5 things I learnt in Palampur

COUNTRY: India
PROGRAM: UniBreak
PROJECT: Mixed Health
WRITTEN BY: Georgia Stuart

After arriving in Delhi, we settled into the guest house before all having dinner at a local restaurant. Our chance to get to know one another and also see how much food we could eat before we couldn't fit any more in. The next morning we left early for the drive to Palampur.

The drive was long, taking us through town after town, with the last bit almost like a roller coaster, twisting and turning through the mountains. Arriving late, we had dinner and a chat before early bed. It didn't take us long to find out why we were told to bring thermals.

Monday started by experiencing one of the most breathtaking views I've ever seen. Snowy mountains that look like a poster and not reality. Our first day in Palampur involved orientation and a quick guide to town and the buses. Fruit shopping done, we all decided to walk the way home instead of the bus. Once again reminding us of the beautiful place we now are staying in.

Placements began early on Tuesday. It was a bit of a shock for the students at the hospital to get used to speed of the doctors and the way the hospital ran. The time spent in the internal clinic has been a wonderful experience for the students placed there, working next to a wonderful, caring doctor. At the clinic, we were introduced to a different approach to healing and care, learning the varying treatments of Panchkarma and Naturopathy.

So at the end of this week what things have I learned?

1. Thermals are an invaluable resource
Palampur gets cold... very cold. Nighttime routines now involve an interesting dressing routine of thermals, pyjamas, socks, jumpers, sleeping bags, sleeping bag liners, two blankets and a quilt! Surprisingly the days are sunny and warm.

2. The pictures you see in travel guides are actually real
We have been here nearly a week and I still get goosebumps every time I look up. The gorgeous mountains sit behind our house and can be seen from the markets and our placements. Nothing can quite describe their sheer presence and beauty. Our balcony has become a great place to hang out and stare open mouthed at the view.

3. The locals are extremely friendly
Even though a lot do not speak much English, I have received kindness and smiles from everyone I meet. Whether it be help catching a bus, buying fruit or smiling to us on the bus, every interaction with the locals is pleasant.

4. Indian food is delicious
While a local Indian take-away in Australia may seem good, it is nothing compared to the taste of the local food here. Our meals mainly consist of rice, chapati, daal and vegetables. Leftovers have become a thing of the past.

5. Always go up the weird path by your house
One afternoon, we all went for a walk up by our house and had the most wonderful time. It took us through tea plantations and amongst houses where the people all waved and said hello.