Sikkim- North India

  India

• Other Cities in India: 
Darjeeling,  Gangtok,  Calcutta

Dates: June 27- July 27

Description: Nestled deep into the eastern end of the great Himalayan mountain range between Nepal and Bhutan, Sikkim has often been referred to as the last "Shangri-La." This ancient kingdom still remains virtually untouched, retaining much of its unique identity and integrity. It boasts a rich cultural heritage with a myriad of ethnic groups living side by side, making Sikkim one of the most diverse places in India. Home to Bhutias, Tibetans, Indians, Gurkhas, Sherpas, Lepchas and Magars, the stunning landscape is strewn with hundreds of Buddhist and Hindu temples waiting to be explored. In addition, the presence of a small Christian community further invites us to explore the place of religion in defining culture and ones lived experience. With its dramatic landscape of spectacular mountain peaks, deep verdant valleys carpeted in rhododendron, it offers visitors the opportunity to explore the delicate ecosystem and the issues threatening its preservation.

Only open to visitors since the late 1980's, Sikkim serves as an excellent picture of the past. In our travels we explore not only the elements of the natural environment, but also the rich tapestry of cultures inhabiting this region. We examine the impact of technology and modern influences on an ancient but quickly changing culture, and the challenges of a kingdom caught between worlds.

After arriving in Calcutta, we board the overnight train to New Jalpaiguri Station just south of Sikkim. We then travel by jeep up the steep winding road to Darjeeling. This hill station - renowned for its fine tea - will be our home for a significant portion of the program, as we live with local families, begin work with ISP mentors, and take up apprenticeships with artists, musicians, healers, cultivators, and practitioners of varied religious tradition.

From Darjeeling we head further up in altitude to discover the secrets of Sikkim's bustling capital, Gangtok where we meet with local government representatives and members of non-governmental organizations, and our students begin to understand the various social and development issues facing the many ethnic groups in Sikkim including the complex religious-political history of the area. Students learn about Tibetans living in exile and visit Rumtek Monastery, the seat of the exiled 16th Karmapa. Buddhist teachers introduce the principles of Tibetan Buddhism and iconography depicted in Tibetan art and architecture. Local artisans demonstrate some of the regional traditions such as tribal weaving, "dhol" (drum) making, traditional painting and spice production.

To conclude the program, students choose to either live with families in an exceptionally rural community, or may embark on a trek into the foothills of Kanchengjunga, third largest peak in the world. In the final days, students reconvene and then return to Calcutta. Known for its fine art, poetry, and wealth of philosophical writers, Calcutta is a center for the arts. We visit the Indian Museum, make offerings at the sacred Kali Temple and enjoy the fine Indian cuisine of Calcutta before heading home.

Highlights: Rugged Travel: 4 stars
Travel by train, bus and jeep through mountainous terrain.

Home Stay: 4 stars
8 to 15-days of home-stay (If going to separate, this would be 15-20 days of homestay)

Trekking/Wilderness: 2 stars
Optional 5 - day challenging trek into Kanchenjunga National Park Trekking is not a focus of this course, but those choosing to trek will encounter extremely rugged conditions. Note: during the summer months the southern slope of the Himalayas is blanketed in monsoon rains, making trekking challenging, and compromising mountain views.

Service: 3 stars
Numerous options for service projects during home-stays, DURING VILLAGE STAY or during time in Gangtok.

Survey of Development Issues: 4 stars
Environmental preservation; effects of tourism on traditional culture; ethnic groups and land management / ownership / education; women's issues/ gender issues; unique flora and fauna in Sikkim

Language Study: 3 stars
Daily classes in Nepali, option for some study of Tibetan

Philosophy and Comparative Religion: 5 stars
Introduction to Buddhism, yoga and meditation, brief introduction to Hinduism and shamanic practices

Focus of Inquiry: 5 stars
Ethnic differences among cultures of Sikkim; Buddhist studies and iconography / symbolism; Diaspora culture, communities in exile; survey of Sikkim's rich artistic traditions.

Cost in US$: 5,550

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants.

Participants Travel to India in Groups

Typically Participants Work in Groups of max 12

Application Process Involves:

• Phone Interview
• Physical Exam/Health Records
• Written Application

Where There Be Dragons's Mission Statement: Through expertly guided and honest introductions to the cultural and physical landscapes of developing Asia and Latin America, and through Experiential Education that stresses the empowerment of the student, Dragons strives to cultivate cultural awareness and sensitivity, opportunities for personal growth through physical and emotional challenges, and a commitment to the communities through which we travel, providing young adults with a richer understanding of themselves, and of the social and physical worlds around them.

Year Founded: 1992