We went on a road trip. That’s it. That was the whole plan. And honestly, it was perfect.
My hubby and boys gifted me this adventure for my milestone 50th birthday. They know me well — over the years, most of my gifts have been experiences rather than things. I’ve always been a strong advocate of experiential hospitality, whether in travel or in how hotels make you feel. Maybe it’s because I was born during school vacation time… I’ve associated birthdays with journeys and new beginnings for as long as I can remember.
No agenda. Just us.
This trip had zero itinerary, no fixed bookings, no “must-see” checklist. Just travel, explore, and keep moving as a family. That freedom gave us something priceless — quality, uninterrupted time together. Laughing at dhaba stops, singing loudly in the car, watching the landscape shift outside the window — these moments are etched in my heart.
And a shoutout to India’s highways. Today’s road network is incredible — smooth tarmac, clear signage, safe stretches. It made the whole “keep moving” plan not just doable, but genuinely joyful, instead of stressful.
Jammu: Family, Faith & Full Hearts
The first big surprise was visiting my sister in Jammu. The last time I was there was for her wedding 15 years ago. Seeing her now, with her beautiful family — two adorable kids and the warm blessings of her in-laws — filled me with joy and gratitude.
Her husband, my brother, was so gracious. He didn’t just host us; he opened Jammu and Kashmir to us.
“If you’re in Jammu, you have to visit Mata Rani,” he said — a heartfelt wish that resonated deeply. We had plans, backup plans… but somehow, Maa willed it, and we experienced the most peaceful, wonderful darshan at Mata Rani’s darbar. It felt like she wanted us there — no one goes without her calling them.
From Jammu, we headed to Pahalgam — truly heaven on earth.
Pahalgam: Orchards, Stories & Warmth
On our way, we made a quick stop at the Puremart office in Jammu. I felt so proud — my brother Sahil Verma is the founder, and my younger sister Rajani is co-founder. They’ve built something truly beautiful — a business that promotes the products and culture of J&K with integrity and passion. The team was gracious enough to include us in their annual office trip, and it was an experience in itself.
Pahalgam showcased the soul of the valley. We wandered through orchards heavy with apples, staying in a cozy hotel nestled among them — so warm, so welcoming. We met the farmers who supply to Puremart, sharing stories and smiles.
Meeting Sheikh Saab was a highlight. A self-made man who’s faced the hardships of valley life and is now thriving. He manages his hotel, The Classic Estate, with his elder son, while his younger one dreams of making healthcare and medicines accessible in their still-remote area. That grit, that hope — it stays with you.
We enjoyed riverside picnics, mini camping adventures, cooking meals with mountains as our kitchen. Fresh trout, kalari, kulcha, and of course, Maggi — every bite tasting better in that mountain air. Three days of bliss, and then some more.
On our return, we met Haji Saab, another Puremart supplier and farmer. His warm Kashmiri hospitality welcomed us with traditional snacks and stories of walnut farming. His explanation of how walnuts are grown and harvested was a lesson in Kashmiri hospitality — guests are blessings, and sharing is part of their soul.
Back at my sister’s place, full hearts and spirits, I must add I am so proud of my kid sister how wonderfully she handles her family, career and relationships, it was time to head home.
Mahakaleshwar: The Final Blessing
The universe had one more surprise in store. On our journey back, we visited Mahakaleshwar temple in Ujjain. This sacred stop transformed our trip from a simple getaway into a deeply spiritual experience — the perfect full circle.
Words can’t fully capture how blessed I feel — to have a husband who plans these journeys, boys who make them happen, family who open their homes, and the divine guidance that leads every step.
We arrived just in time for my big birthday celebration with family— a story deserving its own blog post. I cherish these moments, capturing them in blogs and photo albums. Memories fade, but stories stay alive.
Here’s to 50 years of embracing life’s experiences — and to many more miles traveled, darshans, and family tables shared.
Do check out the authentic products of Jammu and Kashmir at: https://www.puremart.in/
