Introduction: A Lifelong Fascination with Mountains
The Himalayas have always captivated Shanthi, igniting a deep passion for mountains that she carried throughout her life. Her fascination turned into a lifelong dream after her cousin sister returned from the Valley of Flowers trek five years ago. The breathtaking photos fuelled an unshakable desire to experience the mountains for herself.
After years of balancing work and family life, Shanthi finally decided to pursue the dreams she had long postponed.
The Start of an Adventure: Panch Kedar Trek
In November 2020, Shanthi took her first major step by embarking on the Panch Kedar trek with her cousins. This journey awakened her true passion for trekking, something she hadn’t fully realised before. The experience rekindled a deep love for the mountains that had lain dormant within her for years. At the age of 48, Shanthi knew there was no turning back—her trekking journey had just begun.
A Growing Passion: From Brahmatal to Everest Base Camp
Once she got a taste of trekking, Shanthi began saving diligently to pursue her new-found passion. Her adventures soon grew in both frequency and challenge. She completed the Brahmatal trek in March 2021 with Appooppanthaadi, and fulfilled her long-awaited dream of trekking the Valley of Flowers in July of the same year. By October 2021, she had tackled the more challenging Satopanth Lake trek.
The following year marked a new milestone: the Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek in May 2022. Shanthi’s determination to explore didn’t stop there. In July 2022, she ventured into monsoon treks across the Sahyadris, conquering Rajmachi and Visapur. She went on to complete the Gomukh Tapovan trek in October 2022, followed by back-to-back treks in Nepal—the Mardi Himal and Khopra Ridge in April 2023.
Conquering New Heights: Kashmir, Ladakh, and Beyond
By August 2023, Shanthi had crossed off the famous Kashmir Great Lakes (KGL) trek from her list. In January 2024, she braved the icy landscapes of Ladakh on the renowned Chadar trek. The next milestone in her journey came in April 2024, when she conquered the Annapurna Base Camp trek.
For Shanthi, trekking in the mountains is more than just a physical challenge; it is a form of meditation. The peace and tranquillity she finds in the peaks allow her to connect deeply with herself.
Preparing for Adventure: Staying Fit and Focused
Shanthi’s commitment to maintaining her physical and mental well-being is evident in her daily practices of yoga, walking, and pranayama. Even while preparing for or recovering from her treks, she never misses her wellness routine.
Her disciplined approach has allowed her to tackle increasingly difficult challenges in the mountains, always ready for the next adventure.
Shanthi’s story is a testament to the power of determination, passion, and the unyielding human spirit. Her journey is not only about physical endurance but also the joy and peace that come from following one’s true passion—no matter the age or obstacles.
Embracing Biking: A New Adventure on Two Wheels
In addition to trekking, Shanthi has also embraced her love for biking. To celebrate her 51st birthday, she treated herself to a Royal Enfield, fondly named “Hima.” She enjoys taking long weekend rides, with dreams of exploring Ladakh and Spiti on her bike.
Future Goals: The Journey Continues
Though she has already achieved so much, Shanthi’s bucket list remains full of ambitious goals. She dreams of summiting Mount Kilimanjaro, crossing the Bali Pass, and conquering Ghiya Vinayak and Lasermo La. One of her most exciting aspirations is to reach the top of Mount Elbrus.
Words of Wisdom: Shanthi’s Advice for Aspiring Trekkers
Though she has already achieved so much, Shanthi’s bucket list remains full of ambitious goals. She dreams of summiting Mount Kilimanjaro, crossing the Bali Pass, and conquering Ghiya Vinayak and Lasermo La. One of her most exciting aspirations is to reach the top of Mount Elbrus.
Shanthi’s message for those who dream of trekking in the mountains is simple:
“If I could do it, anyone can—with basic preparation.” Here are her top tips for aspiring trekkers:
Learn and Improve: Embrace mistakes as learning opportunities and continue chasing your dreams.
Start Small: Begin with short hikes and easier treks. Passion and mental strength can push you beyond your comfort zone.
Build Confidence Gradually: Gain your family’s support by successfully completing smaller treks. They will eventually understand and back your passion.
Listen to Your Body: Stay hydrated, go at your own pace, and avoid competing with others. Take short breaks to refuel, but don’t pause too long to maintain momentum.
Be a Team Player: Offer help when needed and others will support you in return. Shanthi fondly recalls how her fellow trekkers motivated her to complete tough climbs like the Everest Base Camp and the Gomukh Tapovan trek.
Conclusion: An Unstoppable Spirit
Shanthi’s journey is a shining example of what can be achieved when passion meets determination. Her story encourages anyone with a love for adventure to pursue their dreams, regardless of age or life’s challenges.
Her love for the mountains and biking is not just a hobby—it’s a way of life that inspires those around her. Shanthi’s journey is far from over, and her adventurous spirit continues to push her towards new heights, both literal and metaphorical.
