Mountains are beautiful with their snow-capped peaks and winding trails. But living at high altitudes is a constant struggle. The weather can change fast, and survival is never guaranteed.
For travelers in Lahaul-Spiti, the journey is often an adventure. However, when roads close and temperatures drop, adventure can quickly turn into danger.
A Lifeline at 11,000 Feet
In the remote village of Batal, mobile networks are absent and infrastructure is minimal. Here, a small roadside eatery offers hope. Dorje Bodh and Hishe Chhomo, known as 'Chacha' and 'Chachi', run this humble dhaba. They provide not just food, but a chance at survival.
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Start Your News DetoxFor over four decades, the couple has welcomed everyone. This includes trekkers, bikers, tourists, and sometimes, people with nowhere else to go. There are no other options in Batal. No nearby hotels or emergency services can arrive in time. If you are stranded, this dhaba is your only hope.
Showing Up When Storms Hit
Chacha and Chachi have been central to some of the region's toughest moments. In 1998, a sudden snowstorm left over 100 tourists stranded. Their small dhaba became a refuge. For six days, the couple sheltered them, shared food, and ensured everyone survived the harsh conditions.
More recently, in 2021, another blizzard trapped about 80 people near Chandratal. Again, the couple opened their doors without hesitation. No one was turned away. In Batal, waiting for help is not an option.
More Than a Meal
Through freezing nights, blocked roads, and years of isolation, Dorje and Hishe continue to help strangers. Their simple dhaba has become a deep symbol of refuge and warmth in a harsh landscape. It is a quiet promise that no one will be left behind.
In a place where survival is uncertain, their presence turns fear into hope. It shows that compassion can last even in the toughest environments. Their story reminds us that kindness often comes from consistently being there, especially when it matters most.
High in the mountains, where the air is thin and nights are unforgiving, their presence can mean the difference between fear and hope, despair and survival. For Chacha and Chachi, running the dhaba has always been about saving lives.
