Namaste! Welcome to India! Our representative will meet you in the arrival area of the airport after you clear all immigration and custom formalities. Then, you will depart for your hotel where you will check in for your stay. Delhi stands as the capital of modern India. Here you can see the mingling of the old and new India, the ancient and the modern. Delhi is made up of seven ancient cities, spanning the period from the 11th to 20th centuries. Delhi has seen the rise and fall of many emperors who have left behind a plethora of monuments that commemorate the grandeur and glory of bygone ages. Very few cities in the world can express such a profusion of architectural styles. Meals Included: Dinner Overnight in Novotel Aerocity, Standard Room

This morning after breakfast, we will leave for Anandpur Sahib! Upon arrival, you will check-in at the hotel and have time to relax. Learning Experience: Orientation Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch Dinner Overnight in Anand at the Sutluj, Premier Cottage

Today after breakfast, we will begin our ascent into the Himalayas! As we journey into the Kullu valley, you will witness one of the most beautiful valleys of India before stopping for the night at Manali. Learning Experience: Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Overnight in Hotel Johnsons, Standard Room

Manali is a small little hill station bustling with tourists. We will spend the day today at Manali – exploring the town and the quaint temples and villages close to Manali. The evening can be spent exploring the Manali bazaar! Learning Experience: Town Exploration Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Overnight in Hotel Johnsons, Standard Room

Today we have an early start from Manali. We cross into Lahaul through the famous Atal Tunnel – the longest tunnel in the world above 10,000 ft! We follow the Chandra River Valley for a while until we ascend to the beautiful Kunzum Pass. We will spend some time taking in the fabulous views of the Chandrabhaga Mountain Ranges, visit the serene Buddhist shrine at Kunzum and resume our journey to reach Kaza by evening, the capital of Spiti, where we spend the night. Learning Experience: Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Overnight in Hotel Sakya Abode, Standard Room

This morning, we will begin our day with a delicious breakfast! After, orientation forms another important part of this journey as much as acclimatization forms the essence of being in harmony with the rarefied air in this high-altitude territory. We will spend the day with members of the NGO and get oriented on Spiti and the program. Today, we will also get a brief introduction on Buddhism in Spiti. Learning Experience: Get oriented with Spiti and the work that has been done by the NGO. Brief introduction on Buddhism in Spiti. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Overnight in Hotel Sakya Abode, Standard Room

After breakfast we will get back onto the road and follow the Spiti river upstream for a short while where we will visit the Kee Monastery which belongs to the Gelukpa sect of Tibetan Buddhism. Kee Monastery is one of Spiti’s most spectacular monastery perched up on a small conical hill. We will spend time exploring the monastery, head back to Kaza and grab a quick lunch before we head further downstream till we reach the Pin Valley. Pin valley is home to the Niyangma sect of Vajrayana (Vehicle of the Thunderbolt – a.k.a Tibetan/Tantrayana) Buddhism, which is the oldest of all the Vajrayana Bushhism sects and was founded by Guru Rinpoche (Guru Padmasambhava). We visit the Kungri monastery, the only monastery in the Pin valley. Here we shall learn about this unique sect and its practices and get a brief insight into the lives of the monks and their responsibilities over the next few days. Learning Experience: Monastery visits Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Overnight in The Monastery

