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High Altitude Education

location
5 - 5 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+

rating  Outstanding 5  · 
  Verified by Volunteer World
  Below average response rate

Highlights

  • Work with organizations in Ladakh investing in alternative educational opportunities for a variety of communities while immersing ourselves in the ancient Varjana Buddhist mountain culture
  • Challenge your expectations around how educational institutions operate and how we, as volunteers, can best contribute to our partners at Secmol.
  • Examine how modern developments are threatening a culture that had remained relatively unchanged since the time of the Buddha.

Highlights

  • Work with organizations in Ladakh investing in alternative educational opportunities for a variety of communities while immersing ourselves in the ancient Varjana Buddhist mountain culture
  • Challenge your expectations around how educational institutions operate and how we, as volunteers, can best contribute to our partners at Secmol.
  • Examine how modern developments are threatening a culture that had remained relatively unchanged since the time of the Buddha.
  • Test yourself on a multi-day hike with passes up starting at 3000 metres, with nothing but the massive, majestic, and mystical mountains of the Kharkatorum surrounding you
  • Visit the world capital of yoga and decompress along India's holiest river in Risikesh


  • Especially good for

    Age 18+
    Singles
    Couples
    Groups
    50+

    About the program

    Explore alternative education and the impact of Tourism in the cold High Altitude desert of Ladakh.

    With the backdrop of snow-capped mountains, we’ll immerse ourselves in high altitude living and come to intimately know the ancient Varjana Buddhist mountain culture. We’ll work with grassroots organizations investing in alternative educational opportunities for some of the most remote areas of ...

    About the program

    With the backdrop of snow-capped mountains, we’ll immerse ourselves in high altitude living and come to intimately know the ancient Varjana Buddhist mountain culture. We’ll work with grassroots organizations investing in alternative educational opportunities for some of the most remote areas of our world and connect with activists creating a more environmentally sustainable future.

    Our volunteer programs take a learning-first approach. We combine an educational program with collaborative community service so that travellers can explore the local history, context, and challenges while contributing to local solutions. Here are some of the community projects we will be involved in on this program:

    - The Student’s Educational and Cultural Movement of Ladakh (SECMOL) was founded in 1998 by a group of young Ladakhis, and has worked in a multitude of approaches over the years to support access to education and innovation in the sector. Our crew will be collaborating with them at their Phey campus. SECMOL is not a conventional school, but a place to pursue practical, environmental, social and traditional knowledge, values and skills.

    - Local futures is an organization focused on relocalizing food systems and reviving traditional practices in Ladakh. In collaboration with indigenous organizations and the local government, they host workshops and dialogues on food, farming and traditional knowledge, promote more responsible tourism and produce short films on the major issues facing Ladakh today. 


    Typical day

    Day 1-5: Orientation - Leh


    Ready to jump right into this adventure? You'll be flying straight into Leh, Ladakh, at 3500 m. With this rapid ascent, we'll need to spend a total of five days acclimatizing to life at this altitude. We'll be prioritizing our health over exertion - trust us, this is ...

    Typical day

    Day 1-5: Orientation - Leh


    Ready to jump right into this adventure? You'll be flying straight into Leh, Ladakh, at 3500 m. With this rapid ascent, we'll need to spend a total of five days acclimatizing to life at this altitude. We'll be prioritizing our health over exertion - trust us, this is essential to our journey! But we'll also start our in-country orientation to prepare ourselves for the whole program!

    As soon as our bodies area ready, we'll be traipsing through the busy streets, interacting with local vendors, practicing our bartering skills, and sampling the many sights, smells, and tastes of Leh. This is a start unlike any other - you'll be on the roof of the world, on the edge of the map! There's not doubt that this unique city will be seared into our hearts and minds! 

    Our bodies need to adjust to this new environment as acclimatizing poorly could mean a much less enjoyable trip. Before we hit the road, expect to plough through a good book enjoying the gentle, calm pace of life that is easily found in a Ladakhi summer. But it won't be lazy days! Our program leaders will get your brains working while your bodies rest, challenging the group to find the best ways to support each other through the challenges ahead. 

    Day 6-12: The Indus Valley

    Having taken the time for our bodies to adapt to the lower levels of oxygen at this altitude, it's time to start exploring the communities and cultures that lie along the Indus river - one of the great Himalayan rivers, and the one which gave India its name. It's believed that the first humans to come to this part of the world arrived along this river. 

    We'll spend our time in nearby villages and towns to improve our understanding of the local Varjana Buddhist culture and how it informs the interactions of local communities. Through Local Futures and the Women's Alliance, we'll intimately experience life in a village, and learn a little about traditional and modern agricultural practices in a region where subsistence farming and religious study were the two main occupations just up to 20 years ago.

    Our partners will also open our eyes to how rapidly and recently the area has changed due to the explosion in tourism. We'll delve into critical discussions on what this means for the people of the region and their future. Expect homestays, a visit to a monastery and other important cultural sites, and deep discussions with our partners and friends. 

