Unforgettable Himachal: Educational Tour
Unforgettable Himachal: Educational Tour Organized by Tourism Department at DAV Centenary College
The Tourism Department of DAV Centenary College recently organized an 08 days educational tour, offering students an immersive learning experience in the heart of Himachal Pradesh's vibrant tourism landscape. The trip provided students with valuable insights into key facets of tourism, blending both academic knowledge and practical exposure.
A group of 32 students, accompanied by two teachers, visited prominent destinations including Spiti, Jispa Valley, Koksar, Gampu, Hampta Pass, Rohtang Pass, Baralacha, Kasol, Manikaran, Sissu, Kullu, and Manali. Throughout the journey, the students engaged in research focused on the Environmental, Social, Cultural, and Economic impacts of tourism, gaining a well-rounded understanding of its effects on local communities and ecosystems.
The tour, meticulously coordinated by Mr. Amit Kumar, Head of the Tourism Department, was a seamless blend of learning and adventure. Ms. Himanshi Dhaundiyal, the teacher in charge of the female students, ensured the safety and welfare of all participants, adding to the tour's success.
During the trip, students participated in thrilling activities such as River Rafting, Mountaineering, Trekking, Camping, Rock climbing and Hiking. These adventures not only enhanced their resilience and teamwork but also exposed them to the natural beauty of Himachal Pradesh. The students' research work was an integral part of the tour, with data collection focusing on the tourism industry's diverse stakeholders, including Hotels, Travel Agencies, local communities, and Government bodies. This hands-on fieldwork, guided by a pre-designed questionnaire, allowed students to compile detailed reports on their findings.
Highlighting the significance of such educational experiences, Dr. Archana Bhatia, Officiating Principal of DAV Centenary College, emphasized the institution's dedication to providing students with practical exposure alongside theoretical learning. She expressed pride in the students' active participation and encouraged more initiatives of this kind to enrich their academic journey.
Dr. Ruchi Arora, Overall Coordinator of SFS, lauded the efforts of both students and faculty for their enthusiasm and dedication. She emphasized that these educational tours not only enhance students' understanding of the tourism industry but also prepare them for future challenges in the field.
As part of their research, students explored topics such as tour itineraries, major destinations, accommodation options, the mythology and history of the visited locations, tourism trends, and key observations. Their reports also included recommendations for improving tourism management in Himachal Pradesh, based on the challenges identified during the tour.
This educational tour exemplifies DAV Centenary College's commitment to holistic education, empowering students to become future leaders in the tourism industry through experiential learning. The trip has set a new benchmark for academic excellence, underscoring the value of integrating classroom knowledge with real-world experiences.