A simple 3-step process for students and a layered, intense, multi-team execution model for EdTerra, Young Authors Program lays the foundation for students to understand teamwork, leadership, communication skills and cultural awareness altogether. It allows them to research, analyze and articulate their findings, thoughts and ideas in the shape of a high-end publication that they author and shoot.

1. Copyright © 2018
EdTerra Edventures Pvt. Ltd.
All rights reserved
No part of this publication may be reproduced,
stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any
form or any means, electronic or mechanical,
photocopying, recording or otherwise, without
the prior written permission of the copyright owner.
To learn more about the innovative,
educational programs offered by
EdTerra Edventures, please visit:
www.edterra.com

3. Ms. Meenakshi Sahni
From The 'Principal's Desk
At Modern School, Vasant Vihar, we believe that there
is no substitute for ‘Education through Action’ and
that, exploring people, places, cultures, economic
opportunities, and technological advancements through
travel, complements and completes the educational
experience.
This philosophy matches our endeavor to create
responsible and dynamic global leaders and global
citizens by bringing the knowledge of the world to the
classroom as well as encouraging students to go out into
the world. These two methods are critical to creating
the three pillars of international success in the modern
inter-connected world: empathy, understanding and
international collaboration.
In line with this mission, our students recently traveled to
Bhutan, along with the students of Springdales, Pusa
Road, under a program titled, Bhutan - The Mountain
Kingdom. We chose this program for its focus on exposing
students to the wisdom of a country that measures
prosperity by gauging the happiness levels of its citizens
as opposed to the GDP. The country has championed a
new approach to development through formal principles
of Gross National Happiness (GNH) and the spiritual,
physical, social and environmental health of its citizens

4. and it’s natural environment.
Our students visited the beautiful cities of Thimphu
and Paro. To augment the broader program, we
selected the Young Authors Program, which ensured
students’ engagement and immersion. This ‘Student
Travel Chronicle’ is an outcome of this collaborative and
exploratory module. It captures the entire journey in
students’own words and photographs. It even showcases
their learning from the intense, six-day interaction with
one of the world’s most enigmatic nations.
I would also like to recognize the efforts of EdTerra
Edventures; a truly educational school trips company that
is well aware of co-curricular and extra-curricular goals
and developmental needs of students. We acknowledge
the contribution of their staff, especially their on-journey
educators. Their professionalism made for an effortless,
safe and enriching travel experience for our students and
teachers.
Lastly, we extend a heartfelt thanks to the students,
who participated and engaged with the program
enthusiastically. Our willing learners had an enriching
experience, the enduring bene ts of which they will
reap all through their academic life and career. Parent
will certainly feel proud of this highly demonstrable
publication that will keep reminding their daughters and
sons of their achievement and capabilities, all life long.
Sincerly,
Meenakshi Sahni
Ms. Meenakshi Sahni
Principal
Modern School, Vasant Vihar

5. Message from EdTerra
Bhutan is an outstanding destination both from an
educational and fun perspective. EdTerra poured
signi cant resources in the past year to design and forge
collaborations to make this journey a truly unique and
remarkable learning adventure.
EdTerra puts education rst, and our journey, Bhutan -
The Mountain Kingdom, is a prime example of how this
manifests itself on the ground. Our Program Development
Team researched every location, every educational tool
and every possibility, including a research visit to test
our itinerary and to forge tie-ups that would make this
journey a truly educational experience for the students.
Our desire to introduce students to the spiritual lifestyle
of Bhutan resulted in our partnering with a local school
that not only gave the students a warm reception, but
helped them understand the concept of Gross National
Happiness - a big idea from a tiny country that many
believe, could change the world.
Wanting to provide a diverse experience, students were
taken to Thimphu and Paro. During the journey they
visited learning centres like Zorig Chusum where they saw
young students engaged in the thirteen traditional crafts
of Bhutan. In Paro they witnessed traditonal music and
Christine Massey

