Personal Stories
From the Mountains of Himachal India. to the Shores of Haapsalu – My Story
Hello! My name is Kishori, and I come from a place where the mountains breathe history and peace — a small town called Mandi, in the heart of Himachal Pradesh, India. Today, my journey has brought me to a quiet corner of Northern Europe — to the beautiful seaside town of Haapsalu, Estonia.
Himachal Pradesh, often called “the land of the gods,” is a stunning state in northern India. It is famous for its snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, rivers, forests, and
ancient temples. My hometown, Mandi, is one of its cultural gems — nestled in the hills and known for its spirituality, traditional wooden temples, and lively festivals. Life there moves with the rhythm of nature. People wake with the sunrise, markets are full of colors and spices, and families gather in the evening with food and stories.
Growing up in Mandi shaped who I am. It taught me the value of family, community, and staying connected to the land.
Even today, the sound of temple bells, the view of pine-covered mountains, and the taste of simple home-cooked food are memories that give me strength.
When my wife and I decided to move to Estonia, we were looking for more than just work — we were looking for a safe, peaceful environment where we could raise our daughter and build a better future. We started our life in Tallinn, where I began working with a growing restaurant group that operates across Estonia — including Tallinn, Tartu, Pärnu, and Haapsalu.
Through my work, I had the opportunity to travel and see many parts of Estonia. Each place had its own charm, but Haapsalu immediately felt different. There is something gentle and welcoming about this town. The sea breeze, quiet streets, and small community reminded me of my roots — not in the same way as the mountains, but in the feeling of peace and belonging.
We chose to make Haapsalu our home. It has given us stability, calmness, and the chance to live close to nature again. Now, when I walk along the Haapsalu promenade, I often think of the riverbanks of the Beas River in Mandi. So far, and yet so similar in spirit.
I still miss the mountains, the festivals, the smell of incense and spices in the air — but I’ve also fallen in love with Estonian forests, the long summer days, and the quiet beauty of winter. This place has given me a new kind of peace.
Haapsalu has welcomed us with kindness, and now we are building our lives here. I continue working in the food and hospitality world, helping introduce Asian flavors to Estonia while learning from the simplicity and honesty of Estonian culture. Our daughter is growing up surrounded by two cultures, and I hope she will carry the best of both worlds in her heart.
“India will always be where my story began — but Haapsalu is where we are writing
the next chapter.”