This summer break, I went on a 10 day trip with 30 of my friends to Deo Tibba Base camp, Manali for a trekking adventure. The trekking period of 6 days was organised and handled by the organisation, Adventure World. While the commuting and the spare day between our travelling to Manali and leaving for the trek was organised by us ourself. This was a trip of a life time, the memories I made, the challenges I overcame, and the beauty of nature and the fun was beyond what I imagined.

LO 1 : Identify own strengths and develop areas for growth

My strength would be my immunity, in the 6 days of trekking most of us had fallen sick due to which trekking had become quite difficult. While due to my strong immunity I was resilient, and was one of the few to have climbed the till the top. My stamina too helped me push myself, which made it easier for me to climb and finish the trek.

LO 2 : Demonstrate that challenges have been undertaken, developing new skills

I would say living in the mountains, using mud and dug up holes as a washroom, sleeping in tents, sleeping with people (often takes up the privacy factor), and the weather too. There were times when it started raining or there was a hailstorm or severe cold, I am someone who is usually cold even in average temperatures so it became difficult for me to live under those conditions (there are only so many layers you can wear). But with perseverance and determination I rose above them. I warmed up, did some physical exercise to raise my body temperature, I also practiced proper breathing because that helps with maintaining your health overall.

LO 4 : Show perseverance and commitment in CAS experience

For this CAS experience, perseverance was crucial. Once we started climbing up, I had no choice but to continue; we had to get to the top-most campsite, which needed a lot of perseverance. Around the 3rd day on, i was sleep deprived and tried, but I had to complete the trek and persevere for more 3 days. I overcame these obstacles thanks to the instructors’ and my friends’ encouragement.

LO 7 : Recognise and consider the ethics of choices and actions

While leaving our campsite we made sure that we left the place as we found it, as that was our ethical duty and our moral responsibility. Sometime away from phones also gave me an opportunity to reflect on my actions and morals.

All in all, this was a thrilling adventure and a much needed break from the monotonous schedule of school and classes. The beauty before my eyes gave me a sense of calm which I didn’t feel for a long time.I am quite grateful for the whole trip to have happened like it did.