6. To parents, our congratulations for nurturing such
curious and creative children. Lastly, a loud thank you to
our participating students; their curiosity and infectious
energy kept us motivated and charged at all times.
dance forms while trying their hands at the national sport
of Bhutan - archery. The students had a lovely time trying
on the traditional attire - Gho and Kira, an experience that
helped them respect and fall in love with another culture.
The long and difficult trek to the picturesque Taktsang
Monastery, also known as theTiger’s Nest was a testament
of the students’resilience and spirit of adventure.
The beautiful photo book now in your hands is the
work of the students who went on the journey. With the
ongoing guidance of trained EdTerra staff, the students
enthusiastically collaborated to author and photograph
this book in its entirety, and we think they have done a
wonderful job.
EdTerra thanks the Principal of Modern School, Vasant
Vihar, Ms. Meenakshi Sahni, for providing invaluable
leadership that shaped and made this journey a reality.
We would like to express our gratitude to the
accompanying teachers, whose energy and willing
participation made this journey a success.
Sincerly,
Christine Massey
Senior Manager
Program Development Team

8. Our Impressions ..........................09
Natural Heritage
Buddhism in Bhutan
............................17
.........................25
................33
................................. 41
.........................49
........................53
Art and Crafts of Bhutan
Architecture
EdTerra Moments
About the Authors

11. too. We acquainted ourselves with some interesting
local customs, e.g. they cover the photographs of
important people with a white scarf at top or at the
bottom. On the way to Chelela Pass we spotted many
Yaks! Once there, we enjoyed eating steaming hot
food in the factory while it was freezing cold outside.
On our last day, we went on a trek to Taktsang
Monastery or Tiger’s Nest, as it is popularly called
and then came back to the city. Perched on the face
of a sheer 1000 metre cliff, at the picturesque Tiger’s
Nest, we came to know all about Guru Rinpoche.
We will never forget this amazing and completely
exhausting trek!
Along the streets of Thimpu and Paro, with its
richly decorated buildings housing small shops and
restaurants, we got to appreciate Bhutan’s traditional
architecture. We were also lucky to make new friends
during the trip. Over the few days we spent together,
we learnt to share and to be more accommodating.
The entire country was full of positive energy. Overall,
the entire trip was a unique and fun-filled experience,
and despite its ups and downs, it will always remain
in our hearts!
We had all known of Bhutan as the “happiest
country in the world” as well as “The Himalayan
Kingdom”. And by the end of the trip, we realised
that this country has lived up to both these titles.
As soon as we landed at Paro Airport, we could
clearly feel the difference between the polluted air
of Delhi and the pure, fresh and oxygen rich air of
Bhutan. After a long drive to Thimphu and a few
hours of relaxation at our hotel, we went shopping
to the local markets. Our first day of the trip ended
with all of us playing cards and other fun games.
Our second day began with a visit to the Memorial
Chorten, followed by Buddha Dordenma, Folk
Museum, and National Library & Animal Reserve.
We got to know that the Buddha Dordenma, a huge
statue of Lord Buddha is made of Gold, Bronze
and Silver. It could soon be included as one of the
wonders of the world for its sheer size.
The following day included a visit to the Royal
Botanical Garden, Dochula Pass and the Royal
Palace. The 108 monasteries in Dochula Pass
are beautifully built and offer a wonderful view
of the valley. From the statues of their various
Gods, we got to know a lot about their religion
ISHAAN,
ISHITA,
MADHAV
AND
YASHISHT

