Gaining real-world experience is a vital aspect of an architecture student’s education. For me, this opportunity came in the form of a six-month internship at Prashant Pradhan Architects (PPA) in the serene city of Gangtok. As an architecture student at the National Institute of Technology Tiruchirappalli, I embarked on a journey to explore the local culture and architecture while honing my skills at PPA. Join me as I recount my experience and the valuable lessons I learned during my time as an architectural intern.

After completing my portfolio in November 2022, I eagerly began my search for an internship that would not only provide professional training but also allow me to immerse myself in a new and peaceful setting. With its rich local culture and distinctive architecture, Gangtok became my top priority. PPA was the first firm I applied to, and after a week of anxious waiting, I received a positive reply. Although my friend received a response within hours, I learned the importance of patience and the abundance of opportunities available. On January 6th, 2023, I stepped into the PPA office with a mix of excitement and nervousness. The first day proved to be a bit lousy, primarily because everything was new to me, and there were only five people, including myself, in the office. However, as I settled into my role as an architectural intern, I quickly realised that this intimate setting offered a unique opportunity for close collaboration and learning.

Prashant Pradhan Architects operates from two locations, with the Gangtok office supervised by senior architect Hishay Bhutia and the Siliguri office overseen by senior architect Amlan Saikia. While the majority of my internship was spent at the Gangtok office, I had the chance to interact with professionals from both locations during company-wide meetings. This provided me with a broader perspective on architectural practices and allowed me to learn from a diverse range of professionals. The initial week was dedicated to understanding the workflow and internal processes of the company. While it took some time to grasp the intricacies, the warm and supportive environment at PPA made the learning curve more manageable. The breathtaking climate of Gangtok served as a constant source of inspiration, compensating for any initial challenges. As I sat at my desk, a massive glass window offered a panoramic view that left me speechless. It encompassed the majestic peaks of the Kanchenjunga range and overlooked the vibrant Palzar Stadium(Football ground), creating a perfect blend of nature and human activity.

The working hours typically ranged from 9 in the morning to 6 in the evening. However, there were occasions when work was extended till 7 or 7:30, particularly when project deadlines were approaching. Despite the occasional need for overtime, the extended work hours were infrequent and considered “once in a blue moon.” As an architectural intern at PPA, I received a stipend of Rs5000 per month, which helped support my daily expenses. Along with the stipend, the firm also provided accommodation. In Gangtok, the interns were accommodated in a spacious 5BHK flat. However, it was located a bit far from the office, and reaching the main road required climbing 142 stairs. While the distance to the office was walkable, the steep slope made it challenging to climb every day. As a result, we often relied on cabs in the morning. Nevertheless, the walk back to the accommodation at the end of the day was a delightful experience. The pleasant climate, accompanied by the camaraderie of fellow interns, created a memorable journey, especially when stopping to buy groceries and vegetables along the way. In a fortunate turn of events, the new batch of interns is provided with brand new accommodation located just below the office. A few flights of stairs were the only obstacle separating them from the workplace. The improved proximity between the accommodation and office facilities offered convenience and saved time for the new interns. They were lucky to have access to these upgraded amenities. For interns assigned to the Siliguri office, the accommodation consisted of a fully furnished 3BHK flat. However, it was situated a bit farther from the office, requiring approximately 45 minutes of travel time for 5km of distance, depending on the traffic conditions. 

Prashant Pradhan Architects (PPA) was not only a place of professional growth but also a space where I had the privilege to work with inspiring individuals who shaped my internship experience. These remarkable people added depth, knowledge, and camaraderie to my journey at PPA. Hishay Bhutia, the boss lady, was the senior-most architect at PPA and has now become a partner at the firm. While she had a reputation for being strict and straightforward in her architectural approach, I discovered her sweet and approachable side in person. She proved to be an exceptional mentor, imparting valuable lessons and insights. Learning from her was truly an enriching experience, and I consider her one of the best individuals to learn from in the field. Priyanka Ma’am, another senior architect at PPA, began her journey with the firm as an intern, despite having 7-8 years of prior experience in the field. The presence of Tshering, the manager at PPA, added a delightful touch to the work environment. Building a close bond with her over the course of my six-month internship was an unforgettable experience. Our cute banter and her constant support will be cherished memories. In the Siliguri office, I encountered a group of architects who infused the workplace with a vibrant and enjoyable atmosphere. Amlan Saikia, aka “Siliguri ka Don”, brought a chill and easygoing vibe to the team. I had the privilege of embarking on adventurous site visits with him, where his expertise and guidance proved invaluable. Rajeshwari Di, an interior designer, showcased the sweetest nature and added a touch of creativity to the office. Hritwik Bhaiya, a junior architect, stood out for his cool personality and offered the best advice when needed.

