The commencement of the academic year 2024-25 was marked by a palpable sense of excitement as 31 eager students, accompanied by 4 dedicated teachers, embarked on a transformative 7-day trek to Surya Top. Departing from Barsu, the journey unfolded through picturesque landscapes, encompassing challenging trails like Pichkiya and Barsu Gera before culminating triumphantly at the majestic Surya Top nestled in the heart of Uttarakhand.
Guided by the principles of the International Award for Young People (IAYP), the trek commenced with comprehensive briefing sessions. Here, students absorbed vital knowledge on safety equipment usage, the principles of eco-friendly practices including bio-toilets and water conservation, essential skills such as tent pitching and fire-less cooking, and engaging activities like scavenger hunts set amidst the verdant depths of the forest. A particularly poignant moment arose during the “Hug a Tree” activity, which served to deepen the girls’ connection with nature, instilling within them a profound sense of stewardship for the environment.
The journey itself proved to be a test of resilience, with participants navigating through rugged terrain and acclimating to the thin mountain air. Yet amidst the physical challenges lay an opportunity for profound encounters with nature’s wonders: from the breathtaking vistas of diverse ecosystems to the rugged cliffs and tranquil valleys, every step brought with it a newfound appreciation for the natural world.
Moreover, the trek served as a cultural immersion, offering glimpses into the unique lifestyle and traditions of the upper Himalayan communities. Students were awestruck by the resourcefulness and resilience of the locals, whose age-old survival skills stood as a testament to human adaptability in the face of nature’s formidable forces.
This collaborative endeavor with TEAM INDIA HIKES not only provided a platform for personal growth and self-discovery but also laid the foundation for future expeditions to the Himalayan peaks. As the SKV community reflects on this transformative experience, it emerges not only as a testament to their physical prowess but also as a celebration of the indomitable human spirit and the profound lessons that nature imparts to those willing to listen.