At Indiahikes, we believe that every trek holds the potential for a transformative experience, regardless of the weather or other external conditions. This philosophy was beautifully demonstrated during the recent National University of Singapore (NUS) Rovers club trek to Ali Bedni Bugyal.

It was constantly raining throughout the trek, with a maximum of two-three hours of sunshine on any given day. 

Despite the relentless rain, the NUS Rovers students embraced every moment, learning and immersing themselves in the trek's experiences instead of letting bad weather get the best of them. 

Their unwavering resilience and enthusiasm turned what could have been a challenging journey into an unforgettable adventure.

This trek is a testament to how the right mindset can enhance the trekking experience. At Indiahikes, we go to great lengths to facilitate such transformative experiences, ensuring that every trek becomes an opportunity for growth and learning. 

However, in order to make the most of a transformative experience, it is important for trekkers to bring the right mindset.

Despite the less than ideal weather conditions, students from NUS Rovers Club were unfazed.

What ingredients of trekking with the right mindset did the students of NUS Rover’s club demonstrate?

The vision of the NUS Rovers student club is to roam, venture and explore. Their idea is to explore friendships through adventure and explore adventure through friendships. They believe that as long as a person is game for a good challenge and passionate about exploration, their club membership is open to everyone!

In other words, they are less concerned with a person’s experience and skill level and more concerned that they bring the right mindset when it comes to exploration.

Siddharth, our trek leader, explained how leading this group was a special experience for him. The NUS students were fascinated even with the sight of a buffalo in one of the villages. He observed that they had a deep level of curiosity and appreciation for every experience that they had. 

Finding balance in nature: one of the students skillfully stacks rocks enroute Ali Bedni Bugyal.

Although it was constantly raining and wasn’t the ideal weather for clear views, the students moved ahead without losing their spirit. A quality which is less common than one would expect. A quality, which we see as a key ingredient in trekking with the right mindset. 

NUS Rovers Club students trekking through misty, rain-soaked trails.

The students from the NUS Rovers club celebrated every win, big or small. Reaching a campsite, supporting fellow students, all of these were reasons to celebrate. These students were truly adaptive and showed a great team spirit. 

Students soaking in the sunlight and cheerful weather at a campsite.

How were the students mindful of the place, people and culture?

For the students from NUS, overseas trekking trips are seen as the meeting point between a challenging mountain climb and an indulgent holiday. Before embarking on the treks, they expressed their desire to have a culturally-rich experience. 

Our local guides who accompanied the students on the trek enjoyed sharing local songs and stories. One such story according to the Pahadi narrative, is that the entire trail of Ali Bedni Bugyal marks the journey of Shiva and Parvati and their children between Kumaon valley and Kailash Manasarovar. The students were eager to learn more about the local culture and were respectful of both the culture and values of the regions they trekked to. 

While they enjoyed the exposure to the culture in the treks, they did feel slightly hindered by the language barrier. They felt that they could best express themselves and their emotions in Mandarin as opposed to English. However, they did not let this barrier hold them back in their effort to engage with the staff and guides on the trek.

Leaving the mountains better than we find them

When we introduced our Green Trails practices, they were quick to engage with the dialogue to better understand their role as sustainable trekkers. They went the extra mile to carefully segregate and collect trash as and when they found it, and did not see it as a chore. 

Why is it important to cultivate the right mindset before setting off on a trek?

The outdoors can be unpredictable as the NUS Rovers students experienced. The students met this challenge head on. This attitude allowed them to transform their experience of poor weather conditions into cherished memories.

This transformation was possible because the students came prepared with so many wonderful qualities of trekking with the right mindset that they had both a thrilling and a meaningful experience.

For us at Indiahikes, we were truly inspired by the mindset we saw. It motivated us to reflect among ourselves and the trekking community about how we react in poor and unpredictable weather conditions.

So ask yourselves, do you feel it is a chore to trek in rainy weather conditions? Are you of the mindset that the rain, cold and wind are forces that simply need to be endured before that nice hot cup of chai inside your tent?

What we learnt from the behaviour of the NUS students is that if you treat poor weather conditions as something that needs to be endured, you begin to condition yourself to elicit a negative reaction to difficult conditions.

