In March 2022, just before the vibrant festival of Holi, our team embarked on a memorable trip to Kashmir for some much-needed team bonding. The four-day journey was filled with breathtaking landscapes, thrilling activities, and unforgettable moments that strengthened our camaraderie.
The Journey Begins
We flew from New Delhi to Kashmir, a trip marked by stunning aerial views of the mountains and valleys. Despite the strict COVID-19 checks at the airports, the excitement for the adventure ahead kept our spirits high. The journey itself was a precursor to the beauty that awaited us in Kashmir.
Stay at Dal Lake
Our accommodation was nothing short of magical – houseboats on the famous Dal Lake. Waking up to the serene views of the lake and the surrounding mountains set the perfect tone for our days.
Exploring Gulmarg
One of the highlights of our trip was visiting Gulmarg, a winter wonderland. We indulged in a variety of activities such as gondola rides, skiing, paragliding, and sledge rides. The sledge ride through the snow-covered landscape, especially during heavy snowfall, was an experience we will cherish forever.
Team Building Activities
Evenings were reserved for team-building activities at our hotel. We gathered around a bonfire, played dumb charades, badminton, and various other games. These activities brought us closer, fostering a sense of unity and camaraderie.
Culinary Delights and Cultural Experiences
Kashmiri cuisine was a delightful revelation. We savored local dishes like Rogan Josh, Yakhni, and the famous Kahwa. The Tulip Festival was another cultural highlight, adding a splash of color and joy to our trip.
Unexpected Challenges
One of the unexpected challenges was the lack of network connectivity, with only postpaid sims working. This made communication a bit tricky, but it also encouraged us to immerse ourselves fully in the experience and enjoy the scenic beauty of Kashmir.
Personal Highlights and Anecdotes
For many of us, the snowfall in Gulmarg was the most magical part of the trip. As we reached, snowflakes began to fall, creating a picturesque scene. Skiing in the snow was another thrilling experience that we all loved.
A funny incident that stands out was when one of our team members dropped their baggage into Dal Lake while boarding a boat. In a heroic (and somewhat comedic) effort, he jumped into the water to save it. He succeeded, emerging soaked but with the bag in hand, providing us with a good laugh.
Impact on Team Dynamics
The trip had a positive impact on our team dynamics. It allowed us to unwind, relax, and bond in ways that our usual work environment didn't permit. We returned feeling less stressed, happier, and more connected as a team.
Key Takeaways
A few key takeaways from the trip were the importance of carrying extra layers of clothing for the cold weather and ensuring we had postpaid sims for better connectivity.
This trip to Kashmir was more than just a getaway; it was a journey that strengthened our team spirit and created memories that we will cherish for a long time.