Immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of customs, culture, and captivating surroundings as you embark on a transformative journey through the rich and colorful country of Goa.

This program offers an unparalleled opportunity to delve into the heart and soul of Goan life. It serves as a crucial stepping stone, preparing you for your stay in India and introducing you to a multitude of new experiences. With an open mind and a thirst for knowledge, you will have the chance to inquire about the organization, the programs, the country, the culture, and any other curiosities that may arise.

Throughout the week, you will engage in language lessons, participate in cooking classes to master the art of preparing delectable Indian meals and find solace in rejuvenating yoga sessions. Excursions will take you to authentic Indian homes, historic forts, enchanting churches, and bustling local markets, painting a vivid picture of Goan history and heritage. The sights and sounds of Goa’s pristine beaches will beckon you to relax and unwind, while workshops will immerse you in the essence of its captivating culture.

It is important to note that all transportation will be by way of public transport, ensuring an authentic local experience that deepens your connection to the people and the land. This authentic approach will allow you to truly absorb the vibrant tapestry of Goan life.

Schedule

Monday
Breakfast at the Center
Introduction to the program which includes code of conduct, house rules and Do’s and Don’ts
Making Indian Traditional “Chai Tea”
Introduction to Goa
Lunch
Mapusa city visit and the local Market
Dinner at the Center
Relax for the evening

Tuesday
Self Defense classes
Breakfast
Tour to Main city of Goa “Pnajim “ and you will get a chance to see the
Visit to Protguese Colony and Historic colonial buildings.
Special Goan Vegetarian Lunch called “ Veggi Thali”
Dinner at the Center
Discussion about safety, transport and Indian culture

Wednesday
Yoga session
Breakfast
Local Language Lesson
Goan cooking Lesson
Enjoy the meal prepared by you for the lunch
Anjuna Beach and market visit
Dinner at the Center

Thursday
Breakfast at the Center
Visit to SINQURIM beach and a Goan bakery
Lunch at the Center
Bollywood movie
Dinner at the Center

Friday
Breakfast at the Center
Visit to Old Goa and Goan Spice Garden
Traditional Gaon Lunch at the spice garden and proceed back to the accommodation
Feedback time for the culture week
Dinner at the center

* This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions and unforeseen circumstances

Embark on a journey into Goa to assist in teaching to the migratory slum children who attend our school in the remote villages of Goa.

The school teaches various educational subjects to migrant slum children from underprivileged backgrounds. In this program, you will have the opportunity to teach the children, teach hygiene and sanitation knowledge and help in organizing educational workshops on various need-based aspects such as sports, arts, health awareness, environment, etc.

When you select the teaching program in Goa, you can either select a teaching program at the Boys Shelter (the whole day) or Slum Outreach (evening project for two hours).

1. Teaching at Boys’ Shelter
The boys’ shelter accommodates from the age of 5 to 20 years and you are required to help them with English, and get them involved in activities such as sports, drawing, dancing, singing, etc. You also can help the caretakers of the shelter with cleaning and keeping the shelter tidy and neat. You will be teaching at the shelter for 5 and a half hours and you can take a 30 minute lunch break.

You can teach a variety of subjects to the kids including English, Music, arts and crafts, sports, math.

2. Slum Outreach
This project is mainly conducted for children in the age group of 3-16 years belonging to migrant families living in slums located on the periphery of the city. You will prepare the lessons in the morning for about 2 hours.

The Slum Outreach program takes place in the evening with a duration of 2 hours where the participants interact with the children using games and activities to teach them and help them understand the importance of education and developing skills other than teaching them English. You may join another program in the morning if you wish to, as we require you to take part in a program for at least 5 hours a day.

In addition, during the teaching activities, always be on time and be mindful of class schedules and come to school prepared, be creative in preparing lessons in fun and engaging ways, smile and have lots of patience as you are working with children with various personalities and wear a dress that covers your shoulders and knees, and basically the more that is covered the better. Men must wear trousers, T-shirts and shoes and strictly follow the dress code policy. You are also expected to actively join other activities and of course to enjoy and make the most of your stay and make memorable learning experiences.

So, grab this opportunity to be part of the learning journey of these amazing children and young adults of Goa and help them build a brighter future. Besides that, you may also have the best time throughout your stay as you will engage in fun, relaxing and recreational activities held after a long day of your program alongside other participants.

Finally, you can not miss every single weekend experiencing nearby scenic views and historic places. Thus, we will make sure to assist you in organizing your weekend getaways and enjoy every bit of your time.

Schedule

Monday
Welcome, introduction to India, House rules, Code of Conduct and handling of documents
Visit a spice plantation, visit the local market, and a few supermarkets located close to our center. You can also utilize this time of the day to exchange your currency or purchase any of the essential items you might need during your stay.
Lunch
Visit Slum Outreach School & join the education program for migrant slum children of all ages (This activity is optional).
Dinner

Tuesday to Friday
Breakfast at the centre
Teaching at the shelter
Lunch at the accommodation
Teaching at the slum outreach
Return to the accommodation
Prepare lessons for the next day along with your partners
Dinner at the centre

* This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions and unforeseen circumstances

PROJECT 1: ELDERLY CARE
With modernization, people are in a race for achievements which puts the concept of the nuclear family in focus. When the grown children in the family are pursuing their dream jobs and leaving their families behind, there is no one to look after their parents. Therefore, they are placed in an Elders’ care home.

In this program, you would visit an old age home and spend time with its residents as they need someone to listen or talk to and it is all that they need sometimes. Your visits would make them feel happier and less lonely. You will spend time as a companion to the residents where you can talk to them, play games, do reading, colouring and various other exercises with them.

