Location: Educational Trekking Journey from Kanda Village to Champawat Tea Garden
Far from the hustle and bustle of urban life and the digital world, in the lap of Uttarakhand’s natural beauty, began a morning that was not just thrilling but also educational and memorable for the children. This Sunday, accompanied by seven enthusiastic schoolchildren from Kanda village — Vansh, Aastha, Vanshika, Aryan, Mayank, Praveen, and Priyanshu — we undertook a nearly 2.5-kilometer trek, with the beautiful tea garden of Champawat as our destination.
This journey was not just a matter of footsteps, but a process of learning something new at every turn. Along the way, the children closely observed lush green trees, flowing streams, chirping birds, and the simplicity of mountain life. It was an ‘open classroom’ for them — where nature was the teacher and every sight was a lesson.
Upon reaching the tea garden, we had a warm interaction with Mr. Neeraj, who works at the plantation, and Mr. Nitish Rai, the efficient manager of ‘Golden Cafeteria’. Through them, we gained valuable insights into local farming, climate-resilient agricultural practices, and tourism opportunities. The children also learned the deeper importance of hard work, discipline, and balance in life.
Sitting beside the garden, all the children together tasted Uttarakhand’s famous traditional drink — Buransh juice. It was a moment where flavor, conversation, and culture blended to touch our hearts. The vibrant red drink of Buransh was not only delightful in taste but also deeply connected the children with Himalayan lifestyle and heritage.
This experience will not remain just a journey in the minds of the children — it will serve as a lifelong reminder that there are no limits to learning. And when nature becomes the teacher, education becomes deeply rooted in life itself.
Travelogue by: Prof. S.S. Dogra
