There’s nothing extraordinary to my life so I’ll begin by giving a simple and brief description of myself. I’m 37 and reside with my husband and kids in Pune. Living life as a wife, mother and Marketing Manager has been overwhelming, cumbersome, and at times frustrating, too. Striking a balance between personal and professional spheres hadn’t been easy in the past 10 years. Ever since my marriage, I hardly got any spare moment to enjoy being by myself as I’d been occupied with work and family round-the-clock.
The only ‘me time’ I ever got was a few minutes on my Instagram which finally led me to plan some alone time at a luxurious and calm place. It was in August this year. I was scrolling my screen and came across a friend’s post. There he was in Solan, having a great family time in the mesmerizing mountain ranges. I was dazzled by the beauty of the magnificent peaks that stretched all across some lavish villas along with lush green bushes and a variety of blooming flowers. I’ve been to Shimla a couple of times but never got a chance to halt at Solan, especially at the Chester Hills, and had a yearning to visit this place one day. You might call it my manifestation or simply my intention, but I called up my friend to get all the details for preparing a solo trip. Everything had to be preplanned both at home and the office. I talked it out with my husband and was glad to receive his support and assurance in managing everything in my absence.
On September 15, I landed in Chandigarh and hailed a cab to reach Solan. I entered the premises of Chester Hills and was thrilled to look at the breathtaking villas surrounded by colossal mountains. It was so serene and contrasted with the bustling city life I’d left behind. It all felt like an impossible dream but at last, I was here to reconnect with myself and Mother nature.
As I had boarded a morning flight, I was tired and wanted to relax. So, I went straight to the Spa section and melted all my worries away in that soothing massage strokes and tranquilizing ambiance. And the bath in the jacuzzi was the cherry on the cake! I realized at that very moment I had chosen the best place to plan out this sojourn. Soon after, I had a scrumptious meal in the cozy aura of the Multi-cuisine Dining Area filled with groups of families and friends.
Meanwhile, the Landscape Park adjoining the vicinity had already caught my eye and I decided to take a leisurely walk there. I felt so rejuvenated in the clean hilly air as I beheld the wonderful display of several eco-art pieces; an exquisite Buddha statue being the center of attraction. I went ahead to explore other areas and was amazed to see the myriad activities that one could indulge in. It was like a small peaceful city with a Gold-class Movie Theater, Sports section, Library, Shops, and a lot more to enjoy a fulfilling holiday experience.
In the evening, I strolled through the Meditation Park. And Heavens! The pergola structure over a tiny pond with a fountain in the middle was an enchanting sight. A few people were sitting quietly by the side of the water area, taking delight in that ataraxis feel. The Yoga Circles and the Exercise Stations there were exquisitely designed, allowing me to easily lose myself in that spiritual and pacifying vibe.
That’s how I spent my next 4 days there and when I came back home, I had a sense of satisfaction and calmness that still remains with me even after returning to that never-ending humdrum of life. That was my story of memorable times at Chester Hills. What’s yours?