Working Hours: Monday to Friday 8.00 a.m. to 1.30 p.m.
Your role: To engage the residents at the Old Age Home in different activities, Play games and entertain them, Talk to them and listen to what they have to say, Read to them, Organize recreational and entertainment evenings for the elderly, Arrange sharing and discussion sessions on interesting topics, Teach the residents skills such as how to use their mobile phones better to store numbers, send text messages, take pictures, etc, Take the residents to museums and other places of interest, Celebrate festivals and birthdays with the elderly and Cleaning in and around the placement.

PROJECT 2: SPECIAL NEEDS EDUCATION AND CARE FOR ADULTS
It is a home for adults with different levels of abilities. This Home was born out of a need to create an inclusive place where adults with intellectual disabilities feel welcome. With your help, we hope to create a healthier society for these differently-abled individuals.

Working Hours: Monday to Friday 9.00 a.m. to 5.30 p.m
Your role: Assist the members to learn and improve their skills as per their abilities and interests, Share moments of happiness and love with the young and old in the free time, Assist them physically with basic tasks like walking them to the garden, having lunch or helping out at the work table, Give them a sense of value in their lives and the attention they seek, Teach them simple singalong songs and Assist the residents with physical exercises
In addition, you may have the best time throughout your stay as you will engage in fun, relaxing and recreational activities held after a long day of your program alongside other participants.

Your activities will be assigned depending on on the daily tasks at the placement and you will be assigned work accordingly.

Schedule

Monday to Friday
You can choose to join either the Elderly Care program or the Special Needs Education and Care program.

Elderly Women Care program
Working Hours: Monday to Friday 8.00 a.m. to 1.30 p.m
Lunch will be served after the program
After lunch you can prepare your work for the next day.
Dinner will be served at the accommodation.

Special Needs Education and Care program for Adults
Working Hours: Monday to Friday 9.00 a.m. to 5.30 p.m for Special Needs and Education Care program.
1pm – 2pm – Lunch Break
2pm – 3pm – Rest
3pm – 5.30 Pm – program

* This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions and unforeseen circumstances

Immerse yourself in a fulfilling journey where you can make a tangible impact on underprivileged communities and their schools in Goa through renovation and beautification projects. This is your chance to roll up your sleeves and get your hands dirty while uplifting the lives of those in need. Our carefully selected project sites are based on the specific requests and requirements of the community, ensuring that our infrastructure development assistance is focused where it is most needed. By joining forces with local communities, you will not only assist in creating positive change but also gain invaluable experiences along the way.

In this project, our primary focus is on cleaning and beautification efforts in and around various community buildings. While heavy construction work is not included, the tasks assigned will be based on the community’s current needs upon your arrival. This could involve drawing and painting inspiring educational murals, gardening, refreshing old walls with paint, and occasionally reviving old furniture based on the community’s desires. If you possess a creative spirit and a passion for the arts, this is an opportunity you wouldn’t want to miss. You have the power to transform a village or a school into a more beautiful and vibrant place by channeling your creativity.

Our objective is to make a meaningful difference by improving the conditions and standards of the facilities within the local communities in and around Goa. Through our efforts, we aim to create a more pleasant and welcoming environment for the community and its residents.

Schedule

Monday to Friday
06:45 – 07:15 Breakfast
07:30 Placement Orientation and leave for the project
08:00 – 13:30 Work at the site/Placement.
13:30 Leave for the accommodation
14:15 Lunch at the accommodation.
18:00 Dinner at the Accommodation.

* This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions and unforeseen circumstances

Tread along the rugged, challenging and fascinating trails of the Western Ghats and let yourself loose in the arms of nature.

This trek is an amazing experience, as the landscape offers a gentle gradient in different phases with fishing, visiting waterfalls, caves, plantations, scenic views, campfires and much more. You will pass through several stunning places during your journey through the mystical Indian jungles.

ndulge yourself in an adventurous week designed to take you into the most amazing and picturesque Western Ghats which is also called the Amazon of the East. Older than the Himalayan mountains, the mountain chain of the Western Ghats possesses a great combination of biodiversity as well as a magnificent landscape. The ecosystems in these highlands forests have a significant influence on the Indian monsoon weather and moderate the climate in the region.

Having the reputation as one of the best areas in the world to observe the Monsoon climate, it has also been named as one of the eight best biodiversity hotspots on the planet. This was named as a UNESCO heritage site recognizing the exceptional features of its ecosystems and biodiversity being the home to about 325 globally threatened vegetation, bird, amphibian, reptile and fish species.

On this wonderful and powerful adventure journey through the week, you will experience local tribal cultures, scenic mountain views, various plantations, explore caves, visit famous waterfalls and hidden waterfalls, go fishing, appreciate spectacular flora and fauna, and relax in the evenings at the forest camp over a barbeque by the campfire.

The program offers a perfect blend of nature’s peace and greenery, the rich flora and fauna, the enchanting beauty of hills, gushing rivers, sound of waterfalls, breathtaking landscapes, dense forests and alluring adventurous activities which will make your week a unique experience.

Besides that, you may also have the best time throughout your stay as you will engage in fun, relaxing and recreational activities held after a long day of your program alongside other participants.

Schedule

Monday
In the morning, we take a bus into the mountains and arrive at the jungle camp. After a welcome snack, you will get one hour introduction about Castle rock and the western ghats and a brief description of the 5 day program. Then, you set out for a trek to a nearby rural village (Pompalvaddi, 7kms from CR farm), and relax near a small perennial waterfall. Lunch will be cooked and served while you enjoy the waterfall. Then you will trek back to base camp by 16.00.

Campfire and dinner from 18.30 to 20.30.

