Weekend Getaway to Chakrata – A Spellbinding Experience 🌄

 

🌟 How It All Began

It all started on 21st May when I stumbled upon a reel featuring a weekend trip to Chakrata—no leave taken, just pure adventure. It instantly clicked with me. I shared the reel with my Jiju(Brother-in-Law) and some friends, casually dropping a "Chalein?" in the group chat. Surprisingly, my Jiju was the first to respond with enthusiasm and immediately began planning.

Initially, I had doubts about joining due to some personal reasons, but the thought of not having visited any hill station since 2023 pushed me to say yes. Soon, my close friend Sagun joined us, and in less than an hour, the three of us locked in a package with Pahad Lok Trekkers.

The original cost was ₹5,400 per person, but we flexed our bargaining skills and closed the deal for ₹4,500 each. On 23rd May (Friday), our journey began from Akshardham Metro Station Gate No. 2 in a 23-seater traveller. Managing office work was tricky as my shift ran from 2:30 to 11:30 PM. I had to wrap up early, take my dinner break at 10, and leave as soon as office gets over. With fingers crossed, we booked a cab and reached the pickup point on time.

🏞️ Day 1: Reaching Chakrata & Moila Top Trek 

We reached Chakrata at 9 AM on 24th May and checked in at Sawai Danda Resort, a peaceful and cozy stay. Our plan for the day included visiting Moila Top, Budher Caves, and a stroll through the local market. 

At noon, we headed out—covering 49 km by traveller, 6 km via an open jeep, and finally a 5 km trek on foot. The journey was packed with stunning views and great vibes. We reached the top around 4 PM and visited teample atop of Moila Top called Pari Ka Mandir, also known as the temple of fairies, where we prayed and offered our gratitude. 

 Just 100 meters from Moila Top lies Budher Cave, a dark, narrow         passage  where we crawled through nearly 500 meters of eerie stillness   using only phone flashlights. The cave’s depth was unfathomable—our   guide tossed a stone that took over 15 seconds to hit the bottom! It's   rumored that an undiscovered underworld lies beneath, adding mystery to   its beauty.

 We reluctantly left the magical place and trekked back to the resort, had   dinner, and prepared for a bonfire night. But just as we lit the fire, the rain   decided to join in. We laughed it off and returned to our cottages for a   good night’s sleep.

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 Day 2: Tiger Falls & Chilmiri Sunset Point

25th May began with a breathtaking mountain view. We geared up for Tiger Falls, umbrellas in hand as it was raining lightly. Unfortunately, our raincoats were packed deep in the luggage, but soon the rain stopped, and we didn't miss them much.

 The downward trek was full of charm—lush greenery, fresh air,   and cheerful spirits. When we reached the falls, the sight   completely swept me away. I stood there, captivated, letting the   moment sink in. We spent over an hour, had Maggi and chai, and   then did something thrilling—rode back on top of a jeep. An   unforgettable first!

 Later, we headed   to Chilmiri   Sunset Point,   which   offers  panoramic   views and is one   of the rare places   where the winter   line is visible.   Layers of mountains, rays of the setting sun, and peaceful vibes,   all felt like a dream. Although we had to leave by 6:45 PM and   missed the actual sunset (it was at 7:15), the experience was more   than worth it.

Our final stop was Chakrata Market, which, sadly, was mostly closed. Only a few cafes and shops were open. We picked up some fridge magnets as souvenirs. Interestingly, a few fellow travelers who skipped the sunset point for the market ended up disappointed—having missed both the views and shopping.

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❤️ Wrapping It Up

Seeing everyone's happy faces and soaking in the mountain magic made it a weekend to remember.  Pahad Lok Trekkers did a commendable job—great coordination, friendly guide, and smooth travel. The strangers I met on this trip felt like old friends by the end—joking, chatting, and looking out for one another.

This trip was a much-needed refresh button. If you've been thinking of a quick hill station getaway—Chakrata won’t disappoint.

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✨ Let's hear from you! Share your travel stories, thoughts, or questions in the comments below. I’d love to connect.

Till then, Tata Byeee! 😄
And stay tuned—I’ll be back soon with another exciting and spellbinding story!