    Day 12-17: Trekking into the Himalaya

    After 12 days getting under the skin of life in the cold and high altitude desert, it's time to get on top of it!

    The impossibly massive, majestic, and mystical mountains of the Kharkatorum will be our mightiest challenge. We'll push our limits and past our comfort zones by hiking along the Markha Valley to its dizzying climax at 5,200 m. Get ready to pass ancient villages and hill forts while watching the daily transformation of trickling streams into raging torrents as the fierce Ladakhi sun releases glacial water into the valley! It's really the only way to end a trip in Ladakh - with sore feet, sunsets, and stories of starlight. 

    The exact route will be chosen to fit the needs of the group, but you should be comfortable with the idea of multi-day treks in remote, challenging mountains. 

    Day 18-28: Democratic Education with Secmol

    Armed with a new understanding of the region and its communities, it's time to test what we've learned and challenge our preconceptions around education and volunteering at Secmol's Phey campus. A school for students aged 5-18, Secmol runs on a student-led democratic model, providing a much-needed alternative for students who are not supported by the government's education system. 

    This is where OG's fundamental principle of community-requested projects really comes into play! The students and their needs at the time will determine how we contribute our time on campus, creating a unique space for immersive cross-cultural exchanges, maintenance projects around the school, and other educational support. 

    Day 29-38: 

    A staple of all OG programs is Independent Travel Time (ITT). You can travel independently if you desire, but we encourage everyone to travel in pairs or small groups. ITT is the ideal time for you to learn more about your specific interests. 

    Day 38-40: Disorientation - Rishikesh

    Our group will reconvene for a program debrief known as 'disorientation' prior to flying home. We will meet in Rishikesh, arguably the world capital of yoga, and another of India's many holy centres, nestled along the surging Ganga river. Yoga and meditation centres are balanced by great opportunities for more rafting and hiking making it the perfect place to debrief and end our experience together. We'll relive memories of the program, discuss how to stay connected and collaborate on projects in the future. 


    Free-time activities

    When we aren’t learning and working with our incredible grassroots partners, we have planned all kinds of fun activities and excursions to integrate ourselves in the local culture. We have also scheduled plenty of time for you to explore your own interests. 

    Some examples of activities:
    - A sunrise ...

    Free-time activities

    When we aren’t learning and working with our incredible grassroots partners, we have planned all kinds of fun activities and excursions to integrate ourselves in the local culture. We have also scheduled plenty of time for you to explore your own interests. 

    Some examples of activities:
    - A sunrise hike to a waterfall
    - White-water raft down the Ganga and/or the Indus River
    - Early morning meditation or yoga class
    - An Ayurvedic cooking class
    - Playing games with the local children
    - Explore local markets

    Requirements

    Requirements

    Minimum Age: 18 years

    In order to join the program you need to be at least 18 years old on the program start date. There might be exemptions if you can provide the permission of your legal guardian(s) or if your are accompanied by your parents.

    Language Skills

    You need to speak English (basic level)

    Nationality Restrictions

    No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.

    What's Included

    What's Included

    Services by Operation Groundswell

    Each of our programs include:

    • A comprehensive program itinerary and educational curriculum focused on the issues facing your specific region

    • Experienced, thoughtful and caring program leaders and facilitators with you 24 hours a day

    • All lodging and accommodations, carefully chosen to reflect the place and program

    • Three local meals a day 

    • All group tours, entrance fees, and excursions like cooking and language classes

    • All group transportation on the ground in vetted (and varied) modes of getting around

    • Regular discussions and workshops to help you internalize and reflect on your experience

    • Support from OGHQ whenever you need it, however you need it from financial assistance to flights

    Airport Pickup at Indira Gandhi International Airport

    Your program leaders will pick you up on the first day of the program at Indira Gandhi International Airport and transport you a short ways to our hostel in Delhi before flying to Leh as a team. Your program leaders will also drop you off at the same airport on the last day of program. 

    Accommodation

    Traveling as much as we do on the India program, there will be a number of different styles of accommodation. Tents on the side of a mountain, a homestay in Ladakhi villages, or a dorm room in the Shiva Blues art hostel in Manali, there’s always a quirk to the places we call home on the road in India. One of the most welcoming cultures in the world, expect to be amazed at the hospitable nature of the people and communities who we stay with. Life is different on the road, but backpackers embrace it all, even if the best part is the story you get at the end! So get ready to embrace cold-water bucket showers, “cozy” sleeping conditions, and the occasional squat toilet!

    Food & Beverages

    We provide at least three local meals a day that showcase regional cuisine from meals homemade by our friends to the favourite restaurant down the street, as well as all the potable drinking water you can drink. You are responsible for any other snacks and drinks. We do our best to accommodate for all dietary needs. 

