The journey to attempt Mount Yunam began in the heart of Delhi, where the bustle of the city faded behind me as I set out by car toward the mountains. The first leg brought me to Dehradun, a gentle transition from the plains to the foothills, with the cool air hinting at the adventures ahead. From there, I continued to Nainital—a lakeside town embraced by pine-covered hills—where the real pre-climb conditioning began.
In Nainital, I spent several days preparing my body and mind for the high-altitude challenge ahead. Each morning began with brisk walks around the emerald waters of Naini Lake, followed by more strenuous hikes. I climbed Cheena Peak, the highest point in Nainital, where the vast Himalayan range stretched before me like a promise. Another day’s trek took me to Tiffin Top, a vantage point with sweeping views over the town, and on other days I wandered through hidden trails, letting my legs and lungs adjust while absorbing the crisp mountain air. These climbs were more than physical preparation—they were my way of tuning into the rhythm of the mountains.
From Nainital, the road led me northward toward Manali, a vibrant hub of travelers, trekkers, and mountain culture. I stayed a few days here, immersing myself in its unique energy. Mornings were for quiet walks along the Beas River; afternoons were for exploring iconic spots like Old Manali, Hidimba Devi Temple, and the bustling Mall Road. Evenings were spent sipping chai in local cafés, studying the mountain weather, and mentally rehearsing the climb.
Leaving Manali, the scenery began to change dramatically. The road wound higher and wilder as I crossed Rohtang Pass and journeyed deeper into Lahaul. Eventually, I reached the stark, high-altitude beauty of Baralacha La, where the thin air and barren landscapes reminded me that the real challenge was now within sight. Descending slightly from the pass, I arrived at Bharatpur Darra, a windswept settlement of tents and tea stalls—a gateway to the climb.
Here, we established Base Camp, a cluster of colorful tents set against a backdrop of snow peaks and endless sky. The days at base camp were a mix of preparation and patience—checking gear, acclimatizing, and doing short hikes to keep the body active. The nights were silent except for the wind, and the stars above were so close they seemed to hang just above the ridgelines.
When the attempt began, the climb tested every ounce of focus and determination. The ascent from base camp to the higher slopes of Mount Yunam was steady but relentless, the air growing thinner with each step. The world below shrank into a patchwork of valleys and ridges, while ahead, the summit gleamed in the morning light.