We were very happy reaching Sajichat. It was arduous climb in incessant rain and cold wind. We reached shrine board office. Reception counter for rooms was there. We were received with warmth. After handing over our booking reception, they allocated us room. There was an eating house opposite this office. We were told to have our dinner and then proceed to room. This eatery closes at 9.00 pm whereas eateries on the new road are open 24X7. I felt riding on a horse and saving a lot of time was a right decision. We finished our dinner. Room boy accompanied us to the room. It was 300 meters climb on a hill above. Oh no! It wasn't something we were expecting. Climb, rain and cold wind has taken a toll. In Mumbai, where iI come from even during cold, we experience 14-15 degree Celsius as lowest temperature. His words gave us goosebumps. With no alternative we climbed. Road was well lit. On both sides of road were flowering plants. The scent of different flowers was lingering in the atmosphere. At last we reached our room. It is difficult to express the feelings in words.
Both of us were very exhausted. We changed wet cloths. This room was very clean and cozy. There were found 4-5 blankets in the cupboard. We first took our routine medicines. I asked Neha to retire to bed. I gave her to blankets. A room heater was also there. I switched it on to get room warmer. I also spread all belongings, our shoes etc around it to dry. Many of our belongings were wet due to rains. It was warmer in the room now. I saw Neha, she was already fast asleep. I was impressed with her courage. She was told by her physician to take a helicopter and not to attempt climb. Her willpower an and devotion to Vaishnodevi Mata helped her to reach here. I was feeling sleepy. I too covered myself with two blankets. I slept while thinking about a wonderful day.
It was seven in morning when i got up. Neha was already awake. She switched on Geyser. Without hot water it was difficult to even wash hands or rinse. She asked me how you are. I answered her, awesome. I came in to balcony and looked at the hills above. They were capped with fresh snow. This view in the morning rays was breathtaking. We freshened up, packed our backpack again and descended to shrine board office. We were feeling very fresh and recharged with energy. The whole surrounding was multiplying our enthusiasm. We returned the keys. While discussing we came to know that shrine board provides dormitories free of cost to devotees. At a small fee they also provide blankets to all who need it. All these facilities for devotees were well thought of. So many shrine board employees, we met during our trip. No one asked for tips. Employee unions have kept donation boxes at various facilities and point. One may put money as tips in those boxes. Knowing this, i offered this tips to one employee. He politely pointed out to one such box. It was a pleasant surprise. Most often experience is of employees loitering around for tips.
We went to that eating house opposite office for breakfast. While discussion with manager there we came to know that night temperature was minus three degree Celsius. Today skies were clear and there was no rain. Pleasant run rays were increasing beauty of nature around. There came a loud sound of helicopter. This was the first sortie after three days, manager told us. Our hotel was about a kilometer away from Sajichat helipad. We came out of restaurant. Bhavan (Mata's cave town) was visible at a distance. We bowed down in that direction. With lot of excitement and enthusiasm, we started our walk towards the shrine.
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| Snow capped hills |
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| Bhavan From Sajichat |
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