30/08/2025
A home that found us. A home that existed in our dreams became a reality. Our journey in the mountains started with a small space in Suriyagaon. The need to grow and spread, led us on a search for a bigger space. Along the way, we met so many people and the one question that would be asked each time – “What kind of space are you looking for?”. Our response - “A space about 1000 Sq. ft in size. Off the road, but close enough to bring in the supplies easily. Set amidst trees. Some open space around. A quiet spot.” The words repeated countless times for about 2 years, until we came to a realization that may be this place existed only in our imagination. So, we had to place this dream aside and left the mountains.
The next 6 months were spent in Haldwani – working, getting used to the new city and looking at the mountains from our rooftop. We found reasons to be grateful for where we were. Then came April bearing inspiration and something told us to search for a place in the mountains again. But this time, it felt different. We approached it as an adventure, giving ourselves about a month to be utterly, foolishly optimistic about finding “the place”.
The question came again – “What kind of a place are you looking for?”. Our answer, the same. So, the adventure began. But soon we were running out of time and energy. We gave ourselves, an end date – 7th June, 2025 – the last day – which started even before daybreak to beat the tourist traffic. As the day progressed, our chances looked dim.
At noon, parked at a crossroads, we decided to make one, last call with a direct request – “if there is any other place, please let us know. Today is the last day”. The voice on the other end paused and then called us to Kalika, Ranikhet. In 30 minutes, we arrived, some pleasantries and then we were directed down a set of steps. A few steps in and we could not believe our eyes. Neither of us spoke a word, but our hearts were smiling.
It was a space 1000 Sq. ft in size. Off the road, but close enough to bring in the supplies easily. Set amidst trees. Some open space around. A quiet spot.
Home.