Vana

Vana is a peaceful place

A getaway from the rat race.

At dawn the birds begin to sing

We watch them as they take wing

Amongst the stately trees of Sal.

The monkeys then form their cabal.

We have to say that every section

Comes very close to perfection.

The meals are all a sumptuous sight

But in calories they're light.

We enjoyed all that we ate

And yet we lost a little weight.

The communal table was the best

As we got to know many a guest.

We were so glad we did avail

Of the chance to go on the nature trail.

The slope was steep and I did falter

But the guiding hand of Stephen Alter

Steadied me and led the troop

On the beautiful forest loop.

The morning started with a chill

But the sun was bright on Flag Hill.

Rolling hills were spread around

And in the distance could be found

The snow clad peak of Monkey Tail

Or Bandar Punch which didn't fail

To elicit lots of laughter.

According to the myth right after

Hanuman's tail was burning bright

Lanka was torched and given a fright.

And finally to end the show

The tail was shoved in the mountain's snow.

Whether in Vana or the nearby heights

We'll never forget the sounds and sights

Of Uttarakhand the land of gods.

And a betting man would say the odds

Are very high that we'll return.

No thinking man would ever spurn

This opportunity to rejuvenate

And all the pleasures that await.