From Kolkata to the Apple Orchards of Siyal
What if the life you’re searching for isn’t somewhere far away, but just waiting on the other side of a courageous decision?
That’s what we discovered when my husband and I left behind the familiar buzz of Kolkata and moved to Siyal, a peaceful village near Manali. We truly loved our city life. But at some point, the pace began to feel exhausting. We were both working remotely, managing full-time jobs and freelancing on the side, yet something was missing. The contrast between the hustle and bustle of Kolkata and the serene tranquillity of Siyal was stark, and it was this unique appeal that drew us in.
We longed for fresh air, open skies, and days that didn’t feel like races.
Siyal enveloped us – How?
In a sense of peace and tranquillity that we had longed for, offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Here in Siyal, we are surrounded by the beauty of nature. The hills, the apple orchards, and the Beas River all contribute to a sense of wonder and inspiration that we had longed for.
Live Life Naturally
Life in Siyal moves at a different pace, one that is slower and more fulfilling, allowing us to savour each moment and appreciate the beauty of our surroundings.
We grow vegetables and cultivate a patch that feels like our own kitchen garden, featuring beans, tomatoes, and the joys of cooking with four. Our products run unparalleled apps: just a basket, some fresh produce, and the pleasure of eating what is satisfyingly grown ourselves.
Afternoons are for wandering. We often explore the offbeat trails, pick wild berries, or discover fruits we’ve never seen in stores. The flavours are untouched, vivid, and sometimes surprising. These unique experiences, exclusive to Siyal, pique our interest and keep us connected to the land and its offerings.
The air here feels like a blessing. Clean, calm, and refreshing. You can feel it in your lungs and in your thoughts.
And then there are the power cuts.
Oddly enough, we don’t mind them. We’ve come to enjoy them. They give us moments of pause. We sit in silence, light a candle or two, talk about the day, or simply do nothing. No screens, no rush. Just stillness. We’ve learned to slow down and just be.
Closer to the People, Culture and Nature
Living here has also brought us closer to the local community. We’ve had the chance to observe and learn about the customs and rituals that shape life in this region. Whether it’s a quiet conversation with a neighbour, helping out in the fields, or attending a local celebration, there’s a beautiful rhythm to the way people live here. There’s warmth in every interaction.
This life isn’t a sense of belonging that we never felt in the city, but an escape. It’s about choosing something that feels real, natural, simple, connected, and calm.
Of course, there are inconveniences. However, what we gain is that the power cuts, for instance, can disrupt our plans. It is far more valuable than anything we’ve left behind.
We didn’t give up the peace, the connection with nature, and the sense of community, far outweighing these minor inconveniences—our work or ambitions. We just changed the setting. We chose a life that allows us to breathe more deeply, listen more closely, and live more honestly.
And truly, we have never felt more alive.
FAQ’s
- Where is Siyal located?
Siyal is a quiet, scenic village located near Manali, in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh, India. It lies amidst apple orchards and pine forests, and is close to the Beas River.
- How do I reach Siyal from Kolkata or other major cities?
By Air: The nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport (also known as Kullu-Manali Airport), approximately 50 km from Siyal. Flights from Delhi and Chandigarh operate here. From the airport, you can hire a taxi to Siyal.
By Train: The nearest broad-gauge railway station is Chandigarh. From there, one can travel by road to Siyal (approx. 8–9 hours).
By Road:
From Delhi, the distance is approximately 540 km. Buses and taxis are available for travel to Manali.
From Kolkata, you can take a train or flight to Delhi/Chandigarh, and then continue by road.
From Manali, Siyal is only a few kilometres away; a short taxi ride or even a scenic walk, depending on your location.
- What’s the best time to visit Siyal?
The best times to visit are from March to June (spring/summer) and from September to November (autumn). Avoid peak winter (Dec–Feb) unless you’re prepared for snow and cold temperatures.
- Are there accommodations in Siyal for travellers?
Yes, while Siyal is a quiet village, you can find homestays, boutique guesthouses, and eco-lodges in and around the area. Many travellers also choose to stay in Manali and take day trips to nearby villages, such as Siyal.
| #IndiaTravel | #KolkataToHimachal | #QuietRebellion | #NatureEscape |
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The post uses all original first-party images to make it reader-friendly. The author has personally shot the natural photos without props. Prime Avenue, a professional content writing agency, is committed to delivering readers the latest updates and information through high-quality content.
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About the Author
Atrayee is a former PGT teacher who spent five enriching years at a prestigious school in Kolkata, where she dedicated herself to nurturing young minds. Her passion for education is complemented by her love for writing, a field she has chosen to pursue full-time. Atrayee specialises in various topics, with a focus on children and their challenges in the modern digital era.
Besides, Atrayee is a confident content marketer. She employs personalised marketing strategies to drive traffic, generate leads, and elevate online presence across diverse business sectors. Whether developing engaging content or crafting strategic marketing initiatives, she combines her educational background with sharp insight to contribute meaningfully to her clients’ success.
You can write to Atrayee at theprimeavenue@gmail.com or connect with her on LinkedIn