12. Our Impressions
12
The Himalayan Kingdom welcomed us on a journey unlike any other

13. Our Impressions
Making memories in Bhutan
13

14. Our Impressions
14
Happiest when in the midst of natural surroundings

15. A little rest along the way
15
Our Impressions
Suspended over the Suspension Bridge

16. 16
Our Impressions
Ever-ready for a picture!
Posing with our new friend

19. in Thimphu. The garden has various varieties of
Rhododendrons. It was spread over a large area
and has a wide variety of plants and flower species.
It is also inhabited by several native animals.
Since Bhutan is situated in the Himalayas, we
enjoyed cold weather and bright sunny days on our
trip. We also got an opportunity to experience the
natural beauty of Bhutan throughout our journey.
Bhutan is known by many names such as the land
of the Thunder Dragon, the Mountain Kingdom,
the land of Happiness and the last Shangri-
La. Learning about the rich natural and cultural
heritage was one of the highlights of the trip. This
is especially true for Bhutan because it is such
a unique country with beliefs that are rooted in
tradition and promises of a fulfilling future.
Nowhere in the Himalayas is the natural heritage
more rich and varied than in Bhutan. About 72.5
percent of the country is under forest cover.
According to historical records, the kingdom
was known as the valley of medicinal herbs. For
centuries, the Bhutanese have treasured and
respected their natural environment and have
looked upon it as the ultimate source of all life.
This traditional reverence for nature has delivered
Bhutan into the 20th century with an environment
that is perfectly balanced and intact. In fact,
their reverence for mountains is so high that the
government has banned mountain climbing as a
mark of respect for its sacred peaks. Bhutan also
has an official policy by which 60% of the country’s
landmass must remain forested.
In 1998, Bhutan was identified by British Biologist,
Norman Myers as one of the ten Bio-diversity hot-
spots in the world. Here, the relationship between
man, nature and animals is respectful and they all
live harmoniously.
The Royal Botanical Garden that we visited was
the first botanical garden of Bhutan and is located
AMBAR,
HIMANKSH,
NALLIN,
NIRVAAN,
VEER

20. Natural Heritage
20
Dochula Pass and the 108 stupas

21. Natural Heritage
In front of Motithang Takin Preserve
21

22. 22
Short stop on our way to Taktsang
Natural Heritage

23. The Taksang Monastery was worth every bit
of the effort of trekking up
At the door of a Bhutanese cottage preserved at the
Folk Heritage Museum
23
Natural Heritage

24. Posing with friends is always fun
24
Natural Heritage
Blessed to be in the happiest country on earth

27. about 500m above the floor of Paro valley is built
around the cave where Guru Rinpoche is said to
have meditated in the 8th Century.
Today, although Bhutan gives its citizens freedom
of religion, most people follow the Drukpa Kagyu
sect of Vajrayana Buddhism which is also the
official religion of the country. Vajrayana was the
last of the three ancient branches of Buddhism
to develop and provides a quicker path to
enlightenment compared to the other two schools
of Buddhism.
The landscape of Bhutan is dotted with Stupas or
Chortens. The Memorial Chorten, one of the most
visible religious structures in Thimphu, is dedicated
to world peace.
Bhutan’s national flag is also based upon the
tradition of the Drukpa Lineage of Tibetan
Buddhism and features Druk, the Thunder Dragon
of Bhutanese mythology. The golden yellow
upper half symbolizes the secular authority while
the lower orange part symbolizes the Buddhist
spiritual tradition.
Siddhartha Gautama was born almost 2500
years ago in the Shakya clan which ruled the
region along present day southern Nepal. His
father, King Śuddhodana raised him in luxury, as
befits a prince. He got married at the age of 16 to
Princess Yashodhara and had a son named Rahul.
However, overcome by the impermanence of life
and the suffering of man, he left his kingdom,
wife and son to lead an ascetic life at age 29. He
gained enlightenment after six years to become
the Buddha.
Buddhism as a religion and philosophy originated
in India in the 5th century B.C.. From here, it spread
to much of Asia. Buddhism is today, the world’s
fourth-largest religion, with over 520 million
followers (over 7% of the global population).
Buddhism made its way into the mountain
kingdom of Bhutan in 747 A.D.
The Buddhist sage, Padmasambhava (Guru
Rinpoche) is said to have flown into Bhutan from
Tibet on the back of a flying tigress, to conquer
demon spirits standing in the way of the spread of
Buddhism. The famous Paro Taktsang or “Tiger’s
Nest” monastery which is built on a sheer cliff wall
AAGASTYA,
ADIT,
AARAV,
TANMAY

28. Buddhism in Bhutan
28
The Buddha Dordenma is the wonder and pride of Bhutan

29. Buddhism in Bhutan
29
The Simtokha Dzong in Thimphu built in 1627 is the oldest in Bhutan

30. 30
Buddhism in Bhutan
Memorial Chorten is a stunning stupa in the midst of Thimphu

31. Most enriching are those moments spent travelling
with friends
31
Buddhism in Bhutan
Friends made our journey memorable

