MOUNT ABU RAJASTHAN

Rajasthan was inhabited long before 2500 BC and the Indus Valley Civilization had its foundation here in north Rajasthan itself. Around 1400 BC the Aryans paid a visit and settled down forever in the area. The local population was pushed down to south and towards the east. Afghans, Turks, Persians and Mughals followed in mixing their blood, first in war then in peace, with the existing original inhabitants. This blend gave the martial lineage to the Rajputs.Mount Abu is the highest peak in the Aravalli range and the only hill station in Rajasthan state. The mountain forms a distinct rocky plateau i 22 kilo metres long and 9 kilo metre wide. The highest peak on the mountain is Guru Shikhar at 1722 metres above sea level. It is referred to as an oasis in the desert , as its heights are home to rivers, lakes, waterfalls and evergreen forests. Mount Abu is home to a number of Jain temples.The workcamp involves teaching children from poor and marginalized community in the non-formal schools about Basic English and Mathematics, Health and Hygiene, and Environmental protection through creative learning methods like art, music, games etc. There will also be house visits and meetings with local rural people as part of inter-cultural learning and to give awareness on health, education and hygiene. Volunteers can take the school children to places in the city like picnics, exposure visits and city walks. In addition, volunteers also will get a chance to take part in simplr renovation work at local schools/orphanages and engage in activities like painting, making Kitchen garden, tree plantation, promoting rainwater harvesting etc. As part of the cultural exchange, volunteers will witness and participate in the cultural programs with local community.