    Internet Access

    Limited access at the project site

    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    Flight Tickets

    The nearest airport is Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in Delhi. We assist you to find cheap flights to India. FIND CHEAP FLIGHTS

    Travel Insurance

    Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft - a travel insurance for India provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

    Vaccines

    If you are intending to volunteer in India you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for India. VACCINE CHECKER

    Details on arrival

    • JULY 9 - AUGUST 17, 2023
    Availability
    Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

    Program fees

    5 weeks 5 days 3,751€
    Average fees 656€/week

    Program fees

    656€ per week 5 - 5 weeks Age 18 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES


    Duration

    5 - 5 weeks

    Deposit

    The deposit is simply to reserve your volunteer placement. Payments are handled by PayPal, our trusted global payment provider. If you don't have a PayPal account, you can also pay using a credit card.


    Final Payment

    Your final payment will be agreed with Operation Groundswell during the application process. Common solutions are either via bank transfer or a cash payment at the project site.


    Meet your organization

    Operation Groundswell

    Outstanding 5 rating (26 reviews)

    Agency - founded in 2016

    Verified by Volunteer World

      Below average response rate

    Coordinated by

    Evelyn

    About the project

    We go backpacking with a purpose! Our programs combine cross-cultural dialogue, critical learning, community service, and of course, travel and adventure!

    Meet your organization

    Is voluntourism helping or hurting what people called ‘the developing world’? Is there a way for visitors to positively contribute to local initiatives while also thinking critically about international development? What’s the best ice cream flavour, really?

    In 2006, we boarded a flight to Accra, Ghana seeking answers to these questions and so many more. When we touched down, we were hit with a barrage of sights, sounds, and smells that shattered our preconceived notions of the ‘global south’. Rather than stumbling into a crumbling landscape, we were greeted by a beautiful, bustling city, rich with culture and brimming with innovation.

    At the same time, we could see some of the challenges local communities were grappling with. Why does poverty continue to plague so much of the world while billionaires multiply and millions pour into international development projects that don’t seem to make a difference? We heard that governments, charities, and international organizations often pushed their own agendas without consulting the communities they said they were ‘helping.’

    We learned that projects were much more likely to succeed if they were carried out in collaboration with the community. Not as a handout, not as charity – but in solidarity.

    We started talking to local NGOs and community leaders about what their real needs were. We cultivated relationships with grassroots organizations, community leaders, and local governments. We began to build a program that wouldn’t just plop a volunteer into a project they knew little about. Instead, we would take a learning-first approach. We would combine an educational program with collaborative community service so that travellers could explore the local history, context, and challenges while contributing to local solutions.

    Since that first pilot program in West Africa, OG has run hundreds of programs in more than 20 countries around the world. With all of this experience, we have expertly designed programs that navigate the inherent risks that come with embarking on such an awesome adventure. We bring cool, caring people together who want to explore the world while actively learning to change it for the better. We’re sparking a movement of globally active and socially conscious travellers.

    Accessible, responsible and immersive travel is our mission. Go to our website to learn about our financial support options including our Financial Needs Grants that can cover up to 25% of your program fee.

    Email us to join our mail list or for the application for our Financial Needs Grant: mail@operationgroundswell.com.

    26 reviews · rating5

    Stephanie rating5

    2018 at High Altitude Education

    Participating in this program gave me a whole new worldview. Discovering new things about the world, other people and cultures, and yourself, will inspire you and fuel the fire towards creating a better world! All while making incredible friends and connections that will last a lifetime. Being ...
    Rosa rating5

    2016 at High Altitude Education

    The 40 days I spent in India with Operation Groundswell (OG) encompassed some of the most challenging, rewarding, and beautiful experiences of my life. No other volunteer organization to my knowledge quite matches OG in terms of transparency, ethical travelling, and all-around mindfulness; from the ...
    I will remember this trip for the rest of my life. My partner and I planned to go 2 years ago, we actually won an Instagram contest haha but it was cancelled due to COVID. We finally made it happen April 23 - May 1! I remember sitting in a coffee shop, submitting our applications and being both ...
    Susie Jones rating5

    2021 at Sustainable Agriculture in the Andes

    Over the course of 9 days I had an experience of a lifetime. OG provides experiential learning opportunities with off the beaten path adventures. I was able to be part of a dynamic group of individuals and explore a whole a new region abroad. I was able to live on a farm and live the slow life while ...
    Laura rating5

    2019 at Explore Mayan Culture

    Traveling with Operation Groundswell to Guatemala was truly one of the most valuable experiences I have had. I learned more in those 15 days than could ever be possible in my 4 years of University in a classroom setting. I have long been searching for a volunteer program that doesn't feel like the ...
    Lauren rating5

    2019 at Seed to Shelf

    As a fairly experienced traveller before my program with OG, I was worried that I wouldn't get a lot out of the program. I was worried I'd resent the group dynamic, that I wouldn't learn much, and that the promises of real and intimate connections with locals simply couldn't be achieved in this ...

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