able to breathe. Without allowing himself a moment to dwell on his delusions, he hauls himself out of bed and rips the sheets off the mattress, leaving it bare. He stumbles to the hallway and shoves the linens into the washing machine. The words on the buttons swim in his eyes, so he spins the wheel at random before hitting what he thinks is ‘start’ based on muscle memory. The machine whirs to life, and Nick feels a spark of success in his own adult skills as he collapses against the wall of the hallway, head pounding like a drum. 

---

Nick doesn’t do much during the days he doesn't have work, and that’s no exception when he’s recovering from the car accident. They don’t want him in the bar when he’s still trying to piece himself together, and Big Bob tells him as much when he calls in sick. It takes him a dozen times to finally dial the right number, accidentally getting at least five wrong voicemails and the rest are his phone yelling at him in artificial robotic voices that the number is invalid or disconnected. His phone screen doesn’t make any sense to him, and the more he stares at the bright light of it the more his head aches. 

He’s sitting on the couch and listening to an old Cubs game playing on ESPN Classic, his eyes closed and head tipped back against the cushions of the couch because it hurts too much to try and watch the broadcast on the tv itself. He's exhausted. Every time he tries to rest, his traitorous mind puts him through the wringer, dragging him back into the pool of his guilt by making him come face to eerie replica of a face with the personification of his greatest failure.

It’s eating him up from the inside, gnawing at the empty cavern of his chest and his aching head until he’s sick with it. Nick’s come to accept and even expect a certain level of failure from himself, whether that’s a doomed tomato garden on the roof or a squandered career as a lawyer or a disastrously turbulent relationship with Caroline that ended with him getting dumped time and time again. But Jess is so much better than that. She had ambition and dreams and a bright shining future that for one bright moment Nick wondered if he might be able to slot himself into. We would’ve done anything for her, would’ve given every ounce of himself away just to see her smile and make her happy. 

But of course, nothing good for him ever lasts. He ruined this, just like he ruins everything else he touches, like a shitty version of King Midas. It’s like there’s something terrible inside of him that eats away anything like a viscous acid, and not even Jess was strong enough to survive it. 

His head reels and his stomach heaves as he thinks about the crash. He knows now that he’ll never forgive himself for it. Hell, it’ll be a miracle if he manages to live with himself once things go back to normal, or as normal as they can be without Jess in their lives. It’s all because of him. They’ll never get to see Jess’ smile or hear her loud laugh again, and it’s all thanks to Nick Miller, serial fuck up. 

There’s a sudden itchiness in his eyes, and Nick dimly feels a few hot tears trickle traitorously down his cheeks. Nick reluctantly blinks open his eyes, reaching up to rub at his face with the back of his hand before one of the guys catches him crying. He pulls his hand away from his face to dry it on his shirt before freezing mid-gesture, because there’s Jess again. 

She’s standing in front of him, fully transparent and floating a few inches off the ground. The softness she had in their previous encounters is gone, instead she’s made entirely of hard lines and sharp angles that crackle threateningly with potential energy. Her hair billows around her like an angry cloud, the fabric of her dress fluttering with a nonexistent wind, and Nick half expects her to be holding a flaming sword. There's a terror that grips his heart and sends a fresh spike of pain up the base of his skull, even worse than the ones before it. 

“Why are you doing this to me?” 

Nick's brow furrows, and it worsens the agony of his headache. “What?”

Jess stares blankly at him, surreal and terrifying. Her eyes are spotlights of bright white light, unseeing as they glare down at him. When she opens her mouth more light spills out, lips downturned in fury. It makes him think of their fights, her never ending passion and conviction of her own supposedly-correct opinion. But then he thinks of the last time they fought, what became their final fight and the last memory of Jess' existence on this plane of reality. The memory doubles-down the pain coursing steadily through his skull.

“Do you know how much I’m hurting?”

“I’m not doing anything,” Nick stammers, feeling just as helpless as he did at that stupid funeral. 

“This is all your fault.”

Her words twist at Nick's gut and seize his heart in his chest, guilt and shame and sorrow boiling in his blood. She’s right. She’s always right. He deserves this, deserves her anger, deserves her swift judgement and execution. Nick feels like he ought to fall to his knees before her, to clasp his hands together and beg for penance that he doesn’t deserve. 

