India & Nepal

Perhaps more than any other place on earth, India and Nepal harnesses a depth of history and culture that is undeniably vibrant and alive, yet irrevocably changing and evolving in response to today’s fast-paced world.

Given the region's massive population and increasing demand for resources, it is especially vulnerable to the effects of climate change. We’ll engage with communities that are proactively adapting to the challenges that climate change is presenting. Interwoven into each experience is the ever-present role of spirituality, and the myriad ways this is infused into the lives of the people you meet.

Throughout our journey, we’ll explore concepts of wealth and poverty, and the impacts of social systems that result in oppression for some, and opportunity for others.

Questions We'll Explore:

• How do we reconcile the vast disconnect between privilege and poverty that we see nearly every day?
• What role does religion and spirituality play in the lives of the people we meet?
• How are communities in the region addressing increased demands on resources? What strategies are being implemented to address water shortages, shifting weather patterns, desertification of agricultural lands, and loss of endemic forests?
• What are the conflicts between an evolving technological and industrial movement, and the ancient traditions of artisans and craftspeople, religious sects, and social structures?

Engage in conservation with local organizations.  Work with an an NGO working to protect India’s wildlife, take part in earthquake rebuilding work in Nepal, and learn how simple technological innovations coupled with ancient sustainable practices can help restore the water table in a drought stricken region of India.   Discover how people are adapting to unique local conditions, creating a more sustainable model of living in community and relating to the environment, and how these efforts support local economies. 

Engage in hands-on work through artistic internships with local artisans, where you’ll explore skills and crafts that have been practiced for centuries, yet are being lost in the age of technology.

While living with homestay families in both rural and urban settings, we’ll witness the contrast that arises in economic disparity, and the results of having different levels of access to education, resources, and technology. You’ll discover spiritual concepts and practices that focus less on changing the external and emphasize cultivating happiness within.

Discover the rich tapestry of religious traditions, practices and beliefs that emerged in these lands as you learn about Hinduism, Buddhism, Sikhism and Jainism and explore the impact that traditions from outside  like Islam, Christianity and Judaism have also had in shaping the cutlure and diverse current context.  

And so much more!

Carpe Diem Education’s India and Nepal semester provides a window of access into diverse forms of spirituality, the complexities of addressing climate change, and a deeper understanding of regions' complex social structures.