When I step foot in Dharamshala, I'll have a pleasant vacation with its friendly vibe. That was a long 12-hour bus ride from New Delhi, India, and I promised my stay would be worth it, like a lifetime vacation.
Emotions are still alive whenever I flashback to my soulful journey in the lower Himalayan foothills of Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh. It was a journey filled with awe-inspiring landscapes, heartwarming encounters, and profound tranquility. Seven years have passed, but the memories still live on.
A little rain greeted me at the bus station in McLeod Ganj as I looked for a taxi heading to the hotel in Naddi Village -- the home of the Gaddi Tribe, known for their unique customs, traditional attire, and warm hospitality.
That was a cold and shivering early morning check-in at around 7 a.m., so I unpacked my things, had a little rest, enjoyed a cold shower, had my first breakfast of steaming hot momos and butter tea, and got ready for my first day of tour and adventure in the land of the Tibetans-in-exile in McLeod Ganj.
I spent four days exploring McLeod Ganj and saw and heard from The Dalai Lama when he talked about his place in the Tsuglagkhang temple.
While McLeod Ganj was the bustling town center, it was in Naddi Village that I found true serenity. It was a blissful experience, a peaceful retreat from the world.
Just a few steps away from the hotel where I stayed in the home of the sweet and gentle Naddi tribe. I've met several Gaddi people, including children and adults, and learned about their culture, livelihood, and living conditions. A little interaction but a meaningful observation.
An effortless yet joyful and soulful living in the mountains. When I met them downhill, the Gaddi people, mostly shepherds, took care of their flocks and did their morning activities.
Little kids are courteous, with their rosy cheeks and smiling faces. They have grown up to be refined young ladies and gentlemen.
Even when I'm back at the hotel, I can't get over that experience. I've been to some of the mountains in the Philippines, but seeing the Dhauladhar range is purely captivating.
I was finally in the Middle Himalayas. A dream turned into a reality.
I had breakfast at the hotel's roof deck restaurant and had the most beautiful view of the Dhauladhar. It's a picturesque view as if heaven were real. India is genuinely the Home of the Gods, and I felt the Divinity of the place—a soulful solitude in a paradise closer to heaven.
 I will never forget Dharamshala, a wondrous place in the Indian State of Himachal Pradesh. I will never forget the beautiful natural scenery and the Naddi people of Naddi Village. |
India has a prominent place in my heart. I have learned much about these places and met soulful and endearing people like the Gaddi of the Naddi Village. When the Kingdom of heaven is on earth, it would have been there in the Dhauladhar, and I've met God there and live forever here in my heart.
©️ 2020 Del Cusay
