Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh
For most people, Ugadi—the Telugu New Year—is a time for family, tradition, and celebration at home. But for a group of seven spirited individuals, this Ugadi was unlike any other. On a misty April morning, they laced up their boots, packed their bags, and set out to conquer Jindaghida, the tallest peak in Andhra Pradesh, standing at 1,698 meters.
Organized by Deshatan, a travel and adventure agency that’s making waves among outdoor enthusiasts, the trek was part of a larger fitness and wellness initiative. But for these trekkers, it was something much deeper—it was a chance to reconnect with nature, test their limits, and embrace the essence of new beginnings that Ugadi represents.
The team included Subhradip Mondal, Tinku Bera, Palash Das, Argha Samanta, S Srinivas, Soumen Mukherjee, and R Jaydhar Chowdhary —a diverse mix of nature lovers, colleagues, and friends who share a deep passion for trekking. Most of them are seasoned hikers, but Jindaghida posed a challenge even for the experienced: steep climbs, dense forests, slippery trails, and the unpredictability of the wild.
They began their journey from a remote base village nestled in the Eastern Ghats. With every step through the thick foliage and rocky terrain, they were met with new challenges—slush from recent rains, tangled undergrowth, and even signs of wildlife. But what stood out wasn’t just the terrain—it was their unwavering camaraderie. When one slowed down, the others encouraged. When the climb got tough, they found humor in the struggle.
“Summiting Jindaghida on Ugadi—it wasn’t just a trek. It felt like a symbolic reset,” said one of the trekkers. “Each uphill climb reminded us that with teamwork and belief, any obstacle can be overcome.”
Hours passed, and finally, the dense green opened up to the sky. As they reached the summit, the group was greeted with sweeping views of the Eastern Ghats—rolling hills fading into the horizon, veiled in morning mist and golden sunlight. The timing couldn’t have been more poetic. On this day of renewal, they stood quite literally on top of the world.
In a quiet, heartfelt moment, they unfurled the Indian flag, offering a silent tribute to the land they stood on. A small Ugadi puja followed, where they offered prayers for health, happiness, and prosperity—not just for themselves, but for everyone back home. For a few minutes, the wind carried their hopes across the mountaintop.
Their story quickly made the rounds among colleagues and friends, drawing admiration and praise. More than just a personal accomplishment, their feat highlighted the importance of wellness, team spirit, and making space for adventure in the midst of busy professional lives.
Deshatan, the agency behind the trek, has been instrumental in creating opportunities like this. Known for its curated treks and immersive experiences, it’s become a go-to platform for those looking to explore India’s untouched trails and rediscover themselves along the way.
As the group descended from the peak, spirits high and legs sore, they carried more than just memories. They brought back a powerful reminder—that life’s summits, literal or metaphorical, are all within reach when you have the right people by your side and the will to keep moving forward.
This Ugadi, while others lit lamps at home, these seven lit a spark within themselves. And in doing so, they’ve inspired many more to step out, breathe in the fresh air, and write their own stories of adventure.
Short but marvelous. Fully enjoyed.