In the great outdoors with Pooja Bedi
A long walk
Early next morning, we were ready for our trek. This time, Pooja came without her children as she thought Omar was too small for trekking. She had tremendous stamina, and was among the first five to reach the top. And yes, once there, she was as fresh and chirpy as when we had started.
We spent nearly an hour on the mountain, chatting with Pooja. She spoke to everyone, and had lots of stories to tell. She was fascinated by the beauty of Bandipur, proud of the two local children who were competing with her while climbing, and even gave them chocolates after reaching the top.
Time to go
An hour after we returned, it was time to leave. There was a 7-hour drive ahead, and flights to catch. Pooja Bedi was packed and ready on time. a few group photographs later, we said goodbye.
What was the best thing she liked about Bush Betta, we asked. "The place doesn't have a mobile network," she replied. It made her feel completely away from the concrete jungle back home.
In the picture: The author with Pooja Bedi