Tuesday
You will have breakfast at 6.30 and then drive for around 12 kms towards Kuveshi village in 4×4 open jeeps, where you will trek for 7kms to the source of the gigantic Dudhsagar waterfalls. Here you can relax and have the packed lunch and be at leisure till 16.00. After that you will trek back to the village and enjoy the drive back to base camp. Enroute you may stop for photography and probable sites of wildlife (which you may as well call ‘a safari’).

Dinner at base camp from 19.00 to 21.00.

Wednesday
You will have breakfast at 07.00 and then walk to an 18th century British colonial structure and explore the surrounding areas in a radius of 3 km from our base camp.

Lunch will be ready at the base camp, after which you can relax till 16.00 and then leave for the fishing trip inside the forest. You will return by 18.00 to freshen up and be ready for a barbeque dinner by 19.00 around the campfire with a few sing along games. You shall retire by 21.30 at the camping site.

Thursday
Breakfast will be served at 07.30 and after that we will set out into the wood for caving exploration. You will have your packed lunch for the day, which you can enjoy in the woods and you will return to the camp by 17.00, to freshen up and get ready for a barbeque dinner at night. You can enjoy and have quality time with the other participants until 22.00 as this is your last night at the camp.

Friday
After having breakfast at 07.30 we walk to the nearby village to meet and interact with the villagers. You can buy some homemade handicrafts, spices or local honey here. Lunch will be at a local house cooked by the local women served on banana leaves. At about 15.00 we will depart from the camp and come back to our center.

* This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions and unforeseen circumstances

Embark on a 28-day India road trip and explore seven distinct regions of this exotic and diverse country.

From the capital to the Himalayan foothills, the Golden Temple, and the Taj Mahal, you’ll experience the country’s rich history and culture. Take a camel safari in the Thar Desert, hike in the Himalayas, visit palaces and UNESCO heritage sites, and engage with communities in Goa. Relax on the sandy beaches of Goa and enjoy the adventure of a lifetime. Don’t miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and stunning landscapes of India.

This is an eco-tourism travel program that gives you the opportunity to visit 7 distinct states in India in 28 days! Experience everything from its amazing culture, beautiful monuments, stunning nature, to its sublime cuisine by traveling through a cross-section of this vast sub-continent. Keeping with the values of our organization, this program is environmentally friendly.

Once you arrive in New Delhi, our tour leader will receive you. After checking into your hotel, you will receive an in-depth orientation regarding your travel program. On Monday, early morning, we will travel to Shimla by a unique train called the “Himalayan Queen,” which is also recognized by UNESCO.

Experience this wonderful heritage train journey through the Deccan Plateau and into the Himalayan landscape with splendid views of the Himalayan mountains. During your time in Shimla, experience hiking in the mountains, absorb breathtaking views, taste the local food with local people, stay in a beautiful guest house located in the midst of the mountains, experience the mountain village lifestyle, and walk around the Shimla town to view temples, monuments, and museums.

On the next part of your journey, you will go on a bus journey through the Himalayan mountains to dive into Tibetan culture in Dharamshala, the home of the Dalai Lama. Go on a walking tour through the monasteries, experience a holy walk the way locals do, visit marvelous waterfalls, and learn about Buddhist teachings and their way of life.

You will then travel to Agra to visit the “TAJ MAHAL” and witness its amazing grandeur. Walk into the Taj Mahal at sunrise, which is the best time to visit the Taj. Spend your time marveling at the beauty of the Taj. You will also be taken to the ghats of the Yamuna river to relax in the beautiful garden with the Taj as its backdrop.

You are just at the beginning of this real adventure! Next, you will be immersed in the colorful and vibrant culture of Udaipur. Witness an energetic cultural dance show and visit the beautiful Udaipur Palace, which is the second-largest palace in India. Your experience of a lifetime begins as you travel into the Thar desert. Go on a camel safari into the desert for an amazing camping experience under the starlit sky and experience a caravan lifestyle.

After that, you will travel to Mumbai, where you will visit its crowded streets, go on a boat ride into the Arabian Sea to visit an ancient island temple called the Elephanta Caves, and explore the city. You will also have some time to explore on your own in the evenings.

Your adventure does not end here. You will travel to the most exotic location of Goa, where you will be met by other participants taking part in various community engagement programs. In Goa, you will be introduced to various UNESCO sites and taken to the most famous beaches of Goa to unwind. We will also introduce you to yoga and an Ayurvedic massage, which will relax your body and prepare you for the project phase.

From Goa, you will be traveling to the magical ruins of Hampi, the capital of the ancient Vijayanagar Empire. This destination was the heartbeat of a powerful dynasty in its heyday. The ruins, spread over 16 sq miles, have temples, mandalas, sacred and religious structures that will inspire your imagination. This architectural splendor was reduced to ruins by marauding sultanate armies that razed the city to the ground, leaving back only the ruins in Hampi that you see today.

In the last week of your trip, you will have the splendid opportunity to take part in a variety of community engagement projects. You can work alongside local people at our women’s empowerment project, community school, renovation project, animal shelter, or participate in interacting with senior citizens at an old age home. The choice will be yours to find the best project that suits you and become a part of an ever-expanding community.

Schedule

Week 1: Delhi, Shimla & Dharamsala

Day 1: Sunday

Arrival at Delhi Airport. Our Coordinator will be at the airport to welcome you into India & direct you to your accommodation. Soon after your arrival and overnight stay at New Delhi on Sunday.

Day 2: Monday

Travel from Delhi to Shimla:

On the morning of Monday, your first day in India, hop into a UNESCO heritage train ride to Shimla. On this vibrant train journey, observe the beautiful and ever changing Indian landscape, regular day to day life on the streets, and finally a 5 hours ride into the amazing Himalayan mountain landscape. After reaching Shimla, we check into a guesthouse located with a great view of Shimla.