The next 11 days is a deep contemplative and learning curve that will provide a deeper understanding of the day-to-day life in a monastery along with the philosophy and some basic practices of Tibetan Buddhism, also known as Vajrayana Buddhism. The Kungri monastery/nunnery belongs to the Nyingma sect of Vajrayana Buddhism and is approximately 600 years old. The Nyingmapa School is the oldest among the four major schools of Tibetan Buddhism, the others being the Sakyapa, Gelugpa and Kagyupa. While the basic teachings of the four schools are similar, the Nyingmapa sect differs in being more focused on the Tantra phase of learning. This difference is attributed to the founder of Nyingmapa, Padma Sambhava, who was proficient in the practices of Tantra. The beginning of any serious engagement needs an initiation. We will get a basic introduction into Buddhist vows and then we will get inducted into the vows and precepts that we need to adhere to during the course of our stay in the monastery. The vows are offered by the teachers in the monastery and form an integral part of a commitment to the spiritual tradition. As part of our stay at the monasteries we shall have some sessions that the Monastery teachers will take to introduce concepts of Nyingmapa Buddhism. Some of the key topics that shall be addressed as part of the philosophical teachings pertain to the Four Noble Truths, Eight Fold Path, Compassion and Wisdom. We shall also hear the views of the teachers in the monastery about Samsara and why we are born in Samsara, the 3 poisons and their role in keeping us lurking in the world of Samsara, again and again. Apart from Buddhist philosophy we shall also learn some basic meditation and cleansing techniques practiced by the monks called Longro (the practice of cleaning one’s body of the 3 poisons every morning through breathing techniques and meditation). Meditation forms an important aspect of spiritual practices at the monastic institutions – however most of the practices of meditation need specific initiations – since one has to take refuge in Yidams (deities) as per the tantric teachings. During the course of our stay at the monastery we shall also get an insight into Bhoti (Tibetan) language, since most of the major Tibetan Buddhist treatise are available only in this language. Bhoti is also the medium of instruction and learning at all higher levels and integral for those who wish to go deeper into the Tibetan Buddhist tradition. The science of Tibetan Buddhism lies in the subtle linkages of the concepts of Yantra, Mantra and Tantra and their mutual amalgamation. The science of Tantra has been expounded and expanded to great extent in the Tibetan Buddhist traditions. It is also regarded as one of the most advance sciences in the field of Yoga and spirituality in general. However, it is pertinent to master the use of the Yantra and Mantra for finally being able to move to the science of Tantra. A lifetime of commitment is absolutely imperative to get deep into the science of Tantra – however within our available window we get insights into mantras and how they assist in the process of spiritual evolution in the Nyingma tradition and its significance in moving further into more tantric practices useful in the path towards liberation. We shall use our stay in the monastery to get a brief insight into the significance and usage of mantras and how they form the most significant proportion of a Tibetan monk’s life and practices in their quest for spiritual progress. There are specific mantras dedicated to different deities and Bodhisattvas. The Guru Padmasambhava mantra and the Avalokitesvara mantra are some of the more common ones that we shall learn about. The recitation of these mantras and the turning of the rosary form an integral part of the practices and something that has to be adopted as part of our genetic mapping during the course of our stay. Prayers and mantra recitation form part of the daily routine of the monks and something that we can also participate in regularly. Two very significant aspects of life in a monastery revolve around making Tormas and Mandalas. We shall try our hand at these and learn more of their significance in the monastic traditions as well as in the process of spiritual evolution. Our days at the Monastery will present an opportunity to understand the different aspects of Tibetan Buddhism and of life in a Monastery. One of the key aspects pertains to following the daily schedule of the monastery that we shall adhere to very strictly. The daily schedule is developed in a manner that enables the monks to get ample time for self-study and this time shall be used by us to get deeper insights and better understanding of some of the key teachings. Last but not the least is the Nuangnay initiation that we shall undertake at the end of our stay at the monastery. This is a traditional fasting and silence retreat that one must take to further deepen their practices. The teachers at the monastery shall initiate us into the Nuangnay practice. Learning Experience: Learning and practicing Tibetan Buddhism. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Overnight in The Monastery

Today is our last day at the monastery and we will bid goodbye to our hosts and to express our gratitude to the monastery and its resident monks and nuns! We will continue to follow our daily schedule and slowly prepare ourselves for heading on for a short retreat to a village dedicated for serious retreats for monks and nuns. Dinner & Overnight at the hotel. Accommodation: Hermitage Guest House, Standard Room (B,L,D) Learning Experience: Journey to Phukchong Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Overnight in Phukchong

We will spend the next 2 days at Phukchong practicing Nuangnay! On the second day, we shall gradually withdraw from the retreat. The silence and fasting experience will would expose you to new avenues of your own being. Learning Experience: Silent Retreat Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Overnight in Phukchong

Today post breakfast we leave the Pin valley and head on to the highlands. The drive from Phukchong to Demul crosses one pass at about 4600 mts. Demul is a beautiful village set on the highlands of the Spiti Valley, famous for the local brew – Arak and folk performances at an additional price*. A flavor of both can be had during your stay in Demul Village. At Demul, we shall be hosted by a local family in a traditional homestay. Living in a traditional house up in the highlands is a unique experience and an insightful one, too. The village of Demul is an interesting model of sustainable living and our NGO has initiated various programs around renewable energy, passive solar housing, green houses, water conservation programs, indigenous agriculture, local handicrafts and responsible tourism. If interested, one can take a walk around the village and learn more about these when one reaches the village. The evening is ideal to interact with our host family who will then be back from the fields. Dinner & Overnight at the homestay. Learning Experience: Homestay Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Overnight in Demul

Today we will spend the day at Demul and get an insight into the age-old tradition and science of Tibetan Medicine! We will spend the day with an Amchi (a traditional Tibetan doctor) and learn more about this dying practice and how he diagnosis and makes his medicines. Learning Experience: Tibetan Medicine Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Overnight in Demul