The right mindset is what sets a miserable trek experience apart from a meaningful trek experience. 

The right mindset is not just about resilience. Being informed about what to expect, respecting the place and people where you trek, being curious about the natural world, being adaptive and trekking sustainably are all reasons which helped students from NUS go back home with a rewarding trek experience. 

Be it safety or trek design, we at Indiahikes do our best to ensure that anyone who treks with us goes back with an experience that transforms and stays with them. Bringing the right mindset equally goes a long way in creating a meaningful and memorable trekking experience. 

We thoroughly enjoyed hosting students from the NUS Rovers club and thank them for setting an inspiring example of trekking with the right mindset.

Weathering the Elements: Inspiring Examples from NUS Rovers Club Students

In the first of its kind CSR initiative from KPMG, they have experimented with a vision close to that of Indiahikes. That is, a vision to make trekking, the challenges and rewards in the outdoors available to everyone.  

Indiahikes worked together with KPMG’s CSR wing to lay down the fundamental objectives of a novel venture. The idea was to create an experience for students from two NGOs in Bangalore to explore, enjoy and reflect on a short day trek.  

Both NGO’s, Shishu Mandir and Samriddhi Trust  focus on working with students from socially and financially marginalised backgrounds. Shishu Mandir works towards providing holistic education to students and specifically girl children, thus allowing them to break from the cycle of poverty. Samriddhi Trust on a similar note, works with out-of-school children of migrant workers in Bangalore. 

A trek plan was designed keeping in mind the objectives of helping students relate to their natural surroundings on a trek and enjoy the journey as a group.

How was this trek facilitated to improve student’s connection with nature and themselves?

On the first trek, 37 students from Shishu Mandir between the ages of 14-16 trekked to Bananthi Mari Betta. Initially, the trek leaders from Indiahikes observed that the students were not engaging with the whole group. They were almost exclusively  walking and talking only within their own cliques. 

Indiahikes trek leaders facilitated ice-breaking sessions to encourage group interaction, but these had limited success. At the summit, the students participated in an introspective activity, writing postcards to themselves about their feelings, dreams, and future aspirations. This reflection, after spending quiet time alone, helped them connect more deeply with the trek and the natural environment.

During the trek, the students were actively taking part in the ‘Ecobag activity’ wherein they were led through the process of leaving the hillside in a cleaner condition than they found it. Further, they had the chance to discuss and reflect upon the impact humans have on the environment. 

Upon the descent from the trek, the facilitators of the trek expressed that the students who were mostly shy and chatting amongst themselves were now more open after the trek and activities. They were even initiating deeper conversation with those from both KPMG and Indiahikes!

The entire trek and the process of experiential learning is incomplete without reflecting on the learnings. All students took part in a reflection circle upon completing the descent. 

Activities designed and integrated in the sphere of learning by doing are better ingrained when these thoughts and ideas are formulated by the students in their own words. This is a key aspect  an informal outdoor excursion apart from that of an experiential learning trek.

What did the students share with us after their first trek?

For many of the students this trek was the first time they were embarking on a trek as a conscious activity and while they were not new to the outdoors, it was the first time the outdoors were not just a backdrop but both the destination and journey. 

During the reflection session following the descent one student said “After this trek, I am able to see that good things often come after a struggle”. 

A couple of students who were undecided about which course or career path to follow next said that they came back from the trek with more clarity about what they wanted to pursue since they had time completely to themselves at the summit.

Another student said “Nature is fine on its own and it is us humans who have spoilt it”, reflecting upon the Ecobag activity. 

How was KPMG’s CSR initiative unique? 

Due to KPMG’s support, they made it possible to improve inclusivity when it comes to enjoying a trek. KPMG went the extra mile in their CSR initiatives beyond a namesake gesture. They actively took part in the design of the objectives and even had a few employees engage and take part in the trek. 

As some students mentioned, the trek brought about a new found clarity in them. Through their thoughtful gesture, KPMG sponsored a transformative trek experience for students who otherwise might not have had the opportunity.

Why Indiahikes to support unique, transformative and special treks?

We work towards creating a reality out of our founding vision of “Everyone Must trek”. Trekking, especially in India, was until recently an elite sporting activity. It was not one which was enjoyed by all sections of society. Furthermore, smaller local treks were highly underappreciated and unknown. We work towards slowly but steadily changing this reality. 