“What do I do?”

“You need to wake up.”

---

Nick startles awake with a crick in his neck, the game long since over and some documentary about Tiger Woods playing in the background. It’s nighttime, and Nick’s dimly aware that he must have slept through the entire day. He semi-recalls the doctor telling him to limit the lengths of his sleep, just to make sure he continues to wake up each time. But apparently he's fine, even if the dull stinging in his brain begs to differ.

“Hey,” Winston says, nudging his arm as he falls onto the couch beside him. 

“I think I’m going crazy," Nick admits, head still reeling from his last vision.

“Yeah, me too.”

“I mean it," he insists, trying to pour as much as he can into the words without full-on admitting that he thinks he's being gaslit by the ghost of the woman whose death he caused.

Winston hums, reaching out for the remote and switching to some new channel. The light of the screen flickers, casting a new color across the floor of the living room. “I got bit by a badger. Not sure if you remember that.”

“At the wedding?”

“Oh, and I might be colorblind," Winston continues, ignoring Nick's semi-rhetorical question.

Nick hums in thought, thinking of the last time Winston tried to do a puzzle and instead had to be corralled back into the realm of sanity. Though after all that's happened to him over the past hours, Nick no longer feels like he's in a position to judge. “Yeah, I can believe that.”

There’s a moment of silence between them. Nick appreciates how Winston is okay to let pauses like this linger. He stares blankly at the bright flashes of the television, frustrated that he can’t even make out what’s going on. He doesn't understand why nothing makes sense to him anymore. It's like he can't even trust his own head. He wonders if this is some kind of sixth stage of grief, a level of misery reserved for horrible people like him who deserve to suffer as a result of their actions.

“Am I ever gonna feel normal again?” The question twists at his stomach, an acknowledgement of the horrible reality in which Jess continues to haunt him while he slowly but surely loses his mind. Nick doesn't know how he's supposed to cope with this loss. He feels like he's lost everything, and in a way he really has.

“Docs say it doesn’t look good," Winston replies cryptically.

Nick frowns, the relentless ache of his head returning in full force. “When did you start talking to my doctor?”

Winston gives his shoulder another shake. “I know you man. You got this.”

---

Nick loses track of time again, and it’s not until he feels the blanket draped over his bare legs that he realizes he’s tucked into his bed, even though he can’t quite remember how he got here. His mouth feels all slimy and gross, and he knows he should probably get up and brush his teeth, but he’s comfy here. One night can’t hurt, right?

Sleep tugs at his heavy eyelids, his head aching like it has been insistently all day. Nick shivers and settles deeper under the covers, tugging his comforter/sleeping bag tighter around his shoulders. He can feel the pull of darkness luring him to fall into it and allow it to swallow him up and finally allow him to rest. As he leans forward into the black Nick feels another tug in his gut, something he doesn't know how to describe telling him not to go. It doesn't make sense, and for the hundredth time Nick wishes he wasn't so fucking confused by everything around him. It's exhausting and he wants so desperately for it to just stop.

He blinks his tired eyes slowly and when he opens them again Jess is at his side, leaning against his bedside table as she looks at the bed. She's even more ghostly than the other times she appeared, like whatever life source she has is fading away. Nick can almost see clear through her, the light of his lamp shining through her transparent face as she stares at him. He can see the outlines of her form and features shimmering in the darkness, like a line drawing he tried to make of her from memory. 

It’s the first time she’s really looked directly at him, and Nick feels it boring into him like a sharp stabbing pain. She lifts a hand slowly, half outstretched towards him like she's beckoning for him to take it. Nick feels paralyzed with fear as he stares at the vague haze of her arm, her slim wrist and the delicate lines of fingers. He could wrap his whole hand around the width of hers, or interlock their fingers together. Instead he lies limply on the bed, staring up at her helplessly.

“Please, I don’t know if you can hear me.”

“I’m sorry,” he says, the words burning his mouth the minute he says them. It echoes deep in his chest just how badly he’s fucked up. He wonders how long she’s going to haunt him for, if this is his punishment for destroying her life. 

