Rajmachi Trek

In mist and drizzle
On rugged mountains of Sahyadris
Dew from leaves did trickle
We walked away
The path ahead unclear.

The ground was seething
With greenish turf
Cliff, at all times teasing
Beckoning forward
Dare did not we, freezing.

Flooded with Sonki, Wild flowers
With waterfalls we took selfies
The paranormal wind, mind-blower
Maggie-junctions and laid-back foreigners
Our spirits did tower.

Many a balance gave away
When we tread on grease
And boulders heavy.
To photograph every beguile
I did long tarry.

Our mouths blew smoke
Chill outstripped us
Bare were we, lacking cloaks
Accomplished our feat
With feet tire-soaked.

A Marathi house welcomed us
With rice, chapatti, lentils
Group was in general buzz
I moaned at the taste
We did not part without fuss.

Same pursued path
Awaited us, seemed longer
Climbing down was apace
Chikkis, sugar-coated chocolates
Devoured; trains headed us home
Kissed goodbyes, murmuring
“This memory will last.”