• New Delhi to Shimla – Train (Air conditioned with recliner seats Delhi to Kalka, Toy Train Kalka to Shimla)
• Travel Time: 10 hours travel time
• Distance 370 km

Day 3: Tuesday

The day begins early with an orientation session with our tour leader. This session also includes briefing on aspects such as culture, safety and health precautionary measures, transportation, money, etc. Visit the famous monkey temple also called “Hanuman Temple” which is situated atop a hill, it is a 30 minute uphill walk and brings you to the highest point of Shimla city set at 2250 mts. Spend your afternoon, soaking into the views of the beautiful hill town, visit the local market and get acclimated to the Himalayan environment. Late afternoon, we proceed for a 2 hour bus ride deeper into the misty mountains of the Himalayas for an overnight stay at a local himalayan village. A local family in the mountains will host you for the night.

Carry an extra set of clothes and drinking water in a light backpack. The tour leader will arrange for you to leave your bigger backpacks that you may be travelling with at a safe place from where you can collect them after the hike.

Day 4: Wednesday

Today is the best! to experience the Himalayan ranges. Hike into the Himalayan mountains which is also quite a challenging element of your trip which culminates on top of a hill at 3100 metres offering an amazing picturesque view of the Himalayan range. You will rest here while having your lunch in the ambiance of the outdoor himalayan setup. Head back down to the village and drive back to Shimla, overnight stay at a guesthouse at Shimla.

The coordinator will help you get safe drinking water at the start of the trek. Packed lunch will be provided during the trek. The trek through the mountains will be approximately 7 hours long.

Trek Distance:         7 Km Trek
Difficulty Level 2 –         Uphill and downhill
Altitude:                 Approximately 3100 meters
Terrain:                 Rocky, gravel, river crossing and winding tracks.
Duration of Trek:         7 hours.

Day 5: Thursday

Our tour leader will take you on a beautiful heritage walk through the deodar forests to visit historical monuments and temples. Afternoon, we take a bus to Dharamshala, the abode of  the Dalai Lama.

Shimla to Dharamshala Bus ride: 9 hours

Day 6: Friday

Dharamshala – Experience Tibetan culture, visit the traditional Tibetan market.

After a relaxed breakfast, visit McLeod Ganj and walk into the beautiful Buddhist monastery and go on a 20 minute walk to a wonderful waterfall located in the mountains. Your walk through the markets will give you an insight into traditional Buddhist shops selling various interesting traditional ornaments and cultural clothing. The evening will be spent around McLeod Ganj and treat yourself for a traditional Tibetan dinner. Night stay in Dharamshala.

Day 7: Saturday

Dharamshala – Experience Tibetan art Visit Norbulingka Monastery to learn thangka Painting and wood carving.  

The Norbulinka Monastery is dedicated to the preservation of Tibetan art & has 300 artisans with traditional masters passing these skills down to coming generations. Housed within the monastery the art of statue making, metal craft, thangka painting, tailoring and wood craft are some of the heritage skills that are honed within aspiring artisans.

Day 8: Sunday

Spend your day in Delhi to visit Lotus temple, Gandhi Museum, Red Fort. Overnight stay in Delhi. New Delhi is the Capital city of India and contains the best of modern India fused with  a rich history that spans centuries. The Lotus Temple is a marvel that serves as a monument which embodies the true nature of a country with a myriad array of faith & religions. Delve into the architectural wonder of the Red Fort that was once was the capital of the mughal empire  exhibiting  Mughal style building with the influence of Hindu design.  The Gandhi Museum will serve as a window to  one of the most influential personalities in Indian & World History.

Week 2: Agra & Rajasthan

Day 9: Monday

Taj Mahal (Agra)

Today we have an early start, we take the morning train from Delhi to Agra.  Arrive in Agra and check into a hotel just next to the Taj Mahal. A stunning architectural triumph that was inspired by love.

The highlight of the India Road Trip is today, witnessing one of the Seven Wonders of the World – The Taj Mahal. Visit the Taj Mahal at sunrise and spend the day by the river Yamuna to marvel at its beautiful architecture and its surroundings. Later in the evening, hop into an overnight train to Udaipur “the city of lakes” in Rajasthan.

Agra to Udaipur (Air conditioned Indian Railways).

• Agra to Udaipur (Air conditioned Indian Railways)

Day 10: Tuesday

Experience Rajasthan – Udaipur “the city of lakes”. While in Udaipur, you will be hosted at our house. Fans of The Jungle Book and James Bond films may recognize Udaipur as the birthplace of Bagheera and the location for the Roger Moore starrer Octopussy. Spend the next 2 days visiting India’s second largest state, visit the beautifully architectured palace, enjoy a boat ride in lake Pichola, and watch a traditional Rajasthani dance and music concert. Overnight stay in Udaipur.

Day 11: Wednesday

Today we went on a temple tour in the morning. Visit the beautiful sculptured 8th and 10th century ancient temples on the outskirts of Udaipur. We return back to our center and then in the evening, we take an overnight bus to Jaisalmer which is approximately 12 hrs for the next highlight of our trip – The Desert experience.

Day 12: Thursday

“The experience of a lifetime” camping in the Desert. Once in Jaisalmer, you will have a bit of time to refresh at the guest house. We then go sightseeing in Jaisalmer to a 11th century fort and then take a jeep safari and a camel ride deeper into the Thar desert, where you will stay for the night. Please remember to pack your sleeping bags and water bottles for this part of the trip. Our tour leader will inform you of anything else that may be necessary. Tonight we camp in the desert under the stars. Overnight stay in the desert which is guaranteed to be one of your most memorable moments in life.

