The "Call of the Snow" educational tour to Manali, held from May 22 to May 27, 2025, was a 5-night, 4-day adventure for a group of 40 students, accompanied by teachers and it will be guider from New Horizon Adventures (NHA). The trip covered Manali, Solang Valley, Atal Tunnel, and Snow Point, offering a blend of adventure, cultural immersion, and team-building activities. This report summarizes the itinerary and highlights the students’ experiences, capturing the educational and personal growth fostered by this memorable journey.
Day-by-Day Experiences
Day 1: Journey to Manali (May 22)
The group assembled at the school in Delhi at 3:30 PM, buzzing with excitement. The 14-hour overnight AC bus ride to Manali was filled with chatter, games, and anticipation. Despite the long journey, the comfortable bus and scenic glimpses of the hills kept spirits high.
Day 2: Arrival and Camp Life (May 23)
The group arrived early at the Valley Camp in Manali, greeted by crisp mountain air and stunning views of snow-capped peaks. After a hearty breakfast, students were briefed on camp rules and allocated tents. An acclimatization walk introduced them to the lush surroundings, with many marveling at the Beas River’s clarity. The evening bonfire, paired with snacks and storytelling, fostered camaraderie. Students retired to their tents, thrilled yet tired.
Day 3: Adventure and Bonding (May 24)
The day began with morning tea and exercises, energizing the group for a waterfall trek and zip-lining. The trek through pine forests was a highlight, with students, “The waterfall was breathtaking! I’d never seen anything so beautiful up close.” Zip-lining across the valley elicited screams and laughter, boosting confidence. Afternoon team-building activities strengthened group dynamics, with students learning to trust and communicate. Evening snacks and another bonfire sparked shared stories of the day’s thrills.
Day 4: Cultural Immersion and Rafting (May 25)
A visit to the Himalayan Village offered insights into mountain life, with students fascinated by traditional homes and local customs. "Learning how people live in such harsh conditions was eye-opening. They’re so resilient!" The afternoon’s river rafting session on the Beas River was the day’s peak. Students paddled through rapids, shrieking with excitement. The evening DJ night and bonfire had everyone dancing, with even the quieter students joining in. The camp’s warm dinner capped a day of learning and thrill.
Day 5: Solang Valley, Atal Tunnel, and Return (May 26)
An early breakfast preceded a drive to Solang Valley, where students explored meadows and optional snow activities at Snow Point. The drive through the Atal Tunnel amazed them, with many intrigued by its engineering. Visits to Hadimba Temple and Old Manali offered cultural depth, with students admiring the temple’s architecture and the vibrant lanes of Old Manali. Shopping at Mall Road was a lively affair, with students buying souvenirs like woolen caps and local crafts. The return bus journey to Delhi, with dinner en route, was bittersweet.
Day 6: Arrival in Delhi (May 27)
The group reached Delhi early morning, tired but fulfilled. The trip concluded with students exchanging hugs and promises to stay in touch, their bags heavier with souvenirs and hearts full of memories.
The trip was a transformative experience. Adventure activities like rafting and zip-lining built confidence and teamwork, while cultural visits deepened appreciation for Himalayan heritage. Team-building exercises fostered leadership, with students. The natural beauty of Manali inspired awe, with many expressing a new respect for the environment.
The Manali 2025 tour was a resounding success, blending adventure, culture, and education. Students returned with enhanced skills, stronger bonds, and unforgettable memories of the Himalayas. The experience underscored the value of experiential learning, leaving students inspired and eager for future adventures.