32. Posing in front of the stunning Buddha Dordenma
32
Buddhism in Bhutan
Prayer wheels spreading positivity

35. ALAKSHYA,
ANANDITA,
APURVA,
SAMRIDHI
AND
SANSKRITI
The names of these 13 crafts are Dezo (making
handmade paper from the bark of the Daphne
trees), Dozo (Stonework used in creating outer
walls of temples, dzongs, monasteries), Garzo
(iron-work), Jimzo (art of making clay statues,
ritual objects and pottery), Thagzo (weaving
art), Lugzo (bronze casting), Parzo (wood, stone
and slate carving), Shingzo (wood work), Lhazo
(paintings), Tsharzo (bamboo and cane crafts),
Troeko (ornament making), Tshemzo (tailoring
and embroidery works) and Shagzo (wooden
bowls and cups artwork).
We even visited the National Library which was
established in 1967. It is full of priceless Buddhist
manuscripts. The books are Tibetan styled, printed
or written on long strips of handmade paper
stacked between pieces of wood and wrapped in
silken cloth. Seeing them kept so beautifully made
us realise that even books can become forms of
art.
The cultural tradition of Bhutan is deeply rooted in
Buddhism. This is not only the most integral part
of the Dragon Kingdom, but also has a profound
impact on the lifestyle they follow.
The inspiration they draw from their religion is
reflected heavily in the wealth of crafts and also
visible in their artistic representations and themes.
Apart from the depiction of several Buddhist
symbols and beliefs, the arts and crafts of Bhutan
also skilfully represents the eternal struggle of
good versus evil.
The Bhutanese crafts are believed to portray the
spirit and identity of the Himalayan Kingdom, and
there are typically thirteen traditional art forms.
During the reign of the fourth temporal ruler, Gyalse
Tenzin Rabgye, the arts were formally categorised.
The thirteen traditional art forms are collectively
known as ‘Zorig Chusum’.
We observed that their traditional craft forms are a
rare amalgamation of Indian, Chinese and Tibetan
art traditions. Almost all architectural pieces
in temples, dzongs and monasteries contain
the works of master painters called ‘Lha Rips’.

36. Art and Crafts of Bhutan
36
Exploring the 13 crafts of Bhutan

37. Art and Crafts of Bhutan
Everywhere you look, you are greeted with unique crafts
37

38. 38
Art and Crafts of Bhutan
Buying souvenirs for family and friends

39. Trying out Kira, the traditional dress of Bhutan
A masterpiece in creation
39
Art and Crafts of Bhutan

40. Beautiful and impressive works of art are
present all around
Amazing art work of a student
40
Art and Crafts of Bhutan

43. structures are creative geniuses and they put
their heart and soul into everything they build.
The Dechencholing Palace is a three-storied
building set amidst willow trees, lawns and ponds.
Except for the present King, other members of
the Royal family reside here. Its architecture
is entirely in Bhutanese traditional style.
We even passed the enchanting suspension
bridge at Tachog Lhakhang perched on the
hillside and overlooking the river Paro Chhu.
Surprisingly, this suspension bridge was
constructed by a single person who also built
58 other iron bridges across the country.
We also visited the Simtokha Dzong, the oldest
Dzong or fortress of Bhutan. The Dzong was
built over three floors and was covered on the
exterior at the lowest level with wheels. The
architecture of the fortress was spectacular.
We had a lovely experience viewing the architecture
of the mountains and unique houses in Bhutan.
Our journey in Bhutan began with a view of its
stunning architecture. From the moment we
arrived at the Paro Airport, we were greeted by
Bhutan’s traditional architecture and paintings.
By law, all buildings (houses, stores and hotels)
in Bhutan must reflect the nation’s traditional
architecture. Due to this, cities in Bhutan look
like a picturesque collage of colourful buildings
that line every street. Almost every building
displays a great deal of woodwork on the
doors and windows. Each of these carvings are
painted in wonderful shades of blue, orange, red,
yellow and green which reflect positive vibes.
The traditional houses in the country are not very
large but each of them is unique. There are prayer
flags fluttering in the breeze in front of every home.
We visited the Memorial Chorten, which literally
means the ‘Seat of Faith’. This is the focus
of their daily worship and is an extraordinary
example of Bhutanese architecture and artwork.
The Tiger’s Nest monastery is constructed on
the edge of a steep cliff and it was awe-inspiring.
Having seen so many examples of splendid
architecture all across Bhutan, one thing became
apparent; that the people who work on these
BHAVYA,
KABEER,
KRISHIV,
REET,
TARINI

