India

Land of a Thousand Cultures

India

Land of a Thousand Cultures

Many travelers know India for its bustling cities and famous landmarks but often miss the magic of the country’s mountainous north. From peaceful hilltop temples and stunning Himalayan viewpoints to vibrant markets, rich flavors, and lush forest landscapes, Northern India offers an unforgettable blend of culture, adventure, and natural beauty.

This is a travel destination where adventure meets impact – a chance to discover a side to India you may not have expected, and a chance to use your skills to make a real difference!

A destination filled with breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and meaningful opportunities to give back.

Where you’ll be based!

In the lush greenery of northern India, surrounded by breathtaking mountain ranges, rolling hills and a rich tapestry of culture, you’ll experience a side of India far from the bustling cities often portrayed on screens. Our Hub is nestled at the foothills of the Himalayas is a rural hill town, known as the tea capital of Northern India – Palampur!

In your free time, you’ll be able to explore sweeping tea gardens, peaceful temples, charming architecture, and vibrant local markets. You’ll also have the opportunity to visit Dharamshala, the home of the Tibetan Government-in-exile. Here you’ll experience a culture unlike nowhere else in India – colorful prayer flags dancing in the wind and ancient monasteries perched in the hills.

Despite its vibrant culture and rapid development, many communities in India – particularly in rural and mountainous regions – continue to face significant social and economic challenges. Limited access to quality education, healthcare, and reliable income opportunities means that many families still live below the poverty line, with young people disproportionately affected.

Our team is based on the ground all year round, working hand in hand with the local community – this ensures that all our programs meet current community needs and are part of a long-term plan that aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. By joining a program in India, and contributing to our community projects, you will use your skills, knowledge and passions to create lasting, positive impact.

India Social Impact Challenge

Challenge Overview

While India has made strong progress in improving education and literacy, significant disparities remain.

Retention declines in higher education, and many students – especially in rural or underserved areas – face hurdles in completing secondary school or accessing higher education. For families living in poverty, investing in their children’s education is not always possible and financial pressure often leads to children working to help support their families.

In addition, many low fee-paying schools operate with extremely limited funding and resources. As a result, they struggle to provide high-quality education, engaging environments and hands-on learning experiences that learners need to reach their full potential. By joining our India Social Impact Challenge, you will help to inspire local learners in their education as you contribute to long-term education projects in India.

Honestly, it was the best 2 weeks, and I would do it again in a heartbeat... Sharing this journey with such a positive and supportive team made the experience even more meaningful, and it reminded me of the power of community, even across different cultures and backgrounds.

Global Citizen, Matilda

Himalaya Health Promotion Challenge

Challenge Overview

Northern India continues to face significant health-related challenges that affect rural communities such as Palampur.

There remains to be critical gaps in the healthcare system due to limited resources, geographically isolated communities, and underfunding. Non-communicable diseases, mental health and nutritional deficiencies remain pressing issues, especially in remote areas where access to healthcare services, education and preventative care is limited.

Our Health Promotion Challenge raises awareness and supports public health initiatives to help build healthier and more resilient communities. Every contribution, from health promotion and education, plays a meaningful role in empowering communities and strengthening systems that they rely on the most.

Access to medical services and health education is limited. By raising awareness and supporting public health initiatives, you can help build a healthier and more resilient future – every effort from health promotion to preventative education plays a meaningful role in empowering the community, improving wellbeing and strengthening the systems that people rely on most.

It was an amazing experience; there’s nothing I would change about it. I’ve made such great friendships and have enjoyed leaving my handprint on the world.

Global Citizen, Laney

Himalaya Challenge

Challenge Overview

We believe that lasting change begins with access to quality education – and you play a vital role in making that possible.

Across India, many schools face underfunding and limited hands-on learning opportunities. By supporting local teachers, engaging young learners, and contributing to our long-term education initiatives, you’ll help create a stronger learning environment where communities in Palampur can grow and thrive. Your energy, skills, and passion will help inspire brighter futures for the next generation.

And to top off your journey? You’ll take on an unforgettable multi-day trek through the Indian Himalayas – winding past remote villages, towering peaks, and serene mountain trails. It’s the ultimate finale to your global citizenship experience, combining impact, culture, and a once-in-a-lifetime Himalayan adventure.

The fact that I was able to complete the trip has made me learn that I'm more capable than I previously believed! Overall, a very good learning experience and would recommend it if you're up for a good challenge.

Global Citizen, Nhu