Suraj's Love Story Amid Manali's Snowy Peaks

Planning this trip was an adventure in itself! And it all started when my best friend called me out of the blue. “Suraj, I need your help. I need ideas to celebrate my first anniversary,” he said. I could sense a mix of excitement and panic in his voice.
Turns out, one of my friends had been pretending to forget all about the anniversary while his wife dropped not-so-subtle hints throughout the month. Little did she know, he was secretly planning something spectacular. That’s when the idea of a reunion in Manali hit us.
We decided to bring together our gang— four couples, including my wife and me— for an unforgettable trip to the hills. And boy, did it turn out to be the best decision ever!
Laughter, Gossip, and Nostalgia
Our friend’s master plan worked flawlessly. His wife was under the impression that it was just a casual trip, completely unaware of the anniversary surprise awaiting her. As we all gathered at the meeting point, the excitement was palpable. It had been years since we last met, and the hugs, laughter, and endless chatter felt like no time had passed.

We spent hours reminiscing about our college days, teasing each other, and catching up on life. The best part was when everyone slipped effortlessly back into their roles. The prankster, the storyteller, the foodie— we were all there, just like old times. By the end of the first evening, it felt like we had never been apart.
The Journey: Games, Songs, and Scenic Routes
Our journey to Manali began in a traveller— a mini-bus perfect for our group. The ride was nothing short of a mobile party. We played antakshari, dumb charades, and even a quirky game of “Guess the Song” where the loser had to share an embarrassing college memory. Bollywood hits blared through the speakers as we sang along at the top of our lungs.

We made frequent stops along the way— posing for goofy photos, sipping chai at roadside stalls, and eating delicious parathas at a local dhaba. At one point, our traveller’s tire decided to give up on us. While the driver fixed it, we turned the break into a mini picnic, munching on snacks and cracking jokes about how nothing in our group ever went smoothly.
Our route was scenic and mesmerising. The winding roads, lush green valleys, and snow-capped peaks in the distance made every moment magical. By the time we reached Manali, we were already on cloud nine.
A Journey Through Beauty
Our first day in Manali was more of a leisure day and we decided to simply relax in our hotel. However, our second day was packed with sightseeing. We started at the Hadimba Devi Temple, an ancient wooden marvel surrounded by tall cedar trees.

Next, we visited the Club House, where we indulged in some lighthearted games and paddle boating. The Tibetan Monasteries and Mall Road were equally enchanting, with vibrant colours and an irresistible charm.
The next day, we headed to Kasol. The drive through the Kullu Valley was breathtaking, with the Beas River flowing alongside us. Kasol’s serene beauty left us truly speechless. We explored the Rabbit Farm, marveled at the craftsmanship at the shawl factory, and soaked in the spiritual vibes of the Manikaran Temple.
The highlight was our night camp in Kasol. Sitting around a bonfire under a star-studded sky, sharing stories and laughter, felt like a scene straight out of a dream.

Snowy Adventures and Thrills
Our trip wouldn’t have been complete without a visit to Solang Valley. The moment we reached, the sight of snow-covered slopes had us squealing like kids. We tried everything— skiing, snowboarding, and even a thrilling zipline ride. A snowball fight broke out, and let’s just say no one was spared!
The valley’s panoramic views were surreal. We took countless photos, each one more picturesque than the last. As the sun set, painting the snow in shades of pink and orange, we realised this was a memory we’d cherish forever.

The Surprise Anniversary Celebration
The second evening was the highlight of our trip. After a day of exploring Manali, our friend told us to gather in the hotel’s backyard. As we stepped out, we were greeted by a beautifully decorated space. Neon pink lights spelled out “Happy Anniversary,” and we were all, especially his wife, completely stunned.
The celebration was nothing short of magical. There was a romantic cake-cutting ceremony, heartfelt speeches, and even a surprise dance performance by the couple. The love and effort he put into planning this moment left everyone teary-eyed.

After dinner, we spent the night around a bonfire, talking about life, love, and everything in between. It was a night filled with warmth, laughter, and unforgettable memories.
Until Next Time
As the trip came to an end, saying goodbye was harder than we expected. The bond we shared felt stronger than ever. On the drive back, my wife turned to me and asked, “Can we celebrate our anniversary like this?” Her smile said it all, and I couldn’t help but promise her another adventure just as special.
This trip wasn’t just a vacation, it was a journey of love, friendship, and rediscovery. A huge shoutout to Thrillophilia for making it all possible. From the seamless arrangements to the surprise anniversary celebration, everything was perfect.
Here’s to more such trips and the memories they bring!
Read More: Thrillophilia Manali Reviews