CULTURAL ROOTS OF SOUTH INDIA

The first day starts with an afternoon arrival at Mumbai International Airport, where participants will meet our Trip Leaders and transfer to the hotel. After check-in and refreshments, we’ll have our first Orientation session to establish a Community Agreement, followed by a buffet dinner. Overnight stay at a local guesthouse in Mumbai.

The day begins with a curriculum activity, followed by a guided sightseeing tour of Mumbai led by a knowledgeable and friendly female guide. Participants will experience the city's highlights, including the historic CST (Victoria Terminus), the fascinating Dhobi Ghat, and Mumbai's tallest viewing gallery. The tour also includes a visit to Mani Bhavan, where Mahatma Gandhi lived for 17 years during India’s independence movement, offering a unique perspective on Mumbai’s heritage and iconic landmarks. Dinner will be at a traditional Indian restaurant, with an overnight stay at a local guesthouse in Mumbai.

The day begins with a guided tour of the Dharavi community, led by a local woman who will take us through its vibrant streets and colorful alleys, revealing the resilience and creativity of the area. Participants will explore bustling markets, lively workshops, and visit a women’s cooperative. In the afternoon, we’ll engage with our partner NGO, Reality Gives, to learn about initiatives empowering youth through education and sports, followed by volunteer work at the Dharavi community center and a curriculum activity. In the evening, we’ll enjoy dinner at a traditional Indian restaurant before boarding an overnight train to our host community.

The day begins with a mid-morning arrival into our host community, where participants will be welcomed with a traditional ceremony. After an introductory tour of the local school, we’ll continue with an orientation to meet the homestay families who will host us during our stay. The afternoon includes curriculum activities, followed by an evening community dance performance to celebrate our arrival. Participants will then spend the night with their homestay families, immersing themselves in local culture.

The day starts with a morning session dedicated to a Traditional Dance Project, where participants engage in learning local dance forms. In the afternoon, we’ll work in the fields alongside community members, followed by a visit to the local school. Later, there will be a curriculum activity before returning to spend the night with our homestay families, continuing the cultural immersion experience.

The day begins with a morning session focused on the Traditional Dance Project, allowing participants to further immerse themselves in the local dance culture. In the afternoon, we’ll join community members to work in the fields, followed by another visit to the local school. The day wraps up with a curriculum activity before returning to our homestay families for an overnight stay.

The day begins with a morning visit to Murudeshwar, where participants will explore the stunning Murudeshwar Temple by the Arabian Sea and marvel at the impressive 120-foot-tall statue of Lord Shiva. Enjoying the beach and sampling delicious local cuisine offers a unique experience that blends spirituality, natural beauty, and coastal culture. In the afternoon, participants will take part in a Market Challenge followed by some leisure time at the beach. The day concludes with dinner in the city before returning to spend the night with our homestay families.

The day begins with a morning session dedicated to the Traditional Dance Project, where participants continue to engage with local dance forms. Following this, a curriculum activity focused on creative expression and storytelling. In the afternoon, participants will attend a local Yakshagana performance, experiencing this traditional form of theater. The day concludes with an overnight stay with their homestay families, deepening their connection to the community.

The day kicks off with a final dance performance for the community, showcasing the participants' learning and engagement in the Traditional Dance Project. After the performance, there will be a curriculum activity to reflect on the experiences and lessons learned throughout the program. The day concludes with an overnight stay with the homestay families, allowing for continued cultural exchange and connection.

The day begins with a small morning walk, followed by a curriculum activity that encourages reflection on the experiences shared with homestay families. Participants will enjoy their last full day with their host families, immersing themselves in the local culture and community. In the late evening, they will embark on a 14-hour overnight train ride back to Mumbai, marking the end of this enriching journey.

The day starts with a mid-morning arrival in Mumbai, where participants will deposit their luggage at the guesthouse and enjoy some refreshments. Following this, we’ll have lunch in the city before heading out for an afternoon of shopping in Colaba. The exploration continues with a visit to the captivating Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (CSMVS), where history and art come together in a mesmerizing display. After a curriculum activity, participants will enjoy dinner in Mumbai before the closing ceremony. The day concludes with a late departure from Mumbai International Airport, marking the end of an unforgettable journey.