When my favorite hero Aamir Khan sang “Aati Kya Khandala” way back in 1998, I wished I could go with him on a trip to the romantic hill station. What a treat it would have been! Me and my reel life fantasy enjoying and merrymaking in the hills of Khandala. But fantasies are mere fantasies. When do they ever turn real or do they? Guess what? I went to Khandala last week with my real life Aamir Khan and what a delightful tour it was. My old yearning was fulfilled and that too as a birthday present. What is more, it was a surprise gift. I was merely asked to come out for a long drive and my dear Amish let the cat out of the bag, when he could no longer keep it a secret.

He had planned everything in advance and just a day before my birthday, we reached there. He had booked a beautiful home stay for the trip and I must say it was way better than a hotel. Surrounded by lush green fields, it easily struck a chord in my heart, just the way Aamir had when I saw his first movie. So eager he was to take me to the Tiger’s leap that he did not give me enough time to deck up either. Anyway, I don’t mind because the drive to the spot and the breathtaking views were nothing but heavenly.

Standing at the said spot, it really felt as though a tiger was leaping into the valley. Completely floored, I yelled with joy, screaming my name and my Amish’s, when I was presented with a lovely gift- a pair of earrings. Awestruck, what else could I have asked? My long time fantasy being fulfilled by my sweetheart at a superb spot! But this was not all, many more gifts were waiting. Next stop was Bhushi Lake. Tranquil and soothing, it is the perfect place to be with your soul mate. You can rest as much as you like and no one will disturb you.

Gazing at the crystal clean water, I said a silent prayer to remain together forever. Though there was no temple or God like relic nearby, I could sense my wish getting granted. Really, love is divinely crazy. It makes you do super mushy things with the faith of an ardent devotee. We sat there for hours, completely forgetting that Karla and Bhaja Cave were also on our bucket list.

Thanks to the drizzle that came on time, prompting us to leave for the ancient caves. The long ride gave us enough time to continue our sweet talks and the reverie ended in an adventurous trek. The rock climbing felt every bit exhilarating and when we reached the summit, it was like we were on cloud nine, literally as well as metaphorically. We hugged each other in joy and tears of joy rolled down my cheeks for I had experienced the magic of love on my birthday.

If you too want to come to Khandala, make it soon for this is one heaven that should never be kept waiting.