Jess sags, like an invisible weight is pushing her ghostly form down as she sinks through the surface of the table. There's hurt spelled out clearly in her strange features, and it seizes at Nick's heart as his head explodes in a stabbing pain like a million needles threading through his scalp. She looks miserable, and the chorus of 'you did this to her' rings in his ears almost as clearly as her next words. 

“When are you going to wake up, Nick?”

“I can’t.” His heart pounds in his chest in time to the blinding pain in his head. He wants it to end, wants to set her free. Maybe if he gives in to the blackness creeping in the edges of his vision she'll finally disappear for good.

“Please, Nick.”

She grabs his wrist, and it burns him like hot iron, painfully searing his skin. But despite the agony of it scorching his sensitive skin, Nick can’t yank his hand out of her grip. His arm just lies there, useless, tied down by the line of his IV. Jess is staring at him and her face shimmers, something like tears running down her face as she begs him to end her anguish. For a ghost she’s surprisingly firm, like she’s really holding onto him.

“Please.”

Nick’s head feels like it might explode. The pain worsens as Jess’ hand tightens around his wrist, nails digging into his skin. His fingers twitch as the ache in his head worsens to impossibly new levels, like his skull is being squeezed by a giant fist while his brain melts out of his ears. The darkness in the edges of his vision creeps closer as he screws his eyes shut, struggling to breathe and desperate for relief. Nick can feel it closing in on him again, only for Jess's white hot grip on his arm to reel him back.

“Nick.”

“Fuck,” he mutters, clenching his jaw and gritting his teeth with the pain of it. He feels like an ice pick is being driven through his temple, splitting his head open in two as he tries to push through it. Jess’ voice is the only thing he can hear, and it rings in his ears like glass stabbing through his exhausted eyes. He’s so tired. So fucking tired. But he’s sick of sleeping. He wants to wake up. He needs to wake up. 

“Nick!”

---

It’s bright. So fucking bright. Nick blinks his eyes open and immediately shuts them with a wince, the sudden and unexpected contrast burning through his closed eyelids. After a moment the pain fades, and Nick pries his eyes open slowly, trying to block out the worst of it with his eyelashes as he squints around at his harshly lit surroundings. 

He’s not in the loft. He doesn’t have the sightest idea where the fuck he actually is, but it’s not the loft. It smells weird, like after Schmidt’s spring cleaning sweep where he scrubs every surface with that awful disinfectant he buys in bulk from some industry-grade place online that only sells it by the gallon tub. There's something heavy lying on his chest, pinning him down to the firm bed beneath him.

“Nick?” Jess’ voice is crystal clear, like she’s right next to him. But that’s not right. Nick doesn’t know why, but it’s not. He tries to remember but it flares up the ache behind his temples and his eyes fall shut again.

There’s a soft brush over his forehead, like someone’s fingertips. Nick forces his eyes open one more time, and sure enough, there’s a hand right in front of his face. It gently pushes his hair off of his sweaty brow, lingering a moment too long on his overheated skin. With a reluctant groan Nick rolls his head to look at the mystery person attached to said hand.

It’s Jess. Her dark hair is pushed back into a messy ponytail, the parts near her scalp gleaming under the artificial lights above them. She’s wearing a familiar slightly-stained hoodie, the one he remembers wearing that fateful afternoon they tried to play football with a few of their other friends in the park. It looks massive on her, both because it’s loose on him and they’re already so different in sizing, but also because she seems even more thin than usual, like when she tried to go on that lemon juice ‘cleanse’ that ended with her throwing up in the bathroom sink three days later while he begged her to eat some actual food. He dimly wonders how long it’s been since her last real meal. Jess looks almost as exhausted as he feels, dark bags under her eyes and worry lines wrinkling her brow and the corners of her mouth. It makes him feel sad, and he silently resolves to fix whatever it is that’s got her all upset.

“Nick?” she asks again, her voice wavering.

“You look like shit,” he stammers, his throat rough like sandpaper and dimly aware that he’s probably said the wrong thing.