After breakfast, we will bid farewell to Demul village to and head to Asia’s highest village; Komic, which is adorned by a beautiful monastery. We can trek or take a Yak-back safari at an additional price* to Komic across the alpine high-altitude meadows of Spiti. These are the grazing pastures of the village livestock and the hunting ground of the snow leopard. Visit the Komic monastery on arrival and thereafter get back into your waiting jeeps to head onto Hikkim – Asia’s highest post office where one can send off a postcard to family back home (remember to pick up a postcard from the Sol Café/ Taste of Spiti when in kaza on Day 6!). From here we head to the highland village of Langza. Adorned by a Buddha statue and a temple, Langza is a picture-perfect village. The mainstay of this village in the olden days was mud craft. Vessels of all shapes and sizes were produced here and supplied to the entire valley for household use. However, this art has largely died down. Our NGO works with the last remaining potter to help conserve this art. For those interested in delving into their creative side – one can spend a bit of time with the local potter and learn the basics of Spiti Pottery at an additional cost*. Later in the day we head back to Kaza and settle into our Hotel for a relaxed evening. Learning Experience: Langza Journey Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Overnight in Kaza

Today is an early start as we will drive over the Kunzum la (pass/4551mts), which divides Lahaul and Spiti. We will spend some time taking in the fabulous views of the Chandrabhaga range of mountains, visit the Buddhist shrine at Kunzum and get into our waiting jeeps. We drive along the valley of the Chandra River until we reach the famous Atal Tunnel – the longest tunnel in the world above 10,000 ft., from where we cross over into the Kullu Valley. Though the journey is long today, you will hardly notice it as the changing landscapes enroute will keep you mesmerized! Today we make our way back into the hustle and bustle of urban spaces. Dinner & Overnight at the hotel. Hotel: Hotel Johnsons, Standard Room (B,L,D) Learning Experience: Kunzum Buddhist Shrine Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Overnight in Manali

Today, our stop in Manali is a short one and after a relaxed breakfast we will make our way to the Mandi and Kangra valleys of Himachal. We follow the Beas River all the way to Mandi and cross the famous town of Kullu enroute. From Mandi we head towards the Dhauladhar ranges which form a perfect backdrop for the Kangra region as also for the better-known town of Dharamshala. Our halt for tonight is at Norbulingka, situated at Sidhpur slightly before the town of Dharamashala. Learning Experience: Kullu visit Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Overnight in Guest house: Norling House, Standard Room

Norbulingka is an institute that was started in 1995 to enable the preservation of Tibetan art and culture. Today, we will spend the day at Norbulingka and visit their fascinating museum on Tibetan art and culture. We will also visit their training institute where Tibetan artists and craftsman work and are trained. If keen, we can undertake a short workshop and try our hands at learning some of the basics of Tibetan art. Learning Experience: Spend the day at the Institute and observe the artists & craftsman. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Overnight in Guest house: Norling House, Standard Room

Today, we will visit the famous Gyuto Karmapa Monastery! From here we will head on towards the seat of the exiled Tibetan Government at Mcleodganj, Dharamshala. Here, after settling into hotel, we will visit the Monastery of H.H the Dalai Lama. A visit to Mcleodganj is incomplete without visiting the Dalai Lama’s monastery, temple and his residence. Evening is free to explore the market of Mcleodganj. Learning Experience: Explore Dharamashala, Gyuto Karmapa Monastery visit, Monastery of H.H The Dalai Lama. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Overnight in Chonor House

Today we shall explore Mcleodganj and its many faces. There are some other interesting places we will explore today in and around Mcleodganj such as the Tibetan Men-tse-khang Medical & Astro-science Institute. Here we will get an insight into the science of astrology. If keen, we can also get a one-on-one consultation and learn more about our own individual astrological chart. Depending on time available we can also visit some like Dharamkot, Bhagsunath and Galleu. The evening is free for us to explore the market. Learning Experience: Explore the Tibetan town and the institutes. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Overnight in Chonor House

This morning after breakfast, it’s time to check-out of the hotel, where you will be assisted for your transfer to Dharamshala airport to connect via flight to Delhi. Upon arrival in Delhi, you will be assisted to connect your onward flight back home. Or, extend your journey on one of our numerous learning programs in India, Bhutan of Sri Lanka. We look forward to welcoming you back on another Learning Journeys immersion. Perhaps you’re interested in visiting Nepal or Tibet to experience the diverse spiritual essence of the land? Visit Bhutan to learn about their Gross National Happiness. Enjoy a cultural immersion in Sri Lanka. Whatever your interest, Learning Journeys can assist you with finding the perfect program to fulfil your dreams.