Excursion to Bir Village in Kangra Valley, Himachal Pradesh

May 2011 (for approx 10 days)

Dear Parents,

I strongly feel that students have to learn beyond academics. They need to expand their horizons and extend their experiences. Most of all they need to learn to be responsible for themselves. I know that many of you have the same belief. Excursions, travel and adventure play a big part.

A little over a year ago our students of Std 11 went to Colonel’s Resort in Bir Village, Kangra Valley, Himachal Pradesh (www.colonelsresort.com). Located in the foothills of the Himalayas, Bir village lies in the shadows of the Dhauladhar mountain range. In May the mountain tops are covered in snow and form a breathtaking backdrop.

It is the center for the World Paragliding Championship held in October every year. At that time hundred of paragliders from across the world land up there. However, one can see paragliders dotting the sky on most days when the weather is good.

Colonel JP Singh and Mrs. Singh run the resort located within their tea garden. Col. Singh is an ex commando from the NSG. The couple run their resort with great discipline. Students visit them from all over for a stint of rock-climbing, river-crossing and wonderful trekking. The weather is comfortable, though nights can be quite cool. Mrs. Singh offers great food – which makes the stay exceptional.

We plan to take a group of students from Std 7 & Std 8. We will limit this group to 25 students. Two adults will accompany them (either teachers or parents).

Tentative schedule:

• Delhi to Pathankot: (by night train, reaching Pathankot early morning)
• Stay at Bir in tented accommodation within the resort.
• Visit to Manali.  One night stay in a camp or a hotel at Manali. Drive up to Rohtang Pass to the snowline.
• Visit to Dharamshala & Mcleod Ganj – the seat of the Dalai Lama and a shopping center. (One night stay in a hotel)
• Return from Pathankot to Delhi: by night train

Approx cost: Rs. 15,000 – from Delhi to Delhi, including all transportation, food and stay.

Pune to Delhi and Back:

Method of travel is still open. We will take a decision after discussions with parents. We could send the children by train or by air. At this time the air tickets are still quite affordable.

Parents who are interested that their child be part of this excursion should respond very quickly. Our further decisions will depend upon that. Bookings during vacations can be difficult, so do respond quickly.

Regards

Nalini Sengupta

Principal