On Saturday 20th May 2023, over 50 members of Shree Swaminarayan Mandir London and Bolton set out to climb Mount Snowdon in Wales.

For some, it was an early 2am start with a 5 hour journey ahead, even before attempting to climb the mountain. Once reaching the start point, in small groups, the participants headed up the Pyg track making their way to the summit. For most, this was the first time attempting such a physical challenge. There were participants up to the age of 70!

On route, participants bonded and gave each other lots of moral and physical support along the way. There were several moments where participants were close to giving up but remembering Ved Ratna Acharya Swamishree Maharaj's teachings of keeping Lord Swaminarayanbapa Swamibapa at the forefront of everything that you do, many of the participants made it to the top.

A special mention to those few ladies who came 'to go as far as they can', but surprised themselves and made it to the top!

It was a lovely day out, the sun was shining and the aches and pains were definitely worth the experience. A big thank you to all the organisers and participants for planning and joining this memorable event.

Feedback from some of the participants:

"Well done everyone. Many thanks to organisers for making this possible. Thoroughly enjoyed. Looking forward to the next one"

"Thank you everyone for organising this lovely challenge,  giving your time and helping out to give all of us such a wonderful and memorable day..

Had a great time. Thanks"

"Well done everyone it’s a great achievement we should all be very proud of ourselves!"

"Despite age, health conditions or mentally thinking you can’t do it we have all proven ourselves wrong!

"Amazing opportunity"

"Was great hiking with you all. It was a fantastic experience. Great achievement ticked off"