The Himalayas have been a big part of my life. My first major Himalayan trek was at age 12; it was a journey that I undertook with my school group. Later, during my time in college, I headed into the Himalayas after I enrolled in mountaineering courses. I was born an army brat, and have journeyed extensively since my father was posted in various remote regions in India. I'm very passionate about travel, and my profession as a Trip Leader with Wilderness Travel allows me to combine my enthusiasms - hiking, exploring the mountains, photography and meeting new people. Big mountains of the world, whether they are in the Himalayas, the Alps or the Andes, hold a special fascination for me, as do the people living amongst them, holding on to their ancient cultures in a world where everything is rapidly changing .