DC Nobra Students Explored the Botanical and Historical Heritage of Gulmarg.

DC Nobra Students Explored the Botanical and Historical Heritage of Gulmarg.
On 20th September 2024, the students of Government Degree College Nobra visited the renowned tourist destination, Gulmarg, as part of an educational trip to explore the region’s rich floral diversity and historical significance. The visit provided the students with a blend of botanical learning and historical insights, making the excursion both educational and culturally enriching.
At Gulmarg, Dr. Konchok Dorjey, an expert botanist, guided the students through an exploration of the diverse flora in the area. He introduced them to different types of forests present in the region, specifically coniferous Forests, characterized by needle-leaved, cone-bearing trees, typically found in cooler climates. Dr. Dorjey highlighted the significance of various conifer species, including Cedrus (Cedar), Pinus (Pine), Abies (Fir) which are known for its fragrant wood and essential oils, often used in construction as timber and in medicine. In addition to the trees, Dr. Dorjey also introduced the students to several medicinal herbs found in the Gulmarg region, such as Digitalis, Lupinus, Leocanthium etc
Dr. Padma Lhamo, another faculty member, focused on the historical and cultural aspects of Gulmarg. She highlighted the students about the etymology of Gulmarg, which translates to “Meadow of Flowers,” reflecting the region’s vibrant floral landscape. She also discussed the historical significance of Gulmarg as a famous hill station, originally discovered by Sultan Yousuf Shah in the 16th century and later developed by the British as a premier destination for recreation and tourism.
In addition, students of GDC Nobra also participated in a cleanliness drive to mark the ‘Swachhta Hi Sewa 2024’ campaign, an initiative, launched under the vision of Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which aims to promote cleanliness and environmental awareness across the nation.
The visit allowed the students to gain a deeper understanding of both the botanical diversity and the historical heritage of Gulmarg, fostering a greater appreciation for the region’s natural and cultural wealth. This practical exposure helped the students link their theoretical learning with real-world observations, making it an invaluable educational experience.