In spite of his utterly stupid comment, Jess’ face lights up, tears welling up in her eyes as she laughs, only a touch hysterical as she launches herself at him. Nick lets out a soft oof as she crashes into his chest, pulling him forward off the bed to wrap her arms tight around him. His hands reflexively come up to settle on her sides as she buries her face in his neck. There’s something wet against his skin, and he dimly realizes she’s crying.

“Hey, you don’t have to be upset,” he says dumbly, fingers flexing against the fabric of her sweatshirt. “I’m sorry.”

Jess laughs again, half wet sob and half disbelief. “I...” she starts, but then trails off, apparently lost for words, and instead just squeezes him again.

Nick holds Jess for a while, relaxing into her with his head tucked into her shoulder and his forehead resting against her jaw. She feels so real, and whatever dream within a dream this is, it’s a nice one. It makes his heart swell with a tentative flicker of hope, like maybe he managed not to ruin things for once in his life. Like maybe the universe has given him a second chance to go back and make things right. 

After what feels like forever, Jess finally pulls away from him. She’s still holding onto his forearms, her touch surprisingly firm. Nick looks at her hands for a while before slowly traveling up her arms to look at her face. Jess is smiling at him, bright and beautiful. It’s shockingly genuine, and he realizes just how much ghost Jess got wrong.

Wait. 

“Where am I?”

“You’re in the hospital.” Jess’ thumb gently strokes over his skin.

“No, I was discharged from the hospital.” Nick racks his still-aching head, trying to remember. He thinks he was, but now that he says it he can’t actually remember filling out any paperwork. He’d assumed that Schmidt did it for him. Trying to remember makes the dull throbbing behind his eye sockets flare up, undoing whatever good Jess’ hug had done to wash away the pain.

Jess frowns, teeth dragging over her lower lip in worry. “You’ve been here for a week.”

“We were in a car crash,” Nick continues, his eyes dropping back down to where she’s holding him. The pieces are slowly assembling themselves in his head, like he's trying to retrace his steps and remember where he left his keys. “And you’d...”

“We were arguing and didn’t realize a truck was coming right for us," she fills in, her hands tightening on his forearms, like she's trying to reassure herself that he's in front of her. The pressure is shockingly firm, but Nick’s been fooled before, hesitant to commit to this version of reality without the indisputable proof that he isn’t just making up some scenario to wash away his misery and guilt.

“I was in the loft." Nick's brow furrows, a too-familiar dull headache building behind his forehead, the only constant while he felt he was losing his mind with grief and guilt over her death. "You were gone. But I kept seeing you.”

“You were in a coma.” Jess’ frown deepens as she corrects him, but although the words resonate in his chest they don't stick to his thoughts as a reality. “You must’ve been dreaming.”

Nick looks back up at her face. Jess' features are solid and familiar. The planes of her face are opaque and reflect the florescent hospital lights above their heads. Nick presses his thumb against her wrist, oddly surprised when it doesn’t pass through her skin. Her eyes are blue and shimmery in a way that sends an uncomfortable shiver down his spine when he thinks of her distant and unseeing gaze. “You were a ghost. And you were telling me to wake up.”

A heavy sadness falls over Jess' face, one that's heart achingly familiar and it sends a fresh wave of guilt washing over him. Her eyes flick over his features, like she’s trying to commit him to memory. “I kept talking to you, hoping you could hear me.”

His head is starting to clear, and for the first time he feels like he can actually think straight. It's like a weight is lifting off his shoulders and he can finally trust what's in front of him isn't just a phantom cooked up by grief. The strange fog clouding his reasoning is slowly dissipating as the pieces click into place: the odd passage of time that he couldn't remember, the way words and numbers swirled incomprehensibly when he tried to read them, the strange words of his friends as they ignored his responses and carried on speaking to him. It was all a nightmare, where the only thing that tethered him to this world was Jess’ words cutting through the fog and weaving themselves into his subconscious. 

“You said I was hurting you," he repeats, her words rattling in his head now that he knows they were real and not just the cryptic messages of a ghost haunting him. Nick dimly realizes the grief and pain that he must have put her through, an echo of which still feels lodged into his chest from when he'd been convinced that she had died because of his recklessness. He’d left her all alone to deal with this, to try and process the reality of losing him and cope with the fact that it was their fight that had brought this upon them.