When we design activities for experiential learning, the trek choice, facilitation and intended outcomes, everything is carefully planned in consultation with the corporate group and their objectives. 

We work towards complementing these objectives given our extensive experience in leading and designing treks to bring about a transformative experience. One where any trekker is empowered to trek mindfully and immerse themselves in all that a trek has to offer.

As for students, we believe that certain values and attitudes are best learnt through experimentation, adventure and first hand experience of doing and not through theories or textbooks. 

Whether it is leadership qualities or responsibility, when students are exposed to real situations with real consequences in unpredictable natural conditions, the outdoors are already the best organic teachers, providing challenges and awe-inspiring scenery.

KPMG's Unique CSR Initiative Sponsoring Transformative Treks for Students

This summer, Prakriti School chose the Outdoor Leadership Program facilitated by Indiahikes for their second Himalayan adventure.

At Indiahikes, we design immersive experiential learning treks for students which use trekking and adventure as a medium to impart leadership and life skills.

Prakriti School has their own unconventional approach to learning. Their education model focuses on experiential and socio-emotional learning. 

Let’s just say that there was a mutual spark of interest in each other's approaches!

At Prakriti School, they believe in co-creating knowledge, wherein students play a collaborative role in their learning process.  Their education model focuses on facilitation over teaching. 

The students work together with the teachers in taking charge of their learning through shaping the direction, resources and experiences based on their own observations and interest. In doing so, students reach a state they call “deep learning”. 

How do our values of experiential learning intersect?

At Prakriti School, they strongly uphold the belief that experiential learning can happen through a variety of mediums. In order to achieve a holistic understanding of a topic, they say that it is important to visualise, contextualise, touch, feel and observe. 

Any new topic, language or concept at Prakriti School is researched and approached from a variety of angles to achieve deep learning. 

In addition to this, Prakriti School aims to impart socio-emotional learning, where students are encouraged to engage in self-reflection in different forms and are supported in expressing themselves more confidently. 

At Indiahikes, we strongly believe that young people must trek. We believe that addressing the physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing of children is the need of the hour. One that does not get sufficient and holistic support within the four walls of a classroom. 

We want young people to see themselves as a part of the natural ecosystem, one they belong to, and one that they will be responsible for. 

We believe that trekking allows young people to break barriers and face their own limitations such as fears of the dark, animals, mud.. and even a fear of the unknown. 

In a beautiful amalgamation of objectives and an alignment of both of our visions we facilitated two Outdoor Leadership Programs between the 7th-10th of May this year to Deoriatal and Bijli Mahadev Temple with 49 students in total from Prakriti School. 

The idea was to design an immersive trekking experience combined with reflective sessions facilitated by our trek leaders which would result in deep learning. 

Students work in groups and are involved in pitching their own tents. 

What were the objectives of the Outdoor Leadership Program?

The basic objectives of this experiential learning trek were to:

Facilitate trekking, camping and wilderness skills among students

Impart nature identification and observation skills

Lay the foundation for the development of life skills such as empathy, care and resilience

How do the Deoriatal Trek and Bijli Mahadev Trek lend themselves as the perfect treks for experiential learning?

Faizan, our experienced Trek Leader who enjoys facilitating our experiential learning treks tells us why he thinks both the Bijli Mahadev Trek and Deoriatal Trek are perfect for experiential learning. He led the Bijli Mahadev trek with students from Prakriti School and said the following about the Deoriatal Trek:

“The trek takes students through the dense jungles of the Kedarnath Musk Deer Sanctuary. The endangered Himalayan musk deer, Himalayan tahr, Himalayan black bear and other exciting flora and fauna keep students on their toes, on the lookout for the next spotting”.

The Deoriatal trek is a high-altitude trek, with certain challenging sections and pushes students to face their own physical limitations.

The Bijli Mahadev trek on the other hand route is a shorter trail. Students do not get tired and there is more time and energy left to take part in experiential learning activities. 

Since the route we follow at Indiahikes is not the usual pilgrim route, the exclusivity and silence allows for more opportunities for students to connect with nature and take part in the different experiential learning activities without any external disturbances.

