Hi Friends,
Back after a long time. I work with Yahoo India and we had this opportunity to set out for Out Bound Learning Program (OBL). We were to visit some place called Chakraharta near Dehradum in northern parts of India. However due to unscheduled rains, the plans where shifted to a place called Ji-al-gad -- near Kirtinagar. Its some 100 km from Rishikesh - Haridwar.
Program were scheduled for May 10 - to May 13th. Before starting, I was not sure what are we headed for. We were around 60 Yahooiets. As we reached Haridwar on 11th early morning and straight headed for Kitinagar -- the sceneic location as it unveiled gave the idea how beautiful the place is.
Besides being part of Himalyan ranges -- whole experience was giving a new high. We reached the tents mounted near river Alakhnanda.
Day one was largely spent on water surfing. I love water sports -- though not knowing how to swim? Followed by lot of indoor games
Day 2 in the morning we started for Sleathing from a bridge at a height of 75 feet's. As few of the team members started off, I started gaining the confidence. However, when it was my turn, i realized the gas was out of me.
I remember.... as I took the position to leave the top of the bridge I thought for a moment -- Why the hell did I decided for it and now I cant even go back. After starting for a while, though I calm down and got the confidence that I can do it.
However, the fear within had not yet faded. I was not at all worried about the fear of dropping in water, it was the height and hanging in mid air which I was not able to handle. I finally did managed and reached the bottom of the rope and a big splash -- straight into river water. We reach back to camp in the afternoon and second half we were ready for water rappelling.
We were suppose to take a take a 12 km stretch wherein river Alakhnanda meets river Badrinath near Rishikesh. The place where holy Ganga starts.
This was one of the best ever experience that I ever had in my life. We were a team of 30 divided in 6 yaks. During the journey, at one point where river water was rapping at a good speed and height -- one of our yak went off and all guys into water. We managed to catch hold all.
In spite of being peak of Summer -- we also experience sudden heavy windy rains. The whole experience is still a dream to be remembered for the life time.
By the time we returned, most of the body parts -- which i wasn't even aware of --- starting paining.
Day 3 we all started back and had an opportunity to visit Rajaji National Park near Rishikesh.
Friends believe me -- if you ever happen to take a break plan one with camping. Its real fun.
Bye for now.
