It’s a good way to connect with yourself: Jamila Kapasi, Interior designer
The Annapurna circuit and base camp trek in Nepal was the 28-year-old’s first solo trek. “It was a 23-day trek to reach the altitude of 17500 feet. Solo travel is a self indulging experience — the freedom of making every decision for yourself without having to worry about the team. It’s also a good way to connect with yourself and meet new people.”
“My journey started with a trek to the Indian Himalayas called the Pin Parvati pass trek. I spent 10 days in Himachal Pradesh. I then flew to Singapore and next to Thailand. I returned home for a month and left for Nepal.
“I read about the trek online. Since flights to Kathmandu were expensive, we took a train from Hyderabad to the India-Nepal border and then a bus to Pokhara. Packing for an adventure expedition can be challenging as you have to save space.”
What next?
A summit in Leh, called Kang Yatse (6400m). I also want to backpack and trek in Europe.
One needs to be mentally strong: Padmaja Pullabhatla, Marketing professional
The 37 -year-old has done more solo travels than solo treks. “I don’t have a count of how many! The Chadar trek was one of the toughest because we had to deal with many challenges.”
Talking about the best part of being a solo adventurer: “One has to plan everything and there’s no room for negligence at high altitudes. You must be mentally strong. Solo treks are actual tests. One gets to understand their strengths and things they need to work on.”
There will always be obstacles in the way. “During my trek to Europe’s highest peak — Mt. Elbrus, my drinking water froze, and I had no water left at one point. Every trek is different. After doing a few treks and with some rights and wrongs, we start understanding what’s needed and what’s not.”
What next?
A lot, but finance is a challenge. There are websites through which we can get public funding.
It’s about building memories: Pallavi Kolluru, Project Manager
The 34-year-old has been on many solo adventures. “My best adventure trek was Mount Washington in the US. The best part about being a solo adventurer is that you can set your own pace and socialise with fellow trekkers. We meet new people and build memories.”
“I get motivated looking at the places and people around me. Some days are yours and some are not. You need to respect your body and listen to it. Many challenging treks, I have done with ease by keeping myself fit. It is important to pack light but also smart.”
What next?
Trekking in Bhutan, climbing the Himalayas, Scuba Diving in Andaman’s and touring Orissa next year.
