Ep 4. India: Quest for the Himalayas

Departures is a travel documentary series that follows two best friends Scott and Justin as they journey across the globe to immerse themselves in different cultures, uncover lesser-known destinations, and undertake unique adventures. In season 1 episode 4, titled "India: Quest for the Himalayas," the duo heads to India to explore the majestic Himalayan mountains and its surrounding regions.

The episode kicks off with Scott and Justin arriving in the hustle and bustle of the Indian capital city, Delhi. They waste no time and head straight to Agra to visit the iconic Taj Mahal, one of the seven wonders of the world. Immersed in the stunning architecture and rich history of the monument, they capture its beauty and grandeur on camera, showcasing the intricate details of its structure and learn about its construction and symbolism.

After their visit to the Taj Mahal, the duo meets up with their Indian guide, Kazim, who has planned out an ambitious itinerary for them to discover the Himalayas. They set out on a road trip to their first destination, the town of Rishikesh, also known as the "Yoga Capital of the World." They immerse themselves in the spiritual atmosphere of the city, visiting an ashram and taking part in a yoga session that allows them to experience the calming effects of this ancient practice.

Later, they head to the town of Manali in the Kullu Valley, a popular destination for both Indian and foreign tourists alike. Here, they engage in some thrilling adventure activities like paragliding, zip-lining and rafting in the frothy waters of the Beas River. The viewer gets an up-close look at these adventures as both Scott and Justin take on the challenges with a mix of exhilaration and nerves.

The next leg of their journey takes them to Dharamshala, the home of the Tibetan Government in exile. They visit the Namgyal Monastery, where they get a glimpse of life as a Tibetan refugee, learning about the culture, history, and politics of Tibet. The highlight of their trip here is a visit to the Dalai Lama temple where they get to meet and have a private audience with the spiritual leader himself.

Finally, the duo arrives at their ultimate destination – the Himalayas. They take a treacherous drive to the village of Kasol, which serves as a base camp for trekkers looking to experience the beauty and serenity of the mountains. They embark on a five-hour-long hike to explore the natural surroundings, witnessing stunning snow-capped peaks, dense forests, and awe-inspiring waterfalls.

One of the most touching moments of the episode comes when the duo meets two young boys, Amar and Bhuppi, who join them on their trek. The boys share their personal stories of the struggles they've faced growing up in the Himalayas. The two boys' story underscores the challenges of life in the mountainous region, where opportunities for education and work are limited, and resources are scarce. Scott and Justin learn about the boys' dreams and aspirations while offering their own encouragement and support.

Throughout the episode, Scott and Justin provide insightful commentary, reflecting on their experiences, and communicating their emotions to the viewer. They fully immerse themselves in the local culture, trying new foods, meeting new people and undertaking challenges. They make it their mission to experience each moment fully, leaving no stone unturned, resulting in a rich and memorable adventure in India.

In conclusion, Departures Season 1 Episode 4, India: Quest for the Himalayas, is a truly immersive and enriching journey, covering all the aspects of India's diverse terrain, from the bustling cities to the serene mountains. The viewer can expect to be mesmerised by the beauty and grandeur of the Himalayas, witness some heartwarming encounters, and enjoy the journeys and adventures of Scott and Justin as they experience India in their unique and authentic way.