During my six-month internship, with four months spent in Gangtok and two months in Siliguri, I had the privilege of building strong bonds and creating unforgettable memories with my fellow interns at Prashant Pradhan Architects (PPA). The camaraderie and shared experiences added an extra layer of joy to my internship journey. I began my internship in Gangtok, where I was joined by Niharika, my batchmate from NITT, as well as Shivam, Sarah, Shambhavi, and Rishu. Together, we formed a tight-knit group. During break times, we often engaged in friendly table tennis matches, and exploring the vibrant Mg Marg became our favourite pastime. The shared laughter and experiences brought us closer and made the internship all the more enjoyable. After two months, interns from Siliguri joined us in Gangtok, including Rushab, Neeraj, Arvind, Sona, and Christie. Along with them came a special member of our group, Sona’s pet dog, Taco. PPA’s pet-friendly environment allowed Taco and Hishay’s dog, Totoro, to accompany us to the office, providing moments of joy and stress relief. Totoro, an attention-seeking and affectionate dog, would approach everyone, requesting belly scratches. The presence of these furry companions added a touch of warmth and happiness to our daily routines. One of the best aspects of our internship was the shared cooking sessions and communal meals. Coming together to prepare and enjoy meals created a sense of togetherness and fostered deeper connections within our group. Late-night conversations became cherished memories as we exchanged stories, laughter, and valuable life experiences. Rushab, with his thoughtful gestures, made each morning special by preparing tea for everyone, ensuring we started the day on a positive note. Transitioning to Siliguri, I had the pleasure of meeting Amal and Shihana, two individuals from Kerala who quickly became my close buddies. Their presence made life in Siliguri vibrant and exciting. Listening to Amal’s fascinating Hindi and sharing cooking experiences with Shihana became cherished memories that I will forever hold dear. Before bidding farewell, I had the pleasure of meeting Danish, Niranjana, Sara, Shinina, Minna, Sensiya, Amish, and junior architect Bipin. Their friendly and welcoming nature made my time in Siliguri even more memorable, and I appreciated the opportunity to connect with such wonderful individuals.

 I had the opportunity to work on a diverse range of projects, including hotels, resorts, community centres, residences, and even a gaushala. This exposure to different project types allowed me to broaden my knowledge and skills across various architectural domains.  I was involved in multiple stages of the architectural process, from initial design concepts to the execution and implementation of projects. This hands-on experience provided a comprehensive understanding of the entire project lifecycle. I learned to develop design proposals, create detailed drawings, and collaborate with the team to bring ideas to life. Witnessing the evolution of a project from its conceptual stage to construction enriched my learning experience and deepened my appreciation for the intricacies of architectural execution. PPA-sponsored site visits, which were instrumental in enhancing my knowledge and providing valuable hands-on experience. By physically visiting project sites, I gained insights into construction techniques, material selection, and the practical considerations involved in translating designs into built structures. These site visits bridged the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application, allowing me to understand the nuances of site conditions and the importance of effective communication with contractors and other stakeholders. The firm maintained a smooth workflow, leveraging a range of software tools to streamline the design and presentation processes. AutoCAD was used for 2D drafting, SketchUp for 3D modelling, and Enscape, Vray, and Lumion for rendering purposes. Additionally, Photoshop was utilised for editing and enhancing visual presentations, while Excel facilitated billing and the preparation of Bills of Quantities (BOQ). Google Slides served as a valuable tool for creating professional presentations and communicating design ideas to clients effectively.

One of the unique aspects of my internship at PPA was experiencing both the studio-firm atmosphere in the Gangtok office and the corporate-like environment in the Siliguri office. This exposure allowed me to understand different work dynamics and adapt to varying project requirements. Being part of both settings expanded my versatility as an architect-in-training, preparing me to thrive in different work environments in the future. Active participation in different project stages and client meetings was a significant contributor to my professional growth. Collaborating with senior architects and attending client meetings provided me with invaluable exposure to the practical aspects of project management, communication skills, and the ability to understand and meet client expectations. This hands-on involvement broadened my horizons, enhanced my confidence, and refined my problem-solving abilities.

In conclusion, I am immensely grateful to Prashant Pradhan, the founder of Prashant Pradhan Architects, for providing me with the opportunity to be a part of PPA and for making my internship experience both knowledge-filled and exciting. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Hishay, Priyanka, and Amlan for their unwavering support, guidance, and mentorship throughout my internship journey. Their expertise and encouragement have played a significant role in shaping me as an aspiring architect. I would also like to express my sincere appreciation to Tshering, our manager, and Zigmee, the caretaker, for their constant efforts in ensuring our needs were met and for creating a vibrant and enjoyable work environment. Lastly, I want to extend my thanks to all my colleagues and fellow architects who made this internship experience truly fruitful. Their collaboration, creativity, and shared enthusiasm contributed to the overall success of our projects and made the journey all the more enriching. Special thanks to my batchmate and dear friend, Niharika Saini. Your constant support and friendship throughout these six months made the entire experience more enjoyable and fulfilling. Your presence made the ups and downs of the internship journey easier to navigate, and I am grateful for the memories we created together. Thank you for being an amazing friend and a wonderful companion during this internship.

To those considering interning in Gangtok, I can confidently say that there is no better place than Prashant Pradhan Architects (PPA). The firm’s commitment to fostering a healthy work environment, providing invaluable learning opportunities, and nurturing personal growth makes it an ideal destination for aspiring architects. As I bid farewell to PPA and this transformative chapter of my architectural journey, I carry with me a treasure trove of experiences, knowledge, and friendships that will continue to shape my professional path. I am grateful for the memories, the lessons learned, and the remarkable individuals I had the pleasure of working with at Prashant Pradhan Architects.

Thank you, PPA, for an unforgettable internship experience!

Compensation: Rs.5,ooo/- and accommodation.

Contact Information:

Address: Hotel Mist Tree Mountain, PS Road, Hospital Point, Above Central Bank, Gangtok, Sikkim 737101