“I...” Jess draws back slightly, but Nick grabs her hands with his to hold her firmly. He needs something to keep him tethered to this reality, where Jess is alive and he just woke up from a week-long coma. Her gaze drops down to look at where he's holding her, her voice rough as she admits, “That was a hard night. The doctors wanted to take you off life support, and I-” Jess hiccups, a tear slipping down her face. “It just felt so hopeless.”

Nick brings up one of his hands to cradle her cheek and wipe away her tears. His thumb brushes over the dark shadow under her eye and he marvels at just how real she feels, her skin firm and warm beneath his palm. “Were you here this whole time?” he asks her in disbelief.

Jess leans into his touch, and the look in her eyes makes his heart ache. “I couldn’t leave you.”

“Fuck,” Nick curses under his breath. “I’m so sorry.”

“You’re here,” she whispers, tears welling up in her eyes. “That’s what matters.”

He doesn’t deserve this. He doesn’t deserve her. He knows that. But he cares about her so fucking much, and the shimmer and depth of emotion in her crystal blue eyes tells him that she, impossibly, feels the same about him. There’s bags under her eyes from sleepless nights spent worrying at his bedside, the familiar green sweatshirt wrinkled from spending too many hours sitting in the uncomfortable plastic hospital chair, exhausted and yet unable to leave his side. There’s no doubt in his mind that he would’ve done the same for her, that he would’ve driven himself mad waiting by her bedside and fighting off anyone who tried to reason with him and convince him to go home.

Nick opens his mouth to say something, but he doesn’t have the words to describe the hurt and joy and sadness and love that he feels for her. 

Instead he gently tugs at her hand and kisses her. He can feel Jess smiling against his mouth and her hands come up to frame his face as she returns the kiss. Nick’s eyes fall shut as he deepens the kiss, his heart soaring as he thanks his lucky stars for yanking him back into reality instead of letting him careen into nothingness without her to pull his sorry ass away from the dark. Jess’ thumbs stroke over his cheeks, and Nick dimly realizes he’s crying, and he reaches forward to wrap his arms around Jess’ middle in disbelief, holding her the way he thought he never would get to do again.

“It’s okay,” she mumbles against his lips before pressing another kiss to his mouth. “You’re alright.” Another kiss. “I’m here.”

When they finally break apart Nick buries his face into her neck, holding Jess as tight as he can and swearing that he’ll never let her go, his heart soaring at the way she clings to him just as hard.

[thisislizheather]

July Jiffs 2021

Yes, this monthly post should’ve been written on August 1st. Don’t be such a stickler, it’s not attractive. In any case, my apologies, it definitely will happen again. Here’s what went down in July!

You can find my favourite tweets of the month over here and here.

I ate the July-only-special Emmy cheeseburger dumplings from Mimi Cheng’s and they were incredible. I feel bad that you missed eating them.

Above Photo: Emmy Burger Dumplings (emmy cheeseburger dumplings in collaboration with Pizza Loves Emily/Emmy Squared, dry-aged beef, Grafton cheddar, crushed pretzels, caramelized onions, and Emmy Sauce. Pan-fried only. (8 pieces) $16.45

Nathan and I have been making homemade green iced tea every day and I think we might officially be better than you now…? Weird how that happened.

I finally found rain boots! I got them during the Nordstrom sale and I can’t wait to test them out. Those boots and this rain coat? Finally my life is figured out.

I wrote about the day trip I took to Connecticut.

Dying to see the movie about Celine Dion ‘Aline’ because it sounds insane.

I went to The Met to see the roof finally and what a time I had, I can’t wait to go again after October 29th when the fashion exhibit opens.

Above Photo: The Met rooftop, July 2021

Above Photo: The French decorative arts wing, The Met

Did you know that China imposed a cybercurfew barring those under 18 from playing games between 10pm and 8am? I kind of love it? I might not be allowed to have that opinion out loud, but here we are.

It’s summer so I’m making these tomato sandwiches semi-daily but I reeeally want to make this one with garlic aioli next.

