Lansdowne: 5 frames of tranquility

One of the best sunrises that I have ever witnessed was at Lansdowne.

Credited to be the nearest hill station from Delhi, the town wont have the typical touristy attractions. However it has peace in abundance. A cantonment town, Lamsdowne offers a welcome weekend break from Delhi. Much of the towns attractions (St. Mary's Church, few temples) can be wrapped up on a uphill walk to one of the viewing points called 'Tip n Top' view. This view point offers a spectacular view of the valleys beneath.

However the real fun is when you get up 5 in the morning amidst chilling winds and start your trek to this view point to see the sunrise. I did the same. The trek straight from the bed seemed two fold difficult. Slowly, i had to shed extra layers of cloths I had on me. I remember I was almost breathless when I reached on top, but it was the view that took my breath away. 

This experience made me realize how beautiful and special each new day is...

Kausani.. In the rainbow of mountains

© Abhinav Sharma

My fascination with sunrises continues and it takes me this time to Kausani, a hill station in the remote stretch of Uttrakhand. A couple of days stay here at the Gandhi ashram was a wonderful experience. However an early rise on one of these days to witness the sunrise happens to be the highlight of the tour. 

I didnt had the sun in my direct view and perhaps this was the advantage. For the emerging light happened to graze the waves of mountains with vivid colours. The red morning was swiftly sweeping away the blues of the night and I stood the witness of this cosmic play. In a bunch of seconds, I have seen so much beauty that I can behold it for a lifetime.