OT Interview: Dancer And Actor Raghav Juyal Opens Up About His Passion For Travel, Cinema, And Food

I recommend adopting a minimalist approach when packing for your travels. Instead of carrying large suitcases, opt for a sturdy backpack that comfortably accommodates all your essentials. Limit your clothing choices to a couple of versatile shirts and pants to keep your luggage light. Consider investing in a quick-dry towel, which takes up minimal space and can be a lifesaver. Packing some dry fruits and light snacks is smart for on-the-go sustenance. If you're heading to hilly terrain, don't forget to include a windcheater in your essentials. Sticking to the basics and traveling light'll make your journey much more enjoyable and hassle-free.

Addressing the challenge of over-tourism requires a thoughtful and organised approach. One effective strategy is to cap the number of travellers allowed to visit a destination during specific periods. This controlled approach ensures that tourists do not constantly inundate the area. Overtourism is a persistent issue even in places like Himachal Pradesh, where the influx of tourists has led to drastic changes in local infrastructure, resulting in overcrowded housing and hotels.

The consequences of uncontrolled tourism can be dire, especially when natural disasters strike. It's crucial to prioritise planned tourism development in hilly regions. Take, for example, the northeastern state of Sikkim, where a well-planned and clean environment sets a positive example. We should strive to replicate such planning and cleanliness in northern hill stations, where littering and over-tourism pose significant challenges that must be addressed.

For me, there's no place in the world quite like Dehradun. I visit this city regularly, and I genuinely believe that once you've experienced life in Dehradun, it's hard to find another place to compare. Dehradun and its neighbouring gems like Rishikesh and Mussoorie stand out as one of the best destinations globally. These places' unique charm and allure make them truly special, and they have left an indelible mark on me.

Dehradun has a lot to offer, especially for food enthusiasts. One must-try delicacy is "chole katlambe," a signature street food unique to the city. Interestingly, the name 'Dehradun' is derived from 'dera,' which means a temporary home. During the partition, many people settled in Dehradun, bringing their cultures and cuisines, including chole katlambe, which you won't find elsewhere in India. Additionally, don't miss out on the delicious Pahadi cuisine and the crowd favourites, momos, and thukpa.

In terms of places to visit, many hyper-local and niche spots may not have proper names, but I recommend exploring the George Everest House, a must-see attraction. For a delightful breakfast, head to Chaar Dukaan, known for its irresistible pancakes. If you want to venture further from the city, consider a trip to Chakrata; it's a stunning destination. While exploring, having a car can be convenient.

One humble request to all travellers is to be responsible and considerate. Take care of your belongings, and please avoid littering. Ensure that you carry back any waste you generate and dispose of it properly, preserving the region's natural beauty.

Indeed, water holds a special place in my heart as it has a unique ability to bring me inner peace and tranquillity. Whenever I immerse myself in water, whether a pool, lake, or ocean, I instantly find a sense of calm that nothing else can disrupt. This connection stems from our early existence inside our mother's womb, surrounded and protected by the amniotic fluid. Similarly, when I'm underwater, it's as if I'm transported to a world where external worries and conflicts cease to matter. Everything becomes insignificant, and it's like entering a serene, otherworldly realm, akin to what I imagine going inside a wormhole might feel like.

I have one essential piece of advice for all travellers: Have a fantastic time, but please do not litter. Hill people, like us, cherish a calm and peace-loving lifestyle. We value tranquillity and harmony and do not appreciate excessive violence, drama, or rash driving. So, as a responsible traveller, respecting our local way of life is crucial.

Additionally, I want to emphasise the importance of caution regarding rivers. There have been unfortunate incidents of tourists drowning, so please care when near water bodies. By being responsible and mindful of these aspects, you can make your visit to hilly regions like Dehradun enjoyable and respectful of the local community.

Two destinations at the top of my bucket list for quite some time are Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania and Machu Picchu in Peru. I have a strong desire to explore these remarkable places, and I hope to make that dream a reality in the near future.