I had the pizza at Spunto’s in the West Village and A+, will definitely go again.

I made crab cakes at home for the first time (with this dipping sauce) and I can’t believe how easy and incredible they were. Crab cakes > lobster, ANY day.

Ate the meatball parm at Scarr’s because I’m clearly crushing life and it was really good. I don’t think I’ve ever had a mind-blowing one, so the search continues.

Above Photo: Meatball parm at Scarr’s, NYC

I’ve been wanting a great club sandwich for months, so I went to Marks Off Madison and it was beyond satisfying. The bar area is perfect if you’re eating alone and the staff was stellar. Their Times review is so well deserved.

Above Photo: Club sandwich at Marks Off Madison, NYC

I used this Becca body highlighter (look it was $5 at Marshalls and we’re all depressed, leave me alone) to use at a wedding and did my legs look shiny? Not sure, I received approximately zero feedback on it but here’s the verdict: it’s a perfectly okay product. I think I just wanted to try something from Becca since they’re going out of business next month.

I also tried and already returned the lip plumper from Grande Cosmetics, which was a disappointment. Lip plumpers never work, when will I learn. Hot sauce lips might just truly be the only answer to temporary plumpness.

As a Canadian, I hope you’re aware of Mathew Evans and Henry Woodward because you should be. CAN’T believe I didn’t know about them until now. Where the hell was the Heritage Moment for them?!

I made a strawberry crumble coffee cake and it was too, too good, it’s such a perfect recipe if you have an abundance of strawberries and you’re sick of making jam. Adding sour cream made it moist as hell and I have to remember this for future coffee cakes.

Above Photo: Strawberry crumble coffee cake

It’s insane that it took me three decades to finally try caviar, but I did and now I want it by the boatload. I was gonna ask why no one told me, but everyone, everywhere has always been vocal about its greatness, so I’ll close my mouth.

I had to get an Indian wedding suit tailored, so I went to India Sari Palace in Jackson Heights and I can’t recommend it enough. Never had something tailored so perfectly. (I’ll never forgot Mindy Kaling saying years ago how rich people don’t buy better clothes, they just have all of their clothing tailored to their bodies so everything just looks better on them.)

I made this lemon butter ricotta zucchini pasta and it was summer in a bowl. I charred and added fresh corn as well and that sent it straight through the goddamn roof.

I’ll always look at the trivia page on IMDB of any movie I watch, so I can’t believe I didn’t know most of these Back To The Future details.

I bought this Zara dress for one of the weddings I went to and I can’t believe how much I loved it.

Above Photo: The Zara dress

I visited the new Dominique Ansel Workshop and I hate to say it, but it’s wildly overhyped. Maybe I’m wrong, but isn’t the chocolate in a chocolate croissant supposed to be a little melted and not hard as a rock? And the tomato tart tatine was weirdly underdone, too. What’s going on?

I made these eggless chocolate chip cookies that were wonderful.

In failure news this month, I optimistically tried to start a wardrobe challenge but brutally flopped on following through with it so I will attempt it again soon!

Incase you care, August is the only month you can apply for SNL tickets so get on that, if you so desire.

I maintain that this is the best moment from any of the Paranormal Activity movies, it still gives me chills.

Look, I’m a simple person. Sometimes you just want some Dippin’ Dots without trekking to an amusement park.

Above Photo: Dippin’ Dots in Flatiron, NYC

The Enbridge Ride to Conquer Cancer benefiting benefiting Princess Margaret Cancer Centre is a two-day, 200-kilometre cycling journey through the Canadian countryside on August 28/29, 2021 - support my good friend Greg who’s apart of it over here!

Things that I’ve been rewatching:

Desperate Housewives and I have zero idea why, it’s an objectively bad show. I grow to hate each character more and more as each season passes by, what am I doing and why can’t I stop.

Old Shrill episodes because I’m so, so sad it’s over forever.

New things I’ve watched:

I’m still in awe of how good this second season of Dave has been and I can’t wait for the season finale next week.

The movie Mystic Pizza - what a party! I mean one viewing is enough, but a pretty good movie.

