How to lose and find yourself in the Himalayas ... and Hatta

Running away to the mountains is a common pursuit for those seeking solace and spiritual growth. Every year since turning 30, the author has ventured into the Himalayas, despite the extreme conditions. Living in India, the author shares a cultural belief in finding oneself in the mountains or wilderness. This is not far-fetched, as the author's grandfather had threatened to go away to Kashi, a spiritual destination for Hindus.

Similarly, the author's father often declared his intention to join a monastic order. The author's own spiritual wandering began in their 30s, leading to their first trip to Mount Everest with no prior hiking experience. After collapsing due to mountain sickness, the author woke up to a stunning view of Ama Dablam, a 6,812-meter peak.

The near-death experience did not deter the author from returning to the mountains. It was during a moment of reflection in the Kathmandu Valley that the author discovered the concept of beyuls, hidden valleys accessible only to the pure of heart during times of crisis. The following year, the author climbed Mount Sandakphu, a 3,636-meter peak on the Nepal-India border, and experienced a profound sense of awe and humility.

However, after 18 months away from the Himalayas, the author decided to attend a spiritual retreat in the Hajar Mountains of the UAE instead. Despite the smaller size of the Hajar Mountains, the author sought a similar transformative experience, hoping to discover the same answers that had eluded them in the Himalayas.