The day unfolded with a captivating city tour of Ha Noi, steeped in culture and history. The journey began with a visit to the majestic *Temple of Literature, where students marveled at the ancient Vietnamese architecture and delved into the fascinating world of feudal education. A serene stop at the tranquil **Tran Quoc Temple*, nestled by the lake, offered a moment of reflection.  

The students took an enchanting walk through the bustling *Old Quarter*, alive with vibrant local life, quaint craft shops and boutique treasures. Meals at  Indian restaurants added a comforting culinary touch before the group bid farewell to the stunning country with hearts full of memories and a spirit enriched by this incredible journey.

The day began with embarking on an exciting journey to Ha Long Bay. The group arrived at Ha Long International Port, nestled in the heart of the vibrant Bai Chay tourist area and smoothly completed the boarding procedures. Aboard the ship, they set sail to explore the enchanting Dong Thien Cung Cave. They enjoyed  a mesmerizing water puppet show, an age-old art form. The charm of Hoan Kiem Lake mesmerized the students. 

Their voyage continued with visits to the awe-inspiring Dau Go Cave, Dinh Huong Island, and the iconic Hon Ga Choi, while the majestic Bai Tho Mountain and the striking Sun Wheel graced the horizon on their return. As the Bai Chay Bridge marked the end of the tour, the group disembarked at the pier and journeyed back to Ha Noi. The evening  was capped off with a sumptuous dinner at a renowned Indian restaurant.

The day began with a delightful breakfast at the hotel, energizing everyone for the exciting day ahead.

Their first stop was Hoa Lu, where they visited the historical temples of King Dinh and King Le, marveling at their intricate architecture. Lunch was served at an Indian restaurant, offering a taste of home. The group then continued to Trang An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The two-hour boat ride allowed them to bask in the stunning natural beauty of the ecological site, surrounded by limestone karsts and tranquil waterways.  

Returning to Ha Noi, the day concluded with a hearty dinner, savoring the delicious delicacies.

The students visited Dong Tam Snake Farm, the largest snake rearing and treatment center in the Mekong Delta. Surrounded by greenery, this conservation hub, established in 1979 on a former battlefield, offered a unique insight into the region’s biodiversity.  

After a delicious Indian lunch, the students embarked on a boat trip along the Tien River,  admiring the Rach Mieu Bridge and the islands of Long, Lan, Qui and Phung. At Thoi Son Island, they strolled through the village roads, tasted fresh fruits and enjoyed traditional Southern music. A tranquil rowing boat ride through the lush canals added to the charm.  

The students also visited a honeybee farm, sampling honey tea and banana wine, before exploring Ben Tre’s  coconut candy factory and handicraft village. The day ended with dinner at an Indian restaurant and reflections on the enriching experience.

The educational trip to Vietnam was an eye-opening and learning experience for the Xaverians as they entered the premises of the University of Finance and Literature, Vietnam. They were warmly welcomed by their Vietnamese counterparts. 

Xaverians shared about their rich culture and heritage. They exhibited a wonderful classical dance performance and showcased their dancing prowess on a medley of patriotic songs. They decorated Vietnamese hats with their creative ideas and skills.

The Vietnamese students provided an insight into their enriched traditions and cultural heritage. 

The day was a celebration of togetherness and shared experiences, leaving everyone with cherished memories of laughter and learnings.

Xaverians' trip to Vietnam was an exciting blend of adventure and discovery. 

The highlight was a visit to the iconic Ben Thanh Market in District 1, a treasure trove of historical souvenirs and traditional handicrafts. Later, a serene Saigon water bus trip offered a picturesque view of the city’s skyline. The evening was spent strolling along the lively Nguyen Hue Walking Street, soaking in the local culture and charm. Dinner at an Indian restaurant rounded off the day.

The final day of the exchange programme unfolded with a beautiful culmination event at sector 89 branch, a fitting venue to celebrate the bonds of friendship and cultural understanding forged throughout the week. The day began with an elegant lamp-lighting ceremony, symbolizing the light of knowledge and unity that had illuminated the hearts of all participants. Director Mohit Sachdeva addressed the
gathering, expressing his heartfelt gratitude to the South Korean delegates for their engagement and the enriching experience they had shared with the school community. The Head of the Korean delegation also shared inspiring words, reflecting on the deep connections made during the visit.
Following the speeches, the delegates enjoyed a guided tour of the school, where they were introduced to the various programs and initiatives that had facilitated their learning and interaction. The event continued with a delightful multicultural lunch, where the flavors of both Indian and Korean cuisines were savored, symbolizing the beautiful blend of cultures. As the day drew to a close, the delegates were bid farewell with warm wishes and fond memories, leaving for the airport with a sense of fulfillment and a promise of enduring friendships. The ceremony marked the end of an unforgettable journey, one that will be cherished by all who participated, with the spirit of collaboration and mutual respect lasting long after their departure.

South Koreans Marvel at the Timeless Taj Mahal
The South Korean delegates were enchanted by the timeless beauty of the Taj Mahal in Agra. As they approached the iconic monument, their awe was palpable, with many describing it as a masterpiece that transcends time. The pristine white marble, intricate craftsmanship and poignant tale of eternal love left them deeply moved. The experience was described as humbling and transformative, a poignant reminder of the enduring power of love and artistic brilliance.
This visit became a cherished highlight of shared admiration and cultural connection between the two nations.

Day:2

Delhi’s Iconic Tour

Korean guests on a memorable tour of some of Delhi’s iconic landmarks. The day started with a visit to the Qutub Minar, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The towering 73-meter structure left the guests in awe.
Following the Qutub Minar, was a visit to Dilli Haat, a vibrant open-air market that showcases the cultural diversity of India. The stalls offered a wide range of handicrafts, textiles, and traditional Indian foods.

The Korean delegates were delighted by the colorful crafts and enjoyed interacting with the local artisans. It was a great opportunity for them to experience India’s rich cultural heritage in a lively, hands-on environment followed by the visit to the Lotus Temple, known for its stunning lotus flower shape and serene atmosphere. The guests appreciated the temple’s design and the emphasis on universal peace and unity, which is central to the Bahá'í faith.

Overall, Day 2 was filled with exploration, cultural immersion and deep appreciation for India's history and traditions.

Day 1: Gracious Welcome

The South Korean delegation was warmly welcomed upon their arrival in India for the Indo-Korean Cultural Exchange Programme. Our team of teachers greeted them at the airport and escorted them to the Sector-89 branch, where they were received by school principal Ms. Renu Singh and our middle school headmistress Ms. Geeta Kanwar.

To ensure a smooth visit, the delegation was given thoughtfully prepared folders with a detailed itinerary. The evening concluded with a delightful dinner, fostering relaxed conversations and strengthening cultural ties between India and South Korea.