13th July 2025 – Day 5: Arrival in Ahmedabad
We began our journey to Ahmedabad with a warm welcome from the flight captain as we boarded the plane. Upon arriving, we were greeted with a grand reception at our hotel, making us feel truly special.
The day kicked off with an orientation session where we were introduced to the week’s itinerary. The briefing was followed by engaging ice-breaker activities that helped set a lively tone for the week. In the evening, we took a serene walk along the Sabarmati Riverfront. We learned about the historical significance of the river, and the calm atmosphere made the experience both educational and enjoyable.
14th July: Visit to the Centre for Environment Education (CEE)
Today, we explored the Centre for Environment Education. The wide variety of plants and greenery was truly fascinating. The forest walk was especially peaceful, offering a quiet moment to reflect and connect with nature.
Later, we attended a session focused on the impacts of climate change. It was eye-opening to understand the challenges both our country and the world are facing. Despite the serious topic, the session was engaging and left us eager to learn more.
15th July: Serenity Forest and Sightseeing
Our visit to Serenity Forest was an absolute delight. Surrounded by lush greenery, we took a walk through the forest and discovered the significance of various plant species and trees.We had a thought-provoking discussion on water management challenges with Mr. Loki, who shared valuable insights. Later, we visited the iconic Atal Bridge and the picturesque Rose Garden, both of which added charm to our day.
16th July: Adventure in Polo ForestToday’s highlight was our hike through the Polo Forest. It was our first experience trekking through such terrain, and it proved to be both exhilarating and a little intimidating. The forest's raw beauty and the thrill of adventure made it a memorable day.
17th July: Exploring Heritage and Culture
We ended our trip with a heritage walk through the historic parts of Ahmedabad. It was fascinating to dive into India’s rich cultural past and explore the architectural brilliance of the old city.
One particularly interesting concept was that of the "Pol" a traditional housing cluster. Each Pol included five key elements:

1. A communal well
2. The name of the community
3. A chabutaro (bird feeder)
4. A fortified gate
5. A dome
This immersive experience gave us a deeper appreciation of traditional Indian community life. Our time in Ahmedabad was truly enriching and unforgettable.