STUDENT TRAVELLERS
Dharamshala
A Spiritual, Political, and Historical Refuge
DURATION
21 Days
OVERVIEW
Students will have the opportunity to explore the vibrant cultural history of Dharamshala as well as the impacts of colonization on the region. Students will gain a deeper understanding of world religions, including Buddhism, Hinduism, and local practices, while also fostering personal growth and a stronger connection to both themselves and the world around them.
2025 DATES
TBD
SUGGESTED AGES
15-18
COMMUNITY SERVICE
20 hours/week
STUDENT TO STAFF RATIO
6 to 1
TUTITION
$4,500
Program Details
Dharamshala, a picturesque hill station in Himachal Pradesh, offers students an unforgettable experience as they are immersed in natural beauty, rich religious heritage, and vibrant local culture. Students will have the opportunity to learn new languages, experience local flavours and traditions, engage in meaningful local volunteer work, and explore the legacy of colonialism while creating lasting memories with their group.
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Amritsar visit at the beginning of the program
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Day hike to Triund and nearby mountain villages
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Visit to local historical sites on the weekends
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Visit to Norbulingka College of Tibetan Arts
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Visit to the Dalai Lamas residence
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Intro to Yoga/Meditation
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Lectures on Tibetan and Indian culture, history and current events
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Group activities and games by coordinators in their free times
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Bollywood night or student-led dance night
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Movie nights
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Daily guidance and checks provided by Director to students
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Reflective time 4 times a week
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Taj Mahal visit with a guide at the end of the program
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No Public transportation used – covered by program
Tuition includes all in-country expenses, including airport pick-up and drop off, transportation within India, lodging, 3 meals per day, as well as all planned cultural activities, lectures, and excursions. Students will also have access to professional full-time staff and experts during the program.
Trip Highlights
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Community Service
We have a wide choice of opportunities for participants to work with and learn about local efforts to address problems faced by our local communities. To narrow down the choices, we have our participants fill out a Skills and Interest Form. This information enables us to suggest a smaller list to choose from. We design the program for at least 20 Hours a week (4 Hrs/day) of participating in a working CBO to get the most out of your experience. You will get paired with a local expert to develop your experience.
Adventure
On weekends, students will visit local historical sites and take small trips, including a day hike to Triund to explore nearby mountain villages. They will also have the chance to experience the Dalai Lama's residence, Amritsar, and a guided tour of the Taj Maha. Students are encouraged to take initiative and plan recreational activities within the program framework to enjoy the time they spend in their groups.
Immersive Learning
Throughout the program, students have the opportunity to engage deeply with the local culture. Translators and interpreters are included in the trip, and students will have the option to participate in daily chores alongside the local staff for greater insight into local lifestyles. Cooking classes focused on Indian and Tibetan cuisine will also be available, and interested students will be introduced to the basics of Hindi and/or Tibetan.
Lodging
Students will have a dedicated home base reserved exclusively for their group. Accommodations are gender-segregated, with curfews enforced at night for safety and well-being. Gender-sensitive arrangements can be made upon request to accommodate individual needs. All staff members are trained in diversity, equity, and inclusion, fostering a welcoming and respectful atmosphere throughout the stay.