“Travelling really leaves you speechless and then turns you into a storyteller”, especially when it is between high mountains, above clouds, beyond imagination.With the membership flag of AFS-India A group of 20 Proud Rkkians with their escort teachers Reena Mishra and Jitendra Singh Solanki entered the threshold of
Him Academy Public School, Hamirpur, Himachal Pradesh for an Inter-Regional, Inter-Cultural Exchange Program from 20th to 30th November 2022.Calmly reclining between the two rivers; the Yamuna and Betwa, the rustic town of Hamirpur, with its serene environs and scenic appeal, engulfed us in nostalgia with some ice-breaking activities on the very first day. Next day started with a rejuvenating and revitalizing Yoga session followed by warm traditional welcome and introduction in morning assembly. The school tour, cultural fiesta and workshop on Nati dance, witnessing beautiful sunset during trekking to Baba Balak Nath Temple, the place soon became a paradise for us. We were now ready for endless adventure. Bonfire Bonanza was the source of warmth and comfort on chilly nights where we made many new friends.
Tucked away in the Himalayas, our most awaited trip to scenic and panoramic hill station, Dharamshala started on 23rd November. Excited for Devbhumi Darshan, we viewed the Dhauladhar ranges and thick deodar forests in the background, during our bus journey. Dharamshala, the picturesque destination boasts of jaw-dropping backdrop, the breath-taking mountains and landscape, stunning lake, vibrant monasteries, colourful temples, sparkling waterfalls. We visited Bhagsunath temple and Bhagsunath waterfall, Dalai Lama Monastery, McLeod Ganj market, Tong-Len charitable school for kids from slum backgrounds. On our way back we attended mesmerising evening aarti at Shakti Peeth Jwala ji temple.
HIM ACADEMY Hamirpur had much to offer us when it comes to sightseeing. Adorned with natural beauty, we noticed that the city was home to several scenic sites. As we dig further into the city, its undulating rocky terrain, quaint temples, and rustic settings captivated us. Beneath its mellow surface, lies the rich and multihued culture of Hamirpur, enriched by its glorious past. Visit to IHM, Hamirpur was an amazing addition to our trip, where we all tried our hands on Himachali Dishes and had delicious lunch with HOD IHM and renowned chefs.
Well organized visit to HIM Academy,Hiranagar branch, conduction of stone and verli art workshop, dance workshop, futuristic fun workshop on ATL, friendly basketball matches made our stay more pleasant to explore and discover the real beauty and charm of the place and people. The exceptional two dance performances by Rkkians in the Annual Day of HIM Academy was highly applauded by all and the very next day covered the highlights of the Himachal newspapers.
DJ night surprised us with the lavish iconic community feast of Himachal popularly known as ‘Dham’. Sitting cross-legged waiting for a multitude of regional delicacies to be served one by one on their pattal or plates made out of leaves. The ethnic food exhibited a treasure of food heritage.
Martin Buber says, “All journeys have secret destinations of which traveller is unaware”. This quote is completely suitable for the trip of Himachal Pradesh. You never know what you’ll see after the next bend of the road. A place where you can explore nature and yourself.
RKK’s delegates were Anushka Lohiya, Niharika Champawat, Hasmita Jain, Lakshya Gehlot, Sheza Belim, Bani, Veerangni Rathore, Khwayshi Parihar, Kirti Singh, Vanshika Singh Bhati, Aditi Sharma, Jaya Soni, Vaniya Solanki, Yashika Singh Choudhary, Pari Boob, Lakshita Singh, Neha Soni, Yosana Choudhary, Aadyaa Vivek and Stuti Arya their escort teachers Ms Reena Mishra and Mr Jitendra Singh Solanki.
