The Post Graduate Department of Commerce organized a 10-day study tour from 22nd November to 1st December 2024 for 31 M.Com Part I and Part II students (12 Male, 19 Female) and 03 M.Com teachers, namely, Asst. Prof. Twinkle Fernandes, Asst. Prof. Valencia Baptista and Asst. Prof. Edrea Picardo. The study tour aimed to provide students with an opportunity to explore India’s rich history, culture, and traditions through visits to prominent destinations, including Delhi, Manali, Kullu, Amritsar, and Chandigarh.
Key Highlights of the Tour
22nd November 2024: Departure to Delhi
The group embarked on their journey early in the morning, departing from Madgaon Railway Station at 4:30 AM for Delhi.
23rd November 2024: Delhi Arrival and Sarojini Market Exploration
Upon arrival at Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station at 1:30 PM, the group checked into their hotel for a brief rest before visiting the bustling Sarojini Market. From 5:00 PM to 9:15 PM, students explored the vibrant marketplace, honing their bargaining skills and experiencing the diverse range of products on offer. The day concluded with a hearty dinner and a restful night.
24th November 2024: Delhi Sightseeing
The next day, the group set off to explore Delhi’s historical landmarks.
- Qutub Minar: The visit to this ancient monument was an opportunity to learn about Mughal architecture and the history of Delhi.
- Lotus Temple: This peaceful place of worship gave students insight into the Bahá’í faith and the importance of spirituality and unity.
- India Gate: Visiting this war memorial allowed students to reflect on India’s history and the sacrifices of its soldiers.
- The group also enjoyed a traditional lunch at Andhra Pradesh Bhavan before boarding a night bus to Manali. The bus ride provided a chance to relax and enjoy the views of the countryside.
25th November 2024: Manali Sightseeing
The group arrived in Manali and checked into Hotel Confier. After a relaxing breakfast, they visited:
- Hadimba Temple: This ancient temple gave students a glimpse into the region’s cultural and religious traditions.
- Buddhist Monastery: The visit to this tranquil place allowed students to learn about Buddhist practices and the peaceful lifestyle of monks.
- Mall Road: A walk along the road allowed the group to experience the local lifestyle and shop for handicrafts.
The day ended with a bonfire, where students bonded with each other, making the experience even more memorable.
26th November 2024: Snowpoint Adventure in Manali
The students took a scenic drive to Rohtang Snowpoint, where they had fun playing in the snow and enjoyed the beautiful winter landscape. Later, they returned to Mall Road for some shopping, exploring the local market for unique items.
27th November 2024: River Rafting at Kullu
The group travelled to Kullu in the morning where they had a thrilling river rafting experience. After lunch by the the riverside of Kullu, the group explored the divinity of the Vaishnodevi Temple and then departed for Amritsar.
28th November 2024: Amritsar
In Amritsar, the group visited the Golden Temple, an important pilgrimage site for Sikhs, where they learned about the history and significance of the temple. Later, they witnessed the Wagah Border ceremony, which was a thrilling experience. The ceremony showcased the strength and pride of both India and Pakistan, giving students a deeper understanding of the importance of borders and national unity.
29th November 2024: Chandigarh
On the 29th, the group travelled to Chandigarh, where they visited the famous Rock Garden, an artistic creation made from recycled materials. This visit sparked creativity and highlighted the importance of sustainable art. The group also visited Sukhna Lake, where they enjoyed the serene surroundings and learned about environmental conservation. In the evening, they boarded a bus for Delhi.
30th November 2024: Departure to Goa
The group boarded their train back to Madgaon at 5:35 AM, carrying memories of an enriching experience.
1st December 2024: Arrival in Madgaon
The tour concluded as the group arrived at Madgaon Railway Station at 4:50 PM.
The journey was a truly enriching experience that allowed the students to gain knowledge about India’s rich history, culture, and traditions.
Expected Outcomes of the Activity:
The study tour aimed to enhance students’ knowledge of India’s rich cultural and historical heritage by visiting landmarks like the Qutub Minar, Lotus Temple, Golden Temple, and more, fostering a deeper appreciation of the country’s diversity. The visit to Sarojini Market in Delhi will provide students with practical exposure to market dynamics, consumer behaviour, and negotiation skills. Exposure to diverse religious practices and spiritual landmarks will help students develop a broader understanding of cultural and spiritual diversity in India. This enriching experience is anticipated to broaden students’ perspectives and equip them with real-world knowledge, enhancing both their academic and personal growth.
