As part of our second semester B.Ed. curriculum, an educational tour was planned to provide us with meaningful real-life experiences beyond textbooks. Initially, we considered exploring South India, but after much deliberation, we decided to shift our focus to the culturally rich and diverse North India. This change wasn’t easy—it involved weeks of careful planning, documentation, permissions, and coordination. We consulted travel agencies, discussed logistics, and finally set everything in motion for a journey through Agra, Delhi, and Manali.
A team of 70 enthusiastic students, guided by our dear Swathy Teacher, Sheeja Teacher, and Akhil Sir, along with our local manager Fr. Jacob, formed the travel group. The journey kicked off on 12th March 2025 at 1:00 PM, as we boarded the Kerala Express (Train No. 12625) from Kollam Railway Station. The excitement was palpable.
Due to ticket constraints, our group was split across two coaches—S5 and S6—but this didn’t dampen our spirits. In fact, the 45 hour train ride became a bonding experience like no other. We filled the compartments with music, games like UNO and cards, laughter, and stories. While some caught up on sleep, others enjoyed the scenic journey, watching the landscapes of India unfold outside their windows. The heat was intense at times, but the shared moments and camaraderie made it all bearable.
During the journey, we encountered a variety of people—street performers, beggars, and members of the transgender community—each interaction adding a unique layer to our real-world learning. We stayed alert, moved in groups, and supported each other throughout, embodying the values of cooperation and empathy.
On the morning of 14th March 2025, we finally arrived at Agra Cantt Railway Station around 10:30 AM. There, the representatives of Sky Holidays welcomed us warmly and escorted us to our hotel via a comfortable AC Volvo bus. With Agra as our first stop, we knew that the real adventure was just beginning. The land of majestic monuments, political power, and snowy wonder awaited us.
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