Students immerse in the natural beauty of Himachal Pradesh

To truly appreciate the beauty that surrounds us, we must break free from the familiarity of everyday sights and embark on occasional adventures that lead us to extraordinary places—whether it be the depths of the sea, the lofty peaks of mountains embraced by clouds, or the mysterious depths of subterranean caves and tunnels.

Among the captivating destinations for travellers seeking such fresh beauty is Himachal Pradesh, a state in India. Within this enchanting region lies Dalhousie, a mesmerising tourist spot that emanates unparalleled magic, drawing visitors from far and wide.

Recently, Apeejay School, Charkhi Dadri organised a remarkable educational tour to Dalhousie, Chamba, and Khajjiar, offering 33 students from classes 8th to 12th a rejuvenating and enriching experience. The primary objective of this tour was to provide a respite from the scorching summer weather while allowing them to explore the natural beauty of Himachal Pradesh.

Upon arrival, the students were captivated by the scenic beauty of the mountain range as they visited the ridge, Subhash Baoli and Satdhara. The lush green valley, adorned with dense pine and deodar forests, left them in awe. To enhance their cultural understanding and knowledge, the students were also taken to the Bhoori Singh Museum and the Chamunda Devi Temple in Chamba.

After Chamba, the next destination on the itinerary was Khajjiar, popularly known as the ‘Gulmarg of Himachal Pradesh’ and the ‘Mini Switzerland of India’. Nestled in the Chamba district, Khajjiar boasted an ancient temple, a picturesque lake, a vibrant wildlife sanctuary, and serene cedar forests. The students had the opportunity to engage in trekking, which rewarded them with breath-taking panoramic views and a serene atmosphere around the temples.

The following day, enthusiastic young travellers explored Panjipulla – A Martyr’s Memorial, Bakrota Hills, and the Round. The vibrant atmosphere of Lakkar Bazaar caught their attention, and they enthusiastically purchased souvenirs to commemorate their trip. The comfortable accommodations in hotels, along with the bonfire programs held at night, added to the overall enjoyment and refreshment of the tour.

Upon their safe return to school, the students shared their experiences, emphasising the transformative nature of the trip. Stepping away from the comforts of home and regular support systems, they discovered their individual capabilities and accomplished tasks independently. The travel experience allowed them to develop essential skills and qualities that couldn’t be acquired within the confines of their comfort zones.

Expressing great satisfaction, Mr. Rudrendra Basak, Principal of Apeejay School, Charkhi Dadri, shared that the children safely returned to school, and had a great learning experience. He also shared a profound quote by Confucius: “I hear and I forget. I see and I remember. I do and I understand.”

Mr Basak further emphasised the educational value of school trips, where children are exposed to different cultures, traditions, food, languages, and perspectives. He highlighted, “These trips hold a lot of social benefits as they foster teamwork and bonding among classmates and students from different groups.”  

Lastly, Mr Basak acknowledged that school trips are a chance for teachers to get to know students better. They can learn about their interests and personalities in a fun and relaxed environment, which helps build trust. He assured the students that future trips would be even more enriching and enjoyable.