I finally watched the movie Soul and it was (of course) really good, but my brother was right, it really felt like it was just missing one thing. I can’t explain it, but it was maybe one element away from being a perfect movie.

I tried the croissant soft serve from Supermoon Bakehouse and they’re truly doing the lord’s work over there. Just unreal. They’re only open Fri/Sat/Sun, but their offerings are above and beyond a regular old bakery.

Above Photo: Croissant soft serve at Supermoon Bakehouse, NYC

Some things I’m looking forward to this month: I’ve never even heard of a buckle but now I must make one, I’ll continue to mark things off of my summer list, I’d like to get in at least one more pool, I can’t wait to take a little drive for another mini-trip, and I think I’ll try to spend my remaining summer days tanning on my roof. Oh and of course I need to start plans for October. It’s going to be more fun than ever before, stay tuned.

If you have any interest in reading what went on in June, come on over here.

[chardham-tour]

Why the Chopta Chandrashila Trek is a Must-Do Adventure

The Chopta-Chandrashila Trek is an enthralling excursion through the breathtaking winter scenery of the Garhwal area of Uttarakhand. This journey is a must-do because of its amazing views, spiritual importance, and difficult yet rewarding trails. The journey begins close to Sari hamlet and passes via Tungnath and Chopta before reaching Chandrashila Peak. Trekkers are treated to snow-covered scenery and the tranquil beauty of the Chopta area throughout the winter.

@https://medium.com/@riatakia6/why-the-chopta-chandrashila-trek-is-a-must-do-adventure-3f12ee724a95

[womanlalaboy]

Womanlalaboy’s Travel Guide to Mt. Manalmon and Mt. Gola

SUMMARY

Elevation: 196+ MASL (Mt. Manalmon);  192+ MASL (Mt. Gola) Jump- off: Sitio Madlum, Brgy. Sibul, San Miguel Days / hours to summit: Half-day Climb: Minor Difficulty: 2/9 Trail class: 1-2 Features: Beautiful  landscapes with various terrain types, a view of the Madlum River, with access to 2 caves

Type of Travel: Package and DIY Date of Travel: Jul 27-28, 2019 Duration: 2D1N Budget: P 1100 - 1500

If you want a climb that is filled with adventure and a variety of sights, Malmon-Gola twin hike is just right for you.

Both are nestled within the protected area of Biak Na Bato National Park. The trail leads to bamboo forests, grasslands and rock formations. There are areas that need to be climbed with the aid of ropes, including Mt. Manalmon’s peaks. Side trips are available for adventure junkies and history enthusiasts. You can sample the Bayukbok Caves and the Madlum cave. You can also go to Madlum River for a dip, and try the monkey bridge.

To get from Mt. Malmon to Mt. Gola, hikers will have to cross the Madlum River with water raising up to chest level when raining and with current strong enough to pull anyone of any size. But if the weather’s on your side, this twin hike would be very easy for any beginner. Some would even call it a ‘pabebe’ hike, but never when the conditions change. Like what people always say, “never underestimate a mountain.”

HOW TO GET THERE

Commute from Manila: Take a bus from Pasay or Cubao terminals to Cabanatuan (Baliwag Transit, ES Transport, and Five Star Transport) > drop off at Brgy. Kamias, San Miguel, Bulacan > Ride a tricycle to Brgy. Madlum

Private car: NLEX > Take Sta. Rita exit >  Follow the road to Cagayan Valley, passing by Plaridel,Pulilan, Baliuag, San Rafael and San Ildefonso >  At San Miguel, ask directions for Brgy. Madlum

It should only take 2-3 hours to get to Bulacan from Manila, but you should always give more allowance to heavy traffic especially when it pours. We were lucky enough to pass through EDSA with ease, but we encountered heavy traffic along Nueva Ecija and Bulacan so it took us about 6 hours to get to the Jump off from Cavite.

