Trek to Triund

Hiked to Triund, roughly 2,800 meters, or 8,400 feet. Four hours to the top. Just a little foothill compared to surrounding peaks. Views are breathtaking. Travelled with six companions: German friends Mario and Martin, plus four dogs we met on the road. Snowflake (generic name for white dog) and Gandhi (refuses food) wandered off, but Cookie Dog (eats the most cookies) and Explorer (generic dog name) faithfully stayed by our side for the entire journey to the top.

Enjoyed cups of chai at mountaintop snack shack. Have no idea how the shop owner can handle the cold, snow, sleet, and lonliness. Must be peaceful, though. Took nap on rock. Thought of Scoops and Crowe, hikers extraordinaire from back home. Wish they were here to share the experience.

Obligatory intestinal distress, slight dehydration (bring more water next time!) and mild sunburn (use more sunblock!) made descent wearying. Still remains among top 10 most exciting days ever.