Promoting fitness through trekking, the YHAI way

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, June 7, 2016:  The Mangaluru unit of YHAI,  Youth Hostels Association of India mission, commemorating its silver jubilee this year, has been at the forefront in promoting fitness and nature.  The basic objectives of YHAI include promoting travel, tourism and adventure. By offering accommodation to youngsters at affordable rates in well maintained hostels and organising adventure and educational events, the organisation also endeavours to instil among the youth, a keen awareness of socio-political issues.

Harsha Samrajya, president of the Mangaluru unit, unveiled the ambitious programme list that the organisation has lined up in its 25th year. "The objectives of the YHAI will be furthered by promoting trekking among students. We are in talks with the managements. Trekking, which falls between walking and mountaineering, will see youth develop a love for nature, apart from also promoting fitness," he said.


YHAI organise different types of treks- a two to three day general trek across the Western Ghats in the summer, rain walk during the monsoons and cross country walk in the frosty winter months, both of which do not extend beyond one day. Harsha pointed out that the rain and cross country walks afford people a chance to step out of their comfort zones and enjoy nature. "Alcohol consumption, smoking, listening to music and taking selfies are forbidden during treks. This is a stress-busting activity and we don’t want trekkers to carry ’luggage’ with them. A day’s trek refreshes the mind. There are more than 300 places to trek within a 150km radius of Mangaluru," Harsha added. More than 300 members are lifetime members with the unit.