Bara Gali: Where Earth touched the Heavens

Imagine spending five days in a serene and remote location with no modern luxuries, no internet, and minimal amenities. This might not sound like an ideal vacation to many, but my experience at the 2nd National Summer Camp in Bara Gali was an unforgettable journey of self-discovery, unity, and appreciation for the people of Pakistan.

As I set foot in Bara Gali, a picturesque hill station nestled in the heart of Pakistan, I quickly realized that this place was nothing like the bustling cities I was accustomed to. It was a quaint haven, far away from the distractions of the digital world. The campsite lacked modern conveniences like hot water, showers, and internet, but what it offered instead was far more valuable.

With limited facilities, our daily routine became more focused on connecting with nature and each other. Without the distractions of technology, we immersed ourselves in the beauty of the surroundings, appreciating the simplicity of life. We woke up to the sound of birds chirping, took long walks amidst the lush greenery, and basked in the joy of meaningful conversations.

The highlight of the camp was the diverse group of people I met, all hailing from different backgrounds and professions. It was heartwarming to witness students, professors, professionals, climate activists, and human rights activists, all gathering in harmony. Despite the differences in our lives and experiences, we were united by a common thread – Humanity.

I have always been somewhat reserved and hesitant to open up to people quickly, but the atmosphere and the people at the camp were something else entirely. From the very beginning, they welcomed me with open arms, and I found myself connecting with them on a level I had never experienced before.

As days passed, I formed meaningful connections with fellow campers, particularly with incredible individuals from Bahauddin Zakariya University (BZU) and Swabi University, SAL University, Kinnaird, and Quaid e Azam University. We exchanged stories, shared knowledge, and laughed together, creating memories that will stay with me for a lifetime.

I felt a sense of belonging and camaraderie with my fellow campers. The barriers that often kept me guarded melted away, and I found myself laughing, singing, and dancing with newfound friends. The spirit of unity and acceptance among the group was contagious, and I felt comfortable expressing myself freely without fear of judgment.

As the camp came to an end, I found myself grappling with mixed emotions. The thought of bidding farewell to these incredible individuals was heart-wrenching. Our shared experiences had forged bonds that felt like they would last a lifetime.

This transformative experience taught me the beauty of vulnerability and the strength that lies in shared connections. I left Bara Gali with a newfound appreciation for the power of human connection and the richness of the Pakistani spirit. The memories I made during those five days will forever remain etched in my heart, serving as a reminder that no matter where we come from or what our backgrounds may be, we can find unity and love in the simplest of moments.