When we arrive in Manali in the Indian Himalayas, it\u2019s a lovely day, cool with sunshine \u2013 a relief after the humidity of Delhi. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Tomorrow we climb a small peak 4,000 metres (13,400ft) – well small in terms of the surrounding mountains that stretch high into clouds. I\u2019ve been in the Alps but the size and number here take a while for my eyes to see, to take in. I\u2019m apprehensive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Breakfast is at 7 and we leave at eight. We need to be on the top by midday because of the weather. My guide, Ashok is kind, \u2018don\u2019t worry, I\u2019ll get you up.\u2019 I tell him I have asthma, well controlled but uphill is hard, and I\u2019m now forty-six. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
I set off in good form, remembering to keep a steady pace. My partner has gone ahead with the other guide. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
I love the mountains, the physical effort, the beauty, stillness and even the scale. But I am not hell bent on the top; the wonder of where we are is enough for me and I don\u2019t want to die just yet. I smile and say let\u2019s see. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The last 200 metres is rock with a dusting of snow. Big boulders trip my weary legs \u2013 lift high Ashok says don\u2019t go in between. I pause for water, look around and the height scares me. I start to cry, blow my nose to cover the tears, sit on the edge of a rough boulder. My shoulders are above my ears, I can hardly speak, I just want to go down.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
At the top I can hardly move. There\u2019s no elation yet. My head aches, it feels as if a herd of buffaloes are picky-backing on my chest. I take a careful look, almost overwhelmed by the height and number of the mountains. They are beautiful, majestic and absolutely terrifying.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We make our way down to our camp, weary and spent. Only when the chef brings a plate of pakoras and fried potatoes do I begin to thaw. Next, he brings a big pot of cardamon tea, for my weary chest!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Submitted by Rona Fitzgerald, 66, Glasgow<\/strong><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" When we arrive in Manali in the Indian Himalayas, it\u2019s a lovely day, cool with sunshine \u2013 a relief after the humidity of Delhi. Tomorrow we climb a small peak 4,000 metres (13,400ft) – well small in terms of the surrounding mountains that stretch high into clouds. I\u2019ve been in the Alps but the size … Continue reading Your Memoirs \u2013 \u201cSummit\u201d<\/span>