Day 13: Friday

You will return from the desert to the guest house and spend time in the city of Jaisalmer, visiting a beautiful authentic Haveli and a lake which is considered to be the largest in Jaisalmer and other tourist attractions. Later this evening, we took an overnight bus back to Udaipur.

Day 14: Saturday

• You will spend the entire morning learning the art of rajasthani puppetry and painting. We will then take an overnight bus to Mumbai.
• Udaipur to Mumbai – Bus (Comfortable air conditioned bus)

Day 15: Sunday

After breakfast, visit the Gateway of India and go on a boat ride into the Arabian sea to visit the ancient Elephanta caves. A good Indian lunch will be provided at the island. Return to the mainland and spend the remaining part of the day exploring the sights of Mumbai. Overnight stay at Mumbai.

Week 3: Goa

Day 16: Monday

Today, we took an early morning superfast train to Goa. Arrive in Goa early at noon. Check into our house where you will be hosted for the remaining days of your travel. Once at our centre in the afternoon, after a good spread of Goan lunch, you can relax and freshen up and meet other participants at the house. Overnight stay at our centre in Goa.

Day 17: Tuesday

Explore the rich history and impressive architecture of Old Goa, the former colonial capital of the state. The convents and churches are stunning, and the area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Be sure to visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus, which contains the relics of St Francis Xavier.

Visit the interesting spice plantation, know about various Indian spices, how they are grown before reaching your plates. After a sumptuous lunch at the plantation, spend some time at the plantation and on the way back visit a small but yet beautiful waterfall. Later in the evening, take your time out on your own. Overnight stay in Goa. \

Day 18: Wednesday

After breakfast spend the morning with a hands-on session in preparing a typical Goan lunch. We then visit the mangroves of Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary to get a glimpse of local & migratory birds in the afternoon. We trek up a small hillock to witness the ruins of a Portuguese seminary before getting back to the centre & get packed up for the next leg of our adventure. We board a bus & head out for Hampi after dinner

Day 19: Thursday

Arrive in Hampi early morning where we check in to our rooms & freshen up.After breakfast we take a guided tour into the ancient realm of the Vijaynagar empire. Your guide & the exquisitely carved structures will take you back in time to an ancient civilization at its peak. The sprawling complex of Hampi is an UNESCO heritage site. We then lunch at one of the finest eateries in Hampi & resume with our tour.  We also get a glimpse into one of the rituals carried out by the main temple in Hampi.Dinner & a well deserved nights sleep.

Day 20: Friday

After breakfast you are free to explore this amazing destination dating back to the 14th Century, at your leisure. Hampi is truly a photographer’s paradise where you can capture elements of a bygone age that still endures within these ruins.  We then meet for lunch & board a bus & head back to the beaches of Goa. On reaching Goa we get back to our centre for the night.

Day 21: Saturday

• Experience an authentic ayurvedic massage to relax your body. After lunch at our centre,  spend your time at one of the beautiful beaches of Goa to return to the centre for dinner. Overnight stay in Goa.

Day 22: Sunday

Day to relax, breathe in, and catch up with your new friends at the guest house in Goa

Week 4: Community engagement week in Goa

Day 23-27: Monday to Friday

During this week, participate in our community engagement program which consists of many projects such as  the community school or at a renovation project or animal shelter or even participate in interacting with senior citizens at an old aged home. The choice will be yours to suit yourself into a project to become a part of an ever expanding community. During the second half of the day spend educational and quality time with migratory children at our outreach program. Overnight stay in Goa.

Day 28: Saturday

Departure.

Mode of transportation could change due to unavoidable circumstances.

This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions and unforeseen circumstances.

Your departure can be planned either on Saturday (28th Day) from Dabolim Airport in Goa. If you choose to travel further in India on your own or have various other plans after completing your trip with us, we request you to kindly check out on Sunday (28th Day).

Starting Dates

3 June, 1 July, 5 August, 2 September

• What’s included
• Airport transfers as per the policy – Airport Pickup in New Delhi
• Presence of a dedicated program coordinator throughout your travel, at the projects and facilities- Logistical management support in case of emergencies
• Authentic Indian meals and European (breakfast, lunch, dinner) for the duration of the entire program as per the meal plan – Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
• Accommodation at hotels, homestays, and at our accommodation facility – Shared single gender accommodation.
• Local transportation to all venues.
• Entry fees to all places.
• Extensive pre-departure information
• What’s Excluded
• Personal expenses such as table drinks, room service items, laundry, telephone calls, tips, portage at hotels or airports, bottles of water during your road trip etc.
• Any additional expenses caused by or liability for disturbance in the trip program due to circumstances, weather conditions, sickness, natural disasters, riots etc.
•  Liability for or insurance against injury, loss of life, accidents or loss of goods
• Our program does not cover any liability and does not insure participants. Participants must have appropriate insurance before joining the program
• Any camera fee where applicable.
• Any service not specified above.
• Few things to consider while you are with us
• Request to be back at the accommodation by 22:30 everyday
• Participants will not be entertained to hire any vehicles on their own
• Consumption of alcohol are strictly prohibited at all our Centres
• Respect and adhere to our code of conduct
• Our staff are there to support you and to guide you and make your trip memorable, we request you to kindly follow their instructions at all times.
• You will not be allowed to bring outsiders inside our centres, guest houses or hotels
• Please provide your mobile phone number during the time of booking, as this will be useful for us to contact you at the Delhi Airport as this is quite a crowded airport, and we would not want to lose you!

* This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions and unforeseen circumstances

Learn about the traditions, surroundings, culture, and other aspects of this vibrant and rich nation.

Explore Darjeeling’s natural wonders, unwind on its pristine beaches, get to know the locals, experience the city’s beauty and culture, and discover the city’s past by going to local markets, old forts, and churches. Take home an unforgettable experience by learning to prepare Indian food.