Students hugging a tree enroute Deoriatal Chandrasila.

Do You Want a Sneak Peek into our Immersive Activities and Reflections? (Example of the Deoriatal Trek)

Nature Scavenger Hunt (Sari to Deoriatal)

Students paired up for a nature scavenger hunt during the trek from Sari to Deoriatal. This engaging activity required them to observe their surroundings keenly, notice the flora, fauna, and all the natural changes along the trail. 

Upon reaching Deoriatal Lake, students participated in an 'Open Up The Senses' activity. This sensory immersion was designed to induce calmness and gratitude which would allow them to fully appreciate the surreal beauty of the lake and its surroundings. Students shared with us that this activity left them feeling a new sense of calmness. 

Green Sweep (Descent from Deoriatal Lake)

Students took part in a 'Green Sweep' during their descent from Deoriatal Lake. Through this clean-up initiative students managed to leave the lake area in a better state than they found it. Seeing and tackling the effects of pollution in fragile ecosystems instils a sense of responsibility and care for the environment among the students in a way which is quite moving.

For the students, the opportunity to watch the sun rise from the summit was breathtaking. Watching this everyday miracle from a stunning point in the mountains is one that is intrinsically valuable, one that needs no introduction, no facilitation or conclusion. 

The experience of the trek, the accomplishment of the summit climb and the treat of a glorious sunrise are enough to cement a deep appreciation of nature and a strong sense of empowerment for having achieved this.

Upon descending from the summit, a gratitude circle was facilitated, where students expressed their gratitude for what they witnessed. It was heartwarming to see that this gratitude extended to everything they had in life and for the effort of the Indiahikes team behind the scenes to make such an experience possible.

As the trek neared its end, students worked in groups to unpitch their tents. These activities foster teamwork and practical outdoor skills.

In the concluding session, students reflected on their individual experiences within the group. They identified areas of personal growth, challenges faced, and lessons learned. This reflection helped them recognize the value of their trek experience and consider how they could apply these insights to other areas of their lives.

While some of the activities and the overall experiential learning plan was similar for the Bijli Mahadev Trek, the experience and feedback was quite different.

We noted that the students were quite low on energy and exhausted on the day of the long summit climb at Chandrashila. Some of them didn’t eat enough food which made it difficult to fully enjoy the experience. 

In spite of some of the exhaustion faced by some students, it was wonderful to see students motivate and take care of each other. 

In the Bijli Mahadev Trek, since it is easier and does not require too much intense physical preparation, students were so full of energy and enthusiastic during that they even asked if they could use some time to sketch their surroundings to absorb it completely!

The ease of the trek allowed the students to go beyond the trek itself and even form great relationships with all those accompanying them on the trek. At the end of the trek, they even wrote meaningful notes of gratitude for all members of the support team!

At the end of the trek, students mentioned that they took the readily accessible resources and luxuries in the city for granted. They were quite introspective in the concluding sessions post the trek. They reflected upon their own feelings of being calm, peaceful and in the moment while on the trek and while taking part in activities.

Why did an experiential learning based school pick Indiahikes for their Himalayan adventure?

Through the Outdoor Leadership Programs at Indiahikes, students are guided through a holistic facilitation in the challenging conditions of the mountains.

In doing so, students are exposed to situations beyond their comfort zone. In experiencing this they are challenged to adapt and move forward. 

A life skill, which could take years to build within a classroom setting.

We invest in the ability of our trek leaders to facilitate such outdoor learning experiences through intensive training and continuous upskilling.

When it comes to the safety of our trekkers and especially that of young students, we want schools to rest with the peace of mind that they are in good hands. Trek Leaders assigned to lead student treks are Wilderness First Responders (WFR) and NOLS certified.

In their decision to pick Indiahikes to facilitate transformative treks to Deoriatal and Bijli Mahadev, Prakriti school created a wonderful opportunity for their students. An opportunity where students not only faced physical challenges but also engaged in reflective practices, fostering gratitude, empathy, and a profound connection to nature.

Why an Experiential Learning Based School Picked Indiahikes For Their Himalayan Adventure

Budding Trekkers for Life: DPS Bangalore West's Youngest Students Explore Karnataka's Trekking Trails

July 15, 2024 Bangalore - In an exciting series of adventures last week, DPS West's youngest students (some as young as 2) experienced the joy of the outdoors with Indiahikes.