44. Architecture
44
The traditional Bhutanese houses are an exquisite example of craftsmanship

45. Architecture
Colorful Buddhist altar
45

46. 46
Architecture
Breathtaking view of Taktsang Monastery

47. The influence of Buddhism is visible
throughout the country
We had a wonderful time exploring Bhutan
47
Architecture

48. Memorial Chorten, the pride of Thimphu
In front of the beautiful National Library
in Thimphu
48
Architecture

55. Aadit
Jain
55
About The Authors
Hey! I am Aadit Jain, a 12 year old boy. I am a student
of Class 7 in Modern School, Vasant Vihar. I love
nature and being outdoors. I play Cricket and ride
horses. I like golf too. I’m very fond of Mathematics
and also like Social Studies and Science. When I grow
up, I would like to become an art dealer. Technology
interests me a lot. I especially liked the school trip to
Bhutan because it is a very clean country and the air
is also clean, fresh and unpolluted.
Hello everyone! I am Aagastya Jaipuria, a student of
Class 7 at Modern School, Vasant Vihar. My favourite
subject is Mathematics. I love wildlife and outdoor
activities. The sport that makes me go on cloud nine
is football. I am a good public speaker too. I want to
grow up and become a good businessman. I loved
the school trip to Bhutan organised by EdTerra
Edventures. I liked Dochula Pass a lot. I clicked a lot
of photographs as the country was very beautiful. Our
plane landing in Bhutan was the best landing I’ve ever
seen in my life. All in all, I enjoyed the trip a lot.
Aagastya
Jaipuria

56. 56
About The Authors
Hey! I am Aarav Gupta, an 11 year old student of
Modern School, Vasant Vihar. I love being outdoors
and being in nature. Playing cricket and swimming are
both huge favourites. I am quite fond of Mathematics
and would like to be a Mathematician. I am also
passionate about acting and I could become an actor
when I grow up, too. I also love all things tech! The
school trip to Bhutan was amazing. Paro is a pretty
good city. I enjoyed the fresh air, learning more about
Buddhism and speaking a few words in Dzongkha.
My name is Ishaan Kataria and I am 11 years old. It
was wonderful when I heard that my school, Modern
School, Vasant Vihar, was organising a trip to Bhutan
for its Class 7 students. I thought the trip would
be a good break from studying but it proved to be
so much more. For a person like me, who likes to
get up at 8am and exercise, the fresh air in Bhutan
was fantastic. Bhutan was so cool and I especially
loved the museum and the zoo in Thimphu. I enjoyed
discovering a new country with my friends and learnt
to adjust and share stuff with them too.
Aarav
Gupta
Ishaan
Kataria

57. Ishita
Kataria
57
About The Authors
I am Ishita Kataria, 16 years old and a student of Class
11 at Modern School, Vasant Vihar. When I grow up,
I aspire to become a doctor. My favourite subjects
include Maths and Chemistry. I like to explore new
places and I also like to swim. Baking, drawing and
reading books also interest me. My dream destination
is Florida. Since travelling is my passion, this trip to
Bhutan was very special for me. Places like the Royal
Botanical Garden and animal reserves were worth
visiting as they were very informative. Buying local
arts and crafts from the markets was fun too. Overall,
our trip to Bhutan was fun-filled and I’ll always cherish
its sweet moments!
When I first heard about the school trip to Bhutan, I
couldn’t believe my ears. I had always wanted to go to
Bhutan and now my wish was coming true. Dochula
Pass, Paro, Thimphu...I visited all the places I had
dreamt of and it was awesome. My name is Madhav
Madan and I am a Class 7 student at Modern School,
Vasant Vihar. I love basketball and on the trip to
Bhutan I felt like I was scoring baskets at every new
place I visited. It was so exhilarating!
Madhav
Madan

