NOLS - Himalaya Backpacking

  India

Ranikhet

Term: Fall, Spring 
Dates: May 5-June 8, 2009; May 13-June 16, 2009

Description: The Kumaon and the Eastern Garhwal regions of the Indian Himalaya are rugged glacially-carved ranges world famous for climbing and trekking. Long ago, these low-lying valleys provided traditional trade routes between India and Tibet. You'll visit teahouses and hike past fields that are still worked with water buffalo. You'll accumulate backcountry skills and learn the core NOLS curriculum while experiencing the land and culture on a staggering scale. And all the while, your cultural studies and classes in conversational Hindi will aid in your interactions with local villagers.

Our travel takes us beyond the normal parameters of tourist treks, so you'll be seeing an India that few foreigners ever encounter, deep into the remote Himalayan wilderness. You'll make your way up high mountain passes, some reaching 15,000 feet above sea level, and travel through river valleys lush with foliage. You'll sleep under the stars in tents, learn skills such as judgment and decision-making, and enjoy the people who live in this fascinating landscape.

Highlights:
College Credit:
(Optional)

6 Semester Credit Hours:
2 Hours Environmental Ethics
2 Hours Leadership Techniques
2 Hours Skills Practicum

Cost in US$: $5,860

Experience Required: no

Scholarships are Available. - Each year NOLS offers over $800,000 dollars in scholarship assistance. Scholarship aid is available to applicants who show great potential to excel as NOLS students and who would be unable to attend without financial aid. These scholarship dollars are made available through the generosity of alumni and friends to the NOLS Fund. Our graduates realize the great impact a NOLS education has and volunteer both time and money to further the school's mission.

Application Process Involves:

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

Post Services Include:

• Alumni Network
• Exit DebriefingAbroad
• Job and Internship Network

NOLS The National Outdoor Leadership School's Mission Statement: The mission of the National Outdoor Leadership School is to be the leading source and teacher of wilderness skills and leadership that serve people and the environment.

Year Founded: 1965