Our tiny trekkers from Nursery to Grade 2 explored the beautiful trekking trails around Bangalore.

The school feels strongly about inspiring children's love for nature and adventure from a young age. What's more, students also had their parents and grandparents join them on the trek.

Some of the most fearless trekkers we've ever seen

Quality family time away from screens and obligations

Engaging with nature and appreciating all creatures, big and small

Adventure, friendships, and memories for life

As always, our deepest thanks to Renu Dimri, Principal DPS Bangalore West for her support and enthusiasm. For being among the visionary educators leading a powerful shift in education - bringing nature back to the fore of children's learning and holistic development.

Students from DPS Bangalore West have been going on day-hikes with Indiahikes every day since June 25th, 2024. Thirteen groups have completed various treks to Yathi Raja Betta, Skandagiri, and Kunagalu Betta. The final group trekked on Friday, 12th July, wrapping up the adventure.

Life and Entrepreneurship Lessons in the Mountains for Webveda by Ankur Warikoo

July 11, 2024 Himachal Pradesh - Webveda - a fully-remote team led by renowned entrepreneur, author, and content creator Ankur Warikoo - recently went on a trek to Bhrigu Lake with Indiahikes. 

Typically meeting for an offsite every three months to bond, this time the team chose a trek - a minimalist Experiential Learning adventure to connect deeply with nature and themselves. 

"The previous offsites have been full of pampering and luxury. We stay in fancy places. We dine well. We eat well. While all of that is also appreciated, we’ve never had a connect with nature the way we did over the last four days. What I found was a surreal feeling of the team coming together in a way they have never done before...Every entrepreneur should mandatorily trek, it should be a national government policy," shares Ankur Warikoo.

What happened on the four-day trek to bring forth such profound takeaways? Hear it from the orator extraordinaire himself.

National University of Singapore Students Experience the Majestic Indian Himalayas with Indiahikes

June 30, 2024 Uttarakhand - Two groups from the National University of Singapore (NUS) have returned from their action-packed treks in the Indian Himalayas.

Fourteen trekkers from the NUS Mountaineering Club took on the stunning Buran Ghati trek. As the longest-running student mountaineering club in Singapore, NUS Mountaineering regularly organises overseas hiking trips and technical mountaineering courses. 

On this trek, the group was looking to push personal limits and enhance teamwork and leadership skills. Additionally, the breathtaking Indian Himalayas were the ideal backdrop to build environmental awareness and witness first-hand the impacts of climate change.

NUS Mountaineering at the summit, celebrations all around

Exploring a village named Janglik, and spending quality time with the universally-adored mountain dogs of the Indian Himalayas

The group also immersed themselves in local culture as they walked through quaint hamlets and villages enroute. 

What you probably didn't know? This is NUS Mountaineering's third trek with us. Read more about their previous experiences here - What Brings NUS Mountaineering Club Back to the Indian Himalayas And Indiahikes

Meanwhile, on another Uttarakhand slope, ten trekkers from the NUS Rovers Club went on the Ali Bedni Bugyal trek. With a motto of exploring friendship through adventure and adventure through friendship, the Rovers thrive on challenges that test them both physically and mentally. Their expeditions during college breaks include treks in Nepal's Langtang Valley and Vietnam's Sapa.

A group picture for NUS Rovers before setting off on the Ali Bedni Bugyal trek

Learning the art of stacking cairns to mark a boundary, a route, or the top of a mountain on a trek

This is NUS Rovers' first trek with Indiahikes. "I had such a great time and keep learning new things and getting new perspectives every single trek that I go. We are all tired, dirty, but very very happy and very very well," shared Aswin Alagappan from NUS Rovers. Music to our ears at Indiahikes. Few things bring us more joy than being able to share our love for the Indian Himalayas with more people. 

The First of Many Adventures - Students from DPS Bangalore (West) complete trek to Yetiraja Betta

June 24, 2024 Bangalore -The first group of DPS West students completed their trek to Yetiraja Betta last weekend. 

