My Unforgettable Experience at ABVIMAS Manali Adventure Camp (11th May to 20th may 2026)
The ABVIMAS Manali Adventure Camp was one of the most unforgettable experiences of my life. It was not just an adventure camp, but a journey filled with discipline, teamwork, learning, confidence, and memories that I will May always cherish.
Our journey began from Bhopal as we travelled towards Manali through Delhi and Chandigarh. Although the long travel was tiring, the excitement of reaching the mountains kept our energy high. As we moved closer to Himachal Pradesh, the scenery completely changed — huge mountains, rivers, forests, and cold winds made the journey special.
We finally reached the ABVIMAS campus in Manali, surrounded by greenery and beautiful mountains. After settling into our dormitories, we started interacting with NCC cadets from different states and directorates. Within a few days, strangers turned into close friends, and the camp started feeling like a family.
The daily routine at the camp was highly disciplined. Every morning began with early PT sessions in the cold mountain weather, followed by briefings and adventure activities throughout the day. Initially, waking up early in such cold conditions felt difficult, but gradually it became an enjoyable part of the routine.
The camp officially started with registration and introductory sessions where we learned mountaineering knots, safety rules, and the use of various equipment. We also visited the institute museum and gained knowledge about mountaineering history and expedition techniques.
One of the most exciting experiences was trekking. During the camp, we completed nearly 75 kilometres of trekking through forests, rocky trails, valleys, and high-altitude routes. We also visited the beautiful Anjani Mahadev Temple at an altitude of around 9,500 feet. The treks were physically challenging, but the breathtaking mountain views and encouragement from teammates motivated us to keep moving forward. Every difficult climb increased our endurance and mental strength.
Apart from trekking, we also participated in rappelling, river crossing, wall climbing, and tent assembling activities. These activities helped us overcome fear, improve confidence, and develop teamwork skills. Spending the night in tents and sleeping bags gave us a real outdoor survival experience.
The camp also included important educational sessions. We attended lectures on environmental conservation, mountain ecology, and waste management, which highlighted the importance of protecting nature. Another session on life-saving techniques taught us CPR, rescue methods, and stretcher-making using bamboo sticks and jackets. These practical lessons made the camp even more meaningful.
The camp concluded with a badge and closing ceremony where all participants were honoured for successfully completing the training. Leaving Manali felt emotional because we had become deeply connected to the place, the routine, and the friendships we had built during the camp.
Even today, whenever I think about this experience, I remember the mountains, the cold mornings, the adventurous activities, and the unforgettable moments spent with friends. This camp not only taught me mountaineering skills but also helped me develop discipline, confidence, patience, and teamwork. It is truly an experience that will always remain close to my heart.