This program lets you explore the life and style of the people of Darjeeling. This crucial step will help you get ready for your stay in India. You will be introduced to a ton of new things, and now is the perfect time to ask any questions you may have about the company, the programs, the nation, the culture, or anything else that comes to mind.

Additionally, you will learn about the culture through language instruction, cooking classes, yoga sessions, sightseeing, visits to real Indian homes, and workshops.

This program will include instruction in the local tongue as well as practical Indian cooking classes, yoga sessions, and excursions to beautiful locations. This week’s all-encompassing activities will prepare you for life in Darjeeling. In addition, all transportation will be by public transit only in order to give you a genuine taste of local life.

Discover Darjeeling’s hidden beauty, become engrossed in its fascinating culture, and create lifelong memories.

Schedule

Monday
Breakfast at the Center
Welcoming ritual – Puja to the Gods and goddesses and name giving ceremony with Ice breaking activities
Review the schedule. Social behaviors and norms do’s & don’ts in Darjeeling. Cross culture seminar on eating, drinking, clothing, bathing, and toileting customs in Darjeeling.
Lunch Break
Talk about safety and security during the program, sign up for the Code of Conduct, Child Protection Policy, Release and Waiver of Liability, and Media Consent. Collect passport copies, photos, and clean chit.
Orientation tour of the neighborhood, getting personal accessories
Headed Back to the Accommodation Center.
Dinner

Tuesday
Breakfast at the Center
Nuts and Bolts (check-in) Impressions, health, emotions/feelings, needs, X-factor (special moments in your life)
Nepali Language!!!
Scavenger Hunt at Local Market, Chowk Bazar
Explore the local markets, Chowrasta,Mahankal Temple, and Mall road
Headed Back to the Accommodation Center.
Dinner
Movie Night!!

Wednesday
Morning Walk (Mall road)
Breakfast at the Center
Presentation of the scavenger hunt
Cooking class!!
Lunch Break
Tour to Bhalu Dhunga, rock climbing (optional), Happy Tea Garden
Headed Back to the Accommodation Center.
Dinner

Thursday
Breakfast
Talk about placement sites.
Add on language class
Lunch Break
Historical as well as cultural orientation tour to Japanese Peace Pagoda
Head Back to the Accommodation Center.
Dinner
Cultural Night

Friday
Breakfast
Hiking (Tiger Hill – Sinchel) – day trip, take Enough water
Feedback sharing sessions over the culture week
Head Back to the Accommodation Center.
Dinner

* This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions and unforeseen circumstances

Assist teachers in a local kindergarten and help establish a stable foundation in a child’s development.

In a cold city in North India, located amidst snowy mountains, join a kindergarten teaching program and spend your time with kids who will welcome you to their classes with open arms. Create lesson plans, engage in interactive activities in the classroom and contribute to the teaching in the kindergarten.

In this program, you will work as an assistant teacher at a local kindergarten school in Darjeeling. This program helps children in the villages improve their English language skills as well as basic personality skills.

You will be able to create lesson plans and help teachers with lessons in English, Mathematics, Arts and Crafts, games and more. You will also be called upon to help teach drama, music and foreign languages.

All the kindergartens are well managed and are supervised by officers from government and private organizations. Your activities may include,

Teaching English (spoken and written), drama, music, arts, crafts and foreign languages
Encourage children in academics and promote all-round development of the child
Assist teachers and other staff in various classroom activities
Create lesson plans
Besides teaching, you will also support the local staff with the care taking of the children. This task can range in activities, from organizing classes, playing games and guiding activities to feeding, cutting nails, combing hair and so on.

In addition, during the teaching activities, always be on time and be mindful of class schedules and come to school prepared, be creative in preparing lessons in fun and engaging ways, smile and have lots of patience as you are working with children with various personalities and wear a dress that covers your shoulders and knees, and basically the more that is covered the better. Men must wear trousers, T-shirts and shoes and strictly follow the dress code policy. You are also expected to actively join other activities and of course to enjoy and make the most of your stay and make memorable learning experiences.

So, grab this opportunity to be part of their crucial point of exploration and help establish a stable foundation in their development. Besides that, you may also have the best time throughout your stay as you will engage in fun, relaxing and recreational activities held after a long day of your program alongside other participants.

Finally, you can not miss every single weekend experiencing nearby scenic views and historic places. Thus, we will make sure to assist you in organizing your weekend getaways and enjoy every bit of your time.

Schedule

Monday
Breakfast
Welcome, introduction to Darjeeling and projects, House rules, Code of Conduct and handling of documents.
Culture Lesson and safety precautions during your travel
Get to learn the language and talk about the project.
Lunch
Go out to visit the City of Darjeeling and explore.
Dinner

Tuesday to Friday
After breakfast, you will visit the kindergarten school and your classes generally take place from 09:30 to 15:30. Lunch break is from 12:00 to 13:30.

Mid June to 1st week of July, December & January are winter vacations in Darjeeling, thus this project will not function during this part of the year.

* This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions and unforeseen circumstances

Spend time to share your knowledge and skills to education in a hill station city called Darjeeling.

The best way to create a better future is educating the young generation. Join the Education program in Darjeeling and make a difference. Assist teaching at small local village schools where you can foster good relationships with the children as you assist with extracurricular activities and inspire them to achieve their full potential and broaden their perspectives.

In this program, you will get the opportunity to teach basic conversational English and other subjects of your choice to children from different age groups with different capabilities. The project can take place either at a regular government, private or community schools for children.

Participating teachers enable students to form relationships with someone from another background and culture, and the teachers can learn different teaching methods and techniques.

You will be taking different classes on an average of five classes a day (each class would be about 40 minutes). The schools usually have a very dull curriculum, so out- of ­the ­box activities and creative experiences such as sports or games are more than welcome and really appreciated by the children.

