For all correspondence                                                         Phones: 011-91-11-2-652-4807, 2-652-4810                 please quote applicable camp number                                               Fax: 011-91-11-2-685-7749

Sri Aurobindo Ashram - Delhi Branch

Sri Aurobindo Marg, New Delhi - 110 016  

High Altitude Trek to Roopkund (5,029 mtr), Jyurighati Dhar (5,335 mtr) and Homekund (4,061 mtr)

Adventure in the Kumaon & Garhwal Himalayas, June 11 – 24, 2003 

At the end reclined a stern and giant tract

Of tangled depths and solemn questioning hills

And peaks like a bare austerity of the soul,

Armoured, remote and desolately grand

Like the thought-screened infinities that lie

Behind the rapt smile of the Almighty’s dance.

                                    – Sri Aurobindo

In the north [of India] there is a mighty mountain by the name Himalaya – the abode of perpetual snow, fittingly called the Lord of Mountains, animated by Divinity as its soul and internal spirit.

– from Kumarasambhavam by Kalidas

The mighty grandeur of the snow peaks, the meandering and gushing rivers, the undulating meadows, the dense forests, the incredible riot of colours of the wild flowers, the green valleys and the glorious panorama, added to the experiences of your soul, will make your life rich with unforgettable experiences of great beauty and splendour. Breathe the pristine air and cleanse your lungs of accumulated pollution. Give your mind rest from the care of everyday routine and regenerate yourself.

This high altitude trek is organised by Sri Aurobindo Education Society for people desirous to explore the inner and outer adventure in harmony with the God's great bounty of nature and soul.

Only those above 16 years who feel they can fit into such a group should register for this adventure.

The trek as you will observe from the programme is quite challenging. Traveling & trekking long hours, and eating whatever food is available on the way, etc., can sometimes be irritating. Then also at higher elevation, oxygen is scarce, and sometimes one tends to lose one's cool much sooner than warranted. Do come with an attitude to accept things as they are WITH A SMILE. There can sometimes be a change in the programme due to political disturbances, or natural hazards like heavy rain, storms, landslides, or for any other reason, upsetting the reservation schedules. These things beyond human control should be accepted with fortitude.

The most difficult part, however, is the adjustment with fellow trekkers. It is sometimes difficult to overcome petty likings, selfishness and creature comforts. In the larger interest and harmony of the whole group, however, we should remember that we are all children of the Mother, and treat this trip as an opportunity for inner progress. Let our motto be HARMONY.

SMILE AND BE BRAVE. Dear Friend: It is not going to be as hard as it may appear. With a smile and a little bit of faith & determination and mutual help, there is nothing we cannot overcome. SO WELCOME to this wonderful adventure in the Himalayas. The difficulties will seem trivial when you come face to face with the abode of the Gods.

THE TRIP will start from Delhi and end at Delhi (see the Table and Notes over-leaf for details). But you can opt to make your own itinerary after the trek, if you so wish.

CONTRIBUTION for the trip will be Rs. 2,500/- (Rupees Two Thousand Five Hundred only). This includes transportation, lodging and meals during the trip only. Any other expenses will have to be borne by the participants themselves.

CAMP CONTRIBUTION of Rs. 2,500/- should be sent by Bank Draft only in the name of SRI AUROBINDO EDUCATION SOCIETY payable at NEW DELHI along with a recent medical certificate.

 PROGRAMME:

 NOTES:

1.    The trip will start from Delhi on 11^th June 2003 and is scheduled to end on 23 or 24 June.

3.   A maximum of 20 participants will be accepted for the trek.

4.   Registration on "First Come, First Served" basis.

5.   You can have the facility of storing your extra luggage in Delhi.

6. Porters/ponies to carry your personal luggage will have to be hired at your own expense.

7.   People may choose to stay in Delhi at their own expense at Sri Aurobindo Ashram - Delhi Branch.

 ESSENTIAL KIT LIST:

1.   Light summer clothes for the plains (2 sets)

2.   Light woollens for heights below 2500 m (2 sets)

3.   Heavy woollens for heights above 2500 m (1 set)

4.   Woollen socks, cap, muffler, and gloves.

5.   Very good walking shoes which should have been used for a while. Normal canvas shoes are good enough.

6.   Raincoat, Torch and walking stick. Sleeping bag and rucksack (can be hired in Delhi).

7.   Two big size plastic sheets/bags to protect your luggage against rain. (can be bought in Delhi)

8.   Mug, plate, spoon and knife.

9.   Band-Aid and your personal medicines, Vaseline or Boroline.

10. Dry fruits, Chocolates, cheese.

11. Cameras & binoculars (optional). No other valuables please!

12. Discipline and the right attitude.

 UNDERTAKING

I agree to abide by the guidelines/regulations prescribed by Sri Aurobindo Education Society during the trek. I am cognizant of the fact that any adventure activity involves some amount of risk, and consequently I will not hold Sri Aurobindo Education Society or the staff personnel wholly or partially responsible in case of accident or injury, and will bear all medical expenses myself. A recent medical certificate of fitness is attached herewith.

Signature & name of Parent/Guardian (in case of a minor)                                                    Signature of Participant

Name (in block letters)   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sex . . . . . . . Age . . . . . .

Father's Name: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  Address. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . : . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . : . . . . . . . . . .

Tel. :. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . .Fax :. . . . . . . . . . . . .  . . . . . . . E-Mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Year 2003  Adventure (Youth)  Camps  

in the Kumaon Himalayas at Van Niwas, Bara Pathar,  Nainital 263001 (Uttaranchal)

We are pleased to announce that several Adventure (Youth) Camps are planned at Nainital in Uttaranchal during 2003. These camps are sponsored by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, Government of India.

