Story by: Nandini Pratap
In 2021, I decided to go for a solo trip to Jibhi village in Himachal Pradesh. I embarked on a journey to one of the most beautiful states nestled in the Himalayas. I knew that I would be experiencing some of the most breath-taking landscapes and unique local cultures.
As I wandered through the winding roads and lush forests, I reached the small village of Jibhi tucked in a serene valley. I decided to stay with the locals, in their house, and was immediately struck by their warmth and hospitality. The family I stayed with had five members – uncle and aunty, and their children (three teenagers).
After having dinner that first night at their house, we sat together around a small bonfire and one by one started sharing our stories. We drank chai (tea) that aunty made for all of us. I learned about their daily routines, their struggles and their joys living in this quiet village.
They spoke of their connection to the land, and their deep respect for the mountains and the nature that surrounded them. I also shared my side of stories with them.
It was refreshing for me to hear some new and different perspectives on nature, life and the peaceful co-existence of all living beings.
The next day, aunty took me to a local wedding in the village and I got particularly fascinated by the traditional dances and music of the natives, which they performed with great enthusiasm and pride. They even taught me a few steps and encouraged me to join them. I don’t know how well I danced, but I surely know that I enjoyed some Himachali dance moves.
There was another thing that I enjoyed a lot — the Himachali Dham, a vegetarian thali or meal, that beautifully represents the history and traditions of the region. There is something about local cuisines that always impresses us.
Over the next few days, I immersed myself in the local community experiences and made some new friends. It was so amazing to simply be there and live one of the best times of my life so far.
After about a week, I prepared to leave the village. I was grateful to this amazing family who gave me a homely space to stay. I felt a deep sense of gratitude and connection to these wonderful people. I realised that despite our differences in language, culture and background, we were all connected by our love for nature.
As I travelled back to my city, I carried with me the memories and lessons of this remarkable experience in Himachal Pradesh, and I will always cherish the moments I spent with these wonderful people.
Nandini is a nature lover and likes to travel, especially to the mountains. She has a master’s degree in Sociology and is also a self-taught hip hop dancer. She enjoys food and company of cheerful people. She occasionally likes to write and cook too. Nandini believes that sharing some part of us with other people makes the world more understanding and peaceful.
