My first adventure camping experience - By Aahana Kartheek

….I couldn’t sleep the night before. I was just too excited. This was my first time on an adventure camping trip, without my parents. I had packed my backpack 3 days ago. There was a list of things that were required from everyone such as torchlight, toiletries, water bottle, shoes, clothing etc etc to be packed. Around 6:30am the following day, we were picked up from Kanteerava indoor stadium in three buses. By 9AM, we arrived at the beautiful camping spot in Kanakpura. There were around 95 of us. We were all in our track suits. We were accompanied by quite a few volunteers from KMA. It was a wonderful, cool morning. We all had hot breakfast and were then divided into ropes. We were allocated our tents, which would be our home for next three days. It was a two sharing tent. By then, it was time for lunch. After a yummy lunch, we assembled for a demonstration and talk on tent pitching. This was followed with a session of knot practice where we were taught how to tie various basic knots used in mountaineering and adventure activities. We had tasty snacks in the evening and settled to watch a presentation by Dr Vijay Nishanth, the famed tree doctor. His talk was very interesting. We were tired as we gobbled dinner and had a sound sleep. I wasn't wearing my sleeping bag properly and woke up in the middle of the night feeling cold. I tucked myself properly and went back to deep sleep quickly.

Day 2:

My tent mate and myself woke up at 4:30AM and were all set for the adventure activities that awaited us. We had quite a bit of physical training out in the open air. The smell of morning air was captivating. We were served delicious hot breakfast and started on our trek. Initially, I felt it tough, but as I saw others being so energetic, I was also filled with energy. By the time we descended, I wanted more of the trek. After a hot lunch, we all had to assemble for high rope activities again. The best part of the camp was the night trek. With the torchlight, I felt so comfortable and close to nature. I wished the trek went on forever. We ended the day with dinner and a good night’s sleep.

Day 3:

The day started with physical training as usual. We then had breakfast and moved to rock activities. I enjoyed rappelling. I learnt the trick of keeping my knees straight and leaning back.

My instructor was so kind and patient. Zipline and rock climbing were adventurous and exciting too. I wanted more of everything. Bouldering was very interesting. I was feeling on top of the world as I felt very strong while and after doing the activities. The organisers played some lovely songs and music to which we all danced. Dinner and lights out.

Day 4

The day kick started with physical exercise. This was becoming a routine. By now, the drone had become my buddy. It would keep hovering over our heads and capturing some lovely scenes and pictures. We had slush activities. I have never enjoyed myself so much. Water zip line was even more fun.
Soon it was certificate distribution time. I realised the camp is concluding. We got our certificates along with goodies (a superb backpack and water bottle). We had some snacks and headed back to Bangalore. This camp, being the first camp where I wasn't around known friends and adults, has taught me:
Independence in certain aspects

Mental strength

Confidence

Pride feeling that I can overcome any hurdle

Being one with nature and admiring it.

Surviving with very few items

Respecting every living and non living object around me