In May of 2010, I spent three weeks in Dharamsala, India.
It was over 100 degrees F most days, but we were required to wear customary local dress that was way more comfortable than the jeans and t-shirts we brought from home! And did not require too much instruction.
This was the first trip I needed a cholera shot, besides the usual malaria protection. and the first time traveling with a group called Cross-Cultural Solutions. Part of the arrangements in every country is a volunteer house where all volunteers in the area live, have western toilets, and safe food.
Dharmsala is in the foothills of the Himalayas. The town is divided into two parts. At the bottom of the hill is a typical Hindu Indian town. Up the hill (and a crazy scary taxi drive away) is the home in exile of the Dahl Llama, and a preparation area for hikers going into the Himalayas. Two very different experiences!
Welcome to India!
On Thursdays I recount a decade of international volunteering post-retirement. Follow or subscribe for free.