Adventure Therapy Hikes in India

When India’s leading trekking company organized its first adventure therapy hike to the Himalayas in 2022, the response was overwhelming. Within just three days, the trip saw a staggering oversubscription rate of 888%.

The success of this initiative highlights India’s growing interest in adventure therapy, a unique psychological approach that marries the great outdoors with the guidance of qualified therapists. Led by a certified trek leader equipped with advanced mountaineering skills and wilderness first-responder training, iBestTravel first offered adventure therapy trips covering the Dayara Bugyal trail in Uttarakhand. In addition to the trek leader, a qualified psychological counselor also accompanied the hikers to facilitate nature-based therapy sessions and experiential learning.

The Transformative Power of Nature

“The program harnesses the challenges and metaphors of nature and trekking, blending it together with the experience and dynamics of the group, to help those struggling with various issues or looking for a transformative shift in their lives,” says Izzat Yaganagi, head of experiential learning at iBestTravel, who led the first treks.

Participants were encouraged to embrace nature by removing their shoes and feeling the earth beneath them. Yaganagi prompted hikers to reflect on a vital question: what would change look like for each of them? This solitary reflection in nature marked just the beginning of the group’s therapeutic journey.

Moments of Reflection and Self-Discovery

Upon reaching the summit, participants gathered in a circle to reflect silently on their personal achievements. This exercise was followed by intimate moments of solitude, where they documented their thoughts and emotions. According to Yaganagi, this process often leads to profound releases of emotion and self-realization.

“The experience of reaching the summit in an unfamiliar environment creates newfound confidence and self-awareness,” Yaganagi explains. Participants are encouraged to cherish these moments, as they often ask themselves what the summit symbolizes in their personal journeys, leading to inner transformation.

Adventure Therapy: A Journey for All

Studies show that being in nature enhances human emotions and that experiencing awe is vital for our well-being. Trekking through the Himalayas offers both elements, providing an environment where participants can confront their challenges directly. As Murli Sundrani, a participant from one of the first hikes, shares, “This trek was different as it included a qualified psychologist, fostering a trusting environment for us to share life challenges.”

He continues, “Being away from everyday comforts allowed us to explore our inner resources. The long days of trekking through harsh conditions pushed us to confront challenges and discover our own strength, ultimately leading to personal growth.”

Building Resilience Through Therapy

As a counselor, Yaganagi emphasizes that adventure therapy provides an excellent opportunity for individuals to address various issues, including relationship problems, family struggles, workplace challenges, and a lack of self-confidence.

“Regular treks can be beneficial for daily life challenges, but if you feel genuinely stuck and unable to find solutions, even one adventure therapy trek can be a powerful catalyst for change,” adds Yaganagi.

iBestTravel plans to host a third adventure therapy hike in August 2023, traversing the Chandrakhani Pass in Himachal Pradesh. The five-day trek will incorporate both group discussions and individual therapy sessions, ensuring participants receive comprehensive support throughout their journey.