On January 6th, 2025, a group of 32 students and 8 staff members, including our Center Head, Fr. Shabu Francis, embarked on an enriching one-day trip from DBTech Yadgiri. Our journey began at 9:15 PM on the 14th of January, with excitement building as we traveled toward Hospet, where we arrived at 6:00 AM.

Upon reaching Hospet, we were welcomed with warmth and hospitality at Don Bosco. Thanks to Fr. Shabu’s coordination, a delightful breakfast was arranged for us, giving us a great start to the day. After our meal, we toured the Don Bosco Center in Hospet, where we had the opportunity to interact with the staff and learn about their efforts in shaping the future of the youth there. Our heartfelt gratitude was extended to the team, and we continued on our journey.

The next stop was the Jambunatha Swami Temple in Hospet. With its serene ambiance and rich history, we marveled at the architecture and took in the tranquil surroundings. From there, we made our way to Hampi, where we arrived at 10:30 AM.

Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage site, welcomed us with its awe-inspiring monuments and historical significance. We began our exploration at the Lakshmi Narasimha statue, one of the most iconic landmarks in Hampi, before visiting the Badave Linga and Sasivekalu Ganesha statues. The intricate carvings and historical inscriptions on the monument boards provided us with an insightful glimpse into the region’s rich cultural and religious past.

At the Virupaksha Temple, we were fortunate to experience a Dasoha, a traditional offering of food to devotees. It was a moment of spiritual fulfillment, where we reflected on the significance of the temple and its sacred role in Hampi’s history. After lunch, we ventured to the Stone Chariot and the Musical Pillars, two engineering marvels that left us in awe of the architectural brilliance of ancient India.

As we wandered through the ruins and temples, we encountered travelers from Germany. Our students were thrilled to practice their English skills by engaging in friendly conversations, asking questions, and sharing stories. It felt like a beautiful cultural exchange, further enhancing the experience.

We continued our journey with some homemade snacks prepared by the students, adding a personal touch to the adventure. Our final stop took us to Anjanadri Hill, a place of profound significance. With 600 steps leading to the summit, the climb was both physically challenging and spiritually uplifting. Upon reaching the top, the view was nothing short of breathtaking, and the students were overcome with a sense of achievement and gratitude. It was a moment of collective reflection and celebration, as everyone took in the panoramic views and captured memorable photos.

The descent was followed by a special treat: a delicious meal prepared by the Social Centre staff, who had thoughtfully prepared food for us using the supplies we had brought along. The meal was hearty and satisfying, leaving us feeling grateful for their efforts and generosity.

As we made our way back to Yadgiri at around 7:30 PM, we reflected on the day's events with a sense of fulfillment. This trip was not just about visiting historical sites, but also about gaining new knowledge, fostering connections, and creating lasting memories. We owe a deep thanks to Fr. Shabu Francis for his unwavering support and guidance, ensuring the safety and success of the trip. The day was a beautiful mix of history, culture, adventure, and camaraderie—one that will remain etched in our hearts for a long time.

For anyone considering attending a similar trip in the future, this experience offers not just an opportunity to explore some of India’s most fascinating historical sites but also to engage in meaningful exchanges, deepen one’s understanding of culture and history, and create unforgettable memories with friends and fellow explorers.