You are free to use different methods to teach but you can use the coursebook as a reference or educate children through conversational and spoken English. During your time there, you can teach them different subjects such as mathematics, history, science, geography, computer, technologies, music and other subjects, arts and crafts, different educational games, spoken and conversational English, personal development, environmental awareness, general health and safety and so on. All higher education in India is in English, so it is vitally important that children must learn English to continue further higher education.

Thus, make your way to this amazing community and make a difference in the educational journey of every single Darjeeling kid. Besides that, you may also have the best time throughout your stay as you will engage in fun, relaxing and recreational activities held after a long day of your program alongside other participants.

Finally, you can not miss every single weekend experiencing nearby scenic views and historic places. Thus, we will make sure to assist you in organizing your weekend getaways and enjoy every bit of your time.

Schedule

Monday
Breakfast
Welcome, introduction to Darjeeling and projects, House rules, Code of Conduct and handling of documents.
Culture Lesson and safety precautions during your travel
Get to learn the language and talk about the project.
Lunch
Go out to visit the City of Darjeeling and explore.
Dinner

Tuesday to Friday
After breakfast, you will visit the school and your classes generally take place from 10:00 to 16:00. You will be teaching different classes and each session would be 40 minutes. Lunch break is from 12:30 to 13:30

Mid June to 1st week of July, December & January are winter vacations in Darjeeling, thus this project will not function during this part of the year.

* This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions and unforeseen circumstances

Experience the captivating beauty of Darjeeling, known as the “Queen of the Hills.”

Engage in initiatives to break the cycle of poverty and contribute to the community by sharing your expertise. Embrace the unique culture and lifestyle of the people while participating in programs like Women’s Empowerment, Education, Housing, and Health. Immerse yourself in this enriching journey, making a positive impact and gaining new experiences.

Popularly referred to as the “Queen of the Hills,” Darjeeling is a popular tourist destination known for its natural splendor, historic forests, charming homes, hospitable residents, and mountain views. Darjeeling’s location is at such a high altitude that it is sure to enchant people. This is a result of the hill station’s diverse flora and fauna, as well as its chilly climate, which has given it the nickname “the Queen of Hills.”

The Queen of the Hills has seen a lot of issues and difficulties in recent years. Since the district’s economy is largely reliant on tea and tourism, residents have been struggling to make ends meet. Due to decreased production, the tea industry is losing a lot of money. The average daily wage for workers is 209 Rupees, which is insufficient for them to support their families. People in tea gardens are losing their jobs, which Is creating a cycle of poverty.

To address these issues and challenges, we have collaborated with a nonprofit organization in Darjeeling working on various sectors like Health, Education, women’s empowerment (income generation program), Food programs, and elderly programs. Participants are welcome to take part in the initiative to end the cycle of poverty and give back to the neighborhood by sharing their expertise.

The community, culture, occupations, and way of life of the people who live in the hills will all be covered in this program. Dealing with the distinctiveness and real lifestyle of the community will be your task. You will be given a fundamental understanding of how the organization operates.

The organization offers a women’s empowerment program (the Income Generation Program). The women participating in this program receive skill development so they can support themselves by weaving carpets, knitting, sewing, and creating cotton-based products. The trainees have the option of accepting employment at the organization itself after completing their courses or seeking employment elsewhere. There is a savings program that aids in educating underprivileged women about the importance of saving money. A loan Program helps provide loans to families below the poverty line.

One of the organization’s first programs, the Education Program, runs an Adult Literacy Program in both the plains and the hills. The Strive Program simultaneously provides the children with a home, food, and a bed while preparing them for admission to school. A scholarship program for female students provides funding to the chosen girls to help with the cost of their books, uniforms, and school fees. Students between the ages of 5 and 18 have a place to study after school thanks to the study group program.

The organization also gives needy pregnant women, senior citizens, and women with young children food such as bulgur and cooking oil. They not only get to eat but also pick up some cooking skills.

The Housing Program was initially established to aid in the rehabilitation of landslide and fire victims. 139 homes were initially constructed by the organization on government-provided land. Today, it also helps with home loans and gives homeless people homes.

In accordance with the old age program, elderly people in need are identified by community health workers, and following their identification based on need, they are given dry rations, medications, and an honorarium as a sign of appreciation.

The organization also runs health programs, and as part of these programs, women are chosen by their communities and trained to work as paramedics or village health workers, enabling them to offer basic medical services in the villages. Programs for mothers and children are designed to help underprivileged and needy mothers. For young children, there is a crèche or daycare facility so that their underprivileged mothers can go to work and make money.

The language of communication for the aforementioned programs will be English for community work and learning local languages. Participants are encouraged to use their imagination, be inventive, and share their knowledge in a variety of subject areas. In return, they can anticipate learning about the neighborhood and returning with some new experiences.

On average, participants must spend five days (five hours per day) in the organization and community. The participants must adhere to the organization’s schedule. A positive attitude and willingness to travel will be much appreciated.

Schedule

Monday to Friday
After breakfast, you will visit the organization. You will be in the organization as per your convenience and the time set by the office staff; 4 – 5 hours is a must to be in the organization each day.

* This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions and unforeseen circumstances

Contribute to the construction and renovation of public schools and community development projects in Darjeeling.

While assisting the community through this project, you will gain valuable experience by joining hands with the local communities. Your time and effort will help enhance the living standards of the community and let you make a difference by helping those who are in need.

In this project, you will get your hands dirty with construction and renovation projects.

Other construction efforts might be carried out in a local village, including renovating and building houses and sanitation facilities or working on construction projects at local community centres, schools, and monasteries. The placement you will be working at may change depending on the needs of the community at the time.

