It was during a trip to Darjeeling and happpened while returing to home in Ilam, Nepal. The day was sunny, and the view was clear. Everything around me was covered in endless green tea gardens that seemed to stretch on forever. As I was heading back from my day of exploring, I was feeling a little anxious but equally thrilled about what was about to happen. I wasn’t alone on this journey—my friends were with me, and we were all ready to embark on this unforgettable experience together.

Out of nowhere, a man appeared, whistling to signal the arrival of the horses. My heart skipped a beat when I saw the majestic creature that would be mine for the ride. The horse was white, its coat shining like a cloud, and it was fast, just like a Mustang. The owner, or guide, gave us a quick briefing on how to ride and then handed me the reins. At first, I struggled a bit as I tried to mount the horse for the first time. But with a little help and guidance, I managed to get on and began the ride.

Once I got the hang of it, the excitement took over. I was no longer just a passenger, I was in control. I could feel the energy of the horse as we galloped through the narrow aisles of the garden. The guide was busy capturing pictures of us, but I was so caught up in the ride that I didn’t even notice. With every stride, I grew more confident. It wasn’t long before I was riding so fast that I left my friends behind in the blink of an eye.

We continued upward, riding through the garden as it gradually climbed. The view from the top was nothing short of spectacular. There was no fog, just clear skies and greenery all around. It was the kind of scenery you could stare at for hours without getting bored. It was truly magical to be in the midst of such beauty, riding alongside my friends, each of us enjoying the moment in our own way. The experience felt surreal.

After about an hour of riding, we decided to settle down and pay the owner for the ride. The price was reasonable 2,000 INR each—and it was worth every penny. I couldn’t help but think about how lucky I was to have had the chance to experience this. In that moment, I realized I had never imagined such an opportunity would come my way, but I was so glad it did.

Every time I think back to that ride, it brings a smile to my face. It’s one of those memories that never fades, no matter how much time passes. If you’ve never tried horseback riding, I highly recommend that you do at least once in your lifetime. It’s a fun, exhilarating, and calming experience all wrapped up into one.

So go ahead, saddle up, and enjoy the ride. Trust me, you’ll be happy you did!