The journey began months ago when Indiahikes designed a special "Camp in Campus" experience at DPS West Bangalore, to introduce students to the joys of overnight camping. The idea was to take baby steps and camp on school grounds to begin with.

Building on this enthusiasm, students from all grades - Nursery to Grade 9 - are going one step further-  exciting day hikes around the hills of Bangalore. Students of Grade 6 kicked off the fun last weekend. Here’s to the beginning of a lifelong love of adventure and learning.

You might be interested in reading: An Educator Explains Why Everyone In Her School Treks, From Toddlers to Teachers

Students from Grade 6 DPS West Bangalore gather for a fun activity

Joy and jubilation at the summit, students of DPS West Bangalore

Grade 11 Students from Ekya Schools take to the Hills

June 23, 2024 Bangalore - It was the turn of Grade 11 students from Ekya School for a fun outdoor adventure of “learning by doing," this time at Nandi Hills.

Following the excitement from Grade 9’s trek last week, the Grade 11 students set out to Nandi Hills to connect with friends, reflect on the year ahead, and dream big.

The Experiential Learning trek aimed to encouraged students to think about their goals for the next year and beyond through engaging activities and reflection sessions.

Exploring the scenic Nandi Hills also gave them a refreshing break from routine and see the world in new ways.

How inspiring it is to work with schools like Ekya that are dedicated to nurturing not just minds, but hearts and spirits too. No better place than the outdoors for it to happen.

Outdoor Experiential Learning - Adventure, nature, and a ton of learning for Grade 11 students from Ekya Schools

Ekya School's Weekend Adventure: Strengthening Friendships and Embracing New Beginnings through Trekking

June 15 to 16, 2024 Bangalore - Two groups of students from grade 9 of the Ekya Schools set off to explore the scenic trails on the outskirts of Bangalore with Indiahikes.

This adventure was part of Ekya's Transitional Outbound Programme, aimed at helping students reflect on their new roles as seniors, build bonds with classmates, and meet the new academic year with renewed purpose.

Ekya School students enjoy the sweeping views from Bananthimari Betta

Their destination? The stunning Bananthimari Betta trek. As students walked through forests and made their way to the gorgeous summit, they engaged in specially-designed activities to encourage self-reflection and personal growth.

Coming together for activities and reflections

Few spaces are more ideal than the outdoors for self-discovery. Unstructured, outdoor settings that inspire awe provided the perfect backdrop for students to connect with classmates and re-connect with themselves in meaningful ways.

Nature and adventure are ideal mediums for reflection and learning

After a weekend of reflection, adventure, and bonding, we hope the students have carried back with them not just memories of the trek, but greater energy and determination for the year ahead.

Abhi Study Circle Completes its 4th Experiential Learning Trek with Indiahikes

June 16, 2024 Himachal Pradesh - Seventeen students from Abhi Study Circle, a Delhi-based tutorial and coaching centre, have completed their Himalayan Expeditioners Program on the Bhrigu Lake trek.

The most advanced Outdoor Leadership Program Indiahikes offers for schools, Himalayan Expeditioners is an immersive experience, pushing students out of comfort zones. The beauty and challenges of trekking, along with specifically-designed activities help students imbibe attitudes and behaviours for success in life. 

Sahil Arora, founder of Abhi Study Circle and an avid trekker, is an advocate of the joys of trekking and how transformative it can be. This is Abhi Study Circle's fourth trek with Indiahikes.

Students of Abhi Study Circle at Bhrigu Lake

IIT Delhi Students and Alumni Complete Unforgettable Trek to Benog Tibba

June 1 to 2, 2024 Dehradun - The students and alumni of IIT Delhi have returned from an unforgettable two-day trek to Benog Tibba. This special adventure brought together past and present students, offering a unique opportunity to forge deeper personal connections and strengthen bonds within the IIT Delhi community.

Christ University Students Complete Indiahikes Social Immersion Programme

June 1 to 4, 2024 - Himachal Pradesh: Students of Christ University completed the Indiahikes Social Immersion Programme - a programme enabling first-hand understanding of the challenges faced by communities living in rural India.

The Indiahikes Social Immersion Programme is designed to immerse students in real-world learning experiences beyond the classroom. The students' commitment to broadening their horizons and contribute positively to society is truly commendable.

