to our world. - NOLS

Dev Bhoomi, called “The Abode of the Gods,” is a land steeped in culture, history, and mythology. It is the setting for some
of NOLS’ most culturally oriented courses. You will explore the Kumaon and Garhwal regions of India—places of staggering
beauty, high ranges, and ancient civilizations. The holy river Ganga (Ganges) is born in these mountains, and some of
the trails here are the oldest trade routes between India and Tibet. Our base is in the mountain town of Ranikhet in the state
of Uttarakhand, a peaceful rural haven with spectacular views of the Himalayas where you will acclimatize before heading
for the high country. On our courses, there is at least one Indian NOLS field instructor, and you’ll benefit from this person’s
extensive knowledge of the region and its human and natural history. You will get a complete introduction to the languages,
myths, cultures, and wild beauty of this country. You’ll hike through subtropical forests and high alpine meadows, attaining
heights you never thought possible—both in elevation and in what you are able to achieve as a NOLS student.
INDIA
Madhu Chikkaraju
Madhu Chikkaraju
Class time. What will it be today —Hindi, leadership, meteorology, or first aid? The
NOLS syllabus is packed. Ralam Valley
With a history of famed ascents and unmatched beauty it is easy to see why India is a
popular NOLS location for learning mountaineering. Pindari Valley
HIMALAYA BACKPACKING
The Kumaon and Eastern Garhwal regions of the Indian Himalaya
are rugged glacially carved ranges world famous as destinations
for climbing and trekking. Long ago, these low-lying valleys
provided traditional trade routes between India and Tibet.
You’ll make your way up high mountain passes, some reaching
15,000 feet above sea level, and travel through river valleys lush
with foliage. You’ll visit teahouses and hike past fields that are
still worked with water buffalo. You’ll accumulate backcountry
skills and learn the core NOLS curriculum while experiencing
the land and culture on a staggering scale. All the while, your
cultural studies and classes in conversational Hindi will aid in
your interactions with local villagers. You’ll go beyond the normal
parameters of tourist treks and see an India that few foreigners
ever encounter, deep into the remote Himalayan wilderness.
DETAILS
Age and Length: 18 & Over • Average age: 23 • Duration: 35 days
Tuition: $6,590
Optional College Credit: 2 hours Environmental Ethics, 2 hours Leadership Techniques,
2 hours Skills Practicum
Dates: page 107
HIMALAYA MOUNTAINEERING
The remote and spectacular Kumaon region in the state of Uttarakhand
is the setting for this high-altitude mountaineering
course. In these surroundings, you’ll learn how to carry out an
international expedition, focusing on topics such as expedition
planning, cultural awareness, high altitude physiology, and
mountaineering skills. Beginning your trek into the mountains
at 5,500 feet, you’ll travel on trails through forests and
small villages, interacting with the local people. Taking advantage
of non-moving days to learn the technical skills necessary
to move higher in an alpine environment, this course has the
potential for camping as high as 18,000 feet. The breathtaking
scenery, variety of terrain and travel, and tremendous opportunities
for cultural interactions are what make this a once-in-alifetime
experience.
DETAILS
Age and Length: 18 & Over • Average age: 24 • Duration: 40 days
Tuition: $7,095
Optional College Credit: 2 hours Environmental Ethics, 2 hours Skills Practicum,
2 hours Risk Management, 2 hours Leadership Techniques
Dates: page 107
Facing page: Explore the amazing Himalaya and indulge yourself in big wilderness
on a NOLS India course. Milam Valley
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