After landing in Kathmandu, we begin our journey in the cobblestone-lined city of Bhaktapur, one of Kathmandu valley’s three ancient kingdoms, where we have time to rest and truly arrive in Nepal through various excursions, activities, discussions, and adventures in this ancient city. From Bhaktapur we set out on a short trek along the ridge of the Kathmandu valley, through the villages of Changunarayan, Nagarkot, Chisapani and Sundarijal, staying in lodges and guesthouses. We encounter diverse ethnic groups and religious traditions along the way, and if the clouds clear for us, we may see stunning mountain views. We conclude our trek in Boudha, a Tibetan Buddhist part of Kathmandu Valley, where we will participate in the kora, or circumambulation, of Nepal’s largest Buddhist Stupa or shrine, along with hundreds of devotees.

From Boudha we travel farther afield to our village homestay. Set amidst a sea of rice and millet fields, we immerse ourselves in everyday rural life, from early morning milking of buffaloes, planting rice fields and preparing dinner with our host families. At this time we participate in a learning service project, working side-by-side with the local community. Our days begin with student-led daily meetings, language lessons, and discussions on a variety of topics, including ethnic diversity, religious traditions, development and the values and challenges of learning service.

Saying goodbye to our village host families, we return to Kathmandu and travel to a Tibetan Buddhist Monastery on the rim of Kathmandu Valley where we participate in a short Tibetan Buddhist and yoga retreat, which offer an in-depth look at these two spiritual systems. We delve into Tibetan Buddhist Philosophy, meditation, and practice, while getting a glimpse at monastic life. We also learn about the philosophical roots of traditional yoga practice.

Following our retreat, we begin our urban home stay in the old Nepali kingdom of Patan, just a short drive from Kathmandu. Living with local Newari host families, we focus on Nepal’s traditional art forms as well as the ethnic and religious diversity that abounds. By participating in group discussions, lectures by guest speakers, and excursions around the city we will gain a deeper understanding of Nepali culture. We will also have the opportunity to work alongside some of Nepal’s greatest artisans through our Independent Study Projects. ISP topics range from traditional Poubha painting, metal work, and traditional musical instruments, such as the sarangi. The intention of this time is deep immersion into the culture, employing increasing language skills, spending time with host families and ISP mentors, bargaining at the local bazaars (markets), and independently exploring the city. During this time we have the option of daily yoga and/or meditation in the mornings, which are followed by having breakfast together at our program house. We spend the rest of the morning either engaged in discussion, attending language lessons, adventuring around the city. The afternoons are dedicated to ISPs and time with homestay families.

The last two days of our course are dedicated to reflecting on our journey, celebrating our accomplishments, and preparing for the journey home!