The unique flavour of adventure

Those who know him swear by his culinary skills. But those who have seen Vishal Kalia...

Those who know him swear by his culinary skills. But those who have seen Vishal Kalia,head of department of the food and beverage department at the Chandigarh Institute of Hotel Management,plan out fun treks and long walks will agree that he also dons the adventurers cap really well.

My first passion is undoubtedly food and the culinary world, admits Kalia. And when all of that is not keeping me occupied,I like to head out to explore the world.

Not surprisingly then,Kalia has been associated with Chandigarh Adventure Treks and Sports (CATS) group ever since its inception in 2007. The CATS club is unique not just because it packs in an enthusiastic group of people ready to take on adventure but also because its a great way to get close to nature and thats something I am fond of. It is a stress buster I recommend for everyone, says the senior lecturer.

Always smiling and zealous to pitch in with support and help,Kalia often signs up to be a part of the clubs organising team. I remember planning out a trekking trip to the Nepli forests followed by another trek into the Kansal forest area. Most of the CATS members hadnt explored the areas before and it was fun putting it all together for them, Kalia reminisces.

Whats more,these trekking expeditions into the wilderness have been rather fruitful for him. Since I quite enjoy rustling up a meal and experiment with recipes,a trekking trip helps me find some good spices or herbs on the way which give flavour to my next concoction, he smiles.

While the current weather has limited his outdoor hikes,Kalia is keen on taking the group to Singapore. I recently spent about a week there and loved the night safari,which is a real wildlife experience, he says.

Closer home,hes working out a trek to the spice and herb garden. Now thats a gastronomic journey many would like to undertake!

Stay updated with the latest - Click here to follow us on Instagram