Lessons From Manakamana Visit

As long as we remain open-minded about the possibilities and opportunities our life brings us, some experiences can be game-changers. I found my initial visit to Manakamana Temple to be highly positive. It taught me not to judge something by its face value. That aside, it helped me develop an interest in travelling. My budding interest in travelling might one day inspire me to take to vlogging—you never can tell.

I first resisted going there, but later, somehow, I agreed. I had thought it was purely a religious place, and being religious was not my cup of tea. I visited this place for the first time with my parents when I was nine and a second time this year. The whole experience of the cable car ride to the next morning's view of the mountain range from our hotel took my breath away. During my first visit, I was amazed by everything along the way. This year, as a teenager, I could perceive a sense of spiritual bliss or a feeling that I cannot simply verbalise. 

I have learnt to keep an open mind about the pleasure offered by simple things such as spending time in nature, watching people go about their daily routine, conversing with guests, etc. Joys brought by simple things are not ephemeral because they can be found everywhere.

Before my newfound hobby of travelling, I used to confine myself to the unhealthy pleasures like playing video games and eating junk food. Travelling, trekking, etc., help us enrich our minds and expand our comfort zone. I am grateful for my first trip to Manakamana, which helped me get acquainted with the journey and the place and ultimately helped me extract the best out of my second trip. I cannot begin to thank my parents, who "imposed" the tour on me then. 

Grade: IX, Sanskar Pathshala Dang