The First Step for All Future Explorers
RCC (Rock Climbing Camp) and Nature Study Camp is BENA’s hallmark annual program held at the scenic, ancient rock formations of Susunia Hill. For more than 28 seasons and 25 successful batches, this immersive 4-day camp has transformed thousands of students into confident, disciplined, and nature-loving explorers.
Trainees live in base camp tents, learn to respect mountain hazards, master climbing techniques, practice life-saving rope knots, and develop camaraderie that lasts a lifetime.
Two Tailored Training Streams
Carefully designed curriculums adhering to safety standards, physical stamina, and psychological growth.
Nature Study & Junior Adventure Camp
A wholesome nature immersion designed to spark curiosity and empathy in young minds. Children develop independence away from digital screens.
- Introduction to flora, fauna, and rock terrain of Susunia
- Basics of pitching tents and camp living etiquette
- Gentle scrambling, basic boulder climbing & balance
- Elementary rope knots (Reef knot, Figure-of-8, Bowline)
- Campfire team building, cultural evening & storytelling
- Leave No Trace environmental consciousness
Basic Rock Climbing Course (RCC)
Rigorous, technical introduction to modern rock climbing under certified Instructors (Method of Instruction - MOI qualified).
- Rock terminology: Face climbing, cracks, chimneys, slopers, edges
- Belaying techniques, rope handling & safety commands
- Rappelling / Abseiling down vertical rock pitches (up to 70 ft)
- Climbing safety gear: Carabiners, harnesses, dynamic ropes, descenders
- Bouldering, balance drills & three-point contact rule
- First aid, heat exhaustion, and wilderness emergency care
4-Day Immersive Camp Syllabus
Conducted annually between November and February during optimal winter rock conditions.
Orientation & Knotcraft
Arrival at Susunia base camp by morning. Tent pitching, camp allotment, safety briefing, and introduction to mountaineering ethics. Afternoon practical session on rope knots and hitch terminology.
Rock Holds & Balance
Early morning physical conditioning and stretching. Hands-on climbing on beginner slabs. Understanding 3-point contact, foot placements, crimps, jugs, and chimney ascending techniques.
Abseiling & Advanced Pitch
Overcoming height anxiety through standard Body Rappelling and Harness Abseiling on vertical rock faces. Multi-pitch teamwork and belayer-climber communication drills. Evening campfire session.
Susunia Summit & Certificate
Early morning hill trek to the summit of Susunia. Environmental clean-up drive. Closing ceremony, debriefing, evaluation, and awarding of official Academy Completion Certificates.
What Trainees Must Carry
As prescribed in the official BENA admission guidelines, all campers are required to bring personal items in a durable rucksack. Camping tents, climbing ropes, carabiners, and safety helmets are provided by BENA.
Official Application Forms
Download the verified documents below. Please print the application form, fill out the guardian consent and medical fitness certificate, and submit to BENA office.
Safety Protocols & Certified Mentors
We uphold a 100% spotless safety record over 30 years of outdoor training.
Certified MOI Instructors
All rock climbing sessions are supervised by senior climbers certified in Method of Instruction (MOI) and Search & Rescue (SAR) from HMI Darjeeling and NIM Uttarkashi.
UIAA / CE Certified Gear
Every harness, dynamic climbing rope, carabiner, and helmet used in our camp complies with international UIAA and CE safety standards, regularly tested and retired as per protocol.
Dedicated First-Aid & Evac
A round-the-clock emergency medical kit, certified wilderness first-aiders, and designated evacuation vehicles remain stationed at Susunia base camp throughout the 4 days.
Ready to Climb With BENA?
Join the next upcoming winter batch. Any person above 8 years old with a sportive spirit and curiosity for nature is warmly welcomed.