Guru Nanak Sahib didn't teach us that spiritual and worldly strength were opposites.
He taught us they are one. Piri is where that teaching becomes lived experience —
in the woods, on the ropes, under the stars.
Piri is where the intellectual work of Miri becomes embodied. Each element is grounded in Sikhi — a practice of carrying what matters most into the hardest moments.
Each morning begins before the sun fully rises — moving through the woods with Bani as the soundtrack, a pauri discussed at the trail's end.
Saturday and Sunday are anchored with a three-hour afternoon block facilitated by Indiana University's Bradford Woods — high ropes, towers, ziplining, and team challenges across 110 acres. Professionally-trained instructors lead each session with structured reflections on growth mindset, decision-making under pressure, and interdependence.
Saturday night lights up with youth-organized night games — laser tag, pick-up soccer, basketball, chess, and races.
On Sunday, the retreat closes with a youth-led Kirtan under the stars — under an open sky, around a firepit.
"Integrating Sikhi into your life — not externalizing it."
A guiding aim of our Miri-Piri experience
For 65 years, Bradford Woods has grounded its Adventure Leadership program in a "Challenge by Choice" philosophy — aligned with our aim to build confidence through progressive challenge and teamwork. Explore their programs →
The property is a beautifully maintained 2,500-acre campus that includes a lake, extensive hiking trails, a dining hall, and climate-controlled cabins.
🦅 Fun fact: Bradford Woods is home to two resident bald eagles.
Consider adding a day or two to visit nearby campuses — IU Bloomington is 25 minutes away, Purdue University about 90 minutes north, and Butler University 45 minutes north in Indianapolis.
The retreat weekend is the beginning of ongoing, deeper connection — before, during, and after.
Older Sikh Veer Jis serve not as instructors, but as older brothers.
Grades 5–12 are intentionally together throughout the experience.
MPLR alumni stay connected through a shared space anchored around #ActsofLeadership — moments where they led, failed, tried again, or supported someone else doing the same.
30 spots. A 3-day experience that plants something lasting. Don't wait to decide — the cohort fills through community relationships.
Apply Now → Want to understand the full program? Explore Miri || Debate →