NCC girls venture into hills as HIMTREK kicks off at Dharamsala

The majestic hills of Dharamsala echoed with enthusiasm and youthful energy as the Annual All India Girls Trekking Expedition (AIGTE), popularly known as HIMTREK, commenced on June 6. Organised under the aegis of NCC Group HQ Shimla, the expedition is being conducted by 5 HP (I) Coy NCC Dharamsala, on behalf of the Directorate General of NCC (DGNCC). The first leg of the camp will run from June 5 to June 14, followed by a second trek from June 17 to 26.

This national-level camp brings together 510 girl cadets from eight states and two union territories —Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jammu & Kashmir, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Chandigarh and Ladakh. The cadets are divided into two batches to ensure smooth execution of the expedition.

Commanded by Lt Col Manish Modi and guided by Camp Director Brigadier Harpreet Singh, Group Commander of NCC Group HQ Shimla, HIMTREK 2025 promises not just an adventure but a holistic learning experience. The base camp is strategically established at the Cantonment Area in Dharamsala, serving as the starting point for treks to iconic local landmarks such as the HPCA Stadium, War Memorial, Dalai Lama Temple, Bhagsu Nag Temple, Naddi, Dal Lake and the picturesque Tea Gardens.

The opening ceremony was graced by an inspiring address from Brigadier Harpreet Singh, who shared the vision and objectives of the expedition. He emphasised the role of discipline, hydration and shared experiences in the great outdoors. As a symbolic gesture to flag off the expedition, he distributed trekking caps to the participating cadets.

Adding to the enriching experience, a weapon display has been organised to provide cadets with insight into the Army, aiming to ignite aspirations for careers in the armed forces. A committed support team of approximately 50 personnel—including officers, ANOs, PI staff, and civil staff—is working tirelessly to ensure the camp’s success. A dedicated medical team is also available 24/7.