58. 58
About The Authors
I am Tanmay Gupta, a 12 year old student of Modern
School, Vasant Vihar. I play basketball and football
and it fascinates me the most. I am a good public
speaker as well as a good listener. I am quite fond
of Mathematics. Technology interests me. I love
aviation and I want to someday become the CEO of
Boeing! I really wanted to go to Bhutan and EdTerra
Edventures made my wish come true. I loved Dochula
Pass and the Thimpu Clock Tower Market. Bhutan is
a very beautiful country and I loved it a lot.
I am Yashisht Arora, I dream of becoming a scientist.
I was fascinated by the architectural marvels in
Bhutan on my recent school trip there. The Buddha
Dordenma statue which houses over one hundred
thousand smaller Buddha statues in Thimphu was
awesome. The grand scale and the views from the
site were impressive. I am sure science too played an
importantroleinbuildingit!The108stupasatDochula
Pass and the temples, the people and the company of
my friends...everything was just wonderful.
Tanmay
Gupta
Yashisht
Arora

59. Aakshi
Chopra
59
About The Authors
The arrangements made by our EdTerra Journey
Mentor, Mr. Sohail made our Bhutan trip very
entertaining and pleasant. Our trip began with a
mind-blowing landing at the Paro Airport, after which
we moved to Thimpu. The itinerary included walking
through Chele La Pass, shopping at the Clock Tower
Market, visiting the Royal Botanical Garden, moving to
Paro, walking through Dochula Pass and trekking to
Tiger’s Nest. It was breathtaking! Mr. Sohail managed
each and everything beautifully. I am grateful to the
Principal of my school, Modern School, Vasant Vihar
for giving me an opportunity to visit the happiest
nation. I am also thankful to EdTerra Edventures for
the arrangements during this beautiful trip. I thank
God for making this trip safe.
I am Robin Mathew and I teach Western music
at Modern School, Vasant Vihar. I am addicted to
travelling. Bhutan has always been on my list of
places to visit, and when the opportunity came, I
couldn’t refuse. The trip was very well organised
by EdTerra Edventures. The landing at the Bhutan
Airport just blew my mind. As soon as we landed, all
of us were struck by the beauty of Bhutan. The trek to
Taktsang Monastery was an experience of a lifetime.
I only wish I could bring back some fresh air to Delhi.
This trip has been one of the best trips I’ve been on.
Big thanks to EdTerra and Mr. Sohail for everything
he has done.
Robin
Mathew

60. 60
About The Authors

61. Alakshya
Sheersha Khare
61
About The Authors
Hey! I am Alakshya Sheersha Khare and I study in
Class 7 at Springdales School, Pusa Road. I like
playing basketball. When I first heard about a school
trip to Bhutan with EdTerra Edventures, I was very
excited about going along. We went to many places
across Bhutan and I especially liked Dochula Pass,
Tiger’s Nest and Chelela Pass. EdTerra did not just
arrange for us to go to these places but also enriched
our experience with information on the culture and
tradition of the country. I loved Bhutan and had a
great time making new friends on the trip.
Hi! I am Ambar. I travelled to Bhutan on the 13th of
April which was a very special day for me as it was
also the first day of our Punjabi new year. I liked
Bhutan very much as it was full of happy, cooperative
people, fresh air and amazing scenic beauty. Some
of my favourite places included Simtokha Fortress,
the Buddha Dordenma and Chelela Pass. In Bhutan,
I saw snow for the first time in my life and I was
thrilled. I liked our guide, Tashi who was very funny
and approachable. Overall, it was a great trip.
Ambar

62. 62
About The Authors
I am very fond of nature and animals. My name is
Anandieta, I am 10 years old and a student of Class 5
at Springdales School, Pusa Road. I love singing and
listening to classical music, going to new places and
meeting new people. EdTerra Edventures planned a
five-day trip to Bhutan for us. We stayed at Thimphu
for two days and then at Paro. While I woke up
shivering every morning, the bird songs and prayer
chantings would warm me up. The people there were
quite nice and one day, I shared my Apple Cinnamon
roll with a child who was hungry and asking for food.
It made me happy. It was a beautiful, unforgettable
journey to Bhutan.
Hello everyone! I am Apurva, an 11-year-old student
from Springdales School, Pusa Road. I like spending
time in nature and being with my friends and family.
My hobbies are singing and listening to songs. I play
badminton and basketball. I am a good speaker
and a good listener too. I went to Bhutan with
EdTerra Edventures and it was very good. I liked the
architecture and arts and crafts of Bhutan. We went
to many awesome places by bus and the trip was very
enjoyable. The state of happiness on a well organised
school trip with friends continues as I am still happy
and smiling at all the pleasant memories.
Anandieta Apurva

