Journey of Discovery in the Indian Himalayas

  India

Dehra Dun

Durations of Program: 2-4 weeks and 5-8 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 2-4 weeks
Dates: All year round except the months of May and June

Description: Participants take a journey of discovery in the Himalayan foothills that is both inner as well as outer. Using a process of appreciative inquiry, participants will learn about the lives of people in the villages of the Indian Himalayas. This process involves village visits in areas where local NGO (non-governmental organization) are working.

Conversations with people in informal settings lead to a deeper understanding of a very different way of life. In previous trips, participants have studied topics as diverse as the health system (both traditional and modern), women's issues, adolescent health, rural governance, and education. Visits to health facilities and schools add to the visitors and students' experience of their chosen topic of study. While interacting with village people, participants will provide voluntary labour to assist the villagers in a variety of day-to-day tasks. These may include clearing of fields, repairing paths and walls, painting school buildings, etc.

The Samagra experience begins with a three day workshop that challenges participants to go beyond their comfort zone and embark on a true journey of discovery. In such a journey, we explore both the inner as well as the outer world. When we travel through a relatively unknown culture, our old conditioning is challenged. New ways of thinking and living make us rethink our life and its hidden possibilities. India has always provided a fertile ground for exploration of the self, as it is at heart a land of the spirit. The field area is close to sacred pilgrimage sites, which offer unparalleled opportunities for cultural and spiritual exploration. Studying the essence of Indian thought through dialogue, yoga practice and meditation are also options that many participants find richly rewarding. The process of maintaining self-awareness, and examining one's own responses to Indian culture is in itself a deep learning experience. Participants are encouraged to write reflections about their experience, and post them on the Samagra blog.

Highlights: These include a workshop exploring the concepts of integral awareness, action, living and authentic self, that includes dialogue and self awareness exercises including gentle yoga and meditation. Also, extended village visits, doing voluntary work, interacting with local people, visits to places of cultural and spiritual significance. An optional eco-trek at the end of the core module is another highlight for many participants.

Experience Required: no

This Program is open to American, Australian, Canadian, European, Kiwi, South African and Worldwide Participants.

Participants Travel to India Independently Or in Groups

Typically Participants Work Independently Or in Groups of five to ten

Application Process Involves:

• Other
• Phone Interview
• Resume
• Written Application

Post Services Include:

• Exit DebriefingAbroad

Samagra's Mission Statement: Samagra is a non-profit trust that promotes Integral (physical, emotional, intellectual, Spiritual) awareness, living and development both in India and Canada. Samagra also promotes cross cultural learning opportunities world wide.

Year Founded: 2002