Finding Trishuls on Triund

My unwavering, often stubborn belief that I have the Gods by my side has brought only goodness into my life. Through tears and trials aplenty, it has been my sanctuary from the beautiful chaos that is reality and the more I studied, read and learnt about one divine being in particular, the stronger my conviction became. Reflecting on my journey thus far through the spiritual world has led to the realization that without this constant connection and anchor, that has provided an incredible solace and stability, not much would make sense to me in the world.

This personal relationship has moved beyond mere belief into a lived experience of trust and reliance, shaping my perspectives and providing a framework for navigating the complexities of existence. The more I learn and contemplate the nature and stories associated with this deity, the more profound this sense of grounding becomes. It's a continuous journey of discovery and strengthening faith that guides various aspects of my life. It's as if this connection is woven into the very fabric of my being, an unbreakable thread that offers solace, guidance, and unwavering support. This presence feels as natural as breathing, a silent companion in every moment, a source of strength in times of vulnerability. I find myself instinctively turning to this deity, not just in moments of need, but in gratitude for the blessings, both big and small, that grace my days.

What began as a leisurely morning hike quickly evolved into a relatively challenging five-hour ascent even though Mount Triund is categorised as an easy-moderate level trek. The gentle trail transformed into a rugged, rocky path that wound its way relentlessly towards the Mount Triund summit covered in sleet from a recent snowfall leading to it being quite slippery in some places for an extra layer, literally, of difficulty. But I do love a good challenging trudge through the mountains and will not yield in the face of tumultuous terrain or precariously positioned rocks. As you know by now, I somehow find myself on the wildest of hikes and treks, I was determined to complete this one even after a morning of rigorous Ashtanga yoga. 

The journey to the top of Triund was, despite the slight difficulties, a very beautiful one. The views were breathtaking (also, quite literally), and a profound sense of peace settled over me as I ascended, the quietude of the Dhalaudhar range giving me a gentle reminder to pause along the way and simply be. Each step I took filled me with a renewed sense of life and perspective, the crisp Himalayan air invigorating and clearing my mind. I felt an inexplicable connection to nature, as if the mountains themselves were sharing their ancient wisdom with me. Every rustle of leaves, every distant bird song, every sun-drenched vista deepened this connection, filling my heart with a pure and simple happiness. It was a journey that soothed my soul and left me feeling utterly at peace, grounded in the magnificence of the natural world.

And then, my lovely companion and I finally made it. Standing at the summit, I was instantly met with views that words in no language could adequately describe. Majestic and awe-inspiring, the Himalayas loomed, their grandeur humbling me to the core. An overwhelming scale unfolded, each peak a silent testament to nature’s raw power and profound beauty. Just as a tempest of snow began to fall around us, there it was. At first, it was a quick glimpse from a few hundred metres away; from the corner of my eye, I saw Him. A sanctuary tucked into a forgotten corner. A delicate yet powerful shrine dedicated to the God of Destruction, unsuspecting, simple yet pulsing with a presence that captivated me, deepening the spiritual meaning of my journey to Triund. 

It is not uncommon at all for there to be such shrines dedicated to the mighty Lord Shiva on mountains across the Northern expanses of my country. However, somehow, His temples always summon you, you do not choose where you go; a very important message I learnt from an Aghora Baba in Varanasi. But that’s a story for another time. 

Har Har Mahadev. 

Love,

Metal Maami