ITINERARY

Day 1 10:00 AM – ETD Lumina, Imus 02:00 PM – ETA in Sitio Madlum 06:00 PM – Pitch Tent 07:00 PM – Dinner 09:00 PM – Light's off Day 2 04:00 AM – Wake up Call 05:30 AM – Start Trek to Mt. Manalmon 06:30 AM – Summit Manalmon 07:30 AM – Descend 09:00 AM – Summit Mt. Gola 10:30 AM – Descend 12:00 PM – Lunch 02:00 PM – Monkey Bridge 03:00 PM – Bayukbuk Cave 04:00 PM – Swimming @madlum​, River 05:00 PM – Break camp 06:00 PM – Post Climb 10:00 PM – ETA Lumina Imus

It was pouring rain when we arrived at Sitio Madlum, so we had a hard time following the itinerary. We’re just lucky to be spared by the weather every time we get to a peak. It’s as if the Gods are giving us time to take photos and enjoy the scenery. We’re really glad for moments like the above photo where the sky started to clear out and we just rested for a fer minutes to marvel at the beauty of the entire Biak Na Bato.

Before our actual hike, we had an outreach program and there’s supposed to be a tree planting activity included in the itinerary, but we ran out of seedlings to use. There was a huge tree planting event before our hike so there were nothing left for us to plant, but we’ve successfully executed the distribution of food, school supplies and slippers to the kids of Sitio Madlum, so all was well except for when we had to descend from Mt. Gola. Our guide opted to change our route. We followed the river instead of crossing it in that condition. Being prepared for situations like this proved to be very essential so I’ve listed below the things you may want to consider.

THINGS TO BRING

Head lamp or Flashlight

Rain jacket (depending on the weather)

Sun Block Lotion & Insect Repellent

Food (Lunch, Snacks, and Trail Food)

Water (2-3 liters)

Extra Clothes

Trekking Clothes, Shoes or Sandals

Gloves

Bonnet/Head Gear/Scarf/Malong

Garbage bag

Sun Protection (hats, headgear, sunglasses, sleeves)

Personal Medicine and First Aid Kit

Personal Toiletries

Tent

Cook set

Portable stove

Spoon,fork,plates,mugs/tumbler

FAQs

Is there mobile signal in the area? Yes, even at the peak, but thunderstorm and heavy rains usually affect the signal at the foot of the mountain.

Are there stores in the camp site? Yes. There are a few stores there that offers the usual sari-sari store stuff. You can also reserve your lunch or dinner at Tata Carding’s.

Are there comfort rooms in the area? At the camp site, yes. And there are fees. P5 for change of clothes, P20 for taking a bath, P10 for taking a dump and P5 for when you need to pee. 

Is there a parking are? They don’t have an organized parking area. We parked our vans near the hanging bridge.

Are the guides required? Yes. P300 per guide for 5 pax.

Can you hike both mountains in just a day? Definitely! if you’re a beginner or with beginners, 2hrs tops and you’ll reach one peak. If your group is pretty fit, you’ll do good with an hour of trek, but things can get really challenging when it pours.

NOTES

As always, practice LNT (Leave No Trace). We are mere visitors. Let’s respect the place and its people by taking with us what we brought there. You might get tempted to dump your waste in their trash bins or makeshift trash bags, but please be mindful that what you bring in the place aren’t supposed to be there. Dispose of your own trash.

Kill nothing but time, take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints.

When in doubt, practice UPS (Upo Para Safe) and GPS (Gapang Para Safe). For some, steep areas can get very tricky and dangerous, so sit or crawl if you need to.

Establish a good relationship with your co-hikers and guides just because :)

Camp if your schedule and itinerary can allow you. Their campsite is by the river and it gets so majestic at night when the moon reflects on the surface of the water.

Communicate with your body. This twin hike is supposed to be easy, but it can get really dangerous when it rains.

Hiking these two mountains are best done with fun friends and to maximize your stay, swim; enjoy the caves and do the monkey bridge. The site has so much to offer than just hiking Gola and Manalmon, but for me, the sight of luscious bamboo forest, carabaoes living the life, and seeing wild dragonflies again are more than enough to compensate the hassle of camping and hiking whilst raining. 

MORE...

Also see: Mt. Manalmon and Mt. Gola photo sets Also read: Panhik #6: TUCLAS Gives Back + Manalmon-Gola Twin Hike Also read: Panhik #5: Dayo Sa Daguldol Also read: Womanlalaboy's Travel Guide to Mt. Daguldol