The post explores the timeless appeal of train, car, and hiking journeys, highlighting their educational and enriching benefits. It nostalgically contrasts the era of steam trains with modern advancements, celebrating the comforts of contemporary travel. Car journeys are praised for their flexibility and ease, enabling leisurely exploration with family and friends. Hiking is depicted as a profound connection to nature, enhancing well-being and appreciation for the environment. Overall, the post emphasises that travelling is a lifelong pursuit that cultivates curiosity and fosters connections, making it an important educational tool as individuals navigate changing physical abilities with age.
The journey is never-ending
Journey is eternal. Since the dawn of civilisation or even earlier, humans have ventured to explore for various things. They travelled far and wide, dived deep into the sea, rivers, and lakes, and visited various places of academic interest to acquire knowledge. Animate organisms can move. This differentiates them from static organisms and gives them an edge. The basic difference between an animal and a plant is their mobility.
Locomotion: Precursor of journey
An animal shows a sign of movement, whereas some sedentary animals like sponges and sea anemones show voluntary movement of their tentacles but not displacements. With evolution, the movement in the form of displacement became frequent. Locomotion is frequently seen in the most significant invertebrate animal phylum of “Arthropods”. Animals of this phylum that mainly constitute insects of various kinds can hop, jump, crawl, scamper and even fly. Some butterflies can fly thousands of miles, though most of them confine upto a few hundred feet. Locomotion is the precursor of journey and is necessary for food procurement and security.
Evolution and journey
From crawling and slithering to scampering and walking, animals developed the locomotory skill to a great extent. The evolutionary trend gave animals an edge, and with the advent of primates and apes, bipedal locomotion started. It gave them leverage, for their forelimbs were free now, and their gait became gradually straight. This led to an increase in brain and cognitive ability. With the advancement in walking posture and brain capability, humans started to take long explorations and sojourns. The invention of wheel was a turning point in human history. It gave speed to all round development and growth. Adding wheel to a cart revolutionised the mode of transportation and made journey convenient and comparatively fast.
Carts
The wheels gave rise to carts. They started using animals to drag the carts. Horses and bullocks were the favoured animals for their endurance and stamina. Horse-driven carts used to be swift and could be used for long journeys while bullock carts were slow, but could lug more weight. Journey became faster and more convenient after James Watt experienced the tremendous force of steam. With this, the steam locomotive came into use. In India, the first rail that started haulage was between Bombay and Thane in 1854.
Initial trains
Train journeys used to be thrilling and enjoying because of their speed and comfort. They were the most liked means of journey. Initially, the journey by train was problematic for persons having disturbed stomach. Later, provision for toilets was made and the journey became much comfortable.
The old world charm
It was a passenger train, hauled by a steam locomotive. Starting from a mediocre station, the train would reach its destination after journeying several hundred kilometres. The train shook as it moved on the meter gauge track. It passed through the fertile and verdurous Indo-Gangetic plains of northern India. It used to be a memorable experience watching the views of passing campestral landscapes, canals, ponds, and rustic people working. Sitting on the window seat, slightly leaning and deeply involved in the zooming and whirling trees, swiftly passing rustic scenes was a thoroughly enjoyable experience. (Minirailways)
Enigma of train journey
As the train clattered noisily along, the trees appeared as dancing figures swiftly passing by before vanishing. Emitting a distinctive onomatopoeic ‘Choo-Choo,’ the engine belched smoke and the train moved with a jerky motion. After several minutes, the train’s speed would decrease and, with a screeching halt, it stopped at a station. Travellers used to board and disembark. The engine would whistle and resume its journey slowly after a brief pause…
Trains became more comfortable
It was the era of steam locomotives, and the compartments lacked horizontal bars on the windows. The train journey was the best available medium of journey. Later berth reservation made it more comfortable. Traveller could sleep on the berth while on an overnight journey and reach destination fresh.
