After a long night on the sleeper train, we finally arrived in McLeod Ganj and checked into our next accommodation — the rather ironically named Sky Heaven. Let’s just say, it didn’t quite live up to its name! After changing our own bed sheets (we think the cleaner might have forgotten that part), we tucked into a gourmet breakfast of… an omelette sandwich. Haute cuisine indeed.

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A Slow Morning in the Hills

With the morning still young, we wandered down into the local village for a coffee and a moment to unwind. It felt good to pause after the constant movement of Delhi and the train.

The village was charming — full of tiny shops and friendly faces — and before long, we found ourselves caught up in a bit of retail therapy. Laura discovered Narnia (through what appeared to be the world’s smallest changing-room door), and we decided that on our final night we’d all wear Indian outfits. Cue lots of laughter and trying things on!

We also stumbled across a jewellery shop, but we’ll say no more for now — you might spot the sparkle in a few photos later this week…

And Deb & Laura faced their greatest fear - cows. There are a lot of them here!! Free to roam and terrorise them. We were so proud.

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A Spiritual Afternoon

In the afternoon, we joined the rest of our group for a visit to the Tsuglagkhang Monastery in McLeod Ganj — home of the Dalai Lama himself. We were incredibly privileged that he was in residence, even though we didn’t see him in person.

We did, however, get to witness the monks deep in prayer and debate, surrounded by the rhythmic sound of chanting and the turning of prayer wheels. It was mesmerising. The atmosphere was so peaceful, and everywhere you looked there were beautiful Buddhist sayings and symbols of compassion.

It was such a moving experience that Laura led us all in a quiet moment of reflection — to pause and appreciate how lucky we are to be here. Traysi and Deb got quite emotional, describing it as a pure place. Meanwhile, Kirsten (ever the documentarian!) was happily snapping away — and hopefully the photos capture even a fraction of what we felt.

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Views, Cheesecake, and a Touch of Nerves

Later, we stopped at a café perched high on the hillside with breathtaking views over the Himalayas. The scenery was so spectacular that we almost managed to ignore the blueberry and Biscoff cheesecake… almost.

As evening fell, we found ourselves back at the hotel with a well-earned beer in hand, our trek bags packed and ready. The briefing for tomorrow awaits, and the nerves are starting to flutter again. It’s already high here — and we’re about to go much higher.

If the signal holds, we’ll update you from the mountains. If not, we’ll speak soon once we’re back in range.

Thank you again for all your support — every kind message and donation means the world to us. 💛

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