General Objectives

•     Adventure activities to build courage, stamina and self-confidence.

•     Canalize the energies of the youth towards more healthy and fruitful activities.

•     National Integration and Harmony through community living. No restrictions due to religion, caste or creed.

•     Self development and spiritual uplift through meditation and through lectures on health, nutrition, character building, yoga, and on the teachings or Sri Aurobindo and the Mother.

Activities

•     Five Day Rock Climbing Course: Covers basic training in Rock Scrambling, Bouldering, tying of Knots, Rock Climbing, Rappelling, and River Crossing. Certificates are awarded to participants on completion of the camp.

•     Treks: We help a gradual build up of stamina. Treks start with a mere 3 Km, and by the end of the camp almost all campers are able to complete the enchanting 16 Km trek to Kainchi. Treks to other magnificent scenic points include Lands End, Tiffin Top, Jungle Trek to Sri Aurobindo Peak, Snow View, and the lofty Naina Peak.

•     Yoga-based Keep Fit exercises.

•     Meditation, and Talks on healthy living, character development, National problems & Role of youth.

Camp Contribution

Rs. 1,100/- per person (Rs. 1,000/- for YC340 scheduled between April 1–8). Includes Rs. 450/- membership. (Subsidized for Youth of 12–35 years. For Participants above 35 years contribution is Rs. 1,800/- per person. Children below 12 years not accepted.

Travel

Please Arrive at the campsite on your own. Purchase train tickets from hometown to Kathgodam. From Old Delhi 5013 Ranikhet Exp. Leaves at 10:45 P.M., scheduled arrival at Kathgodam next morning 6:15 A.M. Hire Sumo or travel by bus to Nainital. Return, 5014 Kathgodam-Delhi Ranikhet Exp., leave 8:45 P.M.and arrive at Delhi 4:45 A.M. next morning. If distance to Delhi from hometown is more than 500 Kms, you can break journey at Delhi for up to 2 days before you leave for Nainital, but you cannot break journey at Delhi on return because it is less than 500 Kms from Kathgodam.

Travel (contd.)

Individuals from Northeast states, W.B., Bihar, Jharkhand, Orissa, etc. can change trains at Lucknow for Kathgodam by Broad Gauge 3019 Bagh Exp. or Metre Gauge 5308 Nainital Exp to Lal Kuan and catch a bus for Nainital. Alternately, they can get down at Bareilly (about 235 Kms from Lucknow on Lucknow – Moradabad – Delhi main route) and catch a bus for the 135 Kms. four hour Journey to Nainital. . Please consult ‘Trains At A Glance’ for options and times.

Campsite

Camps are held at "Van Niwas" (Himalayan Centre of Sri Aurobindo Ashram–Delhi Branch), Bara Pathar, Nainital - 263 001, Uttaranchal (Location Map is included in Acceptance Letter). Van Niwas is picturesquely situated at a height of about 7400 ft. on the very top of a hill in a serene retreat, nestling among the Himalayan peaks, surrounded by trees and forests, away from the hustle and bustle of the town, in a place of contemplation, peace and quiet.

Discipline : Strict discipline is maintained throughout and all participants are required to follow the rules and regulations of the camp and to uphold the sanctity of the place. Smoking, Gutkha and tobacco are strictly prohibited on the Campus, and drinking and use of drugs are forbidden during the entire period of the camp.

Lodging : Dormitory style with coir or foam matting. Separate for men and women. Participants should bring 2 sheets, and a pillow. Up to two blankets will be provided.

Food : Nutritious & entirely vegetarian. We seek your cooperation in matters of food. Since people participate from many states and family backgrounds, it is not possible for us to satisfy everybody's taste.

Stay in Delhi : Rs. 100/- per head per 24 hours or part thereof for stay in dormitory at Delhi. Stay includes meals per ‘Meal Time Schedule’ only. Please write and inform in advance.

Cancellations: In case of cancellation, Rs. 400/- are non-refundable. Only Written Cancellations by post or fax or e-mail will be accepted. Refund should be claimed within two months after completion of the camp. Original receipts must be returned to us for refund. No refund if cancellations are done in the last 15 days before the starting date of the camp.  Substitutes however will be permitted at no additional contribution on production of original receipts and Acceptance Letter(s) of substituted candidates.

Medical : Organizers will not be responsible for any accident or illness. All medical expenses will have to be borne by the participants themselves.

How  and  Where  to  Apply      

1.         Group reservation for 25 participants and above will only be confirmed on receipt of 50% advance payment. Remainder is due at least 30 days before the camp. Others must pay in full to book seats.

2.         Send all applicable amount by M.O. or bank draft in favour of "Sri Aurobindo Education Society" payable at Delhi or New Delhi.

Provide for each candidate the details of: Name, Age, Full Address, Phone & Fax No., E-Mail address, Adventure Camp No. &  dates, and  mail to :

Convenor,  Sri Aurobindo Education Society

Sri Aurobindo Marg, New Delhi - 110016

3.         Enrolment will be on "First Come First Served" basis.

4.         For all correspondence, always enclose a SASE (Self Addressed Registered/ Speed Post Stamped Envelop). On acceptance we shall send further details, and kit list. You are requested not to start your journey without receiving a proper acceptance letter from us.

5. Fastest way to correspond with us is: send E-Mail to <aurobindo@vsnl.com>

Other Tours

Sri Aurobindo Education Society can help you with the following tours through local travel agents. Sri Aurobindo Education Society, however will not take any responsibility. Payments are to be made on arrival.

1.            Delhi Darshan (9 a.m. to 5 p.m.). Please inquire.

2.            Agra Tour (same day). Please inquire.

3.            Haridwar - Rishikesh (24 hours). Please inquire.