Hi-tech train journey
Over time, trains have evolved to become more comfortable, safer, and faster. Steam locomotives gave way to diesel and then electric ones, which are more refined, efficient, and cost-effective. Using modern techniques of signalling and track management, the computerised reservation system and integration of hospitality have made trains fast, safe and hi-tech. Train travel has ascended to new heights of luxury and comfort while maintaining its traditional allure. It remains a leisurely, convenient, and pleasant mode of transportation.
Rewarding
Train touring has always been the favourite of most common people. Trains helped many in visiting various places, delving into history and its sites, and appreciating the natural beauty. Experiencing life through a journey has ever since been a favourite thing. Gandhi Ji took an all-India tour to understand India and its people. It’s wonderful and fulfilling to discover new locales and capture significant moments or items of interest. Viewing old photographs revives memories. The notes and diary pages come alive. Pictures of the visited places are immersive. The nostalgic moments become alive.
Road journey
Travelling on the road used to be very uncomfortable and time-consuming. Road conditions were pathetic. Potholed narrow roads were not safe. It used to pass through villages, schools and local markets. The crowded places posed security challenges. Public roadways, buses, a few private buses, and taxis ply on the routine roads. Crammed buses and taxis served the purpose of reaching the destination. Enjoying the journey was not the issue. People never thought about it either.
Photograph by Author
Cars, a new wave
Over time, car journeys have become a favourite. Improved infrastructure, good all weather roads, highways and expressways have eased road journeys. Improved high-end cars equipped with many security features, ease of driving and freedom of travell while on road added an additional layer of travel romance. It is convenient to travel by a self-driven car as it is easy and at the will of the people travelling. Cars give added advantage of travelling with family and friends. Travelling with cars are swiftly becoming favourite mode of journey.
Car journey is thrilling
Road journey by self-driven car thrills and allows one to enjoy scenic views. It has become true to words that the path is more beautiful than the destination. For a photography lover and writer, this is an excellent mode as it gives enough time to enjoy photography and numerous ideas for writing. It enables one to discover the world on rolling wheels. Travelling by car offers extra space and the flexibility to pause whenever necessary to appreciate the surroundings. The car joyfully transports people to various places. Driving at a moderate speed on highways or expressways is captivating. It allows one to intimately experience the journey.
Hiking – a way to explore Nature.
Visiting temples and historical sites is both invigorating and educational. The sensation of carvings, motifs, and the simplicity of architecture can be appreciated through the eyes. Lofty mountains and snow-capped peaks create a rejuvenating experience. A tranquil atmosphere and a crisp breeze contribute to this feeling for both body and soul. Whenever possible, it’s beneficial to leave the car behind and go hiking. Trekking along narrow, winding paths etched into the mountainside fosters a profound connection with Mother Nature. Trekking to Gaumukh glacier is an enchanting experience. The trek passes through the inexpressive pristine beauty of nature. The overwhelming natural causes goosebumps. The raw magnificence leaves a deep impression.
Hiking is the best way to experience the richness, beauty, and abundance of nature. It contributes to a robust mind and body. Trekking through valleys and meadows offers a thrilling experience. Taking breaks during the strenuous hike eases fatigue. Breaks also give opportunities to see the serene environment. Majestic mountains and wandering clouds are set against a clear blue sky. The lofty conifers compete with the high mountains in their quest to reach the sky.
Touring is Education
Touring is a form of education that engages learners with the real world and helps them understand it. Travelling goes beyond mere wanderlust, which merely adds a number in the tally of places visited without purpose. It has become a vogue, and people flaunt it as an “achievement”. Additionally, train car and hiking journey offer a delightful mix of pleasure and education. As one ages and physical strength diminishes, so often does the wish to roam. While this is natural, it is desired to keep the fire of curiosity burning inside the heart. It must go on till the ageing body allows.
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Kamal Kishore Srivastava
A retired government officer turned writer and photographer, Kamal Kishore Srivastava is a regular blogger and essayist who explores life’s deeper meanings through immersive reflections on nature, impermanence, and happiness. On his blog Nature’s Narrative, he blends philosophical storytelling with practical insights. Writing 1,200–1,500 words or more regularly, Kamal is committed to refining his craft, expanding his audience, and building a sustainable space where thought and feeling intersect.
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