On a typical day of the program, you will have a quick discussion with your coordinator about the day’s tasks. You may be engaged in light construction work and also painting school buildings, fixing broken tables and chairs, making pathways, renovating toilets, repairing walls and gardening in schools.

You will also be continuing the ongoing construction and renovation projects and or join new projects happening to help the local community.

In addition, during the construction activities, please be careful and mindful when using construction equipment and material, ask assistance from your local coordinators for heavy tasks and of course to enjoy and make the most of your stay and make memorable learning experiences.

So, be ready to get your hands dirty and help this community build a safe and better place for everyone. Besides that, you may also have the best time throughout your stay as you will engage in fun, relaxing and recreational activities held after a long day of your program alongside other participants.

Finally, you can not miss every single weekend experiencing nearby scenic views and historic places. Thus, we will make sure to assist you in organizing your weekend getaways and enjoy every bit of your time.

Schedule

Monday
Breakfast
Welcome, introduction to Darjeeling and projects, House rules, Code of Conduct and handling of documents.
Culture Lesson and safety precautions during your travel
Get to learn the language and talk about the project.
Lunch
Go out to visit the City of Darjeeling and explore.
Dinner

Tuesday to Friday
Breakfast
Working at the placement. Do Light renovation and Construction efforts.
Lunch
Working at the placement. Do Light renovation and Construction efforts.
Dinner

* This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions and unforeseen circumstances

Through this program, you will be able to gain a basic understanding of how the animal shelter operates.

Participants can help feed, care for, and nourish the animals, as the program also calls for community engagement through educational forums and veterinary clinics in Darjeeling’s rural and urban villages.

Although other animals cannot be classified as social animals but are still God’s creations, man is a social animal. As a result, they are a fundamental component of the universe and play a crucial role in our day-to-day activities. We humans have consistently claimed to love animals. Unfortunately, we only truly love an animal until it can perform a useful task for us. Despite this, we have never treated animals with kindness.

In 1994, Christine and Jeremy Townend, who lived in Darjeeling, went for a stroll on a typical day. There, they saw a dog die from strychnine poisoning, and later learned from a local resident named Dr. G.S. Yonzone that the municipality was poisoning dogs to stop the spread of rabies. A meeting of Darjeeling leaders was called by Dr. Yonzone, and it was decided to launch the DAS Darjeeling Animal Shelter.

They invite participants and interns to assist them in giving the animals at their shelter care and affection. They travel to remote areas and both urban and rural Darjeeling villages to administer vaccinations. It is rewarding to work with animals alongside modest and considerate individuals. People who have worked in the DAS have found it easier to get over their fear of animals and to comprehend their emotions, especially those of stray dogs and cats.

Through this program, you will be able to gain a basic understanding of how the animal shelter operates. Participants in shelter homes can help feed, care for, and nourish the animals, as the program also calls for community engagement through educational forums and veterinary clinics in Darjeeling’s rural and urban villages.

The mode of communication will be English with the staff and the doctors. While traveling for vet camps, it will also give the participants a chance to learn about the area. Learning to care for animals would be easier if you loved them, but being open to learning more about them will give you the chance to become more knowledgeable about the details and compassionate toward them. It’s also an adoption center. Prior to adoption, applicants go through an interview process. Participants can also learn about the Indian adoption procedure for animals.

The participants are free to be creative in their work. They can also take part and design their own staff training session, as well as take part in dog-related cultural events like “Kukur Thihar” during the Dussehra festival, when people worship dogs.

Participants are required to spend an average of five days (three hours per day) at the shelter home. The participants must adhere to the organization’s schedule. Creative activities would be much appreciated.

Schedule

Monday to Friday
After breakfast, you will visit the shelter home. You will be in the shelter home as per your convenience and the time set by the office staff; a minimum of 3 hours is a must to be in the shelter home for each day.

* This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions and unforeseen circumstances

Experience the Buddhist culture in a monastery while teaching English to novice monks.

Teach English and help improve the language skills and communication skills of monks in a Buddhist monastery. Experience the simple way of life practiced by the monks and get a unique opportunity to immerse in their day-to-day lifestyle and learn about Buddhism. This program lets you discover a world beyond the busy cities where you will get close to nature and peace of mind.

This program takes place in Buddhist monasteries in the Himalayan city called Darjeeling. Darjeeling is popular for its misty mountain views, tea plantations as well as picturesque monasteries.

During this program, you will teach English to the monks in the classroom. You will also get a chance to learn about Buddhism while practicing various features of the lifestyle of a Buddhist Monk. You will be teaching to novice monks of various ages.

The project will involve various monasteries wherein the age of the monks are between 8 to 25. The monastery has classes between Nursery to Grade 5. Each class approximately has 10 to 15 students. You will be mainly teaching English but you will also be able to teach other subjects such as Maths, Science and any other subject of your choice.

Immerse yourself in the teachings of Buddhism, deepen your understanding of meditation, and embrace the simplicity of life at the monasteries. This program offers a unique opportunity to experience the tranquility and wisdom of Indian Buddhism firsthand while also imparting your knowledge to the monks.

Besides that, you may also have the best time throughout your stay as you will engage in fun, relaxing and recreational activities held after a long day of your program alongside other participants.

Finally, you can not miss every single weekend experiencing nearby scenic views and historic places. Thus, we will make sure to assist you in organizing your weekend getaways and enjoy every bit of your time.

This program is for minimum 4 weeks.

Schedule

Monday to Friday
You will teach primarily English and various other subjects to the monks, both young and old, for around 2 to 3 hours of various age groups every day.

January and February are winter vacations in Buddhist Monasteries, thus this project will not function during this part of the year.

* This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions and unforeseen circumstances