63. Bhavya
Bansal
63
About The Authors
Hey! I am Bhavya Bansal and I study in Class 9 at
Springdales, Pusa Road. I like playing basketball. I
was very enthusiastic when I heard about the school
trip to Bhutan being organised by Edterra Edventures.
Students from Modern School, Vasant Vihar joined
us on this trip and it was great fun interacting
with everyone. I found the Buddha Dordenma, the
Royal Botanical Garden and the Royal Palace most
beautiful. The highlight of the trip was when we
played basketball with the locals and ate steaming
hot Maggi in the cold. I especially treasure the values
of sharing and learning to compromise that we learnt
on this trip. It was awesome.
Hi! I am a football and cricket enthusiast and my name
is Himaksh Gulati. I am 12 years old and a student of
Class 8 at Springdales School, Pusa Road. When I am
at home I love to play games on my Xbox 360 and
enjoy watching adventure movies as well. Cristiano
Ronaldo from Portugal is my favourite football player.
This was my first school trip and I enjoyed all the
places we visited in Bhutan. One of the highlights of
the trip was that we got to play basketball with the
locals and eat Maggi too!
Himaksh
Gulati

64. 64
About The Authors
I am Kabeer Vinayak, a student of Class 7 from
Springdales School, Pusa Road. Bhutan or the ‘Land
of happiness’ is the best nation I have ever seen.
I have no words to explain the beauty of the place.
The time spent with our Journey Mentor, Sohail Sir
was incredible. We also faced a few challenges, but it
was all good learning. The tour guide Tashi explained
everything clearly and the beautiful architecture of
Bhutan was simply breathtaking. I really enjoyed
clicking a lot of pictures. It was the best journey for
me and I will cherish its memories forever.
Hey! I am Krishiv Aggarwal. I study in Class 7
at Springdales School, Pusa Road. I like playing
Basketball. On our school trip to Bhutan, we travelled
by Drukair. It took about 2.5 hours to reach Paro airport
in Bhutan. On reaching Bhutan’s capital Thimphu, my
best friend Kabeer and I rested for about two hours
before stepping out to Thimphu market. It felt very
nice to interact with the friendly people there. EdTerra
Edventures did not just take us to places but also
made us learn a lot about Bhutan’s traditions. It was
the best trip of my life and I would like to travel with
EdTerra again.
Kabeer
Vinayak
Krishiv
Aggarwal

65. Nallin
65
About The Authors
Hello! My name is Nallin and I am ten years old. I
am a student of Class 6 at Springdales School, Pusa
Road. My hobbies include playing football, cricket,
hockey and basketball. Virat Kohli is my favourite
sportsperson and my favourite actor is Varun
Dhawan. I come from a large family and have four
boy cousins, five girl cousins and two sisters of my
own. So, going on a school trip with so many friends
was super fun for me. My younger sister is in class IV
and my elder sister is in class IX. I want to become a
scientist when I grow up.
My name is Nirvaan Singh Pahwa. I am ten years old
and I study in Class 6 at Springdales School, Pusa
Road. My favourite subjects are Maths, English,
German, Science and Social Studies. I love to play
football, sing and sketch. I love to read and talk a lot.
I have one sister of my own and seven cousins. I am
fond of eating butter chicken, pizza and chocolate.
EdTerra Edventures organised an overseas trip for
our school and it was my first international school trip
to the mountain kingdom of Bhutan. On the trip, we
stayed at cool hotels like Hotel Riverside in Thimpu
and Namsaycholing in Paro. I had a great time.
Nirvaan Singh
Pahwa