Polaris India Pvt. Ltd. Team Completes Memorable Day Hike to Channarayana Durga

June 1, 2024 Bangalore - An enthusiastic team of 28 from Polaris India Pvt. Ltd. went on a memorable day hike to Channarayana Durga, on the outskirts of Bangalore. Beyond enjoying the great outdoors; the team was looking to bond deeper and encourage healthy, sustainable living.

You might be interested in reading: Why Short Treks Can Make A Big Difference To Team Synergy

Prakriti School students from Grade 5 - 7 after completing the Bijli Mahadev trek

Prakriti School Students return from two Experiential Learning treks with Indiahikes

May 7-10, 2024 Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh - Students from Prakriti School, Noida, recently participated in two Experiential Learning treks with Indiahikes. Grades 5-7 went on the Bijli Mahadev trek in Manali, while the older students set off for an adventure to Deoriatal Chandrashila. 

"The contrasting experiences of the Deoriatal Chandrashila and Bijli Mahadev treks offered something valuable for all students. The older learners pushed their physical and mental limits on a challenging trek, while the younger learners gained confidence and appreciation for magic that unfolds in groups. Ultimately, both groups returned home with a newfound respect for nature’s grandeur and a sense of accomplishment that will stay with them for years to come," writes the school.

Prakriti School students at the Deoriatal Chandrashila summit

Teacher from MG School for Excellence and Indiahikes facilitators

Indiahikes Organises Workshop on Outdoor Experiential Learning for MG School for Excellence

May 22, 2024 Bangalore - The Indiahikes team organised an immersive workshop on Experiential Learning for the teachers of MG School for Excellence. Led by our facilitators Ramon Dharma Rajan and Spoorthi Shetty, the workshop dove deep into the what, why, and how of Experiential Learning to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes. 

Here's a list of some of the teachers' takeaways:

Understanding Emotions: Teachers now see students' emotions more clearly and appreciate their individuality.

Redefining Leadership: Everyone has leadership potential, and it can be nurtured through specific activities.

Reflective Learning: Emphasising reflection through daily diary periods for deeper insights.

Kolb's Learning Cycle: Enhanced reflection and team performance in sports and beyond.

Fun Ice Breakers: Boosting classroom engagement and rapport.

Modern Learning Solutions: Tackling boredom and short attention spans through Experiential learning.

Collaborative Growth: Strengthening bonds and understanding diverse teaching methodologies.

We're happy that the workshop offered new perspectives into how educators can help students learn. Write to learning@indiahikes.com if you would like to introduce Outdoor Experiential Learning in your school.

La Martiniere Girls College Lucknow completes 2nd IAYP Adventurous Journey with Indiahikes

May 18, 2024 Uttarakhand - The wonderful students from La Martiniere Girls College Lucknow have completed their 2nd IAYP Adventurous Journey with Indiahikes. Well done, girls!

They trekked to beautiful Dayara Bugyal in Uttarakhand which is at 11,830 ft, and no mean feat. With nature and adventure as backdrops for learning, each student discovered the leader in them.

From resilience and teamwork, to self-reliance and compassion – learning unfolded at every point in the trek. Students engaged in purposeful activities trekking, cooking, tent pitching, and nature-related tasks each day.

As always, our deepest appreciation to Priya Daultani, IAYP Coordinator at LMGC, for her drive, energy, and working with us closely to create memorable Adventurous Journeys for her students. We're proud to partner with schools as a Trained Activity Provider for the IAYP Adventurous Journey.

Scindia Kanya Vidyalaya Students complete IAYP Adventurous Journey with Indiahikes

April 5, 2024 Uttarakhand - 31 bright and eager students from Scindia Kanya Vidyalaya (SKV), Gwalior have completed their IAYP Adventurous Journey with Indiahikes.  A fantastic group of children - always open to learning and working together as a team. 

It was an absolute pleasure collaborating with SKV in making this a memorable experience under the encouraging support of Suman Choudhary, IAYP coordinator - SKV, Gwalior.

How often do we wonder and worry about children’s potential? Are they ready for the world? Will they grow up to make a difference to their lives and others? The Indiahikes answer to this is constant - take children outdoors often, and prepare to be amazed. The students from SKV were a testament to this.

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