66. 66
About The Authors
Hello everyone! I am Reet Singla. I am a 13 year
old student of Springdales School, Pusa Road. My
hobbies include swimming and creating works of
art. I love to travel and feel the essence of different
countries, that’s why I opted for the Bhutan school
trip organised by EdTerra Edventures. We visited
Bhutan which is not only beautiful because of its
magnificent mountains but also because of the
warm smile on the faces of people there. The capital
Thimphu and chilled out Paro were both fascinating.
EdTerra Edventures kept the right balance between
education and adventure which according to me was
the best aspect of the journey.
Hey! My name is Samridhi Shukla and I am 16 years
old. I am a Class 11 student in Springdales School,
Pusa Road. My hobbies include painting, reading and
singing. I am a fan of old rock and Indian classical
music. I love learning new languages, meeting new
people and travelling! I am fluent in English, Hindi,
German and can also speak Bengali and Dutch.
A nature lover at heart, I was impressed by how
caring the Bhutanese are towards the environment.
The people were so friendly and humble that I loved
talking to them. The architecture in Bhutan was
awe-inspiring. This trip was extra special because
it brought me closer to the serenity and beauty that
embodies my religion of Buddhism.
Reet
Singla
Samridhi
Shukla

67. Sanskriti
Madhavan
67
About The Authors
Hello! My name is Sanskriti Madhavan. I am 12
year old and a student of Springdales School, Pusa
Road. I was a part of the thrilling and exciting journey
to Bhutan, organised by EdTerra Edventures. We
travelled with Modern School, Vasant Vihar and it
was a great experience. The trip to Bhutan made a lot
of us realise that there is so much more in the world
other than television and mobile phones. Bhutan is
splendidly beautiful, and we were inspired by all the
locals and tried to keep the space around us neat and
tidy too. It is such peaceful and happy country, I could
happily give it a rating of 9.5 out of ten!
Bhutan is considered one of the happiest places on
earth and I was very happy to go on a school trip
there. My name is Taarini Agarwal and I am a 13 year
old student of Class 9 at Springdales School, Pusa
Road. I enjoy swimming, playing drums and the arts.
This trip to Bhutan seemed perfect for me because I
like mountains or hilly areas. Plus, I like traveling and
knowing about the traditions of different countries.
EdTerra Edventures organised the trip and helped us
know more about Bhutan. The views are spectacular.
The weather was very cold or moderate. People are
kind and friendly and their traditions are beautiful.
Taarini
Agarwal

68. 68
About The Authors
Hello! I am Veer Arya, a student of Class 8 in
Springdales School, Pusa Road. I am 12 years old and
I love to play football and dance to Punjabi songs. I
enjoy the challenge of tough math problems and
technology fascinates me. My PS4 and game CDs
are my most prized possessions. I like to eat steamed
and fried chicken momos but on the trip to Bhutan
something else formed a special food memory for
me. It was when we got to eat Maggi after a game of
basketball with some locals in Thimphu. It was really
special because we made some new friends there.
It was a good trip and I would like to thank EdTerra
Edventures for all the memories.
Veer
Arya

69. Ranjana
Narayanan
69
About The Authors
I am Ranjana Narayanan, a Class 5 teacher from
Springdales School, Pusa Road. I have been teaching
for the last 25 years. Reading books is something
I really enjoy. Cooking and baking are my other
passions. Singing is something that I indulge in at
times. My experience with EdTerra Edventures was
really pleasurable. The trip to Bhutan was an eye-
opener as we were exposed to a culture and lifestyle
entirely different from us. The scenic beauty and the
serenity were indeed breathtaking. Being a spiritual
person, this Himalayan country and its monasteries
brought a sense of peace and calm. I thank the
school’s Headmistress and Principal for giving me
this opportunity.
I am Soma Banerjee, Headmistress at Springdales
School, Pusa Road. I am passionate about reading
and travelling. Visiting places and knowing about
people and their culture have always been of great
interest to me. The trip to Bhutan was a great
opportunity to know about Bhutanese culture and
lifestyle. The trip organised by EdTerra Edventures
gave us the opportunity to know about the heritage,
history, economic development and sense of pride
they have in being Bhutanese. Their food, costumes,
geographical location and beliefs make Bhutan what
it is today. The experience has indeed been enriching
and unforgettable.
Soma
Banerjee